When it comes to getting a good Woodworking workshop going, jigsaws are an amazing power tool to have. Their reliable cutting mechanism, coupled with their ease of use and precision, make them a DIYer’s favorite companion when carving wood.
Jigsaw’s have gotten pretty popular off-late, so much so, that there are an immense variety of them on the market today. So, picking the one that can fit your needs the best can actually be harder than it seems.
From orbital models to reciprocating, from corded designs to cordless one, there are a lot of features one needs to keep in mind before making the purchase.
And so if you’re suffering from a similar jigsaw choosing dilemma like so many other DIYers out there, then we have just the right list and guide for you. The jigsaws that we have reviewed today, are not just incredibly popular but are some of our absolute favorites as well.
And we’re confident that one among them will be able to fit your needs perfectly.
Best Jigsaws
1. Black & Decker BDEJS300C Jigsaw
If you’re looking for a Jigsaw for domestic woodworking projects, then the BDEJS300C from Black and Decker is going to be our pick for the day. This light and easy to use model provides incredible value for money and has been dominating the market for some time now.
- 4.5 amp motor and Variable speed of up to 3,000 SPM
- New and improved Wire Guard Sightline channel that improves...
- Base plate tilts to allow bevel cuts
- Dust blower helps to keep saw dust out of your work area
Experience
When trying out the BDEJS300C for ourselves, what stood out the most was the design and build quality. For a jigsaw that comes at a price which the BDEJS300C does, it’s indeed quite rare to get a product which is as durable and as functional as this.
It’s one of the best cordless models today and comes with a variety of features which makes it quite user-friendly and a great pick for beginner woodworkers. It also provides variable speeds of up to 3000, along with a 45-degree bevel and a wire guard sightline channel for improved accuracy and control.
However, though fun and easy to use, the BDEJS300C will disappoint when it comes to stroke lengths. The 4.5 AMP motor, might be able to take up smaller, more domestic woodworking projects perfectly, but will fail during heavy-duty use, making its stroke lengths feel like limited.
- One of the best value for money corded jigsaw models
- Comes with variable speeds of up to 3000 RPM
- Easy to use, and is certainly a great pick, for beginner woodworkers
- Power is quite limited for heavy-duty work and can make the strokes feel limited
2. DEWALT DCS331 Cordless Jigsaw
In the home power tool industry, Dewalt is known for making some of the most versatile models in the market. And their latest cordless DCS331 Jigsaw is an incredible woodworking tool with a lot of customizable options, that is bound to make any user happy.
- All metal lever action keyless blade
- Battery and charger sold separately. All metal key less shoe...
- 4 position orbital action
- Battery & charger sold separately
Experience
What we love the most about the DCS331 is its keyless blade clamp. It makes changing the blades incredibly easy and is one feature which we do not find in a lot of cordless jigsaw models at that price range.
Moreover, for a cordless model, the Dewalt DCS331 is incredibly powerful. Cordless jigsaws, unlike the corded ones, are not exactly known for taking on heavy-duty projects, but the DCS331 is one of the very few exceptions to this fact.
Because of the adjustable bevel settings of 0, 15, 30 and 45 degrees, bevel cutting at angles is made significantly easier and precise.
However, all of these amazing features come at a rather high budget. The DCS331 is not the cheapest jigsaw on our list today, and this is precisely the reason why it’s not as easily accessible by the average domestic woodworker.
- Comes with a keyless blade clamp which makes blade changing very easy
- One of the most powerful woodworking cordless jigsaws in the market
- Adjustable bevel settings for improved precision and ease of use
- Quite expensive and out of reach for most domestic and average buyers
3. Bosch JS470E Corded Jigsaw
For the more adept and professional woodworking enthusiasts, Bosch has a jigsaw model in the form of the JS470E that is sure to make their job a whole lot easier. The device is incredibly tough, powerful and can make quick work of the toughest of woodworking jobs.
- CONVENIENT: Featuring a tool less blade change system and...
- 4 in 1: 4 orbital action tool settings provide different...
- CONTROL: Variable speed dial sets maximum speed and...
- SECURE: This Bosch tool includes a large, sturdy die cast...
Experience
The Bosch JS470E is all about balancing power and control. We just adore how it’s capable of generating a torque that can make the blades go through wood, aluminium and even mild steel in a matter of seconds.
The precise control settings will help the user keep the jigsaw steady and stable, and get accurate strokes when required. It helps professionals get those complicated as well as intricate woodworking jobs done on time; while the cordless design allows for easier access to the hard to reach spaces.
Moreover, the models come with a lot of amazing accessories, each of which is just fantastic. From a non-marring plastic overshoe to an anti-splinter insert as well as a bevel wrench, the JS470E is sure to give you a great start right out of the box.
However, be wary of the weight. The JS470E is one of the heavier jigsaws out there and is why we will not be recommending it for newer users.
- Incredibly powerful jigsaw model that makes the toughest woodworking projects look easy
- Provides easier control because of the precise speed settings
- Comes with a fantastic range of accessories
- Is quite heavy, and we will not be recommending it for newer users
4. Bosch JS120BN Cordless Jigsaw
If you’re looking for a jigsaw model that provides one of the best cutting depths, then Bosch has got you covered with their fantastic JS120BN. Along with having a maximum depth reach of 2¾-inches, the JS120BN is also very light, easy to use, and is versatile enough to meet a variety of job descriptions.
- EFFICIENT: The Bosch JS120BN Jig Saw features an adjustable...
- CONVENIENT: One-handed blade insertion and toolless blade...
- COMFORT: With a small grip diameter and a lightweight...
- SMOOTH OPERATION: The Bosch JS120BN offers smooth operation...
Experience
User comfort and beginner-friendly are the two best ways with which we can define the Bosch JS120BN. It is designed with a barrel grip that has a reduced diameter and helps users have a much easier time when holding on to the controls while keeping the hand from fatiguing.
The Bosch JS120BN will help you do a lot of different jobs which not a lot of other standard jigsaw models would. This model is highly versatile in terms of its use and allowed us to complete a lot of woodworking projects which required using the tool in an overhead position.
However, there is one issue that we do have with this jigsaw, and that’s with the battery life. The light and small body is not capable of holding a battery large enough that can work for extended periods. Hence, it has a short run time, and you will need to charge it frequently.
- Lightweight body is easy to grip and control
- Ergonomic grip and reduced barrel diameter prevent the user’s arms from fatiguing
- Allows for overhead use which is quite unique for a jigsaw in that price range
- Below-average battery capacity will need frequent charging
5. Black and Decker Smart Select Jigsaw
The Smart Select from Black and Decker is one of the most reliable woodworking jigsaw models on the market today. It’s capable of doing a little bit of everything; from cutting metal to carving wood and plastic, there is a lot one can do with this tool
- Curve Control technology which allows you to adjust the...
- 5 Amp variable-speed motor; up to 3,000 SPM of cutting power
- Can make 45 degree bevel cuts; with adjustable shoe for...
- New and improved Wire Guard
Experience
One of the most attractive features that the Smart Select brings to the table is the automatic setting adjustment tool. The dial, also known as the Smart Select Dial, comes with a seven programmed orbital setting, that can automatically set the speed of the tool to meet the job at hand.
This feature is what precisely makes this model from Black and Decker such a must-have for beginner woodworkers who’re still not familiar with the use of jigsaws.
Another feature that really comes in handy for newer users is the Accu-bevel lever. It changes the bevel for the woodworker quickly, easily and accurately.
But, there was one thing that we noticed about the Smart Select which a lot of woodworkers might find to be quite inconvenient. This model is not as good at doing straight lines as it is with curves and making intricate patterns.
- One of the most reliable jigsaw models on our list today
- Smart Select dial makes the jigsaw a must-have for beginner woodworkers
- Accu-bevel lever makes cutting at curves and angles extremely easy
- Doesn’t make straight lines as well as it makes curves
6. Makita XVJ03Z
The Makita XVJ03Z is going to be our jigsaw of choice if you’re in search of a woodworking tool that can be used on a variety of materials. As the device comes with three orbital settings, the woodworker will be able to use it for a lot of different jobs may it be professional or domestic.
- Makita built variable speed motor delivers 0 to 2, 600...
- 3 Orbital settings plus straight cutting for use in a wide...
- "Tool less" Blade change system allows for faster blade...
- Large 2 finger variable speed trigger for added convenience
Experience
The Makita XVJ03Z will let you complete your project in any condition. With the built-in LED lights, the device makes it significantly easier to work in low light conditions while the heavy-duty base, keeps it durable and able to take up the toughest of woodworking projects.
We found the battery life of the Makita XVJ03Z to be highly dependable as well. It lasts for a very long time without having to need a charge, and when it does need to juice up again, it charges very quickly and gets back into the action in no time at all.
However, for this specific Makita model, the battery, as well as the charger, is not provided with the pack. You will have to purchase it separately, which can be quite a disappointment for many customers, but not a deal-breaker by any means.
- Comes with LED lights built in to the jigsaw, for better visibility in low light settings
- Heavy-duty base keeps the device durable and long-lasting
- Battery lasts a very long time and even charges up very fast
- Battery and charger need to be bought separately
7. Porter-Cable PCE345
The Porter-Cable PCE345 is going to be another beginner-friendly woodworking jigsaw model on our list today. It comes with a lot of reliable functionality and power, that can help it do most of the amateur jobs with ease. The PCE345 is pretty well balanced from all sides and is a highly portable model to take along with you.
- 7 position speed dial integrated in the trigger
- 6 amp motor for more power
- 4 orbital settings for a variety of materials
- Lock-on button for prolonged use
Experience
The Porter-Cable PCE345 offers users a lot of comfort and precision that makes it user-friendly and easy to use. The front of the model, along with the handle, is covered in a comfortable ‘rubber over-mould grip’ that will help you to hold on the jigsaw better and improve on the overall stroke accuracy.
For the price that the PCE345 comes it, a lot of reviewers have rated it to be quite a budget-friendly and value for money product. And we would like to recommend it for those users who generally tend to do small to mid woodworking projects.
However, we did occasionally encounter some alignment issues when cutting at curved angles, which made the strokes uneven. But that rarely occurs, and the superior control and precision of the tool more than make up for it.
- Comes with a lot of reliable power and functionality for the price
- Superior grip helps the user to improve on the overall accuracy of the cuts
- Perfect jigsaw model for tackling small to mid-sized projects
- There can be occasional alignment issues
8. Hitachi CJ18DGLP4 Jigsaw
The Hitachi CJ18DGLP4 is an incredibly portable jigsaw model. If you generally tend to travel a lot with your woodworking kit, then the CJ18DGLP4 from Hitachi is bound to come in handy. It comes with a convenient on-board storage that can hold up to six different blades which you can carry along with you without many problems.
- Hitachi Power Tools has renamed to Metabo HPT. Same great...
- Compatible with all Hitachi 18V Lithium Ion slide type...
- Tool-less blade changing system allows for quick...
- Soft grip handle for improved comfort and less fatigue
Experience
What stands out the most about Hitachi CJ18DGLP4 from the rest of the jigsaw models on the list, is its affordability and portability. It has a durable yet lightweight design, along with a fantastic on-board blade storage slot that allows for easier carrying and portability of the device.
The elegantly designed body houses reliable power as well, and you will be able to do a lot of small jobs around the house, as well as some light to medium woodworking projects. Its precision is also quite good and comes with an ergonomic grip to make woodworking with it a very comfortable experience.
However, the working of the jigsaw is limited to smaller woodworking projects alone. It’s power, though reliable, is not enough to go through thick wood and materials like plastic and metal.
- Has a durable yet portable design, that you can carry around
- Convenient blade storage slot and easy to replace blade tool
- Budget-friendly model which is easy to use and control
- Not powerful enough to take on harder woodworking projects
9. Wen 3602 Jigsaw
The Wen 3602 Jigsaw can help you go through any type of material effortlessly. As it comes with fantastic orbital selection knob, any woodworker will be able to adjust the blade to the material that they’re working on. It also bevels quite easily to 45-degrees and comes with a lock-on button that will help you to work for extended periods without fatiguing your arms.
- Powerful 6-amp motor handles woods up to 4 inches thick
- Adjust the variable speed anywhere from 800 to 3,000 SPM
- Change the stroke of the blade from vertical to orbital with...
- Lightweight design combined with lock-on trigger switch...
Experience
Apart from the various material compatibility, the easy blade change mechanism of the device is perhaps one of its best features. It helps the user to quickly and easily switch from one blade to another and eliminate any time loss that can occur as a result.
The changing process is quite smooth as well, and along with the orbital settings, the Wen 3602 will be able to work with not just wood, but plastic and metal as well. Though its lack of power may not make it such a great pick for professionals, but for smaller work around the house, it’s tough to beat.
In terms of the flaws, we noticed that the baseplate of the Wen 3602 can be quite hard to adjust, and may fall short of expectations when used on harder, thicker wood.
- Easy blade switch mechanism, which significantly reduces the time
- Orbital settings of the jigsaw will allow you to use it for a variety of materials
- Lock-on button will help to significantly reduce the fatigue on the user
- The baseplate is quite difficult to adjust
10. Skil 4495-02 Corded Jigsaw
The Skil 4495-02 jigsaw is one of the more easier to control woodworking tools in the market today. It comes with a fantastic ergonomic handle, which soaks up the cutting vibrations at the source and doesn’t let the user’s hands fatigue out too soon.
- Powerful 6.0 Amp motor
- Built-in laser guide for accurate straight cuts
- 4-position orbital cut control for fast or smooth cuts
- Variable speed trigger adjusts speed to cut
Experience
What we loved the most about the Skil 4495-02 is the unique laser guide and the foot stabilizer, which allows the woodworker to have absolute control over the tool. Its build is quite light as well, with great portable features along with a durable body which protects the jigsaw from accidental damage while on the road.
In terms of the price, the Skil 4495-02 is pretty budget-friendly and readily accessible to not just professional woodworkers but amateurs as well. The reliable power and ease of use make it a great option for newer users who want to get into the hobby of carving wood.
However, the Skil 4495-02 falls short of expectations when it comes to cutting wood or even plastic materials vertically. The lightweight design supports lightweight blades, and because of this, the tool is not capable of providing perfect vertical cuts, even though the laser guide and footplate provides superior control and precision.
- A great jigsaw model for those who want to get into the woodworking hobby
- Lightweight build and design are also very durable and damage-resistant
- Unique footplate design improves the overall precision of the tool
- Is not capable of making perfect vertical cuts every time
11. Milwaukee 2645-20 Jigsaw
If you’re looking for a basic yet reliable jigsaw model for your next woodworking project, then this budget-friendly tool from Milwaukee might just be the perfect investment. And though it might not be the most durable jigsaw out there today, it gets the job done rather well, irrespective of the material that you’re using it on.
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