Ever feel like your DIY projects are stuck in neutral because you don’t have the right tools? Maybe you’ve eyed a cool woodworking project or a tricky home repair, but the thought of buying a pricey jigsaw stops you. It’s a common problem! Finding a jigsaw that’s both affordable and good enough to get the job done can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.
Many people worry that “cheap” means “bad.” They fear a bargain jigsaw will break easily, make messy cuts, or just be frustrating to use. It’s true, not all affordable options are created equal. This can leave you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of where to even start looking.
But what if you could find a jigsaw that won’t break the bank and will actually help you complete your projects with confidence? In this post, we’re going to dive into the world of budget-friendly jigsaws. We’ll explore what makes a good cheap jigsaw, what features to look for, and even highlight a few options that offer great value. By the end, you’ll have a much clearer idea of how to choose a jigsaw that fits your needs and your wallet.
Our Top 5 Cheap Jigsaw Tool Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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Hammerhead 4.8-Amp 3/4 Inch Jig Saw with 2pcs Wood Cutting Blades | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
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SKIL 5 Amp Corded Jig Saw – JS3131-00 | 9.3/10 | Check Price |
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BLACK+DECKER Jig Saw | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
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WEN 33606 6.6-Amp Variable Speed Orbital Jig Saw with Laser and LED Light | 9.0/10 | Check Price |
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GALAX PRO 3.3Amp Jig Saw | 9.3/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Cheap Jigsaw Tool Detailed Reviews
1. Hammerhead 4.8-Amp 3/4 Inch Jig Saw with 2pcs Wood Cutting Blades
Rating: 9.2/10
The Hammerhead 4.8-Amp 3/4 Inch Jig Saw is a powerful tool for any woodworker. It cuts through wood easily and can shape it too. You can change the speed for different jobs. It also has special settings for different kinds of cuts.
What We Like:
- It has a strong 4.8-amp motor that cuts at 3,000 strokes per minute.
- You can change the speed to match your project and the blade you’re using.
- The 4-stage orbital function lets you make smooth or rough cuts.
- It can cut at an angle up to 45 degrees thanks to its adjustable metal base.
- A dust port helps you keep your workspace clean by attaching a vacuum.
- Changing blades is fast and simple with the tool-free system.
- It comes with two wood-cutting blades to get you started.
What Could Be Improved:
- The corded design means you need to be near an outlet.
- While powerful, it may not be the best choice for extremely hard materials or very thick wood.
This jig saw makes wood cutting easier and more enjoyable. It’s a reliable tool for many DIY projects.
2. SKIL 5 Amp Corded Jig Saw – JS3131-00
Rating: 9.0/10
Tackle your DIY projects with the SKIL 5 Amp Corded Jig Saw – JS3131-00. This powerful tool makes cutting wood, metal, and plastic a breeze. Its user-friendly design helps you achieve clean, precise cuts every time.
What We Like:
- It cuts through materials smoothly thanks to its 4-stage orbital function.
- You can adjust the speed for different jobs, and the brake stops the blade quickly for a neat finish.
- The shoe can tilt to let you make angled cuts, which is great for special projects.
- A dust blower keeps your cutting line clear so you can see exactly where you’re cutting.
- Changing blades is super fast because there’s no need for extra tools.
What Could Be Improved:
- The cord length might limit your reach in larger spaces.
- While good for general use, more advanced woodworkers might want more power or features.
This SKIL jig saw is a solid choice for anyone who needs a reliable tool for home improvement. It offers great performance for its price.
3. BLACK+DECKER Jig Saw
Rating: 9.2/10
Tackle your DIY projects with the BLACK+DECKER Jig Saw, 4.5 -Amp (BDEJS300C). This handy tool makes cutting wood, metal, and other materials a breeze. Its powerful motor and user-friendly design help you get the job done right.
What We Like:
- It’s great for cutting different materials like wood and metal.
- The 4.5 Amp motor gives you plenty of power, up to 3,000 cuts per minute.
- It’s light and easy to hold, so you won’t get tired quickly.
- You can make angled cuts up to 45 degrees with the tilting base.
- The wire guard helps you see your cutting line better.
- Changing blades is super fast and doesn’t need any tools.
- The built-in dust blower keeps your workspace clean.
- It’s corded, meaning you can cut for as long as you need.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s generally easy to use, some users might want a bit more power for very tough jobs.
- The dust blower is helpful but might not catch every single speck of dust.
This BLACK+DECKER jig saw offers a lot of value for its price, making it a solid choice for most home projects. It’s a reliable tool that helps you achieve clean and accurate cuts.
4. WEN 33606 6.6-Amp Variable Speed Orbital Jig Saw with Laser and LED Light
Rating: 8.8/10
The WEN 33606 jig saw is a powerful tool for your DIY projects. It helps you cut wood and metal with ease. This jig saw comes with helpful features to make your work smoother and more accurate.
What We Like:
- The 4-position orbital selection knob lets you change how the blade moves. You can go from straight up and down to a circular motion.
- A built-in laser and LED light shine on your work. This keeps your cutting line bright and easy to see.
- The strong 6.6-amp motor can make up to 3,300 cuts per minute. You can also change the speed to match your needs.
- Keeping your cutting area clear is simple. Use the dust port or the dust blower to remove sawdust.
- It includes a lock-on trigger for continuous cutting. The footplate can tilt for angled cuts, and a non-marring shoe protects your surfaces.
- You get a wood blade and a metal blade to start. A parallel fence bracket is also included to help you make straight cuts.
- This jig saw comes with a two-year warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- While powerful, the motor might be a bit loud for some users.
- Some users may wish for a longer cord for more reach.
Overall, the WEN 33606 jig saw offers great features and performance for its price. It’s a solid option for both beginners and experienced crafters.
5. GALAX PRO 3.3Amp Jig Saw
Rating: 8.7/10
Tackle your DIY projects with the GALAX PRO 3.3Amp Jig Saw. This powerful tool zips through materials at a speedy 3000 RPM, making quick work of wood and metal. Whether you’re cutting straight lines, fancy curves, or even angled bevels up to 45 degrees, this jigsaw handles it all. Its comfy grip and light weight mean you can work for longer without getting tired.
What We Like:
- The 3.3Amp motor is strong and gets the job done fast.
- The lock-on button is a lifesaver for longer cutting jobs, reducing hand fatigue.
- You can make cuts at different angles, up to 45 degrees, for more versatile projects.
- It’s designed to be comfortable and easy to control, even for beginners.
- It comes with blades for both wood and metal, plus an allen key and a manual, so you have everything you need to start.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it comes with two blades, having a few more specialized blades in the package would be even better for different types of cuts.
This GALAX PRO jig saw is a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and user-friendly tool. It offers great performance for its price.
Your Guide to Finding a Great Cheap Jigsaw Tool
So, you want to cut some wood, maybe build a birdhouse or fix a shelf. A jigsaw is your best friend for this! But you don’t want to spend a fortune. We get it! Finding a good, affordable jigsaw is totally possible. This guide will help you pick the right one.
What to Look For: Key Features
When you’re shopping for a cheap jigsaw, keep these things in mind. They make a big difference in how well the tool works.
Power and Speed
- Amps (Amperage): This tells you how much power the jigsaw has. For simple jobs, 4 to 5 amps is usually enough. If you plan to cut thicker wood or tougher materials, look for 6 amps or more. More amps mean it can cut through things more easily.
- Variable Speed: This feature lets you change how fast the blade moves. Slower speeds are good for starting cuts or working with delicate materials. Faster speeds are great for making quick cuts in softer wood.
Blade Control and Comfort
- Orbital Action: Some jigsaws have a setting that makes the blade move forward and backward a little, in addition to the up-and-down motion. This helps the blade cut faster and through tougher stuff. It’s like giving the blade a little extra push!
- Blade Clamp: You want a jigsaw with a tool-free blade clamp. This means you can change the blade without needing a screwdriver. It saves you time and hassle.
- Grip and Weight: Hold the jigsaw if you can. It should feel comfortable in your hand. A lighter jigsaw is easier to control, especially when you’re working for a while.
- Dust Blower/Port: Some jigsaws have a way to blow sawdust away from your cutting line. This helps you see exactly where you’re cutting. Others have a port where you can attach a vacuum cleaner to suck up the dust.
What It’s Made Of: Important Materials
The materials used in a jigsaw affect how long it lasts and how well it performs.
- Base Plate (Shoe): The metal plate that rests on the material you’re cutting is important. Steel is common and durable. Aluminum is lighter and less likely to rust. Look for a base plate that feels sturdy.
- Motor Housing: Most cheap jigsaws have plastic housings. Good quality plastic will feel solid and not cheap.
What Makes It Good or Bad: Factors Affecting Quality
Not all cheap jigsaws are created equal. Here’s how to spot a better one.
- Build Quality: Even on a budget, a jigsaw should feel well-put-together. There shouldn’t be loose parts or wobbly bits.
- Vibration: A good jigsaw won’t shake too much when you use it. Too much vibration makes it hard to control and can be tiring.
- Brand Reputation: While you’re looking for cheap, some brands are known for making decent tools even at lower prices. Doing a quick search for reviews of a specific brand can be helpful.
- Warranty: Even cheap tools sometimes come with a warranty. A longer warranty often means the manufacturer believes in their product.
How You’ll Use It: User Experience and Use Cases
Think about what you’ll be doing with your jigsaw. This helps you choose the right features.
- Simple DIY Projects: For cutting plywood, particle board, or thin wood for shelves, crafts, or small repairs, a basic jigsaw with around 4-5 amps and variable speed will work great.
- Occasional Woodworking: If you’re building things like birdhouses, small furniture, or doing slightly more involved projects, look for a bit more power (5-6 amps) and orbital action.
- Curves and Shapes: Jigsaws are fantastic for cutting curved lines and shapes. Practice on scrap wood to get the hang of it.
- Cutting Different Materials: You can cut more than just wood! With the right blade, you can cut plastic and even thin metal. Just be sure to get the correct blade.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the most important feature on a cheap jigsaw?
A: Variable speed is very important. It helps you control the cut for different materials and tasks.
Q: Can a cheap jigsaw cut through thick wood?
A: It depends on the power. A jigsaw with at least 6 amps and orbital action will handle thicker wood better than a less powerful model.
Q: Do I need a jigsaw with a dust blower?
A: It’s not essential, but it makes it easier to see your cutting line. A dust port for a vacuum is also helpful for keeping your workspace clean.
Q: How do I change the blade on a jigsaw?
A: Most modern jigsaws have a tool-free blade clamp. You usually twist a knob or pull a lever to release the old blade and insert the new one.
Q: What kind of blades should I buy?
A: Blades are sold for different materials. You’ll find blades for wood, metal, and plastic. Always match the blade to the material you are cutting.
Q: How much vibration is too much?
A: If the jigsaw shakes so much that you can’t control it or it feels like it’s going to jump out of your hands, that’s too much vibration.
Q: Is a corded or cordless jigsaw better for a beginner?
A: For a cheap option, corded jigsaws are often more powerful for the price and you don’t have to worry about batteries. Cordless gives you more freedom but can be more expensive.
Q: Can I use a jigsaw for straight cuts?
A: Yes, but it’s harder to get perfectly straight cuts with a jigsaw than with a circular saw. You might need a guide if you need a very straight line.
Q: What safety gear do I need when using a jigsaw?
A: Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris. Gloves can help with grip and protect your hands.
Q: Where can I find good, cheap jigsaws?
A: Look at big box hardware stores, online retailers like Amazon, and sometimes even discount tool stores. Reading customer reviews is key!
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!