Who this tool is actually for
If you already own DeWalt 18V XR kit, this is almost a no-brainer. The DCS355N is a bare tool, so no battery, no charger. That's fine if you're already in the ecosystem. If you're not, factor in the cost of a battery pack and you're in different territory entirely.
The brushless motor is the bit that matters here. More runtime per charge, less heat, longer lifespan than the brushed version. Not marketing fluff, you actually notice it on a long afternoon of cutting door architrave or scraping old sealant out of a bathroom. Speaking of which, that's really where this tool earns its keep: the fiddly, awkward jobs that no other tool handles without making a mess of things.
What it's like to actually use
I had one of these on a kitchen refit last year. Spent a good two hours plunge-cutting into flooring and trimming the bottoms of door frames. The tool stayed cool, the grip is comfortable even after a while, and the accessory change system (no wrench needed) is properly satisfying once you get used to it.
Honestly, my one reservation is noise. Oscillating multi-tools are never quiet, and the DeWalt isn't an exception. Fine outdoors or in an empty room, a bit much in a flat with neighbours.
The price question
At this level, it's competitive for a brushless unit from a brand with solid UK service. Not the cheapest bare tool you'll find, but cheap brushless multi-tools tend to be a false economy. If you're already DeWalt, it's spot on.
