Finding a perfect scroll saw is as hard as making an ideal cut with it. This blog will help you explore a few shortlisted best scroll saw products. There are a lot of things that one should keep in mind while going to purchase a saw. Here we will cover all such aspects which will help you make the right choice as per your requirement. Creating those beautiful curves would not be that hard once you find the perfect saw for your work.
What is a scroll saw?– To make complicated curves and cuts in a wide variety of materials, a saw is used. The best scroll saw will help you get more precise cuts than any other saw. With the ultra-fine reciprocating blades, you will able to cut more delicately.
The speed control of the saw adds to its performance. This not only enhances the accuracy but also helps get more details in your wooden work. The perfect cuts made out of scroll saw helps to have minimal sanding at the later stage. Furthermore, if you think of getting the best scroll saw, then the following product reviews would be of great help.
The best scroll saw is an indispensable workshop tool for all DIY people as well as a professional woodworker. Improve the overall performance and creativity of your woodwork by choosing a robust and reliable scroll saw. Enjoy a smooth and excellent wood finish with your perfect scroll saw.
Top 10 Best Scroll Saw for Beginners Review
01. DEWALT DW788 20” Scroll Saw: Perfect for beginners with loads of feature
Product Description and Performance
This product is one of the best, and economical scroll saw available in the market. Dewalt’s DW788saw is suitable for beginners who can get the most intricate curves and cuts with ease. This best scroll saw is bundled with a lot of useful features that can be enjoyed by both professionals and beginners.
The product includes a double parallel-link arm, reducing the vibration while operating the scroll saw. Another good feature out of many is the flexible dust blower. This feature allows the dust to blow away by making the vicinity clear and visible. The variable speed control of this scroll saw is also remarkable. The speed control varies between 450-1700 strokes per minute.
Product Features
- 1.3 Amp motor with variable speed control
- Double parallel link arm to reduce vibration
- 20-inch throat for more workspace
- Large cast iron table
- Highly energy efficient
- Easy blade replacement
Product Specifications
- Brand: Dewalt
- Model: DW788
- Weight:56 pounds
- Dimensions:29.5 x 19.5 x 12.1 inches
Pros
- Dust blower
- Lesser vibration
- Robust cast-iron build
- Variable speed control
- Cuts up to 18 inches of material
Cons
- No light
- Arm locking system not stable
- Noisy at higher speeds
02. WEN 3921 16” Scroll Saw: Uniquely designed to accept blades in two directions
Product Description and Performance
This scroll saw model is a budget-friendly one but loaded with many expensive features that other scroll saws have. It is lightweight and offers minimal vibration making it suitable for intricate cuts and curves. Due to its portability, it is straightforward to carry and store. This scroll saw the variable-speed operation is incredibly smooth and produces much less noise than others in this segment.
Wen 3921 scroll saw has compatibility with both pinned and pinless blades. This model is best suited for both DIY enthusiasts as well as professional wood crafters. Though this is an entry-level saw, it gives you a complete feeling of using a scroll saw professionally. The variable speed varies between 450-1650strokes per minute for this model. A thumbscrew blade adapter featured with this model facilitates easy blade change.
Product Features
- 1.2 Amp motor with variable speed control
- 450-1650 strokes per minute
- Cutting capacity of 2 inches at 90 degree
- 16-inch throat size
- 16” x 11” table size
Product Specifications
- Brand: Wen
- Model: 3921
- Weight: 23.3 pounds
- Dimensions: 26.38 x 13 x 14.75 inches
Pros
- Very low vibration
- Dust port availability
- Works with pinned and pinless blades
- Lightweight and portable
- Economical
- Has a light
Cons
- Pinless blades are a bit difficult to use with the adapters
- Dust blower is not very effective
- Bundled blades are not of good quality
03. Dremel MS20-01 Compact Scroll Saw: Multipurpose companion
Product Description and Performance
Dremel MS20-01 is another economical scroll saw available in the market. This product is ideal for the ones who are looking for affordability as well as performance. The product is so adaptable that you can convert the same stationary scroll saw to a handheld coping saw with just a button press. This helps you customize the saw as per your project requirement and delivers precise cuts and curves.
The fast clamp base makes this the best scroll saw, which can be placed at any surface for the required work in no time. This scroll saw is bundled with 10 blades, which are very easy to swap. The blades provided with this scroll saw are exceptionally designed in such a manner that it can cut any materials. May it be plastic, metal, or wood, Dremel MS20-01 is designed to deliver precise cuts.
Product Features
- Multipurpose stationery as well as a coping saw
- Good to cut a variety of materials
- Auto tensioning
- Superb variable speed control
- Swift accessory changing feature
- Bundled with 10 blades
- Clamp base
Product Specifications
- Brand: Dremel
- Model: MS2001
- Weight: 5.29 pounds
- Dimensions: 18.5 x 14.5 x 4.75 inches
Pros
- Accessory changing is very easy
- Dust port adapter
- User friendly and good for beginners
- Comes with a hard case for better protection
- Can be used as both stationary as well as a coping saw
Cons
- Compatible with pinned blades only
- Only proprietary blades can be used
- Bundled blades can be prone to vibration leading to less accuracy
04. Shop Fox W1713 16” Scroll Saw: Intermediate companion for DIY enthusiasts
Product Description and Performance
Though this Shop Fox model is good, it does not keep up with other scroll performance in the segment. This is even deprived of the parallel arm to reduce vibration and improve accuracy. Even after all these shortcomings, it comes with loads of features such as easy removal of blades and a toolbox to facilitate the same. It can cut hardwoods at any speed but with a little bit of lag.
Gooseneck work light is one of the excellent features which this scroll saw possess. This scroll saw is specifically designed to get the intricate cuts and curves with ease. The dust port and the fixed dust blower make it more efficient in keeping the dust away. Shop Fox W1713 built quality is very robust and durable due to the use of cast iron. A variable tilt table is also one of the main features with which this scroll saw bundles.
Product Features
- 1.2 Amp motor with variable speed control
- Has 500-1600 strokes per minute variable speed
- Gooseneck work light
- Dust blower and port
- 16-inch throat size to cut even hardwoods
- Table tilts up to 45 degrees
- Compact and easy to store
Product Specifications
- Brand: Shop Fox
- Model: W1713
- Weight: 37.4 pounds
- Dimensions: 12.8 x 26.4 x 15.9 inches
Pros
- Good price tag
- Work light
- Lesser vibration
- Durable and sturdy
- Works with both pinned and pinless blades
Cons
- The brightness of the light is not good
- Only one-way tilting table
- Dealing with blade adapters might be challenging at times
05. BUCKTOOLSSA16LVF 16”: Redefining efficiency
Product Description and Performance
Bucktool is known for its high-performance products and fantastic service quality. This model of Bucktool is ideal for all professional woodworkers who believe in precision cuts and curves and strive for a powerful scroll saw. This scroll saw is uniquely versatile and can work on almost all materials. The 1.2 Amp variable-speed motor is a smooth and quiet performer.
Efficiently crafted blade holders make it easy to change the blades and can provide them longevity. To provide a clear view while cutting in low light, a fixed LED is mounted in front. This helps vibration-free lighting to achieve precision cuttings. The pedal switch is another feather on the hat of this product. This feature gives you a hands-free experience while operating the scroll saw. Bucktool scroll saw comes with an adjustable iron cast table for stability and lesser vibration for angle cuts.
Product Features
- 1.2 Amp motor with quiet variable speed control motor
- 2-inch cutting depth
- 550-1650 strokes per minute variation of speed control
- Table tilts up to 45 degrees
- Pedal switch
- Easy blade replacement with longevity
- 16-inch throat size
Product Specifications
- Brand: Bucktool
- Model: SSA16LVF
- Weight: 34.4 pounds
- Dimensions: 24.6 x 11 x 13.4 inches
Pros
- Very sturdy construction quality
- Easy to use
- Economical intermediate scroll saw
- Makes good precision cuts
- Quick blade change system
- Heavy-duty cast iron table
Cons
- The bundled instruction booklet is useless
- Saw seizes at times
06. EXCALIBUREX21K21” Scroll Saw: Mobility at your fingertips
Product Description and Performance
Excalibur, the name itself is enough to ensure the high performance of this scroll saw. This premium quality scroll saw comes with a little higher price tag. The electronic variable speed controller produces 450-1550 strokes per minute to deliver precision cuts in almost all the materials. Unique switch protection enables the accidental startup of the saw, which prevents any damages.
The tilting table gives you a firm grip and stability while working on a saw. Unlike other models, the table tilts 45 degrees to the right and 38 degrees to the left. This is an extremely user-friendly scroll saw which can be used by professionals as well as amateur woodworkers. The additional safety features involve lower and upper blade protection and a pedal switch to operate the saw hands-free. This model also has a dust collector table kit to keep the surroundings clean while working and providing clear visibility.
Product Features
- Huge table surface area
- Steel stand and footswitch is bundled
- In-built work light for better visibility
- Dust blower is attached
- Variable electronic speed control
- Tool-free blade change with ease
- 21-inch throat size
Product Specifications
- Brand: General International
- Model: EX21K
- Weight: 110.8 pounds
- Dimensions: 32 x 15 x 48.5 inches
Pros
- Head tilts to 45 degrees instead of table
- Adjustable stand and foot pedal switch is a good addition
- Good for commercial usage
- Extremely durable and sturdy
Cons
- Higher price tag
- Noisy in comparison to other models in the segment
07. Delta Power 40694 20” Scroll Saw: Value for money
Product Description and Performance
Coming up next is another 20-inch scroll saw from the reputed brand name Delta Power. The design is made keeping in mind the beginners using the scroll saw for DIY projects. This scroll saw from Delta Power is another parallel link that lessens the vibration and noise to a great extent. The variable speed control ranges between 450-1700 strokes per minute. With a throat size of 20-inches, you can handle heavy woodworks with ease and accuracy.
The on/off switch, along with the dust blower, speed dial, and blade tensioning ever are placed up front for easy accessibility. Changing the blades in this scroll saw only takes a few seconds, and that too without any requirement of tools. This scroll saw comes with a storage unit to fit both the blades and retain the blades’ sharpness. This product has various options for upgrade, and that is why it is tagged high in the price range. For maximum clarity and accuracy in cutting, this scroll saw comes with an adjustable light and blower.
Product Features
- 1.3 Amp variable speed control ranging between 400-1750 strokes per minute
- Easy blade replacement through tool-free blade clamp
- The parallel link arm design
- 20-inch throat size
- Perfect for cutting almost all types of materials
- Huge cast table
- Ergonomic adjustable knobs
Product Specifications
- Brand: Delta Power Tools
- Model: 40694
- Weight: 60 pounds
- Dimensions: 30 x 20 x 13 inches
Pros
- Quiet and smooth
- Tool-free blade change with ease
- Very less vibration
- Huge cast table
- Dust blower
- Pro like functionality
- Value for money
Cons
- No light
- Ideal on/off switch location
- The arm locking pin is placed at the backside
08. ShopSeries RK7315 16” Scroll Saw: Budget-friendly companion
Product Description and Performance
This best scroll saw from Rockwell promises to deliver high performance and versatility at a very economical price tag. If you are a beginner and looking for a saw which is not too costly but at the same time serves your purpose, look no further and get hold of this RK7315 model. Though this scroll saw has no powerful motor but can operate at the variable speed range of 500-1700 strokes per minute. The variable speed control knob is placed at the right place to work conveniently.
The tabletop is smooth and flat, which helps you get accurate cuts and curves. Apart from that, the tabletop can be tilted to 45 degrees to its left. This helps get you a perfect angular cut on the material. The slight disadvantage of this scroll saw is that at the variable speed of 1700 SPM it starts vibrating with a loud noise. This can cause some accuracy problems while cutting the material. With a solid cast iron base, Rockwell has ensured the durability and sturdiness of this product.
Product Features
- 1.2 Amp variable speed control ranging between 500-1700 strokes per minute
- Powerful and lightweight
- Die-cast aluminum table
- Bundled with two 5-inch tungsten blades
- Ensures precision cuts and curves
- 16-inch throat size
Product Specifications
- Brand: Rockwell
- Model: RK7315
- Weight: 27 pounds
- Dimensions: 26 x 16 x 26 inches
Pros
- Affordable price tag
- Effectively works on thick materials
- Lightweight and portable
- Good for DIY projects
Cons
- Not good build quality as the same is mostly made of plastic
- Generates a lot of vibration at very high speed with noise
09. Porter-Cable PCB375SS 18” Scroll Saw: Innovative tabletop bevel scale for accuracy
Product Description and Performance
This scroll saw is not a good option for professional woodworkers but can be handy for beginners’ DIY projects. It is equipped with an aluminum frame, which is not considered a very stable cutting platform. The product comes with a dual tilting table, which can bend to 15 degrees of right and 45 degrees to the left. PCB375SS model has an easy blade removal mechanism without the use of any tools.
This scroll saw comes with a LED light and dust blower to keep the surroundings clean and make the visibility clear while working. It is also bundled with the bevel scale and control know, which is placed at the right place for better accessibility. For stable and proper operation, a sturdy steel stand is provided along with the product. The work table is large to handle the enormous material.
Product Features
- 1.6 Amp ball-bearing motor
- Variable motor speed ranges between 500-1500 strokes per minute
- 18-inch throat size
- 5-inch pinned and blank end saw blades
- Upfront control knob
- Dust extraction port
- Sturdy steel stand
Product Specifications
- Brand: Tradesman
- Model: PCB375SS
- Weight: 45.9 pounds
- Dimensions: 34 x 24 x 45 inches
Pros
- Economical price tag
- Good for DIY projects and beginners
- Quality steel stand
Cons
- Blade flutter sideways
- Blade tension is weak and poorly designed
- The light gooseneck connector is very short
10. Rockwell RK7323 X2: Ultimate cutting machine
Product Description and Performance
This scroll saw from Rockwell is versatile as well as lightweight. This is best suited for beginners as well as DIY projects. This product’s jigsaw and circular blade allow to cuts almost any type of materials such as tiles, wood, or plastic. The compactness of this scroll saw makes it work in minimal space very effectively.
This model is easy to set up and effortless to carry around due to the built-in carry handle. You can change tool-free blades in seconds without any hassle. With this model, you can have a rip, cross, miter, and scroll cutting flawlessly. Another good thing about this scroll saw is its compactness and lightweight. This product is bundled with 5 t-shank blades for cutting almost any type of material. However, this saw is small in size but ready for significant cuts.
Product Features
- 4-inch circular blade diameter
- Lightweight, compact and convenient
- Bundled with safety features
- Great for personal use
- Made of heavy-duty black plastic
Product Specifications
- Brand: Positec USA
- Model: RK7323
- Weight: 17 pounds
- Dimensions: 16.1 x 17.5 x 8.3 inches
Pros
- Suitable for cutting a variety of materials
- Lightweight and compact
- Best suited for small workspaces
- Affordable
Cons
- Not meant for commercial usage
- Accuracy is not up to the mark
Buying Guide
With the diversified range of scroll saw available in the market, it is challenging to obtain the most appropriate and competitive one. Some saws differ in terms of performance, durability, functionality, styles, etc. Hence it is essential to analyze the elements that are associated with your buying. Are you a professional woodworker or DIY enthusiast? The following are the buying considerations that would assist you in selecting the best scroll saw.
Throat size
Throat size is one of the essential factors which you should consider while buying a scroll saw. This will help you determine how large a project you can handle with it or whether it should suffice your requirement. Now, what is throat size? Well, this is the distance from the front blade to the back of the saw. The throat size is very clearly mentioned over the box, and you can check the same while purchasing the saw. It comes in various sizes, such as 16, 18, 20, and 21 inches.
Variable control speed
Variable control speed is the other vital thing to consider while buying a scroll saw. To get perfect cuts and curves by adjusting the speed of the saw is very important. It is always good to get the saw, which can be adjusted as per your project’s requirement. This will help you get precise cuts and desired craftsmanship. You should also see that the blades should not vibrate with loud noise at a higher speed as it will spoil your final product.
Blades
It is crucial to consider the type of blades that your scroll saw uses. There are mainly two blades that are used in scroll saws, pinned and pinless. Pinned blades are mainly meant for larger complicated pieces of wood. At the same time, the pinless ones will allow you to get the delicate and detailed cuts and curves on the material.
Another important thing here is to assess whether the blades can be changed easily without using any tools by the user. The modern scroll saws come with an easy-to-change blade feature, but one should double-check the same before buying it. It is not bad either to check for blade storage for longer retention of sharpness and longevity of blades.
Platform
The work table or platform is the place where you will do your cutting. Hence, it is vital to have a close look at the platform. For larger projects, you should have a larger area on the platform. A stable and well-built platform will allow you to have a lesser vibration and provide perfect cuts and curves.
Durability
Before buying the scroll saw, it is mandatory to assess the buildup and exterior finish along with protection. The quality of construction is directly associated with the smooth functioning of saws.
Scroll saw arm
The scroll saw arm is one of the factors which helps reduce vibration and produce precision cuts. Various scroll saws come with a variety of saw arms, but the double parallel link arm is the best among all. You should also see whether the saw arm is adjustable or not, as the adjustable ones will help you get the desired angular cuts.
The foot pedal and on/off switch
The foot pedal makes it easy to operate the scroll saw hands-free. The on/off switch should also be placed at a convenient place for easy accessibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best scroll saw blade?
The number up to 12 indicates the table’s size, and the “R” after the same points the reverse teeth. Skip teeth, and double teeth blades are the most commonly used blades in the scroll saw. Skip tooth blades perform cuts aggressively, whereas the double teeth ones give you more control and accuracy. In the end, the choice of blade entirely depends on the user and the kind of work he is going to undertake.
What type of scroll saw is the best?
A parallel arm or parallel link system scroll saws are the best ones. This will complement your heavy-duty project works. Pinless blades are thinner and therefore make it better to accomplish intricate cuts and curves. They are also good at getting into small holes with ease.
How can you judge if the tension on your scroll saw is perfect?
All you need to do is flick the blade when it is in the saw. But be careful and ensure that while doing this, the motor is not switched on. Now, hear if it gives you a high-pitched sound. If it does, then it is perfectly tensioned. Always remember, more tension is still good than not having enough. Lose blades will only make you lose control. Hence, take some time to keep the pressure right before using your scroll saw.
What are the safety measures you should take while working on the scroll saw?
Fortunately, the best scroll saw is one of the safest power tools which anyone can use. But you should always wear a mask and goggles while working with a scroll saw as it will prevent the entering of dust and debris into your eyes and mouth. Keep your fingers and hand well out of the blade range to avoid any kind of accidents.
What is the difference between brand and scroll saw?
The working mechanism of the scroll saw is more or similar to that of the sewing machine. Scroll saw uses reciprocating blades to remove the versatile material. The brand saw, on the other hand, passes through the material to make an incision.
To cut boards or blocks, most of the band saws are bundled with adjustable height settings. Scroll saws are best suited for complicated cuts and curves. Still, band saws are suitable for versatile and typical cuts for increased productivity.
On what all materials can scroll saw work?
Other than wood, scroll saw can work on various kinds of material such as acrylic, plastic, leather, bone, fiber, tiles, etc. The only thing to consider here is that the material’s thickness should not be more than ¾ inch.
What all cuts and designs can be made using a scroll saw?
If you compare scroll saw with other ones, you can do various cuts and designs as per your choice. Some of them are thick, angular, dovetail, plunge, interior, and curved cuts.
Which blade is the better, pinned or pinless?
Pinned blades are suitable for DIY enthusiasts and beginners as they are effortless to operate as well as change. The woodwork professionals, though, prefer pinless/plain blades to accomplish their task in precision. Pinned blades being thick are suitable for complicated cuts and curves.
Wrap Up
The product, as mentioned above, reviews, along with the buying guide, would assist you in selecting the best scroll saw. However, one should not forget to assess all the features as well as the quality of saws thoroughly. This is because the saws define the precision of cuts and curves on wood, so it is necessary to get the best one. Investing in inferior quality saws can adversely affect the craftsmanship, thereby compromising safety. Also, there are different types of saws in the segment; select the one that fits your requirements. After all, safety, precision, and comfort are what matters at the end of the day! A better scroll saw will make you a better professional.
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