Full Review ⭐ DeWalt DCS355N 18V XR Brushless Oscillating Multi Tool with 46 Piece Accessories Set

Oscillating multi-tools, also known as multi-functional power tools or oscillating tools, have become an indispensable addition to any DIYer's toolkit in recent years. As the name suggests, the blades on these tools oscillate from side to side at a very high speed, allowing them to saw, sand, grind, scrape and polish a wide variety of materials.

The rapid oscillations generate less vibration and heat compared to rotary tools, making them ideal for detailed work. Oscillating multi-tools are highly versatile - they can cut openings in drywall, trim door jambs, remove grout, sand surfaces, and even plunge cut wood and metal. With a vast assortment of attachments available, these tools can tackle countless applications around the home, job site or workshop.

Their compact size, lightweight design, and cordless battery power provides excellent maneuverability in tight spaces. Leading brands like DeWalt offer brushless motors and advanced electronics for optimal performance and runtime. With so many practical uses, it's no wonder oscillating multi-tools have become a must-have for DIYers and professionals alike.

Overview of the DeWalt DCS355N

The DeWalt DCS355N is an 18V cordless oscillating multi-tool that comes as part of a 46 piece accessory set. This versatile tool allows you to cut, sand, grind and more, making it useful for a wide range of applications.

Some of the key features of the DCS355N include:

• Brushless motor - Provides more runtime, power and speed control compared to a brushed motor. Also runs cooler and requires less maintenance.

• 18V XR Lithium Ion battery - Offers long runtime and rapid charging. The XR series batteries have more capacity than standard 18V batteries.

• Oscillating speed of 0-20,000 oscillations per minute - Gives you a lot of control over the speed to match the application.

• Quick-change accessory system - Allows fast and easy changing of blades and attachments without any tools required.

• LED light - Illuminates the work area for improved visibility.

• Variable speed trigger - Gives you total control over the speed.

• Anti-slip comfort grip - Provides good control and reduces fatigue.

• 46 piece accessory kit included - Comes with a range of blades, sanding pads, adapters and more to tackle different jobs. Good value for money.

Overall, the DeWalt DCS355N is a high-performance cordless oscillating multi-tool that comes ready to use with an extensive accessory kit. The brushless motor and 18V XR battery provide power, runtime and control for efficient cutting, sanding and grinding.

If you're looking for just the oscillating multi-tool without the accessory kit, DeWalt also offers the DCS356N model. This comes with just a basic blade, but can be used with all of the same attachments and accessories as the DCS355N. The DCS356N has the same powerful brushless motor and 18V XR battery as the DCS355N. It's a great option if you want to start with a basic oscillating multi-tool and purchase accessories separately as needed.

With the highly efficient brushless motor and long-lasting 18V XR battery, the DCS356N delivers the same great power and performance as the DCS355N kit version. You'll get the same variable speed control from 0-20,000 oscillations per minute to match the application. And you can take advantage of the quick-change accessory system to swap blades and attachments without any tools.

The DCS356N comes equipped with DeWalt's 3-year limited warranty, 1-year free service contract, and 90-day money back guarantee. This demonstrates the confidence DeWalt has in the quality and reliability of their oscillating multi-tools.

In summary, the DeWalt DCS356N 18V XR Brushless Oscillating Multi-Tool is an excellent choice if you want the core oscillating tool without all the accessories included in the kit. You get the same powerful performance and convenient features as the DCS355N model. Just purchase blades and attachments separately to customize it for the jobs you need to tackle.

Design and Build Quality

The DeWalt DCS355N features a durable and ergonomic design built to withstand heavy use on the jobsite. The housing is constructed from high-grade reinforced plastic that provides protection against drops and impacts without adding unnecessary weight.

Despite its rugged exterior, the tool still maintains an ergonomic and comfortable grip. The soft overmold grip allows for reduced vibration and more control during extended use. The variable speed dial and lock-on button are conveniently located for easy one-handed operation.

The DCS355N utilizes a brushless motor that delivers efficient power while generating less heat. This allows the tool to run cooler for longer periods of time without the need for constant breaks. The all-metal gearing and transmission are built tough for longevity and performance under pressure.

Overall, the materials and design of the DeWalt DCS355N reflect its purpose as a professional-grade oscillating multi-tool made for the demands of heavy-duty use. It balances power, comfort, and durability for extended run times and consistent cutting ability. The DeWalt DCS353B 12V MAX Brushless Lithium-Ion Cordless Oscillating Tool is another great oscillating tool option from DeWalt, providing similar performance and durability in a more compact 12V cordless design.

Weighing only 2.6 lbs, the DCS353B is designed for tight workspaces where maneuverability is key. It generates up to 57% more runtime compared to previous models. The brushless motor boosts its power-to-weight ratio. It has the same 3-degree oscillation angle as the DCS355 for fast, aggressive cutting. The quick-change accessory system allows blades and attachments to be changed rapidly.

Like the DCS355N, the DCS353B features an ergonomic grip and variable speed control. It includes DeWalt's 3-year limited warranty. While more portable than the DCS355N, it trades off some power. But it's still an extremely capable oscillating tool perfect for finishing work, detail sanding, and flush cutting.

Performance

The DeWalt DCS355N oscillating multi-tool delivers excellent performance thanks to its powerful brushless motor. This motor provides efficient power transfer and runtime, making the tool ideal for intensive applications.

The tool has a no load speed of up to 20,000 oscillations per minute (OPM), allowing it to make quick work of most materials. Users report the tool maintains a high constant speed even under load, with minimal bogging down when pushed hard. This helps maximize cutting and sanding efficiency.

The DCS355N also delivers impressive runtime thanks to its 18V XR Lithium Ion battery. Runtime is estimated at around 20-30 minutes of constant use per full battery charge. This allows completion of most jobs without needing to stop to change batteries. The included fast charger can fully recharge a depleted battery in around 40 minutes.

Overall, the power and speed of the DeWalt DCS355N allow it to take on even tough oscillating multi-tool jobs with ease. The brushless motor provides sustained high performance without overheating or loss of efficiency over time. This makes the tool a great choice for professionals and DIYers alike.

Accessories

The DeWalt DCS355N comes with an impressive 46 piece accessory kit, providing you with all the attachments you'll need for most applications.

Some of the standout accessories include:

• A fast cutting wood blade that makes quick work of wood, plastic and even metal up to 2mm thick. It's great for flush cutting and plunge cuts.

• A carbide grout removal blade for scraping away old grout between tiles or other hard materials. The pointed tip gets into tight spaces.

• A sanding pad attachment paired with 5 sanding sheets of varying grits. This lets you smooth and shape materials like wood, drywall and metal.

• An HSS segment saw blade optimized for cutting metal objects like pipes, bolts and screws. It cuts effortlessly through steel and stainless steel.

• A scraper blade attachment ideal for removing flooring, paint, adhesives and other materials without damaging the surface underneath.

• A detail finger attachment for getting into the tightest spaces that other accessories can't reach.

Having all these attachments included right out of the box adds tremendous value compared to buying each accessory separately. It provides all the tools you need to use the oscillating multi-tool for an extensive range of applications.

Ease of Use

The DeWalt DCS355N is designed for comfort and control during prolonged use. Its compact and lightweight body makes it easy to handle in tight spaces. The rubberized soft grip provides a secure hold even when wearing gloves.

The variable speed dial gives you precision control over the oscillation speed, from 0 to 22,000 oscillations per minute. At lower speeds, you have more control for detailed sanding or cutting work. At max speed, it powers through tough materials quickly. The speed can be adjusted with one hand.

The quick change system allows accessories to be changed rapidly without any tools. Just insert the accessory into the chuck and turn the collar to lock it in place securely. Swapping between cutting blades, sanding pads, and scraping tools can be done in seconds.

An adjustable auxiliary handle is included for added stability and control when working on vertical surfaces or overhead. It can be quickly attached in various positions. The handle has a soft rubber grip for comfort during prolonged use.

Overall, the controls are ergonomically designed and intuitive to use. The variable speed dial, quick change system, and adjustable handle make the DCS355N comfortable and convenient for extended use across many applications.

Noise and Vibration

The DeWalt DCS355N oscillating multi-tool produces moderate noise levels during operation. The brushless motor helps keep sound to a reasonable level, though you'll still want to wear hearing protection for extended use.

Vibration is also well controlled thanks to the anti-vibration system built into the tool. There are rubberized grips to absorb vibration in your hands. Additionally, the tool features a counter-balance mechanism that helps reduce vibrations. Together, these features allow you to work for longer periods without fatigue or numbness from excess vibration.

The variable speed dial gives you control over the noise and vibration levels. On lower speeds, the DCS355N operates more quietly and smoothly. When ramped up to higher speeds for demanding cuts, there is an increase in noise and vibration, but still at manageable levels for the power output. Overall, the noise and vibration is on par or better than comparable oscillating multi-tools.

Safety Features

The DeWalt DCS355N oscillating multi-tool has several important safety features that make it easy and safe to operate.

• The variable speed trigger gives you precise control over the speed of the oscillating blade or attachment. This allows you to match the speed to the material you're cutting for optimal performance and safety.

• The tool has an anti-slip comfort grip handle which provides a secure hold, even when your hands are oily or wet. The rubberized grip helps absorb vibration and reduces hand fatigue during extended use.

• There is an LED light to illuminate the work area. This helps improve visibility and precision when cutting or sanding in dim environments.

• A fast clamp system allows quick and easy changing of blades and attachments without touching the sharp edges.

• The brushless motor operates efficiently to provide maximum power while generating less heat. This enhances durability and prevents potential motor burnout.

Overall, the thoughtful safety features allow you to work confidently with this powerful multi-tool. The convenient trigger speed controls and anti-slip grip give you precision and stability during operation.

Value for Money

The DeWalt DCS355N 18V XR Brushless Oscillating Multi Tool offers excellent value considering its features and performance. At around £200, it sits in the middle price range for oscillating tools.

Compared to competitors like the Bosch PMF 180 E, the DeWalt is very competitively priced. The Bosch model has a similar brushless motor and accessories, but costs over £50 more. Even compared to cheaper brands like VonHaus and Ryobi, the DeWalt represents good value since it has superior power and useful accessories the cheaper models lack.

Given its versatility with the range of blades and attachments, along with its cordless convenience, the DeWalt DCS355N delivers on value. It can replace multiple other tools, saving money while providing professional-grade cutting and sanding capabilities.

The included 46 piece accessory kit adds even more value, providing all the essential blades and attachments right out of the box. Many competitors sell the tool alone, requiring extra investment in accessories.

Overall, considering its brushed motor, variable speed, quick accessory changes, and bundled accessories, the DeWalt DCS355N is very competitively priced. It delivers professional performance and convenience that make it a worthwhile investment for the price.

Conclusion

The DeWalt DCS355N is an excellent oscillating multi-tool that delivers top-notch performance. Its powerful 18V XR brushless motor provides efficient power output and runtime, while the quick-change accessory system allows for fast bit changes.

Some of the key pros of this tool include:

• Great power and speed for cutting, sanding, grinding and more
• Long battery life up to 57 cuts per charge
• Ergonomic design with LED light for visibility
• Variable speed control for precision
• Quick release blades for fast accessory changes
• Anti-vibration system reduces user fatigue

On the downside, the tool lacks an orbital setting which some users may miss. It's also relatively heavy compared to some other cordless oscillating multi-tools.

Overall though, the DeWalt DCS355N is a highly capable and versatile oscillating tool that most DIYers and professionals will appreciate. It delivers excellent performance across a wide range of oscillating applications. The included 46 piece accessory kit adds even more value. For those seeking a powerful, feature-rich cordless oscillating multi-tool, the DCS355N is easily recommended.