Best Jigsaws 2021

Introduction

While table saws and handheld circular saw might be some of the most commonly used power saws, they are terrible for making circular, plunge, and other uncommon cuts. Here we put together a list of the 12 best jigsaw reviews of 2021, highlighting what each one does best and providing a helpful buyer’s guide.

Top Rated Jigsaws- Review and Buyers Guide

1. Milwaukee MLW273720 M18 FUEL Jigsaw

Best Cordless Jigsaw

The Milwaukee MLW273720 M18 FUEL steps out of that gate as one of the more impressive jigsaws we reviewed. Part of this is because it is cordless and manages to avoid some of the other cordless missteps. For instance, this jigsaw tops our list in blade speed with a range of 0 to 3500 spm, making it perfect for cutting almost any material.

The Milwaukee MLW273720 M18 FUEL is also more durable than most models we encountered thanks to a brushless motor and REDLINK PLUS circuitry. As if that were not enough, this jigsaw offers a large maximum cut depth of 5 ½” at a compact profile of 8 ⅗” x 9” x 3 ⅞”.

Features

• Power: 18V
• Blade Speed: 0 to 3500 spm
• Cut Depth: 5 ½”
• Stroke Length: 1”
• Orbital Positions: 4
• Bevel: 15, 30, & 45
• Weight: 6 ½ lbs

If you want a cordless jigsaw that you can take anywhere without having to worry about cutting power, the Milwaukee MLW273720 M18 FUEL is the only real game in town. However, this jigsaw doubles down on that performance by providing the fastest blade speed on our list at 3500 spm.

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2. Makita JV0600K Jigsaw

Best Bevel Cutting Jigsaw

Makita is one of the premier power tool makers in the world generally known for their power. But, the Makita JV0600K takes a different approach by offering more bevels. That is not to suggest that this jigsaw lacks in the power department with a motor that still pushes 6 ½ amps.

However, the Makita JV0600K is the only option we reviewed that can comfortably make bevel cuts regardless of the angle you need. It also does not hurt that this jigsaw employs a die-cast aluminum housing and base, making it a bit more durable than most of the competition.

Features

• Power: 6 ½A
• Blade Speed: 500 to 3100 spm
• Cut Depth: 3 ½”
• Stroke Length: ⅞”
• Orbital Positions: 4
• Bevel: 0 to 45
• Weight: 5 ⅕ lbs

The Makita JV0600K is somewhat interesting in that it does not blow the doors off of cutting power like the rolex datejust mens 41mm m126301 0015 wimbledon dial brand tends to. However, its ability to cut at any bevel angle is virtually unheard of. That said, this jigsaw still provides plenty of cutting power thanks to a 6 1/2A motor and is far more durable than most of the competition.

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3. Makita JV0600K Jigsaw

Best Compact Jigsaw

Though PORTER-CABLE may not be the company it once was, this jigsaw still works exceptionally well in the hands of a plumber or someone who cuts in compact spaces. With a profile of 9 ½” x 3 ¼” x 8 ½”, the PORTER-CABLE PCE345 also offers solid power with a motor that pushes 6A.

To make sure that you can make it through whatever happens to be in the compact space, this jigsaw also boasts a solid maximum cutting depth of 4”. As if that were not enough, the PORTER-CABLE PCE345 is also easy to use with a lock-on switch and 7-position variable speed dial all within finger’s reach.

Features

• Power: 6A
• Blade Speed: 0 to 3200 spm
• Cut Depth: 4”
• Stroke Length: ¾”
• Orbital Positions: 4
• Bevel: 45
• Weight: 5 ⅖ lbs

When you do not have a lot of space for maneuverability but still want that corded punch, the PORTER-CABLE PCE345 packs tighter than most into compact spaces. However, this jigsaw also offers a solid maximum cutting depth of 4” and a powerful 6A motor combined with a simplified action.

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4. PORTER-CABLE MAX PCC650B Jigsaw

Best Metal-Cutting Jigsaw

PORTER-CABLE makes another appearance on our list, but this time, instead of providing a compact model, the company favors metalworkers. The PORTER-CABLE MAX PCC650B accomplishes this with a slower blade speed that ranges between 0 to 2500 spm which would normally be a flaw.

However, with a cordless design and only 3 orbital positions, this jigsaw seems perfectly poised for cutting into metal pipes without generating too much heat. While everything is not quite within “finger’s reach,” the PORTER-CABLE MAX PCC650B still offers an easier control and lighter design than most.

Features

• Power: 20V
• Blade Speed: 0 to 2500 spm
• Cut Depth: 3”
• Stroke Length: ¾”
• Orbital Positions: 3
• Bevel: 45
• Weight: 4 ½ lbs

The PORTER-CABLE MAX PCC650B might seem a bit underwhelming, but metal workers will appreciate its ability to cut through metal better than most. This is especially helpful for plumbers and HVAC contractors because of its lightweight design and mobility.

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5. CRAFTSMAN CMES610 Jigsaw

Best Mid-Tier Jigsaw

The CRAFTSMAN CMES610 is like a couple of different consumer-grade jigsaws that we encountered but is a bit beefier for longer-term use. That said, this jigsaw does not offer much more power than a consumer-grade model at only 5A. Still, it can run all day without the same kind of worry you would get from a DIYer jigsaw.

Even better, the CRAFTSMAN CMES610 is an inexpensive model that makes it perfect for a new professional contractor just starting out. On top of that, you do not have to worry about blade compatibility with this jigsaw. It is one of the few entries we found that accepts both T and U shank jigsaw blades.

Features

• Power: 5A
• Blade Speed: 0 to 3000 spm
• Cut Depth: 3”
• Stroke Length: ¾”
• Orbital Positions: 4
• Bevel: 45
• Weight: 5 ⅖ lbs

The CRAFTSMAN CMES610 has some issues with its basic specs, but it takes a common consumer-grade design and beefs it up a little bit. Keeping this in mind, you also do not have to worry about experience as this jigsaw is not only lightweight and ergonomically designed, but it accepts any kind of blade too.

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6. WEN 33606 Jigsaw

Best All-Around Value Jigsaw

Though generally a consumer-grade brand, WEN surprises with the WEN 33606 which offers both excellent specs and extra features. For starters, this jigsaw provides a a powerful motor that pushes 6 ⅗A. It is combine with a blade speed range of 0 to 3300 spm– the second-fastest reviewed.

As if that were not enough, the WEN 33606 also provides a solid maximum cutting depth of 4 ½” on a ⅞” stroke. However, it is the extra features that really push this jigsaw over the top with uncommon qualities like a laser guide or built-in work light up to more common qualities like a dust blower.

Features

• Power: 6 ⅗A
• Blade Speed: 0 to 3000 spm
• Cut Depth: 4 ½”
• Stroke Length: ⅜”
• Orbital Positions: 4
• Bevel: 45
• Weight: 5 ⅖ lbs

The WEN 33606 surprises in a couple of different respects, but the most impressive is its inexpensive price given its above-average specs. Whether you consider the powerful motor, the maximum cutting depth, or the litany of additional features, this jigsaw gives you something for practically nothing.

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7. BLACK+DECKER BDEJS600C Jigsaw

Best Budget Jigsaw

BLACK+DECKER is one of the biggest consumer-grade power tool makers in the world. It proves this once again with this jigsaw that hits all the beats without wowing in any particular fashion. As a consumer-grade product, the BLACK+DECKER BDEJS600C is a bit underpowered compared to some of the competition.
On top of that, this jigsaw has one of the shallowest maximum cutting depths reviewed but is also the lightest corded jigsaw we encountered. The BLACK+DECKER BDEJS600C also employs an ergonomic design that makes using it more comfortable for your weekend warrior.

Features

• Power: 5A
• Blade Speed: 0 to 3000 spm
• Cut Depth: 2 ½”
• Stroke Length: ¾”
• Orbital Positions: 4
• Bevel: 45
• Weight: 4 ⅗ lbs

The BLACK+DECKER BDEJS600C may not jump off of the page with the most impressive specs. But, it is an inexpensive option perfect for the average consumer or weekend warrior. Also, when you consider that this jigsaw is not only lightweight but easy to use, its ergonomic design makes it a homeowner’s dream.

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8. WORX WX550L AXIS 2-in-1 Reciprocating Saw and Jigsaw

Best Convertible Jigsaw

WORX is another solid consumer-grade power tool maker that provides some of the best all-around value with the WORX WX550L AXIS 2-in-1. However, this jigsaw offers value by providing a reciprocating saw as part of the package.

On top of that, this jigsaw is also cordless, so you do not have to worry about maneuvering it around outlets or using a generator to power it. As if that were not enough, the WORX WX550L AXIS 2-in-1 is also lightweight while providing a built-in work light to see in those darker spaces.

Features

• Power: 20V
• Blade Speed: up to 3000 spm
• Cut Depth: 2”
• Stroke Length: ¾”
• Orbital Positions: 2
• Bevel: N/A
• Weight: 4 ⅕ lbs

The WORX WX550L AXIS 2-in-1 Reciprocating Saw and Jigsaw may not be the ideal pure jigsaw, but you are paying for this entry’s versatility more than raw performance. Keep in mind, not only can this jigsaw convert into a reciprocating saw, but it is also one of the more mobile models reviewed.

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9. Bosch Power Tools JS470E Jigsaw

Most Precise Jigsaw

Bosch is another top-tier professional-grade power tool maker and proves that point with the Bosch Power Tools JS470E Jigsaw whose Precision Control II guides cannot be beaten. Even more surprising, this jigsaw combines that precision with serious power from a motor that pushes 7A.

However, the Bosch Power Tools JS470E is not done yet as it also provides the deepest maximum cut depth for both wood and metal at 5 ⅞” and ⅞,” respectively. As icing on the cake, this jigsaw also offers the second-most number of bevel cuts with detent stops at all of the most commonly used angles.

Features

• Power: 7A
• Blade Speed: 500 to 3100 spm
• Cut Depth: 5 ⅞”
• Stroke Length: 1”
• Orbital Positions: 4
• Bevel: 15, 22 ½, 30, or 45
• Weight: 5 ⅗ lbs

The Bosch Power Tools JS470E is not only one of the best all-around performing models we reviewed but also one of the most precise thanks to the Precision Control II guides. However, this jigsaw also comes with a powerful 7A motor and a wide bevel range than most of the competition.

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10. Bosch JS572EBK Jigsaw Kit

Best Barrel Grip Jigsaw

Bosch makes a second appearance on our list, but this time the professional-grade tool maker focuses on power with the strongest motor reviewed, pushing 7 ⅕A. Also, while not quite list-leading, the Bosch JS572EBK Jigsaw Kit also offers the second deepest maximum cut depths of 5 ½” for wood and ⅝” for metal, respectively.

One thing to note is that the Bosch JS572EBK Jigsaw Kit employs a barrel design which is not as good for beginners who will prefer a D-handle group. Still, this jigsaw offers a bit more than its brother in the form of a built-in work light as well as a more compact profile for more compact spaces.

Features

• Power: 7 ⅕A
• Blade Speed: 800 to 3000 spm
• Cut Depth: 5 ½”
• Stroke Length: 1”
• Orbital Positions: 4
• Bevel: 15, 22 ½, 30, or 45
• Weight: 5 lbs

The Bosch JS572EBK Kit is easily one of the most impressive options we encountered. It offers the most powerful motor and one of the largest maximum cutting depths. However, the wide range of different bevel angles combined with solid precision and barrel design make this jigsaw one of the better choices.

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11. SKIL 4495-02 Jigsaw

Best Laser-Guided Jigsaw

SKIL is a consumer-grade company that managed to provide close to a mid-tier product with the SKIL 4495-02 Jigsaw if its maximum cutting depth of 2 ½” did not hold it back. On the other hand, this jigsaw comes with a powerful motor that pushes 6A and an impressive blade speed range of 800 to 3200 spm.

As a consumer-grade model, the SKIL 4495-02 Jigsaw is also lighter weight than most other corded options. It also features an ergonomic design for comfortable use. However, the crowning achievement of this jigsaw is the laser guide that helps ensure you keep your cutline straight. Though, this might be necessary considering the absence of a dust blower.

Features

• Power: 6A
• Blade Speed: 800 to 3200 spm
• Cut Depth: 2 ½”
• Stroke Length: ¾”
• Orbital Positions: 4
• Bevel: 22 ½ & 45
• Weight: 5 lbs

This jigsaw may not offer the ideal dust management or price point we saw. Still, it has solid cutting power and even offers the uncommon 22 ½ bevel detent stop. Yet, the main draw of the SKIL 4495-02 has to be its laser guide which allows you to maintain a straight cutline even with dust in the way.

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12. DEWALT DW331K Jigsaw

Most Durable Jigsaw

DEWALT rounds out our list with an entry that mostly hits the professional-grade beats. However, it is quite an expensive option for a jigsaw with a maximum cutting depth of only 3”. Still, the DEWALT DW331K Jigsaw comes with a powerful motor that pushes 6 ½A and a reasonable blade speed range of 500 to 3100 spm.

Even better, this jigsaw is one of the few that comes with a metal gearbox for increased durability. However, this also increases its size and weight more than most. Still, the DEWALT DW331K Jigsaw provides a dust blower and a bevel range that includes 15, 30, and 45– one of the broadest reviewed.

Features

• Power: 6 ½A
• Blade Speed: 500 to 3100 spm
• Cut Depth: 3”
• Stroke Length: 1”
• Orbital Positions: 4
• Bevel: 15, 30, & 45
• Weight: 6 ⅖ lbs

Though expensive, heavy, and large, the DEWALT DW331K still provides a solid range of specs from its cutting power to its blade speed range. That said, the most impressive quality of this jigsaw is its metal gearbox and all-around durable build combined with more bevel detent stops than most.

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Buyer’s Guide

Cutting Power

This is not necessarily the most important factor to consider with jigsaws as most entries will be able to accomplish the same jobs as any of the others. In this instance, the big difference that cutting power confers is how quickly you can cut and how the motor handles under load.
Depending on the type of jigsaw, the power of the motor will either be rated in amps for a corded model or volts for a cordless model. Keep in mind, that slightly underpowered corded jigsaws will still often perform better than top-tier cordless jigsaws– especially under load and over time.

Blade Speed

The blade speed is usually not a fundamental factor for power saws. However, it stands out a bit more for jigsaws which are often used for cutting a wider range of materials. In this instance, the fastest blade speed can give jigsaws a boost over competitors, but it is the speed range that ends up being more important.
This is because different materials cut better with different blade speeds. Dense materials require faster blade speeds and softer materials requiring slower blade speeds. It is also important to consider whether the blade speed is determined by a dial or a trigger. The former offers more control but the latter allows for quicker speed changes.

Cutting Capacity

The cutting capacity is a very important aspect of any power saw as it will impose a limit on the size and type of projects you can make with it. Another impact that the cutting capacity of jigsaws has on your projects is the size and type of plunge cuts you can make with it.
While there is often a strong correlation, the length of a jigsaw’s stroke does not automatically determine whether it offers a deeper maximum cutting depth. However, it is also important to remember that jigsaws cut different materials, and you will not be able to cut metals as thick as you can cut wood.

Bevels

Because they are often used on smaller work pieces, jigsaws often need to be able to make a solid bevel cut. While the shoe plays an important role in this, the jigsaw’s bevel range is also important with a 45 angle being necessary. Still, 15, 30, and even the less common 22 ½ angles are also useful.

Target Market

Anyone who uses power saws is part of the target market for jigsaws due to their combination of versatility, portability, and price. Jigsaws are also good tools for people who often cut materials other than wood, especially metal and plastics.

Common Terms

Amps

Amps are the rating that jigsaws measure the power of the motor, though this does not necessarily translate 1 for 1 to cutting power. However, a sizable difference in amps between two models will be obvious when cutting.

Blades

Jigsaws are one of the power saws that use different types of blades, though the difference sits with the way it attaches to the saw. The two most common blade types are T-shank and U-shank with T-shank being more prevalent due to a tool-less blade change. It is also important to note that different materials often require specialized blades.

Blade Guard

The blade guard helps protect you from the blade, but can only go so far. While the blade guard makes it more difficult for jigsaws to cut your finger, it is less effective at preventing the blade from catching your clothing.

Laser Guide & Work Light

Laser guides project a cutline onto the workpiece and show where the blade will cut, assuming they are aligned properly. A work light illuminates the workpiece, making it easier to see a draw cutline as well as the blade.

Dust Chute/Blower

A dust chute is the opening that allows a shop vac to connect to jigsaws and suck up the dust or other debris. A blower, on the other hand, merely blows the dust out of the cutline, making it easier to see and cut but leaving a mess to be cleaned later.

Footplate

The footplate sits at the base of jigsaws and keeps the blade level with the cutting surface. The footplate also provides a point of leverage for adjusting and making bevel cuts.

Shoe

The shoe sits over the footplate and protects the workpiece from being marred by the footplate as you cut. More often than not, the shoe is made of plastic to prevent it from digging into softer materials and leaving a mark.

Blade Change Lever

While not all models, most jigsaws use t-shank blades and a tool-less blade change system. The tool-less blade change almost always operates with a lever that spits out the used blade and allows you to easily insert a new blade.

Lock-On

The lock-on switch allows jigsaws to operate without the user having to hold down a trigger while cutting. This feature reduces hand fatigue and makes using jigsaws for longer cuts or an extended period easier.

Handle

A D handle jigsaw is easier to hold than a barrel jigsaw and makes using it for long periods easier. That type of handle offers more control and allows you to put more weight into the cut but tends to restrict the internal components a bit more.

FAQS

What are jigsaws used for?

Jigsaws can be used to make virtually any kind of cut, but the main reason to use jigsaws is to make a circular cut or a plunge cut. Keep in mind, jigsaws are not the best at making these cuts, but they are some of the best handheld power saws that effectively make these cuts.

What is the best jigsaw for beginners?

While it may seem counter-intuitive, the best jigsaws for beginners are also the best jigsaws for experienced users: the best-performing jigsaws. Unlike other power tools, jigsaws tend to offer the same features and differentiate more on pure performance.

How to use a jigsaw?

Using jigsaws is similar to using any other power saw by first securing the work piece to a stable base or frame. Make sure your body and clothing remain far from the blade while cutting to prevent accidental injury. Start the blade before making the cut, and let the blade do the work as pushing the saw into the cut can wear down the motor and cause kickback.

What is orbital jig saw?

Orbital jigsaws are a model that includes an orbital cutting pattern that oscillates the blade from side to side as well as up and down. This pattern creates a more aggressive cutting action that improves the cutting power of jigsaws but decreases their precision.

Common Brands

Milwaukee

Milwaukee has been around since 1924 and makes professional-grade power tools suitable for professional-contractors– though they are a bit expensive.

Makita

Makita is another professional-grade power tool maker, founded in 1915, that is known for its impressive power thanks to an early focus on electric motors.

Porter-Cable

Founded in 1906, PORTER-CABLE started as a professional-grade brand but has since been turned into a mid-tier brand after its acquisition by BLACK+DECKER.

Craftsman

CRAFTSMAN is another old-school power tool maker owned by BLACK+DECKER that transitioned to a mid-tier brand from its prior professional-grade standing since 1927.

Wen

WEN is one of the newer power tool manufacturers on this list, though it still has 17 years of experience. However, WEN is a high-end consumer-grade brand perfect for weekend warriors.

Black+Decker

BLACK+DECKER started in 1910 and has become one of the biggest consumer-grade brands on the market that also owns a variety of other popular power tool brands.

Worx

WORX is a young company, founded in 2003 by an ex-BLACK+DECKER executive that specializes more in lawn care equipment for the consumer-grade.

Bosch

Bosch is not only the oldest company on this list, being founded in 1886, but is a professional-grade power tool maker known for its precision– perfect for jigsaws.

Skil

SKIL is now Bosch’s brand of consumer-grade power tools with a storied history that stretches back to 1926.

Dewalt

DEWALT is a professional-grade power tool maker that stayed professional-grade after its acquisition by BLACK+DECKER and was founded in 1924.

Conclusion

In the end, choosing the best jigsaw will still depends on your skill level, budget, and profession.  Each has its own unique features and qualities that are suitable for the job.  Regardless of  how small or big the project is, the best jigsaw must be powerful, precise and versatile. It can be very difficult to figure out which one will suit your purpose best so we hope that this list has helped you on your purchase.