Dewalt is soon coming out with their first-ever 20V Max li-ion cordless brushless oscillating tool, the DCS355. They also recently came out with a corded oscillating multi-tool, as well as a couple of universal accessories and a tool-free adapter for other brands’ tools.
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Features
- Brushless motor delivers “up to 57% more runtime” than standard brushed motors
- Quick-Change accessory system allows for tool-free blade changes when Dewalt blades are used
- Universal blade interface allows for use with other brands’ blades (hex wrench needed for blade changes)
- 0-20,000 OPM
- Variable speed trigger
- Built-in LED worklight with 20-second delay
- Includes removable oscillating tool guide system for repeatable cutting depths
- 12.20″ length
- 3.22 lbs weight with compact battery
Dewalt says that the new oscillating tool is ideal for trim carpenters cabinet, flooring, and service installers, or any other professional tradesmen.
As with other oscillating tools, the new Dewalt cordless brushless multi-tool can be used to cut wood, metal, plastic, or drywall materials. With the appropriate blade or attachment it can also be used for detailed sanding, grout removal, or scraping tasks.
Purchase Options
The kit, DCS355D1, comes with (1) Dewalt 20V Max 2.0Ah lithium ion battery pack, a charger, kit bag, and basic accessory set. A bare-tool option is also available.
DCS355D1 kit: $199
DCS355 bare tool: $129
Both tools will be available starting in November 2013 wherever Dewalt products are sold.
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The 29-piece accessory set includes a couple of accessories to get you started with. As with the corded oscillating tool kit, most of these accessories are sanding sheets (some are not shown).
First Impression
It looks like Dewalt’s brushless oscillating tool suffers from some of the same shortfalls of their corded version, namely a tool-free blade change mechanism that is only tool-free when used with Dewalt blades.
I am also not all that happy that a dust port adapter is not available or even in the works. After using my Fein MultiMaster with a sanding pad and dust collection adapter these past few months, I couldn’t go back to any multi-tool that doesn’t offer this at least as an optional accessory.
As with the corded version, the tool is operated via a 2-position Dual-Grip variable-speed trigger. Personally, I prefer separate on/off sliding switches with number-select speed control knobs. Here, you can squeeze the trigger for variable speed, or squeeze the trigger and press the lock-on button. If you prefer a slower speed, you’ll have to exercise your trigger finger.
Dewalt says that this grip design gives users improved control, but I would think that a numbered dial provides greater repeatability and user comfort.
I also don’t quite get Dewalt’s “up to 57% more runtime” claims. This is the same marketing message Dewalt uses with their brushless drills, but in this case it’s not at all clear where the number comes from since this is Dewalt’s first and only cordless multi-tool. Was this number born from a clipboard, or actual testing with brushless and brushed oscillating tools? Regardless of my nitpicking, a brushless motors are far more efficient than brushed motors, and so a brushless cordless oscillating tool typically will outrun a brushed multi-tool.
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One thing I do like is that the 20V Max brushless oscillating tool appears to be more compact than their corded version. Perhaps not significantly more compact, but 3/4″ is better than nothing.
The pricing is also another plus. $129 for the bare tool and $199 for the 1-battery kit is pretty good.
Overall, there are a couple of things that work to the 20V Max multi-tool’s favor, but an equal number of factors that work against it.
Pros: Brushless motor, low entry pricing.
Cons: Universal interface is not tool-free with other brands’ blades, trigger switch instead of variable speed dial with separate on/off, no dust port option.
Maybe the new 20V Max oscillating tool will change my mind if/when I test it out, but thus far I am not liking their corded oscillating tool very much. It’s not bad, but its design does not mesh well with my usage habits. I am optimistic that the cordless version will be just as well-built, but as of now I am not convinced that I will like it any better.
I have no doubts that this will be a good tool, but if you’re in the market for a cordless brushless oscillating tool, think long and hard about whether this is the best tool for your uses.
Javier
Very nice indeed. Hard to believe they beat Milwaukee to a brushless multitool. The price is pretty good too. This is said to have corded power also.
mnoswad1
at least the battery is on at the right angle and the stanley corporation quick release is a good design.
but seeing the corded version in person, the trigger and overall interface is clunky. Much prefer the other major brands overall feel and streamlined design. If i get into dewalt 20v, however I would add this to the kit.
Jerry
Do you know if the quick change works with other brands’ blades, or is it for only DeWalt blades?
Jerry
Or rather, what other makers blades will fit it?
Stuart
Dewalt and Rockwell blades will fit natively via tool-free blade change, all other compatible brands require the use of the included universal adapter, machine screw, and Allen wrench.
mnoswad1
dont forget porter cable.
Stuart
True, although I haven’t seen that many Porter Cable oscillating tool accessories. I know they’re out there, but Dremel, Bosch, and other brands’ accessories seem to be much more easily available.
Joe
I love the variable speed trigger and the quick change is still the best on the market. And you can use other brands blades, all you have to do is cut them to match their blades using snips or a cutoff tool like a dremel or grinder with a cutoff disc doesn’t take that long and they work just as good.
Ross
I figured that would work and that was what I was planning on doing if/when I buy the Dewalt, but obviously this will void warranties.
I assume other blade manufacturer’s will revise the designs to work with the Dewalt before long. I’m surprised that other brands weren’t designed with the opening anyhow.
Therese
Good idea and will check that out after I get my DeWalt tool. Thanks
Clayton
I know it wouldn’t have the runtime, but man I’d like to see this in 12v form!
Ed
Message to author Stuart,
In the Uk the corded version does come with a dust extractor adapter, 2 piece I think if you compare the video at Toolstop.co.uk with their photo, (video is on You tube as well).
I like the idea of a trigger control, however I think Dewalt missed a total winner they could easily of had the usual dial speed control as well for ultimate control. Seems abit obvious and pleases all camps.
Stuart
Thanks for the info. I see the image you’re referring to, and that’s definitely a dust port attachment and compatible perforated sanding pad.
I posed the question to Dewalt recently, and their response suggested that a dust collection accessory was not even in development. I am surprised that such an adapter is offered in the EU market but not in North America, and actually a bit annoyed.
It also looks like the EU versions come bundled with Tstak storage cases while here in NA all we get is a dinky soft carrying bag. *grumble*
Jason
It the price with the tool bag end’s up being cheaper I’m kind of ok with it not coming in a storage case. If its about the same after the currency conversion I would be angry though. I really like the idea of these modular storage case solutions.
joe
I will be buying one for sure.
For me, the benefits outweigh the money. For example, I repaired an AC air handler coil about a week ago. It had developed a leak and the tech (“expert”) said it could not be repaired…at least 600 dollars new plus labor costs…well ingenuity with the right tool makes you fix things that even the experts would have never thought about it in the first place. They are used to just replacing parts and making commission.
What I am getting at is that I used my corded one and repaired the coil saving me at least 1000 US dollars…so the corded one already paid for itself and this cordless one.
I own a few 20v max tools and this fits my bill too rather than buying another brand (e.g. proprietary battery and charger)
looking forward to it.
charles
After beating the crap out of my Fein for two years I’m glad I went with the original. I have Dewalt 18v xrp tools, really like them, but the Multimaster is a step up in quality build.
mark
DeWalt lists the oscillation angle at 1.5 degrees. other Brenda are all between 3.2 and 3 degrees. Is this 1.6 degrees a side. One othr brand lists it this way.
1.6 is to small to do what I need -less than one tooth on the attachment – and dewalt was not helpfull when I contacted them.
Deb
I have seven 18v Dewalt tools, 2 chargers and 3 batteries. I also have a corded Rockwell multitool with dust collection. I’ve been looking to upgrade the Rockwell because I want tool free blade changes and cordless would be nice. I’ll probly be buying a Fein because Dewalt has totally missed the mark.
Fritz
IMHO Dewalt has put all the other Multi tools even close to their price to shame; this is one fine tool. Other blade mfgs. are coming around quickly to the Dewalt quick change blade very quickly. I have contacted several and most say “they are on the way”. this tool is a leap in the right direction.
Many of the on line sellers are selling the kits as fast as they can get them.
And talk about a nice tool just try Dewalts new 20v max saber saw.
Tara
Alright so I have an odd project in which I need to cut the bottom of a Jack Daniels bottle off in one strait smooth cut and still holes into the sides, knowing this bottle is made of a very thick glass I am wondering which product and accessories could help me complete this project with the best results?
If it is possible I have the cordless oscillating multi-tool DCS355 and need a cutting and drilling diamond accessory that can get threw thick glass
Stuart
I can’t think of a good oscillating accessory that could cut through a glass bottle. Have you tried some of the other methods that are shared online? A quick Google turned up a couple of tutorials, although I’m not sure how well they would work on a thick Jack Daniels bottle.
They also make specialty glass bottle cutters, for about $50, but they look to work best on round bottles.
For drilling holes in the side, you would need diamond coring bits, specialty glass-drilling bits, or something to that effect.