Makita XVJ03Z vs Bosch JS470E: Jigsaws Compared
FriendsWithTools.io earns a commission from qualifying purchases made through links on this page, at no additional cost to you. We do not test these tools ourselves — all claims are sourced from manufacturer specifications, retailer listings, and aggregated user reviews, each linked inline. Prices and ratings were verified on April 2026 and may have changed.
One's cordless, one's corded. The Makita XVJ03Z runs on 18V LXT batteries. The Bosch JS470E plugs into a wall and never runs out of power. Both are barrel-grip designs with orbital action for fast cuts in wood. The comparison comes down to portability vs unlimited runtime, and whether you can feel the difference in cut quality.
Quick Verdict
The Bosch JS470E is the better jigsaw if you're working near an outlet. It's lighter, cheaper, and the 4-position orbital gives you more control over cut aggressiveness. The Makita XVJ03Z wins on any jobsite where running an extension cord isn't practical, like cutting curves on a roof deck or in a partially framed addition.
Lighter, cheaper, unlimited runtime, and the power cord isn't a problem 3 feet from a wall outlet.
No cord to run across a construction site. Battery lasts long enough for a few dozen cutouts.
Cord-free lets you rotate around the workpiece without fighting a power cord dragging on the surface.
Consistent corded power doesn't sag under heavy load the way a depleting battery can.
Specs at a Glance
| Spec | Makita XVJ03Z | Bosch JS470E |
|---|---|---|
| Stroke Length | 1 in | 1 in |
| Strokes Per Minute | 800 to 3,500 SPM | 500 to 3,100 SPM |
| Orbital Settings | 3 orbital + straight | 4 orbital + straight |
| Blade Clamp | Tool-less T-shank | Tool-less T-shank |
| Power Source | 18V LXT (cordless) | 120V AC (corded) |
| Weight | 5.5 lb (bare) | 4.8 lb |
| Bevel Range | 0 to 45 degrees (left and right) | 0 to 45 degrees (left only) |
Makita XVJ03Z
Price: $169 (Amazon)
Pros
- No cord means you can cut curves on a plywood sheet without getting tangled
- 3,500 SPM top speed matches many corded jigsaws
- Anti-vibration design with counterbalance mechanism keeps the blade tracking true
Cons
- Battery adds weight on top, changes the balance point compared to corded
- 5.0Ah battery gets about 30 minutes of continuous cutting before needing a swap
- $169 bare tool plus battery cost pushes total investment past the Bosch
Bosch JS470E
Price: $149 (Amazon)
Pros
- Unlimited runtime from a wall outlet, no batteries to swap mid-project
- 4.8 lb with a low center of gravity for the steadiest cuts in this comparison
- 4-position orbital lever gives you one more aggressiveness setting than the Makita
Cons
- Cord limits your reach and gets caught on plywood edges during curve cuts
- Bevel only goes left, not both directions
- 500 SPM low-end is fine but higher than what you'd want for thin laminate
Best For
Workshop and bench-top cutting
Bosch JS470E
Lighter, cheaper, unlimited runtime, and the power cord isn't a problem 3 feet from a wall outlet.
Jobsite work (framing, subfloor cutouts)
Makita XVJ03Z
No cord to run across a construction site. Battery lasts long enough for a few dozen cutouts.
Curved cuts in plywood and MDF
Makita XVJ03Z
Cord-free lets you rotate around the workpiece without fighting a power cord dragging on the surface.
Long straight cuts in hardwood
Bosch JS470E
Consistent corded power doesn't sag under heavy load the way a depleting battery can.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the same blades in both jigsaws?
Yes. Both use T-shank blades, which are the universal standard. Bosch T-shank blades fit the Makita and vice versa. Buy the blade for the material, not the jigsaw brand.
Is a barrel grip or D-handle better?
Both of these are barrel grips, which give you more control on curved cuts because your hand is closer to the blade. D-handle jigsaws are better for straight plunge cuts. Most pros prefer barrel grip for general use.
How thick a material can these cut?
Both have a 1-inch stroke length. In softwood, that means roughly 3-1/2 inches max. In hardwood, stay under 2 inches for clean cuts. In metal with the right blade, up to 3/8-inch mild steel.