Best Table Saw Under $500: Affordable Picks for DIY Projects

Many woodworking tools that are currently in the market can perform almost the same kind of cutting as table saws. But most of these tools require some woodworking experience to manipulate and they’re not as versatile as the table saw.

If you have DIY projects that you enjoy working on or some carpentry work that you’re engaged in your small workshop or garage, a low priced table saw would be a perfect addition to have.

These saws are portable, compact for storage, and run on a standard 120-volt household circuit, so you can set one up in your garage.

We’ve looked at several table saws in the market and we’ve come up with the best table saws under 500 to review in this article.

And if this is your first table saw you’re looking to buy, we’ve prepared a comprehensive buying guide with all the information that you’ll need to make the best choice.

OUR TOP PICK

Our top pick is the Rockwell RK7241S Table Saw. It has the largest rip capacity in this roundup at 30 inches, a laser guide and a folding trolley stand for easy transport.

If you want a table saw under $500 that will serve you well, we definitely can recommend this saw.

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The Best Table Saw Under $500 Are…

Product	Details
1. Rockwell RK7241S Table Saw	1. Rockwell RK7241S Table Saw Top Pick	- 15-Amps 120V motor - 30" Rip fence - Blade: 10" - Blade Speed: 4800RPM - Weight: 70 lbs	Check Current Price
2. DeWalt DWE7485 Compact Jobsite Table Saw	2. DeWalt DWE7485 Compact Jobsite Table Saw	- 15-Amps 110/120V motor - Rack and pinion telescoping fence - Blade: 8-1/4" - Blade Speed: 5800RPM - Rip Capacity: 24.5-inch - Weight: 46 lbs	Check Current Price
3. Bosch GTS1031 Portable Jobsite Table Saw	3. Bosch GTS1031 Portable Jobsite Table Saw	- 4HP 15-Amps 120V motor - SquareLock Rip Fence - Blade: 10" - Blade Speed: 3,650RPM - Rip Capacity: 18-inch - Weight: 52 lbs	Check Current Price
4. Ryobi RTS11 Table Saw	4. Ryobi RTS11 Table Saw	- 15-Amps 120V motor - 12" Rip fence - Blade: 10" - Blade Speed: 4700RPM - Weight: 50 lbs	Check Current Price
5. Evolution RAGE5S TCT Multi-Purpose Table Saw	5. Evolution RAGE5S TCT Multi-Purpose Table Saw	- 15-Amps 2.4HP 110V motor - Self-aligning rip fence - Blade: 10" - Blade Speed: 2500RPM - Rip Capacity: 25.5-Inches - Weight: 76.8 lbs	Check Current Price
6. Genesis GTS10SB Table Saw	6. Genesis GTS10SB Table Saw	- 15-Amps 120V motor - 25" rip fence - Blade: 10" - Blade Speed: 4800RPM - Weight: 55 lbs	Check Current Price
7. RIDGID R4513 Heavy Duty Portable Table Saw	7. RIDGID R4513 Heavy Duty Portable Table Saw	- 15-Amps 120V motor - 25" rip fence - Blade: 10" - Blade Speed: 4000RPM - Weight: 90.5 lbs	Check Current Price
8. TACKLIFE MTSO1A Table Saw	8. TACKLIFE MTSO1A Table Saw	- 15-Amps 120V motor - 29.1" Rip fence - Blade: 10" - Blade Speed: 4800RPM - Weight: 47.5 lbs	Check Current Price
9. SKILSAW SPT70WT-01 Portable Worm Drive Table Saw	9. SKILSAW SPT70WT-01 Portable Worm Drive Table Saw	- 15-Amps 120V Worm Drive motor - Self-aligning rip fence - Blade: 10" - Blade Speed: 5300RPM - Rip Capacity: 25-inch - Weight: 59 lbs	Check Current Price

1. Rockwell RK7241S Table Saw: Top Choice

This is a solid saw for cutting hardwood and sheet goods.

It has the largest rip capacity here at 30 inches with 11–inches to the left which allows you to comfortably rip 4 x 8 sheet material. It is powered by a 15-Amp motor that delivers 4800 rpm so you get clean and professional cuts.

The laser guide helps you line up the cut with the blade.

Its trolley stand features inbuilt wheels for easy portability and the saw comes with a dust bag for efficient dust management where you don’t have a vacuum to clean up the work area.

Specs

• 15-Amps 120V motor
• 30" rip fence
• Blade: 10"
• Blade Speed: 4800RPM
• Weight: 70 lbs

Pros

• 15-amp motor handles hardwood
• Extra-long 30-inch rip capacity
• Laser-guided cut line to improve cutting precision
• Quick folding trolley stand for easy portability
• Dust collection bag

Cons

• Blade alignment issues

This is a great saw for DIY and some light-duty professional work. It is quite accurate and it allows for cutting sheet materials and heavy pieces.

The blade alignment issues require you to disassemble and reassemble the saw which can be a nuisance. But if you can get over that, we recommend this table saw.

Overall Rating – 3.7/5

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2. DeWalt DWE7485 Compact Jobsite Table Saw

This is a portable job site saw that features an 8-1/4″ blade powered by a 15-amp motor that delivers 5800 rpm.

Replacement 8-1/4-inch blades cost less than 10-inch blades, but they cut shallower. This is a corded saw with a 24-1/2-inch rip capacity, power-loss reset and a blade brake.

It features rack and pinion telescoping fence rails that provide for smooth fence adjusting. The fence has a 24.5-inch rip capacity that allows for ripping sheet goods.

Other great features include convenient onboard storage for fence and other accessories. The saw is enclosed in a metal roll cage for job site durability and easy handling when carrying it.

Some safety features include power-loss reset to prevent accidental restarts and the blade brake.

Specs

• 15-Amps 110/120V motor
• Rack and pinion telescoping fence
• Blade: 8-1/4″
• Blade Speed: 5800RPM
• Rip Capacity: 24.5-inch
• Weight: 46 lbs

Pros

• Smaller blades cost less to replace
• Compact and easy to carry
• Easy set-up out of the box
• Efficient dust collection

Cons

• Lacks an outfeed extension
• Not compatible with a dado blade

It is the smaller sibling of DeWalt’s 10-inch DWE7480 compact saw, trading some depth of cut for a lighter, more compact package.

Overall Rating – 4.9/5

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3. Bosch GTS1031 Portable Jobsite Table Saw: Best Job Site Saw Under $500

The Bosch portable job site saw has a 10-inch blade with a 3,650 RPM no-load speed. It is a lightweight saw with a one-handed carry handle for easy portability to the job site. And for protection against site conditions, it is enclosed in a steel base for durability.

This saw features an 18-inch rip capacity Square Lock fence that glides easily and has a firm lock. It provides for consistent accuracy in cutting and greater productivity. It uses a quick and easy blade guard system that provides good safety and control while cutting.

Specs

• 15-Amps 120V motor (Bosch rates it at 4 max HP)
• SquareLock Rip Fence
• Blade: 10″
• Blade Speed: 3,650RPM
• Rip Capacity: 18-inch
• Weight: 52 lbs

Pros

• A high-quality fence that maximizes productivity
• Wide tabletop allows for cutting sheet goods easier
• Allows for easy mobility and storage
• Generous under the table storage
• Powerful motor that doesn’t bog down

Cons

• Loud, so wear hearing protection (true of any table saw)
• 18-inch rip capacity is too small to rip a full 4x8 sheet in half

A quick look at user reviews will show that precise blade alignment is a major issue and the tabletop could have been of better quality. But if you’re looking to cut through thick planks and you’re not too keen on precision, give this saw a chance.

Overall Rating – 4.3/5

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4. Ryobi RTS11 Table Saw: Recommended for Beginners

This compact saw has a rip capacity of just 12-inches making it the smallest table saw we’ve reviewed here. It is also the best budget saw we have here but it doesn’t mean that it can’t perform well. Because of its size, it is not very useful for professional jobs but it works well for the occasional DIY projects.

It features a 15-Amp motor that delivers 4700 rpm, enough to rip through hardwoods and other wood materials. The foldable stand provides stability while cutting and compact storage. It is also detachable to allow you to use it on any workspace you’re comfortable with.

This saw provides an extension table to increase the working surface area. For safety, it provides a tool-free adjustable blade guard and anti-kickback pawls.

It also has an integrated push stick that keeps your hands from getting too close to the blade. All in all, it is a good quality saw at a great price.

Specs

• 15-Amps 120V motor
• 12″ Rip fence
• Blade: 10″
• Blade Speed: 4700RPM
• Weight: 50 lbs

Pros

• Cast aluminum worktop for a flat and durable surface
• Steel roll cage frame that protects the table saw from damage
• Detachable folding stand for easy storage
• Very affordable for first-time buyers
• 3-year warranty

Cons

• Not rated for dado blades
• Small working surface

The RTS11is a budget saw that you keep in your garage for occasional DIY projects and carpentry work. It cuts accurately and smoothly to give you a quality finish for any professional jobs you may want to work on.

Overall Rating – 4.4/5

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5. Evolution RAGE5S TCT Multi-Purpose Table Saw

This multipurpose table saw uses Evolution’s TCT multipurpose blade, which is designed to cut wood, plastic and some metals without a blade change.

When cutting metal, use only the multipurpose blade made for it, wear safety glasses and a face shield, and clear sawdust from the saw first so hot chips cannot start a fire.

It features a 15-Amp motor that delivers a low 2500rpm to reduce stress on this saw’s unique multi-purpose blade. This, in turn, optimizes the performance of the saw to enable it to cut heavy material such as 1/4″ of mild steel smoothly.

Another great feature of this table saw is its sliding table with built-in extensions that increase the table’s surface area and support wide workpieces. It has a collapsible frame with a foot pedal and wheels for easy portability and storage.

Specs

• 15-Amps 2.4HP 110V motor
• Self-aligning rip fence
• Blade: 10″
• Blade Speed: 2500RPM
• Rip Capacity: 25.5-Inches
• Weight: 76.8 lbs

Pros

• Collapsible frame with wheels for easy mobility and storage
• A multi-purpose blade that cuts a variety of materials
• Reasonably priced with professional-grade features
• Extended worktop increases the work surface

Cons

• Not suitable for demanding work
• An ineffective dust collection system

The RAGE 5S is a versatile saw if you cut more than wood, and it moves easily on its folding stand.

Overall Rating – 4.0/5

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6. Genesis GTS10SB Table Saw

This quality table saw features a 15-Amp motor that runs at 4800 rpm for smooth cutting. It offers quality features for a reasonable price which makes it a great option for DIY hobbyists at home. The saw performs rip cuts, crosscuts, and compound cuts for a variety of woodworking applications.

It has a die-cast aluminum tabletop with a sliding extension table that increases rip capacity. It has a self-aligning rip fence and a sliding miter gauge that enable this saw to perform accurate cuts.

Specs

• 15-Amps 120V motor
• 25″ rip fence
• Blade: 10″
• Blade Speed: 4800RPM
• Weight: 55 lbs

Pros

• Lightweight table saw for easy portability
• Reasonably priced saw for easy DIY jobs around the house
• Easy to assemble stand that provides a stable base
• Performs a wide variety of cuts

Cons

• Has an inefficient dust collection port

This is a good value table saw for light-duty projects. It has some nice features that allow it to perform a wide variety of cuts and it’s lightweight for easy mobility.

Overall Rating – 3.5/5

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7. RIDGID R4513 Heavy Duty Portable Table Saw

This is a heavy-duty portable table saw with a 15-Amp motor and a 4,000 RPM no-load speed. RIDGID updates its jobsite saws regularly, so check that this model is still sold new.

The utility trolley sets up in one step. It also provides a stable base for working which is a plus considering how heavy this saw is. The tabletop extends for more working area and material support.

It features a telescopic 25-inch rip capacity lightweight fence that takes some ingenuity to keep it aligned. It allows for ripping sheet goods and it slides easily and locks securely.

Specs

• 15-Amps 120V motor
• 25″ rip fence
• Blade: 10″
• Blade Speed: 4000RPM
• Weight: 90.5 lbs

Pros

• Tabletop provides a large working surface
• Sturdy trolley stand for easy mobility and storage
• Extendable table supports wide stock
• Powerful motor allows for cutting various materials

Cons

• Cheaply made to keep it low cost
• Poor quality blade adjustment mechanism

The R4513 has good cutting power and an accurate fence once you figure out how to keep it firmly locked.

Also on this model, the manufacturer seems to have cheapened out on some materials which lower the overall quality for it to be serious saw. However, it works well for DIY and small residential jobs.

Overall Rating – 2.9/5

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8. TACKLIFE MTSO1A Table Saw

This is a well-priced job site table saw that is convenient for simple DIY projects. It comes with a 15-Amp motor for cutting through various woodworking materials without effort. It has some nice features that we like and it’s great quality for the price.

Its table surface is aluminum and provides a smooth working surface. It allows for extensions on both sides to 3.9-inches for a generous working surface and offers good support for ripping longer wood pieces.

It features a clear see-through blade guard for visibility while cutting while offering protection. The fence allows for straight and accurate cutting and has a firm lock.

Specs

• 15-Amps 120V motor
• Locking rip fence
• Blade: 10″
• Blade Speed: 4800RPM
• Weight: 47.5 lbs

Pros

• Good quality for the price
• Lightweight for easy portability
• Makes clean and accurate cuts
• Good value table saw for home DIY projects

Cons

• Frustrating to assemble
• Not compatible with dado blades

Tacklife tools have largely disappeared from US retail, so this saw may be hard to find new. If you find one, it is a reasonable option for DIY jobs.

Overall Rating – 3.9/5

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9. SKILSAW SPT70WT-01 Portable Worm Drive Table Saw

This lightweight saw allows for easy portability and features a rubberized handle for one-handed carrying. But the best feature of this saw is its worm drive motor that provides extra power for ripping without overheating or bogging down.

SKILSAW marketed it as the first portable worm drive table saw, and says the motor design helps it run cool under load.

On the flip side, it provides a little extra weight and when you compare with the other job site saws in our best table saw under 500 reviews, there is about 10 lbs difference in weight.

It has a self-aligning rip fence with a 25-inch rip capacity, enough to rip 4×8 sheet goods in half, though users report the fence needs frequent checking.

Specs

• 15-Amps 120V Worm Drive motor
• Self-aligning rip fence
• Blade: 10″
• Blade Speed: 5300RPM
• Rip Capacity: 25-inch
• Weight: 59 lbs

Pros

• A high-performance motor that allows for demanding work
• An aluminum table provides a smooth working surface
• Low noise and low vibration for smooth cuts
• Good quality build that provides stability

Cons

• Loose rip fence makes it unreliable

This saw has a good solid build and an excellent, powerful motor that is sure to increase productivity but they compromised on the rip fence. It is well priced and it’s a great go-to saw if you’ve got time to keep rechecking the accuracy of your fence.

Overall Rating – 4.3/5

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Buying Guide For Getting The Best Table Saw Under $500

Trying to get the best table saw under $500 can be more of a challenge than just getting a regular table saw. They are limited in the amount of work they can perform and they are cheaply made which means that most features have been compromised to reduce costs.

But even with all these challenges, budget table saws can make a great addition to your garage workshop because they are effective for DIY projects.

Apart from being very affordable, they are lightweight and compact so that you tuck them away neatly into a corner.

Table saws are versatile, but they are not beginner-proof. The CPSC estimated about 26,500 emergency-room blade-contact injuries from table saws in 2017, and the blade guard was not in use in most of them.

So, how do you decide which table saw to get? Let us look at the most important features consider when buying to help you decide.

Motor

These budget saws feature a 15-Amp motor that runs on the standard residential circuitry. It’s a small motor but it allows for cutting most wood materials.

Some table saws have a more superior motor such as the SKILSAW Worm Drive Table Saw which provides extra power without bogging down or overheating.

Rip Capacity and Cutting Depth

The quality of the rip fence is important because it determines the accuracy of your cuts.

Because these are budget saws, getting a precise fence will be unlikely but the DeWalt Saw does feature a good quality telescoping fence. Aim for a sturdy fence that locks well because it can give you good service over time.

The rip capacity is another feature to consider because it determines the widest cut you can make. To rip a 48 x 96-inch plywood sheet down the middle, you need at least 24 inches to the right of the blade.

The Ryobi (12 inches) and Bosch (18 inches) fall short.

The Rockwell Saw has the largest rip capacity in our best table saw under 500 reviews.

Blade and Blade Speed

Another consideration is the cutting depth of the table saw. Most 10″ saws cut about 3 inches deep at 90 degrees, while 8-1/4″ saws cut less.

You can also check out the Evolution Saw, a multipurpose saw that has a special blade that is able to cut a variety of other materials such as metals and plastics.

Blade speed matters less than blade condition. A sharp blade with the right tooth count cuts cleaner, and OSHA lists dull blades and wrong blade height among the causes of kickback.

Size and Weight

Most table saws in this class are lightweight and portable. They are easy to store because of their compact design and most feature a trolley stand for portability.

They all have convenient onboard storage for storing the accessories such as the fence and riving knife.

Outfeed and side extensions add table area for bigger stock, but make sure the stand stays stable with long boards on it.

Conclusion

Finally, it is important to look at what safety features are included such as the effectiveness of the blade guard and if it provides clear visibility while cutting.

Others include the riving knife and anti-kickback pawls that help prevent kickback and the push stick to prevent your hands from coming too close with the blade while cutting.

Though most features are scaled down to make the table saws affordable, they are still good enough for producing some amazing DIY projects. And when all things are considered, the Rockwell RK7241S Table Saw comes out on top as the best table saw under 500 and offers the best value for money.

It has the largest rip capacity and a stable trolley stand and it is the only saw that comes with a dust collection bag and a laser guide for accurate cutting in our reviews.

Sources

• Table Saw Update 2019 (briefing package), U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
• Woodworking eTool: Kickbacks, OSHA
• 8-1/4 in. 15A Compact Portable Jobsite Table Saw (DWE7485), DEWALT