Porter-Cable PCE345
Score: 75/100
Craftsman CMCS600B
Score: 74/100Rankings
The Porter-Cable PCE345 is a 6-amp corded orbital jig saw designed for versatile cutting in wood, plastic, metal, and composites, featuring a 7-position speed dial and 4 orbital settings. Its main trade-off is the lack of portability due to the cord and shorter stroke length which can cause blade wandering on intricate curves. It is best suited for DIYers and budget-conscious pros needing a reliable corded saw for straight or curved cuts in workshops.
The Craftsman V20 Cordless Jigsaw (CMCS600B) offers portable precision cutting with variable speeds up to 2,500 SPM and 3 orbital settings. It is a lightweight, affordable option for DIY homeowners and light professionals, though the sensitive trigger and fiddly bevel lever are notable drawbacks. It is best suited for curved or straight cuts in plywood and trim work.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
3,200 SPMbest | 2,500 SPM | |
20.6 mmbest | 19.05 mm | |
120 Vbest | 20 V | |
| ↓ lower better | 2.72 kg | 2.16 kgbest |
45 degreesbest | 45 degreesbest | |
4 positionsbest | 3 positions | |
3 yearsbest | 3 yearsbest | |
1.83 mbest | — |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Performance(3) | ||
Max Speed (SPM) (SPM) | 3200 SPM | 2500 SPM |
Stroke Length (mm) | 20.6 mm | 19.05 mm |
Orbital Action Positions (positions) | 4 positions | 3 positions |
Features(2) | ||
Dust Extraction System | false | true |
Blade Change System | Tool-less | Tool-free |
Ergonomics & Build(1) | ||
Tool Weight (kg) | 2.72 kg | 2.16 kg |
Power & Battery(3) | ||
Voltage (V) | 120 V | 20 V |
Power Source | Corded | Cordless |
Motor Type | Standard | Brushed |
Professional reviewers and editors describe the Porter-Cable PCE345 as a 'workhorse for the price' that delivers professional results through its robust 6A motor and versatile orbital settings. While it is praised for its value, speed control, and warranty, experts note that it lacks the premium vibration dampening found in higher-end brands like Bosch or DeWalt.
Everyday consumers generally rate the product highly for its power and value, frequently praising its ability to cut through thick wood and its comfortable grip. However, recurring complaints focus on the short cord length, dust accumulation in the speed dial, and difficulty with intricate curves where the blade wanders.
Professional reviewers highlight the CMCS650 brushless model as a significant upgrade, noting its speed and runtime, but consistently note that the bevel lever is fiddly and the tool lacks the vibration dampening of heavier competitors.
Everyday users praise the tool's surprising power for DIY projects and long battery life, but recurring complaints focus on the sensitive trigger and painful bevel adjuster mechanism.
“Blasts through 2x4s at max orbital”
“Wanders on scrolls”
“Surprisingly powerful for DIY-3 orbital settings make wood cuts fly without binding”
