Although scroll saw and jigsaw are undoubtedly wonderful wood-cutting tools, they have many specific differences. This concise and detailed comparison between a scroll saw vs jigsaw is for those wondering about these two monsters! Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Scroll Saw vs Jigsaw: Detailed Comparison
Design and Operation
The design difference between a scroll saw, and Jigsaw is easy to notice. To be more specific, a scroll saw consists of a plate (basically a working space) and a sharp blade running down to the centre of the plate. This tool often stays fixed in one place, and people commonly position it on a work table.
Meanwhile, a jigsaw is a handheld tool with a pretty narrow blade. The blade is stabilised with a foot well-built on the saw.
The scroll saw is set with a plate.
Regarding the tool operation, the scroll saw is more complicated to use than a jigsaw. Hence, it is more recommended for those who have experience using a scroll saw or work with wood, as dangerous accidents can happen if you are not used to utilising this tool.
Jigsaw, conversely, is equipped with a guide along with its blade. Thanks to this, it is safer to use if you are still new to carpentry.
Blade Types
Typical blades that you can find for scroll saw are thin and small ones with a standardised appearance. Meanwhile, those for jigsaws are narrow, pretty straight, and have the U-shank or T-shank design. The maximum length for scroll saw blades is 0.3178 cm, while jigsaw can go well with a 1.524-cm blade.
The holding position for the blade of each saw type also varies. While the scroll saw secures the blade at both ends, the jigsaw only holds it at the top part. The difference in tool design can explain this: one goes with a large plate and is fixed at one space while the other is handheld.
Depending on the purpose and the material you are cutting, you can swap for suitable blade types. Commonly, the cutting results from scroll saw are more intricate and require little sanding.
Cutting Depth
When it comes to the competition of cutting depth, jigsaws win. Specifically, the blade of length for a jigsaw is much longer than a scroll saw.
The jigsaw’s blade is fixed at one end, meaning the blade can reach further and deeper cutting areas of the material. In other words, a jigsaw can cut thicker objects and make deeper cuts.
Nevertheless, the cutting depth also depends on the material type, material strength, and even the blade you are working with.
Portability
A jigsaw is a handheld machine, which means that you can move it from place to place with ease. Due to its portability, the jigsaw is much lighter than the scroll saw and takes up less space. Some cordless and battery-operated jigsaw types are pretty convenient for those who are often on the move.
Jigsaws are much more portable.
Our other candidate – the scroll saw, will consume a certain amount of your working space because of its setting.
Price
For any buyers, price is among the vital factors for reference.
Scroll saws are pretty expensive options compared with jigsaws because the equipment requires more cost to make one bulky model. Jigsaws, on the other hand, are more affordable. However, an economical jigsaw can be the alternative for scroll saw as each saw type is used for specific reasons and cutting techniques.
Quick Rundown Of Scroll Saw: Best For Intricate Cuts
Pros
- Capacity to cut intricate and precise curves
- Excellent finish after cutting
- Controllability over blade motion
Cons
- Space consumption and heavyweight
- Moderate cutting depth
- Not very budget-friendly
Quick Rundown of Jigsaw: Best For Thick Materials
Pros
- Deep cutting
- Lightweight and excellent versatility
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Decent curves and finish
- Less cutting strength
Final Thoughts
After all, the purpose of these monsters is to cut wood and make curves. Yet, there are certain differences between a scroll saw vs jigsaw. The scroll saw is for smooth and sophisticated cuts while the jigsaw is easier to use and practical for many types of projects. Depending on your levels, purpose, budget, and available space, you can pick either of them to create your craft masterpiece.