Calling all DIY renovation or woodworking enthusiasts! A jig saw is one of the most versatile cutting tools. You can use it to cut all types of materials, from wood to ceramic to metal. It can be used to cut straight lines, a beveled curve, or different angles. Whatever type of DIY project you have planned, a jig saw will have you powering through your tasks quickly and efficiently.
The 5 Best Jig Saws
- BLACK+DECKER BDEJS600C Jig Saw
- Bosch JS572EBK Barrel-Grip Jig Saw Kit
- Makita 4351FCT Barrel-Grip Jig Saw
- DEWALT DC330K Ni-Cad Jig Saw Kit (Our Top Pick)
- PORTER-CABLE PCC650B MAX Bare Jig Saw
Our Top Pick for The Best Jig Saw
Our top pick for the best jig saw is the DEWALT DC330K 18-Volt Jig Saw. With an excellent cutting performance and a design that is tailor-made for your enhanced comfort and control, the DEWALT saw is one versatile cutting machine that will have you powering through all types of DIY renovations or woodworking applications like a professional.
As well as loads of smart features that will make your cutting tasks effortless, the jig saw’s cordless function gives you that much-needed portability for working at home or away on the job site.
Check the price on AmazonHow to Choose the Best Jig Saw
A solid and powerful jig saw is a must-have tool for any workshop. But in order for you to find the ideal model that will suit your DIY renovation or woodworking project, you need to consider some specifications that are unique to the saw tool.
Power Options
Like most power tools, it is all about their power source. In the case of a jig saw, there are two main power sources: electricity or battery power. Firstly, to help you to find the right sort of jig saw that will fulfill your needs, think about these two questions:
1. Do you plan on doing some basic woodworking projects that will be restricted to your workshop? If so, corded/electrical jig saws like the BLACK+DECKER, Bosch, or Makita are great options.
2. Do you need to do large scale renovations that require you to move around your property and from room to room? Maybe you need to work outside as well as inside? Consider cordless/battery-operated models like the DEWALT or PORTER-CABLE jig saws.
A cordless jig saw can be used anywhere, inside and outside, at home or off-site if you are a professional tradesman.
If you choose a corded saw, the disadvantage is that you have to stay close to the powerpoint or you may have to use a heavy-duty extension cord. You also have to keep in mind where the power cord is at all times so that you do not cut it with the power tool or trip over it. Using the corded jig saw outside is not feasible as it can get damaged from water.
The disadvantage of using a cordless battery operated model is that the battery may only last a few hours depending on the level of speed you are using, and you will have to recharge the battery.
Jig Saw Motor
The jig saw’s power level is also determined by its motor which is usually rated in amps. For most basic DIY tasks, an electric motor that is about 4 or 5 amps should suffice, but if you have heavy-duty tasks to do or you will be cutting through a tougher material, consider a stronger, more professional style saw that has a 7.2 amp motor like the Bosch JS572EBK jig saw.
If it is a battery-operated jig saw, an 18 or 20-volt battery should give you the power you need for most cutting applications, just as long as you keep the battery fully charged.
Strokes Per Minute
You also have to consider the jig saw’s strokes per minute or SPM. Any saw that rates at 2,500 SPM or more will be sufficient for most cutting tasks. Some jig saws have a variable speed range that allows you to change the SPM from low to high speeds (0-3,000 SPM) like the Dewalt, or others may have a speed range of 800- 2,800 SPMs like the Makita jig saw.
Orbital Action
Orbital action refers to the way the jig saw’s beveling shoe moves, in an up and down motion. While most saws move at a 45° angle, other types like the DEWALT jig saw allows you to adjust the orbital-action to 0, 15, 30, or 45°.
The Black+Decker jig saw has innovative “Curve Control technology”, which allows you to adjust the saw’s orbital action from one of four customized settings to fit your individual project needs.
T-Shank Blades
There are two types of blades used in jig saws: T-shank or tang blade and a U-shank blade. A T-shank blade is the most widely used blade, and all of the saws in this buying guide/review use T-shank blades. The reason why the T-shank blade is so popular is that it does not require you to use tools to change the blade.
Depending on the manufacturer, changing the blades on your jig saw could be via a keyless blade clamp or a quick-release tool-free blade option or a One-Touch system, like the Bosch jig saw that allows for one-handed blade insertion.
In comparison with the user-friendly T-shank, the U-shank blade has to be fastened to the jig saw with a set screw and you will need an Allen wrench to remove it.
Some manufacturers may design their saws to use both types of blades like the BLACK+DECKER jig saw. So before you buy your new jig saw make sure that you check to see what type of blade it uses or whether it can take both types of blades.
Variable Speed Controls
To be able to control the speed of the blade with minimal effort is important as this handy feature allows you to quickly control the speed while also allowing you to get on with the rest of your cutting applications.
How you activate the speed will depend on the jig saw’s design. You may have to pull the trigger to control the speed like the PORTER-CABLE jig saw that has a variable-speed trigger, or the Bosch jig saw, which has a dial on the side of the unit.
LED Headlight
Even though a LED light is not a necessary feature, it will come in handy for working in low light conditions, to make it easier to see the beveling shoe action and the line that you are cutting.
Dust Blower
A dust blower is a very innovative feature for two reasons:
1. It gives you maximum cut-line visibility, which is very handy if you are working with material that makes a lot of dust.
2. It can also help to keep your workspace clean.
Best Jig Saw Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER BDEJS600C 5.0 Amp Jig Saw
With new and improved technology, a powerful engine and loads of user-friendly operating features that are designed to give you cutting control and versatility, the BLACK+DECKER corded-electric BDEJS600C Jig Saw has everything you need to complete your DIY or carpentry project.
The saw has a strong 5.0 amp variable-speed 120-volt motor that can generate up to 3,000 SPM of cutting power, so it is an ideal cutting machine for heavy-duty tasks.
One of the most highly functional saws, the Black+Decker jig saw has innovative Curve Control technology, which allows you to adjust the saw’s orbital action from one of four customized settings to fit your individual project needs.
It can make bevel cuts up to 45° in both directions and the saw has an adjustable shoe for a stable cutting platform, which also allows you to bevel a curved cut or join two pieces of material together to form a miter joint.
For quick and easy tool-free blade changes, there is a keyless blade clamp, and the jig saw also accepts U and T-shank blades.
Extra operator features include the ergonomic compact top-style handle with rubber over-mold that is easy to grip and gives you good control throughout the cutting process.
The Black+Decker’s new and improved Wire Guard provides a clear line of sight for precise cuts and the saw has a dust blower to keep your workplace free of dust.
The Black+Decker Jig saw is covered by a 2-year limited warranty.
Pros
- Very affordable price
- High quality
- Powerful 5 amp 120-volt variable-speed motor
- New and improved Curve Control technology
- 3,000 SPM
- Four customized orbital action settings
- Can make bevel cuts of up to 45° in both directions
- Adjustable beveling shoe
- Easy to handle
- Smooth cutting performance
- Keyless blade clamp for tool-free blade changes
- New and improved Wire Guard for more precise cuts
- Ergonomic compact handle with over-mold design
- Dust blower
- 2-year limited warranty
Cons
- Does not work well with thick hardwood
- Blade can shift at higher speeds
2. Bosch JS572EBK Barrel-Grip Jig Saw Kit
The Bosch JS572EBK Barrel-Grip Jig Saw Kit is the perfect choice for the serious DIY enthusiast. The Bosch name is synonymous with high-quality power tools and as this saw has an updated design, you can expect an excellent cutting performance.
Whatever type of woodworking or installation job you have to do, the Bosch jig saw kit has everything you need. As well as the increased cutting power and variable-speed control, it has the smallest circumference in its class. The 7.2 amp motor is very powerful and the durable built-in aluminum gearbox has an insulated cove.
For ease of use for even the most challenging tasks, the jig saw comes with a strong T-shank blade and counterbalancing mechanism for low vibration strokes for smooth operation for cutting through all types of materials like plywood, laminated sheets, and even hardwood like oak.
The “Constant Response” circuitry delivers consistent speed under load, which you can control as there is a variable-speed dial on the front of the jig saw.
You can expect an outstanding cut accuracy for cutting curves and 45° angles and due to the innovative Precision Control II double-roller self-adjusting guidance system, the rollers are able to fine-tune themselves to fit different blade thicknesses, and also minimizes any blade deflection.
Bosch has included even more operator features for your convenience, like the bright LED lights, which can be turned on and off, illuminates your workplace if you have to work the night-shift. A blower gives increased visibility of the cut-line and keeps your workplace clean.
The One-Touch blade-change system allows for one-handed blade insertion and lever blade ejection, so there is no need to touch a hot blade. For fast bevel adjustments, the jig saw has a large die-cast aluminum footplate with tool-free blade adjustment.
This jig saw also features a special upgraded ergonomic design, which makes this tool one of the most comfortable tools to work with. The easy to hold barrel-grip handle has an upfront soft-grip on the top and sides, so whatever type of task you have to do, you can keep your hand tightly wrapped around the saw and maintain complete control over the tool’s cutting action.
The multi-directional blade clamp also provides a superior grip of T-shank blades for working with tougher materials, but it does not accept U-shank blades.
The jig saw kit also includes one non-marring overshoe, an anti-splinter insert, three jig saw blades, one bevel wrench, and a carrying case. The jig saw is covered by a 1-year warranty, and Bosch also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee and a 1-year service protection plan.
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Outstanding cutting accuracy for cutting curves and 45° angles
- High-quality design
- Powerful 7.2 amp motor
- Variable-speed control
- Built-in aluminum gearbox with an insulated cover
- Counterbalancing mechanism for low vibration
- Constant response circuitry for consistent speed under load
- Large die-cast aluminum footplate with tool-free adjustment
- Precision Control II double-roller system
- Multi-directional blade clamp provides superior grip of T-shank blades
- Excellent cut precision
- Ideal for all sorts of building materials
- Comfortable barrel handle and soft-grip area
- Good LED lighting
- Dust blower
- Carrying case
Cons
- Does not accept U-shank blades
- Adjusting the base angle can take some getting used to
- Not ideal for cutting ½-inch steel
3. Makita 4351FCT Barrel Grip 6.3 Amp Jig Saw
The Makita 4351FCT Barrel-Grip Jig Saw features cutting edge technology and design that provides you with a high level of control, accuracy, and versatility, which makes it great value for money.
The corded-electric Makita-built 6.3 amp motor provides you with industrial-strength power. It has a good 1-inch length of stroke, a wood cutting capacity of 5-5/16 inches at 90° and a steel cutting capacity of 3/8 inches at 90°, which means that cutting through all types of material is effortless.
You will have maximum control over the speed of the jig saw as it has three orbital settings and a soft start feature for smooth start-ups. The electronic variable speed control of 800-2,800 SPMs is specifically engineered to maintain a consistent speed throughout the cutting process, so you can expect superior results from this highly advanced jig saw.
As well as its powerful speed, the highly versatile Makita jig saw can even make straight cuts. Its special anti-vibration technology means the jig saw is dynamically balanced for 40% less tool vibration and lower noise than competitive models, so for closer-to-work cutting, this is a must-have tool.
To further help you make accurate cuts, the ergonomically designed rubberized barrel-grip design gives you extra maneuverability and precise cutting when cutting tight curves. An LED light illuminates the tool and helps you to keep it on track in low light conditions.
The specially patented tool-less T-shank blade change system allows you to make fast and easy blade installation and the removal die-cast aluminum base adjusts up to 45° right or left and has a positive stop at 90°. The onboard hex wrench also allows for fast, accurate bevel adjustments.
Makita offers a 1-year warranty, and the jig saw comes with six blades, an anti-splintering device, cover plate, wrench, and tool case.
Pros
- Solid cutting performance
- Great value for money
- Powerful 6.3 amp motor
- Three orbital settings plus straight cutting
- Can cut through all types of materials
- Cuts smoothly
- Variable speed control dial (800-2,800 SPM)
- Tool-less blade change system
- 40% less tool vibration with the lowest noise level
- Electronic speed control maintains constant speed
- Aluminum base adjusts up to 45° or 90°
- Removal die-cast aluminum base
- Soft start feature for smooth start-ups
- Very good built-in LED light
- Easy gripping Barrel-Grip handle
- Lightweight
- Easy to use and maneuver on flat surfaces
- Comes with six blades and a tool case
Cons
- T-shank blade only
- Difficult to maneuver in tight spots
- No dust blower
4. DEWALT DC330K 18-Volt Ni-Cad Jig Saw Kit
The DEWALT DC330K jig saw features a unique design and a highly versatile cutting ability which makes it a great choice for all types of DIY projects.
Whether you are renovating your home or working on a specialized woodworking project, the Dewalt jig saw kit is one professional style power tool that can cut straight lines or curves through virtually any type of building material, including solid wood, plywood, laminate countertops, plastic, metal, even nail-embedded wood.
As well as offering you a greater level of maneuverability as it is not attached to an electric power cord, its powerful 18-volt Ni-Cad battery has loads of power, and the wide variable speed ranges up to 3,000 SPM, giving a very good level of speed adjustability.
A highly versatile jig saw, the DEWALT jig saw has an all-metal keyless shoe bevel that gives a large range of orbital-action, which can be changed up to four different positions, which provides greater control of cut quality and speed, and the shoe bevel can be adjusted to 0, 15, 30, and 45° for a wide range of easy bevel cutting, and the full 1-inch blade stroke length allows you to cut large pieces of wood.
For quick and easy blade changes, there is a keyless lever-action blade clamp. You also have the choice to either use this jig saw with one or two hands, depending on what type of material you are working with.
One of the most attractive features is the uniquely designed curved handle that has an attached trigger at the top, and there is a spot on the back to safely store the battery.
The battery gives you a good runtime that can last for several hours, depending on the speed you are using and a charger that can charge it in as little as 60 minutes. To give you a good clear line of sight, the adjustable dust blower keeps the line of cut clear of chips.
The jig saw kit includes the jig saw, and one battery and 1-hour charge, and DEWALT offer a very generous three-year limited warranty; one-year free service, and a 90-day money back guarantee.
Pros
- Extremely good value for money
- Well designed
- Highly versatile
- Compact
- Great level of maneuverability
- Variable-speed, high-performance motor
- Professional cutting performance
- All-metal lever-action
- Keyless blade change
- Keyless shoe bevel can be adjusted to 0, 15, 30, and 45°
- Four-position orbital action
- Low to high 0-3,000 SPM
- Can cut straight and curves through virtually any building material
- Quiet operation
- Uniquely designed curved anti-slip top-handle
- Adjustable dust blower
- Fast battery charge
- Three-year limited warranty
- One-year free service
- Battery and charger included
Cons
- No LED light
- Battery power does not last very long
- Heavy to hold
5. PORTER-CABLE PCC650B 20-volt MAX Bare Jig Saw
As well as its extremely affordable price, the PORTER-CABLE PCC650B Bare Jig saw is one versatile cutting machine. Porter-Cable has designed this sturdy, compact jig saw to be used for a wide range of applications and it excels at making precise, clean, and accurate cuts in a variety of materials like wood, plastic, and metal materials.
Another great feature is that it is lightweight enough to use on a stable, flat surface or for vertical cutting tasks, so whether you need to cut straight or more creative scroll or bevels cuts in plasterboard or even thick hardwood, cutting PVC pipe, and even 1.5-inch copper pipes, this power-packed jig saw is the perfect tool.
You can expect a powerful performance from this jig saw master as it is part of Porter-Cable’s 20V Max high-performance cordless platform, which also means that the lithium-ion volt battery has a very good battery life.
For absolute operator control, the jig saw has a ¾-inch stroke length to fit a lot of different material sizes, three orbital-action settings and a variable-speed trigger that allows for low to high speeds from 0-2500 SPMs, and the beveling shoe has the ability to cut from 0 to 45° bevel cuts.
The tool-free T-Shank blade release allows for quick and easy blade changes, and the jig saw comes with one 4-inch wood blade. The contoured over-molded handle optimizes increased comfort, and the integrated dust blower clears away debris for better viewability.
The Porter-Cable is a bare tool, so you will have to purchase the battery separately. Porter-Cable offers a 3-year limited warranty.
Pros
- Great value for money
- Excellent price
- Three orbital settings
- Ideal for a large range of cutting applications
- Makes precise, clean, and accurate cuts
- Can be used for cutting wood, plastic, and metal
- Cuts 0 to 45° bevel cuts, straight and scroll cuts
- Works well on a flat or vertical surface
- Very powerful 20-volt battery
- High-performance cordless platform
- Variable speed trigger (0-2,500 SPM)
- Tool-free blade release
- Dust blower
- Compact and lightweight
- Comfortable contoured over-molded handle
Cons
- Battery sold separately
Our Top Pick for The Best Jig Saw
Our top pick for the best jig saw is the DEWALT DC330K 18-Volt Jig Saw. With an excellent cutting performance and a design that is tailor-made for your enhanced comfort and control, the DEWALT jig saw is one versatile cutting machine that will have you powering through all types of DIY renovations or woodworking applications like a professional.
As well as loads of smart features that will make your cutting tasks effortless, the jig saw’s cordless function gives you that much-needed portability for working at home or away on the job site.
Check the price on Amazon
