Are you into woodworking or love crafting? The right scroll saw can take your works from good to great. These tools are known for their precision, perfect for detailed designs on wood. Owning a top-rated scroll saw means easier cuts, less sanding, and fine details. Think about making jewelry boxes, wood signs, or birdhouses with ease.
We tested 20 scroll saws, but only 7 made the cut. That’s a 35% consideration rate. Our reviews span across categories, making it easy to find something for everyone. Whether you’re a newbie or a pro, we’ve got you covered. Brands like DeWalt, Rockwell, and Delta ranked highest. For instance, the DeWalt 20-Inch Variable-Speed Scroll Saw won the Best Overall. And for those on a budget, the Rockwell ShopSeries 16-Inch Scroll Saw is a steal.
Our guide dives deep into the top scroll saw picks, highlighting each model’s unique features. Whatever you’re looking for—top-notch features or an affordable pick—our reviews will point you to your ideal scroll saw.
Introduction to Scroll Saws
A scroll saw is key for detailed woodworking. It lets you make precise cuts in wood, plastic, or metal. When looking for the top scroll saws for complex designs, consider features that meet your needs.
DeWalt is known for quality and efficiency. Their DeWalt DW788 has a 1.3 Amp motor, with speeds from 400 to 1750 strokes per minute. This ensures precise cuts. It also features a tool-free blade change and a built-in dust blower, making it user-friendly.
Scroll saw prices range from around $100 to more than $2,000. A scroll saw with a 21″ throat might start at $649, or $719 with a stand. The stand, available for $74.97 at The Home Depot, offers adjustable legs and mounting holes for extra stability.
Shopsmith scroll saws come with a flexible hold-down arm, offering a different option from the usual rigid ones. This highlights the variety in scroll saw features to suit each user’s preferences. Whether you’re starting out or experienced, there’s a wide selection to find the right scroll saw for intricate designs. For more woodworking tools and materials tips, see this comprehensive guide on picking the best wood for your workbench, for lasting durability and function in your projects.
Key Features to Look for in a Scroll Saw
When you start looking into scroll saws, you’ll find some key features to keep in mind. These will help you pick the best tool for what you need. With the right features, your projects can be more precise, your workspace cleaner, and your tool more versatile.
Variable Speed Control
One important thing is the variable speed control in scroll saws. It lets you change how fast you cut. You can adjust the speed from under 400 strokes per minute (SPM) to more than 1,800 SPM. This means you can cut different materials well, from softwoods to hardwoods. And it helps when you’re cutting complex patterns, making your work better.
Dust Collection Systems
Having a good dust collection system in your scroll saw keeps your workspace clean and safe. These systems catch sawdust before it spreads, making the air cleaner and your tool last longer. With dust ports, you can easily hook up more dust collection, so your work area stays healthy. Keeping your space tidy helps you work better and safer.
Blade Types
The type of blades a scroll saw can use makes a big difference. Different projects need different blades. So, a scroll saw that fits many blades is very useful. This lets you cut a variety of materials and details more easily. C-type saws cut aggressively with less maintenance, while parallel-link ones cut more accurately with less vibration. Easy blade-changing saves you time and makes moving between tasks smooth.
Getting to know these features, like how often to maintain your saw, really helps in picking the right scroll saw. Brands like DeWalt, Delta, and Grizzly offer these top features. They are great choices, no matter how experienced you are.
Best Overall Scroll Saw: DeWalt 20-Inch Variable-Speed Scroll Saw
The DeWalt 20-Inch Variable-Speed Scroll Saw shines among its peers. It offers top performance with its deep throat size and adjustable speed. This makes it perfect for both hobbyists and pros, ensuring precise and easy work on diverse projects.
Performance and Features
The DeWalt 20-Inch Variable-Speed Scroll Saw leads in performance. It has a 20-inch throat size, making it easy to work with big pieces of wood. The speed can be changed from 400 to 1,750 strokes per minute. This lets you match the speed with different materials and job complexities.
The tool has a system for changing blades without tools, using quick-change pinless blades. This makes switching blades quick and boosts productivity.
Pros and Cons
The DeWalt 20-Inch Variable-Speed Scroll Saw comes with many positives. Highlights include:
- Variable-speed control lets you adjust the cutting speed.
- Changing blades is easy and doesn’t require tools.
- An effective dust blower keeps your work area clean.
But, it has some drawbacks:
- It weighs 65.7 pounds, which might make moving it hard.
- There’s no lock to hold the arm up when changing blades.
Ideal Users
Many different users will find the DeWalt 20-Inch Variable-Speed Scroll Saw ideal. Whether you’re a pro woodworker or a weekend DIY fan, its big throat size and speed adjustments meet various project needs. Pros will especially like the powerful motor and the design that keeps it from vibrating too much. This makes for smooth, precise cuts.
The thoughtful design and strong features make the DeWalt 20-Inch Variable-Speed Scroll Saw a top choice in its field.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Throat Size | 20 inches |
| Blade Speed | 400-1,750 SPM |
| Weight | 65.7 pounds |
| Bevel Angle | Up to 45 degrees (both directions) |
| Motor Power | 1.3 amp |
Best Bang for the Buck: Rockwell ShopSeries 16-Inch Scroll Saw
The Rockwell ShopSeries 16-Inch Scroll Saw is an amazing choice for budget-conscious shoppers. It doesn’t cut corners on key features even though it’s priced lower. For newcomers, it’s a great model because it performs well and is easy to use.
The Rockwell ShopSeries 16-Inch Scroll Saw has features that help beginner woodworkers. For one, it has a variable speed control. This lets you change the cutting speed to match different materials for more accurate cuts. It also has a place to store blades, keeping your space neat and making work flow smoother.
This saw is designed with safety in mind, including a shield to prevent accidents. It’s also quieter than many low-cost saws out there. Plus, it has handy storage for blades right on the machine. This storage saves you time from having to change blades too often.
Though the Rockwell ShopSeries 16-Inch Scroll Saw can only bevel in one direction, it offers many benefits. It allows for complex cuts, which are crucial for detailed projects. This makes it a great, budget-friendly choice for those new to scroll sawing.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Variable Speed Control | Adjustable speed for precision cuts |
| Safety Shield | Enhanced user safety during operation |
| Built-in Blade Storage | Organized and efficient workspace |
| Noise Level | Relatively quieter operation |
| Beveling Direction | Bevels in one direction only |
In short, the Rockwell ShopSeries 16-Inch Scroll Saw is a top pick for affordability and function. It gives beginners the right tools for precise and detailed cuts. With safety features, speed control, and an easy-to-use design, it’s perfect for starting your woodworking projects.
Upgrade Pick: Delta 20-Inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw
The Delta 20-Inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw shines for its superb features and accuracy. It’s the go-to for pros who need dependable and flexible tools. It comes packed with high-tech features aimed at skilled crafters. Thanks to its strong build and low vibration, the Delta 20-Inch is a standout upgrade choice.
Advanced Technologies
The Delta 20-Inch scroll saw has great blade storage onboard. This makes tool organization and access easy. Plus, its adjustable dust blower keeps the cut line clean. Yet, for a spotless workspace, adding an external dust collector helps. With a 20-inch throat depth and 2.125-inch vertical capacity, it’s perfect for both detailed and large projects.
Target Audience
This tool is made for the pro craftsman. It offers advanced options, like beveling up to 45 degrees both ways. Speed is adjustable from 400 to 1,750 SPM, matching various cutting jobs. The Delta 20-Inch ensures smooth, quiet work, high for precise woodworking jobs.
To show how the Delta 20-Inch stands out, below is a specs table comparing it with others:
| Model | Throat Size | Vertical Capacity | Table Size | Weight | Variable Speed Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delta 40-694 | 20 inches | 2.125 inches | 24 by 16 inches | 70 lbs | 400 to 1750 SPM |
| Porter Cable | 18 inches | 2.25 inches | 20 by 12.5 inches | 45 lbs | 400 to 1750 SPM |
| Jet JWSS-22B | 22.375 inches | 2 inches | 23 by 12.875 inches | 68.2 lbs | 400 to 1750 SPM |
| Hegner 18-V | 18 inches | 2.625 inches | 17 by 9 inches | 50 lbs | 400 to 1750 SPM |
The Delta 20-Inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw offers top-notch performance, ideal for pros. Its consistent quality and flexibility make it a top pick for complex sawing jobs.
Portable and Compact Option: Dremel Moto-Saw
The Dremel Moto-Saw is great for woodworkers who want a small, easy-to-carry tool. It works like a scroll saw and a coping saw combined. For just $99.00, it’s a steal, giving lots of options without costing too much.
Detailed Review
The Dremel Moto-Saw compact scroll saw is perfect for fine cuts in wood, plastic, metal, and laminates. You can use it as a fixed scroll saw or take it in hand as a coping saw. Its easy blade-change feature is a big plus for working smoothly.
This saw comes with many extras, like different blades for various cuts. It has adjustable speeds to cut through various materials easily. Plus, its dust port keeps your work area clear. The two-year warranty offers extra confidence in its lasting value.
Use Cases
Portable scroll saws like the Dremel Moto-Saw are great for craft enthusiasts or those with small workspaces. It’s ideal for detailed work because it’s good at making interior cuts and tight curves. Its clamp base makes it easy to move and use anywhere. For quick jobs, this tool is super handy and efficient.
Though it’s smaller than big, stationary saws, its usefulness in certain situations shines through. It’s good for light jobs or when a big saw is too much. The Dremel Moto-Saw is a go-to for diverse cutting tasks, proving its worth in many projects.
Best Scroll Saw for Beginners
Finding the right scroll saw is key for beginners. They need something easy to use, good performance, but not too expensive. The DeWalt DW788 is great for starters. It’s easy to use, dependable, and not too costly. It’s also easy to change the blades and built to last.
Scroll saw prices vary from $100 to $2000. Yet, the DeWalt DW788 strikes a balance between cost and quality. Its design cuts down on shake, giving you clean, accurate cuts. This is super helpful for new users. Plus, you can adjust the speed to cut different materials well.
The DeWalt DW788 has a quick way to change blades, which is a big plus for beginners. It also has a system to collect dust. This keeps your work area clean and lets you see your cuts better. While fancier models might have more features, the DW788 has all a newbie needs without being too complex.
In the world of affordable scroll saws, the DeWalt DW788 shines. It’s perfect for those just starting out. It offers all the necessary features without being too complicated, helping beginners grow their skills confidently.
Professional-Grade Scroll Saws for Advanced Users
Advanced users need scroll saws that are very precise and perform well. Important factors include throat capacity, motor power, and what they can cut. These saws are made for the tough demands of professionals and serious hobbyists.
Hegner saws from Germany are known for being accurate and lasting a long time. They are a top pick for those who want consistent cuts. The solid build and reliable work of these saws make woodworking smooth, even with a lot of use.
Seyco is praised for great customer service and top-notch machines. Their saws can do heavy cutting tasks while being very accurate and easy to control. King Industrial also offers high-end scroll saws that are both powerful and durable. They are another good choice for experienced woodworkers.
Even experienced users looking for a good deal might think about second-hand high-performance scroll saws. These pre-owned machines from brands like DeWalt and Delta are built tough. They still offer excellent cutting precision and flexibility.
To help you pick the best professional scroll saw, here’s a detailed comparison of some top ones:
| Brand | Model | Throat Size | Variable Speed Range (SPM) | Weight (lbs) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DeWalt | DW788 | 20 inches | 400-1,750 | 56 | Quick-change pinless blades, effective dust blower |
| Delta | 40-694 | 20 inches | 400-1,750 | 60 | Variable speed control, adjustable table tilt |
| Seyco | ST-21 | 21 inches | Variable | 75 | Robust construction, reliable performance |
| King Industrial | KXL-30 | 30 inches | Variable | 80 | High durability, excellent cutting precision |
| Hegner | Multicut-2S | 22 inches | Variable | 72 | Precision engineering, straight blade paths |
Understanding these high-performance scroll saws helps you choose wisely for your needs. Each brand and model has unique benefits, offering a perfect fit for every advanced user.
Comparison of Top Scroll Saw Brands
When looking at top scroll saw brands, clear differences stand out. These include features, performance, and which users they best suit. This info helps buyers make the right choice.
DeWalt vs. Grizzly
DeWalt and Grizzly are big names in woodworking. DeWalt’s 20-inch scroll saw offers cutting-edge features. Its arm moves from back to front for precise cuts, perfect for detailed work. Grizzly’s G0732 scroll saw is known for being tough and cost-effective. It’s ideal for hobbyists who value durability and straightforward design over tech features.
View comprehensive scroll saw comparisons
“DeWalt often edges out Grizzly in terms of innovation and refined features, while Grizzly’s strength lies in its reliability and cost-effectiveness for value-conscious users.”
Rockwell vs. Delta
Rockwell and Delta target different users in the scroll saw market. Rockwell’s ShopSeries is for beginners and intermediates, offering affordability and reliability. It’s designed for a range of skill levels without sacrificing quality. Delta, on the other hand, serves the needs of experienced pros with its 20-Inch variable-speed saw. It has a dual parallel link arm to cut down on vibration for smoother, more accurate cuts. This is for pros that need the best for complex scrollwork and heavy use.
These top scroll saw brands each have their own strengths. Knowing what you need and your budget is key. Be sure to look at detailed comparisons to find the best saw for your projects.
Scroll Saws with Low Vibration
When choosing a scroll saw, look for ones with low vibration. This is vital for precise cuts, especially in long projects. Saws from DeWalt and Delta are great choices. They are built to shake less. This is due to their heavy-duty bases and better mounting systems. These features ensure smooth work and less tiredness for users.
Workshop surveys highlight the value of scroll saws being easy to move and use. Everyone values being able to carry their saw around. Half of them say quick blade changes are key for working well under pressure. Surprisingly, no one thinks the height of the work area is important. They prefer being able to move and use their saws well. This shows why scroll saws that don’t vibrate much are favored for their precision and comfort.
Now, let’s compare the speed and price of different scroll saw models:
| Scroll Saw Model | Speed Range (SPM) | Amazon Price ($) | Walmart Price ($) | Home Depot Price ($) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DeWalt 20-Inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw | 400–1,750 | 687 | 379 | 599 |
| Dremel Moto-Saw Kit | 1,500–2,250 | 112 | N/A | N/A |
| Rikon 16-Inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw | 550–1,650 | 308 | 270 | N/A |
| Bilt Hard 16-Inch Scroll Saw | 550–1,600 | 100 | N/A | N/A |
| Skil 16-Inch Scroll Saw | 500–1,700 | 466 | N/A | N/A |
| Delta 20-Inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw | 400–1,750 | 580 | N/A | N/A |
| Wen 16-Inch Two-Direction Variable Speed Scroll Saw | 400–1,600 | 119 | 119 | 127 |
If you want smooth cuts, get a scroll saw that doesn’t vibrate much. A solid base and good mounting make these saws precise and easier to control. When looking at performance and price, consider DeWalt, Rikon, and Wen. They offer good speed and are priced well.
Scroll Saw Buying Guide
Starting with scroll sawing can be exciting with the right guide. Your pick should match your skills, project needs, and wallet size. The throat size of the saw is key, as it decides how big of wood you can cut. For big projects, a 30-inch scroll saw can cut wood up to 60 inches long.
Look for a saw with variable speed control. This feature lets you change how fast you cut based on the wood type. It makes your cuts accurate and smooth. A good dust collection system is also important. It keeps your area clean and safe from dust. Features like easy-to-change blades and adjustable tables are great for angled cuts and handling big pieces.
Different blade types matter a lot for your projects. Spiral blades are great for detailed curves, and straight blades help with angled cuts. Precision-ground blades make for clean, sharp finishes. Some saws let you change blades without tools, saving time. Adjustable stands, like the DeWALT Scroll Saw Stand, offer a solid base. Always check for strong after-sales support when you buy scroll saw online. Choosing brands like DeWALT and Delta means getting something you can rely on, making your investment worth it.
Welcome to WoodCraftYard.com, your one-stop destination for all things woodworking! I’m Oliver Candler, a dedicated woodworking aficionado and the creative mind behind this virtual woodworking haven. With a deep-rooted love for craftsmanship and a keen eye for detail, I am on a mission to share my passion for woodworking with fellow enthusiasts like yourself.
As a seasoned woodworker, I am committed to providing you with valuable insights, practical tips, and inspiring project ideas to help you unleash your creativity and master the art of woodworking. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out on your woodworking journey, join me as we carve, sand, and saw our way through the world of woodworking together.
Let’s embark on this woodworking adventure, where every knot, grain, and finish tells a unique story. Together, let’s craft, create, and build something truly extraordinary at WoodCraftYard.com!