Best Cordless Jigsaw 2026 — Top 5 Picks for Every Budget
Best Cordless Jigsaws 2026 — Quick Picks
| Pick | Model | Battery | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | DeWalt DCS334B | 20V MAX | All-round cutting | $$ |
| Best Pro | Milwaukee 2737-20 | M18 FUEL | Heavy-duty work | $$$ |
| Best Value | Bosch JS120BN | 12V MAX | Light-duty hobbyists | $ |
| Best for Curves | Makita XVJ03Z | 18V LXT | Scrolling & fine curves | $$ |
| Best Budget | Ryobi PCL525B | 18V ONE+ | DIY beginners | $ |
A cordless jigsaw is one of the most versatile tools in any workshop — capable of cutting curves, circles, angles, and straight lines through wood, metal, plastic, and tile. Whether you are trimming countertops, cutting intricate shapes for a woodworking project, or tackling home renovation work, the right jigsaw can handle it all.
In 2026, cordless jigsaws have largely caught up with their corded counterparts in power and cutting speed. We tested and compared the top models across every budget. Here are our picks.
Our Top 5 Cordless Jigsaws for 2026
1. DeWalt DCS334B — Best Overall
Why we love it: The DeWalt DCS334B is our top pick for its combination of power, precision, and build quality. The tool-free blade change system makes swapping blades fast, and the 4-position orbital action gives you control over cutting speed versus finish quality — faster orbits for rough cuts, tighter orbits for cleaner curves.
- Battery: 20V MAX (tool only — battery sold separately)
- Stroke length: 1 inch
- Strokes per minute: 0–3,200 SPM
- Orbital settings: 4
- Weight: 5.0 lbs with battery
- Blade system: T-shank (universal fit)
Pros: Excellent blade visibility via LED light; keyless blade change; 4-stage orbital action; compatible with DeWalt 20V MAX battery ecosystem (60+ tools).
Cons: Sold as tool-only — add battery cost; dust blower can scatter debris toward user.
2. Milwaukee 2737-20 M18 FUEL — Best for Heavy-Duty Work
Why we love it: Milwaukee’s M18 FUEL jigsaw is built for professionals and serious DIYers who need to cut through thick hardwoods, metals, and composite materials without bogging down. The POWERSTATE brushless motor maintains consistent speed under load — something budget jigsaws simply cannot match.
- Battery: M18 (tool only)
- Stroke length: 1 inch
- Strokes per minute: 0–3,500 SPM
- Orbital settings: 4
- Weight: 5.5 lbs with battery
- Blade system: T-shank
Pros: Industry-leading 3,500 SPM; REDLINK PLUS overload protection; excellent shoe plate adjustment; integrates with 200+ M18 tools.
Cons: Premium price; heaviest pick on this list; overkill for light home projects.
3. Bosch JS120BN — Best Value for Hobbyists
Why we love it: If your jigsaw work is occasional — trimming wood, cutting plastic, small craft projects — the Bosch JS120BN delivers excellent cut quality and Bosch engineering at a surprisingly low price. The 12V platform is lighter and more compact than 18V/20V alternatives, making it easy to maneuver.
- Battery: 12V MAX (1× 2.0Ah included)
- Stroke length: 5/8 inch
- Strokes per minute: 0–2,700 SPM
- Orbital settings: 3
- Weight: 3.5 lbs with battery
- Blade system: T-shank
Pros: Great Bosch build quality; lightweight; good value; battery included; LED light for blade visibility.
Cons: 12V platform limits power for thick hardwood or metal; shorter stroke length reduces cutting speed.
4. Makita XVJ03Z — Best for Curves and Scrolling
Why we love it: Makita’s XVJ03Z uses a variable-speed trigger and precision-machined shoe to deliver some of the smoothest curves of any jigsaw on this list. The low-vibration design reduces fatigue, and the efficient brushless motor extends battery life compared to brushed alternatives.
- Battery: 18V LXT (tool only)
- Stroke length: 1-1/16 inch
- Strokes per minute: 0–2,600 SPM
- Orbital settings: 4
- Weight: 5.5 lbs with battery
- Blade system: T-shank
Pros: Anti-vibration design; precision shoe plate; efficient brushless motor; Makita LXT ecosystem (300+ compatible tools).
Cons: Tool-only — add battery cost; not the fastest cutter at 2,600 SPM max.
5. Ryobi PCL525B ONE+ — Best Budget Pick
Why we love it: For first-time jigsaw owners or occasional users, the Ryobi PCL525B delivers all the essential functionality at an entry-level price. It handles 2×4 lumber, plywood, and thin metal cuts without complaint, and is compatible with the massive Ryobi ONE+ battery ecosystem.
- Battery: 18V ONE+ (tool only)
- Stroke length: 7/8 inch
- Strokes per minute: 0–3,000 SPM
- Orbital settings: 3
- Weight: 4.8 lbs with battery
- Blade system: T-shank
Pros: Budget-friendly; 3,000 SPM for the price; ONE+ battery compatibility; tool-free blade change.
Cons: Brushed motor (shorter lifespan); shoe plate less precise than premium options; no LED light.
Cordless Jigsaw Buying Guide
Orbital Action: What It Means and Why It Matters
Orbital action refers to the elliptical path the blade takes during cutting — instead of pure up-down motion, the blade also pushes forward slightly on the upstroke. More orbital action = faster cutting but rougher finish. Less orbital action (or none) = slower but cleaner cut. For most work, starting at orbital setting 2 and adjusting is a good approach.
Stroke Length
Stroke length is how far the blade travels up and down in each cycle. A longer stroke (1 inch+) removes more material per stroke, which means faster cutting in thick materials. Shorter strokes (5/8–7/8 inch) are better for fine work and thin materials where control matters more than speed.
Blade Compatibility: T-shank vs U-shank
T-shank blades are the modern standard — virtually every professional-quality blade uses T-shank, and all five jigsaws on this list are T-shank compatible. U-shank blades are older and largely obsolete. Always check that replacement blades are T-shank when buying for any of these tools.
Shoe Plate Angle Adjustment
A jigsaw’s shoe plate (the flat base) can typically tilt to 45° left and right for bevel cuts. Better models allow tool-free adjustment with minimal play in the shoe — cheaper models may have a loose shoe that introduces inaccuracy. If you plan to cut bevels regularly, prioritize jigsaws with a solid, precise shoe adjustment system.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best cordless jigsaw for beginners?
The Ryobi PCL525B is the best entry-level option — affordable, functional, and compatible with a wide battery ecosystem. If you want to invest in a tool you won’t outgrow, the DeWalt DCS334B is a better long-term choice at a modest price premium.
Can a cordless jigsaw cut through metal?
Yes, with the right blade. Use a fine-tooth bi-metal blade (18–24 TPI for thin sheet metal, 14–18 TPI for thicker stock). Slow the speed down, apply cutting fluid for aluminum or steel, and let the blade do the work — don’t force it. All five jigsaws on this list can handle sheet metal and thin aluminum with the proper blade.
How do I cut a perfect circle with a jigsaw?
Use a circle-cutting jig — many manufacturers sell them as accessories, or you can DIY one with a strip of wood, a pivot nail, and a screw attachment point for the jigsaw’s shoe. Mark the center of the circle, attach the jig, and rotate the jigsaw around the pivot point. For small circles (under 6 inches), a hole saw is often easier.
Jigsaw vs circular saw — which should I buy first?
For most homeowners, a jigsaw comes first — it handles both straight cuts and curves, is safer for beginners, and is more versatile for furniture and interior work. A circular saw is faster for long straight cuts and sheet goods, but less versatile. If you can only have one, start with the jigsaw.
Bottom Line
The DeWalt DCS334B is our top pick for its balance of power, precision, and value within the popular 20V MAX ecosystem. Professionals will appreciate the Milwaukee 2737-20‘s raw cutting speed. Budget buyers should look at the Ryobi PCL525B or the compact Bosch JS120BN.
Prices and availability sourced from Amazon. As an Amazon Associate, PowerTools-Compare.com earns from qualifying purchases.
