Best DeWalt Miter Saw: Comprehensive Buying Guide

Are you tired of searching for the perfect miter saw that meets your woodworking needs? Look no further! DeWalt, known for its high-quality power tools, offers a range of miter saws designed to cater to various requirements and skill levels. In this comprehensive review and buying guide, we will delve into the best DeWalt miter saws available in 2023, their unique features, and how to choose the right one for you, including the best DeWalt miter saw for your specific needs. Let’s get started!

Overview of Top DeWalt Miter Saws

As a trusted brand in the world of power tools, DeWalt offers a diverse lineup of miter saws designed for precise cutting and absolute accuracy. With approximately a dozen models of compound miter saws available, DeWalt ensures that there’s a saw for every need and budget. From cordless options to sliding compound miter saws, each model boasts its own distinct features and specifications to fit individual requirements. DeWalt is renowned for its precision, dependable power tools, and is often the top choice for experts.

For a better decision-making process, we present you with a list of the top DeWalt miter saws of 2023, each being a standout in a specific aspect:

• Best Overall: DeWALT DWS780
• Best Value for Money: DEWALT DW715
• Best for Versatility: DeWalt DWS779
• Best for Cordless Option: DeWalt DCS781X1
• Best Compact Choice: DeWalt DCS361M1

DeWALT DWS780 – Best Overall

Specifications

• Motor: 15-amp, 3,800 RPM
• Max cross-cut (90°): 2×16 in
• Max cross-cut (45°): 2×12 in
• Miter detents: 10
• Weight: 56 lbs

Pros:

• Powerful 15-amp motor
• Dual horizontal slide bars for increased stability
• XPS Cross Cut Positioning System for precise cuts
• Back fence design for increased cut depth
• Compact and portable design

Cons:

• Dust collection system could be more efficient
• Bulky when used with the rolling miter saw stand

Owing to its potent 15-amp motor, dual horizontal slide bars, and XPS Cross Cut Positioning System, the DeWALT DWS780 stands as our premier choice for the best overall miter saw. This 12-inch double-bevel sliding compound miter saw provides smooth and accurate cuts, making it ideal for a variety of woodworking tasks. Its XPS system creates a shadow line on the workpiece using LED lights, ensuring enhanced accuracy without the need for constant adjustments like traditional laser guides. However, the DWS780 does not come with a work stand, and its price might be a bit steep for DIY enthusiasts.

Rating:

• Power: 5/5
• Accuracy: 4.5/5
• Portability: 4/5
• Value: 4/5
• Overall: 4.5/5

DEWALT DW715 – Best Value for Money

Specifications

• Motor: 15-amp, 4,000 RPM
• Blade Size: 12 inches
• Miter Capacity: 50 degrees left and right
• Bevel Capacity: 48 degrees left, 3 degrees right
• Weight: 40 lbs

Pros:

• Powerful and accurate cutting performance
• Durable design
• Lightweight and portable

Cons:

• Doesn’t come with a laser

Given its powerful, accurate cutting performance and affordable price, the DEWALT DW715 has been chosen as our top pick for the best value for money. This 12-inch single-bevel compound miter saw features a 15-amp motor and a stainless-steel miter detent plate for repeatable accuracy and long-lasting durability. While it may not come with a laser, the DW715’s performance, robust construction, and portability make it an excellent value for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.

Rating:

• Power: 4.5/5
• Accuracy: 4/5
• Portability: 5/5
• Value: 5/5
• Overall: 4.5/5

DeWalt DWS779 – Best for Versatility

Specifications

• Blade Size: 12 inches
• Miter Angle Range: Up to 60 degrees (right), up to 50 degrees (left)
• Bevel Angle Range: Up to 49 degrees
• Cutting Capacity: 13 3/4 inches wide cross cuts, 6 3/4 inches tall baseboard moldings on a 45-degree miter
• Weight: 67 lbs

Pros:

• Powerful motor for smooth and accurate cuts
• Adjustable miter and bevel angles for versatile cutting
• Convenient depth stops and bevel angle stops
• Tall fences for added convenience and accuracy

Cons:

• Included saw blade may not be suitable for fine woodworking
• Dust collection could be improved

With its adjustable miter and bevel angles, handy depth stops, and tall fences for increased accuracy, the DeWalt DWS779 stands out as the best DeWalt miter saw for the most versatile performance. This 12-inch sliding compound miter saw is powered by a 3,800 RPM motor, providing excellent cutting power for a variety of materials. The saw’s cutting capacity and flexibility make it ideal for complex woodworking tasks, but the included saw blade may not be suitable for fine woodworking, and the dust collection system could be improved.

Rating:

• Power: 4.5/5
• Accuracy: 4/5
• Versatility: 5/5
• Value: 4/5
• Overall: 4.5/5

DeWalt DCS781X1 – Best Cordless Option

Specifications

• Power Sources: Batteries or AC power
• Blade Diameter: 12 inches
• Miter Capacity: 49 degrees left and right
• Bevel Capacity: 49 degrees left and right
• Cross Cut Capacity: 12 3/16 inches
• Cutting Height: 6-1/2 inches
• Nested Crown Capacity: 6-1/2 inches
• Weight: 50.9 lbs (without batteries)

Pros:

• Regenerative Braking Technology feeds lost energy back into the battery
• Cutline Blade Positioning System for precise cuts
• Miter and bevel adjustments for versatility
• Bevel gear transmission designed to reduce power losses

Cons:

• Pricey for some users

Renowned for its new Regenerative Braking Technology, the DeWalt DCS781X1, a top-of-the-line DeWalt mitre saw, redirects energy lost during braking into the battery for a longer runtime. This 60V Max Sliding Miter Saw features a 12-inch double bevel sliding saw arm for versatile cutting capabilities. The saw comes with a Cutline Blade Positioning System that uses a shadow to show you where the blade will contact your workpiece, ensuring precise cuts without the need for manual adjustments. Another However, the price of the DCS781X1 might be a bit steep for some users, but investing in high-quality DeWalt tools like this one is worth considering.

Rating:

• Power: 5/5
• Accuracy: 4.5/5
• Flexibility: 5/5
• Value: 3.5/5
• Overall: 4.5/5

The radial arm saw is a versatile tool that offers both power and flexibility, making it an excellent addition to any workshop. Its accuracy is nearly perfect, earning it a 4.5 out of 5 rating. However, the value of this tool is slightly lower, with a 3.5 out of 5 rating, due to its higher price point. Overall, the radial arm saw is a highly recommended tool for those seeking top-notch performance.

DeWalt DCS361M1 – Best Compact Choice

Specifications

• Dimensions: 25.2 x 19.9 x 15.7 inches
• Weight: 30 pounds
• Power: 20V MAX battery
• Power source: Battery
• No load speed: 3750 RPM
• Blade size: 7-1/4 inches
• Arbor size: 5/8 inch
• Bevel capacity: -3 to 48 degrees (left only)
• Cutting capacity: 2” vertical, 8” horizontal at 0 degrees bevel and miter
• Dust collection system: Yes
• Warranty period: 3 years

Pros:

• Cordless design for greater mobility and flexibility
• Lightweight and compact design for easy transport and storage
• Integrated cut line cross-cut positioning system for precise and accurate cuts
• Powerful motor and 7-1/4-inch blade for various materials

Cons:

• Battery life may not be sufficient for prolonged use and require frequent recharging

Boasting a lightweight design, integrated cut line cross-cut positioning system, and a potent motor for diverse materials, the DeWalt DCS361M1 is chosen as our top pick for the best cordless option. This cordless miter saw provides greater mobility and flexibility on job sites without needing a power outlet or extension cord. However, the battery life may not be sufficient for prolonged use and may require frequent recharging.

Rating:

• Power: 4/5
• Accuracy: 4.5/5
• Portability: 5/5
• Value: 4/5
• Overall: 4.5/5

Choosing the Right DeWalt Miter Saw: A Comprehensive Guide

Having covered the top DeWalt miter saws, we’ll now explore the different types of miter saws, important features to look at, as well as safety measures and maintenance advice to assist you in selecting the perfect DeWalt miter saw tailored to your needs.

Different types of miter saws include compound miter saws, sliding compound miter

Understanding Miter Saw Types

There are three main types of miter saws: basic, compound, and sliding compound. Basic miter saws can cut angles of up to 45 degrees, with some models offering the capacity to cut greater angles. They are lightweight and user-friendly, providing adequate precision for basic projects at a more affordable price than their complex counterparts.

Compound miter saws, on the other hand, offer additional versatility by allowing the saw to tilt as well as rotate, enabling angled cuts in two planes. Unlike other miter saws, such as a chop saw, which is limited to straight cuts, these dual bevel compound mitre saws provide greater flexibility for various woodworking projects.

Sliding compound miter saws:

• Are mounted on horizontal rails
• Allow the saw head to move towards the user while in use, expanding the cutting capacity
• Are well-suited for complex woodworking assignments
• Can handle wider materials with ease
• Tend to be more expensive than other types of miter saws

Key Features to Consider

Selecting a DeWalt miter saw requires careful consideration of features like:

• Motor power
• Blade size
• Cutting capacity
• Portability

DeWalt miter saws have a range of motor powers, ranging from 15 amps to 20 amps. Blade sizes vary from 7-1/4 inches to 12 inches, with larger blades generally offering a more substantial cutting capacity.

Portability is another crucial aspect to consider, especially if you need to move the saw between job sites or store it when not in use. The weight of each model can vary significantly, so be sure to pick a saw that is easy to transport and handle.

Safety Precautions and Maintenance Tips

When operating power tools like miter saws, maintaining safety should be paramount. DeWalt miter saws come equipped with blade guards, riving knives for kickback prevention, and other safety features that meet OSHA standards. Always wear safety glasses and hearing protection while using your miter saw, and make sure the saw is properly maintained.

To extend the service life of your DeWalt miter saw, regular maintenance is crucial. Routinely inspect the saw for any signs of wear and tear, and ensure that the blade is sharp and correctly aligned. Following these safety precautions and maintenance tips will help you get the most out of your DeWalt miter saw and keep it in top condition for years to come.

Summary

In conclusion, DeWalt offers a variety of high-quality miter saws to suit different needs and budgets. With options like the DeWALT DWS780 for best overall performance, DEWALT DW715 for best value for money, DeWalt DWS779 for versatility, DeWalt DHS790AT2 for power flexibility, and DeWalt DCS361M1 for the best cordless option, you’re sure to find the perfect miter saw to tackle your next woodworking project. Consider the different types, key features, and safety precautions to make an informed decision and get the most out of your DeWalt miter saw.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Dewalt miter saws any good?

Dewalt miter saws are known for their superior accuracy, power and convenience, making them an ideal choice for any type of project.

What are the top 5 miter saws?

The top 5 miter saws are the DEWALT 12-Inch Miter Saw, Metabo HPT 12-Inch Miter Saw, Makita 10-Inch Dual Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw, Ryobi 9.5 Amp Corded 10 in. Miter Saw, and the SKIL 3821-01 12-Inch Quick Mount Compound Miter Saw.

What is the difference between a basic miter saw and a compound miter saw?

A basic miter saw only allows for angled cuts, whereas a compound miter saw can tilt and rotate to make angled cuts in two planes.

How do I choose the right blade size for my DeWalt miter saw?

When choosing the right blade size for your DeWalt miter saw, consider the cutting capacity you need for your projects. Generally, larger blades offer more substantial cutting capacity.

What safety features are included in DeWalt miter saws?

DeWalt miter saws provide a variety of safety features to protect users, including blade guards, riving knives for kickback prevention, and additional features that meet OSHA standards.