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For years, multitool aficionados like Adrian Kingsley-Hughes have sworn by premium brands like Leatherman and Gerber—tools that often cost over $100 and come with robust warranties. But as a senior contributing editor at ZDNET, Kingsley-Hughes has encountered countless budget alternatives that fail to deliver, labeling them as 'scams' in past reviews. That skepticism was put to the test with the NexTool E1, a pocket tool priced at just $27. After months of rigorous use, he reports a surprising verdict: this affordable gadget not only meets expectations but redefines value in the crowded multitool market.

A Pocket-Sized Powerhouse for Everyday Tech Tasks

The NexTool E1 packs 10 functions into a remarkably compact frame—just 3.1 x 1.0 x 0.7 inches and under 3.5 ounces—making it ideal for developers, sysadmins, or anyone needing quick fixes during commutes or site visits. Constructed from heat-treated 30Cr13 stainless steel and durable polymer scales, it avoids the flimsy feel of typical budget tools. Kingsley-Hughes highlights the razor-sharp blades and tools, which retained their edge even after extended use. Key features include:
- A replaceable utility knife compatible with X-Acto blades, praised for its safety-conscious design that prevents accidental openings.
- Versatile dual screwdrivers, expandable with a 10-bit pack that also works with Leatherman holders—a boon for hardware tinkerers.
- Scissors that Kingsley-Hughes calls 'awesome' for precision tasks like trimming cables or opening packaging.

'All the tools are nice and sharp when new, and retain their sharpness even after extended use,' Kingsley-Hughes notes in his ZDNET review. 'After a few days of handling, opening them becomes second nature.'

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The Trade-Offs: Why It’s Not for Everyone

Despite its strengths, the E1 isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. It lacks pliers—a staple in premium multitools—and doesn’t include a keyring clip, limiting its utility for some scenarios. Kingsley-Hughes also cautions that its two blades make it a no-go for air travel, likely confiscated by TSA. Crucially, while brands like Leatherman offer lifetime warranties, NexTool provides no such guarantee. But at $30, the risk is minimal: 'If you break it or lose it, it’s not going to break the bank,' he asserts.

Why This Matters for the Tech Community

In an era of rising tool costs, the NexTool E1 represents a shift toward accessible innovation. For developers juggling tight budgets or field technicians needing a disposable backup, it eliminates the fear of loss or damage that comes with $100+ investments. Kingsley-Hughes’ endorsement—rooted in ZDNET’s rigorous testing ethos—signals that affordability and quality can coexist, empowering professionals to stay equipped without compromise. As he puts it, this tool isn’t just a gadget; it’s a lesson in smart, economical preparedness that resonates far beyond the workshop.

Source: Adrian Kingsley-Hughes, ZDNET