Suppose you are a hobbyist or a full-time professional woodworker you must be aware that a compound miter saw is one of the essential tools you can have in your store. It’s perfect for tasks such as cross-cutting in your different woodworking projects. There are so many such tools in the market, and if you can find yourself the very best compound miter saw for woodworking, you will be good to go for an extended period.
Some people call this tool a chop saw; however, there is a big difference between chop saws and miter saws. Chop saws are mostly used in the cutting of metals, and you cannot bevel them left and right like it is with the compound miter saws.
You will find your compound miter saw handy for many projects around your shop, and that is the sole reason I’m stressing that you try as much as you can to have one.
This tool is excellent when it comes to the cutting of crown moldings, wood crafts, and other forms of decorative trims. As much as a woodworker needs to have this machine, problems come when it is time to shop for one as there are so many options out there that can be confusing.
In a bid to make it easy for buyers to get the perfect product for their quests quickly, I’ve reviewed the top compound miter saws out there, and anyone that you will pick on this list will serve you right.
Table of Contents
The List of The Best Compound Miter Saw for Woodworking
1. DEWALT DWS780 Double Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw
DEWALT DWS780 12-Inch double bevel sliding compound miter saw is the best compound miter saw for woodworking that you should consider for your shop.
This tool comes with a unique XPS cross cut positioning system that allows for an adjustment-free cut line indication such that you won’t need to recalibrate over time or after changing blades.
Additionally, the saw offers a high capacity cutting because of its powerful 15-ampere motor that delivers a speed of up to 3,800 RPM. The exclusive back fence of this tool cuts up to 2X14 dimensional lumber at 90-degrees, and 2×12 at 45 degrees, 6-3/4-inch vertical capacity, 7-1/2-inch nested crown size and 13-7/8-inch horizontal position.
What’s more about this machine is that it gives a hassle-Free Operation, and this is because of its highly visible scale and easy angle adjustment that has bevel from zero to 49 degrees with 10 positive stops in both left and right directions. If you are using this tool, you can easily lock the angles between detents using the cam lock miter button.
Lastly, it has fences, bevel system, and sturdy stainless-steel miter detent plate capable of resisting rigorous handling, making it a great tool for framing and constructing wooden porch floors.
The Summary of Top Features.
- The tool has an integrated XPS cross cut positioning system that offers an adjustment-free cut line indication.
- It comes with a sturdy 15-ampere motor that delivers a speed of up to 3,800 revolutions per minute.
- This machine bevel from zero to 49 degrees with 10 positive stops in both right and left directions.
- Its handles offer so much portability.
Pros
- The tool is highly accurate and precise
- It offers ultimate durability
- Has high capacity cutting
- Portable
- The Dust collection system of this tool captures over 75% of dust generated.
Cons
- It has limited cutting capacities.
2. Makita LS1040 Compound Miter Saw
This saw gives you power, accuracy, and convenience for your different woodworking projects. The tool comes with a balanced 15 ampere direct-drive motor with 4,600 revolutions per minute, that won’t slip or bog down.
The electronic speed control of this tool maintains constant speed under load, and thanks to the soft-start technology, it has a smooth start-up that improves its performance.
Additionally, the Makita LS1040 comes with a dual post compound pivot arm with bevel cuts of up to 45 degrees towards the left. The miter adjustments in this machine range from 0 to 45 degrees left and 0 to 52 degrees right, and has 9 positive miter stops and 0 degrees (90-degree cuts). Its aluminum base ensures accurate cuts.
What’s more about this tool is that it has a fluorescent light that illuminates your working surface. This tool has a compact size weighing only 27.3 pounds, making it very portable for easy use.
Many professionals in areas such as woodworking, finish carpenters, case and base installers, decking, siding installation, flooring applications, and other contractors love the superiority offered by this superior 10-inch compound miter saw.
The Summary of Top Features.
- It offers a powerful 15 AMP direct-drive motor for improved performance; 4,600 RPM
- The tool has a dual post compound pivoting arm.
- It comes with miter cuts, miter stops, and bevel cuts.
- This saw is portable as it weighs only 27.3 lbs. for easy portability
Pros
- It has improved performance
- The tool comes with high capacity cutting
- It is highly accurate
- Portable
- It has a wide range of applications
Cons
- It lacks adjustment instructions
3. Hitachi C10FCG Single Bevel Compound miter saw.
Precision is critical in woodworking, and Hitachi C10FCG is the product to give you that. It comes with so much accuracy and versatility for a miter saw. The company renamed to Metabo HTP, and that does not affect the quality whatsoever.
This tool has a 15-ampere motor that delivers a speed of up to 5,000 revolutions per minute and has a large table that allows for better material support with a vice clamping system that secures the workpiece.
Hitachi C10FC5 15-Amp 10″ further comes with 0 to 52 degrees miter angle range to the right and left that gives you flexibility. It has a Motor Horsepower of 2.57 HP. The angle ranges from 0-45 degrees to the left hence offering clean and accurate bevel cuts. The thumb actuated positive stops allows you to make quick miter adjustments.
The tool weighs 24.2 pounds, making it portable with a dust collector attachment that mi
The Summary of Top Features.
- The tool has a 15 Amp motor with a speed of up to 5,000 RPM.
- This saw comes with 0-52 degrees miter angle range to the right and left.
- It also has a 0 to 45-degree bevel range to the left.
- The saw weighs up to 24.2 pounds making it portable.
- It has a horsepower of 2.57 hp.
Pros
- The tool gives precise and accurate cuts
- It is portable
- High maneuverability and easy to use
- It comes with an ergonomic design for secure handling
Cons
- The blade cannot cut large wood pieces
4. Festool 575306 Kapex KS 120 REB Miter Saw
This saw is rightfully one of the best compound miter saws around, especially if you are looking for an advanced tool.
It has fine-tuned bevel adjustment knobs that move to 47 degrees right to left, offering precise cuts. The head of the saw has a counter spring balanced such that whenever you set the bevel angle, it won’t move until it is locked hence, maximum accuracy.
What I loved about this saw is how easy it is to align cuts from the left or right side of the kapex with the help of the dual lasers, as they show the material you should remove when cutting.
Festool 575306 has an ergonomic design that allows you to work comfortably and over an extended period. It weighs 47 pounds, which is lightweight enough to move from a job site to next. As you move this tool, the Kapex’s head locks down and preventing movement. Its two handle locations keep the center of gravity of the Kapex closer to the user’s body so that there is no strain on the back.
You should know about this tool because it has a cutting capacity of up to 12 inches. You can cut the materials vertically up to 4-3/4 inch x 3/4 inch.
Festool 575306 can trench around pipes or other obstacles with the provision to adjust the trenching depth to 90 degrees by turning the knobs.
What makes this tool different from the others is the constant blade speed, even when loaded. It provides a variable speed control that allows you to match the blade speed with the material you are cutting hence protecting the motor from overload and possible damage.
The Summary of Top Features.
- The saw comes with dual lasers
- It comes with a rail forward design
- Blade diameter: 10 1/4″
- Crown nested capacity: 6 5/8″
- This saw has a cutting depth of 90°/90°: 12″ x 3 15/32″
- The maximum slope stands at 47°/47°
- The miter range of this tool is 50°/60°
- Power consumption: 1600 Watts (13 Amps)
- It comes with an impressive 91% dust collection
Pros
- It has excellent precision
- The saw has a high dust extraction channel
- It is portable
- Variable speed motor
Cons
- Some users report the failure of the switches
5. Bosch Power Tools GCM12SD
Let’s talk about accuracy, precision, versatility, and unique design, let’s talk about Bosch GCM12SD, it is one of the best compound miter saws that you can find out there. It comes with an axial glide system that allows broader and smooth crosscuts and better alignment while still maintaining compatibility, thus saving you 12-inch space.
Additionally, this machine comes with an expanded cutting capacity of 1 inch horizontally, 6 1/2 inch vertically against the fence base, and 6 1/2 inch crown capacity of up to 45 degrees. Such dimensions allow for a variety of cuts.
The GCM12SD miter saw gives you easy adjustments with a large and easily readable uniform bevel and stainless steel miter scales that have marked detents and roof pitch angles. The bevel detents are 0, 33.9 degrees, and 45 degrees left to right for accurate cuts. This saw comes with a 90% dust collection.
It is very precise thanks to the square lock quick release fences lock 90 degrees to the table and does not require adjustment and one-touch lock/unlock to slide rail for added support. It has upfront bevel controls for quick and easy bevel settings.
More about this saw in the video below:
The Summary of Top Features.
- It comes with axial glide system
- The tool has a cutting capacity of 14 inches horizontally, 6 1/2 inch vertically and 6 1/2 inch crown capacity against the fence 45-degree spring
- The bevel detents 0, 33.9 degrees and 45 degrees left to right
- It comes with 90% dust collection
Pros
- It offers compact cutting
- This saw offers you so much precise control
- It’s versatile
Cons
- It’s heavy at 88 pounds
6. DEWALT FLEXVOLT DHS790AT2, Double Bevel, Compound, Sliding Miter Saw Kit
DEWALT FLEXVOLT DHS790AT2 deserves mentioning as the best compound miter saw for woodworking. It is among the most powerful, reliable, and ultimately accurate saws available in the market today.
The saw comes with the ultimate power flexibility providing the convenience of cordless/ corded performance. It is the world’s first battery saw that automatically changes voltage when you change tools.
Other fascinating aspects of this miter saw for woodworking is the Powerful 120V brushless motor that goes up to 289 Cross Cuts in 3-1/4″ baseboard molding, which is longer than that of brushed motors.
This miter saw DEWALT FLEXVOLT DHS790AT2 has a way of ensuring total accuracy in the form of an easy to read bevel and miter scales plus the cutline blade positioning system. Its tall sliding fences do support crown molding up to 7-1/2″ nested and base molding up to 6-3/4″ vertically against the wall.
Furthermore, the saw comes with an adjustable stainless-steel miter detent plate with 10 positive stops miters 50° to the left and 60° to the right, for improved capacity.
It weighs only 56 lbs making it compact and portable.
The Summary of Top Features.
- Offers both Corded/Cordless miter Saw
- It has 120V brushless motor power
- The saw comes with an integrated adjustment-free cutline blade positioning system
- It has an adjustable stainless-steel miter detent plate with 11 detents
- This tool has a tall sliding fences support crown molding up to 7-1/2″ nested and base molding up to 6-3/4″ vertically against the fence
Pros
- It’s a versatile saw
- You can move this saw from one job site to the next
- It has an adjustment-free cutline indicator
- This saw offers a long runtime
Cons
- It’s still heavy much as it is portable
7. Delta 10″ Sliding Compound Miter Saw 26-2241
Another compound miter saw that would deliver for your different woodworking projects is the Delta 26-2241. This tool has a 10-inch blade plus a versatile flip-down fence design that provides a 16-inch nominal crosscut capacity.
Other great features of the miter saw includes the dual-angle 45° left and 45° right with front bevel release and seven positive bevel stops and ten miter detents.
When you buy this saw, you will notice the one-hand front miter controls that have push-button miter detent override. It also has a front bevel release that ensures quick and accurate alignment. The patented extending arms in the tool reduce the lateral movement of the cutter head. Additionally, you’ll get a shadow guide cutting system plus a LED light illuminating the workpiece and the shadow of the blade. This feature helps improve the accuracy of the cuts.
Delta 10″ 26-2241 uses military-grade aluminum frame members with 18 heavy-duty bearings that ensure smooth cutting operations and increased durability. It has a 15-amp motor power.
The cutting capacity of this saw stands at 6-1/4 inch crown and 5-1/2 standing base moldings. The saw has a unique design that allows you to operate it in compact spaces, unlike sliding miter saws with long rail systems.
The Summary of Top Features.
- It has a 15 amp motor power.
- 6-1/4 inch crown and 5-1/2 standing base moldings
- Dual bevel 45° left and 45° right
Pros
- Offers excellent accuracy
- It has an ergonomic design for easy handling
- You can operate it in tight spaces
Cons
- It has a bad dust collection channel
8. (Metabo HTP 12) Hitachi C12RSH2 Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw with Laser Marker
Metabo formerly Hitachi remains the producer of the best compound miter saw for woodworking that you can buy for your different woodworking projects.
This tool has a compact slide system that allows the saw head to slide along fixed rails for zero clearance. It has a sturdy 15 Amp motor that enables you to handle severe cuts with ease. Additionally, the tool has a bevel adjustment from 0 to 57-degree miter angle towards the right and 0 to 45 towards the left for flexibility.
Metabo HTP 12 allows you to work with large sliding fences up to 5-1/8 inches, and it cut up to 7-1/2″ crown molding vertically.
The compound cut in this tool goes up to 45×45 (L/L) 2 3/4×8 5/8 inch or two 15/16×7 1/16 inch, which offers the user a high cutting capacity.
If you are looking for comfortability and control, Metabo HTP 12 provides plenty of it. Its vertical handle comes with a soft vibration, thus reducing elastomer grip.
The Summary of Top Features.
- It has a compact slide system with zero rear clearance
- The saw comes with a 15 Amp motor power
- It has 0 to 57-degree miter angle to the right and 0 to 45 to the left
- The fence height to 5-1/8 inches cut up to 7-1/2″ crown molding vertically
Pros
- Offers a high cutting capacity
- It comes with large sliding fences
- The saw provides control and comfortability
Cons
- You cannot use it for huge pieces
9. Delta Power Equipment Corporation S26-263L Shopmaster
This saw is has a reputation for performance and pocket-friendly price. It’s lightweight for improved portability. This miter saw comes with an improved laser with an on/off switch that makes aligning the blade to make more convenient and precise cuts. The spindle lock holds spindle securely while the blade nut is loosened and removed.
Delta S26-263L 10″ bevels adjustments run left from 0°- 45° and cut nominal 2X12 at the full angle, thus helping adjust the cutting capacity.
Additionally, this tool has table extensions that help support long workpieces.
The Summary of Top Features.
- Delta S26-263L 10″ is lightweight, thus easy portability
- It has an improved laser blade system
- Bevels adjustments from 0°- 45° left and nominal cuts of 2X12 at a full bevel
- Table extensions
Pros
- It has unmatched accuracy
- Support long workpieces
- Portability
- Easy to use
Cons
- Set to certain measurements
10. TACKLIFE Sliding Compound Miter Saw 12-Inch – PMS03A
If I could, I’d straight away put this tool up on top of my list of the best compound miter saw for woodworking because of its high quality. This tool comes with a double bevel cutting design that let’s adjust the head towards left for 45°and 45° to the right to meet different cutting requirements.
Its integrated laser has a single switch that marks the cutting line, thus supports sawing long workpieces.
TACKLIFE 12″ comes with an adjustable miter scale that has positive stops (-45°/-22.5°/0°/+22.5°/+45°) hence you can adjust the saw to the most basic miter angles to allow for square cuts, compound cuts, and bevel cuts.
This compound miter saw has a 15 AMP motor with a top speed of 3500 RPM; it provides a powerful, smoother, faster cutting. The handle of this miter saw has a soft-grip and base angle change handle that offers much-needed comfort when working. The sliding design of this saw extends cutting flexibility and adds cutting width.
TACKLIFE collects more than 70% of the dust produced during woodworking tasks. The 35 mm dust port allows you to connect a vacuum cleaner for up to 100% dust collection.
This miter saw has a 305mm 40-tooth TCT durable blade ideal for slicer wood, soft metal, plastic tubing, etc. You can change the blades without struggling.
The Summary of Top Features.
- The saw comes with a 15 AMP motor with a top speed of 3500 RPM
- Allows for up to 70% dust collection
- Miter scale from -45degree to 45 degree
- This tool has a double bevel cutting design 45 degrees left and right
Pros
- It provides unmatched accuracy
- This tool is highly safe and efficient
- It’s strong hence durable
Cons
- Some users think the motor is weak
Best Compound Miter Saw for Woodworking Buyer’s Guide
Several miter saws you are likely to interact with if you are into woodworking, and these saws come with different features that distinguish them from one another. Here are some of the critical elements that you need to consider in the best compound miter saw for woodworking before shopping for one.
- Precision
As a woodworker, precision is the essential feature of a miter saw that you need to consider first. I don’t have to explain what that means, especially if you are a pro in the woodworking industry.
Whatever the task at hand, whether it is framing or fixing kitchen cabinets at your home, you understand that precision is the priority. Therefore, if you are shopping for a compound miter saw, ensure that the one you buy has the best possible level of accuracy.
- Power
Power is also another critical aspect of the best compound miter saw that you should pay close attention to when choosing your product. Powerful miter saws do not require that you set them to very high speed to cut through different materials.
You should consider your saw not effective, especially if you have to use so much pressure for the items to cut successfully. A less powerful miter saw is also less likely to be accurate. Therefore, if you are shopping for your miter saw, ensure that you go for the one that gives you a lot of power to get your projects done swiftly.
- Capacity
You have to check the capacity of the compound miter saw that you intend to buy. The tool’s horizontal capacity determines how wide you can cut a baseboard using it. The vertical capacity/size of the fences on the other side determines how tall you cut the crown molding.
Three significant factors determine how large or the capacity of a compound miter saw; these factors are:
- The size of the blade
- Sliding or non-sliding
- Size of fence
Different compound miter saws have different blade sizes. The majority of them have 10 inches and the 12-inch blades. As you’d expect, the saws with larger blade crosscut wider boards than those with small blades.
- Ease of Use / User-friendliness
An easy-to-use miter saw comes with bevel scales that are marked clearly and are visible enough for the user to take the readings comfortably. With such a tool, you will find it easy to make miter and bevel adjustments/cuts. The miter detent stops also must have clear makes that are visible.
Also, the blades of the miter saw should be easy to change. It is not uncommon for you to buy a compound miter saw only to find that the blades are not great enough for your project, and you’d love to change them. In that case, it should not be a problem for you to have the change and replaced.
- Dust Collection
Like it is in the case of wood planers, compound miter saws also produce so much dust that you should collect to keep your working area clean. The dust collection system needs to be effective if you are to work for an extended duration producing accurate cuts.
With a poor dust collection system, dust might likely go and settle in different parts of the compound miter saw and possibly affects the functionality and accuracy of the entire device.
- Mobility
Having a compound that you can move to job sites is a plus, especially if you are a professional woodworker moving between jobs. Therefore, it will be necessary for you to have a portable miter saw portable and move freely with it without worrying about the transportation mode.
If you are going to work in your shop through and through, you should not worry about the mobility of the tool. Better still, having a device that is mobile comes with an added advantage.
Conclusion
Every woodworker understands how important it is to have a compound miter saw for woodworking. This tool gives you flexibility, precision, and accuracy with different woodworking projects, which is why you should always strive to get the very best product in the market.
Following my many years in woodworking and interaction with different types of compound miter saws, I consider DEWALT DWS780 Double Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw as my overall best compound miter saw for woodworking. This miter saw answers all the questions a woodworker would ask in a compound miter saw.
If you found this post helpful and have a question, opinion, addition, or subtraction, kindly share it with me in the comment section below.
Tyron Otieno
Tyron is an avid woodworker and writer. He founded this website to help other woodworkers, whether hobbyists or professionals by sharing his knowledge and experiencie after a decade of woodworking.