The tape measure and inherited drill have their limits. Fortunately, today’s DIY tools are smarter and more precise than ever before. WIRED presents 15 top picks to elevate your home improvement game this year, whether you’re building furniture, finishing a deck, or simply hanging a TV.

Power & Precision: Essential Tools

A Multifunction Power Tool

Dremel’s 12-volt multifunction power tool is ideal for a variety of household tasks without requiring a full toolbox. It features a detachable laser level and a hidden electronic stud finder, perfect for hanging items accurately. It comes with nine drivers and three drill bits.

A Sander

Festool’s new 18 V cordless sander delivers professional-level results with speed and precision. Its triangular pad reaches tight corners, and variable speed control allows for fine-tuning. Weighing just over 2.4 lbs, it’s designed for controlled, one-handed operation with integrated LED illumination.

A Smarter Level

This modular, stackable measuring system combines laser distance, level, and rolling scale modules, measuring up to 164 feet with 1/16-inch accuracy. It captures measurements in real-time and syncs to an app, eliminating manual note-taking. It’s compact enough to fit in a pocket yet precise enough for professional use.

Specialty Tools for Specific Tasks

A Soldering Station

The Soldr compact, open-source soldering workstation condenses a full electronics bench into a portable unit. It offers precise temperature control (212-842°F) and integrated fume extraction. Its open-source design allows for hardware tweaks and firmware upgrades.

A Premium Sewing Machine

This pro-grade smart sewing machine offers over 680 stitch patterns through an 8-inch color touch screen. It features automatic thread tension and sensor-based foot adjustments. Built-in connectivity provides access to a growing library of embroidery designs.

A Box Cutter

Designed by Richard Rogers, the Box Key features a 1.24-inch Sandvik 12C27 steel blade with a stone-wash finish for durability. Its slim profile allows it to attach to a key ring, making it a convenient everyday carry tool.

Organization & Safety

A Toolbox

Niwaki’s ST-Type Toolbox combines vintage design with practical functionality. Built from powder-coated steel, it features tiered compartments and rearrangeable metal dividers for organized tool storage.

Safety Glasses

Pit Viper’s safety glasses offer a blend of irreverent style and practical protection. They are ANSI Z87+ certified with impact-resistant lenses, 100% UV protection, and adjustable features for a secure fit.

Advanced DIY Solutions

A Handy Saw

This folding camp saw features a 12-inch blade and a four-pivot frame for consistent cutting tension. It folds flat for safe transport and weighs only 15.3 ounces. The grippy handle works well in wet conditions.

A 3D Printer

This high-speed 3D printer is designed for rapid prototyping, capable of speeds up to 1,200 millimeters per second. It features an enclosed build chamber, auto-leveling, and AI-assisted monitoring.

A DIY STEM Project

The 1972 NASA Moon Buggy-inspired electronics kit provides a hands-on STEM learning experience. It combines over 200 parts with coding, robotics, and mechanical assembly.

A Leaf Blower

This cordless 20-volt leaf blower delivers 720 cubic feet of air per minute at 120 mph. Its compact, lightweight design (3.7 lbs) allows for easy one-handed operation. A brushless motor improves efficiency and extends lifespan.

A Charger and Radio

This Milwaukee sound system features a 10-speaker array and is compatible with Milwaukee storage systems. It offers Bluetooth connectivity, an AM-FM radio, and doubles as a battery and USB charger.

An Electric Cutter

This battery-powered cutter uses SK5 high-carbon steel blades for clean, controlled cuts through various materials. It weighs 10.5 ounces and features a guarded cutting edge and trigger activation for safety.

For the Kids

This kid-safe router-style cutter allows children to cut cardboard, card, foam, and other materials with a digitally controlled blunt cutting head. It connects to bundled software for generating cutting templates.