Best DeWalt Reciprocating Saws

TL;DR: The DeWalt ATOMIC DCS369B packs a brushless motor, 2,800 SPM stroke rate and a feather‑light 1.42 kg chassis into a 12.5‑in tool that’s ideal for tight‑space, one‑handed cuts.

What really sets this saw apart is its weight. At just 1.42 kg (3.13 lb) it’s 37 % lighter than the larger DCS367, and its compact dimensions—4.8 in high, 12.5 in long and 2.7 in wide—make it easy to maneuver overhead or inside cramped cabinets. The brushless motor drives a no‑load stroke rate of 2,800 SPM, while the 15.875 mm (5/8 in) stroke still slices through typical demolition, plumbing and pruning material.

When you line it up against the other five reciprocating saws in this roundup, the ATOMIC is the lightest by a wide margin; the next lightest, the DCS382B, tips the scales at about 2.6 kg. All of the corded or flex‑voltage competitors weigh between 6 lb and 11 lb, so the ATOMIC’s 3.13 lb frame feels noticeably airy. Its length is also shorter than the roughly 19‑in bodies of the DWE305, DCS389B, DCS384B and DCS380P1, which further contributes to its ability to reach into tight spots.

Users consistently praise the tool‑free blade release, the built‑in LED work light and the pivoting shoe that keeps the cut straight in awkward angles. Professional reviewers note that the brushless motor and 2,800 SPM rate deliver “surprising power” for a one‑handed unit. The most common drawback mentioned is the 5/8 in stroke, which limits how deep a cut can be made compared with full‑size saws, and a few owners mention that the battery isn’t included, raising the overall cost for a complete setup.

Beyond the weight savings, the ATOMIC adds a belt hook for easy transport, a variable‑speed trigger for fine control, and universal compatibility with all DeWalt 20V MAX batteries and chargers. Those features round out a tool that feels engineered for professionals who need portability without sacrificing the core cutting performance of a reciprocating saw.

Best for: Budget‑conscious buyers seeking a reliable entry‑level option — the DeWalt ATOMIC DCS369B offers Included Blades: 2

Avoid if: You need deep cuts or heavy‑duty demolition work

TL;DR: The DeWalt DWE305 packs a 12 Amp motor, 0‑2,900 SPM no‑load speed and a 4‑position keyless lever‑action blade clamp into a compact 4.0‑inch‑high, 7.96‑pound saw that delivers solid cutting power at a budget‑friendly price.

The standout feature is the 4‑position keyless lever‑action blade clamp, which lets you set the blade for left, right, up or down cuts without twisting the tool. Coupled with a variable‑speed trigger, you can dial in the exact speed you need for wood, metal or plastic. The saw’s 12 Amp motor runs on a 120 V corded supply and reaches up to 0‑2,900 SPM, while the 1‑1/8‑inch stroke delivers consistent material removal. Its blade compatibility of up to 8 inches means you can tackle most demolition tasks with a single tool.

Compared with its peers, the DWE305 is heavier than the ultra‑light DCS369B and DCS382B, which weigh around 1 pound or less, but it sits close to the FLEXVOLT DCS389B’s 7.43 pounds. It is lighter than the DCS384B (8.8 pounds) and the DCS380P1 (11 pounds). Speed‑wise, the DWE305’s 0‑2,900 SPM is a touch slower than the DCS382B’s 0‑3,200 SPM and the FLEXVOLT’s 0‑3,000 SPM, but it still outpaces many older corded models. The stroke length matches the FLEXVOLT and DCS384B at 1‑1/8 inches, while the DCS380P1 shares the same stroke. In short, the DWE305 offers a solid middle ground of power and portability among the six tools.

Users consistently praise the easy blade‑change mechanism and the saw’s ability to cut through tough materials without bogging down. Professional reviewers note that the exclusive blade lock and ergonomic grip give better control on demolition jobs. The most common complaint is the corded power source, which can be restrictive in tight or outdoor spaces, and a few owners mention occasional wobble in the blade clamp when pushing the tool to its limits.

Beyond the clamp, the DWE305 includes a variable‑speed trigger for fine‑tuned cutting, and its compact dimensions—19.38 inches long, 7.125 inches wide, and 4.0 inches tall—make it easy to store in a crowded toolbox. The 12 Amp motor and 120 V supply give it the torque needed for heavy‑duty applications while keeping the overall weight at a manageable 7.96 pounds.

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable entry-level option — the DeWalt DWE305 offers Height: 4.0 inches

TL;DR: The DEWALT DCS382B delivers 0‑3,200 SPM brushless power in a compact 2600 g, 4‑position keyless‑clamp package, perfect for tight‑space demolition on a 20 V battery.

What really sets this saw apart is its brushless motor paired with a no‑load speed range of 0‑3,200 SPM. At a modest 2600 g (about 5.7 lb), the tool feels light enough to hold overhead yet still pushes material quickly thanks to a 28.6 mm stroke. The 20 V nominal voltage keeps it on the same battery platform as other DEWALT 20V MAX tools, simplifying kit management.

Compared with the other five models in the roundup, the DCS382B sits in the middle of the weight spectrum. It’s considerably lighter than the DeWalt DWE305, which tips the scales at 7.96 lb, but it isn’t as feather‑light as the ATOMIC DCS369B that weighs roughly 1.0 lb. Lengthwise, the DCS382B’s 406 mm body is shorter than the DWE305’s 19.38‑inch chassis, making it easier to maneuver in cramped spots, though it’s a bit longer than the DCS369B’s 317.5 mm profile.

Users consistently praise the saw’s quick‑change, 4‑position keyless lever‑action blade clamp and the rubber‑overmold grip that reduces hand fatigue during prolonged cuts. The built‑in lighting helps in dim environments, and the high speed range satisfies most wood and metal demolition tasks. On the flip side, reviewers note that the trigger spring can feel stiff when trying to control low speeds, and the lack of active vibration control makes it feel harsher on extended use. Some also mention that heavy‑duty work can wear blades faster, prompting more frequent replacements.

Best for: Most users looking for a well‑reviewed, reliable mainstream option — the DEWALT DCS382B offers Blade Clamp Positions: 4

Avoid if: You need all‑day industrial demolition or advanced vibration control

TL;DR: The DeWalt DCS380P1 delivers 3,000 SPM and a 5.0 Ah battery in a 11‑lb, 12‑in‑tall cordless saw, offering strong power for construction and demolition but at a premium price.

This kit packs a 3,000 SPM maximum stroke rate and a 1‑1/8 in stroke length, both driven by a 20 V MAX* (18 V nominal) brushed motor. The variable‑speed trigger lets you dial the speed from 0 to 3,000 SPM, matching the tool to wood, metal or demolition work. A 5.0 Ah lithium‑ion battery and a 60‑minute charge time give you enough runtime for a full job without frequent pauses.

At 11.0 Pounds, the DCS380P1 is noticeably heavier than the ultra‑light DEWALT ATOMIC DCS369B (1.0 lb) and the FLEXVOLT DCS389B (7.43 lb), and also heavier than the DCS384B (8.8 lb). Lengthwise it sits at 19.25 inches, comparable to the other models, while the 4.38‑inch width keeps it manageable in tighter spaces. Unlike some competitors, this package includes the DCB205 battery, DCB115 charger and a blade right out of the box, so you’re ready to work immediately.

Reviewers consistently praise the variable‑speed trigger and the 4‑position keyless blade clamp for making quick adjustments and flush cuts. The rubber‑over‑molded comfort grip and pivoting adjustable shoe add control during heavy demolition. No major complaints appear in the supplied data, but users note the lack of built‑in lighting and vibration control, which some may miss on dark job sites.

Beyond the power specs, the saw is fully cordless, runs on a 20 V MAX* system, and features a double oil‑sealed shaft for durability. The brushed motor, rubber grip and 36‑month warranty round out a tool built for demanding construction, demolition and woodworking tasks.

Best for: Buyers willing to invest in a proven, high-quality option — the DeWalt DCS380P1 offers Height: 12.0 inches

Avoid if: You're on a tight budget or only need basic functionality

TL;DR: The DEWALT FLEXVOLT DCS389B delivers 1,874 UWO of brushless power in a 7.56‑lb cordless saw, but its premium price and heft make it best for heavy‑duty pros rather than light‑task hobbyists.

What truly sets this saw apart is its 1,874 UWO output, backed by a brushless motor and a 60V MAX system (nominal 54V). Combined with a 0–3,000 SPM no‑load speed and a 1-1/8 in stroke, it offers corded‑level demolition capability without the cord.

Compared with the other five models, the DCS389B is heavier than the ultra‑light ATOMIC DCS369B (which weighs about 1 lb) but still lighter than the DCS380P1 at 11.0 lb. Its 19.4 in overall length exceeds the DCS382B’s 406 mm chassis, giving you more leverage in tight cuts, while its 4.21 in product height keeps it manageable on the job site.

Professional reviewers praise the saw’s fast blade changes via the keyless lever‑action clamp and the built‑in LED work light for low‑light jobs. Users note the 7.56 lb tool weight can cause fatigue during prolonged overhead work, a trade‑off for the extra power. The tool‑only package means you’ll need a separate FLEXVOLT battery, adding to the upfront cost.

Additional technical touches include a pivoting shoe for better control, a safety lock for accidental start prevention, and variable‑speed trigger control that lets you dial in the exact cutting speed you need.

Best for: Most users seeking a balanced, mainstream option — the DEWALT FLEXVOLT DCS389B offers Product Height: 4.21 inches

Avoid if: You need a lightweight tool for extended overhead use or want an all‑in‑one package without buying a separate battery.

TL;DR: The DEWALT DCS384B packs a brushless motor, 3,000 SPM no‑load speed and up to 102 cuts per charge into a 19.3‑in full‑size saw that weighs 8.8 lb, but its premium price and bulk make it a specialist’s tool.

This saw’s standout spec is its brushless motor paired with a 3,000 SPM no‑load speed and a 1‑1/8 in stroke, delivering corded‑like cutting power while staying cordless. The 19.3 in length and pivoting shoe give you the reach and stability needed for framing or demolition, and the lever‑action keyless blade clamp lets you swap blades quickly.

Compared with the other five models in the roundup, the DCS384B sits in the middle of the weight spectrum: it’s heavier than the ultra‑light ATOMIC DCS369B but lighter than the 11‑lb DCS380P1. Its 19.3 in length is essentially the same as the 19.4 in DCS389B, yet it carries a higher price tag than the ATOMIC version. While the DCS382B lists a similar 1‑1/8 in stroke, it’s far lighter, and the DWE305’s 2,900 SPM speed trails the DCS384B’s 3,000 SPM. Battery compatibility is broad, accepting both DEWALT 20V MAX and FLEXVOLT 20V/60V/120V packs.

User feedback repeatedly praises the tool’s raw power, fast cutting and durable build. Reviewers note the brushless motor reduces maintenance and the balanced feel makes two‑handed demolition comfortable. The same users flag the saw’s bulk for tight‑space jobs and point out that some SKUs omit the on‑board LED, forcing extra lighting in dark cavities.

Professional reviewers also highlight the soft‑start feature, which eases kick‑in and improves control at start‑up, and the rubberized over‑mold handle that dampens vibration despite the spec indicating no dedicated vibration control. The straight‑stroke action, while efficient on hard materials, is less aggressive on soft woods compared with orbital designs.

Best for: Those prioritizing quality and willing to pay for premium performance — the DEWALT DCS384B offers Length: 19.3 in

Avoid if: You're shopping on a tight budget — it's priced at $195.00