Best Scroll Saws for Detail Work: 7 Picks from Budget to Pro
Quick Comparison
| Product | Brand | Power Source | Weight | Best For | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 DeWalt DW788 (Best Overall) | DeWalt | Corded | 56 lbs | Serious hobbyists and semi-pros who want low vibration, large throat capacity, and rock-solid reliability | |
 Delta 40-694 (Editor's Choice) | Delta | Corded | 70 lbs | Woodworkers who want DW788-level performance with a longer warranty and the largest table in the roundup | |
 Excalibur EX-21 (Best for Bevel Cuts) | Excalibur | Corded | 65 lbs | Scroll artists and advanced hobbyists who do frequent bevel cuts and want the tilting-head advantage | |
 WEN 3921 (Best Value) | WEN | Corded | 27.5 lbs | Budget-conscious hobbyists who want the most features per dollar, including two-direction blade mounting | |
 WEN 3922 (Widest Blade Compatibility) | WEN | Corded | 27.5 lbs | Beginners and crafters who want easy blade changes and the widest blade compatibility available | |
 SKIL 3335-07 (Budget Pick) | SKIL | Corded | 34.6 lbs | First-time scroll saw users who want to try the craft without a big financial commitment | |
 Ryobi SC165VS (Best for Beginners) | Ryobi | Corded | 31 lbs | Beginners who want a reliable name brand with the longest warranty in the entry-level category |
DeWalt DW788 (Best Overall)
Serious hobbyists and semi-pros who want low vibration, large throat capacity, and rock-solid reliability
Delta 40-694 (Editor's Choice)
Woodworkers who want DW788-level performance with a longer warranty and the largest table in the roundup
Excalibur EX-21 (Best for Bevel Cuts)
Scroll artists and advanced hobbyists who do frequent bevel cuts and want the tilting-head advantage
WEN 3921 (Best Value)
Budget-conscious hobbyists who want the most features per dollar, including two-direction blade mounting
WEN 3922 (Widest Blade Compatibility)
Beginners and crafters who want easy blade changes and the widest blade compatibility available
SKIL 3335-07 (Budget Pick)
First-time scroll saw users who want to try the craft without a big financial commitment
Ryobi SC165VS (Best for Beginners)
Beginners who want a reliable name brand with the longest warranty in the entry-level category
If you want to cut intricate curves, fretwork, or interior cutouts in wood, a scroll saw is the only tool that does it well. Jigsaws are too aggressive. Band saws can't make tight turns. A scroll saw gives you the precision of a hand coping saw with the speed of a power tool.
Here's the truth about scroll saws: vibration matters more than any other spec. A saw that shakes will ruin your accuracy no matter how sharp the blade is. The best scroll saws use parallel-link arm designs that keep the blade moving up and down with almost zero lateral movement. Budget saws use simpler C-arm or parallel-arm designs that vibrate more, but some of them still perform surprisingly well for the price.
We compared seven scroll saws across three price tiers to find the best options for beginners, serious hobbyists, and everyone in between. Whether you're cutting Christmas ornaments or building detailed wooden portraits, one of these saws fits your needs.
Quick Picks: Best Scroll Saws at a Glance
- Best Overall: DeWalt DW788. 20-inch throat, near-zero vibration, the gold standard for serious scrollers.
- Best Value: WEN 3921. Two-direction blade mount and cast iron base for around $130.
- Best for Beginners: Ryobi SC165VS. 3-year warranty, tool-free everything, and easy Home Depot returns.
- Budget Pick: SKIL 3335-07. The cheapest way to try scroll sawing without compromising on blade compatibility.
- Editor's Choice: Delta 40-694. 5-year warranty, 20-inch throat, and the largest table in the roundup.
What Makes a Good Scroll Saw? Key Specs Explained
Before diving into individual picks, here are the specs that actually matter.
Throat size is the distance from the blade to the rear arm of the saw. A 16-inch throat lets you cut workpieces up to 32 inches wide (by rotating the piece). A 20-inch throat handles pieces up to 40 inches. For most hobbyists, 16 inches is plenty. If you work with large patterns or sign-making, go with 20.
Strokes per minute (SPM) determines cutting speed. Variable speed is essential. You want low SPM (400-600) for delicate materials, plastics, and tight curves. Higher SPM (1,200+) works best for straight cuts in softwood. Every saw in this roundup has variable speed.
Blade type compatibility matters more than you might think. Pin-end blades are easier to install but thicker, limiting how tight you can cut curves. Plain-end (pinless) blades are thinner and allow tighter turns, but they require clamps to hold them. The best saws accept both.
Vibration separates good scroll saws from great ones. Parallel-link arm designs (used in the DeWalt DW788 and Delta 40-694) virtually eliminate vibration. C-arm designs vibrate more but cost less. If you plan to do detailed fretwork or intarsia, low vibration is worth paying for.
Our Top Picks
DeWalt DW788 (Best Overall)
DeWalt DW788 (Best Overall)
Serious hobbyists and semi-pros who want low vibration, large throat capacity, and rock-solid reliability
Pros
- Double parallel-link arm design delivers near-zero vibration for extremely clean cuts
- 20-inch throat accommodates large workpieces and patterns
- Tool-free blade clamps and front-mounted controls keep everything accessible
- Arm lifts easily for threading blades through interior cutouts
Cons
- At ~$659, it costs significantly more than mid-range 16-inch alternatives
- Accepts only plain-end blades, which limits flexibility for beginners used to pin-end blades
- 56 lbs needs a dedicated spot in your shop
The DeWalt DW788 has been the scroll saw to beat for years, and nothing in its class has dethroned it. The double parallel-link arm design virtually eliminates vibration, which means cleaner cuts and less fatigue during long sessions. You can set a nickel on the table while it runs and it won't fall over.
The 20-inch throat accommodates large workpieces that would overwhelm any 16-inch saw, and the 1.3-amp motor has no trouble pushing through 2-inch hardwood at lower speeds. Front-mounted controls (speed dial, on/off switch, tensioning lever) keep everything within reach so you never have to break your line of sight from the cut.
The arm lifts easily for threading blades through interior cutouts, and the tool-free blade clamps make swaps fast. At $659 it's a serious investment, but if scroll sawing is more than a passing interest, this is the saw that won't hold you back.
Delta 40-694 (Editor's Choice)
Delta 40-694 (Editor's Choice)
Woodworkers who want DW788-level performance with a longer warranty and the largest table in the roundup
Pros
- Dual parallel-link arm design matches the DW788 for vibration reduction
- 24-inch-wide cast iron table is the largest in this roundup
- 5-year warranty is the longest among major scroll saw brands at this price tier
- Single-lever, tool-free blade tensioning allows quick adjustments
Cons
- At 70 lbs, it is the heaviest saw in this roundup and requires a sturdy bench
- Plain-end blades only, same limitation as the DeWalt
- Availability can be inconsistent at some retailers; check stock before ordering
The Delta 40-694 matches the DeWalt DW788 on the specs that matter most: dual parallel-link arm design, 20-inch throat, 1.3-amp motor, and a variable speed range of 400 to 1,750 SPM. Where it pulls ahead is the warranty (5 years vs. DeWalt's 3) and the table size (16" x 24", the largest in this roundup).
The single-lever, tool-free blade tensioning system lets you dial in the right tension quickly, which extends blade life and improves cut quality. The cast iron table is thick and heavy, adding stability. That extra mass is part of why the Delta weighs 70 lbs, but it pays off in reduced vibration.
If you can find it in stock (availability can be inconsistent at some retailers), the Delta offers arguably the best value in the 20-inch scroll saw category. The 5-year warranty alone makes it worth considering over the DeWalt for hobbyists who want long-term peace of mind.
Excalibur EX-21 (Best for Bevel Cuts)
Excalibur EX-21 (Best for Bevel Cuts)
Scroll artists and advanced hobbyists who do frequent bevel cuts and want the tilting-head advantage
Pros
- Tilting head keeps workpieces flat during bevel cuts, a huge accuracy and ergonomic advantage
- 21-inch throat is the largest in this roundup
- Included foot switch provides hands-free on/off control
- Top and bottom blade feed makes interior cuts fast
Cons
- 2-year warranty is shorter than the DeWalt (3 years) and Delta (5 years) at this price level
- 13.5-inch table depth is narrower front-to-back than competitors
- At $650+ (saw only), the kit with stand pushes past $1,200
The Excalibur EX-21 takes a fundamentally different approach to bevel cutting. Instead of tilting the table (which forces you to hold your workpiece at an angle), the EX-21 tilts the entire upper head assembly up to 45 degrees. Your workpiece stays flat on the table, which is a major ergonomic and accuracy advantage for compound cuts.
The 21-inch throat is the largest in this roundup, letting you handle workpieces up to 42 inches across by rotating them. The top and bottom blade feed system makes threading for interior cuts quick, and the finger-operated clamps are genuinely tool-free. An included foot switch provides deadman-style on/off control, keeping both hands on the workpiece at all times.
The trade-off is price and warranty. At $650 (saw only), it's comparable to the DeWalt, but the 2-year warranty is shorter than every other premium option. The table depth (13.5 inches front-to-back) is also narrower than the DeWalt or Delta. If bevel cuts are a regular part of your work, the tilting head is worth it. If not, the DeWalt or Delta are better all-around choices.
WEN 3921 (Best Value)
WEN 3921 (Best Value)
Budget-conscious hobbyists who want the most features per dollar, including two-direction blade mounting
Pros
- Two-direction blade mounting allows infinite rip-cut length, a unique feature at this price
- Accepts both pin-end and plain-end blades for maximum flexibility
- Cast iron base reduces vibration despite the lightweight frame
- Includes flex light, air pump dust blower, 1.5-inch dust port, and three blades
Cons
- 16-inch throat limits you on larger workpieces compared to 20-inch saws
- Table only bevels to the left (no right bevel)
- 9/16-inch stroke length is shorter than premium saws, meaning slightly slower material removal
The WEN 3921 is the best value scroll saw you can buy, and it's not particularly close. For around $130, you get a feature that no other saw in this roundup offers at any price: two-direction blade mounting. Rotate the blade 90 degrees and you can make unlimited-length rip cuts, essentially turning the scroll saw into a mini band saw for thin stock.
It accepts both pin-end and plain-end blades, which is ideal for beginners who want to experiment with different blade types. The cast iron base does a respectable job dampening vibration despite the lightweight 27.5 lb frame. Out of the box, you get a flex light, air pump dust blower, 1.5-inch dust port for shop vac connection, and three blades.
The 16-inch throat and 9/16-inch stroke length are the main limitations. You won't match the cut capacity or material removal rate of a 20-inch saw. But for ornaments, small signs, puzzles, and learning the craft, the WEN 3921 punches well above its price.
WEN 3922 (Widest Blade Compatibility)
WEN 3922 (Widest Blade Compatibility)
Beginners and crafters who want easy blade changes and the widest blade compatibility available
Pros
- Side-panel blade access makes bottom blade changes quick and easy
- Accepts pin-end, plain-end, and spiral blades for the widest compatibility in this roundup
- Cast iron base dampens vibration effectively for a sub-$120 saw
- Includes three blades to get started immediately
Cons
- Minimum speed of 550 SPM is higher than the 3921's 400 SPM, limiting control on delicate materials
- No two-direction blade mounting (unlike the WEN 3921)
- Table only bevels to one side
The WEN 3922 is the 3921's sibling, built on the same frame but with a different blade-change system. The side panel swings open for quick bottom blade holder access without crawling under the table. It's a small design change that makes a big practical difference, especially for beginners who are swapping blades frequently as they learn.
The standout spec is blade compatibility. The 3922 accepts pin-end, plain-end, and spiral blades. Spiral blades cut in all directions without rotating the workpiece, which is a technique that many scroll saw artists rely on for intricate patterns.
You lose the two-direction blade mounting that makes the 3921 special, and the minimum speed is slightly higher (550 vs. 400 SPM). If you value blade variety and easy changes over the rip-cut feature, the 3922 is the better WEN. If the two-direction mount appeals to you, go with the 3921.
SKIL 3335-07 (Budget Pick)
SKIL 3335-07 (Budget Pick)
First-time scroll saw users who want to try the craft without a big financial commitment
Pros
- Longest stroke length (7/8 inch) among budget 16-inch saws for faster material removal
- 1,700 SPM top speed is the highest among budget options
- Articulating LED worklight illuminates the cut line well
- Accepts both pin-end and plain-end blades
Cons
- 1-year warranty is the shortest in this roundup
- 34.6 lbs is heavier than WEN models without a larger throat or table
- Dust removal is basic compared to WEN's dedicated 1.5-inch dust port
The SKIL 3335-07 is the cheapest scroll saw worth buying. At around $90, it gets you into the craft for less than the cost of a decent set of scroll saw blades and a 16-inch WEN. It's basic, but it works.
The 7/8-inch stroke length is actually the longest among the budget 16-inch saws in this roundup, which helps move material faster. The top speed of 1,700 SPM is also the highest in the budget category. The articulating LED worklight is a nice touch that illuminates the cut line better than the flex lights on competing models.
The 1-year warranty is the main drawback. WEN offers 2 years and Ryobi offers 3 at similar price points. If you're not sure scroll sawing is for you, the SKIL lets you find out cheaply. If you decide to stick with it, plan to upgrade within a year or two.
Ryobi SC165VS (Best for Beginners)
Ryobi SC165VS (Best for Beginners)
Beginners who want a reliable name brand with the longest warranty in the entry-level category
Pros
- 3-year warranty is the longest among 16-inch scroll saws in this roundup
- Tool-free blade changes and table tilt adjustment lower the learning curve
- Cast aluminum table with integrated dust blower keeps the cut line visible
- Widely available at Home Depot for easy purchase, returns, and support
Cons
- At ~$219, it costs nearly twice as much as the WEN 3921 without a larger throat or more power
- Cast aluminum table is lighter than cast iron, which allows slightly more vibration
- Includes only one blade (18 TPI), so you need to buy additional blades immediately
The Ryobi SC165VS costs more than the WEN models, and that premium buys you two things: a 3-year warranty (the longest among 16-inch scroll saws) and Home Depot availability. If something goes wrong, you can walk into a store and handle the return in person. For a first scroll saw, that peace of mind has real value.
The tool-free blade changes and tool-free table tilt adjustment lower the learning curve. You don't need to fumble with hex keys or Allen wrenches while you're still figuring out blade tensioning. The cast aluminum table with integrated dust blower keeps the cut line visible, which matters when you're learning to follow a pattern.
The trade-off is value. At $219, you're paying nearly twice what the WEN 3921 costs without getting a larger throat, more powerful motor, or two-direction blade mounting. If you're confident you'll stick with scroll sawing, the WEN 3921 gives you more features for less money. If you value the warranty safety net and brand support, the Ryobi is the safer bet.
How to Choose the Right Scroll Saw
If you're just starting out: Go with the WEN 3921 ($130) or Ryobi SC165VS ($219). The WEN gives you more features for less money. The Ryobi gives you a longer warranty and easier returns. Either one will teach you the fundamentals without a big financial commitment.
If you're serious about the craft: The DeWalt DW788 ($659) or Delta 40-694 ($500) are the clear choices. Both use parallel-link arm designs that virtually eliminate vibration. The DeWalt is easier to find in stock. The Delta offers a longer warranty and larger table. You can't go wrong with either.
If you do a lot of bevel cuts: The Excalibur EX-21 ($650) is the only saw here with a tilting head. If compound bevel cuts are a regular part of your projects, the ergonomic advantage is worth the premium.
If you want the cheapest entry point: The SKIL 3335-07 ($90) gets you cutting for less than a hundred dollars. It's not a forever saw, but it's a great way to find out if scroll sawing is your thing.
Common Questions
What's the difference between pin-end and plain-end scroll saw blades?
Pin-end blades have small cross-pins at each end that hook into the saw's blade holders. They're easy to install but thicker, which limits how tight you can turn. Plain-end (pinless) blades are thinner, allow tighter radius cuts, and come in more varieties. Most serious scroll saw users prefer plain-end blades. Budget saws like the WEN 3921 and SKIL 3335-07 accept both types, while premium saws like the DeWalt DW788 accept only plain-end.
How thick can a scroll saw cut?
Most scroll saws cut material up to 2 inches thick. The Delta 40-694 handles slightly thicker stock at 2-1/8 inches. For thicker material, you need a band saw. Scroll saws excel at detail work in thin to medium stock, not resawing thick lumber.
Do I need a stand for my scroll saw?
Budget 16-inch saws (27-35 lbs) can sit on any sturdy workbench. Premium 20-inch saws (56-70 lbs) benefit from a dedicated stand that puts the table at a comfortable working height. The Excalibur EX-21K kit includes a matching stand if you want an all-in-one solution.
How often should I replace scroll saw blades?
Replace the blade when cuts start requiring more force, the blade wanders from your line, or you see burn marks on the wood. Most hobbyists go through several blades per project. Plain-end blades are inexpensive (often under $0.50 each in bulk packs), so don't hesitate to swap in a fresh one.
Is a scroll saw better than a jigsaw for detail work?
Yes, significantly. A scroll saw holds the blade at both ends (top and bottom), keeping it perfectly straight. A jigsaw holds the blade at one end, so it flexes and wanders. Scroll saws also cut on the downstroke, pressing the workpiece against the table. For intricate curves, fretwork, and interior cutouts, a scroll saw is the right tool.
Final Thoughts
For most people, the DeWalt DW788 is the scroll saw to buy. The 20-inch throat, parallel-link arm design, and near-zero vibration make it the benchmark everything else is measured against. If the $659 price is a stretch, the Delta 40-694 delivers comparable performance with a longer warranty for around $500.
On a budget, the WEN 3921 at $130 is the best deal in scroll saws right now. The two-direction blade mount, dual blade compatibility, and cast iron base give you more saw than you'd expect at this price. Pair it with a variety pack of plain-end blades and you're set to start cutting.
If you're genuinely unsure whether scroll sawing is for you, start with the SKIL 3335-07 at $90 and upgrade later. There's no shame in a test run.
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