A cordless jigsaw is an excellent tool for quickly creating cuts in thin materials. But, using the wrong model can either break your piece and hurt you or delay your projects.
This is why our woodworking experts have tested different models to find the best cordless jigsaw durable enough for any task.
Reviews of the Top Cordless Jigsaws
1. DEWALT 20V MAX XR Jig Saw
Whether you prefer a top handle or a barrel grip, the DeWalt 20V Max XR is the best. Its superior vibration control and zero blade deflection on challenging cuts made up for its slower cutting speed. Thanks to its reduced height, you can control the top handle version more.
The buttons on this Dewalt jigsaw are conveniently located and can be reached without releasing your hold. And the tool-less blade change makes it better than all the jigsaws on the list.
Our testers were able to get an hour of use out of the DeWalt jigsaw’s 20-volt Lithium battery before recharging.
What We Like
- Keyless blade setting
- Variable speed adjustments
- 3-year limited warranty
- Keyless shoe bevel
- Orbital action in 4 settings
- Tool-free bevel adjustment
What We Don't Like
- Charger and battery are sold separately
- A bit expensive
2. Makita XVJ03Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Jig Saw
If you need a saw that can get the job done quickly and effectively, look no further than the Makita, which can reach speeds of up to 2600 SPM. Its lightweight construction isn’t the only ergonomic advantage, either.
The broad, two-finger trigger makes it convenient to use with one hand. Another feature we liked about the Makita LXT Lithium-Ion cordless jig saw is that its battery can be interchanged with similar power tools on the 18V cordless platform.
Its Star Protection Computer Controls also avoid saw overloading and overheating.
What We Like
- Best jigsaw with solid construction
- 3-year limited warranty
- 2600 SPM cutting speed
- Good cordless jigsaw accuracy
- Tool-less blade changes
What We Don't Like
- High price
- Bare tool is a bit heavy
3. BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX* POWERCONNECT
If you’re on a tight budget but still want a high-quality cordless jigsaw, go no further than the BLACK+DECKER 20V model. In addition, the saw’s battery and charger are also included at a low price.
The BDCJS20C cordless jig saw is a great deal and a well-made tool. This saw is best cordless power tool for cutting wood for simple projects and has a plethora of convenient extras. The saw’s variable-speed trigger and bevel adjustment make for more precise cutting and mitering.
In addition, the wire guard and dust blower installed are much-appreciated additions to ensure you track the cut line properly.
What We Like
- Battery and charger included
- Variable speed trigger
- 2-year limited warranty
- Best cordless equipment for the price
- 2500 max cutting speed
What We Don't Like
- For smaller tasks
- Best for small tasks
4. BOSCH 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Jig Saw
The BOSCH JSH180 cordless jig saw is capable of cutting through any material. We particularly appreciate the low height for an excellent top handle saw, which allows a firm grip.
This saw’s variable speed trigger is simple, requiring only a firmer or lighter press to change the blade’s rpm. The blade’s cutting intensity can be simply adjusted using a four-way selector switch to suit different materials and degrees of precision.
Compared to other cordless jigsaws on the list, the vibration level produced by this jigsaw is amazingly low. Your arms wouldn’t get jelly from using it for hours, and the reduced shaking makes it easier to maintain your cutting line for clean, precise cuts.
What We Like
- LED light and dust blower included
- Lightweight
- Intuitive variable speed trigger
- One-handed blade change system
What We Don't Like
- Not a brushless motor model
- Requires tools for bevel adjustments
5. Ryobi One+ P523 18V Lithium Ion Cordless
This Ryobi saw has plenty of cutting strength. You’ll be able to make short work of any obstacle with rates of up to 3000 strokes per minute. This saw does not use a trigger with variable speed control but rather a trigger lock mechanism.
We also like that the foot of the Ryobi is adjustable, which is a feature not seen on any other power tool. The quick switching of blades is made possible by a tool-free blade clamp mechanism, and touching a hot blade after it has been used is avoided by the eject feature.
In addition, the Ryobi One+ P523 dust buster and LED light help you get the cleanest possible cuts.
What We Like
- Dust blower and LED light included
- Trigger lock system
- 4 orbital settings
- Powerful
- Quick blade change
- Provides bevel cuts
What We Don't Like
- Changing blades has a learning curve
- You will need extra batteries for large tasks
6. PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX* Jig Saw
Since the PORTER-CABLE PCC650B is a part of the company’s 20V Max models, it can use any of the company’s 20V Max batteries. This cordless jigsaw can handle most home repair or do-it-yourself projects thanks to its max speed of 2500 and variable speed trigger with 3 distinct orbital settings.
In addition, the Porter-Cable has a tool-free blade release system, dust blower, and bevel shoe, which allows angled cuts up to 45 degrees.
The trigger on this battery-powered jigsaw allows infinite speed adjustments up to a maximum SPM. Its conventional engine is powerful and efficient enough to handle any task you can throw at it.
What We Like
- 2500 maximum speed
- .75 inch stroke length
- Affordable
- Has as much power as other consumer-grade jigsaws
What We Don't Like
- Extra batteries needed
- Battery and charger sold separately
7. Milwaukee 2445-20 M12 Jig Saw
The Milwaukee 2445-20 M12 cordless jig saws are an excellent option if you need small, powerful tools. The saw’s lightweight design makes it simple to transport and use. And it can reach speeds of up to 2800 SPM max. speed, which is respectable for a device of its size.
Because of the tool’s small size, Milwaukee developed a novel hybrid grip to give the user a firm grasp and a comfortable feel. They did an excellent job at that as well.
We like that this jigsaw is compatible with the M12 series of power tools, and it features a built-in LED light and “fuel gauge” that displays the remaining run-time.
What We Like
- Can cut curves decently
- 2800 SPM cutting speed
- Quik-Lok T-shank blade clamp
- Fuel gauge
- Decent battery life
What We Don't Like
- You may need a shopvac for dust control
- For smaller tasks
Uses of a Jigsaw
The best cordless jigsaws can create curved cuts and cuts that begin inside the board and even straight lines. These versatile tool designs has progressed to include battery platforms and movable guide plates, making them cordless.
Its saw blade can cut through various materials, including wood, metal, PVC, and more, using a simple up-and-down reciprocating motion [1].
This saw has a thinner blade than others, making it easier to follow intricate curves. Because of its straight blade, you can also use it to make precise cuts in tight corners.
If a contractor doesn’t have a drywall cutout tool or an oscillating multi-tool, they’ll utilize these to make holes in countertops for sinks or to make cuts in drywall. When working with such openings, it’s common practice first drill a hole inside the waste area just big enough to accommodate the jigsaw blade before beginning the actual cut.
These are only some of the most common applications for jigsaws, and the possibilities for their use are extensive.
Advantages of Battery-Powered Jigsaws
The fact that cordless jigsaws could be carried around easily accounted for much of their success in replacing corded power tools. There is no need to be near an electrical socket to use these tools, making them ideal for woodworkers who like to take their projects on the road.
Because of its portability, you can take a cordless jigsaw to the garden or the property’s edge if maintenance work needs to be done there.
Designs that don’t require an extra cord come in handy when you need to use them in a confined area. It’s likely that as your carpentry skills grow, you’ll take on more home repair tasks where portability is important.
We’ve also found that battery-operated jigsaws have the added benefit of being more compact. You may forget about bringing and stowing away an additional extension cord.
Downsides of Battery-Powered Jigsaws
As you would know, these tools’ power loss is a major drawback. Unlike their corded counterparts, most cordless tools’ motors are smaller and can’t produce as high of RPMs or as much torque.
As the battery dies from use, it’ll also gradually lose strength. Nonetheless, this shouldn’t get in the way of a good time in the shop for a novice or intermediate woodworker.
As a second issue, battery charging is a pain. It will take some time to recharge the battery when it has been depleted fully. The solution you can come up with is to keep a supply of fully charged spare batteries available.
Furthermore, jigsaw blades are delicate and easily snap if turned too rapidly or with too much force. As another restriction, they can only work with wood of a certain thickness.
Best Applications for a Cordless Jigsaw
Because of their portability, cordless power tools are increasingly popular. They’re handy for projects inside and out, especially when power outlets are few.
If you’re short on time but need to get to work, you won’t have to waste it fumbling with an extension cable because of how simple they are to use.
The primary advantage of any jigsaw is its capacity to cut curved shapes in the materials you’re dealing with. Jigsaws are useful for making intricate cuts in wood that would be difficult or impossible with other saws like band saws and circular saws.
Safety Precautions To Consider When Using Cordless Jigsaws
Sawing through wood, metal, PVC, and other materials is as simple as using a jigsaw’s up-and-down reciprocating motion.
While its primary use is in woodworking, its thinner blade makes it ideal for cutting intricate curves. Because of its straight blade, you can also use it to make precise cuts in tight corners.
To begin cutting through one of these openings, it is common practice to first drill a hole inside the waste area large enough to accommodate the jigsaw blade.
Cordless Jigsaws Buyer’s Guide
Cutting Performance
A good jigsaw should easily slice through whatever you’re cutting. If you’re making your own stair stringers, ensure that your saw can handle 2x lumber easily.
Hardwoods can easily catch fire if you don’t know how to cut them safely. There would be a significant improvement if you could adjust the trigger speed.
The efficiency and lifespan benefits of brushless motors are doubled in the context of cutting applications. Its importance here is lower than other power tools, but it’s still welcome.
(If you’re new to using this type of tool, read this guide on how to use your jigsaw properly.)
Barrel Grip vs Top Handle Jigsaw
What’s crucial about these two categories is that they have no distinction in how they function. Which one you choose depends on your tastes.
Although if you are looking for a lock-on button, this is a standard feature on barrel grip jigsaws.
Manufacturers will try to convince you that a barrel grip jigsaw is better suited for detail work and a standard grip jig saw is more suited for quick rough cuts. Still, this argument doesn’t mean much if you listen to the opinions of people who use both models.
Those with smaller hands may find a pistol grip jig saw more manageable, while those with larger hands may find a barrel grip model more suitable.
Blade Type
Jigsaw blades typically come in one of two types: U-shape or T-shank blades. The former is preferred since you can swap it out more quickly.
The material they’re constructed from is far more significant. Not only will you be unable to make any progress on your project, but you also run the danger of causing harm to the machine if you use the wrong blade.
A jig saw blade made of tungsten carbide is required for cutting ceramics. Steel blades are preferable when cutting soft materials like wood or metal. Use a bimetallic blade if you plan on cutting hardwood or metal.
Speed
The number represents the number of strokes per minute your jigsaw’s motor can produce. In other words, it is how many times per minute the blade is raised and lowered.
The greater your SPM, the greater the volume and types of tasks you can handle. But maximum speeds aren’t needed for everything, and high speed isn’t always the best option.
A variable-speed trigger, instead of a variable speed dial, is typically included in the handle and will let you easily control the speed settings without halting the job.
Batteries
The size of the battery is the primary determinant of the output power of cordless power tools. Sawing capacity is another consideration; however, as many models have a similar stroke length, this characteristic is not decisive.
Battery capacity (amp-hours or Ah) varies depending on the brand.
Brushless Motor
There is no power loss in a brushless motor since no copper brushes are rubbing against contacts. Instead, magnets are used. As a result, a brushless tool will have more output and lower energy consumption than its conventionally-powered counterpart.
A brushless motor in a cordless tool is a major differentiator between professional and consumer versions.
Control, Precision, and Deflection
A jigsaw’s primary purpose is cutting curves, therefore, mastering the tool’s feel is crucial. The ergonomics of holding the saw play a significant role in this. A high-quality blade that is the right size for the curves you’re cutting is also important.
Focus your attention on the knife itself. To prevent swaying and deflection, you must keep the saw’s motion straight up and down to prevent swaying and deflection.
Although most jigsaws feature a guide behind the blade to prevent it from wandering, we have encountered those more prone to having the blade jump out of the guide and throw your cut off.
Think about how close the tip of the shoe is to the blade. When it is necessary to make thinner cuts, you may get the shoe to stabilize on the material from both sides by letting the edges move in closer.
Vibration and Visibility
You can limit your options by choosing ones with less vibration once visibility, performance, and control are finalized. A more relaxed sawing experience will be appreciated by your hands and reduce the sensation of struggling against the saw.
No amount of precision will help if you can’t see the blade making contact with the cutline. For the most part, jigsaws do a wonderful job of preventing debris from clogging up the blade region. High-intensity discharge (LED) lights and a cutline blower greatly increase your visibility.
Orbital Settings
Orbital settings refer to the oscillating motion of the jigsaw blade during operation. Most cordless jigsaws offer multiple orbital settings. Find an orbital action that allows you to adjust it to your liking. It makes the blade’s elliptical motion more aggressive, allowing for faster, more precise cuts.
Extra Features
- LED lights
- Toolless bevel adjustments
- Variable speed dial, trigger or adjustments
- Built-in tool storage if not toolless
- Cutline blower
- Orbital setting
- Soft start
- Variable speed control
- Dust collection feature
- Lock-on switch
- Blade release lever that is housing-mounted
Brand Reputation and Target Market
This is an essential criterion to check when shopping for a new cordless jigsaw. The saws made by most reputable manufacturers are part of a larger family of power tools that all use the same battery and charging mechanism.
Once you examine specific products, you’ll notice that most manufacturers aim their product lines at either do-it-yourselfer at home or professional contractors.
Price and Warranty
We’d all like to keep costs down, so that’s a major factor when searching for the best cordless jigsaws. The worth of the instrument is mostly based on the benefits it provides for the price.
Think about the line’s warranty and whether or not it includes other tools you might wish to buy in the future. Examine the jigsaw included with your current battery platform before looking elsewhere. The basic tool could help you save money.
Choosing the Top Cordless Jigsaw
Which Cordless Jigsaw is Affordable?
RYOBI and BOSCH are the most reasonably priced options compared to the other brands. The SKIL is more money but includes a battery and charger.
Which Cordless Jigsaw Unit Contains the Most Features?
Both SKIL and MILWAUKEE contain more features than all the saws. Most Skil units have a complete kit that includes the power tool, battery, and charger, as well as a USB charging attachment.
In addition to its unparalleled dust collection capabilities, MILWAUKEE boasts a full suite of other features, such as tool-free adjustments, LED lighting, and variable speed control.
Which Cordless Jigsaw Model Produces More Power?
Most other brands can’t compare to the power output of DEWALT, MILWAUKEE, and BOSCH. Every series features batteries with a maximum capacity of 12.0 Ah. These batteries are monsters, capable of lasting long, even in the worst situations.
FAQ
Are cordless jigsaws as powerful as corded jigsaws?
The power of a corded jigsaw is greater than that of a cordless one. All it needs to function is a connection to an electrical outlet. Heavy-duty jobs like sawing through solid objects are perfect for corded tools.
Are all jigsaws the same?
Not all jigsaws are the same. Some have less sturdy materials, some have lower amps and volts ratings, while others can offer more variety of cuts than others.
Our Top Pick For a Cordless Jigsaw:
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Jig Saw
Our team’s choice for the best cordless jigsaw is the Dewalt DCS334B. This cordless jigsaw can reach speeds of up to 3000 SPM, giving you all the cutting power of a standard plug-in model without the hassle of a wire. Additionally, it comes equipped with many useful extras.
- Black+Decker MM2000 Review — Is This Lawn Mower Worth it? (2023) - September 29, 2023
- Dewalt DWE575SB Review (2023) — Is it Worth it? - September 24, 2023
- DeWalt DCS369B Review (2023) — Cutting Edge Precision and More - September 23, 2023
