RYOBI One+ P5231 Cordless Jigsaw Review Powerful Brushless Orbital Tool Insights

Description

Design and Build Quality

Using the RYOBI One+ P5231 18V Lithium Ion Cordless Orbital T-Shaped Jigsaw feels like wielding a compact powerhouse. The green and grey plastic body is lightweight yet sturdy, which keeps fatigue at bay during longer cutting sessions. I appreciate the brushless motor design, which not only extends the tool’s life but also improves efficiency and reduces noise. The 12″ length and 6.5″ height give it a comfortable grip that fits well in my hand, while the trigger lock system adds a nice touch of control without forcing me to constantly squeeze the trigger. Although the base is plastic, it’s surprisingly durable and has a cool feature where you can drop it down to extend the use of your blade, squeezing out every last bit of life from your accessories.

Performance and Cutting Versatility

This cordless jigsaw delivers a powerful punch with a maximum of 3,000 strokes per minute (SPM), adjustable through four orbital settings. The higher settings make quick work of straight cuts in lumber, while the slower speeds excel at curves and delicate work in sheet metal or thin plywood. I found the built-in dust blower indispensable—it keeps the line of cut clear of sawdust, which means I’m not squinting to see where I’m going. The LED light is another thoughtful addition, especially handy when working in dimly lit corners or under cabinets. Cutting through wood felt smooth and precise, and even metal sheets didn’t pose much of a challenge, proving the tool’s versatility.

User-Friendly Features

Among the standout features is the trigger lock system, which I used frequently during longer cuts to maintain consistent speed without hand strain. The intuitive graphics printed on the side of the unit make switching between the four speed settings a breeze, even while holding the tool. It’s reassuring to know the settings are designed specifically for material type—higher speeds for wood, lower for metal. The tool accepts most T-shaped blades, which adds flexibility since I could use blades from other brands without hunting down proprietary replacements. However, it’s important to note it does not support U-shaped blades, which might be a minor inconvenience for some users.

Positive Features

• Cordless convenience means no tangling cords or limited reach, which really frees up movement on a busy worksite or in a cramped workshop.
• The brushless motor technology boosts durability and battery efficiency, which I noticed while pushing the tool hard.
• The four orbital speed settings allow for tailored cuts, whether I’m ripping straight through thick lumber or delicately shaping curves.
• Integrated dust blower and LED lighting keep the workspace clear and visible, enhancing precision.
• Compatibility with the entire Ryobi One+ 18V battery lineup means I could swap batteries from other Ryobi tools, a huge plus in my tool collection.

Drawbacks and Limitations

• The jigsaw does not include the battery, which means an added upfront cost if you don’t already own compatible Ryobi batteries.
• It’s not compatible with U-shaped blades, limiting blade choices slightly for those accustomed to different blade styles.
• The plastic handle, while ergonomic, feels a bit less premium compared to fully rubberized grips I’ve experienced on other brands, which might affect comfort during extended use.
• The blade saving base requires manual adjustment, which isn’t a dealbreaker but feels like a small extra step during a project.
• I noticed the unit sometimes struggled a bit with very dense hardwoods, especially at lower speed settings, requiring me to slow down and apply more consistent pressure.

Alternative Products

Compared to other cordless jigsaws in the market, such as the DeWalt DCS331B and Makita XVJ03Z, the Ryobi P5231 holds its own impressively. The DeWalt offers a similar brushless motor and multiple speed settings but comes at a higher price point, making the Ryobi a more budget-friendly option with nearly equivalent performance. Makita’s model excels in ergonomics with a soft-grip handle, which the Ryobi lacks, but the P5231’s built-in dust blower and LED light give it a slight edge in visibility during cuts. In terms of battery compatibility, Ryobi’s One+ system is a winner for those already invested in their ecosystem, whereas Makita and DeWalt require dedicated batteries for different tools. However, the Ryobi falls short in blade compatibility as it cannot use U-shaped blades, which some competitors accommodate.

Value Proposition

Considering the features packed into this cordless jigsaw, the price to quality ratio is quite attractive. The tool’s brushless motor, four orbital speed settings, and handy extras like the dust blower and LED light offer features typically found in higher-end models. If you already own Ryobi’s 18V One+ batteries, this jigsaw becomes an excellent addition without extra battery costs. Its versatility across wood and metal cutting tasks makes it a smart spending choice for DIYers and pros alike. Although the battery is not included, factoring that in, the overall utility and convenience justify the investment—especially for those who value cordless freedom and solid performance.

Handling and Control

The trigger lock system really shines here. I could maintain a steady cut without constantly gripping the trigger, which helped reduce hand fatigue during longer sessions. The four-speed dial is within easy reach and clearly marked, allowing me to switch speeds on the fly without breaking concentration. The saw’s balance feels natural, and the relatively light weight lets me maneuver it smoothly through curves. Despite the plastic handle, the grip is secure, but I would have preferred a bit more cushioning for extended use. The built-in dust blower not only clears debris but also makes the workspace safer by reducing dust clouds, which my kids appreciated when watching me work nearby.

Blade Compatibility and Accessories

This tool’s acceptance of most T-shaped blades is a big win. I tested various blades, including the wood-cutting one that comes with the tool, and a few specialty metal blades. The jigsaw handled all of them well, though I noticed blade changes require a bit of fiddling compared to some quick-release systems. The blade saving base is a clever feature I used multiple times; by dropping the base, I extended the life of blades that were only partially worn, saving me money on replacements. While I wish it supported U-shaped blades, this limitation is manageable given the wide availability of T-shaped blades on the market.

Practical Use Cases

Cutting lumber for furniture projects and trimming plywood sheets felt like the jigsaw’s sweet spot. The orbital settings made adjusting for speed-based on material thickness intuitive. I even tried slicing thin sheet metal, which went surprisingly well at the lowest speed setting. The cordless design made it easy to use in tight spaces without worrying about cords snagging or tripping hazards. My coworkers noted the quiet operation compared to older corded models, which is a nice bonus on busy job sites. The LED light was a lifesaver when working inside cabinets or in shadowed areas, ensuring clean, precise cuts without guesswork.

Additional information