Bosch GST 160 BCE Professional Jigsaw vs Makita DJV183Z 18V LXT Cordless Jigsaw (2026)

✍️ By the 247Verdict Editorial Team📅 Updated 05 October 2026

Which is better? We compared both on score, owner ratings, pros and cons.

Bosch GST 160 BCE Professional Jigsaw

9.1/10 Excellent

4.8★ (3,400 owners)

800W, low vibration, tool-free blade change, LED, precise control. The smooth-cutting pro jigsaw.

Full Review

Makita DJV183Z 18V LXT Cordless Jigsaw

9.0/10 Excellent

4.6★ (4,800 owners)

18V LXT, brushless, variable speed, 135mm cut depth, 3kg. Lightest professional cordless jigsaw.

Full Review

At a Glance

	Bosch GST 160 BCE Professional Jigsaw	Makita DJV183Z 18V LXT Cordless Jigsaw
247Verdict Score	9.1/10	9.0/10
Owner Rating	4.8★ (3,400)	4.6★ (4,800)
Verdict	Excellent	Excellent

Quick Verdict

This is a genuine draw — both score within 0.15 points of each other. Bosch GST 160 BCE Professional Jigsaw: 800W, low vibration, tool-free blade change, LED, precise control. The smooth-cutting pro jigsaw. Makita DJV183Z 18V LXT Cordless Jigsaw: 18V LXT, brushless, variable speed, 135mm cut depth, 3kg. Lightest professional cordless jigsaw. Choose based on your specific needs. Check the current price on Amazon →

Pros & Cons Side by Side

Bosch GST 160 BCE Professional Jigsaw

Notably low vibration for clean, controlled cuts and less fatigue
Tool-free SDS blade change is quick and secure
800W motor cuts hardwood and thicker stock confidently
LED light and clear sightline improve cut accuracy
Trusted Bosch Professional build quality

Corded model needs a power source
Premium price versus basic DIY jigsaws
Heavier than entry-level tools

Makita DJV183Z 18V LXT Cordless Jigsaw

Brushless motor extends runtime and motor life for professional daily use
135mm cut depth handles timber, worktops and thicker panels
Variable speed trigger for delicate cuts and full-speed aggressive cutting
3kg — the lightest professional brushless cordless jigsaw available
Compatible with full Makita LXT 18V ecosystem of 300+ tools

Body-only — Makita LXT battery sold separately
Less brand recognition in UK consumer jigsaw market than Bosch
Blade clamp requires tool for changing unlike some tool-free alternatives

FAQ

Which is better, Bosch GST 160 BCE or Makita DJV183Z 18V LXT?

Is the Bosch GST 160 BCE worth the extra cost?

Yes — Bosch GST 160 BCE Professional Jigsaw scores higher at 9.1/10 vs 9.0/10.

Who is the Bosch GST 160 BCE best suited to?

800W, low vibration, tool-free blade change, LED, precise control. The smooth-cutting pro jigsaw.

Who is the Makita DJV183Z 18V LXT best suited to?

18V LXT, brushless, variable speed, 135mm cut depth, 3kg. Lightest professional cordless jigsaw.

What are the main downsides of each?

Bosch GST 160 BCE Professional Jigsaw: Corded model needs a power source; Premium price versus basic DIY jigsaws. Makita DJV183Z 18V LXT Cordless Jigsaw: Body-only — Makita LXT battery sold separately; Less brand recognition in UK consumer jigsaw market than Bosch.

Do owner ratings agree with our verdict?

Largely, yes — Bosch GST 160 BCE Professional Jigsaw sits at 4.8★ from 3,400 verified Amazon owners, and Makita DJV183Z 18V LXT Cordless Jigsaw at 4.6★ from 4,800.

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