When it comes to woodworking, there are two main types of saws that can be used. The first is the miter saw and the second is the table saw. These tools both have their unique benefits and drawbacks so it’s important to understand what they are before making your decision. We will help you decide which one is right for you!
Miter Saw vs Table Saw – What’s the Difference?
A miter saw (also known as a chop or compound cut) has an adjustable blade that cuts at angles up to 45 degrees in either direction on each side of its base, allowing users to make crosscuts with ease. It also makes miters by cutting along an angle set by adjusting its fence into place.
On the other hand, table saws use circular blades attached directly onto their arbors instead of using an adjustable arm as miter does. They can be adjusted vertically between 0-45 degrees but cannot move horizontally like miters can, meaning they cannot make crosscuts without some sort of jig accessories such as dado inserts or stacked dado heads. However, table saws have more versatility.
Stay tuned for more information about each saw!
1: Miter Saw
What is it?
A miter saw is a handheld saw that is used primarily for making crosscuts.
How does it work?
The adjustable blade on the miter saw allows it to cut at angles up to 45 degrees in either direction on each side of its base. This makes it easy to make crosscuts. Additionally, the miter saw can make miters by cutting along an angle set by adjusting its fence into place.
Is it for you?
If you need to make crosscuts often and don’t have a lot of space, then a miter saw may be the right choice for you. It’s also great for small projects or ones with intricate details. However, if you plan to do a lot of ripping, then a table saw may be a better option.
Base size:
The base size of a miter saw is typically around 10-12 inches.
Blade Size:
Miter saw blades come in different sizes and are measured in inches. The most common blade size for a miter saw is 8 ½ inches.
Motor:
The motor on a miter saw is typically around 5-10 amps and runs at around 1,500-3,500 rpm.
Plunge cuts:
A plunge cut is when you cut into the workpiece below the surface. This can be done on a miter saw by lowering the blade below the fence.
Curved cuts:
It is possible to make curved cuts on a miter saw by using a jig or template.
Cutting angles:
The angle of the blade on a miter saw can be adjusted between 0-45 degrees.
Cutting Capacity:
The cutting capacity of a miter saw is around 2x the width of the blade. So, if you have an 8 ½ inch blade, the maximum cut you could make would be 17 inches.
Dust:
Miter saws produce a lot of dust when they are in use. In fact, it’s recommended to wear a dust mask when using one.
Safety features:
Miter saws come with a variety of safety features, such as blade guards and adjustable fences.
Cost:
Miter saws range in price from around $50 to $1,000.
Pros:
The main benefit of a miter saw is that it is easy to use and makes quick, precise crosscut.
Additionally, they are portable and don’t take up a lot of space.
Cons:
Miter saws are not as versatile as table saws and cannot do as much ripping.
They also produce a lot of dust.
2: Table Saw
What is it?
A table saw is a saw that is used primarily for ripping lumber.
How does it work?
Table saws use circular blades attached directly onto their arbors instead of using an adjustable arm as miter does. They can be adjusted vertically between 0-45 degrees but cannot move horizontally like miters can, meaning they cannot make crosscuts without some sort of jig accessories such as dado inserts or stacked dado heads. However, table saws have more versatility.
Is it for you?
If you need to do a lot of ripping and need a lot of power, then a table saw may be the right choice for you. Table saws are also great for larger projects.
Base size:
The average table saw base is around 24″x32″.
Blade size:
The average table saw blade is 10″ in diameter, but they come in different sizes.
Motor:
Most table saws have a 3-5 horsepower motor.
Plunge cuts:
Table saws can make plunge cuts, which is a cut made from the side of the blade rather than from the top.
Curved cuts:
Table saws can also make curved cuts.
Cutting angles:
You can adjust the angle at which the blade is cutting by tilting the table. The most common angles are 0, 22.5, 30 and 45 degrees.
Cutting Capacity:
The size of the material that you can cut on a table saw is limited by the width of the blade and how far you can raise or lower the blade.
Dust:
Since table saws use blades that are 10″ in diameter or more, they produce a lot of dust.
Safety features:
Table saws have a number of safety features, such as blade guards, riving knives and push sticks.
Cost:
The cost of a table saw can vary depending on the size and features of the saw. A basic table saw can be purchased for around $200, but more advanced models can cost up to $2000.
Pros:
Table saws are very powerful and can easily rip through lumber.
Table saws have a lot of different adjustments that allow you to do a variety of cuts.
You can cut larger pieces of wood on a table saw than you can on a miter saw.
Table saws have better dust collection than miter saws.
Cons:
Making a plunge cut with a table saw takes more practice than making a miter cut.
Crosscuts cannot be made without some type of jig, such as a dado insert or stacked dado heads.
The angle at which the blade is cutting can change if you tilt the table, so it is important to be precise when adjusting the angle.
Which saw is right for you?
If you need to do a lot of ripping and need a lot of power, then a table saw may be the right choice for you. Table saws are also great for larger projects.
If you are looking to do mostly crosscut, then a miter saw is probably a better option. Miter saws are more lightweight and easier to use than table saws and are less expensive.
FAQs:
Which saw is best for professionals?
Both table saws and miter saws are popular among professional woodworkers. However, a table saw is more likely to be used in a professional setting than a miter saw.
Which do you think is better for carpentry projects?
It depends on what type of carpentry projects you are planning on doing. If you need to do a lot of ripping, then a table saw is a better choice. If you are looking to do mostly crosscut, then a miter saw is a better option.
Can I make dado cuts with a table saw?
Yes, you can make dado cuts with a table saw by using a dado insert or stacked dado heads.
When is it appropriate to use a miter saw instead of a table saw?
Miter saws are typically used for smaller projects that don’t require the power of a table saw. Miter saws are also good for projects that need to be done quickly because they are more lightweight and easier to use than table saws.
Can I make circular cuts with a table saw?
No, you cannot make circular cuts with a table saw. You can only make straight cuts.
Can I use a miter saw to cut larger pieces of wood?
No, miter saws are not as powerful as table saws and cannot cut lumber that is wider than the blade.
Can I make dado cuts with a miter saw?
No, you cannot make dado cuts with a miter saw. You can only make straight cuts.
Conclusion:
We’ve shown you the pros and cons of both miter saws and table saws, as well as when each is best used. Now it’s up to you to decide which tool is best for your needs. Remember, safety should always be your number one concern when using power tools, so be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and use all safety equipment properly.
Thanks for reading our guide on miter saws vs table saws! Have any questions? Leave them in the comments section below.