14 Best Drywall Cutting Tools of 2026: Folds That Lock & Cut Clean

The Goldblatt folding jab saw’s 8 TPI bi-metal blade rips through drywall, plywood, and PVC with a smooth, aggressive cut that feels more like a premium tool than a budget one. It holds its edge through repeated jobs, cutting with noticeably less effort than flimsy discount saws. The anti-slip soft grip handle keeps your hand comfortable during overhead or awkward-angle cuts, and the sharp tip punches through sheetrock without a pilot hole. When you fold the blade into the handle, the lock button securely stows it—no accidental openings in a tool bag.

This saw is ideal for DIYers and pros who need a portable, safe-storing backup for small to medium drywall tasks. Because it’s a manual jab saw, repetitive plunge cuts for rows of outlet boxes will be slower than with a rotary cut-out tool, so it’s best paired with a powered option on large jobs. For homeowners, remodelers, and anyone wanting a one-saw solution that won’t tear up a tool bag, it’s a sharp, go-to choice.

The Klein 31737 locks securely at both 125° and 180°, giving you a straight jab-saw position and an angled reach for flush cuts or tight corners. The carbon steel blade arrives sharp and handles repeated cuts, while the cushioned handle-end and tether hole let you clip it into a pouch without worry — the folding design protects your bag and the blade.

Electricians and pros who need safe, two-angle storage will appreciate the build. The lock can occasionally feel loose; taking a second to confirm engagement prevents unexpected release.

💡 💡 Tip: Press the lock release until you feel a firm click before cutting — this prevents unexpected fold-aways.

Unlike battery-dependent cut-out tools, the DW660 runs corded for non-stop 30,000 RPM through sheet after sheet of drywall. That corded hustle means you won’t slow down mid-job, and the mid-range price keeps it accessible for serious DIY renovations.

Homeowners and remodelers tackling large drywall cutouts will appreciate the relentless speed, as long as they can plug in. Those who can treat the chuck carefully will get the most out of it; daily pros may find the downtime too costly.

💡 💡 Tip: Gently tighten bits and avoid forcing stuck collets; an occasional drop of oil on the mechanism helps prevent jams.

Near-zero dust output sets the Makita apart from every other drywall cut-out tool. A clear dust box and optional vacuum hookup trap debris before it becomes airborne, so cutting into a painted living room doesn’t require tenting off the whole floor. Lightweight and easy to control, it makes clean, fast cutouts achievable even for crew members who rarely pick up a rotary tool. This is the go-to for remodeling contractors working in occupied, furnished homes where dust control is non-negotiable. The blade system is proprietary and replacement blades are expensive, so the tool is a premium investment; occasional drywall holes won’t justify the ongoing consumable cost. It runs on Makita 18V LXT batteries (sold separately), fitting naturally into an existing Makita cordless fleet.

Weighing only 1.9 pounds, the Milwaukee M18 cut‑out tool spins at 28,000 RPM for quick drywall cutouts, and its collet historically holds bits securely without the jamming that frustrates users of some other cordless models. Where the slimmer brushless option demands careful tightening to keep bits from slipping, this tool stays stable with less fuss.

It is a natural fit for trade professionals already invested in the M18 battery platform, especially those doing repetitive overhead cutouts where the light weight reduces arm fatigue. New buyers without M18 batteries will face a higher total cost because this is a bare tool only — a charger and battery are added expenses.

Where folding jab saws rely on a locking hinge that can loosen over time, the IRWIN's fixed blade eliminates that failure point entirely. The hardened 6-inch, 7 TPI blade bites through drywall quickly, and the hardwood handle feels solid despite the budget price.

A pilot hole or careful angled entry is all it takes to start cleanly—handy for occasional electrical box cutouts or small drywall repairs. It's the kind of tool you buy without debate when a minor drywall job pops up.

💡 💡 Tip: Drill a small pilot hole before plunging to avoid blade wobble and get a perfectly straight start.

The WORKPRO drywall saw's bi-metal blade and triple-ground teeth slice through drywall quickly, while the ergonomic handle keeps control during short jobs. It stays sharp for many cuts while costing far less than name-brand alternatives. The saw isn't designed for folding or daily professional abuse, so it won't replace a dedicated pro tool. For periodic home repairs, though, it's an unbeatable value.

The Jorgensen drywall saw ships with a triple-ground bi-metal blade that cuts cleanly right away, and the rubberized grip reduces hand fatigue during short runs. For patching and a few outlet boxes, it's a budget-friendly alternative to folding saws. Long-term performance under daily professional use remains an open question—this suits occasional cuts rather than full-room installs.

The double-edge design efficiently removes material with every stroke, and the sharp tip starts plunge cuts without fuss. It stays sharp through drywall, light wood, and pumpkin carving. The double-edge is clever but not essential for pure drywall work, and this saw isn't intended for heavy daily jobsite demands. For the DIYer who splits time between home renovation and seasonal projects, it adds a welcome dose of versatility at a budget-friendly price.

The Klein 725's rigid blade and beveled tip pierce drywall with little resistance, and the flat butt doubles as a box hammer. The fixed design won't fold, so storage demands a sheath or dedicated pouch slot. That keeps it from being the go-to for pocket portability, but it's a direct, durable choice for the fixed-blade camp.

The RYOBI cut-out tool spins a drywall bit at 28,000 RPM, making short work of outlet boxes for homeowners already on the ONE+ platform. Its track record for daily jobsite use is thin, so it's best reserved for light renovations and home repairs.

Cuts electrical boxes and general holes cleanly, with tool-free bit changes and LED visibility simplifying dim-space jobs. Build quality is reassuring for the price. The missing RPM spec makes side-by-side speed comparisons tough, so it's best seen as a capable, no-frills choice for existing Craftsman V20 battery owners.

Brushless power and a compact 1.6-lb body make tight drywall cuts easy, and the LED keeps work visible. Tool-free bit swaps are fast, but the collet needs a deliberate tighten — insufficient locking can cause bit slip or snapping. Suits DEWALT 20V owners willing to double-check tightness before cutting.

The dual-blade scoring and snap mechanism rips through drywall much faster than a traditional saw, making it a time-saver for long, straight cuts in 1/2-inch or thinner board. The aluminum guide bar can flex under heavy pressure, which may cause cut lines to wander on thicker material or wider rips — a minor issue for rough framing but a deal-breaker for precision finish work.