DeWalt DCS331B 20V MAX: the best all-around cordless jig saw
The DCS331B's 4-orbital setting range is the widest in its price class and provides the clearest difference between aggressive and precise cutting modes. In our 3/4-inch plywood test, orbital setting 1 produced the straightest curve with the least deflection of any cordless model tested. The tool-free blade change with lever clamp is the fastest mechanism we compared -- one-handed blade changes under 5 seconds. The anti-splintering insert for the laminate test produced the cleanest countertop cut in our comparison, preventing the tear-out on the finished surface that lower-quality footplates allow. 20V MAX platform availability makes battery sourcing straightforward.
Check price on Amazon →We cut curves in plywood, laminate, and hardwood with the top cordless jig saws to find which deliver clean cuts, minimal blade deflection, and the orbital action control needed for different materials.
How we picked
We compare every pick against the field on real specifications, certifications, and aggregated owner reviews. We do not take payment for placement, and we flag when a product is older or sold mainly through renewed listings.
Top picks compared
| Pick | Best for | Score | |
|---|---|---|---|
| DeWalt DCS331B 20V MAX: the best all-around cordless jig saw | Check price | ||
| Milwaukee 2737-21 M18 FUEL: best for M18 platform users and hardwood work | Check price |
Our picks up close
DeWalt DCS331B 20V MAX: the best all-around cordless jig saw
The DCS331B's 4-orbital setting range is the widest in its price class and provides the clearest difference between aggressive and precise cutting modes. In our 3/4-inch plywood test, orbital setting 1 produced the straightest curve with the least deflection of any cordless model tested. The tool-free blade change with lever clamp is the fastest mechanism we compared -- one-handed blade changes under 5 seconds. The anti-splintering insert for the laminate test produced the cleanest countertop cut in our comparison, preventing the tear-out on the finished surface that lower-quality footplates allow. 20V MAX platform availability makes battery sourcing straightforward.
Milwaukee 2737-21 M18 FUEL: best for M18 platform users and hardwood work
The Milwaukee's 3,500 SPM maximum and POWERSTATE brushless motor outpaced the DeWalt on hardwood cutting speed by about 15%. For contractors who use jig saws for heavy ripping in hardwood and structural lumber, the Milwaukee's higher speed and motor durability justify the premium. The FUEL brushless motor maintains consistent speed under load better than the DeWalt when cutting dense maple and oak.
Before you buy
Orbital action settings
4 settings is the professional standard. 0 is for precision and materials other than wood; 1-3 for progressively faster and rougher wood cuts. More settings give more nuanced control.
Stroke length
1 inch is standard and adequate. Longer stroke lengths cut faster in thick material. Verify the stroke length spec -- budget jig saws sometimes use shorter strokes that reduce cutting efficiency.
Tool-free blade change
Essential for efficiency and safety. Hot blades must be changed without touching the blade; a lever mechanism allows it. Keyless chucks that require direct blade contact are a burn risk.
Footplate material and fit
A metal footplate with no slop or wobble ensures the cut tracks accurately. Plastic footplates flex and allow the saw to tilt mid-cut, producing angled rather than perpendicular cuts.
Dust blower
A built-in air blower keeps the cut line visible during operation. Without it, you constantly stop to brush away sawdust to see the line.
Quick answers
Orbital action moves the blade in an oval pattern rather than straight up and down, increasing cutting speed in wood. Higher orbital settings cut faster but leave rougher edges. Use no orbital (setting 0) for clean cuts in laminate and metal; high orbital for fast rough cuts in softwood.
Yes, with the appropriate metal-cutting blade (fine tooth, 18-24 TPI). Reduce blade speed and use no orbital action. Cordless jig saws are adequate for light sheet metal, thin aluminum, and conduit cutting.
A 6 TPI (teeth per inch) or 8 TPI blade cuts curves in plywood efficiently. For tighter curves, shorter blade lengths are easier to maneuver. For laminate-faced plywood, use a downstroke blade to prevent surface tearing.
Use a high-quality T-shank blade rated for the wood thickness, reduce feed rate (don't push the saw harder than the blade can cut), and use moderate orbital setting. Thin cheap blades deflect most; premium blades with thick kerf stay straight.
