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BEST ELECTRIC METAL SHEARS OF 2026

Updated
Updated
BEST OF THE BEST
DEWALT DCS491B
DEWALT
DCS491B
DEWALT Cordless Metal Shears
20V MAX Metal Shears offer cordless convenience and powerful cutting performance for sheet metal up to 18 gauge.
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Pros & Cons
PROS
  • Cordless convenience
  • Powerful and clean cuts
  • Rotating head for flexibility
  • Compatible with DEWALT 20V MAX batteries
CONS
  • Battery and charger sold separately
  • Heavier than some corded models
BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK
Makita XJS01Z
Makita
XJS01Z
Makita 18V LXT Shear
18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 18 Gauge Straight Shear is designed for fast, smooth cutting of sheet metal. Its ergonomic design and powerful motor make it a top choice for professionals.
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Pros & Cons
PROS
  • Fast and smooth cutting
  • Comfortable to use
  • Easy blade replacement
  • Long battery life
CONS
  • Battery and charger not included
  • Not ideal for very thick metals
Milwaukee 2636-20
Milwaukee
2636-20
Milwaukee M18 Double Cut
M18 18 Gauge Double Cut Shear provides powerful, cordless cutting for sheet metal, reducing edge warping and delivering precise results for professional metalworking tasks.
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Pros & Cons
PROS
  • Clean, distortion-free cuts
  • Rotating head for flexibility
  • Cordless convenience
  • Compatible with M18 batteries
CONS
  • Battery and charger sold separately
  • Not suitable for very thick metals
Genesis GES40
Genesis
GES40
Genesis Electric Metal Shear
4.0 Amp Electric Metal Shear offers powerful, corded performance for cutting sheet metal up to 14 gauge. Its lightweight design and swiveling head make it ideal for DIY and professional use.
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Pros & Cons
PROS
  • Powerful corded performance
  • Swiveling head for easy maneuvering
  • Affordable price
  • Clean, accurate cuts
CONS
  • Corded operation limits mobility
  • Not as compact as some cordless models
WEN 3650
WEN
3650
WEN Electric Metal Shear
4.0-Amp Electric Metal Shear is designed for efficient, precise cutting of sheet metal up to 20 gauge. Its lightweight build and swiveling head make it suitable for a variety of metalworking projects.
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Pros & Cons
PROS
  • Affordable price
  • Lightweight and easy to handle
  • Swiveling head for better control
  • Clean, precise cuts
CONS
  • Corded design limits portability
  • Not suitable for very thick metals
BEST OF THE BEST
DEWALT DCS491B
DEWALT Cordless Metal Shears
Cutting Capacity: 18-gauge steel
Power Source: 20V MAX Lithium-Ion (battery not included)
Weight: 5.05 lbs
Speed: 0-2,450 SPM
Head Rotation: 360 degrees

The DEWALT DCS491B 20V MAX Metal Shears are engineered for demanding jobsite applications, providing the freedom of cordless operation without sacrificing power. The 360-degree rotating head allows for precise maneuvering and access to tight spaces, while the ergonomic design ensures comfort during extended use.

The tool is compatible with all DEWALT20V MAX batteries, offering excellent runtime and flexibility for users who already own other DEWALT cordless tools.This shear is capable of cutting 7/32-inch strips, reducing material deformation and producing clean, burr-free edges.

The variable speed trigger gives users full control over the cutting speed, making it suitable for a variety of materials and thicknesses. Built with durability in mind, the DCS491B is constructed from high-quality materials to withstand tough jobsite conditions.

PROS
  • Cordless convenience
  • Powerful and clean cuts
  • Rotating head for flexibility
  • Compatible with DEWALT 20V MAX batteries
CONS
  • Battery and charger sold separately
  • Heavier than some corded models
BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK
Makita XJS01Z
Makita 18V LXT Shear
Cutting Capacity: 18-gauge mild steel, 20-gauge stainless
Power Source: 18V LXT Lithium-Ion (battery not included)
Weight: 5.3 lbs
Speed: 0-2,800 SPM
Blade System: Four-blade

Makita’s XJS01Z 18V LXT Shear is built for efficiency and comfort, delivering up to 2,800 strokes per minute for rapid cutting. The tool’s straight design allows for easy navigation along straight lines and curves, making it suitable for a wide range of sheet metal applications.

The shear’s compact and lightweight body reduces user fatigue, while the rubberized soft grip handle enhances comfort during prolonged use.The shear is powered by Makita’s 18V LXT battery system, ensuring long runtime and compatibility with other Makita cordless tools.

The four-blade cutting system minimizes material distortion and produces clean, accurate cuts. Maintenance is simplified with easy blade replacement, and the lock-on switch allows for continuous operation without hand strain.

PROS
  • Fast and smooth cutting
  • Comfortable to use
  • Easy blade replacement
  • Long battery life
CONS
  • Battery and charger not included
  • Not ideal for very thick metals
Milwaukee 2636-20
Milwaukee M18 Double Cut
Cutting Capacity: 18-gauge steel
Power Source: M18 Lithium-Ion (battery not included)
Weight: 5.1 lbs
Speed: 0-2,500 SPM
Head Rotation: 360 degrees

Milwaukee’s 2636-20 M18 Double Cut Shear is engineered for high-performance cutting in sheet metal applications. The double cut design removes a thin strip of material, leaving both edges of the cut clean and free from distortion.

This makes it ideal for HVAC, automotive, and construction professionals who require precise, high-quality cuts.The tool features a 360-degree rotating head, allowing users to adjust the cutting angle for optimal access and control.

The variable speed trigger provides fine-tuned control over the cutting speed, making it easy to adapt to different materials and thicknesses. The shear is powered by Milwaukee’s M18 battery system, ensuring long runtime and compatibility with other M18 tools.

Its lightweight, ergonomic design reduces fatigue and improves handling during extended use.

PROS
  • Clean, distortion-free cuts
  • Rotating head for flexibility
  • Cordless convenience
  • Compatible with M18 batteries
CONS
  • Battery and charger sold separately
  • Not suitable for very thick metals
Genesis GES40
Genesis Electric Metal Shear
Cutting Capacity: 14-gauge steel, 18-gauge stainless
Power Source: 120V corded
Weight: 5.4 lbs
Speed: 2,500 SPM
Head Rotation: 360 degrees

Genesis’s GES40 Electric Metal Shear is a reliable corded tool designed for cutting sheet metal, aluminum, and other materials with ease. The 4.0 amp motor delivers consistent power, allowing users to cut through up to 14-gauge steel quickly and efficiently.

The 360-degree swiveling head provides excellent maneuverability, making it easy to navigate curves and corners.The shear’s lightweight construction and ergonomic grip reduce user fatigue, even during extended cutting sessions.

The three-blade cutting system minimizes material distortion and produces clean, accurate cuts. With a lock-on switch for continuous operation and easy blade replacement, the GES40 is a practical choice for both home workshops and job sites.

PROS
  • Powerful corded performance
  • Swiveling head for easy maneuvering
  • Affordable price
  • Clean, accurate cuts
CONS
  • Corded operation limits mobility
  • Not as compact as some cordless models
WEN 3650
WEN Electric Metal Shear
Cutting Capacity: 20-gauge steel, 18-gauge stainless
Power Source: 120V corded
Weight: 4.7 lbs
Speed: 2,500 SPM
Head Rotation: 360 degrees

WEN’s 3650 Electric Metal Shear combines affordability with reliable performance, making it a popular choice for both hobbyists and professionals. The 4.0-amp motor delivers up to 2,500 strokes per minute, enabling fast, clean cuts through sheet metal, aluminum, and other materials.

The 360-degree swiveling head allows users to adjust the cutting angle for greater control and access in tight spaces.The shear’s lightweight, ergonomic design ensures comfortable handling, while the three-blade cutting system minimizes material distortion.

The lock-on trigger provides added convenience for continuous cutting tasks. With easy blade replacement and a durable construction, the WEN 3650 is a dependable tool for a wide range of metal fabrication needs.

PROS
  • Affordable price
  • Lightweight and easy to handle
  • Swiveling head for better control
  • Clean, precise cuts
CONS
  • Corded design limits portability
  • Not suitable for very thick metals

How our picks compare

SpecificationDEWALT DCS491BMakita XJS01ZMilwaukee 2636-20Genesis GES40WEN 3650
Cutting Capacity18-gauge steel18-gauge mild steel, 20-gauge stainless18-gauge steel14-gauge steel, 18-gauge stainless20-gauge steel, 18-gauge stainless
Power Source20V MAX Lithium-Ion (battery not included)18V LXT Lithium-Ion (battery not included)M18 Lithium-Ion (battery not included)120V corded120V corded
Weight5.05 lbs5.3 lbs5.1 lbs5.4 lbs4.7 lbs
Speed0-2,450 SPM0-2,800 SPM0-2,500 SPM2,500 SPM2,500 SPM
Head Rotation360 degrees-360 degrees360 degrees360 degrees
Blade System-Four-blade---