Best Reciprocating Saw Under £150
Finding a powerful and reliable reciprocating saw that doesn't break the bank is tough. We have analysed specs, owner reviews, and brand reliability to find the best models available for under £150.
Quick answer
For most DIYers and tradespeople on a budget, the Makita DJR186Z is the best overall reciprocating saw under £150, offering excellent power and build quality. If you need a corded model for heavy-duty demolition, the Bosch GSA 1300 PC is the top performer.
Why trust ToolBuyerHub
- Tested on specs (power, torque, PSI)
- Battery & ecosystem compared
- Aggregated owner reviews
- Build quality & warranty checked
- Brand reliability
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Research updated June 2026.
Makita DJR186Z
Best balance of power, battery life, and build quality for under £150.
| Product | Best For | Key Spec | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Makita DJR186Z | Overall / Cordless | 32 mm stroke, 2,800 spm | 4.5 / 5 | Check Amazon |
| Bosch GSA 1300 PC | Heavy-Duty / Corded | 1,300W, 32 mm stroke | 4.4 / 5 | Check Amazon |
| DeWalt DWE398 | Power / Corded | 1,350W, 29 mm stroke | 4.3 / 5 | Check Amazon |
| Ryobi RRS1801M | Value / Cordless | 28 mm stroke, 3,200 spm | 4.2 / 5 | Check Amazon |
| Einhell TC-RS 25 E | Budget / Corded | 800W, 25 mm stroke | 4.0 / 5 | Check Amazon |
Makita DJR186Z
Best OverallPros
- Excellent build quality
- Variable speed trigger
- Tool-less blade change
Cons
- Bare unit (no battery)
- Not the most powerful cordless
The Makita DJR186Z is a bare 18V cordless reciprocating saw that offers a superb balance of performance and ergonomics. With a 32 mm stroke length and variable speed control, it is capable of cutting through wood, metal, and plastic with ease. Owner reviews consistently praise its reliability and the smooth operation of the tool-less blade clamp.
This saw is part of Makita's extensive LXT ecosystem, meaning it shares batteries with a huge range of other tools. While it is a bare unit, the price under £150 makes it an excellent investment for anyone already in the Makita system or looking to start a professional-grade cordless collection.
Bosch GSA 1300 PC
Best Corded / Heavy-DutyPros
- Constant electronic speed control
- Very powerful motor
- Robust construction
Cons
- Heavy and bulky
- Cord can be restrictive
The Bosch GSA 1300 PC is a mains-powered reciprocating saw designed for serious demolition work. Its 1,300W motor provides consistent power under load, making it ideal for cutting through thick timber, metal pipes, and masonry. The Constant Electronic system ensures the blade speed remains stable even when cutting tough materials.
Owner reviews highlight its raw power and durability, with many noting it feels built to last for years. The main trade-off is its weight and the need for a power outlet, but if you need maximum cutting force and have access to mains power, this is the best option under £150.
DeWalt DWE398
Best Power / CordedPros
- Highest power motor
- Keyless blade clamp
- Durable metal gear case
Cons
- Shorter stroke length
- Heavier than competitors
The DeWalt DWE398 is a powerful corded reciprocating saw with a 1,350W motor, making it one of the most powerful options under £150. It features a keyless blade clamp for quick changes and a variable speed trigger for control. The metal gear case adds to its durability, making it suitable for tough job site conditions.
Owner reviews note that it is a very capable saw for demolition and pruning, but its 29 mm stroke length is slightly shorter than the Bosch. It is heavier than some alternatives, but the added power is a clear benefit for heavy-duty users who need to cut through thick materials quickly.
Ryobi RRS1801M
Best Value / CordlessPros
- Lightweight design
- High max speed
- Excellent value for money
Cons
- Shorter stroke length
- Build quality not as premium
The Ryobi RRS1801M is a bare 18V cordless reciprocating saw that offers great value for DIY users. It has a high no-load speed of 3,200 spm, which helps it cut quickly through softer materials. Its lighter weight makes it easier to handle for overhead work or prolonged use.
Owner reviews appreciate its affordability and the wide range of tools in the Ryobi One+ system. While it lacks the power and stroke length of the Makita, it is a fantastic entry-level cordless saw for general home maintenance and light demolition tasks.
Einhell TC-RS 25 E
Best Budget / CordedPros
- Very affordable price
- Lightweight for a corded saw
- Variable speed control
Cons
- Shorter stroke length
- Less powerful motor
The Einhell TC-RS 25 E is a budget-friendly corded reciprocating saw that is ideal for light DIY tasks. Its 800W motor and 25 mm stroke length are adequate for cutting wood, plastic, and thin metal. It features a variable speed trigger and a tool-less blade change system for convenience.
Owner reviews highlight its low price and decent performance for occasional use. It is not designed for heavy demolition, but for tasks like pruning branches or cutting up scrap wood, it offers excellent value. It is a great first reciprocating saw for a very low cost.
What to check before buying a reciprocating saw under £150
Before you buy, consider the key specs that affect performance. Stroke length is critical; a longer stroke (28-32 mm) cuts faster and more efficiently. Power output, measured in watts for corded models or voltage for cordless, determines what materials you can cut. Variable speed control is essential for different materials, allowing you to start slowly for metal and increase speed for wood.
Also, check the blade change system. Tool-less blade clamps are much more convenient than those requiring an Allen key. Finally, consider the weight and ergonomics of the saw, as a heavier tool will be more tiring to use for extended periods.
Mistakes to avoid
One common mistake is buying a cordless saw without considering the battery system. A bare tool is cheaper, but you need to factor in the cost of batteries and a charger. Another mistake is buying a saw with too short a stroke length for your intended use, which will make cutting slow and inefficient. Finally, do not ignore build quality; a cheap saw with plastic components may not last long under regular use.
FAQs
What is the best reciprocating saw under £150?
The Makita DJR186Z is the best overall, offering excellent build quality and performance. For corded power, the Bosch GSA 1300 PC is the top choice.
Is a corded or cordless reciprocating saw better under £150?
Corded saws offer more power for heavy tasks, while cordless saws provide portability. Your choice depends on whether you need to work away from power outlets.
What is a good stroke length for a reciprocating saw?
A stroke length of 28 mm to 32 mm is ideal for general cutting tasks. Longer strokes cut faster and are better for demolition work.
Can I use a reciprocating saw to cut metal?
Yes, with the correct blade, a reciprocating saw can cut through metal pipes, rods, and sheet metal. Use a bi-metal blade for best results.
What is the difference between a reciprocating saw and a jigsaw?
A reciprocating saw uses a push-pull motion for rough cutting and demolition, while a jigsaw uses an up-and-down motion for more precise curved cuts.
Do I need a variable speed reciprocating saw?
Yes, variable speed is important for controlling the cut and preventing blade damage when cutting different materials like metal or wood.
What is the most powerful reciprocating saw under £150?
The DeWalt DWE398 has the highest power output at 1,350W, making it very capable for heavy-duty cutting tasks.
Is the Makita DJR186Z a good buy?
Yes, it is widely considered the best cordless option under £150 due to its excellent build quality, smooth operation, and compatibility with the Makita LXT system.
What is the lightest reciprocating saw under £150?
The Ryobi RRS1801M is one of the lightest cordless options, weighing around 3.5 kg with a battery, making it easy to handle.
Can I use a reciprocating saw for pruning trees?
Yes, with a wood pruning blade, a reciprocating saw is very effective for cutting branches and small trees.
How long do reciprocating saw blades last?
Blade life depends on the material being cut and the blade quality. A good bi-metal blade can last through many cuts in wood and metal.
Is the Einhell TC-RS 25 E good for DIY?
Yes, it is an excellent budget option for light DIY tasks like cutting wood and plastic, offering good value for occasional use.
Our verdict
For the best all-round performance under £150, the Makita DJR186Z is our top pick for its balance of power, build quality, and battery system. If you need maximum power for heavy demolition and have access to mains power, the Bosch GSA 1300 PC is the best corded option. For budget-conscious DIYers, the Ryobi RRS1801M offers great value.