A scroll saw is an asset to any woodshop or garage, and you don’t have to be a woodworking expert to take advantage of the many unique benefits these versatile and easy-to-use saws provide.
If you’re looking to add a new scroll saw to your tool lineup, you’ve probably already noticed the seemingly endless choices at your disposal. There’s certainly some good ones on the market in the Philippines, but we have our own picks as to the best scroll saws on the market.
Below, you’ll find out top five scroll saws for 2026, which includes several different price points, sizes, and capabilities. We’ve also included some buying advice to help you narrow things down even further.
Let’s get started.
Best Scroll Saws Reviews & Recommendations For 2026
Best Scroll Saw Under $500 – DEWALT DW788
The DEWALT DW788 is a premium scroll saw designed for users in the Philippines who want precision, stability, and smooth cutting performance for detailed woodworking projects. It is widely regarded as one of the most reliable scroll saws for both professional workshops and serious hobbyists, offering excellent control, low vibration, and a high level of cutting accuracy.
Despite its compact appearance, the DW788 delivers strong performance and is capable of handling intricate curves, fine detailing, and delicate materials with ease. Its design focuses heavily on precision and user comfort, making it ideal for long, detailed cutting sessions.
Cutting Performance and Applications:
1.3-Amp Variable-Speed Motor: Provides smooth and controlled cutting performance suitable for both softwoods and hardwoods, as well as detailed craft materials.
Variable Speed Control (400–1,750 SPM): Allows users to adjust blade speed depending on material type, helping prevent burning and improving cut quality.
Variable Stroke Length (¾” to 2”): Offers flexibility for both fine detail work and faster material removal.
Table and Cutting Control:
Cast Iron Table (16” x 23¾”): Provides a stable and durable cutting surface suitable for precision woodworking.
45° Table Bevel (Left and Right): Enables angled cuts for advanced scrollwork and artistic designs.
Large Work Surface: Supports a wide range of project sizes, from small crafts to larger decorative pieces.
Features and Design:
Double-Parallel Link Arm System: Minimizes vibration significantly, resulting in smoother, more accurate cuts even at higher speeds.
Tool-Free Blade Change System: Allows quick and easy blade replacement without interrupting workflow.
Onboard Adjustable Dust Blower: Keeps the cutting line clear for improved visibility and accuracy.
Included Blade Set: Ready to use straight out of the box.
Stability and Build Quality:
Heavy-Duty 54 lb Frame: Provides excellent stability during operation while still being portable enough for workshop use.
Low Vibration Design: Ensures better control and cleaner cuts, especially for detailed work.
Workbench or Stand Mounting Options: Can be easily integrated into different workshop setups.
Pros:
- Extremely low vibration for high-precision cutting
- Wide variable speed range (400–1,750 SPM)
- Smooth and accurate cutting performance
- Tool-free blade changes for convenience
- Strong cast iron table for stability
- Excellent for detailed and artistic woodworking
Cons:
- Not designed for heavy industrial cutting tasks
- Smaller motor compared to larger workshop machines
- Best suited for detail work rather than bulk material removal
Suitable For:
The DEWALT DW788 is ideal for woodworking enthusiasts, craftsmen, and professionals in the Philippines who specialize in detailed cutting work such as scroll art, fine furniture detailing, decorative patterns, and precision hobby projects. It is especially valuable for users who prioritize accuracy, smooth operation, and control over raw cutting power.
Runner-up – Delta 40-694
The Delta 40-694 scroll saw is a high-performance woodworking tool designed for users in the Philippines who need precision, stability, and versatility in a compact machine. It is built to meet the demands of professional workshops while remaining accessible enough for DIY users and hobbyists who work on detailed wood projects at home.
Despite its relatively compact footprint, the 40-694 delivers strong cutting performance, excellent control, and a wide range of speed adjustments, making it suitable for both delicate craftwork and more demanding scroll cutting tasks.
Cutting Performance and Applications:
1.3-Amp Motor: Provides consistent and smooth cutting power suitable for a wide range of scroll saw blades and materials.
Variable Speed Control (400–1,750 SPM): Allows precise control for different materials, from softwoods to more delicate and splinter-prone woods.
Low-Speed Precision (400 SPM): Ideal for intricate detailing, fragile materials, and reducing burning or tear-out during slow, controlled cuts.
¾” Stroke Length: Offers a balanced combination of speed and accuracy for both fine detail and moderate material removal.
Table and Cutting Control:
Cast Iron Table (16” x 24”): Provides a stable and vibration-resistant surface for precise cutting.
45° Table Bevel (Left and Right): Enables angled cuts for more advanced scrollwork and design flexibility.
Large Working Surface: Suitable for both small craft pieces and larger woodworking projects.
Features and Design:
Dual-Parallel Arm System: Reduces vibration significantly, improving accuracy and cut smoothness during operation.
Tool-Free Blade Lift System: Allows quick blade changes and adjustments without interrupting workflow.
Onboard Blade Storage: Keeps spare blades organized and easily accessible during projects.
Adjustable Dust Blower Hose: Helps maintain a clean cutting line for better visibility and precision.
Portability and Build Quality:
Solid 60 lb Frame: Offers stability during use while still being portable enough for job site or workshop movement.
No Included Stand or Light (Optional Accessories): Allows users to customize their setup based on workspace needs.
Compact and Practical Design: Easy to position on benches or work surfaces without requiring permanent installation.
Pros:
- Strong vibration control for accurate cutting
- Wide variable speed range (400–1,750 SPM)
- Durable cast iron table for stability
- Tool-free blade changes for convenience
- Suitable for both professional and hobby use
- Good balance of power and precision
Cons:
- Stand and light not included as standard
- Heavier than some entry-level scroll saws
- Not intended for heavy industrial cutting work
Suitable For:
The Delta 40-694 is ideal for woodworking enthusiasts, craftsmen, and professionals in the Philippines who need a reliable scroll saw for detailed work. It is especially well-suited for fine furniture detailing, decorative scrollwork, craft projects, and precision cutting where control and accuracy are more important than raw cutting power.
Best model Under $200 – Shop Fox W1713
The Shop Fox W1713 is a compact and budget-friendly scroll saw designed for users in the Philippines who want reliable cutting performance without paying premium prices. Despite its affordability, it delivers impressive precision, smooth operation, and enough versatility to handle both beginner woodworking projects and light professional tasks.
This model is especially appealing for hobbyists, DIY users, and small workshop owners who need a capable scroll saw that is easy to use, lightweight, and efficient for detailed cutting work.
Cutting Performance and Applications:
1.3-Amp (⅛ HP) Motor: Provides steady and controlled cutting power suitable for wood, thin materials, and detailed scrollwork applications.
Variable Speed Control (550–1,700 SPM): Offers a wide speed range for different materials, from delicate low-speed cuts to faster material shaping.
¾” Stroke Length: Ensures a balance between cutting precision and material removal efficiency.
Table and Cutting Control:
Cast Iron Table (16” Capacity): Provides a stable and vibration-resistant surface for accurate scroll cutting.
16” Cutting Width Capacity: Allows for handling medium-sized workpieces commonly used in craft and woodworking projects.
2” Cutting Thickness Capacity: Suitable for most hobby and light professional applications.
45° Table Bevel (Left and Right): Enables angled cuts for more creative and advanced woodworking designs.
Features and Design:
Pinned and Pinless Blade Compatibility: Supports a wide range of blade types for different cutting needs.
Quick Blade Change System: Allows fast blade replacement, reducing downtime during projects.
Front-Mounted Speed and Power Controls: Easy access for convenient adjustments while working.
Adjustable Work Light: Helps illuminate the cutting area for better precision and visibility.
Dust Management and Stability:
Rear Dust Port: Can be connected to a vacuum system to help maintain a clean workspace.
Built-In Vibration Absorption Design: Helps reduce movement and improve cutting accuracy despite the simpler arm system.
Portability and Build Quality:
Lightweight Design (Approx. 31 lbs): Extremely easy to move, reposition, or store in small workshops.
Compact Frame: Ideal for users with limited space or mobile workshop setups.
No Heavy Stand Required: Can be used directly on a bench or tabletop.
Pros:
- Very affordable price point
- Lightweight and highly portable
- Wide variable speed range for versatility
- Compatible with multiple blade types
- Simple and beginner-friendly operation
- Includes useful extras like work light and dust port
Cons:
- Less advanced vibration control than premium models
- Not ideal for heavy-duty or industrial use
- Smaller motor compared to higher-end scroll saws
Suitable For:
The Shop Fox W1713 is ideal for beginners, hobbyists, and budget-conscious woodworkers in the Philippines who need a dependable scroll saw for craft projects, light furniture detailing, model making, and general DIY woodworking. It offers strong value for money while still delivering the precision and flexibility needed for detailed cutting work.
Runner-Up – Dremel MS20-01
The Dremel MS20-01 Compact Scroll Saw is the smallest and most budget-friendly scroll saw in this lineup, making it an ideal option for users in the Philippines who want an entry-level tool for light woodworking, crafting, and small home projects. Despite its compact size, it delivers surprisingly capable performance and offers a level of flexibility that makes it appealing even to more experienced hobbyists.
This saw is designed for convenience above all else. Its lightweight build, detachable table, and portable configuration make it one of the most versatile scroll saws available for small-scale work and precision crafting.
Cutting Performance and Applications:
0.6-Amp Compact Motor: Provides sufficient power for light-duty cutting tasks such as wood, plastic, PVC, and thin metal sheets.
Adjustable Speed Control: Allows users to adapt cutting speed based on material type and desired precision.
0.315” Blade Stroke: Designed for fine, controlled cutting rather than heavy material removal.
Table and Cutting Control:
Detachable Work Table (14.5” x 8.5”): Compact surface suitable for small and detailed projects.
Portable Cutting Option: The saw can be detached and brought directly to the material, offering a unique level of flexibility not found in traditional scroll saws.
Built-In Measurement Guides and Grooves: Helps improve cutting accuracy for detailed work.
Optional Fence Compatibility: Allows for improved straight-line guidance when needed.
Features and Design:
Quick Blade Change System: Enables fast and easy blade swaps for different materials.
Auto-Tension Lever: Simplifies blade adjustments and helps maintain consistent cutting performance.
Multi-Material Blade Set Included: Supports cutting wood, plastic, and light metal materials.
Compact 2-in-1 Design: Can function both as a stationary scroll saw and a handheld-style cutting tool.
Portability and Build Quality:
Ultra-Lightweight Construction: Extremely easy to carry, store, and set up in small spaces.
Space-Saving Design: Ideal for apartments, small workshops, or craft stations.
Beginner-Friendly Setup: Simple design makes it accessible for new users.
Pros:
- Extremely affordable entry-level scroll saw
- Highly portable and space-saving design
- Unique detachable/portable cutting capability
- Easy blade changes with auto-tension system
- Suitable for multiple light materials (wood, plastic, metal)
- Great for beginners and craft-focused users
Cons:
- Not suitable for heavy-duty woodworking
- Limited motor power compared to larger scroll saws
- Small cutting capacity and table size
- Less stability for large or complex projects
Suitable For:
The Dremel MS20-01 is ideal for beginners, hobbyists, and craft-focused users in the Philippines who need a simple and ultra-portable scroll saw for small DIY projects, model making, decorative crafts, and light precision cutting. It is best suited for occasional use where convenience, affordability, and portability matter more than raw power.
Alternative – WEN 3920
The WEN 3920 is a budget-friendly scroll saw designed for users in the Philippines who want a powerful and versatile cutting tool without spending a lot. Despite its low price point, it delivers performance and features that are often found in more expensive models, making it a strong option for beginners, hobbyists, and light-duty workshop users.
This model is essentially a compact version of larger WEN scroll saws, combining solid cutting power with added flexibility such as angled cutting, variable speed control, and enhanced dust management features.
Cutting Performance and Applications:
1.2-Amp Motor: Provides reliable and consistent cutting power suitable for wood, plastic, and light metal materials when using the correct blade type.
Variable Speed Control (550–1,660 SPM): Offers a wide range of speeds for different materials, allowing smoother cuts on delicate pieces and faster performance on thicker stock.
Standard ¾” Stroke Performance: Ensures balanced cutting speed and precision for general scroll work.
Table and Cutting Control:
Cast Iron Table (16” x 11”): Provides a stable and vibration-resistant surface for improved cutting accuracy.
16” Throat Capacity: Suitable for most hobby and small workshop projects.
90° Blade Rotation Capability: Allows expanded cutting flexibility, including ripping-style cuts when needed.
45° Table Bevel: Enables angled cuts for more advanced designs and woodworking applications.
Features and Design:
Pin and Pinless Blade Compatibility: Supports a wide range of blade types for different materials and cutting styles.
Included Blade Set (3 Blades): Ready for immediate use with multiple cutting options.
LED Work Light: Improves visibility and precision by illuminating the cutting line.
Built-in Air Pump System: Continuously clears dust from the cutting area for better visibility and cleaner operation.
Portability and Build Quality:
Lightweight Design (Approx. 28 lbs): Easy to move, store, and set up in small workshops or home spaces.
Stable Base Construction: Cast iron base helps reduce vibration and improve cutting control.
Compact Form Factor: Ideal for users with limited workspace.
Pros:
- Excellent value for money
- Strong feature set for its price range
- Variable speed control for different materials
- Built-in air pump for dust control
- Lightweight and portable design
- Suitable for beginners and hobbyists
Cons:
- Not designed for heavy-duty or industrial use
- Smaller motor compared to premium scroll saws
- Limited precision compared to high-end models
Suitable For:
The WEN 3920 is ideal for beginners, DIY enthusiasts, and budget-conscious users in the Philippines who need a reliable scroll saw for craft projects, small furniture work, model making, and general light woodworking. It offers an excellent balance of affordability, usability, and functionality for everyday workshop tasks.
Aspects to Consider When Shopping for a Scroll Saw
Scroll saws are definitely not a one-size-fits-all power tool, so in order to make sure you get the product that’s best suited to your particular needs, it’s best to carefully consider the following aspects beforehand.
Size
The actual size of the saw is always an important thing to think of before buying.
Scroll saws come in a lot of different sizes, so you can find larger units that are intended for large workshops with a high output demand, and compact units that may not even come with their own table.
Despite the many size differences out there, the cutting capacity of the saws are generally the same, so it’s really more about the table size, and the actual size of the unit as a whole.
If you have a spacious shop area, size won’t be as much of an issue. However, if you do have to look for something smaller, be aware that this doesn’t necessarily mean you’re giving up performance and capacity.
In most cases, the average user can get away with a smaller scroll saw, or at least one with a smaller table that ensures a smaller overall profile.
Depth of Cut
The available depth of cut on a scroll saw is something that tends to get overlooked for a lot of buyers, and then they don’t realize it until it’s too late.
The depth of cut is basically a fancier way of indicating the thickness of material the saw can cut. For instance, if the depth of cut is 1.5 inches, that means the saw can cut all the way through materials that are 1.5 inches thick. Pretty simple.
Since scroll saws are more suited for smaller cutting tasks and crafting, you won’t need some huge cutting capacity to get by.
Most scroll saws range from 1.25 inches to 2.0 inches, so consider the workpieces you’ll be dealing with beforehand, and make sure the saw you’re looking at has the appropriate capacity to handle it.
Type and Thickness of Blade
Blade types are a big aspect of scroll saws, as each type of blade specializes in performing certain types of cuts for either certain materials, or the cut itself.
The layout of the blade teeth is what determines how or what it can cut. With scroll saw blades, the teeth are always on one side of the blade, with the other side flat.
The only exception is a spiral blade, which has teeth wrapped around in a spiral pattern, making it suited for very intricate curves that have a lot of variance in direction and angle.
Be sure to check out our article on scroll saws for a longer explanation of the various blade types, and what they are best for.
Blade Replacement
One of the biggest advantages of a scroll saw is how easy it is to change the blades. Anyone that’s ever had to replace the blade on a band saw can appreciate this fact.
Most scroll saws now have very easy to use blade replacement systems, often involving the quick flip of a switch somewhere on the front of the saw, usually within reach of where you’re performing the cuts from.
With this system, flipping the switch takes off the blade tension, allowing you to simply reach over, pull out the blade, and install whichever one you have on hand that you’d like to use next.
There are some scroll saws out there that still use more complicated blade changing systems, so be sure to read over the instructions and features to get a good feel for how the process is for that particular saw first.
Added Features
There are a select few extra features you should look out for with scroll saws, as these will not only increase convenience, but may aid in your overall cutting accuracy and quality as well.
Lights
Every power saw requires a high sense of accuracy, but this is even more true with scroll saws. Part of being accurate is being able to see exactly what you’re doing at all times.
Room and overhead light should already be bright enough for you to see the cut line, but there are times when this may not always be adequate. Other times you may simply benefit from having a more targeted light at yout cut line.
Scroll saws that come with an extendable light give you a major advantage in any environment.
This light can be moved around and aimed directly where you want on your workpiece, so you can see every last detailed needed to make the best cuts possible, and without straining your eyes.
Dust Vacuums
Saw dust is an unavoidable part of sawing, and it really doesn’t matter which type of saw you’re using.
But again, since scroll saws require such a high level of detail and accuracy at times, having even a little bit of saw dust flying around can hinder your cut line, and obscure your vision.
Not only that, but saw dust quickly creates annoying messes that can take forever to clean up,while also getting all over your saws moving parts — and in your eyes or lungs.
With that said, most power saws come with a vacuum port at minimum that allows you to connect your own vacuum hose, but you know what’s even better than that? A scroll saw that has its own vacuum built in.
As always, added features like this are not a deal-breaker if the saw you’re looking at is great in every other aspect, but having a built-in vacuum is definitely a notable advantage.
Extra Blades/Storage
Most scroll saws are going to come with at least one all-purpose or general use blade, but it’s always best to acquire other blade types as well, as this enables you to have more options with how you cut your workpieces, or with what materials you’re working with.
It’s always a solid bonus when a scroll saw comes with extra blades. Again, not a deal-breaker, but certainly preferred.
Another good aspect that can help with keeping your blade collection is a sizable onboard storage.
There’s nothing inherently wrong with keeping your blades and small parts in a shop drawer or tool box, but it’s always ideal if you can store it all on the actual saw body itself.
Types Of Scroll Saws
When it comes to scroll saws, there really aren’t any different types anymore, unless you count older relic machiness that probably belong in a museum somewhere instead of a workshop.
The main differences among scroll saws today would only be in regards to the power supply, such as either electric-powered models, or manual ones powered via foot pedal, the latter of which is fairly rare now.
What is a Scroll Saw Used For?
As with most power saws, scroll saws can be used for a number of tasks, but they excel more in a few distinct areas. Here are the three most common uses.
Hobbies and Crafts
Perhaps the most popular use for a scroll saw involves art, hobby, and general crafting.
The small size of the blade, the quietness of the saw, and the ease of use all combine to create an ideal power saw that’s perfect for cutting smaller workpieces that require utmost precision in a smaller space.
Thanks to the design of the scroll saw blade assembly, one can thread the blade through any portion of the workpiece without having to make cross cuts.
For instance, if you wanted to cut a shape in the center of a piece of wood, you would first drill a small hole in the center, and then thread the blade through, reconnect it to the saw arm, and then make the cut — all without having to cut from the outside of the piece towards the center.
This can be an advantage to any number of craft and art-related cutting tasks. Using blades such as a spiral blade can let you cut in any direction, which assists in making freehand cuts that require several changes in direction.
An example of this would be cutting jigsaw puzzle pieces out of wood, following line patterns that have been drawn onto the wood beforehand.
The crafting and art possibilities for scroll saws are practically endless, so I’ll just stop there.
Dovetail Joints/Furniture Making
Another popular use for scroll saws includes creating dovetail joints — a common method involved in furniture making.
A dovetail joint is made by cutting two ends of materials with corresponding trapezoid ends, which then fit perfectly together and hold in place.
Properly made dovetail joints do not require any metal fasteners to hold the pieces together, with wood glue or adhesive used to further ensure the joint’s integrity if desired.
The shape and intricacy of these joints requires a high amount of precision in order to work correctly, something that’s further complicated by the typically smaller size of the workpiece.
Curved Cuts
Making accurate and smooth curved cuts is difficult with the majority of power saws.
Most saw can easily cut straight lines, bevels, cross cuts, rip cuts, and more, but making a curved cut without any flaws is nearly impossible with the majority of saws, especially when you’re dealing with smaller pieces.
There’s no reason for me to really go into the infinite reasons as to why one may need to perform a curved cut on a particular work piece, just know that scroll saws will almost always be the easiest way to do so.
How To Use A Scroll Saw
Here is a quick walkthrough on how to cut a workpiece that has detailed cuts needed inside of the pattern’s border.
1. Turn the saw on, and trim any excessive material around the outline of your pattern.
A blade with fewer teeth may be better for this if you’ve got one.
2. Adjust the speed, and then begin cutting out any patterns from the inside. If you need to do an inline cut, drill a hole in the center of the part you’re cutting out, unclamp the top of the blade, thread it through the hole, re-clamp it, and then continue sawing, repeating the process as often as necessary.
3. For the outside cuts, Begin by cutting lines into the border from the outside, so that the pieces come off neatly as you cut.
4. Use both hands to hold the workpiece, and then carefully guide it along with the guidelines for the pattern. Make sure to listen to the blade for any screeching or difficulty cutting, and then adjust speed as needed.
5. Continue cutting until the piece has been finished.
6. If needed, swap out the blade for a sander and sand any part of the piece that needs to be smoother.
7. Wipe off any excess dust, unplug the saw, and you’re all done.
Conclusion
Bottom line, a scroll saw is an essential tool for both serious and novice woodworkers who need a reliable and highly accurate saw for cutting intricate designs, curves, and much more.
They are easy to use, safe, and also make a great intro for young and/or beginning woodworkers who are just getting started.
The products discussed above are all highly recommended, so you can’t go wrong with any of them.
Just make sure to first consider what you’ll be needing your scroll saw for, your budget, and the features/specs you require, and you’ll end up with the best saw available in the Philippines that’ll always be an asset to your tool lineup.