DeWalt Multitool 18V XR Brushless vs Ryobi Starter Kit 18 V ONE Plus Cordless Combi Drill
We compare the DeWalt Multitool 18V XR Brushless and the Ryobi Starter Kit 18 V ONE Plus Cordless Combi Drill across every dimension that matters - our scores, the key specs, and how each performs on the things you will actually notice day to day.
At a glance
| DeWalt Multitool 18V XR Brushless | Ryobi Starter Kit 18 V ONE Plus Cordless Combi Drill | |
|---|---|---|
| Our score | 9.6/10 | 9.4/10 |
| Best for | DIY users and tradespeople wanting cordless power on the 18V platform | Home DIY tasks on the 18V platform |
| Not ideal for | Anyone needing corded power for continuous heavy-duty work, or without batteries for this platform | Anyone needing corded power for continuous heavy-duty work, or without batteries for this platform |
| Brand | DeWalt | Ryobi |
Specifications compared
| DeWalt Multitool 18V XR Brushless | Ryobi Starter Kit 18 V ONE Plus Cordless Combi Drill | |
|---|---|---|
| Voltage | 18V Brushless motor tool | 18V Cordless |
| Battery | 2 Ah Battery included | 1.5Ah x2 Two included |
| Torque | 35 Nm Rated value | 50Nm Max stated |
Build Quality and Design
DeWalt Multitool 18V XR Brushless
The DeWalt's build is designed for use as an 18V oscillating cutting and sanding multitool. The body uses a mixed-material construction, combining metal and plastic to balance rigidity with weight. At 1.1 kg, the tool is straightforward to handle for longer sessions, with comfort and control depending on the user's grip. Accessory changes are supported by a quick-change accessory clamp for fast blade swapping, alongside a variable speed trigger for more controlled operation. The overall construction appears durable, although the plastic sections may wear sooner than the metal components.
Ryobi Starter Kit 18 V ONE Plus Cordless Combi Drill
Built for everyday DIY use, this cordless tool uses an 18V combi-drill body for both drilling and screwdriving tasks. The ratcheting chuck provides secure bit grip, which supports switching between standard drilling and bit driving. A 2-speed gearbox offers control across materials including masonry, wood, plastic and metal, while 24 torque settings help maintain more consistent screw depth. The overall design comes across as practical for routine home jobs.
Battery System and Run Time
DeWalt Multitool 18V XR Brushless
A battery is central to the cordless tool's day-to-day use, and this model is rated for an 18V XR platform. The supplied specification lists a 2 Amp Hours battery capacity. Runtime depends on the work load and variable speed settings, with heavier sanding or more frequent blade changes draining the battery faster, while lighter trimming and controlled speeds help it last longer. The brushless motor is designed for efficiency.
Ryobi Starter Kit 18 V ONE Plus Cordless Combi Drill
Using the Ryobi battery system, the R18PD3-215GZ Starter Kit comes with two 1.5Ah batteries and a charger. This dual-battery approach allows one pack to be charging while the other is in use, helping reduce downtime during everyday drilling and screwdriving. Each 1.5Ah capacity is modest, so longer sessions may require swapping packs. For more consistent progress on repeat driving tasks, start with a fully charged battery and switch midway. Compatibility with other ONE Plus tools is available for broader use.
Power and Torque
DeWalt Multitool 18V XR Brushless
Power on the DeWalt is driven by its 18V XR motor, and this section looks at how much cutting effort it can deliver across different tasks. The DCS355N-XJ is commonly considered alongside its stated torque of 35 Newton metres, a figure that influences how the tool handles harder materials. Greater cutting loads can affect cut smoothness, while the metal body is designed to support firm control. Exact performance can also vary depending on the blade selected and the material being cut.
Ryobi Starter Kit 18 V ONE Plus Cordless Combi Drill
The R18PD3-215GZ delivers its cutting and driving power through an 18V cordless combi drill design, with up to 50Nm of torque and a 2-speed gearbox that runs at 500-1800rpm no-load. This torque and speed range supports screwdriving and drilling across masonry, wood, plastic, and metal. The gearbox provides 500rpm for controlled driving and 1800rpm for faster drilling. A 24-position torque clutch helps users match screw depth, although exact results depend on bit size and material.
Speed and Versatility
DeWalt Multitool 18V XR Brushless
Speed control and tool adaptability are central to how the cordless tool handles different oscillating-tool jobs. The variable speed trigger helps users match output to the task, supporting controlled sanding, cutting and mixed repairs. Quick-change accessory clamping supports faster swaps between blades and sanding pads, reducing downtime during repetitive work. A universal accessory adaptor improves flexibility across brands, which is relevant on job sites where tool kits vary. In the DeWalt DCS355N-XJ (18V XR brushless) size large multitool, the main strength is control and compatibility, while the trade-off is that the correct accessory must be selected for each material.
Ryobi Starter Kit 18 V ONE Plus Cordless Combi Drill
Speed and versatility come from the drill's 2-speed gearbox, rated at 500 to 1800 rpm no-load, enabling slower, controlled screw driving or faster drilling when higher bit speed is needed. In the cordless tool name starter kit 18V One Plus cordless combi drill starter kit, the speed range supports masonry, wood, plastic and metal drilling, plus screw driving. Starting on the lower speed improves control for initial setup, then switching to the higher speed after the pilot hole is made. The drill includes 24 torque settings for flush finishes, although exact results still depend on the bit type and the material being drilled.
Ergonomics and Weight
DeWalt Multitool 18V XR Brushless
With its metal-and-plastic body and a 1.1 kg weight, the DeWalt is designed to be carried and handled for job-site use, not just occasional tasks. For the cordless tool size large 18V XR brushless multitool (DCS355N-XJ), this mass helps reduce the feel of "lightness" during cutting, sanding, and scraping, while still requiring steady technique over long sessions. Grip and trigger control are set up for typical overhead or edge work, but extended use can fatigue the wrist. For comfort, plan work blocks and alternate hand positions during longer sessions.
Ryobi Starter Kit 18 V ONE Plus Cordless Combi Drill
Ergonomics and weight are key to how the Ryobi feels during work, since a combi drill needs to stay controlled while drilling and when driving screws. The cordless tool review highlights balanced handling, with the front maintained in position when switching between materials. The 2-speed gearbox and 24 torque settings provide driving control for different tasks. Grip comfort is presented as practical, yet sustained overhead use may still feel tiring.
What's in the Kit
DeWalt Multitool 18V XR Brushless
In the supplied kit for the DeWalt multitool, the manufacturer includes enough necessities to start cutting wood and sanding right away. The cordless tool lists a universal blade adaptor, a blade adaptor hex key, one 31 mm x 43 mm fastcut wood blade, one 31 mm x 43 mm wood with nails blade, one sanding-pad, and one pack of assorted sanding sheets. This covers the primary setup immediately.
Ryobi Starter Kit 18 V ONE Plus Cordless Combi Drill
Inside the Ryobi R18PD3-215GZ Starter Kit Starter Kit, the focus is on getting started with drilling and screwdriving straight away. The buyer receives the cordless combi drill, two 1.5Ah Ryobi ONE batteries, and a charger. The drill has a 2-speed gearbox and a ratcheting chuck, with bits designed to grip firmly for most standard tasks.
Compatibility with Other Tools
DeWalt Multitool 18V XR Brushless
Compatibility is one place where this cordless tool can either save time or create extra work, depending on what other brands are already in use. The DeWalt brushless multitool matters in practice because it includes a universal accessory adaptor, plus one universal blade adaptor and one blade adaptor hex key. Buyers can fit many common oscillating-tool attachments, but they should confirm the accessory interface before buying spares. Switching blades is quick using the clamp, yet some third-party accessories may need adaptor changes. Overall, it supports broader accessory choice than models without universal adaptors.
Ryobi Starter Kit 18 V ONE Plus Cordless Combi Drill
The Ryobi designed the R18PD3-215GZ Starter Kit to fit into the wider The cordless tool cordless system, so users can often share batteries and chargers between compatible The Ryobi tools. This makes comparing the cordless tool with other drill kits simpler, because the kit includes 2 x 1.5Ah batteries and a charger. The combi drill accepts standard drill and screwdriving bits up to 13mm, and its ratcheting chuck supports common bit sizes.
Cleaning and Maintenance
DeWalt Multitool 18V XR Brushless
After use, the DeWalt DCS355N-XJ should be cleaned and checked regularly to prevent cutting dust and grit building up on key parts, especially around the accessory area and sanding pad. The cordless tool power tool review highlights that deposits can affect fit and smooth operation. The recommendation is to power off the tool, unplug the battery if fitted, and brush debris from the metal body and around the quick-change clamp. If a sanding session created heavy dust, wipe the surfaces with a dry cloth, then inspect the adaptor and blade seats for wear or looseness. Any trapped particles should be removed before the next job.
Ryobi Starter Kit 18 V ONE Plus Cordless Combi Drill
After use, this cordless tool should be cleaned to keep drilling performance steady, particularly after dustier jobs like masonry. The owner is advised to remove the bit, then wipe the body and chuck with a dry cloth. If debris is packed around the chuck, a soft brush can lift it, and the vents should be kept clear. Batteries should be stored dry, and the charger area kept dust-free. Any oily residue should be wiped away, while moisture should be avoided. Regular checks help prevent grit build-up.
Who Is This Tool For?
DeWalt Multitool 18V XR Brushless
This cordless tool is aimed at tradespeople and serious DIY users who need an 18V oscillating multitool for cutting and sanding work, and it also suits people who want a tool with an easy-to-clean metal body. The metal body and brushless motor support durability for regular jobs, while the LED helps with more accurate line-of-cut work. It suits fitters, carpenters, and renovators, as well as homeowners tackling occasional upgrades. At 1.1 kg, the tool may feel heavy for long overhead sessions.
Ryobi Starter Kit 18 V ONE Plus Cordless Combi Drill
This cordless combi drill suits people who need one 18V tool for mixed household tasks, including drilling in masonry, wood, plastic, and metal, as well as driving screws. The Ryobi is pitched at DIYers tackling shelving, basic repairs, and light fixings, with 2 x 1.5Ah batteries and a charger included for quicker resume. It also fits homeowners who already use The Ryobi R18PD3-215GZ Starter Kit tools.
DeWalt Multitool 18V XR Brushless: pros
- 18V cordless platform (2 Amp Hours)
- 35 Newton Meters Item Package Quantity 1 Number of Pieces 1 torque
- Brushless motor - cooler running and longer life
- 1.1 kg WEEE Directive Additional Information - manageable for extended use
Cons
- Check whether battery and charger are included or sold separately
- Battery is locked to this maker's platform, not cross-compatible
- Cordless run-time depends on the battery's amp-hour rating
Ryobi Starter Kit 18 V ONE Plus Cordless Combi Drill: pros
- 18V cordless platform (1.5 Amp Hours)
- 50 Nm torque and 1800 rpm
- Supplied with 2 batteries
Cons
- Battery is locked to this maker's platform, not cross-compatible
- Cordless run-time depends on the battery's amp-hour rating
Our verdict
Our pick is the DeWalt Multitool 18V XR Brushless (our score 9.6/10) - A cordless power tool (18V, 35 Newton Metres Item Package Quantity 1 Number of Pieces 1, brushless), a capable pick for drilling and driving around the home and site. The Ryobi Starter Kit 18 V ONE Plus Cordless Combi Drill is still worth it if it is cheaper when you check, or if it better matches your specific needs.