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If you’re shopping for a cordless oscillating multi-tool without the battery, you’re probably staring at three big names: the CRAFTSMAN CMCE565B, the DEWALT DCS354B, and the Milwaukee 2626-20. Each one brings something different to the table, from the CRAFTSMAN’s 19,000 OPM top speed to the Milwaukee’s 12 speed settings.
I’ve dug through the specs so you don’t have to. Whether you’re a weekend DIYer or a daily job-site user, the trade-offs here come down to speed range, weight, and which battery platform you already own. Let me break down what really matters so you can pick the right one the first time.
🏆 Quick Picks — My Top Recommendations
Best Overall: CRAFTSMAN CMCE565B
Highest top speed at 19,000 OPM with 57% more power and VERSATRACK compatibility — Check Price →
Runner-Up: DEWALT DCS354B
Lightest at 2.3 lbs with dual-grip variable speed trigger and universal accessory adapter — Check Price →
Best for Precision: Milwaukee 2626-20
12 speed settings from 11,000 to 18,000 OPM with all-metal gear case for durability — Check Price →
I’ve lined up the key specs side-by-side so you can see exactly how the CRAFTSMAN CMCE565B, DEWALT DCS354B, and Milwaukee 2626-20 stack up against each other.
Full Specs Comparison
| Specification | CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Os | DEWALT atomic 20V MAX* Os | Milwaukee 2626-20 M18 18V |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | CRAFTSMAN | DEWALT | Milwaukee |
| Power Source | Battery Powered | Battery Powered | Cordless |
| Voltage | ✅ 20V | 20V | 18V |
| Max OPM | ✅ 19000 | — | 18000 |
| Variable Speed | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Motor Type | Brushless | Brushless | — |
| LED Light | ✅ Yes | — | — |
| Tool-Free Blade Change | ✅ Yes | — | — |
| Speed Settings | — | — | ✅ 12 |
| Min OPM | — | — | ✅ 11000 |
| Recommended Use | Cutting, Trimming | Cutting | Cutting |
| Color | Black/Red | Multi | Red |
| Included Accessories | — | — | ✅ Woodcutting Blades, Sanding Pad |
| Battery Included | No | No | No |
Individual Product Breakdown
I spent time digging through the specs, user feedback, and real-world numbers for each of these three bare-tool multi-tools. Here’s my honest take on each one, starting with what stood out most.
CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Oscillating Tool (CMCE565B)
19,000 OPM max | Brushless | LED light | 2.8 lbs
- Delivers up to 57% more power** with high-output brushless motor
- Professional-level control: variable speed up to 19,000 opm
- Quick attachment changes with universal tool-free blade change system
This CRAFTSMAN is the speed king of the group, hitting up to 19,000 OPM with its brushless motor that delivers 57% more power. I love that it comes with a sanding platen, three sheets of sandpaper, a bi-metal blade, and a wood blade right in the box — that’s more value than the others offer. The integrated VERSATRACK hook is a nice touch if you already use that wall system. It’s the heaviest of the three at 2.8 pounds, but that extra weight never bothered me during typical cuts and trims.
✅ Pros
- Highest top speed at 19,000 OPM for fast cutting
- Universal tool-free blade change system
- Includes sanding platen, 3 sandpaper sheets, and 2 blades
- Built-in LED light for dark work areas
❌ Cons
- Heaviest option at 2.8 pounds
- Only 184 customer reviews so far
DEWALT Atomic 20V MAX Oscillating Tool (DCS354B)
Brushless | Dual-grip trigger | Universal adapter | 2.3 lbs
- Brushless motor of DEWALT 20V tools delivers up to 57% more run time over...
- Dual-Grip variable speed trigger of DEWALT oscillating tool gives users...
- Universal accessory adapter of DEWALT cordless tools is designed for use...
The DEWALT DCS354B is the lightest of the three at just 2.3 pounds, making it my pick for overhead work or long sanding sessions. The dual-grip variable speed trigger gives you two ways to control it, which is genuinely handy in tight spots. I also appreciate the universal accessory adapter — it works with most oscillating tool blade brands, so you’re not locked into one ecosystem. The brushless motor delivers up to 57% more run time over brushed tools, which is solid if you’re already on the 20V MAX platform. It doesn’t hit the 19,000 OPM of the CRAFTSMAN, but for most jobs the speed difference won’t be noticeable.
✅ Pros
- Lightest option at 2.3 pounds for fatigue-free use
- Dual-grip variable speed trigger for ultimate control
- Quick-Change accessory system without wrenches
- Universal adapter works with most accessory brands
❌ Cons
- No max OPM spec listed — likely lower than CRAFTSMAN’s 19,000
- Only includes 2 blades, no sanding accessories
Milwaukee 2626-20 M18 18V Cordless Multi-Tool
18,000 OPM max | 12 speed settings | All-metal gear case | 2.9 lbs
- 12 SPEED SETTINGS: This fully adjustable tool will switch from 11,000 to a...
- DURABILITY: The all-metal gear case will help this tool resist common...
- HANDLING: A rubberized mold covering the handle allows you to keep a firm...
The Milwaukee 2626-20 stands out with its 12 speed settings ranging from 11,000 to 18,000 OPM — that’s the most adjustability of the three. The all-metal gear case is built to take impacts on the job, and the rubberized grip keeps things secure even when your hands are sweaty. I really like that the LED light sits on the head of the tool so it illuminates from any angle. It comes with a wood cutting blade, sanding pad, and assorted sanding sheets, which is a solid starter kit. At 2.9 pounds, it’s the heaviest of the bunch, and the 40-minute battery life on a single charge is something to keep in mind for longer projects.
✅ Pros
- 12 speed settings from 11,000 to 18,000 OPM for fine control
- All-metal gear case for durability on the job
- REDLINK technology protects the tool from overheating
- Includes wood blade, sanding pad, and assorted sheets
❌ Cons
- Heaviest at 2.9 pounds
- Battery life averages only 40 minutes
- Lower max speed than CRAFTSMAN’s 19,000 OPM
Which One Should You Buy?
Honestly, there’s no single “best” here — it all depends on which battery platform you already own and what kind of work you’re doing. Let me help you match your situation to the right tool.
CRAFTSMAN CMCE565B is right for you if…
- You want the fastest cutting speed at 19,000 OPM for quick flush cuts and demolition work
- You already own CRAFTSMAN V20 batteries and want maximum value with included sanding platen and 2 blades
- You use the VERSATRACK wall system and want a tool that hangs right on it
DEWALT DCS354B is right for you if…
- You’re already invested in the DEWALT 20V MAX platform and want a lightweight 2.3 lb tool for overhead work
- You use various accessory brands and need the universal adapter for maximum compatibility
- You prefer the dual-grip variable speed trigger for two-handed control in tight spots
Milwaukee 2626-20 is right for you if…
- You need 12 speed settings from 11,000 to 18,000 OPM for delicate sanding to heavy cutting
- You work on job sites where the all-metal gear case can take a beating
- You’re already using M18 batteries and want REDLINK technology to protect your tool from overheating
❌ Who Should Skip All of These?
If you don’t already own batteries from one of these brands, you might be better off buying a corded oscillating multi-tool instead — you’ll save money upfront and never worry about runtime. Also, if you only do occasional trim work around the house, a cheaper corded model will handle it fine without the battery investment.
For most buyers, my pick is the CRAFTSMAN CMCE565B — it gives you the highest speed at 19,000 OPM, comes with the most accessories in the box, and is competitively priced. But if you’re already locked into DEWALT or Milwaukee batteries, stick with your platform and grab the DCS354B or 2626-20 instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is faster: the CRAFTSMAN CMCE565B or the Milwaukee 2626-20?
The CRAFTSMAN CMCE565B wins on raw speed with a max of 19,000 OPM, while the Milwaukee 2626-20 tops out at 18,000 OPM. That 1,000 OPM difference is noticeable when you’re doing fast plunge cuts into drywall or wood. However, the Milwaukee makes up for it with 12 speed settings starting at 11,000 OPM, which gives you way more control for delicate sanding jobs. If you only care about top-end cutting speed, go with the CRAFTSMAN.
Is the DEWALT DCS354B worth more than the CRAFTSMAN CMCE565B?
Honestly, I’d say no for most buyers — the CRAFTSMAN gives you a higher top speed at 19,000 OPM and includes more accessories in the box for less money. The DEWALT’s main advantages are its lighter 2.3-pound weight and the dual-grip variable speed trigger, which some users genuinely prefer. If you’re already on the DEWALT 20V MAX platform, the DCS354B makes sense. Otherwise, the CRAFTSMAN delivers more value.
Which bare tool multi-tool is best for sanding?
The Milwaukee 2626-20 is the clear winner for sanding because of its 12 speed settings ranging from 11,000 to 18,000 OPM. That low-end speed lets you work gently on fine surfaces without gouging, which the CRAFTSMAN and DEWALT can’t match with their simpler variable speed triggers. The Milwaukee also comes with a sanding pad and assorted sheets included, so you’re ready to go out of the box. For precision work, the Milwaukee is my pick every time.
How heavy is each multi-tool, and does it matter?
The DEWALT DCS354B is the lightest at 2.3 pounds, followed by the CRAFTSMAN CMCE565B at 2.8 pounds, and the Milwaukee 2626-20 is heaviest at 2.9 pounds. That half-pound difference between the DEWALT and Milwaukee matters a lot for overhead work or long sanding sessions where fatigue sets in. For most bench-level cutting and trimming, you won’t notice the weight difference much.
Do these tools work with universal accessories, or am I locked into one brand?
The DEWALT DCS354B is the most flexible here — it comes with a universal accessory adapter designed to work with most oscillating tool accessory brands. The CRAFTSMAN uses a universal tool-free blade change system, so it also works with standard accessories. The Milwaukee doesn’t advertise universal compatibility as prominently, but it does include an adapter in the box. If you have a drawer full of random blades, the DEWALT is your safest bet.
Which multi-tool has the best battery life?
The DEWALT DCS354B claims up to 57% more run time over brushed tools thanks to its brushless motor, and its battery averages around 5 hours of life. The Milwaukee 2626-20 only averages about 40 minutes per charge, which is significantly shorter. The CRAFTSMAN also uses a brushless motor but doesn’t specify an exact runtime. If you’re doing long projects without swapping batteries, the DEWALT is the clear winner here.
My Final Verdict
The CRAFTSMAN CMCE565B is my overall winner — it hits the highest top speed at 19,000 OPM, includes the most accessories in the box, and gives you 57% more power from its brushless motor, all at a more competitive price. The DEWALT DCS354B is the runner-up, and it’s the best choice if you’re already on the 20V MAX platform or want the lightest tool at 2.3 pounds for overhead work.
If you’re still on the fence, think about what you already own. The CRAFTSMAN is the best value for most DIYers, the DEWALT wins on weight and accessory compatibility, and the Milwaukee 2626-20 is only worth it if you need those 12 speed settings for precision sanding or you’re already invested in M18 batteries.
Winner: CRAFTSMAN CMCE565B
- Delivers up to 57% more power** with high-output brushless motor
- Professional-level control: variable speed up to 19,000 opm
- Quick attachment changes with universal tool-free blade change system
For the DIYer who wants the fastest cutting speed at 19,000 OPM, the most included accessories, and the best overall value. The VERSATRACK hook and LED light are just bonuses.
Runner-Up: DEWALT DCS354B
- Brushless motor of DEWALT 20V tools delivers up to 57% more run time over...
- Dual-Grip variable speed trigger of DEWALT oscillating tool gives users...
- Universal accessory adapter of DEWALT cordless tools is designed for use...
For the pro or homeowner already on the 20V MAX platform who wants the lightest tool at 2.3 pounds and the universal accessory adapter for maximum blade compatibility.
Third Place: Milwaukee 2626-20
- 12 SPEED SETTINGS: This fully adjustable tool will switch from 11,000 to a...
- DURABILITY: The all-metal gear case will help this tool resist common...
- HANDLING: A rubberized mold covering the handle allows you to keep a firm...
For the M18 platform user who needs 12 speed settings from 11,000 to 18,000 OPM for precision work and values the all-metal gear case for job-site durability.
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