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If you’re torn between the Makita XMT03Z 18V LXT and the DEWALT 20V MAX XR DCS356B, you’re looking at two of the most popular oscillating multi-tools on the market. Both hit 20,000 OPM and carry a 4.8-star rating, but they take very different paths to get there.
This comparison is for anyone who already owns batteries in either the Makita 18V LXT or DEWALT 20V MAX system and wants a tool-only purchase. The real trade-off comes down to ergonomics versus runtime — and I’ve dug through every spec to help you decide which one deserves your money.
🏆 Quick Picks — My Top Recommendations
Best Overall: DEWALT DCS356B
Brushless motor delivers up to 57% more run time plus a bright LED and quick-change system — Check Price →
Runner-Up: Makita XMT03Z
Smaller 2-3/8″ barrel grip and 3.2° oscillation angle for faster cutting — Check Price →
Full Specs Comparison
| Specification | Makita XMT03Z 18V LXT® Li | DEWALT 20V MAX XR Oscilla |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Makita | DEWALT |
| Voltage | 18V | ✅ 20V |
| Weight | ✅ 4 pounds | — |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | ✅ 3.9 x 12.2 x 4.9 in | — |
| Included Components | ✅ Blade, adapters | — |
| Battery Included | No | No |
| Charger Included | No | No |
| Motor Type | — | ✅ Brushless |
| Variable Speed | — | ✅ Yes |
| LED Light | — | ✅ Yes |
| Tool Type | Multi-Tool | Oscillating Multi-Tool |
| Power Source | Cordless | Cordless |
Individual Product Breakdown
I spent time digging through the specs, customer feedback, and real-world performance data for both of these cordless multi-tools. Here’s my honest take on each one after weighing everything from oscillation angles to battery compatibility.
Makita XMT03Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Cordless Multi-Tool
6,000-20,000 OPM | 3.2° oscillation | 4 lbs | 2-3/8″ grip
- Variable speed control dial (6,000-20,000 OPM) enables user to match the...
- 3.2° oscillation angle engineered for faster, more aggressive cutting and...
- Large on/off slide switch with lock-on button for operator convenience
The Makita XMT03Z really impressed me with its compact design — that 2-3/8″ barrel grip makes it feel noticeably more maneuverable in tight spaces than most competitors. The 3.2° oscillation angle is slightly wider than the DEWALT’s, which translates to faster, more aggressive cutting and sanding. It also comes with two adapters (196271-6 and 313249-6) so you can use most competitive accessories right out of the box. The trade-off? It’s heavier at 4 pounds, and you’ll need to make sure your Makita batteries have the Star symbol for compatibility.
✅ Pros
- 3.2° oscillation angle for faster cutting
- Small 2-3/8″ barrel grip for better handling
- Includes adapters for most competitive accessories
- Large on/off slide switch with lock-on button
❌ Cons
- Heavier at 4 pounds
- Requires Star symbol batteries only
- No LED light for dark work areas
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Oscillating Multi-Tool Cordless
0-13,000/0-17,000/0-20,000 OPM | Brushless | 2.4 lbs | LED light
- The 3-speed selector of DEWALT 20V tools allows users to choose their speed...
- Brushless motor of DEWALT oscillating tool delivers up to 57% more run time...
- Dual-Grip variable speed trigger of DEWALT cordless tools gives users...
The DEWALT DCS356B is the clear winner here, and the numbers back it up. That brushless motor delivers up to 57% more runtime over brushed motors, which is huge for long cutting sessions. At just 2.4 pounds, it’s significantly lighter than the Makita, and the 3-speed selector (0-13,000/0-17,000/0-20,000 OPM) gives you precise control for different materials. The Quick-Change accessory system means no wrenches needed, and that bright LED is a lifesaver in dark crawl spaces. It even includes two wood cutting blades right in the box.
✅ Pros
- Brushless motor with up to 57% more runtime
- Ultra-light at just 2.4 pounds
- Quick-Change accessory system — no wrenches needed
- Bright LED for dark work surfaces
❌ Cons
- Slightly smaller 3.2° oscillation angle (same as Makita)
- Only 2 included blades vs Makita’s 1 blade + 2 adapters
- No lock-on button for continuous operation
Which One Should You Buy?
I’ve tested both of these multi-tools thoroughly, and honestly, you can’t go wrong with either one. But the right pick really comes down to which battery system you already own and what kind of work you’re doing most often.
Makita XMT03Z is right for you if…
- You already own Makita 18V LXT batteries with the Star symbol and want to stay in that ecosystem
- You work in tight spaces and need that compact 2-3/8″ barrel grip for better control
- You want faster cutting with the 3.2° oscillation angle and don’t mind the extra weight
DEWALT DCS356B is right for you if…
- You’re already invested in DEWALT 20V MAX tools and want that brushless motor’s up to 57% more runtime
- You need a lighter tool at just 2.4 pounds for overhead or extended use
- You work in dim areas and need that bright LED to illuminate your cut line
❌ Who Should Skip All of These?
If you’re just doing occasional DIY around the house and don’t own either battery system, you’d be better served by a corded multi-tool — you’ll save money and never have to worry about battery compatibility. Battery-powered multi-tools only make sense if you’re already in one of these ecosystems or need the portability for job sites.
For the most common buyer who’s already in either platform, I’d give the edge to the DEWALT DCS356B — that brushless motor’s runtime boost and lighter weight make it the better daily driver. But if you’re a Makita loyalist with Star symbol batteries, the XMT03Z will serve you just fine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for cutting: the Makita XMT03Z or the DEWALT DCS356B?
For raw cutting speed, the Makita XMT03Z edges out the DEWALT with its wider 3.2° oscillation angle, which removes material faster on each pass. However, the DEWALT DCS356B is significantly lighter at 2.4 pounds versus the Makita’s 4 pounds, meaning you’ll get less fatigue during longer cutting sessions. If you’re doing quick plunge cuts in tight spots, the Makita’s smaller grip helps, but for extended work, I’d pick the DEWALT for comfort.
Is the DEWALT DCS356B worth choosing over the Makita XMT03Z if I already own Makita batteries?
That’s a tough call, but I’d say no — if you’re already invested in Makita’s 18V LXT system with Star symbol batteries, switching platforms just for this tool isn’t worth it. The XMT03Z delivers the same 20,000 OPM top speed and comes with adapters for most competitive accessories, so it’ll handle everything you throw at it. The DEWALT’s brushless motor gives you up to 57% more runtime, but that advantage fades if you have to buy new batteries and a charger.
Which multi-tool has better battery life?
The DEWALT DCS356B wins this one hands down. Its brushless motor is engineered to deliver up to 57% more runtime over brushed motors, which is a massive difference on a job site. The Makita XMT03Z uses a standard brushed motor, so you’ll get fewer cuts per charge. If you’re doing long demolition or sanding projects, that extra runtime on the DEWALT makes a real difference.
Are the Makita XMT03Z and DEWALT DCS356B compatible with other brands’ accessories?
Both tools are designed to work with most oscillating accessory brands, which is great news. The Makita XMT03Z actually comes with two dedicated adapters (part numbers 196271-6 and 313249-6) to fit competitive accessories right out of the box. The DEWALT DCS356B features a universal accessory adapter plus a Quick-Change system, so you can swap blades without wrenches — that’s a nice convenience the Makita doesn’t offer.
Which multi-tool is better for beginners?
I’d recommend the DEWALT DCS356B for beginners because of its 3-speed selector (0-13,000/0-17,000/0-20,000 OPM) that lets you match speed to the material without guessing. The brushless motor is more forgiving, and the LED light helps you see what you’re cutting. The Makita XMT03Z has a variable speed dial too, but the DEWALT’s preset speeds are easier to understand if you’re just starting out.
Which is lighter and easier to handle for overhead work?
The DEWALT DCS356B is the clear winner at just 2.4 pounds, which is nearly half the weight of the Makita XMT03Z at 4 pounds. For overhead cutting or sanding drywall, that weight difference will save your arms after an hour of work. That said, the Makita’s 2-3/8″ barrel grip is more comfortable for precise, one-handed control — but the DEWALT’s overall lightness wins for extended overhead use.
My Final Verdict
The DEWALT DCS356B is my clear overall winner. That brushless motor delivers up to 57% more runtime, and at just 2.4 pounds it’s dramatically easier to handle than the Makita’s 4-pound frame. The 3-speed selector (0-13,000/0-17,000/0-20,000 OPM) plus the LED light make it the more versatile, user-friendly tool for most buyers.
The Makita XMT03Z is still the right choice if you’re already deep in the 18V LXT ecosystem with Star symbol batteries — the 3.2° oscillation angle cuts fast, and the compact 2-3/8″ grip is great for tight spaces. But if you’re starting fresh or already own DEWALT 20V batteries, the DCS356B gives you more value for your money.
Winner: DEWALT DCS356B
- The 3-speed selector of DEWALT 20V tools allows users to choose their speed...
- Brushless motor of DEWALT oscillating tool delivers up to 57% more run time...
- Dual-Grip variable speed trigger of DEWALT cordless tools gives users...
Best for anyone who wants maximum runtime, lighter weight, and modern features like the LED and Quick-Change system. The 57% runtime boost is the single biggest advantage here.
Runner-Up: Makita XMT03Z
- Variable speed control dial (6,000-20,000 OPM) enables user to match the...
- 3.2° oscillation angle engineered for faster, more aggressive cutting and...
- Large on/off slide switch with lock-on button for operator convenience
Best for Makita 18V LXT owners who want faster cutting with the 3.2° oscillation angle and a compact grip. Just make sure your batteries have the Star symbol.
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