Quick Summary: We have picked the DEWALT DW788 20 Inch Scroll Saw as the best scroll saw as it comes from a trusted brand, it is easy for beginners to use, the parallel link arm reduces vibrations, and it has a flexible dust blower. Additionally, it provides a large range of speeds.
There are numerous reasons why you might consider adding a scroll saw to your power tool collection. Not only do they help you to make intricate designs with little effort, they allow for sometimes nearly impossible cuts on special materials like wood, metal, copper, and more.
So, why should you buy a scroll saw? Owning one of the top scroll saws is a good idea if you regularly engage in home improvement projects, simply because they make it easier to work on trim or other cosmetic elements around the house.
However, hobbyists also enjoy a quality saw to make jigsaw puzzles, games, furniture, toys, sculptures, and many other neat objects. In short, a scroll saw is just a smart addition to any garage or woodworking shop.
The good news is that there are more quality saws available online than ever before. What used to just be something that only diehard woodworkers owned is now readily available and well within budgetary limits. Many of the top power tool brands even offer scroll saws.
With such a wide variety of affordable options on the market, it can be difficult to decide which one to choose. To help you out, we’ve put together this list of the best scroll saws on the market.
Quick Navigation:
- Comparison of 10 Best Scroll Saws
- Reviews of 10 Top Scroll Saws
- How to Choose the Best Scroll Saw
- FAQs
- Final Verdict
Reviews of 10 Top Scroll Saws
Here’s a list of the top scroll saws we found on the market:
Best Overall
1. Dewalt DW788 Variable Speed, 1.3 Amp, 20 Inch Scroll Saw
What You Will Love: This Dewalt DW788 scroll saw is very easy to use, so even beginners can operate it with confidence. It is a great addition to your workshop. It comes from a trusted brand, which can always set someone’s mind at ease.
Dewalt DW788 scroll saw is very easy to use, so beginners do not have to worry about such a big learning curve before being able to make great designs.
The double parallel link arm reduces vibration and there is a flexible dust blower so you can send the debris in the opposite direction of your workspace. Due to the reduced vibration, the user can produce much more precise cuts, and it makes the saw quieter than most other options.
You can control the speed anywhere from 400 to 1750 strokes per 60 seconds, and the blade can be easily changed without any tools. There is also a 3 year warranty, so you can feel confident that Dewalt DW788 scroll saw will take care of you.
The only real issue is the price. At nearly $500, it is quite a high investment. However, if you need a saw on a regular basis for a variety of projects, the investment might not be so bad.
Pros:
- Great scroll saw for beginners
- Dual parallel arm design reduces vibration
- Flexible dust blower
- 20 inch variable speed
- Precision cuts
- Quieter than most
- Variable speed from 400 to 1750 strokes per 60 seconds
- Tool-less blade change
- 3 year limited warranty
Cons:
- Expensive
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Best Budget
2. WEN 3921 Two Direction Variable Speed Scroll Saw with Flexible LED Light
What You Will Love: The beveling table allows you to make angled cuts, and it accepts blades in two different directions.
The WEN 3921 Two Direction Variable Speed Scroll Saw is a more budget friendly option than the DEWALT as it is less than $200. It, too, offers tool free blade changes, and is made from a cast iron base for durability.
You will have to clamp it down, though, as it is pretty wobbly when in use. It provides variable speeds from 400 to 1600 strokes per 60 seconds and comes with a very helpful flexible LED light.
The dust extraction system helps keep your workspace clean and free from debris, and the blade storage helps you keep up with your blades while working. The tension knob is on the top at the back of the machine, which may or may not be convenient for you.
On the downside, a couple of users state that it is a great tool and a great price, but it is best for not so detailed projects. If you are only interested in beginner crafts and cuts, this will probably work for you, though.
Pros:
- Accepts blades in 2 directions
- Variable speeds from 550 to 1600 strokes per 60 seconds
- Beveling table provides up to 45 degree angle
- Tool-free blade changes
- Flexible LED work light
- Dust extraction system
- Tension knob
- Blade storage
- Cast iron base
- Pin end blades
Cons:
- Will need to be clamped
- Not very good for intricate pieces
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Best Electric Scroll Saw
3. Shop Fox W1713 16 Inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw
What You Will Love: It handles straight cuts and rounded corners with ease. The Shop Fox W1713 16 inch variable speed scroll saw is a pretty good machine for the low price. It is less than $200, so there are lower-priced options but there are much higher priced options, as well.
This 16 inch variable speed scroll saw comes with both a dust blower and a dust extraction system. You can easily attach a shop vacuum to the dust port for easy cleaning.
Unfortunately, the dust extraction system is in an awkward position, especially when the table is angled for beveled cuts. At an angle, the dust port may not work as well or be as functional as when it is not angled. It provides variable speeds from 550 to 1700 strokes per 60 seconds.
At the same time, pushing too hard or too large through the machine too quickly could damage the motor. Slow and steady work is the way to go.
The gooseneck work light keeps your workspace well lit, and the cast iron construction means that it is a sturdy piece of equipment.
Users state that when it is flat, vibration is non-existent or minimal. When working at an angle, however, this 16 inch variable speed scroll saw does vibrate or wobbles more than one might like.
Pros:
- Variable speeds of 550 to 1700 strokes per minute
- Gooseneck work light
- Dust blower and dust port
- 45-degree tilt
- Easy blade changes
- Durable cast iron construction
- Very stable when in the horizontal position
- Good with both straight cuts and very tight rounded corner cuts
Cons:
- Dust port in the odd position
- When beveled it wobbles
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Best Scroll Saw with Adjustable Dust Hose
4. Delta Power Tools 40 694 20 In. Variable Speed Scroll Saw
What You Will Love: The adjustable dust hose allows you to blow the debris in whichever direction you need to. The Delta 40 Variable Speed Scroll Saw is a great middle of the line saw. It has dual parallel link arm reduces vibration and improves accuracy.
The arm also lifts and locks for blade changes, which can be done without the use of tools. The table angles up to 45 degrees for bevel cuts.
The variable speed can be controlled from 400 to 1750 strokes per minute, the highest on our list. The adjustable dust hose is very handy as it allows you to blow the debris in any way you choose. On the downside, though there is a light and stand for this Delta power tools 40, they are sold separately.
This might not be such a big deal except that the model is already a bit high. Delta 40 Variable Speed Scroll Saw starts at around $300 and goes up. For that price, it would be better if the light and stand came with it.
However, Delta power tools 40 scroll sawcome with a five year limited warranty, so that makes up for the price some. Also, as it is 60 pounds, this Delta power tools scroll saw is a bit heavy so you probably will want to find a good spot and park it.
Pros:
- Variable speed from 400 to 1750 strokes per minute
- Dual parallel link arm reduces vibration
- Improved accuracy
- Arm lifts and locks for blade changes
- Tool-free blade changes
- Bevels to 45 degrees
- 20-inch variable speed
- 5-year warranty
Cons:
- Expensive
- Light and stand sold separately
- 60 pounds
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Best Scroll Saw with Tungsten Carbide Blades
5. Rockwell Shop Series RK7315 16″ Scroll Saw
What You Will Love: The two tungsten blades and aluminum base make this option a durable one. The Rockwell Shop Series RK7315 16” Scroll Saw is a good entry-level machine. It has variable speed control from 500 to 1700 strokes per minute, and it is a lightweight machine.
The aluminum base is not quite as strong as the cast iron ones, but it is still durable. Unfortunately, it is not really sturdy.
In fact, it is quite shaky, so it is not good for precise cuts. You might need to bolt it down to use it for detailed projects or choose a different saw.
It also includes onboard blade storage to help you keep up with your blades much more easily. Like the other options, this one also bevels up to 45 degrees, and it comes with a handy dust port and dust blower. This one runs less than $150, so it is pretty budget-friendly.
This makes it a great choice for beginners or just projects that do not require a whole lot of precision. Even at the low price, it might not be so great for others. It is pretty compact, so you do not need to worry about it taking up much space.
Pros:
- Durable aluminum base
- Budget-friendly
- Lightweight option
- Simple to use
- Two tough 5” tungsten carbide blades
- Two years limited warranty
- Bevels 45 degrees
- Onboard blade storage
- Variable speed control from 500 to 1700 strokes per minute
- Dust port and dust blower to keep the workspace clean
- Compact
Cons:
- Vibrates more than some other options
- Not great for precision work
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Best Scroll Saw with Aluminum Base
6. SKIL 3335-07 16″ Scroll Saw With Red Light
What You Will Love: This scroll saw has a very effective integrated dust removal system that provides a very clear view of your workspace and cutting lines.
The SKIL 3335-07 is one of the best scroll saws when it comes to dust removal and adjustable work light. The table angles up to 45 degrees for extra precision.
At a little over $100, it is one of the most budget-friendly options on this list. It is lightweight at only 34 pounds, is easy to set up, and provides keyless blade change.
With the aluminum base, it is not as sturdy as many of the other options. Because of this, it vibrates a good bit and makes more noise than most people want to deal with, so you will need to clamp it or screw it down somehow.
As it does not come with a stand, you probably want to make it a permanent tabletop saw or benchtop saw, anyway. Doing this should secure it enough that it will not vibrate and wobble too much.
There have been a few complaints about the arms breaking quickly, or other parts not lasting long. This is made worse by the fact that no one seems able to find replacement parts. With this in mind, but with caution.
Pros:
- Effective integrated dust removal system provides a clear view
- Angles 0 to 45 degrees
- Articulating LED work light
- One of the most budget-friendly on this list
- Keyless blade change
- Easy to set up
- Lightweight at only 34 pounds
- 16” blades are smaller than other options
Cons:
- It is pretty noisy which is not helped by the lack of stable base
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Best Scroll Saw with Stand
7. Jet 727200K Scroll Saw With Stand
What You Will Love: It comes with a great, adjustable stand that you can sit or stand at while you work. The Jet 727200K Scroll Saw is the most expensive option on our list, but it said to be well worth the price tag. It is extremely quiet and produces almost zero vibration.
That makes a lot of sense due to the very stable stand it comes with. It is a very lightweight stand, but the unit is pretty big. You are going to want a decent size workspace to use this model comfortably.
You can adjust the stand to the height you need, whether you choose to sit or stand while you work.
This is much better than having a model screwed into a bench or table because you have to move those instead of moving them around you. Blade’s changes are extraordinarily simple. This stand can also be used for a table saw.
The lack of vibration increases the level of precision so you can do very detailed and intricate work with it. The deep workspace allows you to work on larger pieces, too. On the downside, it is one of the slowest on the list as it only goes up to 1550 strokes per minute.
This might not be a problem, though, as more intricate work would need slower speeds anyway. Again, it is the most expensive on our list at almost $1000, but most buyers seem to be very impressed with it and not at all regretting spending this amount.
Pros:
- Quiet
- Vibration resistant- almost vibration resistant
- Simple blade changes
- Comes with an adjustable stand for standing or sitting work
- Stable yet lightweight
- Raised workspace
- Deep workspace
- Great for detailed work
Cons:
- Only goes up to 1550 strokes per minute
- Very expensive
- Takes up a good bit of space
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Best for Compact Size
8. Dremel Moto-Saw Variable Speed Compact Scroll Saw Kit
What You Will Love: You’ll love the compact design and ability to clamp the saw on any work surface. If you’re short on storage space, you’ll love the Dremel Moto-Saw Variable Speed Compact Scroll Saw Kit. This awesome unit can be used as either a portable handheld tool or clamped to the base.
Best of all, it features all of the components you would expect from the best scroll saws including a dust port and variable speed control.
Cuts a Wide Variety of Materials
Whether you’re into traditional woodworking or just trying to cut a hole out of a laminate countertop to install a kitchen sink, you’ll love the power this scroll saw offers to get the job done.
Portable Design
Instead of having to haul your materials out to the workshop, you can bring the scroll saw to exactly where you need to make your cuts thanks to a very portable handheld design.
Dust Port Adapter
Keep dust and debris out of your line of sight during cuts thanks to a specially designed dust port adapter.
Pros:
- Ideal for cutting many different types of materials
- Super portable for added convenience
- Perfect beginner scroll saw
- The blade clamp requires no tools
Cons:
- Not having a base could affect the preciseness of cuts
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Best for Tool-less Blade Change
9. Rockwell BladeRunner X2 Portable Tabletop Saw
What You Will Love: You’ll love the portable design and carrying handle of this lightweight portable scroll saw. Bringing along a scroll saw to the jobsite just got easier thanks to this Rockwell BladeRunner X2 Portable Tabletop Saw.
With an ultra lightweight design and a special carrying handle, you can easily set up the unit where you need it most in under a few minutes.
In addition, the ability to make multiple types of cuts with the same woodworking power tools makes this one of the top scroll saws on the market.
Storage Compartment
Never lose accessories again thanks to a special on-board storage compartment ideal for keeping the included miter gauge, rip fence, and extra blades.
Multiple Cuts
Eliminate the need for separate tools with this all-in-one power tool that easily handles rip, scroll, miter, and inside cuts without hassle.
Change Blades Without a Tool
A special design allows you to change blades without a tool, making it easier than ever to complete projects without major interruption.
Pros:
- Lightweight design ideal for portability
- Storage compartment for accessories
- Ample rip fence for larger cuts
- Cuts everything from ceramic tile to basic wood
Cons:
- Portable design is less sturdy than other models with metal tables
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Best for Built in Adjustable LED Light
10. Porter-Cable Variable Speed Scroll Saw with Stand
What You Will Love: You’ll love the built-in work lamp and included aluminum stand that help make completing projects easier and more precise. Tackling complicated cuts becomes a whole lot easier thanks to the Porter-Cable Variable Speed Scroll Saw with Stand.
Not only does it feature a top-notch variable speed motor with an easy-to-use control knob, but it also includes a patented tabletop bevel scale for more accurate readings. It comes with an auto tensioning feature to keep the cutting process smooth.
Large Aluminum Dual Cutting Table
Always have just the right amount of work surface; thanks to a large aluminum cutting table. A special tilt mechanism allows for cuts up to 45-degrees, while the sturdy construction of the platform easily holds up to repeated use.
Steel Stand
While many of the top scroll saws don’t include a stand, this one does. Made from steel, it is specifically designed to stay in place while you’re making super precise cuts.
Dust Extraction Port
Keep dust and debris to an absolute minimum thanks to a special dust extraction port that hooks directly up to your favorite shop vac. Not only does this ensure a clean workspace, but it also keeps chips of wood or other materials from obstructing your view while making cuts.
Pros:
- Oversized cutting table made from durable aluminum
- Sturdy steel stand for added precision and stability
- Great beginner scroll saw
- The blade clamp requires no tools
- Upfront bevel controls for ease of use
Cons:
- Buyers report a higher vibration level than other models
- Reviews state the work lamp can move around while the unit is turned on
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How to Choose the Best Scroll Saw
When shopping for your scroll saw, consider the following:
Scroll saw blade types
Scroll saw blades come either pinned or unpinned. For fine, detailed cuts, you want an unpinned one. For larger, less detailed cuts, pin end blades are fine. There are also blades that need tools to be changed, and others that do not.
Scroll saw blade tensioning
There are different tightening options: levers, cams, and knobs at the back. Be sure that the tightening mechanism is conveniently placed so it is not too difficult to tighten it when you need to which will be often while you work.
Dust collection
Saws produce dust- that is a simple fact. In truth, none of them are great at keeping the mess contained, but some scroll saws do come with a dust collection spot. Pay attention to whether the dust collection is flexible so you can point it in the best direction.
The hold down foot
The hold down foot actually holds the piece that you are working on. You want to be sure it is capable enough to do this job. If it is loose, it will do you no good.
Raising top arm
The arm is what makes the blade move. There is some scroll saws whose arms go back and forth but if you will be working from the top down, you need to look for a raising top arm.
Scroll saw blade storage
If you have nowhere to store your blades, they are probably going to get lost. The most convenient option is to find a scroll saw that has a storage spot.
Work lights
If you already have a well-lit work surface, you might not need work lights on the scroll saw. However, if you are working in a dark area, a scroll saw with work lights could probably benefit you a great deal.
Lubrication
Some scroll saws do not require lubrication and others do. Obviously, those that do require more maintenance, but it is really personal preference here.
Platform
The larger the platform, the bigger the projects you can do on it. You should also consider how sturdy the platform is. Scroll saws create vibration, so you want your platform to be able to accommodate that.
Throat depth
The throat depth is the distance from the front of the blade to the back of the blade. You see this on the box when it tells you that it is a “16 inch scroll saw” or another measurement. Whatever the size, you can cut twice that size.
Variable control speed
You have to be able to slow and speed the saw up according to your project, so your money is best spent on a saw that lets you switch the speed between them.
Adjustability
Some scroll saws have different pieces that can be adjusted, from the speed to the work lights and the dust blower. Consider which features you would like or need to be adjustable when shopping.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a scroll saw used for?
There are many things that a scroll saw can be used for. Some examples would be cutting someone’s name into a piece of metal, cutting a deer, dolphin, dog, or something similar in wood, or maybe cutting out a tree with intricate branches. The scroll saw can make those tiny, intricate cuts and work around tight corners.
How much is a scroll saw?
Prices vary, but you can find them for around $100 and over $1,000. For the most part, the more you spend, the better the tool. If you are a beginner, start with a less expensive one to make sure you enjoy using one before investing too much.
What is the difference between a scroll saw and band saw?
A band saw is similar to a scroll saw, but it is faster and usually favored for cutting into thick pieces of wood to make things like table legs. A scroll saw is better for smaller pieces, like ornaments or dollhouse pieces, and it is usually quieter.
Related: Best Band Saws
What is the difference between a scroll saw and a jigsaw?
First, both can be used to make curved lines, but a scroll saw does them much better and cleaner. Also, with a scroll saw, you move the wood while with a jigsaw you are moving the actual saw.
What is the difference between a scroll saw and a sliding table saw?
Scroll saw is great for multi-purpose woodworking and sliding table saw helps to make precise lumber without any hard effort.
Related: Best Portable Table Saws
Are scroll saws easy to use?
They can be very easy to use. The biggest problem is often becoming accustomed to cutting such detailed designs into wood. However, some scroll saws are less user-friendly than others. Always check reviews first.
What is the best scroll saw for under $200?
At this time, there are two we consider to be pretty equal to one another: the SKIL 3335-07 and the WEN 3921. Both are relatively good scroll saws for less than $200.
Final verdict: Best Scroll Saws
Scroll saws are very useful tools for woodworkers and those who enjoy working with thin metals, but there are so many choices out there. We have taken a look at what you should look at and ten great options, in hopes that you can use this information to find the best scroll saw for your projects and your pockets.
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