14 Best Miter Saw Reviews (Sliding & Compound)

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 you are cutting framing lumber, door casing or crown molding, a miter saw makes accurate straight and angled crosscuts. 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.

OUR TOP PICK

We love the Dewalt DWS779 Sliding Compound Miter Saw. This 12-inch slider crosscuts 2x14 lumber at 90 degrees, bevels in both directions and has a dust collection system. DeWalt now lists it as discontinued, so check availability.

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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
1. Dewalt DWS779	1. Dewalt DWS779 Top Pick	- Power: 15-Amp - Size: 12 inches - Speed: 3,800 RPM - Bevel: 48 Degrees (left and right) - Weight: 56 pounds	Check Current Price
2. Metabo HPT C10FCGS	2. Metabo HPT C10FCGS	- Power: 15-Amp - Size: 10 inches - Speed: 5,000 RPM - Bevel: 45 Degrees (left) - Weight: 25 pounds	Check Current Price
3. Bosch GCM12SD	3. Bosch GCM12SD	- Power: 15-Amp - Size: 12 inches - Speed: 3,800 RPM - Bevel: 45 Degrees (left and right) - Weight: 65 pounds	Check Current Price
4. Dewalt DWS780	4. Dewalt DWS780	- Power: 15-Amp - Size: 12 inches - Speed: 3,800 RPM - Bevel: 45 Degrees (left and right) - Weight: 56 pounds	Check Current Price
5. DEWALT DCS361M1	5. DEWALT DCS361M1	- Size: 7.25 inches - Weight: 36 pounds - Integrated XPS cross-cut positioning system - Stainless steel miter detent plate - Cam lock miter handle	Check Current Price
6. Milwaukee 6955-20	6. Milwaukee 6955-20	- Power: 15-Amp - Size: 12 inches - Speed: 3,250 RPM - Bevel: 48 Degrees (left and right) - Weight: 78 pounds	Check Current Price
7. SKIL 3821-01	7. SKIL 3821-01	- Power: 15-Amp - Size: 12 inches - Speed: 4,500 RPM - Bevel: 45 Degrees (left) - Weight: 46.3 pounds	Check Current Price
8. Metabo HPT C12RSH2S	8. Metabo HPT C12RSH2S	- Power: 15-Amp - Size: 12 inches - Speed: 4,000 RPM - Bevel: 45 Degrees (left and right) - Weight: 78 pounds	Check Current Price
9. Craftsman CMCS714M1	9. Craftsman CMCS714M1	- Power: 20V battery - Size: 7.25 inches - 3,800 RPM motor - Bevel capacity of up to 47 degrees - 20V high-performance battery - Cam lock miter handle	Check Current Price
10. Kobalt SM1850LW	10. Kobalt SM1850LW	- Power: 10-Amp - Size: 7.25 inches - Weight: 29.1 pounds - Laser guide	Check Current Price
11. Delta 26-2241 Cruzer	11. Delta 26-2241 Cruzer	- Power: 15-Amp - Size: 10 inches - Weight: 61.9 pounds - Flip-down fence design - Shadow Guide cutting system	Check Current Price
12. TACKLIFE PMS03A	12. TACKLIFE PMS03A	- Power: 15-Amp - Size: 12 inches - 3,800 RPM motor - Weight: 55 pounds - Bevel: 45 Degrees (left and right)	Check Current Price
13. Makita LS1019L	13. Makita LS1019L	- Power: 15-Amp - Size: 10 inches - 3,200 RPM motor - Bevel: 48 degrees (left and right) - Weight: 72.77 pounds	Check Current Price
14. Genesis GMS1015LC	14. Genesis GMS1015LC	- Power: 15-Amp - Size: 10 inches - 4,600 RPM motor - Bevel: 45 degrees (left)	Check Current Price

1. Dewalt DWS779 Sliding Compound Miter Saw: Overall Best Compound Miter Saw

This sliding compound miter saw has a 15-amp, 3,800 RPM motor. DeWalt lists a crosscut capacity of 2x14 at 90 degrees and 2x10 at 45 degrees, and a bevel range of 0 to 48 degrees both ways.

DeWalt says its dust collection captures over 75% of the dust generated. It has a stainless steel miter detent plate with 10 positive stops and a 3-year limited warranty.

DeWalt now lists the DWS779 as discontinued. The nearly identical DWS780 adds the XPS cut-line light.

It is a strong choice for heavy-duty work, and the fence slides out of the way for bevel cuts. The only downside to this unit is that it is pretty weighty and it is on the higher end of the price spectrum.

Specs

Power: 15-Amp
Size: 12 inches
Speed: 3,800 RPM
Bevel: 48 Degrees (left and right)
Crosscut: 2x14 at 90 degrees, 2x10 at 45 degrees

Pros

It is very powerful and it can crosscut lumber up to 2x14
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 48 degrees on both sides.

Cons

It is on the higher end of the price spectrum
It is very heavy

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2. Metabo HPT C10FCGS Compound Miter Saw: Best Budget Miter Saw

This is a great budget miter saw and one of the best-value 10-inch models. 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 for boards and a 15-amp motor. At about 25 pounds, it is easy to carry and store.

The base is its weak point. Some owners report that the thin metal feet can crack if the mounting bolts are overtightened. 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

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3. Bosch GCM12SD Dual-Bevel Sliding Glide Miter Saw

This miter saw uses Bosch's patented Axial-Glide arm instead of sliding rails, which keeps cuts precise. 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 a 6.5-inch vertical capacity and matching crown capacity. 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. It takes a 12-inch blade. 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. It has an ergonomic soft-grip trigger handle.

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 RPM
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
Includes a blade guard and electric brake

Cons

It does not come with a laser lighting to guide your cuts

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4. Dewalt DWS780: Best 12″ Sliding Compound Miter Saw

The Dewalt DWS780 is one of the most popular 12-inch sliders on the market. It is powerful and reliable and delivers accurate, clean cuts.

Its XPS crosscut positioning system casts a shadow of the blade on the work, so you see the cut line without adjusting a laser.

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.

DeWalt lists a crosscut capacity of 2x14 at 90 degrees and 2x10 at 45 degrees, with miters to 60 degrees right and 50 degrees left. The package includes a 12-inch carbide blade, dust bag, vertical material clamp and blade wrench. It bevels both left and right.

It runs on 120V and has a three-year limited warranty.

Specs

Power: 15-Amp
Size: 12 inches
Speed: 3,800 RPM
Bevel: 45 Degrees (left and right)
Weight: 56 pounds

Pros

It delivers great accuracy for bevel and miter adjustments.
It bevels in 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

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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 and slide handle most common trim and small-lumber cuts.

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. The cam lock miter handle makes angle changes quick.

The kit comes with a single 4.0Ah battery, so plan on a spare for long days. 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

Only one battery included

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

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6. Milwaukee 6955-20 Sliding Dual Bevel Miter Saw

The Milwaukee 6955-20 is a 12-inch sliding dual-bevel miter saw that makes precise miter and bevel settings 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. It takes a 12-inch blade and is easy to use.

Specs

Power: 15-Amp
Size: 12 inches
Speed: 3,250 RPM
Bevel: 48 Degrees (left and right)
Weight: 78 pounds

Pros

Soft-start motor reduces the jolt at startup
Electric brake stops the blade quickly after you release the trigger
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

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7. SKIL 3821-01 Quick Mount Compound Miter Saw with Laser

The SKIL 3821-01 is a solid, affordable 12-inch compound miter saw.

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. Check the laser against an actual cut before relying on it.

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 RPM
Bevel: 45 Degrees (left)
Weight: 46.3 pounds

Pros

It comes with an extendable table for increased stability
Lightweight and compact
15-amp motor runs at up to 4,500 RPM
Laser guide helps you line up cuts

Cons

It only bevels to one direction
Limited positive stops

The SKIL 3821-01 is a no-nonsense saw for wood and trim. 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

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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.

Its laser marker helps you line up cuts.

The package of this saw includes a 12-inch 60T TCT saw blade, vice assembly, dust bag, and a 17mm box wrench. The downside is that it is heavy and pricey.

Specs

Power: 15-Amp
Size: 12 inches
Speed: 4,000 RPM
Bevel: 45 Degrees (left and right)
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

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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. It crosscuts boards up to 8 inches wide with its carbide-tipped blade.

At around 22 pounds, it is one of the lightest sliding miter saws available. Its 3,800 RPM motor handles baseboard and other trim in softwood and hardwood, though it cannot match a 12-inch saw's capacity.

Some owners report that the slide can stick over time. 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
Cordless convenience

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. Its portability makes it handy for trim work away from an outlet.

Overall Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

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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 about 29 pounds, this 7-1/4-inch 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, owners report the laser guide needs adjusting out of the box, and that the slide may not return fully to its rest position.

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

Laser guide needs adjustment out of the box
Slide may not return fully

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

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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 aluminum frame and heavy-duty bearings are built for jobsite use, and the compact design is easy to store.

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. Some owners also report play in the extending arm that lets the head droop.

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 aluminum 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

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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 handles hardwoods like hickory, maple and walnut, and it has a built-in laser guide. Tacklife products have become hard to find, so check availability.

The motor kicks a bit 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, 3,800 RPM 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
Dust collection bag
Soft-grip cutting handle
12-inch blade

Pros

Dual-bevel 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 offers many features of professional miter saws at a lower price, which makes it a good choice for price-conscious buyers.

Overall Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

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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.

Some owners report a slight bevel at the end of the slide travel. Check the saw for square with a test cut before precise work.

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

Some reports of a slight bevel at full travel
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

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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 is one of the lighter saws in its class. It can also be folded into a compact design so you can wheel it in and out of storage with ease.

It has an electric brake and a spindle lock for quick blade changes.

Some owners report that the hold-down clamp can get in the way of the motor when the saw is swung right, and that its locking pin can loosen in transport.

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

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Best Miter Saw Buying Guide

These are the top features you will want to look for when making miter saw comparisons:

A Wide Base

A wide, flat base and tall fence support the work and keep the saw stable, which makes cuts more accurate. Bolt or clamp the saw to a bench or stand before use.

Laser Guide

A laser or LED shadow line shows where the blade will cut, which speeds up layout. Check it against a test cut, since lasers can drift out of adjustment.

A 6-Inch Max Cut

At 90 degrees, a useful saw should cut at least a 6-inch-wide, 3/4-inch-thick board in one pass, without leaving an uncut nub.

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.

Large sliders can weigh 60 to 80 pounds, while compact 10-inch saws weigh about 25 pounds.

The lighter the saw, the easier it is to move. 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. Never pin or disable the guard.

If you prefer a vertical handgrip, check which models offer one before you buy.

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 ready to go.

Safety

Wear safety glasses and hearing protection. CCOHS advises disconnecting the power supply before adjusting or changing the blade.

Clamp short pieces instead of holding them close to the blade, keep your hands well outside the blade path, and let the blade stop completely before raising the head.

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 tilt only to the left. To make the matching cut on the opposite side, you flip the board over.

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.

For beginners or those looking for basic cutting tasks, a single-bevel miter saw is a good tool to start. These saws are lighter, more compact, and cheaper than a dual-bevel saw. They also have fewer moving parts to adjust and maintain.

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 often sell well below their new price. A used saw has pitfalls, though, starting with whether it is still safe to use.

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.

Models from brands with a reputation for durability, and with parts still available, are the safest used buys.

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 is easier to transport.

Regardless of its features, a miter saw is only as good as its blade. Keep in mind that different applications require a specific type of saw blade, so make sure to have one that is compatible with both your miter saw and project.

For corded miter saws, use an extension cord with the wire gauge and length the manufacturer recommends. An undersized cord can overheat and starve the motor.

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.

Here are some tips on finding the 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. They can be corded or cordless and use circular blades made for crosscutting, usually with a low or negative hook angle.

Because of its versatility and precision, the compound miter saw is often the recommended choice for both DIY and professional work. So, if you see yourself needing to make angled and other advanced cuts for your projects anytime soon, this tool is a must.

Why Choose A Sliding Compound Miter Saw?

Right now, you can find both stationary and sliding versions of the compound miters seen in shops. Each version has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on your projects.

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 non-sliding saw is lighter, cheaper and needs no rear clearance for rails. It has fewer moving parts to knock out of square.

The disadvantage is limited crosscut width. Many 10-inch models are limited to boards about 6 inches wide. 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. The slide lets the blade reach across much wider boards than a non-sliding saw. A sliding miter saw with a 12-inch blade, for example, can crosscut boards about 12 to 14 inches wide.

Because of its design, the sliding compound miter saw is best for wide boards, shelving and flooring. Never cut round stock like logs on a miter saw, since it can roll into the blade. The downside of this version, however, is that they can be more expensive than a basic miter saw. The sliding mechanism can also have several moving parts that require regular maintenance.

What Will It Cost Me to Buy the Best Miter Saws?

Prices range widely. At the lower end, you will typically find smaller blades and bases, which suit small pieces and detail work. For metal, a dedicated good chop saw is the right tool.

At the upper end, you will find large dual-bevel sliders packed with features. For rough cuts on a jobsite, a wireless circular saw is more portable.

A good miter saw is one of the most useful upgrades for a home shop. 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 best miter saws available, from compact compound saws to large dual-bevel sliders.

Our top pick for the best miter saw is the Dewalt DWS779 Sliding Compound Miter Saw because its 12-inch blade crosscuts boards up to 2x14, and it has a powerful motor and efficient dust collection. Since DeWalt lists it as discontinued, the Dewalt DWS780 is the current equivalent.

Sources

DWS779 12 in. Double-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw, DeWalt
DWS780 12 in. Double-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw, DeWalt
Powered Hand Tools: Saws, Circular, Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety