Both DeWalt and Makita are staking their claims to cutting-edge 21st-century technology by offering the latest in cordless tools: jigsaws. The DeWalt DW933K and the Makita 4332D share some common traits: They have variable speed, orbital cutting action, T-slot blade holders, sliding shoes, and they come with one nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd) battery and charger. The similarities end there.

DeWalt’s 7-1/4-lb. tool is powerful, comfortable and user-friendly. This model is driven by an 18-volt battery. To test the run time of the battery, I crosscut slabs of 2×10 Douglas fir planks. The tool made it through 23 cuts.

The DeWalt’s handle, angled toward the rear, is comfortable, well-proportioned and has a vinyl grip insert. Its practical features include a toolless, twist-lock blade holder, a slide-switch safety lock that operates independently of the trigger and a lever-operated shoe-adjustment system. This model is rounded off with a dust blower and a well-marked bevel-angle indicator, and it comes with a removable shoe cover.

DeWalt’s 18-volt DW933K and Makita’s 14.4-volt 4332D have nearly the same cutting capacity per volt ratio.

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Ridgid EB4424 Oscillating Spindle/Belt Sander

With five spindles sized from 1/2 in. to 2 in. and a 4 X 24-in. belt, this sander has become a staple in many a shop Fine Woodworking visits.

Buy at Amazon

Festool Rotex FEQ-Plus Random Orbital Sander

The Festool Rotex is a top-of-the-line choice. On its coarse setting, it removed stock nearly twice as quickly as the second-fastest model. But that speed doesn’t mean you’ll have to wrestle with it. It’s no huge task to control it with two hands, and its long body gives you plenty of room to find a sweet spot while holding it.

Buy at Amazon

Festool Cleantec CT 26 E HEPA Dust Extractor

The clear winner here is Festool’s CT 48 Dust Extractor. It has amazing capacity relative to its size, and unmatched suction power. It packs in a number of subtle but very helpful design touches, like a clever foot brake and easy hose and cord storage.

Buy at Amazon