Best Table Saw Review 2022
Best Table Saw Reviews
If you work with wood a lot, then you’ll need a garage or a workshop because one of the most essential tools you will use, a real ‘must-have’ is a table saw. It’s a foundational tool for any craftsman or contractor. You need the right table saw to cut the wood precisely before you can even start working with it. Without this, nothing else works quite as it should. But at the same time, you need something that’s not going to break the bank either. Or, in fact, just break.
When people work with wood, they become part of the process itself. It’s almost spiritual. That’s largely because they’re dealing with a living material, where every piece is unique. So they need a tool that’s intuitive, so they don’t feel they’re just fighting with it. That’s why we’ve put our heads together to come up with our favourite table saws.
We know what’s important when it comes to table saws, so in this review, we will handpick the best and explain why we’ve made these choices. We’ll also show you the differences between them, and which you should use depending on your specific needs. Most importantly, we have a focus around value for money at Wonkee Donkee, so we won’t try and bankrupt you.
We have even put together a beginners guide to table saws, so if you’re new to using a table saw we’ll explain what’s important to look out for and what makes a good table saw. We try to keep it easy to understand and useful to everyone.
DeWalt DWE7480 Compact Job-Site Table Saw
This is our top pick. It wasn’t easy, there are a few that are excellent power tools available on the market, but the DeWalt DWE7480 Compact Job-Site Table Saw eventually got our vote as number one. This is the perfect table saw for a contractor or someone who simply likes to have the best. It’s been designed by DeWalt with that in mind. In other words, it’s impressively durable and it’s one heck of a workhorse. It really isn’t the kind of machinery that’s going to leave you high and dry in the middle of a project, and breakdown.
Now for some of the specifics. For a start it only weighs 53lbs (24kg), which is relatively light for a table saw. It’s driven by a 15 amp motor and boasts a 20-inch rip capacity. The table has a load speed of up to 34,000 rpm and has a maximum cutting depth of 3 ¼ inches when working at a 90-degree angle. Add to this a cutting depth of 2 ½ inches at 45 degrees. What does all this mean? It means that this is a damn good tool! You will be able to make accurate, powerful cuts, quickly. In fact this is so good, it’s almost difficult to find the words to describe it. There are many great table saws, and we’ll talk about these next, but this is just something else.
Specifications
- Motor Size: 15 Amps
- Size: 25.75 x 26.5 x 13.88 Inches
- Weight: 45 Pounds
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Our Verdict
As we have come to expect. DeWalt have thought of everything (they’re pretty good at that, aren’t they?). The rear feet are adjustable so you can work on uneven surfaces, should you need to. The metal roll cage is super durable. It will last forever and you don’t even have to treat it gentle. There’s nothing it can’t handle. It would have been a total injustice to the DeWalt DWE7480 Compact Job-Site Table Saw for it not to be our number one option in our best table saw review.
SawStop PCS31230-TGP252 Table Saw
We review so many DeWalt, Ryobi or Bosch power tools, it’s actually nice to have a lesser-known brand make it into one of our ‘best of’ guides, especially if it steals 2nd spot. It feels like we’re supporting the underdog. David vs Goliath. Truth is, the SawStop PCS31230-TGP252 3-HP made the list because it’s a truly excellent bit of kit. It’s here completely on merit for being a great table saw. It’s not cheap, don’t get this confused thinking that a lesser-known brand has tried to make a cheaper version to compete, this is a seriously premium table saw and that’s well reflected in the price. It will tackle anything and last for an eternity.
Powered by a 13 amp motor that has a 220-volt requirement and saws through material quickly and efficiently. It’s a carpenter’s dream and was built with all of the needs of the craftsman in mind. One of our favourite features, however, would have to be the built-in safety system. The safety system quickly detects when human contact has been made with the blade by reading the electrical signals that are sent throughout the blade and locks down on the cabinet within milliseconds.
The whole process only takes about 1/200th of a second and helps to save craftsmen from devastating injuries every day. Additionally, you’ll be able to enjoy the dust collection port system on the cabinet. It leads its industry in its ability to efficiently gather up to 99% off all dust put off by the device both above and below the table.
Specifications
- Motor Size: 3 Horsepower (HP)
- Size: 85.25 x 33 x 34 inches
- Weight: 335 Pounds
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Our Verdict
The SawStop PCS31230-TGP252 Professional Cabinet Table Saw is a powerful and invaluable device – definitely one of the best investment choices you could make. You might think it is a risk going for a brand that you may not have heard too much about before. But in response to that, all we can say at Wonkee Donkee is to read the customer reviews on the product and see what other people like you think about it. Then add it to your basket.
SKIL 3410-02 10-Inch Table Saw
We picked the Skil table saw because it’s a little cheaper than others, but don’t be mistaken it really is a premium table saw. It’s probably the best in terms of value for money. In terms of performance, it is powered by a 15 amp motor that feeds off 120 volt power. That means it is more than capable of handling big projects. This is evident in the cast-iron tabletop, that only adds to the solidity and reliability.
Then there are all the little extras that really make sense, like the EZ view measurement system, the steel fold stand, the easy mount system. It also comes with blades, mitre gauge and blade wrenches. Some table saws just come with basic features, SKIL literally gives you the whole package so you have everything you need. It’s a really designed piece of kit. They’ve made sure it’s easy to transport, and easy to learn how to adjust it to your needs. You don’t need to be an expert or experienced with table saws to quickly get the hang of this particular tool.
Specifications
- Motor Size: 15 Amps
- Size: 28.9 x 12.99 x 20.87 Inches
- Weight: 67 Pounds
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Our Verdict
The SKIL 3410-02 10-Inch table saw is really well-positioned in terms of price and quality. You will find it very difficult to buy a table saw that is so well made at this price range. We have looked and we couldn’t. All-in-all, this is a great tool and worthy of the title of the best value for money on the market. If your working with a smaller budget and you need a workhorse of a table saw, you should seriously consider the SKIL 3410.
DEWALT DWE7491RS 10-Inch Table Saw
We were sat in the office trying to decide if it was worth writing an article about portable table saws. We decided against it for now but thought we had to include 1 or 2 of our favourite table saws on our list of best portable table saws. The DeWalt DWE7491RS portable table saw certainly fits the bill.
In fact the DeWalt DWE7491RS is the best portable table saw, so if we did ever decide to write that article it would be our top pick. That makes it a great tool for contractors who need to move from job site to job site. It has a really well designed rolling stand that makes it easy to move and set up wherever you are, allowing you to spend more time actually working.
We have a lot of time for the 2-inch dust collection port too, it really helps to get keep the workspace clean and tidy, collecting dust. We also love the fact that it comes with a vacuum collection port so you can collect then easily remove the dust as it’s being used. This means that you can use it extensively without having to waste time cleaning up the area once you’ve finished or between cuts.
Specifications
- Motor Size: 15 Amps
- Size: 31 x 24.5 x 31 Inches
- Weight: 110 Pounds
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Our Verdict
As you know, we’re massive fans of DeWalt table saws anyway (who isn’t right?). But, we really like how this particular model really serves a purpose and is designed with that in mind. If you’re a home user, then you might not need a portable model. In that case, this probably isn’t for you. However, if you are a contractor you just have to take a good long look at the DeWalt DWE7491RS table saw. You won’t be disappointed.
Bosch 4100-09 10-Inch Table Saw
The Bosch 4100-09 10 Inch Table Saw is a superb tool that will no doubt please users thanks to its easy to use set up and design that makes it super reliable. We have a lot of time for the gravity rise design the enables you to push the table around with ease, making it very practical. It also saves a lot of time because it doesn’t require any setup once you’ve moved it.
This makes it stand out in the portable table saw market, as most other models will have a 2-5 minute set up time before you can start operating. This is one of the best portable table saws, but it’s also got features that make it solid and reliable. The powder coat, for example, and the choice of high-quality materials used in its build also.
Specifications
- Motor Size: 15 Amps
- Size: 39 x 29.75 x 21 Inches
- Weight: 142 Pounds
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Our Verdict
This is what we’ve come to expect from Bosch, and the Bosch 4100-09 doesn’t fail to deliver. It’s also got a respectable amount of power for a portable table saw, producing over 3500 rpm (more accurately 3650rpm). But it is portable and this particular model is easy to collapse so it can be transported easily from site to site. It also makes it a lot easier to store taking up less space. It’s not created for cutting masses amount of wood, like a much bigger static table saw, but if you need to have a table saw on site, especially smaller projects, this is a great option.
Craftsman Fury 5-S Table Saw
The Craftsman Fury 5-S Table Saw is our first selection from Craftsman (you’ll have to continue reading to know if any other Craftsman table saws made the list). It’s an excellent portable table saw. It’s kind of like having a hybrid table saw.
It weighs only 50lbs (22 kilos) which makes it light enough for one person to carry with ease. Yet it’s sturdy enough to get through a serious amount of work. This particular Craftsman has a great starter tool kit and as standard includes: a mitre gauge, a push stick, a stand, knife and blade guard fence. So that if you are new to owning a table saw, you will have everything you need.
Specifications
- Motor Size: 1500 Watt
- Size: 64.2 x 93 x 94 cm
- Weight: 21 KG
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Our Verdict
The Craftsman Evolv 10 inch table saw also comes with plenty of working space so you’ll have plenty of versatility. It delivers plenty of powers and comes with a 24 tooth carbide blade that you’ll find works really well cutting through most materials. It also will come with blade wrenches, the right hex keys and anti-kickback features. So that it can be set up and operated safely without any risk of injury to the user.
Bosch GTS1031 10-Inch Portable Table Saw
The Bosch GTS 10 Portable Table Saw is a tool for the craftsman and home enthusiast more than for a contractor or professional. It’s a small, portable saw that is both practical and delivers a good punch. It’s really compact, so you don’t need a lot of space to store it, and it’s super easy to transport, thanks to it being lightweight and kitted out with an ergonomic handle.
It barely weighs 26.4kg and its design gives it a balanced sense of gravity which really makes it easier to move. The Bosch GTS 10 Portable Table Saw also comes with a clever guard system that enables the device to perform at optimum levels whilst keeping the operator safe. We love the rip fence and integrated measuring system. Not only is the rip fence a safety feature, but it’s also a good tool to ensure you’re not getting wastage.
Specifications
- Motor Size: 240V
- Size: 81 x 64.5 x 40 cm
- Weight: 26.4 Kg
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Our Verdict
Let’s not beat around the bush, if you are looking for a portable table saw for contract work there are better models available on the market. However, if you’re looking for a craftsman or home enthusiasts, this is truly an excellent table saw. Add to this its competitive price and Bosch’s quality guarantee, you will not regret choosing this table saw.
DeWalt DWE7490X 10-Inch Table Saw
The DEWALT DWE7490x 10 Inch Table Saw is a great choice for anyone, whether they are a carpenter, contractor or woodworker. You’ll be able to fly through your tasks with ease thanks to the latest technology and easy transportation. The device comes with a punchy 15 amp motor and the height can be easily altered to allow for the DWE7490X’s impressive maximum depth capabilities.
You’ll also come to appreciate the 2-inch dust storage port that, similar to most Dewalt table saws, has a vacuum connection. It allows you to always keep your workspace clear, which allows you to work more effectively and with less dust to distract you. The DeWalt DWE7490x 10-inch table saw also comes with a push stick to keep you out of harm’s way whilst making cuts. All-in-all, this is a great piece of kit and worthy of a space in your workspace.
Specifications
- Motor Size: 120 Volts
- Size: 78.1 x 51.8 x 76.8 cm
- Weight: 26.3 Kg
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Our Verdict
If you have read any other of our power tool review articles or even just from this article you might have picked up that we do have slight soft spot for DeWalt power tools. This is simply because they are all so excellently built and their technology and innovation always seems to be one step ahead of the market. A prime example of this is the DeWalt DWE7490x 10-inch table saw. It is just a great all rounder, with everything you can think of covered. As with all of our reviews we suggest that you do your own research of real customer reviews in order to know how a table saw handles day to day. When you do that about this DeWalt table saw, you’ll more than likely see positive review after positive review.
Makita 2705 10-Inch Contractor Table Saw
We love the Makita Contractor Table Saw because it brings a lot to the table (pardon the pun). It comes with a great design and is a beast in terms of power. The 15 amp motor is not just a powerful motor, it’s also one of the better-designed motors to deliver power without compromising on efficiency. The 32-inch blade helps to drive that power that cuts through most projects. Thanks to its sturdy motor, the Makita Contractor Table Saw is capable of reaching speeds of up to 4,800 rpm and can make maximum cuts of 3 9/16 inches at a 90-degree angle and 2 ½ inches at a 45-degree angle.
But this table saw is not all about power, it has one eye solidly on safety too. The rip fence is one of the better on the market, and it comes with a mitre gauge. As standard Makita has also added a load of safety features into this table saw, to really make it as safe as possible. In addition to this, It is quite easy to transport and has a case that encloses the blade to keep it safe during transportation.
Specifications
- Motor Size: 15 AMPS
- Size: 32 x 36 x 15.3 Inches
- Weight: 82 Pounds
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Our Verdict
At Wonkee Donkee, we are a huge fan of Makita power tools simply because of the high-quality and durability they provide. The Makita 2705 10-Inch Contractor Table Saw is no exception to this rule and is really a one of a kind tool.
Sawstop CNS175-TGP36 HP Saw
The SawStop SNS175-TGP36 HP Saw is considered to be one of the best stationary table saws you can find on the market today, largely due to its cutting edge design and impressive build quality. The saw is capable of fitting larger dado blades and has an almost eye popping maximum cut depth for you that gives you plenty to work with. At the same time, thanks to the left blade tilt, you’ll be able to get through the work done faster thank you ever thought possible. This is because the tilt helps to prevent boards from being stuck up against the fence, allowing you to make clean cuts quickly and efficiently.
The whole table saw is seemingly built for efficiency as the saw incorporates a range of impressive safety system that was built-in, allowing you to get on with the task at hand. Carpenters and DIYers are protected the automatic cut off that works by helping to detect the electrical current inside of each person that accidentally comes into contact with the saw blade. Once this has been detected (basically if the blade comes into contact with a human), the saw automatically shuts off within milliseconds, keeping workers safe from devastating and life-altering injuries.
Specifications
- Motor Size: 4 Horsepower (HP)
- Size: 72 x 19.5 x 47.02 Inches
- Weight: 338 Pounds
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Our Verdict
The SawStop SNS175-TGP36 HP Saw is one of the best tools you could choose to invest in – we highly recommend it, especially for beginners. This is because it combines with ridiculously easy usability and advanced safety features. If you have never purchased a table saw before then this SawStop table saw should really be on your ‘maybe’ list.
Table Saw Buying Guide
How to use a Table Saw?
Make no mistake. If you’re a DIYer who works with wood, or you are looking to break into woodworking, then a good table saw is worth its weight in gold. The main objective of a table saw is to cut down or ‘craft’ wood as efficiently as possible. With that in mind, it’s important to know how to properly use a table saw, not just for your own safety, which is always our first objective but also to get the best results.
Blade Guard
The first thing we tell users of table saws is to use the blade guard and log splitter, whenever possible. It will make working easier and increase safety. It normally requires a little extra assembly, which puts some people off, but it’s definitely worth the extra effort and you’ll appreciate it once it’s set up.
For a start, the blade guard ensures your hands don’t get too close to saw or splitter. I’m assuming you like having all your fingers! It also serves a purpose for the table saw too, it helps to reduce any kickback that occurs, and that helps to keep the wood moving smoothly, leading to smooth and precise cuts.
Note: When you’re looking to work closer to the blade, for example, if you’re cutting thin boards; you should consider using a push stick (sometimes called a push shoe) to make sure your hands stay well away from the blade. This means you can keep complete control of the cut but from a distance where the risk of injury is greatly reduced.
Blade Height
It’s obviously important to set the right blade height. The goal is to have the material you’re looking to cut positioned to be at the bottom of the teeth. This is really important for precise cuts. For this reason, it’s important to look at how much each table saw can be adjusted to ensure it will meet your needs. To be honest, most of the time, it’s not going to be an issue but if you’re cutting something more unique, remember to check.
Setting Up The Fence
Once you have the blade height correctly set up, you will want to set up your fence. With this, the ideal goal is to ensure there’s no space between the fence and the blade, for safety reasons. Likewise, you want to ensure that the board you are cutting is not able to move around as you are making your cuts. This would be a disaster really. It leads to really poor cuts and wastage of materials whilst also not being very safe. The objective is to have the board sit snugly against the fence so you can feed it through but it doesn’t have room to wiggle. This will mean very little opportunity for kickbacks.
Material Assessment
It is always important to properly assess the material you are just about to be working with before you start. For a start, is the board you’re cutting short or long? If you’re about to be cutting longboards, you will definitely need to find something to support the wood as you start to feed it through the table saw. This will make sure that the longboard doesn’t bend or break and stops you getting nudged or distracted.
Make sure the support you’re using is the same height as the table saw. This is pretty easy when you’re looking at a stationary table saw, that won’t be moved from job site to job site, but harder when using a portable table saw model. Now you have the table saw properly set up, you are able to start cutting wood safely and precisely.
Table Saw Safety Features
Table saws are dangerous tools in the wrong hands. This is primarily because the operator has to hold the material in his hand and feed the machine rather than the tool holding the wood in place. This means you are always in danger of your fingers getting too close to the blade.
Kickback
Kickback is the term used when the piece of wood you are cutting is ripped, causing it to either pinch the blade or turn out away from the blade. This can be seriously dangerous because it can be kicked back towards you as the operator, normally at high speed.
This can be serious. The most common injuries include the wood hitting the operator in the head or chest at speed, causing serious damage, or dragging the operator (who is still holding the wood) towards the moving blade. Most table saws have anti-kickback mechanisms so you should make sure your model does and that they are fitted correctly.
Dust Extractor
When you cut wood, using a table saw, dust is created which then has a tendency to build up. This, if allowed to, can become a hazard. Not only because it makes the general operation unsafe for the operator but the friction caused by the blade could ignite the dry dust, which essentially acts as kindling. Table saws should be fitted with a dust extractor as most are. To add to this a lot of new table saws have vacuum attachments which you can use in order to assist in the collection of dust.
Magnetic Featherboard
The magnetic feather board was developed in 1990. In layman’s terms, it holds the grip tight in place, against the cast iron or steel table, using magnets. A simple mechanism, yet it is very effective and very clever. It has plenty of advantages. For example, it has next to no setup time and can work with any cast iron table or steel fence. In fact, when used with a steel-faced rip fence, they hold down the wood and stop almost all potential kickback.
Mitre Slot Featherboard
When a table saw has a tabletop made of a material other than cast iron, like aluminium (which is lighter) so often used on smaller or portable table saws, you can expect to find a mitre slot featherboard. The job of the mitre slot featherboard is very similar to the magnetic featherboard. It puts pressure on the stock, which is against the fence. This stops the wood from kicking and also keeps your hands away from the saw blade.
It takes a little more to set up than your magnetic featherboard, so if you have the choice of either remember to keep that in mind. It’s also important to note that the featherboard does not pass through the blade or it’s likely to kick back, which is extremely dangerous.
Automatic Braking
Since 2005, more and more table saws have included an automatic braking system. The inventor of the technology originally tried to license it to the major manufacturers of the time, but after he wasn’t successful, he started his own table saw manufacturer. The brand he created was SawStop (who occupy number two on our best table saw review).
Automatic braking works by applying a small amount of electric current to the blade of the saw. The saw monitors this current constantly, as soon as it changes the automatic brake is activated. It works as humans will naturally conduct the current if they come into contact with the blade. If this happens then the table saw will notice this drop in current and stop the blade. This has been a massive breakthrough in the safety of table saws and when it works properly at worse you can expect a very minor nick.
Remove angle grinder discs with vice grips
Firstly, you need to attach the vice grips to the bolt securing and holding the disc into the drive. Now that you have the vice grips in place this will prevent any spinning during the next stage. Once you have the bolt secured, insert a screwdriver into one of the holes between the disc and the motor and pull in the opposite direction of the disc arrow. Next, keep turning until the disc is removed from the angle grinder.
How to Change a Table saw Blade?
Changing a table saw blade may be a little intimidating, especially if you’ve never done it before. But hopefully, with this guide and some extra tips, you will realise that it is fairly simple and straightforward. The most important thing you need to keep in mind throughout this process is that you should follow a few safety precautions and keep them at the front of your mind to make sure you stay safe throughout the process. We also advise you to plan everything you need beforehand so that you have all the right tools to hand.
You should want to start by making sure your table saw is turned off. Unplugging the device will make sure that when you press the ‘on’ button the blade doesn’t spin. Now that you’re 100% sure the area is safe, you can start. You’ll want to find a good quality screwdriver set and the spanners that came with your table saw before you move onto the next step.
Once you’ve gathered your bits and pieces, turn your attention to the plate in the middle of the table saw. It surrounds the blade and you should be able to find two screws that hold it in place (you might find that some models will have four screws). Use your screwdriver to unscrew these screws and set them aside. Next, you can take the plate off and put it to one side too. Then check to make sure the blade is at its full height by going to the back of your table saw and winding the blade up to full height.
Following this, you will need to move on to taking the spanners out and remove the nut. It’s important to ensure you are using the spanners that originally came with your table saw because they have been tested to specifically fit your machine, and will ensure that they won’t over tighten the nut or screws. Once you’ve made sure that you have the correct spanners, place them on the nut. Use the first spanner with your right hand and use it to stabilize your grip.
Now put the second spanner in place and hold it with your left hand. Pull the spanner in your left hand towards your body to loosen it, and when you’ve unscrewed it remove both spanners from the nut. It should now be loose enough for you to unscrew with your fingers.
Once the nut and other stabilizing parts are off, it’s time to remove the blade, and put the new blade on. Take your time when doing this as it can sometimes be a bit difficult. And obviously watch your fingers, as they come extremely sharp.
Now is a good time to make sure to check that the teeth of the blade are facing towards you since as this will be the direction that the wood is cut. Once you are 100% happy the blade is fitted properly, it’s time to start putting on the stabilizing parts again.
Note: to tighten the nut you put the spanners on the same way you did before, however, this time you’ll push the spanner in your left hand away from you to tighten the nut instead of towards you.
Once you’ve tightened the nut and you’re happy, time to put on the plate and screw both screws back into their original positions. Screw both of the screws back in and then wind your blade back down. Clear everything away, give it a check and if you’re happy you can turn it on and start it up. Upon startup try to stand to the outside or away from the blade and near the plug switch, so that if for any reason the blade is not installed correctly you are out of harm’s way and can shut down the device.
