If you’re an artistic or creative woodworker who likes making crafts, chances are you have interacted with or learned a thing or two about scroll saws. And if not, a scroll saw is simply one of those power tools that you should include in your toolkit by all means.
The Best Model 2018
Scroll saws look pretty much similar to band saws, but they don’t use a continuous blade, instead, the blade moves up and down courtesy of the reciprocating mechanism. The scroll also includes a worktable that holds the workpiece and a many of them have variable speeds which make them suitable for a number of different applications.
While they have a wide range of cutting capabilities, the best scroll saws seem to excel in making delicate, clean and intricate cuts. Some of the cool sculptures you see in craft shows and puzzles were crafted using these handy scroll saws.
Now, to make sure that you get top-notch cuts from this clever power tools, you need to choose the best from hundreds of options available in the market. You need to consider vital things like the speed range, throat depth, and motor power when shopping for the best scroll saw.
See All The Scroll Saw Bestsellers At Amazon!
User Reviews
We carefully considered the feedback, input, and reviews from users who have interacted with these scroll saws at different levels. Checking out user ratings and reviews is one of the best ways to get genuine feedback from actual users and how the manufacturer handles support issues. We’ve considered hundreds of feedback and ratings from major online stores like Amazon as well as industry blogs. And we only recommend the highest rated and best quality saws by all standards.
Type Of Scroll Saw
While scroll saws do pretty much the same thing, there’re different designs, types, and working concepts, and one type might be slightly advantageous over the other when it comes to executing certain cuts. The main types of scroll saws include corded scroll saws, cordless scroll saws, manual scroll saws, Fixed-speed Scroll Saws, variable speed scroll saws, Parallel Arm scroll Saws, and C-arm scroll saws. As you may already know by now, we love variety, so our list had to include the best performing models of the most popular types, with a special interest on the corded variable speed scroll saws.
Price
We carefully considered the feedback, input, and reviews from users who have interacted with these scroll saws at different levels. Checking out user ratings and reviews is one of the best ways to get genuine feedback from actual users and how the manufacturer handles support issues. We’ve considered hundreds of feedback and ratings from major online stores like Amazon as well as industry blogs. And we only recommend the highest rated and best quality saws by all standards.
Scroll Saw Features
While scroll saws do pretty much the same thing, there’re different designs, types, and working concepts, and one type might be slightly advantageous over the other when it comes to executing certain cuts. The main types of scroll saws include corded scroll saws, cordless scroll saws, manual scroll saws, Fixed-speed Scroll Saws, variable speed scroll saws, Parallel Arm scroll Saws, and C-arm scroll saws. As you may already know by now, we love variety, so our list had to include the best performing models of the most popular types, with a special interest on the corded variable speed scroll saws.
Safety
Some of the nastiest accidents involve saws, but thankfully, scroll saws are some of the safest types of saws available. This doesn’t, however, mean you’re completely immune from the risk of injury. And a usual, we always go for the models that make the most effort to implement functional safety features. Some of the most important safety features we considered include the belt guard, foot operated switch, motor brake, etc.
Other important factors that determined which saw makes it on our list include performance, ease of use, design quality, ergonomics, durability, versatility and so on. Having put all that in consideration, you can rest assured that our recommendations are nothing but best of the best in their class.
When it comes to workshop power tools, the DEWALT brand needs no introduction. The company has produced some of the best power tools that have long set precedence in the market. Without exaggeration, the DEWALT DW788 saw is currently the most loved scroll saw available on the market. Try searching “Scroll saws” on Google and chances are the first image you get will be that of the DEWALT DW788.
DEWALT DW788 targets both hobbyists as well as professionals; you can work with it for hours every day and you will always look forward to the next day at work. One of the biggest advantages most users notice is the fact that you can be able to set up this machine in a few minutes and get to work right away. The table comes with a single hole and very few inserts, which makes the set a simple process.
Changing the blades also takes just some seconds and adjusting the tension is simple because the control lever is located right at the front. The best part about this saw is that it gives you maximum flexibility to move your project around, whether you want to get right angles or sharp curves.
The table provides a steady workspace ensuring that your woodworking will never burn even at slow cutting speeds. The overall construction is quite strong and heavy, which is partly why you will experience nearly zero vibration even when the saw is scrolling at maximum speeds. The noise is also negligible, so your neighbors won’t have much to complain about.
DEWALT DW788 comes with some pretty impressive features and specs. The noise and vibration reduction is courtesy of the Double parallel link arm design. The On/off switch, clever tool-free blade clamps, electronic variable speed control, blade-tensioning knob and the flexible dust blower are all located on the front end of the upper arm.
The unique Arm design helps you produce accurate designs, whether you’re designing unique craft pieces or crafting complex jigsaw puzzles. The arm is designed specially to pivot from back to the front of the saw, which shortens the distance the upper arm has to move, facilitating quieter, smoother saw operation. Les vibration also means more accurate cuts.
The design of the arm additionally helps to keep the blade perpendicular to the piece you’re working on ensuring that you don’t undercut or overcut. And if you want to make inside cuts, that’s fine too; simply lift the arm and thread the blade through the material you want to cut. On the other hand, the 16″x24″ Oversized, cast-iron table offers solid material support and it can be tilted 45 degrees left and right if you want to make angular cuts.
After assembling your unit, you will notice that most of the features and the overall design of this saw are quite intuitive. As already mentioned, all the important controls including the on/off switch, blade-tensioning lever, and speed control are located within reach at the front end of the upper arm. There is also a dust blower in the same position allowing you to direct it to work piece.
The variable speed control is a handy feature when you want to make swift, precise, adjustments; you can choose speeds from 400 to 1,750 SPM. The saw runs on a capable 120V AC, 1.3Amp motor to produce variable strokes ranging from 3/4” and up to 2” deep. This translates into better control and accurate, cleaner results.
The main reason why you will buy a scroll saw of any kind is to cut accurate lines, and if the blade can wonder, (which happens with a number of cheaper, low-end models), you need to forget about making precise, professional crafts. Plenty of room to maneuver your workpiece and the ability to adjust the speed when the blade is still running gives this machine an upper hand over its competitors.
“While safety is not a major concern when it comes to scroll saws, DEWALT DW788 comes with a blade guard that prevents you from accidentally getting your fingers on the blade. The stainless steel guard also serves to steadily hold down your workpiece when making your cuts. I can confidently report that the DEWALT DW788 saw is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a durable, accurate, easy to use, and quality scroll saw.”
Read Real Customer Reviews On Amazon.com, Click Here!
The Good
- Easy blade change using the tool-free blade clamps
- Convenient location of the blade-tensioning lever, electronic variable speed, On/off switch and dust blower on the front upper arm.
- Has a back to front pivoting arm for smoother, quieter operation
- Has double parallel-link arm design to reduce noise/vibration and make extremely accurate cuts
- Lifting arm allows the blade to be threaded into materials for inside cuts
- Oversized working tables surface offers plenty of room to maneuver the project
- The working table can be tilted at 45 degrees to the left and right to allow for bevel cuts.
The Bad
- Might be a little pricey for beginners
- Their user manual is not as detailed as many users would have liked.
The Shop Fox W1713 is another very popular scroll show that you will find in professional woodworking workshops and as well as schools. Since it was introduced in 2009, the saw has received overwhelming attention and an endless number of positive reviews from users and industry experts.
Most users recommend this saw to beginners and hobbyists due to its ease of use, affordable price, and rich feature-set. It is however also appreciated by professional workers and experts in equal measures. Considering that most of the models like the DEWALT DW788 are high up in the premium pricing range, this model makes for a great option to users who are on budget but don’t want to compromise on quality. Translation: value for money.
The machine works with both plain and pinned blades, something that is not common on scroll saws in this price range. It also comes with a gauge which helps in setting up the plain blades. The finish from this model is much smoother compared to other competing models. The machine cuts through a wide range of woods, from soft to hardwood without much of a hassle.
The unit itself is constructed from cast iron, steel or aluminum, and there is only one element of plastic, so even at full throttle, you can expect this machine to produce consistency, accurate results. The general iron construction and solid foundation mean there will be very minimal vibrations during scrolling, even at the top speeds of 1700 SPM.
The cast iron base can be bolted to a workbench or stand to provide even greater accuracy and stability. Making accurate angular cuts has also just gotten easier with this model. There is an angle-gauge located at the front for ease of viewing and you can calibrate it accurately to your desired angle and make all the twists and turns that you want.
The Shop Fox W1713 doesn’t come with the most powerful motor, but at a rating of 1.2 Amp, this is the typical motor you will find with most models in its price range. The motor might not be dependable for cutting high density, thick materials such as metal, but it’s more than enough to make clean, accurate cuts on common materials such as wood.
The machine has a cutting depth of 2-inch, which as you may have noticed, equals to the pricier models such as the DEWALT DW788. It should work without a struggle on any materials less 2 inches in thickness. The variable speed can be easily adjusted using the speed knob conveniently located at an intuitive, easy to reach position. The machine offers a commendable speed range of 550 SPM to 1700 SPM. Shop Fox W1713 has a throat depth of 16 inches, which is more than enough for small to medium size materials.
Owing to its predominantly metal construction, this scroll saw is one of the most durable models you will find in the market. Given that it only has one plastic element and all the other parts are made of cast iron, steel, and aluminum, you can expect this unit to withstand a great deal of abuse and handle heavy-duty scrolling projects without breaking down.
“This Shop Fox scroll saw is also remarkably stable. The base is engineered from cast iron which enables it to absorb most of the vibrations and keep the table steady. This is very important when making small, accurate and intricate cuts. If you want added stability, you can bolt the base of the saw to a more stable stand. “
Read Real Customer Reviews On Amazon.com, Click Here!The Good
- Variable speed control which you can choose from 550 SPM to 1700 SPM
- Tilting table allows you to tilt 45-degrees to the left or right for angular cuts
- Gooseneck Work Lamp with 120V/10W light bulb for additional illumination
- Pin-End and Plain Blade Compatibility translating to the enhanced versatility
- 1.2 Amp 1/8HP, 110-Volt, 60Hz moderately powerful electric motor
- Flexible dust blower
- Overall dimensions; 26.4 by 15.9 by 12.8 inches
- Weighs 35 pounds, which pretty is lightweight
- Voltage rating: 110 volts
- Blade guard
- The transparent Blade guard completely protects your fingers from the moving blade while it still allows you to see your work
- Affordable price
- Excellent durable metal build quality
- Fairly large and solid working table
- Flexible dust blower to help you in keeping your cut line clear.
- Designed for heavy-duty projects and can effortlessly withstand everyday use.
- The cut quality is very precise and accurate, so you can use it on detailed design projects.
The Bad
- Doesn’t efficiently cut through high-density materials such as thick stick steel.
The WEN 3920 has built a solid reputation over the years to become the go-to scroll saw for semi-professionals, hobbyists, and beginners. It has a great built quality, an attractive price and is easy to use. In essence, it’s a great entry level scroll saw that will give you value for your money.
The WEN 3920 helps you make intricate and artful cuts in your project pieces without a hassle. The company states that this model helps you gain full control of your creativity and designs. The support table is quite wide and has a tilt mechanism that allows you to tilt your workpiece at 45 degrees to the left and right for angular cuts.
This particular model can handle all types of woods regardless of their density and composition. The saw also supports pinned and plain blades, which translates to more versatility. The main controls are also conveniently placed within your reach for ease of operation.
The WEN 3920 comes with a strong length of 9/16 inch, meaning that when its blade moves back and forth, you can expect a cut of about 1.4cm of your material at one time. The machine has a depth cut of 2 inches that allows it to cut a material of up to 2 inches in thickness. This is very generous at its price. This depth means it can effortlessly cut through commercially available wood boards or sheets like plastic sheet, plywood, and MDF.
This unit also offers a throat depth of 16 inches, which is enough for most DIY and semi-professional scrolling jobs. The machine is powered by a 1.2 Amp motor, delivering power comparable to models in the mid-range class.
While it will rip through all sorts of wooden material, the machine with struggle a little bit when working against metal material. The best part about this model is that it’s fairly lightweight and compact, weighing around 28lbs, which makes it easy to move around.
The WEN 392 provides a variable speed of 400 – 1600 strokes per minute. This will allow you to choose the speed that matches your material and produces smoother and more accurate cuts. The throat depth and generous table size offer enough space to maneuver your piece of work and make even the most complex turns and curves without too much hassle. The solid cast iron table also minimizes vibrations giving you a stable and solid foundation for making more accurate cuts.
Stability goes hand in hand with durability on this particular model. As earlier mentioned, the machine comes with a thick cast-iron table that also provides a foundation for your projects. Smaller and lighter scroll saw models of this type typically come with some degree of vibration and noises, but the WEN 3920 works hard to keep that to the minimum. To further minimize vibrations, you can bolt the machine on a workbench or saw stand.
“When it comes to durability, the manufacturer combines ABD plastic with metal alloys to create a remarkably solid and durable looking unit. The table, base, and arms are made of solid metal while the switches and knobs are made of high-quality ABS plastic.”
Read Real Customer Reviews On Amazon.com, Click Here!The Good
- Variable speed ranges from 400 to 1600 SPM
- Spacious 16 x 10-inch table for maneuvering workpieces
- Cuts up to 1.9 inches thick with a throat depth of 16 inches
- The tables tilts up to 45 degrees to the left for angular cuts
- Cast iron table and body provides stability and minimizes vibration
- Includes a 2-year warranty
- Moderately powerful 60 Hz, 1.2A, 120V, motor
- Onboard blade storage
- Includes 2 blades, foot lock clamp, dust port, Wrench flex light, air pump and Instruction Manual.
- Durable solid construction
- Extremely affordable
- Variable speed makes it accurate and versatile
- Large cast iron base offers stable construction and an option to bolt to a stand.
- Portable and lightweight, weighing only 28 pounds
- Accepts both plain and pinned blades.
- The saw comes completely assembled right out of the box
- The table is large enough for a variety of woodworking requirements.
The Bad
- The motor is slightly underpowered and may not be suitable to work on metal materials.
The Delta 40-694 Scroll Saw offers versatility for every type of user. The machine is specially designed to minimize vibration and noise. It has a dual parallel-link arm that helps in keeping the blade aligned perpendicularly to your piece of work for improved cut quality and accuracy.
Handy features such as the electronic variable speed knob, On/Off switch and flexible dust are located on the front end of the upper arm for your convenience and ease of access. It also comes with a tool-free blade clamp that makes it easy and quick to change blades. The machine markets itself as a simple-to-use scroll saw for users of all experience levels. You will be able to adjust the Strokes per Minute speeds even when the machine is still running
The Delta 40-694 might look simplistic at first glance, but its performance is rather surprising for a scroll saw in its class. This unit has a throat depth of 20 inches, which quite generous for those who want to work with larger material. You get all the space you need for better maneuverability. On top of that, you get 2-1/8 Inch cut depth which is more than enough for most scrolling jobs.
This saw is of the most accurate scroll saws in the market. It comes with very thin blades which allow you to cut through your wood with great control and precision. Replacing the blade is also very easy and takes just seconds, all you need is to just un-clamp the existing plate, replace it, and that’s all.
This model has a variable stroke speed of 400–1750 SPM. This means you can adjust it to match the type of material you’re working with for optimum accuracy. Some materials such as metal, plywood, and plastic need a slower speed, while others like solid wood require higher speeds.
This machine has a thick cast-iron table that helps in absorbing vibrations. This gives you a more stable environment to work with. Minimal vibrations mean more accurate cuts, which is very important especially when working with small pieces or when creating complex contours. The thick cast-iron table and base, as well as metallic arms, makes this model sturdy and durable too.
“Generally, the Delta 40-694 is counted among the most user-friendly best scroll saws in the market. Even beginners can quickly manage to cut complex and accurate designs within a relatively short time. It comes with a flexible dust hose that blows away debris to keep your cut line clean at all times.”
Read Real Customer Reviews On Amazon.com, Click Here!The Good
- Sturdy working table made out of solid cast-iron
- The speeds of the machine can be adjusted on the go
- It’s versatile and can cut through metal, wood, plastic etc. with consistent accuracy
- Allows for angular cuts by tilting the work table
- Simplistic design and easy to use even for beginners
- Dual parallel design and solid iron cast reduces vibrations
The Bad
- Blade tensioning requires some getting used to
The Dremel MS20-01 scroll saw, commonly referred to as the Dremel Moto-Saw, is a versatile and smart scrolling tool best suited for crafts-persons and woodworking hobbyists. While it’s not really a coping saw, some users have described it an electric coping saw with a base.
This particular model comes with a very interesting twist; it can work both as a stationary scroll saw as well as a mobile scroll saw. To use it as a stationary scroll saw, you simply attach its worktable and clump it on your workbench, and if you want to use it as a mobile version, all you need is to press a button that will detach it from its work table.
It’s an extremely compact, simple and lightweight machine; probably the most portable scroll saw in the market. When it comes to quality, the Dremel Brand evokes a sense of confidence and security when mentioned among the industry experts. You can, therefore, be assured that you’re getting nothing but the best if you decide to work with the Moto-saw or any of their products.
Despite being an entry-level unit, its blades work seamlessly to cut through hardwood without a struggle. It can comfortably cut through solid wood of up to � inches in thickness. But it’s generally suitable for cutting wood material of about � inches in thickness. Most solid wood, plastics, plywood and other low-density materials can be effortlessly scrolled by this model. Due to its small size, this model has a throat depth of just slightly over 10 inches. This makes it ideal for small to medium-sized projects that don’t need a lot of clearance.
The Dremel MS20-01 comes with an automatic blade tensioner, and as you already know, a correctly tensioned blade offers cleaner and more accurate cuts. This feature will be much appreciated by beginners as well as those want to cut some time from the setup process. The reciprocating blade cuts through materials more efficiently with less vibration which translates to more accurate scrolling.
The variable speed control allows this machine to cut materials of different hardness and thickness with more accuracy. Its variable speed ranges from 1500 – 2500 SPM, which, compared to the previous models, is incredibly high. This is what makes is suitable for cutting through soft materials like plywood and softwood.
A large part of this model is made of plastic, which explains why it weighs only 4.7 pounds. As earlier mentioned, this is the most compact and portable scroll saw we have ever reviewed. The top of the table is lined with an aluminum material that makes it more resistant to damage as well as wear and tear. While this is the not the most durable model, it should last quite long with proper handling and care.
“Stability is not one of the strongest points on this model. As earlier mentioned, this is an extremely light scroll saw, and this means you can expect some issues with vibration If you’re working on detailed designs, that’s going to be a problem. However, there is a solution to that; you simply clamp this saw to a solid surface. “
Read Real Customer Reviews On Amazon.com, Click Here!The Good
- Detachable coping function which allows mobile use
- Has dust port adapter that keeps your cut line clear and working space clean
- Has an Auto tensioning mechanism of optimal blade setup
- Fast-clamp base allows you to attach the machine to a wide range of benches, tables, and surfaces.
- Comes with Variable speed control which facilitates accurate and optimal cutting.
- Comes with four different blades i.e. Side Blade, Wood and Plastic Blade, Fine Wood Blade and Metal Blade.
The Bad
- The blade tends to have some vibration especially if the machine isn’t secured to a stable stand
- Attaching the blades needs some getting used to.
