Best Tile Saw Reviews: Wet-Cutters You Can Always Count On
Contents
- The Best Tile Saws Are:
- 1. SKIL 3540-02: Best Wet Tile Saw
- 2. QEP Tile Saw for Wet Cutting of Ceramic and Porcelain Tile
- 3. Porter-Cable PCE980 Wet Tile Saw
- 4. SKIL 3550-02 Wet Tile Saw with Hydrolock Water Containment System
- 5. Dewalt D24000S Tile Saw
- 6. Chicago Pneumatics 2.5 HP 10” Industrial Tile/Brick Saw
- 7. MK Diamond 157222 MK-170 1/3-Horsepower 7-Inch Wet Tile Saw
- Which One Should You Get?
- Best Value: Skil 3540-02 7-Inch Wet Tile Saw
- Great For Demanding Installation Jobs: QEP Tile Saw For Wet Cutting Of Ceramic And Porcelain Tile
- Easy-To-Clean: Porter-Cable PCE980 Wet Tile Saw
- Great For Amateurs: Skil 3550-02 Wet Tile Saw With Hydrolock Water Containment System
- Best For Heavy-Duty Tasks: Dewalt D24000S Tile Saw
- Best For Industrial Use: Chicago Pneumatics 2.5 HP 10” Industrial Tile/Brick Saw
- For Do-It-Yourselfers: Mk Diamond 157222 Mk-170 1/3-Horsepower 7-Inch Wet Tile Saw
- Some Factors To Consider When Buying A Tile Saw
- Type Of Tile Saw
- Rail Cutters Versus Snap
- Weight And Portability
- Bevel
- Power
- Blade
- Extra Features
- Conclusion
- Sources
The best tile saw cuts cleanly, controls water well and resists corrosion.
Here are seven wet saws for different budgets and job sizes.
OUR TOP PICK
Our top pick for the best tile saw is the SKIL 3540-02 7-Inch Wet Tile saw. This 7-inch wet saw has a 4.2-amp motor, a 0-45 degree bevel and a rip fence with miter gauge. It is lightweight, affordable and accurate for home tile jobs.
The Best Tile Saws Are:
| Product | Details | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. SKIL 3540-02 | 1. SKIL 3540-02 Top Pick | - Speed: 3,600 RPM - Power: 4.2 amps - Bevel Capacity: 0-45 degrees - Power Source: Electric-Powered - Weight: 17.69 pounds | Check Current Price |
| 2. QEP Tile Saw for Wet Cutting of Ceramic and Porcelain Tile | 2. QEP Tile Saw for Wet Cutting of Ceramic and Porcelain Tile | - Speed: 3,600 RPM - Power: 3/4 HP - Bevel Capacity: 22.5 and 45 degrees - Power Source: Electric-Powered - Weight: N/A | Check Current Price |
| 3. Porter-Cable PCE980 Wet Tile Saw | 3. Porter-Cable PCE980 Wet Tile Saw | - Speed: 2,850 RPM - Power: 1 HP - Bevel Capacity: 0-45 degrees - Power Source: Electric-Powered - Weight: 32 pounds | Check Current Price |
| 4. SKIL 3550-02 Wet Tile Saw with Hydrolock Water Containment System | 4. SKIL 3550-02 Wet Tile Saw with Hydrolock Water Containment System | - Speed: 3,600 RPM - Power: 5 amps - Bevel Capacity: 0, 22.5, and 45 degrees - Power Source: Electric-Powered - Weight: 24 pounds | Check Current Price |
| 5. Dewalt D24000S Tile Saw | 5. Dewalt D24000S Tile Saw | - Speed: 4,200 RPM - Power: 1.5 HP (15 amps) - Bevel Capacity: 22.5 and 45 degrees - Power Source: Electric-Powered - Weight: 69 pounds | Check Current Price |
| 6. Chicago Pneumatics 2.5 HP 10” Industrial Tile/Brick Saw | 6. Chicago Pneumatics 2.5 HP 10” Industrial Tile/Brick Saw | - Speed: 3,800 RPM - Power: 2.5 HP (15 amps) - Bevel Capacity: 0-45 degrees - Power Source: Electric-Powered - Weight: 90 pounds | Check Current Price |
| 7. MK Diamond 157222 MK-170 1/3-Horsepower 7-Inch Wet Tile Saw | 7. MK Diamond 157222 MK-170 1/3-Horsepower 7-Inch Wet Tile Saw | - Speed: 5,500 RPM - Power: 1/3 HP - Bevel Capacity: 0-45 - Power Source: Electric-Powered - Weight: 15 pounds | Check Current Price |
1. SKIL 3540-02: Best Wet Tile Saw
Whether you are a professional tiler or an avid DIYer, this tile saw can be a good tool to add to your home renovation equipment. It is a budget-friendly wet tile saw that is loaded with useful features such as an adjustable rip fence that comes with a miter gauge. With this feature, accurate cuts can be made all the time.
Have the confidence to do more intricate designs as this tile offers a 0-45 degree bevel for optimum flexibility. It allows you to do different types of cut to achieve the design you want. It also features a blade-cooling reservoir.
The water keeps the blade from overheating and holds down dust while you cut.
It is one of the most affordable wet saws, which makes it a good choice for a homeowner doing a renovation. Check the current warranty terms when you buy.
Assembly is minor, and it comes with a diamond blade and wrench, so you can start cutting right away. It makes clean cuts on ceramic and most porcelain.
Specs
- Speed: 3,600 RPM
- Power: 4.2 amps
- Bevel Capacity: 0-45 degrees
- Power Source: Electric-Powered
- Weight: 17.69 pounds
Pros
- It is very affordable
- It is easy to set up
- It comes with everything you need
- It delivers clean and smooth cuts
Cons
- Some of the water might come out
2. QEP Tile Saw for Wet Cutting of Ceramic and Porcelain Tile
For its low price, this tile saw has a capable ¾ HP motor with a 3,600 RPM blade speed.
You can use it on ceramic, porcelain, granite, marble and stone, and the rigid frame holds up well for home projects. The rubber footpads are a nice feature.
They keep the tile saw in place while you are working. They prevent the tile saw from slipping from the table to prevent accidents.
The included 8-inch table extension helps with larger tiles, and a rip fence and miter gauge come in the box.
Specs
- Speed: 3,600 RPM
- Power: 3/4 HP
- Bevel Capacity: 22.5 and 45 degrees
- Power Source: Electric-Powered
- Weight: N/A
Pros
- You can use it to cut a wide range of materials
- It is highly durable
- The rubber foot pads come in really handy
- It delivers smooth cuts
- It is lightweight
Cons
- It splashes water everywhere
3. Porter-Cable PCE980 Wet Tile Saw
This is a step up from the budget saws. It features an onboard miter square that will help you create more precise cuts as well as repeatable rip cuts.
You can work effortlessly with its roll cage that allows you to move this around with ease. It also has a splash guard that prevents the water from getting everywhere. The stainless steel deck resists rust and holds the water.
It handles thicker tile well. Water management is better than on budget saws, but every wet saw makes some mess, so expect some cleanup. As with any wet saw, plug it into a GFCI-protected outlet.
Specs
- Speed: 2,850 RPM
- Power: 1 HP
- Bevel Capacity: 0-45 degrees
- Power Source: Electric-Powered
- Weight: 32 pounds
Pros
- It is ideal for more demanding tasks
- Splash guard and stainless deck
- Handles thicker tile
- Cuts with little effort
Cons
- Some users said the sliding table has some wiggle in it.
4. SKIL 3550-02 Wet Tile Saw with Hydrolock Water Containment System
This tile saw costs a little more than the 3540 and adds a Hydrolock Water Containment System, which keeps water near the blade and cuts down on cleanup.
The tabletop is made from a durable aluminum material that can resist rust and can prevent damage even when subjected to a lot of abuse. This unit features a Sliding Side Extension, so you can cut even larger tiles of up to 18×18 inches. You can also make different and more intricate cuts, thanks to its bevel cuts with a wide range of flexibility.
The body feels sturdy, and the top holds up well. It makes accurate cuts with little chipping.
Specs
- Speed: 3,600 RPM
- Power: 5 amps
- Bevel Capacity: 0, 22.5, and 45 degrees
- Power Source: Electric-Powered
- Weight: 24 pounds
Pros
- It contains water pretty well
- It comes with a nice extension arm
- It delivers accurate cuts
- It is ideal for both beginners and professionals
Cons
- Some users said the blade that comes with this unit is not that reliable.
5. Dewalt D24000S Tile Saw
The Dewalt D24000S is a 10-inch professional wet saw with a stainless steel rail system and a cutting cart. It comes with a Dewalt diamond blade. It comes with two nozzles to make sure the water is always where it ought to be.
It weighs 69 pounds, so it is portable but heavy enough that two people make loading it easier.
This saw can cut 18 by 18 inches tile on a diagonal, with a cutting capacity of 25 to 28 inches. For quick angled cuts, this unit offers a bevel capacity of 22.5 degrees and 45 degrees. It also comes with a plunge feature to enable you to make plunge cuts for electrical outlets.
It has a 1.5 HP, 15-amp direct drive motor with a single speed of 4,200 RPM. It also comes with a folding stand that sets up quickly.
Specs
- Speed: 4,200 RPM
- Power: 1.5 HP (15 amps)
- Bevel Capacity: 22.5 and 45 degrees
- Power Source: Electric-Powered
- Weight: 69 pounds
Pros
- It delivers precise cuts
- It is very easy to use, transport, and store
- It allows for quick cutting of electrical outlets and A/C registers
- It comes with a stand
Cons
- It is a little bit expensive
6. Chicago Pneumatics 2.5 HP 10” Industrial Tile/Brick Saw
The next tile saw review is of the 2.5 HP Industrial Tile/Brick Saw that Harbor Freight sells under its Chicago Electric brand (not Chicago Pneumatic). It is a large, value-priced saw. It comes with an integrated rail cart system with a bevel capacity of 22.5 and 45 degrees.
The head of this unit pivots, and it delivers a maximum rip capacity of 24 inches with 18 inches at the diagonal cut capacity. This unit comes with an ABS plastic constructed pan and a three-gallon-per-minute water pump.
You can also remove the water containment tray and clean it. It has a 2.5 HP, 15-amp motor with a no-load speed of 3,800 RPM and thermal overload protection.
This unit features an adjustable cutting head that allows you to cut both bricks and industrial tiles. You can also use it to cut ceramic, pavers, and porcelain.
It takes a 10-inch diamond blade, which is sold separately, and has an oversized steel frame. This unit is pretty heavy, as it weighs 90 pounds.
Setting it up is quite easy, and handling it is even easier. However, some users said that the water pump could not handle certain projects.
Specs
- Speed: 3,800 RPM
- Power: 2.5 HP (15 amps)
- Bevel Capacity: 0-45 degrees
- Power Source: Electric-Powered
- Weight: 90 pounds
Pros
- It offers great value for your money
- Very powerful and highly efficient motor
- Great for DIYers and professionals
- Delivers very accurate results
Cons
- You have to purchase the blade separately
- It is very heavy and difficult to move around
7. MK Diamond 157222 MK-170 1/3-Horsepower 7-Inch Wet Tile Saw
The MK Diamond 157222 MK-170 is a small, affordable 7-inch wet saw for DIY work.
It is a compact tile saw and it weighs only 15 pounds. It is super lightweight, which means you can move it around with ease. This unit is also very easy to clean, use, and maintain.
It is also a highly versatile option. This tile saw comes with a submersible water pump and a diamond blade.
The diameter of the blade is 7 inches and you can use it to make cuts 12 inches long and 2 inches deep. It has a 1/3 HP motor with a blade speed of 5,500 RPM.
This is a great saw for cutting floor tiles and counters, as it delivers smooth and accurate cuts. It comes with a high-impact thermoplastic water tank that will not peel or rust. It also comes with an adjustable rip guide. MK backs it with a limited one-year warranty.
For safety, this unit comes with a special Safeswitch locking key and you cannot operate the machine without it. If you are a DIYer looking for the best tile saw for tile cutting projects, this tile saw is for you.
Specs
- Speed: 5,500 RPM
- Power: 1/3 HP
- Bevel Capacity: 0-45
- Power Source: Electric-Powered
- Weight: 15 pounds
Pros
- Strong and durable motor
- Great for do-it-yourselfers
- Super lightweight and very easy to use
- It comes with a submersible water pump and a diamond blade
Cons
- Not the best option for professional use
Which One Should You Get?
Best Value: Skil 3540-02 7-Inch Wet Tile Saw
This saw balances quality and price. If you are looking for an affordable tile saw for home renovations, it is a good choice.
It has all the basic features and functions you might need without costing you so much money.
Great For Demanding Installation Jobs: QEP Tile Saw For Wet Cutting Of Ceramic And Porcelain Tile
Its ¾ HP motor and table extension handle a range of tile sizes and materials. It suits homeowners with bigger projects; full-time tilers will want a larger saw.
Easy-To-Clean: Porter-Cable PCE980 Wet Tile Saw
This is the tile saw to get if you hate water splashing everywhere. Its splash guard and fixed deck keep most of the water contained, so cleanup is lighter.
Great For Amateurs: Skil 3550-02 Wet Tile Saw With Hydrolock Water Containment System
Although professionals can also use this, it is so easy to use that even amateurs will have an easy time installing it. If you are looking for a tile saw that is not a pain to figure out, this should be a great choice.
Best For Heavy-Duty Tasks: Dewalt D24000S Tile Saw
Dewalt made this tile saw for heavy-duty purposes. It comes with a powerful motor and a 10-inch blade. It delivers great cutting capacity and bevel capacity.
Best For Industrial Use: Chicago Pneumatics 2.5 HP 10” Industrial Tile/Brick Saw
If you cut brick and pavers as well as tile, this large saw handles both.
It rips up to 24 inches and cuts 18-inch tiles on the diagonal, and it has a 2.5 HP motor. Budget for a blade, since none is included.
For Do-It-Yourselfers: Mk Diamond 157222 Mk-170 1/3-Horsepower 7-Inch Wet Tile Saw
For weekend DIYers that are looking for a highly efficient and lightweight tile saw, this is your best option. This unit weighs only 15 pounds, making it very easy to move around. It also comes at a pocket-friendly rate.
The motor is not the most powerful, but it spins the blade at 5,500 RPM.
Some Factors To Consider When Buying A Tile Saw
To help you out even further in making a good decision when buying a tile saw, here are some of the things you need to keep in mind:
Type Of Tile Saw
The type of tile saw you will buy depends on your personal needs and preferences. Most of the products above are wet tile saws where it uses water to clean the area and prevent debris from getting everywhere.
That can help in reducing your clean up time later. You should also decide whether to get a handheld or a tabletop one.
Rail Cutters Versus Snap
For minor DIY projects, a manual snap (rail) cutter can replace a wet saw. It scores a line across ceramic or porcelain tile and then snaps it, but it only makes straight cuts.
Weight And Portability
If you plan on bringing it to different workshops and projects, it has to be portable enough to be transported with ease.
The bigger ones can be clunky to bring but there are those small and more portable ones with a slide-out extension that you can use as needed, so you do not need to bring a big machine to your work site.
It should also be lightweight, so you can carry it around with ease.
Bevel
Also, consider how well its bevel capacity is. There may be instances when you need to cut tiles at an angle. This feature will help you achieve that. Check out what bevel angles it can offer to make sure you are getting one that will truly suit your needs.
Power
You would want to make sure that it has enough power to cut through even the sturdiest materials. If you frequently work with denser and tougher tiles, you definitely need to look for a tile saw that has more power.
The higher the power, the better it will work in accommodating different tile materials and thicknesses.
Blade
Check the blade included with it. Most home saws take a 7-inch blade, while pro saws take a 10-inch blade, and some tilers prefer a smaller one. A 10-inch blade cuts deeper, which helps with thick tile and stone.
Extra Features
Make sure you find out how it can keep dust at bay. Dust is a common problem when it comes to cutting tiles. A wet tile saw uses water to prevent dust from flying everywhere.
It also keeps the blade cool. Tile and stone contain silica, and OSHA notes that water fed to the blade limits how much silica dust gets into the air.
Water and electricity need care. OSHA names a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) as a safeguard for electric tools in wet conditions, so plug the saw into a GFCI outlet and keep the cord off the wet floor.
Note: Remember that tile saws are just meant to cut tiles. If you are looking to cut other materials, you need other types of saws:
- To cut trees and twigs, check out our top picks for chainsaws, electric chainsaws, pole saws, and our log splitter roundup.
- For wood planks, sheets, and slabs, read our best track saws listand our picks of top table saws and hybrid table saws.
- And check out our hacksawspicks for cutting metal.
Conclusion
Now you can pick the tile saw that fits your needs. Check out our homepage for recommendations on which products to buy.
Our top pick for the best tile saw is the SKIL 3540-02 7-Inch Wet Tile saw because it is lightweight, affordable and accurate, with a 4.2-amp motor, a 3,600 RPM blade speed and a 0-45 degree bevel.
