Best Jigsaws
Aside from specs and features, I judged these saws by test results. I measured the noise level with a decibel meter, and for vibration, I set the running saws down on a level table. Some saws bounced around a bit; others sat perfectly still. Cleanliness of cut, cutting speed and blade deflection were all tested with the same blade in identical material.
$50
20V | 2,400 SPM | 1" Stroke
By far the best value! This saw hung right in there with DeWalt and Milwaukee for one-fourth the price. Not the fastest cutting speed, but not the slowest. Easy blade changes, excellent cut quality and almost no blade deflection. Minimal vibration.
$180
20V | 3,200 SPM | Variable Speed Dial | 1" Stroke Earning top scores across the board, this was easily my favorite. Easy blade changes, high quality cuts and minimal vibration.
$120
20V | 2,500 SPM | 3/4" Stroke
The only saw to include a battery. Lower than average noise rating. There’s no light, which makes it hard to see the cutting line. Minimal vibration but prone to blade deflection.
$120
24V | 3,000 SPM | 1" Stroke
The easiest blade insertion and ejection of the entire group. Cuts fast with very little blade deflection. Moderate vibration.
$120
18V | 3,500 SPM | Variable Speed Dial | 1" Stroke
Part of Ryobi’s large family of 18-volt tools, the P524 performed very well. Light, quiet and priced right in the middle of all the saws tested. Great cut quality and minimal vibration.
$54
20V | 3,000 SPM | 1" Stroke
This the lightest of all jigsaws tested, but also one of the loudest. It cut well, with very little blade deflection. Look for a full line of 20-volt tools from Hart, exclusively at Walmart.
$130
18V | 3,500 SPM | Variable Speed Dial | 1" Stroke
The quietest tool on the testing table, Ridgid performed well. Some blade deflection, but fast cutting with decent cut quality. Moderate vibration.
$200
18V | 3,500 SPM | 1" Stroke
Coming in as the heaviest and loudest, this saw is a workhorse. The dust blower performed well, keeping the cutting line clear. Higher vibration than other saws, but fast cutting.