Are Scrabble and Words With Friends the Same?
While Words With Friends (WWF) was inspired by Scrabble, they are NOT the same game. Understanding the differences can mean the difference between winning and losing.
Major Differences
1. Different Dictionaries
This is the biggest difference:
- Scrabble: Uses TWL (US) or SOWPODS (UK) dictionaries
- Words With Friends: Uses ENABLE dictionary
Some words are valid in one game but not the other! "BESTIE" is valid in WWF but not Scrabble. Some obscure Scrabble words aren't in WWF.
2. Different Point Values
Letter values differ between the games:
- H: 4 points in Scrabble, 3 in WWF
- V: 4 points in Scrabble, 5 in WWF
- J: 8 points in Scrabble, 10 in WWF
3. Different Board Layout
The premium squares (Double/Triple Letter and Word) are in different positions. This dramatically affects strategy - a Triple Word on one board might be a regular square on the other.
4. Different Bingo Bonus
- Scrabble: 50-point bonus for using all 7 tiles
- WWF: 35-point bonus
Which Words Work in Both?
Most common English words work in both games. The differences are mainly in:
- Slang terms (more accepted in WWF)
- Obscure/archaic words (more accepted in Scrabble)
- Proper nouns (neither accepts them)
Strategy Implications
Because of these differences:
- Don't assume a word works in both games - test it!
- Premium square positions require different strategy
- 7-letter words are more valuable in Scrabble (50 vs 35 bonus)
- Some letter values change optimal plays
Use our Words With Friends Helper or Scrabble Helper to find valid words for your specific game!