7 Best Budget Jigsaws (With Enough Power and Speed)

When you are working on a woodworking project that requires you to make curved, intricate cuts, a jigsaw is the only tool that can save you. Its high portability is just a big plus! 

But, like any other tool, the price of jigsaws can range from $40 to $500, sometimes even more. So what do you do when you are on a budget? 

Worry not. I’ve got you! I have put together this list of 8 of the best budget jigsaws. You can use it to choose a quality tool that won’t break your bank! 

I have used my expertise and knowledge of tools to put together this list. Ready to get started?

PRODUCT DETAILS
  • Can cut through various materials
  • Ideal for beginners
  • Wire guard gives you a clean line of sight
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  • 7 speed settings and 4 orbital settings
  • Comfortable to grip and use
  • Keyless blade change clamp
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  • Very budget-friendly
  • 4 position orbital selection feature
  • Footplate bevels 45 degrees in both directions
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using a cheap jigsaw in workshop

Best Jigsaw for BeginnersBlack + Decker Jigsaw (BDEJS600C)

  • Type: Corded electric
  • Power: 5 Amp
  • Maximum speed: 3000 SPM
  • Variable speed: Yes
  • Weight: 4.6 lbs

The Black + Decker jigsaw can cut through wood, plastic, or metal and is one of the best jigsaws for beginners. The 5 Amp motor generates enough power to take care of your cutting tasks. The tool has variable speed with a maximum speed of 3000 SPM. The wire guard is perfect for giving you a clean line of sight, making your cuts more accurate. 

One of the best features of this jigsaw is its versatility. It comes with a CurveControl technology and has four customizable orbital settings that give you more control over curves and allow you to make multi-directional cuts easily.

The jigsaw has an adjustable shoe that provides a stable cutting platform on all materials and lets you make bevel cuts upto 45 degrees. Stability is one of the most important things when working with a jigsaw. If your tool isn’t stable, it could cause damage to your tool as well as your workpiece.

I love that this jigsaw allows you to change blades without using any tools! It has  ¾ inch stroke length and an inclusive dust blower to keep your workplace clean.

The handle is compact and is covered with rubber, so you can hold it easily and use it for a long time without any fatigue. It is easy to use, works well, and would be ideal for beginners who are just learning the ropes. It is a bit slow at completing projects and the safety button tends to stick as well. 

Pros

  • Can cut through various materials
  • Ideal for beginners
  • Wire guard gives you a clean line of sight
  • CurveControl technology
  • Four customizable orbital settings
  • Adjustable shoe for stability
  • Can make bevel cuts of up to 45 degrees
  • Toolless blade change mechanism
  • Dust blower
  • Compact handle with a rubber overmold
  • 2 year warranty

Cons

  • A bit slow
  • Safety button tends to stick
  • Can cut through various materials
  • Ideal for beginners
  • Wire guard gives you a clean line of sight
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My Thoughts: This jigsaw has many great features, making it very easy to use! Perfect for light-duty projects. 

Best Corded JigsawBosch JS260 Top-handle Jigsaw

  • Type: Corded electric
  • Power: 6 Amp
  • Maximum speed: 3100 SPM
  • Variable speed: Yes
  • Weight: 6.94 lbs

This jigsaw, with its sturdy 6 Amp motor, and a maximum speed of 3100 SPM, has enough power to tackle the toughest of jobs. You can adjust the speed easily using the variable speed dial. There is even an accelerator trigger which controls the operating speed of the tool. Its four orbital action settings make sure that your blade strokes are varied. So, if you want to transition from smooth to aggressive cutting, you can do so easily using the Bosch JS260.

The tool has a heavy gauge steel footplate that provides a lot of stability. The multi-directional blade clamp grips the T-shank blades securely. With this tool, you get a stroke length of ¾ inches. You don’t need tools to adjust or swap your blades, either, which is an added convenience. The built-in dust blower keeps your line of cut very clean by blowing away all the dust from your workpiece. 

The Bosch JS260 is engineered to have a low-vibration plunging design. This will give you more precision over your cuts as well as reduce muscle fatigue. The top handle is ergonomic and easy to grip, so you can use the tool effortlessly. The two-finger trigger as well as the ambidextrous lock-on button are positioned so as to increase user comfort. But the lock control does tend to stick sometimes and the speed dial also proves hard to adjust. The collar is also made of plastic, and not everyone might like this. 

Pros

  • Powerful enough to tackle tough jobs
  • Four orbital action settings for varied blade strokes
  • The heavy gauge steel footplate provides stability and sturdiness
  • Multi-directional blade clamp
  • Tool-less blade change system
  • Built-in dust blower
  • Low-vibration plunging design
  • Precision cutting
  • Top handle is ergonomic
  • Ambidextrous lock-on button 

Cons

  • You need to stop the tool and turn it upside down to see the speed dial
  • Lock control button sticks sometimes
  • Collar is made out of plastic
  • Complaints of the blade meandering
  • Multi-directional blade clamp
  • Tool-less blade change system
  • Built-in dust blower
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My Thoughts: Bosch has a reputation when it comes to power tools, and this one proves to be no different. I think this tool is a steal for the price! It works great and is very easy to use as well. 

Most Comfortable To UseMakita 4329K Top Handle Jigsaw

  • Type: Corded electric
  • Power: 3.9 Amp
  • Maximum speed: 3100 SPM
  • Variable speed: Yes
  • Weight: 4.1 lbs

Not only is the Makita 4329K compact, it is also very easy and comfortable to use. Its 3.9 Amp motor is enough for some light-duty tasks. If you want a jigsaw for heavy-duty use, it would be best to go for a different tool with more power. You can adjust the speed between 500 to 3100 SPM – enough to cut through various materials such as wood or aluminum. It also features 3 orbital settings and a straight cutting feature. This should be enough to cover a majority of the cuts you will be making. 

The Makita 4329K is designed for comfort. The top handle has an ergonomically designed rubberized grip, which makes it very easy to hold and use. The counterweight balance system reduces vibrations, which means no user fatigue. There is also a large trigger switch which lets you operate the tool easily. The lock-on button allows you to use the jigsaw for extended periods of time. 

The base of the jigsaw is made out of die-cast aluminum, which means it is very durable. The base has a bevel capacity of 45 degrees on both sides with a positive stop at 90 degrees for an improved cutting performance. If you want to make bevel adjustments or change the blades easily, you can use the onboard hex wrench. 

One of the best features of the Makita 4329K is the through-the-body dust port that helps keep your workspace clean. There is also a sliding dust cover included. Just put it on the jigsaw when cutting vertically, and it will prevent any chips from flying! This is a great compact jigsaw for some casual use. 

Pros

  • Ideal for home use or light-duty tasks
  • Very comfortable to hold and use
  • Compact
  • Has 3 orbital settings and a straight cutting feature
  • Durable
  • Produces very less vibrations
  • Allows you to make smooth cuts
  • Left and right of 45 degrees
  • Dust port and sliding dust cover

Cons

  • Does not have a tool-less blade change feature
  • Not suitable for heavy-duty tasks
  • Complaints of the blades not aligning
  • Produces very less vibrations
  • Allows you to make smooth cuts
  • Left and right bevels of 45 degrees
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My Thoughts: If you are looking for a jigsaw for some occasional work, this one would be perfect! It has enough power to handle some light-duty tasks and is very comfortable to use. You will be able to get your job done without straining your muscles. 

Best Value for The MoneyPorter Cable Orbital Jigsaw (PCE345)

  • Type: Corded Electric
  • Power: 6 Amp
  • Maximum speed: 3200 SPM
  • Variable speed: Yes
  • Weight: 6 lbs

The Porter Cable jigsaw offers 6 Amps of power, which is more than enough for any demanding task you throw its way. This jigsaw is designed to give you optimal cutting results. It has a 7 position speed dial with speeds ranging from 0 to 3200 SPM, giving you more control when working with different materials. The trigger is also located in the same place, making it very easy for you to choose a speed and lock onto it whenever necessary. There are also 4 orbital settings to help you get the best cutting performance.  

The handle is positioned on the top and is oversized with an overmold. This makes it easy and comfortable to grip, even while working for a long time. The keyless blade change clamp allows you to replace blades easily without the use of any tools. The jigsaw bevels and the bevel plate has notches on it. But there have been complaints that the 90 degree setting isn’t true. With a stroke length of 13/16 inches, this jigsaw provides fast and smooth cuts and is perfect for home use. 

Pros

  • Powerful
  • Smooth cutting
  • 7 speed settings and 4 orbital settings
  • Comfortable to grip and use
  • Keyless blade change clamp

Cons

  • Complaints of the 90 degree setting not being true
  • The tool tends to heat up after a year of use
  • 7 speed settings and 4 orbital settings
  • Comfortable to grip and use
  • Keyless blade change clamp
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My Thoughts: This jigsaw provides the best value for the money by being easy to operate and cutting well. Although I wouldn’t recommend this for professional use, it is perfect for carrying out light- to medium-duty tasks around the house.  

Best Jigsaw Under $50Wen 33606 Orbital Jigsaw

  • Type: Corded electric
  • Power: 6.6 Amp
  • Maximum speed: 3300 SPM
  • Variable speed: Yes
  • Weight: 5.4 lbs

The Wen 33606 is one of the most budget-friendly jigsaws you will find. The best part is that its price does not compromise on any of its features! It has a power of 6.6 Amps, which is more than what most other budget jigsaws offer. Depending on the material you are working on, you can adjust the stroke of the blade between 0 to 3300 SPM. There is also a 4 position orbital selection feature, so changing the motion of the blade from vertical to orbital is super easy!

The bottom footplate bevels 45 degrees in both directions, making angled cuts very easy. The tool offers a wood cutting thickness of 4.5 inches and a metal cutting thickness of ⅜ inches. It has a non-marring shoe which prevents scuffs and scratches on your workpiece. One of my favorite features is the onboard laser and LED light. This helps illuminate your workpiece and grants you higher visibility over your line of cut. 

The Wen 33606 has a front mounted dust blower and a dust port in the back. You can use either of these to keep your workpiece clear of dust. Swap between the dust blower and the dust port using a simple switch! The quick release chuck makes blade changes very easy. The handle is located on the top and is comfortable to hold and use for long periods of time. The lock-on power switch is located on the handle in a very convenient place. 

This jigsaw doesn’t produce a lot of vibrations, which means you won’t get tired easily. It is a great tool that is more than worth the price. However, there have been some complaints about the included blade being dull and the blade wandering when in operation. 

Pros

  • Very budget-friendly
  • 4 position orbital selection feature
  • Footplate bevels 45 degrees in both directions
  • Non-marring shoe
  • Onboard laser and LED light work great 
  • Dust blower and a dust port
  • Easy blade changing
  • Handle is comfortable to hold
  • Produces very less vibrations
  • 2 year warranty

Cons

  • Included blade is dull
  • Blade tends to wander away from the cut line
  • Very budget-friendly
  • 4 position orbital selection feature
  • Footplate bevels 45 degrees in both directions
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My Thoughts: A jigsaw with all of these features for less than $50 is more than a steal! It has enough power and speed to cut through a variety of materials. I highly recommend it. 

Best Rated Budget JigsawDewalt Top Handle Jigsaw (DW317K)

  • Type: Corded electric
  • Power: 5.5 Amp
  • Maximum speed: 3100 SPM
  • Variable speed: Yes
  • Weight: 6.2 lbs

With a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, the Dewalt DW317K is a fan favorite! It is one of the more expensive jigsaws on this list, but I believe it is well worth the price if you have a few extra bucks to shell out. The jigsaw has a 5.5 Amp motor and variable speed ranging from 0 to 3100 SPM, which lets you cut through tough materials. The 4 position orbital action can be utilized for faster and more aggressive cutting. 

The jigsaw has an all-metal gear case, making the tool sturdy and durable. The bottom plate bevels up to 45 degrees, so making accurate angled cuts is very easy! The top handle is very comfortable to hold. It has a keyless blade change clamp that lets even novices change the blades easily without any tools. The tool comes with a storage case and a 3 year warranty. 

Pros

  • Highly rated
  • 4 position orbital action
  • Cuts well
  • Bevels up to 45 degrees
  • Comfortable to hold
  • Durable and sturdy
  • Keyless blade change clamp
  • 3 year warranty

Cons

  • No dust blower, so your workplace will get messy
  • A bit more expensive compared to other budget jigsaws
  • Doesn’t retain the 90 degree setting
  • Bevels up to 45 degrees
  • Comfortable to hold
  • Durable and sturdy
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My Thoughts: Yes, this tool is more expensive when compared to the others on this list, but Dewalt has a reputation. It is one of the highest rated jigsaws and has enough power to tackle light to moderate-duty jobs. 

Best Jigsaw for Home UseRyobi One+ HP 18V Brushless Jigsaw (PBLJS01)

  • Type: Battery powered
  • Power: 18V
  • Maximum speed: 3400 SPM
  • Variable speed: Yes
  • Weight: 4.44 lbs

Just like the Dewalt, the Ryobi PBLJS01 costs more than the other budget-friendly jigsaws on this list, but its features justify the price.

First off, it has a brushless motor which allows you to cut up to 36% faster. The tool also has a 78% longer runtime. This means you can easily operate the tool until your job is done.

With a maximum speed of 3400 SPM, it is also faster than many other budget jigsaws. When you add the 4 orbital settings to it, you get increased cutting versatility and the ability to work with different materials. 

The base is made out of die-cast metal and is very durable. It also includes a non-marring shoe which will prevent your workpiece from getting scuffs.

The lock on trigger allows for additional control while cutting. The tool bevels 45 degrees on both sides with a locking detent at this angle. You can change the blades quickly using the easy release blade lever

The onboard LED light clearly illuminates your workpiece, ensuring that your cuts are accurate. You also get an operator’s manual along with the tool! The battery and charger, however, are sold separately. Overall, it is a compact jigsaw that is very easy to maneuver and use.

Pros

  • Brushless motor allows for faster cutting and a longer runtime
  • 4 orbital settings
  • Durable
  • Compact
  • Lock on trigger
  • Die cast aluminum base with a non-marring shoe
  • Bevels 45 degrees on both sides
  • Easy release blade lever
  • Onboard LED light
  • 3 year warranty

Cons

  • Complaints of blade not being mounted straight
  • Base does not tighten, causing the jigsaw to sometimes swivel
  • A bit expensive when compared to other affordable jigsaws
  • Easy release blade lever
  • Onboard LED light
  • 3 year warranty
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My Thoughts: This jigsaw has many features that make it an attractive option. If you want a cordless tool, this is definitely a great option and will be enough to take care of all the jobs in your home. 

Now that we are done talking about 8 of the best jigsaws, it is time for a buyer’s guide so that you know what makes a jigsaw great. 

How To Choose The Best Budget Jigsaw for You

jigsaw cutting board

When you look for a budget tool, it is very important to make sure it doesn’t compromise on its quality. This is why I have put together this guide. Here are some things you need to consider while choosing the best budget jigsaw.

Power Source

Jigsaws come in two types: cordless and corded.

Cordless jigsaws are, of course, more portable since they don’t need to be connected to an electrical outlet. But you can only use them as long as the charge remains, which means your runtime is cut significantly shorter. Moreover, they are also more expensive than cordless jigsaws. You will also be spending additionally on batteries and chargers. Corded jigsaws would be a great choice if you tend to work a lot in places that don’t have an electrical outlet. 

Corded jigsaws, on the other hand, can run for a long time since they will always have a source of energy. They are also less expensive than cordless ones. But they are not super portable and can only be used in places with an electrical outlet nearby. 

In the end, the choice boils down to your needs and personal preferences. 

Handle Type

Why is handle type important? Because you need to be comfortable holding and operating the jigsaw! Jigsaws usually either have a top handle (also known as a D-shaped handle) or have a barrel grip. 

Again, the handle type mostly boils down to preference. I find the top handle design easier to grip and use, especially when working with one hand. Top handles are also better for beginners and people who tend to have small hands. Barrel grip, on the other hand, offers more control over the jigsaw. 

Most jigsaws in the US favor a top handle design, although many of the big brands offer both, so go for the one that fits you the best!

Power, Speed, and Orbital Action

Power is measured in Amps while speed is measured in strokes per minute (SPM). The more the power and speed, the faster your jigsaw is capable of cutting. Power also has a direct impact on whether the tool can handle tough jobs or not. As a general rule, a jigsaw with a power of 5-7 Amps and a maximum speed of 3000 to 3200 SPM should be enough for light to moderate-duty jobs. For professional tasks, you will need a tool with more power. 

Always go for a jigsaw with variable speed. This gives you greater control over how fast the tool operates and also allows you to work with various materials since different materials need different speeds. 

Orbital action is another thing that is important. This allows the jigsaw to cut in an elliptical motion and provides faster and more aggressive cutting. However, these cuts tend to be rougher than the others. 

Other Features

  • Dust Blower. You will likely be generating a law of dust while working. If you don’t clear it away, it will obscure your line of sight, cause health problems for you, and even damage your jigsaw. Obviously, you can’t keep pausing your work every few minutes to clear out the dust. This is why a dust blower is super useful as it blows all the dust away from your workpiece!
  • Tool-less blade change. This is a very convenient feature to have, especially for beginners. You won’t need to spend time searching for tools and figuring out how to replace your blades. 
  • LED light. Having an LED light means your line of cut is illuminated more clearly, helping you make accurate cuts!

Apart from these, make sure you can handle the weight of the jigsaw you choose. Ergonomics will also help you a lot when it comes to ease of use. If you happen to find a jigsaw that produces very less vibrations, even better! 

I hope this article helped you choose the best budget jigsaw. Don’t forget to wear protective gear! Happy woodworking!


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Barry Gray

Hi, I’m Barry. I’ve loved woodworking and bringing things back to life for more years than I care to remember. I hope my passion for tools comes across loud and clear in everything you read here on The Tool Square.

6 thoughts on “7 Best Budget Jigsaws (With Enough Power and Speed)”

  1. Hello there!

    Well organized and easy presentation of information, especially the comparison table, Perfection of selecting the product list.

    As an expert on that line, I tell you what!
    It would be more resourceful if you add some safety tips for the users while using it,
    Um going to prepare the best writers list on the web. surely um going to add your name (let me know the name of you).

    Keep helping people! you are doing just perfect

    Regards
    James V. Jordan

    Reply
  2. Hi, Great information about the budget-friendly jigsaw. Your content is really helpful for me in buying a great jigsaw. I am going to buy black and decker. Thanks for sharing this guide.

    Reply
  3. Excellent guide about the budget jigsaws. These types of guides really help in buying the right equipment. Thanks for sharing this.

    Reply

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