What is a jigsaw - it is a tool with an electric motor and a stepper mechanism driving a special saw designed for such a tool. Used for cutting wood, plastic, and metal materials. Can be used to create straight and complex, tortuous cuts.

In turn, electric tools are divided into those that are connected to the mains and cordless options. They are divided into groups: household, for use at home, and professional, which can be used in construction or production. Jigsaws also differ in appearance, the shape of the handle, some models are not a hand tool at all, but a tabletop one; this tool is attached to a table or frame and is used as a stationary one.

How to choose a jigsaw for your home

To make a good choice and purchase an inexpensive tool for the home, you need to determine for what purpose you need it, that is, what kind of work you plan to do. How often do you plan to work with it? What material will you be processing? It is important to answer these questions to determine the right model to suit your individual requirements.

When choosing, pay attention for the following technical specifications:

These technical data will help you choose an electric jigsaw for your home according to your tool requirements. But a good choice depends not only on technical characteristics. This is often influenced by price, build quality, and company reputation.

Main selection criteria

For example, a jigsaw can be inexpensive, but quite functional, and will cope with the necessary operations without additional devices that increase the cost of this model, which you will never use.

Pay attention to the quality of assembly and parts. Manufacturers are trying to make their products cheaper, and because of this, quality may suffer, even from well-known companies. Therefore, not all models from the same company can be of high quality.

They will help you choose the jigsaw you need by rating the best ones, reviews from owners and a photo where you can see the appearance of the tool.

The rating may contain a list of the most successful models from different manufacturers, sorted according to various criteria, for example, price/quality or endurance. There may be functional superiority over similar instruments.

The information listed above will help you choose a good jigsaw for your home. You already know how to choose. Now let's look at the entire range of models included in the top ten.

Jigsaw: top 10 best

Hitachi CJ90VST

A good, solid jigsaw that fits quite well in the hand. Full potential is revealed with straight long saws. Designed for frequent use at home as a household tool . Has a good power reserve. Manufacturer: Japan.

Interskol MP-55/500E M

This model is produced in Russia. Quite functional, budget machine. Will cope with the necessary work around the house or dacha. A large number of service centers guarantees fast and inexpensive repairs.

• power 500 W
• adjustable saw speed from 800 to 3000 per minute
• saw screw clamp
• maximum cutting depth wood/metal 55/6
• the sole is stamped from metal with the ability to adjust the angle up to 45 degrees
• 4-stage pendulum control
• connection pipe for vacuum cleaner
• weight 1.6 kilograms.

I chose a jigsaw for home use. I was confused by Russian production, but the price won me over, I decided to take a risk and was pleased. For household use it is enough.

Fiolent PM 5-750E M

Produced in Simferopol. It has good characteristics, this jigsaw will cope with the tasks with a bang . If we take the entire range of products released by Fiolent» jigsaws, then this model has absorbed all the best, it is well refined and balanced. Choosing this tool will be a good decision.

Bosch PST 18 LI 0

German manufacturer, excellent quality. It can be called “smart” due to the implementation of several technologies at once. This model is a battery-powered version, powered by an 18-volt battery. Such a tool will be useful where there is no fixed power supply or the ability to connect to one. D Remaining compact electric tool. Makes a good, high-quality cut.

Makita JV100DZ

A good jigsaw from a Japanese manufacturer. Users leave good reviews about this company. This model is also rechargeable. Lightweight and easy to use, suitable for housework. Quality parts and workmanship guaranteed by the manufacturer.

• power 130 W
• The saw stroke frequency is adjusted using the power button, maximum 2400 per minute
• saw screw clamp
• maximum cutting depth wood/metal 65/2
• cast aluminum sole with 45 degree angle adjustment
• electronic engine brake
• vacuum cleaner connection pipe
• weight 1.7 kilograms
• battery 10.8 volt.

Ryobi R18JS

Powerful electric cordless jigsaw. A good brand speaks of high-quality assembly. This device will cope with any complex tasks. This tool will be useful both at home and at work. Has good runtime from one battery charge.

When buying an instrument, I decided that it was better to overpay for quality once, and I was right. As a result, I have a powerful and reliable device that does not fail even with intensive use.

Matabo Steb 140 Plus Case

The necessary, powerful jigsaw from a German manufacturer. The model is included in the class of professional tools. Hardy under long loads, compact enough for its class. All operations are carried out with ease. Has all the functions necessary for professional use.

DeWalt DW331K

Expensive, but at the same time a necessary electric tool. According to reviews from the owners, all the shortcomings are only that the manufacturer did not build in the backlight, but otherwise everything is excellent, there are no complaints. This jigsaw can be chosen for professional work. He is not afraid of harsh working conditions. Has all the necessary characteristics for this. Country of origin: Czech Republic.

• power 701 W
• adjustment of saw stroke frequency from 0 to 3100 per minute
• quick-release saw blade replacement mechanism
• maximum cutting depth wood/metal 135/12
• cast sole with adjustable inclination angle of 45 degrees
• 4-stage pendulum control
• smooth start
• vacuum cleaner connection function
• weight 2.8 kilograms.

Makita DJV181Z

Another battery-powered model is capable of performing the entire list of work that a professional jigsaw should perform. This is a powerful, high-quality, well-balanced machine. The shape is designed so that your hands do not get tired during long-term work. It can handle dense materials without losing the quality of a clean cut.

I was looking for a battery option, since I work as a roofer, and the extra wires simply get in the way. I was pleased because the work sped up significantly. The jigsaw is powerful and copes with any task. I recommend it to those who work at heights - you won’t regret it.

Bosch GST 160 BCE L-Boxx

This is one of the most expensive models among network options. Represents the embodiment of power and quality. Professional tool for production and construction work. Comfortable and not heavy for its characteristics. Choosing this option means ensuring yourself a good, reliable tool.

The choice on the power tool market is very large. But your goal is to choose one, what you need for your needs, and here it is important to find a middle ground between price and quality.

To ensure that the unit does not fail in a difficult situation, you need to choose a jigsaw for your home, carefully reviewing its parameters. What each number in the device’s characteristics means and which jigsaw is best to choose for household needs is described further in the article.

General information about jigsaws

To use a jigsaw (for example, such as one), you do not need special knowledge or skills. This device has a simple design and operates at the touch of a button. You can get to know the tool better by understanding its structure and operating principle.

Regardless of the model, an electric jigsaw has:

• Handle. It is located horizontally, helps to hold the tool while working.
• Motor. Provides direct movement of the file. Has different power. The list of materials that the jigsaw can handle depends on this value.
• File. It is different for each material, with a unique tooth design. It can be made of various types of steel and have additional spraying for rigidity. Responsible for the accuracy and precision of the cut, as well as the correct angles when sawing.
• Base plate. Holds the saw in a given position. You can change the angle of inclination. Some models have an angle gradation scale.

In addition to these basic elements, the device is also equipped with additional functionality designed to facilitate the work of the master. But more on that later.

Principle of operation

As soon as the master presses the start button, the teeth on the blade begin to saw the prepared raw materials. The saw in the tool is installed in such a way that the material is cut when it moves upward. It is held in place with strong clamps and does not slip out of the cut. The support roller acts as a guide in the process, and it also takes on most of the load. This platform is “pressed” into the material, guaranteeing 100% cutting accuracy.

In models where a pendulum stroke is provided (for example), the blade moves not only up/down, but also (slightly) to the right and left. The range of oscillation of the pendulum is adjusted by a switch.

Important! Without activating the pendulum stroke, the jigsaw works slower, but the cut is perfect. When the pendulum is turned on, the work time is reduced, but its quality decreases.

Types of electric jigsaws

Compact home jigsaws are divided into the following categories:

1. By type of food:

• rechargeable– are convenient due to their mobility, but require regular recharging.
• from the network– there is a “attachment” to the outlet, but the power is supplied uninterruptedly.

2. According to the shape of the handle:

• staple-shaped– the most common type, during operation the tool is held with one hand;
• mushroom-shaped– the handle provides for holding the unit with two hands, thereby guaranteeing the smoothest, even cut possible, without burrs.

When using mushroom-shaped jigsaws (example –), it is important to ensure preliminary and high-quality fixation of the material being processed, just like when working with a drill.

Jigsaw selection options

When purchasing such a tool for your home, you can completely trust the opinion of consultants by explaining your needs to them, or you can make your own choice by comparing several models with suitable characteristics. To consider yourself a guru in matters of choosing a jigsaw, you must first study in detail and understand the main criteria of the unit.

Power consumption

This is the most important indicator that affects the quality of work, the range of materials for sawing and the price of the tool. For infrequent home use, a power of 350 to 700 W will be sufficient. It is worth considering that the more powerful the device, the larger and heavier it is.

Tools with the declared power easily saw wood, metal products, steel, as well as ceramics, plexiglass, hardboard, drywall and other building materials. The entire list of possible raw materials for work (with their main parameters) is indicated in the instructions.

Maximum stroke rate

The value determines the speed at which the saw blade will cut the material: the more movements the saw makes, the faster the work will be completed. This figure ranges from 2500 to 3200 moves in 60 seconds. you can choose with minimal indicators.

Many manufacturers equip their tools with the ability to adjust the stroke frequency of the rod. This is convenient, because each material requires its own operating speed. So, when making a cut on thick metal, you need to select the minimum speed; when sawing wood, on the contrary, the fastest speeds are switched on to avoid uneven cuts.
The speed can be adjusted using the shift lever or by pressing. The second option is ideal for those who like to cut out extraordinary shapes or ornaments with a jigsaw.

Cutting depth

The characteristic is interconnected with the power indicator of the tool and will differ depending on the material. Jigsaws for home use can cut wood up to a maximum thickness of 50 mm and aluminum up to 10 mm. The thickness of other products is indicated in the technical parameters of the unit.

Power type

As mentioned above, a jigsaw can be powered by a battery or a socket with a standard voltage of 220 V. When choosing one for yourself, it would not hurt to immediately think about purchasing an additional battery. The most popular are 18 V and 10.8 V.

Additional functions

A “pumped up” jigsaw costs several times more than a regular model, but are all these bells and whistles necessary for home use? Before shelling out an extra hundred hryvnia, you should think more than once about where this additional functionality will be used.
Each brand tries to equip its products with special features, here are just a few examples:

• Sloped sole. This modernization of the sole expands the range of jigsaw tasks. For units in the mid-price range, only two positions can be selected – 0° and 45°; professional options have a wider range. The angle can be adjusted by simply turning or using a special key.
• Branch pipe for automatic removal or blowing of the resulting chips. Can be connected to a vacuum cleaner. Without such an element, work will have to be stopped every time a large amount of sawdust accumulates. Such stops delay time and can distort the cut.
• Backlight. Also affects the quality of work. Provides perfectly straight lines on the cut, since it acts directly on the working area.
• Laser. It serves as a guide when sawing, acting as a good alternative to conventional line markings.

Review of the best manufacturers: which company to choose

If you focus on brands, then you should only choose those that everyone knows. This rule also applies to jigsaws. The best models on the market are represented by 5 manufacturers. Who they are and what their features are, the table will tell you:

Manufacturer	Features of his jigsaws
	The brand's household jigsaws are designed in green housing. They have many positive reviews from consumers for their build quality and long service life. All models have the SDS system, designed for quickly changing the file without the use of additional tools. Four-stage pendulum adjustment allows you to customize sawing parameters. There are also built-in vibration reduction technologies and stabilizing electronics.
	The company's product range includes budget models and premium options for professionals. All jigsaws of the brand have speed regulators, a function for removing debris from the cutting site, and comfortable handles with rubber pads.
	The instrument is produced exclusively in Germany. The brand's jigsaws have a unique handle shape, are equipped with a saw blade speed regulator, a large selection of pendulum modes and the ability to quickly replace components (with or without a key).
	The brand's models are lightweight, compact, consume minimal electricity, and are equipped with a steel sole. It is possible to adjust the angle in steps of 15°C. There is a function for blowing the cutting area and the ability to connect to a vacuum cleaner.
	Increased wear resistance of the tool is ensured by gears made of alloy steel. The engine has a three-layer coating with heat-resistant varnish, which protects it from damage and also extends its service life by more than 50%. The list of advantages of the brand's jigsaws continues with a rubber bearing bushing, which helps reduce vibration and, if jammed, protects the body from damage. The power button is protected against power surges.

Universal tips for buyers

If the master is not a fan of a particular brand, it makes sense to consider a few other tips on how to choose a jigsaw for home use. There are only 3 of them:

1. Inspect the stock. Due to heavy loads on this part of the tool, it breaks most often. Most inexpensive models are equipped with a thin rod-plate, 3-4 mm thick and up to 12 mm wide. This plate is very fragile, and therefore is not an option for frequent use (even at home). It is better to choose a tool with a round or square stem. If possible, you should definitely check the rod for play. Minimal fluctuations are a must, but strong play is a problem: it will lead to deviation from the cut line.
2. How the file is attached. Replacing the blade with a key increases the operating time, and therefore it is better to choose models where the file is secured with clamps or bolts.
3. Is it possible to adjust the speed? A useful option that allows you to work with any material. It’s convenient when the adjustment lever “lies under your finger” and you can change the pace of work right in the process.

Be sure to remember about power. What this indicator affects is already described above.

You may also be interested in articles about other tools, such as:

Eventually

The right jigsaw will save you time and effort. With such a tool the master can handle any mountain. In order not to get into trouble when determining which jigsaw is best to buy for your home, you should first at least approximately determine the list of works for the unit. Well, then, based on this information, look at models with suitable characteristics.

3 4

When carrying out construction, repair or other types of work, as well as in the household, a tool such as a jigsaw does an excellent job of cutting materials based on wood, plastic and even metal. This results in significant savings in processing time.

The review presents a tool of various levels - from an inexpensive device for the home to a professional one, which is deservedly considered the best in its class. The rating position of each model is determined based on the characteristics declared by the manufacturer and the opinions of repair experts. Feedback from owners with practical experience in using jigsaws was also taken into account.

The best inexpensive jigsaws: budget up to 2000 rubles

There is no point in purchasing expensive appliances for household needs. Budget jigsaws can successfully handle a small amount of work.

4 MILITARY JS500

Favorable combination of price and quality
Country: China
Average price: 1341 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.6

The MILITARY JS500 jigsaw will be a reliable assistant for the home craftsman. This budget tool is capable of sawing a wide range of materials, from wood to laminate. The presence of tilt adjustment allows you to make cuts across, along or at an angle. The cutting speed can be easily adjusted with a wheel, and you can use saws with U- and T-shaped shanks. There is a transparent protective screen to protect the operator from chips. The tool is adjusted to cuts both on the left and on the right. The vacuum cleaner connection feature helps keep your workspace clean.

The reviews say a lot of good words about such qualities of the MILITARY JS500 jigsaw as accessibility, good cutting, compactness, lightness, durability. Among the obvious disadvantages, users highlight noise, the presence of slight vibration, and the difficulty of adjusting the angle.

3 BISON L-400-55

The lightest jigsaw
A country: Russia (manufactured in China)
Average price: 1498 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.6

One of the lightest jigsaws (1.4 kg) is the ZUBR L-400-55 model. It can not be released from the operator’s hands for a long time. But for some reason the manufacturer forgot about the handle pad, so the muscles get tired from long-term work due to vibration. The model does not have record power, so you will have to cut thin materials. But this affordable tool also has a number of modern functions, for example, electronic speed control, a protective screen in the working area, and an adapter for connecting a vacuum cleaner. The locking button allows you to lock the trigger in the pressed position. It is appropriate in this model, because the power key is very difficult to move.

Of all the qualities of the BISON jigsaw L-400-55, the ones that received the most flattering reviews were its affordable price, light weight, and reliability. Users are somewhat upset by the inconvenience during operation, rapid heating of the motor, and weak power.

2 Bort BPS-500-P

Best price
Country: China
Average price: 1571 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.7

An excellent tool for home would be the Chinese jigsaw Bort BPS-500-P. It has the most affordable price. At the same time, the model is quite pleasant to use; it can cope with materials such as wood, metal and plastic. The device provides for adjusting the inclination of the steel sole, which expands the capabilities of the jigsaw. The manufacturer also took care of the safety of the operator. There is a function for connecting to a vacuum cleaner, thanks to which sawdust will be effectively removed from the cutting area. The set includes one spare file, a key, instructions for use, and spare brushes.

At home, the Bort BPS-500-P jigsaw has proven its worth, as evidenced by numerous consumer reviews. For a minimal price you can get a functional device with many useful functions. Among the disadvantages, it is worth noting the low power, spontaneous jumping of the file from the mount.

Summary table of ratings

	Power, W	Blade movement frequency, MAX	Cutting depth	Cutting depth	Pendulum stroke	Quick-release fastening of the file		Wed. price, rub.
VORTEX LE-55
BISON L-400-55
Interskol MP-85/600E
Fiolent PM 5-720E
Bosch PST 900 PEL
Metabo STE 140 Plus
BOSCH GST 18 V-LI B 0
Metabo STAB 18 LTX 100 0 MetaLoc
Einhell TE-JS 18 Li 0

1 VORTEX LE-55

High cutting quality
Country Russia
Average price: 1570 rub.
Rating (2019): 5.0

VORTEX LE-55 is a bright representative of the budget category, and in the literal sense - the orange body with rubberized inserts on the handle immediately catches the eye. Despite the power of 600 W, the jigsaw cuts quite confidently, and is quite suitable for use not only at home, but also by individual craftsmen. It maintains the specified trajectory accurately, and there is practically no need to direct the blade for adjustments.

It is rare, but misalignment occurs when installing the saw, caused by the softness of the metal used. In such cases, the jigsaw will move to the side, and the cutting line will not be the smoothest. Despite the shortcomings encountered, VORTEX LE-55 looks solid and has decent build quality. The reliability of the tool can be judged by the reviews of some owners who worked so intensively that it came to replacing the brushes (in this model they are non-separable). At the same time, the jigsaw does not get particularly hot, it works reliably, and if treated with care it will serve for a long time.

The best jigsaws: price-quality

When you have to use a jigsaw quite often, although not very intensively, then you have to choose affordable models with good quality. They will allow you to saw different materials for many years.

3 Fiolent PM 5-720E

The largest cutting depth in wood and metal
Country Russia
Average price: 3819 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.5

The powerful Fiolent PM 5-720E model closes the top three best jigsaws in terms of price-quality ratio. Thanks to 720 W, it has the maximum cutting depth among its competitors - wood up to 115 mm and metal up to 10 mm. The tool is equipped with a pendulum stroke, which has 4 stages of adjustment. A convenient feature is the blowing of sawdust from the working area, which allows you to always control the direction of movement of the jigsaw. To ensure operator safety, the model is equipped with a protective shield.

Buyers consider the advantages of this jigsaw to be high power, light weight and good functionality. The model has thoughtful ergonomics, which ensures comfortable work for a long time. An interesting feature of this jigsaw is the minimum saw speed of 1 stroke/min. Among the disadvantages are the inability to connect a vacuum cleaner and poor build quality.

2 Interskol MP-85/600E

Best functionality
Country Russia
Average price: 3320 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.5

The Interskol MP-85/600E jigsaw from a domestic manufacturer is in second place in the ranking. The tool boasts a good power of 600 W, which allows it to easily cope with wood up to 85 mm and metal up to 8 mm. Thanks to the pendulum stroke, the productivity of the jigsaw is quite high. The saw stroke frequency can be changed from 500 to 3000 strokes/min. The quick-release fastening of the saw allows you to quickly replace the working blade if necessary.

The advantages of this jigsaw include a cast sole, a long cable and thoughtful ergonomics. The tool has the ability to connect a vacuum cleaner to remove sawdust and dust directly from the work area. Among the disadvantages is the lack of airflow to the cutting line. Based on the totality of characteristics, this jigsaw has the best functionality among its neighbors in the TOP.

1 Bosch PST 700 E

Light weight, popular brand
Country: Germany
Average price: 3897 rub.
Rating (2019): 5.0

The first place in the ranking of the best jigsaws in terms of price and quality ratio is occupied by the Bosch PST 700 E model. The popular German tool manufacturer is famous for its tools, and this jigsaw is no exception. Thanks to the power of 500 W, the jigsaw quickly cuts not only wood, but also metal. The frequency of movement of the saw is adjustable in the range from 500 to 3100 strokes/min, which allows you to select the optimal operating mode. With a blade stroke of 20 mm, the tool easily cuts wood up to 70 mm thick. The only one among its competitors in the rating is equipped with an anti-vibration system.

Among the strengths of this model, buyers highlight ease of use, smooth start and lack of vibration. The jigsaw has a low noise level - only 88 dB, which allows its operation without protective headphones. The tool comes with a case for storage and transportation and 1 saw blade. Disadvantages: lack of a pendulum system and low quality of the clamping chuck. With an affordable price and such characteristics, this is the best jigsaw in terms of price and quality ratio.

Video review

The best jigsaws for professionals

Professionals choose a reliable tool that will not let you down at a crucial moment. They prioritize such indicators as cut quality, chip protection, and ease of use.

4 Metabo STE 140 Plus

Best cutting depth for wood
Country: Germany
Average price: 14680 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.5

The high-performance manual jigsaw Metabo STE 140 Plus will be the best assistant when performing large volumes of sawing work. A powerful engine and an electronic system for maintaining optimal speed under load ensure the highest cutting quality of any material, while the maximum possible cutting depth for steel is up to 10 mm, and for wood – 140 mm. The presence of a four-stage pendulum stroke significantly speeds up the production process, and at the same time does not allow the hacksaw blade to overheat.

The power consumption of the STE 140 Plus jigsaw of 750 W is sufficient to ensure stable saw blade speeds, regardless of the load. To maintain order in the workplace, this model has a sawdust blower function, but you can also connect a vacuum cleaner. Automatically switched on two-sided backlight allows you to work comfortably in dimly lit places. Reviews note the ease of operation, ergonomics of the tool, as well as its long service life. The speed of replacing equipment and the best quality of work performed are especially noted by the owners who use this jigsaw in their professional activities.

3 DeWALT DW331K

Minimal vibration at high power
A country: USA (manufactured in the Czech Republic)
Average price: 12270 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.5

The DeWALT DW331K jigsaw provides a high level of operator comfort when working. The tool has great power (701 W), the motor starts smoothly, and the selected speed is automatically maintained. Minimal vibration was achieved by installing an active counterweight. The sawdust blower is very convenient and adjustable. The file can be changed extremely simply and quickly, this is done in one movement, and the fastening is reliable. Sawing on weight will not be the strongest side of the tool due to the heaviness of the model (2.8 kg).

Professionals note the ease of use, power, and good quality cord. The DeWALT DW331K cuts very smoothly, which is important when producing parts that are precise in size. Among the disadvantages, users note poor deflation, inconvenient trigger fixation, lack of backlight and high price.

2 Makita 4350CT

Reliable model from a well-known brand
Country: Japan
Average price: 10231 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.5

In second place in the ranking of the best jigsaws for professionals is the Makita 4350CT model. Despite the rather high cost, this tool is popular - a simple, functional and reliable jigsaw. With 720 W of power, it can easily cut wood up to 135 mm thick and metal up to 10 mm thick. To create a more precise cut, a smooth start is provided.

Among the advantages of this model, buyers highlight power, smooth sawing and high build quality. The cast base of the tool is made of aluminum, which makes it more stable during operation. The set includes a plastic nozzle that will help you carefully cut soiled material. The disadvantages include the inability to attach a vacuum cleaner to remove sawdust. This jigsaw is definitely worth the money - the quality and reliability are at the highest level.

1 Bosch PST 900 PEL

The best ratio of price and functionality
Country: Germany
Average price: 6242 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.5

The leader in the rating of the best jigsaws for professionals is the Bosch PST 900 PEL. At a low cost, it has all the characteristics of top models. The power of the tool is 620 W, thanks to which it can cope with wood up to 90 mm and metal up to 8 mm. The jigsaw is equipped with a soft start function, which allows you to start work quite accurately. To remove sawdust from the work area, you can connect a vacuum cleaner.

The strengths of this model include smooth operation, absence of vibrations and easy attachment of saw blades. As a nice bonus, the tool is equipped with illumination of the working area, so you can work in low visibility conditions. Disadvantages: stamped sole without padding. Overall, with such a low cost, reliability and functionality, this is the best model for professionals that can be recommended for purchase.

Video review

The best cordless jigsaws

Cordless jigsaws benefit from mobility. They will allow you to trim a board or pipe away from the household electrical network.

4 Einhell TE-JS 18 Li 0

The most affordable cordless jigsaw
A country: Germany (manufactured in China)
Average price: 4990 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.3

The Einhell TE-JS 18 Li 0 cordless jigsaw will become the most convenient tool for your home or garden thanks to the ability to operate autonomously from a Li-Ion battery with a capacity of 1.5 A/h. With its help, you can make short cuts or saw a wide variety of materials, such as wood, metal, chipboard, plastic, plywood, etc. The only condition is the correct selection of the hacksaw blade, which can be replaced quickly without additional tools.

The Einhell TE-JS 18 Li 0 jigsaw has an ergonomic design and is equipped with a soft, comfortable handle, which greatly facilitates the production process. It has an adapter for connecting to a vacuum cleaner, and it is also possible to switch the suction mode to blowing. To ensure better accuracy during cutting, this model has an additional guide, as well as LED lighting. The aluminum base of this jigsaw is coated with plastic to prevent damage to the surface. Users in their reviews note the high quality of assembly, mobility and accuracy of the work performed.

3 RYOBI R18JS

High power, backlight
Country: China
Average price: 6230 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.4

In many respects, the RYOBI R18JS cordless jigsaw is not inferior to corded models, gaining in mobility. The tool is powerful enough to cut steel pipes. Thanks to the backlight, you can work comfortably even in conditions with limited visibility. With all these advantages, the device has a low price. It is worth highlighting such advantages of the jigsaw as quick-release saw installation, 4-stage pendulum action, and long-term operation on a single charge. The cordless jigsaw is inferior to its corded counterparts only in the lack of airflow, and there is no provision for connecting a vacuum cleaner.

In reviews, craftsmen share their impressions of the RYOBI R18JS cordless jigsaw. The advantages of the model include power, good lighting, and a comfortable grip. You can work on one battery for 5 hours. The disadvantages of the device are fragility, inaccuracy, and large dimensions.

2 Metabo STAB 18 LTX 100 0 MetaLoc

Best cut quality
Country: Germany
Average price: RUB 11,379.
Rating (2019): 4.9

The cordless jigsaw has good performance. It easily cuts non-ferrous metal (can handle 25 mm) and wood up to 100 mm thick. As for steel, the STAB 18 LTX 100 is unlikely to handle more than 10 mm. In this case, the maximum possible speed of the saw is 2800 movements per minute. The pendulum function (available in 4 positions) significantly speeds up the straight cutting process. As for the cut itself, it turns out to be of confidently good quality, even in the thickness of the material, even with figured cuts.

Reviews from owners of this tool point out several obvious advantages. This is a convenient case, an aluminum base (cast) with a dust extractor, and a quick-release saw blade holder. It is also worth noting the adjustment of the saw stroke. In this model, it is carried out by controlling the force when pressing the trigger. Also, many users liked the lock button to prevent accidental starting - this device will be useful when transporting the jigsaw. The device, with a charged battery (battery 4 Ampere/hour), can cut through about 40 meters of OSB with a thickness of 20 mm. As a home tool, the Metabo STAB 18 LTX 100 0 MetaLoc is expensive, and the battery requires regular use, so it is more suitable for professional work.

1 BOSCH GST 18 V-LI B 0

Maximum performance and resource
A country: Germany (made in Switzerland)
Average price: 15939 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.9

The well-known manufacturer managed to create the BOSCH GST 18 V-LI B 0 cordless jigsaw with the ideal combination of performance and durability. The tool allows you to cut steel up to 8 mm thick, which is an excellent indicator for a cordless model. A huge advantage for owners of various Bosch devices will be the presence of a standard battery. The jigsaw fits perfectly in the hand; the handle has a special rubberized pad with a relief structure. The pendulum mechanism is adjustable, which allows you to select the optimal cutting mode for each material. The professional device does not suffer from high vibration and loud noise.

The advantages of the BOSCH GST 18 V-LI B 0 cordless jigsaw include high performance, durability, build quality, and lack of vibration. Among the disadvantages of the device are the heavy weight and the inconvenience of turning on the backlight.

How to choose a jigsaw

Before purchasing a jigsaw, the future owner should consider the following features of the tool:

1. Power is a fundamental parameter when choosing. The cutting speed and thickness of the material to be processed depend on this value. Take, for example, jigsaws with a power of up to 500 W. They are good for wood and wood-based materials, but they cannot handle thick metal (more than 5 mm).
2. The cutting depth is an equally important parameter for work. Based on this indicator, the question of the appropriateness of using a particular model can be decided. Not all jigsaws are capable, for example, of sawing 120 mm timber. This parameter is directly dependent on the power of the equipment.
3. Pendulum stroke is a special mode of operation of a jigsaw, when during a return motion the file is moved away from the cut site, and during a forward motion it is pressed more tightly to the cut site. This allows you to minimize the time spent on work, because it allows the file to cool and free the teeth from sawdust of the material.
4. The quick-release fastening of the saw blade is a feature of the tool that is not available in jigsaw models for the home. Simplifies the time of blade replacement, reducing the installation of a new file to just a couple of movements (reminiscent of a hammer drill chuck).
5. Anti-vibration system. The presence of this function in a jigsaw will be of interest to users who are primarily interested in the quality of work - reducing vibration allows for a smoother cut.
6. Weight. Everything is simple here. A lightweight tool is less stable, which means the cut will not be the smoothest. When choosing, it is better to focus on the ease of use of the tool.
7. Price. Usually this selection criterion is somewhere in the third position (and when choosing a model for the home, even in the first position). In fact, this component is a composite assessment of all previous characteristics of the instrument. The main thing here is to make sure that it is fair.

There are tools that do not need advertising and an intrusive offer; they can rightfully be called “folk” - all this is about manual electric jigsaws. The multi-purpose unit has a simple design and can make cuts along a straight or curved path, as well as at an angle of 45°.

To decide how to choose a good jigsaw for your home or workshop, you should turn to the experience of qualified specialists in the field of construction and repair. Useful advice from our experts will help you decide which jigsaw to buy for the upcoming work and not regret the money spent.

Household or professional

Like any construction tools, jigsaws are divided into household and professional. The classification determines the maximum load that the equipment can handle, the time of continuous operation and, of course, the comfort of use.

Household jigsaws are intended for rare use in the country, at home or in the garage. Also, DIY class tools can be used in production for rare operations. Such models always have a limit on the time of continuous operation: for the most budget ones, the parameter can reach up to 10-20 minutes. Conventionally, household models can be used for no more than 4-8 hours a day (or about 30-50 hours a week) with regular breaks.

The tools of the unspoken semi-professional level (Hobby) became a transitional link between household and professional models. If your task is to buy an inexpensive but good jigsaw, you should take a closer look at this segment. At the same time, the resource of the device is somewhat higher than that of inexpensive amateur models, and the functionality is comparable to the top positions. These jigsaws are suitable for work at home or in small production. Hobby class equipment is rarely limited in terms of continuous operation time, but it will not be possible to use them “to the fullest” - the mechanism is not designed for such loads.

Professional and industrial class models have found their application in woodworking workshops, manufacturing of cabinet furniture or wooden structures, in construction and interior decoration. As practice shows, amateur craftsmen often opt for top-end equipment, but this is not always rational. If a tool is rarely used, there is no way to realize its full potential, for which, by the way, you will have to pay a lot. In addition, repairing expensive equipment is never cheap.

How to choose an electric jigsaw - main parameters

When choosing a good jigsaw model, you should focus on the key factors that determine its performance and convenience:

• saw stroke frequency;
• electric motor power;
• the presence of a pendulum stroke;
• type of consumables;
• dimensions and weight;
• functional.

High-quality jigsaws are distinguished by a competent combination of technical characteristics, but you cannot choose a tool solely by parameters. An important component of a good tool is decent ergonomics; such a tool fits comfortably in the hands and does not tire the operator during operation.

Power

The power consumption of a jigsaw can vary from 450 W to 850 W. As practice shows, high energy consumption does not always characterize the performance of a tool. The low-power professional-class model is comparable in efficiency to the more powerful DYI series unit.

How to choose a jigsaw based on power? It all depends on the needs: if speed and productivity are required, then medium or high power should be combined with a good saw blade speed. If “working quickly and hard” is not your main task, you can choose any unit from the “pro” class or a household model with a power of more than 550 W.

Blade movement frequency

The speed of the saw blade is one of the main parameters by which an electric jigsaw is selected. The higher the value, the faster the cutting is done. Products made of aluminum, plywood or wood are sawed at maximum speed, and at low speeds materials that are sensitive to overheating are sawed - plastic, stainless steel.

In most cases, jigsaws are equipped with stepwise speed control, but this does not apply to the most budget versions. The minimum threshold can be from 0 to 800 strokes per minute, the maximum speed reaches 3200-3500 strokes. When purchasing, it is not necessary to choose the “fastest model”; for ordinary saws and good performance, 2600 – 2800 strokes/min is more than enough.

Pendulum stroke or pumping

Many models are equipped with a pendulum system; this design solution increases sawing speed. When installing one of the 3-4 stages of the pendulum, the file moves not only up and down, but also back and forth, along the trajectory of the pendulum. The higher the level, the stronger the pumping. The pendulum system is applicable only to straight cuts; if the tool is needed for artistic cutting along a curved path, you can choose a model without pumping, or with the ability to turn it off.

Cutting depth

The maximum depth of cut indicates the maximum thickness of the workpiece that can be cut. The technical manual always specifies the limit values, and different materials have their own limitations. Thus, the maximum cutting depth for a wooden workpiece can reach 70 or 100 mm, for metal (aluminium) 15 – 20 mm, for plastic – 80 mm, and for ceramics – up to 10 mm.

This characteristic should not be neglected; using the tool for other purposes may lead to overload and rapid breakdown.

File and types of its fastening

Types of paintings

The equipment for a jigsaw is special files, which are a blade with teeth and a shank of a certain shape. Each type of material has its own files, as indicated by the letter marking:

• wood (B, C, D, BO, BR);
• for metal (A);
• for glass and ceramics (Riff);
• on plastic.

The blades are also distinguished by the type of cut: files with small teeth are intended for clean cuts (B, C), with large teeth - for fast and rough (D). For curved cuts, narrow blades with straight, small teeth (letter O) are used. To saw laminate or other material with a delicate coating, you will need a saw with the reverse direction of the teeth (revers - the letter R in the marking).

PVC products can be sawed with almost any wood saw; large and medium teeth are not picked up by soft shavings. A blade for metal is also suitable, but sawing is done at minimum speed.

The digital designation indicates the length of the file:

• 1 – up to 75 mm
• 2 – 75-90 mm
• 3 – 90-150 mm
• 4 – more than 150 mm

Blade mounting type

There are two types of shanks:

1. T-shaped
2. U-shaped

The vast majority of jigsaws use T-shank files. A sample of the canvas is almost always included with the tool; you can also try on different types of cloths when purchasing. However, budget amateur models are “omnivorous”. They have the simplest cartridge installed, which simply clamps the file on both sides, regardless of the type of fit.

Types of handles

Among modern models of jigsaws, two designs are widespread: with a staple-shaped or mushroom-shaped handle. A mushroom-shaped handle is the prerogative of jigsaws for professional work, but such a design solution is quite rare.

The more common staple handle is universal and is divided into two types. Compact models are equipped with a square “bracket”, larger ones – with a semicircular one.

To a greater extent, the comfort of use is influenced by ergonomics - the presence of rubber pads, protrusions for the fingers, thickening in the grip areas.

Sole

The support platform of an electric jigsaw can be cast or stamped. This design solution plays a big role when purchasing a professional-class tool, when long-term use is expected.

Stamped soles are found in all household and semi-professional models, as well as on inexpensive professional jigsaws. Such a platform is made of relatively thin metal; under prolonged loads it is subject to deformation. As a result, the positioning of the saw blade is shifted, there is no proper contact with the workpiece, and sawing at an angle becomes almost impossible.

High-quality jigsaws are equipped with a cast platform; it is stronger and more durable, but slightly increases the final cost of the unit. Often you can see a plastic lining on it to protect soft materials from chipping.

Power type

The type of food can be specified as a separate item. A corded jigsaw is not intended to work in “field conditions”; a mobile power station will be needed to pair it with it. The solution would be to buy a wireless model, of which there are quite a few on the market now. The duration of continuous operation and power here depend on the battery capacity and the availability of replaceable batteries.

If you decide to purchase a cordless jigsaw, pay attention to Ryobi's ONE+ line of cordless tools. Any item from the model range, be it a jigsaw or a screwdriver, can be powered by one battery - this is indeed convenient and beneficial from an economic point of view.

Features that may be useful

When choosing a reliable jigsaw for home use, its functionality will be an important aspect. There are very useful options that significantly increase productivity and ease of use.

What functions are equipped with electric jigsaws:

• Forced airflow of the working area– a directed air stream cleans the workpiece and platform from sawdust, providing full visibility.
• Smooth start– an advantage of powerful tools, although the option is quite rare. Limiting the starting current protects the operator from jerk during startup, as well as all internal mechanisms from increased load.
• Laser pointer– quite a useful option. The rough markings on the workpiece may be covered with sawing products, the user will have to turn off the tool and clean the work area - all this takes time. The laser, in turn, indicates the direction even over small chips.
• Chuck type. Many modern models are equipped with a quick-release chuck for saw blades. To change the equipment, just bend the lever and install the file.
• Illumination of the working area with LED will provide comfort and maximum cutting accuracy.
• Maintaining power under load– a serious design solution that can increase the service life of the tool and protects all internal components from unintentional overload. As a rule, in household models, when the speed decreases, the power also decreases, therefore, the tool is easy to overload.

Which brand of jigsaw should I buy?

When deciding which jigsaw is best to choose, it is recommended to give preference only to reliable manufacturers. There are a lot of popular Chinese brands, but the dubious cost hides the even more dubious quality of workmanship. It is for this reason that we will present the best manufacturers of jigsaws in terms of price-quality ratio for 2017:

• Bosch
• Makita
• DeWalt
• Interskol

Conclusion