Bosch vs Milwaukee Jigsaw
Choosing between a Bosch and a Milwaukee jigsaw means deciding between precision engineering and raw power. We compare the top models to help you pick the right tool for your workshop or jobsite.
Quick answer
For woodworking precision and orbital-action control, choose Bosch. For heavy-duty cutting speed and cordless power, choose Milwaukee. The Bosch JS470E wins for accuracy; the Milwaukee 2737-20 dominates for brute force.
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Research updated June 2026.
Bosch JS470E
Best for precision cuts and orbital-action control.
| Specification | Bosch JS470E | Milwaukee 2737-20 |
|---|---|---|
| Power Source | Corded (7.0 Amp) | Cordless (M18 battery) |
| Stroke Length | 1 inch | 1 inch |
| SPM Range | 500-3,100 | 0-3,000 |
| Orbital Settings | 4 (0-3) | 4 (0-3) |
| Best For | Precision woodworking | Fast cuts on thick material |
| Weight | 7.2 lbs | 6.8 lbs (with battery) |
| LED Light | Yes | Yes |
| Dust Blower | Yes | Yes |
Bosch vs Milwaukee Jigsaw: Which Brand Makes the Better Jigsaw?
Bosch and Milwaukee are two of the most respected names in power tools, but they approach jigsaw design differently. Bosch focuses on precision, smooth operation, and orbital-action versatility, making its jigsaws a favorite among woodworkers and cabinet makers. Milwaukee, on the other hand, prioritizes power, speed, and cordless convenience, appealing to contractors and remodelers who need to cut through thick lumber and metal on the jobsite.
Both brands offer jigsaws with variable speed, tool-less blade changes, and dust management features. However, the choice often comes down to whether you need a corded tool for consistent power (Bosch) or a cordless tool for portability (Milwaukee). Owner reviews on Amazon and Home Depot consistently rate the Bosch JS470E as the most accurate jigsaw available, while the Milwaukee 2737-20 is praised for its cutting speed and battery life.
Bosch JS470E vs Milwaukee 2737-20: Head-to-Head
We compare the two most popular models from each brand: the corded Bosch JS470E and the cordless Milwaukee 2737-20. These represent the best each brand offers in their respective categories.
Power and Performance
The Bosch JS470E delivers 7.0 amps of consistent power, ideal for cutting hardwood, plywood, and laminates with precision. Its variable-speed dial ranges from 500 to 3,100 SPM, giving you fine control for different materials. The Milwaukee 2737-20, powered by an M18 battery, offers a variable-speed trigger that goes from 0 to 3,000 SPM. While cordless jigsaws typically have less sustained power than corded models, Milwaukee's brushless motor provides impressive torque for cutting through thick lumber and metal.
Owner reviews indicate that the Bosch maintains speed better under load, making it more reliable for long, precise cuts. The Milwaukee, however, cuts faster due to its aggressive orbital-action settings, but some users report slight blade deflection at high speeds.
Orbital Action and Cutting Control
Both jigsaws feature four orbital-action settings (0-3), allowing you to adjust the blade's forward motion for different cutting tasks. The Bosch JS470E is known for its smooth and precise orbital action, which reduces vibration and produces cleaner cuts in wood. The Milwaukee 2737-20 offers more aggressive orbital settings, which can cut through thick material faster but may result in a rougher finish.
For fine woodworking and scroll cuts, the Bosch is the clear winner. For demolition or rough cuts on thick lumber, the Milwaukee's aggressive action is an advantage.
Build Quality and Ergonomics
Bosch jigsaws are built with a focus on durability and user comfort. The JS470E features a die-cast aluminum footplate that stays flat and resists bending, along with a top-handle design that provides excellent control. The Milwaukee 2737-20 has a barrel-grip design, which some users find more comfortable for extended use, but it lacks the stability of the Bosch's footplate.
Both tools include tool-less blade changes, LED lights, and dust blowers. The Bosch has a built-in dust port that connects to a vacuum, while the Milwaukee relies on its dust blower to keep the cut line clear.
Battery Life and Cordless Convenience
The Milwaukee 2737-20 is cordless, offering freedom of movement on the jobsite. With a 5.0 Ah M18 battery, users report cutting up to 100 linear feet of 3/4-inch plywood on a single charge. The Bosch JS470E is corded, meaning unlimited runtime but limited by cord length. For contractors working on roofs or in tight spaces, the Milwaukee's cordless design is a major advantage.
However, the Bosch's corded power ensures consistent performance without battery fade, making it better for long, uninterrupted cutting sessions in a workshop.
What to Check Before Buying a Jigsaw
Before choosing between Bosch and Milwaukee, consider these factors:
- Power source: Corded tools offer consistent power; cordless tools offer portability.
- Orbital action: More settings give you better control over cut quality and speed.
- Blade change system: Tool-less systems save time and frustration.
- Footplate quality: A sturdy, flat footplate ensures accurate cuts.
- Vibration control: Look for models with anti-vibration features for comfort.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Ignoring orbital settings: Using the wrong setting can cause rough cuts or blade breakage.
- Choosing based on brand alone: Match the tool to your specific cutting needs.
- Overlooking blade compatibility: Both Bosch and Milwaukee use T-shank blades, but not all blades fit all models.
- Forgetting battery ecosystem: If you already own Milwaukee M18 tools, the 2737-20 is a logical choice.
FAQs
Which jigsaw is better for woodworking, Bosch or Milwaukee?
Bosch is better for woodworking due to its precise orbital action, smoother cuts, and stable footplate.
Is the Milwaukee jigsaw more powerful than the Bosch?
The Milwaukee offers faster cutting speeds, but the Bosch provides more consistent power under load for precision work.
Can I use the same blades on Bosch and Milwaukee jigsaws?
Yes, both use standard T-shank blades, making them interchangeable.
Which jigsaw has better battery life, Bosch or Milwaukee?
Milwaukee offers cordless models with good battery life, while Bosch focuses on corded tools with unlimited runtime.
Is the Bosch JS470E worth the price?
Yes, for woodworkers who need precision and reliability, the JS470E is considered the best corded jigsaw available.
Does Milwaukee make a corded jigsaw?
Milwaukee mainly focuses on cordless jigsaws, but they do offer corded models like the 6268-21.
Which jigsaw is easier to use for beginners?
Both are user-friendly, but the Bosch JS470E's top-handle design and smooth operation make it more forgiving for beginners.
How long does the Milwaukee jigsaw battery last?
With a 5.0 Ah battery, you can expect around 100 linear feet of cuts in 3/4-inch plywood.
Does the Bosch jigsaw have a dust blower?
Yes, the Bosch JS470E includes a dust blower to keep the cut line clear.
Which jigsaw is better for cutting metal?
Both can cut metal with the right blade, but the Milwaukee's higher speed range makes it slightly more effective.
Are Bosch jigsaws made in Germany?
Bosch power tools are designed in Germany but manufactured in various countries, including China and Switzerland.
Which jigsaw has better warranty, Bosch or Milwaukee?
Both offer 5-year warranties on their tools, but Milwaukee includes a 2-year warranty on batteries.
Our verdict
For precision woodworking and clean cuts, the Bosch JS470E is the best overall jigsaw. For fast, cordless cutting on the jobsite, the Milwaukee 2737-20 is the top choice. Choose based on your primary use: workshop accuracy or jobsite power.