Struggling to tear through old drywall, stubborn tree branches, or rusty pipes without a tool that vibrates like crazy or dies mid-job? A great reciprocating saw (often called a Sawzall) changes everything — turning frustrating, time-consuming tasks into quick, efficient work.
If you’re a homeowner tackling weekend remodeling projects, a DIY enthusiast pruning overgrown trees, or a professional contractor handling heavy demolition and plumbing cuts, the right reciprocating saw is an essential power tool. But with so many options flooding the market — cordless models boasting advanced battery tech, corded beasts delivering unlimited runtime, and everything in between — picking the best reciprocating saw can feel overwhelming. Choose poorly, and you end up with excessive vibration, short battery life, weak cutting power, or poor ergonomics that lead to fatigue and wasted money.
That’s where this guide comes in. We’ve scoured current Amazon best-sellers data (where models like the DEWALT 20V MAX DCS380B and Milwaukee M18 FUEL options dominate with thousands of high-rated reviews), combined it with expert head-to-head tests from sources like Pro Tool Reviews (updated through late 2025, highlighting top performers such as the Makita 40V max XGT GRJ02 as best overall cordless and strong showings from Milwaukee and Metabo HPT), and factored in real-world user feedback on power, vibration control, battery life, and value. Our top 10 picks prioritize what actually matters to you: reliable performance across demolition, pruning, remodeling, and more.
Reciprocating saws excel in versatility — slicing through wood, metal, PVC, nails-embedded lumber, and branches with the right blade. In 2026, cordless models have surged ahead thanks to brushless motors, high-voltage platforms (like 40V and 60V systems), and orbital action for faster, smoother cuts. Yet corded versions still rule for non-stop heavy-duty jobs where battery swaps aren’t an option.
In the sections ahead, you’ll find a detailed buying guide covering must-know features like strokes per minute (SPM), stroke length, orbital vs. straight action, vibration reduction (AVT or similar tech), tool-free blade changes, weight, and ergonomics. We’ll break down who each tool suits best — pros needing max power and low fatigue, everyday DIYers wanting compact value, or one-handed users for tight-space pruning.
Our promise: This in-depth, unbiased review draws from thousands of Amazon customer ratings, pro testing data, and current popularity trends to help you make a confident, informed buying decision. Whether you’re upgrading your toolkit or buying your first reciprocating saw, stick around — by the end, you’ll know exactly which model will solve your cutting problems for years to come.
How We Chose the Best Reciprocating Saws (Buying Guide)
Selecting the best reciprocating saw starts with understanding your needs and the key specs that drive real-world performance.
Power Source: Cordless models dominate in 2026 for mobility — brushless motors and high-capacity batteries (e.g., 18V–40V platforms) deliver near-corded power without cords. Corded saws offer unlimited runtime and consistent max power for pros on long jobs.
Strokes Per Minute (SPM): Higher SPM (up to 3,000+) means faster cuts. Look for variable speed triggers for control.
Stroke Length: Longer strokes (1-1/4″ or more) clear material faster, especially in thick or nail-embedded wood.
Orbital vs. Straight Action: Orbital adds an up-down motion for aggressive wood/ demo cuts; straight is better for metal/plumbing precision.
Vibration Reduction: Critical for comfort and control — systems like Makita’s AVT or Milwaukee’s anti-vibe tech reduce fatigue.
Other Essentials: Tool-free blade changes for quick swaps, adjustable/pivoting shoe for depth control, weight (under 8 lbs ideal for extended use), and ergonomics (balanced design, LED lights, rafter hooks).
Who It’s For:
- Pros/Heavy-Duty: High-voltage cordless (e.g., 40V) or 15A corded for demo, plumbing, framing.
- DIYers/Homeowners: Compact 18V/20V models for value and ease.
- Pruning/One-Handed: Compact “Hackzall”-style for branches and tight spaces.
Blade Tips: Use bi-metal for mixed materials, carbide for metal, pruning blades for branches. Always match to task.
Cordless tech has closed the gap — many now match or beat corded in speed while adding portability.
Top 10 Best Reciprocating Saws Comparison Table
Here’s a quick-scan overview (prices approximate as of 2026; check Amazon for current; tool-only unless noted):
| Rank | Model | Type | Key Specs | Amazon Rating | Approx. Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Makita 40V XGT GRJ02 | Cordless | 40V, 3000 SPM, 1-1/4″ stroke | 4.8+ | $300–$500 (kit) | Overall/Pro Power |
| 2 | Metabo HPT 36V CR36DA | Cordless | 36V MultiVolt, 3000 SPM | 4.7+ | $250–$400 | Runner-Up/Heavy Duty |
| 3 | DEWALT 20V MAX DCS380B | Cordless | 20V, 3000 SPM, 1-1/8″ stroke | 4.8 (12K+) | $100–$150 | Best Seller/Most People |
| 4 | Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hackzall 2719-20 | Cordless Compact | 18V, 3000 SPM, one-handed | 4.8+ | $150–$250 | Pruning/Tight Spaces |
| 5 | Milwaukee M18 FUEL Super Sawzall 2722-20 | Cordless Heavy | 18V, high torque, 1-1/4″+ | 4.8+ | $200–$300 | Demolition/Super Power |
| 6 | Bosch RS428 (or similar 14A) | Corded | 14A, 2700 SPM | 4.7+ | $150–$200 | Unlimited Power |
| 7 | BLACK+DECKER or Ryobi 20V/One+ | Cordless Budget | 20V, 3000 SPM | 4.6+ | $50–$100 | Entry-Level/Value |
| 8 | DEWALT 20V Atomic DCS369B | Cordless Compact | 20V one-handed, brushless | 4.8+ | $150–$200 | Compact/One-Handed |
| 9 | Bosch 18V ProFactor GSA18V-126 | Cordless Premium | 18V, low vibe, 3000 SPM | 4.7+ | $200–$300 | Low-Vibration/Pro |
| 10 | Makita 18V LXT (e.g., XRJ01) | Cordless Alt | 18V, reliable ecosystem | 4.7+ | $150–$250 | Makita Ecosystem Users |
Detailed Reviews & Recommendations
- Best Overall/Best Cordless: Makita 40V max XGT GRJ02 This flagship stands out in pro tests for unmatched balance of power, low vibration, and cutting speed. The XGT platform delivers massive torque rivaling corded 15A saws, with AVT (Anti-Vibration Technology) minimizing hand fatigue during extended demo or framing. Orbital action accelerates wood cuts, while tool-free blade change and adjustable shoe add versatility.
Buy It From Amazon Current Amazon Price: $469.00. Key Features/Benefits: 3000 SPM, 1-1/4″ stroke, brushless motor, excellent dust/water resistance. Pros: Top cutting performance, superior vibration control, durable build. Cons: Higher price; requires XGT batteries. Amazon Ratings: 4.8+ stars (strong pro reviews). Why It’s a Good Choice: Dominates head-to-heads for pros wanting future-proof power without cord limits. Ideal For: Contractors in heavy demo, remodeling, or who value minimal fatigue. - Best Runner-Up/High-Value Pro: Metabo HPT 36V MultiVolt CR36DA A close second in expert testing, this saw offers near-identical speed to top models with MultiVolt flexibility (works with 18V/36V batteries). Excellent for nail-embedded wood and PVC, with smooth operation and good ergonomics.
Buy It From Amazon Current Amazon Price: $219.97. Key Features/Benefits: 3000 SPM, orbital, lifetime tool warranty option. Pros: Fast cuts, versatile voltage, great value. Cons: Slightly heavier. Amazon Ratings: 4.7+. Why It’s a Good Choice: Pro-level performance at a competitive price. Ideal For: Pros or serious DIYers wanting heavy-duty without premium cost. - Best for Most People/Best Seller: DEWALT 20V MAX DCS380B Amazon’s top seller with massive reviews — reliable, lightweight, and versatile for general use. Variable speed and pivoting shoe handle most tasks well.
Buy It From Amazon Current Amazon Price: $109.00. Key Features/Benefits: 3000 SPM, 1-1/8″ stroke, compact design. Pros: Affordable, huge ecosystem, easy to use. Cons: Not the fastest in extreme demo. Amazon Ratings: 4.8 (over 12,000 reviews). Why It’s a Good Choice: Proven reliability for everyday homeowners/DIYers. Ideal For: General remodeling, pruning, occasional demo.
- Best Compact/One-Handed: Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hackzall 2719-20 The Hackzall redefines portability in the reciprocating saw category by combining full-size cutting power with a compact, one-handed pistol-grip design — perfect for reaching into tight spaces or overhead work without straining. Its brushless motor delivers 3,000 SPM with a 7/8-inch stroke length, making quick work of branches, PVC, light demo, and pruning tasks. Features include a tool-free blade change, LED light for visibility in low-light areas, and excellent balance that reduces user fatigue. Users praise its maneuverability for yard work and tight plumbing jobs.
Buy It From Amazon Current Amazon Price: Tool-only $143.42 (often on sale; check for deals). Key Features/Benefits: One-handed operation, lightweight (~4 lbs bare), variable speed trigger, rafter hook for easy hanging. Pros: Extremely portable, fast for its size, great for overhead/awkward cuts, durable Milwaukee build. Cons: Shorter stroke limits it on very thick materials compared to full-size models; best with pruning or medium-duty blades. Amazon Ratings: 4.8 stars (over 6,000 reviews; consistently high praise for pruning and convenience). Why It’s a Good Choice: If mobility and ease trump raw power, this outperforms bulkier saws in real-world one-handed scenarios while staying within the massive M18 ecosystem. Ideal For: Homeowners pruning trees/branches, electricians/plumbers in confined spaces, or anyone wanting a lightweight secondary saw. - Best Heavy-Duty/Demolition: Milwaukee M18 FUEL Super Sawzall (2722-20 or similar high-torque variant) Built for the toughest jobs, this beast offers superior torque and cutting speed for nail-embedded lumber, thick metal, and aggressive demo. The brushless motor and REDLINK intelligence prevent overloads, while anti-vibration tech keeps control during prolonged use. Orbital action boosts aggressive cuts through wood and drywall.
Buy It From Amazon Current Amazon Price: $139.00. Key Features/Benefits: High-torque output, 1-1/4″+ stroke, variable speed, durable Quik-Lok blade clamp. Pros: Exceptional power for heavy materials, low vibration for extended sessions, reliable in pro environments. Cons: Heavier (~8+ lbs), higher price point. Amazon Ratings: 4.8+ stars (thousands of reviews highlighting demo dominance). Why It’s a Good Choice: When you need Sawzall-level aggression without a cord, this leads in speed and endurance for serious teardown work. Ideal For: Professional contractors, remodelers, or heavy DIYers focused on demolition, framing, and salvage. - Best Corded (Unlimited Power): Bosch RS428 (or similar 14A model; Skilsaw SPT44-10 Buzzkill as strong alternative) For jobs requiring non-stop runtime and max consistent power, corded saws like the Bosch RS428 deliver with a 14-amp motor and variable speed up to 2,700+ SPM. It excels in vibration control and cutting speed for metal/plumbing, with a pivoting shoe and tool-free changes. (Note: Pro tests often favor Skilsaw’s 15A Buzzkill for raw speed in corded categories.)
Buy It From Amazon Current Amazon Price: $257.07. Key Features/Benefits: Constant power (no battery fade), orbital action, low-vibe design. Pros: Unlimited runtime, high cutting performance, great value for power. Cons: Cord limits mobility; heavier for overhead use. Amazon Ratings: 4.7+ stars. Why It’s a Good Choice: Ideal when you need sustained heavy cutting without worrying about recharges — still a top performer in 2026 tests. Ideal For: Workshop pros, plumbers, or anyone with easy power access doing long sessions. - Best Budget/Value: BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX (BDCR20C) or Ryobi One+ equivalent These entry-level cordless options provide solid performance for occasional use at a fraction of premium prices. Variable speed up to 3,000 SPM, tool-free blade change, and lightweight design make them approachable for beginners.
Buy It From Amazon Current Amazon Price: (kit often includes battery). Key Features/Benefits: Affordable entry to cordless, compatible with huge ecosystems (Ryobi One+ has 200+ tools). Pros: Great starter value, lightweight, easy to handle. Cons: Less power/vibration control than pro models; shorter battery life on tough cuts. Amazon Ratings: 4.6+ stars (high volume of positive homeowner feedback). Why It’s a Good Choice: Perfect balance of cost and capability for light-to-medium tasks without over-investing. Ideal For: First-time buyers, casual DIYers, or homeowners doing occasional pruning/remodeling. - Best Brushless Compact: DEWALT 20V Atomic DCS369B DEWALT’s Atomic line shrinks full features into an ultra-compact one-handed body with brushless efficiency for longer runtime and power. Great for tight spots with 3,000 SPM and pivoting shoe.
Buy It From Amazon Current Amazon Price: $84.95. Key Features/Benefits: Compact (under 13″ long), LED, tool-free change. Pros: Maneuverable, efficient motor, fits DEWALT 20V ecosystem. Cons: Smaller stroke for very thick cuts. Amazon Ratings: 4.8+ stars. Why It’s a Good Choice: Bridges compact convenience and reliable performance. Ideal For: DEWALT users needing a nimble pruning or install tool. - Best Premium/Low-Vibration: Bosch 18V ProFactor GSA18V-126 Bosch’s ProFactor emphasizes comfort with advanced anti-vibe and a powerful 18V brushless motor for smooth, fatigue-free operation in pro settings.
Buy It From Amazon Current Amazon Price: $349.00. Key Features/Benefits: Superior vibration damping, high SPM, durable. Pros: Low hand strain, precise control. Cons: Premium pricing. Amazon Ratings: 4.7+ stars. Why It’s a Good Choice: Prioritizes user comfort for all-day jobs. Ideal For: Pros sensitive to vibration or long sessions. - Best Alternative/High-Rated: Makita 18V LXT (e.g., XRJ01 or similar) Reliable entry into Makita’s vast LXT platform with solid power, orbital action, and proven durability for mixed use. Current Amazon Price: $103.26.
Buy It From Amazon Key Features/Benefits: Brushless options, ecosystem compatibility. Pros: Balanced performance, long tool life. Cons: Not the absolute top in raw power. Amazon Ratings: 4.7+ stars. Why It’s a Good Choice: Excellent if you’re in the Makita battery family. Ideal For: Makita owners wanting a dependable reciprocating saw.
Comparison Summary & Head-to-Head Insights
Cordless models (especially 18V–40V brushless) lead in 2026 for most users due to portability and closing power gaps with corded. Makita 40V GRJ02 tops pro tests for overall balance, while Milwaukee dominates Amazon sales in compact (Hackzall) and heavy-duty categories. DEWALT’s DCS380B remains the bestseller for value/reliability. For pruning: Prioritize compact one-handers like Hackzall or Atomic. Under $150: Go DEWALT/Ryobi. Heavy demo: Milwaukee Super or Makita 40V. Corded for unlimited power: Bosch/Skilsaw. Match to your battery ecosystem to save long-term.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is the best reciprocating saw for home use? DEWALT 20V MAX DCS380B — reliable, affordable, and versatile for most DIY tasks.
- Cordless vs. corded: Which is better in 2026? Cordless wins for 90% of users thanks to battery advancements; corded only if you need endless runtime on heavy jobs.
- How to choose blades? Bi-metal for wood/metal mix; carbide/tungsten for tough metal; pruning blades (curved, aggressive teeth) for branches. Match length to material thickness.
- Maintenance tips? Clean after use, oil pivot points, store batteries properly (cool/dry), sharpen/replace blades regularly.
- Safety? Wear gloves, eye/ear protection; secure workpiece; use two hands when possible; avoid overreaching.
Final Verdict & Call to Action
For most people, the DEWALT 20V MAX DCS380B offers unbeatable value and reliability. Pros needing max power: Makita 40V XGT GRJ02. Pruning/tight spaces: Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hackzall. Heavy demo: Milwaukee Super Sawzall. Budget: BLACK+DECKER/Ryobi. Click the Amazon links above to check current prices, read thousands of real reviews, and grab your pick today — your next project (and your arms) will thank you.
