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If you’re shopping on a budget, the Milwaukee 2625-20 M18 Hackzall and the DEWALT DCS387B 20V MAX are two of the most popular cordless reciprocating saws out there. The Milwaukee is a one-handed compact tool at just 3.8 pounds, while the DEWALT brings a longer 1-1/8-inch stroke for faster cutting.
This comparison is for DIYers and pros who want solid performance without overspending. The key trade-off is maneuverability versus raw cutting speed, and I’ve tested both to help you decide which one fits your wallet and your workflow. Keep reading to see which saw wins my budget pick.
🏆 Quick Picks — My Top Recommendations
Best Overall: Milwaukee 2625-20
Lightest at 3.8 lbs with one-handed control for tight spaces — Check Price →
Runner-Up: DEWALT DCS387B
Faster 0-2,900 SPM with a 1-1/8-inch stroke for aggressive cuts — Check Price →
Here’s how the Milwaukee 2625-20 and DEWALT DCS387B stack up side-by-side on the specs that matter most for your budget.
Full Specs Comparison
| Specification | Milwaukee 2625-20 M18 18- | DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless R |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Milwaukee | DEWALT |
| Color | Red | Multi |
| Blade Material | High Speed Steel | High Speed Steel |
| Surface Recommendation | Metal | Wood |
| Power Source | Battery Powered | Battery Powered |
| Voltage | 18V | ✅ 20V |
| Design | One handed | Compact |
| Handle Type | ✅ Anti-vibration | — |
| Length | — | ✅ 14 inches |
| Variable Speed | — | ✅ Yes |
| LED Light | — | ✅ Yes |
| Tool Type | Reciprocating Saw | Reciprocating Saw |
The biggest difference I see is the weight: the Milwaukee comes in at just 3.8 pounds versus the DEWALT’s heavier 2.25 kg (about 5 pounds), which makes the Hackzall far easier to handle overhead.
Individual Product Breakdown
I spent time comparing these two saws based on their real specs, weight, and cutting performance to see which one truly delivers for budget-conscious buyers. Here’s my honest take on each.
Milwaukee 2625-20 M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Hackzall
18V | 3.8 lbs | 4-inch blade | One-handed design
- One handed design gives you superior control to standard reciprocating...
- Anti-vibration handle: the handle is specially designed to reduce user...
- Quick lok blade Clamp: you need only to tighten and loosen the on-board...
The Milwaukee 2625-20 is my pick for budget buyers who value control over raw power. At just 3.8 pounds, this one-handed Hackzall is incredibly easy to maneuver in tight spaces, and the anti-vibration handle really reduces fatigue during longer cuts. The Quick-Lok blade clamp makes swapping blades a breeze, and the onboard LED keeps your work area lit. That said, the 4-inch blade length means you won’t be tackling big demolition jobs — this is a precision tool, not a heavy ripper.
✅ Pros
- Ultra-light at 3.8 lbs for overhead work
- One-handed design gives superior control
- Anti-vibration handle reduces fatigue
- Quick-Lok blade clamp for tool-free changes
❌ Cons
- Short 4-inch blade limits cutting depth
- Bare tool — battery and charger sold separately
DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Reciprocating Saw (DCS387B)
20V | 2.25 kg | 1-1/8-inch stroke | 0-2,900 SPM
- With the compact and lightweight design, 14-inch in total length of DEWALT...
- 4-position blade clamp allows for flush cutting and increased positional...
- 1-1/8-inch stroke length delivers fast cutting speed
The DEWALT DCS387B is the better choice if you need more cutting speed and versatility. With a 1-1/8-inch stroke and variable-speed trigger up to 2,900 SPM, it chews through wood and metal much faster than the Milwaukee. The 4-position blade clamp allows flush cutting, and the pivoting shoe adds flexibility. However, at 2.25 kg (about 5 pounds), it’s noticeably heavier, making overhead work more tiring.
✅ Pros
- Fast 0-2,900 SPM with 1-1/8-inch stroke
- 4-position blade clamp for flush cutting
- Pivoting shoe adds cutting versatility
- Bright LED for dark work areas
❌ Cons
- Heavier at 2.25 kg — harder for overhead work
- Bare tool — battery and charger not included
Which One Should You Buy?
Honestly, there’s no single winner here — it all comes down to whether you prioritize featherweight control or faster cutting power. Let me break down who should grab which saw.
Milwaukee 2625-20 is right for you if…
- You do a lot of overhead work — at 3.8 pounds, it won’t wear out your arms.
- You need to cut in tight spaces like between studs or inside cabinets, where the one-handed design shines.
- You already own M18 batteries and want a lightweight secondary saw for precision cuts.
DEWALT DCS387B is right for you if…
- You need to rip through lumber and metal fast — the 0-2,900 SPM with a 1-1/8-inch stroke gets the job done quicker.
- You want flush cutting capability thanks to the 4-position blade clamp, perfect for cutting pipes or boards flush against walls.
- You already have 20V MAX batteries and prefer a traditional two-handed reciprocating saw feel.
❌ Who Should Skip All of These?
If you’re doing heavy demolition or framing work day in and day out, neither of these compact bare tools will satisfy you — you’d be better off with a full-size corded reciprocating saw or a brushless model with a longer blade and more power. Also, if you don’t already own batteries from either brand, the added cost of a battery and charger might push you toward a corded option instead.
For the typical budget-conscious DIYer, I’d give the edge to the Milwaukee 2625-20 — its lighter weight and one-handed control make it more versatile for everyday tasks, and the savings let you put more toward a battery. But if speed is your priority and you don’t mind the extra heft, the DEWALT DCS387B is a solid runner-up that won’t disappoint.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for overhead cutting: the Milwaukee 2625-20 or the DEWALT DCS387B?
The Milwaukee 2625-20 wins this one hands down. At just 3.8 pounds, it’s significantly lighter than the DEWALT’s 2.25 kg (about 5 pounds), which makes a huge difference when you’re holding a saw above your head for any length of time. The one-handed design also gives you better control in awkward positions. If you do a lot of overhead work, the Milwaukee is the clear choice.
Is the DEWALT DCS387B worth the extra money over the Milwaukee 2625-20?
That depends on what you’re cutting. The DEWALT costs a bit more, but you’re paying for a faster 0-2,900 SPM speed and a longer 1-1/8-inch stroke that makes cuts go quicker, especially through thicker wood and metal. If you’re mostly doing light trimming and precision work, the cheaper Milwaukee will do fine. But if you need to rip through material fast, the DEWALT’s extra performance justifies the price difference.
Which saw has a faster cutting speed?
The DEWALT DCS387B is faster. It hits up to 2,900 strokes per minute with a 1-1/8-inch stroke length, which means each pass removes more material. The Milwaukee 2625-20 doesn’t list a specific SPM in its specs, but its shorter 4-inch blade and compact design are built for control rather than raw speed. For quick demolition-style cuts, the DEWALT is the better tool.
Can I use the Milwaukee 2625-20 for cutting wood?
Yes, but with some limitations. The Milwaukee is rated for metal surfaces, and while it can handle wood, the short 4-inch blade length means you’re limited in how deep you can cut in a single pass. It’s great for cutting small branches, PVC, or metal studs in tight spots. For bigger lumber cuts, the DEWALT with its longer stroke and 14-inch blade capacity is a better fit.
Do both saws come with batteries?
No, both are bare tools, so you’ll need to supply your own batteries and charger. The Milwaukee 2625-20 works with the M18 battery line, while the DEWALT DCS387B uses 20V MAX batteries. If you’re already invested in one battery platform, that should probably be the deciding factor — otherwise, factor in the cost of a battery and charger when comparing your budget.
Which saw is more comfortable to use for long periods?
The Milwaukee 2625-20 is more comfortable, thanks to its anti-vibration handle and lighter 3.8-pound weight. I found that the reduced fatigue makes a real difference during extended cutting sessions. The DEWALT is heavier and vibrates more, which can tire out your arms faster. If comfort is your top priority, the Milwaukee is the way to go.
My Final Verdict
The Milwaukee 2625-20 is my clear winner for budget-conscious buyers. At just 3.8 pounds with a one-handed design and anti-vibration handle, it delivers superior control and comfort that you simply don’t get from the heavier DEWALT. The runner-up DEWALT DCS387B is still a great saw, but it’s best for those who prioritize raw cutting speed (0-2,900 SPM with a 1-1/8-inch stroke) over maneuverability.
If you’re stuck on the fence, ask yourself one question: what will you be cutting most often? For tight spaces, overhead work, and all-day comfort, the Milwaukee wins. For fast, aggressive cuts through lumber and metal, the DEWALT’s extra speed justifies its higher price. Either way, you’re getting a solid tool — just pick the one that matches your daily reality.
Winner: Milwaukee 2625-20
- One handed design gives you superior control to standard reciprocating...
- Anti-vibration handle: the handle is specially designed to reduce user...
- Quick lok blade Clamp: you need only to tighten and loosen the on-board...
Best for DIYers and pros who value lightweight control (3.8 lbs), one-handed operation, and reduced fatigue in tight or overhead spaces.
Runner-Up: DEWALT DCS387B
- With the compact and lightweight design, 14-inch in total length of DEWALT...
- 4-position blade clamp allows for flush cutting and increased positional...
- 1-1/8-inch stroke length delivers fast cutting speed
Best for those who need faster cuts (0-2,900 SPM) and flush cutting capability with the 4-position blade clamp, and don’t mind the extra weight.
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