Woodworkers come from all walks of life. But regardless of what your reasons are, choosing the correct power tools is essential. After all, this could be the difference between a good or bad experience.
A few weeks ago, we shared about compound saws and their uses. Today, we’ll be focusing on a specific variant, particularly the sliding compound miter saw. With this in tow, never worry about movement cutting back and forth, or side to side. These tools will give you the widest range of motion to cut wider and easier while allowing angular mobility.
In this article, we will be looking at the 10 top sliding compound miter saws on the market. So whether you’re cutting wood professionally or for pleasure, join us to find out which one suits your needs best.
Sliding Miter Saw Comparison Table
Sliding Miter saw | features | editor's rating | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | - Lightweight design is perfect for transporting it from one place to another - Eliminates up to 91% of dirt in your work area; saves you both time and energy | 4.3/5.0 | |
 | - An integrated blade system allows for precise cutting with a limited change of mistakes - Includes a three-year warranty package to protect your initial investment | 5.0/5.0 | |
 | - Comes with a laser to improve accuracy, even when doing very sensitive projects - A specialized rail system allow you to move the machine easily and flawlessly | 4.5/5.0 | |
 | - Powered by a reliable motor for cutting through even the toughest of materials - The 3-meter-long power cord presents users with a greater range of motion when working | 4.8/5.0 | |
 | - Weighs just 15-lbs for simpler mobilization from one area to another - Wide table extensions help support workpieces of varying lengths | 4.2/5.0 | |
 | - Equipped with a 15-AMP motor that produces up to 3,800-RPM of cutting speed - Sucks up almost 75% of dust for a cleaner area in less time; great for tidying up | 4.4/5.0 | |
 | - Comes with a smooth railing system that moves this tool easily from left to right - An LED light is useful for working in dimly-lit areas like basements, under sinks, and even sheds | 4.9/5.0 | |
 | - A cordless design means you have a full range of motion when moving - Includes a three-year warranty so your investment is fully protected from fortuitous events | 4.0/5.0 | |
 | - A nice combination of a strong motor and worm gears prepares it for the challenges of heavy-duty tasks - Weighs only 51-lbs for easy mobilization around different job sites; easy to carry around | 4.6/5.0 | |
 | - Extends a perfect balance of durability and mobility for projects on the move - The 40-tooth carbide blade is amazing for ripping through wood with great ease | 4.1/5.0 |
Sliding Miter Saw Reviews
1. Festool Festool KS 120 Compound Miter Saw
First on our list is the Festool KS 120 Sliding Compound Miter Saw, which is one of the most advanced options available today.
Also known as the Kapex, this saw has an ergonomic design. Weighing just 47-lbs, you can bring it anywhere you want. The Festool KS 120 Sliding Compound Miter Saw also features an industry-leading dust-collection system that eliminates up to 91% of dirt. Imagine not having to clean up after a long day’s work? You can immediately rest after clocking out.
Another unique feature is its ability to create quick and clean trenches for those complex designs. Using dual-layers, it ensures that cuts are aligned and accurate no matter the set up. The beams can be adjusted, too, to match the varying demands of each project.
Price-wise, the Festool KS 120 Sliding Compound Miter Saw is very expensive and not suited for beginners. However, users seeking a reliable option will love this feature-packed sliding compound miter saw. Professionals, in particular, will appreciate its uniqueness and world-class quality. You’ll soon realize its value from the moment you rev it up.
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2. DEWALT DWS779 Sliding Compound Miter Saw
If you’re looking for something that will get things done in a pronto, this offering from DEWALT is perfect. Armed with a powerful 15 AMP and 3-year limited warranty, this tool can surely outperform your expectations from every possible angle - literally.
The DWS779 Sliding Compound Miter Saw’s 12-inch-diameter can cut as deep as 6.75-inches in depth, 2x16 dimensional lumber at 90-degrees, and 2x14 at 45-degrees. That is an impressive reach for a price that won’t break the bank. It’s useful for creating a wide variety of cuts too.
Another key feature is the integrated blade positioning system that gives you an adjustment-less cut line. Since cutting through wood is sometimes tricky, this quality helps improve accuracy, and ultimately, the quality of your work. It isn’t at all complicated, which is good news for beginners.
All in all, we would recommend the DWS779 Sliding Compound Miter Saw for users planning DIY projects and repairs that need to be done quickly. Its ability to cut at varying depths - coupled with a clamping mechanism - is a function many consumers prioritize. Thus, this had made it one of the best sliding compound miter saws on the market.
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3. Makita LS1219L Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw with Laser
Makita is a staple in the power tools industry, whether it’s for drilling, planing, or cutting. For the last 62-years, this company has been providing quality tools both for industrial and home use. With an industry giant like this, making them your choice for a sliding compound miter saw will definitely give you a bang for your buck.
This LS1219L Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw with Laser has a unique 2-rail system to make your cutting as easy as sliding and gliding. It pairs perfectly with a linear ball-bearing function that is guaranteed to bring dead-on accurate cuts. Once you’re done working, its dual dust collection system will clean up and make sure your workstation is spotless. This, you won’t need to exert so much effort.
Surely a contender like the Makita LS1219L Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw with Laser will leave you with no regrets. Best of all, it’s price point is really competitive, making it ideal for both beginners and professional woodcutters.
The innovative direct-drive motor is quite potent, too, and is yet another reason to consider buying one. Few options are as powerful and potent as this for a wide range of tasks.
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4. TACKLIFE PMS03A Sliding Compound Miter Saw
Convenience is an understatement when it comes to the TACKLIFE PMS03A Sliding Compound Miter Saw. This beautiful piece of equipment comes with several features to make sure your cutting experience will be quick and comfortable.
It uses a bevel to swing to 45-degrees at both sides, while a soft-grip cutting handle allows for comfortable direction change. This helps relieve pressure from your hands. The TACKLIFE PMS03A has a built-in extended platform with two extension rods to enlarge your overall work area. Use the vice clamping system to improve maneuverability and maximize the use of both hands.
There’s also a laser available at a flick of a switch for those requiring professional-looking cuts. Again, like most models, this helps boost overall precision while working. At the beginning, this may seem intimidating; but as you use it more and more, things should feel more natural.
In any case, don’t be worried about making a mess. That’s because it comes with a sophisticated dust-collection system that removes up to 70% of composites. It can even be connected to a home vacuum for greater efficiency. Just be sure you choose a brand that’s compatible, though it shouldn’t be so difficult.
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5. Delta Shopmaster S26-263L Sliding Miter Saw
Are you seeking a miter saw that meets your needs, but also won’t break the bank, either? Enter the Delta Shopmaster S26-263L Sliding Miter Saw, a tool for users who travel all around.
Weighing an incredible 15-lbs, you can easily mobilize it from one jobsite to another. It also comes with a 12-inch crosscut capacity that’s powered by a 15-AMP motor. This ever-dependable setup cuts through thicker workpieces with relative ease.
To prevent any unfortunate incidents, the Delta Shopmaster S26-263L includes an electric brake. Once the switch is released, its blade will stop within a matter of seconds. Another safety precaution in place is a laser guide, which provides accurate cutting while being held down by a spindle lock. And in case you’ll need to rip through longer pieces, its work table has extensions on both sides.
Best of all, especially for buyers on a budget, this sliding miter saw costs less than $200. It’s amazing, really, that such a comprehensive power tool costs so little. This is why it’s such a recommended option for newbies and DIY enthusiasts. Needless to say, it offers a taste of professional cutting at a reasonable price.
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6. DEWALT DWS780 Sliding Compound Miter Saw
Dewalt began constructing radial arm saws way back in 1923. Since then, they have become a consistent fixture in the power tool market, and DWS780 Sliding Compound Miter Saw is a strong reason why. Despite its mid-level price, this unit makes up for it in sheer durability.
Widely considered as a heavy hitter, this sliding compound miter saw is equipped with a powerful 15-AMP motor. It produces up to 3,800-RPM of speed for different projects. This includes crown moldingwith different specifications.
Another attractive feature is its flexibility. The DEWALT DWS780 Sliding Compound Miter Saw can do bevel cuts from 0 up to 49-degrees. Not only that, but a revamped dust collection system cleans up as much as 75% of residue. It saves you time and effort after working for so long.
All in all, this device is perfect for getting through the heavy jobs, thanks to a nice balance of durability and precision. There’s no wonder why it’s one of the best sliding compound miter saws available now.
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7. Metabo HPT C10FSHCT Sliding Miter Saw
The German-based conglomerate’s crown jewel is the Metabo HPT C10FSHCT. And it’s no coincidence many customers consider it one of the best choices for sliding compound miter saws. This tool offers a solid combination of power and mobility, providing convenience and maneuverability on virtually any type of project.
Unlike alternatives, it employs a very simple and compact slide system. The saw moves along fixed rails to make sure precision straight line cuts are achieved. This feature also makes sure that the range of motion is not restricted when placed and fitted on a benchtop. Don’t worry, because there are visible indications on the miter that allows measurements to be easily read for quick switching to different angles.
Work surface stability is also provided with a large base, not to mention extension supports so that your materials won’t move around. There’s an LED light, too, for when working in dimly-lit areas. These features, albeit simple, have made the Metabo HPT C10FSHCT a definitive choice for top honors. Users can enjoy a sure-fire machine to make your cutting easy, reliable, and safe.
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8. CRAFTSMAN CMCS714M1 Sliding Miter Saw Kit
Coming in at 31-lbs, the CRAFTSMAN CMCS714M1 Sliding Miter Saw Kit is its company’s leading product, and for good reason, too. Being a cordless tool, you won’t have to worry about finding a power outlet when moving around. This system provides sufficient power and battery life to last several hours. As proof, it can trim lumber, hardwood, and even baseboard, making it a flexible tool to have in your shed.
The CRAFTSMAN CMCS714M1 Sliding Miter Saw Kit runs on a 3,800-RPM that’s very reliable. It stretches as far as 8 inches for 90-degree cuts and 5.5 inches for 45-degree cuts. The blade is made from carbon to ensure a high quality of cuts for various applications.
To top it all off, an LED light gets rid of shadows and illuminates the point of work. For those who have an active lifestyle and are always moving around, we hope this sliding compound miter saw will be a constant companion. After all, the portability and battery provide the mobility to work anywhere in the shop floor, particularly for larger pieces that need more space.
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9. SKILSAW SPT88-01 Sliding Miter Saw
The SKILSAW SPT88-01 Sliding Miter Saw is uniquely built with a worm drive gear for serious wood cutting. This quality alone is enough to solidify its place as one of the best options you can anywhere.
Aside from that is a 15-AMP dual-field motor that manages the internal temperature and prevents its entire system from overheating.
It also comes with a dual bevel that’s flexible from zero to 45-degrees. The SKILSAW SPT88-01 has multiple stops as well, to position it exactly at the right spot. There’s an LED light included, too, for better visibility. We’re glad the manufacturers have included this in their list of features.
Surprisingly, this miter saw weighs only 51-lbs, considering the amount of power it provides. Nevertheless, it’s amazing news for consumers since they won’t have trouble bringing it around on projects. Professionals, in particular, will have a portable machine on all their heavy-duty requirements.
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10. WEN MM1011 Compact Sliding Compound Miter Saw with Laser
We’re glad we saved a great selection for last. The WEN MM1011 Compact Sliding Compound Miter Saw with Laser is a budget-friendly option with amazing value. It gets the job done at any angle with a rotating blade that turns up to 4500-times every minute.
Then, once you’re in the right position, a 40-tooth carbide-tipped blade rips through workpieces like a hot knife through butter. And because it weighs just 38-lbs, users won’t have difficult fabricating crown molding. A once challenging task has been made simpler, thanks for this marvelous piece of machinery.
Another feature we love is its two additional table extensions. This way, you won’t have to worry about supporting larger workpieces. Simply pull out these aids for more table space. Of course, it has the typical laser, as well, for improved cutting accuracy. Both these features ensure that standards won’t ever slip, no matter what project.
Professionals and amateurs better take note - the WEN MM1011 Compact Sliding Compound Miter Saw with Laser is fast rising as one of the best options to buy. Without a doubt, it’s worth your money.
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Conclusion
In our midst, we have a wonderful selection on our best sliding compound miter saw review. Each one brings something unique. Yet ultimately, it’s not about what sounds best, but which model best fits our own needs. So before even beginning to canvass options, make sure you know the needs you have to prioritize. This way, half the problem will already be solved.
At the end of the day, greatest doesn’t necessarily mean fanciest. Rather, the best sliding compound miter saw can change our lives for the better.
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