Full Review ⭐ DeWalt DCS355N-XJ 18V Li-Ion Cordless Brushless Oscillating Multi-Tool & DTM3022QZ 80 Grit 1/4 Sanding Sheets (Pack of 5)

Oscillating multi-tools are versatile power tools that have become a must-have addition for many DIYers and professionals. Also known as multi-function power tools or oscillating tools, they can sand, cut, grind, scrape and polish a wide variety of materials thanks to their rapid side-to-side oscillating motion.

The quick oscillations allow the accessories to move back and forth against the work surface, acting like a handheld version of a stationary belt sander. This gives users great control and precision for detail work and finishing tasks, especially in tight or awkward spaces.

First introduced in the 1960s, oscillating multi-tools have continued to evolve with improved ergonomics, more power and a growing range of attachments to increase their capabilities. They are commonly used for flush cutting, plunge cutting, scraping, sanding and grinding on materials like wood, metal, drywall, grout, tile and plastic. Major brands like DeWalt, Bosch and Milwaukee all offer their own oscillating multi-tool models to meet varying power, performance and budget needs.

Overview of the DeWalt DCS355N-XJ

The DeWalt DCS355N-XJ is an 18V cordless brushless oscillating multi-tool designed for professional use. Some of the key features include:

• Brushless motor provides efficient power and runtime
• Quick-change accessory system for fast bit changes
• 3-position oscillation angle for flush cutting and sanding
• Variable speed dial (0-22,000 OPM) for optimal speed control
• LED worklight to illuminate the work area
• Weighs only 3.3 lbs for reduced fatigue during extended use
• Includes an anti-slip comfort grip and belt hook

The DCS355N-XJ comes as a bare tool, so batteries and charger are sold separately. It's part of DeWalt's 20V MAX line and is compatible with all 20V MAX lithium ion batteries. This oscillating tool is designed for making precision cuts, sanding, grinding, scraping and more. The quick-change accessory system allows users to rapidly switch between blades, sanding pads, rasps and other attachments.

For those looking for a complete kit, the DeWalt DCS355P1 XR Brushless Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit TSTAK™ 18V 1 x 5.0Ah Li-ion is an excellent option. It includes a powerful brushless motor and a 5.0Ah battery for enhanced runtime. The kit comes packaged in a TSTAK™ case for easy transport and storage. Like the DCS355N-XJ, this model features a quick-change system and variable speed control, making it ideal for a wide range of applications, from detailed sanding to heavy-duty cutting tasks.

Design

The DeWalt DCS355N-XJ features a compact and lightweight design that makes it easy to handle and maneuver into tight spaces. Weighing only 3.2 lbs with the battery, it won't cause user fatigue during prolonged use.

The multi-tool has an ergonomic overmolded rubber grip that provides excellent control and comfort. The grip has anti-slip ridges to prevent slipping, even when hands get sweaty. A variable speed trigger gives users precise speed control with a finger.

At only 12.75 inches long, the DCS355N-XJ can fit into tight areas that larger oscillating tools can't access. The barrel grip design makes the multi-tool well balanced for overhead use. An LED light illuminates dark work areas.

The tool's compact head pivots to allow flush cutting and sanding at any angle. Overall, the design focuses on portability, comfort, and ease of use in tight quarters.

Motor & Power

The DeWalt DCS355N-XJ features a powerful brushless motor that delivers efficient power and runtime. This motor provides excellent torque and control, allowing the multi-tool to power through tough materials.

One of the key benefits of the brushless motor is its increased efficiency compared to brushed motors. It doesn't have brushes that create friction and need replacement over time. This means the motor runs cooler and requires less maintenance.

The DCS355N-XJ has a high power output of 18V. This allows it to oscillate at speeds up to 20,000 oscillations per minute when paired with the appropriate attachments. Even at high speeds, the brushless motor maintains constant speed and power.

With this level of power and torque, the multi-tool can cut and sand through wood, metal, plastic and more. Users praise its ability to power through tough DIY and remodeling jobs without bogging down. The power delivery remains consistent even in demanding applications.

Overall, the brushless motor gives the DCS355N-XJ excellent performance, runtime and longevity. It's a versatile powerhouse able to take on a wide range of materials.

Oscillation Speed & Control

The DCS355N-XJ offers variable speed control with a speed range of 0-20,000 oscillations per minute (OPM). This allows you to match the speed to the application and material you're cutting or sanding.

The tool has a speed dial with 6 settings so you can easily adjust the speed as needed. At the lowest setting, it operates around 8,000 OPM which is good for delicate materials or detail work. At the highest setting, it reaches 20,000 OPM for aggressive cutting and sanding applications.

The variable speed trigger provides even more control over the speed. You can dial in the maximum speed with the dial, then fine-tune it with the trigger as you work. This level of speed variability gives you a high degree of precision and control when using the oscillating multi-tool.

Overall, the variable speed settings and trigger make the DCS355N-XJ extremely versatile for different cutting, sanding, and grinding tasks. You can slow it down for detailed work or speed it up when you need more power. This helps optimize the tool's performance across many different materials and applications.

Accessories

The DeWalt DCS355N-XJ comes with a good selection of accessories to get you started. In the box, you'll find:

• A sanding pad
• A plunge cut blade
• A scraper blade
• A detail blade
• A carrying bag

It's compatible with the full range of DeWalt oscillating accessories and attachments, allowing you to tackle a wide variety of jobs. There are saw blades for cutting wood, metal and more. Sanding and grinding pads let you smooth and shape materials. And scraping and grout removal blades help with demolition tasks.

Some of the most useful accessories include:

• Sanding sheets - Available in various grits for sanding wood, plastic, metal and more. Great for detail sanding and finishing work.

• Oscillating saw blades - The different tooth configurations cut through wood, metal, plaster and more. Useful for flush cutting, plunge cuts and more.

• Grout removal blade - Special triangular shaped blade for removing old grout. Makes quick work of grout renewal projects.

• Detail scraper blade - Shaped to get into corners and tight spaces. Helpful for scraping paint, gasket material, glue and more.

With the range of attachments available, the DeWalt DCS355N-XJ can take on many jobs around the home, job site or workshop. The quick change system allows you to switch accessories quickly and easily too.

Dust Collection

The DeWalt DCS355N-XJ comes equipped with a dust extraction port, allowing you to connect it to a vacuum for collecting dust and debris while working. This helps keep your workspace clean and reduces airborne dust particles.

The dust port adapter fits standard 1-1/4 inch or 35mm vacuum hoses. When connected to a vacuum, it extracts dust directly from the cutting surface as you operate the oscillating tool. The dust collection works quite efficiently to minimize the mess created during sanding, grinding, and cutting applications.

Some key points about the dust extraction capabilities:

• Dust port adapter is easy to attach to the oscillating tool. It securely locks into place and stays connected even during vigorous use.

• Strong suction when paired with a good vacuum. The dust port interface allows for powerful dust extraction right at the cutting surface.

• Helps contain dust and debris. Instead of dust blowing everywhere, it gets sucked directly into the vacuum for containment.

• Keeps work area tidy. Significantly reduces clean up time since the dust gets captured instead of making a mess.

• Improves air quality. Prevents fine dust particulate from getting stirred up and suspended in the air you're breathing.

The dust collection feature is a handy addition that makes the DeWalt oscillating multi-tool more pleasant and practical to use for extended periods. It helps keep the job site or workspace cleaner while also minimizing your exposure to airborne dust.

Battery & Charger

The DeWalt DCS355N-XJ comes with an 18V XR Li-Ion battery that provides long runtime and fade-free power. The battery has a capacity of 5.0Ah which allows for extended use between charges.

Charging the battery is easy with the included fast charger. It can fully recharge an empty 5.0Ah battery in about 60 minutes. The charger plugs into a standard wall outlet and has an LED display that indicates the charging status.

One nice feature of the charger is that it can analyze and repair overloaded or deeply discharged battery packs to maximize battery life. It's also compatible with all DeWalt 18V XR batteries so you can charge any battery in your collection with the same charger.

Overall, the 18V XR battery provides ample power for most applications and the fast charger makes it easy to top off the battery when needed. This helps optimize work time and productivity.

Pros & Cons

The DeWalt DCS355N-XJ oscillating multi-tool has many positives but also some downsides to consider:

Pros

• Powerful brushless motor provides excellent power and runtime
• Variable speed dial gives great control over oscillations
• Quick change accessory system for fast bit changes
• Good ergonomics and lightweight design
• Comes with a selection of accessories
• Dust extraction port helps reduce dust

Cons

• Battery and charger sold separately
• No LED light
• Lacks finesse for delicate jobs
• Bit changes require two wrenches
• Can vibrate a lot at high speeds

In summary, the DCS355N-XJ is a very capable oscillating multi-tool that excels at aggressive cutting and sanding applications thanks to its high oscillation speed and power. The quick change system helps boost productivity. Downsides are it lacks an LED light, the bit change system requires two wrenches, and it can vibrate excessively at top speeds. Overall though, it's an excellent choice for most DIY and professional tasks.

Conclusion

The DeWalt DCS355N-XJ is an excellent oscillating multi-tool that will meet the needs of most users. It has a powerful brushless motor that delivers up to 20,000 oscillations per minute, giving it the ability to power through tough cutting and sanding jobs. The variable speed trigger provides great control over the speed, allowing you to match it to the application.

The quick change accessory system makes it easy to swap out blades, sanding pads, and other attachments without any tools required. It also has an effective dust extraction design to help keep your work area clean. The 18V battery platform provides ample runtime for most tasks.

Overall, the DCS355N-XJ is a highly versatile and capable oscillating multi-tool. It's a great choice for DIYers, remodelers, electricians, plumbers, or anyone that needs a compact tool that can get into tight spaces and handle detail work. The brushless motor provides pro-level power in a compact form factor. This would make an excellent addition to any home toolkit or contractor's arsenal.