Best Jigsaws ǀ Full Review

Carpenters, contractors, and DIY enthusiasts need a good quality jigsaw. These power tools can cut through just about any material with the correct blade. The best jigsaw will allow you to cut detailed curves with high precision. This means you can create shapely and elegant furniture, cut the correct curves and holes for fittings when tiling, and install items like sinks into countertops perfectly.

A jigsaw is a small handheld reciprocating saw with a flat base plate. Unlike large reciprocating saws, a jigsaw uses a small blade for better precision. They are excellent for cutting into flat boards, tiles, and countertops of any description. A variety of blade designs also mean you can cut metal and plastic.

A jigsaw blade can be one of many shapes and sizes, with varying widths and teeth per inch (TPI). The teeth shape and TPI will determine the cutting speed, material type, and the quality of the cut. A blade that cuts at greater speed, will usually leave a rougher edge. The width of the blade affects speed and accuracy. A wider jigsaw blade will allow you to work faster. Whereas a narrow blade is better suited for detailed work, cutting smaller curves with better precision.

Our Review of the Best Jigsaws.

For this review, we’ve selected some of the very best jigsaws. At the top of the list, for professionals seeking the ultimate jigsaw, we have the Festool Carvex PSB 420 EBQ. Festool is recognized as the number one brand for professional woodworkers and is, therefore, more expensive than all the other jigsaw brands featured in this review. For a good level of professional features and great quality, as well as cordless convenience (at a more reasonable price), my top choice would be the DeWalt DCS334B 20V MAX jigsaw. There are a few other high-end jigsaws in this review that can rank amongst the best. With brands like Makita, Milwaukee, and Bosch, professionals and the more selective DIY enthusiast are certainly spoilt for choice.

If you’re more of a casual home DIYer, do not despair. I have found a couple of great, reasonably cheap jigsaws for less demanding users. The Black & Decker BDEJS600C is probably one of the most popular of the better quality DIY jigsaws. I’d also highly recommend the Skil 4495-02. Although a bit more expensive than the Black & Decker jigsaw, the Skil alternative is a wonderful crossover between a top of the line professional tool and a more affordable home user option.

With this variety of options, you’re guaranteed to find the best jigsaw for your personal requirements, at a price that should suit your budget. Like all the products I review, I’ve put in a great deal of research, along with my personal knowledge and experience, to ensure that the jigsaws reviewed here are the best options in terms of quality and usability. I always attempt to look for the best value, for both the cheaper and more expensive tools.

Festool Carvex PSB 420 EBQ (561608)

Features:

• Variable speed blade speed with extremely fast max 3,800 strokes per minute
• Tool-free base and base insert platform for expanded capabilities
• Triple blade guidance for perfectly perpendicular cuts and splinter guards for tear-free cuts
• Stroboscopic high-intensity LEDs for high blade visibility
• Brushless motor technology for light weight, more power and longer service life
• Includes: 2 X high-quality jigsaw blades; Splintergaurd and Systainer SYS3 M37 modular storage system.

Review:

Paying over $400 for a corded electric jigsaw may not be everyone’s idea of a good deal. The Festool Carvex PSB 420 EQB-PLUS, a cordless version of the same jigsaw, is even more expensive. Those who are familiar with the Festool brand know what you’re getting for your money. The Festool Carvex PSB 420 EQB has to be crowned the undisputed king of jigsaws. There’s a good reason why exacting professionals swear by this high-end German brand.

Some may be surprised to find that the Festool Carvex jigsaw is only rated at 400W. One would expect a high-end professional jigsaw to be closer to 700W. We must never underestimate the skill of German engineers when it comes to exquisite gearboxes. Thanks to this ingenuity, the lightweight, seemingly underpowered, Festool jigsaw delivers an astronomical 3,800 strokes per minute. The high-performance brushless motor also provides a lot more torque than it’s watt consumption would suggest. This jigsaw can chew through thick, hard material like few others, and in record time. Cutting depth specs are at the top of the scale: ³⁄₈” for steel, 4¾” wood, and ¾” for non-ferrous metals (like aluminum). Now for the almost unbelievable part, the Festool Carvex weighs only 4.19 pounds. Just about the best cutting capacity and speed, at this weight, is almost a miracle of engineering prowess.

The Festool non-marring base is magnificent, it moves smoothly and won’t leave a single mark or scratch, even on really soft material. You also have an enormous selection of bases that are super quick and easy to change. The Angle base, in particular, is an amazing accessory. With perfect ease, you can adjust the plate to allow a perfect bevel cut. The butterfly design is far superior to the usual base tilt bevel setup. The jigsaw base fits around the corner, offering faultless precision with the greatest of ease. This can be a great time saver, you don’t need to use compound miter saw first, then haul out the jigsaw. There are a bunch of additional bases too, for absolutely every application you can think of.

Working with the Festool PSB 420 EQB is like any Festool saw I have ever had the pleasure of using. It is an experience that borders on the sublime. The super sensitive trigger switch is large and perfectly positioned on the large handle, which is designed and molded for ultimate user comfort. You have perfect speed control, and the advanced electronic controls offer several options for the perfect power settings. MMC Electronics take the hassle out of using your jigsaw, offering variable speed, with constant speed under load, as well as protection from overload or overheating, and an automatic mode. If you don’t want adjustable speed control, you don’t need to hold onto the trigger while you work. You can set your blade speed with a dial and then use the on/off switch, the saw will maintain the constant speed setting that you’ve selected.

The splinter guard does exactly what it’s supposed to, with true Festool finesse. I’ve always admired Festool saws for their perfectly smooth splinter-free cuts. The Festool Carvex jigsaw has not disappointed in this regard. They also supply the best blades for every type of cut in just about any material. The 3-point blade guide is nothing short of superb. The blade always remains perpendicular to the cutting surface with legendary German, zero-tolerance precision.

The dust extraction port is long tube that extrudes from the machine. While this may look a little awkward, there is good reason for this. It can be adjusted to suit your working position. You can adjust the orbital motion easily with a switch at the blade, much like any jigsaw with multiple orbital settings. This gives the perfect blade motion for the material and type of cutting action.

Now when you’re buying one of the most expensive jigsaws available, you want to know that it will be reliable and accurate for a very long time. Personally, I feel the Festool brand says it all. These tools are not only amongst the most durable, they remain accurate and easy to use for ages. Even though this is a remarkably lightweight jigsaw, it feels solid and all the components, like switches and dials, give a sense of ultimate confidence in the product. Plenty of perfectly machined aluminum and plastics that seem indestructible make this a long-term investment.

From this review, it’s clear that I absolutely love the Festool Carvex PSB 420 EQB. Who wouldn’t, it’s an excellent jigsaw. I don’t think anyone will disagree, it’s the absolute best there is. Now for the big surprise. I wouldn’t buy this jigsaw. I know Carvex OSB 420 EQB is probably the best there is, and worth every penny. Though for a DIY woodworker, doing mostly home improvement jobs, the price does not justify the type of work I do.

I can fully understand why a master craftsman, professional or hobbyist, would want a jigsaw like the Festool PSB 420 EQB. Contractors, who only buy the best saws, will also appreciate this jigsaw. There are people for whom the high price tag is not a deterrent. As a more average kind of carpenter, I simply can’t bring myself to pay this kind of money, when there are excellent (more affordable) options. Sure the others cannot, in all earnest, claim to be up to Festool standards, but perfectly fine for an average Joe like me.

DeWalt DCS334B 20V MAX XR Jigsaw

Features:

• Brushless motor delivers efficient performance for longer runtime
• Compact size for easy grip and maximum control
• Bright LED light helps to illuminate dimly lit work surfaces
• Variable speed trigger and dial provide precise speed control
• All-metal, lever-action keyless blade change allows for quick and easy t-shank blade changes
• Integrated dust blower helps clear line of sight while cutting
• 4-position orbital action provides control of cut quality and speed
• All-metal, keyless shoe bevel with detents at 0°, 15°, 30°, and a positive stop at 45° for easy adjustment
• No-mar shoe cover to help protect work surface from scratches
• Accepts t-shank jig saw blades for optimal holding power and professional results

Review:

While the Festool Carvex Jigsaw may be number one on my wish list of ultimate woodworking tools, the DeWalt DCS334B would be my real-world first choice.  This is very much a matter of personal preference. I’m sure there are many who would rate the Milwaukee, Makita, and Bosch jigsaws as equal, possibly even better, machines. It’s just that I’m a long term devotee of DeWalt XR tools. Whichever way you look at it, the DeWalt DCS334B is a mighty fine jigsaw. For a high-end cordless jigsaw, with sophisticated brushless technology, the price is very competitive. In my opinion, a genuinely fantastic deal.

Putting aside my obvious bias in favor of the brand, the DeWalt DCS334B has everything we look for in the best jigsaw. Power is well above the norm, with an amazing 3,200 SPM and four orbital settings. This is a cordless jigsaw that can confidently take on any of the corded machines on every level.

The base is great, with a removable shoe cover. It’s really easy to set bevel cuts, with 4 positive stops – 0°, 15°, 30°, and 45°. Admittedly, this is not as amazing as the Festool wrap-around butterfly design. The DeWalt bevel adjustment tilts the entire base in one flat unit. This is the most common way of doing things. Festool, as is so often the case, has exceeded the norm with their fantastic design.

The DeWalt XR jigsaw has an easy to use speed adjustment dial at the top of the beautifully molded handle. You can toggle the speed setting, using your thumb, without releasing your normal grip on the machine. The trigger switch is designed for ultimate user comfort and provides exacting control over the blade speed.

It has a port to connect to a dust extraction vacuum neatly molded into the base. The DeWalt DCS334B also has a built in dust blower, clearing sawdust away from the cutline. In some ways, this is more convenient. The onboard dust blower might not be as powerful as a shop vac or dust extractor, it still does a pretty good job of ensuring a clear path for the cutline. What I like about this setup is that you don’t have a vacuum pipe to deal with. You also don’t need to lug a shop vac around with you on a jobsite. Cordless and no vacuum hose, that’s the ultimate in working freedom.  A bright LED light makes it even easier to see what’s going on.

Blade changes are effortless. You only need to flip a metal lever to release the T-shank blade and push the lever down once the new blade is slotted into position. The compact design is wonderful, and this is a lightweight tool, only 4.7 pounds. Though we also need to consider the extra weight and bulk of the battery when discussing cordless tools. Depending on which 20V MAX (or FlexVolt) battery you’re using, you can expect an actual weight of around 6-pounds.

If you prefer cordless tools, the DeWalt DCS334B 20V MAX XR jigsaw is bound to catch your attention. This is a tough tool. That’s something we’ve come to expect from the brand. It’s powerful and the XR brushless motor, with electronic management, ensures the best power delivery right up to the last drop of battery charge. I love DeWalt service. Added to this, their 3-year warranty, 90-day money back guarantee, and 1-year free service plan is a compelling reason to trust the brand. When it comes to consumer confidence, 4.9 stars from over 1,500 customer ratings (on Amazon) is about as good as it gets. It seems I’m not the only one rating the DeWalt DCS334B as the best jigsaw available.

Skil 4495-02 6A Jigsaw

Features:

• Powerful 6.0 Amp motor
• Built-in laser guide for accurate straight cuts
• 4-position orbital cut control for fast or smooth cuts
• Variable speed trigger adjusts speed to cut
• Custom molded tool rest design to prevent blade from damaging material
• Tool-less blade change accepts both t- and u- shank blades
• Tool-less foot adjustment for easy angle changes
• On-tool blade storage keeps blades handy when needed

Review:

I’ve chosen the Skil 4495-02 as a sort of mid-priced option. There are much cheaper offerings from the brand, like the Skil JS314901 or Skil JS313101. Though, if you’re considering these really cheap Skil jigsaws, I’d prefer to recommend the Black & Decker BDEJS600C. You’ll find the review for the Black & Decker jigsaw lower down the page. This is, in my view, the best light-duty DIY jigsaw.

Some may see the Skil 4495-02 as a bit of a compromise. It is not quite up there with the top jigsaws, while not as cheap as many of the inexpensive DIY machines. I see it differently. I would certainly classify this as a DIY jigsaw. It is not a heavy-duty professional machine. Though it is not as flimsy as the really cheap jigsaws. Let’s say this is one of best quality homeowner, or light commercial jigsaws. The Skil 4495-02 is not as refined as the expensive models, the cut may not be as clean on brittle plywood. It can, however, compete with the high-end brands when it comes to features and ease of use. A compromise maybe, but a good one if you want an above average DIY jigsaw.

The Skil 4495-02 6A jigsaw has most of the cool stuff that you’ll find on high-end professional jigsaws. It has a laser guidance system and 4-postion oscillation at the flip of a switch. Tool-free blade changes and base adjustments are a great time saver. The handle is wonderfully designed for low vibration and general user comfort, with good trigger switch. It also has the type of power that comes close to the best jigsaws, certainly better than the average home-user tool.

Where the Skil 4495-02 displays its more DIY characteristics is in the design of the base and blade guidance. While the base is a step up from the average cheap jigsaw, it cannot match the high-end tools. The blade guide is okay, certainly not the best. For general DIY jobs, like cutting into a countertop to fit a sink, it’s perfectly fine. If you’re doing more detailed precision carpentry, blade tolerance may be an issue. I’d prefer A jigsaw with some form of dust extraction, it helps with visibility and maintaining slip-free contact with the work surface. The absence of dust extraction on the Skil 4495-02 is a little disappointing. A nice little extra feature though, is the onboard storage for blades.

For the DIYer who enjoys home improvement projects, I reckon the Skil 4495-02 6A jigsaw is a fantastic machine, at a reasonable price. General durability is better than I would expect for a DIY power tool. Functions and accuracy may not be professional grade, but a darn side better than most cheap jigsaws. Not the very best but well above average.

Milwaukee 2445-20

Features:

• Compact and Lightweight – Only 3.8 LBS and 8.75″ long
• Maximum Control – Innovative Hybrid Grip design delivers greater control by bringing the grip closer to the material with a variable speed trigger
• Powerful Cutting – 3/4″ Stroke length & 0-2,800 SPM for fast and controlled cutting through various materials
• Quick Changes – Quik-Lok T-Shank blade clamp and tool-free 45° bevel capability with positive lock at 90°
• Smooth Cutting – Designed to minimize vibration by keeping the weight over the cutting area
• LED Light and Fuel Gauge – Illuminates the cut line and displays remaining run-time
• Nonmarring shoe protects material surface for beautiful finishes

Review:

It’s unusual to find a review of a Milwaukee tool vs DeWalt, where the Milwaukee option is the cheaper one. So, to some, comparing the DeWalt DCS334B vs Milwaukee 2445-20 price may come a surprise. The Milwaukee jigsaw is cheaper. For those who know the difference between Milwaukee M12 and M12 Fuel (or M18 FUEL), the price difference will make better sense.

Like DeWalt, Milwaukee have both brushed and brushless cordless tools. A power tool with a brushless motor is always going to be more expensive than one with an old-fashioned motor that uses brushes. The latter is not as efficient, durable, or powerful. Milwaukee make this distinction by using the FUEL trademark. DeWalt do the same, with the XR range. The Milwaukee 2445-20 M12 is not a FUEL model. This is why it is noticeably cheaper. Perhaps, a better comparison might be the Milwaukee (MLW273720) M18 FUEL Jigsaw. Even this model is a little cheaper than the DeWalt model that I’ve reviewed above. Though I believe that DeWalt jigsaw is, by far, the better choice. This is why I’ve decided to include the Milwaukee M12 jigsaw. It is one of the cheapest jigsaws amongst high-end professional brands. It’s all about providing the best variety of options.

Okay, so the Milwaukee 2445-20 M12 is not the most powerful cordless jigsaw. It may not have the best battery time, but Milwaukee RED LITHIUM batteries are superb. Above all, this is Milwaukee cordless tool, so you’re getting a great tool from one of the most admired US brands. All this for around $170.

Now, when I say the Milwaukee M12 jigsaw is not the most powerful, that’s only when compared to the top brushless cordless tools. When compared to other cordless jigsaws in this price range, the Milwaukee is the supreme champion. With 0 – 2,800 SPM variable speed, and a ¾” stroke length, this is no Mickey Mouse machine. For electricians, HVAC technicians, and plumbers, it is possibly the best tool for the job. This has a lot to do with the compact, extremely lightweight design. The Milwaukee 2445-20 weighs only 3.8 pounds, with a total length of only 8.75”. When using the M12 compact battery, very little weight (or length) is added.

The solid aluminum base is as good as any Milwaukee jigsaw. Perfectly engineered, with a removable non-marring shoe. It has tool-free bevel adjustment up to 45°, with a positive stop at 90° and clear markings for common bevel angles. Inserting the T-Shank blades is also perfectly simple, without the need for any tools.

The Milwaukee jigsaw includes an anti-splinter insert and has a sublimely smooth cutting action. An LED illuminates the cutline, always a great advantage. The handle design is the best for a lightweight jigsaw for single hand use. The hybrid design offers the advantage of tube handle with some of the stability that you get from a D-Shape handle. It also has immaculate vibration control, with the added luxury of ample padding on the handle. I really like the solid blade guide with a high level of precision. This may a cheap tool, by Milwaukee standards, it still has all the hallmarks of true Milwaukee engineering and durability. Though I have to say, I prefer the aluminum body of the DeWalt XR jigsaw to the more extensive use of plastic for all the Milwaukee models. Maybe this is just my dislike for plastic used in the manufacture of power tools.

Few brands instill the kind of confidence that one gets from Milwaukee. Even though the Milwaukee 2445-20 M12 jigsaw is relatively inexpensive, it is a Milwaukee power tool. That counts for a lot. You have all the benefits of buying from a brand that has staked their reputation on being the top dog. Not to mention, the best warranty in the business – an incredible 5-years.

Makita JV0600K

Features:

• 5 AMP motor and 3 orbital settings plus straight cutting deliver faster and more accurate cuts in a variety of materials
• Variable speed control dial (500-3,100 SPM) enables user to match the speed to the application
• Through-the-body dust port for use with a vacuum provides efficient dust management
• Counterbalance system for reduced vibration
• “Tool-less” blade change system for fast blade installation and removal
• Low profile design engineered for improved handling in compact areas
• Well-balance design (only 5.2 lbs.) for reduced operator fatigue
• Die-cast aluminum housing base for added durability
• Built-in dust blower clears the line of cut for increased accuracy
• Ergonomic rubberized grip and 2-finger trigger for increased comfort
• Die-cast aluminum base adjusts from 0° – 45° right or left
• On-board wrench for fast bevel adjustments
• Lock-on button for continuous operation
• Uses “T” shank blades (Tang shank)

Review:

Most power tool reviewers discuss the DeWalt vs Milwaukee contest with endless enthusiasm. Somehow, Makita is often overlooked. In my experience, Makita tools have been amongst the toughest I’ve owned. It seems only fitting to review a Makita options as one of the best jigsaws. Unlike the DeWalt and Milwaukee jigsaws, reviewed above, the Makita JV0600K is a corded tool, making it more affordable for such a distinguished power tool brand.

The 6.5A electric motor provides the Makita with immense power. Few compact jigsaws can match this one when it comes to cutting prowess for any material. With a variable speed of 500 – 3,100 SPM it can rival the very best. A variable speed dial and huge trigger switch give you exacting control at all times. With a lock for the switch for continuous speed without holding the trigger.

The Makita JV600K has all the easy to use features that can be found on a high-end jigsaw. A tool-free mechanism for changing the T-Shank blades and easy bevel angle adjustments match up to any of the best tools in this review. You can adjust the bevel angle to the left or right (up to 45°) which can be more convenient when compared to most that only have bevel adjustments to one side. The perfectly machined base and really fantastic blade guide are also top-notch. It has a port to connect a vacuum hose and a built-in dust blower. This is a feature that I find incredibly useful. It blows sawdust away from the blade, keeping the cutline visible at all times. This saw does not have an LED light, like many of the others. Though, if I were to choose between a dust blower and work light, my vote goes with the dust blower.  

This machine is fairly lightweight at 5.2-pounds. Not bad at all for a robust, high-powered jigsaw. A fantastic weight balance, great handle, and low-vibration, make it a wonderfully easy tool to use. Everything is pretty straightforward, the 4-position oscillation switch is where you’d expect, at the bottom near the blade and has indents, allowing you to feel when you’ve found your setting without looking down.

The Makita JV600K 6.5A corded jigsaw is built to last, with solid aluminum gearbox housing and base. It is super powerful, with a capacity of 3½” for cutting wood, and ³⁄₈” for steel. An ultimately reliable machine, with the regular Makita 3-year warranty, this is a great tool for very application. It also includes a tough case for transporting the jigsaw.

Black & Decker BDEJS600C 5A Jigsaw

Features:

• Curve Control technology, allowing you to adjust the saw’s Orbit in 1 of 4 customized settings to help complete your specific project
• 5 Amp variable-speed motor generates up to 3,000 SPM of cutting power
• Adjustable shoe for a stable cutting platform
• Improved Wire Guard provides clear line of sight for precise cuts
• Makes bevel cuts of up to 45 degrees

Review:

The Black & Decker BDEJS600C has to be the best jigsaw under $100. If you’re lucky to buy it at the Amazon discount price, it’s the bargain of the century. When researching this review, the Black & Decker BDEJS600C was advertised at just over 30 bucks on Amazon. I can’t think of a better deal.

This is my first choice as the best DIY jigsaw. For more demanding tasks, like exceptionally hard material, the 5A Black and Decker jigsaw may be a little underpowered. Though I’ve found it to be perfectly adequate for home projects. In general, it outperforms all others in this price range and some that cost considerably more. The variable blade speed of up to 3,000 SPM immediately caught my attention, this is a pretty high spec level.

The Black & Decker 5A jigsaw is a practical and easy to use tool. Blade changes are quick and simple, you press down on a solid U-shaped lever on the blade mechanism. Adjusting the base for bevel cuts (up to 45°) is just as easy. The base is exceptionally smooth and well-made. A far cry from the general expectations of anyone buying a cheap DIY jigsaw. This really impressed me.

The general design is great. This a lightweight tool, only 4.6 LBS. The soft grip, low vibration handle is as good as the best. As is the large two-finger trigger switch with press-button trigger lock. Adjusting the 4-postion oscillation is done using an easy to understand dial and this machine has a dust extraction port. While the blade guide is not the super-duper high precision mechanism that you’ll find on the professional jigsaws, it is way better than I expected. All around, the general quality is streaks ahead of the average DIY tool.

Black & Decker are a great DIY brand and the BDEJS600C can almost rank as an entry level professional jigsaw. Yes, there’s plenty of plastic, that’s normal for a tool of this caliber. Where it counts, particularly the base and blade mechanism, the Black & Decker BDEJS600C displays a high level of quality materials and precise engineering. Personally, I wouldn’t ask for more when buying a DIY jigsaw at this price. It has exceeding my expectations. I like the brand, and you get a 2-year warranty.

Bosch JS470E

Features:

• Tool-free blade change system and fast insertion with a blade ejection lever that eliminates need to touch hot saw blade
• 4 orbital action tool settings provide different blade strokes for smooth to aggressive cuts for taking on the toughest cutting tasks
• Variable speed dial sets maximum speed and accelerator trigger controls operating speed; Features an ambidextrous lock on button for steadiness and user comfort
• Secure: This Bosch tool includes a large, sturdy die cast foot with steel insert and on board bevel wrench; The JS470E’s multidirectional blade clamp delivers superior grip of T shank blades
• Internal precision machined plunging system and low vibration design enhances accuracy and allows for the smooth jigsaw operation in a variety of jobs

Review:

Bosch tools are somewhat of an enigma. They offer some of the very best machines, at prices that compare to any of the top power tool brands. Then they have cheaper, good quality tools, that are not at the top of their class, yet really good value for money. The Bosch JS470E straddles both these descriptions. It really isn’t expensive and has all the traits and features comparable to the best jigsaws from high-end brands. Certainly one of the best value for money professional grade jigsaws.

With a 7A electric motor, this is one of the most powerful jigsaws, offering a variable speed up to 3,100 SPM. You can adjust the oscillation to your requirements with 4 settings. The cast aluminum foot plate is of the highest standard, perfectly engineered and as solid as they come. It can bevel up to 45° but you don’t have the ease of tool-free bevel settings. It’s the old-fashioned Allen wrench setup. Not such a big deal, most of us are used to this. The base plate has a superb non-marring cover, which easy to remove.

The blade mechanism and guide are the epitome of expert German engineering, just fantastic. It’s super easy to change blades with a large release button. They’ve included an anti-splinter insert, made of transparent plastic as to not obscure your line of sight. The Bosch JS470E also has a built-in dust blower to prevent your cutline being obscured by sawdust. The handle design is awesome with plenty of padded gripping positions and a large trigger switch with a lock that can be engaged from either side of the handle – great for left-handed users. A speed adjustment dial is positioned at the back of the handle.

All-round top quality and precision engineering, make the Bosch JS470E a great choice for professionals. I find the price refreshingly low for a such a well-made machine. Genuine great value. This is a brutishly powerful jigsaw with a good level of refinement and ease of use.

What to Look for in a Jigsaw

• Power: Like any power saw, a jigsaw with more power will usually be able to cut through thicker, denser material with greater ease and speed. The best jigsaw for professionals should have a power rating of around 700W. A machine with less power may be cheaper and could be a good option for smaller projects. Though, with a well-designed gearbox, a lower wattage jigsaw can sometimes be a superior machine.
• Blade Changes: A quick, preferably tool-free, blade changing system is a great advantage. You will probably be changing blades frequently and don’t want to waste time doing this.
• Stroke Rate: This indicates how many times a blade moves up and down in a minute. Strokes per Minute (SPM) determine the speed and quality of a cut. If you’re looking at the best cutting ability, up to approximately 2,900 SMP is a good benchmark. Some of the best professional jigsaws can reach close to 4,000 SPM.
• Cutting Capacity: A jigsaw with a higher cutting capacity will allow you to cut through thicker material. Up to around 5” (wood), ³⁄₈” (steel), and ¾” aluminum should be expected if you’re buying a high-end professional grade jigsaw.
• Dust Extraction: Jigsaws generate excessive, fine sawdust, making a dust extraction system a vital feature. A dust blower, which blows the dust from the cutting line, is another great advantage.
• Handle Design: An ergonomic handle, with good padding to reduce vibrations will increase your efficiency by reducing user fatigue.
• Blade Angle: Adjustments for bevel angles (usually up to 45°) adds versatility to the type of work you can perform with a jigsaw.
• Baseplate: The base of the jigsaw keeps it parallel with the surface. It must glide easily across the workpiece and maintain constant contact. A smooth, scratch-resistant baseplate is important.
• Laser Guidance: While not essential, many users like the addition of a laser beam that follows the cut line. This can be an aid to improving working speed without sacrificing on accuracy.
• LED lights: This is a wonderful advantage for increasing visibility, making life much easier for the user.