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The best jigsaw for plywood should help control tear-out, keep the shoe stable, provide useful speed/orbital adjustment, and accept high-quality clean-cut blades. Plywood is especially sensitive to veneer splintering and underside blade deflection, so the saw alone does not determine edge quality.
For most woodworking shops, the Bosch JS470E is the strongest corded plywood choice because its 7A motor, 500–3,100 SPM range, 1-in. stroke, four orbital settings, Constant Response circuitry, and rigid die-cast shoe give a strong platform for controlled sheet-goods cutting. For cordless work, the DEWALT DCS334B and Makita XVJ04Z are the leading choices.
We did not perform original tear-out, vibration, blade-deflection, or cut-speed testing. Clean-cut results depend on blade, face orientation, support, feed, orbital setting, and veneer quality as well as the saw.
Quick Picks
- Best overall corded plywood jigsaw: Bosch JS470E.
- Best refined mid-tier corded: Bosch JS365.
- Best budget/refined corded: Bosch JS260.
- Best 20V MAX cordless: DEWALT DCS334B.
- Best Makita LXT top-handle: XVJ04Z.
- Best Makita LXT barrel-grip: XVJ05Z.
- Best M18 cordless: Milwaukee 2737-20.
- Best value corded: SKIL JS314901.
- Best visibility-focused corded: WEN 33606.
- Best V20 cordless value: CRAFTSMAN CMCS600B.
How We Chose Jigsaws for Plywood
- Shoe stability: a rigid, flat base helps maintain cut angle across sheet goods.
- Speed control: variable speed allows the blade/material combination to dictate feed and SPM.
- Orbital control: lower orbital settings generally favor cleaner edges; higher settings prioritize speed.
- Blade clamp: secure T-shank support and easy blade changes matter.
- Visibility: blower/LED systems help keep the cut line visible.
- Dust management: useful on plywood, but no jigsaw captures all dust.
- Platform cost: cordless bare-tool value depends heavily on existing batteries.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Price | Power | Exact ASIN | Plywood Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch JS470E | — | 7A corded | B004323NPK | Rigid shoe + strong control |
| Bosch JS365 | — | 6.5A corded | B004323NQO | 1-in. stroke + die-cast shoe |
| Bosch JS260 | — | 6A corded | B004323NQY | Low-vibration value |
| DEWALT DCS334B | — | 20V MAX XR | B07JPFHQKG | Brushless cordless + LED/blower |
| Makita XVJ04Z | — | 18V LXT | B0BDGQKRLS | Compact brushless top-handle |
| Makita XVJ05Z | — | 18V LXT | B0CHKZNVZ3 | Low barrel grip |
| Milwaukee 2737-20 | — | M18 FUEL | B07H7DQ3DK | High-speed pro cordless |
| SKIL JS314901 | — | 6A corded | B07FD341YS | Value + Halo Light |
| WEN 33606 | — | 6.6A corded | B07D9YFFPZ | Laser/LED/blower visibility |
| CRAFTSMAN CMCS600B | — | V20 cordless | B07KKB4M9F | Budget cordless platform |
1. Bosch JS470E — Best Overall Corded Plywood Jigsaw
Bosch specifies a 7A motor, 500–3,100 SPM, 1-in. stroke, four orbital settings, Constant Response circuitry, T-shank clamp, and rigid die-cast footplate.
- Best for: Best Overall Corded Plywood Jigsaw where shoe stability, blade guidance, variable speed, and tear-out control matter.
- Why we picked it: Bosch JS470E fits a distinct plywood workflow based on control, orbital adjustment, visibility, and how well the saw supports clean-cut T-shank blades.
- Key strengths: stable shoe, controllable stroke rate/orbit, good line visibility, and a platform suited to sheet-goods cutouts/notches rather than just raw speed.
- Important limitations: a jigsaw can still deflect on thick plywood; poor blade choice, aggressive orbit, unsupported sheets, or wrong face orientation can splinter veneer.
- What to check before buying: blade type/tooth direction, orbital setting, shoe square, material support, battery platform if cordless, and whether long straight cuts should instead use a track/circular saw.
- Who should buy it: woodworkers making curved cuts, cutouts, sink openings, notches, and portable plywood cuts.
- Who should skip it: users whose main job is long finish-critical straight sheet breakdown.
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| • Rigid shoe • Wide speed range • Four orbital modes • Strong corded platform for repeated sheet work | • Cord management • Premium versus entry corded saws |
Buy if: plywood, furniture, and cabinet work are regular. Skip if: mobility matters more than corded refinement.
Bosch specifications | Amazon — JS470E
2. Bosch JS365 — Best Refined Mid-Tier Corded Option
The JS365 uses a 6.5A motor, 500–3,100 SPM, 1-in. stroke, four orbital settings, die-cast shoe, and switchable blower.
- Best for: Best Refined Mid-Tier Corded Option where shoe stability, blade guidance, variable speed, and tear-out control matter.
- Why we picked it: Bosch JS365 fits a distinct plywood workflow based on control, orbital adjustment, visibility, and how well the saw supports clean-cut T-shank blades.
- Key strengths: stable shoe, controllable stroke rate/orbit, good line visibility, and a platform suited to sheet-goods cutouts/notches rather than just raw speed.
- Important limitations: a jigsaw can still deflect on thick plywood; poor blade choice, aggressive orbit, unsupported sheets, or wrong face orientation can splinter veneer.
- What to check before buying: blade type/tooth direction, orbital setting, shoe square, material support, battery platform if cordless, and whether long straight cuts should instead use a track/circular saw.
- Who should buy it: woodworkers making curved cuts, cutouts, sink openings, notches, and portable plywood cuts.
- Who should skip it: users whose main job is long finish-critical straight sheet breakdown.
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| • 1-in. stroke • Rigid die-cast shoe • Switchable blower • Good mid-tier shop fit | • Corded • Less premium control circuitry than JS470E |
Buy if: you want Bosch shop quality without the top-tier price. Skip if: you need cordless portability.
3. Bosch JS260 — Best Budget/Refined Corded Bosch
The JS260 uses a 6A motor, 500–3,100 SPM, four orbital settings, T-shank clamping, and a heavy steel footplate.
- Best for: Best Budget/Refined Corded Bosch where shoe stability, blade guidance, variable speed, and tear-out control matter.
- Why we picked it: Bosch JS260 fits a distinct plywood workflow based on control, orbital adjustment, visibility, and how well the saw supports clean-cut T-shank blades.
- Key strengths: stable shoe, controllable stroke rate/orbit, good line visibility, and a platform suited to sheet-goods cutouts/notches rather than just raw speed.
- Important limitations: a jigsaw can still deflect on thick plywood; poor blade choice, aggressive orbit, unsupported sheets, or wrong face orientation can splinter veneer.
- What to check before buying: blade type/tooth direction, orbital setting, shoe square, material support, battery platform if cordless, and whether long straight cuts should instead use a track/circular saw.
- Who should buy it: woodworkers making curved cuts, cutouts, sink openings, notches, and portable plywood cuts.
- Who should skip it: users whose main job is long finish-critical straight sheet breakdown.
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| • Controlled speed range • Low-vibration design • Sturdy shoe • Lower cost than premium Bosch models | • Shorter 3/4-in. stroke • Corded |
Buy if: you want a reliable corded plywood saw at a moderate tier. Skip if: heavy/thick stock dominates.
4. DEWALT DCS334B — Best 20V MAX Cordless Choice
The DCS334B uses a brushless motor, variable trigger and dial, four orbital positions, T-shank clamp, LED, blower, and no-mar shoe cover.
- Best for: Best 20V MAX Cordless Choice where shoe stability, blade guidance, variable speed, and tear-out control matter.
- Why we picked it: DEWALT DCS334B fits a distinct plywood workflow based on control, orbital adjustment, visibility, and how well the saw supports clean-cut T-shank blades.
- Key strengths: stable shoe, controllable stroke rate/orbit, good line visibility, and a platform suited to sheet-goods cutouts/notches rather than just raw speed.
- Important limitations: a jigsaw can still deflect on thick plywood; poor blade choice, aggressive orbit, unsupported sheets, or wrong face orientation can splinter veneer.
- What to check before buying: blade type/tooth direction, orbital setting, shoe square, material support, battery platform if cordless, and whether long straight cuts should instead use a track/circular saw.
- Who should buy it: woodworkers making curved cuts, cutouts, sink openings, notches, and portable plywood cuts.
- Who should skip it: users whose main job is long finish-critical straight sheet breakdown.
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| • Brushless cordless platform • Good line visibility • Orbital and speed control • Strong fit for existing 20V MAX users | • Battery/charger add cost • Heavier than corded without battery considerations |
Buy if: cordless sheet breakdown and installation work matter. Skip if: the tool never leaves a powered bench.
DEWALT specifications | Amazon — DCS334B
5. Makita XVJ04Z — Best LXT Top-Handle Choice
Makita specifies 0–3,000 SPM, brushless drive, three orbital settings plus straight action, LED, blower, soft no-load mode, and tool-less blade change.
- Best for: Best LXT Top-Handle Choice where shoe stability, blade guidance, variable speed, and tear-out control matter.
- Why we picked it: Makita XVJ04Z fits a distinct plywood workflow based on control, orbital adjustment, visibility, and how well the saw supports clean-cut T-shank blades.
- Key strengths: stable shoe, controllable stroke rate/orbit, good line visibility, and a platform suited to sheet-goods cutouts/notches rather than just raw speed.
- Important limitations: a jigsaw can still deflect on thick plywood; poor blade choice, aggressive orbit, unsupported sheets, or wrong face orientation can splinter veneer.
- What to check before buying: blade type/tooth direction, orbital setting, shoe square, material support, battery platform if cordless, and whether long straight cuts should instead use a track/circular saw.
- Who should buy it: woodworkers making curved cuts, cutouts, sink openings, notches, and portable plywood cuts.
- Who should skip it: users whose main job is long finish-critical straight sheet breakdown.
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| • Compact brushless design • Straight-cut mode • LED/blower • Tool-less blade change | • Bare-tool economics depend on LXT ownership • Soft no-load behavior may require acclimation |
Buy if: you already own LXT and prefer a top handle. Skip if: you want a lower-cost corded tool.
Makita specifications | Amazon — XVJ04Z
6. Makita XVJ05Z — Best LXT Barrel-Grip Choice
The XVJ05Z uses a low barrel grip, brushless LXT drive, 800–3,000 SPM, straight plus orbital modes, LED, blower, and soft no-load mode.
- Best for: Best LXT Barrel-Grip Choice where shoe stability, blade guidance, variable speed, and tear-out control matter.
- Why we picked it: Makita XVJ05Z fits a distinct plywood workflow based on control, orbital adjustment, visibility, and how well the saw supports clean-cut T-shank blades.
- Key strengths: stable shoe, controllable stroke rate/orbit, good line visibility, and a platform suited to sheet-goods cutouts/notches rather than just raw speed.
- Important limitations: a jigsaw can still deflect on thick plywood; poor blade choice, aggressive orbit, unsupported sheets, or wrong face orientation can splinter veneer.
- What to check before buying: blade type/tooth direction, orbital setting, shoe square, material support, battery platform if cordless, and whether long straight cuts should instead use a track/circular saw.
- Who should buy it: woodworkers making curved cuts, cutouts, sink openings, notches, and portable plywood cuts.
- Who should skip it: users whose main job is long finish-critical straight sheet breakdown.
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| • Low hand position • Brushless LXT • Good steering feel for users who prefer barrel grip | • Grip style is preference-sensitive • Bare-tool cost |
Buy if: you prefer a barrel grip for controlled sheet cuts. Skip if: trigger-style top handles feel more natural.
7. Milwaukee 2737-20 — Best M18 Cordless Option
Milwaukee specifies 0–3,500 SPM, 1-in. stroke, brushless M18 FUEL drive, four orbital settings, LED, blower, dust tube, and tool-free bevel/blade changes.
- Best for: Best M18 Cordless Option where shoe stability, blade guidance, variable speed, and tear-out control matter.
- Why we picked it: Milwaukee 2737-20 fits a distinct plywood workflow based on control, orbital adjustment, visibility, and how well the saw supports clean-cut T-shank blades.
- Key strengths: stable shoe, controllable stroke rate/orbit, good line visibility, and a platform suited to sheet-goods cutouts/notches rather than just raw speed.
- Important limitations: a jigsaw can still deflect on thick plywood; poor blade choice, aggressive orbit, unsupported sheets, or wrong face orientation can splinter veneer.
- What to check before buying: blade type/tooth direction, orbital setting, shoe square, material support, battery platform if cordless, and whether long straight cuts should instead use a track/circular saw.
- Who should buy it: woodworkers making curved cuts, cutouts, sink openings, notches, and portable plywood cuts.
- Who should skip it: users whose main job is long finish-critical straight sheet breakdown.
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| • Professional M18 platform • Fast stroke rate • Dust/visibility features • 1-in. stroke | • Premium price • More tool than casual plywood cutting needs |
Buy if: you already run M18 and cut sheet goods professionally. Skip if: occasional hobby use is the only need.
Milwaukee specifications | Amazon — 2737-20
8. SKIL JS314901 — Best Value Corded Option
SKIL combines 6A power, 800–3,200 SPM, four orbital settings, tool-free blade/bevel controls, dust blower, and Halo Light.
- Best for: Best Value Corded Option where shoe stability, blade guidance, variable speed, and tear-out control matter.
- Why we picked it: SKIL JS314901 fits a distinct plywood workflow based on control, orbital adjustment, visibility, and how well the saw supports clean-cut T-shank blades.
- Key strengths: stable shoe, controllable stroke rate/orbit, good line visibility, and a platform suited to sheet-goods cutouts/notches rather than just raw speed.
- Important limitations: a jigsaw can still deflect on thick plywood; poor blade choice, aggressive orbit, unsupported sheets, or wrong face orientation can splinter veneer.
- What to check before buying: blade type/tooth direction, orbital setting, shoe square, material support, battery platform if cordless, and whether long straight cuts should instead use a track/circular saw.
- Who should buy it: woodworkers making curved cuts, cutouts, sink openings, notches, and portable plywood cuts.
- Who should skip it: users whose main job is long finish-critical straight sheet breakdown.
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| • Strong feature set for cost • Halo Light • Four orbital settings • No battery-system cost | • Corded • Less refined shoe/guidance than premium models |
Buy if: value and visibility matter. Skip if: daily trade use justifies a premium platform.
9. WEN 33606 — Best Visibility-Focused Corded Option
WEN combines a 6.6A motor, 0–3,300 SPM, four orbital positions, laser, LED, blower, dust port, and no-mar shoe.
- Best for: Best Visibility-Focused Corded Option where shoe stability, blade guidance, variable speed, and tear-out control matter.
- Why we picked it: WEN 33606 fits a distinct plywood workflow based on control, orbital adjustment, visibility, and how well the saw supports clean-cut T-shank blades.
- Key strengths: stable shoe, controllable stroke rate/orbit, good line visibility, and a platform suited to sheet-goods cutouts/notches rather than just raw speed.
- Important limitations: a jigsaw can still deflect on thick plywood; poor blade choice, aggressive orbit, unsupported sheets, or wrong face orientation can splinter veneer.
- What to check before buying: blade type/tooth direction, orbital setting, shoe square, material support, battery platform if cordless, and whether long straight cuts should instead use a track/circular saw.
- Who should buy it: woodworkers making curved cuts, cutouts, sink openings, notches, and portable plywood cuts.
- Who should skip it: users whose main job is long finish-critical straight sheet breakdown.
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| • Laser + LED + blower • Wide speed range • Good hobby value | • Laser does not prevent blade deflection • Less refined than premium Bosch/Makita systems |
Buy if: line visibility is a priority. Skip if: maximum guidance rigidity is more important.
10. CRAFTSMAN CMCS600B — Best V20 Cordless Value
The CMCS600B provides 0–2,500 SPM, three orbital settings, 45° bevel, dust blower, and T/U-shank support.
- Best for: Best V20 Cordless Value where shoe stability, blade guidance, variable speed, and tear-out control matter.
- Why we picked it: CRAFTSMAN CMCS600B fits a distinct plywood workflow based on control, orbital adjustment, visibility, and how well the saw supports clean-cut T-shank blades.
- Key strengths: stable shoe, controllable stroke rate/orbit, good line visibility, and a platform suited to sheet-goods cutouts/notches rather than just raw speed.
- Important limitations: a jigsaw can still deflect on thick plywood; poor blade choice, aggressive orbit, unsupported sheets, or wrong face orientation can splinter veneer.
- What to check before buying: blade type/tooth direction, orbital setting, shoe square, material support, battery platform if cordless, and whether long straight cuts should instead use a track/circular saw.
- Who should buy it: woodworkers making curved cuts, cutouts, sink openings, notches, and portable plywood cuts.
- Who should skip it: users whose main job is long finish-critical straight sheet breakdown.
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| • Simple V20 cordless platform • Useful blade compatibility • Good value for existing CRAFTSMAN users | • More basic drive platform • Lower maximum stroke rate than premium cordless options |
Buy if: V20 batteries are already in your shop. Skip if: this would start a new battery platform.
Blade Choice Matters More Than Most Buyers Expect
Use a blade designed for clean plywood/laminate-style cuts where appropriate. Tooth direction determines which face is more vulnerable to splintering, so follow the blade instructions rather than assuming every jigsaw blade cuts upward.
Orbital Action and Tear-Out
Higher orbital action usually increases cutting speed but can increase tear-out. For finished plywood faces, start with zero/low orbit and test on scrap.
Support, Face Orientation, and Straight Guides
Support both sides of the cut so the offcut does not pinch the blade. A compatible straightedge can help line tracking, but a jigsaw remains less suited than a track/circular saw for long finish-critical straight cuts.
Who Should Buy Which Jigsaw?
- Dedicated corded plywood/shop work: JS470E, JS365, or JS260.
- 20V MAX: DCS334B.
- Makita LXT: XVJ04Z/XVJ05Z.
- M18: 2737-20.
- Lower-cost corded: SKIL or WEN.
- V20: CRAFTSMAN CMCS600B.
Warranty, Value, and Availability
Compare current manufacturer warranty, battery cost, blade availability, shoe/dust accessories, and service support. For plywood, budget for high-quality clean-cut blades—saving money on the saw while using the wrong blade is false economy.
Alternatives We Considered
A track saw or guided circular saw is usually better for long straight sheet breakdown; a table saw is better for repeatable rips. The jigsaw remains valuable for cutouts, notches, curves, and portable sheet work.
Related Tool Engineers Guides
For broader jigsaw selection, see Tool Engineers’ dedicated woodworking, hardwood, curve-cutting, beginner, and value jigsaw articles. For curved layouts, see How to Cut a Circle with a Jigsaw.
Manufacturer References
- Bosch Tools, DEWALT, and Makita — jigsaw speed, orbital-action, shoe, and blade-system specifications.
- Milwaukee Tool, SKIL, WEN, and CRAFTSMAN — current jigsaw specifications.
FAQ
How do I reduce plywood splintering?
Use the correct clean-cut blade, control orbital action, support the sheet, and orient the finished face according to blade tooth direction.
Can a jigsaw make straight plywood cuts?
Yes, but long finish-critical straight cuts are usually better suited to a track or circular saw with a guide.
Should I use maximum speed?
Not automatically. Follow the blade/material guidance and test on scrap.
Final Verdict
The Bosch JS470E is the strongest overall corded plywood jigsaw in this group, while the DEWALT DCS334B and Makita XVJ04Z are the best cordless choices for users already invested in those battery platforms.
