Power tool users know that not all tools are made equal, and it is especially true for jigsaws. They are a great versatile tool that can be used just about anywhere you can think of.
Since jigsaws are versatile, cordless jigsaws have started to become more and more popular. They provide freedom and can be operated without having to tie to a socket. But can they achieve the same power as corded jigsaws on a battery?
While corded jigsaws might not pump as much power as corded jigsaws, some can accomplish most tasks you throw at them. However, it is difficult to differentiate good cordless jigsaws from bad ones.
If you are looking for the best cordless jigsaw, you have landed on the right page. We will assist you with how to buy the best cordless jigsaw and review our top picks.
How We've Made Our Selection
Jigsaws are available in all budgets, but we limited our range to $300. We believe that a good jigsaw will cost at least 70$. However, we also know that most people do not need to spend above $300 on a jigsaw.
We divided our budget into six segments. At the lower end, we selected jigsaws that nailed all the basics correctly. At the higher end, we looked for high-power jigsaws with all the bells and whistles.
Finally, we narrowed our list based on overall customer experience and ratings. We were left with six cordless jigsaws that we will now review.
5 Best Cordless Jigsaws
1. BOSCH 18V Cordless Jig Saw
Why We Love It
One of the Most Lightweight
The Bosch jigsaw is one of the most lightweight and compact barrel grip jigsaws. It is up to 30 percent lighter and 10 percent smaller than other jigsaws. Its lightweight design and small grip diameter reduce user fatigue when used for extended periods.
Unmatched Consistency and Variable Speed Dial
The Bosch bare tool jigsaw delivers a consistent cut, even at extreme angles. Its variable speed control dial lets you adjust the RPMs from 0-1800 for faster cutting or slower cutting applications.
Powerful and Convenient
BOSCH has the highest cordless jigsaw accuracy we have seen. This 18-volt lithium-ion cordless jigsaw is a powerful and convenient tool that features a t-shank blade change system that will provide you tool-less blade changes, which eliminates the need for users to touch the hot blade.
The jigsaw also has an adjustable footplate which will give you bevel cuts up to 45 degrees.
Easy To Transport
The onboard bevel wrench storage makes transporting and storing your jigsaw easy. It comes with Electronic Motor Protection and Electronic Cell Protection to protect the battery and motor against overload and overheating.
What You Should Know
Limited Visibility
Some users complain that the LED light of this chainsaw is not strong enough. You might have to use it in a well-lit area.
Weak Dust Blower
Users have also complained that its dust blower is not the best. If you plan on buying this chainsaw, keep in mind that you will have to use it in short durations to avoid too much sawdust from gathering.
2. DEWALT 20V MAX XR Jig Saw
Why We Love It
Highly Efficient
The DEWALT 20V MAX XR Jig Saw is one of the best cordless tools you can get. It is a powerful and compact cordless jigsaw that delivers efficient performance with longer runtime. The brushless motor provides maximum power and efficiency, while the compact size offers easy grip and maximum control.
Good Visibility and Convenient
The DEWALT 20V MAX XR Jig Saw features a bright LED light that illuminates dimly lit work surfaces. The variable speed trigger and dial provide precise speed control, while the all-metal, lever-action, keyless blade change gives you quick and easy t-shank blade changes. An integrated dust blower helps clear the line of sight while cutting.
The no-mar shoe cover helps protect the work surface from scratches. For optimal holding power and professional results, this jigsaw accepts t-shank jig saw blades.
Delivers Quality Cuts
The DEWALT 20V MAX XR Jig Saw has a 4-position orbital action that controls the cut quality and speed. It also has an all-metal, keyless shoe bevel with detents at 0 degrees, 15 degrees, 30 degrees, and a positive stop at 45 degrees for easy adjustment.
What You Should Know
Comes Without a Battery and Charger
This portable cordless saw does not come with a battery or a charger. You would have to buy them separately. If you already have DEWALT tools, this is a great buy. Otherwise, you will have to buy a charger and battery separately.
3. PORTER-CABLE 20V Jig Saw
Why We Love It
Highly Convenient To Operate
The Porter-Cable 20V Jig Saw has a dust blower that clears debris for better visibility. It features a tool-free blade release that allows quick and easy changes. It also has three orbital settings that easily adjust cut aggressiveness.
The variable speed trigger allows you to control the SPM rate from 0-2,500 strokes per minute. A 5/8 in stroke length means more cuts per charge.
The contoured over-molded handle is designed for increased comfort, and the 20V Max System provides high-performance cordless power.
Perfect for Cutting Curves and Intricate Designs
This cordless mini jigsaw is perfect for cutting curves and intricate designs into several materials, including wood, plastic, and metal.
This lightweight jigsaw features a compact design that allows it to be used in tight spaces while still providing the power you need to get the job done. The Porter-Cable 20V Jigsaw has a beveling shoe that can make 0 to 45-degree bevel cuts.
What You Should Know
A Little Heavy
Some users find this chainsaw to be heavier than they might like. It is not the lightest, but it is not very heavy. This chainsaw is perfect for you if you can handle a little bit of weight.
The Charger and Battery are Sold Separately
You should also know that the charger and battery for this one are sold separately. So, you will have to spend a few extra bucks there.
4. Makita 18V Brushless Jig Saw
Why We Love It
Comfortable and Delivers Professional Results
Makita's 18V Brushless Jig Saw is a cordless tool that delivers professional results. The brushless motor has an increased run time and power. Its barrel-type handle and soft no-load function provide comfort and control, even under heavy loads.
Convenient To Use
The toolless blade change allows for quick and easy blade replacement, while the onboard storage compartment keeps your spare blades organized.
The compact design allows you to make accurate cuts in tight spaces, and its superior power-to-weight ratio delivers outstanding performance on several materials. A variable speed trigger enables precise control over cutting speeds ranging from 1,000 to 3,300 strokes per minute.
Good Visibility
The jigsaw features an LED light to illuminate your cutting area, allowing you to work longer with less fatigue.
Comes with an Extensive Warranty
Makita's brushless jigsaw comes with 1-year manufacturer warranty. This warranty can be extended to two years if it's registered within 30 days of the purchase. However, this guarantee does not apply where non-genuine, and recommended parts or accessories are fitted to the jigsaw. The guarantee with be invalidated with the use of non-genuine or compatible batteries and chargers with Makita Tools.
What You Should Know
Some Customers Receive Faulty Jigsaws
Some customers have complained that they received a faulty jigsaw. However, with their extended warranty, this should not be a problem. If you end up getting a faulty product, you can always replace it.
5. Black + Decker 20V Cordless Jigsaw
Why We Love It
Versatile Battery-Powered Jigsaw and Easy to Get Started
Looking for a versatile battery-powered jigsaw that can handle any job? Look no further than the Black Decker Cordless Jigsaw. It is powered by the PowerConnect battery system, which means you can use one battery for multiple different tools. The included jigsaw blade and 20V max PowerConnect battery make it easy to get started.
Delivers Precise Cuts
With its 45-degree bevel shoe, wire guard, and built-in dust blower, this jigsaw is designed to help you easily make precise cuts. Its cordless design is perfect for us on big and small projects.
Convenient To Use
This jigsaw features a variable-speed trigger that allows you to adjust the speed as needed, from 1,500 to 2,500 rpm. The tool-free blade change allows you to change blades quickly and without any extra tools. The 3/8" keyless quick release makes changing the blade for different applications easy. It lets you cut through wood, plastic, or metal with ease.
What You Should Know
Slow charger and small battery
The drawback of this chainsaw is that it comes with a slow charger and a small battery. If you are buying this chainsaw, invest in a good charger and a larger battery.
How To Pick The Best Cordless Jigsaw
Brand Affiliation
We generally do not focus on brand names much. Yet, in the case of cordless jigsaws, you must consider it because many brands sell a whole family of power tools. Cordless jigsaws might be a part of that family. All these tools share the same battery and charging system, which is why some cordless jigsaws do not even come with a battery.
When you buy a battery for a power tool, you usually buy one for all the tools in that group. So, it does not make any sense if you already have power tools of one brand and you buy cordless jigsaw of another brand.
Type of Blade
Modern jigsaws use two types of blades: T-shank blades and U-shank blades. T-shank blades are easier to change, so they are becoming more popular these days.
Focus on the material of these blades. You should ensure that you are using the right one for your job. If you are not using the right blade, you will not be able to accomplish much. Using the jigsaw with the wrong blade might damage it.
Jigsaw blades can be put into three categories according to their materials. The first is a tungsten carbide blade which is suitable for cutting ceramics. A steel blade is best for working with metal and wood. The third type of blade is the bimetallic blade. It is best for hardwood and metal as well.
Another thing to consider about blades is their TPI number. TPI stands for teeth per inch. The higher this number, the better the blade is for a harder material. A lower TPI blade is suitable for softer materials as it will not rip them off.
Saw Speed
The speed of the motor that powers your jigsaw is measured in SPM. SPM stands for strokes per minute, and the higher this number, the larger and wider the projects you can take on. SPM tells us about the number of times the motor can move the blade up and down in a minute.
You should note that you will not require a higher SPM for all projects. Some projects benefit from lower SPM. If you want to cut intricate cuts and designs, you will benefit from a slower-moving blade as they will be more accurate. Hard materials are taxing on the jigsaw, so you would want to reduce the jigsaw's speed when working on them.
Most jigsaws come with variable speed triggers. These triggers are often built into the handle and allow you to manage speed settings quickly.
A jigsaw with a powerful motor with a variable speed trigger is the best choice. Yet, these jigsaws are more expensive, and if you do not have the need, it does not make sense to purchase such jigsaws.
Since we are talking about jigsaw motors, you should also know that a good jigsaw comes with a brushless motor, which gives it a higher power-to-weight ratio and high speed.
Orbital Settings
Orbital settings prevent the blade from overheating and eventually breaking. They allow you to change the angle of the blade. You would also have to adjust the blade's angle based on the type of material you are working on.
Budget
Often, the first step to deciding on buying something is deciding your budget. Cordless Jigsaws are inexpensive power tools when you compare them to others.
Yet, they can still cost you above $200. A high price does not necessarily translate into a better product, but you will have to make some compromises with a lower budget.
Cheaper models might be more basic and less sturdy compared to more expensive ones, but you certainly do not need a jigsaw with all the bells and whistles.
Grip
The grip of a cordless jigsaw is one of the most important things to consider. It is essential for both accuracy and safety. Good jigsaws have an ergonomic grip, and you should check if the jigsaw is comfortable to use.
Line of Visibility
To produce accurate results, you need the visibility of the cutting edge. A built-in dust blower is also essential because visibility becomes compromised when the wood is covered in sawdust.
Some jigsaws also come with built-in LED lights. They increase visibility, but you don't need them if you have a well-lit workshop.
Warranty
A good warranty is also a good indication of how well the product is made. This is especially true for power tools such as jigsaw. It should be made to endure abuse and last for several years. Always check that the warranty conditions are upfront and you are fully covered.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cordless Jigsaws
Here are the most frequently asked questions about cordless jigsaws.
Is brushless jigsaw better?
It depends on the user's specific needs and preferences. Some people may find a brushless jigsaw easier and more comfortable, while others may prefer the traditional brushed jigsaw. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference.
What should I look for in a cordless jigsaw?
When looking for a cordless jigsaw, you'll want to consider the following factors: battery life, power, stroke length, weight, price.
Battery life is important because you don't want to have to stop in the middle of a project to recharge your tool. Power is important because you'll want to be able to cut through tougher materials. Stroke length is important because you'll need enough length to cut through the material you're working on. Weight is important because you don't want a heavy tool that will tire you out while using it. Price is important because you don't want to spend more than necessary on a tool.
What is the best wattage for a jigsaw?
It depends on the user's specific needs and preferences. However, a good place to start would be with a jigsaw that has a wattage rating of around 500-600 watts. This should provide enough power for most projects.
How much should I spend on a cordless jigsaw?
It depends on the quality of the jigsaw you want. A mid-priced jigsaw will run you around $80, while a high-end model can cost upwards of $200.
In general, you get what you pay for when it comes to power tools. A more expensive jigsaw will have more features, such as variable speeds and bevel adjustments, and it will also be more durable. So if you plan on using your jigsaw frequently or for heavy-duty projects, then it's worth investing in a higher-quality model.
If you're just starting out with DIY projects or are on a budget, then a mid-priced jigsaw should do the trick.
What are the disadvantages of the cordless jigsaw?
The main disadvantage of a cordless jigsaw is that it doesn't have as much power as a corded jigsaw. This means that it can't cut through materials as easily or quickly.
Another disadvantage is that the battery life is shorter than the battery life of a corded jigsaw, so you may need to recharge it more often.
Finally, because there's no cord, there's also the potential for losing power in the middle of a cut, which could cause problems if you're not prepared for it.
Final Remarks
Jigsaws are essential tools for any handyman. They offer versatility and can be used in a variety of ways. Cordless jigsaws provide the user with freedom because they can be operated without having to tie to a socket.
A cordless jigsaw should have variable speed, a soft-grip handle, and orbital blade action. You can also consider other factors like the product's warranty and battery life.
We hope our guide has helped you choose the best cordless jigsaw for your needs. If you've been searching the internet and are unsure which to choose, pick any of our top picks.
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