September 29, 2023, 12:44 pm | Read time: 17 minutes

A jigsaw is an essential part of any well-equipped tool collection. This applies to hobbyists who use the saw occasionally as well as to DIY enthusiasts who use the jigsaw more frequently. With a jigsaw, you can achieve both curves and straight lines. A good jigsaw should handle not only wood but also other materials such as plastic or metal with the right blade. The good news is that powerful jigsaws are available for a reasonable price.

myHOMEBOOK has compared jigsaws to find the best ones and explains the differences between battery-powered and corded saws, compares the pros and cons of the models presented, and reveals whether investing in a premium saw or a cheaper variant is worthwhile.

The Jigsaw: A Versatile Tool Among Saws

There is no one saw that can do everything, but the jigsaw comes close, as it is considered a true all-rounder among saws and is highly versatile. Its short, curved blade makes it particularly suitable for cutting curves or openings. The electric tool also excels with the materials it can handle.

In addition to wood, jigsaws can also handle plastics, aluminum, thin sheets, or drywall. This makes a jigsaw just as suitable for cutting laminate or parquet as it is for cutting openings in a kitchen countertop or trimming designs for hobbyists.

What You Need a Jigsaw For

The range of applications for a jigsaw is diverse. For example, if you want to lay a new floor or cut a chipboard to the desired length, you need a jigsaw. It is important to use the right blade in the correct thickness for each material.

To prevent wood panels from tearing or splintering when sawing, you can either turn off the pendulum action of the saw or use a splinter guard. For straight lines or circles, guide rails or circle cutters help achieve a perfect result. A jigsaw is suitable for these tasks:

• Cutting laminate or parquet
• Trimming kitchen countertops
• Cutting various materials such as wood, ceramic, drywall, plastic, or metals
• Curved shapes
• Enlarging openings
• Creative woodworking

The Miter Cut: How to Do It with a Jigsaw

A miter cut is an angled cut. Two strips or boards are angled so that when joined, they form a 90-degree angle. One way to make miter cuts is by using a jigsaw. For this, the saw needs a tiltable base plate where the desired angle can be set.

Related: Changing the Blade, Setting the Pendulum Action–Guide for Working with a Jigsaw

With Battery or Cord: Differences in Jigsaws

Jigsaws come in many different versions and with a variety of additional features. Most models, for example, are equipped with a chip blower, LED lighting, or pendulum action. Often, the individual models have different power levels, ranging from about 400 to 800 watts.

However, the wattage plays a minor role in selecting a suitable jigsaw. Those looking for a powerful saw should pay more attention to the strokes per minute. There is also a significant difference in the handles: Depending on preference, you can choose between a stick or bow handle. Models are also distinguished by whether they are battery-powered or corded.

• Corded Jigsaws: These jigsaws are powered by a cord. They are generally very robust and therefore often suitable for professional use. However, the cord can also be seen as a disadvantage, as it significantly restricts the craftsman’s freedom of movement. It is therefore important to choose a saw with the longest possible cord to expand the working radius.
• Battery-Powered Jigsaws: Battery-powered jigsaws are much more flexible, as there is no cord in the way that restricts the working radius or, in the worst case, poses a safety hazard. The downside is the slightly lower power and shorter operating time, as the battery needs to be recharged regularly, which can take longer with some models.

Jigsaw with Pendulum Action

A pendulum jigsaw is a special type of jigsaw. With the pendulum action, the sawing movements are not only performed up and down but also forward and backward. This allows work to be done much faster and with less pressure. Many jigsaws already have a pendulum action that can be turned on or off with a button. Thick and very hard woods can be sawed more easily with pendulum action. However, this function is less suitable for curved cuts, as edges often become rough or frayed. To prevent this, using a splinter guard can be useful.

Advantages of Pendulum Action:

• Faster work
• Less pressure and force needed
• Less heat development due to reduced contact between the blade and material
• Less sawdust produced

Disadvantages of Pendulum Action:

• Not suitable for curved cuts
• Rough, uneven cut edges
• Pendulum jigsaws often have a higher weight

Which is Better: Bow Handle or Knob Handle?

There are two common handle shapes for jigsaws: bow or stick. Which one is right for you depends on personal preference. Both have pros and cons. However, you should ensure that the handle is non-slip. It should provide a stable grip while sawing and prevent the hand from slipping.

Knob Handle: For longer sawing tasks, the stick or knob handle is often recommended. Professionals often choose jigsaws with a knob handle. More complex tasks or sawing overhead are easier because no bulky handle obstructs the view of the work surface.

Bow Handle: The bow handle is optimal for a more comfortable working posture. The saw’s switches are also easier to operate this way. However, the high design of the handle makes precise tool guidance more difficult. Nevertheless, the bow handle is especially popular with hobbyists and beginners because it fits well in the hand and facilitates straight cutting.

Also interesting: Sawing Correctly–With These 7 Tips It Works

How Exactly Does a Jigsaw Work?

A jigsaw is used whenever precise and clean work is required. While a circular saw is often used for quick sawing, such as cutting through a board, a jigsaw is powered by an electric motor that moves the steel blade up and down with a reciprocating motion.

14 Recommended Jigsaws for Hobbyists and Professionals

Bosch, Makita, Black + Decker, and others–there are numerous manufacturers selling jigsaws at different prices and with various features. myHOMEBOOK has taken a closer look at 14 top models, comparing technical performance, features, and prices, and explains what to look for when buying the right jigsaw.

Bosch Jigsaw GST 150 CE Professional

All DIY enthusiasts with special demands can be happy with the Bosch Jigsaw GST 150 CE from the Professional series in the long run. The 2.6-kilogram device delivers 780 watts of power, making it a high performer. The blades penetrate up to 15 cm into wood and up to 10 cm into metal. For clean work, a vacuum cleaner can be conveniently connected to reliably suck up chips and dirt. Compared to the price of less than 200 euros, the accessory package (additional blade, suction adapter, saw shoe) is very extensive, making it a great value for money.

Advantages:

• Very well made
• Optimal handling and precise cutting
• Long cord
• Good value for money

Disadvantages:

• Lacks lighting

Makita 4329 Jigsaw

It is lightweight, easy to handle, and makes precise cuts. The Makita 4329 jigsaw delivers good performance but is less suitable for professional use. Its strengths include the low weight of 1.9 kilograms, allowing for longer work without arm fatigue. The rubberized bow handle relieves the hands and facilitates cutting. A small drawback is the short cord length of just two meters, making work in large rooms difficult. Changing the blade requires tools, which also leads to a slight downgrade. However, the good handling, low price (available for under 75 euros), and the included wrench make up for these small criticisms.

Advantages:

• Affordable price
• Fits well in the hand

Disadvantages:

• Very short cord length

Bosch Home and Garden Jigsaw PST 900 PEL

A bestseller among jigsaws is the Bosch Home and Garden. The saw fits well in the hand, is relatively light at 2.2 kilograms, and has a precise cut. It handles wood, aluminum, and even steel well. Miter cuts, straight or curved cuts are no problem.

The saw is equipped with a number of helpful features: In addition to an LED lamp for illuminating the workspace, there is also a blower that removes dust and dirt while working. The rubberized handle also prevents slipping while working. Priced at just under 100 euros, the Bosch jigsaw is in the mid-range segment, making it a highly recommended product overall.

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Advantages:

• High-quality workmanship
• Precise cutting
• Pendulum action
• Comes with accessories like a case, splinter guard, and a blade
• Includes blade depot for up to 6 blades

Disadvantages:

• High noise level
• Slightly inaccurate miter cut

Makita 4351fctj

The pendulum jigsaw is just as suitable for hobbyists as it is for professionals. The saw is robust, powerful, and ideal for woodworking, as well as aluminum and steel sheets. Miter cuts with a 45-degree angle are possible, as are straight cuts and curves.

The Makita 4351fctj features a range of practical and comfortable functions such as a vacuum cleaner connection, LED lighting, and a soft-start function that ensures the saw starts without a big jolt. It comes with practical accessories like six blades, a carrying case, and a splinter guard. Priced well under 200 euros and often available for under 150 euros, the manufacturer’s jigsaw is in the affordable mid-range.

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Advantages:

• Very powerful (720 watts)
• Good workmanship
• 3-stage pendulum action
• Low vibration
• Extensive accessories

Disadvantages:

• Somewhat heavy (2.6 kilograms)
• Delivery without cover

Black + Decker KS501

The Black + Decker KS501 jigsaw is a true lightweight among electric jigsaws at just 1.3 kilograms. And precisely because of its low weight, it fits particularly well in the hand and is therefore wonderfully suitable for beginners. Those with no experience with jigsaws can’t go wrong with the KS501 from Black + Decker.

Compared to more expensive models, this jigsaw lacks some features: For example, you have to do without LED lighting, pendulum action, a carrying case, and a cover. However, it is priced in the low range and costs significantly less than 50 euros.

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Advantages:

• Lightweight
• Affordable price

Disadvantages:

• Missing cover
• No pendulum action

Metabo Steb 65 Quick

The Metabo Steb 65 Quick jigsaw is not a top model but is aimed primarily at beginners who value quality and brand. Among tool professionals, Metabo is one of the most important brands, so the entry-level model is already impressive. For less than 100 euros, you get a device with a low weight of 1.9 kilograms and solid performance.

The blades easily penetrate plastic, metal, and wood, but it becomes more difficult with wood thicknesses over six centimeters. Due to the device’s height, a very steady hand is needed for precise cutting. A small drawback is the power cord length of 2.6 meters, which could be longer. Overall, the Metabo Steb 65 Quick is a well-made entry-level model with solid performance.

Advantages:

• Lightweight
• Suitable for metal
• Relatively affordable

Disadvantages:

• Low cutting depth in wood

Black + Decker Cordless Jigsaw Reviva

The trend towards more environmental awareness does not stop at power tools: That’s why Black + Decker has launched a whole series of sustainable tools with Reviva, including a drill driver, delta sander, cordless screwdriver, and jigsaw. The special feature: The saw’s housing is made of 50 percent recycled material, produced from plastic bottles collected from the sea or landfills.

The Black + Decker Cordless Jigsaw Reviva is equipped with a Li-Ion battery that is ready for use for about 1.5 hours. The saw also has a safety switch to prevent accidental operation. The blade can also be changed without additional tools. Priced in the mid-range, the jigsaw costs around 70 euros.

Advantages:

• Housing made of recycled material
• Lightweight (1.17 kilograms)
• Low-vibration operation

Disadvantages:

• No dust extraction

Bosch Jigsaw GST 160 CE Professional

The Bosch Pendulum Jigsaw GST 100 CE Professional is perfect for carpentry and joinery work. It impresses with precise and smooth cutting and can handle hard materials like steel. It has a small handle, making it easy to guide and allowing for cuts from below. A vacuum cleaner can be connected if needed.

Additional features: chip blower and a manually switchable LED for illuminating the work area. Accessories include blades, a splinter guard, and a carrying case. However, this high-quality device is rather expensive: At over 300 euros, the Bosch GST 160 CE Professional is an investment for particularly ambitious DIY enthusiasts or professionals.

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Advantages:

• Quick and tool-free blade change
• Low vibration
• Very good workmanship
• Quiet cutting

Disadvantages:

• Expensive

What to Consider When Buying a Jigsaw

When buying a jigsaw, you should first consider what you need the saw for. Someone who only occasionally does DIY work has different requirements for a jigsaw than a professional who uses the jigsaw every day. Possible questions before a purchase include:

• What materials will be worked on with the saw?
• How much flexibility and freedom of movement do you need when working with the saw?
• Do you need a pendulum action?
• What additional features do you need (lighting, blower, etc.)?
• How heavy can the jigsaw be at most?
• Which do you prefer: stick or bow handle?
• How often will the saw be used: professional or hobbyist?
• Is there a budget for the purchase?
• Is accessories like a carrying case important?
• Does noise level matter?

The choice of the right jigsaw depends on very individual needs and the specific tasks the saw will be used for. It should not only be easy to use and fit well in the hand but also have good cutting quality. Those who work a lot with the jigsaw, therefore, need a model with a lower weight.

Professionals should also make sure to get a jigsaw with pendulum action. For hobby use, this function is often not as important. TÜV certification for safe operation should also be an important criterion when purchasing.

Also interesting: What Makes Japanese Saws So Special?

What Features Should a Jigsaw Have?

Vacuum cleaner connection, pendulum action, chip blower, or LED work light–depending on the model, jigsaws are equipped with additional practical features. A vacuum cleaner connection or blower ensures that the cutting area is clear when sawing. Many common models are standardly equipped with a vacuum cleaner connection. As well as with pendulum action, where the saw not only performs up and down movements but also lateral ones.

Practical: an LED laser that shows the exact cutting line when sawing. Again, depending on what work is to be done with the jigsaw, it is crucial what features the saw should have. However, most models now already include these features as standard:

• Vacuum cleaner connection
• Chip blower to keep the cutting area clean
• LED work light to show the cutting line
• Adjustable pendulum action

Working with a Jigsaw: What Accessories Do You Need?

To make working with a jigsaw easier, there are various accessories. The most important accessories are, of course, the blades, which come in different versions for different materials. Additionally, there are other items that help make sawing with jigsaws easier. These include:

• Guides and circle cutters
• Splinter guard

Guides or rails are especially useful when precise straight lines need to be cut.

A splinter guard is intended to prevent edges from becoming rough and frayed when sawing, especially when cutting coated materials like countertops. It is used when sawing with pendulum action. The guard is usually made of plexiglass, allowing the craftsman to see exactly how the cut is progressing while sawing. If accessories break over time, the entire saw does not need to be replaced. Some manufacturers, such as Bosch, AEG, Makita, or Black + Decker, offer suitable accessories individually.

Equally Important: Choosing the Right Blade

Blades come in different lengths and for different materials. Therefore, it is important to choose the right blade before starting work, depending on whether you want to saw wood, metal, plastic, or drywall. For example, if you want to cut parquet, you need a classic wood blade. For tiles, you should use a ceramic blade, and for laminate, a special blade for hardwood is necessary.

Blades differ in material, tooth shape, blade width, thickness, and tooth spacing. The tooth shape indicates how fine cuts are made, while the tooth spacing indicates the distance between the individual tips of a blade. For soft materials, the tooth spacing must be larger than for a harder workpiece. Very narrow blades are suitable, for example, for cutting a curve. Blades are available in various blade materials such as carbon steel or bi-metal. The blade material indicates which material can be cut with it:

• Bi-metal: for hardwood, metal, and hard plastics
• Carbide (HM): for drywall or cement fiberboard
• Carbon steel: for softwood or softer plastics
• Pre-hardened high-speed steel: for hard materials like metal or aluminum

If a blade needs to be replaced because it is broken or you want to cut a different material, the blade should be easy to change on a good jigsaw. This is especially easy with devices that allow tool-free blade changes. The blade only needs to be inserted into the machine’s shaft and locked in place.

How to Recognize a Good Jigsaw

Whether a jigsaw is good–performance is an important criterion. The specified stroke rate provides orientation. It indicates how often the blade moves up and down per minute. The rule of thumb is: The higher the stroke rate of a saw, the faster you can saw with it.

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What to Consider When Working with a Jigsaw

To avoid injuries when working with a jigsaw, it is important to pay attention to certain safety measures before use. Wearing safety glasses can protect against flying splinters and sawdust getting into the eyes while sawing. Headphones as hearing protection are also recommended, as many jigsaws are loud and can damage hearing with prolonged use. Also important: Disconnect the device from the power supply or remove the battery before changing blades. If a blade is worn out, do not continue working with it, but replace it immediately.

Conclusion: It Doesn’t Always Have to Be the Most Expensive Jigsaw

The most important decision criterion for the jigsaw is the area of application. For beginners who only occasionally work with the device, affordable models are available on the market for less than 75 euros. Hobbyists and professionals will find an ideal alternative to real professional tools with the Bosch Professional brand.

While bargain models offer solid basic performance, they are not expected to be long-lasting companions. The devices usually wear out very quickly, making them less suitable for continuous use. However, for crafting with kids or completing some DIY projects, jigsaws for less than 100 euros provide good and reliable work.