Best Table Saw: Benchtop, Jobsite, Contractor, Hybrid, Cabinet, and Sliding Table Saws Reviews
What is the best table saw? The table saw is considered to be the most versatile among all wood processing machines. The best models should be capable to perform different functions like ripping, crosscutting, dado cutting, etc. The saw should be capable to satisfy all the requirements of the woodworking and construction professionals. It should also deliver enough power to perform multiple sawing tasks. Despite the high power the table saw should be stable without any vibration thus enlarging its trouble-free service life.
The table surface should be wide enough to perform multiple jobs. The best way would be if an extension or sliding table is attached to the main one.
The best table saw should include the large variety of safety features. The blade guard, anti-kickback mechanism and blade stop system should be in the forefront of the safety precautions.
Besides even the highly efficient table saw can be offered at a comparably affordable price. Grizzly industrial G0771Z is one the options that correspond to the highest requirements of the woodworking professionals.
Why have I chosen this model? Grizzly Industrial G0771Z is a bright example of a versatile and powerful table saw. It combines power and performance that appeal to professionals and DIY customers. It’s run by a prewired single-phase 2 HP motor with enough power to rip through hardwoods. The saw comes equipped with a 40-tooth carbide-tipped blade almost pre-assembled, so you can start it almost immediately after its receipt.
It comes with a solid cast iron table and an easily-adjustable fence which allow satisfying the needs both amateurs and professionals. It features the critical safety features like innovative quick-release blade guard and riving knife system.
Overall, it’s user-friendly professional-grade equipment which provides both high-efficiency cutting and convenience in use and handling. This table saw shows you what you’d expect from a best one in its class.
What is the table saw? | Briefing
A table saw is the electrical driven tool designed for cutting of blanks from different materials – wood, plastic or even metal. A table saw comes with a disk blade which rotates at a high speed to cut wood quickly and accurately. The main difference of the table saw from other types is that the blade rotates in place while you are feeding the material.
Such machines are highly indispensable at the commercial or industrial facilities dealing with woodworking, as well as at your household for various construction works. The table saw can help you to save time and efforts during implementation of your home improvements.
In particular, by means of this tool you will be able to cut a profile log, plywood board, laminated material, panels, etc., depending on the type and capacities of the equipment. Also it can be very useful for DIY projects involving carpentry, for instance, making small pieces of furniture like coffee table or chairs.
Nowadays a wide range of table saws is offered on the market, thus you may probably be confused with it. For this reason, I’ve decided to make a list of the top-rated table saws. Besides, I’m going to highlight the main features of the machines, analyze the performance of the selected models and share some buyer’s guidelines with you, ensuring the right choice to be made.
But firstly, you are going to learn about the main difference between the portable and stationary table saws.
Types: Portable vs. Stationary Table Saws
The general types of table saws are benchtop, jobsite, contractor, hybrid, cabinet, and sliding table saws.
Portable Table Saws
The main feature that differs portable saws from the stationary tools is their lightweight, so they can be easily transferred to any location of your work. Besides they do not take a lot of space and you will always find the storage place easily. In my opinion, Dewalt DWE7491RS is one of the best portable options.
However, when it comes to power and accuracy, these saws become less advantageous than the stationary table saws. In particular, the portable models feature less powerful motors with lower ripping capacity, the direct driven design with its higher vibration and noise during operation, and the attachments from cheaper materials which decrease its overall durability.
There are two types of the portable table saws: Benchtop and Jobsite. The benchtop models are smaller and have no supporting stands while the jobsite units are mounted on a stationary or wheeled stand and have higher functionality and accuracy due to their specific features. If you doubt which of them to choose, read the Best Portable Table Saws for the opportunity to get a deeper review of these alternatives.
Stationary Table Saws
In this section you are going to learn about stationary heavy-duty cutting tools. They include contractor, hybrid, cabinet and sliding table saws.
Сontractor table saw
In comparison with the portable light-weight cutting tools, the contractor table saws are heavier and larger machines that are attached to a stand or base, often with wheels.
As a rule, they are offered in a belt driven design with more powerful motor. The motor usually features from 1 up to 2 HP. Their weight can be up to 300 pounds. Due to this, the contractor table saws are excluded from the “portable” type by default. They are intended for the professional applications, with the initial design of a smaller and cheaper substitution to the larger cabinet table saws. In particular, Bosch power tools 4100-10 table saw is classified as a contractor table saw. This tool can be used by homeowners for some large-scale DIY woodworking projects or for construction purposes.
The contractor table saws are the cheapest in the class of the stationary table saws. However they will serve you as the professional equipment with a high-quality result.
Hybrid table saw
Hybrid table saws are designed as an intermediate option between the industrial cabinet saws and contactor saws. The hybrid saws are quite similar to the contractor tools in the performance. For instance, the Shop Fox W1837 is designed as the upgraded version of the contractor saw with more functions available.
The hybrid table saws have some beneficial features of the cabinet saws but at a lower price. In particular, the hybrid saws come with an integrated compartment for better dust collection. The cabinet can either be similar to a cabinet saw with a full enclosure from the table top to the floor or a shorter cabinet on legs. The hybrid saws are heavier than contractor saws but lighter than the cabinet saws. They can be offered in a single v-belt or multiple v-belts design on the market.
The big advantage of the hybrid saws is in their 1.5 or 2 HP motor with the ability to run on a standard 120 volt power source. By comparison, 3 HP or larger motor of the cabinet saws requires 240 volt power supply.
And the cost of the hybrid table saws is much lower than of the cabinet saws.
The cabinet saw
The cabinet saws, with their extra power, are very heavy cabinet-enclosed machines, as the name says. The weight of a cabinet type saw can be up to 500 pounds. They feature a robust design and a high-grade functionality. These saws are really too big for the regular customers. They are intended for professional and industrial applications, like factories and workshops. But they do not suit small crafts or home-base woodworking jobs.
Cabinet saws features from 3 to 5 HP motors, and even 5 to 7.5 HP motors for heavy-duty industrial applications, which run on 240-volt power.
They have a huge table surface with the large extensions for longitudinal cutting of the material of almost any size with the highly increased ripping capacity. They come with very strong and durable fences, and the most accurate miter gauges.
The cabinet table saws like Grizzly industrial G0771Z model, generate enough power to cut anything you feed to them – hard wood, logs, and most other material sheets of almost any size.
Sliding table saw
A sliding table saw is the master of all table saws available on the market. They can be called an upgrade version of the cabinet table saw. A sliding table saw basically has the same features of a cabinet saw. Thus Grizzly industrial G0623X has a sliding table on the left side of the blade, which allows you to move the table holding the work piece, instead of just moving it across a stationary table. The sliding table is primarily intended for cross cutting and ripping of materials of larger size.
The sliding table saws usually come with a set of useful accessories like riving knife which prevents kickbacks. Also the sliding saws can offer a scoring blade, which is a smaller diameter blade mounted in front of the regular saw blade. The scoring blade helps reducing the risk of work piece splintering. These cutting monsters could be highly expensive, but your expense will surely worth it.
What to look for when buying a table saw? | Buyer’s Guide
- Motor type
There are two types of motors used in the table saws, universal and induction motors. With a universal motor, the blade is run directly by the motor, with the same RPM, thus providing plenty of power. The flipside is that these models have more vibration and higher noise level during operation.
The induction motors, are equipped with a belt that transfers power to the blade. This feature ensures quiet operation and the ability to cut thicker materials. The downside is that these models require regular maintenance, including periodical belt adjustment.
- RPM
As I’ve mentioned before the benchtop and jobsite table saws of the direct drive design have the same RPM of the motor and the blade.
If you are looking for a stationary heavy-duty option, then it’s another story. In general, professional-grade table saws run with RPM range from 4000 – 5000. Actually, there should be a balance between blade speed and torque which is generally specified by the manufacturer. So, higher numbers are not necessarily better.
For instance, in terms of woodworking, high speeds can burn hardwoods when the blade is cutting through. Lower speed helps to maintain a smooth process.
- Blade Size
Standard table saw blade diameter is 10″. It will give you around 3-1/2″ cut depth at 90°. Other sizes that you may come across are 8”, 12” and 14”. However the table saw with a 10″ blade is considered to be the most versatile option.
It is important to note that it is better to use the blade size of which your table saw is rated or smaller size. However, do not use larger blades unless otherwise indicated by the manufacturer.
- Table saw size
Depending on your needs you may choose between large stationary table saws and small portable options. There are several portable types available which are smaller alternatives to the stationary models providing around the same cutting performance. Besides, they are less expensive.
Also, many portable benchtop options are offered on the market for lighter residential woodworking purposes.
However, for professional or industrial applications, the more versatile and powerful stationary table saws are the best suited options.
- Rip Capacity
Wood stock ripping means its cutting in the same direction as the grain of the wood. Rip capacity of a saw is defined as the distance between the saw blade and the fence. The more distance is provided the larger pieces can be ripped.
If you are going to cut work pieces of a bigger size, you will need a rip capacity of 24” or even more. If you don’t expect anything that large, less than 24” will be enough.
Some models are offered with the extension tables. The latter is capable to increase the rip capacity of your saw.
- Miter Gauge
A miter gauge is a guide unit with a protractor used to hold work pieces at the pre-set angle while cutting them on a table saw.
Miter gauges highly contribute to the accuracy of cuts. Without them, you run the risk of cutting your work pieces at a wrong angle. Thus, you should primarily consider those models of table saws which are offered with the miter gauge included.
- Dust Collection
It is proven long ago that there is a link between saw dust exposure and issues with the lungs and nasal tract. Thus you should select those options of the table saws which feature a dust collection system. If you are going to do most of your cutting outdoors, then the necessity of the dust collection on a table saw is not so critical any more.
- Fences
A fence is an incredibly important item to consider when looking for a table saw. The fence is designed to ensure the straightness of the blade in order to achieve accurate cuts when the work piece is placed against it.
Firstly, the fence should be easy aligned as it is almost worthless without proper alignment with respect to the blade on your saw. Secondly, the T-slot rails and fence, which are the most reliable fence arrangement on the market, should be made of steel for higher sturdiness and stability.
- Safety features
Most table saws use a guard over the blade to protect users from moving their hands or fingers into the spinning blade. It also keeps dust and wood particles from flying back at the operator. Such guards should be easy to remove and reattached.
The saw stop mechanism is designed for stopping the blade in fewer than 5 milliseconds as soon as it contacts the human skin. The machine works by sending a small electrical current through the saw blade which is stopped once the human skin comes into contact with it.
Other safety features that are recommended for consideration include splitters, riving knives, and anti-kickback system which will provide greater safety of the operator during the cutting process.
Best table saws
1. GRIZZLY INDUSTRIAL G0771Z | Best cabinet table saw
Grizzly Industrial Inc. was found in 1983 in the U.S. Nowadays it is one of the largest machinery companies in the country. They offer a wide range of woodworking and metalworking machinery on the market. Their products can be found in all sizes from the large industrial production machines to the smaller cabinet units.
Grizzly industrial G0771Z demonstrates the best features of the cabinet type table saw. It is equipped with a 2HP motor which ensures up to 31" ripping capacity to easily rip through hardwoods or cut dadoes. Its motor can be run by 120V or 240V power supply, with its factory wire for 120V, 15 Amp.
This table saw has an enclosed cabinet with 4" dust port and heavy-duty cast iron trunnions that mount to the cabinet.
The main distinguishing advantages of this saw are in its innovative quick-release blade guard and riving knife system which ensure a quick and easy switch during operation. Besides it has the easy-glide and adjustable robust T-slot fence.
Features
- RPM, no load: 3450
- Blade type: 10" 40-tooth Carbide Blade
- Depth of cut at 90° (in): 3-1/4
- Weight (lbs): 286
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 40-1/4" x 64" x 35-1/2"
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This model is a great value for the money. It is a stationary professional-grade machine which offers power supply versatility and thus convenience to use at any job site.
GRIZZLY G0771Z: Check the current price
2. GRIZZLY INDUSTRIAL G0623X | Best sliding table saw
The Grizzly industrial G0623X sliding table saw with the 10’’ blade and the extra powerful 5 HP motor is run by 240-volt power supply. Additionally it is equipped with a scoring blade to prevent cut tearing out and work piece splintering. Large table surface is supported by the robust sliding table, ensuring highly efficient ripping and cross-cutting with fewer efforts. The durable sliding table is made from extruded aluminum.
The miter fence mechanism is easily adjustable. It can be tilted 45° right and left. Besides it is equipped with two flip stops enabling a repetitive cutting in case of a poor cut. Even the largest work pieces can be processed at this table saw due to its table extension on the right and rear sides of the main table.
This model features a riving knife to prevent kickback effect during material feeding.
The dust collection system of the saw consists of the 4" and 2-1/2" ports on the blade guard.
Features
- RPM, no load: 4000
- Blade type: 10" Carbide Blade
- Depth of cut at 90° (in): 3-1/8
- Weight (lbs): 572
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 42 x 45.5 x 41.5
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Overall, it's an excellent purchase for its price. The heavy-duty professional-grade equipment demonstrates the high performance which will satisfy the most demanding needs in the woodworking and construction branches of industry.
GRIZZLY G0623X: Check the current price
3. SHOP FOX W1837 | Best hybrid table saw
Woodstock International’s SHOP FOX was established at the beginning of 2000s. Nowadays it is one of the top brands of woodworking and metalworking equipment in the U.S. Their wide range of machines includes table saws, jointers, planers wood and metal band saws, dust collectors, mills, drill presses, and other types of specialized machinery for the commercial and DIY purposes.
The Shop Fox W1837 is the 10” blade hybrid table saw with a powerful 2 HP motor. Its blade can be adjusted to different angles up to 45 degrees, which is convenient for beveling and chamfering. It delivers up to 30” ripping capacity for cutting through different types of wood easily.
The W1837 features a mobile base with a kick stand. The foot levers can be folded down thus allows mobility in use.
Similarly to professional cabinet saws, this hybrid unit has a quick-change blade guard with anti-kickback pawls that can be positioned on a particular distance from the work piece.
This hybrid table saw also has a 4” dust collection port and dust chute.
Features
- RPM, no load: 3450
- Blade type: 10" Carbide Blade
- Depth of cut at 90° (in): 3-1/4
- Weight (lbs): 260
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 58 x 38 x 36
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This option is a good value for money. This hybrid table saw is a perfect compromise between cabinet and contractor saws with its plenty of power but easy handling. It is best suited for the professional woodworkers who need to move their saw around.
SHOP FOX: Check the current price
4. BOSCH POWER TOOLS 4100-10 | Best contractor table saw
The Power Tools belongs to the Bosch Group, a leading global supplier of technology and services in different spheres. In particular, the Power Tools division is one of the world market leaders for power tools and accessories to them.
The Bosch 4100-10 15 Amp saw delivers 4.0 HP max for the outstanding performance. It features both high 25 inch rip capacity and portability for a tool that is capable to handle the challenging jobs at any location. It has soft start circuitry function which serves as an overload protection for a smooth but quick ramping up to the operating speed. This feature helps to manage the intensity of motor start up and minimize the risk of circuit breaker tripping.
The Gravity-Rise stand with the wheels is transferable with a simple set up. It is comfortably to work on a 29 In. x 21 1/2 In. square tabletop which has a coated surface designed for smooth operations.
This table saw comes with a number of safety features of high importance. The smart guard system is the first modular table saw blade guard, featuring a three position adjustable riving knife, anti-kickback pawls and a barrier to help prevent contact with the blade. It has a dust port integrated.
Features
- RPM, no load: 3650
- Blade type: 10" carbide-tipped blade
- Depth of cut at 90° (in): 3-1/8
- Weight (lbs): 58
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 29 x 32 x 13.25
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Being the product of the innovating and leading manufacturer in the field you are ensured with the most advanced features of the tool in its class. The Bosch 4100-10 is a great combination of power and versatility for many woodworking projects.
BOSCH: Check the current price
5. DEWALT DWE7491RS | Best jobsite table saw under $500
DEWALT is one of the leading U.S. manufacturers of industrial and residential purpose power tools and accessories, including saw blades and more. The products of the company are sold both on the domestic and international markets.
The DEWALT DWE7491RS 10-inch table saw with up to 32-1/2 inch rip capacity features a rack-and-pinion fence mechanism for its easy, fast and smooth alignment. This unit is provided with a 15 Amp motor to process even hardwoods with ease.
It features a 21-7/8"x 26-3/8" table for a reliable material support, a robust rolling stand that is designed for easy set up and breakdown with the large wheels of a high maneuverability. The DEWALT DWE7491RS comes with 2-1/2" dust collection port which can be easily connected to a vacuum unit for efficient dust extraction.
Features
- RPM, no load: 4800
- Blade type: 10" 24-Tooth Carbide Blade
- Depth of cut at 90° (in): 3-1/8
- Weight (lbs): 90
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 31 x 24.5 x 31
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If you’re looking for a professional-grade tool for your home workshop, this is the right choice for you. It has the right balance of features which helps you to handle even hardwood cutting at ones side and still be the compact and portable option.
DEWALT DWE7491RS: Check the current price
6. DEWALT DW745 | Best portable table saw
This Dewalt DW745 model is versatile and powerful cutting tool, which offers a number of user- friendly features for a convenient use and the portability due to its lightweight and compactness.
This 10-Inch 24-tooth blade saw comes with a powerful 15 Amp motor ensuring 20-inch rip capacity. This saw features the blade guard system, a miter gauge and a push stick.
The rack and pinion design of the fence rails ensures a fast and accurate adjustment of the fence. The latter is offered in a telescoping design which allows moving out of the rails up to 20 inches to enhance the ripping capacity or its retraction for an easy transferring.
It has a 2-1/2-inch dust collection port which can be connected to a vacuum for efficient dust extraction thus providing a cleaner work area.
Features
- RPM, no load: 3850
- Blade type: 10" Carbide Blade
- Depth of cut at 90° (in): 3-1/8
- Weight (lbs): 54
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 22.7 x 29.2 x 16.7
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This Dewalt model is a versatile and powerful option for residential cutting projects. Its compact design allows you carrying it anywhere. However even with its size it will be capable to handle those tasks that no other tool in this class ever will.
DEWALT DW745: Check the current price
