6 Best Alternatives to the Bosch GST18V-37N 18V Brushless Top-Handle (2026)
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You might be looking for bosch gst18v 37n 18v brushless top handle alternatives if you need a different tool profile. The Bosch GST18V-37N excels at precision cuts in tight spaces. It weighs 3.5 pounds and measures 8.1 inches in length. Its 18V brushless motor delivers 3,300 strokes per minute. The 3.7-inch cutting depth handles dense wood efficiently. Four orbital settings let you choose between speed and finish quality. A variable speed dial adds control for various tasks. An LED light and blower keep your cut line clear. Tool-free blade changes reduce downtime on the job.
Some buyers may prefer a circular saw for straight cuts. Others might want a barrel grip for better control. Some users already own batteries from Makita or Milwaukee. These alternatives were chosen because their specs overlap with the original. They share the 18V voltage platform. Several models also feature brushless motors. The list includes options with larger blade diameters for deeper cuts. It also includes lighter jig saws for intricate work. You can find tools that fit your existing battery ecosystem. This guide compares seven options based on their published specifications.
Our top pick: Bosch GST18V-37N 18V Top-Handle Jig Saw.
How the alternatives compare
Makita 18V X2 Brushless 7-1/4-Inch Rear Handle Saw
The Makita XSR01Z is a circular saw, not a jig saw. It uses a 7-1/4-inch blade for deep cuts in thick lumber. Weighing 12.1 pounds, it is much heavier and larger than the Bosch. You gain cutting capacity but lose the compact top-handle design. It suits users who need power for ripping rather than intricate detail work. The 18V brushless motor provides substantial torque. You trade maneuverability for raw cutting depth. This tool is for heavy-duty tasks, not tight spaces.
Makita 18V Brushless 6-1/2-Inch Cordless Circular Saw
The Makita XSH03Z is a 6-1/2-inch circular saw. It weighs 7 pounds, which is double the Bosch weight. It uses a standard blade for efficient straight cuts. You get better battery life and compact handling than larger saws. However, it lacks the jig saw’s ability to cut curves. It fits carpenters who make frequent straight cuts. The 18V system offers flexibility. You sacrifice precision cutting for speed and standard blade compatibility. It is a practical choice for straight-line work where the Bosch’s agility is unnecessary.
Milwaukee 18V Barrel Grip Jig Saw
The Milwaukee 2737B-20 is a barrel grip jig saw. It weighs 5.75 pounds, making it heavier than the Bosch. It offers sturdy build quality for standard cutting tasks. You gain barrel grip control, which some users prefer over top handles. It fits users with existing M18 batteries. The tool lacks the Bosch’s compact top-handle design. It is less maneuverable in tight spaces. You trade the Bosch’s 3.5-pound weight for a more traditional grip. It is a practical choice for general use where extreme precision is not the primary goal.
Metabo HPT 18V Cordless Orbital Jig Saw
The Metabo HPT CJ18DAQ4 is a cordless orbital jig saw. It weighs 4.2 pounds, slightly more than the Bosch. It prioritizes balance and control over raw speed. You get a manageable tool for intricate cuts. The design is less compact than the Bosch’s top-handle form. It fits woodworkers who need detailed work rather than rapid material removal. The 18V system ensures compatibility. You sacrifice the Bosch’s specific top-handle ergonomics for a different balance point. It is ideal for users who value control and extended use in detailed projects.
RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V 7-1/4-Inch Brushless Circular Saw
The RYOBI PBLCS302B is a 7-1/4-inch circular saw. It weighs 9.63 pounds, significantly heavier than the Bosch. It offers deep cut capacity with a large blade. You gain compatibility with existing RYOBI 18V batteries. It lacks the Bosch’s compact size and jig saw functionality. It is for users who prioritize cutting depth over ultra-compact handling. The tool is designed for straight cuts in thick material. You trade the Bosch’s precision and lightness for substantial power and blade diameter. It suits heavy-duty work where maneuverability is less critical.
Makita 18V Sub-Compact 6-1/2-Inch Circular Saw
The Makita XSH04ZB is a sub-compact 6-1/2-inch circular saw. It weighs 4 pounds, close to the Bosch weight. It features blade-right visibility for tight spaces. You gain a compact footprint suitable for detailed work. It requires existing Makita 18V batteries. It is not a jig saw, so it cannot cut curves. You trade the Bosch’s versatility for a specialized circular saw. It fits users who need lightweight, precise straight cuts. The tool is ideal for tight spaces where the Bosch’s top handle might be less effective for straight-line ripping.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Bosch GST18V-37N 18V Top-Handle Jig Saw
Best for: Precision cuts in tight spaces
- Voltage
- 18 V
- Dimensions
- 8.1 × 3 × 8 inches
- Weight
- 3.5 pounds
View on Amazon: Bosch GST18V-37N 18V Top-Handle Jig Saw Affiliate link
This Bosch jig saw features an 18V brushless motor delivering 3,300 strokes per minute. It offers a 3.7-inch cutting depth and four orbital settings for versatile cuts. The compact top-handle design weighs 3.5 pounds, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. Variable speed control and tool-free blade changes add to its practicality for detailed woodworking tasks.
Pros
- Brushless motor provides up to 3,300 SPM
- 3.7-inch cutting depth handles dense wood
- Four orbital settings adjust cut speed and finish
- Tool-free blade changes reduce downtime
- Compact 3.5-pound top-handle design
Cons
- Limited to 18V power compared to 36V competitors
- Single orbital setting range may not suit all rough cuts
- No variable speed display shown in specs
Good fit if
- You need a compact tool for tight spaces
- You require variable speed control for different materials
- You prefer top-handle ergonomics for overhead work
Skip if
- You need deeper than 3.7-inch cutting capacity
- You prefer a rear-handle design for stability
- You require a 36V system for maximum power
Verdict: Bosch GST18V-37N 18V Top-Handle Jig Saw fits users who prioritize maneuverability and precision in tight spaces. Its compact size and variable speed make it ideal for detailed cuts rather than heavy-duty ripping.
Makita 18V X2 Brushless 7-1/4-Inch Rear Handle Saw
Best for: Deep cuts in thick lumber
- Blade Diameter
- 7-1/4"
- No-Load Speed
- 5,100 RPM
- Cutting Depth 90
- 2-9/16”
- Voltage
- 36V (18V X2)
- Dimensions
- 18.8 × 8.9 × 12 inches
- Weight
- 12.1 pounds
View on Amazon: Makita 18V X2 Brushless 7-1/4-Inch Rear Handle Saw Affiliate link
This tool combines two 18V batteries for 36V power. It features a 7-1/4-inch blade and reaches 5,100 RPM. The 2-9/16-inch cutting depth handles thick lumber in one pass. You get an electric brake and adjustable bevel settings. It suits users needing heavy-duty cutting power from a cordless system.
Pros
- 36V output from two 18V batteries
- 5,100 RPM no-load speed
- 2-9/16-inch cutting capacity at 90°
- Electric brake for safety
Cons
- Requires two batteries instead of one
- Heavier at 12.1 pounds
- Rear handle design differs from top-handle tools
Good fit if
- You need deeper cuts in thick lumber
- You already own Makita 18V batteries
- You prefer higher torque for dense materials
Skip if
- You require a top-handle grip
- You want a single-battery system
- You need a compact jig saw
Verdict: Makita 36V Brushless Circular Saw delivers substantial power for thick cuts. It fits users who prioritize cutting depth and speed over compact handling.
Makita 18V Brushless 6-1/2-Inch Cordless Circular Saw
Best for: Efficient straight cuts with standard blades
- Blade Diameter
- 6-1/2"
- No-Load Speed
- 5,000 RPM
- Voltage
- 18V
- Power Source
- Cordless
- Dimensions
- 14 × 7.8 × 10.4 inches
- Weight
- 7 pounds
View on Amazon: Makita 18V Brushless 6-1/2-Inch Cordless Circular Saw Affiliate link
This Makita circular saw features a 6-1/2-inch blade and an 18V brushless motor. It delivers 5,000 RPM with automatic speed change technology. The tool weighs 7 pounds and measures 14 inches in length. It suits users who need a compact, efficient cutting tool for standard woodworking tasks. The brushless motor helps extend battery life for longer run times per charge.
Pros
- 18V brushless motor delivers 5,000 RPM
- Automatic speed change adjusts torque and speed
- Efficient motor extends run time by up to 50%
- Compact 6-1/2-inch blade diameter
Cons
- 7-pound weight may cause fatigue during overhead use
- 14-inch length limits maneuverability in tight spaces
- No bevel adjustment range specified in data
Good fit if
- You need a lightweight option for standard 6-1/2-inch blade cuts
- You value extended battery life from efficient motor control
- You prefer a compact tool for general carpentry
Skip if
- You require a 7-1/4-inch blade for deeper cutting capacity
- You need a high-voltage system for maximum power
- You prioritize a tool with a bevel gauge for angled cuts
Verdict: Makita 6-1/2-Inch 18V Cordless Circular Saw offers efficient power for users who prioritize battery life and compact handling over maximum cutting depth. It fits carpenters who make frequent straight cuts with standard blades.
Milwaukee 18V Barrel Grip Jig Saw
Best for: users with existing M18 batteries
- Voltage
- 18VDC
- Dimensions
- 11.7 × 3.2 × 7.3 inches
- Weight
- 5.75 pounds
View on Amazon: Milwaukee 18V Barrel Grip Jig Saw Affiliate link
The Milwaukee 2737B-20 is an 18V brushless jig saw designed for users who already own the Milwaukee M18 battery system. It features a barrel grip for control and measures 11.7 inches in length. The tool weighs 5.75 pounds, making it manageable for extended use. This model is a solid alternative if you prefer a different handle style than the Bosch GST18V-37N.
Pros
- 18VDC voltage for compatibility with M18 batteries
- Barrel grip design for improved control
- Compact dimensions at 11.7 inches long
- Brushless motor technology
Cons
- Heavier at 5.75 pounds compared to competitors
- Top-handle style is not available
- No variable speed trigger mentioned in specs
Good fit if
- You already have Milwaukee M18 batteries
- You prefer a barrel grip over a top handle
- You need a reliable 18V jig saw for general cuts
Skip if
- You require a top-handle design for overhead work
- You want a lighter tool under 5 pounds
- You do not own Milwaukee 18V batteries
Verdict: The Milwaukee 2737B-20 18V Jig Saw is a practical choice for users who prioritize barrel grip control and already have the M18 battery ecosystem. It offers a sturdy build for standard cutting tasks.
Metabo HPT 18V Cordless Orbital Jig Saw
Best for: Detailed cuts and extended use
- Voltage
- 18V
- Power Source
- Cordless
- Dimensions
- 14.2 × 1.03 × 3.9 inches
- Weight
- 4.2 pounds
View on Amazon: Metabo HPT 18V Cordless Orbital Jig Saw Affiliate link
The Metabo HPT CJ18DAQ4 is an 18V cordless jig saw designed for precision and control. It features a variable speed trigger and reaches 2,500 strokes per minute. At 4.2 pounds, it is lightweight and includes a soft grip to reduce fatigue. The tool offers four cutting modes and a tool-less blade change system. It suits users who value maneuverability and adjustable orbital action for detailed woodworking tasks.
Pros
- Variable speed trigger for precise control
- 2,500 strokes per minute no-load speed
- 4.2-pound lightweight design with soft grip
- Tool-less blade change system
- LED light illuminates the cutting path
Cons
- No-load speed is lower than many competing jig saws
- Lacks a top-handle configuration found in the Bosch GST18V-37N
- Base angle adjustment range is not specified in the data
Good fit if
- You need a lightweight tool for extended overhead or detailed cutting
- You require variable speed control for delicate materials
- You want quick blade changes without tools
Skip if
- You prefer a top-handle design for better visibility
- You need a higher maximum stroke speed for fast cutting
- You are looking for a circular saw instead of a jig saw
Verdict: Metabo HPT 18V Cordless Jig Saw is a solid choice for woodworkers who prioritize balance and control over raw speed. It fits those who need a manageable tool for intricate cuts rather than rapid material removal.
RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V 7-1/4-Inch Brushless Circular Saw
Best for: Users with existing RYOBI 18V batteries
- Blade Diameter
- 7-1/4 in.
- No-Load Speed
- 5,000 RPM
- Voltage
- 18V
- Power Source
- Cordless
- Dimensions
- 13.9 × 9.06 × 7.95 inches
- Weight
- 6.5 pounds
View on Amazon: RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V 7-1/4-Inch Brushless Circular Saw Affiliate link
This RYOBI tool uses an 18V brushless motor to reach 5,000 RPM. It cuts 2-9/16 inches deep at 0 degrees and 1-13/16 inches at 45 degrees. The 7-1/4 inch blade handles standard lumber. You get six bevel detents for precise angles. The 9.63-pound weight offers manageable balance. It includes a built-in LED light and a dust port adapter.
Pros
- 18V brushless motor delivers 5,000 RPM
- 7-1/4 inch blade cuts up to 2-9/16 inches deep
- Six bevel detents at 0, 15, 22-1/2, 30, 45, and 56 degrees
- Built-in LED worklight and vacuum dust port adapter
- Integrated pommel handle for improved control
Cons
- Heavier at 9.63 pounds compared to compact alternatives
- Tool-only purchase requires separate battery
- Single voltage platform limits high-power options
Good fit if
- You need deep cutting capacity for thick lumber
- You already own RYOBI 18V batteries
- You prefer fixed bevel detents for speed
Skip if
- You require a lightweight sub-compact design
- You need a 36V dual-battery system for max power
- You want a top-handle configuration for tight spaces
Verdict: RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V 7-1/4 in. Circular Saw fits users who prioritize deep cut capacity and established battery compatibility over ultra-compact size.
Makita 18V Sub-Compact 6-1/2-Inch Circular Saw
Best for: tight spaces and users with existing Makita batteries
- Blade Diameter
- 6-1/2”
- No-Load Speed
- 5, 000 RPM
- Cutting Depth 90
- 2-1/4”
- Voltage
- 18V
- Power Source
- Cordless
- Dimensions
- 9 × 13.5 × 9 inches
View on Amazon: Makita 18V Sub-Compact 6-1/2-Inch Circular Saw Affiliate link
The Makita XSH04ZB is a sub-compact circular saw designed for tight spaces. It features a blade-right layout and measures only 10-5/8 inches long. The brushless motor delivers 5,000 RPM for efficient cutting. It weighs 6.4 lbs with a 2.0Ah battery. This tool suits users needing portability without sacrificing the 2-1/4 inch cutting depth at 90 degrees.
Pros
- Compact 10-5/8 inch length for tight spaces
- 5,000 RPM no-load speed for fast cutting
- 2-1/4 inch cutting capacity at 90 degrees
- Brushless motor runs cooler and lasts longer
Cons
- Smaller 6-1/2 inch blade limits ripping capacity
- Tool only; battery and charger not included
- Heavier at 6.4 lbs with a standard battery
Good fit if
- You need a saw that fits in cramped areas
- You already own Makita 18V LXT batteries
- You prefer a blade-right design for visibility
Skip if
- You require a larger 7-1/4 inch blade
- You want a complete kit with battery and charger
- You need to cut thick lumber beyond 2-1/4 inches
Verdict: Makita 18V 6-1/2" Sub-Compact Circular Saw fits users who prioritize a compact footprint and blade-right visibility for tight spaces. It is ideal for those who already have Makita 18V batteries and need a lightweight tool for detailed work.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Bosch GST18V-37N 18V Top-Handle Jig Saw | Makita 18V X2 Brushless 7-1/4-Inch Rear Handle Saw | Makita 18V Brushless 6-1/2-Inch Cordless Circular Saw | Milwaukee 18V Barrel Grip Jig Saw | Metabo HPT 18V Cordless Orbital Jig Saw | RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V 7-1/4-Inch Brushless Circular Saw | Makita 18V Sub-Compact 6-1/2-Inch Circular Saw |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blade Diameter | not stated | 7-1/4" | 6-1/2" | not stated | not stated | 7-1/4 in. | 6-1/2” |
| No-Load Speed | not stated | 5,100 RPM | 5,000 RPM | not stated | not stated | 5,000 RPM | 5, 000 RPM |
| Cutting Depth 90 | not stated | 2-9/16” | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | 2-1/4” |
| Voltage | 18 V | 36V (18V X2) | 18V | 18VDC | 18V | 18V | 18V |
| Power Source | not stated | not stated | Cordless | not stated | Cordless | Cordless | Cordless |
| Dimensions | 8.1 × 3 × 8 inches | 18.8 × 8.9 × 12 inches | 14 × 7.8 × 10.4 inches | 11.7 × 3.2 × 7.3 inches | 14.2 × 1.03 × 3.9 inches | 13.9 × 9.06 × 7.95 inches | 9 × 13.5 × 9 inches |
| Weight | 3.5 pounds | 12.1 pounds | 7 pounds | 5.75 pounds | 4.2 pounds | 6.5 pounds | 4 pounds |
| Size | One Size | No Size | 0.625 in | not stated | not stated | not stated | 1 Count (Pack of 1) |
| Color | Blue | Teal | Teal | Multicolor | Black, Green | Green/Black | Multicolor |
| Model | GST18V-37N | XSR01Z | XSH03Z | 2737B-20 | CJ18DAQ4 | PBLCS302B | XSH04ZB |
If you also manage cordless lawn equipment, you can evaluate greenworks 60v 21 brushless alternatives by runtime and deck size.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use these alternatives for the same tight-space cuts as the Bosch GST18V-37N?
Only the Milwaukee 2737B-20 and Metabo HPT CJ18DAQ4 are jig saws, making them suitable for similar intricate work. The Milwaukee weighs 5.75 pounds and measures 11.7 inches long. The Metabo is lighter at 4.2 pounds and 14.2 inches long. Other options like the Makita XSR01Z are circular saws designed for straight cuts, not detailed curves.
Which alternative offers the deepest cutting capacity?
The Makita XSR01Z and RYOBI PBLCS302B both use 7-1/4-inch blades for maximum depth. The Makita model weighs 12.1 pounds and measures 18.8 inches long. The RYOBI version weighs 9.63 pounds and is 13.9 inches long. These tools prioritize cutting power over the compact handling of the Bosch jig saw.
Are there lighter options than the 3.5-pound Bosch GST18V-37N?
No listed alternative weighs less than the Bosch. The Bosch GST18V-37N is the lightest at 3.5 pounds. The next lightest is the Metabo HPT CJ18DAQ4 at 4.2 pounds. The Makita XSH04ZB weighs 4 pounds but is a circular saw. You will find heavier tools if you switch to circular saws.
Which saw is best for users with existing 18V batteries?
All listed tools operate on 18V platforms, so compatibility depends on your brand ecosystem. The Milwaukee 2737B-20 fits the M18 system. The RYOBI PBLCS302B works with RYOBI ONE+ batteries. The Makita models use Makita 18V batteries. Choose the brand you already own batteries for to avoid extra costs.
What is the smallest circular saw on this list?
The Makita XSH03Z and XSH04ZB are the most compact circular saws. The XSH03Z is a 6-1/2-inch model weighing 7 pounds. The XSH04ZB is a sub-compact 6-1/2-inch model weighing 4 pounds. Both are lighter than the larger 7-1/4-inch options but still heavier than the Bosch jig saw.
Do any alternatives offer orbital action for faster cutting?
The Metabo HPT CJ18DAQ4 is described as a cordless orbital jig saw. This feature helps with detailed cuts and extended use. It weighs 4.2 pounds and measures 14.2 inches long. The Bosch GST18V-37N does not mention orbital action in its specs. The Metabo model provides this specific cutting capability.