Best Ryobi Jigsaw of 2026

The Ryobi P5231 is the flagship cordless jigsaw in the ONE+ range. Its brushless motor delivers more cutting speed and up to 50% more runtime compared to brushed models, making it ideal for cutting hardwood, plywood, and even thin metal. Owner reviews consistently praise its smooth operation and the convenience of the tool-free blade clamp, which allows for quick swaps without any tools.

The four orbital settings give you control over the aggressiveness of the cut, from straight lines to faster curves. The built-in LED light improves visibility, and the dust blower keeps the cut line clear. While it is a bit heavier than the compact P518, the extra power and battery efficiency make it the best choice for anyone who already owns Ryobi ONE+ batteries.

The Ryobi RJ165VK is a straightforward, no-frills corded jigsaw that delivers consistent power for DIY projects. With a 6.5-amp motor and a 1-inch stroke, it cuts through 2x4 lumber and plywood without bogging down. The tool-free blade clamp is a welcome feature at this price, making blade swaps fast and easy.

Owner reviews highlight its solid build and reliable performance, though some note the lack of a variable speed dial means you control speed only with the trigger. It has three orbital settings for different cut types. If you don't mind a cord and want to save money, this is a dependable workhorse that won't let you down.

The Ryobi P5230 is the brushed version of the P5231, offering a more budget-friendly way to get a cordless jigsaw in the ONE+ system. It shares the same 1-inch stroke and four orbital settings, making it capable for most DIY tasks like cutting plywood, particleboard, and softwood. The tool-free blade clamp is identical to the premium model.

Owner feedback indicates it performs well for light to medium duty work, but the brushed motor drains batteries faster and lacks the raw power of the brushless version for thick hardwood cuts. It is a solid choice if you are on a tight budget and already have Ryobi batteries, but the P5231 is worth the extra cost for frequent use.

The Ryobi RJ162VK improves on the RJ165VK by adding a variable speed dial, which lets you set a maximum speed before pulling the trigger. This is very useful for cutting materials like metal or plastic where a slower, controlled speed prevents blade damage and rough edges. It still has a 6.5-amp motor and three orbital settings.

Owner reviews appreciate the dial for precision cuts, especially in laminate and thin metals. Like the RJ165VK, it uses a tool-free blade clamp. The main downside is the lack of an LED light, which can make cutting in dim conditions harder. For users who need speed control, this is the best corded Ryobi jigsaw.

The Ryobi P518 is the most compact and lightweight cordless jigsaw in the ONE+ range, weighing just 4.2 pounds with a battery. Its smaller size makes it ideal for overhead work, cutting in awkward positions, or for users who prefer a less bulky tool. It still features a tool-free blade clamp and works with all Ryobi ONE+ batteries.

However, the 3/4-inch stroke length and brushed motor mean it cuts slower than the P5230 or P5231, especially in thicker materials. It has only two orbital settings. Owner reviews note it is great for light trim work and plywood, but not for heavy hardwood cutting. It is a niche tool best suited for portability and light tasks.