Jigsaw vs. Circular Saw: A Comprehensive Comparison

The circular saw and the jigsaw are strong, lightweight, and adaptable power tools. Both can be used in multiple ways. It's helpful to know these tools' advantages and disadvantages in order to make the most of them.

If you need clarification, this post will help you decide if a circular saw or a jigsaw is better for you! We will make a comparison of the two tools so you can determine which one is most appropriate for your job.

A Jigsaw: What is it?

A jigsaw is a battery-operated handheld saw that uses an angled, narrow blade to cut materials. Jigsaws can be corded or battery-operated.

The shift towards cordless tools has been a major trend, with battery technology continually advancing. Modern cordless jigsaws, powered predominantly by Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries, offer significant benefits such as increased mobility, reduced tripping hazards, and often comparable power to their corded counterparts. These batteries boast higher energy density, longer runtimes, and faster charging capabilities.

Furthermore, many contemporary jigsaws are integrating brushless motors, which enhance efficiency, extend tool life, and deliver more consistent power by eliminating the friction and heat associated with traditional brushed motors. This evolution makes cordless jigsaws increasingly appealing for both professional and DIY users seeking convenience and uncompromised performance on various job sites or around the home.

Types of Jigsaw Blades

Jigsaw blades come in two varieties: U-shank and T-shank.

• U-Shank – Compared to T-shank blades, U-Shank blade replacement is more complicated. They have a U-shaped shank that is secured with a nut or screw, so to change the blade, you'll need a wrench or a screwdriver.
• T-Shank – The most straightforward sort of blade to replace is the T-shank blade. Their T-shaped shank slides straight into the tool and is secured with a retaining clip.

The majority of woodworkers suggest jigsaws with T-shank blades. Why?

Well, all it takes is a button flick to put the T-shank blades into the saw. It secures itself to prevent it from falling out below the T at the blade's tip.

Conversely, U-shank blades typically call for a more involved installation. To prevent the blade from falling out, you must locate the wrench needed to loosen the nut and tighten it just enough. There are better situations than this because jigsaw blades can quickly dull or shatter.

Jigsaw Blade Tooth Type and Count

Jigsaw blades can also accommodate numerous kinds of blade teeth.

For teeth-per-inch, use TPI. Lower TPI blades cut more quickly but less neatly. High TPI blades have a slower cutting rate but can produce a smoother edge. Certain types of blades are made to cut through Plexiglass without breaking, while others are specifically made to cut through soft metals like aluminum.

The orientation of the teeth is something else to observe. A few teeth are pointed upwards. Some make downward gestures. Why is this relevant?

Pointed teeth, however, will cut during the blade's upward stroke. By pulling the saw into the wood, you'll maintain your balance. On the other hand, cutting with the upstroke also ensures that the cut's rough side is seen.

When the cutting edge is pointing downward, the opposite is true. Although the saw will be pulling away from the wood, you could find it harder to manage, and you will get fewer tears on top.

Jigsaw Base Plate

The jigsaw's base plate resembles a circular saw. The base plate has multiple functions.

• To start, the jigsaw's base plate will be marked with lines to help you make a straight cut.
• Secondly, you will have the ability to perform bevel cuts because the baseplate can be adjusted to an angle.

Lastly, you should be aware that a jigsaw cannot be used to modify the cut's depth. This is due to the blade's length restricting the cut's depth. On the other hand, you can change the depth with a circular saw.

Jigsaw Uses: When is it appropriate?

There are many applications for jigsaws. You can do bevel cuts, plunge cuts, and straight line cuts with a jigsaw, with a lot of practice. Nevertheless, curved cuts, such as circles and arches, are where the jigsaw pops. The jigsaw is comparable to a bandsaw and scroll saw due to its ability to cut sharp angles and curves.

How To Use a Jigsaw?

1. Accurately Measure – Make sure you establish and label your cutting line.
2. If Necessary, Use A Guide – Jigsaws can be challenging to manage when making lengthy, straight slices. Think about constructing or acquiring a Jigsaw guide.
3. Pull The Trigger And Start Cautiously – Don't start cutting until the blade reaches its maximum speed.
4. Think About The Positive Aspect Of Your Project – the bottom of the board will be the clean side if your saw blade cuts on the upstroke.
5. Cut The Bulk First – Relieving cuts up to the line can be made more easily if some of the extra is removed beforehand, making those tight twists easier. You can easily control the saw because of the increased blade maneuverability.

Jigsaw: Pros and Cons

A Circular Saw: What is it?

Since the circular saw uses a spinning blade for cutting, it is comparable to a table saw. With a circular saw, however, the blade is brought to the wood rather than forced through it as with a table saw.

Like jigsaws, circular saws have seen a strong push towards cordless innovation. High-voltage Li-ion battery platforms (e.g., 18V, 20V, or even 36V) now enable cordless circular saws to handle heavy-duty cutting tasks that previously required corded models. The integration of brushless motors in these cordless saws further maximizes battery life and power output, making them more reliable and durable. 

Beyond cordless improvements, some advanced circular saws are now incorporating 'smart' features. These can include Bluetooth connectivity for tracking tool usage, battery levels, and maintenance alerts via smartphone apps, or even automated adjustments to speed and torque based on the material being cut, enhancing precision and efficiency.

Circular Saw Blade

A disk-like form characterizes the circular saw blade. A circular saw blade's most popular size is 7.25 inches. On the other hand, 5.5-inch smaller blades are available. The blade is covered with a retractable guard.

It matters how many teeth a circular saw blade has. High tooth count blades are made to offer you a clean cut, just like a jigsaw. When cutting hardwood, blades with more teeth are also advised. Wood will be sliced more quickly with blades with fewer teeth.

It should be noted that with circular saws, the quality and sharpness of your blade will matter more than the number of teeth. Replace your blades often to keep them sharp.

Circular Saw Base Plate

Practically speaking, the functions of a circular saw base plate and a jigsaw base plate are identical. It provides a base so that your saw may cut through the material with ease. To guarantee straight cuts, run the base plate's edge along a circular saw jig. Additionally, you can make bevel or angle cuts by adjusting the base plate, and it features reference points to help you maintain your cut straight.

There is currently a single, significant distinction between jigsaw and circular base plates: depth. You can generally change the circular saw base plate for depth so you can cut at a shallow or deep depth. This is particularly useful for creating grooves that just partially pierce the board.

When is the Use of a Circular Saw Appropriate?

For any type of straight cut, circular saws work well. It comes in particularly handy when cutting plywood into long, straight pieces that are too large and difficult for a table saw. A circular saw can replace a table saw or miter saw, but it requires more effort and time to set up the cut.

How To Operate a Circular Saw?

Here are some instructions on how to use a circular saw. Always put safety first!

1. Become Familiar With Your Saw – Before you start cutting, make sure you understand how to operate the saw by reading the manual.
2. Get Your Material Ready – Take care to position your material so that the blade won't be pinched throughout the cutting process. For stability, I advise setting your material on a substantial slab of foam insulation.
3. Measure and Label Your Incision; Millimeters Count – Always cut on the waste side of the line, keeping in mind the blade's width.
4. Make Your Cut – Before beginning, set your saw to its maximum speed. Keep your action steady, and watch out for your fingertips. You might need to gaze straight at the blade towards the conclusion of the cut to see your cutting line.

Circular Saws: Pros and Cons

What Distinguishes a Circular Saw From a Jigsaw?

It's time to compare and contrast jigsaws and circular saws now that we've discussed their fundamentals.

• Type Of Blade

The type of blade that is used by a circular saw and a jigsaw is the most visible distinction between the two. A circular saw has a spinning blade that cuts as it rotates, whereas a jigsaw has a narrow, toothed blade that goes up and down to make cuts.

• Uses

The kinds of cuts that a circular saw and a jigsaw are intended to create are the main distinctions between them. A circular saw works better for creating straight cuts, including crosscuts and rip cuts, whereas a jigsaw is better for making curved or complicated cuts.

• Speed

A jigsaw offers more control over the cut due to its slower pace, but a circular saw cuts more quickly.

• Depth Of Cut

The cutting depth of a circular saw can be changed, whereas the blade of a jigsaw is fixed and cannot.

• Safety

Safety is yet another crucial distinction to consider. While a circular saw can be extremely dangerous, jigsaws are often safe cutting tools, but both have the potential to cause severe injuries.

Which is Better to Buy: A Jigsaw or A Circular Saw?

Depending on the kind of cuts you need to make, the answer to this question will vary.

Should you cut straight lines or curves?

A jigsaw is an excellent tool if you're looking for something to make delicate, curved cuts with. A circular saw is a superior choice, though, if you require a tool to produce straight cuts, like sawing plywood sheets.