The 10 Best Jigsaws of 2023: Corded & Cordless

Photo: DeWalt

A jigsaw is one of those tools that deserve a spot on your tool collection. And this is thanks to its ease of use, versatility, and portability.

With the best jigsaw, you will get an essential tool for cutting both straight and curved cuts, and it will be ideal for use on different materials from wood and worktops to plastic, melamine, and parquet provided you have the right blade.

Jigsaws will feature a long and thin blade that cuts in a reciprocating motion and with a powerful motor and comfortable handle for easy handheld operation. This design is what makes it one of the most versatile tools in a woodworking workshop.

If you are looking forward to buying one, this guide will be very handy for you. We have found and reviewed 10 top-rated jigsaws and also highlight the key things to consider when shopping for one.

10 Best Jigsaws – Review 

IMAGE	​PRODUCT	​FEATURES
	1. Bosch JS470E (Best Overall)	Powerful 7.0-amp motor Precision-machined plunging system 4-in-1 orbital action Sturdy die-cast foot
	2. Skil 4495-02 (Best Value)	Great value jigsaw Built-in laser guide 4-position orbital settings Variable speed trigger
	3. Black & Decker BDEJS600C (Best Brand)	Improved wire guard Curve control technology 45-degree bevel cuts Dust blower included
	4. DeWalt DW331K (Best Corded)	Powerful 6.5-amp motor Keyless lever-action clamp 4-position orbital action All-metal gear case
	5. DeWalt DCS331M1 (Best Battery-Powered)	Fast charging and larger capacity battery Keyless shoe bevel 4-position orbital action Adjustable dust blower
	6. Porter-Cable PCE345 (Versatile for Prolonged Use)	7-position speed dial 4 orbital settings Lock-on button Keyless blade change
	7. Makita 4350FCT (Powerful with Reduced Vibration & Noise)	40% less noise and vibration 6.3-amp motor On-board LED light Adjustable die-cast aluminum base
	8. Tacklife PJS02A (Precise Cutting in Any Situation)	Built-in laser guides and LED light Powerful 6.7 amp motor 4-Position orbital setting 45-degree bevel cutting
	9. Black & Decker JS670V (Smart & Convenient)	Smart orbital setting Convenient onboard blade storage Line finder Accu-bevel angle adjustment Tool-less blade change
	10. Black & Decker BDCJS20C (Compact & Portable)	Smaller and highly portable cordless jigsaw 45-degree bevel capacity Tool-free blade change Built-in dust blower

1. Bosch JS470E – Best Overall Jigsaw

Photo: Bosch

• Power: 7.0 Amp                     
• Power Source: Corded Electric
• Speed: 500 – 3,100 SPM

There are many things that both DIYers and woodworkers will love about the Bosch JS470E, but what makes it our best overall is its more powerful motor and increased accuracy.

The 7.0-amp motor makes it the most powerful model on our list, while the internal precision-machined plunging system combines with the low vibration design to make this a highly accurate jigsaw. Also, low vibration ensures smoother operation.

The 4-in-1 orbital action settings will ensure that you get different blade stroke options so that you can use this jigsaw for both smooth and aggressive cuts, and a wide variety of projects.

When compared to other jigsaw models out there, this one will be more secure thanks to the large and sturdy die-cast foot. And besides making blade changes more effortless, the multidirectional blade clamp will ensure that the T-shank blades are always held in place more securely.

When compared to others on our list, this is a heavier and larger jigsaw, which can make it less maneuverable. However, it will be effortless to use once you get used to it, and the extra weight is a small price to pay for a more powerful motor.

Pros:

• More powerful motor
• Enhanced accuracy
• Variety of blade strokes
• Large, sturdy and secure foot
• Quick and effortless blade change

Cons:

• Larger and heavier

2. Skil 4495-02 – Best Value Jigsaw

Photo: Skil

• Power: 6.0 Amp                     
• Power Source: Corded Electric
• Speed: 800 – 3200 SPM

Skil 4495-02 comes in a feature-rich design and with a powerful 6.0-amp motor, and given its relatively smaller price tag, it is our best value jigsaw as you will need to spend way much more bucks to get anything better.

To make this an even better jigsaw, it has a built-in laser guide that will ensure that you get more accuracy for your straight line cuts. Also, this will be an ideal jigsaw for use when making both fast and smooth cuts as it will include a 4-position orbital cut control.

With the variable speed trigger, you can adjust the speed easily and precisely to suit the task at hand. And you can be confident that the blade will not damage the workpiece as this jigsaw includes a custom molded tool rest.

This jigsaw does not seem to have a very good dust management system, and you may end up with shavings all over. Also, its lowest speed is 800 SPM which might still be a little high for some delicate materials. However, both are minor drawbacks to this affordable model.

Pros:

• Smaller price tag provides good value for money
• Makes more accurate straight cuts
• Good for both fast and smooth cuts
• Easily adjustable cutting speed
• More effective tool rest design

Cons:

• Does not have a good dust management system
• Not very good for delicate materials

3. Black & Decker BDEJS600C – Best Jigsaw Brand

Photo: Black & Decker

• Power: 5.0 Amp                     
• Power Source: Corded Electric
• Speed: 0 – 3,000 SPM

Black & Decker has been making woodworking power tools and other accessories for more than a century, and they now have a global presence with millions of woodworkers across the world using their tools regularly. Hence, if you are looking to buy a jigsaw from a top brand, their model BDEJS600C is a great buy.

What makes this an amazing option is that it uses an improved wire guard that ensures you maintain a clear line of sight for highly precise cuts. Better yet, the jigsaw has curve control technology that will ensure you get more cutting precision for curved cuts as you can adjust the saw’s orbit by choosing from 4 customized settings.

This jigsaw will also cut 45-degree bevel cuts, and it has an adjustable show that will ensure maximum stability when cutting.

Another element that makes this an amazing jigsaw is that it is highly affordable. Besides being the cheapest on our jigsaw review, it is designed for convenience as it has a keyless blade clamp that will ensure easy and tool-free blade changes.

The 5.0-amp motor makes this the least powerful jigsaw on our list, and while it would do with a little more power, for cutting wood and most other woodworking materials, it will still do an amazing job.

Pros:

• Delivers more precise cuts
• Adjustable shoe ensures increased stability
• Makes 45-degree angled cuts
• Tool-less blade change
• Relatively more affordable

Cons:

• Could be a little more powerful

4. DeWalt DW331K – Best Corded Jigsaw

Photo: DeWalt

• Power: 6.5 Amp                     
• Power Source: Corded Electric
• Speed: 500 – 3,100 SPM

If you are looking for the consistency and reliability of a corded jigsaw, the powerful 6.5-amp DeWalt DW331K will be an unbeatable choice because, besides the more powerful motor, it still has a lot more to offer.

This jigsaw provides a variable speed of between 500 and 3,100 SPM, which allows you to use it to make a wide variety of cuts. For even more versatility, it has a 4-position orbital action that will allow you to make both fast and smooth cuts.

Top handle design makes operation easier and is also more comfortable. To give you an even easier time, it has a keyless lever-action clamp that will allow you to change blades quickly and easily.

This jigsaw has been designed for enhanced durability with an all-metal case and highly durable components. And to crown it all up, this is a super-easy power tool to use.

The location of the speed control switch does not seem well-thought-out, but it will only take some getting used to. Also, for its price, it should come with a blade, but this is still not a deal-breaker given the affordability and wide availability of jigsaw blades.

Pros:

• Powerful corded jigsaw
• Variable speed for increased versatility
• Effortless and quick blade change
• Ideal for a wide variety of cuts
• Enhanced tool durability

Cons:

• Poor speed switch location
• Does not come with a blade

5. DeWalt DCS331M1 – Best Battery-Powered Jigsaw

Photo: DeWalt

• Power: 20V max, 4.0 Ah                   
• Power Source: Battery Powered
• Speed: 0 – 3,000 SPM

Battery-powered jigsaws like DeWalt DCS331M1 are unbeatable when it comes to convenience and portability as you can carry and use them from anywhere. What also makes this one of the best cordless jigsaws is that it uses a relatively larger capacity 4.0 Ah battery and a fast charger which cuts the downtime greatly.

This jigsaw is designed for versatility because, besides the variable speed range of between 0 and 3,000 SPM, it also has keyless shoe bevels with detents at 0, 15, 30 and 45-degree marks to give you more cut options.

Also, you can easily keep sight of your cut line as you cut as there is a built-in dust blower that will ensure that the cut line remains clear when cutting. And to ensure you have an easier time with this jigsaw, it has a keyless blade change for quick and easy blade changes.

Although this is the priciest item on our jigsaw review, for a battery-powered model, the price is still within the acceptable parameters. Also, it more than makes up for the price with its quality and overall performance.

Pros:

• Long-lasting and a fast-charging battery
• Easy bevel cutting
• Highly versatile jigsaw
• Dust blower keeps cut line clear
• Easy and quick blade changes

Cons:

• Relatively expensive

6. Porter-Cable PCE345 – Versatile Jigsaw for Prolonged Use

Photo: Porter-Cable

• Power: 6.0 Amp                     
• Power Source: Corded Electric
• Speed: 0 – 3200 SPM

Porter-Cable makes their model PCE345 jigsaw for versatility as it will include a 7-position speed dial on the trigger that will allow choosing from various speeds for different kinds of cuts.

Also, for even more versatility, 4 orbital settings will make this a handy saw for cutting various materials and making both fast and smooth cuts.

This jigsaw is perfect for prolonged cuts as it will include a lock-on button that will ensure you do not have to keep your finger on the trigger throughout when making long cuts.

There will be minimal downtimes when using this jigsaw as it will include a tool-free blade change that will allow for fast and easy blade changes.

And you can be confident that you will end up with less tired hands when using it as it has a perfectly molded and comfortable non-slip grip.

The absence of dust control on this jigsaw can make dust management a little hectic, and this is more so when you have a lot of cutting to do. However, you can still manage the wood dust effectively by vacuuming it regularly as you make your cuts.

Pros:

• More speed options for versatility
• Allows for prolonged use
• Tool-free blade change for minimal downtime
• Ideal for cutting a wide variety of materials
• Comfortable and non-slip rubber grip

Cons:

• No dust control port

7. Makita 4350FCT – Powerful Jigsaw with Reduced Vibration and Noise

Photo: Makita

• Power: 6.3 Amp                     
• Power Source: Corded Electric
• Speed: 800 – 2800 SPM

Makita 4350FCT uses a powerful and dynamically balanced 6.3-amp motor that combines with the light-anti vibration technology to ensure that you get up to 40% less vibration and noise. This makes this one of the most comfortable jigsaws to use on our list.

Another element that makes this one of the best handheld jigsaws is that it is built for user convenience. It will include an onboard LED light to ensure excellent visibility and come with a hex on-board that will make adjusting the bevel fast and more accurate.

Many woodworkers will appreciate the die-cast aluminum base as it will adjust to 45 degrees to either right or left and has a positive stop at 90 degrees. This makes the jigsaw useful for more cut types.

Versatility is assured by the 3 orbital setting and one straight cutting setting. Other things like the tool-less blade change make changing the blade fast and easy for minimal downtimes, while the built-in dust blower keeps the cut line clear of debris.

When compared to what other models on our list have to offer, the cord on this one seems a little shorter. However, 8 feet should still be more than enough for most users. Also, the soft-start might feel odd for those used to hard start jigsaws, but this is a good thing and only takes some getting used to.

Pros:

• Produces less noise and vibration
• Built-in light for increased visibility
• Fast and effortless blade installation/removal
• Easy and accurate bevel adjustment
• Multiple orbital cutting

Cons:

• Relatively shorter cord
• Soft start takes some getting used

8. Tacklife PJS02A – Precise Cutting in Any Situation

Photo: Tacklife

• Power: 6.7 Amp                     
• Power Source: Corded Electric
• Speed: 0 – 3,000 SPM

If precision is what is at the top of your mind when shopping for a jigsaw, the Tacklife PJS02A is a perfect pick. This jigsaw comes with a built-in laser guide and LED light that combine to help you make the most accurate cuts even in low light conditions.

Also, the 6.7-amp motor is one of the most powerful on our list, which means this jigsaw has the power to go with it. With the 4-position orbital settings, the saw will be adaptable to different cutting motions to allow you to make a wide variety of cuts.

For even more cutting options, this Tacklife jigsaw also has an adjustable aluminum footplate that allows it to bevel 45 degrees both to the right and left.

It has a variable speed of 0 to 3,000 SPM and a switch lock design that will be very handy when making prolonged cuts. Many users will love that it has both a dust blower and a dust port to ensure efficient dust management.

And this is one of the best jigsaws for cutting metal because when you buy it, you will also get 6 blades that include one for metal cutting.

Given that most of the dust comes out the bottom of the workpiece when using a jigsaw, the location of the dust port on this saw needs some improvement. But, this is still not a deal-breaker as it is still able to remove most of the dust.

Pros:

• Highly precise cuts even in low light conditions
• Powerful motor
• Adaptable cutting motion for different cuts
• Versatile bevel cutting
• Lock-on switch

Cons:

• Dust port location needs improvement

9. Black & Decker JS670V – Smart and Convenient

Photo: Black & Decker

• Power: 6.0 Amp                     
• Power Source: Corded Electric
• Speed: 0 – 3,000 SPM

With the Smart Select function, the Black & Decker JS670V is one of the smartest jigsaws out there. This function will ensure you have an easy time using it as you will only set the dial to the task at hand, and the machine will pick the optimal orbital setting for you automatically.

Also, the jigsaw comes with onboard storage for blades, which is quite convenient as it will allow you to keep all your blades in one place.

When it comes to the actual cutting, you will be amazed by the line finder as it will help delivers more accurate cuts by ensuring excellent visibility as it illuminates the cut line.

Tool-free blade changing ensures you can easily switch your blades. There is an Accu-bevel angle adjustment that will make adjusting the bevel angle quick and accurate.

While the blade holder might not have a magnetic backing to hold the blades like other models, the design is still effective at retaining them, and hence not a huge drawback.

Pros:

• Automatic orbital setting selection
• Handy onboard blade storage
• Great cutting line visibility
• Easy and fast blade changes
• Quick and accurate bevel angle change

Cons:

• Blade holder does not have a magnetic backing

10. Black & Decker BDCJS20C – Compact and Portable

Photo: Black & Decker

• Power: 20V max, 1.5 Ah                   
• Power Source: Battery Powered
• Speed: 0 – 2,500 SPM

A good jigsaw is always one that will allow you to carry and use it in different locations like the more compact and highly portable Black & Decker BDCJS20C. It will be the perfect choice for a contractor as you can easily pack and carry it to different work sites as it only weight 5.5 pounds and is just 11 inches long.

But, its good traits do not stop there as this jigsaw is perfect for making beveled cuts as its 45-degree bevel shoe will allow it to bevel both to the right and left.

It will make it easier to make accurate cuts as it has a built-in dust blower and a clear line of sight that will ensure you always cut easily and precisely.

Also, tool-free blade change ensures you never waste a lot of time replacing your blades. Better yet, this jigsaw will work with both the T and U-shank blade types.

This battery-powered jigsaw seems to have a relatively shorter runtime when compared to other high-end models. However, this is only so when using the 1.5 Ah as the company has other larger capacity battery options that will give you a longer runtime.

Pros:

• Easy to carry around
• Great for making bevel cuts
• Keeps cut line clear
• Works with both T and U-shank blades
• Simple and quick blade changes

Cons:

• Shorter runtimes

How to Buy the Best Jigsaw

Photo: Bosch

To get the best service from your jigsaw, you need to choose the best model by considering the following important factors.

1. Corded or Cordless Jigsaw

One of the first decisions that you will need to make when it comes to choosing a jigsaw is whether to go for the corded or cordless types. Both do a tremendous job and are highly effective, but they will be ideal for different kinds of users and situations.

Corded Jigsaw

As the name suggests, the corded jigsaws are those that will require plugging in to operate. These will typically come with a long power cord, and they will deliver a consistent and reliable power supply.

Corded jigsaws like DeWalt DW331K are generally more powerful than the cordless or battery-powered types, and they will typically have between 5.0 and 7.0 amp motors, but a few can have more or less powerful motors than these.

Because they do not have a large battery, they will be much lighter, which makes them easier to maneuver when cutting. However, the cord makes these jigsaws a little more cumbersome and also poses more risk for the user.

Pros:

• Consistent and reliable power supply
• Often more powerful
• Lightweight and easy to handle

Cons:

• Relatively more cumbersome
• Cord poses different hazards

Cordless Jigsaw

Like any other battery-powered power tool, the cordless jigsaws are designed for portability, and will hence allow you to use the tool from anywhere whether there are power outlets or not provided the battery is charged.

These jigsaws are typically powered by a rechargeable battery with most modern models using the lithium-ion batteries between 1.5 and 5.0 Ah. Also, most of these jigsaws are either 18 or 20-volt. And while they might not be as powerful as the corded types, they still get the job done.

With the cordless jigsaws like Black & Decker BDCJS20C, there will be no cumbersome cords to deal with and hence also no risk of tripping on the cord. But, their biggest drawback is that the battery provides a limited runtime and longer downtimes as you need to recharge it. Also, the battery makes these jigsaws relatively heavier.

Pros:

• More portable
• No power outlets required
• No dangerous cords to deal with

Cons:

• Limited runtime
• Battery makes them heavier

Buying Advice:

Corded jigsaws are the best when you want something for larger projects as they deliver uninterrupted power supply and with unlimited runtimes. Also, they are more ideal for cutting harder materials like metals, given the extra power.

Cordless jigsaws, on the other hand, make a good buy for anyone looking for something for use on the go in areas where there are no power outlets readily available. Many contractors also seem to prefer cordless jigsaws as they are more portable. However, these are more appropriate for cutting wood because other materials like metals will take a toll on the battery.

2. Power

The best jigsaws power tool for you should also provide adequate power. Hence, once you decide whether to go for a corded or cordless model, you will need to decide how much power you need.

The power that you will need will depend on what kinds of materials you will often be cutting, and also the volume of projects that you will be handling.

For those that deal with harder materials or different kinds of materials often and also have a lot of cutting to do, a more powerful model like the 7.0-amp Bosch JS470E is a good buy.

But for regular woodworking tasks in a moderately busy workshop, the 5.0-amp Black & Decker BDEJS600C or  the battery-powered 20-volt DeWalt DCS331M1 will do an incredible job.

3. Speed

Speed matters a lot when it comes to choosing a good jigsaw as it will determine how fast you cut the workpiece and also how efficiently you do it.

Jigsaw speed is typically measured in strokes per minute (SPM). Although a high-speed model is often more preferable, the wiser idea is always to go for something with variable speed to ensure that you can use the saw to cut a wide variety of materials.

A jigsaw that provides a speed of anything around 0 to 3,000 SPM should be good enough for most typical jigsaw applications.

4. Blade

The blade is what does the actual cutting, and so it is also a crucial element to consider as you shop for the best jigsaw for your workshop and other projects.

Here, the first decision to make is the type of blade to buy, and you will often have to choose between U and T-shank blades. U-shank blades cut well, but they will often require an additional tool (mostly an Allen wrench) to remove.

The T-shank blades will allow for quick and tool-less change, which is what makes them the most popular option.

Also, you need to consider the blade’s TPI (teeth per inch) as it will determine what you can use the blade to cut. For example, the 6 TPI blades will be ideal for cutting coarse lumber, 15 TPI is good for harder woods, and the 20 TPI blades are good all-round jigsaw blades for making tighter cuts.

5. Orbital Settings

The orbital settings will determine how a blade moves and hence how it cuts, and so this is also an important factor to consider.

Because the orbital action will change the path of the blade as you cut, a good jigsaw should provide several orbital action settings for different cutting situations.

4-position orbital action like what you get on  the DeWalt DCS331M1 is perfect. But, even one orbital setting that allows the blade to move in a lazy loop-like pattern for each stroke as it drives itself into the workpiece can still be enough for some woodworkers.

Tips for Using a Jigsaw

Photo: Skil

Here are some handy tips to help you get the most from your jigsaw.

Tip 1: Always Choose the Right Blade

One of the most common mistakes that many DIYers and woodworkers make is using the wrong blade on their jigsaw. To get the best cuts and maximum efficiency from your jigsaw, you must always match your blade to the task.

Tip 2: Use a Guide for Straight Cuts.

It is not always easy to get a straight cut with a jigsaw as it is a freehand cutting saw. However, you can make your cuts straighter by using a straightedge guide, which can be anything from a steel square to a straight wood board or even a rip of plywood.

Tip 3: Use a Jig to Cut Circles

A jigsaw is one of the best saw types for making circular cuts despite what some users might assume. And you can use it to cut almost any circle size provided you have a good circle-cutting jig.

Tip 4: Turn the Workpiece for Splinter Free Cuts

Given the upward-pointing teeth on a jigsaw blade, splintering will often occur on the top section of the material. Hence, by simply turning over your workpiece to have the good side down, you can avoid splintering.

Tip 5: Keep the Sped Down for Clean Cuts

When you want to make clean and precise cuts on your jigsaw, you should always use a lower speed setting. Also, the lower speed setting is recommended when dealing with veneers and other delicate materials.

Conclusion

A versatile and easy-to-use power tool like the jigsaw is a must-have for any serious DIYer or woodworkers as it is a highly useful tool that will come in handy for a wide variety of projects. And with all the information in this guide to help you, finding the best jigsaw is now a breeze.

That said, every model reviewed on our list has something special to offer and will be an excellent buy. However, the more powerful, versatile and convenient Bosch JS470E is our best overall model.

And for those looking for the best value, the Skil 4495-02 is what we would recommend as it has a lot to offer despite the relatively smaller price tag.