Best Jigsaw Under £100
Finding a reliable jigsaw that delivers clean cuts without breaking the bank is easier than you think. We have analysed specifications, aggregated owner reviews, and compared brand reliability to find the best jigsaw under £100 for DIYers and hobbyists.
Quick answer
The Bosch PST 700 E is the best overall jigsaw under £100, offering excellent cutting precision and build quality. For a cordless option, the Ryobi R18JS-0 delivers impressive versatility and power within the budget, especially if you already own Ryobi batteries.
Why trust ToolBuyerHub
- Tested on specs (power, torque, PSI)
- Battery & ecosystem compared
- Aggregated owner reviews
- Build quality & warranty checked
- Brand reliability
- No fake hands-on claims
Research updated June 2026.

Bosch PST 700 E
Reliable corded jigsaw with precise cutting and low vibration.
| Product | Best For | Key Spec | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch PST 700 E | Overall Precision | 500 W, 20 mm stroke | 4.7 / 5 | Check Amazon |
| Ryobi R18JS-0 | Cordless Freedom | 18 V, brushless motor | 4.5 / 5 | Check Amazon |
| Makita 4329M | Durability | 450 W, 18 mm stroke | 4.6 / 5 | Check Amazon |
| Einhell TC-JS 60 | Budget Value | 600 W, 20 mm stroke | 4.3 / 5 | Check Amazon |
| Black+Decker BDCJS18 | Entry Level Cordless | 18 V, 22 mm stroke | 4.1 / 5 | Check Amazon |
What to Look for in a Jigsaw Under £100
When shopping for a jigsaw in this price range, focus on stroke length, power, and orbital action settings. A longer stroke (20 mm or more) allows faster cutting, while variable speed control helps you match the blade speed to the material. Orbital action settings let you adjust the blade's aggressiveness for cleaner cuts in wood or smoother cuts in metal. Build quality and brand reputation matter, as cheaper models can suffer from vibration and blade wander. Always check the maximum cutting depth in wood and metal, and consider whether you need a corded or cordless model based on your workshop setup.
Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Budget Jigsaw
Do not overlook the importance of blade changing systems. Tool-free blade change is a significant convenience that many budget models lack. Avoid jigsaws with very low stroke rates (under 2500 SPM) as they will struggle with harder materials. Also, be wary of models that do not include a dust blower or dust extraction port, as sawdust can obscure your cutting line. Finally, do not assume a higher wattage always means better performance; a well-designed 500 W motor from a reputable brand can outperform a 600 W motor from a lesser-known manufacturer.
Bosch PST 700 E
Best OverallPros
- Very low vibration for precise cuts
- Tool-free blade change system
- Compact and lightweight design
Cons
- No orbital action settings
- Plastic base plate can scratch surfaces
The Bosch PST 700 E is a benchmark in the budget jigsaw category. Its 500 W motor delivers consistent power for cutting softwood, hardwood, and even thin metal sheets. The SDS blade change mechanism is quick and tool-free, a feature usually found on more expensive models. Owner reviews consistently praise its low vibration, which reduces fatigue during extended use and improves cut accuracy.
While it lacks orbital action, the straight-cut design is ideal for beginners who want clean, straight lines. The dust blower keeps the cutting line clear, and the transparent splinter guard helps protect the workpiece surface. It is a simple, reliable tool that focuses on core performance without unnecessary extras.
Ryobi R18JS-0
Best CordlessPros
- Brushless motor for longer runtime
- Tool-free blade change and bevel adjustment
- LED work light for better visibility
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Heavier than corded alternatives
The Ryobi R18JS-0 is a powerful cordless jigsaw that benefits from Ryobi's extensive ONE+ battery system. Its brushless motor delivers efficient power, allowing you to cut through 60 mm softwood on a single charge. The variable speed trigger gives you full control, and the orbital action offers four settings for different materials. Owner reviews highlight its strong cutting performance and the convenience of the LED light.
It is an excellent choice if you already own Ryobi tools, as the bare tool price fits well under £100. The tool-free bevel adjustment up to 45 degrees is handy for angled cuts. However, it is slightly heavier than corded models, and the lack of a dust blower is a minor drawback for some users.
Makita 4329M
Best DurabilityPros
- Robust build quality from Makita
- Three orbital action settings
- Low noise operation
Cons
- Shorter stroke length (18 mm)
- Blade change requires hex key
The Makita 4329M is a workhorse jigsaw built to last. With a 450 W motor and three orbital action settings, it handles a variety of materials efficiently. Owner reviews often mention its durability and consistent performance over years of use. The die-cast aluminum base plate is sturdy and resists warping, providing a stable cutting platform.
Its shorter 18 mm stroke means slightly slower cutting compared to 20 mm models, but the trade-off is smoother cuts with less blade deflection. The dust extraction port connects to a vacuum for a cleaner workspace. It lacks a tool-free blade change, which is a minor inconvenience, but the overall reliability makes it a top choice for regular DIY use.
Einhell TC-JS 60
Best Budget ValuePros
- High power for the price (600 W)
- Tool-free blade change
- Includes rip fence and splinter guard
Cons
- Higher vibration than premium models
- Plastic base plate feels less durable
The Einhell TC-JS 60 offers impressive specifications for its low price. The 600 W motor and 20 mm stroke length allow it to cut through thick wood and plastics with ease. It features a tool-free blade change and a variable speed dial, giving you good control for different tasks. Owner reviews appreciate the included rip fence for straight cuts and the splinter guard for cleaner edges.
It is a solid entry-level jigsaw for occasional DIY projects. The main compromises are in build quality, with a plastic base plate and higher vibration levels compared to Bosch or Makita models. For the price, it delivers strong cutting performance, but it may not withstand heavy daily use.
Black+Decker BDCJS18
Best Entry Level CordlessPros
- Long stroke length (22 mm)
- Comes with battery and charger
- Simple to use for beginners
Cons
- Brushed motor limits runtime
- Less powerful than corded alternatives
The Black+Decker BDCJS18 is a convenient cordless jigsaw that comes as a complete kit with battery and charger. Its 22 mm stroke length is longer than many competitors, allowing for faster cutting in softer materials. It is designed for light DIY tasks like cutting plywood, MDF, and plastic. Owner reviews highlight its ease of use and the freedom of cordless operation.
It is not as powerful as corded models or brushless cordless options, and the battery runtime is limited for larger projects. The brushed motor is less efficient, but for occasional jobs around the home, it performs adequately. It is a good starting point for beginners who want a simple, all-in-one cordless solution.
FAQs
What is the best jigsaw under £100?
The Bosch PST 700 E is widely considered the best overall jigsaw under £100 due to its precision, low vibration, and reliable build quality.
Is a corded or cordless jigsaw better under £100?
Corded jigsaws generally offer more consistent power and lower cost for the same performance, while cordless models provide greater portability but may require battery investment.
What stroke length should I look for in a budget jigsaw?
A stroke length of 20 mm or more is recommended for efficient cutting through wood and plastics. Shorter strokes are slower but can offer smoother cuts.
Do I need orbital action on a jigsaw?
Orbital action helps cut faster through wood by moving the blade in an elliptical motion. It is useful for rough cuts but can be turned off for cleaner cuts in metal or laminate.
Can a jigsaw under £100 cut metal?
Yes, most jigsaws under £100 can cut thin metal sheets up to 5-10 mm thick with the correct blade. Look for models with variable speed control for better results.
How important is tool-free blade change?
Tool-free blade change is a significant convenience feature that saves time and effort. It is common on mid-range models but not always available on budget options.
What is the difference between a jigsaw and a reciprocating saw?
A jigsaw is designed for precise curved cuts in wood, metal, and plastic, while a reciprocating saw is for demolition and rough cutting of thicker materials.
Which brand is most reliable for budget jigsaws?
Bosch and Makita are known for the most reliable budget jigsaws, with consistent build quality and good owner satisfaction. Einhell offers good value for occasional use.
How do I reduce vibration when using a jigsaw?
Using a sharp blade, securing the workpiece firmly, and choosing a jigsaw with anti-vibration technology like the Bosch PST 700 E can significantly reduce vibration.
Can I cut curves with a jigsaw under £100?
Yes, jigsaws are designed for cutting curves. Models with a longer stroke and variable speed offer better control for intricate curved cuts.
Our verdict
For most DIY users, the Bosch PST 700 E is the best overall jigsaw under £100, offering unmatched precision and build quality. If you need cordless freedom, the Ryobi R18JS-0 is the top cordless pick, especially for those already in the Ryobi ecosystem. For the tightest budgets, the Einhell TC-JS 60 provides excellent power and features at a very low price.