Is the DW788BS different from the DW788?

No. The BS is a bundle or packaging code for the same 20 inch variable-speed scroll saw. Motor, stroke, throat and table are identical.

Which is better for fine fretwork?

Both cut the same. The 3/4 inch stroke and tool-free clamps handle fine blades, though very thin blades need careful clamp tension on either saw.

They are the same machine, so life is the same. The brushed motor is the wear item; keep the arm linkages clean and the blade tension right.

Is it worth stepping up to a different saw?

Only if you need a larger table, a brushless motor or a foot switch. Between these two there is nothing to step up to.

Can it cut metal or plastic?

DeWalt rates it for wood. Thin plastic and soft non-ferrous metal can be cut with the right blade, but the 2 inch depth limit applies.

DeWalt 20-Inch Scroll Saw vs DeWalt DW788 20" Scroll Saw

These are the same saw. The DW788 and DW788BS share the 1.3 amp motor, 400-1,750 SPM, 3/4 inch stroke, 20 inch throat, 2 inch depth of cut, double parallel-link arm and tool-free clamps. The BS suffix is a bundle or packaging code, not a different machine. Buy whichever listing is the DW788 itself; owners and reviewers praise the smooth, quiet arm and low vibration, and the common complaints are the brushed motor and the blade clamp fussiness on very fine blades.

Choose the DeWalt 20-Inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw if you want the standard DW788 and the listing shows the full saw with its 3-year limited warranty.
Choose the DeWalt DW788BS if it is the same DW788 saw and the bundle suits you, since the machine inside is identical.

Prices

DeWalt 20-Inch Scroll Saw: $499.00 at The Home Depot (checked today)
DeWalt DW788 20" Scroll Saw: $499.00 at The Home Depot (checked today)
Difference: both cost the same today

DeWalt 20-Inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw

What separates them

	DeWalt 20-Inch Scroll Saw	DeWalt DW788 20" Scroll Saw
Motor and speed	1.3 amp brushed motor, 400 to 1,750 SPM	1.3 amp brushed motor, 400 to 1,750 SPM
Stroke and capacity	3/4 inch stroke, 20 inch throat, 2 inch depth of cut	3/4 inch stroke, 20 inch throat, 2 inch depth of cut
Arm design	Double parallel-link arm pivots front to back, keeps blade perpendicular	Same double parallel-link arm, lifts to thread blades for inside cuts
Table and bevel	Cast iron table, bevels 45 degrees left and right	Cast iron table, 16 x 24 inch, bevels 45 degrees left and right
Blade changes	Tool-free blade clamps	Tool-free blade clamps
Controls	Switch, speed dial, tension lever and dust blower on the front upper arm	Same front-arm control layout
Packaging	Standard DW788 saw	BS bundle or packaging variant of the same saw

Specs compared

Spec	DeWalt 20-Inch Scroll Saw	DeWalt DW788 20" Scroll Saw
Blade Length	20 in	—
Bevel Capacity	45°	—
Product Length	29.5 in	—
No Load Speed	4500 RPM	—
Product Height	12.125 in	—
Product Width	19.5 in	—
Nominal Maximum RPM	910	—
Max Drilling Capacity Metal	10 mm	—
Power Source	Corded	—
Product Weight	56 lbs	—
Dust Solution Compatible	Yes	—
Motor Type	Brushed	—

Show all 32 specs

Spec	DeWalt 20-Inch Scroll Saw	DeWalt DW788 20" Scroll Saw
Material Compatibility	Wood	—
Cutting Material	Wood	—
Weight	65.7 lbs (Package Weight)	—
Cordless	No	—
Voltage	110 Volts	—
Power Highlights	Variable Speed	—
Electric Current	1.3 A	—
Cutting Capacity	20.0 in (throat depth)	—
Cutting Depth	2.0 in (@ 90°)	—
Cutting Thickness

DeWalt 20-Inch Scroll Saw vs DeWalt DW788 20" Scroll Saw

Prices

DeWalt 20-Inch Scroll Saw vs DeWalt DW788 20" Scroll Saw

Prices