For your casual cutting needs at home or in a professional line of work, the jigsaw you should be choosing has to be thoroughly researched for quality and performance. To make that research part easier for our users, we are covering a detailed list of Top 15 Best Jigsaw in 2021 from various brands that are either perfect for cutting multiple materials or specialize is cutting a specific one such as wood, plastic, metals, etc.
These reviews have ranked jigsaws based on their performance, quality, features, price, and brand value. We also went through tons of user reviews to know the feedback of the current jigsaw users and analyzed what they were saying about the performance of the machines to assess further things about them.
Top 15 Best Jigsaw in 2021 Reviews & Comparison Table:
The following is the comparison list of our chosen Top 15 Best Jigsaws.
Product | Model | Details | Review | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Best Overall  | Black & Decker BDEJS600C |
| ||
 | PORTER CABLE PCE345 |
| ||
 | TACKLIFE PJS02A |
| ||
 | Bosch JS470E |
| ||
 | Bosch JS470EB |
| ||
 | Bosch JSH180B 18-Volt |
| ||
 | Black + Decker JS670V |
| ||
 | SKIL 4495-02 |
| ||
Best Value  | Bosch JS572EK |
| ||
 | TECCPO Professional |
| ||
 | WEN 33606 |
| ||
 | Makita Barrel-Grip |
| ||
 | Bosch JS260 |
| ||
 | DEWALT DCS334B 20-Volt |
| ||
Best Budget  | METERK Upgraded 800W |
|
The following are the detailed reviews discussing each machine’s features, performance, pros, and cons.
1. Black & Decker BDEJS600C Smart Select Best Jig saw Review:
Among many considerations that the reviewers have to make before selecting the best jig saw, the speed, bevel & orbital options, and dust blowing functions are the top ones. So for the first pick, when we measured these factors against the price and performance, Black & Decker BDEJS600C Smart Select Jigsaw seemed to be a pretty wise choice.
- This jigsaw machine features its own powerful dust blower to clean debris
- You don’t need any tool to open the clamp and change the blades
- The special curve control functions that are customizable for various materials
- The wire guard has also been improved to enhance the precision of the jigsaw
Discussed ahead are some important features of Black & Decker BDEJS600C Smart Select Jigsaw that make it our top choice:
Curve Control Technology:
Cutting a wood straight should be a pretty easy job but it gets harder when you have to make curved designs, especially in harder materials. To give users more control over that, Curve Control Technology has been introduced that allows you to customize the saw’s orbit to 4 different settings giving you more freedom of work to achieve high accuracy.
New Wire Guard:
The job of a wire guard is to improve the visibility of the cutline to improve the precision and accuracy of work. While other brands might not pay it enough attention and think that their job is done by introducing the laser-sight, Black & Decker BDEJS600C does feature this smart wire guard that increases the visibility to a greater extent and deliver results.
Dust Blower and Keyless Clamp:
Black & Decker improves a lot on its existing dust blower to take the cleanliness level of the cutline to near-perfection that was welcomed well by the professionals. Also, the keyless clamp makes it easier for users to open it without using any key or tool. So by using their bare hands, they can open the clamp and replace the blades whenever it is required.
2. PORTER-CABLE Orbital PCE345 Jigsaw Review: best corded jigsaw
PORTER-CABLE Orbital PCE345 Jigsaw is our second choice for the list of the best corded jigsaw for its lock-on feature, variable speed dial, and better speed range that opens users to plenty of options. Also, if you need them, the machine has some separate accessories such as a Bluetooth Speaker and LED Area Light to enjoy your more with music.
- The 3,200 SPM speed of the jigsaw can be kept at 7 different speed levels
- The lock-on button allows a prolonged working experience with the machine
- This jigsaw can also cut multiple materials with its 4-orbital settings
- The tool-less blade change system saves a lot of downtime for work
Lock-on Button:
There are plenty of reasons why a lock-on button was always required. For instance, holding on a speed level manually increases the effort that at times can affect the precision and accuracy that you can achieve otherwise. When you are locked on a speed level for a longer time, you can now concentrate more on the cutting part whether straight or curved.
6-Amp Motor:
When a 6-amp motor is able to deliver the speed range of up to 3,200 Strokes per Minute (SPM), a professional knows instantly that this is a product he needs. Well, you have such a powerful motor in this product that is in every way a quality product delivering amazing durability, performance, and smooth cutting experience for all materials.
7-Position Speed Dial:
Such a wide speed range needs to be controlled and for that, PORTER-CABLE Orbital PCE345 Jigsaw also introduces the 7-position speed dial that allows you to lock the speed at seven different levels. This feature is more beneficial for beginners who face difficulty while keeping the trigger at a fixed point.
3. TACKLIFE PJS02A Advanced 6.7 Amp Jigsaw Review: best jigsaw tool
There are some features that users feel pretty sure that they need to have in the best jigsaw tool they are buying. TACKLIFE PJS02A Advanced 6.7 Amp Jigsaw, being our 3rd pick for the list, contains both laser-guided, dust extractor, 4 orbital settings, required bevel options, and a powerful 6.7-AMP motor making it enough for the requirements of a professional.
- 3000 SPM speed limit with 6-speed levels to work on
- LED and Laser-sight with an efficient dust extraction system
- The machine also features a switch-lock for a better experience
- Both high and lower orbital settings for various materials
Switch-Lock System:
The switch-lock system of TACKLIFE PJS02A Advanced 6.7 Amp Jigsaw locks the trigger at a particular speed that you want so that you no longer have to put efforts to keep pressing it. While it is locked in the current speed setting, you can pay attention to control the machine well and achieve higher precision in your designs.
Replaceable Blades:
The set contains about 6 blades that are meant for different applications such as for cutting harder and software materials. For instance, the basic blades are provided for cutting both wood and metal and then the advanced ones for cutting hardwood and harder metals that can even work when you are keeping the speed levels too high.
Compatibility:
One of the reasons why we love this TACKLIFE PJS02A Advanced 6.7 Amp Jigsaw is because of its compatibility with both T and U shanks and the blades made for these. This increases the scope of applications that you can perform with your jigsaw and get more work done.
4. Bosch JS470E Corded Top-Handle Jigsaw Review: best professional jigsaw
While some of you might want to avoid Bosch jigsaws for their expensive prices, it doesn’t change the fact that the brand is definitely the best professional jigsaw. For the 4th pick, Bosch JS470E Corded Top-Handle Jigsaw is our next choice known for a durable design, high-quality performance, and universal compatibility for cutting wood, iron, steel, and PVC.
- The best jigsaw to achieve high-precision and accuracy in cutting
- One of the safest tools featuring the die-cast foot and trigger controls
- Gives the best performance with the T-shank blades installed
- The plunging system enhances the accuracy of the tool even more
4-Orbital Action:
Most jigsaws feature the 4-orbital position system allowing you to set your jigsaw at different angles for cutting a particular material. However, in Bosch JS470E Corded Top-Handle Jigsaw, the level of convenience and ease with which you use this feature changes the game and beats its competition with ease enabling both pros and beginners to work smoothly.
Machined Plunging System:
The new machined plunging system has been introduced in the machine that keeps reduces the vibrations to a minimum. During these minimum vibrations, you get full freedom of controlling your machine however you want to do achieving high accuracy and precision. This is mainly useful when you need to complete multiple jobs and require a smooth working time.
5. Bosch JS470EB Corded Barrel-Grip Jigsaw Review: best budget jigsaw
Not every jigsaw user prefers the top-handle grip. Working on different models, there are some requirements that are carried out better with a jigsaw having barrel-grip and to bring you that, an upgrade to the previous model Bosch JS470EB Best Budget Jigsaw would be a better choice since, besides the barrel-grip, it doesn’t change a lot for users who like JS470E.
- The most ergonomic barrel-grip we have witnessed for a jigsaw
- A convenient machine with the easiest blade change system
- The comfort brings while working on harder projects is enormous
- The machine allows you to be consistent for smooth and accurate working experience
Barrel-Grip Handling:
The barrel-grip handle of the Bosch JS470EB Corded Barrel-Grip Jigsaw brings the most comfortable working experience. The repulsion isn’t higher and thus your hand doesn’t feel pressured ensuring that you can enjoy a smooth working experience and achieve better results in what you are doing. For T-shanks, clamping is too convenient enhancing the experience even more, especially for beginners.
Powerful Motor:
Bosch JS470EB Corded Barrel-Grip Jigsaw features a 7.0-AMP powerful motor that delivers high SPM rates i.e. up to 3,100. This much speed brings more freedom to professionals who are looking forward to completing multiple projects where various materials are involved that are needed to be cut.
Achieve High Consistency:
The exclusive circuit response system of this Bosch jigsaw ensures that you get a soft-start to the work and keeps the power running for an unstoppable smooth operation. Also, the speed lock system of the machine ensures that you don’t overdo it.
6. Bosch 18-Volt JSH180B Jigsaw Review: best jigsaw for woodworking
Instead of accusing us of being obsessed with the brand, please, acknowledge the fact that Bosch, with all its premium features and versatility of products, is the best jigsaw for woodworking in the world. Another example of that would be this Bosch 18-Volt JSH180B Jigsaw known for its precision, power, cutting experience that is out of this world, and ease of operation.
- A portable jigsaw with onboard storage for keeping multiple blades
- The portability gets enhanced by the jigsaw being lightweight and compact
- The most portable and safe cordless jigsaw featuring Electronic Motor Protection
- Great compatibility with T-shank and easy tool-less blade changing operating
Bevel Options:
It feels like we almost never talk about the bevel options of a jigsaw. However, featuring an adjustable aluminium plate that makes them so smooth and easy to work on, the bevel options of Bosch 18-Volt JSH180B Jigsaw do deserve a mention. The angle available is from 0 to 45 degrees for working effectively on various design needs.
Safety and Protection:
Besides being portable and lightweight, Bosch 18-Volt JSH180B is one of the safest jigsaws with Electronic Motor Protection that prevent the overheating and overloading of both the motor and battery. The features enhance the durability of the machine ensuring that it sticks by your side for years to come.
Portability:
The portability of this Bosch cordless jigsaw is a standout feature that is amazing both in terms of a lightweight design and onboard storage for keeping your blades. Being compact, it can be a wonderful addition to your arsenal of jigsaws.
7. Black + Decker JS670V Jigsaw Review: best woodworking jigsaw
Black & Decker has always remained among the top ranks because of its ability to bring some premium features that are not available in the low-priced product. In fact, the next pick Black + Decker JS670V best woodworking jigsaw is only under $50 and still manages to bring the line finder, onboard storage, and tool-free blade change system that is scarcely found in this range.
- A premium woodcutting tool with free blades and onboard blade storage
- The line finder feature enhances visibility to a greater extent
- Quickly access your blades present in the onboard storage facility
- The speed range of up to 3,000 SPM with variations as well
The Line Finder:
One of the major reasons why many jigsaws aren’t accurate at cutting is because they lack the proper technology to designate the cutline among all the debris that has accumulated and keep cutting straight. However, Black + Decker JS670V Jigsaw introduced the Line Finder that is a premium feature keeping the blade right on the path and ensures every bit of precision cutting.
Onboard Bevel Wrench:
Providing the onboard storage for keeping blades is one of the most important factors that make any jigsaw a portable one. To provide you that quick access to your blades, Black + Decker JS670V Jigsaw brings you a storage option with plenty of space to keep multiple blades and get benefitted.
Black + Decker JS670V Jigsaw is Fast:
Even though it only features a 6.0-AMP motor that is not a general recommendation for doing powerful work, the motor installed in this jigsaw delivers 3,000 SPM with 6-speed variations that you can set and continue working on for a longer time period.
8. SKIL 4495-02 6.0 Amp Laser Jigsaw Review: best jigsaw for the money
SKIL 4495-02 Orbital Action Jigsaw is one of the finest when it comes to the straight cutting applications. Also, for professionals who need to get their projects done faster and smoother, they could use this 4-orbital action the best jigsaw for the money. The machine is powered by a 6-AMP motor and then the laser guide is also installed to help users keep it on the cutline.
- Works on different speed levels with the variable speed trigger
- The 4-position orbital action can be adjusted for cutting various materials
- No more material damage due to the custom moulded tool rest
- An affordable jigsaw with an ergonomic top-handle design
Built-in Laser Guide:
Instead of being too fast or over the top, a jigsaw has to ensure that it features proper technology to bring an accurate working experience for the users. To ensure that, SKIL 4495-02 Orbital Action Jigsaw features a built-in laser guide that helps you keep a track of the cutline to cut smooth and straight.
Compatibility:
While most jigsaws these days are focused more on providing compatibility for the T-shank and blades, SKIL 4495-02 Orbital Action Jigsaw does it for both T and U shanks. Depending on what your requirements are, you can work with both shank and blade types enhancing the quality of work you can achieve in the first place.
An Intermediate Level Jigsaw:
Someone getting started with woodwork needs a jigsaw that is easy to use both in terms of handling and setting control. This orbital jigsaw by SKIL ensures a convenient jigsaw woodworking experience since it is designed right according to their needs.
9. Bosch JS572EK 7.2 AMP Corded Jigsaw Review: best rated jigsaw
A professional is going to realize the monstrosity he’ll be in for just by reading the title that mentions this Bosch JS572EK 7.2 AMP Corded Jigsaw. Though expensive for sure, this best rated jigsaw features the most powerful jigsaw motor of 7.2 AMPs making it an ideal product for users who need to handle the heavy load during their multiple projects.
- The counterbalance mechanism keeps vibrations lower despite the powerful motor
- Control the acceleration and speed by setting this on various speed levels
- The constant speed and performance are guaranteed regardless of the load
- One of the most durable jigsaws out there for controlled and precision cutting
Precision and Control:
With features like ergonomic top-handle design, double-roller system, and response circuitry system, Bosch JS572EK 7.2 AMP Corded Jigsaw seems to deliver precision and control that are everyday requirements of professionals in this field. Also, regardless of how much the load is, the machine handles the heavy loads quite well and delivers constant performance.
Easy to Use:
Besides the speed and performance benefits that you will be enjoying, the machine also brings a tool-less blade change system. With this system, you can open the blade clamp with your bare hands and replace the blades saving a lot of time and energy. Moreover, the dust blower and LED light keep the debris clear and make the cutline visible for accurate operation.
10. TECCPO Professional 3000 SPM Jigsaw Review: best cheap jigsaw
Must like Black and Decker, TECCPO is another of the top manufacturers that produce professionals jigsaws containing important functions in a price that is always half of what brands like Bosch and DEWALT offer. So for the 10th pick its the best cheap jigsaw, we chose TECCPO Professional 3000 SPM Jigsaw whose top features are listed ahead in detail.
- A powerful jigsaw for lock-on features to stay on the cutline while working
- Choose between 6 different speed levels and 4 cutting angles for convenience
- Provides support for multiple blades types to cut various materials
- A durable motor that is made of pure copper to avoid overheating and loading
Pure Copper Motor:
The problem with many jigsaws under $50 is that they feature an ordinary motor that overheats too much and the working experience gets spoiled. However, TECCPO Professional 3000 SPM Jigsaw introduces a pure copper motor that brings an absolute and continuous working experience without troubles like overload and overheating.
Variable Speed Dial:
The 6.5 AMP powerful motor of TECCPO Professional 3000 SPM Jigsawdelivers speed rates as high 3,000 SPM. Moreover, you get six different speed levels that are easier to switch between and the lock-on trigger keeps the acceleration constant so that a user can focus solely on controlling and handling the machine well.
Bevel Cutting Angles:
All four bevel cutting angles from 0 to 45 degrees are available. Having the right information on which angle to use for cutting which material, you can expand the applications of this machine to a greater extent.
11. WEN 33606 6.6-Amp Orbital Jigsaw Review: best jigsaw under 100
Being a beginner, you don’t have to invest in very expensive jigsaws to become a master or something. To get started its the best jigsaw under 100, an economical product like this WEN 33606 6.6-Amp Orbital Jigsaw would suffice well enough, especially when you see that it deliver 3,300 SPM speed, has LED and Laser light and dust blower to clean the debris off for keeping a clean cutline.
- One of the fastest jigsaws with a maximum speed limit of 3,300 SPM
- The lock-on trigger keeps the acceleration constant for better speed control
- The beveling footplate to work on multiple bevel angles for different materials
- The dust blower that keeps the debris away from the cutline
3,300 SPM Speed:
Besides having sharp blades installed on your jigsaw for cutting tougher materials, the speed matters equally. So to get the thing done more quickly, you could include this WEN 33606 6.6-Amp Orbital Jigsaw that delivers a maximum speed of 3,300 SPM and only costs around $32. While this might not be a very durable machine, it is definitely fast and could be a great backup.
Bevel Cutting in Both Directions:
While all four bevel options are provided by most jigsaws, they usually work in one direction only. This causes a user to consume more time to complete a complex job. However, WEN 33606 6.6-Amp Orbital Jigsaw’s bevel options work in both directions due to the bottom footplate for making accurate and precise angled cuts.
Quick Release Chuck:
Again, to ensure the convenience of a user, they have provided a quick-release chuck that doesn’t require a tool to be opened. In this way, while the blades get worn, you can open the clamp and replace blades instantly and start working again without wasting a lot of time on the process.
12. Makita Barrel-Grip Jigsaw with LED Light Review: best value jigsaw
The reliability of the durability and efficiency of Makita products makes their fans still buy the best value jigsaw they produce. So the next pick for the list would be this Makita Barrel-Grip Jigsaw that is the predecessor to the latest Makita 4351FCTJ model. There are plenty of features due to which the machine earned the spot and some of them are mentioned ahead.
- A powerful machine to use the power of T-shank and cut various materials
- 3-orbital action and bevel adjustment from 45 right & left to 90 max
- You can do faster bevel adjustments due to the onboard hex wrench
- A barrel-grip that is designed for comfort and ultimate ergonomic performance
Die-Cast Aluminum Baseplate:
The solid cutting performance that you get to enjoy with this Makita Barrel-Grip Jigsaw is because of the die-cast aluminium baseplate that gives you 45o for the right & left and 90o for the complete positive stop. When the baseplate is that solid, you get to experiment more with your designs and enjoy better bevel adjustments.
Visibility and Speed:
The speed range that is delivered by the 6.3 AMP motor of this Makita jigsaw is only between 800 and 2,800 SPM that you can control with a variable speed dial. Also, the combination of features like the powerful dust blower and LED light clear the debris from the cutline and enhance its visibility so that you can see it properly and produce better results.
13. Bosch JS260 120-Volt Top-Handle Jigsaw Review: best jigsaw for cutting metal
The job of finding the best Bosch jigsaws under $100 isn’t an easy thing to do. However, you should be thankful that Bosch JS260 120-Volt Top-Handle Jigsaw is in-stock right now that is not only affordable but also one of the few best jigsaw for cutting metal that delivers a maximum speed range of 3,100 SPM despite having 6-AMP motor installed.
- 4-position orbital action for different materials and for smooth to aggressive cutting
- The sturdiness of this jigsaw comes from the heavy footplate
- Saves a lot of your time by featuring a tool-less blade change system
- Enjoy 3,100 Strokes per Minute with its 6-AMP powerful motor
Constant Cutline Cleaning:
The dust blower installed in this Bosch JS260 120-Volt Top-Handle Jigsaw is automatically on all the time and keeps clearing the debris allowing you to keep continuing the cutting experience. This saves a lot of your time since with other machines, you have to stop the operation multiple times to get the cutline cleaned that is not good for your work.
More Sturdiness:
The footplate of a jigsaw matters a lot if it has to serve well while adjusting the bevel settings and gain more sturdiness to achieve high-precision and work accuracy. Well, this is exactly what you get from the heavy-gauge footplate of the Bosch JS260 Jigsaw that delivers what it promises. Also, the sturdiness gets enhanced due to the low-vibration design ensured by the plunging mechanism.
14. DEWALT DCS334B 20V Max Brushless Jigsaw Review: best cordless jigsaw
One of the things that other jigsaws on this list lack are a brushless motor that many professionals prefer since the technology is more reliable and efficient. To bring you an option for the best cordless jigsaw, our next pick for the list is DEWALT DCS334B 20V Max Brushless Jigsaw that features a brushless 20V motor, variable speed trigger, and LED light for enhanced visibility.
- A compact and a lightweight cordless jigsaw with maximum portability
- The bright LED installed to enlighten the cutline for nighttime work
- One of the most reliable cordless jigsaws that are easy to grip and control
- The tool or keyless blade change system for opening the clamp and replace blades
Brushless Motor:
While the standard motors are destined to cause overheating and overload that interrupts the working experience a lot, a brushless motor doesn’t and this is the speciality of this DEWALT DCS334B 20V Max Brushless Jigsaw. The one installed inside this jigsaw is of 20V and ensures working efficiency that you rarely achieve even from motors up to 7 AMPs.
Compact Cordless Jigsaw:
For portability, you can’t always rely on a powerful corded jigsaw that is meant to be bulky for heavy-loaded work. However, a cordless one like DEWALT DCS334B 20V Max Brushless Jigsaw could definitely fulfil that requirement by being compact and lightweight. This compact machine can allow you to work on the more creative design now that you have gained more control.
Precision Controls:
Being compact, the controls of this DEWALT are well within the range of your hands. So whether you need to change the speed from the variable speed trigger or put the lock-on mechanism in effect, you can do right then and there. Also, the blades are easier to change on this jigsaw due to the keyless clamp that is easy to use and put the new blades inside.
15. METERK Upgraded 800W 6.7 Amp Jigsaw Review: best jigsaw to buy
For the 15th and final product, we are bringing this METERK Upgraded 800W 6.7 Amp the best jigsaw to buy featuring a 6.7-AMP motor, 6 variable speed trigger, different bevel cutting angle options, dust blower for debris extraction, and an LED light to enlighten the path your blade will be cutting on. More features of the product are also enlisted ahead.
- Equally distributed 4 bevel cutting options and orbital action positions
- Better safety features for both the user and blade installed on the machine
- 6 variable speed options for cutting thinner and thicker materials
- A powerful 6.7-AMP jigsaw delivering up to 3,000 with ease
Great for Woodwork:
Both the bevel cutting angles and orbital position settings of METERK Upgraded 800W 6.7 Amp Jigsaw are designed ideally to deliver the woodworking experience that you were always looking for. Due to the die-cast aluminium baseplate, the sturdiness you get is out of this world delivering lesser vibrations and more control over the working experience.
Precision Cutting with Laser and LED:
The Laser Sight and LED options are provided for users to enlighten the cutline and enhance its visibility to keep the blade right on track. Thus, the precision and cutting accuracy you get to enjoy results in work output that you always wished for. This is helpful mainly for the beginner who relies too much on these features to get the accuracy that was is required.
Safety Features:
METERK Upgraded 800W 6.7 Amp Jigsaw is one of the fewer options with premium security features for both users and the machine itself. For instance, it has a double switch control that ensures that you don’t touch the blade that could be hurtful. Also, the dust extraction system is advanced enough to clear the debris faster so that the blade doesn’t get stuck and break.
Conclusion:
This concludes our reviews of the Top 15 Best Jigsaws in the market for the year 2021 providing premium and economical options for both professionals and beginners. We are not done with the article though since upcoming is a complete Jigsaw Buyer’s Guide that will let you know more about what a jigsaw is, its features, types, blade types, and much more.
Choosing the Best Jigsaws in 2021 – A Complete Buyer’s Guide
It is the foremost duty of any reviewer to writer an enhanced buyer’s guide about jigsaw to give users more insight into the kind of product it is, its users, features, who should use it, and other stuff that a user needs to know about the machine to make the right choice.
Keeping that in mind, we are now bringing our detailed buyer’s guide that will help you choose the right jigsaw for your casual or professional work needs.
Jigsaws for Different User Types
Not all users and their requirements of a jigsaw are the same. For now, we have divided the users into three basic categories such as occasional, regular, and professional users and defined the type of jigsaw each of them should choose.
1. Occasional Users:
An occasional user doesn’t have to dive deep into the delicacies of a jigsaw and get an entry-level jigsaw that should be economical and is able to cut any sheet of up to 12mm hardwood or plywood with ease. Make sure that the machine supports a T-shank blade and it is compatible with both T and U type blades, that would be a bonus.
2. Regular Users:
A regular user gets to work more often with a jigsaw and has to cut different materials that could vary in length and also the material type could be different. For that, they should be choosing a jigsaw something closer to the professional level that should be able to cut 30 mm metal sheets to 90mm thick wood. Also, it must have bevel options up to 45 degrees for a better experience.
3. Professional Users:
Things get quite complicated for a professional who has to consider everything from bevel options, orbital action, blade support, and also the power of the motor that is installed inside the jigsaw he is getting. His jigsaw must be capable of at least 3,000 SPM speed, 700-watt motor power, and must have all bevel angles for cutting wood, metal, and pipes.
Types of Jigsaws
There are basically two types of jigsaws i.e. corded and cordless. In a professional’s workbag, you might find both but usually, choose what you needed depending on your requirements. Let us introduce you to both types in detail.
1. Corded Jigsaws:
The corded jigsaws are more common since they are more powerful and have more working options such as orbital positions and bevel cutting angles. Also, as compared to the cordless jigsaws, these machines are economical and since power sources are available around the places where jigsaws are used, both casual and professionals tend to use them for.
Also, when it comes to the matters of power, the corded jigsaws are designed more powerful with brushless and standard motors of 6 to 7 AMPs usually installed inside them that delivery speed range between 3,000 to 3,500 SPM with ease. Also, to host features like dust blower and LED light for nighttime work, a corded jigsaw is usually more equipped with power.
2. Cordless Jigsaws:
On the other hand, Cordless Jigsaws are not quite common but it is always to have one since these are battery-operated and could be your only option to work in areas where there is no direct power source. Also, thee cordless jigsaws are usually more compact and lightweight so doing intricate jobs like cutting curved designs, etc. is easier with these machines.
Moreover, with the modern cordless jigsaws like the ones by Dewalt, you don’t have to worry about the required power since any cordless machine with 18 or 20-volt motor can easily through wood, metal, and other materials that weren’t possible with the old machines. Also, the lack of reliance on the power cord gives you more control and freedom of work and making designs.
Jigsaw Types based on Handle Design
The jigsaws are also classified based on the handle design a machine possesses. For instance, if a jigsaw has a D-shaped handle, it is called the Top-Handle while its counterpart is usually referred to as a Barrel-Grip Jigsaw.
1. D-Shaped or Top-Handle Jigsaw:
Also referred to as the Top-Handle jigsaw, this is the most common jigsaw handle type that most users prefer since it is more ergonomic and comfortable by reducing the fatigue level and providing you good look from the top. These jigsaws are easier to control, especially when you have to work on complex designs that require more delicacy in your work.
2. Barrel-Grip Jigsaw:
Professionals prefer this type of handle design mostly when they have to cut straight. However, working with this jigsaw type is more difficult that expects of you to put more power and thus increases the chances of fatigue and inflammation after prolonged use. However, most jigsaw brands are eliminating this grip type in their upcoming models and might soon be extinct.
Features to Look in a Jigsaw Before Buying
While users might not care for other things that got mentioned before, they definitely pay more attention to the features they are going to get from a jigsaw they have chosen. To ensure that the jigsaw you are about to buy is well enough for your work needs, make sure that it contains the following list of features that we are about to mention.
1. Durability:
A jigsaw should be durable and has to last longer for years. The accuracy and precision of your work depend a lot on your handling and once your hands get used to a particular jigsaw, they work better with that machine. Thus, buying cheaper machines and then losing them over and over might not bring you the quality of work a professional does with the machine he has owned for years.
2. Bevel Options:
Bevel means an inclination or slope both vertically or horizontally that allows you to cut and create different designs in multiple materials. As for these options, the jigsaw you are choosing must have all four ranging from 0 to 45 degrees to make your work easier for you.
3. Variable Speed Adjustments and Speed-Lock:
While most jigsaws can be as fast as 3,000 to 3,500 SPM, these speed levels need to be controlled for getting accurate cut and better cutting experience for harder materials. That’s why the jigsaw you are buying must have a button for speed adjustments that should be a minimum of 5 to 6 speed levels starting from 500 SPM to whatever maximum speed the jigsaw offers.
Also, once you have set the jigsaw to a specific speed level, there must be a speed-lock button to lock the accelerator there so that instead of controlling it, you can focus more on keeping the blade straight or smooth for curved designs. Without the speed lock, a good part of your energy gets spent on keeping the speed to a level that is required that affects the precision and accuracy of work.
4. Laser or LED Guide and Dust Blower:
When you keep cutting material with your jigsaw, a lot of cutting debris gets accumulated on the cutline that if not cleaned properly, can cause the blade to get stuck or even break. For that, the jigsaw you are buying must have an automatic dust blower that keeps cleaning the debris ensuring a smooth blade operation.
Also, to further enhance the visibility, especially during the nighttime, there must be a built-in laser-sight or LED light that could brighten the cutline to make it visible for you. Ensure these features and you will have a machine that will be delivering the exact work quality you have always required of it.
And this concludes our detailed and complete jigsaw buyer’s guide that gives you insight into every feature that is required by the users.
Best Jigsaws – FAQs:
The following are some frequently asked questions that users put forward about the jigsaws and are usually unanswered in the product reviews.
1. What is the Best Corded Jigsaw?
Answer: According to our expert’s opinion, Bosch JS470E is the best-corded jigsaw in the market right now.
2. What is the difference between an orbital jigsaw and a regular jigsaw?
Answer: An orbital jigsaw has a round cutting blade that has a rotary cutting action measured in Rotations Per Minute (RPM) while a regular jigsaw has a straight blade that has a straight cutting action measured in Strokes per Minute (SPM).
3. What do you use a jigsaw for?
Answer: A jigsaw is an engineering tool that is usually used for cutting different materials like wood, metals, pipes, and various other similar materials.
4. How thick wood can a jigsaw cut through?
Answer: The maximum cutting depth that a jigsaw can penetrate through in thick wood is up to 4 inches since this is also the maximum length of a jigsaw blade.
5. Can a Jigsaw cut Aluminum?
Answer: Yes, a jigsaw can cut through an aluminium material if you have installed the right blade for it such as a tungsten-carbide blade that is usually used for cutting hard materials.
6. How do you cut curves in wood?
Answer: A jigsaw has to be one of the most effective engineering tools that can be used to make curved designs in wood and many other materials.
7. What’s the best jigsaw blade?
Answer: There are multiple types of jigsaw blades that can be bought for cutting different materials.
- A standard blade is good for cutting wood and plastic
- A tungsten carbide blade is required for cutting metals and other hard materials such as thick wood or aluminium
8. What’s the best jigsaw brand to buy?
Answer: Depending on what your cutting requirements and budget range are, you can choose between different brands like Bosch, Dewalt, Makita, SKIL, and METERK that are some of the top Jigsaw Brands in the world right now. However, most professionals prefer Bosch for their durability and cutting performance.
9. What can I use to cut Aluminum?
Answer: Among many other tools that you can use to cut hard materials like aluminium, a jigsaw is among the most effective given that you choose the right blade for your work.
10. Which is the right jigsaw blade type?
Answer: T-shank blade is the latest and most common jigsaw blade type that is compatible with most jigsaws these days. The other and older type is a U-shank blade that is old and less common these days.
