In this article, I have reviewed the top 9 best budget jigsaws. Although they all do the same job, each has something to offer that the others do not.
Jigsaws are capable of delivering precise cuts. My favorite pick is Bosch JS260. It can offer a range of different kinds of cuts. Additionally, it offers high effectiveness. With this, I tried and tested a few others too. I took into account the various variables that you may face when using these jigsaws. They are divided into cordless, portable, budget, compact, cheap, curve controlling, hi-tech, and power.
So, here is a complete description of the various best budget jigsaw models and a purchase guide to assist you in choosing the ideal jigsaw for you. It has a few valuable hints that will help you in selecting the ideal one.
Let’s start.
Best Overall: Bosch JS260
Bosch JS260 jigsaw comes with a powerful 6.0 Amp motor that can produce 3,100 strokes per minute, with a 3/4 inch stroke length. It has a robust heavy-gauge steel footplate for precision cutting. This best budget jigsaw includes a dial for maximum speed and a variable speed trigger for speed control.
Features:
- Motor/Battery Power: 6 amp
- Speed: 3100 spm
- Stroke length: ¾ inch
- Beveling ability: 45°
- Acceptable blade types: T-Shank blades
- Weight: 6.89 pounds
- Power Source: Corded Electric
What I liked about Bosch JS260?
The Bosch JS260 is designed to be a great tool for a handyman. For cutting accuracy and smooth operation, this best budget jigsaw is built with a low-vibration plunging design. Anyone purchasing a power tool should look for one that is easy to use. With this model, you get exactly that. This is because it has a tool-less blade change mechanism.
The tool incorporates an always-on dust blower for maximum cut-line visibility. The lock-on button is accessible to both hands for stable long cuts and user control and comfort.
The four orbital action settings deliver variable blade strokes for gentle to aggressive cuts. The ergonomically designed top handle and two-finger trigger provide a firm, comfortable grip. This does not induce any form of strain on the operator’s hand during long periods of operation. Plus, the blade is exactly perpendicular to the base. So, you get accurate cuts. It is indeed quiet and powerful.
What I didn’t like about Bosch JS260?
The only thing I don’t like about this jigsaw is that it blows fine dust everywhere.
Pros:
- 1-year warranty
- Comes with an anti-splinter insert
- Corded electric power source
Cons:
- No dust collection system
Who can use it?
You can use it at home workshops. DIYers also can make the best use of it.
Best Cordless: DEWALT DCS331B
DEWALT DCS331B is a battery-powered best budget jigsaw with variable speed control settings. The keyless adjustable shoe bevel has a capacity of up to 45 degrees. This gives you a lot of options when it comes to bevel cutting.
Features
- Motor/Battery Power: 20 Volts
- Speed: 0-3,000 spm
- Stroke length: 1 Inch
- Beveling ability: 15°, 30°, 45°
- Acceptable blade types: T-Shank blades
- Weight: 5.52 pounds
- Power Source: Battery Powered
What I liked about DEWALT DCS331B?
DEWALT DCS331B is a top pick when it comes to lightweight jigsaw. The tool has a lever-action, toolless blade change system. It allows for swift and effortless blade changes.
Further, this all-metal body jigsaw uses T-shank jigsaw blades. These blades are compatible with most of the modern and latest jigsaws.
The DEWALT battery-powered jigsaw comes with an anti-slip rubber grip. This provides complete comfort to the jigsaw operator. It has a 4-position orbital action that allows it to manage cut quality and speed.
0-3,000 spm variable speed range helps this best budget jigsaw to adapt to a wide range of different materials and applications. It has a safety lock designed for both right and left-handed operators.
This saw is exceptionally accurate, locking at 0-45 degrees in 15-degree intervals. You can adjust the cut angle with an easy-to-operate lever. Moreover, although it is powered by a battery, it still gives you the same power as much you would plug it in. You have plenty of control and experience very little vibration.
What I didn’t like about DEWALT DCS331B?
Like the previous one, even this has a blower problem. The tool has a slider for the dust blower that lets you control its strength. But that does not work. It seems you are continuously blowing on your cut line.
Also, you will have to buy the battery separately.
Pros
- All-metal body
- 3-years warranty
- Dust blower
- Cordless model
Cons
- No effective blower.
- No batteries and charger included
Who can use it?
Home DIYers, small workshops working with wood, and other small projects.
Best On-Tool Blade Storage: SKIL 4230-01
SKIL 4230-01 is a single-speed best budget jigsaw suitable for light-duty tasks. It has a cord on the backside of the tool for the convenience of the tool operator.
Features
- Motor/Battery Power: 3.2 amp
- Speed: 0-3,250 spm
- Stroke length: ¾ Inch
- Beveling ability: 45°
- Acceptable blade types: T-Shank blades
- Weight: 3.9 pounds
- Power Source: Corded Electric
What I liked about SKIL 4230-01?
The foot of SKIL 4230-01 can tilt in either direction to 45 degrees for bevel cutting.
This best budget jigsaw comes with a keyless blade change option, further adding to its ease of use. The operator will not experience any kind of vibrations because of the finger guide. It has a variable speed range of 0 to 3250 spm, which is quite adequate. I liked the on-tool blade storage.
What I didn’t like about SKIL 4230-01?
The low power tool can cut through wood pretty decently. But, it does not perform well on metals and other hard materials. Also, it is difficult to tighten the blades. So, it gives poor performance when you are making straight-line cuts.
Pros
- On-tool storage for blades
- 1-year warranty
- Light-weight
- Best corded jigsaw
Cons
- Poor performance on straight-line cuts
- Low power
Who can use it?
Homeowners and DIYers. It is one of the best budget jigsaws suitable for cutting shapes and curves on wood, plastic, and other lightweight materials.
Best Smooth Cut: Skil 4395-01
Another Skil tool in the list, Skil 4359-01 is an orbital power cut jigsaw with variable speed settings. The cutting speeds can be up to 3200 SPM. It incorporates a 4-position orbital cut control system for rapid and accurate cuts. The jigsaw is built to assist users in completing projects safely, accurately, and efficiently.
Features
- Motor/Battery Power: 5.5 amp
- Speed: 0-3,200 spm
- Stroke length: ¾ Inch
- Beveling ability: 0˚, 22.5˚ and 45˚
- Acceptable blade types: T and U Shank blades
- Weight: 2.49 pounds
- Power Source: Corded Electric
What I liked about Skil 4395-01?
Skil 4359-01 is a powerful amperage jigsaw tool with a stable foot design. The steady footplate provides more stable and controlled starts. You can alter the orbital settings to adjust the aggressiveness of the cut. It cuts so smoothly like you are putting a warm knife through butter.
The custom-molded tool rest design guards the blades against damaging the work surface. The 4395-01 also boasts a tool-free foot adjustment that makes it simple to make bevel cuts. The soft-grip handle improves control and comfort while reducing operator fatigue.
This best budget jigsaw tool includes a four-position orbital cut control and stable foot adjustment. The SKIL 4395-01 will be challenging to put down for both novices and advanced do-it-yourselfers.
What I didn’t like about Skil 4395-01?
The cord is short. So, you may find a problem there.
Pros
- Tool-less blade change
- Accepts T- and U-shank blades
- 1-year warranty
- Minimal vibrations
Cons
- Cord is not so long
Who can use it?
Can readily cut through plywood, hardwoods, press boards, and other similar materials. You can use it for decking, around-the-house projects, or any pallet/upcycling projects.
Best Compact Jigsaw: Dewalt DW317K
DEWALT DW317K is a corded top handle jigsaw providing the most value for money. This best budget jigsaw has a variable speed control system. Hence, it can deliver optimal cutting speeds up to 3,100 strokes per minute.
Features
- Motor/Battery Power: 5.5 amp
- Speed: 0-3,100 spm
- Stroke length: 1 Inch
- Beveling ability: 45˚
- Acceptable blade types: T Shank blades
- Weight: 6.2 pounds
- Power Source: Corded Electric
What I liked about Dewalt DW317K?
DEWALT DW317K has a complete metal gearcase making it a durable power tool. The keyless, lever-action blade clamp allows for quick and easy change of the jigsaw blades. The blade change does not require the operator to touch the blade or reciprocating shaft.
This portable, easy-to-use, and best budget jigsaw is perfect for intricate and curved cuts. These tools provide extreme precision. You can complete challenging cutting tasks with this jigsaw’s bevel shoe and four-position orbital action. All these important features work together to offer you total control over the tool and your workpiece.
It has a ball and roller bearing construction that adds to its sturdiness. It’s simple to control, and the comfortable grip allows you to work for extended periods. Even though this best budget jigsaw is smaller, it has an excellent weight to it, feels well balanced and pretty compact. With the correct blades, this powerful tool is enough for all DIY and around-the-house projects.
What I didn’t like about Dewalt DW317K?
The problem with this one is that the base plate limits the ability to give a smooth cut. Also, you aren’t able to properly tighten the base plate screw. That, I think, is because of the oversized slot.
Pros
- 3-year warranty
- Tool-free blade clamp
- Speed indicator dial
- “Zero-splinter” slot to cut and carve plywood.
Cons
- The base plate is not completely flat.
Who can use it?
Professional workshops, household projects, DIY. Cuts effectively all kinds of material – soft and hard.
Best Cheap: WEN 33606 6.6 amp Orbital jigsaw
WEN 33606 is the most innovative jigsaw tool on the market, with power-packed specifications. It is the best cheap jigsaw for material cutting. The lightweight design, weighing only 5 pounds, reduces strain during operation.
Features
- Motor/Battery Power: 6.6 amp
- Speed: 0-3,300 spm
- Stroke length: 3/8 Inch for metal and 4-¼ inch for wood
- Beveling ability: 45˚
- Acceptable blade types: T Shank blades
- Weight: 5.4 pounds
- Power Source: Corded Electric
What I liked about WEN 33606 6.6 amp Orbital jigsaw?
Variable speed orbital control of this best jigsaw easily cuts through wood, metal, plastic, and other materials. The performance it provides allows you to create any pattern or curve. You can adjust the blade’s stroke speed in the range of 0 to 3,300 strokes per minute using the variable speed dial.
The orbital selection knob allows you to modify the blade’s strength to meet the cutting material’s density. To alter the stroke from vertical to orbital, simply spin the knob. This generates a pendulum effect with the saw’s blade.
The best budget jigsaw has a LED light mounted on the front that illuminates your workpiece. It also has an onboard laser that keeps your cut line on the target but it does not give much precision. This WEN jigsaw is capable of cutting metals up to 3/8 inch thick. The lock-on power switch temporarily grasps the trigger in place. This eliminates the tension of having to keep the trigger engaged for long periods. This one has the capability to give you the necessary performance while being cheaper.
What I didn’t like about WEN 33606 6.6 amp Orbital jigsaw?
Some parts are made up of plastic. So, I wouldn’t say all are durable. Also, the laser guide is not accurate so don’t expect precise cuts.
Pros
- Dual bevel footplate
- Onboard tool storage
- 2-year warranty
- Dust collection ports
- Non-marring shoe to prevent scratches on the work surface
Cons
- The laser guide is not accurate
- Poor quality parts
Who can use it?
Professionals and amateurs can use this jigsaw to cut wood, plastic, metal, or any other kind of material.
Best Curve Controlling Jigsaw: Black & Decker BDEJS4C 4 amp jigsaw
The BLACK & DECKER BDEJS4C electric jigsaw is compact and lightweight. This power cutting equipment has enough power to execute a range of cuts. With a 4 amp motor, this saw can make clean cuts in a variety of materials. Bevel cuts of up to 45 degrees are possible because of the tilting base plate.
Features
- Motor/Battery Power: 4 amp
- Speed: 0-3,000 spm
- Stroke length: 0.68 Inch
- Beveling ability: 45˚
- Acceptable blade types: T Shank blades
- Weight: 4.45 pounds
- Power Source: Corded Electric
What I liked about Black & Decker BDEJS4C 4 amp jigsaw?
Black & Decker jigsaw is a pocket-friendly option that works quite well. This best budget jigsaw’s 4-amp motor promises to give a wide speed range. For a better result, both bevel cutting and orbital action are available. The jigsaw includes an integral dust blower. This blower keeps the cutting surface free of scrapped debris.
You can adjust the jigsaw speed using the variable speed control system. This tool can provide speeds up to 3,000 SPM. This corded jigsaw uses T-shank jig saw blades for professional and smooth cuts. The stroke length of this best budget jigsaw is .688 inches, which can provide optimal results. It gives you good control even on the curves, no matter whether it is a wood or a metal. You will never go wrong with this one.
What I didn’t like about Black & Decker BDEJS4C 4 amp jigsaw?
The only thing I did not like much about this product is its plastic guard. It makes cutting difficult. Like you cannot see the blade cutting.
Pros
- 1-year limited warranty
- Comes with vacuum adaptor for dust collection
- Accepts other standard jigsaw blades
Cons
- Plastic guard obstructs the operator from the cutting process.
Who can use it?
Ideal for cutting wood and soft materials. DIYers, beginners, and other homeowners can use this power tool for household tasks.
Best Easy-to-Use Jigsaw: Teccpo TAJS01P Professional jigsaw
The TECCPO best budget jigsaw uses laser technology and metal guide rulers. It helps to achieve the highest accuracy. For more diverse purposes like a tangent, beveling, or curved cuts, this foot can make bevels up to 45° both to the right and left. This versatile tool comes with an adjustable aluminum footplate. The operator can adjust this foot according to the workpiece dimensions.
Features
- Motor/Battery Power: 6.5 amp
- Speed: 0-3,000 spm
- Stroke length: 3/4 Inch
- Beveling ability: 45˚
- Acceptable blade types: T Shank blades
- Weight: 5.51 pounds
- Power Source: Corded Electric
What I liked about Teccpo TAJS01P Professional jigsaw?
A 6.5 amp Fine Copper Motor delivers up to 3000 SPM cutting power in this jigsaw. It consumes less energy since it is operated efficiently. 6 variable speeds allow for a variety of cutting speeds to handle a number of cutting needs.
The most striking feature of this best budget jigsaw is its adjustable cutting performance. As a result, it can execute straight lines, curves as well as slant cuts. This modern jigsaw has a transfer switch on the top handle for wind direction. A built-in laser guide ensures top-notch precision and keeps your cutting in line. The scale ruler allows the operator to maintain precise control over the cutting distance.
The dust blower that comes with the kit maintains the cut line free of sawdust. This ensures a clean work area and a clear line of sight for the operator. The lock-on trigger switch keeps the saw running. It does not need the operator to press the button repeatedly.
This best budget jigsaw comes with a tool-free blade changing and a sweep-up pipe adaptor. There are many interesting features that makes using it extremely easy.
What I didn’t like about Teccpo TAJS01P Professional jigsaw?
The laser switch doesn’t seem durable.
Pros
- Six variable speeds
- Dust extraction system
- Professional accessories included
- Tool-free adjustment of cutting angle
- Ergonomic tool handle
Cons
- The laser switch is not of good quality.
Who can use it?
Perfect for carpentry, wood crafting, home renovations, carving, metal cutting, and processing. Carpenters, general contractors, small workshops, DIYers, homeowners can use this jigsaw to cut wood, PVC, and metals.
The variable speed options allow this best budget jigsaw to cut plastic, steel plates, aluminum, wood, and stainless steel.
Best Power: Hychika 800W jigsaw
The HYCHIKA 800W is a robust and efficient 6.7 Amp jigsaw that can perform straight cuts, beveled cuts, and curve cuts. The four-position orbital action enables the operator to set different positions. These can be set for straight cuts, small-, large- and medium-curve cuts.
Features
- Motor/Battery Power: 6.7 amp
- Speed: 800-3,000 spm
- Stroke length: ⅞ Inch (22 mm)
- Beveling ability: 0°,22.5°, 45°
- Acceptable blade types: T Shank blades
- Weight: 8.6 pounds
- Power Source: Corded Electric
What I liked about Hychika 800W jigsaw?
The pure copper motor of HYCHIKA JS-100C makes it a powerful jigsaw, with a speed range of 800-3000 SPM. The tool has six different speed settings that you can select as per your needs. The kit comes with 6pc blades. You can choose appropriate saw blades according to the material hardness.
You can pick different cutting angles. The maximum changeable cutting angle is -45 degrees to 45 degrees. HYCHIKA JS-100C has 110 mm of the maximum cutting depth for wood. Whereas the maximum cutting depth for metal is 10 mm. A 0-3 lifting knife is also available, which the jigsaw operator can use to cut a variety of materials. Seriously, you can call this one as a power tool with the way it cuts almost all types of materials.
This tool comes with a built-in laser guide for precision cutting. It consists of a guide ruler to help direct and control the cutting width. The trigger is held in place by the lock-on button located directly below the top grip. This eliminates the requirement for operators to keep their fingers engaged for long periods. You can change saw blades fast and easily with the quick-release chuck. Both sides of this best budget jigsaw have a magnetic blade storage box.
What I didn’t like about Hychika 800W jigsaw?
The laser guide does not have any function of automatically getting turned off. So, if you forget to turn it off manually, it will drain faster.
Pros
- Dust blower
- On/off switch for laser
- 2 blades for metal and aluminum, 4 blades for wood and plastic cutting
- Powerful T-shank blades
Cons
- The battery in the laser guide may die soon
Who can use it?
Hychika jigsaw is very effective in cutting thin metal sheets, PVC, panels of plastic, wood, aluminum, and ceramic tiles.
My Verdict
The BOSCH JS260 is my best budget jigsaw choice among the other jigsaws. The plunging motion and low vibration structure contribute to this jigsaw’s cutting precision. It also has a better grip because of the multidirectional blade clamp. As a result, the T-Shank blades are more secure in their locations. This adds to the overall steadiness of the tool during cutting operations. Further, this model has a four orbital action setting. That means, you can expect varied blade strokes seamlessly. Moreover, you can also have an easy transition from smooth to a more aggressive cutting.
Buying Guide
Whether you need it for your home or any professional use, there are a number of jigsaws available in the market. Since choosing one from so many can be confusing, I feel it is best to know the basic factors while selecting one. Hence, I have looked far and wide and used my experience to choose the best budget jigsaw.
Blades & Stroke length
The blades are one of the most essential features you must know before buying from the best budget jigsaws. The type of blade changes according to your purpose of use. If you use a blade intended for wood, it should be capable of cutting both hardwoods and softwoods. But it will be ineffective when cutting sheet metal. Many multi-purpose blades or general blade sets are included with jigsaws. But, it’s best to purchase application-specific blades.
You’ll also need to know what kind of connection your jigsaw uses. The T-Shank and U-Shank blades are the two varieties of jigsaw blades.
T-Shank blades have primarily replaced the U-Shank blade as the most commonly utilized jigsaw blade. This is because of the tool-less blade mechanisms featured on several current jigsaws.
The stroke is calculated as how far the blade may travel in a single action. While cutting the item, a markedly higher stroke rate may mean that it can travel a greater distance.
Motor & Battery
Your best budget jigsaw should have a very good motor that can sustain your job.
The motor supplies power to the jigsaw, letting the blade and other components do their job. In corded jigsaws, the motor is operated by an electrical socket. While, in a cordless model, the motor is battery powered. For most cutting tasks, I would suggest a 500W one. However, if you are planning to use it for cutting hard metals regularly, go for 700W.
Now when it comes to cordless jigsaw, you would find the power in volts. And, most of them feature between 12 and 18 volts.
Jigsaws are available in both brushed and brushless motor variants. However, brushless motors are favorable over typically brushed motors due to their longevity.
Jigsaw Shoe
The shoe, also called the foot or pad, is at the foundation of the jigsaw. It shields the blade as well as the base of the tool. It also offers leverage against the sawing operation. Thus, it results in maximum precision and noise minimization throughout the jigsaw.
You can often find an adjustable shoe. For instance, there are best budget jigsaw shoes that can even stretch. Jigsaw shoes also safeguard the blades’ damaged teeth. That’s because it keeps the piece right at one place and gives you the necessary stability while cutting. You can have stable but different angles. Thus, it enables prolonged blade life by utilizing unused teeth.
Cordless Vs. Corded Jigsaw
The corded best budget jigsaw is wired to a power source while the cordless jigsaw runs on electric power. A corded jigsaw is portable and has good power. You connect it to an external power supply that always gives enough push to complete the task. On the other hand, the cordless jigsaw comes with a battery, which adds to its weight.
The cost of a corded jigsaw is generally lower than that of a cordless one. If you are tight on budget, then you can opt for the corded best budget jigsaw. Though there are good options in cordless jigsaws also to consider.
Variable Speed Control
The majority of best budget jigsaws come with the variable speed setting. And that’s the best thing. When making more elaborate scroll cuts, a lower-speed motor allows better precision. It also helps in maintaining control. Jigsaws with variable speed control will either have a lever or a variable speed dial. Beginners may benefit from a variable pace trigger, which at the very least freezes the pace at a specific setting.
The most powerful tools have speeds of up to 3,500 SPM, making them easy to saw softwoods & hardwoods.
Durability
The best jigsaw you are going to buy must be of high-quality, long-lasting materials. When made of plastic, the parts can wear out quickly or break after continuous use. So, try to have a jigsaw made out of metal. Check out the base plate. Ensure it is either of steel or alloy for firm yet smooth running.
Laser Guide
A laser guide allows you to properly see the cut line. This will help you to make more accurate cuts. This isn’t a standard feature of jigsaws, but it can be really useful if you’re carving many straight lines. Some inexpensive jigsaws do have this by default; whereas, some have it as an extra feature adding to the total cost.
Integrated dust blower
To keep your work area clean, you’ll need a dust blower. Some jigsaws merely blow away the sawdust, allowing it to fall somewhere else.
Tool-free Blade Changes
A tool-free blade switching cuts down on downtime and makes things simpler. You also don’t have to hold a hot blade; just detach it from the jigsaw.
T-shank blades have this feature by default. Hence, jigsaws with this capability are relatively popular. It’s usually a lever that operates it. So, ensure it’s robust and secure.
Vibration Minimization/ Elimination
Vibration control features, like padded foot plates or a different mechanism, are available on some best budget jigsaws like on the Bosch JS260. Non-marring footplates often reduce noise.
While this isn’t a must-have element, it’s worth considering if you’ll be doing your work for long periods.
Long-term usage of high-vibration power equipment can harm nerves and cause other health problems. Jigsaws with this feature may cost a little more than those who don’t have them.
Trigger-Lock
With a trigger lock, you can keep the jigsaw running at a specified pace without actually clutching the trigger. This is a fantastic feature for lengthy cutting sessions. That’s because it significantly reduces grip fatigue.
Conclusion
The above evaluation provides you with the most up-to-date information on various jigsaws. Examine the specifics and select the best budget jigsaw that will suit your demands and the job. Personally, I am a big fan of Bosch JS260. This best budget jigsaw is a power-packed tool that can give you the best results in no time. Go through the reviews of all 9 products with
