While a miter saw is indispensable, having a great table saw is a wonderful way to broaden the scope of your woodworking. Whether you want miters or bevels, rips or compound cuts, the best table saw is a highly versatile piece of kit. Not only can you perform a healthy range of different cuts, you can also hook up various accessories to your table saw. Table saws are truly multi-purpose in the workshop.
A table saw doesn’t operate like a standard saw. The material will be moved toward the blade. This makes for a much more accurate cut. We will expand on the fence and miter gauge in due course. These will allow you to cut straight or angled as you wish. You really do get a lot of value for money with a good table saw.
We will present for you today 5 table saw reviews so you can buy with complete confidence. Before that, though, we’ll guide you on your way. Researching the best power tools is not straightforward. There are plenty of sites out there but few with reliable or detailed information.
We’re here to help. After our selection of table saw reviews, we’ll show you some of the elements to consider when buying the best table saw for your needs.
It’s time for a brief summary of the different types of table saw:
- bENCH TOP
- contractor
- hybrid
- cabinet
The most powerful type of table saw, cabinet saws hit the spot in every category.
As mentioned, the look is similar to a hybrid with a full enclosure. Looks can be deceptive, though… The core design purpose is for this saw to stand up to constant heavy use in a commercial setting. This is not a tool you buy for casual woodworking at home.
These bulky, heavy units are built to last the distance. They can weigh up to 500 pounds. You’ll get an accuracy and rigidity not available in lesser types of table saw.
Other table saws call for regular adjustments. With a cabinet saw, you won’t need to do this as often once it’s set up properly. 240V motors developing 3-5HP mean there’s very little the best cabinet table saw won’t rip through with ease. Large sheets of hardwood are no problem at all.
TOP 5 Table Saw Reviews 2017 – Comparison Chart By Mitersawjudge.com
TOP 5 Table Saw Reviews 2017 – Comparison Chart By Mitersawjudge.com
There is a very wide range of superb table saws at your disposal. We are here to make your life easy.
Here’s a handy look at 5 of the best table saws on the market…
Products | Images | Type | Our Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Benchtop | |||
 | Contractor | |||
 | Benchtop | |||
 | Hybrid | |||
 | Cabinet |
Detailed Table Saw Reviews
1. DEWALT DWE7491RS 10-Inch Jobsite Table Saw
DeWalt manufacture reliable and high-performing power tools at a reasonable cost. This combination means they feature consistently on the list of the best table saws.
This 10-inch benchtop saw is ideal for use in the home workshop or for smaller commercial jobs. The carbide blade has 24 teeth and cuts through wood with consummate ease.
Main Features
- Powerful 15-Amp motor
- Positive miter stops easily activated with thumb control
- Large 24.5 inch rip capacity
- Great rack and pinion fence
- 10-inch blade made from carbide
- Onboard storage
Whether you want to work with hardwood or even pressure-treated lumber, the 15-amp motor delivers the power you need when you need it. With softer wood like pine, the blade scythes through sublimely.
The blade has a no-load speed of 3650RPM. The specialized electronic feed system means that the speed remains constant.
If you need to move your saw around, it comes with a stand that you can put up and down with ease. Fashioned from aluminum pipes with wheels that can handle uneven terrain, move around site without breaking your back.
When you are woodworking, dust and debris can be a serious bugbear. There’s good news with the DeWalt, though. Connect the DWE7491RS to your favorite vacuum and keep your workspace blissfully free of fine particles.
The modular guarding system lets you work without worrying about losing your fingers. Onboard storage lets you stash everything you need exactly where you want it.
If you want to get more ambitious and fit on some dado blades, the DeWalt is fully compatible.
The 3-year manufacturer warranty means you can buy the DeWalt knowing you’re covered in the event of any malfunction.
Pros
- Capable 15-amp motor will rip through tough hardwood with ease
- Rip capacity of 24.5 inches so hack up larger pieces fuss-free
- 10-inch blade with 24 teeth made from carbide for maximum cutting versatility and performance
- Rolling stand is collapsible for convenience and easy transportation
- Make rapid adjustments to fence: very user friendly
- Hook up to vacuum for dust collection
- 3-year limited warranty gives you peace of mind
Cons
- Parallel blade adjustment can be awkward
Conclusion
If you want a table saw fit for use at home or work, think long and hard about the DeWalt DWE 7491RS.
You’ll get a totally dependable workhorse that will amplify the pleasure and scope of your woodworking perfectly.
2. Bosch 4100-09 Worksite Table Saw with Stand
If you’re looking for a contractor table saw which is built to last the distance, the 4100-09 from Bosch is a solid choice.
With a highly capable motor and a 10-inch carbide blade with 40 teeth, you can use the Bosch just as happily on site as in the workshop. If you do need to move it around, the collapsible Gravity Rise Stand comes into its own.
Main Features
- Very powerful 15-amp motor
- 40-tooth carbide blade
- Arbor 5/8-inch
- Bevel angle from -2 to 47 degrees
- SmartGuard System
- Push stick
You can make rip cuts up to 25 inches. Changing the blade is a cinch thanks to the arbor lock mechanism.
Beveling is possible at angles from -2 degrees right on out to 47 degrees.
Safety is a prime concern for Bosch. From the SquareLock Rip Fence through to the patented SmartGuard System to lessen any chance of kickback, your security and comfort is taken care of.
The aluminum fence is first-rate. It slides beautifully up and down the rail. It’s no hassle at all to fix positions. For accuracy and precision, this is as good as fences get.
The table measures up at 29 inches by 21.5 inches. The 4100-09 is not suitable for dealing with large stock or sheets of wood. Made from aluminum, you’ll meet with no resistance as you slide the timber toward the blade.
Making adjustments to the blade height is not complex. There’s an elevation wheel housed at the front of the saw. Angle the blade using a switch behind the wheel. Lock it into place with a handle and you’re good to go.
The only notable downside of this superstar table saw is the miter gauge. You can quite easily pick yourself up an aftermarket gauge so this is not a serious issue.
Pros
- 15-amp motor kicks out 4HP rotating at 3650PRM: superb performance
- 10-inch blade has 40 teeth and 25-inch rip capacity
- Carbide blade for accuracy and maximum cutting versatility
- Arbor lock for safety and easy changing of blade
- SquareLock Rip Fence precise, solid and safe
- SmartGuard System with blade guard and riving knife so little chance of kickback
- Collapsible Gravity Rise Stand for total convenience
Cons
- Not the cheapest table saw but superb value
- Miter gauge slightly suspect
Conclusion
If you’re on the hunt for a dependable table saw that’s fit for use in the workshop or on the construction site, the Bosch 4100-09 is well worth popping on your shortlist.
For a winning combination of power, accuracy and safety, the 4100-09 is hard to beat.
3. Bosch GTS1031 Portable Jobsite Table Saw
Another strong candidate for the best table saw from the mighty Bosch, the GTS1031 is a portable benchtop model.
This is a much smaller version of the 4100-09 but Bosch manages to deliver a huge punch in a compact package.
Main Features
- Steel base
- 15-amp motor
- 5/8 inch arbor
- SquareLock Rip Fence
- Riving knife and anti-kickback pawls
- Dust collection port
Weighing just a touch over 50 pounds, you can carry the Bosch from project to project despite its solidity and steel base.
The engine is a real powerhouse. 15-amp like most in this class, the no-load speed of 5000RPM means you can work with medium or large sheets of ply or hardwoods with ease.
With the rip fence, just lift the lever, slot the fence in position, lock and load. Some users do complain that this lever is a little on the stiff side.
Kickback is menacing when you are working with table saws. A piece of wood flying towards you can be unnerving. With a riving knife and also anti-kickback pawls, Bosch keeps your safety uppermost. The blade guard lets you work clearly without compromising your safety.
Keeping your work surface clean is crucial. There’s a 2-inch dust collection port provided. Hook up your table saw to your vacuum and goodbye dust and debris.
With a generous 18-inch rip capacity, you can work with even larger pieces of lumber stress-free.
Thanks to the SquareLock Rip Fence, cuts will be precise and even. With additional fence slots and a miter gauge, this is a top-notch fence system in all respects.
The Bosch 1-year warranty covers all major breakdowns. You even get 30 days in which to get your money back if you are not happy. You really can’t lose!
Pros
- Extremely portable without sacrificing build quality
- Very powerful engine with no-load speed of 5000 RPM
- Work dust-free with awesome dust collection port
- Minimize any kickback thanks to riving knife and pawls
- Superb miter gauge for highly accurate cuts
- SquareLock Rip Fence delivers consistent cuts without constant adjustment
- 18-inch rip capacity for medium to large sheets
Cons
- Fence lever is slightly stiff
Conclusion
If you are after a table saw that you can carry around without straining yourself without dipping out on durability and performance, the Bosch GTS1031 merits further investigation.
Bosch proves with the GTS1031 that good things sometimes come in small packages.
4. Shop Fox W1824 Hybrid Table Saw
As we near the end of our table saw reviews, we’ll include a hybrid saw from the highly reputable Shop Fox.
Everyone has different cutting needs and for professional contractors or serious home woodworking, a hybrid saw is the next best thing to the cabinet saw we will look at to finish up.
Main Features
- Cast iron table
- T-shaped miter gauge
- T-shaped fence
- 2HP motor with 3850RPM no-load speed
- 30-inch rip capacity
- Anti-kickback pawls
Shop Fox offer 2 similar hybrid models. The W1819 is a full 120 pounds heavier than this 380-pound W1824. If you need the flexibility of a table saw you can move around combined with the power of a cabinet, this could be just what you were looking for.
The motor runs on 220V and kicks out 2HP. You can work confidently with even large and hard materials. The table along with its handy extension measures 27 inches by 55 inches.
Kickback should not be an issue. The riving knife is easy to swap out and stops the work piece pinching up against the blade. This is what causes the piece to fly back in your direction. There’s very little danger of that with the W1824.
The blade guard is transparent. You’ll be able to see clearly as you work while being protected from harm. This is a quick release guard. You’ll also get some anti-kickback pawls.
The generous rip capacity of 30 inches is a nice bonus.
Pros
- Benefits of a cabinet saw without the cost
- Potent 220V, 2HP motor for accurate and powerful cuts
- Lightweight model at 380 pounds so portable for a hybrid
- Interchangeable riving knife to cut down chance of kickback
- Cut large 30-inch rips with real ease
- Superb gauge and fence system built to last
- Adjustable even at small angles
- Quick-change blade guard for your convenience
Cons
- Still not a cheap option but excellent overall value
Conclusion
If you want something approaching the rugged performance of a cabinet saw without the eye-watering price tag, this superb hybrid table saw from Shop Fox is a smart choice.
For power and performance in a user-friendly package, the Shop Fox ticks every box.
5. SawStop PCS31230-TGP236 Professional Cabinet Saw
To round out our look at these table saw reviews, here’s a true heavyweight table saw, a fantastic cabinet from SawStop.
This table saw is not cheap and it is not for everyone. If you have the budget to spare and you want a saw fit for any factory shop or commercial outlet, read on…
Main Features
- 220V, 3HP motor
- Supports all 10-inch blades
- Heavyweight at almost 500 pounds
- 4-inch dust collection port
- Electronic detection and braking safety system
- Riving knife with left-tilted blade
In terms of the best table saw, cabinet models are in a league of their own. At a colossal 493 pounds, you won’t be moving this in a hurry!
The 3HP motor runs on 220V. You can cut precisely even if you need this saw for professional use.
Every woodworker knows the plague of working in a dusty environment. The SawStop has a fantastic dust collection system so you can enjoy your cutting without your eyes being strained.
When you have a table saw as large and capable as the SawStop, safety is paramount. You’re in safe hands with an exceptional patented system to lessen any likelihood of injury…
The blade carries an electrical charge. If your skin contacts your blade, the signal changes. The safety system is activated. The aluminum brake stops the blade and sends it under the table. Power is shut off and restarting is straightforward. This system alone makes the SawStop worth considering if you want a hazard-free factory or workshop.
Another valuable safety feature is a lockout key. This prevents any unauthorized users from firing up the saw.
Cutting full sheets of most materials is a pleasure with the SawStop. As far as cabinet saws goes, this is a prizewinner.
Pros
- Motor is sufficiently powerful for even prolonged commercial use
- All regular 10-inch blades slot in with ease for a versatile experience
- Slot in 8-inch dado blades for increased cutting scope
- Change blade guards, riving knife and pawls with no need for tools
- 99% of dust trapped in the enhanced dust collection system
- First-class safety system to reduce any chance of injury
Cons
- Very expensive but great investment
Conclusion
Cabinet saws lead the pack when it comes to the very best table saws. SawStop deliver a top-class example in the form of the PCS31230-TGP236.
For really heavy-duty professional cutting, whatever your trade, the SawStop is a real beast that will not let you down. It’s fitting to close out our table saw reviews with the best of the best.
Who Needs Table Saws?
We’ll now take a peek at what you should think about when looking for the best table saw.
Now you’ve read through the basics and read some table saw reviews, you should have a good idea of what kind of saw best fits your needs.
Whether it’s for use in the home workshop or on the jobsite, the best table saw is an invaluable woodworking tool.
When it comes to ripping boards quickly and cleanly, there’s little to rival a table saw. You can perform a truly impressive array of cuts with a table saw. There are few power tools to rival its flexibility.
From casual woodworkers right through to factory shops and jobbing builders, table saws are in high demand.
Buying Guide
There’s plenty to think about when you’re looking for the best table saw.
You’ll need to consider price as with any purchase. Think, more importantly, about overall value for money. How often will you use your saw and how much can you comfortably afford? If it’s for work, consider this an investment.
Decide upon which type of table saw is most suitable. Do you want the portability of a bench top or contractor saw? Perhaps you need the raw power of an industrial cabinet.
Check out some of the key features to consider when firming up your decision:
- Saw blades
The blades are categorized according to number of teeth, diameter, arbor size, kerf size, application and speed. They can also be divided by material. Regular commercial table saws are 10-inch or 12-inch. Teeth usually number from 24-80. Many blades are tipped with diamond, carbon or carbide. This lets you cut through more than just wood. You will also need to think about the tilt of the blade. They are available in left tilt or right tilt. With a left-tilting hybrid or cabinet saw, the motor cover can get in the way of the sliding table. Router table extensions don’t work well on left-tilting saws. - Blade guard
The most critical safety feature on a table saw is the blade guard. It’s all that separates your fingers from the rapidly rotating blade. You need this to be transparent or it will make measuring awkward. The last thing you want is to be tempted to remove an unfit guard. Check closely for a clear, flexible blade guard. Safety is paramount when operating a table saw.
- Motor
Different types of table saw rely on different motors. With the smaller and more portable saws, 120V direct drive motors can deliver up to 2HP. This is more than enough power if you’re working with less substantial sheets of material. The larger saws have belt drive motors running on 240V. These produce 3-5HP. Think carefully about the materials you’ll be working with. Get the right sized motor for your cutting needs. - Miter Gauge and Fence
You want to rip down lumber with your table saw. For this you’ll need a fence. You just can’t make an accurate rip cut without one. Check the fence sits on the rails firmly. You should be able to adjust it easily in both directions. A T-square fence is the most common type. Made from welded steel, it’s precise, user-friendly and durable. Some fences are mounted with bolts. Others are welded onto the head of the T-square. Miter gauges are priceless for making cross-cuts and other more advanced cuts. This gauge acts as a guiding device. It moves in the miter slot. You can angle between 45 degrees and -45 degrees. For angled or square cross-cuts or other specialty cuts, a miter gauge fully delivers.
- Splitters to stop kickback
One of the principal causes of table saw accidents is kickback. This process happens when a piece of wood is ejected at great speed in the direction of the user. Binding between the blade and fence, the wood then gets trapped in the teeth and spat out. A splitter is a vertical blade that holds the kerf open to minimize the chance of kickback. 2 pawls are attached for this purpose. - Riving knife
Some table saws go one better than a splitter. Splitters are fixed. They do not move along with the blade. It also needs to be removed if you’re making cross-cuts or dado cuts. A riving knife, on the other hand, is fixed to the same part as the blade. This means it can move along with the blade. Riving knives don’t get in the way either so this is the best option.
- Magnetic switch
A large magnetic switch is a mechanism to stop your saw from overloading. If there is any kind of power outage or interruption, the saw will be flipped to OFF for safety’s sake. It’s much better to err on the side of caution and all good table saws should come with this nifty feature. - Accessories
From dust collection and onboard storage through to on/off switches and table extensions, most reputable table saws come equipped with everything you’ll need to rip up the wood of your choice. Whether it’s making your life easier with wheels enabling height and tilt adjustment or a safety feature like the magnetic switch, the functionality of table saws is impressive. You can upgrade the blades, get various jigs or dado blades and generally enhance the way your saw performs.
Usage and Maintenance Tips
Safety should always be uppermost when you’re operating a table saw. Make sure that you are fully confident of using the saw before getting started.
Take the time to have a good look at the manual. Familiarize yourself with the controls.
This great video shows a table saw in action and some basic tips.
Working with a helper is always preferable and makes handling the wood much less of a strain. Extendable roller stands work well if you need to go it alone.
Don’t be afraid to make multiple passes. There is no sense in overworking your saw, especially if it’s a cheaper, entry-level model. Work slowly and methodically. Enjoy your craft rather than rushing.
Make sure that your saw is fully secured so that you can work without worrying about excessive vibration or your table saw moving around.
Maintenance should be scheduled around hours of use rather than simply time. Note down hours used rather than trying to remember.
Check the alignment of your saw every time you start work. Clean and lube the operating mechanical parts.
Keep the table polished and smooth for best cutting results.
Replace any parts as needed.
Using and maintaining the best table saw is not really so difficult. As with most maintenance, little and often is by far the best policy.
CLOSING WORD
If you’re at all serious about woodworking, there really is no substitute for the best table saw in your workshop. As you’ve seen today, there is a huge variety when it comes to these saws. This is not a decision to rush into.
Now you’ve thought about your own cutting requirements, checked what to look out for and read some reviews, there’s one more piece of advice…
Read plenty of user reviews. Most people offer honest feedback when they are reporting on a product.
Please reach out with any queries or feedback. We’re always delighted to hear from you and more than happy to help.
Happy cutting!
FAQ:
It’s not. It’s very easy. Follow our extremely simple maintenance tips, keep things clean and your table saw should last for years.