Best Jigsaw Under £150
Finding a jigsaw that cuts clean curves without breaking the bank is easier than you think. We have analysed specs, owner reviews, and brand reliability to bring you the five best jigsaws under £150 for 2026.
Quick answer
The Bosch GST 90 BE is the best overall jigsaw under £150 thanks to its powerful 720W motor and smooth pendulum action. For cordless convenience on a budget, the Makita DJV181Z offers excellent cut quality and battery ecosystem value.
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 GST 90 BE
Powerful corded jigsaw with smooth pendulum action for clean cuts.
| Product | Best for | Key Spec | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch GST 90 BE | Overall corded power | 720W, 4-stage pendulum | 4.6 / 5 | Check Amazon |
| Makita DJV181Z | Cordless value | 18V, 26 mm stroke | 4.5 / 5 | Check Amazon |
| DeWalt DWE349 | Dust management | 650W, dust blower | 4.4 / 5 | Check Amazon |
| Ryobi RJS1200 | Budget corded | 650W, variable speed | 4.2 / 5 | Check Amazon |
| Einhell TC-JS 800 | Entry-level price | 800W, 3-stage pendulum | 4.1 / 5 | Check Amazon |
Bosch GST 90 BE
Best Overall Corded JigsawPros
- Smooth and powerful cutting action
- Low vibration for better control
- Reliable Bosch build quality
Cons
- Corded only, limits mobility
- No LED light
The Bosch GST 90 BE is the benchmark for corded jigsaws under £150. Its 720W motor delivers consistent power through thick hardwood and laminate, while the 4-stage pendulum action lets you adjust the aggressiveness for different materials. Owner reviews consistently praise its low vibration and smooth cutting curve, making it ideal for detailed woodworking projects.
Aggregated ratings from major retailers show a 4.6 out of 5 over thousands of reviews. Users highlight the tool-less blade change system and comfortable grip as key advantages. The only trade-offs are the lack of an LED light and the corded nature, but for workshop use this is a non-issue.
Makita DJV181Z
Best Cordless ValuePros
- Excellent cut quality for a cordless
- Part of Makita's 18V LXT ecosystem
- Tool-less blade change
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Not as powerful as corded models
The Makita DJV181Z is the top cordless option under £150, especially if you already own Makita 18V batteries. Its brushless motor provides efficient power and longer runtime, while the 3-stage pendulum action ensures clean cuts in wood and plastic. Owner reviews note the smooth operation and good battery life with a 5.0Ah pack.
Aggregated feedback gives it a 4.5 out of 5, with users appreciating the electronic speed control for precise starts. The main drawback is that it is a bare tool, so the total cost exceeds £150 if you need batteries. For existing Makita users, this is a no-brainer upgrade.
DeWalt DWE349
Best for Dust ManagementPros
- Integrated dust blower keeps cut line visible
- Keyless blade change system
- Comfortable grip with low vibration
Cons
- No variable speed trigger
- Dust port could be larger
The DeWalt DWE349 is built for users who prioritise a clean workspace. Its integrated dust blower effectively clears sawdust from the cut line, improving visibility and accuracy. The 650W motor handles most DIY tasks, and the 4-stage pendulum action allows for faster cuts in softer materials. Owner reviews rate it 4.4 out of 5, citing its robust build and reliable performance.
Users note that the keyless blade change system is convenient, though some wish for a variable speed trigger rather than a dial. The dust port works well with a shop vac, but the included adapter could be better. For workshop use where dust control matters, this is a strong contender.
Ryobi RJS1200
Best Budget CordedPros
- Very affordable price point
- Variable speed dial for different materials
- Lightweight and easy to handle
Cons
- Higher vibration levels than premium models
- Plastic build feels less durable
The Ryobi RJS1200 is the best entry-level corded jigsaw for budget-conscious DIYers. Its 650W motor and variable speed dial provide enough control for cutting softwood, plywood, and plastic. Owner reviews give it a 4.2 out of 5, with many praising its value for the price. The tool-less blade change is a welcome feature at this price point.
Aggregated feedback notes that vibration is higher than the Bosch or DeWalt models, and the plastic housing feels less premium. However, for occasional use around the home, it performs reliably. If you are on a tight budget and need a basic jigsaw, this is a solid choice.
Einhell TC-JS 800
Best Entry-Level PowerPros
- High 800W motor for the price
- 3-stage pendulum action for faster cuts
- Includes carrying case and blades
Cons
- Heavier than competitors
- Build quality reflects low price
The Einhell TC-JS 800 offers the highest motor wattage in this roundup at 800W, making it capable of cutting through thicker materials. It includes a 3-stage pendulum action and a variable speed dial, giving users flexibility. Owner reviews give it a 4.1 out of 5, with many appreciating the included carry case and extra blades.
Aggregated feedback highlights that it is heavier and less refined than the Bosch or Makita options. Some users report higher vibration and a less comfortable grip. For the price, however, it delivers good raw power for heavy-duty DIY projects.
What to check before buying a jigsaw under £150
When choosing a jigsaw, consider the motor power and stroke length. A 650W to 800W motor with a 26 mm stroke is ideal for most DIY tasks. Pendulum action (also called orbital action) allows for faster cuts in softer materials, while variable speed control gives you precision for different materials.
Blade change systems matter for convenience. Tool-less systems save time, while keyed systems are more secure. Also check the weight and ergonomics, as a lighter jigsaw reduces fatigue during longer projects. Cordless models offer portability but require battery investment.
Mistakes to avoid when buying a jigsaw
A common mistake is ignoring the pendulum action feature. Without it, cutting through thicker wood can be slow and cause blade wear. Another error is buying a cordless model without considering battery costs, which can push the total price over £150.
Do not overlook dust management. A dust blower or vacuum port keeps your cut line visible and your workspace clean. Finally, avoid cheap blades, as they can cause rough cuts and splintering. Invest in quality T-shank blades for best results.
FAQs
What is the best jigsaw under £150?
The Bosch GST 90 BE is the best overall jigsaw under £150 due to its powerful 720W motor and smooth pendulum action.
Is a cordless jigsaw under £150 worth it?
Yes, the Makita DJV181Z offers excellent cut quality for a cordless model, but factor in battery costs if you are not already in the Makita ecosystem.
What is pendulum action on a jigsaw?
Pendulum action moves the blade in an orbital motion for faster, more aggressive cuts, ideal for softwood and plywood.
How important is variable speed on a jigsaw?
Variable speed is important for cutting different materials, allowing slower speeds for metal and plastic and faster speeds for wood.
Can I cut metal with a jigsaw under £150?
Yes, with the correct blade, most jigsaws under £150 can cut thin metal sheets, but use a slower speed setting for best results.
What is the difference between a 650W and 800W jigsaw?
Higher wattage provides more power for cutting thicker materials, but also increases weight and vibration.
Do I need a dust blower on a jigsaw?
A dust blower helps keep the cut line visible, which improves accuracy, especially in dusty conditions.
How long does a cordless jigsaw battery last?
With a 5.0Ah battery, expect 30-60 minutes of continuous cutting, depending on the material and speed setting.
What blades should I use for a jigsaw under £150?
Use T-shank blades for compatibility. For wood, use a 6-10 TPI blade; for metal, use a 14-24 TPI blade.
Is the Ryobi RJS1200 good for beginners?
Yes, the Ryobi RJS1200 is affordable and easy to use, making it a good starting point for DIY beginners.
Our verdict
For most users, the Bosch GST 90 BE is the best jigsaw under £150, offering the best combination of power, precision, and build quality. If you need cordless flexibility, the Makita DJV181Z is the top choice for existing Makita users. For budget buyers, the Ryobi RJS1200 provides reliable performance at a low price.