What’s the one saw that can do it all, given you have the know-how to wield it? The answer is a jigsaw. Sure, everyone recognizes its ability to cut curves, but there’s much more to this tool. It tackles not just wood but also metal, plastic, and any other material you have the right blade for. And with a fence, a jigsaw can rival a table saw or circular saw for straight cuts. Packed with versatility, the jigsaw is an essential tool for any craftsman’s arsenal.
Just learned something new? Here’s a sneak peek of what else we’ll cover:
- Versatile Tool, Versatile Uses: Discover how a jigsaw can be your go-to tool for a variety of projects.
- Make the Right Choice: We’ll guide you through picking the best jigsaw for your specific needs.
- Pro Tips and Techniques: Get insider tips to master your jigsaw and elevate your crafting game.
As we move into our detailed jigsaw reviews, keep an open mind about how this tool can transform your work. Whether you’re cutting intricate designs or straight lines, we’re here to help you find the jigsaw that will be your workshop MVP. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!
Table of contents
Understanding Jigsaws
Imagine a tool as nimble as a cat but as powerful as a lion – that’s a jigsaw for you. This handy tool dances around curves and corners in wood, metal, plastic, and more, making it the go-to choice for projects that need a personal touch. Whether you’re carving a delicate pattern or slicing through straight lines, the jigsaw is your workshop’s secret weapon.
Key jigsaw features to consider
- Blade Type: Think of blades as the jigsaw’s teeth – sharp and varied for different bites. Whether gnawing through metal or nibbling on wood, there’s a blade for every material. The best new tools feature high carbon steel blades.
- Power Source: Choose between the relentless energy of a corded jigsaw or the untethered freedom of a cordless one. Each brings its own strengths to the table. A battery powered jigsaw is super portable but could lack power and endurance.
- Speed Settings: Like the tempo of a song, speed settings let you tune your cutting rhythm – slow for intricate dances, maximum speed for bold strides.Look for a variable speed trigger or variable speed dial to help you set the blade speed for the best results.
- Orbital Action: This is where jigsaws show their swagger, with a blade that rocks forward on its strokes to improve its cutting speed. Most jigsaws feature a variable speed control to govern the amount of orbital action.
- Bevel Capability: Why stick to straight lines when you can tilt and angle your cuts? The bevel feature lets your jigsaw lean into curves like a pro. Bevel + fence = super saw.
Recent trends and advancements
Jigsaw manufacturers aren’t just cutting wood; they’re cutting their own curves with innovative designs and souped-up features. From batteries that last longer than ever to laser guides sharper than a hawk’s gaze, the latest jigsaws are a blend of brains and brawn. Ergonomic designs mean your hands won’t tire, and new blade technologies ensure that every cut is cleaner and lasts longer. In the jigsaw world, evolution isn’t just happening – it’s racing ahead.
The Best Corded Jigsaws
Bosch Variable Barrel-Grip JS470EB Jigsaw Review
The Bosch JS470EB is a powerhouse in the jigsaw market, boasting a 7.0-amp motor. Its variable speed control allows for 500 to 3100 strokes per minute, making it versatile for a variety of materials and cuts. The tool features a four-setting orbital action for different cutting needs and a built-in dust blower to keep your work area clean. Its design minimizes vibration, enhancing user comfort during prolonged use, and includes a tool-less blade change system for quick and easy adjustments.
Pros and Cons
- Pros:
- Powerful motor for efficient cutting.
- Variable speed for diverse cutting applications.
- Orbital action settings for precision.
- Tool-less blade change for convenience.
- Low vibration design for comfort.
- Cons:
- Some users reported the dust blower as underpowered.
- Few instances of quality concerns on initial use.
Personal Experience
I’ve had my fair share of run-ins with various jigsaws, but the Bosch JS470EB stands out in my toolkit. Its 7.0-amp motor impressed me with its robust power, slicing through oak and pine with equal ease. The variable speed control was a game-changer, allowing me to switch from rapid, aggressive cuts in thick material to more delicate, controlled cuts for intricate designs. The tool’s orbital action settings added another layer of control, making it a breeze to adjust the cut style according to the task. Whether I was crafting a detailed inlay or making straightforward cuts for cabinetry, the JS470EB adapted seamlessly to my needs.
What truly set this jigsaw apart for me was its user-centric design. The reduced vibration, thanks to its well-engineered build, meant I could work for hours without the usual fatigue or discomfort in my hands. The tool-less blade change system saved me precious time, especially when shifting between different types of cuts within a single project. While I found the dust blower a bit underpowered for heavy-duty work, it was sufficient for most tasks, keeping my cut line visible. The JS470EB proved not just a tool, but a reliable partner in my woodworking projects, consistently delivering precision and power.
Conclusion
Overall, the Bosch JS470EB stands as a reliable and efficient tool for both professional and amateur woodworkers. Its powerful motor, variable speed, and adjustable settings cater to a wide range of cutting tasks, while its ergonomic design ensures comfort. Despite some minor issues with the dust blower and initial quality in a few units, it remains a top choice for its versatility and performance.
DEWALT DW331K 6.5 Amp Top Handle Jigsaw: Precision Meets Power
The DEWALT DW331K is a robustly built top-handle jigsaw, designed for both professional and DIY projects. It comes equipped with a 6.5-amp motor, capable of delivering up to 3000 strokes per minute. This jigsaw stands out with its variable speed control, allowing for precise cuts across different materials. It features a four-position orbital action for optimal cutting performance and versatility. The tool also offers bevel cutting up to 45 degrees in both directions, enhancing its utility for complex projects. With its tool-less blade change system, switching between T-Shank and U-Shank blades is effortless, reducing downtime and increasing efficiency.
Pros and Cons
- Pros:
- Powerful 6.5-amp motor for efficient cutting.
- Variable speed up to 3000 SPM for tailored cutting experience.
- Four orbital-action settings for different cutting needs.
- Tool-less blade change for quick adjustments.
- Bevel capability of 45 degrees for versatile angled cuts.
- Comfortable rubberized overmolding for prolonged use.
- Compatible with both T-Shank and U-Shank blades.
- Cons:
- Dust blower could be more powerful.
- Might be heavy for some users.
Personal Experience
As a woodworker who values both precision and versatility in tools, the DEWALT DW331K has become a crucial part of my workshop. From the moment I unboxed it, I was impressed by its sturdy build and ergonomic design. The rubberized overmolding provided a comfortable grip, which is essential during long hours of work. When I first put it to the test, cutting through a piece of oak, the saw’s 6.5-amp motor delivered smooth, powerful performance. Its variable speed settings, reaching up to 3000 strokes per minute, allowed me to adjust the cutting speed to match the intricacies of my work – slow and steady for detailed patterns and faster for rough cuts.
One of the standout features of the DW331K is its orbital action settings. With four different options, I could fine-tune the blade’s movement, which was especially helpful when I needed a cleaner cut in plywood or a more aggressive approach in thicker stock. The tool-less blade change saved me time and hassle, letting me switch between different blade types swiftly. The saw’s ability to bevel up to 45 degrees both ways expanded my creative possibilities, allowing for angled cuts with ease. Although the dust blower isn’t the most powerful I’ve encountered, it does a decent job keeping the cut line visible. With the saw’s trigger lock, my hands stayed comfortable even during extended use, ensuring that my focus remained solely on precision.
Conclusion
The DEWALT DW331K Jigsaw is a standout tool, balancing power, precision, and user comfort. Its versatile features cater to a wide range of cutting tasks, making it a valuable asset for any woodworker. While it does have minor downsides, such as the dust blower’s performance, its overall functionality and durability make it a top choice in the jigsaw category.
Milwaukee 6268-21 6.5 Amp Orbital Jig Saw: A Blend of Precision and Comfort
The Milwaukee 6268-21 stands out as a formidable player in the jigsaw arena, designed for a blend of precision cutting and user comfort. Equipped with a 6.5-amp motor, this tool offers variable speed capabilities up to 3000 strokes per minute, providing the flexibility needed for a variety of materials and applications. The jigsaw’s orbital action, with four distinct settings, allows for tailored cutting techniques, from aggressive, fast cuts to more controlled, precise movements. The tool’s bevel capacity up to 45° in both directions broadens its application range, making it suitable for complex angled cuts.
The tool-less blade change system enhances the ease of use, minimizing downtime between blade switches. A key feature that adds to the user experience is the rubberized overmolding, providing a comfortable grip for extended use, and the inclusion of a trigger lock for additional safety and convenience. This jigsaw is compatible with both T-Shank and U-Shank blades, increasing its versatility.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Strong 6.5-amp motor for efficient and powerful cutting.
- Variable speed up to 3000 SPM for adaptability in various projects.
- Four orbital-action settings for customized cutting preferences.
- Tool-less blade changes for quick and easy adjustments.
- Bevel cutting capability up to 45° for versatile applications.
- Comfortable rubberized overmolding and trigger lock for extended use.
- Compatible with both T-Shank and U-Shank blades, enhancing flexibility.
Cons:
- Base plate is stamped, not machined, so some individual saws could be out of square
- The weight and design feel awkward for some people
Personal Experience
As an experienced woodworker, I found the Milwaukee 6268-21 to be a reliable and dynamic tool that effortlessly met my diverse project needs. The power and adaptability of the 6.5-amp motor made it easy to switch between heavy-duty cutting and more refined work. The variable speed control was particularly useful for managing different materials, giving me the precision I needed for intricate designs and the speed for quicker, rougher cuts. The orbital settings were a boon, allowing me to customize the blade’s motion based on the task at hand.
Comfort was a standout feature of this jigsaw; the rubberized handle ensured a steady grip and reduced fatigue during long hours of work. The ease of changing blades was a time-saver, especially when shifting between various types of cuts in a single session. Overall, the Milwaukee 6268-21 proved to be a versatile and dependable tool, striking an excellent balance between power, precision, and comfort.
Conclusion
The Milwaukee 6268-21 JigSaw emerges as a top contender in the power tool category, offering a blend of strength, precision, and user-centric design. Its diverse features and robust performance make it a valuable asset for both professionals and hobbyists. While there may be some minor drawbacks, its overall efficiency, versatility, and comfort make it a recommended choice for a wide range of cutting tasks.
Which corded jigsaw is right for you?
- Choose the Bosch Variable Barrel-Grip JS470EB Jigsaw if:
- You need a powerful motor for efficient and diverse cutting applications.
- Precision is a top priority, especially with adjustable orbital action settings.
- You value a tool with low vibration for comfortable, prolonged use.
- Quick and easy tool-less blade changes are important for your workflow.
- Note: Be aware of the slightly underpowered dust blower and occasional initial quality issues.
- Choose the DEWALT DW331K 6.5 Amp Top Handle Jig Saw if:
- You require a robust and durable jigsaw for professional or DIY projects.
- Versatility in cutting with variable speed and four orbital-action settings is essential.
- Bevel capability for angled cuts is a necessity for your work.
- Comfort during extended use is important, thanks to the rubberized overmolding.
- Note: Consider the dust blower power and the tool’s weight if these factors are crucial for you.
- Choose the Milwaukee 6268-21 6.5 Amp Orbital Jig Saw if:
- You prefer a blend of precision cutting with a strong motor and variable speed.
- Customizable cutting preferences with multiple orbital-action settings are a must.
- You need a jigsaw that’s easy to handle and adjust, with tool-less blade changes.
- A comfortable grip for extended periods of work is essential for your projects.
- Note: This is a heavy jigsaw, so beware of blade deflection if you’re making a lot of tight cuts.
The Best Cordless Jigsaws
Makita XVJ03Z 18-Volt LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Jig Saw: Agile and Efficient
The Makita XVJ03Z is a testament to cordless jigsaw convenience and efficiency. Driven by a robust 18V LXT motor, it offers adjustable speed ranging from 800-3500 SPM, making it suitable for a diverse range of materials and cutting requirements. This jigsaw boasts a bevel capacity and features orbital action with three settings, allowing for a mix of speed and precision in your cuts. The brushless motor enhances run time, ensuring longer, uninterrupted work sessions. Its lightweight design, at just 5.8 lbs with the battery, is a clear advantage for maneuverability and reduced fatigue during use. The tool-less blade change mechanism makes swapping jigsaw blades easy, and the dual LED work lights illuminate your work area for better accuracy. The saw also includes a dust blower to keep your cut line clear, a trigger lock for safety, and a rubberized overmolding for a comfortable grip.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver.
- Adjustable speed for versatile cutting.
- Three orbital-action settings for customized cutting.
- Brushless motor for extended run time.
- Tool-less jigsaw blade changes for convenience.
- Dual LED lights for enhanced visibility.
- Comfortable grip and easy handling.
Cons:
- Some users experienced issues with cutting thinner materials.
- Speed may not be sufficient for ultra-precise cuts on thinner materials.
Personal Experience
As a woodworker who often transitions between different materials and intricate designs, the Makita XVJ03Z has been a valuable addition to my toolkit. Its cordless nature allowed me to work freely without the hassle of cords, and its lightweight design made it exceptionally easy to handle, even during complex cuts. The adjustable speed and orbital action settings were beneficial for tackling various materials, from softwood to denser compounds. The dual LED lights were a great help in low-light conditions, ensuring that I could see my cutting line clearly. Although I faced some challenges with thinner materials, the overall performance and convenience of the Makita XVJ03Z made it a reliable tool for most of my projects.
Conclusion
The Makita XVJ03Z 18-Volt LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Jig Saw stands out for its blend of portability, power, and user-friendly features. It excels in providing a versatile cutting experience for various applications, especially for those valuing the freedom of cordless tools. While it may have limitations in handling thinner materials, its overall performance, coupled with the convenience of cordless operation, makes it a solid choice for both professional and DIY users.
Ryobi One+ P5231 18V Lithium-Ion Cordless Jig Saw: Compact and Capable
The Ryobi One+ P5231 stands as a testament to the evolving world of cordless power tools. Equipped with a powerful 18V motor, it offers a variable speed of up to 2400 SPM, catering to a variety of cutting needs. The jigsaw is capable of beveling up to 45° in both directions, enhancing its versatility for different cutting angles. It features three orbital-action settings, allowing for a range of cutting techniques from fine to aggressive. The tool’s lightweight design, weighing just 4.0 lbs without the battery, makes it highly maneuverable and reduces user fatigue.
Additional features include tool-less changes for quick saw blade swaps, an LED light for enhanced visibility, a trigger lock for safety, and on-tool blade storage for convenience. This jigsaw is compatible with both T-Shank blades and U-Shank blades and has a rubberized overmolding for comfortable handling. It comes with a lifetime warranty, assuring long-term reliability. There is even space to tuck in your hex wrench.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Lightweight and easily maneuverable.
- Variable speed up to 2400 SPM for a range of applications.
- Bevel capacity up to 45° for versatile angled cuts.
- Three orbital-action settings for different cutting needs.
- Tool-less blade changes for convenience.
- LED work light enhances visibility in various working conditions.
- Comfortable grip with rubber overmolding.
Cons:
- Some users reported a lack of power for tougher cuts.
- Run time may be limited depending on the battery used.
Personal Experience
As a frequent user of cordless tools, the Ryobi One+ P5231 was a pleasant addition to my collection. Its light weight made it exceptionally easy to handle, especially for overhead and tight-space cuts. The variable speed was effective for handling different materials, though I noticed it struggled slightly with very tough cuts. The LED work light was a great feature for dark corners and evening work. While the battery life was sufficient for most of my projects, I did have to plan for recharging or spare batteries for longer tasks. Overall, the Ryobi One+ P5231 proved to be a reliable and handy tool for a range of woodworking tasks.
Conclusion
The Ryobi One+ P5231 18V Lithium-Ion Cordless Jig Saw is a great choice for those seeking a lightweight, versatile, and user-friendly jigsaw. Its range of features and cordless convenience make it suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals who need a reliable tool for lighter tasks. While it may not be the most powerful jigsaw on the market, its ease of use, portability, and range of features offer great value, especially for users already invested in the Ryobi One+ battery system.
SKIL PWRCore 20 Brushless 20V Lithium Battery Pwrassist USB Jig Saw: Power and Precision
The SKIL PWRCore 20 Jigsaw emerges as a strong contender in the power saws market. Powered by a stout 20V Max Lithium-ion battery, it offers notable run time and performance. This jigsaw features variable speed control up to 3000 SPM, accommodating various materials and cutting demands. It comes with four orbital-action settings, allowing for customized cutting experiences from smooth to aggressive. The adjustable dust blower is a handy feature, keeping your line of sight clear for precise cuts. Its tool-less blade change system is a significant time-saver, making blade swapping quick and effortless. The jigsaw is designed for T-Shank blades only, ensuring secure blade attachment. Comfort is key with its rubberized ergonomic handle, providing a firm grip during extended use. Additionally, it includes a trigger lock for added safety and convenience.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Strong 20V Max Lithium-ion battery for extended use.
- Variable speed up to 3000 SPM for versatile cutting.
- Four orbital-action settings for customized cuts.
- Tool-less blade changes for quick adjustments.
- Adjustable dust blower for clear visibility.
- Comfortable grip with rubber overmolding.
Cons:
- Some users found it less effective for cutting thicker metals.
- Occasional issues with thinner blades being pulled out on tight turns.
Personal Experience
In my woodworking projects, the SKIL PWRCore 20 has proven to be a reliable tool. Its robust battery life allowed me to work through multiple tasks without frequent recharging. I found the variable speed particularly useful for adjusting to different materials, ensuring clean and accurate cuts. The orbital-action settings were effective for both rapid, rough cuts and finer, detailed work. While it handled most materials with ease, I did notice some challenges when working with thicker metals. The comfort and ease of use, however, made it a go-to tool for most of my cutting needs.
Conclusion
The SKIL PWRCore 20 JigSaw is an excellent choice for those seeking a balance between power, precision, and portability in a cordless jigsaw. Its strong battery life, variable speed, and comfort features make it suitable for a wide range of applications, from DIY projects to more demanding tasks. While it may encounter some limitations with very hard materials, its overall performance and convenience make it a valuable tool for both professionals and hobbyists.
Which cordless jigsaw is right for you?
Choose the Makita XVJ03Z 18-Volt LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Jig Saw if:
- You require a high-speed range (800-3500 SPM) for versatile material handling and precision cutting.
- Extended battery life is crucial for your long-duration projects, ensuring consistent performance.
- Lightweight and easy maneuverability are key for your comfort and efficiency in various working conditions.
Choose the Ryobi One+ P5231 18V Lithium-Ion Cordless Jig Saw if:
- Compactness and a lightweight design are essential for your overhead and tight-space cutting tasks.
- You need a balance of variable speed and bevel capacity for a range of applications, from DIY to professional use.
- Compatibility with both T-Shank and U-Shank blades and on-tool blade storage adds to your convenience and versatility.
Choose the SKIL PWRCore 20 Brushless 20V Lithium Battery Pwrassist USB Jig Saw if:
- A strong battery life with a robust 20V Lithium-ion power source is important for uninterrupted work.
- You prioritize customizable cutting experiences with variable speed and four orbital-action settings.
- Quick and easy tool-less blade changes and adjustable dust blower are vital for maintaining workflow efficiency and clear visibility.
Best Budget Jigsaw
Black+Decker BDEJS600C 5.0-Amp Top-Handle Jigsaw: Exceptional Value for Budget-Conscious Users
The Black+Decker BDEJS600C jigsaw is a standout option for those seeking a quality tool without breaking the bank. This 5.0-amp top-handle jigsaw offers excellent value, balancing cost-effectiveness with a range of features usually found in more expensive models. It’s designed to handle a variety of tasks with ease, featuring a 7-position adjustable speed dial that goes up to 3200 SPM. The tool is equipped with orbital-action with four settings, allowing for flexibility in cutting styles and materials. Its tool-less blade change feature adds convenience and efficiency to your work, while the rubberized overmolding ensures a comfortable grip, reducing vibration during use. This jigsaw is compatible with both T-Shank and U-Shank blades, providing versatility in blade choices. The 3-year warranty offered by Black+Decker is a testament to the tool’s reliability and the company’s confidence in its product.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable without compromising on essential features.
- Adjustable speed dial for various cutting needs.
- Four orbital-action settings for flexibility.
- Tool-less blade changes for quick adjustments.
- Rubberized overmolding for reduced vibration and better comfort.
- Compatible with both T-Shank and U-Shank blades.
- Backed by a 3-year warranty for peace of mind.
Cons:
- Some users reported issues with the saw not cutting perfectly square.
- A few had concerns about the saw not holding blades firmly.
Personal Experience
As someone always on the lookout for cost-effective tools, the Black+Decker BDEJS600C was a pleasant surprise. It handled most of the tasks I threw at it with relative ease. The speed adjustability and orbital settings allowed me to work on different materials, from softwood to denser panels. While it’s not the most powerful jigsaw I’ve used, its performance was more than satisfactory for the price. The ease of changing blades and the reduced vibration during use made for a comfortable experience, especially during longer projects.
Conclusion
For budget-conscious woodworkers or DIY enthusiasts, the Black+Decker BDEJS600C 5.0-Amp Jigsaw offers an excellent blend of affordability, versatility, and reliability. It’s an ideal choice for those who need a solid, basic jigsaw without the high cost associated with more advanced models. While it may not have the power of higher-end jigsaws, it certainly holds its own in the realm of budget tools, making it a great option for occasional use or as a starter tool.
Jigsaw Comparison Table
| Jigsaw Model | Motor | Speed (SPM) | Orbital Settings | Weight | Bevel Capacity |
| Bosch Variable Barrel-Grip JS470EB | 7.0-amp | 500-3100 | 4 | 5.9 lbs | 45° both ways |
| DEWALT DW331K | 6.5-amp | Up to 3000 | 4 | 9.5 lbs | 45° both ways |
| Milwaukee 6268-21 | 6.5-amp | Up to 3000 | 4 | 9.7 lbs | 45° both ways |
| Makita XVJ03Z | 18V LXT | 800-3500 | 3 | 5.8 lbs with battery | 45° both ways |
| Ryobi One+ P5231 | 18V | Up to 2400 | 3 | 4.0 lbs without battery | 45° both ways |
| SKIL PWRCore 20 | 20V Max Lithium-ion | Up to 3000 | 4 | 6.9 lbs with battery | 45° both ways |
| Black+Decker BDEJS600C | 5.0-amp | Up to 3200 | 4 | 5.4 lbs | 45° both ways |
FAQs
What is the best jigsaw on the market today?
The Bosch is the best of the barrel grip jigsaws. Straight reciprocating jigsaws are led by the DeWalt. But everyone’s woodworking and cutting needs are different. Check out more reviews to find the tool that does what you need most.
Who makes the best battery jigsaw?
We like the Makita cordless jigsaw. Most jigsaws weigh a lot, but the Makita is lighter than the others with a total weight of less than 6 lbs. It beats other saws on weight, build quality, and battery life.
What jigsaw blade makes the smoothest cut?
Smooth cuts are a function of cutting speed, blade speed, and the cutting material. To get a smoother cut, use a less aggressive orbital setting, increase the blade speed, and move the saw slower. If these don’t work, try changing the blade speed and orbital settings to match your material.
What is the best jigsaw for DIYers?
The Black & Decker jigsaw is a brilliant choice for DIY woodworkers because it is the best blend of value and quality. The jigsaw’s power is enough for most jobs and it excels at cutting metal as well. The price is much lower than other saws but the drop off in quality is not a significant difference.
