Best Lithium-Ion Reciprocating Saws of 2025

Harry Stack Avatar
Harry Stack
Last Updated: Jan 8, 2025

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Lithium-Ion reciprocating saws are a versatile and efficient tool for any DIY enthusiast or professional contractor. With their powerful battery technology, these saws offer cordless convenience without compromising on performance. Whether you need to cut through wood, metal, or even plastic, these saws deliver precise and fast cuts with ease. The lithium-ion battery ensures long-lasting power, allowing you to complete your projects without interruption. With adjustable speed settings and a comfortable grip, these reciprocating saws provide both control and comfort for any cutting task.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Milwaukee M18 Cordless Reciprocating Saw Cover #TOP 1
Milwaukee M18 Cordless Reciprocating Saw
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Milwaukee 2621-20 M18 18V Reciprocating Saw Cover #TOP 2
Milwaukee 2621-20 M18 18V Reciprocating Saw
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Makita XRJ01Z 18V LXT Cordless Reciprocating Saw Cover #TOP 3
Makita XRJ01Z 18V LXT Cordless Reciprocating Saw
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 8 Lithium-Ion Reciprocating Saws

#TOP 1

Milwaukee M18 Cordless Reciprocating Saw

2625-20
Red,black
Milwaukee M18 Cordless Reciprocating Saw Cover
Milwaukee 2625-20 M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Hackzall Reciprocating Saw, Bare Tool

The Milwaukee 2625-20 M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Hackzall Reciprocating Saw has a one-handed design that provides superior control and versatility over a standard reciprocating saw. It is compact and lightweight, making it easy to cut in tight spaces or overhead. The anti-vibration handle reduces user fatigue, while the Quick Lok blade Clamp offers fast, easy tool-free blade changes. The built-in LED light illuminates the work surface while cutting, ensuring you have a clear line of sight.

What We Like
One-handed design provides superior control in tight conditions
Anti-vibration handle reduces user fatigue
Quick Lok blade Clamp offers fast, easy tool-free blade changes
Built-in LED light illuminates work surface while cutting
Compatible with M18 line of lithium-ion batteries
#TOP 2

Milwaukee 2621-20 M18 18V Reciprocating Saw

2621-20
Pack of 1
Milwaukee 2621-20 M18 18V Reciprocating Saw Cover
Milwaukee 2621-20 M18 18V Lithium Ion Cordless Sawzall 3,000RPM Reciprocating Saw with Quik Lok Blade Clamp and All Metal Gearbox (Bare Tool)

The Milwaukee 2621-20 M18 18V Reciprocating Saw is a powerful tool with a Quik Lok blade clamp that allows for easy blade switching. Its all-metal gearbox protects against damage from drops, while the counter balance mechanism reduces vibrations for smoother operation. The saw also features Redlink Intelligence, which connects with the M18 battery for efficient work. It is compatible with M18 18v lithium ion Milwaukee batteries.

What We Like
Easy blade switching with Quik Lok blade clamp
All-metal gearbox for protection against drops
Counter balance mechanism reduces vibrations for smoother operation
#TOP 3

Makita XRJ01Z 18V LXT Cordless Reciprocating Saw

XRJ01Z
Blue, Black
Makita XRJ01Z 18V LXT Cordless Reciprocating Saw Cover
Makita XRJ01Z 18-Volt LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Compact Reciprocating Saw (Tool Only, No Battery), Bare Tool

The Makita XRJ01Z is a cordless, compact reciprocating saw designed for close quarter cutting. With a variable speed of 0-3,000 strokes per minute and a 1/2" stroke length, it allows for faster and more efficient cutting. The dual-position on/off switch offers paddle or trigger switch operation, while the "tool-less" blade change system allows for faster blade installation and removal. Weighing only 3.9 pounds, and with a length of 15-5/8", it offers a convenient operation experience.

What We Like
Compact and lightweight design
Variable speed for efficient cutting
Dual-position on/off switch offers flexibility
Tool-less blade change system for easy operation
#TOP 4

Makita XRJ08Z Recipro Saw

XRJ08Z
Teal
Makita XRJ08Z Recipro Saw Cover
Makita XRJ08Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Compact One-Handed Recipro Saw, Tool Only

The Makita XRJ08Z Recipro Saw is a power reciprocating saw featuring a Makita-built brushless motor that delivers up to 3,100 strokes per minute with a 7/8” stroke length, resulting in faster and more efficient cutting. The low vibration design reduces up to 40% of vibration, making it comfortable to use. The one-handed grip is ergonomically positioned to provide a firm hold on the tool while using it with one hand. The loop-shaped handle guard provides tool rigidity for improved cutting efficiency.

What We Like
Faster and more efficient cutting with up to 3,100 strokes per minute and 7/8” stroke length
Reduces up to 40% of vibration, providing a comfortable user experience
Ergonomically designed one-handed grip for a firm hold on the tool
#TOP 5

Makita XRJ05Z 18V Cordless Recipro Saw

XRJ05Z
Multicolor
No Size
Makita XRJ05Z 18V Cordless Recipro Saw Cover
Makita XRJ05Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Recipro Saw, Tool Only

The Makita XRJ05Z 18V Cordless Recipro Saw features a brushless motor, delivering a speed of 0-2,300 (low) and 0-3,000 (high) strokes per minute. It also includes a "tool-less" blade change system for faster blade installation and removal. With a variable speed trigger, compact design, and weighing only 8.2 lbs, this saw reduces operator fatigue and increases productivity.

What We Like
Brushless motor for faster cutting
"Tool-less" blade change system for easier blade installation and removal
Variable speed trigger for added convenience
#TOP 6

Makita 12V Cordless Recipro Saw Kit

RJ03R1
Black and Sky Blue
One Size
Makita 12V Cordless Recipro Saw Kit Cover
Makita RJ03R1 12V Max CXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Recipro Saw Kit

The Makita RJ03R1 12V Max CXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Recipro Saw Kit features a variable speed motor that delivers 0-3,300 strokes per minute with a 1/2" length stroke for faster cutting. The dual-position on/off switch design allows for either paddle or trigger switch operation, and the "Tool-less" blade change system enables faster installation and removal for increased productivity. The saw accepts both Recipro and Jig Saw blades and has an ergonomically designed handle with a rubberized soft grip for increased comfort. The saw's compact design at 14-3/4" long makes it easy to handle and control.

What We Like
Faster cutting with 0-3,300 strokes per minute and 1/2" length stroke
Tool-less blade change system for faster installation and removal
Ergonomically designed handle with rubberized soft grip for increased comfort
#TOP 7

RIGID 18-Volt OCTANE Reciprocating Saw

RIGID
R8643B
RIGID 18-Volt OCTANE Reciprocating Saw Cover
18-Volt OCTANE™ Lithium-Ion Cordless Brushless Reciprocating Saw (Tool-Only) with Reciprocating Saw Blade

The RIGID Reciprocating Saw is designed to enhance your cutting experience. With adjustable orbital action, you can easily switch modes to tackle softwoods effortlessly. The built-in LED lighting keeps your work area illuminated, allowing you to see clearly even in dim conditions. You’ll appreciate the included multipurpose woodcutting blade, which means you can start using the saw right away. Plus, the tool-free blade changing feature lets you swap blades quickly without any extra tools, making it convenient to switch between tasks as needed.

What We Like
Adjustable orbital action
Built-in LED lighting
Included woodcutting blade
Tool-free blade changes
#TOP 8

WEN 20V Max Cordless Reciprocating Saw

WEN
20630
Black
WEN 20V Max Cordless Reciprocating Saw Cover
WEN Cordless Reciprocating Saw, Brushless with 20V Max 4.0 Ah Lithium-Ion Battery and Charger (20630)

The WEN Cordless Reciprocating Saw is designed for high performance and convenience. Its brushless motor ensures superior efficiency and longevity, reducing the need for maintenance. You can easily control your cuts with the variable-speed trigger, which allows for up to 2800 strokes per minute, making it perfect for various materials. The saw features a one-inch stroke and an adjustable shoe, enabling you to adapt to different cutting tasks. Additionally, the included 4.0 amp-hour lithium-ion battery provides consistent power and compatibility with other WEN tools, ensuring you can tackle any job without interruptions.

What We Like
Brushless motor efficiency
Variable-speed control
Adjustable shoe
Compatible battery
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long does a battery last on a reciprocating saw?

Top positive review - 3 Amp-hour batteries only last about 10 minutes of actual cutting. That is on the high end, it may be less. - If you have 1.5 amp hour batteries this would not be a good purchase. You would get maybe 5 minutes of cut time.

2. What is the difference between a Sawzall and a reciprocating saw?

sawzall, and what the difference is between the two. They are actually the same thing. The Milwaukee tool company introduced the first reciprocating saw in 1951, and called it the Sawzall. It has since been so widely copied that the terms reciprocating saw and sawzall are now used interchangeably.

3. Is a 12 amp reciprocating saw powerful enough?

Reciprocating saws with 10 to 12-amp motors are high on value and trade-off performance for a lighter design. They're a good choice for light-duty demolition and when you have to cut overhead.

4. What is the highest amp for a reciprocating saw?

It is the first Sawzall® Recip Saw to include Constant Power Technology™ which maintains constant speed and power under load for unmatched cutting performance. The 15.0 amp motor provides the industry's highest overload protection.

Editor's Notes

During our lithium-ion reciprocating saw research, we found 24 lithium-ion reciprocating saw products and shortlisted 8 quality products. We collected and analyzed 43,922 customer reviews through our big data system to write the lithium-ion reciprocating saws list. We found that most customers choose lithium-ion reciprocating saws with an average price of $109.22.

The lithium-ion reciprocating saws are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of lithium-ion reciprocating saws, including Milwaukee, Makita, RIGID, WEN. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 814 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Harry Stack Avatar

Harry Stack owns a small hardware store, his career landed him a depth of knowledge in categories such as tools, equipment, machinery and hardware. In his spare time, he usually repairs furniture, safes and appliances, and he knows how to make simple repairs to plumbing or electrical fixtures. His hobbies also include woodworking and fishing.