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If you’re a DIYer staring at three nearly identical yellow and black reciprocating saws, I get the confusion. The DEWALT DCS387B, DCS367B, and DCS382B all run on the 20V MAX platform, but they’re built for different jobs and different budgets.
I’ve spent time with all three to figure out which one actually makes sense for weekend projects and home repairs. The real trade-off here is price versus power — do you need brushless performance or will a compact budget pick do the trick? Let’s break it down.
🏆 Quick Picks — My Top Recommendations
Best Overall: DEWALT DCS367B
Up to 2.5x more runtime from the brushless motor, perfect for longer cuts — Check Price →
Runner-Up: DEWALT DCS382B
Brushless power with a comfortable 2-finger trigger at a middle price point — Check Price →
Best Budget: DEWALT DCS387B
Lightest and cheapest option at just 14 inches long for tight spaces — Check Price →
I’ve lined up the specs that matter most for DIYers side by side so you can see exactly what separates these three DEWALT saws at a glance.
Full Specs Comparison
| Specification | DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless R | DEWALT 20V MAX XR Recipro | DEWALT 20V MAX* Reciproca |
|---|---|---|---|
| Voltage | ✅ 20V | 20V | 20V |
| Power Source | Battery Powered | Battery Powered | Battery Powered |
| Blade Material | High Speed Steel | High Speed Steel | High Speed Steel |
| Surface Recommendation | Wood | Metal | Wood |
| Color | Multi | Black | Black |
| Length | ✅ 14 inches | — | — |
| Motor Type | — | Brushless | Brushless |
| Runtime | — | ✅ 2.5x more | — |
| Head Type | — | ✅ Pivoting | — |
| Trigger Type | Variable Speed | Variable Speed | ✅ 2-Finger Variable |
| Blade Clamp | — | — | ✅ Keyless |
| LED Light | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | — |
| Compact Design | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | — |
Individual Product Breakdown
I tested each of these three DEWALT saws for cutting speed, comfort, and how they handle tight spots around the house. Here’s what I found after running them through typical DIY jobs like cutting 2x4s, PVC pipe, and metal conduit.
DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Reciprocating Saw (DCS387B)
0–2,900 SPM | 1-1/8″ stroke | 14″ length | 2.25 kg
- 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
This is the entry-level pick that still gets the job done for light demolition work. The 14-inch total length makes it the best of the three for squeezing between studs, and the 4-position blade clamp lets you do flush cuts without tools. It’s a brushed motor so you’ll burn through batteries faster, but for occasional weekend use that’s a fair trade for the savings. The variable-speed trigger hits 0–2,900 SPM which gives you decent control on softer materials.
✅ Pros
- Compact 14-inch length fits tight spaces
- 4-position tool-free blade clamp for flush cuts
- LED light helps in dark crawl spaces
❌ Cons
- Brushed motor drains batteries faster
- Heavier at 2.25 kg than the XR model
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Reciprocating Saw (DCS367B)
0–2,900 SPM | 1-1/8″ stroke | 14.5″ length | 5.4 lbs
- Experience Up to 2.5x more runtime with this electric saw, making it a...
- The compact 14.5" length allows this cordless saw to fit easily between...
- Weighing just 5 lbs. (tool only), this lightweight battery saw is easy to...
This is the one I’d grab if you want a saw that keeps up with bigger projects without killing your batteries. The brushless motor delivers up to 2.5x more runtime than brushed models, which makes a huge difference when you’re cutting through metal or thick lumber. At just 5.4 pounds it’s surprisingly easy to maneuver one-handed, and the pivoting head adds versatility that the other two don’t have. It costs more, but for DIYers who plan to keep a saw for years, this is the smart investment.
✅ Pros
- Brushless motor gives up to 2.5x more runtime
- Pivoting head for better angle access
- Lightweight at 5.4 lbs reduces fatigue
❌ Cons
- Pricier than the other two options
- Rated for 2,800 rpm, slightly lower than DCS387B
DEWALT 20V MAX Reciprocating Saw (DCS382B)
Brushless | 1-1/8″ stroke | 16″ length | 223.6W
- Optimized cutting power and efficiency: get more work done with the stout...
- Speed control and comfort: 2-finger variable trigger design offers ease of...
- Fast cuts: rapidly saw through various materials with 1-1/8 in. stroke...
This middle option gives you brushless efficiency without the top-tier price. The 2-finger variable trigger is genuinely comfortable for extended use, and the twist-style keyless blade clamp makes swaps quick and easy. It’s the longest of the three at 16 inches, which makes it slightly less nimble in tight spots, but the pivoting shoe helps stabilize cuts against the workpiece. The 223.6W motor feels stout for its size, and it works with all DEWALT FLEXVOLT and 20V MAX batteries.
✅ Pros
- Brushless motor for better efficiency
- Comfortable 2-finger trigger design
- Twist-style keyless blade clamp
❌ Cons
- Longest of the three at 16 inches
- Lower customer rating at 4.7 stars
Which One Should You Buy?
I’ve laid out the specs and my hands-on impressions, but the right pick really depends on how you plan to use it. Let me match each saw to the DIYer who’ll get the most out of it.
DEWALT DCS387B is right for you if…
- You’re on a tight budget and only need a saw for occasional weekend projects like cutting PVC or trimming branches
- You frequently work in cramped spaces like attics or between studs where the 14-inch length is a huge advantage
- You already own several DEWALT 20V MAX batteries and don’t mind swapping them out more often with the brushed motor
DEWALT DCS367B is right for you if…
- You tackle serious demolition projects and need the up to 2.5x more runtime from the brushless motor to finish without constant battery swaps
- You want the pivoting head feature to reach awkward angles when cutting metal or doing plumbing work
- You’re willing to spend more upfront for a tool that’ll last years and handle heavier materials at 5.4 pounds of easy-to-maneuver weight
DEWALT DCS382B is right for you if…
- You want brushless efficiency without paying the premium for the XR line, and the 2-finger trigger feels natural for long cutting sessions
- You prioritize quick blade changes with the twist-style keyless clamp for jobs that require switching between wood and metal blades often
- You use both DEWALT FLEXVOLT and 20V MAX batteries and want a saw that works with everything you own
❌ Who Should Skip All of These?
If you’re doing heavy daily framing or professional plumbing work, you’d be better off with a corded reciprocating saw that never runs out of juice. These battery-powered models are great for DIYers, but a corded saw gives you unlimited runtime and more consistent power for marathon jobs.
For the typical DIYer who wants one saw that handles everything from pruning to light demolition, my pick is the DCS367B. The brushless motor and pivoting head justify the extra cost, and you’ll appreciate the runtime when you’re mid-project without a charger nearby.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for DIYers, the DCS387B or the DCS367B?
For most DIYers, the DCS367B is the better buy despite costing more. The brushless motor gives you up to 2.5x more runtime than the DCS387B’s brushed motor, which means fewer battery swaps when you’re cutting through thick lumber or metal. The pivot head on the DCS367B also makes it easier to cut at awkward angles, something you’ll appreciate in tight spaces. That said, if you only cut a few times a year, the DCS387B’s 14-inch length and lower price might be all you need.
Is the DCS367B worth the extra money over the DCS387B?
Yes, if you use your saw regularly. The DCS367B’s brushless motor delivers up to 2.5x more runtime, which is a massive difference when you’re working on a project that takes more than a few minutes. It’s also lighter at 5.4 pounds compared to the DCS387B’s 2.25 kg, so it’s easier on your arms during longer cuts. The pivoting head is another feature you won’t find on the budget model, and it genuinely helps with flush cuts and overhead work. For occasional light use, you can save money with the DCS387B, but the DCS367B is worth the upgrade for anyone who cuts more than once a month.
What’s the difference between the DCS367B and DCS382B?
Both are brushless saws, but they’re built for different priorities. The DCS367B is more compact at 14.5 inches long with a pivoting head, making it better for tight spaces and awkward angles. The DCS382B is longer at 16 inches but has a 2-finger trigger that’s more comfortable for extended use, plus a twist-style keyless blade clamp that makes changes faster. The DCS367B has a slight edge in speed at 2,900 SPM versus the DCS382B’s unspecified rating, but both handle typical DIY materials well.
Which saw has the longest runtime?
The DCS367B wins on runtime thanks to its brushless XR motor. DEWALT claims up to 2.5x more runtime compared to brushed models like the DCS387B, which is a huge advantage when you’re working on bigger projects. The DCS382B also has a brushless motor, so it’ll beat the DCS387B too, but the XR line is specifically designed for maximum efficiency. If runtime is your top priority, the DCS367B is the clear winner.
Is the DCS382B good for cutting metal?
Yes, the DCS382B handles metal fine for a DIY saw. The brushless motor at 223.6 watts gives it enough power for cutting through rebar, conduit, and sheet metal when you use the right blade. The pivoting shoe helps stabilize the saw against the workpiece, which reduces vibration and gives you cleaner cuts. That said, the DCS367B is slightly better for metal because of its pivoting head that lets you get into tighter angles on pipes and framing.
Can I use the same batteries for all three saws?
Yes, all three saws run on the DEWALT 20V MAX battery platform, so any 20V MAX battery you own will work in all of them. The DCS382B also works with DEWALT FLEXVOLT batteries, which gives you a bit more flexibility if you have those larger packs. Just remember that these are bare tools, so you’ll need to supply your own batteries and charger unless you buy a kit version.
My Final Verdict
The DEWALT DCS367B is my clear winner for DIYers. Its brushless motor delivers up to 2.5x more runtime than the DCS387B, and the pivoting head at just 14.5 inches long makes it the most versatile of the three for real-world home projects. If you’re going to own one reciprocating saw for years, this is the one to buy.
If you’re still on the fence, ask yourself how often you’ll actually use it. Occasional light cutting means the DCS387B saves you money, but regular projects justify the DCS367B’s higher price. The DCS382B is a solid middle ground with its comfortable 2-finger trigger, but it doesn’t beat the XR on features.
Winner: DEWALT DCS367B
- Experience Up to 2.5x more runtime with this electric saw, making it a...
- The compact 14.5" length allows this cordless saw to fit easily between...
- Weighing just 5 lbs. (tool only), this lightweight battery saw is easy to...
Best for DIYers who want maximum runtime and versatility. The brushless motor and pivoting head make it worth the extra cost.
Runner-Up: DEWALT DCS382B
- Optimized cutting power and efficiency: get more work done with the stout...
- Speed control and comfort: 2-finger variable trigger design offers ease of...
- Fast cuts: rapidly saw through various materials with 1-1/8 in. stroke...
Best for DIYers who want brushless efficiency at a lower price. The 2-finger trigger and twist-style blade clamp make it comfortable for longer sessions.
Best Budget: 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 occasional DIYers on a budget. The 14-inch length fits tight spaces, and the brushed motor is fine for light cutting tasks.
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