The best jigsaw is designed to cut curves, straight lines, bevels, mitres and plunge cuts through a variety of materials. This is a ‘must-have’ power tool for everyone from the occasional DIYer through to professional tradesmen.
If you’re working with sheet material, a jigsaw is perfect. Plus, with a quick blade change, it’s the right choice for steel, aluminium, fibreglass, plasterboard & of course, wood. Use a decent jigsaw once & you’ll wonder how you have ever managed without it.
Best Cordless Jigsaw UK
The best cordless jigsaw is the most versatile power saw you can buy. Whatever you’re planning now, they’ll be numerous jobs in the future, when you’ll need a jigsaw. What’s important now, is choosing the right model.
Power tools have improved significantly in recent years for two principal reasons, battery technology and brushless motors.
The latest battery technology means you don’t need to compromise power for convenience. With corded tools being phased out and compatible battery technology now affordable, there has never been a better time to go cordless. Using a cordless jigsaw after working with a corded model, is an absolute joy!
Brushless motors offer more power, deliver superior battery life, allow for greater control and last much longer than the previous generation of power tools. For trade or regular use, a brushless model is a must.
Power is important, especially when cutting through thicker material. Nobody regrets choosing a powerful jigsaw, but you may regret choosing a model that lacks the oomph to make the cuts you want.
In addition to power, the maximum cutting depth is critical. The right model must be versatile. It must be powerful enough to handle all materials and dimensions. Plus, there are a handful of features that make the job quick and easy.
Verum has compared 33 jigsaws to shortlist & detail the UK Top 5. We have crunched specifications, consulted experts & scrutinised owner opinions to help you choose the best jigsaw for you…
Budget Corded Jigsaw
Bosch PST 700 E
The Bosch PST 700 E is a decent corded budget jigsaw. For occasional DIY this model does the basics well. It’s reasonably powerful, highly rated by owners and well made.
The variable stroke rate gives you control for accurate and smooth cuts, through a variety of materials. It’s especially beneficial to start each cut at a slow speed or stroke rate. This enables you to align the blade and markings accurately and avoids any sudden jerks as the blade first meets the material.
The maximum cutting depth for wood is 70mm. This is ok for most jobs, but should you have plans to work with larger boards or deeper timber, then consider the more powerful options (with a deeper cut) below.
Power tools are noisy. And while some are marginally quieter than others, wearing ear protectors is highly recommended. Plus, glasses and a dust mask.
Bosch tools have lots of very loyal customers with high expectations. And this jigsaw doesn’t disappoint. Features such as the keyless blade change and the footplate adjustment (for angles) work well. Plus, there’s a small blower to remove dust from the cutting edge. This doesn’t clear everything but will improve the visibility of the line you’re following.
There’s a lot to like about the Bosch PST 700 E. It does the basics well and it’s very affordable.
SPECIFICATION: STROKE RATE 500-3100spm | MAX WOOD CUT 70mm | MAX STEEL CUT 4mm | TOOLESS BLADE CHANGE Yes | LIGHT No | ANGLE CUT 45° Left & Right | BLOWER Yes | NOISE 99dB | WEIGHT 1.7KG
Bosch PST 700 E | Verdict Price £60
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Cordless Jigsaw for DIY
Bosch PST 18 LI
Perfect for DIY, this cordless model from Bosch does everything it should. And once you factor in that the battery & charger are compatible with all Bosch DIY power tools, it’s good value for money too.
Cordless power tools are a joy to use compared to corded machines. And this is especially so with a jigsaw. Not being tethered to a power socket, you can focus on the cut rather than worry about the cord snagging or being too short.
Unlike cheaper models, this Bosch uses an orbital pendulum motion (rather than up & down) for a superior cut. This enables better control for either faster material removal or a finer finish.
For superior control, there’s a four-step switch to adjust for different materials.
Further enhancing usability, the dust blower and LED light mean a clear sightline and a precision cut.
The Bosch PST 18 LI is a no brainer if you already own Bosch batteries & a great investment if you plan to buy more cordless tools in the future.
SPECIFICATION: STROKE RATE 2400spm | MAX WOODCUT 80mm | MAX STEEL CUT 5mm | TOOLESS BLADE CHANGE Yes | LIGHT Yes | ANGLE CUT 45° Left & Right | NOISE 94dB | WEIGHT 1.65KG + Battery
Bosch PST 18 LI | Verdict Price Price not available
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Choose battery & charger separately
Corded Jigsaw (Trade Choice)
Makita 4350FCT Jigsaw
The Makita 4350FCT is an amazing jigsaw. This model is powerful, perfect for a variety of materials and has an excellent cutting depth. It’s a great corded choice for trade folk who prefer mains power. Advanced adjustments include orbital settings.
What’s an Orbital Jigsaw?
The Makita is an orbital or pendulum jigsaw. Most jigsaw blades simply move up & down. However, an orbital model angles the blade forward on the upswing and backwards on the reverse. This delivers faster cutting. On the Makita 4350FCT, this is fully controllable.
You can dial up the orbital motion for fast cuts or switch to a vertical motion for accuracy and detail – especially useful on a small radius.
Powerful Corded Jigsaw
With a powerful 720w motor and 135mm depth of cut, this model will handle most jobs with ease.
The speed is controllable via a dial and the soft start makes it easily controllable at all speeds, through any material.
As you expect, the blades can be changed without the need for a key and you can attach a vacuum to reduce dust. The footplate tilts up to 45° in both directions for bevel cuts. Plus, there’s a light to help you keep the blade aligned to the required cut.
If you’re looking for a top-notch corded jigsaw, the Makita 4350FCT is it.
SPECIFICATION: STROKE RATE 800-2800spm | MAX WOOD CUT 135mm | MAX STEEL CUT 10mm | TOOLESS BLADE CHANGE Yes | LIGHT Yes | ANGLE CUT 45° Left & Right | NOISE 95dB | WEIGHT 2.7KG |
Makita 4350FCT | Verdict Price £169
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Best Makita Cordless Jigsaw
DJV182Z with Brushless Motor
The Makita DJV182Z is powerful, durable and with a top specification, this model is truly outstanding.
The variable speed control, soft start, orbital cut and a tool-less blade change are all, a given. As is the excellent dust extraction, blower function and twin lights to make each and every job easier & quicker. But what really makes this model stand out is the brushless motor.
Brushless Jigsaw
A brushless motor means that this jigsaw will last much longer than a conventional power tool. This important specification detail delivers the assurance that it will wear less, generate negligible heat and is more controllable.
The only downside is that a brushless motor costs a few quid more. However, over time there’s little debate that it’s worth the investment. This jigsaw will last for years.
Professional Jigsaw
The brushless motor aligns this model as the right choice for the professional or anyone with serious DIY plans. Again & again, Makita power tools rank as best buys. If you haven’t already, there’s every reason to invest in the Makita LXT battery system for all your trade cordless power tools.
SPECIFICATION: OUTPUT POWER 390w | STROKE RATE 800-3500spm | MAX WOOD CUT 135mm | MAX STEEL CUT 10mm | TOOLESS BLADE CHANGE Yes | LIGHT Yes | ANGLE CUT 45° Left & Right | NOISE 77dB | WEIGHT 2.4KG + Battery
Makita DJV182Z | Verdict Price £181
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Choose battery & charger separately
Best Cordless Jigsaw
Dewalt DCS334N Brushless
Powered by a brushless motor, this power tool has standout durability, control and longevity.
For trade and professional use, a brushless motor is standard. Delivering a superior performance on every job, the immediate benefit is instantly clear. However, it’s when you add the performance to a longer product lifespan, that the investment is truly justified.
The Dewalt controls are superb – Whatever you’re cutting, the intelligent variable speed trigger gives you full control. Release the trigger and the brake stops the blade instantly. In terms of setup, the seven-speed dial control and four-step pendulum/orbital switch mean you can get a great finish, through every material, on every cut.
All adjustments can be made without tools, the dust blower and LED light work well and there’s a soft shoe for cutting fine materials – no scratches.
Powerful, accurate and easy to use the Dewalt DCS334N brushless jigsaw is a superb piece of kit that performs brilliantly. Plus, the brushless motor means longevity – it’s designed & built to last.
SPECIFICATION: STROKE RATE 0-3200spm | MAX WOOD CUT 135mm | MAX STEEL CUT 10mm | TOOLESS BLADE CHANGE Yes | LIGHT Yes | ANGLE CUT 45° Left & Right | NOISE 95dB | WEIGHT 2.1KG + Battery
Dewalt DCS334N | Verdict Price £275
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Includes battery, charger & case
Buyers Guide
Choosing the Right Jigsaw
A jigsaw needs to be accurate, quick & easy to use – straight out of the box. Regardless of your experience, this type of saw is effective & portable. Mark up your cut, pop in the blade and you’re good to go. Plus, they’re much safer than a circular saw.
Corded vs. Cordless Jigsaws
Cordless tools are super convenient, truly portable & the latest models are powerful. Once you’ve invested in a charger & battery, stick to the same brand and all future power tool purchases instantly become much cheaper.
How to use a Jigsaw Safely
Here are 7 tips on how to get the best results:
- Choose the right blade. The versatility of a jigsaw is principally due to the fact you can choose the right blade for the job. Number and tooth shape change the way the tool cuts. Make sure your blade is sharp and designed for the material you’re cutting. In terms of fitting, the best buy models detailed above, all use T-shank blades.
- Jigsaws are best for thinner materials. A jigsaw can cut thicker boards, but the blade can bend which can result in a bevelled edge rather than a straight cut.
- Start at a slow speed and then speed up to the right speed for the material.
- Don’t push too hard. Let the blade teeth do the work, but do keep the footplate flat to the board.
- Use masking tape to stop splinters and for a better edge finish
- Straight lines are better with a rail. Firmly clamp a length of wood onto the board. This must be parallel to the cut line & at a distance equivalent to half the width of the footplate. Then keep the edge of the footplate against the rail to cut the perfect straight line.
- Safety first. Use ear & eye protectors. Plus a dust mask.
BEST SELLER
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UK VERDICT 2023
A jigsaw power tool is an essential piece of kit for DIY and a must-have power tool for professional tradesmen. There are plenty of models to choose from and it’s easy to spend more and get less. However, buy any of the models recommended above & you won’t be disappointed.
The budget Bosch stands out compared to other models under £50 & is our top choice for occasional DIY. Spend more on the cordless Bosch & you’ll get all the convenience of going cordless now plus save money on power tools in the future by sharing batteries.
For out of the box power, the corded Makita is our best buy for professionals. The trade specification gets every detail right & if you’re keen to stay with corded tools, this is the jigsaw for you.
The Dewalt DCS334N and Makita DJV182 are awesome options. The choice is largely dependent on your brand and battery preference. Both are designed for trade, but will equally be appreciated by experienced DIYers.
Also Consider…
If you are planning a big project and need a saw for straight crosscuts, mitres and bevels then take a look at the best compound mitre saws. They won’t cut curves or large boards but these saws are perfect for joinery where accurate angles are required.
For straight board cuts, click the link below to see the best circular saws.
READ NEXT:
Best Circular Saw
S H A R E
