Full Review ⭐ DeWalt DCS355N 18V Oscillating Multi-Tool with 5.0Ah DCB184 Battery

The DeWalt DCS355N is an oscillating multi-tool that offers versatility and convenience for DIYers and professionals alike. Oscillating multi-tools, also known as oscillating power tools or oscillating saws, are handy devices that can cut, sand, grind, scrape and polish. Their rapid oscillating motion allows the blade or attachment to move back and forth very quickly, making fast work of many materials.

This makes them ideal for flush cutting, plunge cuts, detail sanding, grinding, scraping and more. Oscillating tools are designed for tight spaces and detailed jobs that would be difficult with normal saws, since their narrow profile blades can get into tiny gaps and crevices. With a range of blades and attachments available, they can be used for applications like cutting doorjambs, sanding between floorboards, removing grout, fitting pipes, grinding welds and cutting openings in drywall.

The DeWalt DCS355N aims to provide power and versatility from this compact 18V cordless tool. Let's take a closer look at its features and performance.

Design & Ergonomics

The DeWalt DCS355N features a compact and ergonomic design, making it comfortable to hold and easy to control during operation. The tool measures only 5.6 inches front to back and weighs just 3.5 lbs with the battery installed. Its rounded overmold grip fits nicely in your palm and provides a secure, slip-resistant hold.

Despite the small size, the DCS355N feels well-balanced in hand. The weight distribution is even so it doesn't feel top- or front-heavy. This balance gives you good control of the tool when making precision cuts. The compact head design also allows you to easily access tight spaces that larger oscillating tools can't reach.

Overall, the thoughtful design elements like the grip, size, and weight make the DCS355N comfortable to use for extended periods. Even after long work sessions, hand and arm fatigue is minimal. For a cordless oscillating multi-tool, the DeWalt DCS355N offers great ergonomics and maneuverability.

Moreover, the DeWalt DCS355N-XJ 18V Li-Ion Cordless Brushless Oscillating Multi-Tool & DTM3022QZ 80 Grit 1/4 Sanding Sheets (Pack of 5) enhances this experience by including high-quality sanding sheets that are ideal for various applications. The brushless motor extends run time and efficiency, making it perfect for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Motor & Power

The DCS355N features an efficient brushless motor that provides powerful performance while maximizing runtime. It has a variable speed range of 0-3,000 oscillations per minute (OPM) which allows you to match the speed to the application. At lower speeds, you get greater control and precision for intricate cuts and detail work. At higher speeds, it powers through tougher materials quickly.

The brushless motor eliminates friction and enables constant power output. This results in up to 57% more runtime compared to brushed motors. It's also more durable for longer tool life. With the included 5.0Ah battery, you get superior runtime to tackle big jobs without stopping to recharge frequently.

Overall, the powerful brushless motor provides versatility to handle both delicate and demanding oscillating multi-tool applications with optimized speed and extended runtime.

In addition to the DCS355N, another excellent option is the DeWalt 18V XR 5Ah Li-Ion Cordless 3 Speed Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit: DCS356P1-GB. This tool offers three-speed settings, enhancing versatility for a variety of cutting applications. Coupled with its lightweight design, it ensures ease of use for prolonged periods. The included 5Ah lithium-ion battery provides long-lasting power, making it perfect for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Featuring a quick-change accessory system, it saves time and increases efficiency while working on various tasks.

Oscillation Angle

The DCS355N features a 3.2-degree oscillation angle, which refers to the angle at which the blade moves back and forth. This provides an aggressive cutting motion that can power through tough materials.

The oscillation system uses a counterweight design which enables the blade to move rapidly within a tight 3.2-degree arc. This gives you greater control and precision when cutting or sanding. It allows you to make detailed plunge cuts and work right up close to edges.

The tight oscillation angle also means there is less blade wobble. This further enhances accuracy and reduces unwanted marks on the workpiece. It enables clean and straight cuts in wood, metal, plaster and more.

So in summary, the 3.2-degree oscillation angle gives the DCS355N excellent cutting power while maintaining great control and precision. It's suitable for detailed work where you need a small, focused cutting motion rather than wide sweeping cuts.

Blade Change System

The DCS355N features DeWalt's Quick Change blade system which allows for tool-free blade changes. To release a blade, you simply pull back the lever at the front of the tool. This retracts the blade holder and releases the accessory. To lock in a new blade, push it into the holder until it clicks into place securely.

Overall, the blade change process on the DCS355N is very quick and easy. The lever provides a good amount of leverage so you can pull it back without much effort. The click when inserting a new blade gives nice feedback so you know it's properly locked in. This is much more convenient than using tools to loosen and tighten bolts and screws for blade changes like on some competitors' models. The quick change system makes swapping blades fast and frustration-free.

Dust Extraction

The DCS355N features an integrated dust extraction port to help keep your work area clean while cutting and sanding. This is an important feature for an oscillating multi-tool, as the high-speed oscillations can kick up a lot of dust very quickly.

The dust port allows you to connect a vacuum hose to extract dust as you work. It uses a standard 1-1/4" diameter port, so it's compatible with most workshop vacuums. Simply connect your vacuum hose to the port on the multi-tool and turn on the vacuum to suck away dust as it's generated.

The port is thoughtfully placed at the rear of the tool near the blade attachment. This positions it close to where dust is produced during cutting and sanding. It is also rotatable, allowing you to adjust the angle of the port to optimize dust extraction.

Overall, the dust extraction system is well-designed and effective at collecting dust. When used with a good vacuum, it helps keep your work surface clear of debris and your lungs clear of harmful dust while using this oscillating multi-tool. This is an important feature that really enhances the usability and safety of the tool.

Accessories

The DCS355N comes with a useful selection of accessories for tackling different jobs. In the box you get:

• A straight cutting blade for general purpose cutting in wood and metal. It has a plunge cut depth of 30mm.

• A sanding pad which takes standard sanding sheets. Useful for sanding contours and shapes.

• A scraper blade that's handy for removing flooring, paint and glue.

• A carrying bag to keep everything together.

Additional accessories can be purchased separately:

• The off-set knife attachment allows flush cutting close to surfaces. Helpful for flooring installations and repairs.

• A circle cutter attachment for cleanly cutting circles in flooring, drywall etc up to 270mm diameter.

• A rigid scraper blade for scraping paint and varnish without gouging the surface underneath.

• An HSS segmented saw blade that cuts aggressively through wood and plastic.

The range of blades and attachments available means you can tackle many jobs with this single tool. It's a versatile problem solver to have in your kit.

Battery & Charger

The DeWalt DCS355N comes with a 5.0Ah 18V XR Lithium-Ion battery pack (model DCB184). This is a high capacity battery that provides extended runtime compared to lower Ah batteries.

The 5Ah battery uses DeWalt's latest battery technology to maximize performance and durability. It features an efficient design with dual-layer construction and advanced electronics to optimize both power and runtime.

Charging the 5Ah battery is done with the included DCB118 fast charger. This is a dual-port charger, meaning you can charge two batteries at once. It fully charges a 5Ah battery in around 60 minutes. The charger plugs into AC power and has an LED indicator to show charge status.

Overall, the included 5Ah battery and fast charger make a great pairing for the oscillating multi-tool. You get ample runtime to complete jobs without having to stop to swap batteries frequently. And the fast charger replenishes the battery quickly when it does run low.

Pros & Cons

The DeWalt DCS355N 18V oscillating multi-tool comes with many benefits as a cordless model in the DeWalt line of power tools.

Pros:

• Powerful 18V motor provides ample power for cutting and sanding applications
• Quick blade change system allows for fast accessory swaps without tools
• Oscillation angle of 3.2 degrees gives versatility to work in tight spaces
• Variable speed dial (0-22,000 OPM) allows matching the right speed to the application
• LED light illuminates the work area
• Long battery life from the included 5.0Ah battery
• Dust extraction port works with a vacuum for cleaner sanding/cutting

Cons:

• Battery and charger add significantly to the overall cost
• Lacks some specialty features like tool-free blade change or quick release accessory clamp
• May lack power for heavy duty cutting jobs compared to corded models
• No case included for storing accessories

Overall, the DeWalt DCS355N provides excellent power and performance for an 18V cordless oscillating multi-tool. The quick blade change, variable speed, and included 5.0Ah battery make it a versatile choice for DIYers and professionals alike. The main limitations relate to the higher price driven by the battery and lack of included storage accessories. But for those already invested in the DeWalt 18V battery platform, it's an excellent addition.

Conclusion

The DeWalt DCS355N 18V Oscillating Multi-Tool is a powerful and versatile addition for any DIYer or professional. Its robust motor provides up to 20,000 oscillations per minute for fast cutting in materials like wood, metal and plastic. The 3.2 degree oscillation angle gives it an aggressive cutting action that makes short work of most jobs.

The ergonomic design makes it comfortable to hold during prolonged use. The quick blade change system allows you to switch accessories rapidly without any tools. Dust extraction helps keep the work area clean.

With the included 5.0Ah battery, you get ample runtime to complete most applications on a single charge. The charger brings the battery from flat to fully charged in about 60 minutes.

Overall, the DeWalt DCS355N performs well for an 18V oscillating multi-tool. It has plenty of power and features for the price. The 5 year warranty provides peace of mind on the investment. This model is highly recommended for home DIYers and professional tradesmen looking for a cordless oscillating tool with great performance.