DeWalt DCS356B Review

Editor Rating: 4.8/5

Great Product

DeWalt DCS356B Review

Reviewed by: Timothy Henderson

Last modified: Jul 30, 2023 @ 2:32 pm

  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

DeWalt DCS356B Review Summary:

The DeWalt DCS356B is a cordless multi-tool that delivers on all fronts — for both DIYers and trade users seeking portability and reliability.

Featuring a three-speed control at its base, this model easily empowers users to limit the tool’s pace to the task at hand. And, with a top speed of 20,000 OPM, it makes light work of plunge or drywall cuts, trimming pipes, and scraping away adhesive or old paint.

What’s more, with a rapid attachment changeover function and ergonomic grip, both time-saving and convenience are enhanced during operation.

Upon purchasing the kit, you receive the tool, two blades — fast-cutting wood and a wood with nails — plus an attachment adapter. However, as it’s a bare tool, you will need to purchase the charger and the 20-volt lithium cells separately. That is, unless you’re the owner of other DeWalt compatible power tools.

All in all, the DCS356B is a high-end model that’s all about performance and speed, and it certainly doesn’t disappoint, living perfectly up to DeWalt’s standards.

This cordless multi-tool is the creation of DeWalt, a US-based power tool giant — renowned for making reliable machines from corded and cordless drills, saws, through to nailers and staplers, for both DIYers and professionals.

Specifications:

  • Power Source – 20-volt Max batteries
  • Tool length – 11.2 inches
  • Speeds – 0-13,000/ 0-17,000/ 0-20,000 OPM
  • Weight – 2.33 pounds

Pros:

N
Variable speed trigger.
N
Swift and straightforward accessory changes.
N
Ergonomic and comfortable handle design.
N
Fast operation.
N
Inbuilt LED light.
N
Brushless motor.

Cons:

N
Reduced energy and durability through the brushed motor.

Features and Benefits of the DeWalt DCS356B Oscillating Multi Tool


Let’s take a look at the features of this DeWalt DCS356B multi-tool and see what it offers:

Ergonomic Design


As ergonomic as ever and as expected with DeWalt’s tools, the DC356B’s design is empowering, to say the least. The handle design is exceedingly comfortable, and there are several grip options available to engage the trigger, which provides added support for the experience altogether.

On top of that, the tool’s overall build also supports seamless operations, including its ergonomic shape, with its dimensions —‎ 11.2 x 4.41 x 2.99 inches — and weight — 2.33 pounds. This means time-lengthy projects are less likely to produce DIYer’s fatigue.

Proprietary Quick-Change


This DeWalt brushless multi tool is versatile in the tasks it can accomplish. From cutting a metal pipe or removing grout through to sanding a piece of wood. However, you need to switch to different attachments to achieve this.

Thanks to the Quick-Change system, switching back and forth between attachments is effortless — saving you time and hassle.

This tool-free proprietary tech leverages a stout spring to hold down the blade’s clamp and hold the accessories tight in their place. All you need to do is push it up with two fingers to exhibit the interface itself and set your blade in position before you release the clamp to secure it.

In short. It’s handy for DIYers who want to multi-task with their multi-tool.

Built-in LED


Oscillating multi-tools are ideal for projects that involve working in tight spaces. However, this often also means low-light conditions.

DeWalt has clearly thought about this DIY dilemma and included an LED mounted on the front of the tool. Its forward-facing position allows the beam of light to be pointed in the direction of your target. And, it automatically kicks in when you pull the trigger, and shuts down 20 seconds after you release.

Keeping you out of the dark, so to speak, enables you to be precise when you’re working on dimly lit surfaces — with no challenging situations or surprises.

Trigger Lock


I feel it’s worth mentioning that the DCS356B features a lock-off, lock-on switch, which is something I always admire about DeWalt.

Usually, you get either/or, but not both combined. Yet, with this multi-tool, you actually do get both — when you push the switch from either side with the trigger down, the trigger is locked on. This is particularly handy for those extended-use tasks — permitting more control and comfort during operation.

If you want to lock off and return to normal usage, squeeze the trigger, then release if you want to power down the multi-tool.

Three-Speed Control


As mentioned, a multi-tool tackles multiple applications, but each project can also vary in pace requirements.

The DeWalt features three oscillation rates (OPM):

  • Low — 0 to 13,000.
  • Medium — 0 to 17,000.
  • High — 0 to 20,000.

Having the ability to adapt the speed provides you with complete control on how fast or how slow you wish to take it — no matter what you’re working on.

DeWalt Cordless Multi Tool Specifications


DEWALT DCS356B
Weight2.33 pounds
Dimensions11.2 x 4.41 x 2.99 inches
Voltage20 volts
Speed settings3-speed
Oscillations0-13,000/ 0-17,000/ 0-20,000 OPM
Warranty3-year warranty

What Users Say About The DeWalt DCS356B


In my view, DeWalt DCS356B 20V MAX XR is geared for the DIYer and the pro user, who want reliability, speed, and a cord-free tool, which handles a wide range of projects.

Upon scouring the internet, I came across many opinions that seemed to share my sentiments.

Most of them were positive — with users praising its lightweight build —enabling it to navigate tricky spaces with minimal effort. The quick-change function was also highly rated, the ability to swap attachments without having to dig around in the toolbox for a wrench was a winner.

However, a few people did like to put a dampener on things — mentioning, after lengthy use, the handle starts to get a touch too hot to handle.

That said, overall, users were in agreement that the DeWalt DCS356B is a well-balanced multi-tool that you can use in more ways than you can imagine.

Alternatives to DeWalt 20 Volt Oscillating Tool


Despite all of the DeWalt’s DCS356B impressive features, it may not be exactly what you’re after — and that’s fair enough.

If you’re nodding in agreement, cast your eyes over these alternatives:

Makita-XMT03Z
It could be that you’re happy with the specs of the DeWalt, but curious to know what other brands have to offer in the same price bracket. The Makita XMT03Z is comparable, with a top speed of 20,000 OPM, brushless motor and even includes a locking trigger function.

  • Makita is powered by 18-volt cells, slightly less powerful than DeWalt’s 20-volt.
  • Lower OPM range — from 6,000 OPM, in contrast to the DCS356B’s 13,000 OPM.
  • Includes a smooth start-up feature, which the DeWalt doesn’t.
Bosch GOP18V-28N
If you consider yourself somewhat obsessive over the preservation of your power tools, the Bosch GOP18V-28N may offer some assistance in your quest. Not only does it come with a brushless motor, but it also includes technology that protects the motor from overload during operation. Both elements offer longevity-boosting potential.

Although a battery and charger aren’t included, you do receive a plunge cut attachment and box for accessories.

  • Harder on the wallet than the DCS356B.
  • Bosch and DeWalt have identical top speeds — 20,000 OPM.
  • At 2.7 pounds — the GOP18V-28N is a touch heavier than the DeWalt.

Small-Benchtop-Drill-Press-DRL-300-00

For those who are after more precise control than the DeWalt, the Milwaukee 2626-20 might be of interest. It features a whopping 12 speed settings — ranging from 11,000 to 18,000 OPM.

Like the DeWalt, it includes a LED for lighting up those dark spaces, and while it’s also a bare tool, it does come with a sanding pad and sheets, plus a wood blade.

  • Both of a similar price point.
  • Lower top speed, 18,000 OPM — than the DeWalt, 20,000 OPM.
  • Milwaukee includes a 5-year warranty — longer than the DCS356B (3 years).

Conclusion


The DCS356B is a robust multi-tool that both DIYers and pros would appreciate in their tool kit.

Its LED light enables close-quarter applications and the ‘no-tool’ change over function permits speedy and fuss-free attachment switching. Plus, with a trio of speeds, it offers the ultimate in control — according to your project.

Granted, the lack of a battery and charger means you’ll have additional purchases to take into account. However, if you’re already the owner of other DeWalt tools, this shouldn’t be an issue.

In short, with such a solid design, reliable performance, and tailorability-factor, you won’t go far wrong checking out the DeWalt DCS356B

DeWalt DCS356B 20V Max FAQs

Q: What Is Better About DeWalt XR?

A DeWalt tool with the XR label indicates that it includes a brushless motor and extended runtime, high-efficiency cells — that will last longer between charges.

Q: What Is the Difference Between DeWalt Brushless and Brushed?

Brushless motors require less maintenance, offer improved efficiency, generate less heat, and make less noise. That’s precisely why they’re considered high-end products. Technical-wise, the main difference is that brushed motors are made of carbon blocks, while brushless rely on magnets to generate power.

Q: What Can a Dewalt 20V Multi Tool Do?

The Dewalt 20V Multi Tool can be used for countless purposes, including but not limited to:

  • Sanding.
  • Drywalling.
  • Cutting metal, woods or plastic.
  • Plunge cutting.
  • Undercutting a doorway.
  • Removing grout.
  • Scraping.
Q: How Much Does the DeWalt Battery Powered Multi Tool Cost?

The DeWalt DC356B features a brushless motor, LED light, variable speeds, and its compact design permits working in the most awkward of spaces. To check out the current cost of the DeWalt DC356B.