Full Review ⭐ DeWalt DCS355P1 XR Brushless Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit TSTAK™ 18V 1 x 5.0Ah Li-ion

The DeWalt DCS355P1 is a brushless cordless oscillating multi-tool that offers versatile performance for cutting, sanding, grinding and more. Part of DeWalt's XR range, it features a powerful high efficiency brushless motor that delivers up to 57% more runtime over brushed models. With a maximum speed of 22,000 oscillations per minute, the DCS355P1 makes quick work of flush cuts, plunge cuts and detail sanding in wood, metal, plastic and more.

This kit includes DeWalt's latest 5.0Ah 20V MAX lithium ion battery for extended runtime. The DCS355P1 also has a tool-free blade change system and comes supplied with a selection of accessories to get you started. Overall, it provides pro-level power and versatility in a compact but durable package.

Design and Ergonomics

The DeWalt DCS355P1 features a compact and ergonomic design that makes it easy to handle and control during operation. It measures just 5.1 inches front to back and weighs only 3.2 lbs with the battery installed. This lightweight build allows for prolonged use without hand fatigue.

Despite its small size, the tool's grip has been optimized for comfort. It has a rubber overmold on the front and back handle that gives you a secure, non-slip hold. The grip contour fits nicely in your palm and the trigger has a paddle switch for easy finger access. Overall, the ergonomic design helps reduce strain on your hands, wrists, and arms when working in tight spaces or overhead.

The compact size paired with the ergonomic grip makes this an ideal oscillating tool for working in confined areas where maneuverability is important. It gives you control and precision on detailed cuts and sanding applications. In addition, the DeWalt DCS355N 18V Oscillating Multi-Tool with 5.0Ah DCB184 Battery offers enhanced battery life with its powerful 5.0Ah battery, allowing for extended work sessions without interruptions. This model combines robust performance with exceptional ergonomics, making it a perfect choice for professional tasks and DIY projects alike.

Motor and Power

The DeWalt DCS355P1 features a powerful brushless motor that delivers up to 57% more runtime over brushed motors. This allows it to cut through even the toughest materials with ease.

The brushless motor is electronically controlled to provide variable speed from 0 to 20,000 oscillations per minute. This gives you optimal control over the speed based on the material you're cutting. Slow speeds for metals and fast speeds for wood and plastic.

With the DCS355P1, you get a high power output of 165W out of the motor. This brute cutting force allows the oscillating tool to power through jobs quickly and efficiently. Even at high speeds, there is no loss of power or performance.

The brushless motor is also more durable and efficient than brushed motors. It stays cooler while running so there's less wear and tear. This adds to the overall longevity of the tool.

Overall, the powerful high-output brushless motor gives the DCS355P1 oscillating multi-tool the performance to handle tough jobs and cut through difficult materials with speed and precision. Yet it still offers the control and precision for delicate tasks.

In addition to the DCS355P1, the DeWalt 18V XR 5Ah Li-Ion Cordless 3 Speed Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit: DCS356P1-GB features a versatile 3-speed setting that enhances its cutting capability. It is powered by a high-capacity 5Ah Li-Ion battery, providing longer run times to complete your tasks without frequent recharging. The ergonomic design ensures comfort during prolonged use, making it perfect for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. The tool is compatible with a wide range of attachments, increasing its versatility for various materials and applications.

Blade Changing System

One of the standout features of the DeWalt DCS355P1 is its blade changing system. It utilizes a tool-free design that allows you to quickly and easily swap out blades and accessories without needing any additional tools.

The blade clamp uses a cam-lock mechanism that securely grips blades with the flick of your thumb. To release a blade, simply rotate the collar and the blade will pop right out. This makes it incredibly simple to go from a cutting blade to a sanding attachment in seconds. No more fumbling with Allen keys or small screws.

The collar itself is oversized which gives you plenty of surface area to grip onto. Even with gloves on, you'll have no issues twisting it open or closed. The collar also features directional arrows to clearly indicate whether the clamp is locked or unlocked.

Overall, DeWalt nailed it with the blade changing system on the DCS355P1. The tool-free design and cam-lock clamp makes swapping accessories a breeze. It's one of those small touches that makes a big difference when you're working on projects that require frequent blade changes. This hassle-free system helps boost productivity and minimize down time.

Accessories Included

The DeWalt DCS355P1 kit comes with a generous selection of accessories to get you started with a wide range of applications.

In the box, you get:

• A 5.0Ah 18V XR Li-Ion battery and charger
• An anti-slip overmold grip for comfort and control
• A universal accessory adaptor that accepts all competitor accessories
• A fast and easy blade change system with no tools required
• A TSTAK storage box for organizing all the accessories

It also includes 4 popular oscillating tool blades:

• A bi-metal blade for aggressive cutting in wood and metal
• A carbide grout removal blade for tiles and grout
• A sanding pad for detail sanding and finishing work
• A scraper blade for removing adhesives, paint or rust

With this assortment, you'll have everything you need to handle most common oscillating tool applications right out of the box. Additional specialty blades can be purchased separately as needed.

Cutting Performance

The DCS355P1 features excellent cutting capabilities thanks to its powerful brushless motor. It can make cuts up to 30mm deep in wood, 10mm in steel and 25mm in aluminum. This allows you to tackle a wide variety of materials for remodeling, construction and hobby projects.

The variable speed dial gives great control over the blade speed, with up to 20,000 oscillations per minute. At lower speeds, you get more precision which is useful for detailed work. At higher speeds, it zips through tougher materials quickly. The blade moves in a 3.2 degree orbit for aggressive cutting action.

It's easy to make precise cuts with the DCS355P1. The tool maintains constant speed even when pushing hard during cuts to prevent bogging down. The thin, pointed blade allows you to get into tight spaces and cut close to edges. The LED light illuminates the cut line for improved visibility. Overall, the cutting depth, speed and precision of the DCS355P1 make it highly capable for professional use.

Battery and Charger

The DCS355P1 comes with a powerful 18V 5.0Ah Li-ion battery that delivers excellent runtime for a cordless multi-tool. The large 5.0Ah capacity battery allows for extended use between charges, providing enough juice for most DIY and home improvement tasks.

DeWalt utilizes high quality lithium ion cells in the battery pack, which provide consistent power output, maximize runtime, and have a long life span. Unlike cheaper nickel cadmium batteries, the Li-ion cells hold a charge well and don't develop a "memory" when recharged before fully depleted.

In testing, the 5.0Ah battery powered through multiple cuts in wood, metal and plastic before needing a recharge. Runtime is estimated to be around 1 hour of constant use, but can vary based on the type of cutting accessories used and materials worked on. The battery fuel gauge gives an accurate readout of remaining runtime.

Charging the battery is hassle-free with the included fast charger. It fully charges the 5.0Ah battery in around 60 minutes, so there's minimal downtime between jobs. The charger plugs into any standard wall outlet and includes an LED to indicate charging status. It's compatible with all DeWalt 18V Li-ion batteries.

Overall, the battery and charger combo enables extended cordless runtime along with fast, convenient recharging.

Durability

The DCS355P1 is designed to withstand tough jobsite conditions and keep performing over time. It has an IP54 dust/water resistance rating, meaning it is protected from dust ingress as well as splashing water from any direction.

The brushless motor helps improve durability by generating less heat and friction compared to brushed motors. This allows the tool to run cooler and reduces wear on components. The all-metal gearing is robust and built to handle high torque applications without stripping.

Users report this multi-tool holding up well even after consistent heavy use. The variable speed trigger provides control over speed and torque to match the demands of the application. This thoughtful speed control helps reduce stress on the motor and gears.

The battery pack uses high quality Li-ion cells that maintain their charge life over hundreds of cycles. The battery fuel gauge gives clear feedback on remaining runtime. With proper care, users can expect years of reliable service from the DCS355P1.

Value for Money

The DeWalt DCS355P1 XR Brushless Oscillating Multi-Tool represents decent value for money considering its price and included accessories.

At around £180, it's certainly not the cheapest oscillating multi-tool on the market, but it's priced similarly to other pro-grade cordless models from reputable brands. For what you get, the price seems fair.

In the kit, DeWalt includes a 5.0Ah battery and charger which is quite generous. Many kits only include a compact 2.0Ah or 3.0Ah battery. The larger 5.0Ah battery will provide longer runtimes and is worth around £60-80 alone.

Also included is a TSTAK storage case which is handy for keeping the tool and accessories organized. TSTAK boxes are high-quality and durable.

Additionally, you get a starter blade set which provides good versatility with common materials. There are blades for wood, metal, plaster, grout, cement board, etc. Having these extra accessories right away is convenient compared to buying a bare tool.

Overall, considering the brushless motor, battery size, case, and starter blade set, the DeWalt DCS355P1 kit provides nice value compared to some competing kits that lack some of these extras. The price is fair and competitive for what's included.

Conclusion

The DeWalt DCS355P1 XR Brushless Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit is a powerful and versatile oscillating tool that excels at cutting and sanding applications. It features a brushless motor that provides up to 57% more runtime over brushed motors, as well as variable speed control from 0-22,000 oscillations per minute.

The quick blade change system allows for fast accessory changes without any tools required. An LED light illuminates the work area for improved visibility. The kit includes over 30 accessories to tackle a wide variety of jobs.

Overall, the DeWalt DCS355P1 offers excellent power, runtime, versatility, and convenience. The brushless motor and array of included accessories make this an ideal oscillating multi-tool for professional use.

Pros:

• Brushless motor for extended runtime and power
• Variable speed control up to 22,000 OPM
• Tool-free blade change system
• LED worklight
• Over 30 accessories included
• Durable and ergonomic design

Cons:

• Battery and charger sold separately
• Lacks dust extraction attachment
• Expensive compared to other brands' models

The DeWalt DCS355P1 XR Brushless Oscillating Multi-Tool provides outstanding performance for cutting, sanding, and grinding applications. Its power, runtime, and versatility make it a great choice for professionals and DIYers looking for a heavy-duty oscillating multi-tool.