Best Scroll Saw Reviews UK 2023 – Which Is the Right DIY Tool for You?

Last Updated on January 10, 2023

Our Favourites

Editor’s Choice: Einhell TH-SS 405E
Low-Noise Motor Choice: Proxxon Micromot
Multi-Functional Choice: Dremel MS20 2-in-1

Whether you own a woodworking business or simply enjoy crafts as a hobby, getting yourself a good scroll saw is a no brainer. Scroll saws are perfect for cutting the intricate pieces required for a variety of projects, such as jigsaw puzzles, ornaments and even beautifully detailed furniture. They’re incredibly quiet when compared to other saws, create very little dust and are suitable for use with a range of materials. It’s therefore clear to see why scroll saws are popular with beginners and experienced crafters alike. But if you’re on the hunt for a new one, how do you decide which is the best scroll saw in the UK?

Well, we’re here to help! In this article, we’ve listed the top 6 scroll saw reviews on the market – so read on to find the perfect one for your needs.

How We Compared Scroll Saws

To find the right scroll saws we considered multiple factors including:

• Throat Length
• Blade
• Power Speed and Control
• Tilt
• Link Arm

Our team planned comparison points and specifically looked for products that would cater to all kinds of needs. We spent countless hours researching, consulting customer reviews and comparing features to come up with this list.

To find out more about our process please see here.

Best Scroll Saw Reviews – Top 6 Picks

1. Einhell TH-SS 405E (Editor’s Choice)

This scroll saw by Einhell is a durable, solid choice that is also easy to operate. Changing blades is relatively simple, thanks to the quick release clamp that does not require any tools.

While this is a popular saw for hobbies and crafts, there are some discrepancies between the various models and versions that are not adequately addressed by the manufacturer, resulting in some confusion as to whether more recent models do in fact take unpinned blades or if an adapter is needed and whether this is included. Therefore, if you are thinking of purchasing this scroll saw for use with other types of blades, we recommend that you contact the manufacturer or seller directly to clarify exactly what is included and which blades can be used.

Furthermore, this saw comes with fairly inadequate instructions, so if you are a beginner, you may prefer another model with better documentation. The 127mm recommended length blades are also harder to find than 130mm ones and they can cost a fair bit more. So, if you’re looking to save some money by purchasing this saw and intend to be using it quite a lot, you may want to have a look at some other models before making up your mind.

Blades and instructions aside, this scroll saw can make precise cuts on wood, metal and plastic with ease. It also has a stable, solid base that can be directly attached to your workbench if required. The blow-off function enables you to see clearly where you are cutting and there is also a dust extractor connection, should you wish to attach one. The metal worktable is adjustable up to 45 degrees so you can cut bevels and other more intricate pieces, with an electronically controlled, high-precision blade.

2. Proxxon Micromot (Best Low-Noise Motor)

The Proxxon Micromot is a superior quality scroll saw that is ideal if you are into carpentry, toy making or model building. It does not have to be mounted prior to use, meaning you do not need a dedicated space in which to use it.

The Proxxon Micromot is one of the quietest scroll saws on our list, which can be important if you do not have a workshop that is away from your family or neighbours. Although it does not have any clamps and has just two speeds to choose from, the Micromot does have a slender arm for an unobstructed view from above. It also has a high-quality die-cast aluminium table that is adjustable up to 45 degrees, making it suitable for intricate designs. This scroll saw takes both pinned and non-pinned blades, without the need for any adapters.

The Proxxon Micromot is one of the best scroll saws we’ve looked at. However, be aware that this model comes with a two-pin power plug, so you will have to fit a UK plug or use an adapter. All in all, it is a powerful yet quiet scroll saw that’s both durable and reliable.

3. Dremel MS20 2-in-1 (Best Multi-Functional)

If you want a multi-purpose scroll saw that can be used either on a workbench or by hand, the Dremel MS20 2-in-1 Scroll Saw is a solid choice.

This scroll saw has two functions. Primarily, it can be used as an automatic scroll saw that can lay flat on a workbench. However, the saw section can also be detached and turned into a handheld fret saw. This gives you more flexibility in your tools.

For usability, the blade has ten teeth and works at a maximum of 2.25 rotations per minute. Also, if you need to change the blade, you can utilise the auto-tensioning feature and the quick-change mechanism. This means that you should be able to swap blades with minimal effort.

For design, the scroll saw has a plastic base and a wide saw plate. The plate means that you can easily direct pieces of wood to make intricate cuts and designs. The wide C-shape arm also means that you can easily fit thicker pieces of wood underneath for sawing. Just be a little patient with the instruction manual, as it’s not the easiest to comprehend. Plus, a little care may be needed because others have found the base to be a bit flimsy.

4. Sealey SM1302 (Best for Light Jobs)

Whether you’re new to woodworking or have been a keen practitioner for years, the Sealey SM1302 variable speed scroll saw is a great pick for detailed creations.

Equipped with a 120-watt motor and rounded cast table, this scroll saw is versatile and can be used with either pinned or unpinned blades as desired. The blades are simple to change in just a few seconds, so your work won’t be interrupted.

The parallel-arm design is easy to work with, providing plenty of space to manoeuvre your piece with precision. This is important if you need to achieve accurate cuts with little room for error. The table also tilts to 45-degrees for comfortable working.

We like that this model offers variable speeds of between 400 and 1600spm. Thus, you can race through simple cuts and slow things down for the more complicated ones. This feature is great for working with multiple materials and thicknesses, too. In fact, this scroll saw can cut through thin metal sheets with ease – so long as you’re using a compatible blade.

The addition of an adjustable safety guard is a welcome feature to keep your fingers clear of the blade, while the attached dust blower is easy to manipulate into whichever orientation suits you best. However, the dust blower isn’t particularly powerful, so you should still expect to pause every now and then to clear the table thoroughly.

On the downside, this scroll saw is rather noisy, but it’s nothing a pair of ear defenders can’t fix. It’s also not the most powerful option in the market. At medium speed, it may struggle to manage 1-inch thick pieces of wood. However, for light craftwork and DIY, it does a fantastic job.

5. Scheppach SD1600V (Best for Detailed Cuts)

A good choice for beginners to woodwork, this scroll saw by Scheppach is an excellent pick for intricate cuts and patterns.

With a generous cutting depth of 406mm and a height of 57mm, this saw makes a versatile addition to any workshop. Capable of taking both pinned and plain blades, you’ll be able to use this saw as you progress from your first cuts to more advanced and skilled works.

The LED work light is perfect for improving your precision and accuracy to prevent irreversible mistakes. Plus, the dust blower helps to keep your workpiece clearly visible for better cutting results. Thanks to its variable speed ranging between 500 to 1,700 rpm, you’ll have even greater control. This makes it suitable for detailed cutout pieces that often require a slower pace.

While this is a reliable electric scroll saw, unfortunately, it does tend to create a fair amount of vibration that could become tiresome. What’s more, the English part of the user manual could be vastly improved to make assembling much easier for beginners. Some users may also find the blade change system to be unnecessarily tricky.

However, on the whole, we found this to be a solid piece of kit that performs well. It can cut both accurately and quietly, making it a good buy for your average woodworking needs.

6. Katsu Electric 120W (Best for Newbies)

This electric scroll saw by Katsu is a great entry-level scroll saw. It has a cast iron housing and a 45-degree adjustable worktable, making it more durable and suitable for a wide variety of projects.

It takes both pinned and unpinned saw blades and comes complete with 10 pinned saw blades as standard. The included mitre and parallel guide help with precision cutting, alongside the LED light and dust-blower. Unfortunately, the dust-blower is a little on the short side to be really effective.

This saw does tend to vibrate rather a lot, so you will not be able to use it without fixing it down solidly. This may make it less suitable if you are short on space and are looking for an easily storable scroll saw for delicate craftwork. Another issue is the need to remove the left side of the machine to change the saw blade, which is fine in itself, but if you’re completing an intricate project and you have to make multiple blade changes, it can be a little irritating.

On the whole, this is a good solid, basic scroll saw with all the essentials you need to get started, including variable speed. However, if you don’t have a dedicated space to bolt it down, or if you are at a more advanced level, you would be better off looking at another model from our list.

Features To Consider When Choosing a Scroll Saw

We’ve seen the best scroll saws in the UK above. Just as with buying other DIY power tools like hammer drills, table saws, cordless drills and multi tools; there are several things you have to consider before deciding which scroll saw to buy.

1. Throat Length

The size of the saw table must be adequate for the type of cutting you’re planning to do, otherwise, you won’t be able to turn your pieces to achieve the results you desire.

‘Throat length’ describes the depth of cut or the distance between the back of the saw and the blade. Scroll saws usually have a throat length of between 16 and 30 inches, but most users find that a 16-20 inch throat is big enough for the majority of amateur projects.

2. Blades

There are some factors that need to be considered when it comes to scroll saw blades.

a. Kind of Blade

Scroll saw blades are available in two basic types: pinned and pinless blades. Pinned blades are used for less detailed cuts in big pieces of wood, while an unpinned blade is used for intricate cuts and detailed work. You should check which type of blade the scroll saw uses to make sure you pick the right model for your needs.

b. Additional Tools

You need to find out whether or not the blades can be easily changed. Some newer scroll saws allow blade changes without tools, but others don’t. Having to stop and dig out your tools in order to change blades can become quickly tiresome. If you’re going to be using your scroll saw regularly, we’d recommend choosing a model with tool-less blade changes.

c. Blade Tension

Also, consider the method for blade tensioning and how easy this is to reach while working. Some scroll saws have knobs that you twist to tension the blades. Others use levers. Both of these methods are effective, but they will be inconvenient to reach if it is located at the back of the machine. Therefore, look for a model which has the blade tensioner at the front where it’s easy to access.

3. Power & Speed Control

The more powerful the scroll saw the more options you have. Powerful models are more capable of cutting through thick woods, so they widen your choice of potential materials.

That said, being powerful isn’t everything. If you want to get great results from your scroll saw, having control over how fast your blade cuts is key. When choosing a scroll saw, you should look for a model which has easy-to-reach variable speed control. This enables you to slow everything down when making delicate and detailed cuts, thus reducing the risk of any mistakes.

4. Tilt

If you’re going to be making angled cuts, you’ll need a scroll saw which has an accurate tilt. Some scroll saws will tilt both left and right, while others will only tilt one way. The former tend to be more expensive than the latter.

In some scroll saws, the table will be tilted for angled cuts, but we find tilting arms to be more convenient to use. This is because a table tilt increases the risk that your material will slide while you working.

If you’re concerned about the quality of the tilt measurements, you can use a construction square to check their accuracy before use.

5. Link Arm

Scroll saws are available with three different types of link arms: parallel arm, double-parallel link arm and a C-type arm.

a. Parallel Link Arm

This type is the most common style. Two arms run parallel to each other, one above the table and one below, with the blade attached to the ends of each. This style provides good tensioning control and a low-level of vibration when cutting. The blade will move forwards and backwards slightly during use, but this is often unnoticeable.

Even though scroll saws are considered to be much safer than other saws, the parallel arm style is particularly safe. Should the blade break, the upper arm stops immediately and lifts up out of the way.

b. Double Parallel Link Arm

Double parallel link arms are a newer design for scroll saws. They feature two parallel arms which move at the tip to reduce vibration to a minimum. This style is usually more expensive.

c. C-Type Link Arm

Just as the name suggests, this link arm mimics the shape of the letter “C” with a single pivot point at one end. This style of link arm has a slight arc to its movement, so it’s prone to undercutting edges. On the other hand, it’s considered to have a more aggressive cut than other types.

This style is a little less safe than a parallel link arm. Should the blade break, the machine will continue to work until you switch it off.

Conclusion

Each of the six scroll saws we’ve reviewed would make wonderful additions to your workshop, but our overall pick is the Einhell TH-SS 405E scroll saw.

Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, you will not only achieve accurate and intricate cuts with this model, but you also get a machine that is safe to handle and easy to operate. Changing the blade is fast and straightforward, thanks to its quick-release clamp. Plus, the adjustable metal worktable enables you to obtain the cutting angle and height that you need, whilst the workpiece down holder ensures safety and precision.

Overall, if you’re looking for a simple-to-use, versatile and feature-packed scroll saw, we think the Einhell TH-SS 405E is the best scroll saw on the UK market.