Ryobi vs Einhell Jigsaw
Choosing between Ryobi and Einhell for your next jigsaw depends largely on your budget and preferred battery ecosystem. Both brands offer solid performance for DIYers and hobbyists, but they differ in power delivery, build quality, and accessory availability.
Quick answer
Ryobi wins for overall power, smoother cuts, and a larger battery platform with more tool options. Einhell is the budget-friendly choice with decent performance for light tasks, but its build quality and blade selection trail behind Ryobi. Pick Ryobi for versatility; pick Einhell for occasional use on a shoestring budget.
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- Tested on specs (power, torque, PSI)
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Research updated June 2026.
| Specification | Ryobi (18V ONE+ Brushless) | Einhell (18V Power X-Change) |
|---|---|---|
| Motor Type | Brushless | Brushed (on most models) |
| Stroke Length | 1 inch (25.4 mm) | 0.8 inch (20 mm) |
| Max Cutting Angle | 45 degrees (both sides) | 45 degrees (one side) |
| Orbital Action | 4 settings | 3 settings |
| Tool-less Blade Change | Yes (keyless chuck) | Yes (keyless chuck) |
| Weight (with battery) | 5.2 lbs | 4.8 lbs |
| Dust Blower | Yes (on/off switch) | Yes (always on) |
| LED Light | Yes (with pre-light) | Yes (no pre-light) |
| Battery Platform | Ryobi ONE+ (100+ tools) | Einhell Power X-Change (80+ tools) |
| Warranty | 3 years (limited) | 2 years (limited) |
| Average Owner Rating | 4.5 / 5 | 4.0 / 5 |
| Winner | Ryobi (better power, features, ecosystem) |
Ryobi vs Einhell: Which Jigsaw Brand Is Better?
Ryobi and Einhell are two of the most popular brands for DIY and home improvement enthusiasts. Both offer cordless jigsaws that run on their respective 18V battery platforms. However, the differences in motor technology, build quality, and feature set can make one a better fit for your workshop than the other.
This comparison focuses on the best-selling models: the Ryobi 18V ONE+ Brushless Jigsaw (model P523) and the Einhell 18V Power X-Change Jigsaw (model TC-JS 18/20 Li). We have analyzed published specs, aggregated owner reviews from major retailers, and compared the overall brand ecosystems to give you an honest, unbiased verdict.
Power and Motor Performance
The Ryobi jigsaw uses a brushless motor, which delivers more torque, longer runtime, and greater durability than a brushed motor. Owners consistently report that the Ryobi cuts through 2x4 lumber and plywood with less bogging down, even at max orbital setting. The stroke length of 1 inch allows for faster cutting through thicker materials.
Einhell jigsaws, in contrast, use brushed motors on most models. While adequate for light tasks like cutting thin plywood or MDF, the motor struggles with thicker hardwoods and can overheat during prolonged use. The shorter 0.8-inch stroke means slower cutting speed and more vibration. For heavy-duty DIY projects, Ryobi has a clear advantage in raw power.
Cutting Features and Precision
Both jigsaws offer orbital action, but the Ryobi has four settings versus Einhell's three. This extra setting gives you more control over the aggressiveness of the cut, which is useful when switching between materials. The Ryobi also includes a variable speed trigger with a lock-on button, allowing for consistent speed without finger fatigue.
Einhell's speed control is a thumbwheel, which is less intuitive and can be harder to adjust mid-cut. Owner reviews note that the Einhell jigsaw tends to drift slightly on bevel cuts, especially at 45 degrees. The Ryobi's bevel adjustment is tool-less and locks securely at both 0 and 45 degrees on both sides, making it more accurate for angled cuts.
Battery Ecosystem and Value
Ryobi's ONE+ platform is one of the largest in the world, with over 100 tools sharing the same battery. If you already own Ryobi tools, the jigsaw is a no-brainer addition. Replacement batteries are widely available and relatively affordable compared to premium brands like DeWalt or Milwaukee.
Einhell's Power X-Change platform has around 80 tools, which is still respectable but smaller. The batteries are generally cheaper than Ryobi's, but the overall build quality and longevity of Einhell batteries are rated lower by owners. For users who plan to expand their tool collection, Ryobi offers better long-term value.
Build Quality and Ergonomics
Ryobi jigsaws have a reputation for solid plastic housings and well-balanced weight distribution. The rubber overmold on the grip provides comfort during extended use. The dust blower can be turned off, which is a nice touch when working with fine dust that you want to keep in place.
Einhell jigsaws feel lighter and more plasticky. The grip is less ergonomic, and the dust blower is always on, which can blow sawdust into your face. The blade change mechanism works well on both, but the Ryobi's keyless chuck feels more robust and less prone to loosening over time.
What to Check Before Buying
- Battery compatibility: Ensure the jigsaw matches your existing battery platform. Buying a new battery and charger can add significant cost.
- Stroke length: Longer stroke (1 inch) cuts faster and through thicker material. Shorter strokes are better for fine, detailed work.
- Orbital settings: More settings give you greater control over cut aggressiveness. Look for at least 3 settings.
- Tool-less features: Keyless blade change and tool-less bevel adjustment save time and frustration.
- LED light: A bright LED with pre-light helps you see the cut line before you start cutting.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Ignoring the battery platform: Buying a jigsaw from a brand you don't already own tools from can lock you into a less versatile ecosystem.
- Choosing brushed over brushless: For regular use, the brushless motor's extra power and runtime are worth the higher price.
- Overlooking blade quality: A good jigsaw is only as good as its blade. Invest in quality blades for cleaner cuts.
- Forgetting dust collection: A dust blower or vacuum adapter keeps your work area clean and your cut line visible.
FAQs
Is Ryobi better than Einhell for jigsaws?
Yes, Ryobi offers better power, longer stroke, more orbital settings, and a larger battery ecosystem, making it the superior choice for most DIYers.
Can Einhell batteries work with Ryobi tools?
No, Einhell and Ryobi use different battery platforms and are not interchangeable without an adapter, which is not recommended.
Which jigsaw has better dust collection?
Ryobi has an on/off switch for the dust blower, while Einhell's is always on. Ryobi also offers a vacuum adapter for cleaner work.
Are Einhell jigsaws good for beginners?
Yes, Einhell jigsaws are affordable and easy to use, making them a good entry-level option for light DIY tasks.
How long do Ryobi batteries last in a jigsaw?
With a 4Ah battery, you can expect 30-45 minutes of continuous cutting, depending on material and speed settings.
Does Einhell make a brushless jigsaw?
Yes, Einhell offers a brushless model (GE-JS 18/20 Li), but it is less common and more expensive than their brushed options.
Which jigsaw is lighter?
Einhell is slightly lighter at 4.8 lbs vs Ryobi's 5.2 lbs, but the difference is minimal during use.
Can I use Ryobi jigsaw for metal cutting?
Yes, with the appropriate blade, the Ryobi jigsaw can cut through thin metal sheets and aluminum.
Is Einhell a reliable brand?
Einhell is reliable for budget-conscious DIYers, but its build quality and warranty are not as robust as Ryobi's.
Which jigsaw has better blade selection?
Ryobi has a wider range of compatible blades from both Ryobi and third-party brands, offering more options for different materials.
Our verdict
For most DIYers, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ Brushless Jigsaw is the clear winner due to its superior power, longer stroke, better orbital control, and massive battery ecosystem. The Einhell jigsaw is a passable budget option for very light, occasional use, but its brushed motor and shorter stroke limit its versatility. If you can stretch your budget, choose Ryobi for a jigsaw that will last through years of projects.