The DEWALT DCS438B 20V MAX XR brushless cordless 3 in. cut-off tool is a compact battery-powered cutting tool built for fast, controlled cutting in a wide range of jobsite materials. This is a cut-off tool designed for cutting metal, tile, stone, plastic, and drywall or fiber cement. Model Number: DCS438B. If you need something smaller and easier to position than a full-size grinder, this tool fills that gap with one-hand-friendly handling and the speed to make small cuts without dragging out a larger setup.

What makes this tool useful is how much work DEWALT gets out of a 3 inch format. The brushless motor delivers a no-load speed of 20,000 RPM and up to 550 MWO, which is what gives this cordless cut-off tool the ability to stay productive in tougher materials. DEWALT also lists a maximum depth of cut of 7/8 inch, so it is well suited for shallow metal cuts, trimming tile, notching fiber cement, cutting plastic, and detail work where a bigger grinder or circular saw is overkill.

On the job, the small size is the point. A compact cut-off tool is easier to guide in tight spots, overhead, or in awkward angles where a larger grinder gets clumsy. DEWALT backs that up with quick wheel changes, forward and reverse capability, and a tool-free adjustable guard. Forward and reverse is not just a spec to pad the box. It lets you direct sparks and debris where you want them when cutting metal, which matters when you are working near finished surfaces, other trades, or inside tight mechanical spaces.

DEWALT also did a solid job on the practical side. The included dust shroud has an adjustable shoe with both inch and millimeter markings, so setting depth is straightforward and repeatable. That is useful when you need to avoid cutting too deep into finished material or when you are making repeat passes in tile or fiber cement. The AIRLOCK connection gives you a direct path to a DEWALT extractor, which makes this a more realistic indoor cutting solution than a lot of small abrasive tools.

For visibility and general jobsite convenience, the integrated LED is a simple feature that earns its keep. Small cutoff work often happens under cabinets, in utility corners, or against shadowed surfaces where your line disappears fast. The LED helps keep the cut visible without needing a separate light. DEWALT also includes three wheels to get you started right away: a bonded abrasive wheel, a diamond multi-material wheel, and a diamond tile wheel. That broadens the tool's use from day one instead of forcing you to buy accessories before it becomes useful.

From a system standpoint, this is part of the DEWALT 20V MAX platform, so it fits users already running DEWALT batteries and chargers. It is sold as a tool only, which makes the most sense for current DEWALT cordless users. The product is also Tool Connect Chip ready, with a chip pocket that accepts the DCE042 chip for asset management through the Site Manager app. For crews managing multiple cordless tools, that is a practical tracking feature, not just a tech gimmick.

The DEWALT DCS438B 20V MAX XR brushless cordless 3 in. cut-off tool is a strong fit for remodelers, tile installers, electricians, plumbers, HVAC techs, metal workers, and general contractors who need controlled cutoff performance in a compact form. It is also a good pick for serious DIY users who want a dedicated small cutting tool instead of trying to force a grinder or oscillating tool into jobs they were not really built for. If your work involves a lot of quick trim cuts, punch-list fixes, or cutting in finished spaces, this tool makes a lot of sense.

DEWALT DCS438B 20V MAX XR brushless cordless 3 in. cut-off tool for punch-list cuts and tight access work

This is one of those tools that earns a permanent spot once you start using it, because it handles the quick awkward cuts that bigger tools make annoying.

• Who it's for: Pros and serious DIY users already on the DEWALT 20V MAX platform who cut metal, tile, plastic, or fiber cement and want more control in tight spots.
• Why it stands out: The compact form, 20,000 RPM brushless motor, forward and reverse function, and included multi-material wheel setup make it more versatile than a one-purpose small grinder.
• Worth knowing: This is a bare tool, so plan on supplying your own battery and charger. If you do indoor finish work, the included AIRLOCK dust shroud is a bigger deal than it might look on paper.

• What materials can this cut-off tool handle? DEWALT lists metal, tile, stone, plastic, and drywall or fiber cement.
• Is this a cordless tool or a corded tool? It is a cordless battery-powered cut-off tool in the DEWALT 20V MAX system.
• Does it work with a dust extractor? Yes. The included removable dust shroud has an AIRLOCK connection for DEWALT extractors.
• Can it use different 3 inch wheels? Yes. It uses 3 inch wheels with a 3/8 inch arbor, and the included adapter ring allows use of 3 inch wheels that require a 7/16 inch arbor.