Black&Decker KS638SE jigsaw review

I bought this Black&Decker KS638SE back in 2021 to keep in my utility drawer for quick repairs. It is a corded tool. This means you never have to worry about a dying battery while you are halfway through a cut. The motor feels adequate for light work. When I used it to trim the edges of some 12mm plywood sheets, the vibration was noticeable in my wrists.

It lacks the heavy-duty feel of a professional Bosch or Makita tool. You will notice the plastic housing is quite lightweight. This makes it easy to carry around a messy job site. However, that lightness can make it harder to keep a steady hand during tight curves. I found myself leaning into the tool more than I would with a heavier model.

The cord length is sufficient for most indoor tasks. It does not feel flimsy. You get what you pay for here.

Pros

• The corded design provides consistent power without any sudden drops in motor speed.
• It is very lightweight, which helps reduce fatigue during short, repetitive tasks around the house.
• The baseplate stays relatively stable on flat surfaces like MDF or particle board.
• Price points are usually much lower than professional-grade alternatives found at big-box stores.

Cons

• Vibration levels are high enough to cause hand numbness if you use it for twenty minutes straight.
• It struggles significantly when trying to cut through thicker, denser hardwoods like oak.
• The orbital action is not adjustable, which limits your control over the finish of the cut.

Who it's for

This tool is for the occasional DIYer or a homeowner who needs to fix a broken shelf once a year. If you are a professional carpenter building custom cabinetry, do not buy this. You need something with better dust extraction and more refined speed control. For someone cutting thin trim or plastic piping in a basement, it works fine. It handles basic tasks without much fuss.

Verdict

The Black&Decker KS638SE is an entry-level tool that does the bare minimum required for home maintenance. It lacks the precision needed for fine woodworking projects where every millimeter counts toward a perfect fit. You should buy it if your budget is tight and your projects are simple. Avoid it if you plan to work with thick timber daily.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use this jigsaw to cut metal?

You can, but you must use the correct T-shank metal blades. The motor lacks the torque for heavy steel plates. Stick to thin sheet metal or aluminum.

How do I change the blade?

The mechanism is a simple tool-less system. You just pull the lever on the blade holder and swap the old one out. It takes about five seconds.

Does it come with a dust bag?

The manufacturer includes a basic dust collection attachment. It catches some sawdust, but it won't keep your workshop perfectly clean. Use a vacuum for better results.