Leatherman Micra vs. Gerber Dime: Here’s Why I Carry This Multitool Every Day

3 min readMultitools come in all sizes and configurations, but when it comes to smaller, portable options, two multitools stand out from the pack: the Leatherman Micra and the Gerber Dime.Both Leatherman and Gerber have a few keychain-sized multitools, but the Dime and Micra are more complete, offering multiple foldout tools and built around a central feature with spring-action handles. So, the question then becomes, which of these two multitools is better?The answer is not so simple. Like most multitools, it largely depends on what you need it for. After testing out both, their utility, while overlapping, isn’t exactly one-to-one. The Micra shines in ways the Dime isn’t designed to and vice versa.The Micra Is for Everyday TasksRachel KleinThe Leatherman Micra has 10 different tool functions.Shop the Leatherman Micra MultitoolWhat I love about the Leatherman Micra is that it isn’t trying to replace your normal multitool. Despite offering a wide range of tools, the main goal is to handle the everyday annoyances and tasks that you don’t even register in your brain.The multitool comes with 10 different tool functions on seven unique tool attachments. These include foldout tweezers, a bottle opener, a hooked nail cleaner, and even a small ruler. The Micra is centered around a pair of spring-action scissors that are great for trimming facial hair or cutting tags, and are even large enough to actually cut through a sheet of paper with relative ease.More often than not, I end up using the Micra five times or more every day without even thinking about it. I’ll use the nail cleaner to get any piece of gunk out from under my fingers. I’ll use the scissors to trim a loose mustache hair. I’ll use the tweezers to pull out a splinter. Even the small blade gets plenty of action as I open boxes. It’s probably the only multitool I’ve ever tested that I could realistically use every single tool over the course of a normal day.Once folded down, the Micra is also quite compact. In its folded-down state, the multitool is roughly the length of a keychain bottle opener and only barely wider. I’m able to loop it onto my key ring and carry it around with me without feeling like it’s a clunky add-on.ProsFolds down small enough to fit on your keyringPractical, everyday toolsConsNot a real replacement for a full-size multitoolKey SpecsDimensions4.2 x 0.75 x 0.37 in.Weight1.8 ozMaterialsStainless steelNumber of Tools/Functions10The Dime Shrinks Down Your Full-Size MultitoolSean abramsThe Gerber Dime has 12 different tools, including two distinct blades.Shop the Gerber Dime MultitoolI generally don’t believe that a multitool can be made any smaller and still be functional. The Gerber Dime is the only exception to this rule. In fact, I might actually prefer to use the Dime over a few full-size multitools I’ve tested. The Dime boasts 12 different tool functions including a foldout file, scissors, and a removable set of tweezers.In addition to this, the multitool comes with two distinct blades: a traditional straight-edge blade and a notched sharp edge. While the traditional blade is great for regular use, the notched edge is designed specifically to open packages.Unlike the Micra, the Dime multitool is built around a set of pliers. That said, the Dime also comes with a small set of foldout scissors. While they aren’t anything to write home about, especially in comparison to the Micra, I like having a pair alongside the pliers.On the whole, I like the Dime because it really can do everything. It’s built with the confidence that even though it’s smaller, it can handle most of the same tasks as any full-size multitool. For the most part, it can. I’ve used the pliers to twist on a bolt, I’ve used the screwdriver heads for small projects around the house, and I’ve actually chosen the blades over larger options, especially the notched blade for opening packages.ProsMultiple bladesFunctional tools for small projectsConsScissors do not cut very wellKey SpecsDimensions2.75 x 4 x 0.6 in.Weight2.2 ozMaterialCarbideNumber of Tools/Functions12Other Multitools We’ve Tested and RecommendTom Price is a reviews editor for Popular Mechanics while also contributing to Runner's World, Best Products, and Bicycling. Here at Popular Mechanics, Tom loves testing out home appliances, smart tech, gear for city life and outdoor adventures, small gadgets like watches and multitools, and anything else you can find piled up at his hoarder's nest of a desk. Prior to working here, Tom attended NYU, graduating with a degree in English and a minor in creative writing. He also wrote for Best Reviews, The Daily Beast, and other publications covering tech, fitness gear, gadgets, and lifestyle products. Furthermore, he covered startup news, pop culture, and even professional wrestling. To follow more of his work, check back here for new stories.