Last updated on November 30th, 2021
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Perfect for beginners and experienced woodworkers, ideal for making clean and intricate cuts for crafting custom wooden toys, jigsaw puzzles or designing unique trim pieces
Scroll saws are very handy for cutting and creating intricate designs, curves and are excellent for making toys and jigsaws too. Whether you’re an enthusiastic woodworker just starting out investing in your first scroll saw, or a seasoned woodworker looking for a newer, better machine, we have recommended models for nearly every budget and experience.
Besides woodworking, scroll saws can also be used for cutting other materials too, such as metal and plastic. The accuracy of a scroll saw gives you complete control over your workpiece and are well worth considering.
After many hours of research over the last 6 years (we first reviewed scroll saws in 2015), we have reviewed numerous models, probably around 30 in total and we think we have found 7 of the best models. They include entry-level scroll saws for under £100, packed full of features to models costing in excess of £200 for professional woodworkers.
Before we get into our buyer’s guide and detailed reviews, for those looking for a model without comparing them all right now, we would recommend the Record Power Scroll Saw as it’s suitable for both beginners and more experienced users. It is an excellent piece of kit and has all the features you would need, a tilting table, a work light, easy blade change and it even comes with an impressive 5-year warranty. It’s not the cheapest model but it’s not the most expensive either in the scroll saw terms.
BEST PICK
Our top 6 scroll saws that we have reviewed in detail are listed below:
- Record Power SS16V Scroll Saw – BEST PICK
- Scheppach SD 1600F Decoflex Scroll Saw – BEST PREMIUM PICK
- Proxxon MicroMot Professional 2-Speed Fretsaw – BEST PROFESSIONAL PICK
- FERM Scroll Saw
- Dremel Moto-Saw MS20-1/5 2-in-1 Compact Scroll Saw – BEST BEGINNER PICK
- Einhell TC-SS 405 E 120W Scroll Saw – BEST BUDGET PICK
BEST PROFESSIONAL PICK
BEST PREMIUM PICK
The Top 7 Scroll Saw Reviews
1. Record Power SS16V Scroll Saw 16-inch
BEST PICK
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The Record Power SS16V Scroll Saw 16-inch is a solid, accurate and versatile piece of equipment that will be useful in any workshop. A genuine benefit of this saw is the variable speed which offers the flexibility of cutting a range of different materials. Faster speeds can be used for cutting wood up to 50mm thick while the slower speeds are ideal for cutting plastic and non-ferrous metals. Even if you have the speed right, the key to accurate cutting is to watch the blade carefully as it progresses through the workpiece and not push the piece too hard.
Blade changing is pretty quick and easy and this is exactly what you need when you want to jump onto the next workpiece and reduce interruptions to your workflow, especially when you are cutting intricate pieces. An integral safe feature of this machine is the hold-down clamp which holds the tool in place, making sure the blade stays focused on the marked contours. Another safe feature is the dust blower that eliminates shavings from the workpiece to give you a clear view of the cutting area.
This scroll saw comes with a work light and it’s quite flexible. You can adjust the light to the piece and get rid of infuriating shadows, these can be a stumbling block to precision cutting. The scroll saw comes with a tiltable table that adjusts up to 45 degrees, allowing you to make bevel cuts and even make bowls. There is a dust extraction outlet that when attached to an external vacuum, helps to get rid of sawdust and other small chippings.
Last but not least, the Record Power SS16V Scroll Saw 16-inch comes with a 5-year warranty and that tells you that the manufacturer has enough confidence in the quality of this tool.
Specification
- Two variable speeds – 550 – 1600 rpm
- Throat depth – 406 mm (16″)
- Maximum depth cut – 50mm
- Sawblade length – 133mm
- Table tilt – 0 – 45 degrees
- Weight – 12kg
Pros
- 2 variable speeds of 550 – 1600 rpm.
- Quick and easy blade changing.
- Comes with hold-down clamp for stability.
- Includes a dust blower to improve the visibility of the marked contours.
- Features a flexible worklight.
- Comes with a tiltable table for making bevel cuts.
- Includes a dust extraction outlet.
- Comes with a 5 year guarantee.
Cons
- Vibrates a little on full speed.
Our recommendation
The Record Power SS16V is on our list majorly because of its solid construction and we think that is one of the reasons it has an impressive 5-year guarantee. 3 years more than most other models. Features such as flexible work light, adjustable speed and a tiltable table will generally make for easy cutting and on any angle up to 45 degrees.
However, some of the features don’t execute their functions effectively. For instance, our research found several negatives on the dust blower, something that would’ve been a bonus if it worked well. You can’t escape the tool’s vibration at full speed and so you will have to find an optimal speed that also achieves precision.
So our final word on this tool; it’s a solid scroll saw with great features but needs some improvement. The durability of the overall product, however, is unmatched as is the 5-year guarantee it comes with.
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Read next: Best woodturning lathes
2. Scheppach SD 1600F Decoflex Scroll Saw
BEST PREMIUM PICK
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The Scheppach SD 1600F Decoflex Scroll saw is different from other scroll saws. One extraordinary component that is intended to enhance the cutting precision additionally shortens the time required for cutting diverse subtle elements. All things considered, this idiosyncrasy is an adaptable drive shaft with a collet chuck that can be attached to the tool’s motor. By so doing, you can transform the scroll saw into a Dremel tool that you can utilise for cutting, grinding, finishing and removing some minor burrs from the wood.
That’s not all; the tool comes with a set of different accessories that will enable you to transform your carving ideas into reality. The Scheppach Sd 1600F Decoflex Scrollsaw comes with adapters for pinless blade clamping. In the event that you usually spend some time fixing the blades in the adapters in advance and put them into special groovings, you will dependably have them at hand and will have the capacity to change them in a matter of seconds.
There is an electronic speed control that ensures that you find an ideal speed for a corresponding material. A sturdy parallel arm along with a large, polished, aluminium tabletop, together with a workpiece holder ensures optimum safety while working. The scroll also features an adjustable work light (switched on separately) that guarantees great visibility and a suction connection piece that ensures a clean work environment. It should not go unspoken that this product comes with a 2-year warranty.
Specification
- No load speed – 400 – 1600RPM
- Cutting length – 405mm
- Cutting height – 50mm
- Sawblade length – 133mm
- Table tilt – 0 – 45 degrees
- Weight – 15kg
Pros
- Solid construction.
- Variable speed.
- Possible to make angled cuts due to a tiltable table.
- Comes with a work light for improved visibility.
- Accepts all pins and coping saw type blades.
- Fitted with a standard dust blower.
- Guaranteed clean work thanks to a suction connection.
- 2 year warranty.
Cons
- The adaptors for the pinless blades are a bit fiddly.
Our recommendation
The Scheppach SD 1600F Decoflex Scrollsaw is a solid tool for scrolling but what makes it interesting is the way it transforms to perform other handy tasks. Aside from that, it does have some crucial features that you need in a scroll saw.
The standouts are the work light, air blower and adapters for pinless blade clamping. However, the last pose is a bit of a challenge because it has some awkward small grub screws tightened with Allen keys. Apart from that little flaw, the Scheppach Sd 1600F Decoflex Scrollsaw is an iconic tool with many innovative features.
It is a little more expensive than some of the other models but well worth the extra investment.
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3. Proxxon MicroMot Professional 2-Speed Fretsaw
BEST PROFESSIONAL PICK
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The Proxxon MicroMot professional 2-speed fretsaw DS 460 No. 27094 is one of the few versatile scroll saws on the market today. At first glance, it looks like a solidly built tool for its price. The robust construction reduces vibration thanks to the carefully engineered powder coated CNC-cut steel base. The working table is made out of die-cast aluminium and it can be unlocked and pushed back for an easy saw blade replacement. Patented saw blade holders ensure accurate alignment of the saw blades.
This scroll saw is famous for its superior performance and a popular choice for many industrial applications. It is a 2-speed tool with incredible versatility, cutting on a range of materials including wood, plastic, glass fibre, leather, foam and non-ferrous materials. Its cutting depth varies between materials, for instance, 50mm in wood, 30mm in plastic, and 10mm in non-ferrous materials.
Table angle adjustment ranges from -5 to 50 degrees with wide dimensioned serrations at 0, 10, 20, 30 and 45 degrees. You can make extra-fine adjustments for precise mitre and bevel cuts. It also features lightweight magnesium saw arm that minimises the weight of the load moved by 40% compared to die-cast aluminium. Lastly, the Proxxon DS460 is outfitted with a suction connection, with a vacuum cleaner adapter for dust-free and clean working.
Specification
- Strokes per minute – 900 or 1,400
- Maximum cutting depth – 60 mm
- Throat depth – 460mm
- Sawblade length – 133mm
- Table tilt – -5 – 50 degrees
- Weight – 20kg
Pros
- Sturdy construction with a vibration-reducing solid base.
- Includes a dust blowing device with adjustable nozzle.
- Large working table (400 x 250 mm) made of die-cast aluminium. Can be unlocked and pushed back for easier blade replacement.
- Large table angle adjustment from -5 to 50 degrees.
- Higher cutting depth compared to most other scroll saws.
- Can cut a wide variety of materials such as wood, plastic, rubber, leather and non-ferrous materials.
- Supplied with blade holders that have a high clamping force for accurate alignment.
Cons
- Very pricey but worth the extra cost for very delicate work.
Our recommendation
This scroll saw boasts a solid construction with a die-cast aluminium table and an extremely lightweight magnesium saw arm. It has arguably the largest working table on the market currently and it also has a wider angle adjustment in comparison to other scroll saws. The scroll saw can cut several kinds of materials and even its cutting depth is far more superior when compared to other models. It also has an easy blade change system and the featured dust blowing function ensures a clean work surface.
Except for the fact that some will find this scroll saw very expensive, there’s no major drawback to point out. For professionals who need to cut intricate curves and joints, dovetail joints or perform thicker intarsia projects the Proxxon MicroMot professional 2-speed fretsaw DS 460 No. 27094 is the best to invest in.
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4. FERM Scroll Saw
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This is another decent scroll saw in the lower price range and despite its lower price point, it is still pretty capable of performing a range of tasks. The FERM Scroll Saw – Fret Saw – 90W is uniquely designed with a quick-release function that provides easy blade changes. Additionally, it features a mitre guide for enhanced accuracy and precise working.
To ensure a clean work surface, this tool has a dust blowing system that also provides an assurance that your blade cuts along contoured lines. Speaking of blades, this comes with a set of 10 saw blades. The working table is adjustable from 0 – 45 degrees, giving you the advantage of curving your ideas on the workpiece.
The unit has cast iron housing that ascertains long-term durability. It runs on a corded electric power source with a 90W motor that powers it to work on various materials. The sawing capacity of this tool is 40mm at 0 degrees and 10mm at 45 degrees. The controls are within easy reach at the front of the arm so you can quickly access the on/off buttons. This scroll saw is incredibly easy to use and certainly lives up to its three defining keywords; robust, accurate and simple.
Specification
- No load speed – 1440rpm
- Sawing capacity at 90 degrees – 40mm
- Sawing capacity at 45 degrees – 10mm
- Table tilt – 0 – 45 degrees
- Weight – 14.2kg
Pros
- Fitted with a quick release function for easy and quick saw blade exchange.
- Includes mitre guide for precise working.
- Working table is adjustable from 0 – 45 degrees.
- Supplied with a dust blowing system for a clean working area.
- Sturdy cast iron housing.
- Good value for money.
Cons
- No variable speed.
Our recommendation
The FERM Scroll Saw – Fret Saw – 90W is ideal for every DIYer thanks to its simple design. The on/off controls are conveniently placed within reach for straightforward use. You will also be able to make angled cuts because of the adjustable working table. The supplied mitre guide combined with a dust blowing system will ensure accurate results with a clean work surface and better visibility of the cutting line. Changing between blades is easy too due to the quick release function and the cast iron construction means the unit will last a lifetime. If you are looking for a budget scroll saw, consider this model.
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5. Dremel Moto-Saw MS20-1/5 2-in-1 Compact Scroll Saw
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The Dremel Moto-Saw MS20-1/5 2-in-1 Compact Scroll Saw is an easy-to-use and compact tool for making intricate cuts in different materials. It comes with a range of different blades that ensures that you can cut a variety of materials; softwood, hardwood, laminate, PVC and soft sheet material. The largest blade is the sturdiest and best for wood. The finest blade is good for metal, however, it will not cut wood precisely because it sheers off at an angle.
This scroll saw is mains-driven so it generates a lot of power and for long periods of time too. A standout feature of this scroll saw is its detachable fretsaw that allows the tool to be used not just stationary but also as a handheld item anywhere. It additionally comes with a clamp that holds it firmly on a workbench.
You will have to be patient with this tool when it comes to making straight cuts. The good thing is that it comes with a parallel guide attachment to assist in making straight cuts up to 18mm. The worst mistake you can do is to force the material into the blade. Simply allow the blade to do the work and it’s pretty quick. It is also easy to make curved cuts although holes will need pilot drilling first before fitting the blade through.
The saw features variable speed control, from 1.500 to 2.250 RPM, which means you can match your ideal speed to the project at hand. A vacuum cleaner nozzle is another great addition. It fits perfectly with an external vacuum cleaner to ensure that all the dust and shavings are collected effectively.
This tool is generally easy to use, from setup to accessory change. A carry case is included in the package and it offers a great way to store the saw unless you are lucky enough to mount it permanently on your work table. There is also a hold-down foot which helps a lot in reducing vibration. The box comes with the following:
- 1 Moto-Saw
- 2 General purpose wood cutting blades
- 2 Fine wood cutting blades
- 1 Metal cutting saw blade
- 1 Parallel guide
- 1 Base
- 1 Clamp
Pros
- Variable speed.
- Supplied with a range of blades for cutting different materials.
- Quick accessory change.
- Easy setup.
- Comes with a parallel guide attachment for straight cuts.
- Comes with a clamp for firm placement.
- Dual functioning – works as a stationary and handheld tool.
- Includes a vacuum cleaner nozzle for dust extraction.
Cons
- There is no guide to tell you which speed is ideal for which material.
- The user guide could be better.
Our recommendation
The Dremel Moto-Saw MS20-1/5 2-in-1 Compact Scroll Saw is a well-built, easy-to-use and compact tool meant for making detailed cuts in a variety of materials, thanks to the numerous blades supplied with the tool. Supplement that with its variable speed and a parallel guide, the tool will allow you to effectively cut on different pieces and achieve clean cuts.
The clamp is also a good feature for holding your tool firmly in place. Furthermore, this scroll saw performs as a stationary and handheld tool so you’ll have enough freedom to work about anywhere. Dust disposal is also possible thanks to the vacuum cleaner nozzle.
What we didn’t like is the lack of a speed guide so basically, you don’t know the correct speed for a particular operation. The instructions are also not the best.
That said, the Dremel Compact Scroll Saw is an ideal tool for small-scale craft or hobby applications. It is better than good when used as intended but not perfect. You will find this at a pretty affordable price, making it a great option for anyone on a budget.
On Amazon, this model has over 500 reviews most of which are very good and positive, further confirming how good this tool is.
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6. Einhell TC-SS 405E 120W Scroll Saw
BEST BUDGET PICK
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The Einhell TC-SS 405 E 120W Scroll Saw is known for its easy operation, safe handling and precision cuts. First off, it is made with a solid base that promotes a stable placement. Stability is very important when precise cuts need to be made. Secondly, the metalwork table is tiltable to 45 degrees and 90 degrees so making those angled cuts and sharp edges is possible. It offers a maximum cutting height of 20mm at 45 degrees while the 90-degree cuts go to a max of 52mm.
Another thing that makes this scroll saw quite useful is the provision of 2 blades. To be precise, the tool works with saw blades with T-shaft and coping saw blades, so it’s quite versatile. The coping saw blades are usually designed for the precise cutting of intricate or irregular shapes with accurate control. The blade can be electronically controlled to adjust its speed from 400 to 1600 strokes per minute so as to achieve accurate results. A quick-release clamp makes blade changing easy without the need for extra tools.
It also comes with a workpiece hold-down accessory that ensures the workpiece is securely held in place. Even more, the tool can be affixed directly to a workbench to encourage even more accurate cutting. A blow-off function keeps the work area free of chips and this gives a great view of the workpiece. Therefore, you can easily cut exactly along the marked contours on workpieces. Furthermore, there’s a dust extractor adaptor that will ensure that your workplace is agreeably clean.
Specification
- Mains supply – 230V
- Max power – 120W
- Stroke height – 14mm
- Throat – 406mm
- Diameter of suction adapter – 36mm
- Size of working table – 408 x 250mm
Pros
- Comes with a tiltable table for easy angled/curved cuts.
- Easy blade change thanks to the quick-release clamp.
- Comes with a practical hold-down device.
- Cuts a variety of materials; wood, metal and plastic.
- Includes a dust extractor adaptor.
- Comes with a blow-off device for clear cutting.
- Adjustable blade speed.
- Has a solid base for improved stability.
- Supplied with saw blades.
Cons
- It vibrates at high speeds so workpiece contours can become blurred.
- The blower function could be better, it is adequate.
Our recommendation
This machine comes with some handy features but it’s unfortunate that not all of them are handy in reality. On the good side, the blade speed is adjustable, it has a sturdy base, cuts through various materials and it is supplied with 2 blades as well as being able to cut perfectly at 45 and 90-degree angles. However, this you have to do at lower speeds if you want the cuts to be accurate.
On the bad side, the tensioning is a bit weak so blades sometimes fall out meaning you have to deal with it carefully. High speeds are also not good with this tool because it then starts vibrating and this will lead to inaccuracy. Even dust extraction and blow-off functions are not that good either according to some previous users.
Up to that point, we think the Einhell TC-SS 405 E 120W Scroll Saw can be a great choice for making those angled cuts, yet you’ll have some issues to deal with. The tool will work great once you figure out how to cope with its flaws. Not the best model we have seen but does offer excellent value for money. We have probably been a little too harsh and would probably rate it at 4 stars rather than 5.
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Scroll Saw Buyer’s Guide
There are numerous aspects to consider before buying a scroll saw. Cost is not the most determining element. This short buyer’s guide will enable you to steer in the right direction in the event that you are looking for a decent, if not the best, scroll saw within your budget range.
If you want to jump straight to the Top 7 Scroll Saws just quickly scroll down to read our reviews and recommendations.
What to look for when buying a scroll saw
- Adjustable speed control – A variable speed is vital when working with tools that cut various materials. This is simply on the grounds that different materials require different cutting speeds for a smooth and expert cut. Any decent scroll saw give a cut that requires little to no sanding because the cut is already clean and shiny. You can alter your speed by taking visual cues on the completed cut. It is not just the materials that need variable speeds, woodworkers scroll at different speeds too. Some like to take things slow whilst others like operating at maximum speed. The speed control switch/knob should also be located right next to your power switch. However, it is a good idea that the speed switch and power switch are separate rather than having a combo switch.
- Throat size – The primary term that you need to know in a scroll saw is “throat size”. You may look at the product description and see “30-inch scroll saw” or “16-inch scroll saw”. This specification refers to the distance from the rear of the blade to the “back” of the saw. You need to know this measurement because it determines the length that you can cut – usually double the length of the throat measurement. For instance, a 30-inch scroll saw will make a 60-inch cut on wood. Beginners are better off with a 16-inch scroll saw whilst experienced woodworkers can go for 20-inch or 21-inch scroll saws. In the event that you buy a 30-inch scroll saw, you will simply be flaunting. In any case, go for whatever that suits your needs.
- Table tilt – Most scroll saws come with a tiltable table that enables making angled cuts. They can regularly be tilted to a 45 degree for achieving those calculated cuts. In spite of that fact, you don’t really need to pick a model with a tiltable table because you can, without much of a stretch, tilt your material for a similar outcome, it can be a smart idea to have this choice.
- Working table – You also need to consider the size of your work table. Does it provide enough room to work on a piece comfortably? This is important because you need to be able to spin the workpiece freely and have it completely supported whilst you are cutting. In addition to the size, you should make certain that the material and surface of your work table is extremely smooth so as not to create resistance when trying to work and move a workpiece. Still, the table should be sufficiently solid to hold the material you are cutting. Try to avoid a wooden table and go for steel or aluminium.
- Dust disposal – Working with wood will perpetually create a considerable amount of sawdust. As a scroll saw has a small blade, it does not necessarily create a lot of dust but will eventually accumulate with a great deal of cutting. Therefore, pay attention to models that have a dust disposal mechanism that removes the waste from the cutting line making it easier to see what you are doing.
- Blade types – There exist different types of blades for scroll saws and each type has been adapted to a particular kind of cutting on certain materials. The finished cut will majorly depend on the blade you are using. Standard tooth blades have their teeth spaced out evenly. Others skip one tooth after every other and are therefore known as skip-tooths. Double-tooth blade types have larger spacing and good when using lower speeds. Most blade packings have the blade specifications and tell you what they do exactly.
- Blade change mechanism – Just like any material cutting tool, you will come to a point when you need to change the blade. Pick a model that makes it easy for you to replace an old blade with a new one. The best models make blade changing a bliss and without the use of any tools.
- Blade tensioning – Every good scroll saw ought to have a way of tightening or loosening the blade. It is important that the blade isn’t too tight or loose. A very tight blade is likely to snap off while the opposite will lead to inaccuracy and uneven or wonky cuts. However, you can never tell if the blade has been properly adjusted other than to use it. Blade tensioning is a skill that you will learn over time. The mechanisms for blade tensioning are also different; some have levers, some feature cams whilst others have knobs. Once you have an optimal tension on the workpiece on the table, you will realise that you can achieve a clean and professional cut. Most often, you won’t even need to finish sand the piece because of the glossy cut.
- Blade storage – Considering you will have many different shapes and styles of blades for your scroll saw, you will have to find a place to store them. If you find a model with a built-in storage for blades, then that would be a plus.
- Blade rocker arm type – This is the thing that gives the blade the up and down motion or simply the strokes. Some tools have one solid arm that stretches from the front to the back and handles the movement of the blade. Scroll saws with a single arm tend to be more budget friendly. Other scroll saws have smaller arms that also creates less vibration on the working table.
- The hold down foot – Is the hold down foot strong enough to hold the workpiece? It’s also good that it is adjustable. This feature is especially handy for beginners while pros may feel no need to use it as it may break their delicate pieces rather than help handle the workpiece.
- Tool support – Most scroll saws come with their own stands. You want to be certain that you work at a comfortable height, not too high or too low. You can also find commercial stands with adjustable legs or even make your own stand.
- Work lights – It is not a must-have feature but if available it can be really useful when working in a dimly lit room. If you have a bright work room, then you don’t necessarily need to look for this bonus feature.
- Lubrication – This might possibly be an issue, yet we unquestionably need you to be informed. Some scroll saws have greaseless bearings and bushings while others need lubrication or recommend it after several uses.
Final Conclusion
Buying a scroll saw is a brilliant idea for those who need to make sophisticated cuts in a variety of materials including wood, metal and plastic. If you want to create wood carvings that include edges, it doesn’t get easier than using a scroll saw to achieve the desired angle or edge.
We’ve done our best at providing our honest and unbiased opinions on the scroll saw reviews and we hope you find the best scroll saw for your projects.
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
