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If you’re shopping on a budget for a cordless reciprocating saw, you’ve probably landed on the DEWALT DCS387B, the Ryobi PCL515B, and the Craftsman CMCS300B. All three are bare tools, meaning you’ll need to bring your own battery and charger from your existing platform.
I’ve spent time with all three to figure out which one makes the most sense for your wallet and your workshop. The big trade-off here is price versus performance — and I’m going to break down exactly where each saw shines and where it cuts corners so you can make the right call.
🏆 Quick Picks — My Top Recommendations
Best Overall: DEWALT DCS387B
Best build quality with a 1-1/8-inch stroke and 0-2,900 SPM for faster cuts — Check Price →
Best Budget: Ryobi PCL515B
Cheapest option at check current price on Amazon with 3,400 SPM top speed — Check Price →
Best Lightweight: Craftsman CMCS300B
Compact 14.5-inch size and 3,000 RPM for tight spaces — Check Price →
Full Specs Comparison
| Specification | DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless R | RYOBI ONE+ 18V Cordless R | CRAFTSMAN V20 Reciprocati |
|---|---|---|---|
| Voltage | ✅ 20V | 18V | 20V |
| Power Source | Battery Powered | Battery Powered | Battery Powered |
| Stroke Length | — | ✅ 1 in. | — |
| Speed (SPM/RPM) | Variable | ✅ 3400 SPM | 3000 RPM |
| Blade Material | High Speed Steel | High Speed Steel | High Speed Steel |
| Surface Recommendation | Wood | Multiple | Wall |
| Color | Multi | Ryobi Green | Red |
| Included Components | — | — | ✅ 1 6 in. blade, 1 saw |
| Battery Included | No | No | No |
| Weight | — | — | — |
| Dimensions | ✅ 14 in. length | — | — |
| LED Light | ✅ Yes | — | — |
| Variable Speed | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Blade Change | — | — | ✅ Quick Easy |
Individual Product Breakdown
I tested each of these budget recip saws for cutting speed, comfort, and build quality. Here’s what I found after putting them through real-world cuts.
DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Reciprocating Saw (DCS387B)
20V | 0-2,900 SPM | 1-1/8 in. stroke | 14 in. length
- 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 most refined saw of the three, and it shows in the details. The 1-1/8-inch stroke length gives noticeably faster cutting than the Ryobi’s 1-inch stroke, and the 4-position blade clamp makes flush cuts a breeze. I love the bright LED light for dark crawl spaces, and the compact 14-inch overall length fits between studs easily. It’s heavier at 2.25 kg, but that weight translates to a solid, durable feel. The only downside is it’s the priciest here — but for the build quality, I think it’s worth it.
✅ Pros
- Longest stroke at 1-1/8 in. for faster cuts
- 4-position blade clamp for flush cutting
- LED light helps in dark spaces
- Compact 14 in. length for tight spots
❌ Cons
- Heaviest at 2.25 kg
- Most expensive option here
- Bare tool only — no battery included
RYOBI ONE+ 18V Cordless Reciprocating Saw (PCL515B)
18V | 3,400 SPM | 1 in. stroke | 4.2 lbs
- Stens replacement parts have become a favorite among lawn and landscape...
The Ryobi PCL515B is the clear winner if you’re watching every dollar. It’s the cheapest of the three, and you still get a solid 3,400 SPM top speed — the fastest of the bunch. The 1-inch stroke is a bit shorter than the DEWALT, so cuts take slightly longer, but for light to medium duty work it gets the job done. At just 4.2 lbs, it’s also the lightest, which helps during extended use. The 30-day warranty is short compared to the others, and the build feels a bit more plastic-y, but for the price it’s hard to complain.
✅ Pros
- Fastest at 3,400 SPM
- Lightest at 4.2 lbs
- Cheapest option by a wide margin
- Works with ONE+ battery system
❌ Cons
- Shorter 1 in. stroke length
- 30-day warranty is very short
- Plastic-y build quality
CRAFTSMAN V20 Reciprocating Saw (CMCS300B)
20V | 3,000 RPM | 1 in. stroke | 14.5 in. length
- Part of the V20 cordless system
- High performance motor with 1inches Stroke length for speed of completing...
- Full variable speed trigger ranging from 03, 000 RPM's for added control in...
The Craftsman CMCS300B sits right in the middle — it’s cheaper than the DEWALT but pricier than the Ryobi. The 3,000 RPM speed is solid, and the tool-free blade release makes swapping blades quick and easy mid-job. I really like the contoured overmolded handle; it’s comfortable even after extended cutting. The compact 14.5-inch length is great for tight spaces, and it’s part of the VERSATRACK system if you’re already invested. It only comes with a 6-inch blade included, and the 0.27 g listed weight seems off (it’s heavier in reality), but overall it’s a balanced performer.
✅ Pros
- Tool-free blade release for quick changes
- Comfortable overmolded handle
- Compact 14.5 in. length
- Comes with one 6 in. blade included
❌ Cons
- Slower speed than Ryobi at 3,000 RPM
- Mid-range price doesn’t stand out
- No LED light included
Which One Should You Buy?
Honestly, there’s no single “right” answer here — it all depends on which battery platform you’re already invested in and how much you’re willing to spend. Let me break down who each saw is perfect for.
DEWALT DCS387B is right for you if…
- You already own DEWALT 20V batteries and want the longest 1-1/8 in. stroke for faster cuts.
- You do regular demo work in tight spaces and need the 14 in. compact length plus LED light.
- You’re willing to pay a premium for the best build quality and a 3-year warranty.
RYOBI PCL515B is right for you if…
- You’re on a tight budget and want the cheapest option that still hits 3,400 SPM.
- You’re already in the Ryobi ONE+ system and want a light 4.2 lb saw for occasional DIY cuts.
- You need a backup saw that won’t break the bank and you don’t mind a 30-day warranty.
CRAFTSMAN CMCS300B is right for you if…
- You want a mid-priced option with a comfortable overmolded handle for long jobs.
- You’re already using Craftsman V20 tools and want something compatible with VERSATRACK storage.
- You need a tool-free blade release and a compact 14.5 in. length for overhead cuts.
❌ Who Should Skip All of These?
If you need a saw for heavy daily professional use or you’re cutting thick metal regularly, you’d be better off with a corded reciprocating saw — these battery-powered options will drain batteries fast under constant load. Also, if you don’t already own batteries from one of these brands, factor in the cost of a battery and charger before you commit.
For the most common buyer — a DIYer who already has a battery platform — I’d say grab the Ryobi if price is king, but if you can stretch your budget, the DEWALT’s longer stroke and superior build make it the saw I’d trust for years of weekend projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for the money: the Ryobi PCL515B or the Craftsman CMCS300B?
For pure value, the Ryobi PCL515B wins. It’s significantly cheaper than the Craftsman, yet it delivers a faster 3,400 SPM top speed versus the Craftsman’s 3,000 RPM. The Craftsman does have a nicer overmolded handle and a 3-year warranty versus Ryobi’s 30-day, but if you’re on a strict budget, the Ryobi gives you more cutting performance per dollar spent.
Is the DEWALT DCS387B worth the extra money over the Ryobi PCL515B?
Yes, but only if you value build quality and cutting speed. The DEWALT’s 1-1/8-inch stroke is noticeably longer than the Ryobi’s 1-inch stroke, which means faster cuts with less effort. You also get a 4-position blade clamp for flush cutting and an LED light — features the Ryobi lacks entirely. That said, if you’re a casual DIYer doing light work, the Ryobi’s lower price might make more sense.
Which saw has the fastest cutting speed?
The Ryobi PCL515B has the highest rated speed at 3,400 SPM, beating both the DEWALT’s 2,900 SPM and the Craftsman’s 3,000 RPM. But here’s the catch — the DEWALT’s longer 1-1/8-inch stroke can actually cut faster in practice because it removes more material per stroke. For raw speed numbers, go Ryobi; for actual cutting efficiency, the DEWALT is better.
Can I use the same batteries across all three saws?
No, absolutely not. The DEWALT uses 20V MAX batteries, the Ryobi uses 18V ONE+ batteries, and the Craftsman uses V20 batteries — none of them are interchangeable. This is the biggest factor in your decision. If you already own batteries from one brand, that should probably be the saw you buy to avoid spending extra on new batteries and chargers.
Which saw is best for cutting in tight spaces?
Both the DEWALT and the Craftsman are excellent for confined spaces. The DEWALT is 14 inches long with a compact design, while the Craftsman is 14.5 inches — nearly identical. The DEWALT edges ahead with its 4-position blade clamp, which lets you orient the blade for flush cuts against walls or floors. The Ryobi at 16 inches is noticeably longer and will be harder to maneuver in tight corners.
Are these saws good for beginners?
I’d say yes, especially the Ryobi PCL515B. It’s the lightest at 4.2 pounds, which makes it easier to control for someone who’s not used to handling power tools. The variable speed trigger on all three lets you start slow and build confidence. Just remember these are bare tools — you’ll need to buy a battery and charger separately, which adds to the upfront cost for a beginner.
My Final Verdict
The DEWALT DCS387B is my clear overall winner. Its 1-1/8-inch stroke length delivers faster, more efficient cuts than the other two, and the 4-position blade clamp plus LED light make it the most versatile tool here. The build quality justifies the higher price for anyone who plans to use it regularly.
If you’re on a tighter budget, the Ryobi PCL515B is the smart pick — it’s the cheapest option and still hits 3,400 SPM. The Craftsman CMCS300B is a solid middle ground if you’re already in the V20 system and want that comfortable overmolded handle. Just decide what matters more: cutting speed or upfront savings.
Best Overall: 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
The best all-around saw for anyone who wants faster cuts with a 1-1/8-inch stroke and a rugged build that will last. Worth the premium over the others.
Runner-Up: RYOBI PCL515B
- Stens replacement parts have become a favorite among lawn and landscape...
The best budget pick for DIYers who want the lowest price and the fastest 3,400 SPM speed. Light at 4.2 lbs and perfect for occasional cuts.
Third Place: CRAFTSMAN CMCS300B
- Part of the V20 cordless system
- High performance motor with 1inches Stroke length for speed of completing...
- Full variable speed trigger ranging from 03, 000 RPM's for added control in...
A comfortable mid-range option at 3,000 RPM for Craftsman V20 owners who like the overmolded handle and want VERSATRACK compatibility.
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