Scrabble vs Words With Friends: Complete Rule & Point Comparison
A definitive side-by-side comparison of Scrabble and Words With Friends.
The Board Differences
Scrabble uses a 15x15 board with premium squares arranged in a starburst pattern. Words With Friends also uses a 15x15 board but the premium squares are arranged differently, affecting overall strategy.
Tile Point Differences
Many tiles have different values between the two games. For example, in Scrabble, a 'J' is worth 8 points, while in Words With Friends it's worth 10 points.
Dictionary Differences
Scrabble typically uses NWL2023 in North America and SOWPODS internationally. Words With Friends uses a custom dictionary based on the ENABLE list, with some modifications.
Strategy Tips
Because of the different board layouts, defensive play in Scrabble revolves around keeping opponents away from the Triple Word squares on the edges, while Words With Friends requires guarding different clusters of premium squares.
Which Game Is Harder?
Both games require a mastery of short words and high-value tile placement. Scrabble purists often consider it the more skill-intensive game due to its longer history and more established competitive scene, but Words With Friends has converted many casual players into serious word game enthusiasts.