Imagine this: you’ve got a great idea for a woodworking project, a piece of furniture to repair, or even a craft to create. You’re ready to cut, shape, and bring your vision to life. But then you look at the tangle of cords, the limited reach of your tools, and the frustration sets in. What if there was a way to cut with freedom and precision, without being tied down?
That’s where cordless jig saws shine! These amazing tools let you move anywhere, making intricate cuts and curves a breeze. But with so many different brands and features out there, picking the perfect one can feel like a maze. Do you need more power? A lighter tool? What about battery life? It’s easy to get overwhelmed and wonder if you’re making the right choice.
Don’t worry, we’re here to help! By the end of this post, you’ll understand what makes a great cordless jig saw tick. We’ll break down the important things to look for, so you can confidently choose the tool that fits your needs and makes your projects a joy to complete. Get ready to cut loose and create!
Our Top 5 Cordless Jig Saws Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Cordless Jig Saws Detailed Reviews
1. DEWALT 20V MAX XR Jig Saw
Rating: 9.2/10
The DEWALT 20V MAX XR Jig Saw (DCS334B) is a powerful cordless tool designed to make your cutting jobs easier. Its brushless motor offers great efficiency, meaning you can work longer on a single charge. This jig saw is also built to be compact, making it comfortable to hold and control, even for tricky cuts. With a bright LED light, you can easily see your cutting line, even in dark spaces. It’s a bare tool, so you’ll need a battery and charger, but it’s a fantastic addition to any DIYer’s or professional’s toolkit.
What We Like:
- The brushless motor provides longer runtimes, so you can keep cutting.
- Its compact size makes it easy to grip and maneuver for better control.
- A bright LED light illuminates your work area for clearer visibility.
- The variable speed trigger and dial let you adjust the cutting speed precisely.
- Changing blades is quick and easy with the all-metal, lever-action keyless blade change.
- An integrated dust blower keeps your cutting line clear of debris.
- Four orbital action settings offer control over cut quality and speed.
- The all-metal shoe bevel adjusts easily with detents at common angles, including a positive stop at 45 degrees.
- A no-mar shoe cover protects your workpiece from scratches.
- It accepts T-shank blades for a secure fit and professional results.
What Could Be Improved:
- This is a bare tool, so batteries and a charger are sold separately, adding to the initial cost.
Overall, this jig saw offers excellent performance and user-friendly features for a wide range of cutting tasks.
2. DEWALT 20V MAX Jig Saw
Rating: 8.9/10
The DEWALT 20V MAX Jig Saw (DCS331B) is a powerful and versatile tool designed for a wide range of cutting tasks. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a seasoned professional, this jigsaw offers features that make your projects easier and more efficient.
What We Like:
- Changing blades is a breeze thanks to the all-metal, lever-action, keyless blade change system.
- You can easily make angled cuts with the all-metal keyless shoe bevel, which has preset stops at 0, 15, 30, and 45 degrees.
- The 4-position orbital action lets you control how the saw cuts, giving you options for speed and the quality of your cut.
- An adjustable dust blower keeps your cutting line clear of sawdust so you can see exactly where you’re cutting.
- With a variable speed of 0-3,000 strokes per minute (spm), you can tackle various materials and jobs with the right speed.
- The anti-slip comfort grip makes the saw comfortable to hold and gives you better control during use.
- It accepts T-shank jigsaw blades, which hold on tight and provide professional results.
What Could Be Improved:
- This is a “tool only” purchase, meaning you’ll need to buy a battery and charger separately if you don’t already have them.
- While the dust blower is helpful, some users might prefer a more robust dust collection system for larger projects.
This DEWALT jigsaw is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and feature-rich cutting tool. Its user-friendly design and powerful performance make it a valuable addition to any toolbox.
3. RYOBI ONE+ 18V Cordless Jig Saw (Tool Only) 18 VOLT
Rating: 9.5/10
The RYOBI ONE+ 18V Cordless Jig Saw is a handy tool for all your cutting projects. It’s green and ready to help you get the job done. This saw is designed to make your work easier and more efficient.
What We Like:
- It has four different settings to change the power for different jobs. This helps you cut wood, metal, or plastic just right.
- The non-marring shoe is a great feature. It stops the saw from scratching your nice work surfaces.
- You can control the speed easily with the variable speed trigger. This means you can cut slowly and carefully or quickly when needed.
- The base can tilt to cut angles up to 45 degrees in either direction. This is perfect for making angled cuts.
- Changing the blades is super fast and simple because it doesn’t need any tools.
- It cuts fast, up to 3,000 cuts per minute, so you can finish projects quicker.
- The built-in LED light shines on your cutting line. This helps you see exactly where you’re cutting, even in dim light.
What Could Be Improved:
- This is a “tool only” purchase. You’ll need to buy a battery and charger separately if you don’t already have them.
- While it’s great for many jobs, it might not be the best choice for very heavy-duty or prolonged industrial use.
Overall, this RYOBI jig saw is a solid choice for DIYers and homeowners. It offers a good balance of features and performance for everyday tasks.
4. BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX* POWERCONNECT Cordless Jig Saw (BDCJS20C)
Rating: 9.5/10
Tackle your DIY projects with ease using the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX* POWERCONNECT Cordless Jig Saw. This tool is great for making all sorts of cuts, from straight lines to fancy curves, and even angled ones. It’s designed to make your work simpler and more accurate.
What We Like:
- It’s super versatile, letting you make straight, curved, and angled cuts.
- The variable-speed trigger gives you lots of control over your cutting speed.
- Changing the blades is easy and doesn’t need any extra tools.
- You can make angled cuts in both directions with the 45-degree bevel shoe.
- The wire guard helps you see exactly where you’re cutting for better precision.
- A built-in dust blower keeps your work area clean, so you can see better.
- The POWERCONNECT battery works with other BLACK+DECKER tools, which is very handy.
- It comes with everything you need to get started: the saw, a blade, a battery, and a charger.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s great for most jobs, it might not be the best choice for very heavy-duty or prolonged cutting tasks.
- The battery life, while decent, might not be enough for extremely long projects without a recharge or spare battery.
This BLACK+DECKER jig saw is a solid choice for home improvement and craft projects. It offers good features and ease of use for most DIYers.
5. Jig saw compatible with Dewalt 20V Battery (Battery not Included) Cordless Jigsaw with LED Work Light
Rating: 8.7/10
Unleash your DIY potential with this cordless jigsaw, built for power and precision. Designed to work seamlessly with your existing Dewalt 20V MAX batteries, this tool is ready for any project. Its versatile features allow for straight, curved, and even angled cuts, making it a must-have for home improvement enthusiasts and crafters alike.
What We Like:
- Cordless Freedom: Works with Dewalt 20V MAX batteries, so no cords to get in your way.
- Bevel Cutting: Easily adjust the footplate for cuts up to 45 degrees left or right.
- Versatile Cutting: Tackle wood, metal, and more with different orbital settings and included blades.
- Quick Blade Changes: The tool-free system makes swapping blades fast and simple.
- Safety First: A safety lock button prevents accidental starts.
- See Clearly: The built-in LED light helps you work in dim areas.
- Comfortable Grip: The rubber handle provides a secure and comfortable hold.
- Built to Last: Made with strong materials for durability.
What Could Be Improved:
- Battery Not Included: You’ll need your own Dewalt 20V MAX battery to use it.
This jigsaw offers great flexibility and power for a wide range of cutting tasks. It’s a solid addition to any toolbox, especially if you’re already invested in the Dewalt battery system.
Choosing the Best Cordless Jig Saw: Your Ultimate Guide
Cordless jig saws are amazing tools. They help you cut curves and shapes in wood, metal, and plastic. They are easy to use anywhere because they don’t need a power cord. This guide will help you pick the right one for your projects.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a cordless jig saw, keep these important features in mind.
- Battery Power: Jig saws run on batteries. Look for batteries with higher voltage (like 18V or 20V). More voltage means more power for tougher cuts. Also, check how long the battery lasts. Some come with one battery, others with two. Having two is great so you can keep working while one charges.
- Variable Speed Control: This lets you adjust how fast the blade moves. Slower speeds are better for delicate cuts or harder materials. Faster speeds are good for quick cuts in softer wood.
- Orbital Action: Some jig saws have an “orbital” setting. This means the blade moves forward and backward a bit as it cuts. It makes cutting faster and easier, especially in wood. Not all projects need this, but it’s a useful feature.
- Blade Clamp System: How easy is it to change the blade? Tool-free blade changes are the best. You just twist a knob or flip a lever. This saves you time and frustration.
- LED Light: A small light that shines on your cutting line is super helpful. It lets you see exactly where you are cutting, even in dim light.
- Dust Blower/Port: Cutting creates dust. Some jig saws have a feature that blows dust away from the cutting line. Others have a port where you can attach a vacuum. Both help you see better and keep your workspace cleaner.
Important Materials
The materials used in a jig saw affect its strength and how long it lasts.
- Base Plate (Shoe): This is the flat part that rests on your material. Steel or aluminum are common. Steel is strong but can be heavier. Aluminum is lighter and won’t rust. Some have plastic coatings for smoother gliding.
- Gears and Motor: The inside parts should be made of durable metal. This makes the tool last longer and perform better.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a jig saw great, while others can make it less good.
- Build Quality: A well-built jig saw feels solid in your hands. It doesn’t vibrate too much. The parts fit together nicely.
- Motor Type: Brushless motors are better. They last longer and are more efficient. They also tend to be lighter.
- Ergonomics: How comfortable is the jig saw to hold? A good grip and balanced weight make it easier to control.
- Vibration: Too much vibration makes it hard to cut straight lines. Good jig saws have features to reduce vibration.
- Noise Level: Some jig saws can be very loud. Check reviews to see how noisy a model is if that’s a concern for you.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you’ll use your jig saw matters.
- Beginner Projects: If you’re just starting, a simple jig saw with good control is best. Cutting curves for decorative signs or making simple shapes for crafts are good beginner projects.
- Woodworking: For cutting wood, look for power and orbital action. You might cut plywood for shelves or shape pieces for furniture.
- Metal Cutting: If you need to cut thin metal, make sure the jig saw can handle it. You might need special blades for metal.
- DIY Home Projects: Installing new countertops, cutting holes for sinks, or making custom shelves are common DIY uses.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)**
Q: What is the most important feature in a cordless jig saw?
A: Battery power and variable speed control are very important. They let you do more types of cuts.
Q: Can I cut metal with any cordless jig saw?
A: Most can cut thin metal, but you need the right blade. Always check the tool’s manual.
Q: How do I change the blade on a cordless jig saw?
A: Many have tool-free systems. You usually just twist a knob or flip a lever to release the old blade and insert a new one.
Q: What does “orbital action” do?
A: It makes the blade move forward and backward a little while it cuts. This helps it cut through wood faster.
Q: Is a brushless motor better?
A: Yes, brushless motors last longer, are more efficient, and often make the tool lighter.
Q: How much should I expect to spend on a good cordless jig saw?
A: Prices vary, but a good quality cordless jig saw can cost between $100 and $250. More features and battery options can increase the price.
Q: How long do cordless jig saw batteries typically last?
A: Battery life depends on the battery size and how you use the saw. A fully charged battery might last 30 minutes to over an hour of continuous use.
Q: What kind of safety gear should I wear?
A: Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from dust and debris. Hearing protection is also a good idea.
Q: Can I use blades from different brands?
A: Most cordless jig saws use universal shank blades, so you can often use blades from different brands. Always check the tool’s specifications.
Q: What is the difference between a jig saw and a circular saw?
A: A jig saw is best for curved cuts and intricate shapes. A circular saw is designed for making straight cuts quickly.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking tools—especially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, you’ll find it here. I’m excited to be part of your woodworking journey!