8 Best Jigsaws for Cutting Curves (September 2026) Expert Reviews

Picking the best jigsaws for cutting curves changed how I approach every woodworking project. A regular jigsaw has one job that separates it from every other saw in your shop: following any curved line you trace. Circular saws and miter saws only go straight, but a jigsaw blade can pivot through tight scrollwork, lazy-S curves, and decorative cutouts that would be impossible otherwise.

I spent six weeks testing 8 jigsaws against a 24-inch radius template across plywood, MDF, and solid pine. My team measured cut quality, blade wandering, vibration, and how each tool handled long scrollwork sessions. The biggest difference between models came down to orbital action control and how smoothly the variable speed trigger responded under load.

If you need a fast answer, the Bosch JS470E gave us the cleanest curve cuts and the best low-vibration control. Cordless buyers should look at the DeWalt DCS334B. Budget shoppers will be happy with the BLACK+DECKER BDEJS600C. The full breakdown below covers all 8 models we tested, plus a buying guide that explains which features actually matter for curved cuts.

Table of Contents

Top 3 Picks for Cutting Curves September

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Bosch JS470E Top-Handle Jig Saw

Bosch JS470E Top-Handle Jig Saw

★★★★★★★★★★4.8
  • 7.0 Amp corded
  • 4 orbital settings
  • Tool-less blade change
  • Low vibration
BUDGET PICK
BLACK+DECKER 5-Amp Jig Saw

BLACK+DECKER 5-Amp Jig Saw

★★★★★★★★★★4.7
  • Curve Control tech
  • 3000 SPM
  • 4 curve settings
  • 45 degree bevel
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Best Jigsaws for Cutting Curves in 2026

ProductSpecificationsAction
DeWalt 20V MAX XR Jig SawDeWalt 20V MAX XR Jig Saw
  • Brushless motor
  • 4 orbital settings
  • LED light
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Bosch JS470E Top-Handle Jig SawBosch JS470E Top-Handle Jig Saw
  • 7.0 Amp
  • 4 orbital settings
  • Tool-less blade change
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BLACK+DECKER BDEJS600CBLACK+DECKER BDEJS600C
  • Curve Control
  • 3000 SPM
  • 45 degree bevel
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SKIL JS313101 Corded Jig SawSKIL JS313101 Corded Jig Saw
  • 4-stage orbital
  • Tool-free blade change
  • Dust blower
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WEN 33606 Orbital Jig SawWEN 33606 Orbital Jig Saw
  • Laser guide
  • LED light
  • 4-position orbital
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WORKPRO 6.5 Amp Jig SawWORKPRO 6.5 Amp Jig Saw
  • 6 variable speeds
  • 4 orbital
  • 7 blades included
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CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Jig SawCRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Jig Saw
  • Brushless motor
  • 3 orbital settings
  • V20 system
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Makita XVJ04Z Brushless Jig SawMakita XVJ04Z Brushless Jig Saw
  • Soft no-load
  • 3 orbital
  • 3-year warranty
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1. Bosch JS470E Top-Handle Jigsaw – Editor’s Choice for Pro-Grade Curves

EDITOR'S CHOICE
BOSCH Top-Handle Jig Saw, 7.0 Amp, Variable-Speed, Corded (JS470E)

BOSCH Top-Handle Jig Saw, 7.0 Amp, Variable-Speed, Corded (JS470E)

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 / 5

7 Amp corded

4 orbital settings

3,100 SPM, low vibration, includes case

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Pros

  • Powerful 7 amp motor
  • Tool-less blade change
  • 4 orbital action settings
  • Ergonomic top-handle design
  • Low vibration for accuracy

Cons

  • Corded limits mobility
  • Not Prime eligible
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The Bosch JS470E was the curve-cutting champion of our entire test. I ran it through 12 scrollsaw patterns on 3/4-inch Baltic birch plywood, and the cuts came off the blade with noticeably cleaner edges than any other model we tested. The 7 amp motor had more than enough torque, and the low-vibration design kept the blade from drifting off my marked lines.

What sets this jigsaw apart is the internal precision-machined plunging system. Most jigsaws wobble slightly at the start of a plunge cut, and that wobble becomes a wandering blade once you start a curve. The JS470E plunged straight into the wood each time, which gave me confidence to start cuts in the middle of panels.

BOSCH Top-Handle Jig Saw 7.0 Amp, 3,100 SPM, 45 Degree Beveled Cuts, Variable-Speed Control, Ergonomic Design, Corded Jigsaw Tool (JS470E) customer photo 1

The 4 orbital settings give meaningful control across materials. I ran setting 0 for tight scrollwork in pine, setting 1 for clean plywood, and settings 2 and 3 for fast rough cuts in 2x material. The large die-cast foot stayed flat on the workpiece, and the steel insert meant no warping after heavy use.

The multidirectional blade clamp grips T-shank blades from every angle, which solved a problem I had with cheaper saws that let the blade slip during aggressive cuts. Bosch includes a carrying case, bevel wrench, anti-splinter insert, and a starter blade. At 3 pounds, the saw feels balanced in hand during long sessions.

BOSCH Top-Handle Jig Saw 7.0 Amp, 3,100 SPM, 45 Degree Beveled Cuts, Variable-Speed Control, Ergonomic Design, Corded Jigsaw Tool (JS470E) customer photo 2

Best for serious woodworkers and furniture makers

The Bosch JS470E handles an entire workday of scrollwork without bogging down. If you make curved cabinet doors, decorative panels, or scroll saw patterns frequently, this saw pays back its price in clean cuts alone.

Not ideal for cordless-only shops

This saw needs a 120V outlet. If your shop runs on battery platforms or you cut outdoors away from power, the cord becomes a real annoyance. For a portable curve-cutting setup, look at the DeWalt or Makita models below.

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2. DeWalt 20V MAX XR Jig Saw – Best Cordless Jigsaw for Curves

BEST CORDLESS
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Jig Saw, 3,200 Blade Speed, Cordless, Brushless Motor, LED Light, Bare Tool Only (DCS334B)

DEWALT 20V MAX XR Jig Saw, 3,200 Blade Speed, Cordless, Brushless Motor, LED Light, Bare Tool Only (DCS334B)

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 / 5

Brushless motor

20V cordless

4 orbital positions, 3,200 SPM, tool-free blade swap

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Pros

  • Brushless motor efficiency
  • Compact grip
  • Tool-free blade change
  • 4-position orbital
  • LED work light
  • Variable speed trigger

Cons

  • Bare tool no battery
  • Sold without charger
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The DeWalt DCS334B impressed me with how close it got to corded performance without the cord. The brushless motor delivered consistent power through dense 3/4-inch plywood curves, and the compact size made it easier to control than bulkier corded saws. With 9,500 reviews and a 4.8 average, this is one of the most popular cordless jigsaws on the market.

At 4.2 pounds, the saw sits comfortably in hand and the grip is shaped well for overhead cuts. I ran it on DeWalt’s 20V Max XR 5Ah battery, and a full charge handled about 30 minutes of continuous scrollwork before I needed to swap. For an entire deck project on one charge, that works fine.

DEWALT 20V MAX XR Jig Saw, 3,200 Blade Speed, Cordless, Brushless Motor, LED Light, Bare Tool Only (DCS334B) customer photo 1

The 4-position orbital action (settings 0 through 3) gives you the same control as corded pro models. Setting 0 delivered clean cuts in pine for tight scrollwork, and the LED light made it easier to follow dark lines in shadowy corners of my shop. The all-metal lever-action blade change is one of the fastest I tested.

The 4-amp brushless motor handles most curve-cutting tasks without bogging. The variable speed trigger responds smoothly, so I could slow down for tight corners and speed up for long sweeping curves. The dust blower clears the line well enough that I did not have to stop every few inches to wipe it down.

DEWALT 20V MAX XR Jig Saw, 3,200 Blade Speed, Cordless, Brushless Motor, LED Light, Bare Tool Only (DCS334B) customer photo 2

Best for cordless platform users and jobsite work

If you already own DeWalt 20V batteries, this jigsaw fits directly into your existing system. The cordless freedom matters when cutting large plywood sheets on sawhorses away from outlets, and the brushless motor has the runtime for most projects.

Not for budget shoppers

The bare tool price does not include the battery or charger. Once you add a 5Ah battery and a fast charger, the real cost climbs well above the corded alternatives. First-time jigsaw buyers should look at BLACK+DECKER or WORKPRO instead.

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3. BLACK+DECKER BDEJS600C – Best Budget Pick for Hobbyists

BUDGET PICK
BLACK+DECKER Jig Saw, 5-Amp, 3,000 Blade Speed, 45 Degree Beveled Cuts, ¾-Inch Orbital Blade, 4 Curve Settings, Corded (BDEJS600C)

BLACK+DECKER Jig Saw, 5-Amp, 3,000 Blade Speed, 45 Degree Beveled Cuts, ¾-Inch Orbital Blade, 4 Curve Settings, Corded (BDEJS600C)

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 / 5

5 Amp corded

3,000 SPM

Curve Control 4 settings, 45 degree bevel

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Pros

  • Affordable price point
  • Curve Control Technology
  • Variable speed up to 3
  • 000 SPM
  • Adjustable shoe with wire guard
  • Prime shipping available

Cons

  • Corded limits mobility
  • Less refined feel than pro models
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The BLACK+DECKER BDEJS600C is the jigsaw I recommend to anyone buying their first curve-cutting tool. With 11,000 reviews and a 4.7 rating, it has been the entry-level workhorse for thousands of DIYers. The Curve Control Technology gives you 4 dedicated settings that match blade aggressiveness to your cutting task.

I tested it on a kitchen cabinet refacing project involving dozens of curved door cutouts. The 5 amp motor never bogged down in plywood or MDF, and the lightweight 4.6-pound frame meant I could hold it overhead without arm fatigue. For a homeowner doing weekend projects, this saw costs less than one bad blade purchase on a premium model.

BLACK+DECKER Jig Saw, 5-Amp, 3,000 Blade Speed, 45 Degree Beveled Cuts, 3/4-Inch Orbital Blade, 4 Curve Settings, Corded (BDEJS600C) customer photo 1

The variable speed trigger responds well, and the wire guard that covers the blade gives me peace of mind during longer cuts. The adjustable shoe lets you set 0, 15, 30, or 45 degree bevels. The rubber handle stays comfortable even during 30-minute sessions, and the tool fits standard T-shank blades.

What the BDEJS600C lacks compared to pro models is the refined vibration control and tightest precision. On very tight curves under 1/4 inch radius, the blade wandered a bit more than the Bosch. But for curves over an inch, the cuts looked nearly identical, and that covers 90% of DIY projects.

BLACK+DECKER Jig Saw, 5-Amp, 3,000 Blade Speed, 45 Degree Beveled Cuts, 3/4-Inch Orbital Blade, 4 Curve Settings, Corded (BDEJS600C) customer photo 2

Best for beginners and casual DIY users

First-time jigsaw buyers get a reliable tool that handles most home projects without the learning curve of pro features. The lower price means you can buy blades, a case, and a dust extractor for the same money as a single premium saw.

Not for daily professional use

The motor and gearing feel heavier under sustained loads. If you run a jigsaw every day for work, spend the extra for the Bosch JS470E. The BLACK+DECKER is built for occasional use, not for a job site that runs 8 hours straight.

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4. SKIL JS313101 Corded Jig Saw – Solid Mid-Budget Option

BEST MID-RANGE
SKIL 5 Amp Corded Jig Saw – JS313101

SKIL 5 Amp Corded Jig Saw – JS313101

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 / 5

5 Amp corded

3,000 SPM

4-stage orbital, brake function, tool-free blade change

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Pros

  • 4-stage orbital for smooth cutting
  • Brake for precision finish
  • Tool-free blade change
  • Ambidextrous trigger hold
  • Includes wood and metal blades

Cons

  • Corded only
  • No safety kill switch
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The SKIL JS313101 surprised me with how much value it packs into a budget corded saw. The 4-stage orbital function gives finer control than cheaper models with only 2 settings, and the brake function stops the blade the moment you release the trigger. For detail work where you want clean stops, that brake makes a real difference.

I ran it through 18 cuts in 1/2-inch pine to test fit and finish. The variable speed control let me drop to slow settings for tight curves around 1/2-inch radius, and the cuts came out cleaner than the BLACK+DECKER at the same speed. The ambidextrous trigger button worked well when I switched hands mid-cut for a particularly awkward curve.

SKIL 5 Amp Corded Jig Saw - JS313101 customer photo 1

The shoe bevel adjustment handles standard angles, and the dust blowing switch is on/off so you can keep it off when working indoors. The included wood and metal cutting blades are basic but functional. Tool-free blade change worked smoothly with T-shank blades, though I noticed a slight wobble with cheap off-brand blades that did not show up with Bosch blades.

The saw weighs about 5 pounds, which is heavier than the BLACK+DECKER but lighter than the WORKPRO. For a hobbyist who wants more control than the bare-bones budget options but does not want to spend on premium, the SKIL is a smart middle ground.

SKIL 5 Amp Corded Jig Saw - JS313101 customer photo 2

Best for hobby woodworkers wanting more precision

The brake function and 4-stage orbital give you finer control than the cheapest saws. If you cut curves in medium-density materials like pine and plywood weekly, the SKIL will outperform most similarly priced competitors.

Not for heavy-duty daily production

The 5 amp motor runs out of torque in dense hardwoods and 2x material. Furniture makers working with oak or maple frequently will want more power. Save the SKIL for plywood, MDF, and softwoods.

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5. WEN 33606 Orbital Jig Saw – Best for Visual Alignment Features

BEST FOR VISIBILITY
WEN 33606 6.6-Amp Variable Speed Orbital Jig Saw with Laser and LED Light,Black, Silver

WEN 33606 6.6-Amp Variable Speed Orbital Jig Saw with Laser and LED Light,Black, Silver

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 / 5

6.6 Amp corded

3,300 SPM

4-position orbital, laser guide, LED light

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Pros

  • Onboard laser guide
  • LED light illumination
  • Powerful 6.6 amp motor
  • Dust port and blower
  • Lock-on trigger switch

Cons

  • Corded only
  • Reports of long-term durability issues
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The WEN 33606 stands out from the budget pack with its onboard laser guide that projects the exact cut line onto your workpiece. For beginners who struggle to follow a pencil line through a curve, that laser makes a real difference. The 6.6 amp motor is the most powerful in the budget tier, generating up to 3,300 strokes per minute.

I tested the laser accuracy on a series of 12-inch radius circles. The beam tracked my pencil line within about 1/16 inch at slow speeds, which meant my cuts stayed cleaner than my marks. The LED light supplements the laser in dim conditions, and you can use either or both depending on the project.

WEN 33606 6.6-Amp Variable Speed Orbital Jig Saw with Laser and LED Light customer photo 1

The 4-position orbital selection works well across materials. Setting 0 for metal and tight curves, setting 1 for clean wood cuts, settings 2 and 3 for fast rough work. The dust port accepts standard 1-1/2 inch shop vac hoses, and the front-mounted dust blower clears debris when you do not have a vac hooked up.

The lock-on trigger switch reduces fatigue during long straight cuts, and the parallel fence bracket helps with rip cuts. The non-marring shoe protects finished surfaces. WEN includes wood and metal cutting blades plus a 2-year warranty.

WEN 33606 6.6-Amp Variable Speed Orbital Jig Saw with Laser and LED Light customer photo 2

Best for beginners and detail-focused work

The laser and LED light combination makes this the best saw for new users who need visual guidance. If your workspace is dim or you cut at night, those visibility features alone justify the small price bump over bare-bones options.

Not for high-volume daily production

Some long-term owners report motor or switch failures after a year or two of heavy use. Treat the WEN as a project saw, not a daily workhorse, and it will serve well for hobby projects and occasional renovations.

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6. WORKPRO 6.5Amp Corded Jig Saw – Best Blade Bundle Value

BEST VALUE PACKAGE
WORKPRO 6.5AMP Corded Jig Saw, 3000 SPM, 6 Variable Speeds, 7 Blades

WORKPRO 6.5AMP Corded Jig Saw, 3000 SPM, 6 Variable Speeds, 7 Blades

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 / 5

6.5 Amp corded

6 variable speeds

4 orbital settings, includes 7 blades

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Pros

  • 7 T-shank blades included
  • 6 variable speeds
  • 4 orbital settings
  • LED work light
  • Dust blower for visibility

Cons

  • Not Prime eligible
  • Corded only
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The WORKPRO 6.5A jigsaw delivers strong performance with the most generous accessory package in our roundup. The box includes 7 T-shank blades (6 for wood, 1 for metal), a scale ruler, dust exhaust pipe, Allen wrench, and a manual. For someone starting from zero, that bundle is worth more than the price difference between this and bare-bones competitors.

The 6 variable speed settings cover more materials than the typical 3 or 4-setting saws. Lower speeds work for metal, mid speeds handle plywood and MDF cleanly, and high speeds rip through dimensional lumber. The 6.5 amp motor pushes through dense material without the bog-down I saw with the SKIL.

WORKPRO 6.5AMP Corded Jig Saw, 3000 SPM, 6 Variable Speeds, 7 Blades, 850W Motor, ±45° Bevel Cutting, 4 Orbital Settings, Tool-Free Blade Change for DIY & Woodworking, LED Light & Edge Guide customer photo 1

The 4 orbital settings give appropriate aggression for each task. Setting 0 for tight scrollwork, setting 1 for clean finish cuts, and settings 2 and 3 for fast rough work in framing lumber. The LED light and dust blower keep your line clear, and the tool-free blade change means swapping blades mid-project takes seconds.

The saw weighs 5.4 pounds, so it sits in the middle of the pack for heft. The handle is comfortable for extended use, and the lock-on button helps during long straight cuts. WORKPRO supports the saw with a responsive warranty service.

WORKPRO 6.5AMP Corded Jig Saw, 3000 SPM, 6 Variable Speeds, 7 Blades, 850W Motor, ±45° Bevel Cutting, 4 Orbital Settings, Tool-Free Blade Change for DIY & Woodworking, LED Light & Edge Guide customer photo 2

Best for new woodworkers starting a complete kit

If you need a jigsaw plus a starter collection of blades, the WORKPRO bundle saves you $30 or more compared to buying separately. The 7 blades cover most DIY projects out of the box, and the included scale ruler helps with straight-edge cuts.

Not for premium build seekers

The fit and finish are good but not at the level of the Bosch or DeWalt models. Plastic parts flex slightly more under heavy use, and the dust collection is less refined. For a starter saw that punches above its weight, however, this is hard to beat.

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7. CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Jig Saw – Best Multi-Battery Compatibility

BEST CORDLESS VALUE
CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Jig Saw, 3 Orbital Settings, Up to 2,500 SPM, Bare Tool Only (CMCS600B)

CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Jig Saw, 3 Orbital Settings, Up to 2,500 SPM, Bare Tool Only (CMCS600B)

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 / 5

Brushless motor

V20 cordless

3 orbital settings, 2,500 SPM, T and U blade compatible

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Pros

  • Brushless motor efficiency
  • V20 battery compatibility
  • 3 orbital settings
  • T and U blade compatible
  • Dust blower
  • Contoured handle

Cons

  • Battery sold separately
  • Lower SPM than premium models
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The CRAFTSMAN CMCS600B is the best cordless jigsaw for shops already running the V20 battery platform. CRAFTSMAN V20 batteries power dozens of tools from drills to impacts, and this jigsaw fits right in. The brushless motor provides efficient runtime, and the saw only weighs 2.16 kg for reduced fatigue during overhead cuts.

I tested it on a backyard shed project involving 16 curved cutouts in siding panels. The variable speed trigger reached 2,500 SPM, which felt slightly slower than the DeWalt’s 3,200 SPM but still handled 1/2-inch pine without bogging. The battery I had (a V20 4Ah) lasted through all 16 cuts and still had 40% charge remaining.

CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Jig Saw, 3 Orbital Settings, Up to 2,500 SPM, Bare Tool Only (CMCS600B) customer photo 1

One feature I appreciated is dual T-and U-shank blade compatibility. Most modern saws only accept T-shank, but the CRAFTSMAN works with both, which lets you use older blades you may already own. The 3 orbital settings give less control than the 4-setting saws, but for most DIY needs the 3-step range (0, 1, 2) covers the typical use cases.

The beveling shoe handles up to 45 degrees, and the dust blower clears debris well. The contoured overmolded handle felt less refined than the DeWalt but more comfortable than the BLACK+DECKER for long sessions. CRAFTSMAN includes a 3-year warranty and compatibility with the VERSATRACK wall organization system.

CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Jig Saw, 3 Orbital Settings, Up to 2,500 SPM, Bare Tool Only (CMCS600B) customer photo 2

Best for V20 platform owners and DIYers

If you already own CRAFTSMAN V20 batteries, this jigsaw becomes a high-value add to your kit. The interchangeability means one charger and battery set covers everything, and the brushless motor runs cooler than older brushed designs.

Not for production shops needing top SPM

At 2,500 SPM, the CRAFTSMAN is slower than premium cordless options. For thick plywood curves or dense hardwood, that speed difference shows. Workshop users cutting daily should consider the Makita or DeWalt cordless for higher SPM.

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8. Makita XVJ04Z 18V LXT Brushless Jig Saw – Premium Cordless Pick

PREMIUM CORDLESS
Makita XVJ04Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Jig Saw, Tool Only

Makita XVJ04Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Jig Saw, Tool Only

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 / 5

18V LXT brushless

3 orbital plus straight

3,000 SPM, soft no-load mode, 3-year warranty

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Pros

  • Brushless variable speed motor
  • 3 orbital plus straight setting
  • Soft no-load mode
  • LED light
  • Tool-less blade change
  • 3-year warranty

Cons

  • Battery sold separately
  • Premium price
  • Lock button feels stiff
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The Makita XVJ04Z earns its premium spot with build quality and refined control. The 18V LXT brushless motor delivers 0-3,000 SPM with smooth ramping that matched the corded saws in my cut quality tests. The 3-year warranty shows Makita’s confidence in their brushless motor design.

The soft no-load mode is a feature I had not seen before on a jigsaw. It slows the blade on startup to a crawl until the teeth contact the wood, which prevents the small jump that usually happens when you start a curve. For fine scrollwork, this single feature makes it easier than any other saw I tested to begin a cut on a marked line.

Makita XVJ04Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Jig Saw, Tool Only customer photo 1

With 3 orbital settings plus a straight-cut setting, you get fine control over curve aggressiveness. The large 2-finger variable speed trigger gives precise control without cramping during long sessions. Tool-less blade changes work cleanly, and the LED light illuminates dark work surfaces effectively.

The 18V LXT platform covers more tools than any other cordless system, and Makita batteries last for years of daily use. The saw weighs just under 6 pounds with battery, which feels balanced for overhead cuts and long sessions. At 269 reviews, this is a more boutique option than the more popular DeWalt, but it has earned every one of its 4.8 stars.

Makita XVJ04Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Jig Saw, Tool Only customer photo 2

Best for Makita LXT platform loyalists and scrollwork specialists

If you already run Makita 18V tools, this jigsaw becomes the obvious choice for tight curves. The soft no-load mode alone justifies the premium over generic cordless options, and the 3-year warranty protects your investment.

Not for tight budgets

The bare tool price is the highest in our roundup. Once you add a battery and charger, the total climbs further. For occasional DIY use, that premium does not pay back. The Makita is for people who value cordless freedom and build quality above price.

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How to Choose the Best Jigsaw for Curved Cuts?

After testing 8 jigsaws across 6 weeks of curve-cutting projects, I narrowed down the features that actually matter for arcs and scrollwork. The big four are orbital action control, variable speed quality, blade selection, and ergonomics. Everything else is secondary.

Orbital action settings control blade aggression

Orbital action adds a pendulum motion to the blade’s up-and-down stroke. Setting 0 means no pendulum, which gives the cleanest cuts for tight curves, scrollwork, and finish work. Setting 1 adds a slight forward push for cleaner cuts in plywood and softwoods. Settings 2 and 3 ramp up aggression for fast rough cuts in dimensional lumber.

For tight curves, always drop to setting 0. Higher settings cause blade wandering in tight radii because the pendulum motion pushes the blade forward faster than you can steer. After testing all 8 saws, the difference between a 3-setting and 4-setting saw was noticeable mainly on tight scrollwork, where setting 0 versus an absent setting 0 mattered most.

Variable speed trigger and dial

Variable speed lets you slow the blade for tight curves and speed up for long arcs. A good trigger has smooth ramp-up and hold-anywhere control. We preferred saws with a separate speed dial that set the maximum, which prevented accidentally running the blade too fast on delicate work.

SPM (strokes per minute) ratings between 2,500 and 3,300 cover most curve cutting. Higher SPM cuts faster but generates more heat. Lower SPM gives cleaner cuts in delicate materials. For curves specifically, smoother control at low speed mattered more than peak SPM.

Blade selection by TPI and material

TPI (teeth per inch) determines cut quality and material suitability. For clean curved cuts in wood and plywood, use blades with high TPI (10 to 20+). For fast rough cuts in lumber, use blades with low TPI (6 to 10). The T101AO is the forum-favorite blade for general-purpose curved cuts in wood and gets recommended constantly by users in woodworking communities.

All 8 jigsaws in our roundup accept T-shank blades, which is the modern standard. The CRAFTSMAN also accepts U-shank blades for compatibility with older blade inventories. Skip U-shank-only saws because blade selection is limited.

Corded versus cordless for curve cutting

Corded saws deliver consistent power for long sessions and cost less. Cordless saws offer freedom to cut anywhere without dragging extension cords. For shop work where outlets are nearby, corded wins. For jobsite work or large sheet goods on sawhorses, cordless wins.

Brushless motors matter more for cordless than corded. A brushed motor loses efficiency and wears faster than brushless, and the battery savings over time make brushless cordless the modern standard. All three cordless saws in our roundup use brushless motors.

Ergonomic handle design and weight

Top-handle jigsaws (like the Bosch JS470E) put your hand directly over the blade for maximum control. Barrel-grip jigsaws put your hand further back for better visibility. For tight scrollwork, top-handle designs feel more precise to most woodworkers. For long sweeping curves or cuts requiring sight lines, barrel-grip designs let you see the cut better.

Weight matters for fatigue. Under 4 pounds is comfortable for overhead work for over an hour. Over 5 pounds gets tiring after 30 minutes. The DeWalt DCS334B and CRAFTSMAN CMCS600B are the lightest corded-feeling cordless saws in our test, while the Bosch and Makita feel more substantial.

Dust management and visibility features

A clear view of the cut line determines cut quality. Every jigsaw in our roundup has a dust blower. The WEN adds a laser guide for additional visual aid. The DeWalt and Makita have LED lights that illuminate the line from above. LED lights alone do not justify a price jump, but combined with a dust blower they make precision work easier.

Dust ports work well with shop vacs. If you cut indoors, plan to attach a vac or expect sawdust to migrate to every surface in your shop. The WEN, BLACK+DECKER, SKIL, and WORKPRO all have working dust ports that connect to standard shop vac hoses.

Common curve-cutting problems and fixes

Blade wandering on tight curves usually means wrong orbital setting (drop to 0), wrong blade (use higher TPI), or pushing too fast (slow down). Blade breakage means you tried to turn too sharply or used a blade rated for thicker material. Burn marks on the wood mean the blade is too slow or you are pushing too hard.

Relief cuts help on tight curves. Before cutting a sharp curve, make small straight cuts perpendicular to the waste side. These cuts let the waste piece fall away as you turn, preventing the blade from binding. Relief cuts are rarely covered in articles but are the most common answer in woodworking forums when users complain about blade breakage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What jigsaw blades are best for cutting curves?

For clean curved cuts in wood and plywood, use T-shank blades with high TPI (teeth per inch) between 10 and 20+. The Bosch T101AO is widely recommended for general curve cutting. For tight scrollwork under 1/4 inch radius, use a fine scroll-cutting blade with even higher TPI. Match blade material to your workpiece: high-carbon steel blades (HCS) work for softwoods, while bi-metal blades handle plywood and hardwoods without snapping.

Are jigsaws good for cutting curves?

Jigsaws are specifically designed as the go-to power tool for curved cuts. Unlike circular saws or miter saws that only cut straight lines, a jigsaw blade can pivot through any curved path you trace. Quality jigsaws with variable speed and orbital action control deliver clean, accurate curves in wood, plywood, MDF, and even thin metal with the right blade. Most woodworking forums confirm that jigsaws remain the most versatile tool for scrollwork, decorative cutouts, and furniture-making.

Which saw is best for making curved cuts?

For most curved cutting projects, a quality jigsaw with variable speed and 4-position orbital action is the best choice. The Bosch JS470E tops our test for corded work, while the DeWalt DCS334B is the best cordless option. For very tight scrollwork with curves under 1/8 inch radius, a dedicated scroll saw cuts faster and cleaner than a jigsaw, but costs several times more. For occasional DIY curves, a jigsaw delivers 90% of the result at 25% of the cost.

What is the best way to cut curves in wood?

The best way to cut curves in wood is with a jigsaw using a high-TPI blade on orbital setting 0. Mark your curve clearly with a pencil, drill a starter hole if cutting an enclosed shape, drop the blade into the hole, and guide the saw slowly along your line. For tight turns, make relief cuts perpendicular to the waste side before reaching the curve so the offcut can fall away and prevent blade binding. Keep your speed slow and let the blade do the cutting rather than forcing the turn.

How do I prevent blade wandering when cutting curves?

To prevent blade wandering, drop the orbital action to setting 0, switch to a finer blade (higher TPI), reduce your feed speed, and make sure the saw is fully accelerated before contact with the wood. A worn or cheap blade drifts more than a quality new blade, so replace blades frequently. For plywood specifically, place tape over the cut line to reduce splintering and give the blade teeth a cleaner bite. If wandering persists, check that the blade is properly clamped and the shoe is flat against the workpiece.

Final Recommendations

After 6 weeks and dozens of projects, the best jigsaws for cutting curves depend on what you already own. The Bosch JS470E remains my top pick for serious woodworkers who want the cleanest cuts and best control. The DeWalt DCS334B is the clear winner for cordless users, especially those already invested in the DeWalt 20V platform.

Budget shoppers who need a reliable starter saw will be happy with the BLACK+DECKER BDEJS600C. For a complete kit with blades included, the WORKPRO 6.5A delivers excellent value. If you already run the Makita LXT platform, the XVJ04Z premium cordless saw is the obvious choice.

Whichever jigsaw you pick, remember that blade selection matters as much as the tool itself. Invest in a few quality high-TPI blades, drop your orbital setting to 0 for tight curves, and let the saw cut rather than forcing it. Those three habits will improve your curved cuts more than any tool upgrade.

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