A jigsaw is every woodworker’s friend. It not only allows you to cut smooth curves easily but it helps you cut lumber and create different plywood and plastic shapes.
But with so many producers in the market, it can be hard to determine which is the right jigsaw for you. In this post, our team of experts will help sift through the best jigsaws on the market.
Review of the Top Jigsaws
1. Bosch JS470E Corded Barrel Grip Jigsaw
Bosch is an authority in the power tool business industry. Whether it’s power tools for beginners or pros, this brand has a wide range of options for all users.
This incredibly powerful barrel grip corded jigsaw features a 7-amp motor with a no splinter feature. This engine has variable speed and orbital settings as well. It provides increased control for users as they explore the saw blade capacity for cutting wood through 5/8″ inches. Precise cuts are easy to achieve when we used this saw with wood and other material as well. Blade changes are easy, just push the fast blade insertion and ejection lever.
What’s even more impressive about this barrel grip jigsaw is its ability to get through 3/8″ of steel. When compared to basic jigsaw models, the Bosch JS470E Barrel Grip Jigsaw can do an impressive max speed of up to 3100SPM. Finally, the ambidextrous trigger lock on button guarantees comfort and steadiness for longer cuts at lower speeds. Compared to most jigsaw models we’ve tested, this Bosch jigsaw blows the competition straight out of the water.
What We Like
- Powerful barrel grip jigsaw
- Tool-less quick blade changing system
- Ambidextrous trigger lock button that helps the tool to remain steady and comfortable while cutting
- Capable of cutting metal
- High cutting speeds of up to 3100 strokes per minute (w/ reasonable stroke span)
- 30-day money-back guarantee and a 1-year warranty
- Orbital settings
- Constant response circuitry
What We Don't Like
- 10.4 pounds of weight might be too heavy for some
- Beginners might find it difficult to utilize this 7 amp corded jigsaw
2. TACKLIFE PJS02A Jigsaw
Our experts like this model for its features that improve visibility. With an onboard laser and LED lights, you can cut straight with ease and accuracy. Another useful feature is its variable speed that works to give you more control while cutting wood.
The Tacklife PJS02 is a corded saw, and it extends of up 10 feet long which gives a lot of space for movement. To make things even better, it can control the cutting speed and easily hit speeds of 3000 SPM at different speed settings with its 6.7 amp motor (pure copper). When you’re done woodworking, you can put it right back in a convenient carrying case that comes with the purchase.
What We Like
- 3000 SPM
- Easy to cut in a straight line
- Protective carrying case
- 10 feet power cord allows you to move around easily
- Laser and LED light for precise cuts
- Six different adjustable speed settings
- Adjustable aluminum footplate that allows for 45° bevels
What We Don't Like
- Could be more efficient in sawdust cleaning
- Creates slight kicks and bounces
3. WEN 33606 Jigsaw
The WEN 3306 Jigsaw is another heavy duty tool that’s packed with all the key features you need. It’s a 6.7 amp corded jigsaw that can deliver up to 3,000 SPM of speed.
It has an efficient dust collection port in addition to a built-in dust blower that helps to keep all the dirt out of your way while cutting. Another notable feature is a 4-position orbital setting/orbital action dial that allows you to easily change your blade’s position for precise work on wood, metal, or other materials.
Also, the WEN 33606 Jigsaw comes with an onboard LED work light and laser lights. These help improve visibility when you’re woodworking. The saw also features a trigger lock-on switch that provides steadiness when you’re cutting at a lower speed. It also has tool-less blade changes and can do a bevel cut 45 degrees in either direction.
(For other options, here is a complete review of Porter Cable PCE345, as well)
What We Like
- Powerful engine of 6.7 amp
- Accurate cuts
- Tool-less blade change system
- Cutting speed of 3000 SPM
- 45 degree bevel cut capacity in both directions
- Dust blower for sawdust cleanup
- Clear cut line with onboard laser guide and LED light
- Orbital setting dial
What We Don't Like
- T-shank blades only
- High noise profile
4. DEWALT DW331K Top Handle Jigsaw
The Dewalt DW331K Jigsaw is what some might call a beast model in the world of jigsaws. This heavy duty top-handle model sports a 6.5 amp motor, enabling it to provide of up to 3100 strokes per minute (SPM). The all-metal gear case adds durability, too. You also get a non-marring shoe cover that will protect against scratches.
Besides this, this Dewalt jigsaw features everything you need for most DIY wood projects. The four-position orbital action and the lock-on trigger allows you to make faster, more aggressive cuts on the material.
The blade also has a flush cutting system in place, making flush cuts easier in woodworking without the fear of up-cutting. The blade clamp on this Dewalt model accepts T-shank jigsaw blades only, though.
What We Like
- Powerful 6.5-amp motor for making precise cuts
- High speeds of up to 3100 strokes in one minute for better cutting capacity (w/ reasonable stroke length)
- Make angled cuts with four orbital settings
- You can use the blade to make accurate flush cuts
- Keyless blade change
- Integrated dust blower allows for better visibility
- Durable all-metal gear case
What We Don't Like
- Its engine power might be a bit too much for beginners
- Significantly heavier than most jigsaws in the market.
- Not a budget saw
5. Black + Decker BDEJS600C Jigsaw
This brand is also a leading producer of power tools in the American hardware store. This 4.6-pound corded electric jigsaw is one of their many impressive power tools.
The Black Decker BDEJS600C machine features curve control tech. Our experts found that there’s a setting on the Black Decker BDEJS600C to control your saw’s orbit, and you can make bevel cuts at 40°. Its adjustable shoe really comes in handy when you’re looking for stability, and you can enjoy easy blade changes since it’s tool-free. Plus, you can use T-shank and U-shank blades with this jigsaw as well. The speed settings and 3/4 stroke length is great for the price tag.
Finally, this 5.0 amp variable speed motor jigsaw has a slot where you can attach a vacuum hose. Our experts find that this helps you to keep things tidy in the workshop.
What We Like
- Easy saw orbit adjustment with curve control technology
- Speed settings can reach up to 3,000 SPM
- Excellent wire guard for increased safety
- Blade clamps work without a key for tool-less blade change
- Adjustable shoe and orbital setting
- Blade clamp accepts t-shank blade and u-shank blade types
- 5.0 - amp motor
What We Don't Like
- There's no off button. You have to turn it off at the plug when necessary.
- You might need to change the hot blade soon after purchase
6. Black + Decker BDEJS300C 5-amp Jigsaw
The Black + Decker BDEJS300C is a small stepdown from the BDEJS600C, but our experts still find its features quite impressive for the cost.
This five-amp corded jigsaw can do 45 degrees of bevel cuts. This range gives you a lot of power during woodworking. The 3,000SPM cutting speed lets you cut a variety of materials in no time.
For accuracy, it features a wire guard sightline channel. The handle is lightweight, further boosting user experience. In addition, you can adjust the bevel shoe for more stability as you cut wood. For a budget saw, this works just fine for most projects.
What We Like
- Excellent power with its five-amp motor
- Lightweight and compact design for increased maneuverability
- Increased stability while making cuts on material
- Features variable speeds and can hit a top speed of 3,000SPM for fast, clean cuts
- Adjustable bevel shoe
- Special quick clamp feature
- Has a setting to adjust the orbit
What We Don't Like
- Fairly short limit to the thickness of wood its jigsaw edges can go through
- It cannot handle tough DIY projects efficiently
7. DEWALT 20v Max DCS331B Jigsaw
The Dewalt DCS331B is another one of the cordless models that our experts have found very impressive for its speed, sturdy design, and accurate cuts.
Despite its bulky-looking design, the DEWALT DCS331B 20v Max saw still has a fairly impressive amount of maneuverability that results in incredible precision. This jigsaw is battery-powered, which gives you room for a lot of movement while woodworking.
This Dewalt 20v chainsaw Max also features a lever-action, all-metal keyless blade that functions excellently for making cuts on material. We’re also impressed with the comfortable rubber grip and the variable speeds you can use. It can reach a maximum speed of 3,000 SPM. Besides all these key features, the 3-year warranty is a sign of top-notch quality, too.
What We Like
- Budget-friendly jigsaw
- Orbital action for better efficiency while making angled cuts
- Sturdy design capable of withstanding the test of time
- Long-lasting battery
- Changing a blade on this tool is very easy
- Excellent adjustable speed control for better cuts
- All metal keyless blade
What We Don't Like
- T-shank blade only
- Sawdust collection is not that efficient
8. Black + Decker (BDCJS20C) Battery-Powered Jigsaw
Making another appearance on our review is Black Decker. One of the best cordless jigsaws, the Black + Decker BDCJS20C Cordless Jigsaw with a long-lasting battery that’s ideal for prolonged use.
It has a variable speed trigger, which makes it easy to increase your control over the jigsaw blade while woodworking. The tool-free blade change system means you’ll hardly need tools like an allen wrench to change your jigsaw blades.
To keep your workpiece clean, this professional saw comes with a built-in dust blower. The charger and the battery are included in the box, too. Finally, this battery-powered jigsaw can offer up to 2500 strokes per minute (SPM) in speed.
What We Like
- Convenient cordless jigsaw
- High-quality jigsaw with long-lasting battery life
- Variable speed trigger/accelerator trigger
- Tool-free blade change system makes changing blades easy
- Compatible with U and T shank blades
- Dust blower
- Battery and charger included
What We Don't Like
- Slightly heavier than its counterparts
- 2500SPM puts it behind other tools in terms of speed
9. CRAFTSMAN (CMES610) Jigsaw
The Craftsman CMES610 Jigsaw comes with a variable speed trigger. It can provide you with cutting speeds of up to 3,000 SPM. It features four orbital settings that allow you to manage aggressive cutting. Whether you cut curves or straight lines, it’s suitable for various materials with different densities.
This saw is compatible with both T-shank and U shank blades as well. Combined with that, the tool has an over-molded angle that’s contoured for increased comfort when woodworking. Finally, the great jigsaw allows you the grace of a 3-year warranty.
What We Like
- Impressive power
- Speed is up to 3,000(SPM) strokes per minute
- Better control to cut through different materials
- Versatility and compatibility with T and U shank blades
- Its ergonomic handle is designed specifically to provide comfort during operation
- Extended length provides a lot of movement for smooth cuts
- Four orbital settings
What We Don't Like
- No storage case
- High vibration
10. Hammerhead HAJS048 Jigsaw
The next tool on our review is the Hammerhead HAJS048. It has a variable speed control which you can access on the speed dial. It also provides you with 3000 strokes per minute when you cut through wood or other material.
This professional tool can give you a smooth and aggressive cutting action with its 4-stage orbital setting. Additionally, you can adjust its base plate to get that nice 45 degree bevel cutting on your workpiece.
Finally, the dust port on this jig saw helps to keep your work environment tidy and dust-free.
What We Like
- Smoother bevel cuts
- You can hook up the dust port to a vacuum for better sucking power
- It cuts with impressive operating speed
- Variable speed dial for speed control
- Lightweight and compact
- 2-year warranty
- 45° angle bevel cutting
What We Don't Like
- Inaccessible and unclear instructions on usage
- You could get the angles wrong without care
11. PORTER CABLE PCE345
Many woodworking projects require making intricate cuts, so it’s always wise to buy a jigsaw with a 7-position variable speed dial like PORTER CABLE PCE345. With this feature, the user can set the unit in variable cutting speeds and enjoy a more precise cutting result. The dial feels a little awkward under your fingers at first, though.
As this Porter Cable jigsaw features a 6-amp motor, our testers didn’t encounter any issues during long hours of usage. It also has a lock-on button, making it easier to manage when you’re cutting wood and other materials at a lower speed.
The four orbital configurations in this jig saw also enhance its optimal cutting capability. Through this, it can freely tackle different kinds of material. If you’re not working with thick materials, this is the perfect jigsaw for you.
(You can also check the Porter-Cable tools review here.)
What We Like
- Variable speed control dial
- High-quality jigsaw that's suitable for frequent use
- Tool-free blade change or replacements
- Powerful jigsaw motor of 6 Amp
- Four settings for orbital cutting
- Stable blade guides
What We Don't Like
- Not a brushless motor
- Stroke length is less than an inch
12. Makita 4329K Top-Handle Jigsaw
As a premium power tool brand, Makita 4329K‘s ergonomic design is a feature we already expected straight out of the box. Given its rubberized grip, this top-handle jigsaw provides the best control without compromising user comfort.
This top handle saw can operate at a speed range of 500 to 3,100 SPM. And because it’s engineered with a counterweight balancing design, you can expect less vibration during its usage. It also comes with three orbital action settings.
We also liked that this Makita jigsaw is equipped with a sliding dust cover. Thanks to this feature, there will be fewer chances of wood chips flying to the user’s face. On top of that, this top-handle model has a dust port where you can hook a shop vac for better dust management around the workshop.
What We Like
- High-quality and powerful jigsaw
- Impressive blade speed
- Ergonomic top handle
- Comfortable rubber grip
- 3 orbital settings
- T-shank jigsaw blade and built-in hex wrench
- Easy cleanup
- Less vibration for increased accuracy
What We Don't Like
- Slightly more expensive cost than other jigsaw options
- Shorter stroke length
13. RYOBI ONE+ PBLJS01
Another reliable cordless jigsaw in the woodworking scene is RYOBI ONE+ PBLJS01. If you ask us, its best feature is its brushless motor. Thanks to this, the unit can cut materials 36% faster and 76% longer than other alternatives of the same price. With the brushless motor, the amount of power on a single charge is definitely much longer.
This Ryobi cordless jigsaw is versatile tool for different DIY wood projects as it features four orbital settings in its system. Additionally, it has tool-free bevel adjustments. You can easily change angles with a locking detent of 45 degrees on both sides. The one-inch stroke length is also a great feature.
And did you know that this Ryobi model has an LED light? Not all models have this, but it’s a nice feature to have, especially for beginners.
What We Like
- Brushless jigsaw
- Cordless configuration provides more control and versatility for precision cutting
- Quick adjustments and easy blade release
- Variable speed
- Good battery life
- Orbital option
- Lock on trigger for precise and controlled cuts
What We Don't Like
- Bare tool only, battery and charger sold separately
- Steeper cost
Jigsaws Buyer's Guide
When you want to buy a jigsaw, or other power tools for that matter, you might be tempted to stick with the biggest numbers in your preferred category. If you’re not a specifications junkie, you might simply try to get cheaper jigsaws. However, this isn’t the best thing to do if you really want the best jigsaw that can give the best bang for your buck.
So, while we’ve enumerated the top rated jigsaws of 2023, you should still consider a few things from our buying guide.
Power and Cutting Speed
There are two types of woodworkers. Some do the job professionally as a means to earn money while others do it simply as a hobby.
Professional woodworkers often have to deal with a varying amount of complex work. Today, you might be working on a simple table. Tomorrow, a client might ask you to work on a huge bookshelf with multiple stylized compartments. This type of work routine can require tools that are more advanced.
Hobbyists merely do what they do for the fun of it. Whether it’s cabinet making or woodturning, there’s not a lot of pressure and you don’t need all the saws and power tools a professional woodworker might have. If you don’t have a specific need for it, you can skip the circular saws and table saws that are usually staples in a pro workshop.
If you belong to the second group, the chances are that you might not need overly powerful tools. Our experts believe that a simple 4+ motor amp, a variable speed dial, and three orbital settings is a good jigsaw for most DIY tasks. It should also have a cutting speed of about 2500 strokes per minute with a reasonable stroke length. As for the power source, a battery-operated or cordless jigsaw would likely provide enough power on a single charge.
However, for experienced woodworkers, a budget jigsaw might not give the best results, especially if you’re working with harder material like steel and metal. Look for jigsaws with quality internal components and no less than a powerful 6-amp motor. If you want a cordless jigsaw, the battery should have a long runtime. Furthermore, 3000 SPM of variable speed is good for professional use.
Corded or Cordless Jigsaw
Before, corded jigsaws weren’t particularly popular, since cordless models provide more mobility. However, a corded power source has become more appealing to woodworkers over the years. Let’s weigh the pros and cons between corded and cordless jigsaws.
With corded options, you are rest assured that you’ll get excellent work rates as long as you’re connected to a steady source of power supply. This means your saw won’t get slower as the battery life dwindles. After all, there’s no need for a battery when you have a corded jigsaw. However, this power source might limit your movement during woodworking. With limited motion comes a lower ability to cut effectively.
With a cordless jigsaw, such as the Dewalt DCS331B model, you’ll be primarily dependent on the battery. On the one hand, cordless options grant you total freedom of movement. With no cords in place, there’s also no limit to your maneuverability. On the other hand, however, cordless saws might be a bit heavier than corded models. This is mostly because of the included battery.
Blade
Jigsaws, like scroll saws, can be equipped with different blades when cutting different materials for a particular design. Some jigsaws such as the SKIL 4495-02 power tool support T shank blades. Some jigsaws support U shank blades. Many jigsaws support both. Going for one that supports only one blade type limits your options. So, it’s best to go for a saw type that allows you more flexibility in blade changes. That is, it should allow tool-less blade changing between U shaped blades and T shank blades at will.
That way, you’ll be able to use the most suitable alternative for your blade changes. This will avoid blade deflection as well.
Handle
A jigsaw is designed to use a lot of energy to get heavy-duty jobs done. As such, it’s important to have the right handle type to avoid user fatigue when you’re making angled cuts, square cuts, straight cuts, and rounded cuts in your DIY wood project.
Like most power tools, jigsaws are power intensive. Whether it’s a corded or a battery-powered jigsaw, this causes them to shake and vibrate during use. This is where a well-designed handle comes in. It ensures you have a comfortable grip throughout the process. When you purchase a jig saw, you should look for something with a well-rounded ergonomic handle or a barrel grip handle. It really boils down to personal preference, but jigsaws with an ergonomic handle is ideal for professional users. The grip allows you to make accurate cuts and work on your DIY wood projects for extended periods.
Ease of Use
The best tool should be easy to use, with a well-designed layout that’s easy to figure out. However, certain power tools are overly complicated straight out of the box.
So, before buying these power tools, make sure that you can use the product efficiently. At the very least, it should come with a manual to provide users with instructions on things like tool-less blade changing and safety reminders.
Speaking of which, your tool should come with tool-less change blade functions. The tool-less blade change feature, also known as keyless blade change, helps you to make changes without needing any special tools (ex: allen wrench, bevel wrench). Just rotate the blade ejection lever.
It could also come with a barrel grip for better usability when making DIY projects.
Laser Guide
When cutting through wood, plywood, and other materials, your line of sight might be obstructed. Dust and poor lighting may cause this. A built-in laser guide comes in handy.
Under these circumstances, you need a way to ensure that you are cutting properly. You can’t simply use a pencil to draw a guide line for your saw. A laser guide and LED light are convenient to have so you can cut a straight line.
While cutting, these lights will keep a constant light on your DIY project. That way, you’ll get even more accuracy as you operate the saw.
Dust Collection
When you’re cutting metal, wood, or a variety of materials, there will definitely be dust flying around. This could get into your eyes, nostrils, or even land on your skin. Put simply, it’s not good for you.
And if it simply lands on the floor, it still leaves quite a mess to clean up. After a long day’s work at the shop, we won’t imagine you’d want to pick up a broom to tidy up the sawdust. So, a dust collector for your cutting line is very important in a jigsaw. If it comes with an anti-splinter insert, it’s even better as it keeps your cut line cleaner.
A dust collection system should be able to keep debris away from your line of sight and cut line while the quick blade works. Many of the best jigsaw models we have on this review have dust blowers, since they’re very convenient in keeping your workpiece clean.
Durability
Among other things, your jigsaw could be made of plastic or metal. With the former, you’ll get a lightweight product that’s easy to handle. With the latter, you’ll get something that’s very durable and is capable of getting you through several years of work.
You can go for metal saws if you want durability. However, you must note that the metal counterparts are usually heavier.
If you can handle the extra weight, you can go for it. However, our experts note that you can get plastic that combines durability with lightness. These durable types are often high-density plastic[1].
Price and Warranty
Ensure that you’re getting a good deal. Even if your preferred tool has all the key features in the world, it should be cost-effective.
So, always check for price. But, when you do, make sure that you’re not merely looking for jigsaws with an affordable price. Our experts believe that for most power tools, it’s best to strike a balance. That is, find a meeting point for price and great features offered.
When that’s done, make sure you have some sort of warranty, whether it’s for the bare tool or other components. Some companies offer a money-back guarantee, even for a jig saw with an affordable price. Other companies offer warranties that last for different periods. Some established companies that offer warranties for jigsaws and other tools include Dewalt, Bosch, Porter Cable, Skil, Ryobi, and Milwaukee.
What is a Jigsaw?
A jigsaw is a specialized cutting tool for cutting curves. This is often possible with its keyless bevel shoe. Beyond curved cuts, it can also help you make straight cuts on lumber to length with the right orbital settings.
Jigsaws have small, thin blades for short strokes. On the other hand, reciprocating saws have thicker blades for longer strokes.
Jigsaws are alternately referred to as sabre saws. A jigsaw blade is incredibly versatile and can help make a series of precise cuts. What’s more is that they can make these straight cuts on a number of different materials like wood and plywood. Can a jigsaw cut through metal and steel, though? Yes, they can.
Even though many people use it to cut curves for cabinet making and general woodworking, some jigsaws can also function as ceramic cutters. That’s because this saw can accommodate different blade types with varying levels of strength.
The best jigsaw designs are pretty simple with three main components. The first element is the jigsaw handle with a comfortable grip for ease of use while working. The second is the motor, which drives the blade and makes the saw more automatic than manual.
The third is the blade itself. Except where orbital jigsaws are concerned, these saw blades often move up and down to cut. This action is known as reciprocation.
Jigsaws are usually powered by electricity, which are referred to as corded jigsaws. They often offer excellent cutting experience, depending on your skill level and consistency of electricity. However, other jigsaws are powered by 18v lithium ion batteries. These 18v lithium ion batteries are indeed long lasting compared to normal batteries. These lithium-ion batteries cater to the possibility of power outages.
(If you are tight on budget but want to invest in a high-quality power tool for precise cuts, we have a list of the best budget jigsaws here)
Type of Jigsaw
Barrel grip jigsaws
If you look closely, you’ll notice that barrel grip jigsaws have thumb switches rather than the usual trigger. The handle on barrel grips is also positioned close to the material, making it a great option for getting into tighter spaces. With this design, your hand can be placed lower, which gives users more control over the operation. A barrel grip jigsaw is a good option because it lessens the chances of tipping and skewing compared to other saws. So if accuracy is important, this will work smoothly.
Top handle jigsaws
Unlike barrel grip models, top-handle models have the typical finger trigger. You may not know, but top-handle jigsaws are considered traditional as they have tall and large D-shape handles.
Although its design makes it the better choice for easier grip and movability, top-handle saws have less accuracy and are more prone to tipping than most jigsaws.
Straight reciprocating jigsaw
Aside from top handles and barrel grips, another typical jig saw are straight reciprocating jigsaws. In a reciprocating saw, the blade can only move up and down, regardless of the path.
Despite that, you can rely on reciprocating saws to create curves and tight corners.
Orbital-reciprocating jigsaw
The difference between orbital-reciprocating jigsaws from other types is their forward blade strokes. Because the blade moves in an upward stroke, this saw can cut faster than straight reciprocating jigsaws.
However, it’s crucial to point out that it has less precision and mobility than the previous one.
FAQ
What is the best jigsaw for home use?
The best jigsaw for home use is generally one that has a low vibration and noise profile. Besides having low vibration, it should be able to handle moderately difficult tasks with ease. Its speed should be no less than 2500RPM.
What is the best corded jigsaw?
The best corded jigsaw is the TACKLIFE PJS02A Jigsaw. This tool has an incredible cutting power of 6.7amp like a circular saw. But, what’s particularly impressive is the 10-feet power cord that allows for a wide range of materials and movement.
What's the difference between a jigsaw and an orbital jigsaw?
The difference between a jigsaw and an orbital jigsaw is that the former moves the blade up and down. However, an orbital jigsaw moves the jigsaw blade slightly forward and slightly backward.
Our Top Pick For a Jigsaw: Bosch JS470E BOSCH
Our review of the best jigsaws of 2023 sought to find out which delivers the best value and performance. None came close to the Bosch Jigsaw as the best overall jigsaw. This has a 7.0-amp, an always-on dust blower, and the speed of the blade is 3100SPM.
In addition, this barrel grip saw is among the budget-friendly jigsaws on the market, with an impressive 30-day money-back guarantee and a 1-year warranty. To top it all off, the design is sleek with an ambidextrous lock on button for steady long cuts. Bosch jigsaws like this one are great on many different levels.
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