How do you choose the best electric jigsaw for your home? What functions and features should the best electric jigsaw have to suit your needs? Read our guide and make an informed choice.
In the world of power tools, the electric jigsaw stands out as a versatile and indispensable asset for both professionals and hobbyists.
This dynamic tool, known for its ability to make intricate cuts with precision, comes in a variety of models, each boasting unique features and specifications. But how do you choose the best electric jigsaw that’s right for you?
This comprehensive guide will illuminate the path to your ideal jigsaw. We’ll explore the importance of power and speed, the different types of blades and their uses, and the reputations of various brands.
We’ll also delve into additional features such as corded vs. cordless models, orbital action, and more.
By understanding these factors, you’ll be equipped to make an informed decision, ensuring that the jigsaw you choose will not only meet your cutting needs but also provide a comfortable and efficient user experience.
Top 3 Recommended Best Electric Jigsaws
Best Electric Jigsaw: What to Look For
Because there are many models on the market that offer different power, cutting capabilities and many other features, choosing the right jigsaw according to your needs is not the easiest task. That’s why in this guide we’ll review the main features and functions of an electric jigsaw to make your choice as easy as possible.
Type of Power Supply
Corded jigsaws operate via direct power supply from the power grid. The downside of the wire is that it limits mobility and you can mess with it, endangering operational security. However, most of the corded jigsaws offer great operating power that helps you easily cut through even the toughest materials.
In addition, you do not have to worry about depleting batteries or that you will remain without power. Corded electric jigsaws are ideal for projects requiring high power and long service life.
Wireless jigsaws work with batteries and are usually less powerful than wired models. Their benefits are increased mobility and unrestricted action.
Though you do not have a twisted wire, the built-in battery increases the weight of the tool. The battery will be consumed faster if you use the jigsaw harder. Battery operated jigsaws are ideal for easy cuts and high mobility jobs.
Engine Power
The more powerful the chosen jigsaw is, the faster you will be able to work. To check the engine power, check the Watts number in the wired models or the voltage on the battery operated models. The higher the value, the more powerful the engine.
For occasional work around the house, an electric jigsaw with a power of 400-500 W or 14 V should be sufficient. For those who use the jigsaw for complex work requiring greater power and long service life, it is a good idea to choose a jigsaw with a power of at least 700 W or 18 volts.
Operating Speed
Unlike other power tools, the speed of the best jigsaw is defined by Strokes per minute (SPM) instead of Rotations per minute (RPM). Most models on the market have a maximum speed of 3000 strokes per minute, which is more than enough for almost all works.
The best jigsaw is equipped with multi-speed settings. A single speed is enough for simple tasks, but you should choose a variable speed model to use the saw as efficiently as possible. You can find models equipped with selectable 4 to 7 speeds that will give you more flexibility and precision.
Choosing speed gives you more control, especially if you work with different types of material. Strong cuts in hardwood require a high speed, while the cuts in metal are suited at a lower speed. Some models are equipped with a speed-lock mechanism for ease of work.
Pendulum and Orbital Movement
The orbital motion also moves the blade left and right, in addition to the forward-back pendulum action, increasing the cutting speed.
The resulting cuts are larger and it is not advisable to use it for fine work. The best jigsaw will give you multiple settings for the orbital movement.
Cutting Blades
Choosing the right blade is a key element in the proper operation of the best jigsaw. The shape and characteristics of the cutting blade determine the saw’s ability to cut various materials. A simple rule in choosing a blade is that a thick blade will better cut the thick materials, and a thin blade is suited for thinner materials.
Cutting teeth are measured by the TPI (teeth per inch) pointer. In addition to the thickness of the blade, the number of teeth determines the type of material that can be cut and the cutting speed.
6 to 20 TPI bands are suitable for soft materials, and 15 to 36 TPI canvas cuts harder materials. It is good to know these general rules, because using an unsuitable blade can damage both the blade and the material you want to cut.
Another important factor is the ease in changing blades. The best electric jigsaw is equipped with a rapid release system for cutting blades that does not require special tools for operation. All you have to do is press a button or a lever near the gripping mechanism to easily release and replace the blade.
Cutting Angle Adjustment
Another feature to consider in choosing the best electric jigsaw is its ability to cut at different angles. Although a jigsaw is usually used for straight cuts, it is highly appreciated by users for its ability to be easily used for circular cuts.
Cuts with an inclination of up to 45 degrees can be obtained with the help of pendulum blades that allow the inclination and the pivot angle to be adjusted.
This is achieved very easily by adjusting the saw and saw blade position with the guide base. Although many saws are equipped with a special key that allows adjustment of the cutting angles, the best jigsaw offers a built-in lever that allows the base to be weakened and tightened to allow for easy inclination.
Choose a circular saw that is also equipped with base protection. This is usually a soft plastic strip that is mounted beneath the guide base to prevent the base metal from scratching the work surface.
Other Features and Functions
The Handle
Blasting of Dust and Sawdust
Removal of dust or sawdust off the work material surface allows you to precisely view and track the line for cutting. Choose a jigsaw that has dust blowing around the blade.
In addition, some models also have suction function and remove dust and sawdust through a rear nozzle that can be connected to a vacuum cleaner or a collection tank.
This way you will have a clean workspace regardless of the amount of processed material.
Light and Laser Guide
In some cases, the visibility of the cutting line may be problematic. Some jigsaws are equipped with a led lamp that illuminates the saw blade to be easy to distinguish. In addition, the more advanced models offer a laser guide module that allows you to precisely align the blade with the cutting path.
Vibration
An electric jigsaw that vibrates too strongly will affect the accuracy of the cut and the precision of the guide. More advanced models are equipped with special vibration reduction mechanisms. Before choosing, read the opinions of other buyers and be careful if they complain of too high vibrations.
Safety
Personal safety is very important, especially when it comes to power tools that use sharp blades that move at high speeds. The best jigsaw has to be equipped with safety systems that protect the cutting area, the accidental start prevention system and beyond.
Be careful about the safety features that the device you choose to buy is equipped with. It is also advisable to use safety goggles to prevent eye injuries from sawdust or chips..
Transport Case
Some people may say that a transport case is not essential, but for a jigsaw this is very important for keeping the device safe.
Besides the fact that it allows you to store and transport the jigsaw in good condition, the transport case is also the most suitable place for keeping the cutting blades. Ensure that the chosen jigsaw is accompanied by a solid and durable carrying case that provides space for storing blades and other accessories.
Recommended Electric Jigsaws
Taking into account the above criteria and recommendations, studying the current market offer and user reviews, we present you below some models of electric jigsaws that offer excellent quality/price ratio.
Bosch Professional 18V System Cordless Jigsaw GST 18V-155 SC (with Barrel Grip, Batteries and Charger not incl. in…
- Ergonomic design: Allows 360° gripping circumference to ensure perfect tool control even when sawing is upside down
- Perfect precision: Saw blade guidance prevents blade bending even in small curves
- Large saw blade ejection lever, drop control feature and external dust extraction ensure increased user health and safety
- AMPShare: Batteries and chargers are fully compatible with the Bosch Professional 18V System as well as many other tools from…
- Items included: GST 18V-155 SC, 1x T 144 DP jigsaw blade, 1x T 308 BP jigsaw blade, L-BOXX
DEWALT 18V XR Brushless Body Grip Jigsaw, Tool Only, DCS335N-XJ
- 18V XR BRUSHLESS MOTOR: Enhanced efficiency for longer runtime and superior durability.
- BODY GRIP DESIGN: Effortless grip and maximum control, even when cutting upside down.
- ALL-METAL LEVER-ACTION KEYLESS BLADE CHANGE: Rapid, hassle-free blade swaps to keep you working efficiently.
- ALL-METAL KEYLESS SHOE BEVEL: Versatile bevel cutting with easy detents at 0°, 15°, 30°, and 45° for precision results.
- 4-POSITION PENDULUM ACTION: Customise your cut quality and speed for every material and application.
- DUST BLOWER FEATURE: Maintains a clear cutting line by removing dust and debris instantly.
- QUICK CONTROLLED CUTS AND WORK SAFETY: Provided by Intelligent variable speed trigger and lock off switch.
- REMOVABLE SHOE COVER: Protects delicate materials from scratches during operation.
- "PART OF THE DEWALT XR RANGE Engineered for performance and compatible with the DEWALT XR battery system, which delivers longer…
- 3 YEAR GUARANTEE: Enjoy peace of mind with extended tool warranty upon registration.
Makita 4351FCT/2 240V Orbital Action Jigsaw Supplied in A Carry Case
- Built in LED job light
- Quick release tool-less blade change
- Sturdy, adjustable base for accurate Cutting
- Soft start, Electronic variable speed control and constant speed under load
- 3 Orbital settings plus straight cutting
- 3 mode oscillating feature to allow for faster cutting
- Plastic cover plate can be attached quickly on the base without a tool to protect delicate work surfaces
- Heavy duty aluminium die cast base for increased durability
- Barrel handle design
- Maximum cut in wood 135mm, Steel 10mm
Bosch Professional Corded jigsaw GST 150 BCE (240V, incl. Hood, Dust extraction set, Glide shoe, Hood, Suction nozzle,…
- Barrel grip makes the tool easy to manoeuver, for smooth handling even when cutting from underneath
- Bend-resistant, extremely robust sole plate ensures high performance in even the toughest jobs
- Reliable 780 W motor and constant speed enable cuts in hardest materials, such as thick beams
- For beveled cuts; also features blower, orbital action, tool-free SDS saw blade changes, and speed selection
- Items included: GST 150 CE, Hood, Dust extraction set, Glide shoe, Hood, Suction nozzle, 1 x jigsaw blade T 144…
Bosch Cordless Jigsaw AdvancedSaw 18V-140 (Pendulum Function; Brushless Motor; Cutting Depth in Wood/Steel/Alu:140 mm/10mm/20mm; 3X Blades; Without Battery…
- Corded performance combined with cordless convenience is ideal for extensive DIY sawing projects with a cutting depth up to 140…
- Up to 85% dust extraction directly at the blade for precise view on cutting line and working indoors
- Brushless motor ensures longer lifetime and performance while high class aluminum footplate provides stable sawing
- POWER FOR ALL ALLIANCE: 1 BATTERY, 10+ BRANDS, 150+ PRODUCTS
- Scope of supply Amazon Edition: AdvancedSaw 18V-140, 3 x blades 144D, 1 x Cut Control, 1 x Splinter Guard, 1…
Electric Cordless Jigsaw, 400W Power Jig Saws with LED Light, 3 Orbital Setting, ±45° Bevel Cutting, 0-3000SPM Portable…
- 📏 Powerful Performance: Driven by a 400W high-performance motor and 0-3000 SPM variable speed control, this cordless jigsaw cuts swiftly…
- 📏 3 Cutting Modes: This Cordless Jigsaw supports straight, bevel, and curved cuts, making the Electric Jigsaw Tool a versatile…
- 📏 45° Bevel Adjustment: Featuring an aluminum base that tilts from -45° to 45°, the Electric Jigsaw Tool enables precise…
- 📏 Quick-Blade Change: This Electric Jigsaw Tool comes with 4 wood blades and 4 metal blades for different needs. The…
- 📏 Cordless & Portable: Built without the tangle of cords, this lightweight cordless jigsaw gives you the freedom to move…
Electric Jigsaw Tool: DEKOPRO 800W Power Jig Saws with LED Light Laser, 4 Orbital Sets, 6 Variable Speed,…
- POWER MOTOR: With a variable speed range of 800 to 3,000 cuts per minute (SPM), DEKOPRO 800W electric jigsaw enables…
- TOOL-LESS BLADE CLAMP & BEVEL CUTTING:The electric wood cutter features a tool-less saw blade clamp, allowing for quick and easy…
- LED LIGHT & 4 ORBITAL SETTINGS: The wood cutter machine is equipped with an LED light and laser that illuminate…
- PRECISE CUTTING & SAFETY: Equipped with 22mm stroke length and a powerful 800W motor, this electric jigsaw provides smooth and…
- COMPREHENSIVE KIT: The corded Jig Saw Kit includes 1 x jigsaw with LED light and laser, 6 x Wood Jigsaw…
HYCHIKA Jig Saws, 800W Max Cutting Depth 110mm for Metal, 800-3000 SPM Electric Jigsaw with Class 2 Laser,…
- 800W JIGSAW & 6 ADJUSTABLE SETTINGS: The 800W pure copper motor has great power of 800-3000SPM speed, and with six…
- ADJUSTABLE CUTTING ANGLE & 0-3 ORBITAL SETS: The maximum adjustable cutting angle of the Jigsaw is -45 ° to 45…
- QUICK CHUCK: With the quick release chuck, you can change the saw blades quickly without tools
- LASER GUIDE AND SCALE RULER: Laser Class: 2. P
- DELIVERY CONTENTS: 1 x HYCHIKA jigsaw, 6 x T-shank blades, 1 x guide ruler, 1 x user manual
