Category: Cutting & Sawing

Circular saws, jigsaws, miter saws and reciprocating saws compared, with dated US prices.

Best Circular Saw for DIY (2026): Full-Size vs. Mini Saws Compared

This article contains affiliate links. Learn more. As an Amazon Associate, Atelier Malin earns from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Our verdicts are never for sale.

🗓️ Prices checked on October 27, 2026. Amazon prices change often: check them before you buy.

Written by Julien · Reviewed by Nadia on 10/27/2026 (prices, links and availability checked) — our editorial pen names

THE SHORT ANSWER

The DEWALT DWE575SB is the 7-1/4-inch reference at $142

The short answer: the best circular saw for most DIYers is the DEWALT DWE575SB, a corded 7-1/4-inch saw at $142.48 (checked October 27, 2026), rated 4.8 out of 5 from 5,213 Amazon.com ratings. It cuts 2-9/16 inches deep, weighs 8.8 lb and has an electric brake. On a tight budget, the SKIL 5280-01 at $59.00 is a full-size saw too.

See the DEWALT DWE575SB on Amazon →

In this guide

The four circular saws compared
What really matters when you choose
Who should skip a full-size saw
FAQ
Our verdict

A circular saw is the first saw most people need: it breaks down plywood, cuts 2x lumber to length and rips deck boards. Here are two full-size 7-1/4-inch saws and two compact 4-1/2-inch saws sold on Amazon.com, with the one we’d buy. More saw guides are in our Cutting & Sawing section.

The four circular saws compared

Four corded 120 V saws available on Amazon.com on October 27, 2026, from $39.99 to $142.48. Two are compact “mini” saws, a category worth buying only if you know its limit: depth of cut.

Saw	Blade · motor	Max depth at 90°	Price (checked Oct 27, 2026) · Amazon rating
DEWALT DWE575SB ✅	7-1/4 in · 15 A	2-9/16 in	$142.48 · 4.8/5 (5,213 ratings)
SKIL 5280-01	7-1/4 in · 15 A	2-3/8 in	$59.00 · 4.6/5 (14,223 ratings)
WORX WX439L	4-1/2 in · 4.5 A	2x lumber (WORX)	$71.98 · 4.4/5 (1,316 ratings)
GALAX PRO mini	4-1/2 in · 4 A	1-11/16 in	$39.99 · 4.1/5 (1,635 ratings)

The all-round pick

DEWALT DWE575SB

$142.48

4.8/5 — 5,213 ratings · checked Oct 27, 2026

15 A · 5,200 RPM · 7-1/4 in · 2-9/16 in depth · 57° bevel · electric brake · 8.8 lb

Good to know: DEWALT calls it one of the lightest saws in its class. The electric brake stops the blade when you release the trigger, and the bevel goes to 57° with stops at 45° and 22.5°. Shipped and sold by Amazon.com.

See the price on Amazon →

Full size, budget price

SKIL 5280-01

$59.00

4.6/5 — 14,223 ratings · list price $69.99 · checked Oct 27, 2026

15 A · 5,300 RPM · 7-1/4 in · 2-3/8 in depth · 51° bevel · laser guide · 8.7 lb

Good to know: the most-rated saw in this guide, sold with a 24-tooth carbide blade, a wrench and a carry bag. No electric brake: wait for the blade to stop before lifting it. Shipped and sold by Amazon.com.

See the price on Amazon →

Compact, one-handed

WORX WORXSAW WX439L

$71.98

4.4/5 — 1,316 ratings · list price $89.99 · checked Oct 27, 2026

4.5 A · 4-1/2 in blade · one-hand design · 45° bevel

Good to know: WORX designs it to cut 2x stock lumber and quick rips around the house, with one hand. It’s ideal for paneling, flooring and plywood; a 4×4 post is beyond it.

See the price on Amazon →

Lowest budget

GALAX PRO 4 A mini circular saw

$39.99

4.1/5 — 1,635 ratings · checked Oct 27, 2026

4 A · 3,500 RPM · 4-1/2 in 24T blade · 1-11/16 in depth · laser guide

Good to know: the laser helps you follow a line, but a straight cut comes from the included parallel guide pressed against the edge. Judge it on its 1-11/16 inches of depth. Sold by a third-party seller.

See the price on Amazon →

What really matters when you choose

Depth of cut comes before power

It’s the one spec that makes a job physically impossible. A 4-amp saw takes longer than a 15-amp saw through the same board, but it gets there. No saw with 1-11/16 inches of depth will ever cut through a 4×4 post (3-1/2 inches actual), even in two passes from opposite sides. Look at what you cut first, then at amps.

Blade diameter drives everything else

Depth follows diameter: a 7-1/4-inch blade gives about 2-3/8 to 2-9/16 inches, a 4-1/2-inch blade well under 2 inches. Diameter also decides what blades cost and where you find them. 7-1/4-inch blades are on every hardware store shelf; compact blades are fewer, and sometimes come only from the saw maker.

In the US, full size doesn’t cost more

The SKIL 5280-01 is a full-size 15-amp saw at $59.00, less than the WORX compact. So a mini saw is not the cheap option; it’s the light, one-handed option, built for paneling, flooring and plywood. Many bad reviews in that category come from buyers who expected a framing saw.

An edge guide beats a laser

A straight cut comes from support: a guide pressed against the edge of the board, or a straightedge clamped to the workpiece. A laser shows a line but constrains nothing. Cut outside, or connect a shop vac when the saw has a dust port; our guide to the best shop vac covers that.

Who should skip a full-size saw

If you cut mostly curves and cutouts: you need a jigsaw. Our circular saw vs. jigsaw guide makes the call, and our best jigsaw guide picks the model.
If you mostly crosscut trim at angles: a miter saw is faster and more accurate; see the best sliding miter saw.
If you only cut thin paneling overhead: the compact WORX is easier on your arm.

FAQ

How deep a cut do I need from a circular saw?

For 3/4-inch plywood and paneling, any saw here is enough. For 2x lumber (1-1/2 inches actual), especially at a bevel, choose a 7-1/4-inch saw with about 2-3/8 inches of depth or more. A 4×4 post (3-1/2 inches) takes two passes even with a full-size saw.

Circular saw or track saw?

A circular saw enters the wood from the edge of the board and is built for breaking down lumber and sheets. A track saw plunges into the middle of a panel and rides on a rail, leaving a glue-ready edge. For cabinet panels, a track saw is more precise; for framing and decks, a classic circular saw fits better.

How many teeth for which cut?

Few teeth (18 to 24) for fast, rough cuts in framing lumber. More teeth (40 to 60) for plywood, melamine and finish cuts, with less tear-out. A 24-tooth blade in melamine will chip the surface, whatever the saw.

Should I buy a cordless circular saw?

Cordless is great on a job site, but a circular saw drains batteries fast and serious models cost more once you add batteries. The DEWALT 20V MAX DCS391B was $99.00 tool only on October 27, 2026. For a saw that stays in the garage, corded gives more power for less money.

Can you cut metal with a wood circular saw?

Not with a wood blade: it’s dangerous and the blade is ruined right away. There are metal-cutting blades and dedicated metal saws that spin much slower. For occasional metal cuts, an angle grinder with a cut-off wheel is the better tool.

Our verdict

If you buy one circular saw, get the DEWALT DWE575SB at $142.48 (checked October 27, 2026): 2-9/16 inches of depth covers everything a home shop meets, the electric brake adds safety, and 4.8 out of 5 from 5,213 ratings makes it the surest bet on this page. On a tight budget, the SKIL 5280-01 at $59.00 is still a full-size saw. The two minis are great for what they are, light panel and flooring saws; buy them for that, and they’ll do it well.

See the DEWALT DWE575SB on Amazon →See the SKIL 5280-01 on Amazon →

All our picks are on our recommended tools page.

Sources (checked October 27, 2026): Amazon.com product listings (ASIN B007QUZ16A, B01BD81BLO, B084VV5Z85, B07GWMS8LN, B007NVSTO8): prices, ratings, rating counts and published specs, no link. DEWALT — DWE575SB product page · OSHA — Woodworking eTool (saw safety) · OSHA — Occupational noise exposure. Method: we compare public data from manufacturers and Amazon.com; we have not run these saws in our own shop, and we say which claims we could not verify.

October 27, 2026

Best Sliding Miter Saw for Home Shops (2026): 4 Saws Compared

This article contains affiliate links. Learn more. As an Amazon Associate, Atelier Malin earns from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Our verdicts are never for sale.

🗓️ Prices checked on October 27, 2026. Amazon prices change often: check them before you buy.

Written by Julien · Reviewed by Nadia on 10/27/2026 (prices, links and availability checked) — our editorial pen names

THE SHORT ANSWER

The SKIL MS6305-00 at $249 handles baseboard, trim and deck boards

The short answer: the best sliding miter saw for most homeowners is the SKIL MS6305-00, a 10-inch dual-bevel slider at $249.00 (checked October 27, 2026), rated 4.6 out of 5 from 2,270 Amazon.com ratings. It crosscuts a 2×12 and bevels both ways. For visible trim joints where half a degree shows, step up to the DEWALT DWS780.

See the SKIL MS6305-00 on Amazon →

In this guide

The four sliding miter saws compared
What really matters when you choose
Who should skip a sliding miter saw
FAQ
Our verdict

A sliding miter saw is the tool that turns a pile of baseboard, crown and deck boards into clean, square, repeatable cuts. Here are four sliders sold on Amazon.com, from $179 to $449, with the one we recommend for most home shops. More saw guides live in our Cutting & Sawing section.

The four sliding miter saws compared

Four sliding miter saws available on Amazon.com on October 27, 2026, from $179 to $449. All four are corded 120 V saws, shipped and sold by Amazon.com that day. Specs come from the manufacturers’ listings.

Saw	Blade	Bevel	Price (checked Oct 27, 2026) · Amazon rating	Best for
SKIL MS6305-00 ✅	10 in, sliding	Dual	$249.00 · 4.6/5 (2,270 ratings)	Baseboard, trim, deck boards
Evolution R185SMS+	7-1/4 in multi-material, sliding	Single (45°)	$179.00 · 4.3/5 (1,859 ratings)	Lowest price, occasional metal
Metabo HPT C12RSH3	12 in, sliding	Dual	$449.00 · 4.4/5 (128 ratings)	Wide boards, shadow-line cutting
DEWALT DWS780	12 in, sliding	Dual	$449.00 · 4.8/5 (2,521 ratings)	Visible miter joints, crown, cabinetry

Best value for most shops

SKIL MS6305-00 10-inch dual bevel

$249.00

4.6/5 — 2,270 ratings · list price $279.99 · checked Oct 27, 2026

sliding · dual bevel · LED shadow line · 10 in · 15 A, 4,800 RPM · 39.4 lb

Good to know: dual bevel means you can tilt the head left or right without flipping the board, with positive stops at 48° and 45° left, 0° and 45° right. SKIL rates it for a 2×12 at 90° and a 2×8 at 45°, and its LED shadow line shows where the blade will land.

See the price on Amazon →

Lowest price slider

Evolution R185SMS+

$179.00

4.3/5 — 1,859 ratings · list price $199.00 · checked Oct 27, 2026

sliding · 7-1/4 in multi-material blade · 45° bevel · 50° miter

Good to know: Evolution sells it with a blade that it says cuts wood, plastic and metal. That claim depends on the blade and the material: read the manual before you put steel under it. Its smaller blade makes it lighter and cheaper to feed.

See the price on Amazon →

Big capacity

Metabo HPT C12RSH3 12-inch

$449.00

4.4/5 — 128 ratings · checked Oct 27, 2026

sliding · dual bevel 45° · 12 in · 4,000 RPM · Xact Cut shadow line

Good to know: miters to 45° left and 57° right with 9 detents, and a one-touch bevel and miter lock. With 128 ratings, its 4.4 score is younger than the SKIL’s or the DEWALT’s.

See the price on Amazon →

Most accurate

DEWALT DWS780 12-inch double bevel

$449.00

4.8/5 — 2,521 ratings · list price $649.00 · checked Oct 27, 2026

sliding · double bevel · 12 in · 15 A, 3,800 RPM · XPS LED shadow line · 56 lb

Good to know: DEWALT rates its fence for 2×14 lumber at 90° and 2×10 at 45°, and says the dust system captures over 75% of the dust. It’s the best-rated saw on this page, on a large number of ratings, and $200 under its list price that day.

See the price on Amazon →

What really matters when you choose

Crosscut capacity, not horsepower

Choose a miter saw by the board it can swallow: width and thickness at 90°, then at 45°. Baseboard runs 3 to 6 inches tall, a deck board is about 5-1/2 inches wide, a 2×12 is 11-1/4 inches. A sliding head, which travels forward and back, adds far more width than a bigger motor. That slide is what you pay for first.

A rigid arm makes an accurate saw

On a visible miter, like a picture frame or an outside corner of crown, any play in the slide or pivot opens the joint. That’s the real gap between a $249 saw and a $449 saw: not cut size, but how consistently the angle holds. Baseboard against a wall forgives a little; a frame doesn’t.

Detents should lock, not just click

Every saw here has positive stops at the most common angles (SKIL lists 11, Metabo HPT 9). What separates them is how firmly they hold. A detent that creeps under pressure gives you a wrong angle you won’t notice until assembly. Make a sample cut in scrap before you touch the good board.

The dust bag is almost never enough

The bag that ships with these saws catches a fraction of the chips. If you cut indoors or in a garage you care about, hook a shop vacuum to the dust port: see our guide to the best shop vac for one that pairs well. That single change matters more than the saw you pick.

Who should skip a sliding miter saw

If you mostly rip plywood sheets: a miter saw only crosscuts. Read our guide to the best circular saw instead.
If you cut curves and cutouts: that’s a jigsaw job. Our circular saw vs. jigsaw guide helps you decide.
If you have no bench or stand: plan one before the saw arrives; a loose miter saw gives loose cuts.

FAQ

Sliding or non-sliding miter saw: what’s the difference?

On a non-sliding (chop) saw, the head only pivots down. On a sliding saw, it also travels forward and back on rails, so the same blade crosscuts much wider boards. For deck boards, shelving and wide baseboard, the slider is the useful format.

10-inch or 12-inch miter saw?

A 10-inch slider covers most home projects, and its blades cost less. A 12-inch saw cuts wider and taller stock, such as 2×14 lumber on the DEWALT DWS780, but it is heavier and pricier to feed. Never mount a larger blade than the saw is rated for.

Do I need to mount a miter saw on a stand?

Yes, it changes results more than anything else. A saw sitting loose shifts when the blade bites. Bolt it to a bench or a miter saw stand, with outfeed support at the same height for long boards, and you gain more accuracy than from a pricier saw.

Can a miter saw replace a circular saw?

No, they do different jobs. A miter saw crosscuts relatively narrow stock at a set angle. A circular saw rips along the length and breaks down sheets of plywood. Installing trim calls for the first; breaking down panels calls for the second.

Laser or LED shadow line: which is better?

Both help you line up the cut faster. A laser is a separate beam that needs periodic adjustment and can drift after a knock. An LED shadow line, used on the SKIL, Metabo HPT and DEWALT here, is the blade’s own shadow, so it needs no calibration.

Our verdict

For baseboard, trim, shelving and deck boards, the SKIL MS6305-00 at $249.00 (checked October 27, 2026) is the sliding miter saw to buy: dual bevel, a 2×12 crosscut, a shadow line that never needs adjusting, and 4.6 out of 5 from 2,270 ratings. Move up to the DEWALT DWS780 ($449.00) if you build frames, cabinets or crown, where half a degree shows: you’re buying consistency, not capacity. Whichever you choose, bolt it down and connect a shop vac, and every cut gets cleaner.

See the SKIL MS6305-00 on Amazon →See the DEWALT DWS780 on Amazon →

All our picks are on our recommended tools page.

Sources (checked October 27, 2026): Amazon.com product listings (ASIN B08J7N3VYW, B07T26R82R, B0CY6R4MHX, B00540JS7C): prices, ratings, rating counts and published specs, no link. DEWALT — DWS780 product page · OSHA — Woodworking eTool (saw safety) · OSHA — Occupational noise exposure. Method: we compare public data from manufacturers and Amazon.com; we have not run these saws in our own shop, and we say which claims we could not verify.

October 27, 2026

Circular Saw vs. Jigsaw: Which Should You Buy First?

This article contains affiliate links. Learn more. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.

🗓️ Prices checked on October 27, 2026 on Amazon.com.

Written by Julien · Reviewed by Nadia on 10/27/2026 (prices, links and availability checked) — our editorial pen names

The short answer: buy the circular saw first if most of your cuts are straight (boards, plywood, countertops): the SKIL 5280-01 cuts 2-3/8 inches deep and cost $59.00 on October 27, 2026. Buy the jigsaw first for curves and inside cutouts: the SKIL JS314901, at $54.00. Both are corded 120 V saws, shipped and sold by Amazon.com.

See the SKIL 5280-01 on Amazon →See the SKIL JS314901 (jigsaw) →

Circular saw vs. jigsaw: the 4-point version

A circular saw cuts straight, fast and clean. Its round blade spins continuously and its shoe follows a guide: it’s the tool for boards, sheet goods, deck boards and countertops. The SKIL 5280-01 cuts 2-3/8 inches deep, according to its listing.
A jigsaw cuts everything that isn’t straight. Its thin blade moves up and down: it follows a curve, cuts a sink opening in a countertop or a hole in the middle of a panel. SKIL lists the JS314901 for 85 mm (about 3-3/8 in) of wood and 9 mm (about 3/8 in) of metal, at 4.9 lb.
The prices are close. On October 27, 2026 on Amazon.com: $59.00 for the circular saw, $54.00 for the jigsaw, both shipped and sold by Amazon.com and in stock.
Circular saw first if you mostly build (shelves, cabinets, decks, siding); jigsaw first if you mostly fit and shape (cutouts, curves, small parts).

More head-to-heads and buying guides are in our Cutting & Sawing section.

Circular saw vs. jigsaw: who wins what, line by line?

Specs from the SKIL listings; prices, ratings and stock checked on Amazon.com on October 27, 2026. Examples: SKIL 5280-01 for the circular saw, SKIL JS314901 for the jigsaw, two corded saws from the same brand.

What you compare	Circular saw (SKIL 5280-01)	Jigsaw (SKIL JS314901)	Winner
Price on Oct 27, 2026	$59.00	$54.00	✔ jigsaw, by $5
Long straight cuts (sheets, boards, countertops)	Built for it: rigid blade, laser guide, wide shoe	Possible along a clamped straightedge, but the thin blade can wander	✔ circular saw
Thickness cut square	2-3/8 in at 90°	About 3-3/8 in max; past about 1-1/2 in of hardwood, rarely square	✔ circular saw
Curves and inside cutouts (sink, outlet box, round hole)	Impossible: a round blade only cuts straight	Built for it: a thin blade that follows a line	✔ jigsaw
Metal and plastic	Wood blade included; wood and wood products first	About 3/8 in of metal listed, with the right blade	✔ jigsaw
Weight	8.7 lb	4.9 lb	✔ jigsaw (3.8 lb lighter)
Motor	15 A	6 A	✔ circular saw
Speed on a long cut	Fast: the blade spins continuously	Slower: the blade goes up and down	✔ circular saw
Buyer ratings on Amazon.com	4.6/5 from 14,223 ratings	4.7/5 from 2,402 ratings	✔ tie

Score: 4 lines for the circular saw, 4 for the jigsaw, 1 tie. The score doesn’t weigh the lines: for a sink cutout, the curve matters more than everything else. Prices checked on Amazon.com on October 27, 2026: SKIL 5280-01 $59.00 (list price $69.99; 4.6/5, 14,223 ratings, sold by Amazon.com) · SKIL JS314901 $54.00 (4.7/5, 2,402 ratings, sold by Amazon.com).

What the spec sheets don’t say: the thickness that matters and the price of both

Put the SKIL listings next to the October 27, 2026 prices and four points stand out that no listing highlights.

The misleading number is 3-3/8 inches. The jigsaw lists more thickness than the circular saw (about 3-3/8 in vs. 2-3/8 in), but that’s a maximum: in thick hardwood, its thin blade drifts. To cut square, compare 2-3/8 inches for the SKIL circular saw with our rule of thumb of about 1-1/2 inches of hardwood for a jigsaw in this price range: the circular saw goes further.
Three thicknesses are enough to decide. A sheet of 3/4-inch plywood and a 2x board (1-1/2 inches actual) pass in one go with the SKIL 5280-01. A 4×4 post (3-1/2 inches) does not: it takes two passes from opposite sides with any 7-1/4-inch saw, including the DEWALT DWE575SB and its 2-9/16 inches.
Both SKILs cost $113.00 together, less than the DEWALT DWE575SB alone ($142.48). Bought together, the pair covers straight cuts and curves for the price of one premium saw.
The circular saw weighs 78% more and costs only 9% more. 8.7 lb vs. 4.9 lb according to the listings, for a $5 difference. Price doesn’t separate these two saws: the work you’ll do most often does.

What if I have neither?

The real question isn’t only “circular saw or jigsaw,” but how much to spend on your first projects. Three levels, checked on Amazon.com on October 27, 2026.

Best quality: the DEWALT DWE575SB circular saw, $142.48. 4.8/5 from 5,213 ratings, sold by Amazon.com. DEWALT lists a 15-amp motor, a 7-1/4-inch blade, 2-9/16 inches of depth, an electric brake and 8.8 lb. See the price of the DEWALT DWE575SB
Best value: the SKIL 5280-01 circular saw, $59.00, our pick: 4.6/5 from 14,223 ratings, sold by Amazon.com, in stock, with a 24-tooth carbide blade and a carry bag. See the price of the SKIL 5280-01. For the jigsaw side, its sibling the SKIL JS314901 costs $54.00 (4.7/5 from 2,402 ratings).
Cheapest that holds up: the BLACK+DECKER BDEJS300C jigsaw, $29.98. 4.6/5 from 9,176 ratings, sold by Amazon.com, in stock. Enough for occasional cutouts. For the circular side, the GALAX PRO 4-1/2-inch mini circular saw costs $39.99 (4.1/5 from 1,635 ratings, third-party seller) and cuts 1-11/16 inches deep. See the price of the BLACK+DECKER BDEJS300C

To get both at once: the two SKILs cost $113.00 together, and the BLACK+DECKER jigsaw plus the GALAX PRO mini saw $69.97 (prices of October 27, 2026).

See the SKIL 5280-01 on Amazon →

Verdict by profile: which one should you buy first?

Shelves, cabinets, siding, deck boards, plywood to size: the circular saw, the SKIL 5280-01 at $59.00. To compare more models and blades, read our guide to the best circular saw.
Sink or cooktop cutout, shapes, toys, small parts, a little metal: the jigsaw, the SKIL JS314901 at $54.00. Other budgets are in our guide to the best jigsaw.
Framing lumber, posts, heavy decking: the circular saw, in a sturdier version: the DEWALT DWE575SB at $142.48.
Trim and baseboard at precise angles: neither one does it as well as a miter saw; see our best sliding miter saw guide.
Long, perfect cuts in expensive panels: a track saw on a rail, the step up from a circular saw.
Branches, pallets, demolition: neither; read our guide to the best cordless reciprocating saw.
One budget for everything: both SKILs for $113.00, or the BLACK+DECKER and GALAX PRO pair for $69.97.

Who should skip both

If you only crosscut boards at angles: a miter saw is the better first saw.
If you can’t clamp the workpiece: set up two sawhorses and clamps first; both saws need a stable piece to cut safely.

And keep three habits with either one. Kickback: if a circular saw blade pinches in the cut, the saw can jump back; support the piece on both sides of the cut and let the blade stop before lifting it. Blades: each box comes with one wood blade; buy the right one for laminate, metal or fine cuts. Noise and dust: wear hearing protection (OSHA explains why on its occupational noise page) and connect a shop vac when you cut indoors.

How we choose

1. The shape of your cuts: mostly straight, or mostly curves and cutouts.

2. The thickness you’ll cut most often: plywood, 2x lumber, posts.

3. A model in stock, rated by thousands of buyers, sold by a seller we can name, at today’s price.

Method: we have not run these saws in our own shop. This guide combines Amazon.com listings (prices, ratings, sellers, stock) and the SKIL and DEWALT specs, checked on October 27, 2026. We found no independent review comparing these two exact saws side by side. The weight and price comparisons are our own math.

FAQ

Circular saw or jigsaw: which should I buy first?

The circular saw if most of your cuts are straight: boards, plywood, countertops, decking. The jigsaw if you mostly cut curves, openings or small parts. On October 27, 2026 on Amazon.com, the SKIL 5280-01 circular saw cost $59.00 and the SKIL JS314901 jigsaw $54.00.

Can you make a straight cut with a jigsaw?

Yes, by guiding it along a straightedge clamped to the workpiece, in thin material. In thick stock or over a long distance, the thin blade drifts and the cut rarely comes out square: that’s a job for a circular saw.

Can a circular saw cut curves?

No. Its round blade only cuts in a straight line. For a sink cutout, a rounded corner or an opening in the middle of a panel, you need a jigsaw.

How much do a circular saw and a jigsaw cost?

On October 27, 2026 on Amazon.com: $59.00 for the SKIL 5280-01 circular saw, $54.00 for the SKIL JS314901 jigsaw, $113.00 for both, $142.48 for the DEWALT DWE575SB circular saw, and $69.97 for the budget pair of a BLACK+DECKER jigsaw and a GALAX PRO mini circular saw.

Our verdict

Our pick: the SKIL 5280-01 circular saw, because at $59.00 it makes straight cuts up to 2-3/8 inches deep, has a 15-amp motor and a laser guide, and is rated 4.6 out of 5 from 14,223 Amazon.com ratings (checked October 27, 2026). The jigsaw comes first if your projects are made of curves and cutouts: the SKIL JS314901 at $54.00 also cuts thin metal. And if you want both, the two SKILs cost $113.00 together, less than one premium circular saw.

See the SKIL 5280-01 on Amazon →See the SKIL JS314901 (jigsaw) →

Go further: all our tool picks are on the recommended tools page, and our best jigsaw guide compares four jigsaws.

Related guides
Best circular saw
Best jigsaw
Best cordless reciprocating saw

Sources (checked October 2026): DEWALT, DWE575SB product page · OSHA, Woodworking eTool · OSHA, occupational noise exposure · Amazon.com listings of the products cited, checked October 27, 2026 (no link). Deals change daily: check the price on the day you buy.

October 27, 2026

Best Jigsaw for Home Projects (2026): 4 Jigsaws Compared

This article contains affiliate links. Learn more. As an Amazon Associate, Atelier Malin earns from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Our verdicts are never for sale.

🗓️ Prices checked on October 27, 2026. Amazon prices change often: check them before you buy.

Written by Julien · Reviewed by Nadia on 10/27/2026 (prices, links and availability checked) — our editorial pen names

THE SHORT ANSWER

The BLACK+DECKER BDEJS600C at $60 covers almost every home job

The short answer: the best jigsaw for most homeowners is the BLACK+DECKER BDEJS600C, a 5-amp corded jigsaw at $59.99 (checked October 27, 2026), rated 4.7 out of 5 from 11,147 Amazon.com ratings, the most of any jigsaw here. Already on DEWALT 20V MAX batteries? The cordless DCS331B is the upgrade, sold without a battery.

See the BLACK+DECKER BDEJS600C on Amazon →

In this guide

The four jigsaws compared
What really matters when you choose
Who should skip a jigsaw
FAQ
Our verdict

A jigsaw is the saw for curves, cutouts and odd shapes: a sink opening in a countertop, a rounded shelf, a pet door. Here are four jigsaws sold on Amazon.com, from $29.98 to $144.26, and the one we’d buy first. More saw guides are in our Cutting & Sawing section.

The four jigsaws compared

A selection of jigsaws in stock on Amazon.com on October 27, 2026, between $29.98 and $144.26. Three are corded 120 V saws; the DEWALT is a cordless bare tool, which changes its real price if you don’t own the batteries.

Jigsaw	Power	Orbital action	Price (checked Oct 27, 2026) · Amazon rating
BLACK+DECKER BDEJS600C ✅	5 A corded	Yes, 4 settings	$59.99 · 4.7/5 (11,147 ratings)
DEWALT 20V MAX DCS331B	20V cordless, tool only	Yes, 4 positions	$144.26 · 4.8/5 (8,013 ratings)
HYCHIKA 6.7 A	6.7 A corded	6 speeds	$39.99 · 4.6/5 (572 ratings)
BLACK+DECKER BDEJS300C	4.5 A corded	No	$29.98 · 4.6/5 (9,176 ratings)

The default pick

BLACK+DECKER BDEJS600C

$59.99

4.7/5 — 11,147 ratings · checked Oct 27, 2026

5 A · variable speed to 3,000 SPM · 3/4 in stroke · 45° bevel · 4.6 lb

Good to know: its four “Curve Control” settings are orbital action: more aggressive for fast straight cuts, off for tight curves and clean edges. Shipped and sold by Amazon.com. At this price you buy a saw, not a service network: keep the box during the return window.

See the price on Amazon →

If you already own DEWALT 20V MAX

DEWALT 20V MAX DCS331B

$144.26

4.8/5 — 8,013 ratings · checked Oct 27, 2026

20V MAX cordless · 0-3,000 SPM · 4-position orbital · keyless blade change · bevel detents at 0, 15, 30 and 45°

Good to know: “tool only” means no battery and no charger. With the DEWALT 20V MAX starter kit ($71.99 the same day), it comes to $216.25 if you start from zero. With a DEWALT battery already on the shelf, it’s the best jigsaw here. Shipped and sold by Amazon.com.

See the price on Amazon →

Most power under $40

HYCHIKA 6.7 A jigsaw

$39.99

4.6/5 — 572 ratings · checked Oct 27, 2026

6.7 A · 6 speeds to 3,000 SPM · tool-free blade change · ±45° bevel

Good to know: HYCHIKA rates it for 110 mm (about 4-5/16 in) of wood and 10 mm (about 3/8 in) of metal. Sold by a third-party seller, and 572 ratings is still a young score next to the BLACK+DECKER’s 11,000-plus.

See the price on Amazon →

Tightest budget

BLACK+DECKER BDEJS300C

$29.98

4.6/5 — 9,176 ratings · list price $41.99 · checked Oct 27, 2026

4.5 A · variable speed to 3,000 SPM · 3/4 in stroke · 45° bevel

Good to know: 4.5 amps is plenty for plywood, paneling and thin boards. In thick hardwood the blade heats up and wanders: that’s the physical limit of this power class, not a defect. Shipped and sold by Amazon.com.

See the price on Amazon →

What really matters when you choose

Blade deflection is the jigsaw’s real weakness

It’s the complaint you’ll find in reviews of every brand: the thin blade flexes in thick stock, and the cut is no longer square underneath. Two things limit it: a well-adjusted roller guide and a blade suited to the thickness. No jigsaw at these prices cuts perfectly square through 1-1/2 inches of oak. If your project needs a long, straight, clean edge, you want a circular saw; our guide to the best circular saw picks one.

Power changes speed, not precision

Between 4.5 and 6.7 amps, the difference shows in how fast you feed through thick material and how hot the saw gets in long sessions. It doesn’t show in the quality of the cut line, which depends on the blade and the guide. Extra amps pay off if you cut often; for three cutouts a year, they don’t matter.

“Tool only”: the price-tag trap

The DEWALT DCS331B is sold without a battery. Its $144.26 price is only complete if you already own DEWALT 20V MAX batteries; starting from zero, it’s about $216 with a starter kit, a different class from a $59.99 corded saw. Cordless pays off once one battery runs several tools, like a drill: see our best cordless drill guide to pick a platform.

Rating count matters as much as the score

The HYCHIKA shows 4.6 out of 5 from 572 ratings; the BLACK+DECKER BDEJS600C shows 4.7 from 11,147. The second score is far more robust: it has absorbed the tough use cases, the bad units and the disappointments. A high score on few ratings isn’t a lie, it’s a measurement that’s still young.

Who should skip a jigsaw

If most of your cuts are long and straight: start with a circular saw. Our circular saw vs. jigsaw guide settles it.
If you prune branches or demolish: a reciprocating saw is faster; see the best cordless reciprocating saw.

A classic first jigsaw project: cutting an opening in a door for a cat or dog flap. Drill a starter hole in each corner first, then let the jigsaw follow the line.

FAQ

How much power does a jigsaw need?

For plywood, paneling and everyday cutouts, 4.5 to 5 amps is enough. For hardwood over about 1-1/4 inches thick or for regular use, 6 amps or more keeps the blade from bogging down and overheating. Power doesn’t change how clean the cut is.

Jigsaw or circular saw: which should I choose?

A jigsaw is for curves, inside cutouts and shapes. A circular saw makes straight, clean, fast cuts, but only straight ones. They complement each other: if you can buy only one and you mostly cut sheets and boards to size, get the circular saw.

Corded or cordless jigsaw?

Corded gives more power for less money and never runs out of battery: it’s the rational choice for a shop saw. Cordless makes sense if you often work far from an outlet, or if you already own batteries from the same platform.

Why is my jigsaw cut never square?

Because the blade flexes in the thickness. Check the roller guide adjustment, use a thicker blade no longer than needed, feed more slowly and turn off orbital action in hard material. You’ll reduce the problem without eliminating it.

Which jigsaw blades should I keep on hand?

Three types cover almost everything: a fine-tooth blade for plywood and laminate, a coarse blade for solid wood, and a metal blade for sheet metal and thin profiles. Most saws today take T-shank blades. Blades are consumables: a dull blade is the first cause of a rough cut.

Our verdict

For a home shop, the BLACK+DECKER BDEJS600C at $59.99 (checked October 27, 2026) is the smart choice: enough power not to struggle, four orbital settings for fast or clean cuts, and the most solid rating on this page, 4.7 out of 5 from 11,147 ratings. If you already run DEWALT 20V MAX batteries, the DCS331B ($144.26 tool only) is a superb upgrade for that battery you already own. Use a jigsaw for curves and cutouts, and it will reward you on every project.

See the BLACK+DECKER BDEJS600C on Amazon →See the DEWALT DCS331B on Amazon →

All our picks are on our recommended tools page.

Sources (checked October 27, 2026): Amazon.com product listings (ASIN B00OJ72LHK, B007NVSSFS, B07S1MK2DV, B00OJ72L84, B09KKJ17X6): prices, ratings, rating counts and published specs, no link. DEWALT — DCS331B product page · OSHA — Woodworking eTool (saw safety) · OSHA — Occupational noise exposure. Method: we compare public data from manufacturers and Amazon.com; we have not run these saws in our own shop, and we say which claims we could not verify.

October 27, 2026

Best Cordless Reciprocating Saw (2026): 5 Saws Compared on Blade Speed and Weight

This article contains affiliate links. Learn more. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.

🗓️ Prices checked on October 27, 2026 on Amazon.com.

Written by Julien · Reviewed by Nadia on 10/27/2026 (prices, links and availability checked) — our editorial pen names

The short answer: the best cordless reciprocating saw for most homeowners is the DEWALT 20V MAX DCS380B, at $99.00 tool only (checked October 27, 2026): a 1-1/8-inch stroke at up to 3,000 strokes per minute, rated 4.7 out of 5 from 8,596 Amazon.com ratings. For pruning, pallets and pipe, it’s plenty. For regular demolition, the Makita XRJ05Z cuts faster.

The 30-second version

Yard work, pallets, PVC pipe, a few cuts a month: the DEWALT DCS380B, the best blade speed for the money in this guide.
You already own RYOBI ONE+ batteries: the RYOBI PCL515B, the lightest saw here and one of the cheapest.
Demolition, roots, opening up walls: the Makita XRJ05Z and its 1-1/4-inch stroke, if you can live with 8.2 lb at arm’s length.
Overhead work and tight spots between studs: the DEWALT DCS367B, a compact 14.5-inch saw that weighs 5 lb without its battery.
All five are sold as bare tools (no battery, no charger): pick your battery platform first.

Our pick: the DEWALT 20V MAX DCS380B, shipped and sold by Amazon.com, in stock at $99.00 tool only (list price $159.00, checked October 27, 2026), rated 4.7/5 from 8,596 ratings. No DEWALT battery at home? The DEWALT 20V MAX starter kit with a POWERSTACK compact battery and charger was $71.99 the same day.

See the DEWALT DCS380B on Amazon →

Every guide on cutting tools is in our Cutting & Sawing section.

Which cordless reciprocating saw for which job? The numbers side by side

Specs published by the manufacturers on their Amazon.com listings; prices, ratings and stock checked on Amazon.com on October 27, 2026, tool only.

Model	Stroke	Max speed	Weight	Amazon rating	Price (Oct 27, 2026)
DEWALT DCS380B ✅	1-1/8 in	3,000 SPM	5.3 lb, no battery	4.7/5 (8,596)	$99.00 · See price
RYOBI ONE+ PCL515B	1 in	3,400 SPM	3.8 lb, no battery	4.6/5 (1,681)	$69.97 · See price
Makita XRJ05Z (brushless)	1-1/4 in	3,000 SPM	8.2 lb with battery	4.8/5 (1,122)	$193.94 · See price
DEWALT DCS367B XR compact	1-1/8 in	2,900 SPM	5 lb, no battery	4.8/5 (10,874)	$199.00 · See price
BLACK+DECKER BDCR20B	7/8 in	3,000 SPM	not published*	4.6/5 (4,099)	$59.00 · See price

* BLACK+DECKER calls it “compact and lightweight” but the listing gives no weight; we don’t print a number we couldn’t confirm. Weights are those given by each listing or by the manufacturer (DEWALT for the DCS367B, Makita for the XRJ05Z with battery).

What each saw is good at

DEWALT DCS380B: the fastest blade for the price

DEWALT rates it at up to 3,000 strokes per minute with a 1-1/8-inch stroke, on a variable-speed trigger. The 4-position blade clamp lets you mount the blade teeth up or down for flush cuts, with no tool needed, and the pivoting shoe controls depth and spreads blade wear. It runs on every DEWALT 20V MAX battery and carries a 3-year limited warranty. Shipped and sold by Amazon.com, in stock, $99.00 tool only on October 27, 2026 (4.7/5, 8,596 ratings), the #1 seller in Amazon’s reciprocating saw category that day.

See the price (tool only) → See the DEWALT battery + charger starter kit ($71.99) →

RYOBI ONE+ PCL515B: the lightest, for ONE+ owners

The highest stroke rate in this guide (3,400 SPM) with a 1-inch stroke, and a listed weight of 3.8 lb without the battery, about 1.5 lb less than the DEWALT. It runs on every RYOBI ONE+ 18V battery, a platform with hundreds of tools. On October 27, 2026 it was $69.97 from a third-party seller, with 9 units left (4.6/5, 1,681 ratings).

See the price →

Makita XRJ05Z: the demolition saw

With a 1-1/4-inch stroke, the XRJ05Z removes more material per pass than any other saw here. Its brushless motor has two speed ranges, 0-2,300 and 0-3,000 SPM, the blade changes without tools, and it measures 17-1/4 inches long. The trade-off: 8.2 lb with an 18V LXT battery, according to the Makita listing. Shipped and sold by Amazon.com, in stock, $193.94 on October 27, 2026 (list price $219.00; 4.8/5, 1,122 ratings).

See the price →

DEWALT DCS367B XR: the easiest on your arms

DEWALT’s compact brushless saw: 14.5 inches long so it fits between studs, 5 lb without the battery, a 1-1/8-inch stroke and up to 2,900 SPM. DEWALT claims up to 2.5x more runtime than an older DEWALT model. It’s the most-rated saw in this guide. Shipped and sold by Amazon.com, in stock, $199.00 on October 27, 2026 (4.8/5, 10,874 ratings). Worth it if you cut overhead or all day; overkill for a few cuts a month.

See the price →

BLACK+DECKER BDCR20B: the cheapest, for occasional cuts

A 7/8-inch stroke at up to 3,000 SPM, tool-free blade changes, a pivoting shoe and an electric brake. It runs on BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX POWERCONNECT batteries. The cheapest saw here at $59.00 on October 27, 2026, shipped and sold by Amazon.com (4.6/5, 4,099 ratings), but also the one whose blade travels least per second.

See the price →

Blade speed and weight: what the spec sheets don’t calculate

Listings give you two separate numbers, stroke length and strokes per minute. Multiply them and you get what really drives cutting speed: how far the blade travels in one second, at no load.

Makita XRJ05Z: 1-1/4 in × 3,000 SPM = 62.5 in/s
RYOBI PCL515B: 1 in × 3,400 SPM = 56.7 in/s
DEWALT DCS380B: 1-1/8 in × 3,000 SPM = 56.3 in/s
DEWALT DCS367B: 1-1/8 in × 2,900 SPM = 54.4 in/s
BLACK+DECKER BDCR20B: 7/8 in × 3,000 SPM = 43.8 in/s

It’s a theoretical value: under load, speed drops, and faster on a small motor. But it ranks the saws in the right order, and it shows that the $99 DEWALT matches the $199 compact XR on raw blade speed. What the XR buys you is size, weight and runtime, not speed.

Weight limits your cutting time more than the battery does. A long afternoon of demolition is hard on your hands and forearms, and vibration figures are rarely published on US listings. Weight is the number you can compare: 5 lb for the compact DCS367B without battery, 8.2 lb for the Makita with one. If you cut overhead, buy light; if you demolish, buy stroke, and take breaks.

Still deciding between a reciprocating saw and a jigsaw? Our guide to the best jigsaw covers clean cuts and curves; this page is about rough, fast cuts.

Who should skip it

If you need clean, square cuts in boards or plywood: a reciprocating saw cuts fast but rough. Get a circular saw; see our best circular saw guide.
If you have no battery yet and only one job planned: budget the saw plus a battery and charger, or a kit, before comparing prices.
If you cut all day overhead: skip the heavy demolition saws and go compact.

How we choose

Malin: “First I check which batteries are already on the workbench. Then I multiply stroke by speed, because every brand measures cutting capacity its own way. And if I’m tearing out a wall all weekend, I look at weight before price.”

Method: we have not run these saws in our own shop. This guide combines specs published by DEWALT, Makita, RYOBI and BLACK+DECKER, buyer ratings, and Amazon.com listings (prices, ratings, sellers, stock), all checked on October 27, 2026. Blade speeds are our own calculations.

FAQ

Which cordless reciprocating saw is best for pruning branches?

For branches up to about 4 inches thick, a 1 to 1-1/8-inch stroke is enough: the DEWALT DCS380B or the RYOBI PCL515B. Use a coarse wood or pruning blade, and pick the lighter RYOBI if you work with your arms raised.

Can a reciprocating saw cut metal?

Yes, with a bi-metal blade and a lower speed setting: nail-embedded wood, pipe and conduit are everyday jobs for a reciprocating saw. For sheet metal or a clean cut in steel, an angle grinder is more precise.

Are DEWALT 20V MAX batteries compatible with the DCS380B and the DCS367B?

Yes. Both saws are part of the DEWALT 20V MAX platform and take the same batteries. RYOBI ONE+, Makita 18V LXT and BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX batteries are not interchangeable with DEWALT or with each other.

Reciprocating saw or jigsaw: which should I buy first?

A jigsaw cuts panels cleanly and follows curves. A reciprocating saw demolishes, prunes and cuts where nothing else fits, but the cut is rough. For furniture and projects, start with a jigsaw; for yard work and renovation, start with a reciprocating saw.

How much does a cordless reciprocating saw really cost?

The saws here are sold without a battery. On October 27, 2026, the DEWALT DCS380B was $99.00 and the DEWALT 20V MAX starter kit with a compact battery and charger was $71.99, so $170.99 if you start from zero.

Our verdict

For most yards and workshops, the DEWALT DCS380B is the right buy: one of the fastest blades in this guide, 4.7 out of 5 from more than 8,500 ratings, and $99.00 tool only on October 27, 2026. Already on RYOBI ONE+? Get the PCL515B at $69.97. For demolition, take the Makita XRJ05Z ($193.94) and its 1-1/4-inch stroke. Cutting overhead a lot? The compact DEWALT DCS367B ($199.00) is worth the extra.

See the DEWALT DCS380B on Amazon →

For straight, clean cuts in panels, see our best jigsaw guide or our best circular saw guide. Building your battery platform? Our best cordless drill guide shows which kits share batteries with these saws. For long sessions, protect your hearing: OSHA explains the risks on its occupational noise page.

All our tool picks are on the recommended tools page.

Sources: DEWALT, DCS380B product page · DEWALT, DCS367B product page · Makita USA, XRJ05Z product page · OSHA, occupational noise exposure · Amazon.com product listings of the six products cited, checked October 27, 2026 (no link).

October 27, 2026