If you’re doing a large drywall job, a power cutout tool will save you some serious elbow grease when it comes to making cuts.
These tools also leave much smoother finishes than jab saws do, saving you time sanding.
But with so many options available, which is the best for you? Here are the best drywall cutout tools to choose from.
Best Drywall Cutout Tool of 2022
- Dewalt Drywall Cutting Tool (Top Pick)
- Rotozip SS355 Spiral Saw Tool Kit (Top Corded)
- Ryobi P531 Cordless Speed Saw (Best Budget-Friendly)
- Makita Cordless Cutout Tool (Higher-End)
What is a Drywall Cutout Tool?
Drywall cutout devices are power tools used for cutting drywall panels and around electrical boxes. While you can technically use a simple jab saw to cut drywall, a power tool makes the process easier, faster, and the results much smoother.
If you’re looking for a drywall cutout tool, you might find them called different names like a spiral saw, drywall saw rotary tool, rotary saw, and Rotozip.
What to Look for in a Drywall Cutout Tool
Not all drywall cutout tools are equal. There are options for various price points and different needs. Here’s what to look out for.
Cordless or Corded
One of the major decisions you’ll need to make is whether to go with a cordless or corded option.
While corded options have reach limitations, they’re usually cheaper, and you don’t need to worry about running out of battery. The downside is you might not always have access to electricity or an electrical outlet where you need it.
Cordless options are more popular and generally come as bare tools. This means if you purchase a brand of tool you don’t already have, you’ll need to buy a battery and charger separately.
Weight of the Tool
If you’re doing a large job, the weight of the tool matters. In general, cordless cutout tools will weigh more because of their battery.
If you’ll be using the tool for extended periods, especially if you’ll be holding it over your head, you need to find a lightweight option.
Motor Speed
Motor speed determines how fast a tool will cut. The higher the motor speed (RPMs), the quicker it will get the job done.
Kit or Bare Tool
If you’re buying a cordless option, you’ll need to decide between a kit and a bare tool. The kits come with a charger, battery, tool, and sometimes extra bits.
The bare tools come with the tool only. So, you’ll need to buy a battery and charger if you don’t already have one from the brand you’re considering.
Cost
You can get a high-quality drywall cutout kit for less than $100. If you’re doing a quick job, you can probably even find some good options for less than $50.
Of course, what you’re willing to spend can dictate the quality you get, but, in general, there’s no need to dish out hundreds of dollars on a drywall cutout tool.
Best Drywall Cutout Tools Review
1. Dewalt Drywall Cutting Tool (Top Pick)
The Dewalt 20v Max Drywall Cutting Tool is an excellent choice for making clean drywall cuts, cutting through plywood, and more.
This tool comes bare – meaning you have to buy a charger and battery separately. However, if you already have Dewalt products, this won’t be a problem.
The Dewalt cutting tool has 26,000 RPMS, making fast and clean cuts. You can change the bits without a wrench, and it has a dust seal switch for longer life.
Pros:
- Powerful 26,000 RPMs
- Wrench-free bit change
- Makes fast and clean cuts
- Great durability
- Built-in LED light
Cons:
- Bare tool only
Buy The Dewalt Drywall Cutting Tool On Amazon
2. Rotozip SS355 Spiral Saw Tool Kit (Top Corded)
If you prefer a corded option, the Rotozip SS355 is a great tool to have on hand. It’s lightweight but powerful, great for plunge and freehand cuts.
The Rotozip has a 30,000 RPM motor and comes with a bump switch so you can easily power it on and off. You can use this to cut almost any type of material.
This tool is also compatible with other attachments, including the dust management system and several different bits.
Pros:
- Powerful 30,000 RPM motor
- Makes clean and fast cuts
- Can be used on most building materials
- Easy bump switch
- Compatible with other accessories
Cons:
- If you want a corded option, there aren’t any cons to this one – it’s a well-rounded tool that can serve you for years.
Buy The Rotozip SS355 Spiral Saw Tool Kit On Amazon
3. Ryobi P531 Cordless Speed Saw (Best Budget-Friendly)
One of the best budget-friendly options is the Ryobi P531. But just because it’s inexpensive doesn’t mean it’s low quality.
The Ryobi cordless speed saw is ideal for cutting through drywall, plywood, and more. The saw comes with a few bits, including drywall and plywood.
It does not, however, come with a battery or charger.
If you have other Ryobi tools, this is a great one to add to your collection.
Pros:
- Inexpensive
- Comes with drywall and plywood bits
- Accepts ¼ inch and ⅛ inch bits
Cons:
- Bare tool only
Buy The Ryobi P531 Cordless Speed Saw On Amazon
4. Makita Cordless Cutout Tool (Higher-End)
Another quality option and one that’s a little more expensive is the Makita Cordless Cutout Tool.
The Makita XOC01Z 18V LXT has a slim body and weighs only 3.7 lbs even with the battery. Its motor is super powerful, clocking in at 30,000 RPMs.
It’s easy to use, has wrench-free bit changing, and accepts ¼ inch and ⅛ inch drill bits. Overall, this is an excellent drywall cutting tool for avid DIYers or professionals and is highly rated on Amazon.
Pros:
- Powerful 30,000 RPM motor
- Slim and lightweight
- Accepts ¼ inch and ⅛ inch bits
- Wrench free bit changing
Cons:
- Bare tool only
- Most expensive option
Buy The Makita Cordless Cutout Tool On Amazon
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use a Dremel as a drywall cutout tool?
You can use a Dremel as a drywall cutout tool, but you will need the drywall cutting bit.
Can you cut drywall with a router?
While it might be possible, cutting drywall with a router is not ideal and will likely be very difficult. You need a jab saw, rotary saw, or a spiral saw to cut drywall.
Can I use a rotary tool to cut drywall?
Yes, you can use a rotary tool to cut gypsum drywall as long as it has a drywall bit.
Final Thoughts
If you’re doing a sizeable DIY drywall job or work with drywall a lot, investing in a drywall cutting tool is a smart choice. These tools can reduce the time you spend cutting, save you manpower, and create beautifully smooth cuts.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, try the Ryobi. If you like cordless, the Dewalt and Makita are excellent options. If you want something corded, go with the Rotozip.
