Leatherman Wave+ vs Gerber Suspension NXT: Which Is Better?

If you want a premium, long-lasting tool with more functions, replaceable wire cutters, and top-tier build quality for heavy DIY use, choose the Leatherman Wave Plus; if you prioritize a lighter, more compact everyday carry with a pocket clip at a more accessible price, go with the Gerber Suspension NXT.

The key differences: Number of Tools — Leatherman Wave+: 18-in-1 (saw, spring-action scissors, ruler, replaceable wire cutters, etc.), Gerber Suspension NXT: 15-in-1 (needle-nose pliers, wire stripper, 3 flathead drivers, 2 cross drivers, awl, nail file, scissors, can/bottle opener, 2.25" partially serrated blade) (Product A offers more built-in functions including a saw and ruler.); Weight — Leatherman Wave+: 8.5 ounces, Gerber Suspension NXT: 6.4 ounces (Product B is about 25% lighter, better for all-day pocket carry.); Closed/Item Size — Leatherman Wave+: 5 x 3.5 x 1.57 inches (folded ~3.9 x 3.5 in), Gerber Suspension NXT: 4.25 x 1 x 4.25 inches closed length (Product B is slimmer and more compact when folded.); Warranty — Leatherman Wave+: 25-year / lifetime Leatherman warranty from Portland, Oregon factory, Gerber Suspension NXT: Limited Lifetime warranty (Product A's warranty is explicitly backed and widely praised by long-term owners.).

Across the specs we compared, Leatherman Wave+ comes out ahead on 4 and Gerber Suspension NXT on 3. The better value depends on which of those wins matter most for how you'll use it — check live pricing on Amazon and weigh it against the pros and cons above.

Reviewers most often highlight: "Exceptional overall quality and construction, none of the tools feel gimmicky or flimsy." The most common complaint: "Mixed durability reports; some users had pliers or flathead break under use." Weigh that against the Gerber Suspension NXT using the full pros and cons above to decide.

Reviewers most often highlight: "Very versatile and handy multipurpose tool for work and outdoor use." The most common complaint: "Durability concerns, especially the weak/flimsy pocket clip and pouch flap." Weigh that against the Leatherman Wave+ using the full pros and cons above to decide.

Brand Name: Leatherman; Included Components: Multitool; Model Number: 832531; Number of Packs: 1. The table above lines each of these up against the Gerber Suspension NXT.

Brand Name: Gerber; Included Components: Needle Nose Pliers, Wire Stripper, Small Flat…; Model Number: 30-001364N; UPC: 013658152137. The table above lines each of these up against the Leatherman Wave+.

Beyond the highlights above, reviewers also frequently mention Versatile and useful for everyday, DIY, and emergency tasks (about 156 mentions), and a recurring complaint is Perceived as expensive/overpriced by some buyers (about 30 mentions).

Beyond the highlights above, reviewers also frequently mention Good overall quality and reliable functionality, pliers and scissors work well (about 713 mentions), and a recurring complaint is Locking mechanism hard to release, particularly with gloves or dirty hands (about 176 mentions).

It's based on AI analysis of 29,967 Amazon customer reviews (6,121 for Leatherman Wave+, 23,846 for Gerber Suspension NXT) alongside the full specifications of both products.