An orbital is a type of sander that uses a circular motion to remove material from a surface. On the other hand, a jigsaw uses a reciprocating motion that allows it to cut curved or irregular shapes. Because of the different motions, orbital sanders are typically better for removing large amounts of material quickly, while jigsaws are more precise and can be used for tasks like cutting holes or making intricate cuts. Orbital sanders are also less expensive than jigsaws, making them a good choice for budget-minded shoppers. However, jigsaws offer more versatility and may be the better choice for those who need to complete various tasks.