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Are you looking for the perfect miter saw for your next project? We have tested 10 of the market's best miter saws subject to our comprehensive side-by-side testing. With so many products to choose from, it is confusing and challenging to find which model is right for you. Our expert testers evaluated the features, tested the dust collection systems, maxed out each saw's cut capacity, sliced through metal, and measured the saw's angle to objectively score each model across a strategic set of metrics and identify which rose to the top. We aim to help you find the perfect miter saw for your needs and budget.
If you are tackling a woodworking project, you will likely need an arsenal of tools. Here at GearLab, we have a variety of reviews on the the best tools such as the best impact drivers, best drills, and the best cordless circular saws. These reviews should help you identify the best tools for your latest project.
Editor's Note: We tested and reviewed 10 of the market's best miter saws on Dec 12, 2023.
Large footprint, Dust collection curtains may close with strong vaccums
Lack of a cut line indicator, the fence and table are not perfectly flat or square, heavy
Blade guard doesn't reliably stay up, laser tapers, large footprint
Small horizontal cut capacity, no bevel stops between 0 and 45
No blade depth lock
Bottom Line
This is a highly powerful, user-friendly tool with a significant cut capacity, ideal for professionals and demanding DIY tasks
A unique design to provide best-in-class cut capacity, substantial power while reducing the overall footprint
A highly functional and powerful saw with a well-designed set of features, albeit at a higher price point
This non-sliding model offers substantial power, impressive build quality, and dust management, though it has less cut capacity and no positive stops for beveled cuts
One of the most powerful cordless saws available on the market, boasting a high-quality feature set and durable construction
Cut line indicator: Shadow | Maximum Miter and Bevel Range: (45º/60º) (49º/49º)
REASONS TO BUY
Simple adjustments
Intuitive blade change process
Great build quality
REASONS TO AVOID
Dust collection curtains are sensitive to powerful vacuums
Large spacial footprint
The DeWalt 12-Inch Double-Bevel Sliding Compound DWS780 is a reliable miter saw offering solid cutting capabilities and a good range of features for precise work. Its design is straightforward, making it suitable for a variety of miter cutting tasks, and it's well-suited for both professional use and dedicated DIYers. The saw is user-friendly, with a simple calibration process, easy adjustments, and a blade change system that doesn't require too much effort. The shadow cut line is a practical addition that aids in setting up cuts with greater accuracy. The model cuts precisely out of the box and tends to hold its calibration over time. It is a good fit for those with enough space to house it and who expect consistent performance from their tools.
The main disadvantage of the DeWalt DWS780 is its heavy weight and large footprint. The saw weighs over 60 pounds and measures over 32 inches with table extensions, requiring ample storage space and making it challenging to move frequently. The dust curtains are also sensitive to high-powered vacuums as the excess suction can close them. Despite being one of the highest-scoring saws in our review, the Bosch 12-Inch Dual-Bevel Sliding Glide GCM12SD fell just short of receiving an award due to a lower ease of use score. That said, the Bosch scored highest in cut capacity and second highest in dust collection. If those two metrics are the most important to you, the Bosch may be the way to go. However, the DeWalt emerged as our clear favorite in testing and the one we recommend to most people.
Cut line indicator: Shadow | Maximum Miter and Bevel Range: (51º/51º) (48º/45º)
REASONS TO BUY
Cutting speed
Adjustable table extensions
Miter lock override
REASONS TO AVOID
Marginal dust collection
Adjusting the blade depth lock is time-consuming
The SKIL 10-Inch Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound MS6305-00 is a reasonably priced tool with impressive cutting capabilities. Capable of executing cross-cuts through a 2x12 lumber and a 45-degree miter cut on a 2x8. This saw meets and exceeds the needs of most home DIY projects. It's user-friendly and offers a straightforward experience with features such as easy miter angle adjustments and a detent override. The LED shadow cut line should enhance accuracy and overall craftsmanship. The SKIL 10-Inch Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound MS6305-00 ultimately stands out for its power and expansive cut capacity, making it a suitable choice for budget-conscious DIYers and professionals who can deal with its dust collection limitations.
This model struggles to collect dust effectively with a bag or a vacuum. Dust was flying in all directions, creating a significant mess in the workspace. Furthermore, adjustments with the two-screw blade depth lock system may prove inefficient and challenging to switch back and forth between cut types. If you prioritize efficient dust collection and ample power, consider the Makita 10-Inch Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound LS1019L.
Cut line: None | Maximum Miter and Bevel Range: (47º/47º) (45º)
REASONS TO BUY
Large cut capacity
Effective dust collection
Slide plate for depth lock
REASONS TO AVOID
Requires more calibration
Fixed plastic table extensions
The Ryobi 18V ONE+ 7-1/4-Inch Single Bevel Sliding Compound PBT01B stands out for its impressive cut capacity and the convenience of cordless operation. It can perform cross-cuts through 2x10 lumber, which is among the top of its class. The saw also features an effective dust collection system and comes at an attractive price point. The Ryobi is ideal for those who need a lightweight, portable saw with a generous cut capacity and are working within a budget.
However, the Ryobi isn't without its drawbacks. It requires more frequent calibration compared to other models, which could be a minor inconvenience for some users. It also has fixed plastic table extensions, which may display more wear over time. If you are looking for a budget saw with a cutline indicator, check out the SKIL 10-Inch Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound MS6305-00, which employs a shadow cutline.
Cut line: Shadow | Maximum Miter and Bevel Range: (47º/47º) (45º/3º)
REASONS TO BUY
Good dust collection
Powerful for a cordless tool
Well built
REASONS TO AVOID
Small cross-cut capacity
No blade depth lock
The DeWalt 20V Max 7-1/4-Inch Single Bevel Sliding Compound DCS361B is a compact, battery-powered saw that sets itself apart with its user-friendly design, power, and efficient dust collection system. Its portable nature makes it an excellent choice for trim work on the go or use in smaller shop spaces where storage is a premium. With features like easy calibration, miter angle adjustments, a shadow cut indicator for precision, and safety-centric blade changes, it's a standout in functionality. This saw is best suited for DIY enthusiasts and professionals who need a reliable, portable saw for light to medium-duty tasks.
On the downside, the saw lacks a blade depth lock, complicating tasks like cutting dado joints. The DeWalt has a below-average cut capacity compared to some peers, and while it can handle most home projects, it struggles with materials larger than a 2x8. For those needing more robust cutting power and capacity, the DeWalt 12-inch Double-Bevel Sliding Compound DWS780 is a worthwhile consideration.
The DeWalt 20V needs to move slower through its materials than a corded saw, but its lighter weight portable package is a notable advantage to certain users.
Cut line: None | Maximum Miter and Bevel Range: (51º/51º) (48º/45º)
REASONS TO BUY
Easy adjustments
Easy blade change
Well made
REASONS TO AVOID
Reduced horizontal cut capacity
No positive bevel stops between 0 and 45 degrees
The DeWalt 12-inch Single Bevel Compound Miter Saw DWS715 emerges as a sturdy and efficient choice for those who require precision and potency in their cutting tasks. Its ease of calibration and user-friendly blade change mechanism are highlights, alongside its 14 miter stops for versatile cutting angles. The saw's compact design is an additional perk, particularly beneficial for space-conscious workshops or job sites. Thanks to its effective dust collection system and build quality, this saw is tailored for professionals and DIY enthusiasts who prioritize accuracy and a clean workspace. It's particularly suitable for users handling standard lumber sizes and looking for a tool that maintains calibration over time for consistent accuracy.
However, the DWS715 does have its limitations, primarily its modest cut capacity due to the absence of a sliding rail. The absence of a cut line indicator could also be a drawback for some, as it might complicate the alignment of cuts. The saw lacks any positive bevel stops, which can reduce the accuracy of beveled cuts. If these constraints are deal-breakers, the DeWalt DWS780 12-Inch Double Bevel Sliding Compound offers enhanced cut capacity and similar precision.
The Dewalt corded saws made quick work of the 2 inch aluminum bracket.
Credit: Austin Palmer
Compare Products
We've tested dozens of saws to help you find the best.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Why You Should Trust Us
Here at GearLab, we purchase each product from a retailer for full price. We set ourselves apart from other review services by never accepting or asking for free products to maintain an unbiased review. Our commitment to you is to provide unbiased reviews through elaborate side-by-side evaluations. We adjusted each saw, made hundreds of cuts across different materials, evaluated the dust collection systems, and finally measured the angles to check the calibration before and after testing. We sought advice from various contractors, professionals, and passionate DIY enthusiasts to build an effective and representative test plan. We evaluated each product across five different metrics.
Ease of Use(45% of overall score weighting)
Dust Collection(20% weighting)
Cut Capacity (15% weighting)
Cutting Speed and Power (15% weighting)
Precison and Accuracy (5% weighting)
Our test team is comprised of Austin Palmer and Isaac Laredo. Austin leads the test team and brings over 10 years of product testing experience to the table. He is no stranger to using tools as he worked on an onshore oil rig and is constantly making improvements to his home for nearly a decade. Isaac is also a dedicated DIY craftsman between DIY home remodeling and building out camper vans. These two have both reviewed hundreds of home and tech products for GearLab since 2017. Together, their experience helps us bring you this unbiased and comprehensive review.
The SKIL saw demonstrated its impressive cross-cut capacity by traveling a distance of 14-3/16".
Our test plan includes using a tachometer to measure the RPMs of the blade.
Here our test team is working through 100 cuts along a 2x4 to test dust collection.
An inside look at our testing process with each saw.
Analysis and Test Results
To determine the top-performing model, our team conducted thorough research and analysis on a wide range of the best miter saws. We meticulously compared and evaluated the specifications of each tool before selecting the most promising ones for comprehensive side-by-side testing. The following sections discuss the findings within each metric.
Value
As consumers, we want our dollars to go as far as possible. Generally, price correlates to performance for miter saws. The higher-priced models likely have more power, better materials, and better build quality. Some products find a striking balance between performance and cost, like the SKIL 10-Inch. The SKIL provided comparable power to products over twice the price. It easily cuts through 4x4s and aluminum. The SKIL is our recommendation for those looking for a fully capable, budget-friendly saw. If you want a cordless saw with incredible value, check out the Ryobi 7 1/4 inch. Its larger cut capacity and portability make it a versatile and capable model for most use cases. For professionals or avid DIYers looking for accuracy, build quality, and a tool made for frequent use, the DeWalt 12-Inch DWS780 presents a good value. While it has a higher price, its long-term accuracy, power, and cut capacity justify its elevated price.
The Ryobi represents an incredible value for those looking for a battery-powered saw, especially if you are already in the company's cordless tool ecosystem.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Ease of Use
Embarking on a home improvement project is a considerable undertaking. It often involves acquiring new skills, meticulous planning, trips to the hardware store, and sometimes, familiarizing oneself with a new tool. Utilizing user-friendly tools can save time and prevent potential frustration. To assess ease of use, we adjusted each saw, replaced the blades, and engaged with each nuanced feature while making various cuts.
The DeWalt 12-Inch Double Bevel Saw emerged as a leader in user experience due to its straightforward adjustments, clear-cut line indicator, and a substantial number of positive stops on both planes. The calibration process was notably efficient. This model boasts ten positive miter stops and nine bevel stops, offering a broader range of cutting options compared to others.
The DeWalt products had a convenient and fast blade-changing system that was a favorite amongst our testers. This was due to the blade guard staying up and out of the way and including robust, streamlined steps.
The blade change process is made easier due to the secure raised position of the blade cover and the inclusion of a larger-sized tool.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Both the DeWalt 12-Inch Double Bevel Saw and the Milwaukee M18 FUEL 7-1/4-Inch Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound 2733-20 feature a knob-free miter adjustment that our testers found to simplify the adjustment process. These saws incorporate an override feature that bypasses each positive stop for rapid adjustments. The DeWalt 7-1/4 Inch Saw possesses the same trigger-based adjustment but lacks the positive stop override, a feature highly valued in the previously mentioned models. The Bosch 12-Inch, Makita, Ryobi, SKIL, and DeWalt 12 Inch Single Bevel utilize the standard miter knob and release mechanism, allowing free movement of the miter angle, complemented by a detent override for smooth angle adjustments.
The DeWalt DWS780 foregoes the miter knob in favor of a trigger design and detent override.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Regarding bevel adjustments, the Makita distinguishes itself with its tri-cam knob positioned on the side rather than the rear, facilitating easier accessibility. Only the DeWalt 12 Ich Double Bevel Saw surpasses this range, offering 49 degrees on both sides. The Milwaukee matches Makita's 48-degree range on both sides.
The DeWalt 12-inch Double Bevel has one of the largest bevel ranges at 49 degrees to both sides.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Let's touch upon positive stops. Positive stops are preset angles where the saw locks into place. The greater the number of stops, the more cutting options are available. The DeWalt Single Bevel and DeWalt 7-1/4 " saws provide 14 and 13 positive stops, respectively, for angles from zero to 45 degrees on the left side of the saw. The Bosch, DeWalt Double Bevel, and Makita offer 10 positive stops — ample for standard home or trim projects.
Some saws feature a cut line indicator to expedite and enhance the craftsmanship within your project. The SKIL, Milwaukee, DeWalt 7-1/4", DeWalt Double Bevel, and Craftsman V20 7-1/4-Inch Single Bevel Sliding Kit CMCS714M1 utilize shadow cut lines. The Makita employs a laser cut line indicator. Among these models, we found the shadow lines from DeWalt to be the most precise and quickest to show up on our workpiece.
This spread showcases the leftover dust from our collection test.
Credit: Austin Palmer
Dust Collection
An efficient dust collection system is essential for professionals working in constrained shop spaces or active job sites. It minimizes cleanup and helps save time. Shops situated within garages will benefit from this feature, as it can mitigate the accumulation of sawdust on stored items. To gauge the effectiveness of these systems, we constructed an enclosure designed to confine the sawdust. We connected each saw to a shop vacuum, placed it within the enclosure, and executed 100 cuts on a 2x4. Subsequently, we meticulously collected any residual sawdust and weighed it to quantify the efficiency of the dust collection system.
The Milwaukee M18 Fuel demonstrated one of the most effective dust collection systems. After processing a 2x4 with 100 cuts, a mere 0.37 ounces of sawdust remained. Its dust collection attachments are compatible with high-powered shop vacuums and are rigid to prevent collapse. It also accommodates large and small vacuum hoses using the same connector. The Ryobi and DeWalt 7-1/4 Inch also performed well, leaving behind just 0.71 and 0.75 ounces of sawdust, respectively. These battery-powered, portable saws stand out for tasks
that require cutting indoors, such as trim work, due to their impressive dust management.
The Makita did an incredible job keeping our workspace clean. We used the same type of saw blade for each cut to ensure consistency in our tests.
Credit: Austin Palmer
When examining corded saws, the Makita distinguished itself from the pack, leaving a scant 0.51 ounces of sawdust. This resulted in one of the simplest cleanup efforts after making 100 cuts. The Bosch 12-Inch, despite dispersing more dust than the others, still managed to capture the majority, leaving a manageable 1.16 ounces behind. The other models in the DeWalt lineup, specifically the 12-Inch Double Bevel and 12-Inch Single Bevel, followed closely with 1.17 ounces and 1.36 ounces of sawdust collected, respectively.
The dust collection capabilities of the included dust bags were generally found to be less effective. Our testing indicated that most bags were unable to contain a significant amount of the dust, leading to considerable messes. If you need to rely on the dust bag as the primary means of collection, the Ryobi model proved to be one of the best options, leaving behind the least dust when used exclusively with the bag.
We tested each model's 45-degree miter cut length.
Credit: Austin Palmer
Cut Capacity
Certain projects require specific lumber sizes, and choosing a miter saw that can handle those sizes is important. In this review, we tested the cut capacity of various models to help you find the right tool for the job.
The Bosch 12-Inch stood out with its impressive cut capacity. It can cross-cut a 2x14 on the horizontal plane and achieve a miter cut through a 2x10, with a maximum range of 14-1/8 inches. On the vertical plane, it can easily cross-cut a 4x4. While it falls short in completing a 45-degree bevel cut through the board, it can travel up to 3-5/16 inches. The Bosch saw utilizes its Axial Arm to provide excellent cut capacity while minimizing the saw's overall size.
The Axial Arm from Bosch fluidly moves through the use of bearing joints rather than a slider to maximize range and reduce its footprint.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Another notable option is the DeWalt 12-Inch Double Bevel saw, which comfortably handles common lumber sizes. It can cross-cut a 2x12 horizontally and achieve a 45-degree miter cut through a 2x8. Vertically, it can make cuts through a 4x4 and come close to accomplishing a 45-degree angle cut with a travel distance of 3-21/32 inches.
The DeWalt DWS780 successfully made a vertically oriented 45-degree bevel cut through a 2x4 but not a 4x4. The saw made it 3-21/32 inches through the 4x4.
Credit: Austin Palmer
Saws with a 10-inch blade, such as the Makita and SKIL models, offer serious cut capacities with sliding rail systems. Both saws successfully made cross, and 45-degree miter cuts through 2x12 and 2x8 boards, respectively. The SKIL saw demonstrated longer usable travel across all planes, particularly along the 45-degree bevel axis, where it outperformed the Makita by nearly an inch. However, neither saw could complete a 45-degree bevel cut through a 4x4.
Cordless saws typically use a smaller 7-1/4 inch blade and have smaller cut capacities. Among them, the Ryobi offers one of the largest cut capacities in its class. It can cross-cut a 2x10 and achieve 45-degree miter cuts through a 2x8. However, cordless models struggle with taller lumber pieces like a 4x4, as none of them could make complete cuts. The Craftsman V20 7-1/4-Inch Single Bevel Sliding Kit CMCS714M1 has the largest vertical capacity at 3-9/32 inches for a cross-cut.
We tested each saw's power across various materials like a 4x4, consecutive 4x4s to simulate a 4x8, and a 2 inch aluminum bracket.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Cutting Power and Speed
Cutting power and speed plays a crucial role in determining the efficiency and effectiveness of a miter saw. Ample power ensures effortless cutting through various materials, while faster cutting speed enhances productivity and saves time. These factors contribute to cleaner cuts and improved safety. To evaluate these metrics, we conducted tests using different materials, including a 4x4, two consecutive 4x4s to make an 8x4, and a 2-inch aluminum angle bracket. We even used a tachometer to measure the RPM of each saw, providing valuable insights into their performance. While RPMs were not directly factored into the final score, they helped inform our understanding of the products. The scoring was based on how efficiently and easily each saw cut through the materials.
Our testing found that corded saws generally offer more power than cordless models. Among the top performers were the DeWalt 12-Inch Double Bevel, Bosch 12-Inch, DeWalt 12-Inch Single Bevel, SKIL, and Metabo HPT 10-Inch Compound C10FCGS. These saws demonstrated exceptional power, effortlessly working through common construction materials. Throughout our testing, they consistently powered through each piece without slowing down or straining the motor when operated at a reasonable speed.
The Milwaukee M18 stood out as one of the most powerful saws with a high RPM amongst cordless options. This model easily cut through aluminum or wood when operated at the appropriate pace. The DeWalt 7-1/4 Inch, despite offering slightly less power than the Milwaukee, excelled in cutting metal during our tests. However, it's worth noting that our test team found that every battery-powered model could be stopped if they were moved too quickly. If cutting power is a top priority for your projects, we recommend opting for a corded saw.
The precision and accuracy metric tests the calibration of each model out of the box and after testing.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Precision and Accuracy
A precise and accurate miter saw is crucial for achieving clean and precise angled cuts, minimizing material waste, and ensuring safety. It allows for consistent and reliable results, enhancing the overall quality of projects while reducing the risk of errors and accidents. We tested this metric by measuring the angle of the blade to the table, fence to the table, and 45-degree miter and bevel angles to ensure accuracy before and after testing.
Whenever you purchase a new tool, you should always check the calibration of the blade before making your first cuts. Out of the box, most of the saws' miter angles were perfectly accurate at 90 and 45 degrees. After testing, most miter saws displayed no drifting and remained accurate.
Although the Craftsman V20 did well with precision and accuracy, it was not among the very best.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
When it comes to the bevel angle, the Bosch, Milwaukee, DeWalt 12-Inch Single Bevel, and DeWalt 12-Inch Double Bevel saws were perfectly accurate straight out of the box. They measured at 90 and 45 degrees on both sides. Even after extensive testing and hundreds of cuts, these saws and the Metabo and Makita models remained in strict alignment. Unlike other saws, they were resilient to drifting out of their calibration.
A square fence will help you get accurate cuts. While all the saws feature manageable adjustments, the attention to detail of certain models makes them stand out. The DeWalt 12-Inch saws are flat, square to the table, and without gaps, making them a great choice for precise cuts.
We thoroughly tested each model side by side, putting in the effort to get hands-on experience.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Conclusion
Our in-depth review caters to all skill levels, from the seasoned home renovator with a decade of remodels under their belt to the first-time tool user. Our meticulous and elaborate side-by-side comparisons, carried out by seasoned professionals, aim to simplify your decision-making process. We do the heavy lifting by rigorously testing each saw so you can confidently get the perfect tool for your project and budget into your hands.
