A budget reciprocating saw is an affordable power tool that drives a blade in a fast back-and-forth motion, slicing through wood, metal, PVC, and drywall without the cost of a pro-grade model. Most budget reciprocating saws land well under the price of a pro-grade model and handle the same core jobs as their expensive cousins: demolition, pruning, plumbing cuts, and rough remodeling work.
I spent the last 60 days running eight of the most popular cheap reciprocating saws through real projects on my property and in our workshop. I cut 4×4 posts, pruned maple and oak branches, ripped out old copper plumbing, and trimmed PVC drain lines. I logged cut times, measured vibration at the handle, and noted when a saw bogged down or a blade change slowed me down. Our team also pulled in feedback from thousands of verified owners across Amazon and forum threads on r/Tools to back up what we saw in person.
Below is the full lineup of the best budget reciprocating saws for 2026, covering cordless and corded options for homeowners, DIYers, and weekend remodelers. If you want a deeper look at premium picks, see our 15 Best Reciprocating Saws Expert Reviews, and for stone or masonry cuts, our 13 Best Masonry Saws Tested and 12 Best Concrete Saws Trusted Reviews are worth a look.
Top 3 Picks for Best Budget Reciprocating Saws (September 2026)
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless Reciprocatin…
- Cordless 20V with battery included
- Tool-free blade change
- Pivoting shoe for control
- 4.6 rating from 10k+ owners
WORX 20V 2-in-1 Reciprocating Saw and Jigsaw
- 2-in-1 jigsaw and reciprocating saw
- Tool-less blade change
- Built-in LED light
- PowerShare battery system
RYOBI ONE+ 18V Cordless Reciprocating Saw
- Part of RYOBI ONE+ 18V system
- Tool-free blade change
- Variable speed trigger
- Lightweight at 4.24 pounds
Best Budget Reciprocating Saws in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit |
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| WORX 20V 2-in-1 Reciprocating Saw and Jigsaw |
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 Skil 7.5-Amp Variable Speed Corded Reciprocating Saw |
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| RYOBI ONE+ 18V Cordless Reciprocating Saw |
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 SEESII Cordless Reciprocating Saw with 2 Batteries |
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 CRAFTSMAN 7.5-Amp Corded Reciprocating Saw |
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 Cordless Reciprocating Saw With 8 Blades Brushless |
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 WEN 10-Amp 8-Position Variable Speed Reciprocating Saw |
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1. BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit: Best Overall Budget Pick
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX* Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit (BDCR20C)
20V MAX cordless
4.5 pounds
Tool-free blade change
Pivoting shoe
4500 RPM
Pros
- Cordless convenience with battery and charger included
- Lightweight at 4.5 pounds for less fatigue
- Tool-free blade change saves time on the job
- Pivoting shoe adds control during cuts
- Battery compatible with other BLACK+DECKER 20V tools
Cons
- Battery life can run short on long demolition days
- Stock blade is short and swaps out fast
- Less torque than corded models for thick branches
The BLACK+DECKER BDCR20C is the first budget reciprocating saw I grab when a job takes me outside or up a ladder. At 4.5 pounds with the battery seated, it feels closer to a heavy drill than a recip saw, which matters when you are pruning ten feet up or cutting overhead pipe in a basement.
I used it to clear out a row of 2-inch tree saplings along my fence line, then moved inside to rip out old cast iron drain pieces during a bathroom demo. The 4500 RPM top speed is plenty for limbs and lumber, and the pivoting shoe let me rest the saw flat against the pipe instead of letting the blade wander. Blade swaps took about five seconds with the tool-free chuck.
The variable speed trigger is responsive without being twitchy. Press lightly for detail cuts near drywall, press harder to push through thick branches. Owners on Amazon echo this with a 4.6-star average across more than 10,000 reviews, and our team saw the same balance in person.
The weak spot is runtime under heavy load. On a full charge I cleared about 35 medium maple branches before the battery started sagging, which is fine for a homeowner but short for a contractor. The stock blade is also a short wood blade, so you will want to grab a metal and a pruning blade separately. For cordless freedom at a budget price, this is the saw I keep on my shelf.
Battery ecosystem fit
If you already own BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX drills, blowers, or trimmers, this recip saw drops right into the same batteries. That ecosystem match is the single biggest reason to pick it over a no-name cordless kit at the same price.
Where it falls short
It is not the right tool for full-time demolition or thick metal cutting. For that, step up to a corded 7.5-Amp model or a brushless kit. As a homeowner reciprocating saw for occasional projects, it hits a sweet spot of weight, price, and capability that few cheap reciprocating saws match.
2. WORX 20V 2-in-1 Reciprocating Saw and Jigsaw: Best Value Versatility
WORX Cordless Reciprocating Saw & Jigsaw, 20V 3/4-Inch 2-in-1, WX550L
20V 2-in-1 design
Tool-less blade change
LED light
PowerShare battery
Pros
- Two tools in one saw and jigsaw
- Tool-less blade change in seconds
- Built-in LED light improves cut visibility
- PowerShare batteries work across WORX tools
- Compact and lightweight at 4.6 pounds
Cons
- Battery drains fast on long cuts
- 2-in-1 design limits blade size options
- Not built for heavy professional demolition
The WORX WX550L is the most versatile cheap reciprocating saw in this roundup because it pulls double duty as a jigsaw. I used it to cut detailed curves in 3/4-inch plywood for a shelf project, then snapped the head forward and went to town on a stack of 2×4 offcuts. For a homeowner who does not want a full jigsaw sitting next to a recip saw, the swap is a real win.
The pivot transition feels solid, not gimmicky. Both modes lock in with a positive click, and the variable speed trigger behaves the same in either position. The built-in LED light is bright enough to matter when you are cutting inside a dark cabinet or under a sink, and the small blower keeps the cut line clear of dust.
Weight is comparable to other cordless models at 4.6 pounds, and the grip is comfortable for one-handed cuts. Verified buyers rate it 4.6 stars across roughly 4,000 reviews, and the consensus lines up with my hands-on use.
Two limitations stood out. First, the reciprocating mode only accepts shorter blades because of the head geometry, so it is not the best choice for cutting large tree limbs or thick metal. Second, battery life is the usual cordless trade-off: fine for a couple of hours of hobby work, short for a full demolition day. For DIYers who want one tool instead of two, this is the smartest budget buy in the lineup.
Best for small projects
If your projects mix detail cuts and rough cuts, this is the saw that handles both without forcing you to own two tools. It is also a great entry point into the WORX PowerShare battery family if you want to add a drill or trimmer later.
When to skip it
Skip it if you mainly need a heavy-duty demolition saw or if you cut large tree limbs. A full-size recip saw with a longer stroke will outwork it on those tasks. For garage and craft projects, the WORX is hard to beat at the price.
3. Skil 7.5-Amp Variable Speed Reciprocating Saw: Best Budget Corded Power
Skil 9206-02 7.5-Amp Variable Speed Reciprocating Saw
7.5 Amp corded motor
Tool-less blade change
Counter balance
Pivoting foot
Pros
- Strong 7.5-Amp motor for tough cuts
- Tool-less blade change keeps you moving
- Counter balance reduces handle vibration
- Pivoting foot stabilizes cuts
- Unlimited runtime from corded power
Cons
- Heavier at 7.1 pounds than cordless options
- Needs an extension cord for outdoor work
- Not as portable as battery-powered models
If you want the most cutting muscle per dollar, a corded reciprocating saw still wins, and the Skil 9206-02 is the standout in the budget tier. The 7.5-Amp motor pulls through 4×4 posts and thick metal without bogging, and there is no battery to babysit. I left it plugged in for an entire afternoon of bathroom demo work and never slowed down.
The tool-less blade change is fast, the pivoting foot adds real stability on long cuts, and the counter balance system noticeably tames vibration compared to older budget corded saws I have used. At 7.1 pounds it is heavier than the cordless picks in this roundup, but that weight also helps push the saw through tough material.
Verified owners give it 4.6 stars across nearly 2,000 reviews. The recurring praise is exactly what I saw in the shop: reliable power and durability for the price. The main complaint is the cord itself, which is the trade-off for any corded tool.
The biggest downside is portability. You need an outdoor extension cord or a long indoor cord, and dragging it across a yard gets old fast. If your projects stay close to an outlet or you work mostly in a garage or basement, the Skil is one of the best budget reciprocating saws you can buy.
Why corded still makes sense
For stationary work like demolition, plumbing repair, or rough framing, corded power beats battery power on both runtime and torque. If you already own an extension cord and a garage outlet, the Skil delivers pro-grade performance at a budget price.
When to choose cordless instead
If you regularly work in the yard, on a ladder, or anywhere far from an outlet, the cordless models in this roundup will save you frustration. The Skil is for the workshop, not for the tree line.
4. RYOBI ONE+ 18V Cordless Reciprocating Saw: Best for RYOBI Battery Owners
RYOBI ONE+ 18V Cordless Reciprocating Saw – 3,400 SPM Variable Speed, 1 in. Stroke Length, Tool Only (Battery Not Included) – PCL515B
18V ONE+ system
3,400 SPM
1 inch stroke
Tool-free blade change
Pros
- Compatible with RYOBI ONE+ 18V batteries
- Lightweight at 4.24 pounds
- Tool-free blade change
- Variable speed trigger
- Great entry price for RYOBI owners
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Trigger pull is heavier than premium saws
- Comes with one coarse blade only
If you are already in the RYOBI ONE+ 18V ecosystem, the PCL515B is the cheapest way to add a reciprocating saw to your collection without buying another battery and charger. I dropped my 4.0Ah battery from my RYOBI drill into this saw and went straight to work cutting notches in 2x4s for a deck repair.
At 4.24 pounds, it is the lightest saw in this roundup, which matters during overhead cuts or long pruning sessions. The 3,400 SPM top speed is slower than some competitors, but for homeowner tasks it never felt underpowered. The tool-free blade change worked smoothly even with gloves on.
Owners rate it 4.6 stars across about 1,600 reviews, and the comments consistently mention value and battery compatibility. That matches our hands-on experience and lines up with what forum users on r/Tools say about RYOBI tools being a smart pick for homeowners who want one battery system.
The two issues worth flagging are the trigger pull, which is heavier than premium saws, and the fact that the tool ships without a battery. If you already have ONE+ batteries, that is a non-issue. If you do not, factor in the cost of a battery and charger before comparing prices.
Best when paired with other RYOBI tools
The real value here is joining an ecosystem. If you plan to buy a RYOBI drill, blower, or trimmer, getting the recip saw tool-only keeps the total cost low and your chargers consolidated. It is one of the smartest budget reciprocating saws for the right buyer.
Not ideal for first-time tool buyers
If this is your first cordless tool, the tool-only price is misleading. You will need to add a battery and charger, which pushes the real cost higher than bare-tool prices suggest. Look at the SEESII or olmlmo kits instead if you want batteries included.
5. SEESII Cordless Reciprocating Saw with 2 Batteries: Best Brushless Value Kit
SEESII Reciprocating Saw Cordless with 2 x 4.0Ah Batteries and 6 Saw Blades
Brushless motor
2 x 4.0Ah batteries
6 blades
Storage case
Pros
- Brushless motor for better efficiency and longer life
- Two 4.0Ah batteries included
- Tool-free blade change
- Built-in LED work light
- Comes with 6 blades and a storage case
Cons
- Stock blades are not premium quality
- Cuts slower on heavy material than larger saws
- Battery takes a few hours to fully charge
The SEESII SRW02-SD stands out for one reason at this price point: it ships with a brushless motor. Brushed motors on cheap saws wear out faster and waste battery as heat, so seeing brushless technology in this price range is a real upgrade. I ran it through a stack of 2x4s and a handful of PVC pipes, and the motor stayed cool even after extended use.
The kit is generous: two 4.0Ah batteries, six blades covering wood, metal, and plastic, plus a hard storage case. For a first-time buyer, that means nothing extra to buy. The built-in LED light is bright enough to light up a dark basement joist bay, and the safety lock button prevents accidental startups.
Owners give it 4.4 stars across roughly 600 reviews. The praise centers on the included kit and value. The complaints are about the stock blades, which I can confirm are entry-level quality. Swap in a name-brand pruning or demo blade and the saw performs much better.
The saw is light at 3.48 kg and easy to handle, but it is not the fastest cutter in this roundup. On thick material, I found myself working at a measured pace rather than blasting through. For homeowners who want a complete cordless kit without buying extras, this is the best budget reciprocating saw option at the entry-level tier.
Who should buy this kit
First-time tool owners and homeowners who do not already own a battery platform will get the most from this kit. The included batteries, blades, and case cover almost any project out of the box, and the brushless motor extends the life of the tool.
What to upgrade
Plan on buying better blades. The stock set is fine for light work but will dull quickly on hardwood or thick metal. A Diablo or Milwaukee blade set is a worthwhile add-on.
6. CRAFTSMAN 7.5-Amp Corded Reciprocating Saw: Best Corded Stroke Length
CRAFTSMAN Reciprocating Saw, 7.5 Amp, 3,200 RPM, Corded (CMES300)
7.5 Amp motor
1-1/8 inch stroke
Variable speed 0-3,200 RPM
Tool-free blade release
Pros
- Powerful 7.5-Amp motor
- Long 1-1/8 inch stroke for fast cutting
- Tool-free blade release
- Variable speed trigger
- Comfortable over-molded handle
Cons
- Heavier at 7 pounds
- Corded design limits mobility
- Includes only one blade
The CRAFTSMAN CMES300 is the highest-rated saw in this roundup, and after testing it I understand why. The 7.5-Amp motor combined with a 1-1/8 inch stroke length is a serious cutting combo. It chewed through 4×4 posts in roughly half the time of the smaller cordless saws I tested.
The longer stroke means each pass of the blade removes more material, which is the difference between a budget saw and a saw that feels closer to a contractor tool. The over-molded handle is comfortable during long cuts, and the variable speed trigger is smooth across the 0 to 3,200 RPM range.
Verified owners rate it 4.7 stars across more than 600 reviews, and the consensus is power and build quality. That is exactly what our team measured in the shop. The blade release is tool-free, and the pivoting shoe keeps the saw stable during plunge cuts.
The trade-offs are the same as any corded saw: weight and the need for an outlet. At 7 pounds it is not a saw you want to hold overhead, and dragging the cord around the yard gets old. For workshop and garage use, it is one of the best budget reciprocating saws for cutting speed and durability.
Why stroke length matters
Stroke length is the distance the blade travels each cycle. A longer stroke removes more material per pass and cuts faster on thick wood. Most cheap reciprocating saws sit at 7/8 to 1 inch, so the CRAFTSMAN 1-1/8 inch stroke is a real upgrade if cutting speed matters to you.
Best use cases
This is the saw for serious demolition, framing tear-outs, and cutting thick branches in the yard near an outlet. For overhead or remote work, look at a cordless pick instead.
7. Cordless Reciprocating Saw With 8 Blades Brushless: Best Complete Blade Kit
Cordless Reciprocating Saw With 8 Blades – 2×4000mAh Batteries, Brushless Motor, Variable Speed 0‑3200 SPM, Tool‑Free Blade Change, Power Reciprocating Saw for PVC Wood, Metal Cutting DIY
Brushless motor
8 carbide blades
2 x 4.0Ah batteries
Tool-free blade change
Pros
- Eight carbide blades for multiple materials
- Two 4.0Ah batteries with strong runtime
- Tool-free blade change
- Safety lock button
- Lightweight at 3 pounds
Cons
- Some users report reliability issues over time
- Battery contacts can be finicky
- Carrying case is basic
The olmlmo RS09-MT Pro is the most complete budget reciprocating saw kit in this roundup. The headline feature is eight carbide-tipped blades covering wood, metal, PVC, and pruning. Combined with two 4.0Ah batteries, a charger, and a carrying case, this is the saw I would hand to a first-time DIYer.
The brushless motor and 3,200 SPM top speed handled everything I threw at it during testing. I trimmed tree branches, cut PVC drain pipe, and trimmed metal conduit for an electrical project. The tool-free blade change worked every time, and the rotating shoe gave me a stable base on uneven material.
Owners rate it 4.4 stars across nearly 600 reviews. The praise focuses on value and the included blade selection. The complaints are about long-term durability on a small number of units, which is common in this price tier.
The two real downsides are the carrying case, which is thin plastic, and the battery contacts, which a few users reported needing to reseat. Neither issue stopped me from working, but they are worth knowing if you plan to use the saw hard. For the price, this kit is hard to beat.
Why this kit stands out
Most cheap reciprocating saws ship with one or two blades. This one ships with eight carbide blades, which means you can cut wood, metal, and PVC right out of the box without ordering extra accessories. That is the main reason to pick it over the SEESII.
Long-term reliability
Brushless motors tend to last longer than brushed motors, and the two-year warranty typical of this brand adds some protection. For light to medium homeowner use, this should last many years. For daily contractor use, step up to a name-brand model.
8. WEN 10-Amp 8-Position Variable Speed Reciprocating Saw: Best DIY Corded Saw
WEN 3630 10-Amp 8-Position Variable Speed Reciprocating Saw
10-Amp motor
8-position pivoting head
Twist-lock blade holder
Variable speed 0-2,800 SPM
Pros
- Powerful 10-Amp motor for tough cuts
- 8-position pivoting head for angle cuts
- Twist-lock quick-release blade holder
- Variable speed trigger
- Strong budget price
Cons
- Heavier at 7.7 pounds
- Corded limits mobility
- Some users find it heavier than expected
The WEN 3630 is the most powerful corded saw in this roundup, and the 8-position pivoting head makes it unusually versatile for a budget model. I tilted it through a series of 45-degree plunge cuts in 2x4s to test the head rotation, and the lock held firm at every position.
The 10-Amp motor delivers strong cutting power, and the twist-lock blade change is fast once you get used to it. For DIYers who need to make angled cuts without switching to a different saw, the pivoting head is a real advantage. The rubber-grip front handle is comfortable during long sessions.
Verified owners give it 4.5 stars across more than 400 reviews. The recurring praise is power and the pivoting head. The most common complaint is weight, which at 7.7 pounds is the heaviest in this roundup. For stationary bench work and shop projects, weight is a non-issue.
The downsides are the same as any corded tool: you need an outlet nearby, and dragging the cord gets old outside. But for the price, the WEN delivers pro-grade power and a feature that most budget reciprocating saws skip. For DIYers who do most of their cutting in a shop or garage, it is a strong pick.
Why pivoting head matters
An 8-position pivoting head lets you cut flush against a surface or at an angle without flipping the saw in your hand. It is the kind of feature you usually only see on pricier saws, so it is a real bonus on a budget model.
Weight trade-off
If you need a saw for overhead cuts or long pruning sessions, look at a lighter cordless model. If you mainly work at bench height or in the shop, the extra weight of the WEN becomes a non-issue and the power is welcome.
How to Choose the Best Budget Reciprocating Saw for Your Needs?
The best budget reciprocating saw for you depends on three questions: where you work, what you cut, and whether you already own a battery platform. Answer those honestly and the rest of the decision is easy.
Corded vs cordless for budget buyers
Corded reciprocating saws deliver more power per dollar and unlimited runtime, but they need an outlet and an extension cord for outdoor work. Cordless reciprocating saws cost more for the same cutting power but give you total freedom to work anywhere. For a workshop or garage, corded wins on value. For yard work, ladders, and remote job sites, cordless wins on convenience.
Forum users on r/Tools often note that cheap reciprocating saws underperform on heavy demolition, regardless of corded or cordless design. Our testing confirmed this: budget saws handle pruning, light demo, plumbing, and remodeling well, but for daily contractor use you need a brushless pro model.
Key features to compare
Look for tool-free blade change, a pivoting shoe, variable speed trigger, and counter balance vibration control if you can get them at the price. Stroke length matters for cutting speed: 1 inch or more is better for thick material. SPM (strokes per minute) tells you how fast the blade cycles, and brushless motors last longer than brushed motors at the same workload.
Battery compatibility is one of the most overlooked features. If you already own a 20V platform like BLACK+DECKER, WORX, RYOBI, or DEWALT, buy into that same system to avoid buying extra batteries and chargers. Kobalt users on forums often mention the 24V line is quietly strong at budget prices.
Blade selection tips
A reciprocating saw is only as good as its blade. Use wood blades with higher TPI (teeth per inch) for clean cuts, pruning blades with curved profiles for branches, and bimetal or carbide blades for metal and PVC. The cheap reciprocating saws in this roundup accept standard blades, so you can upgrade later without buying a new saw.
Replace blades as soon as you notice slower cutting or rough edges. A dull blade wears out the motor and makes every cut harder. Keep at least three blades on hand: one for wood, one for metal, and one pruning blade.
Real-world pain points from actual owners
Forum users on r/Tools and r/harborfreight consistently warn about three failure points on cheap reciprocating saws: seized bushings after heavy use, blade change mechanisms that stop gripping, and triggers that fail or become inconsistent. Our testing matched those reports: budget saws work well for occasional use, but pushing them hard every day shortens their life. Buy a name brand within the budget tier, and you will get a more durable tool.
Safety and maintenance tips
Always wear safety glasses and gloves when cutting, and clamp loose material so the saw cannot kick. Let the saw do the work: forcing a budget motor through thick material only burns out the brushes faster. After each use, blow out dust from the motor housing and wipe down the blade clamp. A little care goes a long way toward making a budget reciprocating saw last for years.
For more cutting tool guides, see our 10 Best Cold Saws Expert Reviews for metal work and our 8 Best DeWalt Miter Saws Tested for precision cuts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best value reciprocating saw?
The best value reciprocating saw depends on your needs. For a cordless all-rounder, the BLACK+DECKER BDCR20C delivers strong performance at a budget price with over 10,000 owner reviews. For corded power, the Skil 9206-02 and CRAFTSMAN CMES300 are the top value picks. Our editor’s choice is the BLACK+DECKER BDCR20C for its balance of weight, price, and battery ecosystem.
What is the cheapest reciprocating saw available?
The cheapest reciprocating saws in this roundup start at the entry-level price for the RYOBI ONE+ 18V tool-only model and the WEN 10-Amp corded saw. The SEESII kit and olmlmo kit include batteries and blades at a bundle price that is often a better total value for first-time buyers. Prices change frequently, so check the current listings before you buy.
Corded vs cordless reciprocating saw, which is better for budget buyers?
Corded reciprocating saws give you more power per dollar and unlimited runtime, but they need an outlet and extension cord. Cordless reciprocating saws cost more but offer total freedom and are safer for outdoor and overhead work. For workshop and garage projects, corded is the best budget choice. For yard work, ladders, and remote job sites, cordless is the smarter buy.
Which brand of reciprocating saw is better, Ryobi or Milwaukee?
RYOBI is the better budget choice and pairs with the popular ONE+ 18V battery ecosystem, making it ideal for homeowners and DIYers. Milwaukee makes excellent pro-grade reciprocating saws like the M18 Fuel series, but those models cost significantly more and target daily contractor use. For a cheap reciprocating saw at a budget tier, RYOBI delivers strong value. For professional daily use, Milwaukee is worth the higher investment.
What can you cut with a budget reciprocating saw?
A budget reciprocating saw can cut wood, metal, PVC, drywall, plaster, branches, tree roots, and even light masonry with the right blade. They are ideal for demolition, pruning, plumbing repairs, electrical rough-in, and HVAC work. For thick tree limbs and heavy contractor demolition, look for a longer stroke length or a brushless pro model.
Final Verdict: Which Budget Reciprocating Saw Should You Buy in 2026?
After 60 days of testing eight of the best budget reciprocating saws on real projects, the BLACK+DECKER BDCR20C is our editor’s choice. It is light, easy to handle, ships with a battery and charger, and slots into the BLACK+DECKER 20V ecosystem for whole-shop value. The 4.6-star rating from more than 10,000 owners backs up what we saw in person.
For corded power at the lowest cost, the Skil 9206-02 and CRAFTSMAN CMES300 are both excellent picks. For 2-in-1 versatility, the WORX WX550L is the smartest buy. For complete cordless kits with batteries included, the SEESII SRW02-SD and olmlmo RS09-MT Pro give you the most value out of the box. Match the saw to your projects, buy a good blade, and your budget reciprocating saw will handle most jobs for years.