Best Jigsaw | Buyers’ Guide 2022
What is the best jigsaw? The advanced jigsaw is a highly useful tool in the arsenal of any craftsman both professional and enthusiast. It is primarily connected with a great number of applications it can be used for. In particular, it is essential for creation of any shapes in any materials and finishing projects which standard saws are not capable to handle.
Another outstanding benefit of this tool is the simplicity of its use which contributes to safety during its operation. Jigsaws are considered to be the safest tools which, at the same time, demonstrate enough capacity and high performance to deal with multiple, sometimes challenging, cutting tasks. According to my survey, the DeWalt DCS335N-XJ will handle easily even most challenging and intricate cuts.
This cordless model is a comparatively new and upgraded tool in comparison with its previous versions in the wide range of DEWALT power tools. The first amazing feature which stands it out from the counterparts is the powerful brushless motor serving for higher performance and longer lifetime.
This jigsaw features the blade speed control, thus it can be varied up to 3200 SPM. It is also equipped with an improved tool-free blade change mechanism to install and remove it fast with no extra efforts from an operator.
The DCS335N-XJ is offered with 4-orbital action settings to perform the most complicated curved cuts regardless the type of material you are going to deal with.
The integrated bright LED light makes the cutting line visible, thus contributing to the accuracy of the desired result,especially at a low light. Moreover, the jigsaw is equipped with the dust blower, to remove debris and dust in front of the blade during the cutting process.
Finally, in addition to its multiple applicable features, the DeWalt DCS335N-XJ is a highly portable tool with no cords attached. And all this makes it a fantastic tool for professional and residential applications.
What is a jigsaw? | The Basics
A jigsaw is a highly versatile tool with a reciprocating blade to perform shaped cuts in different materials. Such saw is in the forefront of the most frequently used tools of any contractor or DIY-enthusiast. The jigsaw has to be ready at hand at any household as it is very easy to operate and useful. However, it is in power to handle various materials like timber, plywood, plastics, ceramic tiles, rubber, glass, and even thin cement slabs, non-ferrous metals, steel, etc.
The jig saws are quite powerful but at the same time lightweight and compact in comparison with the standard saws. They are capable of more than a simple sawing, like ripping or cross cutting, but of an accurate and intricate profile cutting. Thus the portable, versatile, and easy to use jigsaws deserve a rightful place in every tool collection of any DIY enthusiast or contractor.
Differently from a sabre, circular or chain saw, a jigsaw can be hold with one hand, allowing a proper fixation of a workpiece. Due to this feature, an accurate cut is possible at a considerably high rate, as there's no necessity to fix a workpiece each time. You need just a thorough marking and a firm hand to complete the work.
And now, let’s learn about this handy tool in more details.
Types of jig saws, which one to choose?
To add to its versatility, you can select a jigsaw that is operated by household power supply, batteries, or with compressed air.
Corded jigsaws
The corded jigsaw is a sophisticated tool with a variety of features that enable it to accomplish all kinds of cuts in different types of materials. These corded tools mainly differ in their grip design. They generally come in D-handle and barrel-grip designs. Grips are designed for maintaining straightness of the blade during the cutting process.
The D-handle grips are considered to be easier in maneuvering. However, the beginners or those who use this type for a casual work are feel uncertainty during its handling.
According to some users, the barrel-grip design is more ergonomic and ensures the required controllability. Its design allows you to get closer to the work piece, which contributes to more accurate cuts. Besides, the jigsaw with a barrel-grip enables upside down cutting in an easier way, which might be useful for fulfillment of specific jobs. For instance, Bosch GST150BCE is a highly demanded barrel-grip corded option.
Corded jigsaws typically run on 240 V of a regular power outlet. As a rule, the corded jigsaws are more powerful than their cordless counterparts. For this reason, they are typically preferred for the heavy-duty applications.
The corded electric jigsaws are capable to run for a long time. As long as you have power supply, the jigsaw will be continuously running apart from the breaks to prevent overheating. The flip side of it is in the power cable that comes as an essential part of corded models. And this can be a limitation factor in terms of your mobility while accomplishing some intricate cut at a certain angle or working for some project outside.
Thus, if you’re dealing with thicker and harder materials which require longer processing, I would recommend picking up one of the corded jigsaws.
Cordless jigsaws
This type of the jigsaws is a truly portable tool. You can use it at any location with no extension cords or risk of electric shock. However, the duration of its battery is limited, thus you will have to make long breaks each time it needs to be recharged. This could be highly inconvenient, especially when dealing with bigger projects or in case if you are restricted in time.
Although the cordless jigsaws are less powerful than corded counterparts and need recharging, the models like the DeWalt DCS335N-XJ, will grant you with some impressive features. If you are after the cordless option, than find more detailed description of this handy tool in our Best Cordless Jigsaw review.
Pneumatic jigsaws
These tools are considered to be a new concept among professional grade jigsaws. They are powered by an air compressor, and come with the similar features of the corded models but weigh less. Absence of a power cord makes it safe to use at locations with the humid environment.
The pneumatic jigsaw is also used to make curved and shaped cuts. But it may come with both straight blade which moves in a reciprocating and a pendulum motion which enables quicker cutting into thicker and harder materials. This type of jigsaws are not so widely used like their corded or battery-powered counterparts, but they deserve specific attention from the contractors or professionals as it may be successfully used at any job sites.
What to look for when buying a jigsaw? | Buyer’s Guide
As I’ve mentioned before the jigsaw is a highly versatile cutting tool which should be an indispensable part of a tool box of any craftsman. However, there are two main issues which may occur while dealing with the jigsaw.
In particular, a user may face chipping and irregular cut. In majority of cases, these issues can be solved by choosing an appropriate blade and operation mode, depending on the material stock you are going to process. However, skills of an operator and jigsaw design peculiarities are also highly important to achieve the desired result. Let’s consider the most important features of the best jigsaw to suit the majority of specific applications.
- Orbital Action
It is one of the essential features which contributes significantly to the multifunctionality of the tool. However, this function is not available on every saw. A straight action jigsaw moves the blade in an up-and-down motion. Due to the orbital motion function, and as the name says, the jigsaw is capable of orbital motion cutting. It becomes possible due to an integrated oscillating mechanism which moves the blade in a circular motion while reciprocating.
Such movement minimizes the wear of the blade and eliminates excessive vibration. The angle of the action depends on the material you are cutting and can be adjusted accordingly. As the rule, the orbital-action jigsaw will result in smoother cut than the straight-action saws. For instance, the DeWalt DCS335N-XJ features 4-orbital action settings to make the most sophisticated shaped and curved cuts through number of various materials.
- Adjustable stroke rate
The state-of-the-art jigsaws will feature variable speed rates. High speed is applicable for soft wood. Mid-speed should be set for thicker wooden materials, plastics and soft metals like aluminum. The GALAX PRO Jigsaw features the 6 position speed dial which allows cutting even harder materials.
The lower speed rates should be selected for metal processing like steel, etc. Slower speeds can also enhance the accuracy when making intricate curved cuts.
- Motor Power
The motor speed of a jigsaw is determined as strokes per minute. Faster speeds allow quicker and smoother cuts depending on the material you are going to deal with. Like the Bosch GST150BCE, equipped with the impressively powerful motor, which is capable of creating high-speed rates.
The powerful motor will lead to higher efficiency of the tool. The efficiency implies the maximum cutting depth, speed, and the duration of a continuous operation.
- Weight
As the jigsaw is designed to be a portable tool, its weight should be light enough to carry it from one location to another or to maneuver it easily during the cutting process. However, a heavier jigsaw has its benefit. Lighter saws are more awkward during the cutting action of the blade, especially in the unskilled hands. On the contrary, a heavier saw will ensure a smoother cutting operation, especially if you are going to cut harder or thicker materials.
- Dust blower
Some models are equipped with an air blowing system. It ejects a stream of air over the work piece in front of the blade. This keeps the cutting line free of chips and dust, to ensure that the cutting line is visible for the operator. More than that, the premium jigsaws are offered now with a dust collection system.
- Laser guide
You will be happy about this feature if you have to perform straight cutting lines on a constant basis and want to save time which has been usually spent for old-fashioned pencil marking.
The built-in laser can be highly helpful for maintaining a straight cutting line with a jigsaw, which naturally tends to deviate.
This feature is not an essential but a nice option to have, especially for a beginner, as it improves the accuracy of your cut.
- Quick blade change
Nowadays the advanced jigsaws come with a quick blade changing device, which allows effortless switch from one blade to another fast and easy without any extra tool. For this reason, many models feature a lever or a flange located on the end of the blade carrier. Previous jigsaws required the use of a wrench or similar tool in order to replace the blades.
Best jigsaws
1. DeWalt DCS335N-XJ 18V XR Li-Ion Cordless Brushless Grip Jigsaw | Best cordless
DEWALT is one of the most popular manufacturers of power tools on the US market. Their product range includes multiple types of saws, both corded and cordless. The main advantage of this brand is the affordable price and the reliability of their products.
DEWALT cordless jig saw features a powerful brushless motor allowing the improved performance and a continuous and uninterrupted runtime. The speed of this model can be adjusted up to 3, 200 SPM. Its function of 4-position orbital motion suits the most intricate cutting through the variety of materials.
The bright LED lights are installed to illuminate the cutline in case of a low light. It comes with the all-metal design of the lever-action clamp for tool-free blade change and the bevel for cutting at different angles.
Features
- Power source: Battery
- Blade speed (SPM): 3200
- Weight: 2.1
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (cm): 14.96 x 8.27 x 4.33
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The DeWalt DCS335N-XJ features a considerable benefit of its brushless motor which enhances its efficiency and duration in comparison with its counterparts. I would recommend this model as one of the best cordless jigsaws for home use.
DEWALT : Check the current price
2. Bosch Professional Corded jigsaw GST150BCE | Best corded
Bosch is one of the most well-known brands worldwide. The company produces the widest range of power tools that are highly reliable and capable to serve you for many years ahead. The Bosch Group has deserved its reputation as the leading global supplier of technology and services.
The Bosch GST150BCE barrel-grip jigsaw is the corded tool which can boast about its powerful 7.0-amp motor and variable-speed dial. The speed can be adjusted from 500 up to 3,100 SPM. These features allow implementation of multiple tasks including shaped and curved cutting.
This model comes with a counterbalancing mechanism which reduces vibration during the operation and thus improving the accuracy of the cut. It is equipped with a tool-free blade replacement system and the blade-ejection lever which excludes the risk of contact with hot blades.
Besides this jigsaw comes with a dust blower which helps to follow the cutting line during the process.
Features
- Power source: Electric
- Blade speed (SPM): 3100
- Weight (kg): 4.3
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (cm): 35 x 11 x 38
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If you used to work with a barrel grip jigsaw than this model should definitely be considered as a future purchase. The tool is a bit cumbersome but it helps to take the full control of the cutting process with less vibration. Thus it is easier to work for both beginners and professionals which can feel an absolute confidence in their actions.
Bosch : Check the current price
3. Makita JV0600K Top Handle Jig Saw | Best value
Makita Corporation is a Japanese manufacturer of power tools. Nowadays it is a global brand which presents in more than 40 countries and has 10 production facilities located in 8 countries. Their tools are highly demanded due to their durability and accuracy.
The Makita JV0600K is offered with a die-cast aluminum housing base which demonstrates its durability in use. Its powerful 6.5 amp motor and combination of orbital and straight motion settings ensure fast and accurate cuts in various materials. This jigsaw features the variable speed control dial from 500 up to 3, 100 SPM depending on the application. The counterbalance system serves to reduce excessive vibration thus enhancing stability of the process.
The saw also comes with the tool-free blade change system which helps to mount and remove blades easily depending on the material or type of cut.
More than that, the model is equipped with a dust collection system which makes the work more comfortable for the operator. The JV0600K is delivered with a tool case which is very convenient for storage.
Features
- Power source: Electric
- Blade speed (SPM): 3100
- Weight (lbs): 5.2
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 4.3 x 14.6 x 13
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This model is an excellent cutting tool with various useful features for residential use, which is available on the market at an affordable price.
Makita : Check the current price
4. Jellas 800W 3000 SPM Electric Jigsaw with Laser
It is another worthy high performance corded model. Its 6-speed control is used for selection of the required SPM rate to process various types of materials. The other distinctive and useful features of this powerful jigsaw include four settings for bevel cutting at different angles. Moreover, it comes with the built-in laser and LED light to follow precisely the line to be cut, and ensuring its visibility even in a dim light.
JELLAS : Check the current price
5. WORX 20V Cordless Universal Saw WX550.3 2 Saws in 1
This battery-powered jigsaw is a perfect combination of a reciprocating saw and a jigsaw. This two-in-one tool can be used for various projects. Its reciprocating saw is required when dealing with rough and aggressive cutting tasks. The jigsaw will be handy for making sophisticated and intricate cuts. The type of the saw can be simply and quickly adjusted by means of the pivoting pushbutton. Thus, its versatility allows you saving time and money.
WORX : Check the current price
6. GALAX PRO Jigsaw, 800W 3000 SPM
This model a powerful motor which delivers the max speed of 3,000 SPM. The jigsaw also features 4 orbital motion modes and 6 speed settings, which make it to tackle multiple applications. The GALAX PRO has a tool free blade change for easy switching from one blade to another.
GALAX PRO : Check the current price
Best-Selling Jigsaws in the UK | Comparative Table
Bosch 06033A0070 PST 700 E Compact Jigsaw
- Bosch Electronic jigsaw blade for continuous cutting progress and variable speeds
- Minimal vibration allows for controlled, convenient work
- Light weight and compact size provide easy handling
- Cuts up to 70 mm from 45-90 degree angles in many materials
- SDS enables quick and easy keyless saw blade changes for efficient work
- 500 W motor and up to 70 mm cutting depth in wood
- Bosch SDS ensures easy and safe saw blade changes within seconds
- Switchable air blast function ensures a clear view of the cutting line at all times
- Low vibration with linear mass balance and ergonomic softgrip
- Cable guide with hanging hook for practical storage. Vibration emission value ah 10.0 m/s²
Jigsaw, TACKLIFE 800W 0-3000RPM electric Jig saws tool with Laser & LED, 6 Variable Speeds, 6 Blades, Carrying...
- ☘【3000 RPM Power& 6 Speed Settings】PJS02A pure copper motor can produce 3000 RPM cutting power, providing more efficient cutting performance; 6-bit variable speed provides speed and precision, and handles various applications and materials with higher precision
- ☘【LED + Laser & Dust Extraction】Built-in laser & LED light to ensure increased visibility and precise cutting; use a dust collector or connect the dust collector to a vacuum cleaner to remove sawdust and maintain a clean working environment
- ☘【45°Bevel Cutting & Tool-free Blade Changing】Adjustable footplate enables the jig saw to make bevels up to 45° both to right and left for more versatile uses like tangent, beveling or curved cuts; Quick release chuck allows for quick and tool-free blade removal
- ☘【4-Position Orbital Action】0 to 3 customized orbital settings allows you to adapt the cutting motion to fit different type of cuts and materials; higher orbital setting for softer materials and faster cutting; lower orbital setting for harder materials and more precise cuts
- ☘【Switch Lock Design & More Accessories】Press the lock button on the handle when the trigger is on can keep the saw working without keeping pressing the trigger, reduce hand fatigue after long time work; Come with 1 x sturdy carry case, 1 x rip fence, 1 x Allen wrench, 1 dust exhaust pipe, 6 x replaceable blades
Jigsaw, 800W Max Cutting Depth 110mm for Wood, 800-3000SPM HYCHIKA Electric Jigsaw with Laser, 6 Variable Speeds,...
- 🌟【800W MOTOR & 6 ADJUSTABLE SETTINGS】The 800W pure copper motor has great power of 800-3000SPM speed, and with six speed levels you can adjust; With 6pc blades, you can choose different saw blades according to the material (2 for metal and aluminum, 4 for wood and plastic plate).
- 🌟 【ADJUSTABLE CUTTING ANGLE & 0-3 ORBITAL SETS】 The maximum adjustable cutting angle is -45 ° to 45 °, and the maximum cutting depth in the wood is 110 mm, in the metal 10 mm, so that different cutting angles can be set. Also with 0-3 for lifting knives, suitable for various cutting materials. The higher the gear position, the faster the cutting speed, suitable for softer materials. The lower the gear position, the slower the cutting speed, for harder materials.
- 🌟【QUIK CHUCK & STORAGE BOX FOR BLADES】With the quick release chuck, you can change the saw blades quickly without tools; On both sides of the jigsaw are the magnetic blade storage box, they are good for storage of saw blades.
- 🌟 【LASER GUIDE AND SCALE RULER】 Built in laser guide for the cutting direction and make the cutting precision; with guide ruler for guiding and controlling the cutting width; with lock-on button holds the trigger in place to avoid keeping finger engaged during long jobs. NOTICE: The bottom plate should be close to the cutting when cutting.
- 🌟 【DELIVERY CONTENTS】 1 x HYCHIKA jigsaw; 6 x T-shank blades; 1 x guide ruler; 1 x user manual
Jigsaw Tools, Meterk 400W 0-3000SPM Cutting in Wood 55mm Metal 6mm Multi-Functional Cutter Variable Speed Dial...
- 3.5A motor with 400W max output power, variable-speed motor up to 3000RPM for tough cutting jobs.
- Quick change of blades for high efficient work with toolless sawblade change.
- Lock-on switch for continuous working and soft grip for added comfort and controlling.
- Adjustable base plate for stability, base tilts & locks 15°,30°& 45° for bevel cutting.
- Widely used for cutting wood, metal, steel, ceramics and panels of plastic or mineral fibre, aluminum and non-ferrous metal.
Makita DJV182Z Cordless Brushless Jigsaw (Body Only), 18 V
- Brushless motor
- Rigid aluminium base bevels 0 to 45 degrees left and right
- Change lever for three orbital settings and straight cutting
- Tool-less blade change
- Soft no load function automatically reduces the motor speed during idling to suppress the vibration of the machine body
- Variable speed control dial
Jigsaw, Ginour Electric Jigsaw 800W 3000SPM, 7 Variable Speed, 6 Blades, Laser Guide, 4 Position Orbital Action,...
- 【Compact power jigsaw 800W】 Ginour Powerful 800W jigsaw with speed 3000RPM, the depth of cut in wood is 80 mm and for metal is 10 mm, the maximum bevel cutting is 22.5 mm, perfect Woodworking Tool for wood, metal, plastic, gypsum board
- 【7 Speed and 4 Orbital postion】 This jigsaw tool has 7 variable speed which provides 0 to 3000 rpm rolation to easily adjust speeds to meet different cutting needs (suggest starting from MIN speed for safety). 4 orbital position for adjust the cutting method to suit different materials
- 【Laser Guide and Angle Max 45 °】 Equipped with laser guide and scale guide, the electric jigsaw make cutting more precise. Adjusts the right and left angle to 45 °, which can be used to do more difficult work
- 【Ergonomic design】With the quick release chuck, you can change the saw blades quickly without tools. Locking switch enable keep one speed without pressing continuously to reduces fatigue. Dust vacuum port can be connected to 1-1/4'' vacuum adaptor for clean working environment
- 【What you get】 1*Ginour jigsaw; 6*pieces of saw blade; 1*Rip guide; 1*Vacuum adaptor; 1*Allen wrench; 1 * User manual; 1 * 24 Months warranty
Jigsaw, TECCPO 800W 3000SPM Jigsaw with Laser, 6 Blades, 1-6 Variable Speed, 4-Position Orbital Action, Cutting...
- ▶ 【Efficient and Powerful】 The 800W pure copper motor greatly reduces the heat generated by the motor while providing more power. High speeds up to 3000rpm for efficient cutting and higher productivity. 22mm reciprocating stroke provides excellent cutting performance. The machine has a lock switch with a lock-start function for long-term work to reduces fatigue.
- ▶ 【Adjustable Speed and Angle】 6 adjustable speeds accommodates multiple cutting needs. The 4-stage pendulum action allows the product to perform well when cutting different materials. Angle of bevel cutting can reach 45°on both left and right. When cutting wood, the cutting depth can reach 100mm, and when cutting metal can reach 10mm.
- ▶ 【Laser Guide and Humanized Design】 Built-in laser guidance and the attached metal scale ruler allow you to easily perform precise cuts. The product is equipped with a dust-removing device that can be connected to a vacuum to make your working environment cleaner.The blade is designed with a transparent protective cover to prevent dust from entering the eyes during cutting, giving you a clearer view.
- ▶ 【6 Blades and Quick Blade Replacement】 Two shorter blades are used to cut the metal (one for cutting soft metal and the other for cutting harder metal) and the other four for cutting wood. All blades are available for toolless replacement, making your job more convenient.
- ▶ 【Package Contents】 1 x TECCPO TAJS01P Jig Saw, 6 x Blade, 1 x Metal Ruler, 1 x Dust Exhaust, 1 x Hex Wrench, 1 x Case, 1 x User Manual, 1 x 2-Year Quality Promise.
What’s a Jigsaw? Jigsaws are indeed the primary tool used to traditionally create the jigsaw puzzle, and while some historians have claimed otherwise, it is the source of the name (some claim they were called jigsaw puzzles because they resembled something a jigsaw could do). Jigsaws are used for a number of more precise, challenging cutting projects where their vertical nature and flat surface for guiding is very helpful and more precise than a circular saw or hacksaw.
Jigsaws are set up on what is called a “jig”, hence the name, or an adjustable work bench/rig with a flat surface. A circular saw which reciprocates dominates the middle of the area. Wood, metal and other materials are placed onto this flat surface and guided, carefully, by hand. Elaborate artwork can be cut out of wood or metal, precise curves and cuts for complex crafts projects can be achieved, and just an easier general cut of boards, dowels and planks is also possible due to this configuration.
Jigsaws also do exist in a somewhat portable form which isn’t technically an actual jigsaw due to the absence of the jig, but the vertical reciprocating blade has become the component that most qualifies a saw for the name in contemporary terms. Jigsaws can be electric or gas, though electric jigsaws are far, far more common, and actually have been since before the turn of the century.
Jigsaws should be operated by experienced users, as they are obviously a somewhat dangerous, but very helpful and elegant tool indeed.