Best Jigsaw Under £200
Finding a jigsaw that balances power, precision, and durability without exceeding a £200 budget is tough. We have analysed specs, aggregated owner reviews from major retailers, and compared build quality to find the best jigsaw under £200 for every type of user.
Quick answer
The best jigsaw under £200 is the Bosch GST 18V-155 SC Professional. It offers class-leading orbital action, a powerful brushless motor, and exceptional dust extraction. For the best corded value, the Makita 4329M is a reliable and affordable workhorse.
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 18V-155 SC Professional
Best balance of power, precision, and dust control for serious DIYers.
| Product | Best For | Key Spec | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch GST 18V-155 SC | Overall Performance | Brushless, 26mm stroke | 4.8/5 | Check Amazon |
| Makita 4329M | Budget Corded | 550W, 26mm stroke | 4.5/5 | Check Amazon |
| DeWalt DCS331M1 | Cordless Convenience | 18V XR, 3 orbital settings | 4.6/5 | Check Amazon |
| Milwaukee M18 BJS-0 | Heavy Duty | FIXTEC system, 28mm stroke | 4.7/5 | Check Amazon |
| Bosch PST 800 PEL | Value Corded | 800W, SDS blade change | 4.4/5 | Check Amazon |
Bosch GST 18V-155 SC Professional
Best OverallPros
- Excellent dust extraction with Bosch dust bag
- Constant speed control under load
- Tool-free blade change and bevel adjustment
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Heavier than some corded models
The Bosch GST 18V-155 SC is widely regarded as the best jigsaw under £200 for its combination of power and precision. Its brushless motor delivers consistent cutting performance across wood, metal, and plastic, while the 4-stage orbital action allows you to adjust the aggressiveness of the cut for cleaner results. Owner reviews consistently praise its low vibration and smooth operation.
This jigsaw also features a robust dust extraction system that connects to a vacuum or uses the included dust bag, keeping your work area clean. The SDS tool-free blade change is fast and secure. While it is a bare tool, its compatibility with the extensive Bosch Professional 18V system makes it a smart long-term investment for anyone already in that ecosystem.
Makita 4329M
Best Budget CordedPros
- Very affordable price point
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Reliable Makita build quality
Cons
- No dust blower function
- Blade change requires hex key
The Makita 4329M is a classic corded jigsaw that delivers dependable performance at a great price. It features a 550W motor with a 26mm stroke and 3 orbital settings, making it suitable for cutting wood, plywood, and plastics. Owner reviews highlight its smooth operation and low vibration for a tool in this price bracket.
Its main limitation is the lack of a tool-free blade change, which can slow down job changes. It also lacks a dust blower, so sawdust can obscure the cut line. However, for straightforward DIY projects and occasional use, the Makita 4329M offers unbeatable value and the reliability of a major brand.
DeWalt DCS331M1
Best Cordless ConveniencePros
- Keyless blade change lever
- Bright LED work light
- Durable build with rubber overmold
Cons
- Battery life could be better under heavy use
- Dust blower is not very powerful
The DeWalt DCS331M1 is a popular cordless jigsaw that offers great convenience for users already invested in the DeWalt 18V XR system. It features a keyless blade change system and a 4-position orbital action for versatile cutting. Owner reviews often mention its comfortable grip and reliable performance for cutting timber and plastic.
While it is a brushed motor, it still provides ample power for most DIY tasks. The integrated dust blower helps keep the cut line clear, though it is less effective than some competitors. The tool is well-balanced and includes a durable kit box. For a cordless jigsaw under £200, the DeWalt DCS331M1 is a solid, convenient choice.
Milwaukee M18 BJS-0
Best Heavy DutyPros
- Long 28mm stroke for faster cutting
- FIXTEC keyless blade change
- Excellent build quality and ergonomics
Cons
- Battery and charger not included
- Heavier than some competitors
The Milwaukee M18 BJS-0 is a heavy-duty cordless jigsaw designed for demanding users. It boasts a 28mm stroke length, the longest in this roundup, which allows for faster cutting through thicker materials. The 4-position orbital action and FIXTEC keyless blade change system make it efficient and user-friendly. Owner reviews praise its raw power and durability.
This jigsaw is built to withstand tough job site conditions, with a metal gear case and a comfortable grip. It is a bare tool, so you need a Milwaukee M18 battery, but its performance is exceptional for the price. The longer stroke does make it slightly less precise for very delicate curves, but for general cutting and heavy materials, it is a top contender.
Bosch PST 800 PEL
Best Value CordedPros
- Powerful 800W motor
- Tool-free SDS blade change
- Integrated dust blower
Cons
- Shorter stroke length
- Plastic base plate can be less stable
The Bosch PST 800 PEL is a powerful corded jigsaw that offers excellent value for money. Its 800W motor provides plenty of power for cutting through hardwoods and metals, and the 4-stage orbital action gives you control over the cut quality. The SDS tool-free blade change is a standout feature at this price point, making blade swaps quick and easy. Owner reviews appreciate its reliability and cutting speed.
While it has a shorter 23mm stroke, which can make cutting thicker materials slower, it is still very capable for most DIY tasks. The dust blower is effective at keeping the cut line visible. The plastic base plate is a minor compromise compared to metal bases on more expensive models, but it does not affect cutting accuracy for typical use. For a budget corded jigsaw, the Bosch PST 800 PEL is a strong performer.
What to check before buying a jigsaw under £200
When choosing a jigsaw under £200, consider the motor type first. Brushless motors are more efficient and durable, but brushed motors are cheaper and still reliable. Stroke length is also important - a longer stroke (26mm+) allows for faster cutting through thicker materials, while a shorter stroke offers more control for delicate curves.
Orbital action settings are crucial. More settings give you flexibility to switch between aggressive cuts and smooth, precise finishes. Tool-free blade change systems save significant time, and a good dust extraction or blower system keeps your work area clean and your cut line visible. Finally, consider the ecosystem - if you already own batteries from a brand like DeWalt, Makita, or Milwaukee, a bare tool jigsaw is a cost-effective choice.
Mistakes to avoid when buying a jigsaw
A common mistake is buying a jigsaw with a short stroke length if you plan to cut thick lumber or metal. A 23mm stroke is fine for plywood, but for 2x4s or metal pipes, a 26mm or 28mm stroke is much faster. Another error is ignoring the blade change system - a tool-free mechanism is a huge time saver on any project.
Many buyers also overlook the importance of a dust blower or dust extraction. Without it, sawdust quickly covers your cut line, reducing accuracy. Finally, do not assume a higher price always means better performance. The Makita 4329M, for example, is a budget model that outperforms many more expensive jigsaws in terms of reliability and smooth operation.
FAQs
What is the best jigsaw under £200 for cutting metal?
The Bosch GST 18V-155 SC Professional is excellent for metal due to its constant speed control and brushless motor, which prevents bogging down. The Milwaukee M18 BJS-0 is also a strong choice with its long stroke and powerful motor.
Is a corded or cordless jigsaw better under £200?
Corded jigsaws offer unlimited runtime and are often more powerful for the price, like the Makita 4329M. Cordless jigsaws, like the DeWalt DCS331M1, offer greater convenience and portability but require a battery investment.
What is the difference between orbital and straight cuts on a jigsaw?
Orbital action moves the blade in an elliptical motion, cutting faster but leaving a rougher edge. Straight cutting (setting 0) gives a cleaner, more precise cut, ideal for fine woodworking and curves.
How important is a tool-free blade change on a jigsaw?
It is very important for efficiency, allowing you to swap blades in seconds without needing a hex key. All our top picks except the Makita 4329M feature tool-free blade change systems.
Can I use a jigsaw to cut ceramic tile?
Standard jigsaws are not designed for ceramic tile. You need a dedicated tile saw or a jigsaw with a specific carbide-grit blade, but it will be slow and may cause chipping.
What stroke length should I look for in a jigsaw under £200?
For general DIY, a 26mm stroke is a good balance of speed and control. For heavy-duty cutting, a 28mm stroke like the Milwaukee M18 BJS-0 is better. For fine curves, a 23mm stroke can offer more precision.
Are brushless jigsaws worth the extra cost?
Yes, brushless motors are more efficient, run cooler, and last longer than brushed motors. They also provide better torque at low speeds, which is useful for cutting metal. The Bosch GST 18V-155 SC is a prime example.
What is the best budget jigsaw under £200?
The Makita 4329M is the best budget corded jigsaw, offering reliable performance at a low price. The Bosch PST 800 PEL is another excellent value option with a powerful motor and tool-free blade change.
Do I need a dust extraction system for my jigsaw?
It is highly recommended to keep your work area clean and maintain visibility of the cut line. The Bosch GST 18V-155 SC has an excellent dust extraction system that connects to a vacuum or uses a dust bag.
Which brand is most reliable for jigsaws under £200?
Bosch, Makita, and DeWalt have the best reputation for reliability in this price range. Milwaukee is also excellent but often slightly more expensive for equivalent specs.
Our verdict
For most users, the Bosch GST 18V-155 SC Professional is the best jigsaw under £200, offering unmatched dust extraction, a powerful brushless motor, and excellent precision. If you need a corded model on a tight budget, the Makita 4329M is a reliable and affordable workhorse that delivers consistent results.