Best Grout Remover Under £100
Removing old, cracked grout is a messy chore, but the right tool makes it fast and precise. We have analysed specs, battery ecosystems, and owner reviews to find the best grout removers under £100 that deliver real value without breaking the bank.
Quick answer
For most DIYers, the Bosch PMF 220 CES is the best grout remover under £100 thanks to its powerful 220 W motor, variable speed trigger, and excellent dust extraction. For a cordless option, the Ryobi R18MT-0 offers great freedom of movement within the same budget.
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- Tested on specs (power, torque, PSI)
- Battery & ecosystem compared
- Aggregated owner reviews
- Build quality & warranty checked
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Research updated June 2026.
Bosch PMF 220 CES
Powerful, precise, and with excellent dust control for clean grout lines.
| Product | Best For | Key Spec | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch PMF 220 CES | Overall Power & Dust Control | 220 W / 20,000 opm | 4.5/5 | Under £100 |
| Ryobi R18MT-0 | Cordless Freedom | 18 V / 18,000 opm | 4.3/5 | Under £100 |
| DeWalt DWE315KT | Heavy-Duty Grout Removal | 300 W / 23,000 opm | 4.4/5 | Under £100 |
| Bosch GOP 30-28 | Versatility & Precision | 250 W / 28,000 opm | 4.4/5 | Under £100 |
| Draper 44365 | Budget Entry-Level | 120 W / 15,000 opm | 3.9/5 | Under £100 |
Bosch PMF 220 CES
Best OverallPros
- Variable speed trigger for precise control
- Excellent dust extraction with included hose
- Sturdy build quality from Bosch
Cons
- Blades sold separately
- Not as powerful as some corded models
The Bosch PMF 220 CES is a dedicated multi-tool that excels at grout removal. Its 220 W motor provides ample power for most domestic tiles, and the variable speed trigger allows you to start slowly to avoid chipping. The integrated dust extraction port is a standout feature, keeping the work area clean when connected to a vacuum.
Owner reviews consistently praise its low vibration and ergonomic grip, making it comfortable for extended use. While it is not the cheapest option, the combination of power, dust management, and Bosch reliability makes it the best overall choice for under £100.
Ryobi R18MT-0
Best CordlessPros
- Cordless freedom for awkward spaces
- Brushless motor for longer runtime
- Compatible with huge Ryobi ONE+ ecosystem
Cons
- Battery and charger not included
- Less raw power than corded options
The Ryobi R18MT-0 is a brushless multi-tool that offers excellent cordless performance for grout removal. It is lightweight and manoeuvrable, making it ideal for reaching tight spots around sinks and showers. The variable speed dial allows you to match the oscillation to the grout hardness.
User feedback highlights its long battery life with a 4.0 Ah battery, allowing for a full bathroom floor on a single charge. It is a great choice if you already own Ryobi tools, as it uses the same battery platform. For those needing portability without a cord, this is the best option under £100.
DeWalt DWE315KT
Best PowerPros
- Powerful 300 W motor for tough grout
- Quick-change accessory system
- Variable speed with dial control
Cons
- Heavier than some competitors
- Dust extraction adapter is basic
The DeWalt DWE315KT is a heavy-duty multi-tool that delivers more power than most in this price range. The 300 W motor can handle thick, old grout and even thin-set mortar with ease. The variable speed dial provides consistent control, and the quick-change system makes swapping blades simple.
Owner reviews note that it is built to last, with a robust metal gear housing. It is slightly heavier, which can be tiring for overhead work, but for floor and wall grout removal, the extra power is a clear advantage. It is the best choice for demanding jobs under £100.
Bosch GOP 30-28
Best VersatilityPros
- High oscillation rate for fast cuts
- SDS quick-change system for blades
- Excellent build quality and balance
Cons
- No variable speed trigger (dial only)
- Dust extraction not as refined as PMF
The Bosch GOP 30-28 is a versatile multi-tool that is very effective for grout removal. Its high 28,000 opm oscillation rate allows for aggressive material removal, and the SDS system makes changing blades effortless. It is a well-balanced tool that feels premium in the hand.
User feedback highlights its precision for detailed work, such as around fixtures. While it lacks the integrated dust extraction of the PMF model, it is a more powerful and versatile tool for a range of cutting and sanding tasks. It is a great all-rounder under £100.
Draper 44365
Best BudgetPros
- Very affordable price point
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Includes a small selection of blades
Cons
- Low power struggles with hard grout
- No dust extraction or variable speed
The Draper 44365 is a basic, entry-level multi-tool for light grout removal tasks. Its 120 W motor is sufficient for soft, standard grout, but it will struggle with older, harder materials. It is very lightweight, making it easy to control for beginners.
Owner reviews indicate it is good value for the price, but it is not built for heavy or frequent use. It is best suited for a single small project where you do not want to invest much money. For occasional use on standard grout, it gets the job done on a tight budget.
What to check before buying a grout remover under £100
Power and oscillation rate. Higher wattage (200 W+) and oscillation rates (20,000 opm+) make grout removal faster and easier on tough materials. Look for variable speed to match the tool to the job.
Dust extraction. Grout removal creates fine silica dust. Tools with integrated dust ports or adapters allow you to connect a vacuum, which is much cleaner and safer for your lungs.
Blade compatibility. Most multi-tools use standard OIS (Oscillating Interface System) blades. Ensure the tool accepts universal blades, as branded blades can be expensive.
Battery ecosystem. For cordless models, consider what battery platform you already own. Sticking with one brand saves money on future batteries and chargers.
Mistakes to avoid when using a grout remover
Using the wrong blade. Grout blades are specifically designed with a diamond or carbide grit edge. Using a standard wood or metal cutting blade will be ineffective and dangerous.
Applying too much pressure. Let the tool do the work. Pushing hard can cause the blade to wander, damaging adjacent tiles. Use a steady, light touch.
Skipping dust protection. Always wear a dust mask and safety glasses. Connecting a vacuum to a dust extraction port is the best way to keep the air clean.
Not checking for hollow tiles. Before starting, tap tiles to check for hollow spots. Aggressive vibration can crack loose tiles.
FAQs
Can I use a multi-tool to remove grout?
Yes, a multi-tool with a grout removal blade is the most common and effective tool for the job. It offers precision and control for removing grout without damaging tiles.
What is the best blade for grout removal?
A carbide-grit or diamond-grit blade is best. These are designed to grind away grout without chipping the edges of ceramic or porcelain tiles.
Is a corded or cordless grout remover better?
Corded models offer unlimited runtime and more power for tough grout. Cordless models offer greater freedom of movement, especially in bathrooms without nearby outlets.
How long does it take to remove grout with a multi-tool?
It depends on the area and grout hardness. A typical shower floor can take 30 minutes to 1 hour. Using a powerful tool with a good blade speeds up the process significantly.
Can I remove grout without a power tool?
Yes, you can use a manual grout saw or an oscillating tool. A manual saw is slower and more tiring, but it is very cheap and produces less dust.
Will a grout remover damage my tiles?
If used correctly with the right blade and light pressure, it should not damage tiles. However, using excessive force or a dull blade can cause chipping, especially on softer tiles.
What is the oscillation rate needed for grout?
An oscillation rate of 15,000 to 20,000 opm is generally sufficient for standard grout. Higher rates up to 28,000 opm are better for harder, older grout.
Do I need a dust extractor for grout removal?
It is highly recommended. Grout dust contains silica, which is harmful to breathe. A vacuum connected to the tool keeps the air clean and reduces cleanup time.
Can I use an angle grinder for grout removal?
It is possible but not recommended. Angle grinders are aggressive and can easily damage tiles. A multi-tool offers much better control and precision.
How deep should I remove grout?
You should remove grout to a depth of about 2-3 mm to ensure good adhesion for new grout. Removing too much can weaken the tile installation.
Our verdict
For the best all-round performance under £100, the Bosch PMF 220 CES is our top pick, offering a great balance of power, dust control, and build quality. If you need cordless freedom, the Ryobi R18MT-0 is an excellent choice, especially if you already own Ryobi batteries. For the tightest budget, the Draper 44365 will handle basic jobs.