Best cheap jigsaws worth buying in 2026 Review

Cutting curves, shaping shelves or trimming flooring does not need a top-of-the-range saw. A well-chosen budget jigsaw will handle most DIY jobs around the home while keeping your spending under control.

Here we have focused on the cheapest jigsaws that are still worth buying in 2026, highlighting models that balance low price with reassuring customer feedback and everyday usability.

Every pick here involves a compromise or two compared with premium tools, but each one offers fair performance for the money, so you can decide whether you want the absolute lowest price or a slightly better tool for a little extra.

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Why you can trust our budget jigsaw picks

These recommendations are based on real specifications, pricing and owner ratings rather than simply picking the lowest ticket price. We pay attention to how each jigsaw is likely to feel in the hand, how versatile it will be for common DIY tasks and how happy existing buyers are with its performance.

Cheap tools can be a false economy if they are underpowered, unreliable or unpleasant to use, so we actively avoid very poorly rated models even if they are tempting on cost alone. Instead, we highlight affordable jigsaws from trusted brands that still look like sensible purchases for most households.

Our aim is to help you spend less without regretting it later, pointing out the trade-offs and where it may be worth stretching your budget slightly for a more capable or convenient saw.

How we chose these cheaper jigsaw options

We started by looking at the lower end of the jigsaw price range, focusing on models that undercut the typical cost of a mid-range DIY saw. From there, we filtered out options with weak feedback or unclear specifications, favouring tools from recognised brands where you can reasonably expect basic reliability and support.

Customer ratings played a big part: a strong score from a decent number of reviews is a strong signal that a budget jigsaw cuts cleanly, feels controllable and stands up to everyday DIY use. We then considered where each model sits on the price ladder, from simple but very affordable corded saws through to more advanced cordless tools that still feel keenly priced for what they offer.

Finally, we aimed to cover a spread of needs and budgets. That means you will see everything from a straightforward low-cost corded pick to cordless systems that suit regular DIYers who want flexibility, so you can pick the compromise between price, convenience and performance that best suits your home projects.

The cheapest jigsaws we recommend in 2026

These are the jigsaws we think offer the best value at the budget end of the market this year. The first options keep upfront cost as low as possible while still feeling trustworthy, while the later picks cost more but deliver cordless freedom, more refined performance or both.

Use the summaries below to decide whether you are best off with a no-frills corded bargain or if it is worth paying a bit extra for a tool that will be more versatile and comfortable over the long term.

Our top pick:

Bosch PST 700 E Compact Jigsaw

Best overall budget jigsaw
Typically around £59 at the time of writing, making it one of the most affordable branded jigsaws available.
Rated 4.9 out of 5 from 7 customer reviews, an excellent score for a budget-friendly jigsaw.

A compact, affordable Bosch jigsaw that is ideal for everyday DIY cutting without stretching your budget.

Pros

For the money, the Bosch PST 700 E Compact jigsaw is a very safe choice, combining a trusted brand name with a genuinely low price. Its compact design makes it easy to handle, especially if you are new to power saws or working in tighter spaces such as cupboards or under stairs. Bosch’s reputation for DIY tools means you can reasonably expect a smooth cutting action and solid build for light to medium home projects. The strong user rating suggests that owners find it reliable and effective for jobs like trimming shelving, cutting laminate and tackling general woodwork. As an entry into power saws, it gives you a familiar, friendly feel without paying for professional features you may never need.

Cons

As a budget-friendly corded model, the PST 700 E is not aimed at heavy-duty or trade use, so it may feel a bit limited if you regularly cut very thick or hard materials. Being tied to a cable also restricts where you can work and adds the usual hassle of managing leads around your workspace. If you know you will be cutting frequently outdoors or in awkward spaces, one of the cordless options further down the list will suit you better.

Ideal for...

This Bosch jigsaw is ideal if you want a low-cost, dependable tool for occasional jobs such as cutting shelves, trimming laminate or tackling simple DIY projects. It suits smaller households and first-time power tool buyers who value an easy-to-handle saw from a known brand. Choose it if you prioritise keeping upfront spend as low as possible while still wanting something that feels trustworthy in everyday use.

Other great options:

Stanley Fatmax V20 Jigsaw

Cheapest cordless option
Usually about £90, keeping cordless convenience within reach of tighter budgets.
Rated 0.0 out of 5.

A starter-level cordless jigsaw from Stanley Fatmax, giving you cable-free convenience at a relatively low price point.

Pros

The Stanley Fatmax V20 Jigsaw keeps things attractive for anyone who wants cordless freedom without diving into the very top end of the market. Being part of the V20 range means you can potentially share batteries with other Stanley tools, helping to spread your investment across a small DIY kit over time. The lack of a trailing cable makes it far easier to work outside, on a driveway or anywhere without easy access to sockets. It is a straightforward way to move into cordless cutting while still keeping an eye on overall spend, especially if you value convenience over every last feature.

Cons

This V20 jigsaw currently has no customer reviews to benchmark real-world performance, so you are relying more heavily on brand reputation than user feedback. Its price is higher than the simplest corded options, largely because you are paying for cordless technology and the battery system. If you do not already own V20 batteries, the total cost of tool plus power pack may feel less budget-friendly than the headline price suggests.

Ideal for...

The Stanley Fatmax V20 Jigsaw is best for DIYers who want the freedom of cordless cutting without jumping straight into higher-priced pro tools. It suits anyone with a limited but flexible budget who values not having cables underfoot, especially if you already own or plan to buy other V20 tools. Pick it if you are building a small cordless toolkit and want an affordable entry into the range.

Bosch PST 800 PEL Compact Electric Handsaw

Best value upgrade pick
Generally around £99, costing a little more than basic models but offering a clear step up in capability.
Rated 4.9 out of 5 from 7 customer reviews, suggesting strong satisfaction for the price.

A step-up Bosch electric handsaw that offers more capability and control than the very cheapest options while staying sensibly priced.

Pros

The Bosch PST 800 PEL Compact Electric Handsaw sits nicely above the most basic jigsaws, offering a little more capability while still being very affordable. Coming from Bosch, it benefits from well-thought-out ergonomics and a reputation for dependable home tools. Compared with very cheap no-name saws, you are likely to notice a more controlled cut and a better overall finish, which matters when you are cutting visible shelves, worktops or furniture panels. The strong rating from buyers backs up the idea that it is a dependable step-up choice for keen DIYers who want something that can handle more than just the odd quick cut.

Cons

Although it is a clear upgrade over the cheapest saws, the PST 800 PEL is still a corded model, so you give up the freedom and convenience of cordless cutting. It also costs more than the PST 700 E, so if you only plan very occasional, simple jobs, you may not fully appreciate the extra outlay. Heavier users, on the other hand, may still prefer a more powerful or cordless option if they are working regularly on big projects.

Ideal for...

Choose the Bosch PST 800 PEL if you are a keen DIYer who wants more refinement than the very cheapest saws but still needs to stay within a sensible budget. It is a good fit for cutting furniture panels, worktops and more detailed projects where cleaner cuts and better control really show. It suits homeowners who use a jigsaw regularly enough to appreciate the upgrade, but not so intensively that they need top-end professional gear.

Stanley Fatmax SFM V20 Jigsaw

Best mid-range cordless value
At roughly £130, it sits in the mid-range for cordless jigsaws while still undercutting many premium tools.
Holds a 4.6 out of 5 rating from 115 reviews, showing consistent approval from many owners.

A well-reviewed Stanley Fatmax cordless jigsaw that justifies its extra cost with proven power and versatility for serious DIYers.

Pros

The Stanley Fatmax SFM V20 Jigsaw is a proven cordless all-rounder with a very solid rating from a large number of users, which is reassuring if you are spending more than the bare minimum. As part of the V20 platform, it gives you the flexibility to share batteries with other Stanley tools, which can save money over time if you plan to build a small kit. Owners highlight its balance of power and control, making it suitable for everything from basic timber cuts to more detailed shaping on projects and renovations. For regular DIYers, it strikes a strong balance between cordless performance and a price that still feels sensible compared with premium trade tools.

Cons

The SFM V20 is noticeably more expensive than entry-level corded jigsaws, so it is not the best choice if you simply want the lowest possible price. You will also need to factor in the cost of batteries and a charger if you do not already own them, which pushes the real spend higher. For very occasional use, that extra investment may not be justified compared with a simpler corded pick.

Ideal for...

The Stanley Fatmax SFM V20 is ideal for regular DIYers, renovators and serious hobbyists who want a cordless jigsaw that can handle a steady stream of projects. It suits anyone building a broader V20 cordless collection and looking for a solid all-rounder rather than the absolute cheapest tool. Choose it if you want a noticeable uplift in power, comfort and versatility without paying premium professional prices.

Makita LXT Jigsaw

Best premium jigsaw on a budget
At about £229, this is the priciest option here but offers Makita LXT performance for less than many pro-level alternatives.
Rated a full 5 out of 5 from 6 reviews, indicating very happy early buyers.

A Makita LXT cordless jigsaw aimed at enthusiasts and heavy DIY users who want pro-style performance within a manageable budget.

Pros

The Makita LXT Jigsaw is the choice for buyers who want something approaching professional performance without jumping all the way to high-end trade prices. As part of the LXT platform, it benefits from Makita’s well-regarded battery technology and motor design, which usually translates to strong cutting power and smooth operation. It is well suited to tougher materials and longer cutting sessions, making it a good fit if your DIY plans include serious renovations or regular woodworking. Despite the higher ticket price, it can be very good value if you already own Makita LXT batteries or plan to invest in other tools from the same ecosystem.

Cons

The Makita LXT Jigsaw is by far the priciest option here, and the cost can climb further once you include batteries and a charger if you are not already in the Makita ecosystem. Its capabilities may be more than many casual DIYers really need, meaning you could be paying for performance that will rarely be tapped. If your budget is tight or your projects are modest, one of the cheaper Bosch or Stanley options is likely to make more sense.

Ideal for...

The Makita LXT Jigsaw is aimed at enthusiasts, self-renovators and advanced DIYers who demand reliable, near trade-level performance but still have a finite budget. It is a smart choice if you already own Makita LXT batteries or plan to invest in the ecosystem for other tools, as that spreads the cost. Opt for this model if you regularly tackle demanding cutting tasks and want a jigsaw that feels like a long-term investment rather than a basic starter tool.

FAQs

Are cheap jigsaws actually any good?

A cheaper jigsaw can still be a solid buy if you choose carefully. Look for models from established brands with decent customer ratings, as these are more likely to cut cleanly and feel stable in the hand. You usually lose a few premium features and top-end power, but for DIY jobs around the home, a well-reviewed budget model is often all you need.
Focus on comfort, control and basic cutting performance rather than flashy extras. A comfortable grip, easy blade changes and a smooth action matter more than lots of modes you may never use. Good user reviews are a strong sign that it cuts accurately enough for shelves, flooring and general DIY without constantly burning through blades.
If you only do the odd bit of DIY near a plug socket, a cheaper corded jigsaw is usually the best value. Cordless models cost more because you are paying for the battery system as well, but they are far more convenient on larger projects, when working outside or if you already own compatible batteries from the same brand.
Most budget jigsaws are fine for standard DIY thicknesses such as flooring boards, kitchen worktops and basic framing timber, provided you use the right blade and take your time. For very thick hardwoods, long continuous cuts or trade use, a more powerful and often pricier saw will feel faster and less strained.
With normal home use and a bit of care, a decent budget jigsaw should last several years. Avoid forcing the cut, let the blade do the work and replace worn blades promptly. Keeping dust away from the vents and storing it dry will also help it stay reliable for longer.
Cheaper jigsaws can vibrate more than premium models, which makes them feel less refined and can affect accuracy over long cuts. That said, some budget-friendly saws are surprisingly smooth, especially from reputable brands. Checking user reviews is the best way to judge how comfortable one feels in real use.
Yes, a good budget jigsaw is ideal for laminate flooring, kitchen worktops and general panel cutting, as long as you use suitable fine-tooth blades and support the material properly. Take steady passes, avoid rushing corners and practice on offcuts first if you are worried about chipping.
At minimum you will want a small selection of blades for wood, metal and fine finishes. A clamp or workbench helps keep material steady, and safety gear such as eye protection and ear defenders is sensible. With cordless models, factor in the cost of at least one decent-capacity battery and a charger if they are not included.

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