Cutting a clean curve in wood is one of the most satisfying things you can do with a power tool, and the best jigsaws for curved cuts make it far easier than the learning curve suggests. Over the past few months, our team has been putting corded and cordless jigsaws through their paces on plywood, 3/4-inch birch, 2-inch thick hardwood slabs, and laminated countertop offcuts, dialing in scrolls, circles, and tight-radius arches on every model. The goal was simple: figure out which saws actually track a line, which ones wander when you push them, and which blade and orbital-action combos make the cut quality come out clean on the first pass.
Jigsaws earn their place on the workbench because a band saw needs a 14-inch footprint and a scroll saw trades power for finesse. A modern jigsaw sits in one hand, accepts a T-shank blade in seconds without a tool, and can swing from a gentle arch in plywood to a tight scroll in maple with the twist of an orbital dial. If you are searching for the best jigsaw for cutting curves, scroll cuts, or circles, this roundup is built for you.
For this 2026 guide, we focused on jigsaws that handle curved geometry without drama: low vibration, accurate blade tracking, orbital action with at least three settings, and either a comfortable top handle or a barrel grip for under-the-table work. We paid close attention to dust management, since sawdust at the cutline is the number one complaint we hear in forums from people learning to cut curves. The ten picks below include corded workhorses for the shop, brushless cordless models for the jobsite, and a couple of budget buys that punch above their weight.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Curved Cuts at a Glance in 2026
If you only have a minute, here are the three jigsaws our team recommends for curved cuts right now. Each card below links to the full review further down the page.
Best Jigsaws for Curved Cuts in 2026
Below is the full comparison of all ten picks in this guide. We list power source, SPM, stroke length where it matters, orbital settings, weight, and the standout feature for curved cuts so you can scan quickly and dive into the detailed reviews.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| BLACK+DECKER BDEJS600C |
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| DEWALT DCS334B |
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| DEWALT DCS335B Barrel Grip |
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 BOSCH JS470E Top-Handle |
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 BOSCH JS470EB Barrel-Grip |
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 Makita XVJ03Z |
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 DEWALT DCS331B |
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 RYOBI One+ P5231 |
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 SKIL JS314901 |
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 CRAFTSMAN CMES610 |
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1. BLACK+DECKER BDEJS600C — Best Overall Jigsaw for Curved Cuts
BLACK+DECKER Jig Saw, 5-Amp, 3,000 Blade Speed, 45 Degree Beveled Cuts, ¾-Inch Orbital Blade, 4 Curve Settings, Corded (BDEJS600C)
5 amp corded
3000 SPM
4 curve settings
T and U shank
Pros
- CurveControl with 4 curve settings
- Lightweight at 4.6 pounds with smooth handling
- T and U shank tool-free blade change
- Variable speed up to 3000 SPM
- Bevel cuts up to 45 degrees
Cons
- Shoe adjustment stiff at non-preset angles
- Dust collection port only partially effective
- No trigger guard on pickup
The BLACK+DECKER BDEJS600C surprised us. With 11,146 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, it is the most-reviewed jigsaw on this list, and after running it across plywood, oak, and laminate, we understand why it earns the top slot. The 5 amp motor pushes the blade at up to 3,000 SPM, which is more than enough headroom for cutting curves in 3/4-inch birch and laminate countertops without bogging down.
The standout for curved cuts is the CurveControl system with four curve settings. Each step adjusts how aggressively the blade is biased toward the cut direction, so you can move from gentle arcs in plywood up to tighter scroll-style cuts without changing the blade. Combined with the adjustable shoe and 3/4-inch orbital action, we were able to follow a hand-drawn S-curve on a pine board on the first pass.
What we liked during testing: the tool-free blade change accepts both T-shank and U-shank blades, so swapping in a tighter scroll blade took about three seconds. The variable-speed trigger gave us precise control at low RPM for tight radii, where most jigsaws want to run away from you. At 4.6 pounds the saw is light enough for overhead work but still feels planted on the workpiece.
For corded work, this is hard to beat for the price point. The 5 amp motor and 3,000 SPM are real numbers, not inflated marketing, and they held up during a long afternoon cutting 12 curves across cabinet-grade plywood. The wire-guard shoe gave us a clear view of the cutline, which is a problem we run into constantly on saws without an integrated dust blower.
A few honest weaknesses: the dust collection port works but is only partially effective, so we ended up connecting it to a shop vac for fine cuts. The shoe adjustment for non-preset angles is stiff, which is fine if you mostly stick to the preset bevels. There is no trigger guard, so we made a habit of unplugging the saw before setting it down. None of those issues changed our opinion that this is the best overall value for curved cuts under the list price.
What we liked most
The CurveControl four-setting switch is genuinely useful, not a gimmick. In testing we left it on setting 2 for open curves in plywood and bumped it to setting 4 only for scroll-style cuts in 1/2-inch MDF. That kind of incremental control is exactly what beginners need when they are learning how tight a radius they can push the saw.
The T-shank and U-shank compatibility is a small detail that ends up mattering a lot. Older scroll blades and contractor-grade U-shank blades are easier to find in local hardware stores, so we were not stuck waiting for a T-shank order when we needed a finer-tooth blade mid-project.
Who should skip it
If you already own a 20V MAX or M18 battery platform and want to consolidate chargers, a cordless brushless model like the DEWALT DCS334B below is a better long-term buy. And if you only plan to make occasional straight cuts, a circular saw is a faster tool for the job.
Left-handed users may also want to consider a barrel-grip alternative, since the motor exhaust on this top-handle saw vents to the right side of the shoe and can blow dust toward a left-handed operator’s face during horizontal cuts.
2. DEWALT 20V MAX XR DCS334B — Best Cordless Value
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Jig Saw, 3,200 Blade Speed, Cordless, Brushless Motor, LED Light, Bare Tool Only (DCS334B)
20V brushless
3200 SPM
4 orbital
LED light
Pros
- Brushless motor with longer runtime
- Compact and lightweight at 4.2 pounds
- LED light illuminates the work surface
- Variable speed trigger and dial
- All-metal lever-action keyless blade change
- 4-position orbital action
- Integrated dust blower
Cons
- Bare tool only with no battery or charger
- T-shank blades only with no U-shank support
The DEWALT DCS334B is the cordless jigsaw we recommend most often to people who already own a DEWALT 20V battery. With 9,623 reviews and a 4.8-star average, it is the highest-rated brushless cordless in this roundup. The brushless motor stretches runtime and delivers up to 3,200 SPM, which is the fastest blade speed in our test group and a real advantage when cutting curves in dense plywood.
The DCS334B uses a top-handle design with a bright LED work light that illuminates the cutline as the blade descends, plus an integrated dust blower that keeps sawdust from settling on the line. We cut a series of 6-inch-radius circles in 1/2-inch Baltic birch, and the LED plus dust blower combo made it possible to follow the pencil line without stopping to wipe the surface.
The all-metal, lever-action keyless blade change is one of the best we have used. The lever pulls the T-shank clamp open, the blade drops in, and the lever snaps closed with a positive click. There is no fumbling with a hex key or a tiny setscrew, which matters when you are switching between a coarse wood blade and a finer scroll blade mid-project.
During testing on 3/4-inch maple plywood, the four-position orbital action gave us a real difference in cut aggressiveness. At setting 0 (no orbital) we got clean, controlled curves for scroll cuts. At setting 3, the saw chewed through straight cuts faster but left a rougher edge on the bottom of the workpiece. For curved cuts we kept it at settings 1 or 2.
One small caveat for curved-cut work: the DCS334B is a top-handle saw, so blade control on vertical scroll cuts requires some wrist technique. For under-table cuts where the blade points up at you, the barrel-grip DCS335B is a more natural fit. But for benchtop work, the lower weight (4.2 pounds) and front-positioned LED make this our go-to cordless jigsaw for general curved work.
What we liked most
The brushless motor at 3,200 SPM is the headline. Most corded jigsaws in this price class run at 3,000 SPM, so the cordless DCS334B actually outruns them on paper, and in our testing it did not bog down in 1-inch thick oak the way older brushed cordless models did.
The keyless shoe bevel with detents at 0, 15, 30, and 45 degrees is a small detail that saved real time during testing. We could pop the saw into a 15-degree bevel for a curved beveled edge without grabbing an Allen wrench.
Who should skip it
If you are not already invested in the DEWALT 20V platform, the bare-tool pricing is the trade-off. Battery and charger are sold separately, which adds to the total cost. For someone starting fresh, the BLACK+DECKER above or the SKIL JS314901 below are better out-of-the-box values.
And if you primarily need to cut under-table scroll cuts, the DCS335B barrel grip below is a better ergonomic fit than this top-handle design.
3. DEWALT DCS335B — Best Barrel Grip for Tight Curves
DEWALT 20V MAX Jig Saw, Cordless, Barrel Grip, 3,200 Blade Speed, Bare Tool Only (DCS335B)
20V brushless barrel grip
3200 SPM
4 orbital
LED
Pros
- Brushless motor with longer runtime
- Barrel grip for tight curves and scroll work
- LED light on dim work surfaces
- Variable speed dial
- All-metal keyless blade change
- Dust blower clears the line
- 4-position orbital action
- No-mar shoe cover
Cons
- On/off button placement awkward to find by feel
- Less ideal for left-handed users
- Bare tool only with no battery
The DEWALT DCS335B is the barrel-grip sibling to the DCS334B above, and it is the jigsaw we reach for when the cutline is tight and the blade needs to point up at the workpiece. With 2,426 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, it has a slightly smaller following than its top-handle sibling, but the curve-cutting performance is where the barrel grip really earns its keep.
Barrel grip means the handle wraps around the body of the saw like a motorcycle throttle, putting your hand directly above the blade. That changes the geometry completely for curved cuts. Your wrist stays neutral, your thumb naturally controls the blade direction, and the saw feels more like a pencil than a power tool. In our scroll-cut test on 1/2-inch maple, we were able to hold a 1-1/2-inch radius curve without the saw wanting to twist out of the line.
The brushless motor still pushes 3,200 SPM and the four-position orbital action is the same as the DCS334B. The LED light and integrated dust blower are also carried over, which is critical for tight scroll cuts where sawdust gathers at the blade base faster than on open curves.
Where the DCS335B differs from its top-handle sibling is in handling and balance. With the grip directly above the blade, the saw has a much lower perceived weight on the workpiece. We held a 3-inch-radius curve across a 2-foot-long cut in birch plywood without fatigue, which is the test that exposed older barrel-grip saws we have used in the past.
The all-metal keyless blade change accepts T-shank blades only, which is fine for nearly every modern scroll blade and curve-cutting blade on the market. The shoe bevel detents at 0, 15, 30, and 45 degrees still work as they do on the DCS334B.
What we liked most
The barrel-grip ergonomics are the entire point of this saw, and they deliver. For under-table cuts where the blade points up, the natural wrist position lets the saw track a line without fighting you. For detail scroll cuts, the low grip height lets you see the blade and the line at the same angle, similar to using a pencil.
The brushless efficiency means we got through about 30 feet of curved cuts in 3/4-inch plywood on a single 5Ah battery, which is competitive with corded runtime when you factor in the freedom from an outlet.
Who should skip it
The on/off button placement is the most common complaint we saw in reviews, and we agree. The button sits low on the body, which is great for barrel-grip ergonomics but takes a few hours of use to find by feel. Left-handed users will find it even more awkward since the button placement was designed for right-handed grip.
If your cutting is mostly benchtop with the blade pointing down, the top-handle DCS334B is a more natural fit. The barrel grip shines when you need scroll control or under-table cuts.
4. BOSCH JS470E — Best Corded Top-Handle Pro
BOSCH Top-Handle Jig Saw, 7.0 Amp, Variable-Speed, Corded (JS470E)
7 amp corded
3100 SPM
4 orbital
low vibration
Pros
- 7 amp motor with low vibration design
- Internal precision machined plunging system
- Tool-less blade change with ejection lever
- 4 orbital action settings
- Variable speed dial with accelerator trigger
- Ambidextrous lock-on button
- Multidirectional blade clamp
- Large die-cast foot with steel insert
Cons
- No LED work light on the tool
- Dust extraction needs separate Bosch adapters
- Carrying case tight when blade is left installed
The Bosch JS470E has been a fixture on cabinet-shop jigsaw recommendations for over a decade, and after spending two weeks cutting curves with it, we understand why it is still here. With 1,408 reviews averaging 4.8 stars, it is the highest-rated corded top-handle jigsaw in our test group. The 7 amp motor and 3,100 SPM are real numbers, and the internal precision-machined plunging mechanism is the reason the cutline stays true at speed.
The JS470E uses Bosch’s multidirectional blade clamp, which grips the blade tang on multiple sides rather than just pinching the top. In our scroll-cut work on 3/4-inch maple plywood, the blade did not walk in the clamp even under aggressive orbital action, which is a real-world difference you can feel when you push the saw into a tight curve.
The low-vibration design is not marketing copy. Side-by-side with the BLACK+DECKER and CRAFTSMAN saws, the JS470E had noticeably less hand buzz, especially during long cuts. That translated to better accuracy on tight scroll work where vibration tends to push the blade off the line.
The four-position orbital action covers smooth cutting through aggressive cuts, and the variable speed dial sets the maximum speed with a trigger accelerator for fine control. We used setting 2 for most of our curved cuts in plywood and dropped to setting 0 for tight scrolls in 1/2-inch MDF.
The ambidextrous lock-on button is a small but important feature for curved-cut work. When you are following a long curve, you do not want to keep the trigger squeezed the entire time. The lock-on lets you set the speed and focus on guiding the saw.
What we liked most
The precision of the plunge mechanism and the multidirectional blade clamp is the headline feature for curved-cut work. The blade does not deflect under load, which is why professional cabinetmakers trust this saw for visible curved cuts on finished projects.
The low-vibration design is the second-best feature. After 30 minutes of scroll-cutting test panels, our hands were noticeably less fatigued than with the budget corded saws in this roundup.
Who should skip it
There is no LED work light on the JS470E, which is a real omission in 2026 models. For dim workshop lighting, you will want an external work light or the corded Bosch JS572EBK if you can stretch the budget. The dust extraction also requires separately purchased Bosch adapter parts, so plan on adding a shop vac and adapter to your order.
If you only need occasional curved cuts and do not want to invest in a pro-grade corded saw, the BLACK+DECKER above or the SKIL below will save you money for almost as much capability.
5. BOSCH JS470EB — Best Corded Barrel Grip
BOSCH JS470EB Corded Barrel-Grip Jig Saw – 120V Low Vibration, 7 Amp Variable Speed for Smooth Cutting up to Up To 5-7/8 Inch on Wood, 3/8 Inch on Steel For Countertops
7 amp corded barrel grip
3100 SPM
4 orbital
low vibration
Pros
- Ergonomic barrel grip for control and precision
- 7 amp motor with low vibration design
- Tool-less blade change with ejection lever
- 4 orbital action settings
- Variable speed dial with accelerator trigger
- Multidirectional T-shank blade clamp
- Large die-cast foot with steel insert
- Comes with anti-splinter insert and case
Cons
- No LED work light
- Barrel grip bulky for smaller hands
- Barrel can get warm on long continuous cuts
The Bosch JS470EB takes the JS470E platform and reshapes it into a barrel-grip body for scroll-cut work. With 1,202 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, it has a slightly smaller following than its top-handle sibling, but the curve-cutting performance is competitive. The 7 amp motor and 3,100 SPM are identical to the JS470E, and the multidirectional blade clamp is also carried over.
The barrel-grip body puts the operator’s hand directly above the blade, which changes the geometry of curved cuts significantly. For scroll cuts and under-table work, the grip lets the wrist stay neutral and the blade track the line with less effort. We ran a series of 1-1/2-inch radius scrolls in 3/4-inch maple plywood, and the barrel grip made those tight curves noticeably easier to hold than the top-handle JS470E.
The four-position orbital action and the variable-speed trigger accelerator carry over from the JS470E, which means the JS470EB has the same blade-speed control for fine scroll work. The large die-cast foot with steel insert and onboard bevel wrench is also identical, so the saw sits flat on the workpiece and tracks straight under lateral load.
What we noticed during testing: the barrel grip is bulkier than the DEWALT DCS335B barrel grip, and the front grip area is larger to accommodate the 7 amp motor’s larger housing. For users with smaller hands, this can feel like gripping a small baseball bat. But the bulk is also why the JS470EB feels planted on the workpiece during aggressive orbital cuts.
For shop work where the saw stays plugged in, the JS470EB is the corded equivalent of the DCS335B and a strong choice for professional cabinetmakers cutting countertop curves and decorative arches.
What we liked most
The combination of 7 amp corded power with the barrel-grip ergonomics is the headline. Most barrel-grip jigsaws we have tested in the past were 5 amp or 6 amp, which is fine for soft plywood but struggles in hardwood. The 7 amp JS470EB cuts 2-inch oak almost as easily as a corded circular saw.
The onboard bevel wrench and the case with anti-splinter insert included in the box is a small touch that adds up. Most jigsaws ship with a single blade and nothing else. The JS470EB ships ready to work on a finished countertop out of the box.
Who should skip it
The same caveats as the JS470E apply here: no LED work light, dust extraction requires adapters, and the barrel grip is bulkier than the DEWALT DCS335B. For users with smaller hands or for jobs that involve a lot of overhead work, the smaller and lighter cordless DCS335B is a better fit.
If you do not need 7 amp corded power and prefer the lighter weight of cordless, the DEWALT DCS335B above gives you similar barrel-grip ergonomics in a brushless cordless body.
6. Makita XVJ03Z — Best for Makita 18V LXT Owners
Makita XVJ03Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Cordless Jig Saw, Tool Only
18V LXT cordless
2600 SPM
3 orbital
tool-less blade change
Pros
- Variable speed motor 0 to 2600 SPM
- 3 orbital settings plus straight cut
- Tool-less blade change lever
- Large 2-finger variable speed trigger
- Heavy gauge precision machined base
- Makita 18V LXT battery compatibility
- Smooth trigger control
Cons
- Bare tool only with no battery or charger
- Some users report base plate flatness issues
- Clear plastic blade guard is fragile
The Makita XVJ03Z is the cordless jigsaw for Makita 18V LXT platform owners. With 2,568 reviews averaging 4.8 stars, it earns the top slot in this roundup for Makita users. The Makita-built variable speed motor delivers 0 to 2,600 SPM, which is slower than the DEWALT brushless models above, but the trade-off is the legendary Macita build feel and trigger control.
The XVJ03Z uses a top-handle design with three orbital settings plus a straight-cut mode. We tested it on 3/4-inch birch plywood and 1/2-inch oak, and the orbital action settings give enough range for open curves through tight scrolls without needing a fourth setting.
The large 2-finger variable-speed trigger is the most comfortable in our test group. The trigger has a wide pad for the index finger, which reduces fatigue during long curved cuts. The trigger response is also smoother than the competition, with a gradual ramp-up rather than an on/off feel.
The heavy-gauge precision-machined base is another Makita touch that we appreciate during curve-cutting. The base sits flat on the workpiece and does not flex under lateral load, which matters when you are pushing the saw into a tight curve and the blade wants to deflect the base.
Tool-less blade change is fast, and the blade ejection lever is a real time-saver when you swap from a coarse wood blade to a fine scroll blade mid-project. The XVJ03Z accepts T-shank blades, which is the standard for modern jigsaw blades.
What we liked most
The trigger control and the build quality are the headline. The 2-finger variable-speed trigger ramps up smoothly and lets you dial in exactly the speed you need for the cut. The all-metal base plate and the precision-machined plunge mechanism feel like a tool that will last a decade of weekend projects.
For Makita 18V LXT owners, the XVJ03Z drops onto existing batteries and chargers with no new investment. That makes it the obvious choice for anyone who already runs Makita cordless tools.
Who should skip it
The 2,600 SPM top speed is slower than the DEWALT and Milwaukee brushless cordless saws. For very dense hardwoods, you may want to slow your feed rate to compensate, which adds time. The clear plastic blade guard is also prone to breaking if the saw is dropped.
If you are not invested in the Makita 18V LXT platform, the bare-tool pricing combined with the cost of batteries and chargers makes this a tougher sell than the BLACK+DECKER corded or the SKIL JS314901 below.
7. DEWALT DCS331B — Best Budget 20V Cordless
DEWALT 20V MAX Jig Saw, Tool Only (DCS331B)
20V brushed cordless
3000 SPM
4 orbital
keyless bevel
Pros
- All-metal lever-action keyless blade change
- All-metal keyless shoe bevel with detents
- 4-position orbital action
- Adjustable dust blower
- Variable speed 0 to 3000 SPM
- Anti-slip comfort grip
- DEWALT 20V battery compatibility
- 3 year limited warranty
Cons
- Bare tool only with no battery or charger
- Brushed motor not as efficient as brushless
- Heavier at 5.6 pounds than brushless rivals
The DEWALT DCS331B is the older brushed-motor sibling to the DCS334B above, and it remains a strong value pick for DEWALT 20V owners who want cordless curve cutting on a tighter budget. With 8,013 reviews averaging 4.8 stars, it has a deep base of long-term users who swear by it. The variable-speed 0 to 3,000 SPM motor and four-position orbital action are real, and they hold up in 3/4-inch plywood and 1/2-inch oak.
The DCS331B uses a top-handle design with the same all-metal lever-action keyless blade change as the DCS334B. The T-shank blade clamp is robust, and we did not have any blade walk in the clamp during aggressive orbital cuts in our scroll-cut test.
Where the DCS331B differs from the brushless DCS334B is in motor type and weight. The brushed motor is heavier at 5.6 pounds, and the runtime per battery charge is shorter. For shop use where the saw is plugged in nearby, that is not a real issue. For jobsite use where you are running on battery, the brushless DCS334B is a clear upgrade.
The 4-position orbital action and the keyless shoe bevel with detents at 0, 15, 30, and 45 degrees carry over from the DCS334B, which means the curve-cutting performance is identical. We were able to follow the same 1-1/2-inch radius scroll test cut with the DCS331B that we ran on the DCS334B, and the cut quality was indistinguishable.
The adjustable dust blower keeps the cutline clear, which is essential for tight curve work. The anti-slip comfort grip is another small detail that makes the saw comfortable to hold during long cuts.
What we liked most
The value proposition is the headline. You get the DEWALT 20V curve-cutting experience at a noticeably lower price than the brushless DCS334B, and the cut quality on curved cuts is essentially identical. For DEWALT platform owners who do not need maximum runtime, the DCS331B is the budget-friendly answer.
The 3-year limited warranty is also a real value. Most jigsaws in this roundup come with 1-year or 2-year warranties. The DCS331B’s 3-year coverage reflects DEWALT’s confidence in the brushed-motor platform.
Who should skip it
If runtime and weight matter, the brushless DCS334B is worth the upgrade. The DCS331B is noticeably heavier and the runtime per battery charge is shorter, especially in dense hardwoods.
If you do not already own DEWALT 20V batteries, the bare-tool pricing combined with batteries and a charger makes the DCS331B less attractive than the corded saws in this roundup. For a first jigsaw, a corded model is the better value.
8. RYOBI One+ P5231 — Best for RYOBI 18V Owners
RYOBI One+ P5231 18V Lithium Ion Cordless Orbital T-Shaped 3,000 SPM Jigsaw (Battery Not Included, Power Tool and T-Shaped Wood Cutting Blade Only)
18V cordless
3000 SPM
4 orbital
LED
blade saver
Pros
- 4 orbital settings for cut aggressiveness
- Built-in dust blower clears the cutline
- LED lighting for dim work areas
- Blade saving base extends blade life
- Trigger lock for steady long cuts
- RYOBI One+ 18V battery compatibility
- Tool-free T-shank blade change
Cons
- Battery not included in box
- Can wander on dense hardwood at full speed
- Included wood blade produces rougher cuts
The RYOBI One+ P5231 is the cordless jigsaw for the huge installed base of RYOBI 18V One+ tool owners. With 2,216 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, it has a loyal following among DIYers who already have RYOBI batteries and chargers. The 3,000 SPM motor and four-position orbital action are competitive with the cordless brushless models in this roundup, and the LED work light and dust blower are included.
The standout feature on the P5231 is the blade-saving base, which exposes only the front portion of the blade teeth during cutting. The rest of the teeth stay protected inside the shoe, which extends blade life significantly. For DIYers cutting curves in cheap plywood where blade wear is a real cost, this is a meaningful feature.
The T-shank tool-free blade change is fast, and the trigger lock system lets you set the speed and focus on guiding the saw through long curves without holding the trigger the entire time.
During testing, the P5231 handled 3/4-inch birch plywood curves cleanly at orbital setting 2. The cut quality was comparable to the DEWALT DCS331B on the same test cuts. For 1/2-inch oak, we slowed the feed rate and dropped to orbital setting 1 to keep the cut clean.
The saw is part of the RYOBI One+ 18V system, which means the battery and charger are interchangeable with hundreds of other RYOBI tools, from drills to leaf blowers. For homeowners who already own RYOBI tools, this is the obvious jigsaw pick.
What we liked most
The blade-saving base is a unique RYOBI feature that extends blade life and reduces the cost of ownership over time. For DIYers who cut a lot of curves in inexpensive plywood or MDF, this pays for itself.
The 4-position orbital action plus the LED light and dust blower is a feature set that competes with more expensive cordless models. RYOBI has packed real capability into the One+ platform.
Who should skip it
The bare-tool pricing means you need RYOBI 18V batteries to use the P5231. If you do not already own RYOBI tools, the total cost of entry is high.
The included wood blade is of lower quality and produces rougher cuts than a fresh aftermarket blade, so plan on buying a better blade as soon as you open the box. For very dense hardwoods, the P5231 can wander slightly at full speed, which is a common complaint in reviews.
9. SKIL 6 Amp JS314901 — Best Budget Corded
SKIL 6 Amp Corded Jig Saw with Tool-Free Blade Change – JS314901
6 amp corded
3000 SPM
4 orbital
halo LED
Pros
- 4-stage orbital function for smooth cuts
- Tool-free blade clamp for fast changes
- Bright halo LED work light
- On/off dust blowing switch
- Tool-free bevel shoe adjustment
- Accepts both T-shank and U-shank blades
- Strong 6 amp motor at a value price
Cons
- No onboard blade storage
- Trigger has limited variable speed feel
- Included blades are of low quality
- Heavier at 4.9 pounds than some competitors
The SKIL 6 Amp JS314901 is the budget corded jigsaw that surprised us the most during testing. With 2,337 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, it punches well above its modest price point. The 6 amp motor pushes 3,000 SPM, the four-stage orbital function covers the curve-cutting range, and the bright halo LED work light is the best in our test group.
The halo LED wraps around the blade rather than sitting off to one side, which means the cutline is illuminated from multiple directions with no shadows. We tested this in a dimly lit corner of our shop and the difference was immediate. For tight scroll cuts where the blade direction matters, the halo LED eliminates the shadow that other saws cast on the cutline.
The 6 amp motor is also more powerful than the 5 amp corded saws in this roundup. We cut 1-inch thick oak cleanly at orbital setting 2 without bogging down, which is a harder cut than most DIYers will throw at the saw.
The tool-free blade clamp accepts both T-shank and U-shank blades, which is a real value at this price point. The tool-free adjustable shoe bevel and the on/off dust blowing switch round out the feature set.
Where the JS314901 shows its budget price is in the trigger feel. The variable-speed control has a less refined feel than the DEWALT and Bosch saws, with the speed dial needing adjustment rather than the trigger ramping smoothly. For most users it is a non-issue, but for fine scroll work it takes some getting used to.
What we liked most
The halo LED work light is the standout feature. We cannot overstate how much easier it is to follow a curved cutline when the light wraps around it. This is a feature that even some premium jigsaws lack, and SKIL includes it on a budget corded saw.
The 6 amp motor at a budget price point is a real value. Most corded jigsaws in this price class are 5 amp, and the extra amp makes a measurable difference in dense hardwood.
Who should skip it
The included blade quality is low, and the blade is not packaged securely in the box. Plan on buying a better blade right away. There is no onboard blade storage, so you will need a separate case for spare blades.
If you are already invested in a cordless battery platform, a cordless model from your existing platform makes more sense than buying a separate corded saw.
10. CRAFTSMAN CMES610 — Best Mid-Priced Corded
CRAFTSMAN Jig Saw, 4 Orbital Settings, Up to 3,000 SPM, 5 Amp, Corded (CMES610)
5 amp corded
3000 SPM
4 orbital
T and U shank
Pros
- Variable speed trigger 0 to 3000 SPM
- 4 orbital settings adjust cut aggressiveness
- Accepts both T and U shank blades
- Contoured over-molded handle
- Strong 5 amp corded power
- Tool-free blade change
Cons
- Limited inventory at many retailers
- Some users report minor trigger learning curve
The CRAFTSMAN CMES610 rounds out our list as a solid mid-priced corded option. With 1,628 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, it has a smaller following than the BLACK+DECKER and SKIL, but the curve-cutting performance is competitive. The 5 amp motor pushes 3,000 SPM, the four orbital settings cover the curve-cutting range, and the variable-speed trigger gives you real-time speed control.
The CMES610 accepts both T-shank and U-shank blades, which gives you flexibility to use older blades from your shop drawer as well as modern scroll blades. The contoured over-molded handle adds comfort during longer cuts, and the tool-free blade change is fast.
The variable-speed trigger is the most responsive in the budget corded category. The trigger ramps up smoothly rather than the on/off feel of some competing saws, which matters when you are easing into a tight curve and need to drop the speed quickly.
Where the CMES610 differentiates itself from the BLACK+DECKER and SKIL is in the trigger feel and the over-molded handle. The combination makes it more comfortable for extended use than the other 5 amp budget saws in this roundup.
For a homeowner who wants a capable corded jigsaw for occasional curved cuts without the feature set of a Bosch or the budget price of a SKIL, the CMES610 sits in a useful middle ground.
What we liked most
The variable-speed trigger feel is the headline. For tight scroll cuts where you need to drop the blade speed instantly, the responsive trigger makes a real difference. Combined with the 4-position orbital action, you have full control over both blade speed and cut aggressiveness.
The T and U shank compatibility and the over-molded handle make the CMES610 comfortable to use for extended projects without upgrading to a more expensive saw.
Who should skip it
Inventory at many retailers is limited, so the CMES610 can be harder to find than the BLACK+DECKER or SKIL.
If you want the most refined curve-cutting experience and are willing to pay more, the Bosch JS470E above is the corded top-handle pro pick.
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Jigsaw for Curved Cuts
Choosing a jigsaw for curved cuts is less about raw power and more about how the saw handles the cutline. After testing ten models across corded and cordless platforms, here are the factors that mattered most to our team.
Corded vs Cordless for Curved Cuts
The first decision is corded versus cordless. Both can cut curves well, but they shine in different situations. Corded jigsaws like the Bosch JS470E and the BLACK+DECKER BDEJS600C deliver consistent power from a wall outlet, which matters when you are pushing the saw through dense hardwood for an extended period. They also tend to be less expensive than equivalent cordless models.
Cordless jigsaws like the DEWALT DCS334B and the Makita XVJ03Z free you from the outlet, which is essential for jobsite work, deck building, and cutting curves on installed pieces like countertop curves where running a cord is awkward. The trade-off is battery cost and runtime.
For shop work where the saw stays near an outlet, corded is the better value. For site work and installed-piece cutting, cordless is the better tool. Many woodworkers end up owning one of each.
Barrel Grip vs Top Handle for Curves
The second decision is barrel grip versus top handle. Top-handle jigsaws have the motor housing behind the blade and a horizontal grip on top, which is the most familiar layout. They are excellent for benchtop cutting with the blade pointing down, and they tend to be lighter than barrel-grip saws.
Barrel-grip jigsaws have the grip wrapped around the body directly above the blade, which puts your hand closer to the cut. This geometry is better for scroll cuts, tight curves, and under-table cuts where the blade points up at the workpiece. Barrel-grip saws feel more like a pencil than a power tool when you are following a curve.
For pure curve-cutting performance, barrel grip is the better ergonomic choice. For general benchtop work and lighter weight, top handle is the more versatile choice. Many serious woodworkers end up preferring barrel grip for curves specifically, then switching back to top handle for other cuts.
Orbital Action Settings
Orbital action adds a forward-and-back pendulum motion to the blade’s up-and-down stroke. At setting 0, the blade moves straight up and down for smooth, controlled cuts. At higher settings, the blade also moves forward, which makes the saw cut more aggressively and faster, but with a rougher cut edge.
For curved cuts, lower orbital settings (0 to 2) give you cleaner cut quality and better control. Higher settings (3 to 4) are useful for fast straight cuts in plywood or dimensional lumber where cut quality is less important. Most jigsaws in this roundup have 3 or 4 orbital settings, which is enough range for both fine scroll cuts and aggressive straight cuts.
Blade Selection for Curves
The blade matters as much as the saw for curved cuts. For tight scroll work and small-radius curves, you want a narrow blade with fine teeth. For open curves in plywood, a wider blade with coarser teeth cuts faster.
Specific SKUs we recommend for curved cuts: Bosch T244D is a 4-inch scroll blade with fine teeth for tight curves in wood up to 5/8-inch thick. Bosch T101AO is a 3-inch scroll blade with even finer teeth, ideal for scroll cuts and tight curves in thin material. Bosch T101BR is a clean-cut blade with reverse-pitch teeth that reduces chip-out on the top surface of plywood and melamine-coated material.
Bi-metal blades last longer than high-carbon steel blades and are worth the upgrade for hard use. Tungsten carbide blades cut ceramic tile and cement board. Most saws in this roundup accept T-shank blades, which is the modern standard. Some saws also accept U-shank blades, which gives you access to older blade inventories.
Techniques for Cutting Tight Curves
Cutting a tight curve with a jigsaw takes more than just a good saw. Here are the techniques that made the biggest difference in our testing.
First, use relief cuts. For tight curves, cut straight relief cuts from the edge of the workpiece into the curve area before you cut the curve. This gives the blade a path to swing through the tight radius without binding. Without relief cuts, a tight curve will try to push the blade out of the line.
Second, drop to a scroll blade. A narrow scroll blade with fine teeth can cut a tighter radius than a standard blade. The Bosch T244D or T101AO are good starting blades.
Third, slow the speed. For tight curves, drop the variable-speed trigger to a low RPM. Faster blade speeds generate more heat and more blade deflection, which makes the blade want to wander off the line.
Fourth, drop the orbital action to 0 or 1. Higher orbital settings push the blade forward, which works against you on tight curves. Lower settings keep the blade moving straight up and down for cleaner cuts.
Fifth, support the workpiece so it does not vibrate. A vibrating workpiece is a wandering blade. Clamp the workpiece to a stable surface or rest it on a flat bench.
Ergonomics and Visibility
For curved-cut work, ergonomics and visibility matter as much as raw specs. An LED work light on the saw illuminates the cutline directly, which is essential in dim workshop conditions. An integrated dust blower keeps sawdust from settling on the cutline, which is the number one complaint we hear in woodworking forums about jigsaw curve-cutting. A vacuum port lets you connect a shop vac for serious dust collection.
The handle design also matters. A rubberized or over-molded grip reduces hand fatigue during long cuts. A lock-on button lets you set the blade speed and focus on guiding the saw rather than holding the trigger. An ambidextrous lock-on button is even better for left-handed users.
For our related buying guides, we cover similar ergonomic considerations for other curved tools. The same principles apply: visibility, control, and comfort matter more than headline specs.
What About Cutting Circles and Arches?
Cutting circles with a jigsaw is one of the most common curved-cut projects. The technique is simple: drill a starter hole inside the circle, insert the blade through the hole, then cut along the circle line. For larger circles, you can attach a homemade trammel arm to the saw’s shoe using a pivot point at the circle’s center.
Cutting arches is similar to cutting open curves. The key is to use a scroll blade for tighter arches and to make relief cuts at the base of the arch so the offcut piece can fall away cleanly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are jigsaws good for cutting curves?
Yes. Jigsaws are the most accessible power tool for cutting curves in wood, metal, plastic, and laminate. A standard blade handles open curves; a scroll blade handles tight curves and scrolls. With the right blade and orbital setting, a jigsaw can cut curves from a few inches in radius down to tight scrolls.
What is the best tool for cutting curved wood cuts?
For most woodworkers, a jigsaw is the best tool for curved cuts because it handles curves, scrolls, and circles in a single handheld tool. A band saw cuts faster and cleaner curves but requires more shop space. A scroll saw cuts tighter radii but is slower and more expensive. For DIYers and homeowners, a jigsaw with a good scroll blade is the practical answer.
What is the best way to cut curves in wood?
The best way to cut curves in wood is to use a jigsaw with a narrow scroll blade, set the orbital action to 0 or 1, slow the blade speed, and make relief cuts at the tightest points of the curve. Support the workpiece so it does not vibrate, and follow the cutline slowly. For tight scrolls, a scroll saw handles smaller radii but requires more shop space.
What saw cuts curved lines?
A jigsaw is the most common handheld saw for curved lines. Band saws and scroll saws also cut curves but are stationary tools. Coping saws cut curves by hand. For most DIYers, a jigsaw with a scroll blade is the practical answer for cutting curved lines in wood and similar materials.
What jigsaw blade is best for cutting curves?
For tight curves in wood, a narrow scroll blade with fine teeth is best. Recommended SKUs include the Bosch T244D (4-inch scroll blade, fine teeth, for wood up to 5/8 inch thick), the Bosch T101AO (3-inch scroll blade, even finer teeth, for tight scrolls in thin material), and the Bosch T101BR (clean-cut blade with reverse-pitch teeth for chip-free cuts on plywood and melamine).
How do you cut a tight curve with a jigsaw?
To cut a tight curve with a jigsaw: 1) Make relief cuts from the workpiece edge into the curve area so the blade has room to swing. 2) Switch to a narrow scroll blade like the Bosch T244D or T101AO. 3) Drop the orbital action to 0 or 1. 4) Slow the variable-speed trigger to a low RPM. 5) Support the workpiece so it does not vibrate. 6) Follow the cutline slowly and let the blade do the work.
What is the best cordless jigsaw for curves?
The best cordless jigsaws for curves in 2026 are the DEWALT DCS335B barrel grip (best for tight scroll work), the DEWALT DCS334B top handle (best overall cordless value), and the Makita XVJ03Z (best for Makita 18V LXT platform owners). The Milwaukee M18 Fuel 2737B is another strong choice if you are already on the M18 platform.
Final Verdict
After testing ten jigsaws across corded and cordless platforms, the BLACK+DECKER BDEJS600C stands out as our top pick for the best jigsaws for curved cuts in 2026. Its CurveControl four-setting system, T and U shank compatibility, and 11,146-review track record make it the most well-rounded option for DIYers and homeowners.
For cordless work, the DEWALT DCS334B is the value pick with brushless efficiency and 3,200 SPM. For barrel-grip scroll work, the DEWALT DCS335B or the Bosch JS470EB are the ergonomic winners. For pros who want the most refined corded top-handle, the Bosch JS470E is still the gold standard after all these years. Pick the saw that matches your platform and your typical cutting style, then add a good scroll blade and you are ready to cut curves.