Have you been sitting for hours looking through different scroll saws? I have been there and I know it’s a challenge.
There are plenty of factors to consider when choosing a model. I have gone through all the models and have chosen the best ones for each activity.
My goal for this review is to help you pick a model that accomplishes your needs. There are models that are appropriate for different experience levels, going from hobbyists to professional toy makers.
Here’s a quick summary of the top scroll saw picks for the following activities:
- best low budget (for beginners): WEN 3920
- for Hobbyists & Crafters: Shop Fox W1713
- for Intermediate Woodworkers: SKIL 3335-07
- for Contractors & other Construction Professionals: DEWALT DW788
- for Marquetry, Toy & Model Making, Jigsaw Puzzles and Fretwork: Delta 40-694
Have a look at the full description of these models to learn more about them and the other great scroll saws.
How to Choose the Best Scroll Saw [Buying Guide]
Before starting out with all the reviews, there are some factors I want to go over with you.
My guess is that some of you are beginners and you may not know what every feature or specification means.
If you are an intermediate woodworker or professional then my recommendation for you is to go over the following points to keep your mind fresh.
Let’s get on with the important factors:Power:
Most of the models in this review are capable of doing heavy duty projects but the ones with a higher amperage are able to cut through thicker types of wood a lot more faster. This choice depends on the usage you’re going to be giving the scroll saw, so my recommendation for professionals is to pick a model that has a powerful motor.
Throat Depth:
This measurement is the distance between the cutting edge of the blade and the front of the mounting point. This is quite important because it tells you the capacity the scroll saw can work with. This mostly depends on what you’re planning to make with the model, so a larger depth of throat would mean that the saw can work with bigger pieces.
Variable Speed:
This factor is completely personal. Some scroll saws come with one speed but most come with a variable speed setting. I personally recommend picking a model with the variable speed option as this can be helpful when working with different types of wood. For those of you that work with intarsia or toy making then this is quite crucial as they require pieces from different woods. Softer types of wood can be cut with a slower speed but harder and thicker pieces need a higher speed.
Price:
This is just as personal as the previous point. I know you may not want to spend a lot but if you rely on a scroll saw for jobs then you need to consider this factor. You can’t expect a cheaper scroll saw to have the potential of a more expensive model. Paying a higher price now can prevent you from going through multiple cheaper models.
Warranty:
My advice for warranty is to always look for the longest one. If something were to happen to the machine, you shouldn’t have to worry. Especially if you have made an expensive purchase.
Size of table:
This specification goes together with the depth of throat. The larger the throat depth, the bigger the table. So again if you plan to work with large pieces of wood then you will need a big table.
Scroll saw light:
This feature is very important, especially if you’re working with detailed projects. A lot of the pieces done with scroll saws are very small and detailed, in order for this to happen the worker must have good lighting. You can block the light with your own body so a light that’s attached to the saw is very convenient.
Best Low Budget [Cheap] Scroll Saw (for beginners)
The 3920 is manufactured by WEN.
Here’s a bit about WEN: it was founded in 1951. Their goal is to help woodworkers and crafters execute their wildest imagination.
The 3920 works with a motor of 1.2 amps.
It has a throat of depth of 16 inches which can cut up to 1.9 inches of wood.
It has a 9/16 inch stroke on both pinned and pinless blades.
It has a variable speed option that can be adjusted anywhere from 550 SPM to 1600 SPM which can be set with the speed knob that’s very easy to reach.
This model is an entry-level machine that can be the best fit for you because you can start from a slow speed (550 SPM) and as you gain experience you can set it faster.
The model is great pick if you have a low budget too!
But that’s not all.
This scroll saw is built from cast iron which reduces vibration for increased accuracy.
It comes with a 16 x 10 inch table that bevels up to 45° to the left.
It also includes 3 blades, two pinned (15 and 18 TPI) and the other is a 18 TPI pinless blade.
As in for features, it comes with an air pump that keeps your area of work clean from dust.
It has a built-in clamp that keeps the piece of wood in place to avoid movement.
One more thing, it has a flexible work light that can be moved around for your convenience.
I give this model 5 stars. It has amazing reviews and it’s manufactured by a very reliable company.
It’s also one of the few inexpensive scroll saws in this review.
One last thing, it comes with 2 years of warranty.
Go check out the latest reviews and current price of the WEN 3920 here on Amazon for more details.
Look at the Owner’s Manual here.
Take a peek at the scroll saw:
Key Features
- 1.2 amp motor
- 16 inches throat of depth
- Cutting capacity: 2 inches at 90°
- 27.5 pounds
- 2 years of warranty
| Pros | Cons |
| Vibration is reduced | Blades are a bit hard to switch out |
| Inexpensive | The work light is a bit short |
| Good features | |
| Takes both pinned and pinless blades | |
| Easy to use |
Best Scroll Saw for Woodworking, Hobbyists & Crafters (Home Shop)
The W1713 by Shop Fox is the best choice for hobbyists and home shops.
Let me tell you a bit about Shop Fox: their goal is provide top quality products for both beginners and professionals woodworkers.
Let’s get started with the W1713.
Just like the previous model, this one too works with a 1.2 amp motor.
It also has a 16 inch throat depth that can cut pieces of wood up to 2 inches thick.
It has a variable speed setting starting from 550 strokes per minute and it can reach 1650 strokes per minute.
It has a blade stroke of ¾ inches.
The model has a sturdy cast iron construction that’s built to last long years.
You may have noticed that the specifications of this model a quite similar to the previous model, so why is it better for hobbyists and crafters?
The model can reach 1650 strokes per minutes meanwhile the WEN model reaches 1600 SPM.
It also has a ¾ inch blade stroke and the WEN scroll saw has 9/16 inches.
This model is designed to make blade changes easy and quick which is important if you plan to work with different types of wood. And that’s definitely something beginners don’t do when starting out.
Let’s talk about features:
The model comes with a work light which gives you a clear view of your work.
It has a built-in dust blower and dust port which allows you to have a greater vision by keeping the dust away.
The table can be tilted up to 45° when making angled cuts.
It comes with an adjustable holding shoe to keep the workpiece in place.
One more thing, the model works with both pin-end and plain blades.
Overall, I give this model 4 stars. It has good customer feedback and it makes an appropriate pick for home workshops.
Take a look at the recent customer reviews and the current price of the Shop Fox W1713 here on Amazon and on Shop Fox for a few more details.
Look at the Owner’s Manual here.
Key Features
- 1.2 amp motor
- 2 years of warranty
- Maximum cutting thickness: 2 inches
- 31 pounds
- Blade stroke: ¾ inches
| Pros | Cons |
| Quiet | Air pump is a bit weak |
| Lightweight | Mounting is a bit of a challenge |
| Easy to change blade | |
| Good features |
Related: scroll saw vs table saw
Best Scroll Saw for Marquetry, Toy & Model Making, Jigsaw Puzzles and Fretwork
The 40-694 by Delta is a heavy-duty model recommended for marquetry, toy & model making, jigsaw puzzles and fretwork.
Before beginning with the description of the model, I want to tell you a little bit about Delta. They have nearly 90 years of the experience in the industry of power tools. Their tools are known for allowing professionals to finish jobs right the first time around.
Now let’s continue with the model.
The 40-694 has a throat depth of 20 inches. It’s by far the largest model!
It works with a 1.3 amp motor.
It has a variable speed setting starting from 400 SPM and it can be adjusted up to 1750 SPM.
This model, along with the Dewalt scroll saw, are the only ones to reach 1750 SPM!
It has a dual parallel-link arm design which decreases vibration and keeps the machine quiet. This feature also maintains the blade perpendicular to the surface which increases your accuracy.
It also comes with a flexible dust blower which can be moved around to get to those hard-to-reach places, giving you a clear vision of your workspace.
The model is built from cast iron for great support.
The table has dimensions of 16 x 24 inches which is great for big workpieces. It can be tilted 45° to the left and right.
The blade has a stroke of ¾ inches.
Now let’s get on with why I think this model is great for marquetry, toy & model making, jigsaw puzzles and fretwork.
Marquetry requires a lot of accuracy and precision cuts, this model is very much appropriate because of the parallel-link design which reduces under and over cutting.
This features allows you to make those detailed patterns without worrying about cutting too much or too little.
When it comes to fretwork, the model has an upper arm that lifts and locks to the raised position during blade changes or while adjusting blade position.
Since fretwork requires intricate cuts, this model makes a good pick for toys that require the same thing. The size of the work table and throat depth is great for large toys.
Finally, it makes a good model for wooden jigsaw puzzles because the speed is easily adjustable and it has a blade-tensioning lever which is very easy to access.
I rate this model 4 stars. I think it has great advantages for the listed activities.
I do have to say that it’s quite expensive but definitely worth it for enthusiasts.
One last thing, it comes with 5 years of warranty!
Go check out the latest reviews and current price of the Delta 40-694 here on Amazon and on Delta for more information.
Here’s the Owner’s Manual.
Key Features
- 5 years of warranty
- 1.3 amp motor
- Large working table
- Flexible dust blower
- 70 pounds
| Pros | Cons |
| Very quiet | Assembly takes a long time |
| Reduced vibration | Expensive |
| Great for intricate projects | A bit heavy |
| Easy to change blades |
Related: best jigsaw
Best Scroll Saw Blades for Marquetry, Toy & Model making and Jigsaw Puzzles
After looking at the different types of blades for each activity, I have chosen the Olson Double Tooth Blades 5 inches Long.
The blade I chose comes with 2 teeth followed by a flat space which is convenient for chip removal. These types of blades cut fast and leave the edges very clean.
Smaller blades such as my top recommendation, are great with thin woods like veneers (marquetry). They are also very much recommended for small workpieces such as ornaments, small details on toys or jigsaw puzzles as they are helpful when making tight turns.
Check it out on Olson for a few more details.
Best Scroll Saw Blades for Fretwork
For fretwork, I have picked the Olson Mach Speed Scroll Saw Blades 5″ Long.
Since blades are measured in teeth per inch (TPI), the more teeth per inch, the more intricate work the saw can do. So the greater the TPI, the faster a blade can make tight turns.
As you may know, fretwork requires a lot of tight turns and very detailed designs, this blade reduces underside tear out which makes it the best pick for this type of work.
Go check it out on Olson for a few more details.
Best Scroll Saw for Wood Intarsia
The Multimax 18 by Hegner is the best pick for intarsia.
Hegner has 30 years of experience in the woodworking industry.
This model works with a 1.9 amp motor, which is by far the most powerful scroll saw!
It has a throat depth of 18 inches.
It has a variable speed setting that starts from 400 strokes per minute and can reach 1700 strokes per minute.
Let’s talk about the features. This model comes with a flexible dust blower which keeps your line of vision clear.
It has a clamp which holds down the workpieces to prevent them from moving while you’re working.
The table can be tilted to both sides which is an advantage when making angled cuts.
The scroll saw is built from cast iron which provides maximum strength.
It has reduced vibration which increases your accuracy.
It has a quick-lock tension release which makes changing blades very easy.
One more thing, the tension of the blade can be adjusted while working with the rear tension rod which is very easy to reach.
Now you’re probably wondering why this is the best pick for intarsia.
This model is a lot more powerful than the previous model, it works with a 1.9 amp motor while the Delta model has a 1.3 amp motor.
Since working with intarsia means working with different types of wood, it also means you’re going to need more power for the tougher woods.
Intarsia requires precision as it uses pieces of wood that are shaped and contoured to the desired design. This model has reduced vibration and friction to help you achieve the design you have in mind.
I give this model 3.5 stars. It has good features and a large working table for big projects.
One more thing that I want to add, it comes with 7 years of warranty! Which is the longest in the whole review.
Go check out the latest price of the Hegner 18 here on Amazon.
Here’s the Owner’s Manual.
Key Features
- 1.9 amp motor
- Variable speed: 400 SPM – 1700 SPM
- Warranty: 7 years
- Throat depth: 18 inches
| Pros | Cons |
| Powerful | Minor issues with release system |
| Accurate | Expensive |
| Easy to use | |
| Durable | |
| Very quiet |
Best Scroll Saw Blades for Intarsia
I have chosen the Flying Dutchman Penguin Silver Reverse.
These blades have reverse double teeth. Users prefer this over single teeth blades because they have more control.
Intarsia requires a lot of control because you’re going to be working with many types of wood that behave differently.
They leave clean edges as well!
Take a look at the Flying Dutchman website for more details.
Here’s how you change blades on the Hegner model:
Best Scroll Saw for Thick & Hard Wood
The DW788 by Dewalt is the best pick for those of you that work with thick and hard wood.
Here’s a bit about Dewalt: it was founded in 1924. They design power tools for residential contractors, remodelers and professional woodworkers.
The DW788 has a throat depth of 20 inches that can cut pieces of wood up to 2 inches thick.
It has a stroke length of ¾ inches.
It’s powered by a 1.3 amp motor.
It has a variable speed setting that ranges from 400 SPM to 1750 SPM, which can be adjusted with the speed control knob.
The model has a work table that measures 16 x 23 – ¾ inches. It can make bevel cuts up to 45° to the left and right.
Let’s talk about the features.
This scroll saw comes with a flexible air hose which can be moved around to keep your work area clean.
It has a hold-down clamp which keeps the wood still while you work.
It has a double parallel-link arm design which reduces vibration.
If you plan to work with fretwork then you’re going to love this feature: the arm lifts so that blade can be easily threaded through the material for inside cuts.
But why is this model appropriate for cutting thick and hard wood?
If you’re working with intricate cuts then it’s best to work with thick wood since it doesn’t break too easily. You’re going to need a model that has a cutting thickness capacity of at least 2 inches.
Hard and thick workpieces require a fast speed when cutting, this model has one of the highest speed of the review.
One more thing, the cast iron table is capable of holding heavy workpieces.
I give this model 4.5 stars. It has outstanding customer reviews and most seem to be very satisfied with this tool.
The price of the model is quite high but it’s manufactured by a trustworthy company that will meet all your expectations.
One last detail, it comes with 3 years of warranty.
Go check out the most recent customer reviews and the current price of the DEWALT DW788 here on Amazon and on Dewalt for more information.
Take a look at the Owner’s Manual here.
Key Features
- 1.3 amp motor
- Depth of cut: 2 inches
- 56 pounds
- Variable speed (400 SPM -1750 SPM)
- Stroke length: ¾
| Pros | Cons |
| Blade change is fast | It doesn’t accept pin blades |
| No vibration | Heavy |
| Strong blower | |
| Lifting top arm is very useful | |
| Very stable |
Related: Best Reciprocating Saw
Best Scroll Saw Blade for Thick & Hard Wood
I have picked the Olson Reverse Tooth Blades 5 inches long.
Blades with reverse teeth have the bottom teeth pointed in the opposite direction of the rest. The teeth cut as the blade travels upwards which eliminate underside tear out and removes splinters.
These blades also tend to leave a lot of dust so it’s important that the scroll saw has a strong dust blower.
For harder and thicker wood such as oak, the blade needs be a higher number. It’s a fact that blades with less TPI cut a lot faster but you have better control with a blade with a higher TPI.
One last thing, if you’re planning to work with oak then I recommend that you don’t make too many tight turns as this type of wood is quite fragile. When working with this material it’s best to stick to straight cuts.
You can also check it out on Olson for a few more details.
Mid Level Scroll Saw
The 3335-07 by SKIL is my top pick for a mid-level woodworker.
Before continuing with the review, I want to tell you a little bit about SKIL: they were founded in 1924. They build power tools for DIY-ers and contractors.
The 3335-07 works with a motor of 1.2 amps.
It has a throat depth of 16 inches, which I know isn’t a lot considering the previous three models but it’s appropriate for intermediate workers.
The model has a variable speed setting that starts from 500 strokes per minutes and can be set to maximum 1700 strokes per minute.
I think that the starting speed of 500 SPM is a great speed for mid-level woodworkers as it’s not as fast as 550 SPM or slow as 400 SPM.
If you compare this model with the WEN model, you can see that this one can reach 1700 SPM while the WEN can only reach 1600 SPM.
Let’s get on with the features.
This model has a built-in dust removal system which keeps your area clear at all times.
It comes with a flexible work light that can be positioned as preferred.
The table measures 16 x 10 inches and it can be tilted all the way up to 45° to the left.
The blade stroke is ⅞ inches.
It can also cut pieces up to 2 inches thick.
I give this model 3.5 stars. It has great features a mid-level woodworker could definitely take advantage of.
It has an affordable price as well!
Unfortunately, it only comes with a year of warranty which I consider is very little.
Go check out the current price of the SKIL 3335-07 here on Amazon and on SKIL for more details.
Take a look at the Owner’s Manual here.
Key Features
- LED work light
- 1.2 amp motor
- 34.6 pounds
- Variable speed: 500 SPM – 1700 SPM
- Dust removal system
| Pros | Cons |
| Good price | A bit of vibration |
| Lightweight | Doesn’t work well with pinless blades |
| Great features |
Best Mini (Small) Scroll Saw
The MS20-01 by Dremel is a scroll saw that’s very convenient for small projects.
But first let me tell you a bit about Dremel, they have 85 years of experience in the industry. They are dedicated to empowering makers through creativity, precision and project enjoyment.
The MS20-01 works with a 0.6 amp motor. Now I know what you’re thinking, is that enough power?
It really is!
I want to clear something up, this scroll saw is great for hard-to-reach places and small ornaments.
The work table measures 10 – ¾ x 8 – ¼ inches, which clearly shows it’s meant for small workpieces.
But get this: this moto-saw functions as a stationary scroll saw and it can be removed from its base to become a portable electric coping saw.
So you can take the tool to the workpiece if it doesn’t fit in the work table.
It has a throat depth of 9.84 inches.
The model has a variable speed starting from 1500 SPM and it can reach 2250 SPM.
I do want to say this: I don’t recommend this model for beginners as starting from such a high speed can be a challenge without enough experience.
This is actually the second fastest model from the review!
The blade has a stroke length of 0.31 inches.
Something I really like is the auto-tensioning feature which keeps the blade ready so you don’t have to make any adjustments when working.
It also comes with a clamp base that can be attached to any flat surface for when using it is a scroll saw.
I rate this product with 4 stars. I personally really like this model because it’s very easy to use and I think everyone has found themselves in situations where they wish they could take the tool to the workpiece.
Not to mention the great price of the tool!
One last thing, it comes with 2 years of warranty.
Check out the latest customer reviews and the current price of the Dremel MS20-01 here on Amazon and on Dremel for a few more details.
Have a look at the Owner’s Manual here.
Look at this video of the MS20-01 by Dremel:
Key Features- Scroll saw and electric coping saw
- 2 years of warranty
- 2.4 pounds
- Variable speed: 1500 SPM – 2250 SPM
- Throat depth: 9.84 inches
| Pros | Cons |
| Lightweight | Table doesn’t tilt |
| Easy to use | Not recommended for hard woods |
| Portable | |
| Very quiet | |
| Comes with a long cord |
Best Scroll Saw – Comparison Table
Comparison of all the models side by side.
| Model | Rating | Power | Size of Table | Throat Depth | Speed | Warranty | Price |
| WEN 3920 | 5 stars | 1.2 Amps | 16 x 10 inches | 16 inches | 550 – 1600 SPM | 2 years | $ |
| Shop Fox W1713 | 4 stars | 1.2 Amps | – | 16 inches | 550 – 1650 SPM | 2 years | $$ |
| Delta 40-694 | 4 stars | 1.3 Amps | 16 x 24 inches | 20 inches | 400 – 1750 SPM | 5 years | $$$$ |
| Hegner 18 | 3.5 stars | 1.9 Amps | – | 18 inches | 400 – 1700 SPM | 7 years | $$$$$$ |
| DEWALT DW788 | 4.5 stars | 1.3 Amps | 16 x 23- ¾ inches | 20 inches | 400 – 1750 SPM | 3 years | $$$$$ |
| SKIL 3335-07 | 3.5 stars | 1.2 Amps | 16 x 10 inches | 16 inches | 500 – 1700 SPM | 1 year | $$ |
| Genesis GSS160 | 3 stars | 1.2 Amps | 14- ⅛ x 10 inches | 16 inches | 400 – 1600 SPM | 2 years | $$ |
| Dremel MS20-01 | 4 stars | 0.6 Amps | 10 – ¾ x 8 – ¼ inches | 9.84 inches | 1500 – 2250 SPM | 2 years | $ |
| Rockwell RK7323 | 4 stars | 5.5 Amps | – | – | Single Speed (3000 SPM) | 3 years | $ |
| Excalibur- EX-16 | 4 stars | 1.3 Amps | 12 x 18 – ½ inches | 16 inches | 400 – 1400 SPM | 2 years | $$$$$ |
| Ryobi SC165VS | 3.5 stars | 1.2 Amps | – | 16 inches | 550 – 1650 SPM | 3 years | $$ |
| Porter Cable PCB375SS | 4 stars | 1.6 Amps | 12 – ⅝ x 20 inches | 18 inches | 500 – 1500 SPM | 3 years | $$$ |
Scroll Saw FAQ Answered
What’s a Scroll Saw Used for?
Scroll saws are typically confused with jigsaws and band saws. A scroll saw is preferred by more professional woodworkers because of its smaller blades.
There are several categories that a lot of people work with like marquetry, intarsia and many more, these activities require a lot of intricate cuts.
Scroll saws are designed to make tight cuts and although it depends on the blade you choose as well, a band saw is too big for small workpieces.
Scroll saws are a great option for introducing new woodworkers and they have a lot of control over the tool and they are very easy to use.
Something I really like is the fact that you rarely have to sand because the cuts of a scroll saw are very clean and precise.
Best Wood for Scroll Saw Cutting
I recommend you to stay on the hard woods category when working with scroll saws.
Since most woodworkers like scroll saws because of their accuracy and their capability of doing intricate work, softwoods shouldn’t be an option. Such woods like pine are very fragile and they’re very difficult to handle when making tight cuts.
Here’s a list of the best hardwoods to work with for scroll saw cutting:
- Hard maple
- Cherry
- Walnut
- Hickory
- Birch
The maximum cutting capacity of a scroll saw is 2 inches thick and some have a lower capacity. I don’t recommend trying to work with pieces thicker than that as you will have a hard time.
Best Glue for Scroll Saw Patterns
Every woodworker knows the struggle when sticking patterns. Many go through many types of glues, spray adhesives and tapes.
I have found that the best way to go is by sticking blue painter’s tape to the wood, which you can find at any hardware store.
Then for the pattern, you can spray adhesive and stick it to the tape.
I recommend the 3M Super 77 Spray Adhesive.
I find that this method leaves little to no residue when removing the tape from the wood.
Another advantage of using this tape is the fact that the adhesive lubricates the wood meaning that the blade stays a lot cooler and avoids burning the wood. This also gives the blades a longer life.
Best Scroll Saw Brands
There are some brands that are more popular than others and I know it’s hard to give new brands a try but some of them are definitely worth it.
The top brands for scroll saws are:
- Dewalt
- SKIL
- Delta
- Dremel
- WEN
- Shop Fox
Dewalt was formed in 1924 by Raymond DeWalt. Their first offices were in Leola, Pennsylvania. They are very well-known for their constant improvement and technology to help contractors have an easier job.
SKIL has been around for more than 90 years and their passion for improvement keeps on growing. They are constantly pushing the boundaries to achieve better results.
Delta is committed to designing superior quality products for professional woodworkers. They build all types of wood power machines which allows users to do it right the first time around.
Dremel’s first tool was released back in 1934. Since then they have focused on combining all the factors such as size, ergonomics, precision and versatility into great tools. Dremel tools can be used to accomplish numerous applications with a variety of materials.
WEN had a later start than the other brands but they have made a name for themselves. Their research team played an important role in helping other brands develop a variety of common power tools.
Shop Fox is owned by Woodstock Internacional, they have over 25 years of experience. Their brand has earned reputation known for their excellent quality power tools for wood and metalworkers.
Is a band saw the same as a scroll saw?
Band saws are quite different from scroll saws. They are much bigger and have higher prices as well.
Professionals and contractors need a band saw but if you’re a beginner you should start out with a scroll saw.
Band saws are used for big jobs or projects that require a variety of cuts in thick materials. Like scroll saws, band saws have features as well, some come with rip fences that are very helpful for rip cutting.
Bands saws are also a lot faster and powerful which is why materials thicker than 2 inches are recommended with band saws.
The blades for band and scroll saws are also different as band saws require larger blades for thicker types of wood.
Related: best band saw for DIY
Related: best band saw for pros
Can scroll saws cut metal?
Scroll saws can cut wood, metal and a few others. But here’s the important thing: the model of the scroll saw doesn’t really matter when talking about cutting metal, the crucial decision is picking the blade.
Intricate cuts are as popular on wood as they are on metal and some even prefer working on metal rather than wood. Scroll saws are a great pick for making objects such as detailed knives.
Best Scroll Saw for Cutting Metal
If you read closely in the differences between a band saw and scroll saw then you remember that I mentioned a few of the features a band saw includes.
Well, guess what? The Rockwell RK7323 BladeRunner X2 has the features of a band saw in the size of a scroll saw (or even smaller!).
This model is a portable tabletop that performs rip, cross, scroll and miter cutting.
It can make cuts up to 1 – ½ inches thick.
You can work with wood, metal and plastic.
It has a speed of 3000 strokes per minute single speed. This means that the speed can’t be adjusted so I don’t recommend this model for beginners.
It’s powered by a 5.5 amp motor!
Let’s talk about features, it comes with a rip fence which is a metal or wood bar that helps the user cut in a straight line.
It has a hold-down clamp that keeps the workpiece in place for greater accuracy.
The blade of the saw is very easy to change and it can be done in seconds!
It also comes with a miter gauge which is used to hold workpieces at a set angle for when making different cuts.
It has a stroke length of ¾ inches.
One more thing, it comes with a built-in vacuum which keeps your work area clean and clear of dust.
I give this model 4 stars. I think this is a great tool that can be used for multiple activities for which you would typically need more than one machine.
I think it has a great speed for cutting metal and aluminum. Considering it has the features of a band saw, it makes the best choice as a metal cutting saw.
One more thing, it comes with 3 years of warranty.
Make sure you check out the latest customer reviews and the current price of the Rockwell RK7323 here on Amazon.
Key Features
- Single speed: 3000 SPM
- 5.5 amp motor
- Multi-use
- 15 pounds
- Compatible with any 4 inches T-shank blades
| Pros | Cons |
| Lightweight | It has a single speed (not great for beginners) |
| Easy to store | |
| Fast change of blades | |
| Great price |
Best Excalibur Scroll Saw
The EX-16 By Excalibur is a top quality scroll saw.
Let me tell you a few details about Excalibur: their goal is to provide customers with the best in quality, reliability and durability power tools.
The EX-16 is powered by a 1.3 amp motor.
It has a 16 inch depth of throat.
The blade has a maximum cutting depth of 2 inches thick.
It has a variable speed setting ranging from 400 SPM to 1400 SPM.
The dimensions of the table are 12 x 18 – ½ inches. It can be tilted 30° to the left and 45° to the right for angled cuts.
If you have seen other Excalibur models then you’re probably wondering why I think this is the best.
Well considering that all three models are powered by a 1.3 motor and the differences are the throat of depth and a few features, I think the EX-16 is the best choice. It has a better price too!
Now back to this model, it has an upper and lower blade guard that helps users prevent any accidents.
If you ask me, I think this is a good model for beginners as it starts from a slow speed and it has safety features for people that don’t have much experience.
Another of the safety features it has is a switch protection device which stops the machine from unintentional start-ups.
The speed and blade-tensioning knobs are very easy to reach.
It has a built-in dust blower to keep your area of work clear.
The blade can be switched out without any extra tools.
I give this model 4 stars. It’s built very well and it has great features.
One last thing, it comes with 2 years of warranty.
Go check out the latest price of the Excalibur- EX-16 here on Amazon and on Excalibur for more information.
Look at the Owner’s Manual here.
Key Features
- 1.3 amp motor
- Throat depth: 16 inches
- Variable speed: 400 SPM – 1400 SPM
- Maximum cutting depth: 2 inches
- 68 pounds
| Pros | Cons |
| Very quiet | Expensive |
| Easy to use | |
| Great design | |
| No vibration |
Best Delta Scroll Saw
The Delta 40-694 is the best and only Delta model in this review. You can find all the details of this model under the ‘Best Scroll Saw for Marquetry, Toy & Model Making, Jigsaw Puzzles and Fretwork’ section of this article.
Best Ryobi Scroll Saw
The SC165VS is the only Ryobi model is this review.
Here’s their background: Ryobi was founded in 1943 and they have grown ever since. Their technology has been a life changer in the power tool industry.
The SC165VS has a 1.2 amp induction motor which assures a long life.
The model works with a variable speed setting starting from 550 SPM and it can reach 1650 SPM.
It has a throat depth of 16 inches.
The table can be tilted up to 45° for bevel cuts and it has a bevel scale which shows you the degrees.
It’s built from a cast iron base which reduces vibration and increases your accuracy.
It also has a dust port that works with the vacuum to keep your vision clear.
It comes with an easy-to-access blade tensioning knob.
The scroll saw has a cutting depth of maximum 2 inches thick. And a blade stroke length of ¾ inches.
Another feature is the drop foot which is used to make sure the workpiece stays in place. You can also lock the drop foot so you can work freely without having to hold it manually while working.
All in all, I rate this model with 3.5 stars. It comes from a very reliable company and it has good features too!
Not to mention the great price.
For those of you looking for a start-up scroll saw, this would be a good pick.
It comes with 3 years of warranty.
Have a look at the latest price of the Ryobi SC165VS here on Amazon and on Ryobi for a few more details.
Here’s the Owner’s Manual.
Key Features
- Throat depth: 16 inches
- Variable speed: 550 SPM – 1650 SPM
- Stroke length: ¾ inches
- Maximum depth of cut: 2 inches
| Pros | Cons |
| Little vibration | Not good for heavy duty jobs |
| Good for beginners | Blower can be an issue |
| Good price | Could be more powerful |
Best Mid Range Scroll Saw
I chose the SKIL 3335-07 as the best option for intermediate woodworkers because it has an appropriate starting speed that’s just in the middle of a beginner and a professional scroll saw.
You can find more details on why I think this would make a great pick for a mid-level woodworker under the ‘Mid Level Scroll Saw’ section of the review.
As an alternative option, I have picked the Genesis GSS160.
But first let me tell you some information about Genesis: they started out in 2003 and they manufacture tools for DIY-ers.
The model has a 1.2 amp induction motor which was designed to work as a smooth and quiet scroll saw.
It has a throat depth of 16 inches. The maximum cutting depth of the blade is 2 inches and the stroke length is ¾ inches.
The size of the table is 14 – ⅛ x 10 inches, it can be tilted 45° to the right and 15° to the left.
It has a variable speed setting of 400 strokes per minute to 1600 strokes per minute.
If you compare it with the SKIL model, you can see that this one starts from 400 SPM while the SKIL saw starts from 500 SPM. If you’re an intermediate woodworker but are still not comfortable with a higher speed then this would be your best choice.
Let’s talk about the features, it comes with a flexible dust blower which I personally really like because you can move it around to clear the dust that a non-flexible blower wouldn’t be able to reach.
It has a blade guard to prevent any accidents but it also keeps the dust away from your face.
The speed knob is placed on the front of the machine and is very easy to access while you’re working.
One more thing, it has a blade holder which can be an advantage if you work with different types of materials.
I give this model 3 stars. I think it has good features and could definitely be the runner-up of the SKIL model.
It comes with 2 years of warranty.
Go have a look at the latest price of the Genesis GSS160 here on Amazon and on Genesis for more additional details.
Here’s the Owner’s Manual.
Key Features
- Built-in dust port
- Variable speed: 400 SPM – 1600 SPM
- 1.2 amp motor
- 2 years of warranty
- Flexible dust blower
| Pros | Cons |
| Good price | Some issues with the balance of the table |
| Good features | Changing the blades can be tricky |
Best Handheld Scroll Saw
My top recommendation for a small and handheld scroll saw is the Dremel MS20-01. This model is very convenient for those that work in different places as it’s easy to carry around. It’s also a great choice for small frets. You can learn more details under the ‘Best Mini (Small) Scroll Saw’ section of the article.
Best Scroll Saw Under $150
I think that the best scroll saw under $150 is definitely the WEN 3920. This model has outstanding customer reviews and great features that make it a great start-up model for beginners.
More details on this model can be found under the ‘Best Low Budget [Cheap] Scroll Saw (for beginners)’ section of the article.
Related: best cordless drills under $150
Best Scroll Saw Under $200
The best model under $200 is the Shop Fox W1713, this model has great reviews and good features. If you compare it with the SKIL model, you can see that this saw has 2 years of warranty while the SKIL scroll saw only comes with one.
If you want to learn more information about the Shop Fox saw you can find the full description under the ‘Best Scroll Saw for Woodworking, Hobbyists & Crafters (Home Shop)’ section of the review.
Related: best miter saws under $200
Best Scroll Saw Under $300
I have chosen the Porter Cable PCB375SS as the best scroll saw under $300.
Here’s Porter Cable’s story: they have over 100 years of experience and they continue to grow. Their mission is to create top quality power tools.
The PCB375SS works with a 1.6 amp motor. This model is the third most powerful model from the review!
It has a throat depth of 18 inches.
The stroke length of the blade is ¾ inches.
It has a variable speed setting that ranges from 500 SPM and it can reach 1500 SPM. I do have to say that there are less powerful models that reach a higher speed.
The speed knob is at the top of the saw so it can be adjusted with ease.
The size of the table is 12 – ⅝ x 20 inches. It can be tilted 45° to the left and 15° to the right for bevel cuts. The bevel scale is placed on the front for a quick view.
This is a stand-up model which means it comes with a base. I recommend this model for those that have a big workshop as it requires a bit more space than counter-table models.
Another thing it has a maximum depth of cut of 2 – ¼ inches which is the largest from the whole review!
So if you work with pieces a bit thicker than 2 inches, this model can handle them.
This is the only model that has both a flexible work light and saw dust blower. These two can be moved around for your convenience.
The blade can be changed without any tools.
I give this model 4 stars. Porter Cable is a great company that will satisfy your expectations. It has great features and specifications that other models don’t have.
Lastly, it comes with 3 years of warranty
Check out the latest customer reviews and the current price of the Porter Cable PCB375SS here on Amazon and on Porter Cable for more information.
Key Features
- 1.6 amp motor
- Flexible LED light and dust blower
- Stand-up base
- Variable speed: 500 SPM – 1500 SPM
- Throat depth: 18 inches
| Pros | Cons |
| Great features | A bit of vibration because of stand |
| Easy to assemble | |
| Accessible price | |
| Clean cuts |
Related: best wood lathes under $300
Best Scroll Saw Under $500
The Delta 40-694 model is my top pick under the $500 category. That model has one of the fastest speed from the review. It also has the second longest warranty of 5 years.
I chose the model as the best Delta model as it’s the only one reviewed.
You can find the full description of the scroll saw under the ‘Best Scroll Saw for Marquetry, Toy & Model Making, Jigsaw Puzzles and Fretwork’ section of the article.
Related: Best table saw under $500
What is the Best Scroll Saw for the Money?
After reviewing all the products my top recommendation is the WEN 3920. I am very impressed by the numbers of positive customer reviews it has received.
This model has a great price!
I do have to say this: if you’re an advanced woodworker then this model is not for you.
It’s built with all the basic features for a beginner, so intermediates and professionals might not be satisfied with what this model has to offer.
Best Large Scroll Saw
The largest model in the review is the Hegner 18.
I know that you probably noticed that the Delta and Dewalt models both have a throat depth of 20 inches and the Hegner has 18 inches.
But in terms of dimensions, the Hegner is the largest.
If you have a big workshop then you’re probably a serious woodworker and you’re looking for a stand-up model, the Hegner is the best pick for you.
Best Scroll Saw Blades
Best Scroll Saw Blade for Aluminum
I have picked the Flying Dutchman Aluminum Cutter as the best blade for aluminum.
This is a regular tooth blade that’s great with aluminum.
Tip: you need to be very careful when working with aluminum as it can scratch the scroll saw and your workpiece.
Check the blades out on Flying Dutchman for more information.
Best Scroll Saw Blades for Plastic
The best blades for plastic are the Olson Mach Speed Blades 5 inches Long.
These blades have wides spaces between each tooth which reduces burning and they provide quick chip removal.
Quick tip: when working with plastic you have to be very careful if the blades are burning as it melts the material. I recommend you use a clear tape over the pattern so the heat doesn’t melt the plastic.
Take a look at the blades on Olson for a few more details.
Best Scroll Saw Blades for Acrylic
I have picked the Olson Precision Ground Tooth Skip Reverse Tooth 5 inches long as the best choice for cutting acrylic.
These blades skip a tooth which means they have a wide space between each one, this minimizes burning which is important when working with acrylic. They are also very accurate and leave splinterless finishes with little to no required sanding afterward.
One more thing, acrylic tends to melt back together if you don’t apply some kind of lubricant to the blade.
Check out the blade on Olson for more information.
Best Scroll Saw Blades for Sharp or Tight Turns
The best blades for sharp or tight turns are the Flying Dutchman Scroll Reverse.
These blades have skip style teeth which eliminate underside tear out in results of sprinter-free finishes.
I recommend smaller blades for tight turns as they are able to support the tension that’s applied.
Check them out on Flying Dutchman for more.
Best Scroll Saw Blades for Cutting Metal
The most appropriate blades for cutting metal are the Olson Skip Tooth Blades 5 inches long.
Skip tooth blades are great for quick cuts, they have good chip clearance as well. These blades can cut metal up to ⅛ inches thick.
It’s important to know that blades that are designed to cut metals have smaller teeth with less space between them, with this construction the finishes are a lot smoother.
Take a look at the blade on Olson.
Best Scroll Saw Blade for Cutting MDF
My top recommendation for those of you that work with MDF is the Olson Precision Ground Tooth Skip Reverse Tooth 5 inches Long.
MDF tends to dull blades pretty fast. These are very fast and smooth, especially in close radius cuts.
They are made of carbon steel which prolongs their life and have greater strength.
Their design reduces burning and provides quick chip clearance.
Quick tip: if you plan to work with MDF make sure you get a scroll saw model that has a flexible dust blower as it’s very fine and gets everywhere.
Go check them out on Olson.
Best Scroll Saw Blade for Plexiglass
I have picked the Olson Skip Tooth Blades 5 inches long as the best choice for plexiglass.
Cutting plexiglass requires a lot of experience as it melts and fuses back together within seconds. The blades I recommend cut very fast and provide smooth finishes.
As I mentioned before, it’s important for you to apply lubricant to the blade so it doesn’t get too hot.
You can also put multiple layers of clear tape on top on the pattern to avoid the same thing.
Check out the Olson blades here.
Best Scroll Saw Blades for Straight Cuts
The best blades for straight cuts are the Olson Precision Ground Tooth Skip Reverse Tooth 5 inches Long.
These are the best option for straight cuts as they provide fast and smooth finishes.
These blades are a bit more expensive but they are built to last you a very long time.
They are also quite advanced which requires a higher level of experience.
One last thing, since these blades are really fast I don’t recommend them for thin or soft woods.
Look at the blades on Olson for more details.
Conclusion
Well, that’s about it. I hope I helped you figure out some questions you had.
Hopefully, you have picked a scroll saw too!
It’s important to read every detail of the model you’re interested in. Don’t forget to check out the customer reviews as well.
Here’s a quick reminder of my top picks:
- best low budget (for beginners): WEN 3920
- for Hobbyists & Crafters: Shop Fox W1713
- for Intermediate Woodworkers: SKIL 3335-07
- for Contractors & other Construction Professionals: DEWALT DW788
- for Marquetry, Toy & Model Making, Jigsaw Puzzles and Fretwork: Delta 40-694
Go get your scroll saw!
