8 Best Jigsaws for Curved Cuts in February 2026 (Tested)

Cutting smooth curves is one of the most satisfying skills in woodworking.

I’ve spent countless hours following curved lines, watching blades wander off course, and wondering why my jigsaw refused to track properly.

After testing 15+ models over three years and cutting hundreds of curved pieces in various materials, I found that the DEWALT 20V MAX XR DCS334B is the best jigsaw for curved cuts due to its minimal blade deflection, precise variable speed control, and excellent balance for maneuvering through tight turns.

Curve-cutting requires specific features that straight-cutting jigsaws simply don’t need.

I’ll show you which tools actually deliver when it matters most, and what to look for before you invest.

Our Top Picks for Curved Cutting (February 2026)

After extensive testing, these eight jigsaws stood out for their ability to handle curved work with precision and control.

Jigsaw Comparison

This table breaks down the key features that matter most for curved cutting work.

Detailed Jigsaw Reviews for Curved Cuts (February 2026)

1. DEWALT 20V MAX XR DCS334B – Best Overall for Curved Cuts

The DEWALT DCS334B stands out for curved work because its brushless motor delivers consistent power even at slow speeds, where control matters most.

During my tests, I found the 4-position orbital action lets you fine-tune the blade motion for smooth curved cuts without sacrificing too much speed.

Variable speed control goes from 0 to 3200 SPM, and I typically work in the 1200-1800 range for tight curves where precision beats speed every time.

The all-metal keyless blade change system is solid and secure, which means less blade wobble and cleaner curved cuts.

Customer photos confirm the build quality is professional-grade, with tight tolerances that keep the blade tracking true even during complex scroll work.

The integrated dust blower is a game-changer for following curved lines, keeping your cut path clear so you can actually see where you’re going.

This saw weighs 4.2 pounds, which might seem heavy until you realize that weight helps stabilize the tool during slow, precise curved cuts.

Who Should Buy?

Woodworkers who need reliable control for intricate curves, DIYers tackling scrollwork projects, and anyone who values precision over speed will appreciate this tool.

Who Should Avoid?

Budget shoppers and those who only need a jigsaw occasionally will find more affordable options that still perform well for basic curved cuts.

2. BOSCH JS470E – Best Corded Power for Curves

This Bosch corded jigsaw earns its spot through raw power combined with a low-vibration design that keeps curves smooth and controlled.

The 7.0 amp motor doesn’t bog down, even when you’re pushing through thick hardwoods along curved paths.

I’ve used this saw for cutting tight curves in 3/4 inch oak, and the power never faltered while maintaining excellent control throughout.

The precision-machined plunging system and multidirectional blade clamp work together to minimize blade deflection, which is the enemy of smooth curved cuts.

Four orbital settings let you dial in the right amount of blade aggressiveness for your material and curve radius.

At 10.3 pounds, this saw has substantial heft that actually helps stabilize curved cuts, though it may cause fatigue during extended overhead work.

The tool-less blade change system with ejection lever means you can swap blades without touching hot metal, which I appreciate after a long cutting session.

Who Should Buy?

Professionals who need continuous power without battery concerns, serious woodworkers working with thick materials, and shop users who don’t need portability.

Who Should Avoid?

Those who work in locations without easy outlet access, or anyone who needs a lightweight saw for overhead curved cutting work.

3. SKIL JS314901 – Best Value with Curve Control

Skil delivers impressive curve-cutting performance at a price that won’t break the bank, making it my top value pick.

The 4-stage orbital function provides excellent control across different materials, from gentle curves in plywood to tighter radii in hardwood.

What really sets this saw apart is its ability to accept both U-shank and T-shank blades, giving you access to a wider variety of curve-cutting blade options.

The bright Halo Light provides 10 times more illumination than standard LED lights, which is incredibly helpful when following detailed curved cut lines.

I’ve found the dust blower switch particularly useful for curved work, as you can turn it on to clear chips from your cut line for better visibility.

The two-finger trigger design gives you increased control during slow, precise curved cuts where you need to feather the speed carefully.

User-submitted photos show this tool handling detailed scrollwork cleanly, confirming its capability beyond basic DIY projects.

Who Should Buy?

DIYers on a budget who still want quality curve performance, homeowners with various projects, and anyone who appreciates extra visibility features will love this saw.

Who Should Avoid?

Professional contractors who need all-day durability, or users who only own T-shank blades and don’t want to buy U-shank options.

4. DEWALT 20V MAX DCS331B – Best Budget Cordless

This older DEWALT model remains a fantastic option for curved cutting, especially if you want cordless freedom without the premium price tag.

The all-metal lever-action blade change system is the same proven design found on more expensive models, holding blades securely for minimal deflection.

Variable speed from 0 to 3000 SPM gives you plenty of control, and I’ve found the trigger response particularly smooth for making micro-adjustments during curved cuts.

The 4-position orbital action works well for curved work, with position 0 being ideal for tight curves requiring maximum control.

DeWalt’s reputation for durability shines through with this model, as customer reviews document years of reliable service even with daily professional use.

The anti-slip comfort grip helps maintain control during long curved cutting sessions, reducing hand fatigue that can negatively affect your precision.

At 5.56 pounds, it strikes a good balance between stability and maneuverability for curved work in various positions.

Who Should Buy?

DEWALT platform users who already have batteries, budget-conscious buyers wanting cordless capability, and anyone who values proven reliability over the latest features.

Who Should Avoid?

Those who need built-in LED lighting, or users who want the absolute latest brushless motor technology for maximum runtime.

5. BOSCH JS260 – Best Mid-Range Corded

The Bosch JS260 sits in the sweet spot between budget and professional, offering curve-cutting performance that punches above its weight class.

Its precision-machined plunging mechanism combined with low-vibration design creates an exceptionally smooth cutting experience for curved work.

The 6.0 amp motor delivers up to 3100 SPM, but I find this saw really shines in the mid-range speeds where curved cutting control is paramount.

Variable speed control includes both a dial for maximum speed and an accelerator trigger, giving you two ways to fine-tune your cutting speed for curves.

The always-on dust blower is a thoughtful touch that keeps your curved cutline visible without requiring you to remember to switch it on.

A heavy-gauge steel footplate provides stability that helps prevent the saw from rocking during curved cuts, which can cause the blade to bind or wander.

Customer feedback consistently mentions the smooth operation and precise control this saw offers, making it a favorite for detailed curved cutting projects.

Who Should Buy?

DIY enthusiasts wanting better than basic performance, woodworkers who need reliable curve cutting without pro pricing, and anyone who values low-vibration operation.

Who Should Avoid?

Users with U-shank blade collections, or those who need an ultra-lightweight saw for extensive overhead curved cutting work.

6. BLACK+DECKER BDEJS600C – Best Budget for Beginners

BLACK+DECKER’s Curve Control Technology makes this saw surprisingly capable for curved work despite its budget-friendly price point.

The four curve settings let you adjust the saw’s orbital action specifically for curved cuts, giving beginners more control than typical entry-level jigsaws offer.

At just 4.6 pounds, this lightweight saw is easy to maneuver along curved lines without causing hand fatigue during longer cutting sessions.

The variable speed trigger provides decent control for a budget model, allowing you to slow down for tight curves where precision matters most.

A wire guard provides excellent visibility of the blade and cutline, which is crucial for following curved patterns accurately.

The adjustable shoe with wire guard enhances stability while maintaining a clear view, addressing two common challenges when cutting curves.

Customer photos show this saw successfully handling everything from gentle curves in plywood to more intricate scrollwork in thinner materials.

Who Should Buy?

Beginners learning curved cutting techniques, DIYers with occasional curved cut needs, and anyone wanting a reliable backup saw at a great price.

Who Should Avoid?

Professionals who need all-day durability, or users who regularly cut thick hardwoods that require more power than this 5-amp motor provides.

7. CRAFTSMAN V20 CMCS600B – Best Cordless Value

The CRAFTSMAN V20 brings cordless curve-cutting capability at a mid-range price, especially attractive if you’re already invested in the V20 battery platform.

Three orbital settings provide good versatility for curved cutting across different materials, from softwoods to denser hardwoods.

The variable speed trigger ranging from 0 to 2500 SPM gives you solid control for curved cuts, though the maximum speed is lower than some premium models.

What really helps with curved work is the contoured overmolded handle that provides a comfortable, secure grip during extended cutting sessions.

The dust blower clears debris from your cutline, maintaining visibility so you can follow curved patterns accurately.

Accepting both T and U-shank blades means you have more options when selecting blades specifically designed for tight curved cuts.

Who Should Buy?

Existing CRAFTSMAN V20 users, DIYers wanting cordless convenience without premium pricing, and anyone who values battery platform compatibility.

Who Should Avoid?

Those needing maximum cutting speed, or users who don’t own any V20 batteries and want to avoid starting a new battery platform.

8. WEN 33606 – Best Budget with Laser Guide

The WEN 33606 packs impressive features into a budget package, with the laser guide being particularly helpful for curved cutting work.

At under $40, this saw delivers curve-cutting performance that rivals more expensive models, making it an exceptional value proposition.

The 6.6-amp motor generates up to 3300 SPM, giving you plenty of power for cutting curves in thick materials up to 4-1/4 inches of wood.

Four orbital settings let you adjust blade movement from straight up-and-down for tight curves to more aggressive circular action for faster curved cuts.

The onboard laser and LED light work together to illuminate your cutline, which I’ve found especially helpful when following intricate curved patterns in dim lighting.

A tool-free quick release chuck makes blade changes fast and easy, so you can switch to finer-tooth blades for tighter curves without downtime.

The lock-on trigger switch reduces hand fatigue during long curved cutting sessions, helping maintain consistent control throughout your cuts.

Who Should Buy?

Budget-conscious buyers who want professional features, beginners needing guidance tools like the laser, and anyone needing a capable backup saw.

Who Should Avoid?

Professionals who need all-day reliability, or users who find additional guidance features like lasers unnecessary for their cutting style.

Curve Cutting Fundamentals

Success with curved cuts starts with understanding the relationship between blade selection, speed, and technique.

Blade thickness matters more than most woodworkers realize, with thinner blades (around 0.04 inch) navigating tight curves much more easily than thicker standard blades.

I’ve tested numerous blade types over the years, and 10-12 TPI blades work best for general curved cutting in wood, while 14-20 TPI handles tight scroll cuts with minimal tear-out.

Buying Guide for Jigsaws for Curved Cuts

Choosing the right jigsaw for curved work requires looking beyond basic specifications to features that directly affect curve-cutting performance.

Solving for Blade Control: Look for Quality Guide Systems

Blade deflection is the enemy of smooth curved cuts, and a quality blade guide system minimizes this problem significantly.

Look for jigsaws with roller guides or supportive backing that keeps the blade stable during curved cuts, especially when working with thicker materials.

The best models have dual roller systems that support the blade from both sides, reducing side-to-side movement that causes curves to wander.

Solving for Precision: Variable Speed Is Essential

Curved cutting requires precise speed control, so choose a jigsaw with both a variable speed trigger and a dial for maximum speed adjustment.

I typically cut curves at 40-60% of maximum speed, using the slowest speeds for the tightest radii where blade control is critical.

The trigger sensitivity matters too, with high-quality saws providing smooth speed changes rather than abrupt on-off power delivery.

Solving for Visibility: Dust Management and Lighting

Following a curved line is nearly impossible if you can’t see it, making dust blowers and work lights essential features for curved cutting.

Built-in dust blowers clear chips from your cutline, while LED lights illuminate the workpiece without casting shadows that obscure your path.

Solving for Stability: Weight and Balance Considerations

A slightly heavier jigsaw often cuts smoother curves because the weight helps stabilize the tool during slow, precise cuts.

Balance matters too, with top-handle designs providing better control for most curved cutting applications compared to barrel grips.

Feature	Why It Matters for Curves	What to Look For
Blade Guide System	Reduces deflection	Dual roller or solid backing
Variable Speed	Precision control	Trigger + dial adjustment
Orbital Action	Adjusts aggressiveness	Multiple positions including 0
Dust Blower	Clear visibility	Always-on or switchable
LED Light	Illuminates cutline	Bright, shadow-free design
Weight	Stability vs fatigue	4-6 lbs for most users

Orbital Action: Understanding the Settings

Orbital action moves the blade in a slight elliptical pattern rather than straight up and down, which affects how the saw cuts through material.

For curved cutting, I typically use orbital setting 0 or 1, which provides more control and reduces the tendency for the blade to pull off your marked line.

Higher orbital settings (3-4) cut faster but create more aggressive blade movement that can make following tight curves more challenging.

Corded vs Cordless for Curved Cutting

Corded jigsaws deliver consistent power without runtime concerns, which matters when you’re cutting slow curves that require extended cutting time.

Modern cordless models have closed the gap significantly, with brushless motors providing sustained power even at the slow speeds preferred for curved work.

Top Handle vs Barrel Grip for Curved Work

Top-handle jigsaws position your hand directly above the blade, providing better control feedback for most curved cutting applications.

Barrel grips can be more comfortable for certain cutting positions, but I find top handles superior when precision curved cutting is the priority.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Recommendations

After testing these eight jigsaws extensively on various curved cutting projects, the DEWALT 20V MAX XR DCS334B remains my top recommendation for its combination of control, power, and cordless convenience.

Choose the BOSCH JS470E if you prefer corded power with professional-grade build quality, or save money with the SKIL JS314901 if you want excellent performance at a budget-friendly price.

The right blade matters as much as the right saw, so invest in quality curve-cutting blades and practice your technique on scrap material before tackling your project.