Best Scroll Saws

top picks

Ranking

What’s in the Toolbox

tool

Good Points

  • Double parallel-link arm design reduces vibration and noise
  • Electronic variable speed allows adjustments to match different cutting tasks
  • Blade-tensioning lever offers quick and easy tension adjustments for accuracy
  • The 558.8mm (22”) throat capacity handles large woodworking projects with ease
  • Top lift, spring-loaded arm stays raised for easy workpiece positioning
  • Integrated blade storage and onboard dust blower provide added convenience
  • Front-located controls ensure easy access to speed, tension, and power
  • On-tool blade storage keeps spare blades neatly organized and protected
  • Upper arm lifts and locks for easy blade changes or positioning
  • A heavy duty casted head provides long lasting performance and durability
  • Operates in both vertical and horizontal cutting positions
  • A 3-step gear transmission increases torque output for demanding tasks

tool overVIEW

DEWALT (DW788) BEST 508mm (20”) Scroll Saw OVERALL

The DEWALT 508mm (20”) Scroll Saw (DW788) is a top choice for woodworkers seeking precision and ease of use. Its innovative double parallel link arm design significantly reduces vibration and noise ensuring smoother more accurate cuts even during intricate projects. This feature enhances the tool’s overall stability making it perfect for both hobbyists and professionals looking for clean consistent results.

Convenience is key with the DEWALT (DW788). The tool-free blade clamps allow for quick blade changes in just seconds minimizing downtime and keeping your workflow efficient. Additionally, the front upper arm houses essential controls such as the on-off switch, electronic variable speed, flexible dust blower and blade-tensioning lever. This thoughtful arrangement ensures easy access to adjustments while working, enabling users to focus on the task at hand without disruption.

With its robust design and user friendly features, the DEWALT (DW788) offers the precision, durability and convenience that woodworking enthusiasts need. Whether for intricate designs or general scroll saw tasks this model stands out as a reliable and highly functional option in its class.

features

DEWALT (DW788) BEST 508mm (20”) Scroll Saw OVERALL

  • Double parallel-link arm design reduces vibration and noise for precise cuts
  • Tool-free blade clamps allow for quick blade changes in seconds
  • On-off switch, electronic variable speed, dust blower and blade-tensioning lever are all located on the front upper arm for easy access
  • Electronic variable speed control adjusts speed to suit different cutting needs
  • Flexible dust blower keeps the cutting area clear for better visibility
  • 508mm (20”) throat depth provides capacity for larger woodworking projects
  • Cast iron table ensures stability during cutting operations

tool overVIEW

JET (JWSS-22B) Best 558.8mm (22”) Scroll Saw RUNNER UP

The JET 558.8mm (22”) Scroll Saw (JWSS-22B) combines innovative features with exceptional design making it a standout machine for precision scroll work. One of the saw’s best features is its streamlined blade change process with an exclusive upper mechanism that clamps and tensions the blade in a single step. The tool-less lower blade holder is easily removable and the table includes a convenient slot for quick blade changes further enhancing the user experience.

With 558.8mm (22”) of throat capacity, this saw offers ample space for larger projects. The arm tilts 45° to the left and 45° to the right keeping the worktable flat and ensuring accurate cuts. The variable speed control ranging from 400 to 1,550 strokes per minute provides flexibility for different materials and project requirements. The spring-loaded top lift arm stays raised until pulled back down allowing for easy access when positioning your workpiece.

The large cast iron table measuring 327mm (12-7/8”) x 584.2mm (23”) provides a stable surface minimizing vibration for more precise cuts. The integrated blade storage, onboard dust blower, material hold down and foot switch add convenience to your scrolling projects. A removable dust port underneath the table collects debris directly at the source keeping the workspace clean.

features

JET (JWSS-22B) Best 558.8mm (22”) Scroll Saw RUNNER UP

  • Conveniently located speed and tension controls
  • Included Equipment: Material hold down, Onboard Dust Blower, Foot Switch
  • Integrated blade storage features slots for pre-loaded blades and a built in wrench for changing blades
  • Large 327mm (12-7/8”) x 584.2mm (23”) cast iron table provides a stable working surface while also limiting vibration
  • Removable dust port on underside of table to collect dust at the source
  • Top lift, spring loaded arm raises 254mm (10”) and stays up until pulled back down
  • Variable speed range of 400 – 1,550 strokes per minute

tool overVIEW

DELTA POWER TOOLS (40-694) Best 508mm (20”) Scroll Saw ON A BUDGET

The DELTA POWER TOOLS 508mm (20”) Scroll Saw (40-694) is engineered for precision and durability making it an ideal choice for intricate woodworking projects. Its large cast iron table offers excellent support for materials and can bevel from 0° to 45° both left and right allowing for versatile angled cuts. A unique dual parallel-link arm design reduces vibration and noise ensuring smoother more accurate cuts by keeping the blade perpendicular to the work surface which prevents over or under cutting.

The saw features a convenient tool-free blade tensioning system, allowing users to quickly adjust the blade tension with a single lever. This not only maximizes blade life but also enhances cutting accuracy. The electronic variable speed ranges from 400 to 1,750 strokes per minute (SPM) accommodating a wide variety of cutting applications.

Additionally, the upper arm lifts and locks in place during blade changes making the process easier and faster. The saw’s tool-free blade clamp allows for quick blade changes in seconds enhancing overall efficiency. With an accessible control panel that includes the on-off switch, speed dial, dust blower and blade-tensioning lever, the DELTA (40-694) is designed for user-friendly operation. On-tool blade storage ensures organized and safe protection for spare blades.

features

DELTA POWER TOOLS (40-694) Best 508mm (20”) Scroll Saw ON A BUDGET

  • Electronic variable speed can be adjusted from 400 – 1,750 SPM for a wide array of cutting applications
  • Unique dual parallel-link arm design reduces vibration and noise and keeps the blade perpendicular to the work surface which dramatically reduces over or under cutting, improving accuracy and quality
  • Upper arm lifts and locks in the raised position during blade changes or while adjusting blade position for fret work
  • On/Off switch, electronic variable speed dial, flexible dust blower and blade-tensioning lever are all conveniently located up front on the arm for easy accessibility
  • Tool-free blade clamp allows for quick easy blade changes in seconds
  • Single lever, tool-free blade tensioning allows for quickly adjusting the blade to the proper tension which maximizes blade life and accuracy
  • Large, cast-iron table provides excellent material support and bevels 0° to 45° left and right
  • On-tool blade storage area provides neat, organized protection for scroll saw blades, includes 2 straight blades

tool overVIEW

WEN (LL2156) Best 533.4mm (21”) Scroll Saw AS AN ALTERNATIVE

The WEN 533.4mm (21”) Scroll Saw (LL2156) is a versatile and powerful tool designed for precision cutting of wood up to 51mm (2”) thick. Featuring a parallel-arm design, the saw minimizes both vibration and noise making it ideal for quiet smooth operation. The heavy duty steel construction enhances durability and stability while the variable speed motor adjustable between 550 and 1,600 strokes per minute allows for flexibility across a range of materials and project types.

The spacious 651mm (25-5/8”) x 406.4mm (16”) steel table can bevel up to 45° to the left and 30° degrees to the right offering versatility for angled cuts. This makes the saw adaptable for complex woodworking tasks. The upper arm of the saw lifts and locks in place allowing for easy interior cuts and workpiece adjustments streamlining the cutting process.

Blade changes are simple and tool-free with dual side panels that open to give quick access to the blade holders making it easy to switch between pinless or spiral blades. The integrated air pump and 38mm (1-1/2”) dust port help maintain a clean work area ensuring better visibility and overall efficiency. Additionally, the scroll saw includes two 127mm (5”) pinless blades enhancing its readiness for immediate use.

features

WEN (LL2156) Best 533.4mm (21”) Scroll Saw AS AN ALTERNATIVE

  • Parallel-arm design combined with heavy duty steel construction limit vibration and reduces noise
  • Spacious 651mm (25-5/8”) x 406.4mm (16”) steel table bevels up to 45° to the left and 30° to the right
  • Dual side panels flip open for easy-access tool-free blade changes
  • Upper arm locks in raised position to allow for easy interior cuts and workpiece adjustments
  • Features a variable speed 1.6 Amp motor, a flexible air pump, two 127mm (5”) pinless blades, a tension release lever, a 38mm (1-1/2”) dust port, an adjustable material hold-down clamp, a 19mm (3/4”) stroke, and a two year warranty

BEST Scroll Saws

tool Specification comparison table

Power Source

Corded Electric

Corded Electric

Corded Electric

Corded Electric

Voltage

120 Volts

120 Volts

120 Volts

120 Volts

Amperage

1.3 Amps

1.3 Amps

1.3 Amps

1.6 Amps

Motor Type

Brushed

Brushed

Brushed

Brushed

Included Components

(1) DEWALT 508mm (20”) Scroll Saw
(1) Hex Wrench
(1) Blade

(1) JET 558.8mm (22”) Scroll Saw

(1) JET 508mm (20”) Scroll Saw
(2) Blades

‎(1) WEN 533.4mm (21”) Scroll Saw

Stroke Length

19mm (3/4”)

19mm (3/4”)

19mm (3/4”)

19mm (3/4”)

Strokes Per Minute (SPM)

400 SPM – 1,750 SPM

400 SPM – 1,550 SPM

400 SPM – 1,750 SPM

550 SPM – 1,600 SPM

Depth of Cut

51mm (2”)

51mm (2”)

54mm (2-1/8”)

51mm (2”)

Table Tilt

0° to 45° Left and Right

0° to 45° Left and Right

0° to 45° Left and Right

0° to 45° Left and 0° to 30° Right

Weight

Not Available

31 kgs (68.2 lbs.)

31.8 kgs (70 lbs.)

24.4 kgs (53.8 lbs.)

Warranty Description

3 Year Limited Warranty, 1 Year Free Service, 90 Days Satisfaction Guaranteed

5 Year Limited Warranty

5 Year Limited Warranty

2 Year Limited Warranty

Item Model Number

DW788

JWSS-22B

40-694

LL2156

Scroll Saws

0ther ALTERNATIves

what’s in the toolbox

tool

Key points

included components

Voltage:‎ 120 Volts
Amperage: 1.3 Amps
Stroke Length: 19mm (3/4”)
Strokes Per Minute (SPM): 400 SPM – 1,550 SPM
Depth of Cut: 51mm (2”)
Table Tilt: 0° to 30° Left and 0° to 45° Right
Weight: 24.5 kgs (54.0 lbs.)
Warranty Description: 5 Year Limited Warranty
Item Model No.: JWSS-18B

‎(1) JET 457.2mm (18”) Scroll Saw

Voltage:‎ 120 Volts
Amperage: 1.2 Amps
Stroke Length: 14.3 mm (9/16”)
Strokes Per Minute (SPM): 550 SPM – 1,600 SPM
Depth of Cut: 51mm (2”)
Table Tilt: 0° to 45° Left
Weight: 12.5 kgs (27.5 lbs.)
Warranty Description: 2 Year Limited Warranty
Item Model No.: 3921

(1) WEN 406.4mm (16”) Scroll Saw

Voltage:‎ 120 Volts
Amperage: 1.2 Amps
Stroke Length: 19mm (3/4”)
Strokes Per Minute (SPM): 550 SPM – 1,600 SPM
Depth of Cut: 51mm (2”)
Table Tilt: 0° to 45° Left
Weight: Not Available
Warranty Description: 1 Year Limited Warranty
Item Model No.: SS9503-00

(1) SKIL 406.4mm (16”) Scroll Saw

Voltage:‎ 120 Volts
Amperage: 1.2 Amps
Stroke Length: 14.3 mm (9/16”)
Strokes Per Minute (SPM): 550 SPM – 1,600 SPM
Depth of Cut: 57.2mm (2-1/4″)
Table Tilt: -5° to 45° Left
Weight: 13.0 kgs (29.0 lbs.)
Warranty Description: 2 Year Limited Warranty
Item Model No.: W1872

‎(1) SHOP FOX 406.4mm (16”) Scroll Saw

Voltage:‎ 120 Volts
Amperage: 1.2 Amps
Stroke Length: 15mm (19/32”)
Strokes Per Minute (SPM): 550 SPM – 1,650 SPM
Depth of Cut: 51mm (2″)
Table Tilt: 0° to 45° Left
Weight: 12 kgs (26.4 lbs.)
Warranty Description: 5 Year Limited Warranty
Item Model No.: 10-600VS

(1) RIKON 406.4mm (16”) Scroll Saw

a Tool for Every Job

BUYERS GUIDE

Scroll Saws

Consider Your Cutting Needs:

When choosing a scroll saw it’s important to assess the types of projects you plan to work on. Scroll saws are best suited for intricate cutting tasks such as crafting decorative designs, detailed woodworking or working with delicate materials. If you frequently handle thicker materials or complex patterns, consider a model that offers a higher throat depth and variable speed settings. For those who require tight curves and detailed work, a saw with a thin sharp blade will provide the precision needed. Ensure the model you select aligns with the materials and level of detail required for your projects.

Blade Types and Compatibility:

Scroll saws use various blades and understanding the differences between them can significantly impact the quality of your work. Most models support both pinned and pinless blades, with pinless blades being favored for intricate and detailed cuts due to their finer edges. Consider a saw that allows easy blade changes as this can save time when switching between different tasks. Additionally, ensure the blades you need for your projects are readily available and compatible with the saw model you’re considering.

Variable Speed and Control:

Scroll saws with adjustable speed settings provide more flexibility especially when working with different materials. Slower speeds are ideal for softer materials like wood and plastic while faster speeds are better suited for tougher materials such as metal. Models with variable speed control allow you to adjust the cutting speed on the go providing more precision and reducing the risk of damaging delicate materials. Having control over the speed also contributes to smoother edges reducing the amount of finishing work needed after cutting.

Stability and Vibration Reduction:

A stable scroll saw is essential for accurate cuts especially when working on detailed designs. Some models come equipped with vibration reduction features which enhance control and precision by reducing the saw’s movement during operation. Look for a saw with a sturdy base and additional features like rubber feet to further stabilize the machine. By minimizing vibration, you not only achieve cleaner cuts but also make the process more comfortable for extended use.

Ease of Use and Additional Features:

Scroll saws should be user friendly especially if you plan on using them regularly. Look for features like tool-free blade changes which make it easy to switch blades without hassle. Models with dust blowers and integrated lights can also improve visibility, keeping your workspace clean and your cutting line clear. Additional features such as tilt able tables for angled cuts and foot switches for hands free operation can enhance convenience and precision making your overall experience with the tool more efficient and enjoyable.

UNVEILING THE pros AND conS

Scroll Saws

pros

  • A significant advantage of scroll saws is their ability to make intricate detailed cuts with remarkable precision. This makes them the perfect tool for tasks such as crafting, woodworking and fine metalwork where accuracy is crucial. Their thin sharp blades allow users to navigate tight curves and create delicate designs making them ideal for projects that require a high level of detail and craftsmanship.
  • Another benefit of scroll saws is their ability to produce smooth clean cuts. Unlike other saws they often eliminate the need for extensive sanding or additional finishing which saves time and effort. This is particularly useful in projects where a polished professional look is required right out of the saw such as in decorative or artistic work.
  • Scroll saws are also highly versatile able to cut through a wide range of materials including wood, plastic and even soft metals. This adaptability makes them suitable for a variety of applications from hobby projects to more professional tasks like signage and intricate furniture designs. Adjustable speed settings further enhance their versatility allowing for tailored cutting performance based on the material.
  • Ease of use is another key advantage, especially for beginners. Scroll saws are generally safer and easier to control than many other power saws as they produce minimal kickback and allow for fine-tuned cutting. This makes them accessible for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals looking for a precise user friendly tool for delicate work.
  • Scroll saws are compact and portable making them well suited for smaller workshops or home setups. Their lightweight design also makes them easy to transport to different job sites. For hobbyists or tradespeople who need a reliable tool without taking up too much space the scroll saw is a convenient and practical option.

cons

  • One disadvantage of scroll saws is their limitation when cutting thicker or denser materials. While they excel at making precise cuts on thinner pieces, they struggle with materials that require more power to slice through. This makes them less effective for heavy duty woodworking or construction projects that involve thick wood or metal.
  • Another drawback is the fragility of the blades which can break easily particularly when working with hard materials or applying too much pressure. This can lead to frequent blade replacements which not only interrupts workflow but also increases costs over time. Managing blade durability is a challenge especially during long or complex projects.
  • Scroll saws are also slower than other types of saws which can be a limitation in high volume or large-scale production settings. Their speed and cutting capacity are best suited for detailed careful work rather than tasks that require quick efficient cuts. As a result, they may not be ideal for users who need to work quickly or on larger projects.
  • There is also a learning curve involved in mastering the scroll saw particularly for achieving precise and professional results. While the tool is user friendly gaining the control and finesse needed to make clean intricate cuts takes time and practice. This can be frustrating for beginners who are looking for immediate high-quality results.
  • Scroll saws are somewhat specialized meaning their range of applications is more limited compared to other saws. They are designed primarily for fine detail work, so if your projects involve a variety of cutting tasks, you may need to invest in other saws to handle heavier or more general-purpose work. This can add to the overall cost and space needed for tools in your workshop.