To efficiently and effortlessly cut different materials such as wood, laminates, plastics, and hard metals such as iron, aluminum, pipes, and bars, let’s see the best miter saw machines and how to choose the most suitable for your work.
A miter saw is a machine used daily to cut the most varied materials in the construction, carpentry, and carpentry fields cleanly and precisely. It is an indispensable tool for professional or simple DIY jobs.
The operation is simple. The powerful motor with which it is fitted puts into action blades or diamond cutting discs fixed on the machine body. Once in contact with wood, iron, or another material, it cuts it to size, perfectly finishing the surface.
A miter saw structure must be solid and robust to last over time and carry out even the most complicated cutting jobs. As you can imagine, the miter saws are not all the same, and not all cut the same materials.
In all cases, it is a versatile tool that becomes a real inseparable work companion for craftsmen, those who make renovations, furniture makers, and those who love DIY.
Table of Contents
How to choose a miter saw: Types and Characteristics
To choose the best miter saw for your work or hobby needs, it is important to know the different types first. It is also useful to dwell on the aspects that differentiate one model from the other. The basic elements and extras are present only in professional wood saws or the most advanced cutting metal tools.
Let’s examine the most important features and functions to consider in a miter saw to choose well.
Types
The first distinction is between hobby miter saws with basic functions designed for occasional use and professional use miter saws, which are more powerful, precise, and comfortable to hold for daily use.
The second more technical distinction is between basic, compound, and sliding saws. Basic miter saws cut precisely, without chamfering.
Instead, the compound miter saws deal with inclined, oblique, conical-shaped cuts with the possibility of performing a single bevel in one direction or a double bevel to bevel the piece without moving it.
The third type is sliding saws, which are more expensive but more complete for artisans because they include a sliding arm for large and thick pieces.
Materials capable of cutting
Another difference we can make when discussing miter saws is related to the cut material. On the market, there are three different main types:
- Woodcutting machines make perpendicular or adjustable cuts, such as radial cutting machines. In this category, we also find the best models of bench saws.
- Iron saws, also called disk saws, are equipped with lubricating systems that help the cutting job. There are also dry saws that avoid sparks and allow a precise and clean cut.
- Miter saws are suitable for concrete, generally used on construction sites, and are professional and non-hobby.
Some radial miter saws also meet the needs of small craftsmen who deal with multiple materials in their daily work. Thanks to a single multipurpose blade, they can cut wood, iron, and aluminum.
Certainly, a nice advantage that allows you to have only one multifunction machine body available.
Always thinking about versatility, the models of the best cutting-off machine with the upper table incorporate both the miter saw machine, and the bench saw in a single machine.
Head movement
The movement of the blade host head is another distinguishing factor for professional wood saws. We have fixed miter saws that perform a perpendicular cut (from top to bottom) or models with an adjustable angle that rotates 45 degrees in the right or left directions, engraving the material according to this angle.
The same applies to the tilting head saws, cutting a vertical axis. Finally, radial miter saws are the most versatile. They allow both circular and inclined adjustment for double oblique cuts. The upper surface completes its versatility.
Today, we find models capable of carrying out all movements on the market. But, on the other hand, the more adjustments available, the more complex the tool becomes to use and requires more attention to get precise cuts.
So, beginners can choose a less versatile but easier-to-use model, while those who make professional use can focus on a multifunctional product.
Weight
Weight is essential for a miter saw, especially a portable model to transport to various work locations. But, of course, the ratings are very personal and depend on the strength and age of the user.
We can define a low weight that is easy to transport even with one hand, from 20 to 38 lbs. Over 48 lbs, we are already talking about less portable miter saws.
Portability
On the market today, both bench saws and other portable models are available. Much depends on the activity type that must be carried out and the space available.
For example, a portable version powered by electricity is recommended for small jobs on-site, in narrow or low spaces, or on a floor. Simultaneously, those who carry out cutting operations in a garage or outdoor workspace can use a professional counter model. Specific handles and safety locks make transport safe.
Supply
A three-phase miter saw is powered by electricity to operate. Other models of the professional miter saw instead are powered by a mixture engine. The latter is mainly used in the construction and demolition fields.
Engine power
The power of the engine of a miter saw is an aspect that significantly affects the speed of work, efficiency, ease of cutting, and also on consumption. The best miter saws have power between 10 and 15 amps with 1,600-1,800 watts, ensuring adequate strength for many processes.
There are also 1,200-watt versions, such as the Bosch radial miter saw with a body of only 25 lbs in weight, which does the job for which it is designed perfectly. Some wood miter saws with upper surfaces also reach 2,350 W of power.
Always related to power and engine, we also find some technical data such as revolutions per minute for the fluidity of the cut, the speed of rotation without load, and the cutting speed. It is better to choose a direct-drive motor for greater durability than a belt-driven one.
Precision
A precise miter saw is exactly what is expected of this machine. For this reason, the best models are equipped with an integrated laser guide (also with a double line), which tracks the progress beforehand and helps perform a perfect cut.
This option is particularly useful even for those who have no experience and are novices. On the other hand, the LED light integrated into some models is an indispensable accessory, to be precise even in low-light conditions or in the evening.
The best professional miter models with an upper table also have a robust guide arm that offers great precision and requires no maintenance.
Blade
The blade makes the difference; it is essential to check that it offers clean cuts and is made with quality materials. In addition, the ability to operate on different materials depends on the number of teeth. A few teeth are sufficient for rough wood, while a blade with more teeth is better for laminate, where the required precision is greater.
Each miter saw has a different cutting depth. Therefore, the standard blades are good for coarser cuts, while buying high-quality blades for smooth finishes is better. Another element not to be underestimated is the diameter of the blade, which determines the cutting capacity.
The materials are not all the same thickness. Just think of the wooden planks, but also the iron bars. Depending on the intended use, the blade diameter can vary between 200 and 350 millimeters. A small blade may suffice if the need is to make frames, while a larger diameter disc is needed for thicker materials.
Functions
The presence of numerous functions is the aspect that differentiates models of miter saws for domestic use from professional ones. The more functions a saw has, the more versatile and practical it will be.
Among the most interesting functions of a wood sawing machine, we find the head tilting left and right up to 45° and the cutting angle in both directions. In addition, the extensions and lateral supports allow you to cut even large pieces such as floorboards, planks, or beads.
The swivel top, double or single, is a plus that makes work easier. Another beneficial function of the best wood sawing machine models is the suction action that keeps the work area clean. On the other hand, in a metal-cutting machine, the possibility of making oblique cuts, even when dry, and the presence of a function that reduces burrs is essential.
Furthermore, the lateral extensions (preferably removable) allow you to fix the longest pieces better, while the angle adjustment ensures exact beveled cuts. Better than choosing a model that eliminates sparks to protect the workspace and the surrounding environment.
Safety
First, electric brakes and a shaft block are necessary, guaranteeing the blade’s safe change. Secondly, choosing a miter saw model with a comfortable handle and a soft start allows easy and reliable support of the blade or the disc on the workpiece is better.
It is fundamental for safety to remove the devices designed to protect the user, always wear protective masks, and suck up residues during cutting operations. It is always also advisable to check the sealing capacity of the terminals.
The structure of the miter saw is generally robust. Die-cast aluminum models are more resistant than steel ones and suitable for massive use while being lighter to transport. Instead, the support base must be solid and large to fix the work surface firmly. It will also gain the precision of the cut.
Ease of use and practicality
A precise miter saw must also be easy to use and guarantee practicality and manageability. The presence of graduated indicators and guides for made-to-measure cuts helps those who approach these craft projects for the first time and the craftsmen who do it by trade.
The various adjustments must also be placed in an evident and easy-to-reach way. Then a clamp is needed to block the material from being treated. Some miter saws are assembled, and there is no need to assemble them.
Accessories
The accessories are an essential feature. Of course, they can also purchase them separately, but the best cutting-off machines are already equipped not to purchase additional parts.
Among the accessories, we find blades with Widia inserts (or cemented carbide) to penetrate the materials effectively, kit keys, diversified sets of blades, and tools for changing the blade. Generally, there is almost always a pusher or a rod with a handy stop to make cuts in series.
The chip and dust collection bag is a strong point for a wood miter saw with a tabletop but must be suitable for the work volume and not allow residues to obstruct the laser pointer.
Alternatively, to clean everything faster, you can use a suction system that keeps the work surface and the machinery clean. Finally, the accessory set should have a specific case always to keep everything in order.
The best miter saws to buy
Below is the list of the best-recommended miter saw models for value for money, with related main features and prices.
- MOTOR: 15 Amp motor delivers high power for the toughest of cuts generating a no-load...
- LIGHTWEIGHT: Only 24.2 lbs. to facilitate maneuverability and portability
- MITER ANGLE RANGE: 0-52 degrees, to the right and left for increased flexibility
- Stainless-steel miter detent plate of 12-inch miter saw blade comes with 14 positive stops
- The mitre saw features the precise miter system and machined base fence support
- Tall sliding fence of DEWALT miter saw supports 5-1/2-inch base vertically
- POWERFUL 15 AMP MOTOR - Delivers 4,800 RPM for quick, detailed cuts
- DUAL BEVEL – Perform cuts in four positive stop positions at 48° & 45° left, 0°, and...
- LED SHADOW LINE - Provides high precision cuts with greater accuracy than lasers
- Stainless steel miter detent plate of the 12-inch miter saw blade comes with 10 positive...
- The mitre saw has a precise miter system and machined base fence support
- Precise miter system and machined base fence support Cam-lock miter handle with detent...
- 24-tooth carbide-tipped blade improves performance with fast, clean cuts
- Spindle lock for easy blade changes
- Machined and cast miter scale for accuracy
- AWARD: Rated Best Miter Saw for the Money for Pros by Pro Tool Reviews 2022
- MOTOR: Powerful 15 Amp motor to tackle tough cutting jobs with ease
- LASER: Laser marker system from Metabo HPT increases cutting accuracy
- Integrated CUTLINE Blade Positioning System provides adjustment free cut line indication...
- XPS technology uses an LED to project light down either side of the blade, creating a...
- Super-efficient dust collection system of DEWALT miter saw captures over 75% of dust...
- Dry metal cutting Chop saw; cuts metal with minimal heat or sparks and doesn't require...
- The EVOSAW380 metal chop saw utilizes a powerful 15 amp motor with high torque gearbox...
- Unlike abrasive chop saws this metal cutting chop saw is the cleanest, fastest and most...
- Stainless-steel miter detent plate of the 10-inch miter saw blade comes with 14 positive...
- The mitre saw has a precise miter system and machined base fence support
- Tall sliding fence of DEWALT miter saw supports 4-1/4-inch base vertically
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