Best Scroll Saws – Buying Guide 2023

Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Scroll Saw

In the world of woodworking, precision and creativity go hand in hand. Whether you’re a seasoned craftsman or just starting out on your DIY journey, having the right tools can make all the difference. Among the essential arsenal of any woodworking enthusiast, having the best scroll saws stands out as a versatile and indispensable tool. A scroll saw is not merely a cutting instrument; it’s a gateway to intricate, detailed designs and a testament to the artistry that can be achieved through woodworking. From crafting delicate fretwork to fashioning intricate puzzles and ornate decorations, a scroll saw opens up a realm of creative possibilities.

In this comprehensive post, we’ll explore the crème de la crème of scroll saws, meticulously curated to cater to every level of woodworking expertise and project scope. We’ll delve into a selection of models that marry precision engineering with user-friendly features, ensuring that both novices and seasoned craftsmen can achieve impeccable results.

Whether you’re in pursuit of a reliable workhorse for your workshop or seeking a compact, portable option for on-the-go projects, we’ve got you covered. Our in-depth reviews and insightful buying tips will empower you to make an informed decision, aligning your choice with your specific needs and aspirations.

Join us on this journey through the world of scroll saws, where we’ll uncover the standout performers, their unique features, and how they can revolutionize your woodworking endeavors. With the right scroll saw at your fingertips, you’ll embark on a path of crafting exquisite, personalized pieces that are bound to leave a lasting impression. So, let’s dive in and discover the scroll saw that’s destined to become your trusted companion in the workshop!

Top Picks for the Best Scroll Saw

1. DeWALT 20-inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw

Introducing the dependable DeWALT scroll saw, a tool designed to deliver precise curves and joints with exceptional features. With its variable speed control, low-vibration function, sizable cast iron base, convenient blade tensioning lever, and an adaptable dust blower mounted on its upper arm, this scroll saw is engineered for excellence. It excels in extended periods of use, making it perfect for tasks ranging from intricate inlay woodworking to various joinery techniques and the creation of intricate patterns.

A satisfied customer who upgraded to this scroll saw from their previous model lauded it as a “gem”. They remarked, “Rock solid, effortless blade changes, and an excellent variable speed. I can’t even remember what it was like before having this in my toolkit.” This glowing endorsement underscores the transformative impact this scroll saw can have on woodworking projects.

Specifications:

• Throat Capacity: 20 inches
• Motor Power: 1.3 Amp

2. Best Budget Scroll Saw—WEN Scroll Saw

This scroll saw boasts a plethora of user-friendly features designed to enhance your woodworking experience. With its expansive cast iron table, vibrations are virtually eliminated, providing you with precise control over your work. Additionally, it offers the convenience of onboard blade storage, equipped with LED lighting for optimal visibility, and a variable speed control that allows you to adapt to various project requirements. With this scroll saw by your side, you can look forward to hours of creative enjoyment.

Countless satisfied customers have attested to its suitability for both novice and intermediate woodworkers, praising its ability to produce intricate and professional-level results. One customer raved, “What a fantastic, budget-friendly saw. It’s particularly well-suited for beginners. I used it right out of the box, and the blade change was a breeze, along with easy bevel adjustments.”

Specifications:

• Throat Capacity: 16 inches
• Motor Power: 1.2 Amp

3. Best Heavy-Duty Scroll Saw—Delta Power Tools Scroll Saw

Introducing a top-tier scroll saw that’s engineered to endure heavy-duty usage, making it the ultimate companion for intricate and ornate woodworking projects. With its dual parallel-link arm design, this scroll saw minimizes vibrations and noise, ensuring the utmost precision for delicate cuts. Plus, its upper arm, which effortlessly lifts and securely locks in place during blade adjustments, adds a touch of convenience and significantly speeds up your workflow.

Thanks to its versatile variable speed range, you can effortlessly select the perfect cutting speed for each specific project. As one satisfied reviewer put it, this scroll saw is nothing short of exceptional, stating, “It’s one of the best tools we’ve ever had for our design business.” They further praised its ability to “cut through wood like butter,” all while maintaining minimal noise levels and delivering impeccably smooth accuracy.

Specifications:

• Throat Capacity: 20 inches
• Motor Power: 1.3 Amp

With these impressive features and specifications, this scroll saw is poised to elevate your woodworking game to a whole new level of precision and performance.

4. Best Scroll Saw with Foot Pedal—SKIL Scroll Saw

The SKIL Scroll Saw with Foot Pedal emerges as a standout choice for woodworkers seeking unparalleled control and convenience. This exceptional tool combines precision engineering with an innovative foot pedal design, allowing for hands-free operation and seamless speed adjustments. Crafted to meet the demands of both intricate and heavy-duty projects, this scroll saw offers a remarkable level of versatility. The foot pedal feature empowers users to maintain optimal focus on the workpiece, ensuring steady and uninterrupted cutting. With SKIL’s reputation for quality and reliability, this scroll saw is a testament to their commitment to providing craftsmen with tools that enhance both precision and ease of use. For those in search of a scroll saw that marries cutting-edge technology with practicality, the SKIL Scroll Saw with Foot Pedal is undoubtedly a top contender.

Specifications

• Throat Capacity: 16 inches
• Motor Power: 1.2 Amp

5. Best Compact Scroll Saw—Dremel Scroll Saw Kit

When it comes to compact yet powerful scroll saws, the Dremel Scroll Saw Kit stands out as a true gem in the woodworking world. This meticulously designed tool combines precision with portability, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and seasoned craftsmen with limited space. The Dremel Scroll Saw Kit boasts a remarkably smooth and efficient operation, allowing for intricate cuts with utmost accuracy. Its user-friendly features, including easy blade changing and adjustable speed settings, enhance the overall crafting experience. Crafters and hobbyists alike will appreciate the convenience and precision this compact scroll saw brings to their projects, solidifying its status as a top contender in the realm of woodworking tools. With the Dremel Scroll Saw Kit, you’re not just investing in a tool; you’re unlocking a world of creative possibilities in a remarkably compact package.

Specifications

• Throat Capacity: N/A
• Motor Power: 0.6 Amp

6. Best Scroll Saw for Beginners—RYOBI Scroll Saw

 

The RYOBI Scroll Saw emerges as the quintessential choice for beginners venturing into the world of woodworking. Combining user-friendly features with reliable performance, this scroll saw offers an ideal platform for honing one’s craftsmanship. With its intuitive controls and straightforward setup, even those new to the craft can quickly familiarize themselves with its operation. The RYOBI Scroll Saw’s compact design doesn’t compromise on power, allowing novices to tackle a wide range of projects with ease. Its variable speed settings enable users to adjust cutting rates according to the specific material and intricacy of the design. Additionally, the saw’s dust blower and work light enhance visibility and maintain a clean workspace—a crucial factor for precision cutting. With the RYOBI Scroll Saw at their disposal, beginners can embark on their woodworking journey with confidence, knowing they have a reliable tool that supports their creative endeavors.

Specifications

• Throat Capacity: 16 in.
• Motor Power: 1.2 Amp

7. Best Professional Scroll Saw—Hegner Scroll Saw

The Hegner Scroll Saw stands tall as the quintessential choice for professional woodworkers seeking unparalleled precision and performance. Renowned for its impeccable craftsmanship and engineering excellence, this scroll saw is a true workhorse in the world of woodworking. Its robust construction and meticulously designed components ensure that it can effortlessly withstand the demands of heavy-duty, intricate projects. The Hegner Scroll Saw features a dual-tilt mechanism that allows for precise angle adjustments, providing artisans with the flexibility needed to tackle even the most complex designs. Additionally, its vibration-free operation and whisper-quiet motor elevate the user experience, enabling uninterrupted focus on intricate cuts. With its impressive range of features and uncompromising build quality, the Hegner Scroll Saw reigns supreme as the go-to choice for professionals who demand nothing but the very best from their tools.

Specifications

• Throat Capacity: 18 inches
• Motor Power: 2.83 Amp

Our Top Recommendation

Our top recommendation for the best scroll saw is the DeWALT 20-inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw. This exceptional tool is designed to deliver precision and excellence in woodworking. With features like variable speed control, low-vibration technology, a robust cast iron base, convenient blade tensioning lever, and an adaptable upper arm dust blower, the DeWALT scroll saw is engineered for top-tier performance. It excels in extended usage scenarios, making it ideal for a wide range of tasks, from intricate inlay woodworking to various joinery techniques and crafting intricate patterns. One satisfied customer, who upgraded to this scroll saw, described it as a “gem,” praising its solid build, effortless blade changes, and excellent variable speed control. This endorsement underscores the transformative impact this scroll saw can have on woodworking projects. With its impressive specifications, the DeWALT 20-inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw is a reliable choice for precision and excellence in your woodworking endeavors.

What to Look for in a Scroll Saw

When selecting a scroll saw, there are several key factors to consider to ensure you choose the right tool for your specific woodworking needs. Here are the essential aspects to look for:

1. Throat Size:

• • The throat size determines the maximum width of material that can be accommodated on the saw. Larger throat sizes offer more flexibility for cutting larger and more complex projects.

2. Variable Speed Control:

• • Look for a scroll saw with adjustable speed settings. This feature allows you to tailor the cutting speed to the material you’re working with and the intricacy of your design.

3. Blade Changing Mechanism:

• • A user-friendly blade changing mechanism simplifies the process of swapping out blades. Quick, tool-free changes save time and frustration during projects.

4. Vibration and Noise Levels:

• • A quality scroll saw should operate with minimal vibration and noise. This ensures smoother and more accurate cuts, while also contributing to a more comfortable working environment.

5. Table Tilt and Bevel Capacity:

• • A tiltable table allows for angled cuts, enhancing the versatility of the saw. Look for a saw with easy-to-adjust bevel capacity for more intricate projects.

6. Dust Collection System:

• • A built-in dust collection system or compatibility with a dust collector helps keep your workspace clean and minimizes airborne particles, providing a healthier working environment.

7. Size and Portability:

• • Consider the available space in your workshop or workspace. Compact and portable models are ideal for those with limited space or for on-the-go projects.

8. Construction and Durability:

• • Look for a scroll saw built with sturdy materials and durable components. A well-constructed saw ensures longevity and reliable performance over time.

9. Accessories and Additional Features:

• • Evaluate the availability of accessories and extra features such as work lights, magnifiers, and foot switches. These can enhance usability and make your woodworking tasks more efficient.

10. Brand Reputation and Customer Reviews:

• • Research the reputation of the brand and read customer reviews to get a sense of the overall quality and satisfaction levels associated with the scroll saw you’re considering.

11. Price and Budget:

• • Determine your budget range and find a scroll saw that offers the best combination of features and quality within that range.

By carefully considering these factors, you’ll be better equipped to choose a scroll saw that aligns with your specific woodworking requirements and preferences. Whether you’re a professional craftsman or a hobbyist, the right scroll saw can significantly enhance your woodworking experience.

Selecting the best scroll saw for your woodworking needs is a crucial decision that can greatly impact the quality of your projects. We’ve provided you with a comprehensive buying guide, highlighting key features, factors to consider, and our top recommendations. Whether you’re a seasoned craftsman or just starting your woodworking journey, investing in a high-quality scroll saw can unlock a world of creative possibilities. So, take your time to assess your requirements, compare options, and make an informed choice. With the right scroll saw in your workshop, you’ll be well-equipped to bring your intricate designs to life with precision and ease.