It can be used to cut wood, aluminum sheeting, plastic and other materials better than circular or miter saws. It helps you to take your woodwork DIY hobby to a professional woodworking level. Before buying the table saw, we recommend you consider the following main factors. Types – Usually, there are 5 main types of table saws – compact, Jobsite, contractor, cabinet, and hybrid table saws. Each type is meant to use for specific work and has its set of pros and cons. Here is the table that let you know which one suits best for your need. Cutting Blade Size – The larger blade size will offer better cutting performance and allows you to cut deeper into a wooden piece. The blade should be adjustable to have both shallow & deeper cuts. Usually, the commercial table saws need 10 – 12 inches cutting blades, whereas domestic table saws come at 5 inches. Also, prefer to have a higher number of blades in your saw for quick and effective cutting. Motor Power – It is represented in horsepower (HP), in which the more HP a saw motor has, the more cutting power it offers. Small bench saws feature 3/4 – 1.5 HP motor for light-duty tasks, bench saws and contractor saws have 2 – 4 HP motor, and cabinet saws have 5+HP motors. Choose the motor power of a saw as per your cutting requirement. There are a lot more things to consider, which we explained in our detailed “Buying Guide”. Also, we have shortlisted some best-selling table saws in the market upon analysis and research.
Top Table Saws in 2023
Best Table Saw for Woodworking: Reviews
1. SKIL TS6307-00 Table Saw
Best table saw fence Best portable table saw Best reciprocating saws Best miter saw stands Track Saw Vs Table Saw
Skil is known for making a wide range of affordable power tools. This is also true for its table saw models, including the Skil TS6307-00. The Skil TS6307-00 table saw is present in the 1st position in this article as it is the cheapest option present in this article. Even then, it can offer decent performance to its users due to its 10-inch cutting blade. Apart from being highly sharp, this blade is powered by a 15 amp electric motor that results in a decent performance. You get a cutting height capacity of 4×4 from this blade. A great thing about this Skil table saw is that it comes with an inbuilt folding stand. As a result, this saw takes comparatively less space for storing in your garage while not in usage. But even then, it offers an ample working space of up to 25-1/2 inches. Even though the build quality of this table saw is quite good, you only get a 3-year warranty with it since it is an affordable product. Best Features:
10-inch cutting blade Up to 25-1/2-inch capacity 15 amp electric motor Cutting height of 4×4 inch 3-year warranty Table dimensions 24-inch x 25 inch Foldable stand for compact storage Decent build quality Bevel angle range of 0 degrees to 45 degrees
Components:
Table saw User manual Warranty card
2. DEWALT DWE7485 Table Saw
Dewalt is one of the most popular and reputable brands of power tools. You can even find a wide range of table saw options from Dewalt. Dewalt’s DWE7485 table is present in the 2nd position in this article as you get many things for your money. It has a 15 amp motor that has a power rating of 1850 watts. Due to this, you can expect high performance from this 46-pound weighing table saw. You also get a variety of cuts: 24.5 inches of rip capacity for ripping 4×8 plywood or OSB sheet One of the best things about this Dewalt table saw is that it offers an excellent build quality to the user. It even comes with a 3-year warranty that is much better than other options offering only a 1-year warranty to the user. Its blade spins at a high speed of 3850 RPM that allows you to get clean cuts while cutting wood using this table saw. This blade has a total of 24 blades and made out of carbide that makes it highly durable. Best Features:
24 teeth carbide cutting blade Up to 24.5-inch capacity 15 amp electric motor power rating of 1850 watts. 5800 RPM motor 3-year warranty
Components:
Table saw User manual Warranty card
3. Rockwell BladeRunner Tabletop Saw
Rockwell is a popular brand that manufactures reliable power tools that offer superior power and performance to meet your needs. Some of its popular products are Sonicrafter oscillating tools and accessories, saws, and sanders. The BladeRunner Tabletop saw runs on 120 volts and uses a 5 inches blade to cut ceramic materials, plastic, aluminum, wood, and metals. Even though the tabletop saw is corded electric, you can easily carry it to and fro from your workplace. Thanks to the lightweight nature of the saw with only 15 lbs. You can adjust the gauge and make precise miter cuts within an angle of 0 to 60 degrees. The tabletop saw features a standard guard and knife system that allows you to scroll, cross, rip, and miter cuts. You can easily change the blade without using any tools. When you are not using the rip fence, miter gauge, and blade, you can place them in the base of the saw. The tabletop saw has a safety switch that prevents you from accidentally turning on the unit. Besides, there is a dust port that you can use to connect to a vacuum pump and clean the work area. BladeRunner tabletop saw is backed with a 3 years limited warranty from the date of purchase. Best Features
Runs on 120 volts Comes with 5 blades 3 years limited warranty Makes miter cuts with an angle of 0 to 60 degrees Safety switch Lightweight with only 15 lbs Easy to change the blade Dust port to clean your workplace
Components:
Table saw User manual Warranty card
4. DEWALT DWE7491RS 10-Inch Table Saw
As mentioned earlier, Dewalt makes various table saw models that differ from each other in different ways. This also includes the DW745 table saw that is much more compact and portable than the previous one. The Dewalt DWE7491RS is one of the most compact table saw options available out there. And even then, it can offer a great cutting performance to its users that is quite similar to the previous table saw option present in this article. This is possible due to the 10-inch cutting blade that you get in this table saw. Its 24 tooth blade has a maximum rotation speed of 4800 RPM and offers sharp cuts to the user. All of this is possible because you get a 15 amp electric motor in this table saw that has a wattage rating of 1850 watt. It offers a maximum cutting capacity of up to 32 ½ inches that is quite great when you consider the size of this table saw. You also get a bevel cutting option with up to 0 degrees to 45 degrees adjustment. As you would expect from any other Dewalt table saw, this one also comes with a 3-year long warranty along with excellent build quality. Best Features:
10-inch cutting blade Up to 32 ½ -inch capacity 15 amp electric motor 1850 watt motor Rotation speed of up to 4800 RPM 3-year warranty 24 tooth blade for clean cuts 90 pounds weight table saw Great build quality
Components:
Table saw User manual Warranty card
5. Bosch Power Tools 4100-10 Table Saw
Bosch can be another great option if you are looking for high-performance power tools. You can even find powerful table saws from Bosch that can be useful for a lot of users out there. This Bosch Power Tools 4100 table saw is present in the 3rd position in this article as it is one of the only compact table saws that can be used for commercial usage as well. This is possible because it comes with a highly powerful 15 amp electric motor that has a maximum spinning speed of 3650 RPM. And since this motor has a power rating of 4 HP, you can expect to get smooth and sharp cuts from this table saw. It powers a large 10-inch blade that offers a maximum capacity or woodcutting width of 25 inches. A great thing about this table saw is that it has various safety features, including an inbuilt smart guard system that contains a riving knife. You also get anti-kickback protection with this table saw for safely cutting wood even if you are working with hardwood pieces. Just like various other table saw options out there, this one also comes with a 1-year warranty. But it offers an excellent build quality to its users. Best Features:
10-inch cutting blade Up to 25-inch capacity 15 amp electric motor Motor spinning speed of up to 3650 RPM 1-year warranty Excellent build quality Various safety features Anti-kickback protection Foldable and compact legs 4 HP motor power rating
Components:
Table saw User manual Warranty card
6. Powermatic PM1000 Table Saw
Powermatic is a comparatively small brand of power tools when compared with other options present in this article. But it offers various heavy-duty power tools, including its highly powerful table saw. While the Powermatic PM1000 table is one of the largest and slightly expensive table saws out there, it offers excellent performance to the user. This is due to the reason that it comes with a highly powerful 30 amp electric motor that is twice as powerful as other 15 amp electric motors found in table saws. It uses this motor to power a large cutting blade that offers a cutting capacity of up to 50 inches that makes this table saw perfect for industrial and heavy-duty usage. Even though this is a small brand of power tools, it comes with a 5-year long warranty with it. And when combined with its great build quality, this table saw is one of the most durable options out there. You can use this table saw to cut at an angle using its miter gauge that pivots up to 60 degrees quite easily. Its 10-inch blade is powered by an electric motor that generates a power rating of 1.75 HP that is quite decent. Best Features:
10-inch cutting blade Up to 50-inch capacity 30 amp electric motor Motor power rating of 1.75 HP 5-year warranty Optimal for heavy-duty usage Great build quality Miter gauge for up to 60-degree cuts Convenient hands-free power switch
Components:
Table saw User manual Warranty card
7. Evolution Rage 5-S Table Saw
Evolution is a reputed brand of power tools that uses cold-cut technology in its saws and blades to cut steel without generating any heat, burrs, or sparks. Its products ensure a clean workspace. The Rage 5-S saw is powered by a 15 amp gearbox and blade system that generates enough power to cut a variety of materials within a few minutes. On top of this, the tip of the blade is made of Japanese tungsten carbide that can cut steel and other hard metals easily. The blade features 28 teeth hardened with carbon and coated with stainless steel to make cutting easier. The adjustable fence with measuring rail guide ensures that you accurately make the cuts. You can bevel tilt it 0 to 45 degrees and mitre it 60 degrees to cut the materials from different angles. You can collapse the frame while moving the table saw. Besides, the wheels make it easy to transport without any effort. You can connect the integrated dust port to a vacuum cleaner and ensure your workplace is clean. The Rage 5-S table saw is backed with a 3 years limited warranty from the date of purchase. Best Features
10 inches cutting 15-amp electric motor 3 years limited warranty Blade tip is made of Japanese tungsten carbide Collapsible frame with wheels for portability Bevel angle range of 0 to 45 degrees Sliding table that can be extended
Components:
Table saw User manual Warranty card
Things to Consider When Buying the Table Saw:
A table saw can easily cut through hardwood and wet timber. One has to take into account various things while shopping to make their purchase the best one. Here is the list of those essential factors to be considered. Let’s check it out.
1. Motor Power:
Generally, the table saws are powered by an electric motor, and the motor power is mentioned in horsepower (HP). A table saw with more HP offers the more cutting power. Small table saws which is meant for light-duty works like cutting sheet materials of about 5/8-inch thick or constructing shelving will feature horsepower range of 3/4 – 1.5 HP. Contractor saws and larger bench saws have a motor with 2 – 4 HP, and cabinet table saws feather a larger motor of about 5+ HP. Having a more powerful motors will let the saw run longer, even heavy use without getting overheat and cut easily through denser material, like Brazilian walnut or ironwood. One has to check how powerful the saw to complete the task. A table saw with a 1 – 2 HP motor will operate at 120V that is quite powerful enough to cut through wood of about 2 inches thick, and for this, use smaller saws that draw up to 15 amps. If you want to cut thicker sheets/wood (3-inches or more), then you need a table saw with a larger motor producing 3 – 5 hp and draw up to 18 – 24 amps and runs on 240V.
2. Blade Size and Cutting Depth:
The size of a circular blade is essential to consider while shopping for the table saw. Most commercial table saws have 10 – 12 inches cutting blades, whereas the domestic used table saws come at 5 – 8 inches blade. A table saw with a larger blade size results in better cutting performance and allows you to cut deeper into a wooden piece. The saw blade is quite adjustable that allows you to have a shallow cut and deeper cut instantly. One can cut up to 3.5 inches deep (maximum) with a 10-inch table saw. While a table saw with 12-inch make a maximum cut of 4-inches deep.
3. RIP Capacity:
The RIP capacity is defined as the maximum width of wood (other material) that fit in between the fence and the saw blade (distance). For an entry-level bench saw, the rip capacity starts from 18-inches, whereas for a professional cabinet saw, the rip (ripping) capacity runs up to 60-inches or more. Usually, a table saw with a wider rip capacity will accept the large boards. Based on the type of projects you undertake/work on, you have to select the rip capacity of a table saw, which is large enough to accommodate the material dimensions that you are working with. The actual rip capacity will increase by attaching broader extension wings (extension table) rather than the default table’s capacity.
For performing basic jobs like trimming deck, fence boards, then you need a ripping capacity of 20-inches or less is enough. For professional works or framing contractor, you have to look for a table with a minimum capacity of 24-inches to the right. They let you cut large sheets of OSB, MDF, or plywood.
4. Fence Options:
The fence is an adjustable guide used to hold the material in its place while cutting. We can’t make a precise rip cut without this fence option. This allows for an easy and hassle-free adjustment both vertically and horizontally. Also, the fence should sit on the rails firmly apart from the sliding. A T-square fence is the most common fence type for the table saws, which features a robust design and good accuracy that makes it perfect for most cuts. The micro-adjust fences in the specialty fences will let the user fine-tune their cut measurement, and few saws have extendable fences to fold or slide out for accommodating larger wood sections. While other saw features fences along with embedded magnifiers which let the user have a clear view of the measurements on their saw while adjusting the fence.
5. Miter Gauge:
Are you planning to make any kind of angled cut or cross cuts? Then you have to rely on the miter gauge of the table saw. A miter gauge is a removable guide that makes angled cuts with a steady and direct movement of the blade through the miter slot. The best miter gauge hard stops at 90-degrees and 45-degrees, which are considered most often cutting angles. This gauge will let you cut the hard stops easily and confidently by setting the gauge to those angles and cut it. Not all table saws have this miter gauge option. So, if you want to have this option in your table saw, then check out the models having a table groove that takes a miter gauge. If you already brought a table saw, and want to buy/make use of a miter gauge, then check the size of table grooves. The cost of a miter gauge is available for less than $35, but for precision models, it costs over $100.
6. Number of Teeth on Blade:
For a smooth and effective cutting of wood pieces, you have to check out the number of teeth in a table saw blade. Most of the blades have between 24 – 80 teeth, except for blades specifically designed with carbon, carbide and diamond-tipped teeth to cut through various materials effectively. The higher number of teeth will ensure a smoother and cleaner cut, but the cutting is done more slowly. While fewer teeth mean faster cutting, yet results in a rougher cut. If you want durable and last longer options, then check out the table saw offering carbide blades.
7. Drive Configuration:
Usually, they are two types of drive configurations – direct drive or belt drive. Let’s know about them in detail. Direct-Drive – This drive type is found mostly in the portable table saw range. These are smaller, lighter, and feature a universal motor that drives the blade directly. So the motor can produce and transfer all of its power to the blade for an effective cutting. These produce less vibration (work quieter) while operating and also require less maintenance, as no need to worry about replacing the belt frequently. They operate on 120V circuits and produce up to 2 HP. This is enough for the DIYer, occasional user, and professional on the job site. They cost less than belt drives. Belt Drive – Saws with this type are quite powerful and capable to cut through thicker hardwoods. As the name implies, an induction motor uses a V-belt in a pulley system to transfer its power to the blade. The motor produces from 3 – 5 HP (2.24 – 3.73 kW, single phase), or 5 – 7.5 HP (3.73 – 5.22 kW, three-phase), operated on 240V. The motor and blade are mounted far away from each other (offset) to prevent dust trapped in the motor. This will enhance longer motor life. The belt-driven type is less safe than direct driven due to its great kickback force. They work with a lot of noise and vibration while cutting through dense material. With more power and torque, this belt drive costs more expensive. It is the best option for heavy-duty applications and professionals. Yet it requires more maintenance, as one has to change the belt quite often.
8. Blade material:
Usually, the blades are made with metal to cut hardwood and plywood. But to cut through harder materials, the blades should be designed with even harder materials. The harder material is applied around the blade edges, while the metal core remains intact.
The teeth on blades made with carbon steel or steel are strong and durable that used to cut through wood. Masonry blades having diamond-tipped teeth used to cut hard & abrasive materials like bricks, ceramic, tiles, etc. Blade teeth treated with tungsten carbide or hardened metal are designed to cut through metals like steel and aluminum. Teeth on blades made out of low-temperature tungsten carbide are used to cut through PVC and acrylic materials.
RIP Blades – They have larger gullets and a smaller number of teeth that means more space to remove the dust and shavings. This type of blade is designed to cut along the grain of the material on the table, yet they cut faster and the resulting cuts are rougher. Crosscut Blades – This type of blade will let you achieve finer cuts and much smoother cuts. They have more teeth and less space for chip removal that let you cut through the wood easily, and effectively. The feed rate is much slower than RIP blade. If you are looking for both speed (RIP blade) and smooth finish (Crosscut blade) in your blade, then check out these combination blades, which is used to perform both. They come across special cut blades that are designed either to cut through materials like hardwood, plywood, plastic, metal, or even brick (OR) to make specialized cuts for joint making. This includes sets of dado blades.
10. Blade Adjustments:
Modern table saws let you adjust the blade in various ways. One can adjust the blade in both ways – vertically and by changing its axis. Let’s know how to adjust the blade in these ways. Vertical Adjustments – One can make this adjustment by exposing more of the blade that changes the depth of the cut. It is handy for thick wood pieces and non-through cuts. The blade elevation handwheel allows to have control over the blade height. It is located to the front of the saw. Adjusting the Blade Axis – One has to make cuts at a certain angle while making bevel cuts to create joints. The blade tilt handwheel is located on the side of the saw. Based on the way your arbor, it allows you to adjust the blade tilt for up to 45° on the right or left side of the saw away from the fence. Combine the tilt adjustment and elevation in one wheel to get control over a portable table saw.
11. Blade Speed & Control:
Check out the motor speed (RPM) and the rate at which the blade spins while you think about the speed of a table saw. Make sure that the speed of the table saw will never exceed the blade’s speed. Usually, blades are designed to rotate/move at a certain speed, and using the blade on the saw, exceeding the speed causes the blade to break down apart due to centrifugal force. A few saw models offer variable speed control. You can attach these speed controllers to the saw for variable power, which is useful while working on knotted woods. As you not going to suffer a kickback or burn the material. So, check out the table saw having speed control and soft-start feature to prevent unnecessary vibrations when you start the saw and to aid in effective cutting.
12. Dust Collection:
Sawdust all over the workplace will make your job a bit difficult to perform well. While one can find it easy to work with wood on a smooth and clean saw’s table. Most table saws come with a dust collection system/port attached to a vacuum to keep your saw table and workplace clean. Run the vacuum while operating the table saw to clear sawdust and keep the area/parts clean. Most saw models offer a standardized size of dust port, around 2.5 – 4 inches in diameter, which allows you to attach an industrial vacuum to the port to extract the dust. While on the cabinet saws, the dust ports are larger than 4 inches. In case, if having a larger port, then go with a specialist compatible dust collection system. Also, you can find some saws with a cloth pouch that let you attach to the saw to collect all the dust. But working big, it is not an effective way to collect the dust as it won’t cope. A few models have dust bag that clip onto the machine, in which the dust falls into the bag and you can empty them later. This feature is quite useful while working outside to prevent spill everywhere.
13. Other Features:
Here are some add-on features that help you to operate the saw safely and with ease. Take a look at them to know what are those extra accessories/features. Tabletop Build – If you are looking for extra stability while operating a table saw, then check out for cast iron tops and trunnions. Or if already purchased a table, check for the option to include cast iron extension wings, as they operate with less vibration & noise. So, heavier tables will provide more stability and better alignment. In case, if portability is your preference, then look for an aluminum tabletop for the table saw. Soft Start – This feature can moderate the motor’s intensity upon startup, as it provides better performance and won’t much strain the machine. However, you are less likely to trip the circuit breaker. Onboard Storage – Another must-have handy feature on a table saw. This onboard storage space will let you store all the essential tools and accessories you need while operating the saw. A few models let you store even miter gauges, fences, blades and a lot of other stuff.
14. Safety Features:
It is most important to check out the safety features without overlooking them before buying or else they can be very dangerous. Take a look at these safety features. On/Off Switches – Almost all the modern saws come with an on/off switch placed at the front of the table saw, and it allows for easy access to a saw, as electric brakes in the saw will help to reverse electricity in the motor to have a precise cut. One can access this switch easily and make the saw work efficiently. This switch comes with a cover and keeps you safe from turning ON of saw accidentally (especially if having kids or pets) and thereby prevent damaging the work area. Blade Guard – It protects your hands while operating the saw and prevents wood from falling onto a rotating blade. Generally, 2/3rd of all table saw accidents are caused due to not attaching this blade guard. So, avoid removing this guard while working, even for novice woodworkers. Most manufacturers make improvements to their design and thus modern saws come with clear and flexible guards to keep your hands safe. Splitters and Anti-Kickback Pawls – Kickback is another reason for table saw accidents. It occurs when a piece of wood binds between the fence and blade. This ejects at the same speed back towards the user and thereby causes some serious injuries. So, to prevent this kickback issue, most of the table saws have fitted with a splitter. It is a small vertical blade, made with metal or plastic that used to hold the kerf behind the blade. The two anti-kickback pawls in splitter will keep wood from throwing while kickback by sticking the claws in it. One has to remove the anti-kickback pawls while making crosscuts or else they get in the way while cutting the wood. Riving Knife – It mounted closer to the blade and moves along with the blade of the saw and prevents kickback. This safety feature allows the user to work without getting any contact with the blade, especially the back of the blade. So, due to less space, the wood gets caught by the back of the blade and thereby have effective cutting, as it works with the same blade mechanism. Sensors – A study says that a table saw accident occurs every 9 minutes. So, to prevent this, some manufacturer’s developed sensors. It is a unique safety system that stops the blade quickly when it gets contact with the human skin (as a good conductivity). The sensor will activate the aluminum brake to stop the blade and thereby drops the operating activity. It takes only 0.02 seconds to end up with a shallow cut or scratch for the operator rather than losing a finger. Magnetic Switch – This magnetic safety switch is used to protect the saw motor from overload. It will set the saw to the off position in a power outage or whenever there are power interruptions. If the power comes back while adjusting the saw and its blade, then this switch will set the saw automatically to the OFF position. After setting the blade, you can power up the saw by turning the switch back to the ON position. Push Stick – This handy stick is used to keep your hands safe at a distance while sliding the wood through the blade for effective cutting. Simply rely on this push stick (instead of hands) to get control over the direction of the material for cutting. You can either make it yourself by following various online tutorials or buy one from woodwork suppliers.
15. Accessories:
Accessories will help you a lot in performing various applications with ease. A few accessories are meant for few purposes. Let’s check out the accessories of the table saw before buying them. Rolling Stands – This rolling saw stands offer portability particularly when you are on a worksite. It is designed to allow for stability on the go. Mobile Base – It provides mobility to stationary saws (cabinet and hybrid). Most of these mobile bases come with casters, used to lock the saw stationary (fixed) while operating. It is considered the best option for small shops or shared workspaces, as it allows you to roll the saw and set it aside while not using it. Table Extensions – Larger table surface will allow you for easy manipulation of bigger sheets of material and larger rip capacity, useful while cutting wider stock. Most saws let extension to attach to their right (depends on the model you purchase). These table extensions are either telescoping or folded away. While on some other models, they are separate item and need to fasten before use. Dado Capacity – Most saws allow for the ability to stack a dado blade set. Check the specification of the model before buying, as it one of the essential accessories to consider. Also, check out the arbor, which is long enough to fit a dado stack properly. With the dado sets, one can cut wide slots in a single pass and are quite useful in the joinery business. These sets are available in 6″, 8″, & 10″ diameters. Table Inserts/Throat Plates – They are pieces of wood or metal mounted around the blade. They are leveled by the table’s surface and work effectively by keeping the wood falling into the arbor. Feather Board – With this safety device, one can apply pressure against the material while cutting. It keeps the material flat against the rip fence for smooth cutting, and secured with clamps or same in the miter slot. Crosscut Sled – It holds the material at a fixed angle of 90° to the blade. This guide by a runner secured in a miter slot and permits for repeatable and precise results. Mostly used by trade professionals like cabinet makers, as they require precision cuts in their work.
16. Price:
The price range of table saws will be from $400 – $5000, in which cabinet and hybrid models are a bit pricier (expensive) than other table saw models. So, it is always suggested to know your budget range before buying the perfect saw for your needs. In general, the price of any product depends mostly on the brand, features, and style. Simply, select the saw depending upon your requirement and budget range.
17. Warranty:
Almost all table saws come with a minimum of a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty. Since its parts will face various issues over time due to wear and tear, which makes it essential to check the warranty on the product to fix all these issues. Some table saw models offer a 3 – 5 years long warranty. So, prefer to choose a table saw with a longer warranty to use the product without any issues.
Types of Table Saws Available and Which Suits Best for Your Work?
Make sure to decide which type of table saw you require to complete your project. In general, there are 5 types of table saws available. All these table saws will differ in their power, portability, size and robustness. Have a quick overview of each type of table saw.
1. Compact Table Saws –
Often called a benchtop, it is made from lightweight materials, just like an aluminum tabletop, which can be moved easily from one place to another. A few models have wheels attached to shift it around easily. Its motor is smaller and less powerful than other types of the table saw. As per saw construction, parts like the fence won’t be swapped for aftermarket parts.
Weight – May range from 40 – 80 pounds. Price – More affordable, that range from $250 – $600. Cutting Width – 18 to 20 inches Used for Cutting – It is good for cutting sheet materials like plywood, oriented strand board, plastic and aluminum paneling. Power Source – 110V Used by – Professionals and hobbyists for basic ripping and crosscutting tasks. Pros – Portable, affordable, and operates with an outlet of standard 100V. Cons – The less powerful motor will make the saw suffer from less stability, more vibration and result in less cutting power for thicker softwoods or hardwoods.
2. Jobsite Table Saws –
Slightly larger than compact models and placed on the stationary or folding stand during operation. They have a small yet powerful motor of 15 amps, while most of the higher-end saws come with gear-driven motors. These are lightweight, easy to carry to job location, built more ruggedly, have a higher cutting capacity, and more accurate when compared with entry-level benchtop table saws. The gears and motors are specially designed to withstand the abuse of construction/jobsite. Most of these jobsite models come with better fences, larger rip capacities, 3/4-inch miter slots, sliding extension tables, folding stands with wheels. They are like portable saws that come with a combination of benchtop saw and lightweight stationary saw. They fit perfect for the user who requires extra stability, power and rip accuracy on the construction site.
Used by – Contractors, carpenters and tradesman on the jobsite. Price – Bit expensive than compact saws, range from $300 – $600. Power Source – 15 amps motor It is best suitable for the user who needs extra stability, ripping accuracy, and power on the construction site. Pros – It comes with a larger motor that generates high horsepower and a blade with higher RPMs. The blade has a wider maximum fence depth than smaller benchtop models. Cons – Its stand is less durable, like scissor joints.
3. Contractor Saws –
They have a heavier, cast iron tabletop and motor that makes them more powerful than jobsite models. These are larger and weigh a bit more than portable models. A few models are attached to a base with wheels. It works by plugging into a standard electrical grid with motor power of 1 – 2 HP. They are cheaper than cabinet type table saws. Mostly used by DIYers and others who need cutting power on work site.
Used by – DIYers and hobbyists. Motor Power – 1 to 2 HP Weight – range from 90 to 150 pounds Cutting width – up to 24 inches Price Range – $800 – $2000 Suits Best for – Basic cutting tasks like home furniture and cabinetry work. Pros – More stable than compact saws yet portable, affordable price, can effectively cut thicker woods. Cons – may have some trouble while cutting thick hardwoods.
4. Cabinet Table Saws –
These are treated as the king of all table saws. These are heavy-duty pieces of equipment designed to cut large pieces of material or hardwood with ease. They have the highest cut capacity, durability, and stability compared to all other types of table saws. It is great for frequent & demanding use. They have high performance 1 – 5 HP motor that let you cut through hardwoods without excess vibration. They come with highly reliable fence systems, flatter tables, robust pulleys and bearing that allow you to cut accurately.
Weight – up to 600 pounds Power Source – 240 Volt. Used by – seasoned woodworkers in commercial/industrial applications Used for – smooth & straight cuts Price Range – $2300 to $5000 Pros – Stable and have high horsepower & torque to make smooth & straight cuts. Cons – Very expensive, draws more power than other table saws. Somewhat hard to move.
5. Hybrid Table Saws –
This table saw is designed with its belt-driven motor mounted on the inside. These hybrids are equipped with trunnions, a sturdier arbor, and better gearing. The trunnions of a hybrid saw are attached to the base but not durable as cabinet saws. This hybrid saw comes with a combination of lighter weight than a contractor saw with a powerful motor and sturdier construction of a cabinet saw.
Weight – under 300 pounds Motor Power – 1.5 to 1.75 HP Power Source – 110V/220V Price Range – $1000 to $1200 Pros – lightweight to shift the saw around the workplace, affordable price. Cons – Not easy to cut hardwoods.
Types of Blades:
There are 4 main types of table saw blades. Each type of blade gets determined by its shape, teeth, and grind. Let’s know about them in detail.
1. Flat Top Grind (FTG) –
FTG blades come with teeth sitting square to the table saw plate. They are used to cut the wood by ripping it perpendicular to the grain and thus won’t produce a clean-cut (like a chisel).
2. Alternate Top Bevel (ATB) –
This type of blade is considered All-Purpose blades. The teeth on the ATB blade is designed to angle with every second tooth angled in the opposite direction. It is used to shear the wood.
3. Combination –
Alternative top bevel raker (ATBR) blades (or combination blades) have 50 teeth arranged in groups of five – four ATB blades followed by one raker tooth, just like the one found on the FTG. Usually, these blades are used while crosscutting.
4. Triple-Chip Grind (TCG) –
TCG blades contain alternating chamfered and raker teeth. Here the chamfered teeth will produce a rough cut, whereas the raker teeth are used to clean it up. Thus, it makes a perfect option to use while sawing dense materials like plastic laminate and Corian. Also, these TCG blades are used to slice through non-ferrous metals such as aluminum and brass.
Safety Tips:
It is quite essential to know the safety tips to follow while using the table saw. They will help you to achieve the desired results safely and effectively. Here are some safety tips mentioned for table saw users. Check it out.
It is a must to wear safety and protective equipment like earplugs, goggles, hand gloves, and safe tight clothing (not loose) while working with a table saw. Always keep your workplace (either home or outside/depot) clean and neat, especially while using the saw. Or else, the sawdust due to many cutoffs will impair your visibility to make accurate cuts. Make sure to check all the safety features on the table saw to ensure they are functioning properly before using the saw for cutting. Disconnect the power before making any internal adjustments like changing the blade to ensure the saw not to switch on accidentally. Start the cutting process when the blade spins freely and reached its maximum speed. But won’t start the saw when the blade engages in stock. Maintain a good posture by keeping the body in good balance while working with a table saw. Never stand in front of a table saw’s blade why because it may be dangerous when the blade kickbacks. Avoid making any adjustments on the blade/fence when it is in motion. Always, wait till the blade stops completely, and then prefer to adjust, as per your requirement to complete the task. One has to use either a fence or miter gauge for making proper cuts but not both together. Also, avoid trying to guide the stock by using your free hands, as it has a great risk. To prevent any kickback while stock/wood comes into contact with the spinning blade, you have to examine and remove foreign objects like staples, nails or knots on wood. While cutting the narrow pieces of stock or shortboards, you have to use push devices to prevent your fingers from being caught when guiding the stock. Most of the saws have this push device while others won’t. You have to purchase and use it while cutting. Inspect that your table is free from any objects that fall while running the saw due to its vibration. Also, make sure to follow the guidelines provided in the user manual, which comes with your table saw for an effective and safe cutting of stock along with proper usage of the table saw.
Conclusion:
Table saws are the industry standard for easily and precisely cutting wooden pieces as per your need. You can find various kinds of table saw models out there that differ from each other in terms of the features that they offer. As this can make choosing one for yourself a bit difficult, we are here with some of the best table saws. But if you still have any doubts regarding table saws and cannot buy one for yourself, then we are here with some of our recommendations. You can simply choose one from the following as per your needs:
The SKIL TS6307-00 Table Saw is the cheapest option present in this article that makes it a great option if you are on a budget. Despite its affordable price tag, you get a Up to 25-1/2-inch cutting blade in this table that is quite sharp. It also offers a bevel angle range of 0 degrees to 45 degrees that can be quite handy. You get a large cutting surface of up to 24-inch x 25 inch with the help of its extendable cast aluminum table that can be useful for working on long pieces. As per its name, you get a folding stand with this table that makes this saw quite compact for storage. If you want a compact yet powerful table saw, then you can go with the Dewalt DWE7485 table saw. It is one of the smallest and most compact options available out there. It has a steel roll cage that offers extra strength. You get a highly powerful 15 amp electric motor with a 1850 watt rating. It provides a maximum capacity of 24.5 inches to the right of the blade that is quite great. This table saw also offers a 3-year long warranty that makes it quite reliable. Its 24 tooth saw is also quite strong and sharp that spins at 5800 RPM. Although, for those of you who do not have any budget restrictions and want the possibly best table saw, you can go with the Powermatic PM1000. While this industrial table saw is a bit on the expensive side, you get a highly powerful 30 amp electric motor in this. Since this motor is much more powerful than the other 15 amp options, you can expect clean and sharp cuts from it. It powers a large blade that offers a maximum capacity of 50 inches for cutting large objects like fences. You can even adjust the cuts up to 60 degrees for extra control while cutting wood.
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