● Woodworking · Comparison

DEWALT DW788 20-Inch Variable Speed vs WEN 3921 16-Inch Two-Direction Variable

Both made our Best Scroll Saws 2026 shortlist, at #1 and #2. Here's how they differ and who each one suits.

✎ PickHonest Research Desk▦ Updated October 15, 2026◷ 5 min read

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Picks are based on manufacturer specs, independent reviews and owner reports.

DEWALT DW788 20-Inch Variable Speed Scroll SawDEWALT DW788 20-Inch Variable Speed Scroll SawView on Amazon VS
WEN 3921 16-Inch Two-Direction Variable Speed Scroll SawWEN 3921 16-Inch Two-Direction Variable Speed Scroll SawView on Amazon

Quick verdict

Choose the DEWALT DW788 20-Inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw if you want parallel link arm design reduces vibration dramatically compared to single-arm saws. Choose the WEN 3921 16-Inch Two-Direction Variable Speed Scroll Saw if you'd rather have variable speed handles th in veneers and thick hardwood in the same session. Overall we rank the DEWALT DW788 20-Inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw higher: #1 versus #2 in our Best Scroll Saws 2026 list.

Winner overall: DEWALT DW788 20-Inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw

DEWALT DW788 20-Inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw vs WEN 3921 16-Inch Two-Direction Variable Speed Scroll Saw compared

Every difference that matters, in one table.

Keep researching

  • Best Scroll Saws 2026
  • DEWALT DW788 20-Inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw review
  • WEN 3921 16-Inch Two-Direction Variable Speed Scroll Saw review
  • All woodworking

Bottom line

Choose the DEWALT DW788 20-Inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw if you want parallel link arm design reduces vibration dramatically compared to single-arm saws. Choose the WEN 3921 16-Inch Two-Direction Variable Speed Scroll Saw if you'd rather have variable speed handles th in veneers and thick hardwood in the same session. Overall we rank the DEWALT DW788 20-Inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw higher: #1 versus #2 in our Best Scroll Saws 2026 list.

DEWALT DW788 20-Inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw
Best Overall

DEWALT DW788 20-Inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw

DEWALT

Parallel link arm design reduces vibration dramatically compared to single-arm saws

  • 20-inch throat depth
  • 400-1,750 SPM variable speed
  • Parallel link arm design for low vibration
  • Tool-free blade change

Pros

  • Variable speed handles th in veneers and thick hardwood in the same session
  • 16-inch throat capacity is generous for intricate fretwork
  • Tool-free blade tensioning system speeds up blade changes significantly
  • Tilting table enables beveled cuts for decorative woodworking

Cons

  • Scroll saw is a different tool than a table saw, check category before buying
  • Dust blower is underpowered for heavy cutting sessions
Prices and availability change, so confirm on Amazon.View on Amazon
WEN 3921 16-Inch Two-Direction Variable Speed Scroll Saw
Best Scroll

WEN 3921 16-Inch Two-Direction Variable Speed Scroll Saw

WEN

Variable speed handles th in veneers and thick hardwood in the same session

  • Variable speed: 400–1,600 SPM
  • 16-inch throat capacity
  • Tool-free blade changes
  • Tilting table up to 45 degrees

Pros

  • Variable speed handles th in veneers and thick hardwood in the same session
  • 16-inch throat capacity is generous for intricate fretwork
  • Tool-free blade tensioning system speeds up blade changes significantly
  • Tilting table enables beveled cuts for decorative woodworking

Cons

  • Scroll saw is a different tool than a table saw, check category before buying
  • Dust blower is underpowered for heavy cutting sessions
Prices and availability change, so confirm on Amazon.View on Amazon

FAQ

Common questions

Which is better, the DEWALT DW788 20-Inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw or the WEN 3921 16-Inch Two-Direction Variable Speed Scroll Saw?

Choose the DEWALT DW788 20-Inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw if you want parallel link arm design reduces vibration dramatically compared to single-arm saws. Choose the WEN 3921 16-Inch Two-Direction Variable Speed Scroll Saw if you'd rather have variable speed handles th in veneers and thick hardwood in the same session. Overall we rank the DEWALT DW788 20-Inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw higher: #1 versus #2 in our Best Scroll Saws 2026 list.

What is the difference between the DEWALT DW788 20-Inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw and the WEN 3921 16-Inch Two-Direction Variable Speed Scroll Saw?

The DEWALT DW788 20-Inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw stands out because parallel link arm design reduces vibration dramatically compared to single-arm saws, while the WEN 3921 16-Inch Two-Direction Variable Speed Scroll Saw stands out because variable speed handles th in veneers and thick hardwood in the same session. The trade-offs differ too: the DEWALT DW788 20-Inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw's ma in caveat is that higher price than most competitor scroll saws, and the WEN 3921 16-Inch Two-Direction Variable Speed Scroll Saw's is that scroll saw is a different tool than a table saw, check category before buying.

Is the DEWALT DW788 20-Inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw worth it over the WEN 3921 16-Inch Two-Direction Variable Speed Scroll Saw?

For most buyers, yes: it's our #1 pick. Consider the WEN 3921 16-Inch Two-Direction Variable Speed Scroll Saw instead if higher price than most competitor scroll saws is a deal-breaker for you.

Who should buy the WEN 3921 16-Inch Two-Direction Variable Speed Scroll Saw instead of the DEWALT DW788 20-Inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw?

The WEN 3921 16-Inch Two-Direction Variable Speed Scroll Saw suits buyers whose priorities match its strengths, while the DEWALT DW788 20-Inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw is best for buyers who want the best overall package.

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