Best Jigsaw Tool 2021 Reviews- Top 10 Picks & Buying Guide
Every DIYer must have a jigsaw in his collection of tools. A jigsaw is the need of the time. You can do a lot of different things with the best jigsaw power tool like cutting, beveling, inside openings, designing, decorating, etc. It is equally suitable whether you are using it for your household needs or some professional type work.
You can make different types of cuts using a jigsaw, like straight, curved, rip, or plunge cuts. Moreover, these cuts can be made anywhere and in any direction. Jigsaw can slice equally well, materials like wood, metal, steel, ceramics, plastic, etc. It all depends upon what kind of blade is being used or what amount of voltage is being given to the jigsaw.
You can make adjustments in the saw according to your requirement for the blade speed, oscillation style, or stroke length. To get the best of these things will only add up in your cost. All of these things also make an impact on efficiency. The best jigsaw tool comes with all of the required adjustments.
Jigsaw is a very handy tool and quite easy to use. It is equally manageable for a novice or a professional worker. Nowadays, the market has been flooded with a variety of jigsaw tools. It is now quite difficult for you to choose the best among them.
Luckily, we have resolved this problem for you. We have compiled the list of best jigsaws according to their features, price, versatility, and some other qualities.
If you are looking for a long-lasting jigsaw, then this list will be highly helpful for you. Other than this, we have also mentioned our top picks among them to make some immediate selection.
Keep reading this article to get the best know-how about the jigsaws available on the market.
In this article, we have duly explained all the types and features of various top models of the jigsaw. You can go through the following list to make the best selection for you.
Black & Decker is a world-leading provider of tools and electronic components. This time, we have a product with a 5.0 amperage capacity and 120-voltage. It costs you so much little with amazing features and qualities.
Curve control technology
This jigsaw comes with a curve control technology. There are four customized settings to set the orbit of the saw according to your selection. Moreover, we have a 5 AMP variable-speed motor in this jigsaw. It gives you up to 3,000 SPM cutting power capacity.
Wire guards
Mostly, jigsaws are used to make simple straight cut. This jigsaw can also make 45-degree bevel cuts. Moreover, well-improved wire guards are available to deal with any untoward incident during work. These guards are also helpful to make the cuts more precise.
Built-in dust blower
Other than this, a dust blower increases the beauty of this jigsaw. It provides the cleanliness in your work and ultimately boosts the quality of work.
Keyless blade clamp
Blades are usually changed according to the type of work. In this product, you will get a keyless blade clamp. Thus, you don’t have to worry about blade change. It will be quite a tool-less process. Most importantly, it is equally suitable for both U-shank and T-shank type blades.
Trigger lock
It has a rubber molding for more comfortability and a trigger lock. Other than this, it comes with a 2-year warranty to give you security about any issues which appear at the later stage.
Owing to a lot of its features, qualities, and top ratings, we can easily name it the best jigsaw on the market.
Pros
Cheap jigsaw.
Top-rated.
45 degrees of beveling capability.
Tool-less blade change.
Wire guards.
2-years warranty.
A dust blower for more cleanliness.
The solid motor of 5 AMP.
3,000 SPM cutting capacity.
Cons
Some blades insertion problems if we don’t set them properly.
Perhaps the most important thing to look into while purchasing a jigsaw is the level of convenience it provides. This cordless DEWALT jigsaw duly meets this standard. You can start working with this tool in no time.
Power and battery timing
Moreover, the 4 AMP battery gives a good run time. It can run easily for at least 8 hours with a 20-volt battery. This combination of power and battery life makes it the top-rated best jigsaw.
Blade stroke length
The efficiency of the blade depends upon its stroke length. This jigsaw has 1″ stroke length, which is bigger than other models. The bigger stroke length means more teeth of the blade come in contact with the workpiece, and results in faster work. Other than this, it can easily cut soft materials like wood, plastic, etc. through orbital settings.
Cutting capabilities
This jigsaw comes with four additional cutting capabilities, one straight and three orbitals cuts. Moreover, the jigsaw with above 3,000 SPM’s is also good to make quick and clean cuts through any material. These things are usually not available in cordless models.
Lightweight and keyless blade clamp
For enhancing performance, it has a keyless clamp for changing blades abruptly without any hassle. The jigsaw is also much convenient with only a weight of 6 pounds and a nice slip-handle.
The most striking feature of this jigsaw is its bevel cutting capacity. It can make a variety of these cuts at multiple angles 0, 15, 35, and 45 degrees. It is a big plus-point as compared to other models, which offer only 1 bevel cut. Moreover, it comes with a 3-year warranty to deal with any issues at a later stage.
3. Bosch Power Jig Saws – JS470E (amazon’s choice)
Specifications
Dimensions: 15.8 x 14.5 x 4.5 inches
Weight: 5.9 pounds
Color: blue
Material: Metal
Amperage capacity: 7.0 AMP
Voltage: 120 volts
Power source: Electric Powered
Strokes per minute: 3100
Style: top handle jig saw
Features
This Bosch jigsaw provides the most effective cut line precision. It is most popular among the kitchen carpenters, bathroom installers, and professional workers due to its variable speed setting. Moreover, a 7.0 AMP amperage capacity makes it an ideal choice for power cutting.
Power and Control
With such a high power motor of 7.0 AMP, it can quite easily handle a vast majority of the cuts. Other than this, it can move as slow as 500 SPM or as fast as 3100 SPM. By this, it gives you good control over the blade speed. 3100 strokes per minute are most suitable for making quick and clean cuts.
Constant response circuitry
By having an insulated cover and an aluminum gearbox, the jigsaw gives you a constant response circuitry with steady speed even under load. It is the most durable jigsaw we have reviewed until now. The footplate of the jigsaw can easily handle over 500 pounds of weight.
Lock-on button
Besides, it also comes with an ambidextrous lock-on button to make it equally suitable for both the left and right-handed users. Left-handed users are thankful for this feature as they can easily shut the machine when it gets over-heated.
Control over speed
There is a variable control speed setting on the back of the power tool. This thing helps to slowly start the jigsaw and gradually gain the speed to prevent skipping and jumping on the cut line. Besides, the dust blower helps in the smooth operation of the machine by removing the sawdust.
Blade ejection lever
The most striking feature of this jigsaw is its tool-free blade change system. You can easily switch to T-shank blades with even any tool. Most amazingly, its blade ejection lever ejects the blade without even touching it to save your fingers from burning. This quick blade changing system helps to cut so many materials at the same time.
Four orbital-action settings
Along with a blade changing lever, the jigsaw has a four orbital-action setting for a variety of cutting speeds. In this way, you can easily set your speed according to the type of cuts and surfaces. You will set slow speed for thicker materials and fast speed for thinner materials.
Comfortability
A low-vibration motor saves your hand during cutting. Owing to its top handle grip, it can comfortably fit in your hands. By observing all of its features and qualities, you can easily declare it the best bosch jigsaw.
4. PORTER-CABLE Orbital Jig Saw-PCE345 (cheap jigsaw)
Specifications
Dimensions: 9.5 x 3.2 x 8.5 inches
Weight: 6 pounds
Color: grey plus black
Material: Metal
Amperage capacity: 6.0 AMP
Voltage: 120 volts
Power source: Electric Powered
Strokes per minute: 3200
Style: jig saw
Features
Porter-cable is the most suitable and affordable jigsaw power tool. The comfortable handle, 4-orbital speed, and 7 positions cutting speed dial make it the best jigsaw under 100 $.
Power
This jigsaw has a powerful 6 AMP motor. The power of this jigsaw is match-able with the 6.5 or 7.0 amp motors of expensive jigsaws. It can cut through a variety of materials. Moreover, the 4 orbital speed makes it equally good for thick materials, dense wood, plastic, metals, and thin plywood.
7 Speed positions
There are seven-speed positions on the side of the jigsaw. These are easily adjustable through a handle. This thing gives you full control over how fast you want to cut material. For starters, the slower speed is much better to get good results. Overall, it varies based on the thickness of the material.
Moreover, the seven-speed positions also give you strokes per minute range of 0 to 3200 SPM, which is amazing especially at this price. That’s why we consider it the best jigsaw for money.
Beveling
It is capable of beveling at a 45 degrees angle with a 13/16-inches stroke length and a maximum depth cut of 4 inches. Moreover, it also comes with a 3-year warranty.
Tool-free blade changing system
If you feel the need to change the blades of the jigsaw for various kinds of materials cutting, then you don’t need any power tool. A wrench is available to adjust the show cover of the jigsaw. So, you can easily customize it according to your requirements.
Overall, it is the most suitable device for the beginners and would be highly helpful if you are initiating your first woodworking project. However, it has not been designed for heavy use. Normally, it is being used for initial to intermediate level work.
The Makita is the best jigsaw brand and a good alternative to popular brands like Bosch and Dewalt. It comes with a variety of stroke speeds and a strong motor. The jigsaw has a quite good amperage capacity of 6.5 amp. At this capability, it can easily go through up to 3.5-inches thick wood.
The most striking feature of this jigsaw is its bevel cutting capacity. It can make a variety of these cuts at multiple angles 0, 15, 35, and 45 degrees. It is a big plus-point as compared to other models, which offer only 1 bevel cut. Moreover, it comes with a 3-year warranty to deal with any issues at a later stage.
Frame and cutting capacity
This jigsaw has been built from the high-quality sturdy frame. A die-cast aluminum house base has been used in its built-in. The steel cutting capacity of the jigsaw is at least 3/4 inches. Besides, you can replace its blades without worrying about anything as it has a tool-free blade design. Thus, you can easily shift to T-shank blades.
Orbital action setting
One negative point as compared to Bosch and Dewalt is that it only comes with 3 orbital action settings. This reduces its ability to cut a variety of materials. You must look into this if you are a professional worker.
It is also less capable of depth cuts as compared to these models. However, it still possesses a modest depth cutting capacity of 3 ½ inches. So, this is manageable.
Quality
Still, Makita is a quite good option, if you look at the price difference between Makita and these top models. There is a very high 25 to 30 % price difference. But in terms of features and quality, it closely matches with top model jigsaws.
Overall, we can say that maybe the best jigsaw tools at this price will not give you this much value and quality features, which Makita offers. If you are a beginner or an intermediate, it will be an ideal choice for you.
The Makita XVJ03Z is one of the finest cordless jigsaw. It provides excellent power capability along with a good position. Although the Makita models are usually heavy, it is lightest among them. While cutting, you will get minimum noise as well as vibration.
Speed and Control
The speed of the jigsaw varies according to the requirement. The motor is capable of delivering at least a minimum zero and a maximum of 2600 strokes per minute. Moreover, there are two large finger variable speed triggers to make it more convenient to use. This jigsaw comes with 3 orbital settings to make it suitable for cutting a variety of materials.
Lightweight and blade changing system
The blade changing mechanism is quite tool-free in this jigsaw, which makes it a user-friendly tool. It has just a weight of 5 pounds, which makes it simple to control and handle. However, the base of the jigsaw has been made from some heavy-duty material. This makes it more durable.
The most striking feature which differentiates it from other models is its internal led light. It will illuminate the working area and gives you a clear vision. The handle has a rubber grip, which makes it more comfortable to use while working.
Most importantly, this jigsaw comes with a star protection computer control system. Thus, you don’t have to worry about over-discharging, over-heating, and over-loading problems.
One thing which you must keep in mind is that it is sold as the only tool without any battery to reduce operator fatigue. Overall, it has been the best for cutting metal and to do some other kind of professional work.
Pros
Large triggers for adjusting speed.
Deliver up to 2600 strokes per minute.
Tool-free blade changing mechanism.
Heavy-duty base to get smooth and accurate performance.
This time we have enlisted another top-rated corded Bosch jigsaw. It comes with an excellent user control system. There is a precision-machined plunger system in its design. An internal precision control system is also available. The barrel-grip is also included with this jigsaw. All these control systems ensure that you will get less vibration as much as possible.
Blade changing system
This jigsaw has a tool-free blade changing system for the fast insertion of the blades while working. The availability of the blade ejection lever system makes you secure from touching the hot blades.
Blade clamp and orbital action setting
The jigsaw has a multi-directional blade clamp to give you an excellent grip of T-shank blades. It only accepts T-shank blades but no U-shank blades. Moreover, it has 4 orbital actions setting with a variety of blade strokes to give you a speed for both smooth and aggressive cuts.
Power and Speed dial
Regarding power, this jigsaw has 7.0-amp motor best in class. It delivers up to 3100 strokes per minute. All the installers, cabinet makers, and carpenters highly appreciate this strong muscle of the motor. Owing to these capabilities, it is named as the best electric jigsaw. There is a variable speed dial on the jigsaw. Using this dial, you can set the operating speed according to the requirement of your work.
Ergonomic design
This jigsaw is full of ergonomic body features. For instance, there is an upfront soft-grip handle to get maximum control on the jigsaw. Moreover, a carrying case is also available to take the jigsaw from one job to another job. Other than this, it has an exclusive constant response circuitry system for smooth operation and maintaining the speed under load.
Tool-free adjustment
Additionally, there is a large die-cast aluminum footplate system with a tool-free adjustment system. A dust blower is also available for the maximum visibility of the cutting line.
Now we have another porter cable 20-volt jigsaw. It is quite a viable option as it will not cost you very much. There are three orbital action settings in this jigsaw and suitable for cutting a variety of materials according to your requirements. You can make both aggressive or mild cuts using this jigsaw.
Blade speed
Moreover, it also comes with a variable speed trigger. This makes it capable to move the blade up to 2500 strokes per minute. Thus, you can adjust the blade speed which best suits you. The most striking feature of the saw is its tool-less blade replacement system. This feature makes it more versatile and efficient.
Dust blower
The dust blower has also been incorporated in this device to keep the cutting area free of dust and debris. In this way, you will be able to make some clean and more efficient cuts. However, the dust blower could not be turned off in between the work. It will only close once you turned off the machine.
The saw has been designed in such a way that it would give you a variety of cuts like scroll cuts, bevel cuts, straight cuts, PVC pipe cutting, and copper pipe cutting. This jigsaw is a part of the porter cable’s 20-volt max system and doesn’t come with a battery and a charger. If you already have these things, then you don’t have to purchase these again.
Handle
Additionally, the jigsaw has a contoured over-molded handle to give you proper comfort while you are using it for an extended period.
9. TACKLIFE Advanced Jigsaw with Laser & LED – PJS02A (amazon’s choice)
Specifications
Dimensions: 9 x 8.7 x 3.5 inches
Weight: 7.98 pounds
Color: black plus grey
Material: N/A
Amperage capacity: 6.7 A
Voltage: 120 volts
Power source: electric Powered
Strokes per minute: 3000
Style: PJS02A-11
Features
If you are looking for some budget jigsaw, then this TACKLIFE advanced jigsaw will be a great choice for you. There is a very powerful 6.7-amp motor in this jigsaw. It has been made from pure copper. Moreover, the jigsaw has a capacity of 3000 strokes per minute. It has been designed in such a way that it will produce much less heat as compared to other jigsaw models.
Variable speed dial
This jigsaw comes with some prominent features. For instance, it has a variable speed dial with 6 different options. You can set the speed according to your job or the type of material you are going to cut. Moreover, there are six jigsaw blades with this device. Thus, there are plenty of options if you choose this machine.
Orbital action setting and guards
Additionally, the jigsaw has four orbital action settings. This enables it to cut the variety of materials either in a more aggressive way or in some mild way. Other than this, the transparent guard and exhaust pipe ensure that you cut straight and cleanly.
Built-in laser guide and lock button
There is a built-in laser to guide you about your cutting line and a LED light to illuminate the area you are working on. These things will ensure good visibility and precise cutting even in the dark area. The lock button on the handle can keep the saw working once you have pressed it. Thus, it will save you from hand fatigue especially if you working for an extended period.
Metal guide and carrying case
Most importantly, some additional things like the metal guide, ruler, carrying case, and a wrench for adjustment have been also incorporated in this jigsaw. All of these features and qualities make it the best jigsaw available on the market.
Pros
Laser guide plus LED light.
Bevel cutting is possible at an angle of 45 degrees.
Lock button on the jigsaw to set the speed.
Tool-less blade change system.
Carrying case and wrench adjustment facility.
3000 strokes per minute.
Variable speed dial for 6 different speeds.
Six jigsaw blades along with the machine.
Powerful motor made from pure copper.
Cons
There are some adjustment problems if you don’t set it properly.
10. SKIL Orbital Action Laser Jigsaw – 4495-02 (orbital jigsaw)
Specifications
Dimensions: 12.2 x 3.5 x 9.8 inches
Weight: 5 pounds
Color: Red plus black handle.
Material: N/A
Amperage capacity: 6.0 A
Voltage: 120 volts
Power source: electric Powered
Strokes per minute: 3200
Style: jigsaw
Features
Here we come with another reliable jigsaw named as SKIL 4495-02. This long-lasting device has been designed for both amateur and contractor.
Power and Speed control
It is a corded machine powered by a 6.0-amp motor. It is capable of reaching a maximum of 3200 strokes per minute. Moreover, a variable speed control makes it suitable for cutting many other materials like plastic, metal, and masonry. All of these things make it an ideal choice for every kind of woodworking project.
Orbital cutting control
In addition, the jigsaw has a four-position orbital cutting control to let you decide what kind of cutting you are going to do. However, by testing, we have observed that it is quite good for rip or fine cutting.
Foot design and stability
The jigsaw has a unique foot design as well as more stability to increase precision and get perfect cutting every time. The feet will also stabilize it when it is not being used to protect the blade from being damaged.
Ergonomic handle
Most importantly, the jigsaw has a soft grip with a D-style handle and ergonomically placed trigger to reduce fatigue for the user as much as possible. The only drawback the machine has is its plastic constructed body.
Laser guide
The jigsaw also facilitates the beginner by providing a convenient laser guide to get accurate cuts. An experienced contractor might not give importance to this feature but if you are working on a lot of projects then a laser guide will be more useful to mark workpieces as compared to carpenter’s pencil.
Bevel cutting
Besides the laser guide, it has also bevel cutting capability and can easily make 45-degree standard bevel cuts as well as 22.5-degree bevel cuts. Thus, this machine is highly suitable for a lot of applications.
Pros
Molded tool rest saves the blade from damage.
Variable speed dial has been ergonomically placed.
While purchasing any jigsaw, you must first of all look into is its features and capabilities. I have explained below all these things to give you a clear idea about jigsaw. Let’s have a look at it to select the best jigsaw.
General features of jigsaw
Jigsaw consists of a blade and an electric motor. This tool is highly significant because of its capability to make both straight and curved cuts. Most of the jigsaws are handheld and portable. The best jigsaw can cut through materials of various densities and thickness. It can easily cut through steel, metal, fiberglass, and drywall. As compared to other saws as scroll or band saw, the jigsaw might not make accurate cuts but it is the most versatile.
Stroke length
The up and down movement of the blade of the jigsaw while cutting is called its stroke length. It normally ranges between 0.5” to 1”. If you have a shorter stroke length, then the blade will cut smoothly and slowly and vice versa. A longer stroke length is usually preferred for wood cutting and shorter for metal cutting.
Jigsaw weight
The jigsaw comes in various weights. A lighter jigsaw will be more comfortable for your hand and arm. But you also need a heavy jigsaw to cut through sturdy materials to have a good force and avoid bouncing. Thus, there is a need to strike a balance.
The beginners must choose lightweight jigsaw and professionals must prefer heavyweight jigsaw to cut some complicated materials. Cordless jigsaws are heavier due to the additional weight of the battery.
Motor power
The power of the motor is an important factor to consider while purchasing a jigsaw. Powerful motors will cut the materials more easily and quickly. Hard materials like thick woods and metals require more power. Corded jigsaws have power in amps. But the cordless one comes in volt power as these are battery-powered.
Vibration reduction
As compared to other saws, the jigsaw can produce a few vibrations. In this scenario, you can make some mistakes. But all the brands have tried their ways to reduce this problem as much as possible. For instance, the Makita has a patented counter-weight balancing system. Bosch has a unique design to deal with the vibrations.
Footplates
Every jigsaw comes with a footplate to have some rest on the material while cutting it. Each brand has its own style for the footplate. For example, Festool has alloyed made footplate while other brands use some rough metal. Some of the brands have jigsaws along with some attachment bases to increase its versatility.
Jigsaw handle
The jigsaw comes in a variety of handles like barrel grip or barrel handle and top handle or D-handle. In the top handle, you will hold the jig from the top and apply downward pressure while simultaneously pushing it forward.
Top handles are more popular as with the soft material these are more comfortable and produce less vibration. Barrel handle is hard to use but you can get greater control and accuracy in your cuts with this handle.
Trigger
These are useful for the jigsaws of variable speed. With the larger trigger, you can control the jigsaw in a better way. Normally, all the jigsaws come with a trigger lock. By this lock, you don’t have to put the finger on the saw while cutting.
Strokes per minute or speed of the jigsaw
The blade of the jigsaw cuts at various speeds, which is measured in SPM. It can start as low as 500 SPM or as fast as 4000 SPM. However, more SPM’s don’t mean more power.
In the variable speed jigsaw, you can adjust the power and speed of the blade. The faster speed is used for cutting light material quickly and roughly. But slow speed is preferred for heavy or dense materials especially when you have to make some accurate fine cuts. A variable speed jigsaw can work as low as 500 RPMS and as fast as 4000+ RPM’S.
Orbital action setting
Orbital action makes the jigsaw cutting more sophisticated and well under control. Without it, the blades simply move up and down through the material. With the orbital action, the blade slightly moves forward and backward. This makes the blade to clear the kerf and also decrease the wear on it.
Blades
Jigsaws come in a variety of blades with different shapes and sizes. You have to pick the right one according to your requirements. blades are not large and extremely thin. Small size is useful for making tight cuts. But it can also break when you put too much torque or pressure on it.
The shape and size don’t matter very much. It is the type of material you are going to cut which matters. You have to select the blade according to the thickness or hardness of the material.
There are two kinds of blades U-SHANK and T-SHANK blades. U-shank is not commonly used. These look like a U at the end and an Allen wrench is required to insert them into the jigsaw. T-shank is popular with a rounded flat at the end. These blades can switch out quickly.
Teeth per inch
While purchasing the jigsaw, you will go through the TPI rating of the jigsaw. It is closely related to the speed and fineness of the cut. Jigsaw with a lower TPI can cut the thicker material but it will be rough. It will also not turn at lower TPI.
Tool-less blade clamp
By using a tool-less blade clamp, you can quickly remove and insert a new blade. The blade changing is a very annoying phenomenon especially when you have to do it again and again. Blade clamp might not a necessary thing but it is good if you want to have the right blade for the right material.
Led light
Most of the jigsaws come with led light on it. It is a great help to get a clear view while cutting. Jigsaws are handheld and portable but you have to face some lightening phenomenon somewhere. You can turn this light on when the trigger is engaged.
Dust blower
Sawdust is a very big problem while cutting. To resolve this problem, the dust blower works in sync with a trigger to preclude the sawdust from settling on the material. You can get a clear cut line. It is especially useful in woodcuts.
Laser guide
It is quite difficult to make straight cuts using a simple jigsaw. The laser guide helps the handheld to get the straight cut. Although it must not be a priority it is a plus point and can help you in great deals.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best jigsaw?
The best jigsaw comes with a lot of features and qualities like good stroke length, high motor power capacity, orbital action setting, the balanced weight, comfortable handle, tool-free blade clamp, etc.
What is the best corded jigsaw?
The best-corded jigsaw must have a long and quality cord along with a manageable weight.
What is the difference between a jigsaw and an orbital jigsaw?
A simple jigsaw only allows the blade to move up and down without any additional features. But the orbital action setting allows the blade to move slightly forward into the workpiece and then move slightly backward on the downstrokes.
What is the best Bosch jigsaw?
The Bosch is considered to be among one of the top jigsaw brands you can find on the market. It has mostly 120-volt, powerful and durable jigsaws.
Final Verdict
Jigsaw has become the need of every household nowadays. This versatile device can help you a lot in your daily activities. By keeping in view the importance of the jigsaw, we have tried our best to enlist some of the best jigsaws on the market. We have explained very well all of the parts of the jigsaw. Moreover, this article will also be helpful to match your requirements with the available jigsaws. We hope all of these above-mentioned things will be enough for your selection of the best jigsaw.
