Milwaukee M18 FUEL Sawzall 2821 vs DeWalt 20V XR DCS386
By Billy G. · Founder & Lead EditorVerified May 18 by Billy G.
Milwaukee M18 FUEL Sawzall 2821vs
DeWalt 20V XR
DeWalt 20V XR DCS386
✓VerifiedConfidence: 85%
Verdict: Milwaukee's FUEL Sawzall wins on raw cutting speed and demo durability; the DeWalt DCS386 is better controlled and less fatiguing with orbital action.
How we scored itSpec verificationOwner sentimentLive pricing (4h refresh)Editorial reviewOur methodology →
Winner: Milwaukee M18 FUEL Sawzall 2821
Milwaukee M18 FUEL Sawzall 2821: 7.2/10
DeWalt 20V XR DCS386: 7.1/10
Spec-by-spec comparison
Milwaukee M18 FUEL Sawzall 2821
DeWalt 20V XR DCS386
Max SPM
3,000
3,000
Stroke Length
1-1/8 in.
1-1/8 in.
Orbital Action
No
Yes (4-position)
Anti-Vibration
Handle overmold
Mechanical counterbalance
Weight (with battery)
~7.5 lbs
~7.8 lbs
Warranty
5-year
3-year
Milwaukee M18 FUEL Sawzall 2821
What works
3,000 SPM with 1-1/8 in. stroke — among the fastest in class through metal
Battle-tested FUEL motor reliability — handles years of sustained demo work
M18 High Output batteries give exceptional runtime on long jobs
What doesn't
No orbital action — slower through wood demolition compared to orbital mode on DeWalt
Heavier build — 7.5 lbs with battery isn't light for extended overhead work
DeWalt 20V XR DCS386
What works
Four-position orbital action dramatically speeds wood demolition cuts
Mechanical counterbalance reduces vibration and hand fatigue on long sessions
XR brushless motor delivers consistent power with efficient battery use
What doesn't
Orbital action unsuitable for metal cutting — produces rougher cuts and faster blade wear
Anti-vibration less proven over long-term heavy demo vs Milwaukee's track record
Bottom line
Our pick: Milwaukee M18 FUEL Sawzall 2821. It edges out the alternative on 3,000 spm with 1-1/8 in. stroke — among the fastest in class through metal. That said, DeWalt 20V XR DCS386 still wins on four-position orbital action dramatically speeds wood demolition cuts — consider it if that single trade matters most for your use.