Dewalt DW317K vs DW331K: Which One Is Better?

The DeWalt DW317K vs DeWalt DW331K are both models of the DeWalt corded jigsaw series. They are notable for their durability, versatility, and reliability. Also, they can be used for both industrial and domestic applications.

However, differentiating between the two may be difficult for you as they are quite similar.

But to put things simply, I prefer the DeWalt DW331K over the DeWalt DW317K due to its counter balance mechanisms, dust blower, high power and ergonomic design.

So if you want to know the reason for my choice, continue reading as I take you in-depth to look at these two products.

Difference between DeWalt DW317K vs DeWalt DW331K

As we’ve said before, the DeWalt DW317K and DW331K look quite similar at a glance. However, some features help us distinguish one from the other. Some of these features are;

1. Power of the motor

The two machines are both equipped with a brushless electric motor. It is this motor that supplies the power needed by the jigsaw to perform its various cutting motions.

However, the motors of the two machines are not alike in terms of their power ratings. The DeWalt DW317K is equipped with a 5.5Amp motor while the DeWalt DW331K has a 6.5 amp rated motor. This confers more power to the DeWalt DW331K.

2. Dust blower

A dust blower is a convenient addition to jigsaws. It uses streams of air to remove sawdust from the cutting line, helping to increase visibility.

The DeWalt DW331K has a dust blower built into it while the DeWalt DW317K doesn’t have any.

3. Rubber grip

While they both have the same handle shape and design, the materials used are different. The DeWalt DW331K has a rubber grip to dampen vibration and improve comfort during use.

In contrast, the DeWalt DW317K has a plain plastic grip and so doesn’t have any additional rubber for dampening vibration.

Similarities between DeWalt DW317K vs DeWalt DW331K

Since they are products of the same series, they do have a lot in common with each other. Some of these common features are responsible for their shared reliability and versatility. Without further ado, let’s dive into these common features.

1. Orbital action

The two machines have a 4-positon orbital action to help you adjust the aggressiveness of the cut. This means you can choose between 4 modes of cutting, allowing you to adjust the cutting style. This makes the machine versatile and your work faster.

2. Variable speed

Variable speed is another feature that helps increase the versatility of the machines. This means you can choose from a variety of cutting speeds for optimum performance.

They both offer cutting speeds ranging from 0 – 3100 strokes per minute. This helps you adjust the speed for the optimal cut.

3. Lever-action blade clamp

Also, they both possess a keyless, lever-action blade clamp. This feature allows you to change the jigsaw blades with ease, saving time and energy.

4. Shoe bevels

Shoe bevels are attachments that help you adjust the angle of the cut. This is because you may need to cut at an angle to produce a bevel cut.

The shoe bevel makes this easy as it helps you set the angles. They both have shoe bevels that can be set at angles between 0^o and 45^o.

5. All-metal gear case

In both machines, the gear case is made entirely of metal. This gives them a certain level of durability.

Advantages of the DeWalt DW317K

The DeWalt DW317K is simple and easy to use. You can attribute this to the way it is designed. It is also durable and versatile to a certain extent. Here, I list some of the advantages of this machine for you.

1. Light and portable

This machine is one of the lightest jigsaw machines you can get from DeWalt. For a start, it is lighter than cordless jigsaws. This is because it doesn’t have to carry the weight of batteries.

Furthermore, it is lighter than the DeWalt DW331K. This is a result of its lighter 5.5 Amp motor. This makes the DeWalt DW317K easier to handle in terms of its weight.

2. Simplicity

It is simple to use as there are fewer moving parts and features compared to its counterparts. For instance, it is simpler than the DeWalt DW331K and also simpler than cordless jigsaws. All this makes it beginner friendly. Nevertheless, it still possesses enough features to satisfy professionals. 

3. Lower energy consumption

Compared to the DeWalt DW331K the DeWalt DW317K has a motor with a lower energy (amp) rating. This enables it to use less power for the same tasks. As a result, you will save some money on electricity bills in the long run.

5. It can be used without interruption

Since the DeWalt DW317K is corded, you don’t need to pause your work to charge it or plug it. As far as your workstation is close to a power outlet, you can use it continuously given that there is power.

Furthermore, the power of the machine does not decrease as you use it. In contrast, cordless jigsaws suffer a decrease in performance when used during cutting. You can attribute this to the reduction in energy density of the batteries when you use them

6. It can be used for a variety of materials

You can use the DeWalt DW317K to cut a variety of materials such as plywood, leather, and even thick woods. This is because it has the required power to deal with a variety of materials. You get this required power from an outlet which assures a higher performance compared to batteries.

Disadvantages of the DeWalt DW317K

While this machine has its advantages, there are also some limitations to its performance. These limitations are due to the following disadvantages:

1. Poor ergonomic design

The DeWalt DW317K lacks a rubber grip on its handle. Due to this reason, there is no insulating material on the handle to dampen the vibration from the motors.

Furthermore, there is no counter-balance mechanism to reduce vibrations and user fatigue.

2. No dust blower

This machine does not come with an integrated dust blower. This means you may suffer poor visibility if you cut for some time, missing the line of cut.

3. Limited motor power

While the 5.5Amp motor in the DeWalt DW317K is powerful, it is not as powerful as the 6.5Amp motor in the DeWalt DW331K. Hence, the DeWalt DW317K lacks the power to deal with very demanding materials.

4. Dependence on a power source

Since this machine is corded, you need access to a power outlet to use it. This limits the situation and places you can use the machine.

Technical specifications of DeWalt DW317K

Features	Status
Part Number	‎DW317K
Blade Material	High-Speed Steel
Power Source	‎Corded Electric
Special Feature	Brushless
Product Dimensions	‎‎9.75 x 14.06 x 2.88 inches
Amperage	‎5.5 Amps
Item Weight	6.1 Pounds
Cutting Angle	45 Degrees
Dust blower	No
Counter-balance mechanism	No

Advantages of the DeWalt DW331K

The DeWalt DW331K is a versatile and powerful machine. Certain features make it superior to other jigsaws. Some of these features include;

1. Powerful motor

With a 6.5Amp motor, the DeWalt DW331K has enough power to cut even the most demanding materials. You can use it to cut marble tiles, sheet metal, and hard plastics, given you use the appropriate blades.

Also, there is no external limitation to the power of the motor as it doesn’t depend on batteries to perform.

As a result, it is good for domestic and industrial use. It can also be used by any class of users, from beginners to professionals. This is because its power gives it a high degree of versatility.

2. Good ergonomic design

This machine has a nice rubber grip that helps dampen the vibrations of the machine when in use. In addition to this, it also has a counter-balance mechanism to help reduce user fatigue.  These features ensure user comfort, helping you use it for an extended period.

3. It can be used without interruption

In addition to comfort, you can use this machine for a long time without the need for interruption. This is because it is a corded jigsaw and so doesn’t face low battery problems.

4. Has dust blower

This machine has an integrated dust blower. The dust blower helps you get rid of unwanted materials when cutting. This ensures you do not lose visibility of the cutting line when you are performing a cut.

5. Ease of changing blades

The keyless lever-action blade clamp allows the quick changing of blades. This means you can easily change blades on the job, saving time and energy.

Hence, you can adapt to cutting different materials. This increases your speed while ensuring versatility.

Disadvantages of the DeWalt DW331K

1. Weight

The DeWalt DW331K is lighter than its cordless counterparts. However, it is still heavier when compared to the DeWalt DW317K. This is due to its heavier motor and additional components.

2. Corded

Another limitation to the DeWalt DW331K comes from the fact that it is corded. This is because it cannot be used in places without a power outlet. For instance, it has limited use outdoors or in outfield situations.

Technical Specifications of DeWalt DW331K

Features	Status
Blade Material	High-Speed Steel
Power Source	‎Corded Electric
Special Feature	Brushless
Product Dimensions	‎14.5″L x 13.5″W x 4.5″H
Amperage	‎6.5 Amps
Item Weight	‎9.96 Pounds
Cutting Angle	45 Degrees
Dust blower	Yes
Counter-balance mechanism	Yes

Comparison Table for DeWalt DW317K and DeWalt DW331K

Feature	DeWalt DW317K	DeWalt DW331K
Special Feature present	Brushless	Brushless
Presence of Dust blower	No	Yes
Power Source	‎Corded Electric	‎Corded Electric
Overall product Dimensions	‎‎9.75 x 14.06 x 2.88 inches	‎14.5″L x 13.5″W x 4.5″H
Overall machine Weight	6.10 Pounds	‎9.96 Pounds
Has counter-balance mechanism	No	Yes
Energy amperage	‎5.5 Amps	‎6.5 Amps
Blade Material	High-Speed Steel	High-Speed Steel
Average cutting angle	45 Degrees	45 Degrees

My Recommendation – DeWalt DW317K vs DW331K

The DeWalt DW317K and DeWalt DW331K are both durable, versatile, and reliable machines. They can be used for cutting a variety of materials.

In addition, they can be used for domestic and industrial applications. Also, they can be used by a variety of users from beginners to professionals.

However, the DeWalt DW331K is superior to the DeWalt DW317K because it excels over the DeWalt DW317K in terms of performance, comfort, and versatility.

Therefore, if you want a comfortable, reliable, and versatile jigsaw, I recommend the DeWalt DW331K as a better choice.