Cutting through wood and metal no longer requires a cumbersome cord or the noise and fumes of a gas engine. Modern battery-operated saws offer incredible freedom and power, making them essential for DIY projects, construction sites, and yard maintenance. Whether you’re trimming a high branch, dismantling an old deck, or cutting conduit, there’s a cordless tool designed for the task.
Choosing the right saw depends on your specific needs—the material you’re cutting, the required portability, and the scale of your projects. This roundup covers a range of top-performing battery-powered saws, from compact chainsaws for the garden to heavy-duty reciprocating and circular saws for demanding jobs on wood and metal, helping you find the perfect tool to add to your arsenal.
The Best Cordless Saws for Your Projects
- Worx WG323 20V Power Share 10″ Cordless Pole/Chain Saw
- CEEPUY Mini Chainsaw Cordless, 6 Inch Portable Electric Chainsaw
- SKIL PWR CORE 20 Brushless 20V 12” Handheld Lightweight Chainsaw Kit
- SKIL PWR CORE 40 Brushless 40V 14” Lightweight Chainsaw Kit
- GALAX PRO Cordless Reciprocating Saw with 20V 2.0Ah battery
- DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Reciprocating Saw (DCS367B)
- Milwaukee M18 FUEL 18-Volt Brushless Cordless Hackzall
- Makita XBU02PT 18V LXT Brushless Cordless Metal Cutting Circular Saw Kit
Worx WG323 20V Power Share 10″ Cordless Pole/Chain Saw
Tackle high branches safely and easily with the Worx WG323. This versatile tool combines a 10-inch chainsaw with an extendable pole, giving you an impressive 12 feet of reach without the need for a ladder. Weighing only 10 pounds, it’s remarkably lightweight for a pole saw, reducing arm fatigue during extended use.
The tool-free attachment makes setup quick, and the automatic chain tensioning system ensures optimal performance and safety. As part of the Worx Power Share ecosystem, the included battery is compatible with over 75 other 20V, 40V, and 80V tools, offering great value for homeowners who want to build a collection of cordless equipment.
CEEPUY Mini Chainsaw Cordless, 6 Inch Portable Electric Chainsaw
For smaller cutting jobs and precise trimming, the CEEPUY Mini Chainsaw is an excellent choice. Its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to control with one hand, perfect for navigating tight spaces and for users who find full-sized chainsaws too heavy. Despite its small size, it features a powerful pure copper motor that can cut through a 6-inch log in about 8 seconds.
This chainsaw is designed with user convenience in mind. The automatic Oiler System reduces chain friction for smoother operation and a longer lifespan, while a single oil fill can last an entire work session. The security lock prevents accidental starts, making it a safe and user-friendly option for a wide range of people.
SKIL PWR CORE 20 Brushless 20V 12” Handheld Lightweight Chainsaw Kit
The SKIL PWR CORE 20 chainsaw strikes a fantastic balance between power and runtime for the average homeowner. The brushless motor provides efficient, high-performance cutting for a 20V tool, handling tough branches and logs without the maintenance of a gas model. It comes as a complete kit with a battery, charger, and a storage bracket for easy organization.
SKIL’s PWR CORE 20 battery technology is a standout feature, using a special cooling material to provide 25% longer run time and double the overall battery life compared to standard lithium-ion batteries. Combined with tool-free chain tensioning and automatic lubrication, this chainsaw is built for convenience and lasting performance.
SKIL PWR CORE 40 Brushless 40V 14” Lightweight Chainsaw Kit
When you need more power for larger projects, the SKIL PWR CORE 40 steps up. This 40V brushless chainsaw boasts that no other 40V chainsaw cuts faster, making it ideal for felling smaller trees and processing firewood. The larger 14-inch bar allows you to tackle bigger diameter wood with confidence.
This kit includes the innovative Auto PWR JUMP charger, which can add up to 5 minutes of extra runtime from just a 5-minute charge if your battery dies mid-job. This feature, along with the tool-free chain tensioning system, makes it a highly capable and user-friendly tool for demanding tasks around the property.
GALAX PRO Cordless Reciprocating Saw with 20V 2.0Ah battery
The GALAX PRO reciprocating saw is a versatile and budget-friendly tool for demolition, pruning, and cutting various materials. Its variable speed trigger allows for precise control from 0 to 3000 strokes per minute, making it suitable for both wood and soft metals. The kit is very comprehensive, including a battery, a fast charger, and five saw blades to get you started immediately.
With a 7/8-inch stroke length, this saw can handle materials with a cutting depth of up to 5-7/8 inches. The ergonomic design and lightweight build help minimize user fatigue. It’s an excellent entry-level option for DIYers who need a saw for demolition, cutting pipes, or trimming tree limbs.
DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Reciprocating Saw (DCS367B)
For professionals and serious DIYers, the DEWALT 20V MAX reciprocating saw offers robust performance and durability. This tool is built to withstand job site conditions and handle demanding applications like demolition and plumbing. Its keyless blade clamp allows for quick and easy blade changes without touching a hot blade after use.
The saw features an adjustable shoe that extends to maximize blade life and provides better stability during cuts. As part of the extensive DEWALT 20V MAX system, you can use the same battery across a wide range of other power tools, making it a smart investment for those already in the ecosystem or planning to expand their professional-grade tool collection.
Milwaukee M18 FUEL 18-Volt Brushless Cordless Hackzall
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hackzall is a compact, one-handed reciprocating saw designed for use in tight spaces where a full-sized saw won’t fit. Its short stroke length and compact head make it perfect for plumbers, electricians, and HVAC technicians working between joists or in cabinets. Despite its size, the brushless motor delivers significant power for its class.
This tool offers superior control with one-handed operation, reducing vibration for more precise cuts. It’s ideal for overhead work, pruning, and any situation that requires a powerful yet manageable cutting tool. For those invested in the Milwaukee M18 platform, the Hackzall is an indispensable addition for detailed cutting tasks.
Makita XBU02PT 18V LXT Brushless Cordless Metal Cutting Circular Saw Kit
When your project involves cutting metal, the Makita XBU02PT is a specialized tool that excels. This 5-3/8-inch circular saw is engineered specifically for cutting a variety of metals, including unistrut, conduit, pipe, angle iron, and sheet metal. The brushless motor optimizes efficiency and extends battery life and tool runtime.
This kit includes two 18V LXT Lithium-Ion batteries that work with the Makita Rapid Optimum Charger for a fast and efficient workflow. With a built-in LED light for illumination and an electric brake for added safety, this saw provides a clean, burr-free cut in metal, making it a top choice for metalworkers, electricians, and HVAC professionals.
Buying Guide: How to Pick the Right Battery Operated Saw
Choosing the right battery operated saw for wood and metal can feel overwhelming with all the options out there. I’ve found that the best approach is to break it down into a few key areas that matter most for your projects. It’s not just about power; it’s about finding the right tool for the specific jobs you do.
First, consider the battery platform. If you already own other cordless tools from a brand like DeWalt, Milwaukee, or Makita, it makes a lot of sense to stick with that same system. This saves you a significant amount of money because you can share batteries and chargers across all your tools. The voltage of the battery, like 18V or 20V Max (they are essentially the same), is a good indicator of potential power, but the Amp-hour (Ah) rating tells you how long the battery will last. For longer cutting sessions, a higher Ah rating is a must.
Next, think about the type of saw and its features. For general wood cutting, a good circular saw is incredibly versatile. Look for a model with a brushless motor; it will be more efficient, run cooler, and have a longer lifespan. The blade size determines the depth of cut, so match that to the thickness of the material you usually work with. If you’re dealing with pipes or metal studs, a cordless bandsaw is a game-changer for clean, fast cuts. For detailed work or cutting curves in wood or thin metal, a jigsaw is your best friend. Check for variable speed control and a tool-free blade change system for better control and convenience.
Finally, don’t overlook ergonomics and durability. A well-balanced saw reduces arm fatigue, which is a big deal if you’re using it for more than a few minutes. I always check the build quality; a sturdy shoe (the metal baseplate) on a jigsaw or circular saw is crucial for stability and accurate cuts. Also, look for features that enhance safety and ease of use, like an electric brake, a bright LED work light, and clear dust extraction ports to keep your cut line visible. By focusing on your battery ecosystem, the specific cutting tasks you need to perform, and the tool’s overall feel and features, you can confidently select one of the best battery operated saws for wood and metal that will serve you well for years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the same battery operated saw cut both wood and metal?
Yes, but with a very important caveat: you must use the correct blade. The saw itself is just the motor; the blade does the actual cutting. A blade designed for wood will quickly become dull and damaged if used on metal, and vice-versa. For cutting metal, you need a blade with more, finer teeth made from a harder material. Always switch to a blade specifically rated for the material you are cutting to get a clean, safe cut and to protect your tool.
How long does the battery typically last on a single charge?
Battery life is a “how long is a piece of string” question because it depends heavily on what you’re doing. A small 2.0Ah battery might only last 15-20 minutes of continuous heavy cutting in thick lumber with a circular saw. However, that same battery could last for an hour or more of intermittent use with a jigsaw on thinner material. For longer runtime, invest in higher-capacity batteries, like 5.0Ah or higher, and consider having a spare on hand so you can swap them out.
Are cordless saws powerful enough for professional use?
Absolutely. The technology has advanced tremendously. Modern brushless motors and high-performance lithium-ion batteries deliver power that rivals many corded tools. For the vast majority of on-site tasks, a professional-grade cordless saw provides more than enough power and the unbeatable convenience of not being tethered to an outlet. The freedom of movement and the time saved not setting up extension cords is a huge advantage for pros.
What safety gear should I use with these saws?
Safety should always be your top priority. At a minimum, you must wear safety glasses or goggles to protect your eyes from flying debris. I also strongly recommend hearing protection, especially with louder saws like circular saws. When cutting metal, wear heavy-duty gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges. Don’t forget a dust mask or respirator, particularly when cutting treated wood or materials that create fine dust.
What is the main advantage of a brushless motor?
Brushless motors are a significant upgrade. They are more efficient, which means they convert more battery power into cutting power and less into heat and friction. This results in longer runtime per charge, increased power, a cooler-running tool, and a much longer overall motor life. While brushless tools are often more expensive, the performance and durability benefits are well worth it for anyone who uses their saws regularly.