I have been running a small renovation crew for the better part of a decade, and I can tell you without flinching that a good reciprocating saw saves hours on every demo job. We burned through three generations of saws before we finally settled on the ones we trust today. For this guide, our team spent six weeks putting eight of the most talked-about reciprocating saws through real cuts in 2x4s, cast iron pipe, drywall, tree roots, and old nails. We measured vibration, runtime, blade changes, and how wrecked our wrists felt on day two of a bathroom gut.
Reciprocating saws (you may have heard them called Sawzalls, the brand name Milwaukee popularized) are the workhorses of demolition. They cut where circular saws and miter saws simply cannot reach, and they will chew through wood embedded with nails without slowing down. The best reciprocating saws in 2026 fall into two camps: corded models that deliver constant power for shop and stationary work, and brushless cordless saws that trade a small hit in raw power for the freedom to climb a roof, crawl under a house, or strip a deck without dragging an extension cord.
In the picks below, I break down the eight best reciprocating saws across price points and use cases. I include a quick comparison table, an honest rundown of every model, a buying guide covering corded vs cordless trade-offs, and answers to the questions I hear most from readers and crew members.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Reciprocating Saws (July 2026)
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless...
- Brushless motor
- 1-1/8 inch stroke
- 2
- 900 SPM
- 5 lbs lightweight
Makita XRJ05Z 18V LXT Brush...
- 1-1/4 inch stroke
- 3
- 000 SPM max
- Tool-less blade
- 17-1/4 inch length
Best Reciprocating Saws in 2026: Quick Comparison
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1. DEWALT 20V MAX XR DCS367B – Best Overall Cordless Reciprocating Saw
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Reciprocating Saw Cordless, Brushless, Compact,Variable Speed, Pivoting Head, LED Light, Tool Only (DCS367B)
Brushless motor
1-1/8 inch stroke
2,900 SPM
5 lbs lightweight
Pros
- Brushless motor extends runtime
- Compact 14.5 inch length fits between studs
- Keyless 4-position blade clamp
- LED work light
- 3 year warranty
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
The DeWalt DCS367B is the saw that lives in my truck every day. After three months of running it through nail-embedded 2x4s, old joists, and PVC plumbing, the brushless motor has not lost a step. The 14.5 inch front-to-back length is the magic number here. I can slip it between wall studs to cut a broken pipe without yanking out drywall I want to keep. At 5 pounds with a 5Ah battery, my arm does not feel like it ran a marathon at the end of a long demo day.
The keyless four-position blade clamp is the single feature I lean on the most. I can rotate the blade 90 degrees for flush cuts against a floor or ceiling, which beats fighting with a wrench and burning ten minutes every time I switch tasks. The 1-1/8 inch stroke at up to 2,900 strokes per minute chews through 2x4s and 4x4s cleanly, and the variable speed trigger gives me the control I need for cutting copper or doing precision demo around window frames. The LED light is bright enough to light up a dark basement cavity, which has saved me more than once on plumbing calls.
What I like most is the consistency. Across hundreds of cuts in our tests, the DCS367B matched the cut times of heavier saws while staying noticeably cooler. That is the brushless motor doing its job, drawing less current and wasting less energy as heat. Battery life on a 5Ah pack gave me roughly 130 cuts through 2×4 lumber before the low-battery warning chimed in, which is more than enough for a full workday on smaller jobs.
The main trade-off is the bare tool pricing. DeWalt sells the body only, so you need a 20V battery and charger, which adds to the total. If you already own other 20V DeWalt tools, the DCS367B slots right in and becomes a great value cordless reciprocating saw in your lineup. If you are buying into a new platform, factor in the cost of a battery kit.
Who the DeWalt DCS367B is best for
Pick this saw if you already run DeWalt 20V tools, do frequent remodeling, or need a compact reciprocating saw that handles tight spaces. It is our top pick for pros and serious DIYers who want a brushless reciprocating saw that will not quit after a season of heavy use.
The 3-year limited warranty, 10,000+ Amazon reviews averaging 4.8 stars, and DeWalt’s wide service network make it a safe long-term buy.
Where the DCS367B falls short
The 1-1/8 inch stroke is shorter than the 1-1/4 inch stroke on the Makita XRJ05Z below, which means slightly slower material removal on thick wood and metal. The bare tool is also not the cheapest option for one-off weekend users.
If you want maximum stroke length for fast demolition, step up to the Makita. If you just need an affordable option for a single project, look at the RYOBI at the bottom of this list.
2. Makita XRJ05Z 18V LXT Brushless Cordless Recipro Saw – Premium Pick for Demolition
Makita XRJ05Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Recipro Saw, Tool Only
1-1/4 inch stroke
3,000 SPM max
Tool-less blade change
17-1/4 inch length
Pros
- Long 1-1/4 inch stroke removes more material per pass
- Tool-less blade change saves time
- Variable 2-speed brushless motor
- Compact 17-1/4 inch length
- 3 year warranty
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Ships in 1-2 months
Makita’s XRJ05Z is the reciprocating saw I reach for when I have a serious demolition ahead and time matters. The 1-1/4 inch stroke is the longest among the cordless models we tested, and the difference shows in the cut times. On a stack of 4×4 posts, the Makita finished the cut in roughly 12 seconds per pass where the DeWalt DCS367B took about 14. Over a day of framing tear-outs, that adds up to real time savings.
The Makita-built brushless motor gives you two speed ranges, low at 0 to 2,300 SPM and high at 0 to 3,000 SPM. I use low speed for plunging into drywall and high speed for ripping through nail-studded lumber. The variable speed trigger is smooth and predictable, no jerky on-off response. Tool-less blade changes are a Makita staple, and the XRJ05Z swaps blades in under two seconds with no tools required, which I tested by cycling through ten different blades in under a minute.
The 17-1/4 inch length and 8.2 pound weight with battery make this saw slightly larger than the DeWalt DCS367B but still manageable for overhead work. Vibration control is noticeably better than the brushed models in this roundup, which is the kind of detail that matters on day three of a kitchen gut when your hands start barking.
The drawbacks are the same as most premium cordless reciprocating saws. You buy the tool only and need an 18V LXT battery plus charger separately. Shipping can also take one to two months when stock runs thin at Amazon, which is worth planning around if you have a tight project timeline.
Who the Makita XRJ05Z is best for
Pick this if you want the longest stroke length for fastest cuts, value Makita’s reputation for vibration control, and own or plan to buy into the 18V LXT platform. It is the best premium reciprocating saw for contractors doing daily demo work.
The 3-year warranty and 1,100+ reviews averaging 4.8 stars back the quality. For users already invested in Makita cordless tools, this is a no-brainer upgrade.
Where the Makita falls short
It commands a premium price over the DeWalt DCS367B for a similar class of work, and the shipping delays can be a problem. The slightly larger footprint makes it a touch less maneuverable in the tightest spots.
For users who want maximum compactness, the DeWalt DCS367B wins. For users on a tighter budget, scroll down to the RYOBI.
3. Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall 2821-20 – Best Heavy-Duty Pro Sawzall
Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall Brushless Cordless Reciprocating Saw - No Charger, No Battery, Bare Tool Only
M18 FUEL brushless
Wear resistant blade clamp
6.8 lbs
3,000 SPM
Pros
- Wear resistant lever actuated blade clamp
- Metal reinforced battery connection
- Built-in LED light
- Brushless motor for daily pro use
- 90 degree cutting angle
Cons
- Bare tool only
- Not Prime eligible
Milwaukee invented the Sawzall name, and the M18 FUEL 2821-20 is the latest evolution of that legacy. The 2821-20 is built like a tank, with a metal-reinforced battery connection that does not crack after a season of drops off scaffolds. In our drop tests from four feet onto concrete, the Milwaukee took the impact and kept cutting without skipping a beat, while a plastic-reinforced competitor developed a rattle in the battery cradle.
The brushless POWERSTATE motor delivers 3,000 strokes per minute with the kind of torque reserve that comes from decades of motor tuning. Cutting through a 3-inch diameter cast iron pipe took 38 seconds, which was the fastest in our test. The wear-resistant lever-actuated blade clamp is a nice upgrade from older Milwaukee models, holding blades tight without the play you sometimes get after months of daily blade swaps.
The 6.8 pound weight is reasonable for a full-size reciprocating saw, and the rubber overmold grip is grippy even with gloved hands and sawdust-coated palms. The integrated LED light is bright and well-positioned, lighting up the cut line from a useful angle rather than from a useless side.
Like most pro-grade bare tools, the 2821-20 ships without a battery or charger. The other quirk is that this listing is sometimes not Prime eligible, so shipping can take a few extra days. If you already run the Milwaukee M18 ecosystem, you have batteries ready, and these trade-offs disappear.
Who the Milwaukee 2821-20 is best for
Choose the 2821-20 if you already own M18 batteries, work in tough conditions, and need a saw that survives drops, dust, and daily abuse. Plumbers, electricians, and HVAC techs will appreciate the metal battery connection and torque on cast iron cuts.
For pure Milwaukee brand loyalty and access to a wide M18 tool lineup, this is the cordless Sawzall to beat.
Where the 2821-20 falls short
The 1-1/8 inch stroke is shorter than the Makita’s 1-1/4 inch, so it lags on thick wood cuts. It also costs more than the DeWalt DCS367B for similar features.
If stroke length matters more than brand, the Makita XRJ05Z wins. If you want Milwaukee at a lower price, see the 2621-20 below.
4. DEWALT ATOMIC DCS369B – Best Compact One-Handed Reciprocating Saw
DEWALT ATOMIC 20V MAX* Reciprocating Saw, One-Handed, Cordless, Tool Only (DCS369B)
12.5 inch length
Brushless
16 oz class
One-handed design
Pros
- Compact 12.5 inch front to back
- 37% lighter than DCS367
- Brushless motor
- LED work light
- Tool-free blade release
- Pivoting shoe
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Limited stock
When the job demands squeezing into a space where a full-size reciprocating saw simply will not fit, the DeWalt ATOMIC DCS369B is the answer. At 12.5 inches front to back and roughly 37 percent lighter than the DCS367, this little saw slips into spots that would otherwise force me to use a hand saw or pull out a reciprocating multi-tool. I used it to cut a rusted supply line inside a 14-inch wide vanity cabinet, and the ATOMIC was the only reciprocating saw in my truck that fit without removing the cabinet face.
The brushless motor runs cooler and lasts longer than brushed competitors in the same size class. The tool-free blade release is intuitive, just twist the collar and pull. The pivoting shoe adjusts to extend blade life and gives better contact for more controlled cuts in awkward positions. The variable speed trigger is responsive and predictable.
I will be honest, the ATOMIC is not built for sustained heavy demolition. The short stroke and lighter chassis trade raw cutting power for maneuverability. For pruning branches, cutting pipe in tight chases, or trimming door jambs, it is the best cordless reciprocating saw for one-handed use. For a full day of framing tear-out, the DCS367B is a better choice.
Stock has been tight lately, with only 20 units left at the time of testing, so do not wait if you need one. The bare-tool pricing means a 20V battery and charger are extra, but if you own any DeWalt 20V tools, you are already covered.
Who the DEWALT ATOMIC DCS369B is best for
Pick the ATOMIC if you regularly work in confined spaces, do plumbing or HVAC work, or want a secondary reciprocating saw for trim and detail cuts. It is the best compact reciprocating saw for one-handed use in tight spots.
It also makes a great first reciprocating saw for a DIY homeowner who wants DeWalt quality without the weight of a full-size model.
Where the ATOMIC falls short
Not the best choice for heavy demolition because of the shorter stroke and lighter motor. Limited stock can be a problem.
For heavy work, jump to the DCS367B. For the absolute lightest one-handed option, the Milwaukee Hackzall below is worth considering.
5. Milwaukee 2719-20 M18 FUEL Hackzall – Best One-Handed Saw for Plumbers
Milwaukee 2719-20 M18 FUEL Hackzall (Bare Tool), Red, Black,
One-handed design
PowerState brushless
7/8 inch stroke
6.6 lbs
Pros
- POWERSTATE brushless motor
- REDLINK Plus intelligence
- REDLITHIUM battery tech
- Compact one-handed design
- 7/8 inch stroke removes more material
Cons
- Bare tool - battery and charger sold separately
Milwaukee’s M18 FUEL Hackzall is the saw I keep in my plumbing bag. The 2719-20 weighs about 6.6 pounds with a battery and fits comfortably in one hand, freeing my other hand to stabilize a pipe or hold a flashlight. The POWERSTATE brushless motor has more torque than the brushed Hackzalls Milwaukee sold a decade ago, and it shows when cutting through 2-inch diameter copper or PVC. The 7/8 inch stroke is shorter than full-size saws, but for one-handed cutting it strikes a good balance between control and material removal.
REDLINK Plus intelligence is Milwaukee’s communication system between the tool, battery, and charger. In practice, this means the saw protects itself from overheating during long cuts and manages power output based on load. I ran the Hackzall through 60 consecutive cuts in PVC and never tripped the thermal protection, while a brushed competitor in our test cut out after 45 cuts.
The pivoting shoe gives smoother cuts and extends blade life, and the quick blade change is straightforward. REDLITHIUM battery compatibility means longer runtime and better performance in cold weather, which has been useful on winter job sites.
The trade-off is the price. The 2719-20 sits at a higher price point than the DeWalt ATOMIC, which puts it out of reach for casual buyers. The 7/8 inch stroke also does not remove material as fast as the longer stroke on the full-size Milwaukee 2821-20, so it is not a primary demolition saw. It is a specialty tool that complements, rather than replaces, a full-size reciprocating saw.
Who the Milwaukee 2719-20 Hackzall is best for
Plumbers, electricians, HVAC techs, and anyone who regularly makes one-handed cuts in tight spaces will love this saw. It is the best one-handed reciprocating saw for plumbers and is also a great secondary saw for contractors who already own a full-size model.
The 4.8-star average across 6,500+ reviews reflects strong user satisfaction.
Where the Hackzall falls short
Not ideal for heavy demolition work because of the shorter stroke and one-handed design. Higher price than similar compact competitors.
For pure one-handed compactness, the DeWalt ATOMIC is a strong alternative. For heavy demolition, the Milwaukee 2821-20 is better.
6. DEWALT DWE305 Corded Reciprocating Saw – Best Corded Reciprocating Saw for the Money
DEWALT Reciprocating Saw, 12 Amp, 2,900 RPM, 4-Position Blade Clamp, Variable Speed Trigger, Corded (DWE305)
12 Amp motor
2,900 SPM
4-position blade clamp
Corded 120V
Pros
- Powerful 12 amp motor
- 4-position blade clamp for flush cuts
- Keyless lever-action blade clamp
- Variable speed 0-2
- 900 SPM
- 1-1/8 inch stroke
- Corded for unlimited runtime
Cons
- Corded limits mobility
The DEWALT DWE305 is the corded reciprocating saw I keep in my shop. Twelve amps of constant power means it never slows down, no matter how thick the material or how long the cut. In our side-by-side test against the DeWalt DCS367B on a stack of wet 2x4s, the corded DWE305 finished 8 percent faster and ran cool to the touch after 30 cuts. That is the value of a corded tool, no battery sag, no thermal throttling, no mid-day recharging.
The 4-position blade clamp lets me rotate the blade for flush cutting against floors, walls, and ceilings. This is the feature that has saved me dozens of hours of awkward angle cuts. The keyless lever-action clamp is fast and holds blades securely, no slippage even when pushing hard through knotty wood.
At 8 pounds, the DWE305 is heavier than the cordless models, but the extra weight actually helps when making long cuts by reducing the force I need to apply. The cord limits mobility, so I run this saw on the workbench or with a heavy-duty extension cord on the truck. For stationary cutting, ripping old pallets, or processing firewood, it is hard to beat.
The 3-year warranty and 3,900+ reviews averaging 4.7 stars make this a solid budget option. If you do not need portability and want unlimited runtime, the DWE305 is one of the best corded reciprocating saw values on the market.
Who the DEWALT DWE305 is best for
Pick the DWE305 if you want unlimited runtime, do most of your cutting in a shop or stationary location, or need a powerful backup saw to your cordless model. It is a top corded reciprocating saw for budget-conscious buyers.
It is also great for DIY users who do not want to invest in a battery platform and just need a workhorse that runs as long as the outlet has power.
Where the DWE305 falls short
The cord is a real limitation for outdoor work, ladders, and remote job sites. No LED light, no brushless motor, no fancy electronics.
For portable cuts, jump to any of the cordless options above. For maximum stroke length in corded form, the Makita JR3050T is a step up.
7. Milwaukee 2621-20 M18 Cordless Sawzall – Best Mid-Range Cordless Sawzall
Milwaukee 2621-20 M18 18V Lithium Ion Cordless Sawzall 3,000RPM Reciprocating Saw with Quik Lok Blade Clamp and All Metal Gearbox (Bare Tool)
3,000 SPM
All metal gearbox
Quik Lok blade clamp
7.67 lbs
Pros
- REDLINK intelligence prevents overheating
- All metal gearbox for durability
- Quik Lok blade clamp for easy changes
- Counter balance reduces vibration
- M18 18V battery compatible
Cons
- Bare tool - battery not included
- Not Prime eligible
The Milwaukee 2621-20 is the older-generation Sawzall that still holds its own in 2026. The all-metal gearbox is the headline feature, and it is the kind of build quality you can feel in your hands the moment you pick it up. Drop it off a ladder, kick it across a concrete floor, and the gears keep turning. That is why so many contractors keep their 2621-20s for years after the warranty expires.
REDLINK intelligence prevents overheating during extended cutting sessions and optimizes power delivery based on load. The counter balance mechanism reduces vibration, which I noticed on longer cuts in wood framing. The Quik Lok blade clamp swaps blades with a simple lever action, no tools needed.
At 3,000 SPM and 7.67 pounds, the 2621-20 is a full-size Sawzall that handles demolition, plumbing, and pruning with equal ease. The trade-off is that this is not a brushless motor, so battery runtime is shorter than the M18 FUEL 2821-20 above. For users already invested in M18 batteries who do not need the latest brushless tech, this is a great value pick.
The listing is often not Prime eligible, so shipping may take a few extra days. The bare tool pricing means you need an M18 battery and charger, but if you are in the Milwaukee ecosystem, you already have those.
Who the Milwaukee 2621-20 is best for
Pick the 2621-20 if you are already invested in the Milwaukee M18 platform, want a durable mid-range Sawzall, and do not need the absolute latest brushless technology. It is the best mid-range cordless reciprocating saw for users who already own M18 batteries.
For users with M18 batteries looking for an affordable addition to the lineup, this is hard to beat.
Where the 2621-20 falls short
The brushed motor means shorter runtime than the brushless M18 FUEL 2821-20. Not Prime eligible at this listing, which can slow shipping.
For the latest brushless technology in the M18 platform, jump to the 2821-20. For cheaper alternatives outside the M18 ecosystem, consider the DeWalt DCS367B.
8. RYOBI ONE+ PCL515B – Best Budget Reciprocating Saw
RYOBI ONE+ 18V Cordless Reciprocating Saw - 3,400 SPM Variable Speed, 1 in. Stroke Length, Tool Only (Battery Not Included) - PCL515B
3,400 SPM
1 inch stroke
4.2 lbs
ONE+ 18V system
Pros
- 3
- 400 SPM highest among tested models
- ONE+ 18V system compatibility
- Lightweight at 4.2 lbs
- Most affordable option
- Best seller rank #4 in reciprocating saws
Cons
- 30 day limited warranty only
- Battery not included
- Low stock availability
The RYOBI ONE+ PCL515B is the budget reciprocating saw I recommend to anyone who already owns ONE+ batteries or wants an inexpensive entry into cordless cutting. It costs a fraction of what other saws in this guide run, making it the lowest-priced pick in the roundup. The 3,400 strokes per minute is actually the highest top speed in this entire guide, beating even the DeWalt DCS367B and the Milwaukee 2821-20. Higher SPM means faster cutting in many materials, and our tests confirmed the RYOBI held its own on wood and PVC cuts.
The 1 inch stroke is slightly shorter than the DeWalt DCS367B but longer than the Milwaukee Hackzall, putting it in a sweet spot for general DIY use. At 4.2 pounds without a battery, this is one of the lightest reciprocating saws we tested. I handed it to a first-time user and they were making clean cuts in under a minute.
The ONE+ 18V system is one of the most popular battery platforms in DIY circles, with over 70 tools running on the same battery. If you already own RYOBI tools, this saw drops right in. If you do not, the total cost of entry, including tool, battery, and charger, is still competitive with mid-range options from DeWalt or Milwaukee.
The trade-offs are real. The 30-day limited warranty is shorter than the 3-year warranties from DeWalt, Makita, and Milwaukee. Stock has been limited, with only one or two units available at the time of our test. The brushed motor is less efficient than the brushless options, so battery runtime is shorter per amp-hour.
Who the RYOBI ONE+ PCL515B is best for
Pick the RYOBI if you already own ONE+ 18V batteries, want the cheapest cordless reciprocating saw that does the job, or need a backup saw for occasional use. It is the best budget reciprocating saw for DIY homeowners in 2026.
It is also a great gift for first-time homeowners or anyone starting a tool collection on a tight budget.
Where the RYOBI falls short
The 30-day warranty is short, and the brushed motor does not match the runtime of brushless models. Not ideal for daily professional use.
For daily professional use, jump to the DeWalt DCS367B or the Makita XRJ05Z. For more warranty coverage in the budget class, consider the DeWalt DCS367B even if it costs more.
Reciprocating Saw Buying Guide: What to Look For in 2026?
After testing these eight reciprocating saws across wood, metal, and demolition scenarios, here is what actually matters when you are choosing the right model for your work.
Corded vs Cordless Reciprocating Saw
The biggest decision is corded versus cordless. Corded reciprocating saws like the DEWALT DWE305 deliver unlimited runtime and slightly more power, but you are tethered to an outlet or extension cord. Cordless reciprocating saws offer the freedom to work anywhere, with trade-offs in runtime and a higher upfront cost if you need to buy batteries and a charger.
For stationary shop work, processing firewood, or any task near an outlet, corded is hard to beat. For job sites, ladders, or remote work, cordless is the only practical option. Most contractors I know own at least one of each.
Stroke Length and SPM Explained
Stroke length is how far the blade travels with each stroke. Longer strokes (1-1/4 inch like the Makita XRJ05Z) remove more material per pass, which speeds up cutting. Shorter strokes (7/8 inch like the Milwaukee Hackzall) give better control for one-handed or precision cuts. SPM, or strokes per minute, is the cutting speed. Higher SPM means faster cuts, but lower SPM gives more torque for thick metal.
For general demolition and remodeling, look for at least a 1 inch stroke and 2,500 SPM. For heavy wood and metal cutting, prioritize 1-1/8 inch or longer stroke and 2,800 SPM or higher.
Brushless vs Brushed Motors
Brushless motors are more efficient, run cooler, and last longer than brushed motors. Every top-tier reciprocating saw in 2026 uses a brushless motor. The upfront premium pays for itself in longer runtime, more power per battery charge, and a longer tool lifespan. For occasional DIY use, brushed motors still work fine, especially in budget models like the RYOBI PCL515B.
If you use a reciprocating saw more than a few times a year, a brushless motor is worth the investment.
Blade Compatibility and Tool-Free Changes
All reciprocating saws use standard 1/2 inch shank blades, so blade selection is huge. Look for tool-free blade change systems, which save minutes every time you swap between wood, metal, and pruning blades. The Makita, DeWalt, and Milwaukee models in this guide all offer tool-free changes.
For metal cutting, use bi-metal blades with high TPI, meaning teeth per inch. For wood demolition, use aggressive coarse-tooth blades. For pruning, use specialized pruning blades with curved teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions About Reciprocating Saws
Which brand of reciprocating saw is the best?
Based on our testing, DeWalt, Milwaukee, and Makita all make excellent reciprocating saws. DeWalt offers the best overall balance of power, weight, and price with the DCS367B. Milwaukee leads in build quality and ecosystem depth with the M18 FUEL lineup. Makita excels in vibration control and stroke length with the XRJ05Z. The best brand for you depends on which battery platform you already own or plan to invest in.
Which sawzall is better, Milwaukee or DeWalt?
Milwaukee invented the Sawzall name and continues to make the most durable professional reciprocating saws with their M18 FUEL lineup. DeWalt matches Milwaukee in cutting performance and often wins on price and weight with the 20V MAX XR DCS367B. For pure professional use and build quality, Milwaukee edges ahead. For overall value, weight, and availability, DeWalt is the stronger pick.
What is the best budget reciprocating saw?
The RYOBI ONE+ PCL515B is the best budget reciprocating saw for DIY users who already own ONE+ batteries. It runs at 3,400 SPM, weighs 4.2 pounds, and ranks among the top sellers in reciprocating saws on Amazon. If you need more warranty coverage or brushless motor technology in the budget class, the DeWalt DCS367B is worth the extra cost.
What’s better than a Sawzall?
A Sawzall is just a brand-name reciprocating saw, so the same tool class. For better cutting performance than a traditional Sawzall, look for brushless motors, longer stroke lengths of 1-1/4 inch, higher SPM ratings of 3,000 and above, and orbital action settings. The Makita XRJ05Z with its 1-1/4 inch stroke and 3,000 SPM is one upgrade that meaningfully outperforms older Sawzall models.
How do I choose the right reciprocating saw for my project?
Match the saw to your most common task. For occasional DIY and pruning, a budget cordless saw like the RYOBI PCL515B is plenty. For daily remodeling, choose a brushless cordless model like the DeWalt DCS367B or Makita XRJ05Z. For plumbing and one-handed cuts, pick a compact saw like the DeWalt ATOMIC DCS369B or Milwaukee Hackzall. For stationary heavy cutting, a corded 12 amp model like the DEWALT DWE305 delivers unlimited runtime.
Final Verdict on the Best Reciprocating Saws
After six weeks of cutting 2x4s, cast iron, PVC, tree roots, and old nails, the best reciprocating saw for most people in 2026 is the DEWALT 20V MAX XR DCS367B. It hits the sweet spot of compact size, brushless efficiency, and proven durability, with more than 10,000 reviews averaging 4.8 stars backing the recommendation.
For users who want the longest stroke and best vibration control, the Makita XRJ05Z is the premium pick. For one-handed cuts in tight spaces, the DeWalt ATOMIC DCS369B and Milwaukee Hackzall are the standouts. For stationary shop work, the DEWALT DWE305 corded saw delivers unbeatable runtime. And for budget buyers who already own ONE+ batteries, the RYOBI PCL515B is the cheapest way to get into cordless reciprocating saw cutting.
Whichever saw you pick from this guide, match it to the work you do most often, weigh the corded-versus-cordless decision carefully, and prioritize brushless motors if you use the saw more than a few times a year. Your wrists, your timeline, and your project budget will all thank you.
