It is said that a good tool provides half of success in any business. I am sure it concerns carpentry as well. How to choose the best table saw for beginners among a vast range of machines? Everyone purchases this device for some reason.
For me, the perfect model is the DEWALT DWE7491RS bought for home renovation. However, there are many other variants on the market. Let’s consider their significant characteristics and working process and try to choose the most suitable model for you.
Contents
- 1 10 Best Beginner Table Saws Reviewed
- 1.1 DEWALT: Best Table Saw for Beginners With Telescoping Fence System
- 1.2 SKIL TS6307-00: Best Beginner Table Saw With Easy Adjustment
- 1.3 SKIL SPT99-11: Best Type of Saw for Beginners With Worm Drive Power Train
- 1.4 BOSCH: Starter Table Saw With Increased Safety Control
- 1.5 Milwaukee: Good Beginner Table Saw With Battery
- 1.6 Metabo: Best Table Saws for Beginners With 0–45° Bevel Range
- 1.7 SKIL SPT99T-01: Best Starter Table Saw With High Productivity
- 1.8 Goplus: Best Entry Level Table Saw for a Budget Price
- 1.9 RIDGID: Best First Table Saw With SOFTStart Technology
- 1.10 Evolution: Best Starter Table Saw With Multi-Material Cutting
- 2 Buyer’s Guide on Beginner Table Saw
- 3 Safety
- 4 Cutting With a Table Saw: Conclusion
10 Best Beginner Table Saws Reviewed
- DEWALT DWE7491RS — My Top Pick
- SKIL TS6307-00 — Runner-Up
- SKIL SPT99-11 — Great Value
- BOSCH 4100XC
- Milwaukee 2736-21HD
- Metabo HPT C10RJS
- Skil SPT99T-01
- Goplus
- RIDGID
- Evolution RAGE5-S
Carpentry tools might help save on repairs and realize any ideas for home renovation. I have prepared the reviews and sorted out the 10 best table saws for beginners.
DEWALT: Best Table Saw for Beginners With Telescoping Fence System
Specification
- Brand: DEWALT
- Blade Material: High Speed Steel
- Surface Recommendation: Wood
- Speed: 4800 RPM
- Blade Length: 22 Inches
- Cutting Angle: 90 Degrees
The history of this USA-based brand dates back to 1924. It develops reliable solutions for construction, identifying their strengths and weaknesses on building sites. I tested this tool in my workshop and recommend it as the best beginner table saw. This 10” model is equipped with a 15 A motor and a 32-1/2″ rip capacity.
Do you need to cut 90° solid wood? It is a pretty effortless piece of work for this device. It has a convenient longitudinal guide that provides brisk and precise cutting. Safety and easiness might make it the right choice for beginners.
- An experienced brand with an extensive service and repair network in North America;
- The patented material supports narrow rip cuts;
- Rack & pinion telescoping fence system;
- On-board storage system.
- Newbies might have some difficulties with the setup.
SKIL TS6307-00: Best Beginner Table Saw With Easy Adjustment
Specification
- Brand: SKIL
- Blade Material: High Speed Steel
- Surface Recommendation: Wood
- Speed: 4600 RPM
- Blade Length: 10 Inches
- Cutting Angle: 90 Degrees
SKIL has provided power tools for almost a century. In 1937, the SKILSAW 77 circular saws were introduced, setting the industry standard for hand-held worm-drive cutting devices. Nowadays, the brand is concentrated on DIY consumers.
This portable table saw model is in the average price range and has attractive features. The pack and pinion fence rails guarantee quick, gradual, and accurate cutting. You can cut up to 4×4 at 90°. This model perfectly meets my needs for a quality and convenient tool.
- Respected brand innovator;
- Ease of adjustment;
- Parallel alignment and micro-adjustment of the blade.
- The plastic part around the blade is flexible and requires extra care during operation.
SKIL SPT99-11: Best Type of Saw for Beginners With Worm Drive Power Train
Specification
- Brand: SKIL
- Blade Material: High Speed Steel
- Surface Recommendation: Wood
- Speed: 4600 RPM
- Blade Length: 10 Inches
- Cutting Angle: 90 Degrees
This model might be on your wish list if you need a strong table saw for beginners. Its price is higher than other models in this category; however, you will probably appreciate its benefits. I tested this latest addition to SKIL’s line in my workshop and was excited about it.
The 10” heavy-duty worm drive tool handled tough materials like butter with a 3 5/8” depth of cut and 30-1/2” rip capacity. I could cut continuously thanks to the 15-A motor with a cooling function. For me, working with such a tool was an absolute pleasure.
- Legendary worm drive power train;
- Ability to cut large pieces of wood without assistants thanks to outfeed and left support;
- SKIL’s patented Dual-Field™ motor with cooling option;
- Firm stand;
- Mobility thanks to 16” wheels.
- High price.
BOSCH: Starter Table Saw With Increased Safety Control
Specification
- Brand: BOSCH
- Blade Material: High Speed Steel
- Surface Recommendation: Wood
- Speed: 3650 RPM
- Blade Length: 10 Inches
- Cutting Angle: 90 Degrees
This German company hardly needs to be introduced. The BOSCH manufacturer covers several fields, from mechanical engineering to household appliances.
Since 1886, its technologies have been improving various areas of our lives. My friend was lucky to use this entry-level table saw model, which greatly simplified his routine in the workshop.
Thanks to the 15 A motor with a maximum power of 4.0 HP and 3650 RPM, the tool saw and crosscut thin and coarse materials. The brand has paid extra attention to safety. This feature is precious for an entry instrument. The device has systems that guarantee a soft start, protect from the restart, and prevent return.
- Soft-start circuitry;
- Constant response circuitry;
- Restart protection;
- Portability due to gravity-rise wheeled stand;
- Smart guard system.
- Delivered entirely disassembled.
Milwaukee: Good Beginner Table Saw With Battery
Specification
- Brand: Milwaukee
- Blade Material: High Speed Steel
- Surface Recommendation: Wood
- Speed: 300 RPM
- Blade Length: 10 Inches
- Cutting Angle: 90 Degrees
My list includes another pioneer in electric instruments, which has maintained a reputation for innovation since 1924. This manufacturer released the first lightweight one-handed drill with a 1/4” cartridge, known as the “Hole-Shooter“. Among its latest innovations are cordless tools with interchangeable batteries.
The Milwaukee M18 Fuel™ 8-1/4″ applies to all the brand’s modern developments, which is why my uncle likes it. He always says that with this tool, his work time goes fruitfully. The model generates 24-1/2” of cutting power. It has POWERSTATE™ brushless motors, REDLINK PLUS™ control electronics, and REDLITHIUM-ION™ batteries.
Also, he notes the user-friendly and safety of the device. Due to the integrated ONE-KEY™ application, you can set the needed mode of operation or stop work with one step.
- The battery lasts a long time;
- Portability;
- Block operation with the ONE‑KEY™ function.
- Many plastic shields don’t look sturdy.
Metabo: Best Table Saws for Beginners With 0–45° Bevel Range
Specification
- Brand: Metabo HPT
- Blade Material: High Speed Steel
- Surface Recommendation: Wood
- Speed: 4500 RPM
- Blade Length: 10 Inches
- Cutting Angle: 90 Degrees
Metabo will celebrate its centenary next year. This German company offers network and pneumatic tools and also consistently implements the concept of a building site without cables. One of its priorities is the development of battery technologies with maximum power opportunities.
The C10RJS 10” model has a 15 A 4500 RPM motor. It is capable of sawing, including crosscutting, plain wood, hardwood, plywood, and composite wood materials. Cutting 3-1/8″ at an angle of 90° and 2-1/4″ at 45° are other advantages of this tool. This is a trusted instrument that is comfortable for mastering the art of carpentry.
- Telescoping table extension;
- Oversized power switch with emergency off safety cover;
- Stable and durable fold and roll stand.
- The socket for the measuring stop is not too tight;
- Plastic parts, including handles.
SKIL SPT99T-01: Best Starter Table Saw With High Productivity
Specification
- Brand: SKIL
- Blade Material: High Speed Steel
- Surface Recommendation: Wood
- Speed: 5300 RPM
- Blade Length: 8 Inches
- Cutting Angle: 90 Degrees
This is an excellent device developed by SKIL with legendary worm drive gearing. Wait for maximum torque! The brand has presented a new model that might be called a portable power plant. I can say that this tool quickly boosts my productivity. It boasts a 2-5/8″ depth of cut and 25″ burst power to rip sheet materials.
My experience proves this saw is ready to work endlessly on the hardest projects thanks to the double engine with a cooling option. Besides, I observed high precision: The rack and pinion system ensures fast and smooth guide adjustment for accurate cutting. Despite the portability, this good beginner table saw is quite strong because it is made of metal.
- High productivity;
- Patented Dual-Field™ motor with cooling option;
- Portability.
- The stand is sold separately.
Goplus: Best Entry Level Table Saw for a Budget Price
Specification
- Brand: Goplus
- Blade Material: High Speed Steel
- Surface Recommendation: Wood
- Speed: 5000 RPM
- Blade Length: 10 Inches
- Cutting Angle: 90 Degrees
Goplus is a young company from the USA, founded in 2013. The brand strives to meet average daily needs and make our lives convenient. It actively encourages a do-it-yourself approach by providing various tools to improve work efficiency. The model is equipped with a powerful 15 A motor, providing a cutting performance of 5000 RPM.
An aluminum table with a 26″ capacity might quickly and smoothly split large wood materials. The sliding bevel angle is adjustable from -45° to 45° for cross-cutting; the parallel guide has a self-leveling ability. A large hand wheel allows you to control the lift of the slotting blade, ripping, or cutting. The sturdy stand effectively prevents the table from overturning during work.
All of these characteristics were tested in practice by my friends, both professional mechanics and DIY enthusiasts. Many of them confirm that the Goplus table saw is a great example of how a good tool might help get a job perfectly done.
- Powerful cutting performance;
- Ergonomics;
- Low price compared to other models in this category;
- It can be used without a stand.
- The blade could be of better quality;
- Calibration requires additional time.
RIDGID: Best First Table Saw With SOFTStart Technology
Specification
- Brand: RIDGID
- Blade Material: High Speed Steel
- Surface Recommendation: Wood
- Speed: 4500 RPM
- Blade Length: 10 Inches
- Cutting Angle: 90 Degrees
RIDGID became famous in 1923 when it invented the modern pipe wrench. Since then, the company has prioritized creating solid and reliable tools that will withstand cold and heat and be passed down from generation to generation. It perfectly succeeds in it. Millions of devices from this American brand are used daily in factories, construction sites, and in-home workshops.
RIDGID 10” with a folding stand was a good choice for a first table saw for my brother. The tool is equipped with SOFTStart technology, and he appreciated that since he was a bit afraid to embark on work. Thanks to it, the 15-A motor gradually increases the speed of the blade and starts smoothly.
The saw has a 4-second blade brake and 27” cutting capacity. My brother no longer has fear, he quickly masters a tape measure, making a fast, accurate setup, and rips large materials.
- Experienced brand;
- SOFTStart technology;
- Built-in 2-1/2” dust collection port.
- Not suitable for those looking for models with batteries.
Evolution: Best Starter Table Saw With Multi-Material Cutting
Specification
- Brand: Evolution Power Tools LLC
- Blade Material: High Speed Steel
- Surface Recommendation: Wood
- Speed: 4500 RPM
- Blade Length: 10 Inches
- Cutting Angle: 90 Degrees
For more than 20 years of work in the market of industrial power tools, the British company Evolution has gained a well-deserved reputation.
The brand specializes in dry steel cutting technology and pioneered advanced TCT saws that cut steel. Using this know-how, the company has implemented this technology into a series of multi-functional saws.
My neighbor George likes this saw for its versatility, and I have rented it from him more than once for some intricate cuts. The model has an optimized gearbox and a 15A blade system, which makes it possible to cut steel, aluminum, wood, and plastic. The 28T Japanese TCT saw blade easily handles all these materials.
In addition, the tool is valuable for creating a miter cut from -60˚ to +60˚ by simply adjusting the material pusher. Evolution saws cut with an accuracy of 0.5˚, ensuring a fast and precise cut.
- 28T Japanese TCT saw blade;
- 0°–45° bevel capability;
- Sliding table;
- Built-in wheels make it easy to transport.
- The design could be more stable and more robust.
Buyer’s Guide on Beginner Table Saw
Before investing in a power tool, you should consider everything in detail. Before choosing the table saw for a beginner, let’s look at the main points.
How it works
A table saw is a high-powered device designed for rectilinear cutting of materials: wood, plastic, laminate, chipboard, plywood, metal, etc. The cutting part of this tool is a saw blade with teeth. The table has a side stop and a carriage, allowing you to set different angles during sawing. The tool enables you to speed up processing a large volume of workpieces and significantly increases work efficiency.
Ease of use
When choosing the best table saw for beginners, perhaps the most critical criterion is the convenience of the tool during operation. What you should pay attention to:
Size
It is unlikely that a beginner will immediately go to a large construction site for a large stationary machine with many functions. If you want to use the tool for small home jobs, a table saw with a small table might be enough for you. It is lighter, and you can comfortably work with small blanks.
Portability
If you plan to actively use it only in your workshop, you might consider powerful heavy models. If you need to transport the instrument often, you might want to opt for portable first table saw models with folding legs or stands with wheels.
Power source
Any model is suitable for work in a workshop equipped with appropriate sockets. However, if you plan to work outside, you should focus on options with batteries. The cordless tool is independent of the power source, usually as powerful as the wired model or more. In addition, it is more ergonomic, with no electric cables and pneumatic hoses.
Power
Engine power is an essential characteristic since it determines the model’s performance. The higher it is, the more load the tool can withstand. On the other hand, a powerful motor increases the weight and price of the device. First, you should decide for which purposes you plan to use it.
There are three categories:
- Households (up to 800 W) are used at home and are not designed for intensive loads;
- Semi-professional (from 800 to 1200 W) that can handle jobs of increased complexity;
- Professionals (over 1200 W) are designed to work in the harshest conditions. Such tools have a large reserve of power and extended functionality.
Table saws for beginners usually are small-sized, lightweight, and aimed at work in a small workshop or on a building site. The power rarely exceeds 1500 W.
In addition, it is worth paying attention to the speed indicator RPM affecting the cut’s quality and the seams’ accuracy. 4500 RPM is considered the best average.
Safety
Working with table saws has a relatively high risk of injury, so safety precautions should be followed when working with them:
- Workplace for work
Remove all unnecessary items from the table and provide an accessible approach to the table. It is worth monitoring the floor condition in the work area so as not to slip. - Working clothes
Your clothes must be tucked in, and long hair should be hidden under a headdress. Before work, you need to wear protective glasses and a respirator. It is recommended to use protective headphones. - Tool
Before starting a saw, it is necessary to check the serviceability of the structural elements. Ensure the blade is free of defects and securely fastened, the wedge is correctly installed, and the guard is functional. After that, I advise running the saw for 10 s in idle mode to ensure it is working.
FAQ About First Table Saw
Choosing the first table saw is a responsible decision that should be approached carefully. Here are answers to some questions you might have.
What is the best table saw for a beginner?
If you are new to carpentry, you should start with small models with basic functionality. However, you might consider more powerful ones with additional options for convenient and efficient work.
Is a table saw necessary for a beginner?
If you want to master the art of carpentry, you are free to use this tool for your tasks. The main thing is to observe safety techniques.
Which saw is best for a beginner woodworker?
If you need quick results and a precise cut, a table saw might be a better choice. It allows you to adjust the height, depth, and bevels, as well as cut at an angle of up to 45°.
Cutting With a Table Saw: Conclusion
Cutting is routine for those who decide to master carpentry. If you do it with a hand tool, you will spend a lot of time and effort. The best solution might be to purchase a table saw for beginners. Investing in DEWALT DWE7491RS was such a decision for me. It is always a good idea to compare the options available before buying one.
Best beginner table saw: Comparison table
| Best beginner table saw | Warranty | Rip capacity | Speed, RPM |
|---|---|---|---|
| DEWALT DWE7491RS | 3 years limited | 32-1/2" | 4800 |
| SKIL TS6307-00 | 3 years limited | 25-1/2'' | 4600 |
| SKIL SPT99-11 | 1 year limited | 30-1/2'' | 5000 |
| BOSCH 4100XC-10 | 1 year limited | 30'' | 3650 |
| Milwaukee 2736-21HD | 5 years | 24-1/2'' | 6300 |
| Metabo HPT C10RJS | 2 years | 35'' | 4500 |
| Skil SPT99T-01 | 1 year limited | 25'' | 5300 |
| Goplus | 3 months | 26" | 5000 |
| RIDGID | 1 year limited for reconditioned tools; Lifetime Service Agreement | 27'' | 5000 |
| Evolution RAGE5-S | 3 year limited | 25-1/2'' | 2500 |
Have you ever used power tools? For what purpose would you like to buy your first table saw?
“A good tool stays with you for many years and choosing carefully ensures the job is done right, your work is neat, and the tool is always a pleasure to use”
