Professional woodworkers have always prioritized power and performance with their choice of power tools. This isn’t unusual since a large part of their work does require meticulous detailing and slicing through thick pieces of wood. As such, a sturdy exterior, a long-lasting motor, and several sharp blades should all come in handy when taking on these tasks.
If these are the qualities you seek, then it would be wise to consider buying a hybrid table saw.
Hybrids aren’t like your typical prototypes. They’re actually a fusion of a conventional contractor saw and cabinet maker, to create one super machine. Moreover, its internal layout is also quite different. Manufacturers have added more gears and knife-edges in place to cut through tougher materials. As a result, this tool is therefore much larger than its more portable counterparts.
In this week’s list, we’d like to discuss what the best hybrid table saws for 2019 are. While every product has a unique set of features, we hope that highlighting each one will help you better decide which to purchase. We’ve even added some helpful tips to make this process much simpler. Read on to learn more.
Hybrid table saw | features | editor's rating | |
---|---|---|---|
- Its body is well-built, compact, and very durable
- A large power button has been installed for convenient shutting down in case of emergency | 4.8/5.0 | ||
- A 2-horsepower motor allows easy cutting of thick pieces of wood - Its rip capacity can be extended to create a more spacious work area | 4.0/5.0 | ||
- The functional design helps keeps everything stable when being used - Trunnions and other components can be adjusted for improved precision | 3.0/5.0 |
Hybrid Table Saw Reviews
When starting a woodworking project, power and durability are both key ingredients. It’s only natural to want a machine that’s built to last. The Grizzly Industrial G0771Z 10-Inch Hybrid Table Saw is designed to offer just that. This state-of-the-art gizmo features all the important characteristic of a contractor table saw – such as the ability to cut through thick materials – and like most hybrid table saws, is built using high quality cast iron for a smooth tabletop finish.
Come to think of it, it’s really no wonder that the Grizzly Industrial G0771Z is a frontrunner for best hybrid table saw in town. Not only do you get a huge rip capacity with this machine at 31 inches to the right and 16 3/4 inches to the left, but also a powerful 2-horsepower motor. This gives you the flexibility to use it on all sorts of different projects, even those high-impact ones.
This model also puts safety as a priority. The tool is equipped with a clear blade guard and riving knife to prevent kickbacks. What’s more impressive is it has a left-tilt blade and a large power-switch that turns the machine off instantaneously, should you need to in case of emergency.
Nevertheless, the crowning jewel on this hybrid table saw is the precision you receive with it. Its T-shaped fence is easy to adjust and incredibly comfortable to use, leading to improved precision with every strike. Accuracy is indeed vital with this line of work, so checking this off the list is essential for many users out there.
Nevertheless, the Grizzly Industrial G0771Z 10-Inch Hybrid Table Saw does not come without any limitations. Several reports have stated that its blade quality is questionable. Quite a number of users have already resorted to replacing the knife-edges themselves with other brands. This may seem fundamental, especially for such an important part of the saw, but this is really a small price to pay for all the other benefits. After all, the solution is within reach and would only take a small chunk of your time.
Ultimately, the price on this machine is the real difference, which is enough to persuade most hobbyists or neophytes into trying it out. If you’re seeking an easy to use option with strong qualities, then you must seriously take a chance on this.
Pros
Cons
The Shop Fox W1837 Open-Stand Hybrid Table Saw is a portable contractor and cabinet saw rolled into one. It comes with a 2-horsepower motor to provide high-performance cutting, enough to slice through hardwood with minimal effort. This quality is something a lot of professionals will greatly appreciate.
To support the additional force, the manufacturers have fortified it with several safety features. A clear blade guard and an interchangeable riving knife both help prevent accidents from happening, while the table – as with most hybrid table saws – is made from cast iron for greater durability. There’s even a 4-inch dust port to keep your area clear of dust and debris.
Another nice thing about the Shop Fox W1837 Hybrid Table Saw is its compactness, which doesn’t consume a lot of workshop space. But in case there’s a need for relocation, wheels located near the base make it more manageable. Still, it doesn’t allow its small size to be a weakness.
The table’s rip capacity can be extended as much as 30 inches to the right and 15 inches to the left. You’ll no longer have to worry about dealing with large pieces of wood, making this piece of equipment worth your investment.
However, this hybrid table saw is a bit on the heavy side compared to other table saws. As such, transporting this machine may end up being costly, so it’s not the best option for jobs that require a lot of moving around. Though if you envision the Shop Fox W1837 being fixed in one place, then you should seriously consider this option.
Pros
Cons
When looking for the best hybrid table saw around, one must consider the MTSF236110175-0130 F2 model from Laguna Tools as it is among the top-ranked options in the world. Laguna Tools is a respected brand in the industry known for its high-performance tools. It’s great for light-duty jobs as well as both advanced and complex woodworking projects. At first glance, you will immediately notice its aesthetically pleasing design, nicely polished look, and high-quality finish, which should appeal to many consumers.
What sets this power tool apart from its peers, though, is how the trunnions are detached from the tabletop. These are conveniently mounted on the uppermost portion to keep the table as flat as possible. This also keeps the device stable and makes it much easier to operate. Moreover, the table is constructed using iron, with an ability to extend up to two extensions of 12 inches x 27 inches, giving you more room to work.
Aside from an improved steadiness, precision is another key characteristic of this model. Since its trunnions can be adjusted and other components aligned, your ability to produce more precise cuts is enhanced greatly, making it perfect for complex projects.
Finally, the MTSF236110175-0130 F2 comes with built-in wheels, though these don’t seem to be fully equipped to support such a heavy piece of equipment. Despite being slightly lighter, its overall design and shape might be still considered a deterrent for mobilizing this machine. Even some of its other parts are reportedly faulty and may be a challenge to assemble. Potential users might want to consider these before making a decision.
All in all, the LAGUNA TOOLS MTSF236110175-0130 F2 Table Saw, when used in the right conditions, is still an effective tool to utilize. Once you look past its pint-sized flaws, you’ll soon realize the value it brings.
Pros
Cons
Things to Consider When Buying a Hybrid Table Saw
Since hybrid table saws offer such a wide range of functions, identifying your priorities is a step in the right direction. Knowing these factors won’t just simplify this search, but also help you choose the one that best answers your needs.
1. Professional or Personal Use?
The primary use of your hybrid table saw will greatly dictate what model you buy. Professional tasks typically require more power and can take quite a toll on the machine. Personal projects, on the other hand, would only entail the basic features and may not even be used on a regular basis. At the same time, experts will have more money to spend since it directly impacts their livelihood. Many would often treat these tools as investments, rather than implements they merely take out when the need arises.
Just remember that the best hybrid table saws won’t come cheap. Invest only on the top-tier if there’s really a need in your life. Otherwise, the mid-tier options should do just fine, since they provide all the basic functions anyway.
2. Where To Put It?
The size and space of your workshop is another consideration to make. Every hybrid table saw varies in bulk, shape and portability – and the last thing you want to is pay for a product, only to realize that there’s no way to fit it.
So before selecting a model, try to take down the measurements first. Compare the area of your workstation with the table saw’s length. Take into consideration also whether you’ll have enough room to work freely without bumping into other items. Your body’s free range of movement, after all, is equally important to producing quality output.
Once you’re happy with its descriptions – and you’re positive it fits – then that would be the only time to hand over your credit card. Otherwise, head back to the drawing board and try again.
3. Safety Features
Utilizing these power tools is not for the faint of heart. Table saws are extremely dangerous machines with the ability to cause serious injuries when not used properly. Therefore, choosing an option with good preventive features isn’t just a requirement, but a real necessity.
Several brands have introduced their own patented safety precautions already. A clear blade guard and an accessible off-switch are the clear non-negotiables and should be atop your shopping list. Even a defense system to manage the risk of overheating is a good attribute to have. All these may seem redundant, but trust me – when anything untoward happens, you’ll be glad to have them as an insurance policy.
Remember, your safety must be kept sacred above anything else. It’s okay to sacrifice strength or transportability for something as important as this.
4. Budget
Similar to our first point, don’t ever bit off more than you can chew. Sure, hybrid table saw are an amazing piece of equipment to own, but only if you need or can manage to afford them.
So before even canvassing an option, decide first on how much you are willing to spend. Assign a value that’s both conservative and realistic to your requirements. Once you’ve come up with a value, begin searching for options within that range. Narrow down the choices to three or five. From there, you’ll be able to simplify the process and select the best solution from the lot.
In the end, you may not bring home all the traits you’ve wished for, and that’s okay. Buying is all about weighing priorities, identifying needs, and also working within a limit. The money you spend is just another indicator, though at least it helps shorten this once mind-boggling decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
For those who are still interested to learn about hybrid table saws, here’s a compilation of the most frequently asked question, by you, on the Internet.
1. What is the difference between a normal table saw and a hybrid?
Essentially, both tools look, work, and even function the same. However, the most glaring difference between the two is that the hybrids are much larger and more powerful. This two-in-one product is most often used for construction sites, woodworking shops, and other similar venues. Additionally, the blades have been fortified to cut through thick wood, while its body is prepared to take on more pressure.
2. What is a good strength of motor to target?
Well, answering this question will greatly depend on your need. But on an estimate, a 2-horsepower option would be a good choice. It’s already strong enough to take on basic projects, while also controlling your electricity usage rate at home. Of course, you can always customize this aspect, though a 2-horsepower model is already adequate.
3. How do you repair a hybrid table saw?
The maintenance of a particular product is always tricky because it differs for each brand. Thus, when you notice anything wrong with your instrument, call the manufacturer’s hotline as soon as possible. Touch base with them to learn all the succeeding steps.
Another good practice to ensure your hybrid table saw’s smooth operation is to take it out for regular checkups. Take it to your local service center to inspect its parts and see if anything needs replacement. When you notice a problem even before it happens, it helps you conserve a lot of resources in the process.
Finally, be aware also of your item’s warranty service. Knowing this will give a better direction of where to go and what processes to follow.
4. What are the top brands for hybrid table saws?
Yes, there may be a lot of options on the market, but a few select brands have slowly separated themselves from the competition. This list includes Grizzly, Powermatic, Shop Fox, and Woodtek. If quality and design are what you seek, then try out these products today.
Conclusion
Hybrid table saws may be unfamiliar to some, but we hope that through this comprehensive hybrid table saw reviews, we were able to better introduce their strengths, functions, and uses. These power tools truly bring a lot to the table – literally and figuratively – which is why we hope every person interested in woodworks or handicrafts considers investing in something like this.
Once you do realize its benefits to your life, try associating each of their main features with your needs. This should help hasten your decision, while also helping you understand the power that each one brings.
At the end of it all, the best hybrid table saw isn’t doesn’t necessarily have all the complete qualities, but rather an option that best fits your needs. If it gives value to your own life, then it would have already simplified your life – which is what these tools are really meant to do.
Leave a Reply