Take the Best Jigsaw to Carve Out the Perfect Irregular Curves

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Every woodworker knows the importance of owning a quality jigsaw - it saves a lot of time by cutting quick curves, it's easy to handle, and you don't need a tool to change the blade. It doesn't matter if you want a cordless jigsaw or corded power tools - this article will cover them.

Our team appreciates greatness, which is why we've taken the time to find the best jigsaw in 2023. It wasn't an easy chore to accomplish, so we've found ten power tools that fit the criteria.

Please stick with us, read through our reviews, and learn a thing or two in the buyer's guide. We hope you'll like what we offer, so stay tuned and enjoy the following show!

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The Best Jigsaw for Woodworking - General Overview and Reviews

$ — BLACK+DECKER Jig Saw ~ 4.6 lbs - An excellent jigsaw with a variable speed trigger gives the user absolute control over the workpiece. Everything about it, including the housing, smells of perfection.

$$$ — DEWALT 20V MAX Jig Saw ~ 5.57 lbs. This DeWalt's cordless jigsaw excels at many things, aside from making perfect beveled cuts. The battery life is on a whole new level thanks to the 20V Max system that allows interchanging batteries among power tools.

$$ — PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX Jig Saw ~ 5 lbs. Orbital settings, variable speed control, and user-friendly features are just some things that make this cordless jigsaw a true marvel. If that's not enough, check out the price and think again.

$$ — RYOBI One+ P5231 18V Lithium-Ion Cordless Jigsaw ~ 4.4 lbs. This one has to be one of the lightest products you'll find among handheld jigsaws on Amazon. However, its size and weight are not the reflections of its power - this thing can cut!

$ — WEN 33606 Orbital Jig Saw ~ 5.4 lbs. WEN's already proven its prowess in the power tool industry, but it doesn't hurt to strengthen it with a jigsaw such as this one. It's fast, strong, and keeps your workpiece clean of dust and debris.

$$ — TECCPO 6.5 Amp Jigsaw ~ 5.51 lbs. Being accurate won't be determined by the shakiness of your hands or the vibration of your device. The Teccpo jigsaw has a state-of-the-art laser guide that makes no room for error.

$$$ — BOSCH Corded Variable Speed Jig Saw ~ 5.9 lbs. Bosch is the company that transformed jigsaws into the devices we know today. Tool-less blade changes, a precise plunging system, and great power are some of the things you'll experience with this jigsaw.

$$ — MILWAUKEE'S 2445-20 M12 Jig Saw ~ 3.8 lbs. A small and compact jigsaw such as this one is a product that all beginners will appreciate. All the features are designed to meet the needs of a starter woodworker, and it's effortless to use!

$ — SKIL 5 Amp Corded Jig Saw ~ 5.2 lbs. If you need a powerful corded jigsaw with perfect visibility over the cut line, you've got to try this product. Also, it's one of the cheapest products on this list!

$$$ — Makita XVJ02Z Brushless Cordless Jig Saw ~ 2.62 lbs. A brushless motor can offer you various options that most power tools with brushed motors can't. Makita's model has six speed control settings, incredible strength, and it's a cordless jigsaw - what more could you want?

BLACK+DECKER Jig Saw - The Best Corded Jigsaw
  • Dimensions: 11.75 - 4.38 - 9.25 inches
  • Weight: 4.6 lbs
  • Warranty: 2-year limited
  • Wattage/Voltage: 120 V

If you're sick of buying mid-range products and you want to get something that'll last, it's time to switch things up with the best jigsaw that the market has to offer. Here's the BLACK+DECKER Jig Saw review!

The things that separate quality jigsaws from ordinary ones can be summed up into three features - powerful motor, strong housing, and cutting controls. So, let's see if those features hold up to the standard.

The first thing is the motor, and oh boy, it's something. This device packs a 5 amp electric motor that can deliver up to 3000 strokes per minute. Aside from making perfectly smooth cuts on wood, it stands up quite well against metallic surfaces and PVS.

Moreover, this Black+Decker unit features CurveControl technology that lets the user work with four different settings for rounded cuts. In most cases, you won't be able to make an entirely straight cut line without having to make pauses between each use. This jigsaw, on the other hand, works flawlessly, whatever the cutting speed or the setting is.

Naturally, you can expect efficient curved cuts up to 45 degrees, no matter the working stock. Thanks to the variable-speed motor, you'll have just enough power to make smooth bevel cuts.

Black+Decker manufactures all of their saws with tool-less blade changes, and they've made it a practice to produce all newer units in this fashion. So, you'll be able to swap U and T-shank blades by just pulling them out and placing the new in the bare tool.

So, what else do you want from a jigsaw? This one fills out all the requirements and offers even more. After testing it out, we found no flaws, and we would highly recommend it to everyone.

Pros
  • Quick-swap for T and U-shank blades
  • 5-amp motor with variable speed control
  • CurveControl technology
  • Perfect for all materials
Cons
  • /

DEWALT 20V MAX Jig Saw - The Best Cordless Jigsaw
  • Power Source: Cordless
  • Dimensions: 11.25 - 11 - 3.9 inches
  • Weight: 5.57 lbs
  • Warranty: 3-year limited
  • Wattage/Voltage: 20 W/ 20 V

Whether you work on the field or you have a small working space in your house, the outcome is the same - you need a cordless jigsaw. Well, you won't find a better one than the DEWALT 20V MAX Jig Saw.

Many of you know DeWalt as this incredible manufacturer of power tools, but what's more impressive is their contribution to developing cordless machines with efficient batteries that have a longer lifespan than most products you'll find out there.

The DeWalt DCS331B cordless jigsaw is a part of the 20V MAX lithium-ion system of machines that has interchangeable batteries. If you browse around, you'll see that this battery's compatible with many power tools - table saws, pole saws, round saws, drills, and many others. So, if you're a fan of DeWalt, that alone is enough to consider this unit.

Naturally, a DeWalt model won't have average specifications as it's a premium cordless saw. The variable speed trigger will instantly get you up to 3000 strokes per minute, which is the optimal speed for straight and bevel cuts.

There are four stops - the standard 0-degree and three positive stops at 15, 30, and 45 degrees, which will give you optimal bevel adjustment. You won't have to bother with extra tools when you need to switch out the blade, thanks to the keyless blade clamp.

Another thing that DeWalt users are used to by now is the absolute comfort while using their products, in the sense that they put time into making perfect user-friendly units. In this case, the DCS331B will make each project a piece of cake with the anti-slip comfort grip and the adjustable dust blower.

If you're looking for flaws, you won't find any. The price is what it is, but it's to be expected for such quality.

Pros
  • The best cordless jigsaw
  • Quality battery
  • Integrated dust blower
  • Variable speed control
Cons
  • Price

PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX Jig Saw - The Best Bare Tool
  • Power Source: Cordless
  • Dimensions: 12.19 - 3.75 - 10 inches
  • Weight: 5 lbs
  • Warranty: 3-year limited
  • Wattage/Voltage: 20 V

Paying for tools, accessories, blades, and even shipping can amount to quite a lot. Also, if you've already used a jigsaw, you probably have most of the accessories lying around somewhere. So, why not invest in the best bare tool, the PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX Jig Saw?

Porter-Cable's greatest improvement in the power tool industry lies in pneumatic tools, but they have so much to offer in other fields that we just had to include one of their jigsaws.

This might not be the fastest saw in the west, but it's undoubtedly one of the strongest ones. The tool itself has a thickened shoe plate that gives bonus points to the overall stability when cutting. Also, the combination of steel housing and copper motor proves to be the ideal combination that never rusts or affects the efficiency in the long run.

The variable speed dial can be adjusted to run anywhere between 0 and 2500 strokes per minute with three orbital settings that make this cordless jigsaw a true marvel to cut with. All cuts are aggressive and smooth, even the bevel ones.

Same as DeWalt, Porter-Cable has a line of 20V MAX units that can use each other's batteries, so purchasing this unit will make even more sense if you have another one of their products lying around.

There are some minor things that we could classify as flaws, such as the lack of LED light to follow the cut lines or a slightly lower motor speed, but these flaws should affect the ultimate result by a huge factor. Overall, this is surely one of our go-to cordless jigsaws.

Pros
  • Durable motor and housing
  • Orbital speed dial
  • Budget battery-operated tool
  • Tool-less blade changes
Cons
  • No LED light
  • Slightly slower cutting speed

RYOBI One+ P5231 18V Lithium-Ion Cordless Jigsaw - The Best Lightweight Jigsaw
  • Power Source: Cordless
  • Dimensions: 11 x 12 x 6.5 inches
  • Weight: 4.4 lbs
  • Warranty: N/A
  • Wattage/Voltage: 18 V

Aside from making curved and straight cuts, one of the benefits of using a jigsaw is the compactness of these devices that allows you to carry and use them anywhere. Naturally, the lighter the saw, the better. So, here's the best lightweight jigsaw, the RYOBI One+ P5231 18V Lithium-Ion Cordless Jigsaw.

What presents itself immediately is the question: Why do you need a lightweight jigsaw? Well, the way we see it, there are two reasons. Firstly, it's the ease of use that comes from operating a lighter model. You have more maneuverability and better control over the workpiece.

Secondly, they can easily be transported to a worksite, and they don't take up that much space as table saws. When you combine this with a 3000-stroke motor and an 18V battery, you get the Ryobi P5231.

It has the features of a professional jigsaw and the price of a mid-range woodworking jigsaw. It can shed light in dark rooms with LED lights and help you make precise cuts. Are you worried about the mess it'll make? Pff, the integrated dust blower, will take care of the sawdust and debris.

In terms of special features, we can list the trigger lock system for maintaining control over your cuts and the jigsaw blade saving base that lets you extend the blade and use the side that hasn't worn out. Not only will you save your blades, but money and time it'll take to purchase new ones.

The only reason we wouldn't recommend this jigsaw to everyone is the lack of a variable speed trigger. It is a massive letdown, especially from a manufacturer such as Ryobi, but it still doesn't affect the efficiency that much.

Pros
  • Lightweight
  • Compact
  • Maximum visibility with the LED light and a built-in dust blower
  • Blade saving base
Cons
  • No variable speed settings

WEN 33606 Orbital Jig Saw - The Fastest Jigsaw
  • Power Source: Corded
  • Dimensions: 9.38 x 3.25 x 8.63 inches
  • Weight: 5.4 lbs
  • Warranty: 2-year warranty
  • Wattage/Voltage: 792 W/ 120 V

If you want speed and strength, look no further than the WEN 33606 Orbital Jig Saw. It'll hold up to everything that was promised and still surprise you!

It doesn't matter if you're looking at the features of this jigsaw on an Amazon page or if a WEN seller is telling them to you - the first thing that'll grab your attention is the 6.6 amp motor. Thick material won't be an issue once you set the variable speed dial to 3300 strokes per minute and experience the full power of this jigsaw.

It has a front-mounted dust blower for quick cleanup and the standard 1-1/2-inch dust port for thorough cleaning. Naturally, cutting curves with the 4-position orbital setting dial is incredibly easy.

The most interesting thing about it is its weight. Even though it's a corded jigsaw and has a powerful motor, it only weighs 5.4 lbs and has a compact design. It gives you maximum control, and it's capable of not only cutting wood but metal as well.

Another cool thing is the simple design that has many user-friendly accessories. For example, it has a non-marring shoe plate that prevents damage and scuffing on the workpiece. You'll find the quick-release chuck just above the shoe plate for easier blade changes.

Well, if it's so great, why isn't it in the first place? We have two reasons - low-quality blades and plastic parts of the housing. This really affects our overall opinion of this unit, but the bright side is the really affordable price.

Pros
  • 6.6 amp motor/ 3300 strokes per minute
  • User-friendly accessories
  • Blade speed
  • Non-marring shoe plate
Cons
  • Low-quality blades
  • Plastic parts

TECCPO 6.5 Amp Jigsaw - The Best Accurate Jigsaw
  • Power Source: Corded
  • Dimensions: 10.24 x 3.15 x 8.27 inches
  • Weight: 5.51 lbs
  • Warranty: 1-year warranty
  • Wattage/Voltage: 120 V

Aside from having a durable unit that can withstand high speeds, the most obvious feature you need in a quality jigsaw is accuracy. Here's a professional model, the TECCPO 6.5 Amp Jigsaw.

This TECCPO unit is the best-rated jigsaw for professional contractors for a couple of reasons. Firstly, it boasts a high-performance 6.5 amp motor with a built-in laser guide for complete accuracy. It is a brushed motor, but TECCPO has a couple of jigsaws in their line with high amp motors and a brushless motor 20V unit.

In terms of this jigsaw's power, it can reach 3000 strokes per minute, but the speed can be adjusted in six ways, thanks to the variable speed dial. Furthermore, orbital settings will let you adjust the way you cut based on the type of material you're working with.

Now, the main reason we've included this jigsaw is accuracy. So, what makes it more accurate than others?

We've been pleasantly surprised by the quality of the jigsaw blades that came with it. They have ten teeth, but their endurance is probably unmatched by any other blades that come with the products on this list.

Secondly, the high-quality built-in laser combined with the ruler gives you complete control over the workpiece, no matter the thickness of the material itself. To make things even easier, the dust blower will clear the path for you to make angled cuts and create curves.

Overall, TECCPO jig saws might be a bit overpriced for their quality, but they undoubtedly have some of the best cordless jigsaws out there, including corded models such as this one.

Pros
  • High-performance motor
  • Accurate cuts
  • Quality laser guide
  • Durable jigsaw blades
Cons
  • Overpriced

BOSCH Corded Variable Speed Jig Saw - The Best Reliable
  • Power Source: Corded
  • Dimensions: 15 x 13.75 x 4.5 inches
  • Weight: 5.9 lbs
  • Warranty: 1-year warranty
  • Wattage/Voltage: 120 V

If you're worried about buying products from unknown manufacturers, you can always put your trust in Bosch. Bosch's power tools have never failed, and this jigsaw is not an exception. So, here's the BOSCH 7.0 Amp Corded Variable Speed Jig Saw review.

Bosch is one of the pioneers of introducing tool-less blade change systems in jigsaws, meaning they've put in the time to study the intricacies behind these products and the way they work. This tool, for example, has the standard tool-less blade change system combined with the blade ejection lever that keeps you absolutely safe and saves you time.

Moreover, most jigsaws you'll find online usually have motors in the range of 5.5 and 6.5 amp. Well, forget the other tools when you can use this 7 amp monster with 3100 strokes per minute.

Do you want a corded jigsaw that'll feel amazing in your hand and won't have its extension cord dangling around and getting in the way? That's the Bosch JS470EB.

There's no need to stop and think: Will it last me for some time? This Bosch jigsaw has an aluminum gearbox and an aluminum shoe plate with a steel insert. Even if you drop it, there won't be any damage, as long as it falls down from a height of a table.

You can already guess that price is a huge factor to be considered. However, we'd also like to mention that the barrel of this saw is quite huge, which could be problematic, even for tall and bulkier people. Aside from this, trust us when we say that you'll be getting a phenomenal power tool that'll last you for a long time.

Pros
  • T-shank blades clamping system
  • Low vibrations
  • Tool-free blade change
  • Makes clean and accurate cuts
Cons
  • Huge barrel
  • Expensive

MILWAUKEE'S 2445-20 M12 Jig Saw - The Best Compact
  • Power Source: Cordless
  • Dimensions: 7.66 x 2.35 x 7.11 inches
  • Weight: 3.8 lbs
  • Warranty: 5-year warranty
  • Wattage/Voltage: 12 V

Finding the perfect combination of weight, performance, and the price tag is not an easy task, but the MILWAUKEE'S 2445-20 M12 Jig Saw seems to cover it all. Let's see what's special about it.

This power tool belongs to the line of Milwaukee's cordless jigsaws that feature the M12 RED LITHIUM battery system. The voltage is set to 12 V, but the interesting thing is that the power supply is more than enough taking into account that this jigsaw weighs only 3.8 lbs.

This is the lightest jigsaw on this list, and yet, it has a 2800 SPM variable speed trigger that allows everyone to use it - carpenters, construction workers, and all types of professionals.

We'd like to shift your attention to the Hybrid Grip design, a special and patented design type by Milwaukee that gives the user complete control over the saw and the workpiece by bringing the grip closer to the material you're cutting.

The grip has a low center of gravity, which gives you more control and consequently more precision while making curved cuts, similar to using a standard circular saw. The stroke length is 3/4-inch, which is quite enough for straight and bevel cuts.

This jigsaw makes quite a mess while cutting, and it can be quite hard to see if you're cutting thick material, so you'll have to get a separate dust collection tool. Still, that's no excuse to miss out on such a quality unit that'll bring you so much ease.

Pros
  • M12 RED LITHIUM battery system
  • Low center of gravity
  • Compact
  • QuikLok T-shank blade clamp
Cons
  • Makes a mess

SKIL 5 Amp Corded Jig Saw - The Best Affordable Jigsaw
  • Power Source: Corded
  • Dimensions: 9.53 - 2.68 - 8.19 inches
  • Weight: 5.2 lbs
  • Warranty: 1-year warranty
  • Wattage/Voltage: 120 V

It's not surprising that the best jigsaws will cost a certain price, but that doesn't mean that you can't find a quality unit for an affordable price tag. Therefore, we browsed around and found the SKIL 5 Amp Corded Jig Saw, our budget pick of the day.

It's always the same story. Whenever someone sees a cheap product, they immediately think it's worthless and shouldn't be regarded as a potential purchase. Well, SKIL is here to prove them wrong.

Even though it has slightly lowered functions, it's still capable of cutting through wood and lighter metals without much trouble. The 5 amp motor can reach 3000 strokes per minute, which is something we've seen in some premium units so far.

Moreover, it has many features that you've seen so far, such as a dust-blowing switch and a clamp for U-shank blades. It truly sets the tone for affordable items everywhere.

Now, naturally, there are some things that separate it from the best jigsaws, such as lower depth capacity and less smooth finishes, but it's to be expected considering the price.

On the other hand, it runs on 500 W, meaning you can expect it to go at it, despite the thickness of the material. It does heat up relatively fast, so it's a good idea to let it cool off from time to time, in between the cuts.

Pros
  • Budget pick
  • Variable speed dial
  • Dust blower
  • 5 amp motor
Cons
  • Lower functions than the previous jigsaws

Makita XVJ02Z Brushless Cordless Jig Saw - The Best Brushless Jigsaw
  • Power Source: Cordless
  • Dimensions: 9 x 11 x 4 inches
  • Weight: 2.62 lbs
  • Warranty: N/A
  • Wattage/Voltage: 18 V

We've saved a sweet corded jigsaw for the end. It's a bare tool with a brushless motor, but more on that in the Makita XVJ02Z Brushless Cordless Jig Saw review.

If you don't know, brushless motors are generally considered to be much stronger than brushed ones, as they have an integrated electromagnet that diverts the power directly to the core. They do drain a lot of power, but the end results are always amazing.

In this case, the XVJ02Z has the ability to reach an incredible 3500 strokes per minute, which is something that we didn't even see with the premium units. There are six settings on the variable speed dial in order to let you match the strength of the motor with the correct speed.

This is the ideal jigsaw for cutting curves, not only because of the motor but due to the design of the tool that has an aluminum base and a stable core that increases the control you'll have over the jigsaw.

The main flaw is the battery and its lifespan. Even though Makita produces quality batteries, a brushless motor is quite demanding, so you'll probably have an hour of runtime, which is still solid considering you won't be using a jigsaw for an extended period of time.

On the other hand, such a tool is definitely worth it, given the features, price, and the way it holds up with the premium units.

Pros
  • Tool-free blade change
  • 3500 strokes per minute
  • Quality jigsaw blade
  • Stable
Cons
  • Low battery life

Knowing what to look for: The buyer's guide

We've gone and listed the best cordless and corded jigsaws that you can find on the market.

But, how would you even know to recognize a good one if you were searching for yourself? That's what the buyer's guide is for.

We'll share some of our research with you and hopefully help you in your future purchases.

1. Build

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The best jigsaw is often characterized by three things regarding its build - stable shoe plate, balanced barrel grip, and even distribution of internal parts. It is important that all of these segments mix together in order to say that a jigsaw is built well.

The shoe plate needs to have a certain weight that can withstand the pressure from the motor and the workpiece. Also, the material it was built from is important in this equation. From our experience, steel or die-cast aluminum plates are the best.

Barrel grip helps you to maneuver the tool as you're cutting the material. Overall, the best barrel grip has an accessible handle that's located very close to the material you're cutting.

Thirdly, we've seen that the best jigsaw tools are often lightweight, but that doesn't necessarily mean that they don't pack quality equipment. Since these are handheld units, a good weight distribution across the housing is crucial to getting the optimal balance and perfect cuts.

2. Jigsaw blades

Even though they're a separate category and should have more space dedicated to them, they are still important when choosing a jigsaw. After all, they're the ones doing the cutting.

If the blades that come with the jigsaw don't work for you, you can always purchase different ones online, but if you're already paying for a jigsaw, it makes sense to get some quality blades along with it.

In our opinion, the most durable sets are made from steel and steel alloys, such as carbon or aluminum/steel combinations. They are perfect for wood and do well against metal surfaces. Also, blades are not that expensive, so you can always buy a spare pack and be set.

3. Additional features

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One of the crucial factors that separate the best jigsaws from ordinary models is additional features that manufacturers integrate to help the users experience the full power of their models. In most cases, these are the features that are not necessary for the overall efficiency of the jigsaw, but they make your life much easier.

For example, a quality LED light system combined with a ruler is a massive improvement for your balancing of the saw and following the cut line with more precision. However, most experienced woodworkers don't need such a feature, which is why it might be unnecessary to have.

Moreover, dust blowers are necessary, but you'll see some premium units featuring two dust ports - front-mounted and the standard 1-1/2-inch port. It's a great feature to have when working with thick materials that make a lot of mess.

4. Warranty

This is a must-have. As you know, jigsaws are lightweight and, therefore, fragile. They do have durable housing but working with reciprocating blades, and metal materials will result in occasional damage to the unit, and that might be problematic if you don't have a good deal with the manufacturer.

Therefore, you'll want to get a jigsaw that has at least a 1-year deal. You've seen in the reviews that most of these premium products have 2-year warranties and more, sometimes even five years.

FAQs

Are Bosch jigsaws good?

This shouldn't even be a thing to question. Bosch is one of the pioneers of woodworking power tools, and we still haven't encountered a product of theirs that we can say is bad.

The one we've covered, the BOSCH 7.0 Amp Corded Variable Speed Jig Saw, has the strongest motor on this list, and it's incredibly efficient compared to its competition.

Which is the best cordless jigsaw?

There are quite a few, but the one we prefer the most is the DEWALT 20V MAX Jig Saw. Battery-powered jigsaws, aside from their internals, are usually measured by the efficiency of their batteries, which is where DeWalt dominates with its 20V line of interchangeable batteries.

How powerful of a jigsaw do I need?

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It usually depends on what you plan to use it for. If you're doing home DIY projects, you probably don't need a 7 amp jigsaw such as the Bosch's model, but you also don't want to get a weak unit that'll take you ages to cut through a wooden board. We'd recommend a 5.5 amp jigsaw if you're a beginner.

How do I choose a jigsaw tool?

If you follow our buyer's guide and pay attention to some of the details that separate the best jigsaws from the worst, you'll be prepared!

Why does my jigsaw not cut straight?

In most cases, it's either due to bad adjustment or faulty blades. You can always reach the customer service of the manufacturer, and they'll check it out for free if you have a warranty.

What is the best jigsaw?

You've hopefully made your decision by the end of this article and found the unit that fits your needs the most. If you trust our judgment, our recommendation for professional woodworkers would be the BLACK+DECKER Jig Saw due to its perfect combination of power, weight distribution, and accuracy.

For beginners, we'd recommend the RYOBI One+ P5231 18V Lithium-Ion Cordless Jigsaw, and it's not even a competition.

Final Thoughts

That's it for this review article. We've hopefully shed some light and experience regarding these units, and you now know enough to make a final call.

Thank you for sticking out with us, and we wish you the best of luck with your future DIY projects with the best jigsaw on the market!

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