DeWalt 18V XR Multi-Tool Showdown: DCS355N vs DCS358N vs DCS359N

Gen 1 vs two new models, one battery platform

If you already own the original DeWalt DCS355N, the new DCS358N and DCS359N are worth a serious look. The DCS359N in particular adds anti-vibration and a stronger transmission that the Gen 1 tool never had.

The oscillating multi-tool is the problem-solver in most toolbags: flush-cutting door casings, trimming skirting, plunge-cutting plasterboard, scraping out grout and sanding into corners. All three tools here run on the same DeWalt 18V XR batteries, so upgrading costs you a bare unit, not a new system.

We had the new models in store this week, so below we put them side by side with the Gen 1 and explain who should buy which.

At a glance

All three come with two blades and a sanding pad; the DCS355N is the cheapest and adds a universal blade adaptor; the DCS358N is the lightest; the DCS359N is the only one with a full anti-vibration system and Perform & Protect.

All three are bare units: batteries and charger are sold separately.

DeWalt DCS355N (Gen 1): the proven all-rounder

The DCS355N is still the best-value way into a DeWalt multi-tool, and it ships with a 29-piece accessory set. For occasional use, that bundle alone makes it hard to beat.

Its 300 W brushless motor runs up to 22,000 opm, the highest top speed of the three on paper. A variable-speed trigger gives you a soft start, and the dual grip position helps on awkward cuts. Tool-free, one-handed blade changes and an LED light were ahead of their time when it launched.

It also supports a quick-fit depth stop and dust extraction compatible with the DeWalt AirLock system. The trade-offs are weight (1.5 kg) and no dedicated anti-vibration system, which you notice on long grout-raking or sanding jobs.

Best for: DIYers and trades who use a multi-tool now and then and want plenty of blades included.

View the DCS355N at AHC Powertools

DeWalt DCS358N (new): lighter, smoother, Starlock ready

The DCS358N is the sensible upgrade: at 1.1 kg it is 400 g lighter than the Gen 1, and it adds vibration dampening and Starlock compatibility.

Speed runs from 0 to 19,000 opm on a variable-speed trigger, with a 3.6° oscillation angle for quick material removal. Starlock support opens up a much wider range of blades from DeWalt and other brands, and changes stay tool-free.

Practical touches include lock-on for long cuts, lock-off for safe transport, an LED work light and an overmoulded grip. At 320 × 80 × 105 mm it slips into tight spaces like kitchen units and under-stair cupboards. It also comes ready to work, with a fast-cut wood blade, a wood-with-nails blade, a sanding platen and a pack of sanding sheets.

Best for: trades who already own a stock of blades and want a lighter, more comfortable everyday tool.

View the DCS358N at AHC Powertools

DeWalt DCS359N (new): the flagship for all-day use

The DCS359N is the one to buy if you run a multi-tool for hours at a time. Its full anti-vibration system, upgraded transmission and Perform & Protect make it the most comfortable and controlled of the three.

Four speed settings let you dial the tool to the job, from gentle sanding to fast plunge cuts, with up to 20,000 opm. The improved transmission is built for faster cutting, and a double-sided cooling fan keeps heat down during heavy work like grout removal.

Its 4.2° oscillation angle is the widest of the three, so each stroke removes more material. DeWalt rates it at up to 43% less vibration than the leading competitor, and the bare tool weighs just 1.2 kg.

The quick-release system takes both closed-back and Starlock accessories. It comes ready to work with a fast-cut wood blade, a wood-with-nails blade, a sanding platen and a pack of mesh sanding sheets. You will spot it on the shelf by the grey head housing and XR badge on the body.

Best for: kitchen and bathroom fitters, tilers, joiners and renovators who use a multi-tool every day.

View the DCS359N at AHC Powertools

Side by side in store

Put the two new models next to each other and the DCS359N's grey, heavier-built head is the giveaway; the DCS358N keeps an all-yellow housing.

Both share the same tool-free clamp, LED and 18V XR battery mount, so blades and batteries swap freely between them. Only the DCS359N carries the Perform & Protect badge on its body.

Which one should you buy?

For most trades we'd pick the DCS359N; for occasional use the DCS355N is still the value champion.

Shop the range

All three are in stock at AHC Powertools, with free UK delivery on orders over £100 and next-day delivery available.

• DeWalt DCS359N 18V XR Anti-Vibration Multi-Tool, bare unit
• DeWalt DCS358N 18V XR Brushless Multi-Tool, body only
• DeWalt DCS355N 18V Multi-Tool with accessories, body only

Need blades? Browse our multi-tool accessories, or call the team on 01259 238855 for advice.