The 14 Best Miter Saws 2020 (Compound, Sliding) – Reviews

UPDATED: Jan 03, 2020.

The best miter saws are must-have items in your workshop. As a woodworker, you often produce different products in a variety of styles which involves cutting at different angles.

The right miter saws allow you to do that and more. Sadly, choosing miter saws can be a tall order, but this is where we come in handy.

We have reviewed the top 14 miter saws for 2020 to help you have an easier time when choosing one.

Let’s get straight to the review:

At a Glance: The 14 Best Miter Saws Discussed in Our Roundup:

• DEWALT DWS779 Sliding Compound Miter Saw (Top Pick)
• DEWALT DW715 Single-Bevel Compound Miter Saw (Top Rated)
• DEWALT DW716XPS Compound Miter Saw (Editor Choice)
• Hitachi C10FCG Single Bevel Compound Miter Saw
• Hitachi C10FSHPS Sliding Dual Compound Miter Saw
• Evolution R255SMS TCT Multi-Material Sliding Miter Saw
• Genesis GMSDR1015LC Sliding Compound Miter Saw
• Delta S26-263L Shopmaster Slide Miter Saw
• Makita LS1018 Dual Slide Compound Miter Saw
• Metabo HPT C10FCG Compound Miter Saw
• Bosch GCM12SD Dual-Bevel Sliding Glide Miter Saw
• DOIT Dual Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw
• Ryobi ZRTS1143L Miter Saw
• Craftsman 21237 Sliding Compound Miter Saw

Top 14 Miter Saws for 2020 – The Top Models

Here is a comprehensive review of the top 14 miter saws on the market today.

DEWALT DWS779 Sliding Compound Miter Saw

The DEWALT DWS779 is a miter saw for both carpenters and professional woodworkers, and even beginners. It’s an easy-to-use saw, with clear instructions that add to the convenience when using the saw.

Key Specs

• Dimensions: 2 x 23 x 18.5 inches
• Weight: 56 pounds
• Power: 3,800 RPM
• Motor rating: 15 amp

It is a12 inches in diameter compound miter saw that will get your job done faster. Besides, this corded model offers a powerful, solid, and precise rotating speed of up to 3,800 RPM.

Another feature of the model is the 15 amp motor that allows you to use the saw for an extended duration, without losing power.

This miter saw also comes with unique features that make it the right option for woodworkers and carpenters. Hence, if you are looking for the right tool to help you with your carpentry job, this is the machine for you.

To ensure it’s of the right standard, the miter saw is UL listed and comes with a 3 years warranty. You can use it for three years without worrying about repair cost; you also enjoy a one-year free service.

DEWALT also provides a 90-day return policy. You can return the miter saw within this time and get your money back if it doesn’t suit your needs.

Pros

• 15 amp motor allows it to last longer.
• Comes with an effective dust collector.
• Miter can be adjusted to provide a precise cut.

Cons

• The dust collector has a weak rubber funnel.

DEWALT DW715 Single-Bevel Compound Miter Saw

Previous buyers always comment that DEWALT DW715 does work pretty well for their need. This is one of the most powerful and most effective units on the market today.

Key Specs

• Dimensions: 26.1 x 19.6 x 17.2 inches
• Weight: 47 pounds
• Power: 4,000 RPM
• Motor rating: 15 amp

It is a thin and sharp miter saw that will satisfy all your needs. The saw comes with some amazing accessories such as a blade wrench, a carbide blade, a dust bag, and comfortable side handles.

Another notable feature of the saw is the stainless steel detent plate that delivers a repeatable accuracy. Also, the plate ensures that you get a machine that will last for years without showing any sign of wear.

To make it better, the detent plate has an override that enables you to adjust to the ideal setting and even override the miter stop. Tall sliding fence supports a crown molding of about 5-1/4 inches when fixed and 6-1/2 inches when resting vertically.

This model will allow 0-3 degrees and 0-48 degrees to the right and left respectively for a better capacity. As well, it allows 0-50 degrees right and left of the miter capacity for utmost versatility.

The model comes with a 15 amp motor that provides up to 4,000 RPM. It also cuts accuracy without using much power to ensure that you use it for long hours.

Pros

• A lightweight tool that is easy to carry.
• Increased bevel capacity.
• Accurate and sharp cuts.

Cons

• Poor adjustment features.

DEWALT DW716XPS Compound Miter Saw

For all DIY enthusiasts, the DEWALT DW716XPS is the model for you, especially if you work with crown molding and baseboards. This is a double bevel machine that allows you to make miter cuts as well as bevel cuts.

Key Specs

• Dimensions: 27.5 x 20 x 20 inches
• Weight: 52 pounds
• Power: 3,600 RPM
• Motor rating: 15 amp

The DW716XPS comes with a strong 15 amp motor that provides an amazing 1400 in-lb torque as well as 3,800 RPM. Thus, it is a great machine for cutting via materials such as huge pieces of lumber and hardwood.  

The other great that you will notice is the ability of the saw to provide full non-stop power while cutting. What’s even amazing, the motor doesn’t reduce the speed after working on the hardwood.

Additionally, the saw boasts of a 12 inches carbide blade that has 60 teeth. Although there are other miter saws with more teeth, the 60 teeth will still do the job quite effectively.

Also, the startup process of the blade is easy and flawless thanks to the belt-driven technology. The blade is completely covered with a clear blade guard that protects your hands when spinning.

For increased productivity, the machine comes with a precise and well-calibrated detent plate with eleven positive stops.

Pros

• Recommended for non-professionals
• An amazing high fence that makes it perfect for baseboard and crown molding.
• A powerful motor that lasts longer.

Cons

• A weak, plastic handle.

Hitachi C10FCG Single Bevel Compound Miter Saw

This is a bevel compound miter saw that is perfect for framers, woodworkers, and carpenters who want precision, versatility, and reliability. It offers a large table with a great vice clamping system that holds your workpiece together.

Key Specs

• Dimensions: 21.5 x 18.1 x 22.9 inches
• Weight: 24.2 pounds
• Power: 5,000 RPM
• Motor rating: 15 amp

This saw has one of the lightest designs on the market today and has miter detents at specific cuts for effective woodworking. It is also one of the lightest miter saws out there, thanks to its 26 pounds.

In terms of pricing, the machine is priced for hobby and home project enthusiasts, but it can also function as a backup tool for professionals. A durable and padded horizontal grip helps to make the saw more stable, thus offsetting pressure when sawing.

Its miter scale ranges from 0-52 degrees to the left and the right and has miter stops at 50, 31.6, 22.5, 15, and 0. Moreover, with a bevel skill angle that ranges to 45-degree to the left, this is a great miter saw.

Another notable feature of the model is the onboard dust collector that helps to keep the worksite clean. And it comes with a 5-year warranty that covers premature defects due to manufacturer’s fault.

Pros

• Quick miter adjustment that makes it easier to set your saw.
• Increased flexibility for better working.
• Comes at a great price.

Cons

• Need to set the laser when you buy the miter saw.

Hitachi C10FSHPS Sliding Dual Compound Miter Saw

The Hitachi C10FSHPS is a top performance miter saw that is perfect for detailed tasks. To accomplish this, the saw has a built-in laser that allows you to make a precise cut.

Key Specs

• Dimensions: 17.2 x 19.9 x 34.7 inches
• Weight: 53.1 pounds
• Power: 3,800 RPM
• Motor rating: 12 amp

One feature that makes this saw more user-friendly than most miter saws out there is the lightweight design. At just over 50 pounds, this saw is easy to hold and maneuver when working.

Besides, the lightweight design adds to the comfort of the user. The saw also boasts of a soft start that minimizes the noise and recoil while working.

You will also notice the positive stops in the right and left direction at various angles, including 45, 31.6, 22.5, and 0 degrees. Chipping and tear out is thwarted by the machine’s built-in chip deflector.

This means that you even get a cleaner and smoother cut every time you make a cut. The pivoting fence comes in handy to extend the work area of the machine so that you can get additional space to move around.

It also comes with a box wrench, a dust bag, and a TCT saw blade. Lastly, the model has a 12 amp motor that provides great speed for effective use.

And the manufacturer offers a 5 years warranty.

Pros

• Comes with a long term warranty of 5 years.
• Very easy to use and provides accurate bevel.
• Produces minimal noise when working.

Cons

• The stock blade should be better.

Evolution Power Tools R255SMS TCT Multi-Material Sliding Miter Saw

If you would try something different, from a different brand, the Evolution Power Tools R255SM is the model for you. This is one of the leading miter saws on the market today that will provide you with the service you desire.

Key Specs

• Dimensions: 28.7 x 27.8 x 14.2 inches
• Weight: 34 pounds
• Power: 2,500 RPM
• Motor rating: 10 amp

It is an accurate cutting miter saw that cuts within a plus or minus 0.5 degrees. One thing that makes it accurate is the optimized gearbox that ensures the 2,500 RPM for cutting wood with nails and steel.

With consistent and clean cutting in wood, the result will have no burrs on steel for an instantly workable finish. It also offers a reliable motor life of at least 160 hours and will offer power for over 40,000 cuts.

Combined components enhance accuracy and durability for a smooth cut every time you use it. Hi-torque gearbox boasts blade-life and motor life.

One feature that really stands out is the ability to cut without producing sparks or heat. It also comes with convenient and safe cable hooks.

Moreover, it comes with rubber feet and a wide base that increases precision while reducing vibration.

Pros

• Precise and accurate cutting.
• There are no sparks or heat when cutting.
• A wide base that reduces vibration.

Cons

• Not for professional users.

Genesis GMSDR1015LC Sliding Compound Miter Saw

The GMSDR1015LC is one of the most affordable miters saw on the market today. It is one of the leading saws at a low price that offers the same features as high-end miter saws.

Key Specs

• Dimensions: 30.5 x 16.2 x 15 inches
• Weight: 1 pound
• Power: 4,800 RPM
• Motor rating: 10 amp

This saw make precise cuts at a maximum 45-degree angles to both the right and left. Also, it is able to make bevel cuts on the left side of up to 45 degrees angles.  

You can also use this miter saw for compound cutting on different materials such as picture frames, shadow boxes, crown molding, and many more. It also has a laser light that allows you to make improved accuracy and quick adjustments when making cuts.

Another feature of the saw is the electric brake stop that allows you to stop the blade within a second. Besides, it has a spindle lock that enables you to change the blade faster.

Using corded electric power means that the model will provide sufficient power to make the cut. Thus, you don’t need to keep on checking whether the battery has life or not.

Its 10 inches blade allows it to cut through thicker materials with grace and ease. The blade has 60 teeth that provide cleaner cuts and is easy to install.

Pros

• Sliding saw head that makes longer cuts.
• A great model when you consider it’s a standard model.
• Has a laser guide that ensures precise cutting.

Cons

• The plastic parts are quite cheap.

Delta S26-263L Shopmaster Slide Miter Saw

Delta S26-263L is a fairly affordable miter saw that tilts and slides left for bevel cuts. This isn’t the fanciest saw on the market but it is affordable, lightweight, and convenient.

Key Specs

• Dimensions: 27.8 x 29 x 14.5 inches
• Weight: 27 pounds
• Power: 2,400 RPM
• Motor rating: 10 amp

At only 27 pounds, this is a compact miter saw that is a good choice for taking to different job sites. It was specially made to be portable and lightweight, which is ideal for on the go users.

The model also doesn’t vibrate when using it and its work surface is perfect for all small jobs. Hence, it is a great machine for all hobby users at home but won’t work for professionals.

And it also provides a superb meter angle in both left and right direction and it can easily tilt left to a maximum of 45 degrees. It also comes with an easy-to-use fence that can allow you to work without much disturbance.

There is also a laser system that guides you when cutting to provide a precise cut without a hassle. To ensure versatility, this miter saw features a sliding function that allows you to cut bigger pieces.

Another great thing about the saw is the dust collection system that has a dust collecting bag. This increases visibility while reducing the mess around your work station.

Pros

• Good blade guard that adds to its safety.
• A portable, lightweight, and small machine.
• Easily slides to increase the cutting capacity.

Cons

• Has limited power.

Makita LS1018 Dual Slide Compound Miter Saw

Makita makes professional-quality miter saws with superior performance and durability. Thus, the Makita LS1018 is a great choice for a professional looking for a miter saw.

Key Specs

• Dimensions: 34 x 22 x 20 inches
• Weight: 43.7 pounds
• Power: 4,300 RPM
• Motor rating: 13 amp

As a sliding miter saw, the LS1018 has extended miter cutting and crosscutting capabilities. It can easily cut a12 inches wide board at 90 degrees, making it perfect for plywood, lumber, and shelving.

The model is also able to deal with a 45-degree miter cut through an 8-1/2 inches board. To make it even better, the models have a superb fence and can easily deal with most baseboard and crown molding jobs.

Another thing that you should note is that this is a dual bevel miter saw. The miter angle also provides all the standard positive stop detents that allow easy setup and enhance repeatability of the cuts.

With power motor of 13 amps, the model is able to do the most job and provide sufficient power. This is ideal for long working hours and offers a soft start.

Moreover, it comes with a dust collection bag that ensures your area remains clean. The miter saw is especially recommended for woodworkers and hobbyists.

Pros

• Smoother operation with great power.
• Smooth startup for the little hassle.
• Great for home use.

Cons

• Some parts come missing.

Metabo HPT C10FCG Compound Miter Saw

This is a rebranded tool that was originally a Hitachi Power Tool. It is one of the best miter saws on the market today and continues to provide great cutting abilities.

Key Specs

• Dimensions: 18.1 x 22.9 x 15.5 inches
• Weight: 24.2 pounds
• Power: 5,000 RPM
• Motor rating: 15 amp

As it is clear from the specs, this miter saw comes with a 15 amp motor that delivers sufficient power to do tough jobs. It also boasts of 0-52 degrees miter angle to the left and right for increased mobility and flexibility while cutting.

Additionally, it provides 0-45 degrees bevel array to the left that ensures accurate and clean bevel cuts every time you use it. It also comes with a huge table for placing your material as well as the vice clamping system.

The vice clamping system is a great system that secures your piece in one place. What’s more, you get quick a to-adjust miter saw thanks to the thumb actuated positive stops.

It also comes with a horizontal handle that allows you to hold it securely in your hand and feel comfortable. There is also a carbon brush access that enables you to change the brush with ease.

Just like most miter saws on this review, this model has a dust collector that minimizes airborne particles.

Pros

• Great horizontal handle that makes it comfortable to hold.
• Collects all the dust to leave your working area clear.
• Great table that provides sufficient working space.

Cons

• No user manual.

Bosch Power Tools GCM12SD Dual-Bevel Sliding Glide Miter Saw

If you want a high-end miter saw then you need to try the GCM12SD. It is a great tool that comes at an affordable price and has some of the best features in the industry today.

Key Specs

• Dimensions: 31 x 23.8 x 22.5 inches
• Weight: 88.2 pounds
• Power: 3,800 RPM
• Motor rating: 15 amp

The saw features a 12 inches blade and a 15 amp motor that a high speed of 3,800 rpm. This speed is handy since it allows for accurate and quick cuts in the material.

The miter saw also features a lower guard that offers clear cut-line visibility. Another great feature of the saw is the 2 sliding added base extensions that offer adjustable support.

Square lock easy-release fences provide precise and easy alignment at 90-degree angle on the table. Thus, you don’t need to adjust anything.

Its bevel capacity easily cut material at various angles from 0-47 degrees to both right and left by marking the pitched roof and detent angles simultaneously.

Its capacity is large when you compare to other lower-end products on the market today. Hence, it is a great product that will satisfy your needs and offer the cut that you have always wanted.

Safety is also taken care off with the sizeable blade cover and the blade spins away from the user. There is also a dust collector.

Pros

• Solid structure that allows it to last for long.
• A very safe machine that minimizes accidents.
• Produces minimal noise when cutting.

Cons

• Require to be assembled.

DOIT Dual Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw

This is a sliding miter saw that will enable you to cut huge workpieces with ease and provide the utmost accuracy. It is one of the best miter saws you will get on the market today.

Key Specs

• Dimensions: 37.8 x 21.8 x 21 inches
• Weight: 60 pounds
• Power: 3,800 RPM
• Motor rating: 15 amp

Don’t assume that this is a low performing model due to its low cost. On the contrary, it is able to do a great job when cutting to offer precise cuts with ease.

One notable feature of the saw is the 15 amp motor that is able to provide enough power for even professional users. It is a corded saw that runs on electricity as opposed to batteries that can keep on getting drained.

With this machine, you also enjoy the laser cutline that ensures all cuts are guided to precision. It also boasts of a super-bright LED that provides a shadowed effect for efficient and briskly cut.

Besides, the sliding compound means that you can easily tilt the blade from 0-45 degrees to both right and left. The thumb-operated lever helps to activate the tilt and make it user-friendly when using your machine.

It is also a flexible model that you can carry from one place to the other. But note that this miter saw requires a power source to work.

Pros

• Amazingly cheap when you consider its performance.
• Laser cutline for precise and easier cutting.
• Ergonomic handle that makes it comfortable to hold.

Cons

• It is ideal for hardcore commercial use.

Ryobi ZRTS1143L Miter Saw

The ZETS1143L is a corded miter saw that you can use to cut through lumbers with ease. Note that this is not a sliding model; hence, your cutting capacity is slightly limited.

Key Specs

• Dimensions: 19.3 x 13.4 x 12.6 inches
• Weight: 18.8 pounds
• Power: 5,800 RPM
• Motor rating: 9 amp

You shouldn’t mistake this miter saw for other saws that don’t have bevel capabilities. The saw offers you this feature to ensure that you get everything that you would require in an affordable product.

It is able to cut a 2×4 inches material with ease. Furthermore, it is a lightweight model that you can move from one place to the other with ease. What else would you want in miter saw?

It is able to cut baseboards, quarter round, and other small items for finish and trim work. This model is especially recommended for DIYers as well as hobbyists.

As noted, it comes with a 9 amp motor that will provide the speed of up to 5800 rpm. You can rest assured that you will cut your material within minutes and have enough time to complete the task.

It also offers positive stops at 45, 31.6, 22.5, 15, and 0 degrees both to the right and left. Bevel capacity also offers 45 degrees to the left. The model also comes with a 3 years warranty that will cover all defects.

Pros

• Comes with an easy to dial laser.
• The 9 amp motor provides a lot of power.
• It is a lightweight model.

Cons

• You might need to upgrade the blade.

Craftsman 21237 Single Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw

If you want a miter saw that will provide you with a precise cut, then try this saw from Craftsman. It comes with an effective laser beam that will mark where you should make the cut.

Key Specs

• Dimensions: 20 x 18.5 x 16.5inches
• Weight: 31.8 pounds
• Power: 4,800 RPM
• Motor rating: 15 amp

There are also whistles and bells on this too for timing, making it a feature-rich machine. It comes with a 10 inches blade and is a highly portable tool that you can carry from one place to another.

Don’t be fooled by the light nature of the machine, it easily cut through hard and thick lumber. And it is a saw for job sites and home shops using since it can be used by professionals and amateurs alike.

With a 4,800 rpm, the machine will have sufficient power to eat soft and hardwood with ease. This power is generated by a 15 amp motor that also lasts for long to offer prolonged working hours.

Although its blades are smaller, they are easier to maintain when you compare to large ones. It works plenty well and its slider is also quite smooth – you might think it is a double bevel miter saw.

Generally, its construction is great and was made to offer the basic cutting services of all users.

Pros

• Comes with a powerful 15 amp motor that provides 4,800 rpm.
• The package includes a blade as well as blade wrench.
• It comes with a laser to guide you when cutting.

Cons

• You will need to assemble the machine.

Miter Saws FAQs

Q: Is there a difference between a miter saw and chop saw?

A: You will find these two terms being used interchangeably. Or you will hear people calling miter saws chop saws. The two are quite identical when it comes to their function, buy a chop won’t allow for cutting bevels or miters. Chops are also heavier and used to cut metal.

Q: Can one miter stand fits all brands of miter saws?

A: This one will depend. There are brands that offer universal mounting ability – mainly 10 or 12 inches saws. Some will specially fit their own brands, while some fits just a single tool.

Q: Can a miter saw cut other materials than wood?

A: Surely, however, you need to note that there are different types of blades for cutting different materials. Thus, there are blades for wood, metals like aluminum and copper, and metals like steel. The wood blade can also work on plastic.

Q: Which is the perfect angle for molding or trim?
A: It will depend on the craftsman, but mainly, 45 degrees will come in handy to hide a seam or join corners. Of important, make the right cut when cutting your material.

Q: What safety measure should I take when running my miter saw?

A: There are two things that you should do: don’t cross your arm over the blade and wear goggles. Do not try to pick something over the blade, even when it isn’t working.

In Conclusion

Miter saws will be here for long. If you haven’t found your best miter saws yet, then consider picking one from our list. They offer the best features in the industry today.