When it comes to woodworking, having the right power tools is essential to ensure that your projects are successful. A cordless jigsaw is one of the best power tools you can have in your workshop, and it’s perfect to cut complex shapes and curves.
But with so many jigsaws on the market, it can be tough to know which one to choose. In this article, discuss the best jig saw for woodworking, and what characteristics you should look for when selecting a jigsaw.
| Preview image | Model name | Features | Nomination |
 | DEWALT DCS331B | – Brushless motor – Blade speed – 3,000 – The 4-way orbital settings – Ergonomic design – Anti-slip comfort barrel grip – A dust blower – T-shank blades compatible | Best cordless overall |
 | BOSCH JS470EB | – 7.0 amp motor – Up to 3,100 strokes/minute – Minimal vibration – 4 orbital effect settings – Variable speed control – Adjustable dust blower – Ergonomic barrel grip | Best corded barrel-grip |
 | DEWALT DW331K | – 6.5-amp motor – Variable speed control – 4-way orbital control – Keyless shoe bevel – Bevel cuts up to 45 degrees | Best for professionals |
 | BLACK+DECKER BDCJS20C | – 20-volt Li-ion battery – 1 inch on wood – 1/4 inch on metal – 3/4 inch stroke length – Keyless shoe bevel – 5.5 lb weight | Best for woodworkers |
 | Ryobi P5231 ONE+ | – 18-volt Li-ion battery – 2-1/4 inches on wood – 1/4 inch on metal – 1″ stroke length – Blocking switch – Anti-vibration technology | Most affordable |
 | Makita JV0600K | – Comfortable grip – Variable speed control – Adjustable up to 45 degrees base – Large trigger switch – Latch button – A built-in dust extraction system – A low-vibration design | Best light-weight |
 | SKIL JS314901 | – 4-way orbital cutting action – Oblique cuts up to 45 degrees – Latch button – Ergonomic handle | Best precision |
 | PORTER-CABLE PCE345 | – 6-amp motor – Variable speed dial – 4-position orbital action – Tool-free blade change system – Adjustable shoe for bevel cuts – Lock-on button – Ergonomic handle | Best for beginners |
 | M18 FUEL D-HANDLE | – LED light – Brushless motor – 5-position orbital cutting – Tool-free blade change system – D-handle design – Low-profile | Best battery life & performance |
 | BOSCH JS470E | – 7.0 amp motor – Variable speed dial – 4-way orbital operation – Precision-machined plunging system – Large, sturdy die-cast foot | Best corded overall |
Contents
1. DEWALT DCS331B
The DEWALT DCS331B cordless jigsaw with its efficient brushless motor and variable speed trigger is an ideal instrument for woodworking projects.
The 4-way orbital settings and flexible design with an anti-slip, comfortable handle help make it easy to use and provides stability during long work sessions.
Blade replacement without tools allows for easy, quality blade installation, making it a multipurpose and powerful cordless jigsaw for both DIYers and professionals.
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Pros and cons
Features
- The brushless motor provides high-performance machining with a blade speed of 3,000.
- The 4-way orbital settings make for more aggressive cuts in thicker materials, and the direct blade is perfect for precise cuts in thinner materials.
- Ergonomic design with anti-slip comfort barrel grip decreases the weariness of the user during use.
- Keyless blade changing technology ensures easy and convenient blade replacement.
- A dust blower clears the cutting line of debris for improved visibility.
- Compatible with T-shank blades for added versatility.
2. BOSCH JS470EB
The BOSCH JS470EB is a powerful and best jigsaw designed for smooth and neat processing in woodworking and metalworking applications.
It features a design with a minimum degree of vibration, it’s an ergonomic barrel grip jigsaw, 4 orbital action settings, variable speed control, and a blade replacement system without the use of tools.
Can cut up to 5-7/8″ in wood and up to 3/8″ in metal, allowing for both professional and do-it-yourself style work. While the corded design limits mobility, the tool’s performance, and features make its quality choice for the needy a reliable and efficient jigsaw.
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Pros and cons
Features
- The 7.0 amp motor offers up to 3,100 strokes per minute for fast and efficient sawing.
- The design with minimal vibration decreases user tiredness and provides stability during use.
- The 4 orbital effect settings allow for versatile cutting of a variety of machinable materials, from simple to complex curved cuts.
- Variable speed control allows for precision cutting on a range of materials.
- Adjustable dust blowers help keep the cut side clear for improved visibility.
- The system of replacing blades without tools allows you to quickly and easily change blades.
- Ergonomic barrel grip construction provides a good grip for extended use.
3. DEWALT DW331K
The DEWALT DW331K is a powerful and versatile corded jigsaw suitable for professional and DIY users. It has a 6.5-amp motor, 3,100 strokes per minute, and a 4-way orbital regulator that allows for smooth to aggressive cuts.
The variable speed control and blade change system without the use of tools provides precision cutting and efficiency, while the keyless shoe bevel allows for bevel cuts up to 45 degrees. The rubberized barrel grip reduces fatigue during extended use, and the dust blower and management system help keep the work area clean.
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Pros and cons
Features
- The 6.5-amp motor provides ample power for cutting a variety of materials.
- Variable speed control allows for precision cutting on different materials.
- The 4-way orbital control provides versatility for smooth to aggressive cuts.
- Keyless shoe bevel allows for quick and easy adjustments for bevel cuts up to 45 degrees.
- The system of replacing blades without tools enables quick and easy replacement of blades.
4. BLACK+DECKER BDCJS20C
The BLACK+DECKER BDCJS20C is a cordless jigsaw that offers convenience and versatility. Its powerful 20-volt Li-ion accumulator and variable speed trigger provides long-lasting power and precision cutting on a range of materials.
Its lower SPM and shorter battery life may be limiting factors for some users.
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Pros and cons
Features
- 20-volt Li-ion battery for long-lasting power and quick charging time.
- Maximum cutting capacity of 1 inch on wood and 1/4 inch on metal.
- Stroke length of 3/4 inch for faster and more efficient cutting.
- Keyless shoe bevel for easy and quick adjustments.
- 5.5 lb lighter construction for greater maneuverability and ease of use.
- Includes a blade, battery, and charger in the kit for immediate use out of the box.
5. Ryobi P5231 ONE+
The Ryobi P5231 is a powerful and versatile cordless jigsaw that is compatible with Ryobi’s ONE+ battery system.
It has a maximum cutting capacity of 2-1/4 inches on wood, and 1/4 inches on metal, has a 4-way orbital control, and an adjustable oblique cut base of up to 45 degrees.
It also has a blade without a tool clamp, a lock-on switch, anti-vibration technology, built-in LED light, and a T-shaped handle design. Some users may prefer a barrel grip instead of a T-shaped handle.
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Pros and cons
Features
- 18-volt Li-ion battery for long-lasting power and quick charging time.
- Maximum cutting capacity of 2-1/4 inches on wood and 1/4 inch on metal.
- 1″ stroke length for faster and more efficient cutting.
- Blocking switch for long-term use without having to hold the trigger.
- Anti-vibration technology for smoother and more comfortable cutting.
- Non-retail packaging, meaning it may come in a plain brown box instead of the manufacturer’s packaging.
6. Makita JV0600K
The Makita JV0600K is a powerful and best jigsaw designed for precision cutting tasks.
It has a 6.5 amp motor, variable speed, blade replacement system without tools, 4-way orbital control, and an ergonomic handgrip with a rubberized handle, low vibration design, and adjustable dust port.
It comes with a tool case for easy storage and transport, making it a great option for professionals who need to take their power tools on the go.
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Pros and cons
Features
- The upper handle design provides a comfortable grip and easy operation of the tool.
- The variable speed control dial enables users to adjust the cutting speed based on the material being cut.
- The cast aluminum base is adjustable up to 45 degrees in either direction for oblique cuts.
- A large trigger switch makes it easy and comfortable to use.
- Latch button for extended use.
- A built-in dust extraction system removes debris from the cutting line for an improved line of sight.
- A low-vibration design with an internal counterbalance helps minimize user strain during extended use.
7. SKIL JS314901
The SKIL JS314901 is a powerful and versatile corded jigsaw with a range of features that enhance cutting performance. A system for replacing blades without tools, a bevel without a wrench, and a built-in laser guide system make it easy to use and provide improved accuracy.
The fact that it is corded may limit mobility, and it does not come with a carrying case for easy transportation.
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Pros and cons
Features
- 4-way orbital cutting action for increased cutting performance in a variety of materials.
- Regulated shoe for oblique cuts up to 45 degrees.
- Latch button for extended use.
- Ergonomic handle with a soft grip for increased comfort and control.
8. PORTER-CABLE PCE345
If you are a novice woodworker and have little experience with the best jigsaw, the PORTER-CABLE PCE345 can be a suitable option for you. This cordless jigsaw can handle basic ornamental jobs and cabinet-making and offers good accuracy, precision, and runtime.
It comes with a 6-amp motor and seven-speed settings that are integrated into the trigger. It has four orbital settings to provide you with more control over your cutting style and angle.
The handle has oversized molding that helps reduce vibration and fatigue. This cordless jigsaw is ideal for DIYers, beginners, and occasional woodworkers and has a keyless blade-change system that can benefit everyone.
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Pros and cons
Features
- 6-amp motor.
- Variable speed dial.
- Four-position orbital action.
- Tool-free blade change system.
- Adjustable shoe for bevel cuts.
- Lock-on button.
- Ergonomic handle with a comfortable grip.
9. M18 FUEL D-HANDLE
The M18 FUEL is a cordless jigsaw with a brushless motor that offers powerful cutting performance and longer tool life. It has a variable speed trigger and a five-position orbital cutting feature, as well as a tool-free blade change system, and an LED light.
The D-handle design provides a comfortable and secure grip, and the low-profile design allows for improved control and accuracy. The only potential drawback is its cordless design, which may require frequent recharging of the battery.
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Pros and cons
Features
- LED light for improved visibility and accuracy.
- Brushless motor.
- Five-position orbital cutting.
- Tool-free blade change system.
- D-handle design.
- Low-profile design.
10. BOSCH JS470E
The BOSCH JS470E is a powerful corded best-value jigsaw with variable speed and four-position orbital action for improved cutting performance.
It also has a toolless blade change system, a precision-machined plunging system, a T-shank blade, U-shank blades, and a dust blower for improved visibility.
The ergonomic handle reduces user fatigue, but the corded design may limit mobility, and it does not come with a carrying case.
Jigsaws equipped with a blade ejection lever simplify and enhance the safety of the blade removal process, as there is no need to manually grip the blade.
Note: It’s common for jigsaws to generate a hot blade during use, but it’s essential to allow these blades to cool down before handling them when working on prolonged projects.
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Pros and cons
Features
- Motor power 7.0 amps.
- Variable speed dial.
- 4-way orbital operation.
- Change blades without using tools.
- Precision-machined plunging system.
- Large, sturdy die-cast foot with steel insert
FAQ: What is the best jig saw for woodworking?
What type of jigsaw blade is best for hardwood?
To cut hardwood, a bi-metal or a high-speed steel jigsaw blade with 10–12 teeth per inch is recommended. Bi-metal jigsaw blades are more durable, while high-speed steel blades are cheaper. T-shank blade designs are also necessary for easy and convenient blade replacement.
Which is the best brand of jigsaw?
Several reputable brands manufacture high-quality jigsaws, including Bosch, DeWalt, Makita, and Milwaukee.
The best brand of cordless jigsaw for you depends on your specific needs and preferences, as well as the features and capabilities you are looking for in a tool. It’s important to research and compare different models from various brands before making a purchasing decision.
What is the best jigsaw in 2023?
If you’re looking for the best jigsaw for DIY and home use, the BLACK+DECKER jigsaw is a versatile and affordable choice. For tougher jobs, the DeWALT jigsaw is a durable option with a variable speed setting that is favored by professionals.
How powerful of a jigsaw do I need?
The power of a jigsaw you need depends on the type of work you plan to do. For basic DIY and home use, a jigsaw with a power rating of 5-6 amps or 18-20 volts is typically sufficient.
For heavier-duty work, such as cutting thicker hardwoods or metal, a more powerful jigsaw with a power rating of 7 amps or more may be necessary. It’s important to match the power of the jigsaw to the material being cut to ensure clean and precise cutting.
Conclusion
The best jigsaw for woodworking depends on various factors, such as the level of precision required, the thickness of the wood, and the type of cut needed. However, some of the top jigsaws for woodworking include the Bosch JS470E, the DeWalt DW331K, and the Makita JV0600K.
These jigsaws offer excellent cutting power and accuracy, as well as options such as variable speed, orbital settings, and no-tool blade changes.
Ultimately, it’s important to consider your specific woodworking needs and choose the best jigsaw that can meet those needs while also fitting within your budget.
