Best Table Saw For Beginners: How Can You Choose The Right One?
If you’re looking for the best table saw for beginners, then you’ve come to the right place. In this article, you’ll find reviews of some of the best models on the market, in addition to tips to help you choose a good model to add to your workshop.
More...
Quick Comparison: Best Table Saw For Beginners
Best Beginner Table Saw Reviews & Buying Guide
Choosing the right tool to add to your woodworking gear is a bit challenging, especially if you’re a beginner. Every woodworking enthusiast understands the importance of a good table saw.
This table saw is made up of a saw blade driven by a motor to cut through wood effortlessly. But how can you choose the right one that suits your needs?
Using and choosing tools requires a little bit of research. This is why you should make sure that you’ve chosen the right machine to guarantee your safety as well as the high-quality of the outcome. Here are our top picks.
1. Bosch 10" Worksite Table Saw 4100-09
Description
Although this model is expensive, it’s a good investment because it’s built to last. The 15A saw delivers 3,650 RPM for cutting and ripping different types of wood. It features a large cast aluminum top that’s very durable and a 25-inch ripping capacity for all your job site needs.
It weighs 60 pounds, so it’s not that difficult to move around.
This tool to first-timers can be easily set up and taken down. It features an impressive gravity-rise wheeled stand that allows you to move it around when needed. You can also adjust the height for the most comfortable position.
The smart guard system prevents kickbacks from protecting you while working with various materials. At the same time, it doesn’t obstruct the view to the element you’re cutting. However, there’s no filter covering the cooling fan, which means that dust might find its way to the motor. Make sure to clean it regularly to maintain its condition.
Top Features
- Easy to set up
- Adjustable table
- Ability to work on bigger pieces of wood
- Smart guard system
Pros
Cons
Video: Bosch 4100-09 10" Worksite Table Saw
2. Makita 2705 10" Contractor Table Saw
Description
This is another expensive model that beginners love because it’s very well-made and delivers 4,800 RPM using a 15 amp motor. With no tools, you’ll be able to install it and use the blade to cut through different pieces of wood, which is a big plus for beginners.
Setting up the cutting space is easy thanks to the adjustable side guards that allow for accurate measurement from the blade to the rip fence. The guard design will enable you to see the blade as it gets in contact with the material, and this is something that newbies appreciate.
It comes with a scale for fine adjustments to guarantee the results every time you use it.
This table saw is heavier than other models on the market, so if you’re looking for portable design, this might not be the right one for you because it weighs 62 pounds.
Moreover, the instructions in the manual are quite confusing, and the text is too small, so you’ll struggle a little until you’re able to use it properly.
Top Features
- Well-made tool-less setup
- Adjustable side guards
- Fine adjustments
Pros
Cons
Makita 2704 Table Saw Video Review
3. DEWALT 10-Inch Portable Table Saw with Stand (DWE7480XA)
Description
Weighing 48 pounds, this unit is easy to use and handle, even if you’re a beginner. It features a strong 15A motor that delivers 4.800 RPM and powers the blade to cut through hardwood effortlessly. The show bevels up to 45 degrees for bevel cuts.
The steel cage protects the components of the machine in case it drops down, guaranteeing that your tool will last for long. It features a fence system that allows you to work on bigger sheets of material, thanks to the 610 mm of rip capacity.
Users are able to cut wet or frozen wood easily thanks to the overload protection. The machine also has an onboard storage unit that allows for fast access to the tools you need while working, in addition to a reliable blade guard. I recommend it to users who want to use an affordable model.
It locks in place thanks to the table stand, and you can easily make quick and effortless adjustments. If you’ve never used a table saw before, you might be slightly overwhelmed by the number of features offered by this model. There’s a dust port, but most of the dust collects under the unit.
Top Features
- Portable design with lots of features
- Steel cage to protect the components
- Stand included
Pros
Cons
Video: DEWALT Table Saws - Hear it from the Pros
4. SKILSAW SPT70WT-01 10" Portable Worm Drive Table Saw
Description
This brass-geared table saw features a 15 amp dual field motor for increased cutting speed and improved motor life with an impressive 5300 RPM. This speed doesn’t decrease no matter how you use this table saw, so it’s a good value for money.
The 25-inch rip capacity allows you to cut various sheets of carpentry materials for all your woodworking projects. The unit features on-tool storage to keep your tools for fast and easy access. It’s a portable aluminum table saw that weighs 49 pounds so you can quickly move it around when needed.
It’s specially designed for ripping materials, and the angle can be leveled up to 46 degrees. You can easily connect the table saw to a vacuum for cleaning the dust easily when you’re done. It’s very sturdy and doesn’t vibrate while working which makes it an excellent choice for beginners.
You’ll have to adjust the table saw several times once you get it out of the box. This is a bit challenging, especially for beginners who need a hassle-free tool. However, it comes with an informative manual so you won’t struggle that much. Moreover, the fence quality isn’t that impressive.
Top Feature
- Lightweight and portable model
- Accommodates various materials
- Very sturdy
Pros
Cons
Video: Skilsaw 10-in. Portable Worm Drive Table Saw
5. WEN 3720 15A Jobsite 10" Table Saw with Rolling Stand
Description
Thanks to the 26-inch ripping capacity, you’ll be able to cut through any material you can think of. I recommend the table saw to beginners because the workspace can be extended on both sides for maximum versatility. It also features a dust port that facilitates cleaning when you’re done.
The 15 amp motor is designed to deliver 4400 RPMs so it can easily cut the hardest pieces of wood with no problem. Beginners will quickly adjust the height and angle of cutting for the best cutting experience. Moreover, you can swap the blade with another head that caters to your woodworking needs.
There’s an onboard storage unit that you can use to store various tools that you’ll need while working. However, you should be aware of the weight of this unit. It weighs 79 pounds, so it’s not the most portable option to consider. Reading the manual is a bit problematic, especially for beginners.
Top Feature
- Extendable workspace
- Portable design
- Strong motor
Pros
Cons
Video: WEN 3720 10 inch Table Saw Review
How To Choose The Best Table Saw for Beginners?
Knowing how to choose the best beginner table saw will help you save a lot of time and money. There are lots of models on the market, and picking the right one will help you improve your woodworking game. Here are some factors to consider before buying a table saw.
Weight
The weight of the model affects how easy or difficult it will be to carry around. A lightweight model is portable and easy to move around, but some more massive models come with a table that allows you to change the position of the unit. Heavier models are more difficult to carry but are well built so your machine will last for long.
Motor
How strong the motor is will affect the thickness and type of materials you can cut through. The RPM will determine the power delivered to the blade.
The higher the RPM, the stronger the machine will be. It can easily cut through various types of wood.
Easy Cleaning
After you’re done, you want to make sure that the machine is easy to clean. A dust port can be easily connected to a vacuum cleaner so you can get rid of all the dust after cutting wood. However, some models tend to collect up the saw so it might harm the motor in the long run. Wipe the machine after each use before storage.
Additional Features
Several additional features like an on-tool storage unit will help you save various tools for all projects. This unit will provide secure and fast access, and also guarantee that all your tools will be kept in the same place.
With some models, you can also swap the blade to attach a new head. This means that you can execute different projects easily.
How to Use a Table Saw Safely
Safety should be your first concern when you’re using a table saw. Here are some tips to guarantee your safety while working on a woodworking project.
Safety tools should always be worn when you’re using a table saw. Make sure that you’re wearing safety glasses, goggles, or a face shield. Gloves should be avoided because they might get trapped in the tool. If the type of wood you’re using produces lots of dust, make sure to wear a dust mask.
Wearing the right clothes is extremely important. Long sleeves, ties, and jewelry should be avoided. These can get caught in the machine and cause serious injury.
When you’re cutting thin sheets, make sure that you’re using a push stick.
Stand away from the direction of the dust flying from the blade. Stand in a position that is not parallel to the blade direction.
Adjusting the height can actually save your life. The blade shouldn’t be placed too high above the material you’re cutting. The tool might accidentally slip and cut you severely.
Pay attention to the work you’re doing, and don’t watch TV or engage in a conversation. You should be focused on the dangerous machine you’re using.
When you’re using the machine, don’t leave the blade until the engine has completely stopped.
Avoid reaching out behind the machine until you make sure that the blade isn’t running.
If you wish to change the blade or adjust the unit, disconnect the power. You should never do any adjustments or maintenance work while the machine is connected to a power source.
After adjusting the machine, make sure that the blade is free to move before attempting to turn it on.
FAQs
What kind of extension cord can I use with a circular saw?
The extension must be suitable for managing the amperage required by the table saw. An incorrect extension, with too thin wire, is subject to heating and could catch fire. To choose the appropriate extension cord, it is advisable to consult the manual supplied by the saw manufacturer.
Do I need a stand for the table saw?
The circular saw can work on any work surface as long as it is stable. Do not forget that it is necessary to have a square opening under the tool to allow the expulsion of the sawdust while cutting and avoid accumulations that could cause engine damage and potential fires.
Does the engine of the bench saw need lubrication?
No, the electric motor of the circular saw does not require lubrication.
Instead, to lubricate the moving parts of the table, it is necessary to use specific dry lubricants that do not attract and hold the sawdust.
Conclusion & Best Offer
So what is the best table saw for beginners? We chose the Makita 2705 10-Inch Contractor Table Saw because it’s a high-quality model designed for rugged use.
Without any tools, you’ll be able to adjust it to cut through different types of wood.
You can easily adjust the side guards so you can cut through different materials. It’s also a lightweight model so you can easily move it around.
The Alternative
However, if this model is out of your price range, you can take a look at the DEWALT 10-Inch Table Saw, 16-Inch Rip Capacity. This reliable model is more affordable and features overload protection so it can easily cut through wet and frozen wood.
DEWALT 10" Portable Table Saw with Stand (DWE7480XA)
As a beginner, your skills will significantly improve if you’re using the right tool. Make sure that you take things slow until you’re able to use the table saw safely.