Power Tool Buying Guide for Table Saw

Dewalt Table Saw Review

What Is a Table Saw?

A table saw is a power saw mounted under a flat work surface, with a circular blade that protrudes through the top. It’s designed for long, straight, accurate cuts, especially ripping wood along the grain. Whether you’re cutting plywood, framing lumber, or hardwood boards, a table saw delivers clean, repeatable results that are hard to match with anything else.

There are different types, including portable jobsite models, compact benchtop models, and larger cabinet saws used in workshops. All of them follow the same basic idea, bring the material to the blade, not the other way around.

History of the Table Saw

The table saw traces back to the early 1800s, when it was used in sawmills to speed up lumber processing. The first portable versions started showing up in the 1920s and 1930s, with Delta being one of the first to produce widely available models for small shops and home use. Over time, manufacturers like Bosch and DeWALT brought innovation to the category, adding safety features, portability, and jobsite durability.

What It’s Used For

A table saw is all about ripping and accuracy. It's most often used for:

  • Ripping boards to width
  • Cutting sheet goods like plywood and MDF
  • Making precise crosscuts with a sled or miter gauge
  • Cutting dados and grooves with specialty blades
  • Repetitive cutting where consistency matters

It’s the centerpiece of most woodworking shops for a reason, it’s fast, powerful, and consistent.

What to Look for When Buying

Not all table saws are built the same. Here’s what to keep an eye on:

  • Jobsite saws are portable, lighter, and easy to move—ideal for contractors
  • Benchtop saws are compact but less powerful
  • Contractor saws are heavier but still movable
  • Cabinet saws are heavy, powerful, and meant for workshop use
  • Rip Capacity: This is how wide you can cut from the blade to the fence. More capacity means handling full sheets and larger material.
  • Fence System: A stable, accurate fence is a big deal. If it moves or flexes under pressure, your cuts won’t be accurate.
  • Motor Power: Jobsite and benchtop models usually run on 15-amp motors. Cabinet saws use belt-driven motors with more power for thick hardwoods.
  • Blade Size: Most use 10-inch blades. Some larger saws use 12-inch.
  • Dust Collection: A proper dust port helps keep your workspace clean and protects your lungs.
  • Safety Features: Look for blade guards, anti-kickback pawls, riving knives, and if budget allows, consider a saw with flesh-detection tech like SawStop.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Extremely accurate and consistent cuts
  • Great for repetitive work
  • Handles large stock and sheet goods
  • Multiple blade options and cutting setups
  • Essential for most woodworking setups

Cons

  • Takes up more space
  • Not easily portable unless jobsite rated
  • Kickback is a safety concern
  • Dust collection is necessary for cleaner operation
  • Can be intimidating for new users

Blade and Accessory Compatibility

Most table saws use 10-inch blades with a standard arbor size. You’ll find blades for:

  • Ripping
  • Crosscutting
  • Combination use
  • Dado and groove cutting (if your saw allows it)

You’ll also want a good push stick, featherboards, throat inserts, and possibly a crosscut sled for added accuracy and safety.

Safety and Maintenance Tips

  • Always use a riving knife and blade guard when possible
  • Stand to the side of the blade path to avoid kickback injuries
  • Keep the blade sharp and clean
  • Never reach over the blade, use push sticks and guides
  • Check fence alignment regularly
  • Use dust collection or a vacuum to manage sawdust buildup
  • Unplug the saw before changing blades or performing maintenance

Who This Is For

  • Pros and contractors cutting framing lumber or trim on job sites
  • Woodworkers building cabinets, furniture, and fine woodworking projects
  • DIYers who need to cut sheet goods or rip lumber for home projects
    If your projects involve straight cuts, precision, and repeatability, a table saw is a smart investment.

FAQ

Can I cut plywood on a table saw?

Yes, it’s one of the best tools for the job. Use a fine-tooth blade to avoid tear-out and support both sides of the sheet when cutting.

What’s the difference between a contractor and cabinet saw?

Contractor saws are semi-portable with open stands. Cabinet saws are heavy, fully enclosed, and built for high power and workshop use.

Can a table saw make angled cuts?

Yes, the blade tilts (usually up to 45 degrees) for bevel cuts, and you can use a miter gauge or sled for crosscutting angles.

Final Thoughts

If you need precision and power, it’s hard to beat a table saw. It can rip boards, break down sheet goods, and make repeatable cuts that save time and material. The key is choosing the right one for your space and the kind of work you do, whether that's occasional home projects or daily shop use. Look for a solid fence, stable construction, and safety features that make sense for how you work. A good setup will serve you for years and quickly become the center of your workflow.