The Ultimate Guide to Buying the Best Professional Scroll Saw | Electronics Tool

Are you confused about shopping for the “best professional scroll saw” that fits you? We understand that making a wise purchase is only possible with proper guidance.

Well, it feels pretty simple initially, but you must examine multiple features while choosing a proper scroll saw. That includes saw blade type, throat capacity, speed range, motor power, and a reasonable price range.

Scroll saws are widely available on the market. We have thoroughly researched and reviewed 5 of the best professional scroll saws that will turn your ideas into reality. Also, we have highlighted the noteworthy factors to consider when making every penny count. So, if this is your first experience with scroll sawing, check out the “BUYING GUIDE” before jumping on the reviews.

Quick Pick: The Best of the Scroll Saws

Buying Guide: The Best Professional Scroll Saw

You must analyze the key factors before adding a scroll saw to your workshop. Depending on your level of expertise and the projects you’d deal with, choose the best scroll saw based on the following criteria:

1. Speed Control: We determine the speed of a scroll saw by how fast the blade moves up and down. Most modern models feature variable speed control, which means you can customize the speed of the blade movement. This gives you the freedom to work on different projects, as different materials require different speeds for cutting.
   When adjusted at a speed of less than 800 SPM (strokes per minute), scroll saws work well for cutting softer projects, like metal and plastic. For cutting the wood or hardwood, look for a high-speed stroke, usually between 1200 and 2500 SPM.
    
   
2. Throat Capacity (Blade Length and Blade Width): Checking the throat size of the scroll saw before purchasing is a must. Pick up the right saw that matches your standards, based on the size of your projects and your level of expertise.
   
   Throat depth: The depth of the throat determines the maximum thickness of the material the saw can cut. Thicker workpieces go for larger throat capacities to achieve efficient cuts.
   The standard throat depth that ‌works for almost all types of projects is “2”. More than this is ‌used for shaping the materials.
   Throat length: The throat length directly affects the size of the workpieces you can work with. Scroll saws are mainly distinguished based on their throat length.
   The most common throat capacities vary from 16 to 20 or 21 inches. Usually, a 16-inch throat size or blade length is most suitable for DIY or minor projects. A blade length of 20 to 21 inches works well for professional or industrial use.
   
   
3. Blade type: We recommend buying a scroll saw that accepts different blade types for limitless work capability. The most common blade types include pinned blades (pin-end blades) and pin-less blades (plain-end blades).
   
   Pinned blades: While pin-end blades are thicker, they are less effective for delicate and detailed cuts. Pinned blades are more suitable for hardwoods.
   This is because the pin-end (pinned) blades have a sharp side for cutting and use a pin to get attached to the saw. This compromises the quality of the cuts. 
   Pin-less blades: Plain-ended blades are available in more options than pinned ones. As the name implies, the plain-ended blades easily clamp to the saw via a clamping mechanism. Professionals prefer pin-less blades for advanced use as they allow for making detailed cuts.
   
   
4. Blade-changing system: Go for a tooled blade-changing mechanism if you need to change the blade after almost every cut, which ‌requires other tools. However, most modern saws offer a tool-free blade-changing technique. No doubt, changing the blades manually is exhausting, but tool-free blades may prove destructive‌ to newbies.
   
   
5. Motor Power: Scroll saws run on an electric motor, like most other power tools. However, motor power is not a factor to consider unless working on metals or stones. The power is measured in amps (amperage) or volts (voltage). Ensure the scroll saw powers at least 1.2 amps, which is best suited for many projects.
   
   
6. Additional features:
   Worktable: The table must be durable enough to hold the workpiece while performing the cuts. Try to select a saw with an aluminum or cast-iron work table instead of a wooden one. The size of the work table is also considerable, as it determines the size of materials you can work with.
   
   The tilt of the worktable: Check if the worktable can tilt or not. The tilting tables are more proficient at getting precise cuts.
   Most scroll saws provide a work table that tilts in one direction, or some rare saws feature a unique table that can tilt in both directions. The standard table tilt capacity is up to 45 degrees.
   
   Worklight: A worklight provides sufficient visibility when working on minute details. It helps get more accurate cuts. Scroll saws nowadays feature adjustable lights that you can drag at any angle. However, some models exist with a fixed light.
   
   Blade tensioning: blade tension represents how loose/tight the blade is (when mounted on the saw). Experienced woodworkers would set the tension manually as they got used to the ins and outs of tools. To simplify the process for beginners, modern saws feature a blade-tensioning knob or trigger. These promote a key clamp that sets the tension for your project accordingly.
   
   Dust port and air blower: A dust-collection port or an air blower is a must-have feature in a saw. This ensures that the line is free of debris during the operation and that you do not breathe in dust particles. But not having these in your favorite saw is not a weak point; you can still do this with a dust vacuum.
   
   Hold-down foot: Prioritizing your safety while operating, this hold-down foot clasps the workpiece in its place. This way, the material is less likely to slide and cause injury. Make sure the foot is made from thin metal; a bulky one will occupy more area on the table, hindering your attention.
   
   
7. Price and Warranty: Scroll saws are available at varying prices in a wide range.  Before diving into the options, consider your budget. Try to look for a quality product within your budget. Remember that you get what you pay for, so invest wisely. Look for a saw with a warranty of at least 1 to 2 years.
   

5 Best Scroll Saws to buy:

1. DeWalt 20-inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw (DW788): Best Professional Scroll Saw

SPECIFICATIONS:

DeWalt’s (DW788) Scroll Saw has had the most satisfied customers since 2008. From assembling the saw to achieving precise cuts, it is the best at what it promises. It cuts 2 inches deep at a variable speed range; you can manually set the speed to your preference.

 The special feature of this scroll saw is its double-parallel arm, which ensures more accurate cuts and joints. Typically, this minimizes the vibrations and helps keep the operation quiet. Its upper arm holds a blade-tensioning lever and a flexible dust blower for easy access. The arm design balances the saw for a powerful grip on the base and smoother operation. The arm lifts when you insert the blade into the material for inside cuts.

DeWalt (DW788) can withstand all types of projects, especially heavy-duty operations, because of its high-speed potential of up to 1750 SPM (strokes per minute). Plus, it features a massive 20-inch cast-iron base table for firm support. As an extraordinary feature, its work table can tilt in both directions (up to 45 degrees). This precision scroll saw offers tool-free screw blade clamps for quick blade changing. 

The price might seem expensive; however, getting these features at this price is rare. Of course, you get what you pay for. For customer comfort, DeWalt ensures a 3-year limited warranty, a year of free service contract, and a money-back guarantee for 90 days. Who would ask for more than this?

ADDITIONAL TIP: Never lift the saw by its upper arm, as it may cause damage. Lift it from its base. 

2. WEN (3921) 16-inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw: Best Scroll Saw for Beginners

SPECIFICATIONS:

This WEN product boasts two years of warranty, nationwide service by skilled technicians, and a customer-friendly helpline. This support is so convincing that you might not resist it. We must mention this is the #1 ranked scroll saw on the “Best Sellers” list on Amazon (at the time of writing).

Now let’s call your attention to the features: Its 16 by 11-inch large table bevels up to 45 degrees to the left side, which enables it to work on various objects. You can set the speed from 550 SPM to 1600 SPM, depending on the type of workpiece. The saw offers an air pump and a 1-½-inch dust port for maintaining a clean workspace.

The standout feature of this WEN-3921 scroll saw is that “it accepts the blades in two different directions (standard and 90 degrees) for extra ripping capacity,” which opens up infinite new possibilities. You can go with pinned and pinless blades and accommodate the workpiece in your desired direction. The pinless blade holder keeps a powerful grip on the blade during operation, so the cuts are accurate. This blade holder is removable, and you can insert the pinned blades into it.

This model is probably the “Best Scroll Saw for Beginners” for many reasons. It provides a hold-down foot clamp that holds the project tightly in place for intense focus. Plus, it features a cast-iron base, an adjustable work light, and onboard storage that keeps the tools within reach.

3. Delta (40–694) 20-inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw: Best Scroll Saw for Metal 

SPECIFICATIONS:

Delta has served the woodworking industry for the last 90 years with dedication and expertise. The Delta 40-694 Scroll Saw is a heavy-duty addition, ideal for intermediate and professional woodworkers. 

It provides many advanced functions, like auto-tensioning of the lever, which auto-adjusts the required tension for extra accuracy and indirectly maximizes the blade’s life. You do not need any tools for removing or changing the blades. The tool-free blade clamp system makes changing as quick as a flash. However, the clamp features a thin hold-down foot, which only accepts pinless blades. More often, professionals look for this feature to have more control over the movement. If you have to work with pinned blades, use an adapter. You can operate your cuts at an adjustable speed that varies from 400 to 1750 SPM. 

Most of its features are familiar to the #1 best scroll saw (DeWalt-DW788), except a few. Like DeWalt’s (DW788) Scroll Saw, it also offers dual-parallel linked arms that ensure high accuracy and minimal vibrations. Also, the worktable has a tilting power of up to 45 degrees left or right.

The add-on feature is a storage space for easy access to blades and accessories. Apart from that, its upper arm locks in a raised position when changing or adjusting the blades. The immense 24 by 16-inch work table allows larger projects like a walk in the park. This industrial scroll saw resonates with advanced users. Even beginners will find it useful because it will easily hook them with sawing. The quickest way for a beginner to build interest in a new skill is to succeed in the first few projects.

4. Skil (SS9503-00) 16-inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw: Best Scroll Saw for Woodworking

SPECIFICATIONS:

With the authentic features of Skil’s new model, it has gained a high rank in the industry in less than 2 years. This SS9503-00 Skil Scroll Saw is among the best-ranked scroll saws on Amazon. (at the time of writing)

Its potent features allow precise cuts and patterns, especially on wood. Even the learners find it handy because of a foot pedal, an LED work light, and an on-board storage system. The foot pedal allows you to place your hands on the workpiece and move it around; it gives you more control over the cuts. The motor powers 1.2 amps and allows for adjustable speed control. Set it between 550 SPM and 1650 SPM, which is efficient for most small and intermediate projects. Blade changing on this saw is simple; the tool-free mechanism fastens the process.

The table size and tilting capability are the same as those of the WEN-3921 Scroll Saw, i.e., it is also 16 by 11 inches and can bevel up to 45 degrees. The integrated LED work light ensures fine visibility during detailed cuts. Finally, the dust removal port collects the debris and lets you work in a neat environment.

5. WEN (3922) 16-inch Variable Speed Scroll saw: Best Scroll Saw for the Money

SPECIFICATIONS:

Another finest option among the scroll saws is the WEN-3922, the best scroll saw for the money. This power tool provides a unique side panel that gives easy access to the blade holder. No worries about blade changing with this WEN, as the blade holder accepts all kinds of blades—pinned, pinless, and spiral. The package includes 3 (5-inch) blades: one 15 TPI pinned blade, one 18 TPI pinned blade, and an 18 TPI pinless blade. In addition, it offers a tool-free blade-changing mechanism, a cast-iron base, an air pump, a 1-½-inch dust port, two years of warranty, and a customer-friendly helpline.          

Most of its specifications are familiar to those of the WEN-3921 Scroll Saw, including table size, tilting capacity of the table, and speed range. Both are equipped with a 60 Hz motor, and the maximum speed control varies from 550 to 1600 SPM.

The 16-by-11-inch, spacious table allows for working on larger materials and can tilt up to 45 degrees for angled cuts. The 16-inch throat capacity cuts 2 inches thick in depth, enough to work on materials like hardwood. It only lacks an LED light and on-board storage like the WEN-3921 has. However, this WEN product still meets the basic needs of sawing. Despite the price, it does not compromise on quality or features.

Our top recommendation for you

“DeWalt (DW788)” is our choice for the best professional scroll saw. We highly recommend it because of its high throat capacity, which allows cutting through various materials without hassle. It presents multiple unique features, like the double-parallel arm for minimal vibrations. For intense focus, the 20-inch work table supports the saw. With a simple turn of the knob, you can manually set the speed based on the type of project and your preference. You can select your desired speed up to 1750 SPM; this is where you get the most bang for your buck. 

Other special features include the auto-blade tensioning lever, dust blower, and tool-free screw clamp. Overall, its features are irresistible, and professionals won’t ask for more with this unrealistic freedom of choice. Even a beginner will find it handy with tool-free blade changing and auto-tensioning. If you are a learner, this saw will kick-start your interest in sawing.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions

Wrapping up

We represented five of the top-rated scroll saws available out there. By the way, each power tool is the best scroll saw in itself and is admirable. But in terms of customer satisfaction, DeWalt (DW788) has no competition. It emerges as the best professional scroll saw for newbies and pros alike . Its impressive throat, minimal vibrations, and a handy 20-inch work table make it stand out. Choose your speed easily, up to 1750 SPM. Sawing with this power tool feels like a piece of cake. 

Hopefully, this guide will answer many of your questions. Share your scroll-saw experiences with us in the comments; we’d love to hear!