Woodworking is an ancient craft that has been revolutionized by power tools. Imagine how much time you can save using the best scroll saw, or any other power tool, for your project! Well, the difference is day and night!
Imagine, if there are no power tools, you would need to use a manual drill to poke holes in your medium. After drilling holes, you would have to clamp your medium somewhere sturdy. Then, you would insert your coping saw blade and attach it to the handle.
Now, this is where it gets hard. To make that ornamental inside cut design, you would follow your template while hacking back and forth with your coping saw. How many strokes per minute can you do manually? Can you do at least a hundred? I guess that would be too much for a mere human! But for a powered coping saw, a scroll saw, it can do as many as 2500!
How much faster do you think you would finish a project? Say what? Yeah! Tremendously faster! Now, because of the presence of hundreds of models on the internet, choosing the right one for you can be quite tricky.
Here you go. We did the courtesy of scrutinizing the features of 10 of the most sought-after scroll saw in the market.
Here’s the summary.
Contents
Best Scroll Saw 2021
Product name | Motor Rating | SPM | Throat Depth | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1.2A | 400-1600 | 16inches | ||
0.6A | 1500-2200 | 9inches | ||
1.3A | 400-1750 | 20inches | ||
1.2A | 550-1700 | 16inches | ||
1.6A | 500-1500 | 20inches | ||
1.3A | 400-1750 | 20inches | ||
1.2A | 400-1600 | 16inches | ||
1.2A | 150-2500 | 11.68inches | ||
1.2A | 200-1400 | 15.75inches | ||
1.2A | 500-1700 | 16inches |
Now, let’s dig the details. I present you the top 10 scroll saws of 2021
1. WEN 3920 16-Inch Scroll Saw
best value for money
WEN debuted in 1951 and was founded by Nick Anton. Nick wanted to make things easier and combined manual tools with electric motors. Through his innovations, he was able to design everyday power tools that every person should have in their tool shed. This Illinois-based company is more than happy to serve and provide woodworkers with excellent tools for their trade.
Product Features
WEN is known for their useful woodworking tools. This particular model has a 1.2A motor with variable speed control. The variable speed setting can be set to 400SPM up to 1600SPM. The whole structure of the saw is mounted on a sturdy cast iron base that would surpass your lifetime.
This model accepts 5-inch pinless blades that can be easily installed and removed whenever necessary through a lever at the back of the machine. It has a working table surface, 16 by 11 inches, that allows you to accommodate larger woodwork project. To make things more interesting, WEN designed the table to tilt up to 45 degrees to facilitate easier maneuvering while working with this machine.
WEN designed this scroll saw with a blade storage attached on the side so that you will never lose and keep your blades organized. It comes with a flexible LED work light that can help you see your template clearly.
This device weighs 28lbs and is covered by WEN’s 2-year warranty.
Things We Liked
• The base of this saw is made of sturdy cast iron material.
• The work table tilts up to 45 degrees.
• This machine can cut up to two inches of wood material.
• The variable speed gives you flexibility and added precision.
• This product comes with a 2-year warranty.
Things We Didn’t Like
• This device is quite heavy.
• The bottom blade holder is quite difficult to reach when you need to replace the blade.
2. Dremel MS20-01 Moto-Saw
best portable scroll saw
Dremel is one of the leading companies that manufacture rotary and pneumatic tools. They have been in the business since 1932 and has grown exponentially since its establishment. Dremel tools are primarily based on high-speed rotation rather than torque. It’s not surprising to see Dremel tools with RPMS as fast as 37,000!
Product Features
This machine is not the typical scroll saw that you would find in the market. This model is lightweight and designed to be easily transported. This device can work as a handheld saw or a table mounted saw. It comes with a plastic mounting base that can be easily attached to a table using two clams provided with it.
You can use a vacuum tube and attach it to the dust port under the base mount to keep your workshop clean and tidy. The speed of the scroll saw can be adjusted using the variable speed control positioned at the bottom of the pistol-like grip of the saw.
This saw can be fitted with different blades designed for different materials that you would need to cut. It comes with a hard case, ten different kinds of cutting blades vacuum adapters.
Things We Liked
• Dremel specializes in smaller devices that are lightweight and portable.
• This machine can be attached and detached from the base and can be used as a portable scroll saw.
• The variable speed control lets you decide how much speed you want to make sure that your blade doesn’t overheat.
• It comes with a hard case, vacuum port, and a variety of blades.
Things We Didn’t Like
• The base is made with plastic material that is not as stable as cast iron.
• The blade is quite a bit difficult to replace.
3. DEWALT DW788 Scroll Saw
best overall performance
DeWalt is a popular American brand that manufactures a wide range of power tools from hobbyists to complicated equipment for industry-grade applications. Raymond E. DeWalt was the man behind the foundation of this company, and he started it in 1923. In 1960, was acquired by Black & Decker and is now a subsidiary company of the former.
Product Features
DeWalt’s DW788 is a 20-inch scroll saw that is mounted on a sturdy base and cast-iron table. The tough base lessens the vibration. Lesser vibrations mean that you will be more comfortable working with this machine for extended hours. The wide table allows you to work with large pieces of wood with ease.
The blade is designed to be ergonomically replaced without retooling. The speed of the saw can be adjusted depending on user preference for smoother and precise cut. This machine has a flexible dust blower that can be easily repositioned to follow your movement.
This scroll saw is powered by a 1.3 amp motor that drives the blade from 400 to 1750spm. Each set comes with a selection of blades for different mediums. DeWalt is confident with their product and backs it with a three-year warranty and a 90-day money-back guarantee.
Things We Liked
• DeWalt designed this machine to dispel vibration and improve comfort while working with it.
• The blade is easy to replace and saves you time.
• It comes with a three-year warranty.
• This product is covered by a 90-day money back guarantee.
• DeWalt is one of the leading brands that manufacture power tools of excellent quality.
Things We Didn’t Like
• This scroll saw has a high price tag.
• This model has quite a bit of weight to it.
4. Shop Fox W1713 Scroll Saw
Shop Fox as established in the last year of the 80s and is branded as one of the fastest growing companies in America. They are a wholesale supplier of power tools applicable to wood, metal, and other machinery. To become the best and most useful tool in the market, they carefully research what features the frontend craftsmen really needs.
Product Features
This 16-inch scroll saw has a table and base made with durable cast-iron. It has two ways of managing dust while you work to increase your precision. It has a flexible LED with a dust blower and a dust port that can be attached to a one ¼ inch vacuum to keep your workplace free from clutter.
The table can be tilted can be tilted up to 45degrees for maneuverability, assist you in making angled cuts, and facilitate easier blade replacement. This particular model can accommodate both plain and pin-end blade. This tool has a hold-down shoe that increases stability and precision of cuts.
This variable speed scroll saw is powered by a 1.2A motor and has drives the scroll saw blade from 550 to 1650spm. This saw can cut up to the two-inches thick of wood with ease.
Things We Liked
• This model features two-way dust control.
• The table and base are made with cast iron that lessens the machine vibration.
• The table top can be tilted up to 45 degrees for extra maneuverability, easier blade change, and angled cuts.
• This machine is compatible with plain and pin-end replacement blades.
Things We Didn’t Like
• Attaching pinless blades are quite difficult and time-consuming.
• This vibration needs to be toned down a bit.
5. Porter Cable Scroll Saw
Porter Cable started as a humble tool repair shop in 1906 and slowly worked its way to success. They are one of the early companies that innovated the power tool industry. Today, they have a large selection of power tools for different home and industrial applications.
Product Features
Porter Cable’s 18-inch scroll saw has an aluminum table that tilts on both sides. This feature allows users to attack bevel and other types of angled cuts with ease. This also allows more fluid maneuverability while scrolling your medium through the saw.
It comes with a sturdy table stand and a patented bevel scale. The bevel scale enables you to work with your angles without having to lift your piece of wood. The on and off switch is conveniently placed on the front of the machine. It comes with a flexible LED and a gooseneck dust blower.
The speed control can be freely set by the user and is driven by its 1.6A motor up to 1500spm. It has a dust port at the bottom that can be connected to a vacuum to keep your workplace clean. This power tool comes with five pinless and plain blades.
Things We Liked
• This device comes with a table stand.
• The table can be tilted on both sides.
• The patented bevel scale allows you to work more efficiently.
• You can drive the saw with the 1.6A motor from 500 to 1500spm.
• This machine has a dust port at the bottom that can be connected to a vacuum.
Things We Didn’t Like
• The table top has a rough finish.
• This machine vibrates a lot.
6. Delta Power Tools 40-694 Scroll Saw
The foundation of Delta Machinery can be traced as far back in 1919. Herbert Tautz started as a small garage repair shop in Wisconsin. With more than nine decades up their sleeves, they have become one formidable brand that is known for high-quality power tools.
Product Features
Delta’s 40-694 scroll saw is made of durable material that can withstand the tests of time. The base and table are made with cast steel that has a hefty weight on it. The table tilts up to 45 degrees on the left and right. The arms are designed with dual parallel-link that reduces the vibration of the machine.
The on-off switch and variable speed dial are conveniently placed on the front of the machine for easy accessibility. The blade can be tensioned or replaced using a single lever that reduces your time spent changing blades. A dust gooseneck dust blower is fitted in this machine clear up debris on your working surface. To keep your blades tidy, and onboard storage is located at the top of the power tool.
It has a 1.3A motor that can drive the blade up to 1750spm. It can cut up to 2 1/8-inch-thick material conveniently.
Things We Liked
• The sheer weight of this machine greatly reduces vibration.
• Its onboard storage keeps your blade, and other small parts kept tidy.
• The speed of the saw can be manually dialed depending on how fast you want it.
• It can accommodate and cut up to 2 1/8 inch of medium.
• Delta is backed by nine decades worth of experience.
Things We Didn’t Like
• This device requires a large working space.
• This scroll saw is quite heavy.
7. Harbor Freight Scroll Saw
Harbor Freight is a small family business that started in 1977. They aimed to provide the industry with the right tools that will promote productivity at home and in the workplace. Today, they offer more than 7000 types of hand tools, power tools, and other industry tools.
Product Features
Harbor Freight’s 16-inch scroll saw is fitted with a cast iron base. The table tilts up to 45 degrees for maneuverability, easier blade replacement, and enable users to do bevel cuts. It has a two-way dust management that keeps your workshop clean. It has a dust blower aimed at the saw and a dust port that collects sawdust and can be connected to a vacuum.
It has a 1.2a motor that reaches a maximum speed of 1600spm. This scroll saw can cut up to 2-inch thick medium while clearing debris out of your sight.
Things We Liked
• This product has a competitive price.
• The table tilts up to 45 degrees.
• The base is made with cast iron.
• The switch is conveniently positioned at the front of the machine.
Things We Didn’t Like
• The machine is a bit too light, consequently, has more vibrations.
8. Proxxon 37088 Scroll Saw
Proxxon is a company located in Germany and was founded in 1977. They have more than four decades of experience in making power tools ranging from small hobby tools to huge industrial grade construction tools. They also manufacture durable hand tools for everyday use. Proxxon is known across the European countries for its excellent quality.
Product Features
Proxxon 37088 Scroll Saw looks a bit different compared with most models of scroll saws in the market. Rather than using rounded contours, 37088 is rectangular. It resembles an electric sewing machine with a vertical pillar holding the top end of the saw.
A blade guide is integrated with a dust blower to keep your template visible at all time. It has a dust port that can be connected to a vacuum keep your work area tidy.
This 85w scroll saw has a variable speed control that drives the blade of the saw up to 2500spm. This lightweight scroll saw can be easily moved around your workplace without hassle.
Things We Liked
• This product is made by a reputable company in Germany.
• It has a two-way dust management system that keeps dust off your workpiece and a dust port that can be connected to a vacuum.
• Takes little place in your workshop.
Things We Didn’t Like
• This device is too light to handle vibrations at maximum speed.
• It can only handle 40mm wood and 10mm plastic.
9. Proxxon 37090 DSH/E Scroll Saw
Proxxon is dedicated to quality and has, ever since, made tough machines that last a lifetime. Their main focus in designing tools is its functionality and durability. Today, they have a large number of tools in the market that shouts Proxxon quality.
Product Features
This scroll saw is significantly larger than the previous model. It’s made with cast-iron base and die-cast aluminum table. For a more stable base, Proxxon decided to use a rectangular design. Although it takes a bit more space in your workshop, it gives more stability.
This device can hold pinless, and pin end saw blades. The die-cast aluminum table tilts up to 45 degrees for bevel cuts and easier maneuverability. It also facilitates blade change when necessary. It has a variable speed switch that tops at 1400spm. It is equipped with a dust blower and a dust port that can be connected to a vacuum.
Things We Liked
• This product has a larger rectangular table surface area.
• It has a dust blower and a dust port that can be connected to a vacuum to keep your workplace clean.
• This device comes from a reputable company.
Things We Didn’t Like
• This device tends to be noisy when cranked.
• The vibrations can be felt at higher speed.
10. ShopSeries RK7315 Scroll Saw
ShopSeries is a product line made by Rockwell. Rockwell is an American company based in North Carolina that offers a wide range of power tools. They have been on the market since 2005 and, although they were quite new, they have made a name for themselves.
Product Features
Rockwell’s RK7315 belongs to their ShopSeries product line. This model has a 16-inch deep throat with a cast-iron base. The table is made with a smooth die-cast aluminum where your material easily slides through.
The table can be tilted sideways, up to 45 degrees, to help you maneuver your material easily. You can do delicate bevel cuts with the tilting table, and you can also replace the tungsten carbide blades. This scroll saw can cut through a 2-inch thick material at 90 degrees.
This model is powered by a 1.2A motor that has a maximum of 1700spm. It comes with a 2-year limited warranty.
Things We Liked
• The table tilts both ways.
• It has a sturdy die-cast iron base.
• It will not cost you as much as the other brands.
• It can accommodate up to 2-inches of wood material.
• It comes with tungsten carbide blades.
Things We Didn’t Like
• This scroll saw is not that heavy and tends to have more vibrations at high speeds.
What’s The Best Scroll Saw For Me?
What is the best scroll saw? For the most part, the most expensive priced equipment may give us an idea about its quality. High-quality gadgets are made with high-quality materials and craftsmanship. Combine this superb craftsmanship with decades of experience, and you got a trustworthy brand.
Quality and experience have high premiums. If you think carefully about it, these huge companies are able to provide excellent customer service and money back guarantees.
However, what if you don’t have that much to spend for a scroll saw? How would you know which one is for you?
Let’s look at some qualities and features of scroll saws that may be useful to you.
• Weight
One of the reasons why, often, high-quality equipment with motor engines are heavy is to stabilize it. Yeah. Without a heavy base or a clamp, scroll saws would easily topple down. The worst challenge you face with lighter scroll saw models is vibration.
The total weight of the machine helps dampen the vibration for a more comfortable working experience.
• Variable Speed Control
Fast is not necessarily better. In fact, going too fast can lead to some trouble. Most scroll saws come with variable speed control for a reason. Some materials may conduct heat and going too fast can overheat your blade and break it.
Opting for slower speed would increase the time you spend cutting your medium, but it would surely save your blade from breaking. Also, some brittle materials may also break when you go too fast.
• Easy Blade Replacement
Pinless blades may need an adapter or some sort of other mechanisms to attach. Blades with end pins, on the other hand, are easy to install. However, when doing inside cuts, you will need pinless blades that you can insert to make those delicate cuts.
There are models that have an easy replacement method and some companies even designed machines that don’t need a tool to replace the blade.
• Tilting Table
Some people may not have a use for a tilting table feature. However, for those of you who do beveled cuts, a tilting table will help you achieve that. Also, this feature, in some scrolls saws, makes it easy to replace blades. It also improves your maneuverability while working with your tool.
• Throat Depth
For hobbyists dealing with less than 15 inches project length, large scroll saw formats might not be necessary. If you can determine the size of the largest project you would take on, it may not be necessary to go for the 20-inch throat.
However, if you have enough resources for it, go ahead and take it!
• Dust Blower
An adjustable dust blower is becoming a standard feature on most modern scroll saws. This feature blows off the dust accumulating on top of your template to avoid making a mistake.
• Dust Port
Most scroll saws today have a dust port that can be connected to a vacuum. This is a very useful feature that would greatly decrease cleanup time. Without a vacuum connected to your scroll saw, you would need to spend a few minutes to clean up your workshop before you retire for bed!
• Space
Of course, one of the most important things you should consider is how much space you have in your workshop. If you don’t have enough space, a huge scroll saw will further reduce your working space.
• Budget
Finally, how much are you willing to spend? If this is part of your business, it would be quite necessary to invest on a heavy-duty scroll saw that is backed with excellent customer support. However, if it's for a hobby, you may not have the need to purchase the most expensive heavy duty scroll saw.
Conclusion
The best scroll saw would make your life a lot easier. Whether you are making jigsaw puzzles, wooden toys, ornate wooden displays, or anything, there is a right scroll saw for you.
For hobbyists who do not plan on making a career out of woodworking and using it every day, Dremel’s Moto-Saw gives you the flexibility to use it without the base. The build quality is good, and it has a dust port that can be connected to a vacuum.
If you are on a tight budget and you need a decent scroll saw with 16inch throat depth, WEN’s 3920 Scroll Saw gives you the most value for your money. It can run up to 1600spm with a cast iron base, a flexible LED, and a dust port to collect sawdust.
If you are a carpenter and works year-round with different types of wooden projects, it would be wise to invest in DeWalt’s DW788 dominates the selection. It has the least vibration among the selection, and the table can be tilted on both sides. It has a 20inch throat depth and an oversized table to accommodate bigger projects. Although it’s quite expensive, you get top quality and excellent guarantee by the manufacturer.