I know what it’s like to purchase a new tool, and I think we can agree on the fact that it’s extremely hard to choose one with so many options. After going through many products, I have narrowed it down to a few that can help you with your exact needs.
My goal for this article is to help you find the best jigsaw whether you’re a beginner, DIYer or professional. Every important detail you need to know about each model is included so pay close attention to each description.
If you are like me you are probably also concerned with the price. None want to overpay, right?
But here’s something to keep in mind when you are choosing a model: if you’re a contractor, your ideal tool will most likely be more expensive. On the other hand, if you’re a beginner (or intermediate) you probably will not use the jig saw as much as a pro nor will you need all of the features and so the prices are generally cheaper.
When considering features, bang for your buck, and project needs, one product came out on top for user type. The winners for each are as follows:
- for a Professional Woodworking Shop: Festool PSB 420 EBQ
- for Contractors & other Construction Professionals: DEWALT DCS331B
- Affordable [Cheap] (under $50): BLACK+DECKER BDEJS600C
- for Beginners (DIY & Home Use): BLACK+DECKER JS670V
- for Intermediate Woodworkers & DIYers (Home Use) (under $100): BoschJS260
Read on to learn about these and the other great jigsaws.
How to Choose the Best Jigsaw [Buying Guide]
Before I get on with all the products, there are some factors you should know more about jig saws before you buy.
If you are truly looking for the best option then it’s really important to look at every detail. I don’t want you to be disappointed when your item arrives.
One more thing, there are some features a few models include that aren’t necessary but are definitely convenient and makes the job easier.
Now let’s get started:
Corded or Cordless (Battery Powered):
Before looking at anything else, you should know if you prefer a cordless or corded option, and this is because these two types have very different specifications. The reason I recommend to have this choice made before looking at models is because having to compare amps and volts can get confusing.
Power cord vs batteries and chargers
This decision is quite personal, and it all depends on your preference and what you will be using it for. Think about having a cord limit your use or having to wait for the batteries to charge. For more information to help you choose between the two read my article about cordless vs corded power tools: differences pros and cons.
Power:
After deciding whether you’re going to be comparing models with volts or amps, you should know that a model with a higher power is best for heavy-duty jobs. So again, this all depends on yourself and the use you’re going to be giving the jigsaw.
Speed:
This detail is quite important, most models have a user adjusted, variable speed setting. Adjusting the speed can be crucial when cutting different materials, you’re going to want to set a higher speed for tougher materials. One last suggestion (for beginners), choose a model that starts from 0 SPM.
Cutting Capacity:
The length of stroke of a jigsaw is the distance the blade goes up and down when cutting. You should know that the higher the length of stroke, the smoother and better it cuts. So it’s important to know what type of materials you’re most likely going to be working with.
Dust Blower:
Most models do in fact come with a dust blower but I thought you should know how convenient it actually is. Jigsaws tend to leave lots of dust when they cut so this features keeps your sight clearer by blowing it away. If you don’t have a dust blower you will have to low away the dust manually.
After all if you can’t see where you are cutting, how accurate will your cut be?
This is feature is a must have if you’re always working with wood.
LED Light:
What did I need a light for you may ask. If you have a well lit workshop you may not need a tool mounted light. However, having a tool mounted light means that the light is exactly where you need it all of the time. A tool mounted light is especially important if you are using it for construction/contractor jobs where you are on site somewhere. Yes you could use a separate flashlight but then that is just one more thing to think about and have with you when you need it.
Laser:
Working with jigsaws isn’t easy when making straight cuts. A laser can help you achieve straighter and more accurate cuts; and I highly recommend it for beginners. If you are making a lot of strait cuts you may want to invest in a circular saw or a table saw as these are the tools that are specifically designed for making strait cuts.
Related: How to make straight cuts with a circular saw
Related: Best cheap circular saw
Related: Best contractor & jobsite table saws
Price:
This certainly is the most personal decision and I can’t tell you how much to spend. But I can say this: remember that you can’t expect a jigsaw made for simple tasks to be great at performing heavy-duty jobs. In other words, a heavy-duty jigsaw is most likely more expensive. Also, if you will be using the tool a lot it may be worth buying a better quality and more expensive model.
Warranty:
As far as warranty, it’s always a good idea to have a longer one. You never know what could go wrong so it’s best to keep it on the safe side and aim for the longest one. A longer warranty is also a sign of the tool maker’s confidence in the quality of their product.
Best Affordable [Cheap] Jigsaw (under $50)
The BDEJS600C is manufactured by Black&Decker.
The Black & Decker BDEJS600C jigsaw – the best cheap option!
This model has a blade length of stroke of ¾ inches.
It has a 5 amp motor that can deliver 3000 strokes per minute.
It’s able to make bevel cuts up to 45°.
This jigsaw features a curve control technology which allows you to adjust its’ orbit ranging from 1 to 4; this can be very helpful depending on your project.
It has an adjustable shoe which improves your stability and helps you make straighter cuts.
The wire guard also allows you to clearly see where the blade is, which is great for getting more accurate cuts.
Lastly, it comes with a dust blower which keeps your area clean, and again letting you see where you are cutting.
I give this model 5 stars. I have to say that I’m very impressed by the customer feedback it has gotten, most customers seem to be satisfied with this tool.
This is the most exciting part, this model has a very cheap price, the best price from all of the products reviewed!
If you’re looking for a simple and cheap jigsaw then this is my best recommendation considering its price.
Go check out the latest reviews and the current price of the BLACK+DECKER BDEJS600C here on Amazon or on Home Depot.
See the Owner’s Manual here.
Key Features
- Curve control technology
- 5 amp motor
- 3000 strokes per minute
- 4.6 pounds
| Pros | Cons |
| Makes smooth cuts | Not for heavy duty |
| Great for small tasks | |
| Great price | |
| Comfortable |
Best Jigsaw for Beginners (DIY & Home Use)
The JS670V by BLACK+DECKER works with a 6 amp motor.
The BLACK+DECKER JS670V – Best jigsaw for home use & DIY (Beginners).
The length of stroke is 13/16 inches, which is the longest by far!
This model starts from 0 SPM and can reach 3000 SPM, which makes it a good pick for beginners because some tools start from a much higher speed which can actually be dangerous if this is your first jigsaw.
Another reason is the fact that the included blade is appropriate for wood, this is a good pick as a start-up model because wood is considered the best option for beginners.
The variable speed trigger maintains controlled throughout usage.
This jigsaw features a line finder (light) which illuminates your workspace and helps you have more accurate cuts.
The smart select feature allows the tool to automatically set the orbital setting which is very convenient as it can save you a few minutes.
The bevel angle can easily be adjusted with the quick action lever.
Another feature that can be very helpful when making marks on the material (for guidance), is the pen attached to the cord. Not essential, but a little extra feature you will probably use.
Finally, this model comes with 2 years of warranty.
I rate this product 4 stars. It comes from a trustworthy company that has many years of experience.
Check out the latest price of the BLACK+DECKER JS670V here on Amazon or on Home Depot.
Look at the Owner’s Manual here.
Take a quick look at the model:
Key Features
- 6 amp motor
- 2 years of warranty
- Line finder
- Automatic orbital setting
- Built-in blade storage
- Tool-free blade change
| Pros | Cons |
| Good price | Not for tough/heavy duty work |
| Good for home tasks | |
| Easy to use |
OBest Jigsaw for Intermediate Woodworkers & DIYers (Home Use) (under $100)
The JS260 by Bosch is a good choice for those of you that have some experience with jigsaws.
The Bosch JS260 – the best intermediate woodworking jigsaw (under $100) for DIYers and Home users
The JS260 come with a 6 amp motor.
The blade length of stroke is ¾ inches and it has a cutting capacity of 2 – 11/16 inches on wood.
The blade speed can be adjusted between 500 and 3100 strokes per minute.
This model is a bit more advanced from the previous two items but still very fitting for daily tasks around your home that require a bit more power.
This model is great for intermediates because it can reach 3100 SPM which is a good speed for woodworking. Another advantage for the cause is the dust blower that keeps all the wood dust away.
This tool is a good pick to have around your home to fix small issues or to create decoration pieces.
This model was designed to keep the vibrations very low, which can really help you control it easier and make your cuts more accurate.
The model comes with four blade orbital settings which can help you control the speed and quality of your cuts. More info about orbital setting can be found in the FAQ section below.
One more thing, it comes with a dust blower to help you see where you are cutting.
The model has a large trigger which allows you to place two fingers for better comfort.
It has a lock-on button that can be useful when making long cuts and can make you feel safe when doing so. You can then focus on guiding the saw rather than keeping your finger on the trigger.
I rate this model at 4.5 stars. It is a bit more expensive than the previous models but as I said earlier, it’s more advanced.
And one last thing, it has good customer feedback.
Take a look at the latest customer reviews and the current price of the Bosch JS260 here on Amazon and on Bosch for more details.
Look at the Owner’s Manual here.
Look at this video of the JS260 by Bosch:
Key Features
- 6 amp motor
- 5.3 pounds
- Comes with carrying bag
- 500 – 3100 SPM
- ¾ stroke length
| Pros | Cons |
| Vibration is minimal | A bit hard to control |
| Precise | Not for heavy-duty jobs |
| Good design | |
| Very handy |
Best Jigsaw for Cutting Curves
The P5231 forms part of Ryobi’s One+ power tools.
The Ryobi’s One+ P5231 jigsaw – great for cutting curves
Here’s a bit about Ryobi, in case you haven’t heard it before, it was founded in 1943 and they have expanded over the years.
Let’s get on with the features:
The P5231 comes with three orbital settings. When it’s set in the slow option, cutting curves or metal is quite easy. More info about orbital setting can be found in the FAQ section below.
Ryobi makes various models
It has a built-in LED light which increases your sight and eventually your performance. This is a great feature that can be very helpful when making curve cuts as well.
Another feature is the dust blower which keeps your space clean and gives you a better vision of your work.
One thing I really like about this product is the removable base, that feature was designed so you can fully use the blade.
If you have owned a jigsaw before then you know that you never get to finish the blade because the base gets in the way. So with this option, you can utilize your blade to the maximum.
It has a lock-on trigger which is very convenient for long cuts and it allows you to fully concentrate on cutting rather than pressing the power trigger.
Let’s talk about the specifications.
This model works with Ryobi’s 18 volts batteries.
It has a variable speed ranging from 1100 SPM to 3000 SPM.
Finally, the bevel shoe is adjustable for improved performance.
I give this model 3 stars. I do think it’s a good pick for cutting curves but there are better models that can also do it and have more features.
My best advice for you when cutting curves is to use a thin blade! A thinner blade will bend more with the curve and make it easier. Just be careful that you don’t break the blade as thinner blades can also be easier to break.
Have a look at the price of the Ryobi One+ P5231 here on Amazon and on Ryobi for a few more details.
Look at the Owner’s Manual here.
You can also check out a video of the tool to see it in action:
Key Features
- 18 volts
- BladeSaver
- 1100 – 3000 SPM
- Orbital cuts
- LED light
| Pros | Cons |
| Very comfortable | The speed doesn’t start from 0 SPM |
| Easy to use | |
| Powerful | |
| Accurate |
Best Jigsaw for the Money Under $200
The JS470EB by Bosch is powered by a 7 amp motor.
The Bosch JS470EB – best jigsaw for the money!
It’s a barrel grip jigsaw.
I find the previous feature quite comfortable and easy going. If you’re looking for a jigsaw that’s quick to grab and get going then this is your best option.
The handle is covered in rubber for maximum comfort.
It has a length of stroke of 1 inch.
The maximum cutting capacity for wood is 5 – ⅞ inches and ⅞ inches for metal.
It features an internal precision control for better manoeuvrability.
It has a counterbalance mechanism which reduces vibration and thus increases your comfort and increases your accuracy.
The starting speed is 500 strokes per minute and it can reach 3100 strokes per minute.
Considering the fact that the lowest speed is 500 SPM, the model is designed to have a soft and smooth launch.
The footplate can be adjusted without any extra tools. And same goes for changing the blade.
The model comes with a built-in dust blower to keep your cutting area clean and visible.
Lastly, it has a 4 orbital setting which can be adjusted depending on the type of cut you need.
Now you’re probably wondering why this is my top pick under the $200 category.
Well for starters, it’s only one (apart from the Bosch JS470E) that can reach 3100 strokes per minute. And like I mentioned before its starting speed is 500 SPM and no other model starts from a speed other than 0 SPM. It is also a great quality model.
My guess is that if you’re looking to spend a little bit over $100 is because you are quite advanced with jigsaws, so 500 SPM won’t be an issue for you.
Overall, I rate this model 4.5 stars. It has great customer reviews that seem to be very satisfied with this model.
I do have to tell you that it only comes with a year of warranty, which isn’t much.
Go check out the latest reviews and current price of the Bosch JS470EB here on Amazon and on Bosch for further details.
Have a look at the model in this video:
Key Features
- 7 amp motor
- Tool-less blade change
- Smooth operation
- 500 – 3100 SPM
- Includes carrying case
| Pros | Cons |
| Powerful | Only 1 year of warranty |
| Easy to control | Doesn’t accept U shank blades |
| Long cord |
Best Jigsaw for a Professional Woodworking Shop
The PSB 420 EBQ by Festool is a top of the line tool but it also has one of the highest prices of all of the models that I have listed here.
The PSB 420 EBQ by Festool – The best professional jigsaw for a woodworking workshop
So unless you have a big budget, this isn’t the jigsaw you’re looking for.
Let me tell a bit about Festool, they’re a German company that was founded in 1925. They are world renowned for the quality of their power tools and their technology/engineering of dust extraction.
The power consumption of this model is 400 watts which is equivalent to 3.333 amps.
The model has powerful a brushless motor that can comfortably work with challenging materials in the toughest conditions.
There are multiple reasons why I consider this model the best fit for professionals in woodworking shops.
First of all, this model starts from 1000 SPM and can reach 3800 strokes per minute, which is the fastest of all the models listed here!
It has an interchangeable base that can be switched accordingly to the material at use. The base can also be set at a butterfly-style angle which is very convenient for professionals and it’s a feature very few models include.
Watch the video to really understand how functional this model really is:
The blade can be replaced without any tools.
It has triple blade guidance for accurate cuts. And a splinter guard that can be used for tear-free cuts.
Another great feature is the 4 LED stroboscopic lights that highly illuminate your workspace for improved work.
The model has a thermal and overload indicator that protects your tool from any damage, I personally like this feature because it prolongs the tool’s life.
The model has an adjustable chip/saw dust catcher that can be placed up or down at preference for extreme dust extraction.
It has a length of blade stroke of 1.02 inches.
I rate this model 4.5 stars. Festool is a world renowned company with top of the line power tools like this one. This really is a top of the line tool with almost everything you could ever want and more in a professional jigsaw. However, it is expensive. Works best when used with genuine Festool blades.
Check out the current price of the Festool PSB 420 EBQ here on Amazon.
Here’s the Owner’s Manual.
Key Features
- 400 watts
- 4.19 pounds
- 3 years of warranty
- 4 LED stroboscopic lights
- Interchangeable base system
| Pros | Cons |
| Dust extractor | Very expensive |
| Long cord | Some trouble with blade removal |
| Lightweight | |
| Soft start |
Best Jigsaw for Contractors & other Construction Professionals
The DCS331B by DEWALT is my top recommendation for contractors and professionals.
The DCS331B by DEWALT – Best jigsaw for contractors and professionals
Dewalt is known by many, but here’s their background: they are an American company which was founded back in 1924. They manufacture tools for constructions and woodworking industries.
The DCS331B has a 4 orbital cut setting which can be adjusted for better control.
This model is a cordless jigsaw that works with 20 volts batteries.
It has a variable speed that ranges between 0 SPM and 3000 SPM.
I consider that the previous ranges are very useful for professionals because they work with materials such as wood and aluminum which require a big difference in blade speeds.
This model has a shoe that can be set at 0°, 15°, 30°, and 45°; this is quite important as well because professionals tend to require different angles when working.
One more thing, the removable shoe comes with a cover in order to prevent the material from accidental scratches; this is quite crucial for contractors because they are getting paid to deliver top quality work.
It comes with a tool-less blade change that makes the process quick and easy.
The model was designed with an anti-slip grip in order to keep you comfortable and safe during work.
DEWALT Orbital Settings
The jigsaw comes with two blades, one for woodworking and the other for metals.
DEWALT model
Another important thing that contractors should look for in a jigsaw is a dust blower, and this model does indeed come with one in order to keep a clear sight of your work.
Lastly, the length of stroke of this model is 1 inch.
I give this model 4.5 stars. It has outstanding customer feedback, and it’s made from a reliable company that won’t let you down.
Have a look at the latest customer reviews and the current price of the DEWALT DCS331B here on Amazon; and on DEWALT for a few more details.
One more thing I wanted to mention, it comes with 3 years of warranty!
Look at the Owner’s Manual here.
Key Features
- 20 volts
- 0 – 3000 SPM
- Orbital action
- Dust blower
- 5.4 pounds
| Pros | Cons |
| Lightweight | Base can become loose sometimes |
| Quick blade change | |
| Powerful |
Best Cordless Jigsaw
The WX550L by WORX is my top pick as the best cordless jigsaw.
The WX550L by WORX – A great cordless jigsaw
Unlike many of the previous companies I have mentioned, WORX does not have a very long history, but they have come a long way in a short time.
The WX550L is a versatile model as it can be used as a jigsaw and reciprocating saw!
Yes, you get two tools in one.
The model works with 20 volts batteries.
It has a built-in dust blower which keeps your sight clear and increases your accuracy.
A feature I really like is the blade acceptance option, you can use blades from any brand!
I honestly think this option is great because you can’t always find a specific blade; and it can even save you the time of looking.
Not to mention the fact that you can use blades you already own without having to purchase new ones.
The motor of the tool is placed on its side which keeps the tool running smooth and constant.
The model has an orbital mode for challenging tasks.
It comes with a variable speed trigger that can be adjusted up to 3000 strokes per minute.
It has a length of blade stroke of ¾ inches.
Now let’s get on with why I consider this model the best cordless option.
Taking in count all the cordless models in the article, these are my observations:
The WORX WX550L is more powerful than the Ryobi One+ P5231 and the Milwaukee 2645-20.
This model reaches 3000 strokes per minute while the BLACK+DECKER BDCJS20C and BDCJS20B only reach 2500 SPM.
Now comparing it to the DEWALT DCS331B, you may have noticed that the specifications are pretty much the same. So why is the WX550L better?
Well, remember that this model isn’t only a jigsaw, but a reciprocating saw as well.
I highly recommend this tool if you’re looking for a cordless option, you would only have to buy one tool and it’s a lot easier to store too!
I give this model 4.5 stars. It has good customer reviews and great features.
Make sure you check out the most recent reviews and the current price of the WORX WX550L here on Amazon and on WORX for more information.
Have a look at how the model works:
Key Features
- Jigsaw and reciprocating saw
- 20 volts
- Accepts any blade
- Dust blower
- 4.6 pounds
| Pros | Cons |
| Powerful | Instructions aren’t very clear |
| Good battery life | Not for tough jobs |
| Great for wood |
Related: Best Reciprocating Saws
Best Corded Jigsaw
The JS470E by Bosch has on a 7 amp motor.
The JS470E by Bosch
This model has a variable speed control that can be adjusted from 500 SPM to 3100 SPM.
It has a 4 orbital setting which can be changed around for smooth or rough cuts.
The model comes with a low vibration design in order to improve your accuracy and precision.
It comes with a built-in dust blower that can be activated with a switch.
In terms of comfort, this model is designed with soft handles grip areas which is great for long hours of work.
If you had a close look at the comparison table, you may have noticed that the specifications of this model are nearly the same as the Bosch JS470EB. But what’s the main difference?
The JS470E is a D-shaped model meanwhile the JS470EB is a barrel grip jigsaw.
The previous feature is all about personal comfort, some of you might feel more comfortable with the usual D-shaped jigsaw but a barrel grip is an alternative option.
The tool’s cutting capacity for aluminium is 0.875 inches and 5 – ⅞ inches for soft wood.
Here’s the big question: why is this the best corded jigsaw?
For starters, the JS470E (and the JS470EB) is the most powerful corded model from the review.
You may have realized that the PORTER-CABLE PCE345 can reach 3200 strokes per minute while the JS470E can get to 3100 SPM; but the PCE345 has a length of stroke of 13/16 inches meanwhile the JS470E has a full inch.
I rate this model 4.5 stars. I definitely think it’s a top class pick with great reviews.
One thing I’m not very happy about is the fact that it only comes with 1 year of warranty.
Go look at the latest customer reviews and the current price of the Bosch JS470E here on Amazon and on Bosch for more information.
Look at the Owner’s Manual here.
Key Features
- 7 amp motor
- Variable speed control
- Onboard storage
- 4 Orbital action
- 5.6 pounds
| Pros | Cons |
| Comes with case | A bit pricey |
| Powerful | |
| Very comfortable |
Best Jigsaw – Comparison Table
Compare all the models mentioned here side by side.
| Model | Rating | Power | Stroke Length | Speed | Warranty | Price |
| BLACK+DECKER BDEJS600C | 5 stars | 5 amps corded | ¾ inches | 0- 3000 SPM | 2 years | $ |
| SKIL 4495-02 | 4 stars | 6 amps corded | ¾ inches | Variable Speed | 1 year | $ |
| Tacklife PJS02A | 4 stars | 6.7 amps corded | ⅞ inches | 1-6 Dial Adjustment | 2 years | $ |
| BLACK+DECKER BDCJS20B | 4 stars | 20 volts cordless | ¾ inches | 0- 2500 SPM | 2 years | $ |
| BLACK+DECKER JS670V | 4 stars | 6 amps corded | 13/16 inches | 0- 3000 SPM | 2 years | $ |
| PORTER-CABLE PCE345 | 4.5 stars | 6 amps corded | 13/16 inches | 0- 3200 SPM | 3 years | $$ |
| Bosch JS260 | 4.5 stars | 6 amps corded | ¾ inches | 500 – 3100 SPM | 1 year | $$ |
| Ryobi One+ P5231 | 3 stars | 18 volts cordless | 1 inch | 1100 – 3000 SPM | 3 years | $$ |
| DEWALT DCS331B | 4.5 stars | 20 volts cordless | 1 inch | 0 – 3000 SPM | 3 years | $$$ |
| Festool PSB 420 EBQ | 4.5 stars | 400 watts (3.333 amps) corded | 1.02 inch | 1000 – 3800 SPM | 3 years | $$$$$ |
| WORX WX550L | 4.5 stars | 20 volts cordless | ¾ inches | 0 – 3000 SPM | 3 years | $$$ |
| Bosch JS470E | 4.5 stars | 7 amps corded | 1 inch | 500 – 3100 SPM | 1 year | $$$ |
| Bosch JS470EB | 4.5 stars | 7 amps corded | 1 inch | 500 – 3100 SPM | 1 year | $$$ |
| BLACK+DECKER BDCJS20C | 4 stars | 20 volts cordless | ¾ inches | 0- 2500 SPM | 2 years | $$ |
| Makita 4329K | 4.5 stars | 3.9 amps corded | 11/16 inches | 500 – 3100 SPM | 1 year | $$ |
| TECCPO TAJS01P | 4 stars | 6.5 amps corded | ¾ inches | 0- 3000 SPM | 2 years | $$ |
| Festool 561443 PS 300 EQ | 4 stars | 6 amps corded | 1 inch | 1000 – 2900 SPM | 3 years | $$$$ |
| Milwaukee 2645-20 | 4 stars | 18 volts cordless | 1 inch | 0 – 2700 SPM | 5 years | $$$ |
Jigsaws FAQ Answered
What Are Jigsaws for?
Jigsaws are used for cutting lumber, hardwoods, metals, aluminum amongst others. You will find a jigsaw in every construction site as it’s a very high demand because of how easy it is to use. Jigsaws are used on a flat platform, they can make straight long cuts and curved ones as well. They can even make bevel cuts.
What is an Orbital Setting on a Jigsaw used for?
When a jigsaw comes with an orbital setting, it means that the blade can be set to move in a circular motion when cutting. Meanwhile a normal stroke moves the blade straight up and down. The orbital cutting cuts much faster as the circular motion moves a lot of the saw dust out of the cut as it moves. However, the orbital motion also results in a rougher cut.
Which Jigsaw Blade to Use for Wood?
Many of you may be wondering about the different types of blades. Let me describe the appropriate blade you should get to work with wood.
For starters, I recommend carbon steel blades. Woodworking blades typically have fewer teeth (around 21) than metal cutting blades (which have around 24).
Since woodworking blades have fewer teeth, it means they will cut faster but you have to keep in mind that your work will have rough finishes.
Wood vs Metal Jigsaw Blades
If you want to cut wood you will need a completely different jigsaw blade than if you want to cut metal. Here are some of the different characteristics of the different types of blades.
| Wood Blades | Metal Blades |
| 21 teeth | 24 teeth or more |
| Carbon steel | Bi-metal |
| Cut flexible and soft materials | Cut harder materials |
| Wear out faster | Last 10 times longer |
What is the Best Jigsaw Blade for Cutting Plywood (e.g. marine ply)?
The best jigsaw blade to cut plywood is the Bosch Wood T-Shank Jig Saw Blades.
The Bosch Wood T-Shank Jig Saw Blades. Perfect for cutting plywood.
These blades have small needle like teeth perfect for plywood that cut both on the upstroke and down stroke.
How to cut plywood with a jigsaw without splintering and tearing?
A common problem when cutting plywood is splintering and tearing. There are a few things that you can do to reduce or stop this:
- Tip 1. Use the right blade for plywood, and make sure that it’s sharp. See the FAQ above for info on the right blade.
- Tip 2. Cover both sides of the plywood with some wide masking tape. Draw your cutting line on top of the masking tape and cut with the masking tape on.
- Tip 3. Instead of masking tap use a backing board (wood) clamped to your plywood where the tear out (chipping) is happening. Liker the masking tape the backing broad will help hold the chips in.
- Tip 4. Score (cut the top layer) the cutting line with a knife or box cutter before you cut the plywood.
- Tip 5. Turn off the orbital cutting action on the jigsaw. Orbital cuts are quicker but rougher than cuts that are strait up and down.
What is the Best Jigsaw Blade to Cut Laminate Flooring?
The best jigsaw blade to cut laminate floors is the Bosch Laminate Flooring Jigsaw Blade.
The Bosch Laminate Flooring Jigsaw Blades. Perfect for cutting laminate flooring and other hard materials.
These blades have a length of 3.25 inches and a thickness of 0.0625 inches.
They have 20 teeth per inch and come in a package of 3.
You may be wondering what makes these such good blades for laminate flooring.
Well, they are specially optimised for hardwood and laminate floor boarding materials. These are bi-metal blades and are a lot stronger than ordinary blades.
The BLACK+DECKER BDCJS20C vs the Milwaukee 2645-20
These models are both cordless but the Black&Decker model works with 20 volts and the Milwaukee model is powered by 18 volts batteries.
Yes, the BDCJS20C is more powerful than the Milwaukee model but get this:
The Milwaukee 2645-20 has a length of stroke on an inch while the other model has a length of stroke of ¾ inches.
And another thing, the Milwaukee product reaches 2700 strokes per minute meanwhile the other one only reaches 2500 SPM.
Get this: the 2645-20 by Milwaukee comes with 5 years of warranty and it’s the only product in the review to do so!
Lastly, you should know that the Milwaukee model is a bit more expensive than the BDCJS20C.
| BLACK+DECKER BDCJS20C | Milwaukee 2645-20 |
| 20 volts | 18 volts |
| ¾ inches stroke length | 1 inch stroke length |
| 0 – 2500 SPM | 0 – 2700 SPM |
| 2 years of warranty | 5 years of warranty |
Check out the BLACK+DECKER BDCJS20C and the Milwaukee 2645-20 for more details here on Amazon.
The Makita 4329K vs the Festool 561443 PS 300 EQ
These two corded jigsaws are designed by great companies.
Let’s start the comparison:
The Makita 4329K runs on a 3.9 motor and the Festool 561443 PS 300 EQ works on a 6 amp motor.
The length of stroke of the Makita model is 11/16 inches and the Festool model has a stroke length of a whole inch.
The 4329K can reach 3100 SPM and the other model can only get to 2900 SPM. But here’s the thing, the Makita model starts from 500 SPM while the other starts from 1000 SPM.
If I’m being honest, 1000 strokes per minute is quite a challenge as a starting speed but considering the price of the model, it’s obviously for professional workers.
Another plus about the Festool model, it comes with 3 years of warranty while the Makita item comes with just 1 year.
| Makita 4329K | Festool 561443 PS 300 EQ |
| 3.9 amp motor | 6 amp motor |
| 11/16 inches stroke length | 1 inch stroke length |
| 500 – 3100 SPM | 1000 – 2900 SPM |
| 1 year of warranty | 3 years of warranty |
Take a look at the Makita 4329K and the Festool 561443 PS 300 EQ here on Amazon for more information.
Conclusion
This marks the end of the article. I hope I accomplished my goal of helping you choose a new jigsaw and answered your questions. Remember to read through every detail of the model you’re hoping to buy.
Here again are some of my top picks:
- for a Professional Woodworking Shop: Festool PSB 420 EBQ
- for Contractors & other Construction Professionals: DEWALT DCS331B
- Affordable [Cheap] (under $50): BLACK+DECKER BDEJS600C
- for Beginners (DIY & Home Use): BLACK+DECKER JS670V
- for Intermediate Woodworkers & DIYers (Home Use) (under $100): BoschJS260
Go get it!
Share this Post
