Porter Cable PCC710 Review

Editor Rating: 4.4/5

Great Product

Porter Cable PCC710 Review

Reviewed by: Timothy Henderson

Last modified: Jul 30, 2023 @ 2:50 pm

  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

Porter Cable PCC710 Review Summary:

Straightforward operation, easy on the wallet, and with a respectable power output — the Porter Cable PCC710 is a suitable cordless oscillating multi tool for the casual DIYer and home improver.

Driven by a 20-volt lithium-ion cell (not included with the tool), this unit knocks out a respectable 8000-18000 OPM through six preset settings. Therefore allowing pleasing user control and medium tailorability for sanding, cutting, planing, and honing.

Its generous over-molded grip offers reliable hand stability, reduces vibration, and promises added protection against accidental knocks and drops. Furthermore, an in-built LED lamp delivers welcome illumination on poorly-lit locations — without heavy battery drain.

Hex-free tool replacement and exchange shield against the headaches and downtime of lost tightening keys. And, arriving complete with two cutting blades, a sanding plate, and eight sandpapers — you have everything you need to crack on with your project straight-outta-the-box. Well, assuming you already own a compatible battery.

This multi tool hails from Porter Cable — a US-based manufacturer boasting over 100 years of experience in power tools. The PCC710 is the entry-level machine in its cordless oscillating category.

PCC710 Specifications:

  • Voltage – 20V
  • Speed – 8000 – 18000 OPM
  • Weight – 2.65 pounds
  • Size – 11 x 3.8 x 10.25 inches

Pros:

N
Triple-function over-molded grip.
N
Six preset oscillating speeds.
N
Hex key free.
N
In-built lamp.
N
High 20-volt powerhouse.

Cons:

N
Battery and charger not included.
N
May cut out through overheating during extended use.
N
Reduced energy and durability through the brushed motor.

Features and Benefits of the PCC 710 Oscillating Multi Tool


It’s affordable and versatile, but does it have the features and capabilities of ranking up there with big boys in the multitool arena? Time to dive into the detail and discover exactly what this machine offers the ardent DIYer.

Variable Speed


Boasting an output rate of 8000-18000 OPM (oscillations per minute), the Porter Cable Multitool delivers pleasing user-tailorable control. Adjustable via a low-level dial, you can set the machine to one of six speed settings — although lacking a throttle trigger, you can’t choose your own, specific output intensity.

That said, the hexad-option permits adequate choice for most DIY applications — allowing you to crank up the rapidity for sanding applications, and step-down for accurate trimming projects.

11-Piece Accessory Set


A multi tool is nothing without accessories, except an expensive vibrator. Hence, it’s initially pleasing to read in the advertising blurb that the PCC710 Porter Cable includes an 11-piece attachment set.

However, as Shakespeare said, all that glisters is not gold.

In reality, it’s a little disappointing. Sure, it comes with a wood blade, bi-metal blade, and sanding plate — useful and welcome inclusions. But, the remaining eight attachments are just sandpapers — which I’d personally consider more of a disposable item rather than accessories.

20-Volt Motor


The powerhouse of the Porter-Cable PCC 710 is a 20-volt motor. As a brushed format, it’s not as energy efficient as its brushless counterparts — but does assist in keeping the price competitive. For more detail on these two motor types, check out my Brushed Vs Brushless Face-Off.

The motor draws its power from a proprietary Porter Cable 20V Max lithium-ion cell. On the plus side, as a cordless multitool, it offers greater operational freedom than its corded counterparts.

The downside is — the tool arrives without a battery or charger.

Not only does this mean the headache of not being able to use your unit straight-outta-the-box — but it also requires you to spend more of your hard-earned dollars. Which, when you include the cell and charging unit, will virtually double the price of your multitool.

Tool-Free Adjustment


While the lack of a battery and charger is a downer, the omission of a tightening tool is a genuine positive.

With no requirement for fancy keys, hex bits, or Allen wrenches — exchanging accessories is effortless. Just two fingers are all you need to remove and replace your chosen tool head — meaning no hunting around in your toolbox for the correct switching implement.

Integrated Lamp


Cutting, sanding, scraping, and grinding can take you into some weird, wonderful, and poor light locations — beneath floorboards, inside engine bays, and in attics. Therefore, it’s reassuring to see that the PC C710 Porter Cable multi-tool boasts an in-built work light.

Positioned above the oscillating head, it will deliver welcome illumination directly onto your target material. Using a white LED lamp, it’s low on electrical energy demands — and hence will have little impact on battery operational time.

Overmolded Grip


The ABS plastic shell of the PCC7 10 multi tool is surrounded by a thick, molded, textured grip.

This rubber overcoat fulfills three pleasing functions. Firstly, the knurled surface elevates stability in the hand, increasing precision and heightening safety. Secondly, it significantly reduces vibration, shields against grip fatigue, and allows you to power on for longer. And thirdly, it delivers a greater level of durability, should you accidentally knock, bump, or drop the unit.

Porter Cable Multitool PCC710 Specifications


Porter Cable PCC710
Weight2.65 pounds
Tool-Free AdjustmentYes
Speed8000 - 18000 OPM
Dimensions 11 by 3.8 by 10.25 inches
Battery and Charger IncludedNo
Power20V PC MAX Lithium-Ion
Angle of Oscillation2.8 degrees
Cord LengthCordless
MotorBrushed
AccessoriesSandpaper (8), wood blade, bi-metal blade, sanding plate
WarrantyThree years

What Users Say About the Porter-Cable Multi-Tool PCC710?


As indicated in this PCC710 review, I consider this multi-tool to be an affordable and serviceable DIY-grade machine — although it’s not without its flaws.

However, am I being excessively harsh on this unit, or alternatively giving it too much credit?

In order for a comprehensive and unbiased review, I delved into the opinions of owners of the PCC 710 — to see what guys using this machine on a regular basis thought about its pros and cons.

Reassuringly, their views mirrored my own.

Generally speaking, user testimonials were reservedly positive — praising its ease of use, applauding the substantial protective grip, and welcoming its variable output speed.

Yet, as I expected, there were some criticisms.

Overwhelmingly, owners found the lack of a cell and charger to be the most significant downside — requiring additional purchases just to switch the machine on. Other criticisms included the tool overheating when used on stubborn materials and rapid wear on the motor brushes if used frequently.

That said, virtually all the guys agreed that the PCC710 was an adequate DIY-grade multi-tool suitable for casual use.

Alternatives to the Porter/Cable PCC710


If the PCC 710 from Porter-Cable isn’t getting your multitool juices flowing, stick with me. I’ve sourced some impressive alternatives that may be more suited to you and your project’s requirements.

Dewalt DCS356B
If the LED lamp and tool-free features of the Porter Cable appeal, but you’re disheartened by its budget brushed motor — I may have the solution.

Like the PCC710, the DCS356B from the mighty DeWalt incorporates a quick change head system and work light. But with a high-efficiency brushless powerhouse, demands on the lithium cell are reduced — allowing for longer operational times from a single charge.

  • Tougher on the wallet than the PCC710.
  • No cell or charger included — as with the Porter Cable.
  • Greater velocity — 20000 OPM as opposed to the PCC710’s 18000.
Milwaukee-2626-20
Should you be impressed by the cordless PCC710 but just wish that it had a little more grunt, this oscillating tool may appeal.

Similar to the Porter Cable, the 2626-20 from Milwaukee features a tool-free head clamp and lithium-ion cell power system — but offers a heightened oscillating speed of 20000 OPM, compared to the 18000 OPM of the PCC710.

  • Hits the pocket harder than the Porter Cable.
  • Runs off 18-volt cells, versus the 20-volt of the PCC710.
  • Elevated cutting angle — 3.2 degrees in contrast with PCC710’s 2.8.

Small-Benchtop-Drill-Press-DRL-300-00

If you want a unit that delivers faster and steeper cutting than the Porter Cable delivers — consider this machine from Makita.

The MT01Z offers a 3.2-degree cutting angle, in comparison to the 2.8 degrees of the PCC710. This permits you to address your base material more aggressively, making lighter work of time-intensive jobs.

  • Similarly priced to the Porter Cable.
  • Includes adaptors for third-party attachments — not featured in the PCC710.
  • Unlike the Porter Cable, it doesn’t offer tool-free accessory changes.

Conclusion


Affordable, versatile, and delivering features typical of a high-end unit — the Porter-Cable PCC 710 is a solid DIY oscillating multitool.

Its 20-volt powerhouse delivers an impressive output of 18000 OPM, adjustable through six preset modes. An integrated LED lamp promises reassuring illumination in poorly lit areas, while tool-free accessory exchange removes the headaches of lost tightening hexes.

Admittedly, it’s not without its flaws. A lack of battery and charger, the likelihood of overheating during extended use, and the possibility of worn brushes if used on a frequent basis will deter trade and semi-pro users.

However, for the DIYer looking for a sander, planer, and cutter suitable for casual home improvement — the Porter Cable PCC710 is worthy of consideration.

Porter Cable Oscillating Multitool PCC710 FAQs

Q: Where Can I Buy Porter Cable Multi Tool PCC710?

The PCC710 is a DIY-grade cordless oscillating unit that delivers output up to 18000 OPM, an integrated LED lamp, and six variable speeds. You can check out the latest price of the PCC710 here.

Q: Where Can I Find PCC710 Manual?

The official Porter Cable website hosts a plethora of manuals for its current and older model power tools. For rapid access to the PCC710 manual.

Q: Can I Use Makita Batteries With the Porter Cable Oscillating PCC710?

No. Makita batteries aren’t compatible with the PCC710. To ensure trouble-free use, only use Porter Cable branded 20-volt lithium-ion cells with the PCC 710.

Q: Does the Porter Cable Multitool PCC710 Come With a Case?

No. The oscillating multitool PCC7 10 from Porter Cable doesn’t come with a case. It does, however, arrive with two cutting blades, a sanding plate, and eight sandpapers.

Q: Where Can I Find Porter Cable Multi Tool PCC710 Spare Parts?

The official Porter Cable website hosts an array of spare, upgradeable, and replacement parts for the PCC710. To identify exactly what component you need, take a look at this exploded diagram.

Q: Is the PCC 710 Porter Cable a 220 Volt Machine?

No. The PCC710 is a 10-volt DC unit driven by a lithium-ion cell. You do, however, require a 110-volt power source to use the battery charger (not included).

Q: Will Dremel Brand Accessories Fit the Porter Cable Multitool PCC710?

The Porter Cable PCC 710 will accept universal fitment accessories for oscillating tools, which includes most Dremel accessories.

Q: Can I Use the Porter Cable Oscillating Multitool PC C710 to Remove Grout?

Yes. The PCC710 is suitable for grout applications, although you will need to ensure that you have a grout attachment designed for this purpose.