Best Reciprocating Saw Under £50
Getting a reliable reciprocating saw for demolition, pruning, or plumbing cuts doesn't have to break the bank. We've analysed specs, owner reviews, and brand reliability to find the best reciprocating saw under £50 that delivers real value without dangerous compromises.
Quick answer
For the best balance of power, stroke length, and build quality under £50, the Bosch AdvancedRecip 18V (bare tool) and the Draper Storm Force 900W corded model are the top picks. The Bosch offers superior ergonomics and blade change, while the Draper provides raw mains-powered cutting force for heavy tasks.
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- Tested on specs (power, torque, PSI)
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- Aggregated owner reviews
- Build quality & warranty checked
- Brand reliability
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Research updated June 2026.
Bosch AdvancedRecip 18V (Bare Tool)
Best cordless option for DIYers already in the Bosch 18V system.
| Product | Best For | Key Spec | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch AdvancedRecip 18V | Best Overall Cordless | 28mm stroke, SDS blade change | 4.5/5 | Under £50 (bare) |
| Draper Storm Force 900W | Best Corded Power | 900W motor, 30mm stroke | 4.3/5 | Under £50 |
| Ryobi RRS1801-M | Best for Ryobi Users | One+ platform, 28mm stroke | 4.2/5 | Under £50 (bare) |
| Stanley STHT20542-0 | Best Budget Corded | 800W motor, keyless blade clamp | 4.0/5 | Under £50 |
| Einhell TC-RS 25 E | Best Value Corded | 750W, variable speed, 25mm stroke | 4.1/5 | Under £50 |
Bosch AdvancedRecip 18V
Best Overall CordlessPros
- SDS tool-free blade change works fast
- Variable speed trigger for control
- Lightweight and well balanced
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Not suitable for heavy daily pro use
The Bosch AdvancedRecip 18V is the smartest cordless choice under £50 for anyone who already owns Bosch 18V batteries. Its 28-millimetre stroke length is standard for the price range, and the 0-3000 strokes-per-minute variable speed trigger gives you the control needed for cutting wood, metal, and plastic. The SDS blade change system is genuinely tool-free and reliable, a feature usually found on more expensive models.
Owner reviews consistently praise its low vibration and comfortable grip, making it easier to use for longer cuts than cheaper alternatives. The main limitation is that this is a bare tool, so you need to factor in the cost of a battery and charger if you are not already in the Bosch system. For occasional DIY demolition or pruning, it is a very capable performer.
Draper Storm Force 900W
Best Corded PowerPros
- 30mm stroke cuts faster through thicker material
- 900W motor provides consistent power
- Keyless blade clamp is simple to use
Cons
- Heavier than cordless rivals
- Limited by mains cable reach
The Draper Storm Force 900W is the best corded reciprocating saw under £50 for those who need raw cutting power without worrying about battery life. Its 900-watt motor and 30-millimetre stroke length give it an edge over most competitors in this price bracket, allowing it to cut through timber, PVC, and even thin metal more aggressively. The keyless blade clamp is straightforward and holds blades securely.
Owner feedback highlights its solid build and reliable performance for tasks like pruning branches and cutting old fencing. The main trade-off is weight: at 4.2 kilograms, it is noticeably heavier than cordless options, which can cause fatigue during overhead work. It is a straightforward, no-frills tool that delivers dependable mains-powered cutting for the budget-conscious DIYer.
Ryobi RRS1801-M
Best for Ryobi UsersPros
- Compatible with huge Ryobi One+ battery range
- Tool-free blade change is fast
- Rubber grip reduces vibration
Cons
- Plastic housing feels less durable
- Battery and charger not included
The Ryobi RRS1801-M is the obvious choice for anyone invested in the Ryobi One+ 18V battery system. It offers a 28-millimetre stroke and variable speed up to 3000 strokes per minute, which is perfectly adequate for cutting timber, plastic pipes, and branches. The tool-free blade clamp works well, and the rubberised grip helps dampen vibration during use.
Owner reviews note that it performs well for light to medium DIY tasks but lacks the raw power of a corded model for heavy demolition. The plastic housing is functional but does not inspire the same confidence as Bosch or Draper builds. As a bare tool, it is excellent value for existing Ryobi users expanding their collection.
Stanley STHT20542-0
Best Budget CordedPros
- Very affordable price point
- Keyless blade clamp for quick swaps
- Decent 800W motor for the price
Cons
- Short 20mm stroke limits cutting speed
- Higher vibration levels reported
The Stanley STHT20542-0 is the most budget-friendly corded reciprocating saw under £50, making it a viable option for very occasional use. Its 800-watt motor provides enough power for cutting softwood, plasterboard, and thin metal, while the keyless blade clamp allows for quick changes without tools. The variable speed trigger gives some control over the cut.
The main compromise is the 20-millimetre stroke length, which is shorter than the competition and means cuts take longer, especially in thicker materials. Owner reviews also note that vibration is more noticeable than on pricier models. It is a functional entry-level tool for the absolute minimum spend, but it is worth stretching to the Draper for more demanding work.
Einhell TC-RS 25 E
Best Value CordedPros
- 25mm stroke is a good middle ground
- Variable speed with dial for presets
- Includes a carrying case
Cons
- 750W motor is less powerful than Draper
- Build quality feels budget
The Einhell TC-RS 25 E offers a strong balance of features and price, making it a great value corded reciprocating saw under £50. It has a 25-millimetre stroke length and a variable speed trigger with an additional dial for setting a maximum speed, which is useful for matching the cut to the material. The 750-watt motor handles most DIY tasks competently, and the included carrying case is a nice bonus.
Owner reviews appreciate the included case and the tool's overall performance for the money, particularly for pruning and cutting timber. The motor is not as powerful as the Draper's 900W unit, so it can struggle with thicker or denser materials. It is a well-rounded, affordable corded option that offers good value for the features provided.
What to check before buying a reciprocating saw under £50
Stroke length is the most important spec in this price range. A longer stroke (28-30mm) cuts faster and more efficiently than a shorter one (20mm). Power source is the next big decision: corded models give unlimited runtime and more torque, while cordless offers portability but requires an existing battery system. Blade change systems should be tool-free; avoid hex-key systems that slow you down. Finally, check the variable speed trigger is present, as it gives you control over the cut speed for different materials.
Mistakes to avoid
Do not buy a bare cordless tool if you do not already own compatible batteries and a charger, as the total cost will exceed £50. Avoid models with a stroke length under 22mm, as they will be frustratingly slow for any cutting task. Do not ignore vibration ratings; cheaper saws with poor vibration control will cause fatigue and reduce cut accuracy. Finally, do not assume a higher wattage rating always means better performance; look at stroke length and build quality as well.
Is a corded or cordless reciprocating saw better under £50?
For the budget of under £50, a corded reciprocating saw typically offers more raw power and a longer stroke length than a cordless model. Cordless options in this price range are almost always sold as bare tools, meaning you need existing batteries. If you already own batteries from Bosch or Ryobi, a cordless saw is a convenient and capable choice. If you are starting from scratch, a corded saw like the Draper or Einhell will give you more cutting performance for your money.
Can a cheap reciprocating saw handle demolition work?
A reciprocating saw under £50 can handle light demolition work such as cutting through timber studs, plasterboard, and plastic pipes. However, it will struggle with heavy tasks like cutting through thick steel beams, masonry, or large tree trunks. The motors and gearboxes in this price range are not designed for sustained heavy use. For occasional DIY demolition, the Draper 900W is the best option. For professional daily demolition, you would need to spend significantly more on a higher-end model.
What blades should I use with a budget reciprocating saw?
Using the correct blade is critical for performance. For cutting wood with nails, use a bi-metal blade with a coarse tooth pitch (6-10 TPI). For cutting metal pipes or sheets, use a bi-metal blade with a fine tooth pitch (14-24 TPI). For pruning green wood, use a specialised pruning blade with widely spaced, aggressive teeth. Most budget saws use a universal 1/2-inch shank, so blades are widely available and interchangeable between brands.
FAQs
What is the best reciprocating saw under £50 for cutting wood?
The Draper Storm Force 900W is the best for cutting wood due to its 30mm stroke and powerful 900W motor.
Can I get a good cordless reciprocating saw for under £50?
Yes, but only as a bare tool. The Bosch AdvancedRecip 18V is the best cordless option if you already have Bosch 18V batteries.
Is a 20mm stroke length enough for a reciprocating saw?
A 20mm stroke is functional for light cutting but is slow and inefficient for thicker materials. Aim for 25mm or more.
What is the most powerful reciprocating saw under £50?
The Draper Storm Force 900W has the highest wattage motor and the longest stroke in this price bracket.
Are cheap reciprocating saws safe to use?
Yes, from reputable brands like Bosch, Draper, and Ryobi. Always wear safety glasses and gloves, and ensure the blade is properly locked.
Do I need a variable speed trigger?
Yes, variable speed gives you control to start cuts slowly and match the speed to the material, improving accuracy and safety.
Can I use a reciprocating saw for pruning trees?
Yes, with a pruning blade. The Draper and Einhell corded models are popular for this task due to their consistent power.
What is the warranty on these budget reciprocating saws?
Most offer a 1-2 year warranty. Bosch and Ryobi typically provide a 2-year warranty, while Draper offers a 1-year warranty.
Is the Ryobi RRS1801-M compatible with all Ryobi One+ batteries?
Yes, it is fully compatible with all Ryobi One+ 18V batteries, including older and newer models.
Should I buy a corded or cordless reciprocating saw for DIY?
If you have existing batteries, cordless is convenient. If not, a corded saw gives more power and better value under £50.
Our verdict
For the best overall reciprocating saw under £50, the Bosch AdvancedRecip 18V is our top pick for cordless users already in the Bosch ecosystem, offering excellent ergonomics and a reliable SDS blade change. For the best corded power and value, the Draper Storm Force 900W wins with its 30mm stroke and strong motor, making it the best choice for heavy DIY tasks. If you are on the tightest budget, the Einhell TC-RS 25 E offers the best feature set for the lowest price.