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Pro Tool Reviews reports that DeWalt’s DCS359 delivered fast, clean cuts in tests and felt less vibratory than the prior DCS356. The brushless tool adds a wider 4.2-degree oscillating arc, four speed settings and a tool-free accessory interface, but weighs more and costs more than the earlier model. DeWalt’s claims about class-leading cutting speed and reduced vibration remain manufacturer claims, not independently quantified results in the review.
Pro Tool Reviews says DeWalt’s DCS359 20V Max XR oscillating multi-tool made fast, clean cuts in its hands-on tests and produced less vibration than the earlier DCS356. The review describes a wider oscillating arc, a broader speed range and tool-free accessory changes, while noting that the new model is heavier, longer and more expensive than its predecessor.
The DCS359 uses a brushless motor and a 4.2-degree oscillating arc, compared with 3.2 degrees on the DCS356. Pro Tool Reviews calculates that as a 31% increase in arc, which gives the blade a longer stroke. The reviewer says the broader arc and revised speed range helped produce quick, clean cuts during tests, while cautioning that results depend on the blade, material and application.
The tool offers four speed settings spanning 8,000 to 20,000 oscillations per minute, plus a variable-speed trigger. The DCS356 has three settings—13,000, 17,000 and 20,000 OPM—so the DCS359 adds a lower-speed option for controlled work without reducing the maximum speed. In the review’s tests, materials included plain wood, mild steel and No. 5 rebar.
Pro Tool Reviews also reports improved vibration control and says the DCS359 was easier on the reviewer’s hands than the DCS356. The newer model weighs 2.8 pounds bare and measures 11.75 inches long; the review lists the DCS356 at 2.46 pounds and 11.25 inches. A spring-loaded quick-change lever remains, but the center retaining pin is now tool-free, making it easier to change compatible blades and accessories.
A Wider Arc Changes the Cut
The DCS359’s main practical change is not simply a higher top speed: it combines the same 20,000 OPM maximum as the DCS356 with a wider arc and a lower-speed setting. That could matter to remodelers and installers who switch between fast cuts and more controlled work, including trimming door jambs, making plunge cuts, cutting drywall openings or working with plastic and PVC.
Lower vibration may also make extended use more comfortable and help with control on detail work, according to the reviewer’s experience. But the tool’s increased weight and length may be a trade-off for users who prioritize a compact, lightweight setup. The review calls the DCS359 a little expensive and lists it at $249 as a bare tool and $299 as a kit, compared with $199 bare and $269.99 as a kit for the DCS356.
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How It Compares With the DCS356
DeWalt’s earlier DCS356 already offered a brushless motor, a 3.2-degree arc, three speed settings and a quick-change accessory system. The DCS359 retains the 20,000 OPM top speed but expands the arc and adds a fourth speed setting. The review frames those changes, along with vibration isolation and a revised retaining pin, as the new model’s principal upgrades.
Pro Tool Reviews compares the DCS359’s specifications with other DeWalt 20V oscillating tools, including the Atomic DCS354 and DCS356. It also says the DCS359’s arc and speed range are close to those of Milwaukee’s 2836. The article notes that Makita’s XMT04 and Bosch’s GOP18V-34 performed better in the reviewer’s vibration comparison, so it does not describe DeWalt’s improvement as the best among those tools.
“The company says the DCS359 offers the fastest cutting speed and lowest vibration in its 20V lineup.”
— DeWalt, as quoted by Pro Tool Reviews
Limits of the Test Results
The review does not provide instrumented measurements for cutting speed or vibration. Its findings about cleaner cuts and reduced vibration are the reviewer’s hands-on observations; DeWalt’s 43% vibration reduction and fastest-in-line claims are attributed to the manufacturer and are not independently quantified in the article.
The review also does not establish how the tool performs across every blade, material or job, or how much the arc change affects work time in routine use. Its price listings are presented in the source, but the material supplied does not give a publication date or confirm whether those prices remain current.
Further Testing Could Verify Claims
Pro Tool Reviews says it plans to provide deeper hands-on feedback on the DCS359’s cutting speed and vibration claims. That testing would help clarify how its performance compares with rival professional models under measured conditions. For buyers comparing tools now, the review’s confirmed specification differences—4.2-degree arc, four speed settings and 2.8-pound bare weight—can be weighed against the higher listed price and the DCS356’s smaller, lighter design.
Key Questions
What is the main upgrade in the DeWalt DCS359?
The DCS359 increases the oscillating arc to 4.2 degrees, from 3.2 degrees on the DCS356. It also adds a fourth speed setting and a tool-free center retaining pin for accessory changes.
How did the DCS359 perform in the review?
Pro Tool Reviews reports fast, clean cuts in tests involving wood, mild steel and No. 5 rebar. The reviewer also found the tool less vibratory than the DCS356, but did not publish instrumented measurements.
Is the DCS359 lighter than the DCS356?
No. The review lists the DCS359 at 2.8 pounds bare, compared with 2.46 pounds for the DCS356. The DCS359 is also longer, at 11.75 inches versus 11.25 inches.
What prices does the review list?
Pro Tool Reviews lists the DCS359 at $249 bare or $299 as a kit, and the DCS356 at $199 bare or $269.99 as a kit. The source does not establish whether those prices are current.
Source: protoolreviews.com
