With the numerous types of power tools and saws you see when walking in hardware stores or searching offers from online merchants, we understand that it must be confusing to pinpoint the best type of saw for your cutting and woodworking needs. Are you looking for a tool or saw that you can casually and conveniently use for DIY work yet produce results similar to those done by professionals? You may think that there are just too many choices that it becomes a drag but we are here to tell you that no other saw can be as handy as a jigsaw for such DIY work, be it at home or wherever you occasionally intend to be.
We have created and presented to you this article on jigsaw reviews that also contain a comprehensive buying guide on the best jigsaw. Our jigsaw reviews is divided into 3 parts: best cordless jigsaw reviews, best corded jigsaw reviews, and best value jigsaw reviews. We have identified and discussed the top best value jigsaw choices in each of these classifications, taking into account also which in the market is the best jigsaw for the money. Afterwards, we will discuss some additional tips to consider before you finally decide on what you believe is the best jigsaw for you.
Jigsaw Comparison Table
Jigsaw | features | Type | editor's rating | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | - One of the lightest cordless jigsaws but with powerful professional performance of up to 3,200 strokes per minute - Has a removable shoe cover to protect the work surface from scratches and other similar damage | Cordless | 4.0/5.0 | |
 | - Brings about reduced vibration and noise during usage, for more comfort and control - Equipped with Star Protection Computer Controls to protect the jigsaw against overloading, over-discharging and over-heating | Cordless | 5.0/5.0 | |
 | - Lightweight and compact jigsaw that is up to 30% lighter and 10% smaller than its leading peers - Utilizes an 18-volt lithium-ion battery, expected to prolong the duration of continued use of the jigsaw | Cordless | 4.8/5.0 | |
 | - Utilizes the sharpest and toughest blade material made from carbide; and durability may last a lifetime if properly taken care of - Includes electronic controls that are expected to produce professional work results in an effortless manner | Cordless | 5.0/5.0 | |
 | - Has a counterbalancing mechanism for precision control to produce little vibration during usage - Equipped with a Bosch-exclusive Constant Response circuitry for consistency in operation | Cordless | 3.0/5.0 | |
 | - Incorporates curve control technology that gives the user control and precision - Get this corded jigsaw as a bundle together with a 24-blade pack of assorted blades | Corded | 4.9/5.0 | |
 | - Includes a 4-position orbital cut control mechanism that gives the user flexibility and versatility in cutting - Has a built-in laser guide for precise cutting | Corded | 4.8/5.0 | |
 | - Has a 6-position variable speed mechanism to give its user the flexibility to adjust to an optimum speed according to his preference - Incorporates a switch lock design by the power trigger for reduced user hand fatigue | Corded | 4.9/5.0 | |
 | - Equipped with a 6.6 amp variable speed motor that provides up to 3,300 strokes per minute - Includes a lock down button provided on the handle for reduced user hand fatigue | Corded | 4.1/5.0 | |
 | - Very easy to carry around because of a lightweight body - Includes a built-in bright halo light that is 10x stronger than the standard LED light | Corded | 4.8/5.0 |
Jigsaw Reviews
Cordless Jigsaw
Cordless jigsaws can be used just about anywhere. If you think you are the type of person who values portability and convenience of using a jigsaw more than anything, a model from this classification will surely be beneficial for you. Feel free to look below at a few of the best cordless jigsaw brands and models.
1. Dewalt 20V MAX XR Jigsaw
The DEWALT 20V MAX XR Jigsaw is a cordless jigsaw that demonstrates powerful performance of up to 3,200 strokes per minute of blade speed in cutting. It will certainly be a top pick when it comes to the best woodworking jigsaws.
In relation to this, this jigsaw contains a variable speed trigger and dial for you to adjust the blade speed according to your preference depending on the material you are cutting. It also has a 4-Position Orbital action feature for you to be able to control cutting speed and quality, which will maximize cutting perfection on any material. Notwithstanding these features, its weight is also very light and gives the user maximum comfort in handling this jigsaw.
Aside from those, this jigsaw incorporates a built-in bright LED light for an easier time to follow cutting lines if work spaces are dim. Furthermore, DEWALT has introduced here an updated all-metal, lever-action keyless blade clamp that is designed for quick and easy blade changes, taking into account the safety of the user.
Also the keyless jigsaw’s shoe bevel is simple and convenient to adjust. Another thing integrated is a dust blower, which clears out the dust and debris as you do your cutting work. Lastly, it includes a removable shoe cover that helps protect the material being scratched or similar damages.
All these features undoubtedly place the DEWALT 20V MAX XR Jig Saw as a top pick for the best cordless jigsaws, be it for use at home or some other purpose. With proper usage of this jigsaw, professional results are guaranteed without exerting too much effort.
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The Makita XVJ03Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Jigsaw outclasses its peers when it comes to control, comfort and convenience. It weighs only an approximate 6.4 lbs after including the battery. Despite being one of the lightest cordless jigsaws in the industry, precision and power are not compromised as this jigsaw has a large convenient 2-finger variable speed motor that can provide and deliver up to a maximum of 2,600 strokes per minute for speedy and quality cutting. Durability is also not sacrificed by the weight given the quality of materials incorporated onto this cordless jigsaw.
Aside from these, this cordless jigsaw boasts its comfort and control features of having reduced vibration and noise during usage even at maximum capacity. Furthermore, it incorporates a tool-less blade changing system that enables the user to install, remove or replace the jigsaw blades in an efficient and safe manner. Lastly, it is made with Star Protection Computer Controls to serve as protection against overloading, over-discharging and over-heating.
If you think you are the type who prioritizes the comfort and control in using jigsaws without wanting to spend too much, the Makita XVJ03Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Jigsaw will be a best value jigsaw for you especially given its budget-friendly price.
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The Bosch 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Jigsaw is another lightweight and compact jigsaw that is up to 30% lighter and 10% smaller than its leading peers in the market. Both the weight and size give the user better control with reduced fatigue over time. Nonetheless, there is no need to worry also about this jigsaw’s performance since it has a 4-stage orbital action that enables the user to control and match cutting speed and quality depending on the material being cut.
Furthermore, this jigsaw’s one-handed tool-less blade change system promotes safety and convenience as a primary consideration since its features prevent the user from touching any hot blade. Another feature is the always-on blower and the built-in LED light for improved visibility and comfort during woodworking or cutting. Lastly, this jigsaw utilizes an 18-volt lithium-ion battery, which is expected to give long-lasting power for prolonged use.
If you think you are the type who will be particular with weight and size in using jigsaws without wanting to spend too much, the Bosch 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Jigsaw will be a best value jigsaw for the money and for the use especially given its budget-friendly price.
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4. Festool 574712 CARVEX Jigsaw
The Festool 574712 CARVEX Jigsaw places emphasis on its cutting blade – a triple blade reinforcement with rigid support rod and carbide jaws. This kind of blade is unquestionably sharper, cleaner, tougher and long-lasting than other plain steel. These blades will be able to cut faster with precise control on woodworking machines like the jigsaw. Carbide can also produce the cleanest, straightest and most professional-looking cuts when attached to compatible woodworking jigsaws.
Furthermore, the typical steel used on blades dull faster than the carbide form. Carbide is so tough that it can cut through most debris, such as tiny components of nails and screws, smoothly and without damaging the blade. If you hit this kind of debris with a normal blade, usually the blade will lose its utility. Carbide-tipped tools like jigsaws can even last for decades as long as they are taken care of properly.
Aside from the blade, this jigsaw has an interchangeable base system that makes it easy for the user to swap bases from the butterfly-style angle base to the circle cutting base. It also includes an LED light for an easier time to follow cutting lines if work spaces are dim. Lastly, it incorporates a brushless motor technology with electronic controls that enable effortless yet professional performance cutting.
If you think you are the type who does not mind paying a much higher price for a cordless jigsaw that may last you for a lifetime with cutting edge woodworking results, the Festool 574712 CARVEX Jigsaw will be the best professional jigsaw for you.
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Corded Jigsaw
Corded jigsaws are best to use for continuous uninterrupted work when connected to a power supply source. Also, corded jigsaws are lighter than its cordless counterparts due to the difference in weight caused by the necessity of batteries. If you are the type who prefers the comfort from light weighted tools and does not like to worry about running time, a model from this classification will surely be beneficial for you. Feel free to look below at a few of the best corded jigsaw brands and models.
1. Bosch 7.0 Amp Corded Variable Speed Barrel-Grip Jigsaw (with Carrying Case)
The Bosch 7.0 Amp Corded Variable Speed Barrel-Grip Jigsaw delivers precision control with its counterbalancing mechanism to produce little vibration during usage. It also comes with a tool-less blade change system that enables the user to install, remove or replace the jigsaw blades in an efficient and safe manner, where it does not require the user to touch any hot blade during replacement. It does not lag in power as it provides a 7.0-amp motor that can run up to 3,100 strokes per minute, sufficient to be one of the best woodworking jigsaws. It also has a variable speed dial that enables the user to set the speed according to his preference.
Aside from these, this jigsaw has a Bosch-exclusive Constant Response circuitry that can give the user consistency through smooth operation and constant speed. It also has an ergonomic body with a soft grip handle to provide comfort and control. Lastly, the package will make it a value jigsaw for the money since it includes (1) the jigsaw tool itself; (2) blade; (3) anti-splinter insert; (4) plastic overshoe; (5) bevel wrench; and (6) carrying case.
The Bosch 7.0 Amp Corded Variable Speed Barrel-Grip Jigsaw may provide only common features but it will certainly give you all the essential and basic qualities to expect from a good quality jigsaw, from power to control and comfort, making it one of the best professional jigsaws. What’s more is that the price is very affordable given the contents of the package and will not give you a burden to buy these inclusions separately.
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The BLACK+DECKER Jigsaw, Smart Select, 5.0-Amp Jigsaw primarily boasts its very affordable price without compromising quality. All basic essential features of a quality made jigsaw may be found in this model. It incorporates a curve control technology that allows adjustments over the saw’s orbit in either of 4 settings.
Despite this feature, it does not sacrifice power as it is able to provide a 5.0 amp motor that can run cutting power up to 3,000 strokes per minute. This jigsaw also includes an adjustable shoe for control and stability during usage. It also comes with a keyless and tool-less blade change system that enables the user to install, remove or replace the jigsaw blades in an efficient and safe manner.
The blades themselves come in an assorted mix which may be bought separately or together with the jigsaw. You can get this corded jigsaw as a bundle together with a BLACK+DECKER 75-626 Assorted Jigsaw Blades Set (24 pack). This pack of blades contains scrolling blades that are perfect for complex woodwork, metal blades for cutting other metal and aluminum, wood cutting blades for the general woodworking purpose, plus U-shank style blades without holes.
If price is a sensitive matter for you in searching for a corded jigsaw that can perform its basic functions in a quality manner, this will surely be one of the best jigsaws for the money.
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The SKIL 4495-02 6.0 Amp Orbital Action Laser Jigsaw also boasts its very affordable price without giving away the expected quality from basic jigsaw models. It has a powerful 6.0 amp motor with a 4-position orbital cut control mechanism to bring out efficient and professionally-made cuts.
Moreover, it has a built-in laser guide to ensure precision when cutting those straight lines. Speed is adjustable also in accordance with the preference of the user due to the variable speed trigger mechanism. Another thing included is a unique stable foot that provides the user with much needed control when making curved cuts with a jigsaw.
If price is a sensitive matter for you in searching for a corded jigsaw that can perform its basic functions in a quality manner, this will surely be one of the best jigsaws for the money.
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Best Value Jigsaw
With many jigsaw models in the market, you would surely want to know what the best value jigsaw out there. If you are sensitive to the price in investing in a jigsaw but would not want to sacrifice product quality, we have options below for you to select from what we believe are the best jigsaw brands and models.
1. TACKLIFE Advanced 6.7-Amp 3000 SPM Jigsaw
The TACKLIFE Advanced 6.7 Amp 3000 SPM Jigsaw is truly a temptation to give in. It is a corded jigsaw being sold at a very affordable price that comes as a bundle containing 6 assorted blades, a carrying case, an Allen wrench, a rip fence and a dust exhaust pipe. It is a powerful and versatile jigsaw that can be used on different materials for professional cutting work such as plastic, wood, aluminum and metal sheets.
It comes with a 6.70 amp motor that provides cutting power up to 3,000 strokes per minute, with a 6-position variable speed mechanism to give its user the flexibility to adjust to an optimum speed according to his preference. In line with that, it features a 4-position orbital action whose settings permit the user to adjust the cutting motion for stability and control.
Aside from these, it has a built-in LED laser guide to ensure precision when cutting those straight lines, especially if the work site is dim. Complementing the LED light is the dust blower that enhances cutting experience with increased cleanliness, visibility and convenience. This jigsaw’s handle even has a switch lock design where the user can simply press the lock button on the handle when the jigsaw is turned on. This allows the jigsaw to keep running without the need to press the power trigger the whole time, significantly reducing woodworking fatigue.
All these features put the TACKLIFE Advanced 6.7 Amp 3000 SPM Jigsaw in a position to be one of the best woodworking jigsaws to have especially for DIY projects around your home, not to mention that it is one of the best jigsaw for the money given its very reasonable price.
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2. WEN 33606 6.6-Amp Variable Speed Orbital Jigsaw
The WEN 33606 6.6-Amp Variable Speed Orbital Jigsaw is another temptation to consider whether or not to give in. Despite a very affordable price that includes a lock-on trigger switch, a beveling footplate, a non-marring shoe, a wood and metal blade, and a parallel fence bracket, it can deliver one of the most powerful performances expected of a corded jigsaw with a 6.6 amp variable speed motor that provides up to 3,300 strokes per minute.
It also includes a 4-position orbital action whose settings permit the user to adjust the cutting motion for stability and control as well as the blade’s strength relative to the material being cut. To add more comfort, this corded jigsaw weighs only around 5 pounds.
Aside from these, it has a built-in LED laser guide to ensure precision when cutting those straight lines, especially if the work site is dim. Complementing the LED light is the mounted dust blower for increased cleanliness, visibility and convenience while doing the work. This jigsaw’s handle even has a lock down button where the user can simply press the lock button on the handle when the jigsaw is turned on. This allows the jigsaw to run without the need to press the power trigger, significantly reducing fatigue. Lastly, you will be able to make efficient and safe blade changes and replacements with this jigsaw’s tool-less blade change system.
The WEN 33606 6.6-Amp Variable Speed Orbital Jigsaw is surely one of the best value jigsaws to have especially for isolated as-needed projects at home. If you are looking for the most affordable and one of the best jigsaw for the money, look no further than this.
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3. SKIL 6.0-Amp Corded Jigsaw
The SKIL 6 Amp Corded Jigsaw is another one on the list to consider as one of the best jigsaws for the money. It delivers powerful, efficient and versatile performance through its variable speed control mechanism that generates up to 3,000 strokes per minute. Not to mention that it also has a 4-stage orbital function that gives the user a smooth cutting experience across different applications.
It also incorporates a show bevel that can be adjusted easily for angled cutting without the need of any other separate tool. Plus, it includes a bright halo light that is 10 times more powerful than the standard LED light together with a dust blower that will ensure increased precision, cleanliness and convenience as you do your woodwork using this jigsaw. Lastly, you will be able to make efficient and safe blade changes and replacements with this jigsaw’s tool-less blade clamp.
The SKIL 6 Amp Corded Jigsaw is surely one of the best jigsaw to have. Notwithstanding this jigsaw’s affordability and quality, it is now being offered at an even lower price with a more or less 25% discount (at the time of publish)! Who says you cannot have both affordability and quality in one product? You may want to consider this and not waste time in taking advantage of this promo.
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4. Ryobi JS481LG 4.8 Amp Corded Variable Speed T-Shank Orbital Jigsaw
The Ryobi JS481LG 4.8 Amp Corded Variable Speed T-Shank Orbital Jigsaw incorporates all the essential features of a jigsaw that you will need to produce professional woodwork. For one, it includes a variable speed motor that can adjust the cutting power from 600 to 3,000 strokes per minute in accordance with your preference. Related to this is an orbital action feature that gives you enough leeway to control the jigsaw in optimally cutting different kinds of materials.
Aside from these main features, safety is also considered of utmost importance by this jigsaw through
its tool-less blade clamp. Moreover, it has an attached dust blower that ensures cleanliness and visibility over the cut line at work, enabling you to simply focus on the work output itself. If the work place is getting dark, the built-in LED will certainly address that problem for you to continue the work any time of the day. Finally, that newly improved solid soft rubber grip will certainly give you the comfort you need in all touch points while cutting the material.
Did I forget to mention that this jigsaw is only less than $50? That is a price worth investing in a corded jigsaw with all these features built into it, certainly making it one of the best jigsaws for the money.
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What to Consider When Buying a Jigsaw?
After reading our discussion on the options you can choose from for your jigsaw, we hope that you are now less confused and have a general idea of the kind of jigsaw you’re looking for. We also understand that these jigsaw models have more or less similar features and that only one or two very specific details really distinguish one from the other. With that in mind, we’d be glad to add some more information to clarify those questions and thoughts in your mind by sharing the 5 most crucial considerations to look at before finalizing a jigsaw purchase.
1. Cutting Power and Performance
Since jigsaws are primarily used to cut wood, steel, aluminum, plastic, ceramic or some similar hard material, cutting power and performance is arguably the most important consideration. As such, when canvassing through the different models, think of the purpose why you want to own a jigsaw in the first place. What materials are you planning to cut with it most of the time? Once you figure this out, you will be able to select the jigsaw with the maximum power capacity (usually measured in amperage and/or strokes per minute) and other related features that will fit your needs. To give you an idea on the numbers, higher amperage ratings mean higher cutting power. The best professional jigsaws will have high cutting power somewhere between 6.5 to 7 amps on the average.
Remember we discussed above that a jigsaw is a versatile tool that can be used on various materials for cutting work where the kind of blade to be used depends on the material to be cut. In relation to this, most jigsaws are made with variable speed options. Keep in mind the general rule that the faster speed is more efficient when it comes to wood works. On the other hand, for materials that heat up quickly, a slower speed will be better. Familiarizing with these facts plus using the appropriate blade will make the most out of any cutting work regardless of complexity.
Furthermore, corded jigsaws are generally more powerful than cordless jigsaws. This is why a corded jigsaw is best used for heavy complex work such as cutting hard and tough materials. Nonetheless, there are also a lot of jigsaw users who prefer cordless models because of their portability and convenience to use if there is no electricity to source power from.
2. Portability and Weight
Woodworking is not the kind of job that can be done only at one specific place. There will certainly be a time when you will need to move around and bring your tools with you, be it planned or in case of an emergency. In these instances, portable jigsaws would be perfect and this is exactly why cordless jigsaws exist. There are a lot of jigsaw users who prefer cordless models because of their portability and convenience to use if there is no electricity to source power from. In short, this is a question as to how often you plan to or need to use a jigsaw. If you think using it will be more often than not, the cordless models should be more convenient for you.
In relation to that, if you expect to be bringing around your jigsaw as you move around from place to place, you would not want to be carrying something heavy with you; otherwise, it will only be a burden. Jigsaws also vary in weight and you should ask yourself whether or not you mind the weight on your arm when carrying around a jigsaw.
3. Size
Having a jigsaw in your house, car compartment or wherever you intend to put it will mean you need space for it for storage. As with many other tools and products, jigsaws come in many shapes and sizes. Therefore, you should ask yourself if the space you allotted for your storage is sufficiently large for the jigsaw model you intend to purchase. Plan ahead for this as it will be a huge burden if you only realized later on after investing in the jigsaw that it actually does not fit into the space you allotted.
4. Safety
Operating a jigsaw is not as easy as it seems, especially for beginners, since it requires at least some degree of skill. One wrong move can cause accidents and injuries, which are very serious matters that nobody wants to happen. It is only natural that you would want to reduce the risk of accidents especially if you’re investing in it. With that in mind, risk significantly decreases with safety features incorporated by manufacturers.
The safety features of a jigsaw are something that you can greatly consider. See if the jigsaw includes efficient and safe blade changing mechanisms that highly prevent injury. Perhaps the material and shape of the handle should be made of a material that is sturdy and steady to hold on especially while using the jigsaw. Another thing is that you would probably want some built in lights and dust blowers that will give you assurance and comfort of what you are cutting in your woodwork. For the sake of your health and well-being, do consider a brand and model that prioritizes safety. This simple decision could save you from unwanted circumstances.
5. Other Features
Market trends dictate that the high-end good jigsaws would usually focus on 2 features that would mark up their values: orbital action and variable speed.
Orbital Action is differentiated from standard action. In the latter, the blade only moves in an up-down motion. On the other hand, orbital action is when the blade moves in a rather circular motion where there are slight forward and backward motions apart from the typical up-down motion. This cut that is produced by an orbital action is smoother and more professional-looking. Furthermore, the angle of the orbital action may typically be adjusted depending on the preference of the user and the material being cut.
Variable speeds are not always necessary. However, this feature is very useful if you plan to use the same jigsaw to cut different materials such as wood and metal. Cutting metals would be more efficient and will produce better results with slower speeds. Another thing is that complex shape cuts come off better with the use of slower speeds. Although it may not be used often for some people who have wood as the usual material being cut, the ability to adjust the speed of your motor may be something worthwhile to consider when you invest in your jigsaw.
As for the other features such as the depth of cut, whether a jigsaw is corded or cordless, laser or LED lighting guides, dust blowers, tool-less blade changing systems, shoe bevels, handle material and shape, their consideration highly depends on your personal preference and opinion. Just ask yourself what you would want to prioritize more, and go for the jigsaw that will cover those needs.
6. Price
Budget is often a concern when investing in equipment and tools such as jigsaws. With many features that may be included in a jigsaw, prices vary with a wide range. You do not want to be unrealistic in wanting a high-end jigsaw with only a budget of $50. Make sure that you make a reasonable match of your budget with the jigsaw features and characteristics that you would want to be in place for your preferred jigsaw. After determining that, start canvassing for the cheaper alternatives and do not just focus on the brand. Having the proper knowledge on the technicalities will certainly make your investment worth it and eventually own the best value jigsaw for yourself.
Conclusion
There is no magic formula or a one-size-fits-all approach in choosing a jigsaw. The industry is filled with numerous brands and models that cater to different targets through the inclusion of different mixed features.
Nevertheless, we hope you learned a lot by reading our article on jigsaw reviews and comprehensive buying guide on the best jigsaw. Still, we understand that it is not that simple to just choose any jigsaw brand and model that will be perfect for your needs. Money is still expended after all and of course you would want to make sure that you’re spending for something of quality and worth it based on your personal preference and utility.
What’s important for us is that we have given you a clearer picture on what to watch out for when you want to buy the best value jigsaw. Despite our discussion here, we still encourage you to go through the process of patiently and wisely canvassing, researching and reflecting on your chosen jigsaw brand and model. We simply end with one recommendation: Do not go with the bandwagon because choosing the best value jigsaw is all about choosing that brand and model that best answers your needs. If it makes your life easier, for sure that is the best jigsaw.
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