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An oscillating multi-tool is one of those tools you don’t always think about until you need it. Then suddenly it’s the easiest way to make a plunge cut, trim some drywall, cut PVC, get into a tight corner, or clean up something another saw just can’t reach.

That’s where the new DEWALT 20V MAX XR Oscillating Multi-Tool (DW-DCS359B) comes in.

DEWALT gave this one a brushless motor, an aggressive 4.2-degree oscillating angle, better vibration control, tool-free blade changes, and a much brighter LED. It’s available as the DW-DCS359B bare tool or the DW-DCS359E1 kit with a 1.7Ah battery and charger.

The big story here is pretty simple: DEWALT wanted this multi-tool to cut faster without beating up your hands in the process.

Faster Cutting Without All the Vibration

If you’ve used an oscillating tool for any amount of time, you already know how much vibration can wear on you.

That becomes even more noticeable when you’re making a bunch of cuts back-to-back or using the tool for a longer stretch.

The DW-DCS359B is part of DEWALT’s PERFORM & PROTECT lineup, and DEWALT says it delivers up to 43% less vibration than the leading competitor.

That should make a real difference for anyone who uses a multi-tool regularly instead of just pulling one out for a quick cut every couple of months.

Less vibration can mean better control, less fatigue, and a tool that simply feels better in your hands throughout the day.

The 4.2-Degree Oscillating Angle Means Business

DEWALT built the DW-DCS359B with a 4.2-degree oscillating angle, which gives it a more aggressive cutting action.

That comes in handy when you’re working through hardwood, drywall, PVC, plastic, metal, or other common jobsite materials.

It’s especially useful for plunge cuts and tight areas where getting a larger saw into position just isn’t happening.

Think trimming a door jamb, cutting out a section of drywall, working inside a cabinet, making an opening for electrical work, or knocking out a quick repair without tearing apart everything around it.

That’s the kind of work an oscillating tool is made for.

The Lock-On Switch Is a Nice Addition

One feature that can easily get overlooked is the lock-on switch.

For quick cuts, it may not seem like a huge deal. But once you’re running the tool for a longer application, constantly holding down the trigger gets old fast.

The DW-DCS359B lets you lock the tool into operation so you can focus more on controlling the cut.

There’s also a lock-off feature to help prevent the tool from accidentally turning on while you’re carrying it around or tossing it back into your setup.

Nothing flashy here. Just a practical feature that makes the tool easier to use.

Blade Changes Don’t Require Another Tool

Oscillating tools are useful because they can handle so many different jobs, but that usually means swapping accessories pretty often.

DEWALT’s Quick-Change accessory system lets you change compatible blades without reaching for an Allen key or another hand tool.

So if you’re cutting wood one minute and need to switch over to metal or another material, you can make the change and keep moving.

That sounds like a small thing until you’re doing it repeatedly throughout the day.

The LED Is Seriously Brighter

This is another upgrade that makes a lot of sense for a multi-tool.

These tools spend half their lives working in places with terrible lighting. Under cabinets, inside walls, around vents, behind fixtures, and anywhere else your main work light doesn’t quite reach.

The DCS359 has an integrated LED that DEWALT says is 519% brighter than the comparison tool used in its testing.

That extra light can make it much easier to see exactly where your blade is going, especially when you’re trying to make a clean cut in a tight space.

It’s TOOL CONNECT Chip Ready Too

For contractors and larger crews, the DW-DCS359B is also TOOL CONNECT CHIP READY.

You can add a compatible TOOL CONNECT Chip, sold separately, and use it with DEWALT’s asset management system.

That probably won’t be the reason most people buy the tool, but it’s useful for companies trying to keep track of tools moving between trucks, crews, and jobsites.

Which One Do You Need?

Both versions give you the same oscillating multi-tool. The main difference is what comes in the box.

DeWalt 20V MAX XR Oscillating Multi-Tool (Bare tool)

The DW-DCS359B is the better option if you already have DEWALT 20V MAX batteries and chargers sitting around.

You’re getting the tool only, so you’re not paying for another battery setup you may not need.

The tool weighs 2.88 pounds without a battery, so it stays pretty manageable for tight-space work and longer applications.

DeWalt 20V MAX XR Oscillating Multi-Tool (KIT)

The DW-DCS359E1 comes with the oscillating tool, a 1.7Ah battery, and a charger.

This makes more sense if you’re new to the DEWALT 20V MAX platform or you just want a battery dedicated to this tool.

The smaller 1.7Ah battery should also help keep the overall setup compact, which is exactly what you want from a tool that spends a lot of time working in awkward spaces.

Who Is This Tool Really For?

The DW-DCS359B makes the most sense for people who are constantly dealing with cuts that are too awkward for a normal saw.

Remodelers can use it for drywall, trim, flooring, and demo work. Electricians can get into walls and tight spaces. Plumbers can work through PVC and other materials without dragging out a larger saw. Carpenters can use it for plunge cuts, door jambs, trim work, and quick adjustments.

And if you already live in the DEWALT 20V MAX system, the bare tool is an easy way to add another useful option to the lineup.

The DEWALT 20V MAX XR Oscillating Multi-Tool (DW-DCS359B) looks like a solid upgrade for anyone who wants faster cutting without dealing with as much vibration.

The 4.2-degree oscillating angle gives it an aggressive cut, while the vibration control, Quick-Change system, lock-on switch, and brighter LED make it easier to live with on the job.

Go with the (DW-DCS359B) if you already have DEWALT batteries. Grab the (DW-DCS359E1) if you want the tool, battery, and charger together.

Either way, this looks like one of those tools that can end up getting used for a lot more jobs than you originally bought it for. Don’t hesitate to reach out at cs@ohiopowertool.com or 614-481-2111 with any questions, comments, or concerns, and be sure to follow us on all your favorite social media channels to stay in the know on all the latest announcements, deals, news, and more!