Direct Face-Off Benchmark
RYOBI ONE+ 18V (P5231) vs BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX (BDCJS20B): Cordless DIY Face-Off
America’s top two budget homeowner cordless jigsaws compared side-by-side.
Option A
RYOBIRYOBI ONE+ 18V Orbital Jigsaw (P5231)
- Power: 18V ONE+ Lithium-Ion
- Max Speed: 1,100 – 3,000 SPM
- Bare Weight: 4.8 lbs. (bare tool)
Option B
BLACK+DECKERBLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Jig Saw (BDCJS20B)
- Power: 20V MAX Lithium-Ion
- Max Speed: 0 – 2,500 SPM
- Bare Weight: 4.2 lbs. (bare tool)
Executive Summary & Core Takeaways
Both saws target the sub-$70 homeowner tier. Ryobi P5231 offers a full 1-inch stroke length and 4-position orbital action, while Black+Decker BDCJS20B delivers an ultra-lightweight chassis for quick household repairs.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature / Evaluation Area | RYOBI ONE+ P5231 | BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX | Jobsite Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stroke Length | 1 in. (25 mm) | 3/4 in. (19 mm) | Ryobi longer stroke clears wood chips faster per reciprocating cycle. |
| Orbital Action | 4 positions (SpeedMatch) | Variable speed trigger only | Ryobi orbital action cuts through 2x4 lumber dramatically faster. |
| Tool Weight | 4.8 lbs. | 4.2 lbs. | Black+Decker is over half a pound lighter and easier for craft work. |
Full Specification Matrix
| Technical Metric | RYOBI ONE+ P5231 | BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX |
|---|---|---|
| Power Source | 18V ONE+ Lithium-Ion | 20V MAX Lithium-Ion |
| Handle Ergonomics | Top Handle (D-Handle) | Top Handle (D-Handle) |
| Max Wood Cutting Depth | 4 in. (101 mm) | 3-1/2 in. (88 mm) |
| Max Steel Cutting Depth | 1/4 in. (6 mm) | 5/16 in. (8 mm) |
| Max Aluminum Cutting Depth | 3/8 in. (10 mm) | 3/8 in. (10 mm) |
| Stroke Length | 1 in. (25 mm) | 3/4 in. (19 mm) |
| No-Load Stroke Rate | 1,100 – 3,000 SPM | 0 – 2,500 SPM |
| Weight (Bare Tool) | 4.8 lbs. (bare tool) | 4.2 lbs. (bare tool) |
Final Buying Recommendations
Buy the RYOBI ONE+ P5231 if:
Homeowners building a comprehensive Ryobi ONE+ cordless tool kit
- Faster cutting speed and aggressive orbital action handle structural lumber easily.
Buy the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX if:
DIYers needing an affordable, lightweight cordless saw for occasional fixes
- Lightweight, simple to operate, and very economical.
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