Which saw cuts faster?

The Milwaukee. Its 1-1/4 in stroke moves twice the blade travel of the Ryobi's 5/8 in at the same 3,000 SPM, so it removes more material per stroke in wood, pipe and demolition work.

Is the Milwaukee worth the extra money?

Only if you already own M18 batteries and cut hard material often. At $189.39 tool only versus $79.95 with a battery, the Ryobi is far cheaper to start with.

Which is better for overhead or one-handed work?

The Ryobi. At 3.8 lb and 13 in long it is much easier to hold up than the 6.8 lb, 17.1 in Milwaukee.

Do both include a battery?

No. The Ryobi PSBRS01 includes one 1.5 Ah battery; the Milwaukee 2821-20 is tool only, so budget for an M18 battery and charger.

The Milwaukee carries a 5-year tool warranty versus 3 years for the Ryobi, and its metal-reinforced build is aimed at daily job site use. The Ryobi is fine for occasional home projects.

Can I use my existing batteries?

Only within the same brand. The Milwaukee runs on M18 packs; the Ryobi runs on 18V ONE+ packs. Neither accepts the other's batteries.

Milwaukee M18 FUEL GEN-2 Reciprocating Saw (2821-20) vs Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless Reciprocating Saw (PSBRS01)

Buy the Ryobi PSBRS01 if you want a light, complete cordless saw at a low price. Buy the Milwaukee 2821-20 if you cut hard material all day and already own M18 batteries. The Ryobi is $79.95 at eBay as of November 4, 2026, with a battery included. The Milwaukee is $189.39 at Walmart as of November 4, 2026, tool only, so add a battery and charger.

Today the Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless Reciprocating Saw (PSBRS01) costs $104.39 less at its best price.

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