If you want to make curved cuts, detailed cuts, plunge cuts, or clean shapes in wood and other materials, a cordless jigsaw is one of the most useful power tools you can add to your workshop.

Unlike a circular saw, which is primarily designed for straight cuts, a jigsaw gives you much more control when following curves and irregular shapes.

And because modern cordless jigsaws don’t require an extension cord, they’re especially convenient for homeowners, DIYers, remodelers, and contractors working around the house or on a jobsite.

In 2026, major brands including Milwaukee, DeWalt, Makita, Bosch, and Ryobi offer capable cordless jigsaws. The right choice depends on cutting performance, speed control, orbital action, ergonomics, battery platform, and the type of projects you normally handle.

In this guide, we’ll compare 5 of the best cordless jigsaws in 2026 and explain which one makes the most sense for different types of users.

Quick Comparison: Best Cordless Jigsaws in 2026

Model	Battery Platform	Best For	Key Advantage
Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2737-20	M18	Best Overall	Power and precision
DeWalt DCS334B	20V MAX	Best for DIYers	Excellent versatility
Makita XVJ03Z	18V LXT	Best for Control	Smooth cutting
Bosch GST18V-47N	18V	Best Ergonomics	Compact barrel-grip design
Ryobi PCL525B	18V ONE+	Best Value	Affordable DIY option

Note: Battery, charger, blades, and accessories can vary by package. Always check the exact kit before purchasing.

1. Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2737-20 — Best Overall

If you’re looking for a powerful cordless jigsaw for serious DIY, remodeling, and professional work, the Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2737-20 is one of the strongest options to consider.

Milwaukee’s M18 FUEL jigsaw uses a POWERSTATE brushless motor and can reach up to 3,500 strokes per minute. It also provides four-position orbital cutting, variable-speed control, tool-free blade changes, and an integrated LED light.

Milwaukee designed this jigsaw for clean, controlled cuts in a variety of materials, including hardwood and metal.

Best For

Professional DIYers
Remodeling
Cabinet projects
Hardwood
Plywood
Metal cutting
Milwaukee M18 users

Key Features

POWERSTATE brushless motor
Up to 3,500 SPM
Four-position orbital cutting
Variable-speed trigger
Tool-free blade change
LED cut-line lighting
T-shank blade compatibility
Bevel adjustment with positive stops

Pros

Excellent cutting performance
High maximum blade speed
Strong M18 battery ecosystem
Good control
Excellent for demanding projects
Designed for both wood and metal applications

Cons

More expensive than entry-level jigsaws
Battery and charger are sold separately with the bare tool
May be more tool than an occasional homeowner needs

Bottom Line

If performance is your top priority and you’re already invested in Milwaukee M18 batteries, the M18 FUEL 2737-20 is an excellent overall choice.

Milwaukee also offers a kit version with an M18 battery and charger, so buyers starting from scratch can choose a complete package.

2. DeWalt DCS334B — Best for DIYers

The DeWalt DCS334B 20V MAX XR Cordless Jigsaw is one of the most practical options for homeowners and DIYers.

It combines a brushless motor, variable-speed control, four-position orbital action, LED lighting, and a tool-free blade clamp.

DeWalt also designed the tool with a compact body to make it easier to grip and control during detailed cuts.

Best For

Homeowners
DIY projects
Furniture projects
Plywood
Flooring
Remodeling
DeWalt 20V MAX users

Key Features

Brushless motor
20V MAX battery platform
Four-position orbital action
Variable-speed trigger and dial
Keyless blade clamp
LED work light
Compact design

Pros

Excellent all-around performance
Easy to control
Brushless motor
Strong 20V MAX ecosystem
Good for curved and straight cuts
Quick blade changes

Cons

Battery and charger sold separately with bare-tool version
Professional users may prefer a more heavy-duty model

Bottom Line

For the average homeowner or DIYer, the DeWalt DCS334B is one of the easiest cordless jigsaws to recommend.

If you already own DeWalt 20V MAX batteries, it becomes an even more attractive purchase.

3. Makita XVJ03Z — Best for Control

Makita’s 18V LXT platform is another excellent option for cordless tool users.

The Makita XVJ03Z is designed for users who want a combination of cutting performance, control, and smooth operation.

Its cordless design makes it easy to use around the workshop, while Makita’s 18V LXT battery platform gives existing Makita users a major advantage.

Best For

DIYers
Woodworking
Cabinet projects
Remodeling
Detailed cutting
Makita LXT users

Key Features

18V LXT battery platform
Brushless motor
Variable-speed control
Orbital action
Tool-free blade change
LED light
Bevel adjustment

Pros

Good cutting control
Smooth operation
Strong battery ecosystem
Good ergonomics
Suitable for detailed woodworking

Cons

Battery and charger may cost extra
More expensive than budget models

Bottom Line

If you already use Makita’s 18V LXT system, the XVJ03Z is a logical addition to your cordless tool collection.

It’s particularly attractive for DIYers who care about control and clean woodworking cuts.

4. Bosch GST18V-47N — Best Ergonomics

Bosch offers a different style of cordless jigsaw with the GST18V-47N.

Its compact barrel-grip design can be appealing to users who prefer a lower-profile tool and more direct control over the cutting motion.

This type of design can be particularly useful for detailed woodworking and applications where visibility and handling are important.

Best For

Woodworking
Detail cutting
DIY projects
Cabinet work
Bosch 18V users
Users who prefer barrel-grip jigsaws

Pros

Compact design
Good handling
Excellent for detailed work
Bosch 18V battery compatibility
Professional-oriented platform

Cons

Barrel-grip design isn’t preferred by everyone
Accessories and batteries add to the overall cost

Bottom Line

If ergonomics and control are more important to you than simply choosing the fastest jigsaw available, the Bosch GST18V-47N is worth considering.

5. Ryobi PCL525B — Best Value

For homeowners and occasional DIYers, the Ryobi PCL525B is an interesting value-oriented choice.

The biggest advantage of Ryobi isn’t just the jigsaw itself. It’s the enormous 18V ONE+ ecosystem.

If you already own Ryobi ONE+ batteries, adding another bare tool can be significantly more economical than starting a completely new battery platform.

Best For

Homeowners
Occasional DIY
Garage workshops
Furniture projects
Beginners
Ryobi ONE+ users

Pros

Affordable
Large ONE+ ecosystem
Good for general DIY
Easy to add if you already own Ryobi batteries
Suitable for common woodworking tasks

Cons

Not designed for the heaviest professional workload
Battery and charger may be sold separately

Bottom Line

For occasional home projects, the Ryobi PCL525B can be a smart choice, especially if you already own other ONE+ tools.

What Is a Jigsaw Used For?

A jigsaw is primarily a precision cutting tool.

Its narrow blade moves up and down rapidly, allowing you to make cuts that would be difficult with a circular saw.

Common Uses

1. Curved Cuts

This is one of the biggest advantages of a jigsaw.

You can use it to cut:

Curved wood pieces
Decorative shapes
Furniture components
Countertop openings
Custom templates

2. Straight Cuts

Although circular saws are usually better for long straight cuts, a jigsaw can handle shorter straight cuts effectively.

3. Plunge Cuts

With the appropriate technique and blade, a jigsaw can be used to create plunge cuts in suitable materials.

4. Cutting Plywood

A jigsaw is particularly useful for cutting plywood and other sheet materials when you need curved or irregular shapes.

5. Cutting Countertops

With the correct blade, a jigsaw can be useful for making sink or cooktop openings in compatible countertop materials.

6. Metal Cutting

A jigsaw can also cut certain metal materials when equipped with the correct metal-cutting blade.

Always select a blade specifically designed for the material you’re cutting.

Why Buy a Cordless Jigsaw?

The biggest advantage of cordless is convenience.

You don’t have to find an outlet or drag an extension cord around your workshop.

Advantages of Cordless

No extension cord
Easy to move around
Great for jobsites
Convenient for outdoor projects
Easy to use in different rooms
Works away from electrical outlets

Disadvantages

Battery runtime is limited
Batteries add weight
Batteries and chargers increase initial cost
Long projects may require spare batteries

For most homeowners and DIYers, cordless convenience is worth the trade-off.

What Should You Look for When Buying a Cordless Jigsaw?

1. Brushless Motor

If you’re buying a jigsaw for regular use, a brushless motor is worth considering.

Brushless cordless tools are generally designed for efficiency and longer-term durability compared with older brushed designs.

All five picks in this guide are aimed at users looking for modern cordless performance.

2. Variable Speed

Different materials require different cutting speeds.

Variable-speed control allows you to slow the blade down when starting a cut or working with materials that benefit from more controlled cutting.

This is particularly useful for DIYers who work with different materials.

3. Orbital Action

Orbital action changes the blade’s movement.

Instead of moving only straight up and down, the blade also moves slightly forward during part of its cycle.

This can make cutting wood faster and more aggressive.

However, aggressive orbital settings aren’t always the best choice for delicate or finished materials.

For clean cuts, you may want to reduce orbital action.

4. Blade Type

Blade selection is extremely important.

Most modern jigsaws use T-shank blades, although compatibility should always be checked before buying accessories.

Different blades are designed for:

Hardwood
Softwood
Plywood
Laminate
Plastic
Aluminum
Steel
Fine finishing

Using the right blade can have a bigger effect on your final result than simply buying a more powerful jigsaw.

5. Bevel Capacity

Many jigsaws allow the base plate to tilt for angled cuts.

This is useful for:

Beveled edges
Trim work
Furniture
Woodworking projects

If you regularly make angled cuts, look for a model with easy-to-use bevel adjustment and positive stops.

6. Cut-Line Visibility

A clear view of the blade and cut line can make a major difference.

Features such as:

LED lighting
Dust blowers
Clear blade guards
Open sightlines

can make it easier to follow your cutting line.

7. Vibration and Ergonomics

Jigsaws can become tiring during long projects.

A comfortable grip and balanced design are especially important if you spend several hours cutting.

Before choosing a model, consider whether you prefer:

D-handle
Barrel grip
Compact body
Larger professional design

There isn’t one grip style that’s best for everyone.

Cordless Jigsaw vs. Circular Saw

If you’re deciding which saw to buy first, understand the difference.

Feature	Cordless Jigsaw	Cordless Circular Saw
Curved cuts	Excellent	Poor
Straight cuts	Good	Excellent
Long cuts	Limited	Excellent
Detailed work	Excellent	Limited
Plunge cuts	Excellent	Good
Sheet material	Excellent	Excellent
Cutting speed	Moderate	Fast
Portability	Excellent	Excellent

Choose a Jigsaw If:

You need:

Curved cuts
Detailed cuts
Decorative shapes
Small woodworking projects
Tight control

Choose a Circular Saw If:

You need:

Long straight cuts
Fast cutting
Framing
Large sheet goods
Construction work

If you haven’t seen our circular saw guide yet, check out:

Best Cordless Circular Saw in 2026: 5 Top Picks for DIYers

Cordless Jigsaw vs. Reciprocating Saw

These tools also have very different purposes.

Feature	Jigsaw	Reciprocating Saw
Precision	Excellent	Moderate
Curved cuts	Excellent	Limited
Demolition	Limited	Excellent
Woodworking	Excellent	Good
Plumbing	Limited	Excellent
Metal cutting	Good	Excellent
Clean cuts	Excellent	Moderate
Rough cutting	Moderate	Excellent

If you’re building furniture or cutting curves, choose a jigsaw.

If you’re demolishing a wall or cutting old pipe, a reciprocating saw is generally the better tool.

What Is the Best Cordless Jigsaw for Homeowners?

For most homeowners, I would narrow the choices down to three.

Best Overall

Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2737-20

Best for serious DIYers and professionals who want high performance.

Best for DIYers

DeWalt DCS334B

An excellent balance of performance, control, and 20V MAX compatibility.

Best Value

Ryobi PCL525B

A practical choice for homeowners who already use the ONE+ platform.

How to Choose the Right Jigsaw Blade

The blade is one of the most important parts of a jigsaw.

Fine-Tooth Blades

Best for:

Clean cuts
Finished wood
Laminate
Plywood
Decorative projects

Coarse-Tooth Blades

Best for:

Fast wood cutting
Construction lumber
Rough cuts

Metal-Cutting Blades

Designed for:

Steel
Aluminum
Thin metal
Metal sheets

Reverse-Tooth Blades

These can be useful when you want to reduce visible chipping on the top surface of certain materials.

Always check the blade manufacturer’s instructions before using a blade on a particular material.

Tips for Getting Cleaner Jigsaw Cuts

Even a good jigsaw won’t automatically produce a perfect cut.

Here are some simple tips:

Use the Correct Blade

Blade selection matters enormously.

Don’t Force the Tool

Let the blade do the cutting.

Pushing too hard can make the blade bend or wander.

Support the Material

Secure your workpiece so it doesn’t move during cutting.

Start Slowly

Use a lower speed when beginning a difficult cut, then increase speed as appropriate.

Use the Right Orbital Setting

Aggressive orbital action can speed up wood cutting but may produce a rougher finish.

Mark Your Cut Line

A clear pencil or layout line makes it much easier to maintain accuracy.

Safety Tips for Using a Cordless Jigsaw

Always:

Wear eye protection.
Use hearing protection when appropriate.
Keep both hands away from the blade.
Secure the workpiece.
Make sure the blade is installed correctly.
Use the correct blade for the material.
Allow the blade to stop before setting the tool down.
Keep the battery and tool dry.
Check for hidden wires and pipes before cutting into walls.
Don’t force the blade through the material.

When cutting countertops, walls, or other installed materials, make sure you know what’s behind the cutting area.

Battery Platform Matters

If you already own cordless tools, your existing battery platform should be one of the first things you consider.

Milwaukee M18

Choose the Milwaukee jigsaw if you already own M18 batteries.

DeWalt 20V MAX

The DeWalt DCS334B makes a lot of sense for existing DeWalt users.

Makita 18V LXT

The Makita XVJ03Z is a natural fit for an LXT tool collection.

Bosch 18V

Bosch users can stay within their existing 18V battery system.

Ryobi ONE+

Ryobi is particularly attractive for homeowners because of the size of the ONE+ ecosystem.

The key point is simple:

Don’t buy a new battery platform just for one tool unless there’s a strong reason to do so.

If you already have batteries and chargers, a bare tool can often be the better-value purchase.

Final Verdict

The best cordless jigsaw in 2026 depends on your projects, budget, and existing battery platform.

For serious DIYers and professionals, the Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2737-20 is our top overall pick. Its high blade speed, brushless motor, orbital settings, and M18 compatibility make it a powerful choice for demanding work.

The DeWalt DCS334B is an excellent option for homeowners and DIYers who want a compact, versatile jigsaw and already use the 20V MAX platform.

The Makita XVJ03Z is a strong choice for users who prioritize smooth control and already own Makita LXT batteries.

The Bosch GST18V-47N is worth considering if you prefer a compact barrel-grip design and detailed cutting.

And for homeowners looking for good value, the Ryobi PCL525B is a practical choice, especially if you already own ONE+ batteries.

Our Picks at a Glance

Best Overall: Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2737-20

Best for DIYers: DeWalt DCS334B

Best for Makita Users: Makita XVJ03Z

Best Ergonomics: Bosch GST18V-47N

Best Value: Ryobi PCL525B

The smartest choice is usually the jigsaw that matches both your project requirements and the cordless battery platform you already own.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best cordless jigsaw in 2026?

The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2737-20 is our top overall pick for demanding users. The DeWalt DCS334B is an excellent alternative for homeowners and DIYers.

What is a cordless jigsaw used for?

A cordless jigsaw is primarily used for curved cuts, detailed woodworking, plunge cuts, plywood, sheet materials, and other applications where a narrow reciprocating blade provides better control.

Can a jigsaw cut straight lines?

Yes. A jigsaw can make straight cuts, especially over shorter distances. For long, fast, perfectly straight cuts, a circular saw is generally a better choice.

Can a cordless jigsaw cut metal?

Yes. With the correct metal-cutting blade, a jigsaw can cut compatible metal materials such as thin sheet metal and aluminum.

Is a jigsaw better than a circular saw?

Neither is universally better. A jigsaw is better for curves and detailed cuts, while a circular saw is better for long straight cuts and faster construction work.

Is a jigsaw better than a reciprocating saw?

A jigsaw is better for controlled woodworking and curved cuts. A reciprocating saw is better for demolition, rough cutting, pipes, and construction work.

What type of blade does a jigsaw use?

Many modern jigsaws use T-shank blades, but compatibility varies by model. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications before buying blades.

Are cordless jigsaws powerful enough for woodworking?

Yes. Modern brushless cordless jigsaws from major brands can handle common woodworking applications, including plywood, lumber, hardwood, and many furniture projects.

Do cordless jigsaws come with batteries?

Not always. Many models are sold as bare tools, while kit versions include a battery and charger. Check the package contents before purchasing.

Related PowerToolPilot Guides

If you’re building a cordless power-tool collection, check out our other guides:

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