Best Jigsaw Machines Online: Affordable Picks And Extensive Buying Guide

A jigsaw machine, to put straight, is a power-driven saw with replaceable blades. It packs a punch on the intended surface and helps in making clean and precise cuts, both straight and angular.

Though it is mainly popular for cutting woods, various other materials such as steel, fibreglass, laminated flooring and tiles, can also be cut with a jigsaw machine depending upon the quality of the blade used. Interestingly, these machines are also one of the most popular tools for carving pumpkins, particularly during the Halloween season.

Given that they can easily glide through different materials of varying densities and are quite easy to use- jigsaws machines make a popular choice among artisans and hobbyists alike. Find below some of the best jigsaw machines that appealed to us the most along with an extensive buying guide. Happy shopping!

Best Jigsaw Machines 

1. Black + Decker Jigsaw Machine

This pendulum jigsaw cutter stands apart with its pendulum action, soft-grip, and efficient dust blower. Further its magnetic onboard blade change allows storing various blades in the tool itself. It allows both straight line cuts, as well as, bevel cut angles ranging between 0 degrees and 45 degrees.

Power Rating- 600 W

Stroke Rate- 800-3200 per minute

Depth of cut (wood)- 85mm

Depth of cut (steel)- 5 mm

Depth of cut (aluminium)- 15 mm

2. Bosch Jigsaw Machine

This ergonomically designed jigsaw machine is ideal for professional workers and has been designed especially to suit carpenters, woodworkers, and other workmen. It offers variable speed and has a compact design for minimal vibration. Its lightweight and slim handle add to the convenience.

Power Rating- 450 W

Stroke Rate- 800-3100 per minute

Depth of cut (wood)- 65mm
Depth of cut (non-alloyed steel)- 3 mm

Depth of cut (aluminium)- 10 mm

3. Dewalt Jigsaw Machine

This jigsaw machine has an ergonomic build and has a low profile dust extraction shield. It also has a bi-directional vacuum spot for cutting edge performance. Further, it has a quick and easy patented blade change system for convenience. It is best for beginners and hobbyists. 

Power Rating- 500 W
Stroke Rate- 800-3200 per minute

4. Ibell Professional Jigsaw Machine

Ace straight, bevel, and curved cutting at once with this professional jigsaw machine, which makes fine cuts at a higher price. Thanks to its speed lock button, it can be locked at the desired speed to reduce strain on the hands. Adding to it, this machine offers a quick-release chuck and in-built LED on one side.

Power Rating- 700 W

Stroke Rate- 500-3000 per minute

Depth of cut (wood)- 135 mm

Depth of cut (steel)- 10 mm

Depth of cut (aluminium)- 20 mm

5. Makita Jigsaw Machine

This power tool has been designed specially to minimize fatigue and pain in the hands, after prolonged hours of working. While the machine comes with a blade of 1.1mm thickness, it can easily hold up to 1.7 mm thick blades. As for the cutting, it performs well for both straight and curved cuts.

Power Rating- 450 W Stroke Rate- 800-3200 per minute

Things To Consider Before Buying A Jigsaw Machine

Power

Jigsaw machines come in different power ratings. The ones with a higher power rating can easily carve heavier and/or denser materials such as metals. These are, however, more preferred for industrial purposes and not household chores or DIY crafts.

Cord

Corded jigsaw machines are considered to be more powerful and preferred for heavy-duty surfaces and industrial purposes since they are connected with a continuous supply of power and are free from the hassle of frequent charging. Similarly, they can cut more surfaces as compared to cordless ones. The latter is, however, portable and thus more travel friendly.

Blades

Different jigsaw blades are available, depending upon the surface to be cut. Mostly the specifications about the best-suited material are imprinted on the accompanying label. Some of the most common varying features in jigsaw blades include thickness and number of teeth per inch. Also, don't forget to check the blade changing feature before finalising your power tool.

Strokes per minute

Stroke rate or strokes per minute refers to the number of times the blade moves up and down in a minute. Jigsaw machines with a slower stroke rate, between 500 and 1000, are preferred for wall tiles, ceramic, and glass. Slower rates are also helpful in making intricately curved cuts. Similarly, medium (100-2000 strokes per minute) and higher (greater than 2000 per minute) are ideal for plastic or non-iron metals, and wood, respectively.

Orbital Action

A traditional jigsaw moves only in a straight line up-and-down fashion, which is often limiting. Modern jigsaw machines come with the feature of orbital action in which the blade moves slightly forward and into the workpiece on the upswing, then slightly backwards as a downstroke. This elliptical motion is smoother, neater, and more effective in making cuts. It further gives the option to adjust the angle of the action and further control over the desired cut.

Variable Speed

Different stroke rates are ideal for different materials. Instead of buying many jigsaws machines, you can invest smartly in the one that offers varying stroke rates. This feature of varying stroke rates is known as “variable speed”.

Vibrancy Reduction

Vibrations can be a huge distraction while working with a jigsaw machine. However, some of them come with a vibration reduction feature that could come in handy. It can shoot up the prices, though.

Why Should You Get A Jigsaw Machine?

1. They are much faster than the traditional hand-held coping saws.

2. They do not require extensive training and can be easily learnt.

3. They can also be used for making bevel or curved cuts, up to 45 degrees.

4. Not only can they cut wood of varying densities, but also other materials such as steel, fibreglass, drywall and even pumpkins.

5. You can use them to renovate your tiles, countertops, shelves, floor lamination, etc.

6. You can easily upgrade your jigsaw machine by replacing the existing blade with a new one of your choice.

7. They can be used for everyday errands, skilled craftsmanship, as well as, DIY projects.