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If you’re shopping for a cordless oscillating multitool, you’re likely staring at three heavy hitters: the DEWALT DCS356C1, the CRAFTSMAN CMCE501D1, and the Milwaukee 2626-20. Each one promises to cut, sand, and scrape through your toughest jobs, but they take very different approaches to getting there.
The big question is whether you want a complete kit with battery and charger or a bare tool that uses batteries you already own. I’ve dug through the specs on all three so you can see exactly which one fits your workshop and your wallet.
🏆 Quick Picks — My Top Recommendations
Best Overall: DEWALT DCS356C1
Top speed at 20,000 OPM with brushless motor for 57% more runtime — Check Price →
Runner-Up: CRAFTSMAN CMCE501D1
Complete kit with sanding platen, 4 sandpaper sheets, and storage bag included — Check Price →
Best for M18 Users: Milwaukee 2626-20
12 speed settings from 11,000 to 18,000 OPM with 5-year warranty — Check Price →
Here’s how the three multitools stack up side-by-side on the specs that actually matter for your buying decision.
Full Specs Comparison
| Specification | DEWALT 20V MAX XR Oscilla | CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Os | Milwaukee 2626-20 M18 18V |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | DEWALT | CRAFTSMAN | Milwaukee |
| Voltage | ✅ 20V | 20V | 18V |
| Power Source | Cordless | Battery Powered | Cordless |
| Battery Cell Composition | Lithium Ion | — | Lithium Ion |
| Number of Batteries | ✅ 1 | — | 0 |
| Item Weight | ✅ 3 pounds | — | — |
| Max Oscillations | ✅ 20000 OPM | — | 18000 OPM |
| Speed Settings | 3 | Variable | ✅ 12 |
| Brushless Motor | ✅ Yes | — | — |
| LED Light | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | — |
| Recommended Uses | — | Cutting, Grinding, Sanding, Polishing | Cutting |
| Color | — | Black, Red | Red |
| Included Blades | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Included Sanding Pad | — | — | ✅ Yes |
| Included Battery | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | No |
| Included Charger | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | No |
Individual Product Breakdown
I spent time digging through the real specs and user feedback on each of these multitools to see how they compare in everyday use. Here’s what I found for each one.
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Oscillating Tool Kit with Blades (DCS356C1)
20,000 OPM max | 3-speed brushless | LED light | 1 battery included | 3 lbs
- 3-speed selector allows users to choose their speed setting based on the...
- Dual-Grip variable-speed trigger gives users ultimate speed and application...
- Quick-Change accessory system allows blades and attachments to be changed...
This is the one I’d pick if you want raw power and versatility in a complete kit. The brushless motor pushes up to 20,000 OPM with a 3-speed selector, and DEWALT claims 57% more runtime over brushed models — that’s a real advantage on longer jobs. The Quick-Change accessory system lets you swap blades without wrenches, and the universal adapter works with most oscillating tool brands. My only gripe is the 40 amp-hour battery capacity feels modest for heavy use, but it charges in about an hour so you’re not waiting long.
✅ Pros
- Top speed of 20,000 OPM for fast cutting
- Brushless motor delivers 57% more runtime
- Tool-free blade changes with Quick-Change system
- 4.8-star rating from over 12,000 reviews
❌ Cons
- Only 1 battery included in the kit
- 40 amp-hour capacity may not last all day
CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Oscillating Tool Kit (CMCE501D1)
Variable speed dial | LED work light | Tool-free universal attachment | 1 battery included
- Variable speed dial oscillating saw for control during application
- LED work light illuminates work area for visibility
- Tool-free universal attachment for quick and easy blade changes
The CRAFTSMAN stands out because it gives you the most complete package right out of the box. Along with the tool, battery, and charger, you get a wood blade, wood/metal blade, sanding platen, 4 sheets of sandpaper, and a storage bag — everything you need to start working immediately. The variable speed dial gives you solid control for different materials, and the LED work light helps in dark spaces. It’s a bit heavier at 5.12 x 6.38 x 9.06 inches, and the 2.0 Ah battery (CMCB202) is on the smaller side, so expect to swap batteries on bigger projects.
✅ Pros
- Most accessories included: sanding platen, 4 sandpaper sheets, storage bag
- Variable speed dial for precise control
- Tool-free universal attachment for quick blade changes
- Compatible with V20 system and VERSATRACK
2.0 Ah battery is smaller than competitors
Milwaukee 2626-20 M18 18V Lithium Ion Cordless Multi Tool
18,000 OPM max | 12 speed settings | All-metal gear case | 2.9 lbs | Tool only
- 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...
This Milwaukee is the specialist’s choice if you’re already invested in the M18 battery platform. With 12 speed settings ranging from 11,000 to 18,000 OPM, you get the finest control of any tool here — perfect for delicate trim work or aggressive demolition. The all-metal gear case adds durability, and the REDLINK technology helps protect the tool from overheating. The catch? It’s a bare tool with no battery or charger included, so you’ll need to own M18 batteries already. The 5-year warranty is the longest of the three, which tells you Milwaukee stands behind it.
✅ Pros
- 12 speed settings from 11,000 to 18,000 OPM for precise control
- All-metal gear case for durability on the job
- 5-year warranty — longest of the three
- REDLINK technology prevents overheating
❌ Cons
- No battery or charger included — tool only
- Included accessories are limited to wood blade and sanding pad
Which One Should You Buy?
After testing the specs and weighing what each kit brings to the table, I can tell you there’s no single “best” multitool — it all comes down to your existing battery platform and what you plan to cut. Here’s how I’d match each one to a specific type of buyer.
DEWALT DCS356C1 is right for you if…
- You’re already in the 20V MAX system and want the fastest cutting at 20,000 OPM
- You need brushless efficiency for 57% more runtime on long jobs
- You want tool-free blade changes with the Quick-Change system and universal accessory compatibility
CRAFTSMAN CMCE501D1 is right for you if…
- You want the most complete kit with sanding platen, 4 sandpaper sheets, and a storage bag included
- You’re already invested in the V20 system and want VERSATRACK compatibility
- You value a variable speed dial for precise control on delicate materials
Milwaukee 2626-20 is right for you if…
- You already own M18 batteries and chargers — this bare tool saves you money
- You need the finest control with 12 speed settings from 11,000 to 18,000 OPM
- You want the longest warranty at 5 years and all-metal gear case durability
❌ Who Should Skip All of These?
If you’re a weekend DIYer who only needs to make a few cuts a month and doesn’t own any cordless power tools yet, you might be better off with a corded oscillating multitool that never runs out of battery. You’ll save money upfront and skip the hassle of managing battery chargers entirely.
For the most common buyer — someone who wants a complete kit ready to work out of the box — I’d point you to the DEWALT DCS356C1. It gives you the fastest cutting speed at 20,000 OPM, brushless efficiency, and a solid 4.8-star rating from over 12,000 buyers, making it the safest bet for most people.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which oscillating multitool kit is better: DEWALT DCS356C1 or Milwaukee 2626-20?
The DEWALT DCS356C1 is the better choice if you want a complete kit with battery and charger included. It hits a higher top speed of 20,000 OPM versus the Milwaukee’s 18,000 OPM, and the brushless motor delivers 57% more runtime. That said, if you already own M18 batteries, the Milwaukee 2626-20 is the smarter buy since you’re only paying for the bare tool. The Milwaukee also gives you more speed control with 12 settings compared to DEWALT’s 3 speeds.
Is the DEWALT DCS356C1 worth the extra money over the CRAFTSMAN CMCE501D1?
Yes, I think the DEWALT justifies its higher price for most buyers. You’re getting a brushless motor that delivers up to 57% more runtime over brushed models, plus a faster top speed of 20,000 OPM compared to the CRAFTSMAN’s variable speed dial. The DEWALT also has a much stronger track record with a 4.8-star rating from over 12,000 reviews versus the CRAFTSMAN’s 4.7 stars from 895 reviews. However, the CRAFTSMAN gives you more accessories in the box — sanding platen, 4 sandpaper sheets, and a storage bag — which could be worth it if you’re on a tighter budget.
Does the Milwaukee 2626-20 come with a battery and charger?
No, the Milwaukee 2626-20 is a bare tool — it does not include a battery or charger. The product name explicitly says “Battery Not Included, Power Tool Only.” You’ll need to supply your own M18 battery and charger, which makes this the right pick only if you’re already in the Milwaukee M18 platform. If you’re starting from scratch, the DEWALT DCS356C1 or CRAFTSMAN CMCE501D1 both include a battery and charger in the box.
Which multitool kit has the best warranty?
The Milwaukee 2626-20 wins this category hands down with a 5-year tool warranty. Both the DEWALT DCS356C1 and the CRAFTSMAN CMCE501D1 offer only a 3-year limited warranty. If long-term coverage is your priority, the Milwaukee’s extra two years of protection is a significant advantage — just remember you still need to own M18 batteries to use it.
Is the CRAFTSMAN CMCE501D1 a good choice for beginners?
Absolutely, the CRAFTSMAN CMCE501D1 is the most beginner-friendly kit of the three. It comes with the most complete accessory package — a wood blade, wood/metal blade, sanding platen, 4 sheets of sandpaper, and a storage bag — so you won’t need to buy anything else to get started. The variable speed dial is also easier for new users to understand than the DEWALT’s 3-speed selector. The only downside is the smaller 2.0 Ah battery, which may not last through longer projects.
Which oscillating tool is the most powerful?
The DEWALT DCS356C1 is the most powerful of the three, with a top speed of 20,000 OPM driven by its brushless motor. The Milwaukee 2626-20 comes in second at 18,000 OPM, and the CRAFTSMAN CMCE501D1’s max speed isn’t specified but its variable speed dial suggests it’s geared more toward control than raw power. For heavy-duty cutting and sanding, the DEWALT’s higher OPM and brushless efficiency make it the clear winner.
My Final Verdict
After comparing all three multitools, the DEWALT DCS356C1 is my clear overall winner. It combines the fastest cutting speed at 20,000 OPM, a brushless motor delivering 57% more runtime, and a complete kit with battery and charger — all backed by a 4.8-star rating from over 12,000 buyers. The CRAFTSMAN CMCE501D1 is the best runner-up for budget-conscious buyers who want the most accessories included, while the Milwaukee 2626-20 is only worth it if you already own M18 batteries.
If you’re still on the fence, ask yourself one question: do you already own cordless power tools from a specific brand? If yes, match your multitool to that platform. If you’re starting fresh, the DEWALT’s combination of speed, runtime, and complete kit makes it the safest and most capable choice for the average homeowner or professional.
Winner: DEWALT DCS356C1
- 3-speed selector allows users to choose their speed setting based on the...
- Dual-Grip variable-speed trigger gives users ultimate speed and application...
- Quick-Change accessory system allows blades and attachments to be changed...
The best overall pick for anyone who wants maximum power and a complete ready-to-work kit. With 20,000 OPM, brushless efficiency, and a 3-speed selector, it handles everything from delicate trim to heavy demolition.
Runner-Up: CRAFTSMAN CMCE501D1
- Variable speed dial oscillating saw for control during application
- LED work light illuminates work area for visibility
- Tool-free universal attachment for quick and easy blade changes
Best for budget-minded buyers who want the most complete accessory package — including sanding platen, 4 sandpaper sheets, and a storage bag. The variable speed dial makes it beginner-friendly, though the 2.0 Ah battery is smaller than ideal.
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...
Only worth it if you’re already in the M18 battery platform. It offers the finest control with 12 speed settings from 11,000 to 18,000 OPM and the longest 5-year warranty, but the lack of included battery and charger makes it a poor starting point.
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