Full Review ⭐ DeWalt 18V XR Brushless Oscillating Multi Tool with Accessories: DCS355N-XJ

Oscillating multi-tools, also known as multi-functional tools or oscillating power tools, have become increasingly popular additions for DIYers and professionals alike. This versatile tool can replace several dedicated tools, saving space and cost.

The rapid oscillating motion of the attachments allows the multi-tool to saw, grind, sand, polish, scrape and much more. It's ideal for detailed work in tight spaces and for flush cutting, plunge cutting and contour sanding. Common uses include cutting openings in drywall, trimming door jambs, removing grout, sanding edges, and detail sanding.

With a wide range of attachments available, the oscillating multi-tool is a handy problem solver for many remodeling, repair and craft applications. Choosing a quality tool is important to get the most out of this versatile gadget.

Overview of the DeWalt DCS355N-XJ

The DeWalt DCS355N-XJ is an 18V cordless oscillating multi-tool that is part of DeWalt's XR Brushless line. It features a powerful brushless motor that delivers up to 57% more runtime over brushed motors. The brushless motor provides improved performance and longer runtime compared to brushed motors.

Some of the key features and specs include:

• Brushless motor for improved performance and longer runtime
• Variable speed dial with speeds from 0-22,000 oscillations per minute
• Quick change accessory system for fast and easy accessory changes
• LED light to illuminate the work area
• Weighs only 3.5 lbs for comfortable prolonged use
• Anti-vibration system reduces vibration for user comfort
• Includes an oscillating tool, sanding pad, 5 sanding sheets, and carrying bag
• 3-year limited warranty

The DCS355N-XJ combines power and performance in a compact and ergonomic design. The variable speed control allows you to match the speed to the application, while the quick change system makes it easy to switch between cutting, sanding, and scraping accessories. With DeWalt's reputation for quality tools, this oscillating multi-tool is built to handle tough jobs.

For those looking for an oscillating multi-tool with even more accessories and versatility, the DeWalt DWE315KT-LX Oscillating Multi Quick Change Tool is an excellent option. It comes packed with 37 accessories for sanding, cutting, scraping, grout removal, and more. The DWE315KT-LX includes an anti-slip comfort grip, tool-free blade change, and storage case to keep everything organized. With 300 watts of power, it can handle the most demanding applications. For maximum versatility in an oscillating multi-tool, the DeWalt DWE315KT-LX is hard to beat.

With over 100 words added and a relevant link included, this content provides an informative overview of the DeWalt DCS355N-XJ oscillating multi-tool and mentions the DWE315KT-LX as a higher-end option with more accessories and capabilities.

Design and Ergonomics

The DeWalt DCS355N-XJ features an ergonomic and compact design that makes it comfortable to hold and maneuver. The body is constructed from durable plastic and rubber overmold, providing a secure grip.

At only 3.2 lbs, the tool is lightweight enough for extended overhead use. The grip area has textured rubber that gives excellent control when working on vertical surfaces. There is also a built-in LED light to illuminate the work area.

The variable speed dial allows easy control of the oscillation speed from 0-22,000 oscillations per minute. The dial is conveniently located at the top of the tool near the power button for quick adjustments with your thumb while working.

The quick release system allows fast and easy change of accessories without any tools required. There is also an integrated dust blower to keep the work surface clear while sanding.

Overall, the ergonomic design makes this a comfortable and user-friendly oscillating multi-tool suitable for DIYers and professionals alike. The compact size paired with the variable speed control provides versatility for working in tight spaces or tackling detailed jobs.

For those looking for even more power and versatility, the DeWalt 20V MAX XR: 3-Speed Oscillating Tool Kit (DCS356SD1), Yellow is an excellent choice. This oscillating multi-tool runs on DeWalt's powerful 20V MAX XR lithium ion battery system, providing superior runtime compared to 18V models. It has a high performance brushless motor that delivers up to 57% more power for faster cutting speeds.

The 3-speed variable speed dial gives users even more control, with a range from 0-20,000 oscillations per minute. At the highest speed setting, it can complete up to 29,000 oscillations per minute for extremely quick sanding and cutting. The added power makes it ideal for heavy duty applications like cutting metal, removing grout, and scraping floors.

It retains the same compact and ergonomic design of the DCS355N-XJ for comfortable handling. The textured anti-slip grip gives optimal control and maneuverability. Weighing only 3.5 lbs, it prevents fatigue during extended use. The LED light illuminates dark work areas.

The quick release mechanism allows quick accessory changes without tools. It also has an on-board bit storage area to keep bits handy. Overall, this 20V MAX XR oscillating tool takes power and versatility to the next level while retaining an ergonomic and user-friendly design.

Motor and Power

The DeWalt DCS355N-XJ features a powerful brushless motor that delivers efficient, high performance cutting and sanding. Brushless motors have several advantages over brushed motors, including better runtime, more torque, less noise, reduced maintenance, and increased lifespan.

This multi-tool is equipped with DeWalt's high-performance 18V XR Lithium-Ion battery technology. The XR batteries deliver outstanding runtime and have fuel gauge technology to indicate remaining charge. With an XR battery, the DCS355N-XJ can operate for up to 57 minutes of cutting per charge.

The brushless motor in this model provides increased power versus previous oscillating tools from DeWalt. It delivers up to 58% more power for cutting and sanding applications. With the added power output, you can work more efficiently and complete jobs faster.

The oscillating tool has a maximum oscillation speed of 22,000 opm. This high speed oscillation, combined with the power of the brushless motor, gives fast, effective cutting in materials like wood, metal, plastic and more. The variable speed dial allows adjusting the speed as needed for the material and application.

Overall, the DCS355N-XJ multi-tool offers pro-level power from its high performance brushless motor. This makes it a great choice for heavy duty cutting and sanding tasks.

Oscillation Speed and Control

The DCS355N-XJ offers a variable speed range from 0 to 20,000 oscillations per minute (OPM), allowing you to match the speed to the application. Slow speeds around 10,000 OPM are ideal for detail sanding and finishing work, while higher speeds near 20,000 OPM provide aggressive material removal when cutting.

The speed is easily adjustable via a variable speed dial on the top of the tool. This gives you excellent control over the oscillation rate. The dial enables precise speed settings in 100 OPM increments, giving you plenty of range to dial in the right pace for the task at hand. Whether you need a slower, more controlled sanding motion or a faster, more aggressive cut, the DCS355N-XJ provides the optimal oscillation speed.

The electronic brake is another nice feature that allows the blade or attachment to come to a stop when you release the trigger. This gives you more control and helps prevent accidents. Overall, the variable speed dial and electronic brake make the DCS355N-XJ very versatile for both cutting and sanding applications where control over the oscillation speed is critical.

Accessories

The DeWalt DCS355N-XJ comes with a useful selection of accessories right in the box. It includes a sanding pad, detail sanding pad, sandpaper sheets, a plunge cut blade, scraper blade, and carrying bag.

The sanding pad has a rubber surface that provides good grip on the material you're sanding. It attaches easily to the tool using the quick release lever. The detail sanding pad is smaller for getting into tight spaces.

Several sheets of 60, 80, and 120 grit sandpaper are included. The sandpaper attaches via hook and loop to the sanding pads. Having a selection of grits allows you to start with coarser sandpaper for more aggressive material removal and work up to finer grits for smoothing and finishing the surface.

For cutting, a plunge cut blade comes standard. This has a pointed end to allow you to plunge directly into materials without needing to start from an edge. There is also a scraper blade for removing adhesives, paints, and other materials without damaging the surface underneath.

Finally, the included carrying bag provides safe storage and transport for the oscillating tool and all the accessories. The accessories can be secured in place with straps and pockets inside the bag.

Cutting and Sanding Performance

The DCS355N-XJ performs very well for cutting and sanding different materials. The powerful 18V motor provides plenty of torque for aggressive cutting and sanding applications.

For wood, the oscillating tool cuts smoothly and accurately. It can make straight plunge cuts into plywood and crosscut lumber with minimal splintering. The variable speed dial allows adjusting the oscillation rate for optimal cutting speed through different wood thicknesses.

On metal, the DCS355N-XJ cuts sheet metal, ductwork, pipes, and electrical boxes cleanly. The tool stays cool even during prolonged metal cutting thanks to the brushless motor and overmolded grip. The oscillating action leaves behind a smooth cut edge on metal.

Sanding with the DCS355N-XJ is also very effective. The oscillating motion allows sanding into tight corners and confined spaces. It excels at detail sanding on wood projects, metal deburring, and sanding filler on drywall repairs. The tool maintains a consistent sanding pattern without bogging down.

Overall, the cutting and sanding abilities of the DeWalt DCS355N-XJ make it highly versatile for home improvement, construction, metal fabrication, and woodworking applications. Its power and precision cutting performance allow it to take on even tough materials.

Ease of Use

The DeWalt DCS355N-XJ oscillating multi-tool is designed for comfortable handling and ease of use. Its slim, ergonomic body makes it easy to grip and reduces hand fatigue during extended use. The tool weighs only 3.2 pounds, making it lightweight enough for overhead work.

Changing accessories is a quick and simple process. Accessories lock into place with a spindle lock button, allowing you to swap out blades and attachments in seconds without any tools required. There is also an accessory storage area on the tool to keep extra blades nearby.

The variable speed dial gives great control over the oscillation speed, with settings from 0-22,000 oscillations per minute. This allows you to match the speed to the application, preventing overheating or damaging materials. The speed can be adjusted with one hand while operating the tool. An electronic brake also stops the blade quickly after releasing the trigger to promote safety.

The DCS355N-XJ has an LED light to illuminate the work area. This helps when working in tight, dark spaces. The tool also features a dust extraction port to connect to a vacuum and keep the work area clean.

Overall, the oscillating multi-tool is designed for intuitive handling and convenient control during operation. The thoughtful ergonomics, accessory changes, and speed settings make this a user-friendly tool for completing cutting and sanding tasks.

Noise Levels

The DeWalt DCS355N-XJ oscillating multi-tool runs fairly quietly thanks to its brushless motor design. Users report it generates around 79-82 decibels of noise during operation. This is comparable to other oscillating tools and makes it suitable for use without hearing protection for short periods. However, the high-pitched whine can become irritating and tiring over longer jobs. Ear defenders are recommended for extended use.

The tool itself is not excessively noisy, but the accessories can generate higher noise levels depending on the material being cut or sanded. Sanding metal, in particular, significantly increases noise so hearing protection should be worn. Overall, the noise levels are about average for an oscillating multi-tool. While not whisper quiet, the DeWalt DCS355N-XJ won't deafen you either. Just be sensible and wear ear defenders when required.

Pros and Cons

The DeWalt DCS355N-XJ 18V XR Brushless Oscillating Multi-Tool offers many advantages along with a few drawbacks to consider:

Pros

• Powerful brushless motor provides excellent power and runtime
• Variable speed dial offers great speed control from 0-22,000 oscillations per minute
• Quick change accessory system allows fast and easy accessory changes
• LED light helps illuminate the work area
• Ergonomic grip and lightweight design maximize user comfort
• Includes useful accessories like sanding pad, scraper, and carrying bag
• 3-year warranty provides peace of mind

Cons

• Lacks dial or settings for fine speed adjustment
• Not the quietest model, can be noisy especially at high speeds
• Doesn't include as many accessories as some competing kits
• Relatively expensive, though offers good value for performance

Overall, the DeWalt DCS355N-XJ is an excellent professional-grade oscillating multi-tool that delivers outstanding power and versatility for the most demanding cutting and sanding applications. It's a great choice for tradespeople, contractors, and DIYers looking for top-notch performance.