No workshop is complete without a table saw. For projects large and saw, this handy tool can make cutting wood a fast, easy, and precise job. Whether you choose a bench top saw, a jobsite saw, or a compact saw, you'll quickly find that this tool is essential to all of your home improvement projects, much like your chainsaw or cordless drill.

But deciding between the different brands and models of table saw can prove challenging. Is there a difference between the cheap or expensive model? What features should you look for? If you're shopping for the best table saw for your needs, fear not. We've compiled a list of the 10 best table saws on the market. In our roundup, you are sure to find a table saw that will make your next DIY project easier and more enjoyable. 

If portability in your table saw is important to you, the Bosch GTS1031 offers a one-handed carry option thanks to its unique handle design. While many portable table saws aren’t particularly durable and suited for only home use, the Bosch GTS1031 is constructed of an all-steel base and designed to withstand the heavy impacts of jobsite use and abuse.

The Bosch GTS1031 makes every cut look like it was done by a professional, as its square lock rip fence and self-aligning design allows for the ultimate in cutting accuracy. The GTS1031 is powered by a 5,000 rpm motor and features a 10 inch, 24 tooth carbide blade and up to 18 inches of rip capacity.

The GTS1031 also allows for easy maintenance with a tool-free dust chute on the back of the machine, as well as onboard storage for all included accessories, including rip fence, smart guard, miter gauge, and wrenches.

And while the Bosch GTS1031 is considered a jobsite table saw, it’s not without its own limitations, specifically a loud engine and various potential quality-control complaints and customer service issues with the manufacturer. However, if you’re looking for a jobsite ready table saw that allows for portability and durability, the Bosch GTS1031 is a smart choice.

Key Features
  • Features all components built right into tool, with under-table storage
  • 10 inch/24 tooth carbide blade
  • 5,000 no-load rpm motor
  • 18 inch rip capacity
Specifications
  • Dimensions: 26 x 24.8 x 15.5 inches
  • Cutting Diameter/Size: 10 inch
  • Included Components: Table saw, 24-tooth carbide saw blade, rip fence, miter gauge, push stick, 2 blade-change wrenches
  • Warranty: 30-day money back guarantee, 1 yr warranty
  • Weight: 52 lbs
  • Brand: Bosch
Pros
  • Self aligning design for precise cuts
  • Under-table storage for all components
  • Portable
Cons
  • Blade may wobble
  • Noisy

If you’re already a fan of Milwaukee’s high-end electric tools, the 2736-21HD bench top table saw does not disappoint. The 2726-21HD comes with Milwaukee’s generous 5-year warranty on material and workmanship, so you won’t have the worry of losing money on a power tool that goes out after only a few years and needs replacement.

However, it’s not just its warranty that sets the Milwaukee 2726-21 HD above the pack, but rather its lack of a cord, since this is the only table saw on our list that is battery powered. Perfect for those whose workshop is without electrical outlets, or wherever you may find yourself that requires the ability to cut but can’t plug in a power tool, as the Milwaukee 2726-21HD obtains its power from a rechargeable lithium battery. According to Milwaukee, its proprietary redlithium battery provides 50 percent more power and runs 50 percent cooler than competing lithium batteries.

The Milwaukee features a brushless 6,300 rpm motor, and a rack and pinion fence system that maintains accuracy and allows for quick adjustments. The Milwaukee also features onboard tool storage system for all included accessories and a tool-free guard system. With all its many features and ability to be used without a power source, it’s easy to recommend the Milwaukee 2726-21HD as a best pick among table saws.

Key Features
  • Cordless, Lithium ion battery-powered
  • Brushless motor
  • 50% more power/50% cooler operation than comparable HD packs
Specifications
  • Dimensions: 15 x 27 x 24 in
  • Cutting Diameter/Size: 8-1/4"
  • Included Components: Table saw, battery
  • Warranty: 5 year warranty on material and workmanship
  • Weight: 55 pounds
Pros
  • Cordless
  • Cool operating, powerful battery
  • Brushless Motor
Cons
  • Stand not included

If you’d like a table saw for DIY and home use, that offers portability and a heavy steel-mount stand, you’ll find the Skil 3410-02 10-Inch Table Saw to be an essential tool.

The Skil offers a 15 amp, no-load 5000 rpm motor with a 10-inch carbide blade and a 3 ½ inch cut height capacity that allows cutting through 4 times the material. The Skil also features a bevel from 2-47 degrees, a self-aligning rip fence, and an easy-view measurement system that helps you achieve accurate results.

Another helpful feature about the Skil is its heavy-duty steel folding stand which makes setup and takedown quick and convenient, and allows for on-tool storage of all accessories.

While the Skil table saw is feature-rich, it’s definitely not one of the most durable of all our picks, making this unit more suitable for home hobbyists rather than professionals as its primary intent isn’t heavy, industrial usage.

Key Features
  • Aluminum table extends to accommodate larger projects
  • Cut height of 3 1/2 inches allows for cutting through 4x materials
  • Stand is heavy duty steel and allows for easy transport
  • Self-aligning rip fence allows for accurate measuring
  • EZ view measurement system
Specifications
  • Dimensions: 28.9 x 13 x 20.9 inches
  • Cutting Diameter/Size: 10 inch
  • Included Components: 10-Inch Table Saw, Carbide-Tooth Blade, (2) Blade Wrenches, (1) Heavy-Duty Steel Folding Stand, (1) Self-Aligning Rip Fence, Miter Gauge
  • Warranty: 3 years
  • Weight: 67 pounds
Pros
  • Heavy duty stand
  • Extending table
  • Easy measuring
Cons
  • Blade angle adjuster tends to stick or break
  • Heavy

The Dewalt DW745 10-inch Table Saw is a feature-rich model that offers steel roll cage protection against jobsite drops and damage, a powerful 1850 watt motor, and up to 20 inches of rip capacity, all in a lightweight, portable unit that weighs just 45 pounds.

This compact table saw also features telescoping fence rails that allow for fast, smooth, and accurate fence adjustments, and rear adjustable feet that allow you to work even on uneven surfaces.  

The Dewalt’s high torque motor delivers a no-load speed of 3,850 rpm and a powerful 15 amps which allows for usage on difficult projects such as cutting through pressure treated lumber. This table saw also features a dust collection port, which allows the machine to be hooked up to a shop-vac for easy cleaning when not in use.

As this is a machine suitable for jobsite use, the Dewalt DW745 is not among the quietest of the table saws we reviewed. For that reason, if you’re seeking a table saw for light-duty hobby use, and don’t want a powerful piece of equipment, you’re better off skipping this machine in favor of a quieter model. However, if you’d like a table saw that performs just as well on the jobsite as it does in your garage, and is rugged yet portable, the Dewalt DW745 will be your perfect fit.

Key Features
  • Lightweight for ease of portability
  • Steel roll cage protects against damage on job site
  • 1850 watt/15 amp motor
  • Site-Pro Modular Guarding System for accuracy in cutting
  • 20 inch rip capacity
Specifications
  • Dimensions: 22.7 x 29.2 x 16.7 inches
  • Cutting Diameter/Size: 10 inch
  • Included Components: DW745 DEWALT 10-Inch Job Site Table Saw, 10-inch 24-tooth carbide blades, miter gauge, push stick, blade guard
  • Warranty: 3-year limited warranty, 1-year free service contract, and a 90-day money-back guarantee
  • Weight: 45 lbs
Pros
  • Lightweight and portable
  • Durable
  • Allows for accurate cuts
Cons
  • Extremely loud

If you’re looking for a saw that is portable yet maintains many robust features, you may be interested in the Dewalt DW745S Compact Job Site Table Saw. This table saw combines accuracy of cuts with advanced safety technology and delivers a solid overall performance at an affordable price point. The DW745S features a 15-amp 1850 rpm motor and 20-inch rip capacity. The 24-tooth carbide blade offers a quality cut and long blade life.

The Dewalt DW745S weighs just 45 pounds, includes a stand, and folds flat, which allows for easy transport between home and jobsite. The DW745S is constructed of heavy-duty tube steel for durability, and ease of operation. Both the saw and included stand are backed by Dewalt’s generous 3-year limited warranty.

The Dewalt DW745S also includes a dust port which allows for easy cleanout with a shop vac once the machine is not in use.

Despite its portability and overall well-balanced nature, the DW745S does not offer any one feature that makes it superior to other models. For instance, the motor’s rpm is less than that of competing model’s, as is the tooth count on the carbide blade. However, if you’d like a well-rounded table saw from a respected manufacturer that offers portability and functionality, the Dewalt DW745S is a great option.

Key Features
  • Lightweight for easy portability
  • 15 amp/1850 watt motor
  • Folds flat for ease of transport and storage
Specifications
  • Dimensions: 26.8 x 17.8 x 27.9 in
  • Cutting Diameter/Size: 10 inches
  • Included Components: Saw, miter gauge, push stick, carbide blade, blade guard, stand
  • Warranty: 3-year limited, 1-year free service contract, 90-day money back guarantee
  • Weight: 73 pounds
Pros
  • Portable
  • Lightweight
  • Easy to set-up and take down
Cons
  • Corded, doesn't allow for use on-job site unless power outlets exist

The increased work space you’ll get from the Bosch 4100-10 table saw make it a worthwhile choice for those who have both the room and the need to cut large pieces of material. Featuring a huge 25-inch rip capacity, the Bosch 4100-10 is powered by a 15-amp, 3,650 rpm motor with a maximum 4 horsepower.

Although this table saw is a workhorse, the Gravity Rise wheeled stand allows for easy portability and lightweight transport, and provides for single action setup and takedown.

Advanced safety features include soft start circuitry that reduces the chances of tripping a breaker, while the guard assembly provides protection from blade-contact, as well as an unobstructed view of each cut as it’s made.

Overall, the Bosch 4100-10 is a solid choice for those who desire a high rip capacity along with accuracy in cutting and advanced safety features.

Key Features
  • 15 amp, 4.0 max HP, 3650 RPM motor
  • 25 inch rip capacity
  • Gravity-rise wheeled stand for easy portability
  • Smart-guard safety system
Specifications
  • Dimensions: 26.8 x 17.8 x 27.9 inches
  • Cutting Diameter/Size: 10 inch
  • Included Components: Table saw, Gravity-Rise wheeled table saw stand, Smart Guard System - Barrier-Guard Device and Anti-Kickback Pawls (1) 10 In. Carbide-Tipped Blade SquareLock rip fence, miter gauge, Smart Guard system, push stick, throat plate insert, multi-function blade wrench, adjustment wrench
  • Warranty: Limited 1 Year
  • Weight: 60 lbs
Pros
  • Stand allows easy setup/take-down
  • Powerful motor
  • Large rip capacity
Cons
  • Requires power outlet for operation

The Makita 2705 is a 10-inch contractor grade table saw, which means it’s designed for heavy, daily usage by construction professionals.

The Makita features a 15-amp 4,800 rpm motor, as well as a tool-less blade guard system with an adjustable riving knife. The guard design allows you to view the blade while it’s in use, and features a release lever for easy adjustments into three different positions including through, non-through, and dado cuts.

The Makita 2705 features 4 times the rip capacity, and converts from bench top to job site with ease, making this an extremely versatile table saw that provides shop quality cuts even while out in the field. The drawback to the Makita 2705 is that it doesn’t come with the stand included, but instead must be purchased separately as an add-on.

Makita table saws are made in the USA and are perfect for in-shop professionals such as cabinet makers or woodworkers, as well as job site workers including construction workers and contractors.

Key Features
  • 15 amp/4800 RPM motor
  • Modular blade-guard system
  • Cam-lock provides tool-free installation and removal
Specifications
  • Dimensions: 32 x 36 x 15.25 in
  • Cutting Diameter/Size: 10 inch
  • Included Components: Table Saw, 32T carbide-tipped blade, rip fence, miter gauge, push stick, wrenches
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Weight: 82 lbs
Pros
  • Ease of use
  • Powerful motor
  • Versatility of functions
Cons
  • Stand must be purchased separately
  • Heavy

The Hitachi C10RJ table saw is a jobsite saw featuring a 15-amp 4,500 rpm motor that allows it to tackle the toughest projects. While most jobsite table saws are noisy, the Hitachi C10RJ features a soft-start function that reduces noise and recoil upon startup.

The Hitachi C10RJ has advanced safety features such as an electric brake that stops the rotation of the blade within seconds, making this table saw a smart choice for use by all skill levels.

The blade on the Hitachi is a 10-inch, 40 tooth carbide that allows for high-capacity cutting, as well as a bevel range of 0 to 45 degrees and provides cuts from 3 1/8 inches (at 0 degree) to 2 1/4 inches (at 45 degrees).

Additional features include a telescoping table and front-of-tool bevel height adjustment knobs for easy access and viewing.

However, the Hitachi is not among the most durable of all table saws on our list, and potential customer service and warranty issues may present a potential purchasing deterrent.

Key Features
  • 15 amp/4,500 RPM motor
  • 10 inch 40 tooth carbide blade
  • 35" Rip Capacity
  • Convenient fold-and-roll stand
Specifications
  • Dimensions: 22 x 28 x 36 inches
  • Cutting Diameter/Size: 10 inch
  • Included Components: Table Saw, carbide blade, stand
  • Warranty: 2 year
  • Weight: 96 lbs
Pros
  • High rip capcity
  • Telescoping table extension
  • 40 tooth blade provides high capacity cutting
Cons
  • Less durable than competing table saws
  • Manufacturer customer service issues

If you desire maximum torque from your table saw, consider purchasing one with a worm drive, as these provide an exceptionally powerful engine. The Skilsaw SPT70WT-01 is the first ever brass-geared worm drive table saw, and is powered by a 15-amp solid construction dual-field motor that offers maximum motor-life and variable cut speeds.

The Skilsaw features 25 inches of rip capacity and 3 ½ inch depth of cut, allowing for versatility in the types of materials it can handle. A drawback to the Skilsaw is, true to its name, it’s a bit difficult to operate. Therefore, this saw should only be used by skilled professionals as the blade can be a bit tricky to align.

Additional features include onboard storage for its included accessories, including the miter gauge and self-aligning rip fence, guard system including anti-kick-back device, insert plate, push stick and wrench.

The Skilsaw is also portable and compact, constructed of aluminum and weighs just 49 pounds.

Key Features
  • Worm-drive table saw
  • 15 amp dual-field motor
  • 25 inch rip capacity/3 1/2 inch depth of cut
  • Portable and lightweight for easy transport
Specifications
  • Dimensions: 19.9 x 23.4 x 13.4 in
  • Cutting Diameter/Size: 10 inch
  • Included Components: SPT70WT 10 In. Portable Worm Drive Table Saw, 24-tooth SKILSAW® Carbide-tipped blade for ripping, miter gauge, self-aligning fence, guard system including anti-kick back device, insert plate, push stick and wrench
  • Warranty: 180 days refund
  • Weight: 49 lbs
Pros
  • Portable
  • High rip capacity
  • Powerful motor
Cons
  • Difficult to align blade

If versatility in your table saw is important to you, you may want to consider the Rockwall RK7241S, as its light weight and fully assembled trolley with built-in wheels allows for easy transport between the job site or workshop.

The Rockwall RK7241S features a 10-inch blade and is powered by a 15-amp no-load 4,800 rpm motor, although the motor’s lifespan will not last nearly as long as those of competing models.

The Rockwall RK7241S features a foldable fence for extra-wide cuts and claims to have the most cutting depth of any saw in its class. The table saw allows for a maximum cutting depth at 90 degree of 3 9/16 inches, and a maximum cutting depth at 45 degrees of 2 9/16 inches.

Another helpful feature of the Rockwall RK7241S is the laser guide for the ultimate in cutting accuracy which also allows for automatic blade re-alignment.

The Rockwall RK7241S includes onboard storage of the included accessories including rip fence, miter gauge, push stick, riving knife, and blade wrenches. The Rockwall RK7241S also comes with a dust-collector bag underneath the unit, however, the bag’s location makes it a bit clunky and cumbersome.

Key Features
  • Foldable fence for extra wide cuts
  • Largest cutting depth of any competing table saw
  • 4800 RPM motor
  • 30 inches rip capacity
  • Laser indicator to adjust blade tilt
Specifications
  • Dimensions: 38.8 x 27.6 x 18 inches
  • Cutting Diameter/Size: 10 inch
  • Included Components: table saw with laser, rip fence, miter gauge, push stick, riving knife, dust bag, and two blade wrenches
  • Warranty: 2 year limited
  • Weight: 88.2 lbs
Pros
  • Allows for extra wide/extra deep cuts
  • Laser cut line allows for precise cuts
  • Trolley stand comes fully assembled
Cons
  • Position of dust collector makes collection difficult
  • Quality control issues with motor

Table saws can be narrowed down to three distinct types: bench top, compact, and jobsite.

The type of table saw you'll want to purchase will depend on the needs of your project, as well as the level of usage demands you expect to place on your machine.

Bench Top Saws

Bench top saws are primarily designed for the home garage workshop, and are the smallest of the three types. Bench top saws are considered the entry-level models, and are designed for light, occasional use as they can't withstand the rigors and heavy demands of a job site.

While bench top models aren't considered "portable" as they don't have carrying features such as a stand or wheels, their light weight enables them to be easily transported should the need arise. Bench top saws are primarily composed of lightweight materials such as plastic and aluminum, and for that reason are the least durable of all table saw types.

Their small size limits the rip capacity of a bench top saw, which means they're really not suitable for cutting through full-size sheets of wood.  Instead their intended purpose is more along the lines of light-duty hobby and DIY projects.

Compact Saws

Despite their name, compact saws are the next step up, and are larger than their bench top counterparts.  Compact saws are still constructed from lightweight materials, but feature more robust features, such as stands and cast-iron table surfaces.

Just as with bench top models, however, compact table saws are not designed to withstand the rigors of heavy use. Compact table saws also have a limited rip capacity due to their small size, so again, they won't be able to tackle full-sheets of material.  However, if you're a construction professional and a table saw is more of a secondary need, a compact model may be just the right choice for your intended purposes.

Appearance-wise, compact table saws will resemble a mini-version of a full-size saw, but are simply less feature-rich overall.

Jobsite Saws

Jobsite saws are the most rugged of the three portable table saw types, and are designed to withstand heavy, professional demands as well as exposure to the elements.  A jobsite saw is typically used by construction professionals and for this reason, is often referred to as a "contractor saw."

Jobsite saws feature direct drive motors that are powerful and durable, making this type of table saw suitable for the rigors of daily use.  Jobsite table saws come with improved fences, adjustable cutting features, and offer a higher rip capacity, and may offer additional options which aren't available on bench top or compact models, such as stands with transport wheels and extension tables.  Features such as dust collection bags, riving knives, and onboard storage also typically come standard when you purchase a jobsite table saw.

Overall, if you're a construction professional or contractor who expects to impart high usage on your table saw, and desire additional features and durability that you can't find in a bench top or compact model, you'll definitely want to consider purchasing a jobsite-grade table saw.

Learning how to use a table saw, and how to operate it safely, is sure to bring any DIYer's projects to new heights.

Resources— Sharp CutArchitect's Guide

 

FAQ

Q: What’s a table saw?

A table saw is an electric power tool used in woodworking. It consists of a circular saw blade mounted on an arbor. It works slightly similar to a circular saw with the only difference being that with a table saw, you have to direct the material into the blade.

If you work with wood or sheets of plastics, you need a table saw. The accuracy and the power of the saw table make it better than circular saws.

Q: Can you Use Dado blades With A table saw?

Yes, as long as the blades fit your table. Most table saws come with an arbor of five to eight inches in size, relatively standard size for dado blades. It’s rare to find table saws that are not compatible with dado blades.

When installing a dado blade to your table saw ensure you use a dado table insert. And make sure both the arbor and blade are of the same size. It’s also important to adhere to the instructions on your owner’s manual and use permitted blades.

Q: How can choose the best table saw?

When picking a table saw, prioritize accuracy and power. Also, consider the requirements of your project, whether it needs high power or low power. Considering these requirements helps in knowing the required budget range.

Powerful table saws are generally big and provide a high amount of torque. Such types include cabinet table saws. The downside of these saws is that when setting them up, you need additional workforce, and are often hard to operate without help. Running them is hard because they tend to produce high vibrations, which can lead to kickbacks.

Also, prioritize the motor you’re going for in terms of power and accuracy. If you can supply power for a 240v motor, then go for one. If you can’t, settle for one with less power.

Q: How do I set up my new table saw?

The first thing to confirm is whether the alignment of the blade and slot is perfect. Use a saw aligning jig to ensure the alignment is correct when done, check whether the blade is square to the table. Raise it at a maximum height and place it at a 90-degree angle to confirm that.

The riving knife should be at an 8mm distance apart from the blade. If your project requires many angling cuts, then you should consider positioning the blade at a 45-degree position.

Make sure the fence is parallel to the blade, and if your table has a sliding table, you’ll have to do this with some help. Also, ensure the sliding table doesn’t sit on the main meal but slightly above it, doing so prevents you from dragging on the main table while cutting wood.

Q: Do I have to use a table saw stand?

No, it’s not necessary; you can mount it on any stable work surface. However, the work surface must have an opening to allow sawdust to fall off, and it should also be heavy-duty for guaranteed support. This opening should be an 11-inch square opening. Lacking this opening will lead to the accumulation of sawdust that ultimately affects how the motor functions.

Alternatively, use a king-size dust bag to collect the sawdust.

Q: How do I maintain my table saw?

Clean the sawdust off the table saw regularly. And if your table saw uses a plug, make sure you unplug it when done using it. Use antifriction spray or wax to polish the table for workpieces to slide over the table seamlessly.

Clean the plastic parts and the cutting blade after use. And always replace the power cord when it wears out.

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