DEWALT DCS356B 20V Oscillating Multi-Tool vs DeWalt XTREME 12V Oscillating Tool

The DCS356B is the stronger all-round oscillating tool: 20V power, a 3-speed selector plus variable speed trigger, and a brushless motor that DeWalt rates for up to 57% more runtime than a brushed equivalent. The XTREME 12V (DCS353) is smaller and lighter, with a slim barrel grip, trigger lock and three LEDs, which suits detail work and overhead use. Owners of the 20V tool praise its power and speed control but some report missing blades or repackaged boxes; the 12V tool has fewer ratings, so its higher score is less proven. Buy the 20V for heavy cutting and sanding, the 12V for light detail work and tight spaces.

• Choose the DEWALT DCS356B if you want maximum cutting power, a 3-speed selector with a variable speed trigger, and one battery platform shared with other 20V MAX tools.
• Choose the DeWalt XTREME 12V if you mostly do detail sanding, plunge cuts and overhead work and want a compact, slim-gripped tool with a trigger lock and three LEDs.