Difference Between Single Point and Multipoint Cutting Tool

Published: 5 Jul 2025

Cutting tools are used in machines to shape, trim, or remove extra material from workpieces like metal, wood, or plastic. These cutting tools are grouped into two types—single-point and multi-point cutting tools—based on the number of cutting edges they have. Let’s explore all possible differences between them in a clear and easy way, including some advanced but simple-to-understand ideas.

Single Point Cutting Tool

It has only one main edge that performs all the cutting work. Even if the tool has more edges, only one is used at a time.
It has one edge to remove the full amount of material, so it works harder.
It is used on lathes, shapers, slotters, boring machines, and fly-cutting machines.
The cutting edge remains in constant contact with the workpiece during cutting.
One edge bears the full chip load, increasing cutting pressure and tool wear.
Generates more heat in one area, which may cause tool damage or faster wear.
Works at low speeds to reduce heat and protect the tool edge.
Lower feed rates and a deeper cut are needed to avoid tool failure.
Lower MRR—cuts slowly and removes less material at a time.
Leaves a fairly smooth surface, but may need finishing.
Wears out quickly because one edge does all the work.
If the edge breaks, the whole process must stop, and the tool must be changed.
May cause more vibration, especially in tough materials.
Simple to sharpen and easy to reuse.
It is easy to design, shape, and manufacture.
Less expensive both to buy and to maintain.
Best for roughing or shaping, where speed isn’t a big concern.
Form long chips, which may be hard to remove.
Not ideal for cutting extremely hard materials.
E.g., shaping tool, fly cutter, turning tool, etc.

Multi-Point Cutting Tool

It has two or more cutting edges. All cutting edges contact the workpiece simultaneously. Some tools may have dozens or even hundreds of edges, like grinding wheels.
The material is shared among all edges, so each one removes less, reducing stress on each edge.
It is used in drilling, milling, grinding, broaching, reaming, and hobbing machines.
Edges engage and disengage often. This allows heat to escape, but may also cause vibration.
The total cutting load is shared by all edges, which reduces pressure on each one and increases the tool’s lifespan.
Heat is spread out, and edges cool when they disengage from the material.
Can run at higher speeds, since the edges don’t stay in contact continuously.
High feed and depth of cut are possible, which helps with fast cutting.
Increase Material Removal Rate (MRR) by removing more material in less time through high-speed cutting.
It gives a clean, polished surface in most cases.
Lasts longer since the work is shared among many edges.
If one edge breaks, others can still work, so the job may continue for a while.
Usually more stable, but sometimes vibration occurs due to edge entry/exit.
More difficult to sharpen, needs proper tools and care.
It is complex to design and takes more time and skill to make.
More expensive, but gives higher performance and speed.
Perfect for high-speed machining and precision finishing across various industries.
Form short chips, which are easy to handle and remove.
Works better on hard materials due to a shared cutting load.
Examples include drill bits, milling cutters, grinding wheels, broaches, and more.

Conclusion

If your job needs slow, careful shaping at a low cost, a single-point tool is the better choice. But if you need fast cutting, smoother surfaces, and longer tool life, go with a multi-point tool. Knowing the differences helps you pick the right tool and get the best results in your workshop or factory.