When I first laid eyes on a miter saw as a kid, I remember saying it looked like something out of a Terminator movie. Today, the miter saw is one of the most frequently used tools in our shop, although I still do make that Arnold voice whenever I take it for a spin.
Whether it’s for cutting thick lumber, slender door frames, or even ceramic tiles, a miter saw can make complex cuts on all types of materials with ease. But because of their intimidating appearance and associated technical jargon, choosing your first saw can be a challenge.
There are few power tools that are as portable, versatile, or affordable as the best miter saws. You can use these saws to create a trim, create furniture parts, cut framing lumber, and much more.
Scroll down as we talk about all sorts of miter saw types and models. And, yes, we cover sliding compound miter saw reviews too.
The Best Miter Saws Are:
Miter saws are great tools, but they’re not all the same. These miter saw reviews cover the top-rated models that are available right now, highlighted in the chart below.
Product | Details | ||
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1. Dewalt DWS779 |
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2. Metabo HPT C10FCGS |
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3. Bosch GCM12SD |
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4. Dewalt DWS780 |
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5. DEWALT DCS361M1 |
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6. Milwaukee 6955-20 |
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7. SKIL 3821-01 |
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8. Metabo HPT C12RSH2S |
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9. Craftsman CMCS714M1 |
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10. Kobalt SM1850LW |
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11. Delta 26-2241 Cruzer |
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12. TACKLIFE PMS03A |
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13. Makita LS1019L |
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14. Genesis GMS1015LC |
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1. Dewalt DWS779 Sliding Compound Miter Saw — Overall Best Compound Miter Saw
This sliding compound miter saw delivers up to 3,800 RPM so that your cuts are accurate, consistent, and clean. There is an exclusive back fence design that allows you to make a 90-degree cut on boards that are up to 2×16″ in size. You can make 45-degree cuts on 2×12″ boards when needed.
What we really appreciated about this miter saw was its dust collection system, which keeps your working surfaces surprisingly clean. This saw is a bit of an investment, but it could be the last miter saw you ever need to purchase. It is definitely worth a look.
The dust collection system of this 12-inch miter saw captures more than 75% of the dust it generates. It also comes with a 15-amp motor that delivers great cutting speed. For better visibility and accuracy, this miter saw features a CUTLINE Blade Positioning System for adjustment-free cut line indication. And it has a 3-year limited warranty.
If you are looking for the best sliding compound miter saw that you can use to handle heavy-duty tasks, this is one of the options to consider. It also allows you to slide the fence out of the way to create more room for the blade. The only downside to this unit is that it is pretty weighty and it is on the higher end of the price spectrum.
Specs
- SK5 steel blade
- 180-degree rotating hand grip
- Cuts up to 1/2-inch diameter
- Four feet in length
Pros
- It is very powerful and it can cut lumber up to 2X16
- It comes with a 15-amp motor that delivers great speed and performance
- A highly efficient dust collection system to keep dust away from your workspace
- It offers a bevel capacity of 45 degrees on both sides.
Cons
- It is on the higher end of the price spectrum
- It is very heavy
2. Metabo HPT C10FCGS Compound Miter Saw — Best Budget Miter Saw
We think this little baby is not only a great budget miter saw, but it also the best 10-inch miter saw. It definitely offers the best value for the money in its class. It can handle projects of various sizes with ease and has a light, compact design that makes it easy to handle. Its low entry price makes it a contender for the best miter saw for beginners and occasional DIY-ers.
The Metabo HPT C10FCGS miter saw has a low price but its amazing features certainly make it one of the best compound miter saws. It has an extra-wide table that can handle large items like boards or logs with ease, while its powerful 15-amp motor is sure to make short work of them. And weighing in at just 25 pounds, transport and storage are a breeze.
One particular issue that we noticed is its flimsy base. The feet are made of thin metal, which many users have already pointed out, tends to crack, especially when tightened too hard. Also, this model only has a single-bevel configuration, which can be a hassle, particularly if you’re used to working with dual-bevel saws.
Specs
- Wide miter and bevel range for increased precision for various cutting jobs
- Large table with a vice clamping system
- 15-amp motor
- Thumb-actuated positive stops for quick adjustments
- Easy-to-access carbon brush
Pros
- Low price
- Large table to work in
- Capable motor
Cons
- Fragile feet
- Limited to a single-bevel configuration
The Metabo HPT C10FCGS 10-inch compound miter saw makes for a great starter saw. But if you’re looking for more durability and flexibility, Metabo offers better options at slightly higher prices.
Overall Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
3. Bosch GCM12SD Dual-Bevel Sliding Glide Miter Saw
This miter saw offers a patented axial-glide system that gives you an incredible amount of precision. It is a design that also minimizes the footprint of this saw so that smaller workbenches or spaces can benefit from this tool.
The horizontal capacity of this saw is 14 inches, with an incredible 6.5-inch vertical capacity – with a crown capacity to match. Uniform bevel and miter scales, made from stainless steel, make it easy to get each cut right as well. The trigger handle even works well for right- or left-handed woodworkers.
This is a compact miter saw and it features a glide system that allows for better alignment and wider crosscuts. It comes with a 15-amp motor that delivers a cutting speed of 3,800 rotations per minute. The cutting diameter is 12 inches and it comes with a guide movement controller for personalized control. This is what makes it among the best sliding compound miter saws.
It also comes with the exclusive Axial-Glide system of Bosch, which provides complete control, high precision, and compact workspaces. The dust chute of this unit is compatible with 1.25 inches and 35mm hoses.
This miter saw is highly stable and very easy to assemble, thanks to its dual Square Lock quick-release fences. For maximum comfort during the job, this saw comes with an ergonomic, soft trigger handle. It is very safe and easy to use.
The downside to this unit is that it does not come with a laser lighting system to guide your cuts. However, if you know what you are doing, you can get accurate cuts without laser lighting.
Specs
- Power: 15-Amp
- Size: 12 inches
- Speed: 3,800 SPM
- Bevel: 45 Degrees (left and right)
- Weight: 65 pounds
Pros
- It comes with a durable, powerful, and efficient carbide blade
- It comes with a dust collection system to keep your workspace dust-free
- A soft-grip ambidextrous handle for comfort during the job
- It comes with safety features to protect you while working
Cons
- It does not come with a laser lighting to guide your cuts
4. Dewalt DWS780 — Best 12″ Sliding Compound Miter Saw
Dewalt is one of the most popular brands in the power tool industry. This brand is known for making powerful and highly efficient equipment. The Dewalt DWS780 Miter Saw is one of the best miter saws on the market.
This miter saw is very powerful, reliable, and it delivers accurate and clean cuts — a winner and is right up there amount the best sliding compound miter saws. This unit features a stainless steel structure, and this contributes to the longevity and durability of the machine.
This unit comes with the XPS cross-cut system, which is the latest feature in Dewalt miter saws. With this feature, you can make cuts without adjustments, as it helps to sustain accuracy throughout the job.
When it comes to performance, this unit comes with a 15-amp motor that delivers a cutting speed of 3,800 rotations per minute. It also comes with an adjustable stainless steel miter detent plate with ten positive stops. This feature helps to boost accuracy and productivity.
This miter saw comes with a versatile and flexible fence design that allows you to cut 45 degrees 2X12 and 90 degrees 2X16. The package of this saw includes a 12-inch carbide blade, dust bad, 12-inch miter saw, vertical material clamp, and a blade wrench. The bevel capacity is from 0 to 45 degrees in both left and right directions. This versatility makes this one a favorite and one of the best 12-inch miter saws.
This is an electric-powered miter saw with a voltage of 120V. It comes with a three-year limited warranty. It features a high cutting capacity and it is highly durable.
Specs
- Power: 15-Amp
- Size: 12 inches
- Speed: 3,800 SPM
- Bevel: 45 Degrees (left and right)
- Weight: 56 pounds
Pros
- It delivers great accuracy for bevel and miter alterations.
- It offers a bevel capacity of up to 45 degrees on both directions
- Impressive build quality for durability and longevity
- It comes with a strong and durable 12-inch carbide blade
Cons
- If you do not maintain the slider properly, it can stick
- The dust bag of this saw also needs some improvements
5. DEWALT DCS361M1 20V MAX Cordless — Best 7 1/4 Inch Compound Miter Saw
The DEWALT DCS361M1 cordless miter saw offers power and precision in a highly portable package. Its single left bevel configuration and high cut capacity can also handle all common cuts with reliable accuracy.
Thanks to its XPS positioning system, the miter saw has exceptional accuracy with a precise cut line indication without the need for adjustments. It also has an adjustable miter detent plate with ten positive stops to ensure your cut is at the correct angle. We also liked the cam lock miter handle, which helped us make the right miter angle cuts with ease.
However, the battery that came with the saw only has a maximum capacity of four hours, which is a bit short, especially for demanding jobs. It’s also significantly more expensive compared to similar 7 1/4-inch saws from other brands, but the performance features make up for the cost.
Specs
- Integrated XPS cross-cut positioning system
- Stainless steel miter detent plate
- Cam lock miter handle
Pros
- Highly accurate cuts thanks to its innovative positioning system
- Large cutting capacity despite its size
Cons
- Low battery life
The DEWALT DCS361M1 MAX cordless miter saw may cost a premium, but it does come with premium performance and reliability. Even if you already have a larger saw, we still recommend adding this portable tool to your arsenal.
Overall Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
6. Milwaukee 6955-20 Sliding Dual Bevel Miter Saw
The next miter saw on our list is the Milwaukee 6955-20 12” Sliding Dual Bevel miter saw and it’s one of the best 12-inch sliding compound miter saws ever. This is another great miter saw on the market, and it comes with many great features to enhance your woodworking experience. Thanks to the design of this unit, setting precise miter and bevel levels are very easy.
This miter saw from Milwaukee tends to stand out from other miter saws on the market because it comes with a display that shows you the precise angle up to 1/10th of a degree.
With this feature, you can repeat angled cuts accurately and easily. This unit also comes with dual job site lights, which comes in handy when working in a low-light condition. The lights shine on the cut line and workpiece.
It comes with a powerful 15-amp motor that delivers a cutting speed of 3,250 rotations per minute. This unit is weighty, as it weighs 78 pounds. The cutting diameter is 12 inches, and the blade is very sharp and highly durable. One of the major selling points of this miter saw is its ease of use. Even homeowners find it very easy to use.
Specs
- Power: 15-Amp
- Size: 12 inches
- Speed: 3,250 SPM
- Bevel: 48 Degrees (left and right)
- Weight: 78 pounds
Pros
- It comes with a soft-start motor that enhances your accuracy when cutting
- The electric brake system helps to prevent accidental engagements
- Dual integral job site lights to light up your working space and cut line
- A digital display that shows you the precise angle
Cons
- It is very heavy, but the weight increases its stability
7. SKIL 3821-01 Quick Mount Compound Miter Saw with Laser
SKIL is one of the most respected brands in the power tool manufacturing industry. Some of the best miter saws on the market are from this brand. It is a very solid saw and it is going to last you for years.
This unit comes with a 15-amp motor, which is pretty much the standard for miter saws of this price range. The cutting diameter of the blade is 12 inches and it can cut through 2X6 lumber with ease.
However, you would have a hard time cutting through a 2×8 lumber. This unit also allows you to set your miter angles quickly and easily, thanks to its inbuilt 9-position stops. It also comes with laser light to illuminate your cut line. However, even without this light, this saw is very accurate.
One of the major selling points of this saw is its slide-out table extensions. This feature provides you with more support when cutting longer materials. The 15-amp motor delivers a cutting speed up to 4,500 rotations per minute.
It comes with a quick-mount system that allows you to set it up on a SKIL miter saw stand easily and quickly. This electric-powered miter saw weighs 46.3 pounds and it is the ideal miter saw for intermediate DIYers or woodworkers.
Specs
- Power: 15-Amp
- Size: 12 inches
- Speed: 4,500 SPM
- Bevel: 45 Degrees (left)
- Weight: 46.3 pounds
Pros
- Fairly powerful motor cuts smoothly on various surfaces
- It comes with an extendable table for increased stability
- Lightweight and compact
- A very powerful motor that delivers up to 4,500 RPM
- Highly accurate laser guide that takes away most of the guesswork
Cons
- It only bevels to one direction
- Limited positive stops
The SKIL 3821-01 is a no-nonsense machine that can cut through most materials with ease. While it does not have much in the way of features, it can certainly still get the job done, especially for the price.
Overall Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
8. Metabo HPT C12RSH2S Sliding Compound Miter Saw
The Metabo HPT C12RSH2S is one of the best 12-inch miter saws on the market today. This miter saw comes with all the basic features you need to make accurate cuts quickly. With this unit, you can cut large crown moldings up to 7.5 inches vertically, thanks to its large sliding fence.
It also features a great bevel capacity of 45 degrees in both directions, and it allows for miter cuts of up to 57 degrees to the right and 45 degrees to the left.
The rails of this unit are at the side of the blade unlike other miter saws with rails at the back. This makes this unit a very compact option and you no longer have to do rear clearance while cutting with it. This is a high-performance miter saw, as it comes with a 15-amp motor that delivers great cutting speed.
Another fascinating feature of this unit is its laser marker. This feature comes in pretty handy as it helps with the alignment of your work. It also helps in making repeated accurate cuts.
The package of this saw includes a 12-inch 60T TCT saw blade, vice assembly, dust bag, and a 17mm box wrench. The weight of this miter saw is 78 pounds and it comes with a 5-year warranty. The downside of this unit is that it is pretty weighty and it is also pricey.
Specs
- Power: 15-Amp
- Size: 12 inches
- Speed: 4,000 SPM
- Bevel: 45 Degrees (left and left)
- Weight: 78 pounds
Pros
- A powerful 15-amp motor that delivers smooth and nice cuts
- The side rail system makes it highly compact
- It bevels in both directions
- A laser marker for more accurate cuts
Cons
- The dust collection system needs some improvement
9. Craftsman CMCS714M1 V20 Sliding Miter Saw
Part of the Craftsman’s V20 line of cordless power tools, the V20 sliding compound miter saw is designed for portability and efficient cutting power. Its slide capacity can cut through up to 8 inches of material, while its carbide-tipped blade can cut through many materials with ease.
Weighing in at around 22 lbs, the V20 is one of the lightest sliding miter saws we’ve encountered. But don’t let the lightness fool you. Its 3,800 RPM motor can cut through baseboards and hardwoods just like a 12-inch saw. The battery is also designed for longevity, with nearly 600 cuts before needing a recharge.
The biggest issue we’ve encountered is that the slide mechanism sticks after a while, although you can fix this with a quick nudge. Also, because the saw only comes with a single battery, you may need to charge it between particularly long tasks.
Specs
- 3,800 RPM motor
- Sliding saw with an 8-inch maximum capacity
- Bevel capacity of up to 47 degrees
- Nine miter detent stops
- 20V high-performance battery
Pros
- Light easy-to-transport design
- Can handle large cutting tasks despite its size
- Long battery life
Cons
- Comes with only one battery
While not the best sliding compound miter saw in the market, the Craftsman V20 is certainly a good contender for the title. With its high portability and long battery life, it can get the job done whenever and wherever you need it.
Overall Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
10. Kobalt Sliding Compound Miter Saw
Kobalt’s entry into the miter saw market is a lightweight, highly portable machine. It’s also got all the trappings that you’ve come to expect from a compound miter saw, including high cross-cut capacity and a dual-slide system.
At 29 pounds, this miter saw is quite easy to move around, which is an advantage if the saw is stored a fair distance from the job site. It also has a maximum cross-cut of 2 inches by 8 inches, helpful for molding and framing jobs.
On the downside, the laser guide does not come pre-adjusted out of the box. In our case, the saw ended up cutting to the left of the actual cut line, so we had to adjust it afterward. We also noticed that the saw does not completely slide back to its original position, so we had to use a leftover board as a rail buffer to compensate.
Specs
- Lightweight die-cast aluminum construction
- Integrated laser guide
- A dual-slide rail system
Pros
- Die-cast aluminum construction makes it very lightweight and easy to transport
- Dual-slide rail system with linear bearings allows for smoother, steadier cutting performance
Cons
- The laser guide is misaligned straight from the box
- Slide requires a rail buffer to maintain an accurate cut
While it certainly won’t get the best sliding compound miter saw award due to its accuracy issues, the Kobalt miter saw does earn points for its rugged, yet lightweight, design and versatility.
Overall Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
11. Delta 26-2241 Cruzer Sliding Compound Miter Saw
Built to last, the Delta 26-2241 Cruzer sliding compound miter saw is designed for professional construction and woodworking applications. Its military-grade aluminum frame and heavy-duty bearings can withstand years of tough use, while the saw’s compact design makes it easy to store and transport between work sites.
Despite only having a 10-inch blade, the Delta Cruzer miter saw has a large cutting capacity for its size thanks to its extending arms. The arms also minimize lateral movement of the saw blade, which, coupled with the saw’s integrated Shadow Guide cutting system, helps maintain accuracy. The entire saw assembly is also compact enough to be squeezed into tight workspaces, which is a rarity among sliding compound miter saws.
But because the Shadow Guide system relies on the shadow of the blade, getting an accurate cut may not be as reliable under bright sunlight. Also, the extending arms cannot be tightened enough and cause the blade to droop. This issue was eventually fixed with a set of pipe clamps to hold the arm in place.
Specs
- 15-amp motor
- Flip-down fence design
- Shadow Guide cutting system
- Dual-bevel configuration with seven positive bevel stops and reach lever override
- One-handed front miter controls with push-button miter override
Pros
- Tough yet lightweight construction
- Compact size
Cons
- Shadow Guide system can be unreliable in sunlight
- Extending arm tends to come loose
- Depth stops have a bit of play
The Delta 26-2241 Cruzer sliding compound miter saw is a well-built machine intended for use by professionals. Although it does have its annoyances, these issues are relatively minor and don’t affect its overall great performance and reliability.
Overall Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
12. TACKLIFE PMS03A Double Bevel Compound Miter Saw
The TACKLIFE PMS03A compound miter saw offers excellent value for your money with a professional cutting performance at a competitive price.
The motor is strong enough to cut through hardwoods like hickory, maple, and walnut, as well as soft metal. It’s also one of the few 12-inch miter saws that come with a built-in laser guide, unlike models at similar price points.
One negative thing we have observed is that the motor does a bit of a kick when you start it. While it’s not that strong, it can be tiring on the arm after repeated use. The saw also generates a particularly strong hum while running.
Specs
- 15-amp 3800 motor
- Integrated laser guide for increased accuracy
- Dual-bevel cutting design that allows for 45-degree angle cuts on both sides
- Extended platform with two extension rods for greater cutting flexibility and larger cutting width
- Vice clamping system for added stability
- Efficient dust collection bag that captures more than 70% of the dust
- Soft-grip cutting handle
- 12-inch blade
Pros
- Dual-bevel and sliding design allows for a lot of flexibility
- Lots of features
- Affordable price
Cons
- The motor tends to kick upon starting
- Generates a significant amount of noise
The TACKLIFE PMS03A sliding compound miter saw offers the same advanced features you’ll find in professional miter saws but at a significantly lower price. It’s an unquestionably great choice for price-conscious buyers.
Overall Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
13. Makita LS1019L Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw
The Makita LS1019L dual-bevel sliding compound miter saw promises to deliver high accuracy and versatility for both DIY and professional use. It features a large cutting capacity while still retaining a compact size for easy transport. The “dead-on” ball bearings and a transparent blade guard help ensure precise cuts.
The saw starts up smoothly, thanks to its direct-drive motor. The sliding arm is also deceptively small and can sit flush into the wall, making it just right for tight workspaces.
One glaring issue we’ve had with the saw is that it cannot cut a clean square vertically. To be more specific, once you reach the end of the travel, the saw produces a tiny bevel. While this may be okay for general carpentry, this is not acceptable for projects that require precise cuts.
Specs
- Large cutting capacity similar to that of a 12-inch miter saw
- Linear ball bearing system for improved accuracy
- Direct drive gearbox and guard system for improved vertical cutting capacity
- 2-steel rail sliding system for a more compact design and smoother operation
Pros
- Small profile makes it suitable for tight workspaces
- Smooth and quiet operation
Cons
- Does not cut clean vertically
- Laser guide fixed only on the left side of the blade
- Screws have excess grease that attracts dust
The Makita LS1019L dual-bevel sliding compound miter saw is a light and reliable tool to have, especially in workshops cramped for space.
Overall Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
14. Genesis GMS1015LC 10-Inch Compound Miter Saw
Genesis promises both reliability and portability with this compound miter saw. It features a foldable design for easy storage and comes with several safety features included.
The Genesis GMS1015LC miter saw is certainly one of the lightest saws we’ve encountered for its class. It can also be folded into a compact design so you can wheel it in and out of storage with ease.
And for safety, the saw comes integrated with an electric brake system and a special arbor lock that allows for quick blade changes without compromising the stability of the blade.
One thing we didn’t like was that the clamp often got in the way of the saw motor when moved to the right, which eventually stripped out the clamp after repeated use. We also noticed that the locking mechanism for the hold-down device tends to come loose when the saw is being transported.
Specs
- Integrated laser cutting guide for faster alignment and reliable accuracy
- 60T carbide blade suitable for various materials
- Hold-down clamps
- Arbor lock
Pros
- Highly compact and portable
- Makes precise cuts, thanks to the laser cutting guide
Cons
- The locking pin on the hold-down device can come loose during transport
- Heats up easily after prolonged use
Its compact profile and portability make the Genesis GMS1015LC 10-inch compound miter saw suitable for use in small workshops or multiple worksites. It’s also precise enough for use in cutting shadow boxes, crown moldings, and small picture frames.
Overall Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Best Miter Saw Buying Guide
There are certain features that you will just want to have if you are looking to buy a miter saw today. This allows woodworkers to unlock the full potential of their talents through the design of the saw itself.
These are the top features you will want to look for when making miter saw comparisons:
A Wide Base
The base of the miter saw needs to be somewhat enlarged in order for you to create a stable, accurate cut. The better saws tend to have a base that is 3-5 times larger than the assembly that supports the saw, yet still has a balanced weight distribution.
Laser Guide
Whether you have never cut wood before with a saw or this is what you do for a living, the laser-guiding feature on certain miter saws makes an accurate cut become possible in virtually all circumstances.
A 6-Inch Max Cut
If you are cutting at 90 degrees, then your miter saw should be able to give you a 6-inch maximum cut on a 0.75-inch board. It should also be able to provide these cuts without leaving a nub on the board.
Blade Size
One of the most vital things you should consider before buying a miter saw is the size of the blade. Miter saws come with different blade sizes, from a miter saw that measures 7 1/4 inches, to one that measures 10 and then 12 inches. The larger the cutting diameter (blade size) the wider the piece of lumber you can cut. However, a 12-inch blade does not mean the machine can cut lumber that is 12 inches wide.
You can use a 12-inch miter saw to cut a 2×8 lumber. Nevertheless, some of them are limited to a 2×6. The smaller the blade the shorter the reach. If you want to use the machine to cut thicker materials, then a larger blade should be your best option.
Portability and Weight
Some woodworkers usually bolt their saws to a workbench, without any plans to move it. If you want your miter saw to be stationary with no plans of moving it, then you might not care about the weight and bulkiness of the miter saw.
However, if you often travel or move your equipment around from one job site to another, then the weight and portability of the miter saw would really matter to you.
If you are in the second category, then a lighter, smaller miter saw should be your best option. By default, a miter saw is a heavy piece of equipment. However, there are many lightweight options out there.
While some miter saws weigh up to 90 pounds, some of them weigh about 25 pounds. One of the miter saws on our list weighs as low as 26.5 pounds, making it a great option to transport and move around.
The lighter the miter saw the more portable and compatible it would be. Hence, if you know you will be moving the machine around a lot, we highly recommend you go for a more compact and lighter saw.
There are some additional features that are nice to have but are not deal-breakers if they are not present. A dust collection bag or bin, for example, can make cleaning up a lot easier. A higher-quality blade guard adds another level of protection to your fingers. It is also nice to have an internal blade-guard mechanism if you are just getting started with woodworking.
Also, you need some kind of support for the miter saw and for the material that you’re cutting. So invest in a miter saw stand and a couple of sawhorses and you are reading to go.
Single vs. Dual-Bevel
Another factor to consider when purchasing compound miter saws is whether it can do a single or double bevel cut. Typically, compound miter saws make a bevel cut across the thickness of the board in a single direction.
These models usually pivot to the left but cannot go past 90 degrees vertically. So, to make a similar cut on the opposite side, you will need to flip the board over and cut in the same direction.
However, there are now dual-bevel compound miter saws available that can make a bevel cut in both directions. This type of miter saw is usually designed so that the saw blade can be swung on either side of the wood.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for more precision and flexibility in your compound miter saw, then a dual-bevel model is your best bet.
These machines are highly precise and can make more complicated tasks, such as highly detailed trims and fancy moldings, easier to do. And, since the wood remains stationary, you’ll eliminate the countless pivots and flips needed with a single-bevel saw and the potential for human error that comes along with it.
Should I Buy It New or Used?
If buying a brand new miter saw seems to be too much for your wallet to handle, buying a used version instead can be tempting.
Secondhand miter saws usually go for 20 to 30 percent lower than their initial value, although there are cases where you can find one at a fraction of the saw’s original retail price. While it sounds like a bargain, a secondhand miter saw has its pitfalls, not the least of which is whether it is safe to use in the first place.
Should you decide to get a used miter saw, be sure to inspect and test if it is still safe to use and working properly. Look for a frayed or damaged power cord, cracks and other signs of damage, especially on the plastic parts.
Be sure to check whether the guard and other safety mechanisms are functioning normally. You should also have the motor tested to check for any strange odors or grinding, slipping, or rubbing noises that may indicate a worn or misaligned part.
Other Considerations
In addition to features and other specifications, here are other important factors that you should also keep in mind when buying a compound miter saw:
Compound miter saws are normally designed for mounting on a workbench for shop use. If the saw will be used at different work sites regularly, a lighter, more compact model may prove to easier to transport.
For wired miter saws, we recommend purchasing an extension cord along with your saw. Make sure that the cord is designed for workshop use and matches the device manufacturer’s recommendations.
About Compound Miter Saws
Compound miter saws aren’t exactly hard to find in your local hardware retailer. But if you’re like us, you can easily be overwhelmed by the sizes, variations, and features available in miter saws nowadays.
The last time we purchased our miter saw, we spent more than an hour deciding on blade sizes and whether that fancy built-in laser would make our cuts cleaner than a newly washed dinner plate.
Eventually, we compromised on a 12-inch saw and a smaller cordless model, but if you’re on a tight budget, getting the best value for your purchase is a must.
We used our experience to create some tips on finding and buying that best compound miter saw for your workshop.
Why Buy A Compound Miter Saw?
The miter saw is, in our opinion, mandatory in any serious workshop. Also known as a drop saw or a chop saw, a miter saw can make both straight and angled cuts on wood of various thicknesses. These tools are typically used for cutting door frames, window casings, crown molding, and other tasks that require precise cuts at various angles.
While miter saws have been available in various versions over the decades, the most common is the compound miter saw. As its name suggests, this type of miter saw can make compound cuts in a single pass, thanks to the specially mounted saw. These miter saws can either be wired or cordless, with the same type of saw blades found in your typical table saw.
Why Choose A Sliding Compound Miter Saw?
Right now, you can find both stationary and sliding versions of the compound miters seen in shops. And, while we can tell you that, along with other compound miter saw reviews on the Internet, sliding miter compound saws are the better choice, each version has its own specific set of advantages and disadvantages, depending on the specific needs for your project.
Also called a bench miter saw, the stationary compound miter saw is the basic version that allows you to cut at more than one angle. The pivoting arm can be adjusted so that the blade can be angled to one side, allowing it to cut at two angles at the same time.
A key advantage of using a stationary compound miter saw is that you’ll be able to achieve a wider cutting arc than a sliding compound saw, which is typically limited by the length of its sliding rails. A wider arc is crucial for cutting different types of moldings, such as crowns and corner cuts.
The disadvantage of stationary miter saws, however, is that they cannot cut through particularly wide pieces of material. Many models, for instance, are limited to cutting through wood less than six inches thick. Stationary saws also need a miter saw stand to achieve a stable and more precise cut.
Sliding compound miter saws, on the other hand, feature a set of rails that allows the saw blade to slide forward and backward while cutting. This sliding version of the miter saw gives it better reach across thicker materials—reach that its stationary counterpart cannot achieve. A sliding miter saw with a 12-inch blade, for example, can cut through 16 inches of wood with ease.
What Will It Cost Me to Buy the Best Miter Saws?
Miter saws are generally priced between $120-$300 in most circumstances. At the lower end of the pricing scale, you will typically find smaller diameter blades and bases. These saws are good for small wood pieces and detail work. If you are looking for something more powerful than a good chop saw would be perfect.
Then, at the upper end of the pricing scale, you will find miter saws that are packed with features, making it possible to create almost any type of cut. Maybe try a wireless circular saw for portability cut.
The best miter saw will help you upgrade your shop for a price that might shock you – in a good way. It is time to say goodbye to those old radial arm saws and say hello to the incredible versatility of the modern miter saw. If you are wondering what the difference is between a chop saw and a miter saw then we got you covered.
Conclusion
Those are some of the finest miter saws on the market. We have put a series of factors into consideration when compiling this list. We’ve included compound and sliding miter saw reviews in our roundup so you get models with more advanced features for more versatility.
Our top pick for the best miter saw is the Dewalt DWS779 Sliding Compound Miter Saw because it comes with a 12-inch blade that can cut wood up to 16 inches wide. It comes with a very powerful motor, as well as an efficient dust collection system.