Best Miter Saw For the Money (Top 10 Picks)

Are you looking for the best miter saw for your money value?

We tried multiple products from the different brands for the value of money & efficiency and here are our best recommendations based on the team’s experience. An efficient saw can let you cut trees in lesser time; however, you’ll have to learn to use chainsaw efficiently.

Glossary: A miter saw is a specialized tool that lets one strike cut through multiple angles. The saw has a sharp blade attached to a swing arm that moves right and left to make angled cuts.

You can use it for crown molding, picture frames, and door frames, among many other things. A compound miter saw means that you could manipulate the saw on both axes at once. 

Best Miter Saw (Top 10 Picks):

Model

Blade Length

Speed

Price

Metabo HPT 10-Inch Compound Miter Saw

10 inches

5000 RPM

DEWALT Sliding Compound Miter Saw

12 inches

3800 RPM

CRAFTSMAN V20 7-1/4-Inch Sliding Miter Saw Kit

4 inches

800 RPM

Skil 10" Dual-Bevel Sliding Miter Saw

10 inches

4800 RPM

WEN MM1011 15-Amp 10" Sliding Compound Miter Saw

10 inches

-

BOSCH Power Tools GCM12SD

12 inches

3800 RPM

Makita 10" Compound Miter Saw

10 inches

4600 RPM

Evolution Power Tools Compound Sliding Miter Saw Plus

10 inches

2400 RPM

Metabo HPT 12-Inch Compound Miter Saw

12 inches

4300 RPM

Delta 10" Sliding Compound Miter Saw

10 inches

4000 RPM

1. Metabo HPT 10-Inch Compound Miter Saw

Metabo ranks very high in the market when it comes to miter saws. Let’s look at some of the features of this product:

  • Blade length is 10 inches
  • Speed is 5000 rpm
  • Cutting angle ranges from 0 to 52 degrees
  • Weighs 24.2 lbs 
  • Bevel angle ranges from 0 to 42 degrees with adjustable bevel stops 
  • Thumb actuated positive stops
  • Big table with a vice clamping system

This miter saw is highly suitable for homeowners who indulge in DIY projects frequently like myself. Since it’s so lightweight, I could quickly move it around with no help whatsoever.

If you are into making your cupboards and racks, this one would be a great buy. You do not have to make a lot of out-of-the-box adjustments. Although it may seem that the blade is small in size but it does get the job done accurately.

Also, the miter saw is aesthetically pleasing to your eyes! It’s well-built and comes in multiple colors. It does not look too complicated, and neither is it in actuality!

However, the manual is messy, with inaccurate diagrams drawn and poorly written instructions that barely made sense to me. You can watch a video on assembling, though.

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Pros

  • Great for beginners
  • Lightweight and compact
  • Sturdy built

Cons

  • Comes with a hard-to-read manual
  • The 10-inch blade can’t cut big lumber

You might like: Best Miter Stand

2. DEWALT Sliding Compound Miter Saw

Dewalt’s focus on technology and innovation makes it stand out. Following are some of the characteristics of this miter saw:

  • Blade length is 12 inches
  • Dimensions are 21 x 17 x 17 inches
  • Made up of stainless steel and has ten positive stops
  • It has a machine-based fence system
  • Sliding fences cover an almost 6-inch base vertically
  • Bevels 0-48 degrees
  • Captures 75% of dust 
  • Lumber crosscut capacity of 90 inches

This saw is good for some demanding and arduous work and can cut precisely enough. Although this saw doesn’t have a laser with the accuracy it cuts, you’ll almost believe that it’s a laser knife! 

Since the machine is heavy, I would suggest you buy a rolling stand; it does help in moving the miter saw around, and the process will become easier for you!

For people like me who absolutely cannot stand loud noise, this one is very suitable. As compared to other saws, it makes a lot less noise for the same intensity of work. Who wouldn’t like that?

However, I had some shipping concerns. The blade had some scratches here and there, and the box was a bit destroyed. These concerns can be looked into and sorted out by the company.

Pros

  • Gives precision cuts
  • Quite
  • Powerful motor

Cons

  • Bulky
  • Expensive

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3. CRAFTSMAN V20 7-1/4-Inch Sliding Miter Saw Kit

This miter saw has excellent reviews for its quality. Let have a look at its features that makes it unique:

  • Speed is 800 rpm
  • Weighs 21.8 pounds
  • 3800 rpm motor can cut through hardwoods etc.
  • Led cut line positioning system
  • Cuts almost up to 4 inches nested crowns
  • Nine casted miter detent stops

The best part about this miter saw is that it is completely cordless. Since it works on battery, there is no hassle with wires and switches. It was a great plus since I could quickly move it around and work where there was no power.

Another handy feature of the product is its LED light that casts a shadow on the cutting surface like a laser line, making the surface so much easier to cut.

Moreover, I found the price pretty decent for a cordless miter saw. As compared to other non-battery miter saws, this one is not only more convenient but as accurate as others, if not more. 

Although there are hardly any issues with this saw, it is just a bit underpowered. However, that is something you can check before buying.

Pros

  • The cordless feature makes the tool convenient
  • Precision cuts with LED light
  • Great value for money

Cons

  • Underpowered for certain tasks

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4. Skil 10″ Dual-Bevel Sliding Miter Saw

Given below are some of the properties of the product that is important to know:

  • Speed is 400 rpm
  • Dimensions are 22.44 x 35.43 x 14.17 inches
  • 15-amp motor
  • Dual bevel and cuts in 4 positive positions
  • LED shadow line
  • It cuts up to 50 degrees horizontally on each side
  • Three years warranty

For starters, the material of the product is aluminum, making it durable and sturdy. The blade is also rock-solid to be used for a weekend woodworker like myself.

Also, the angle markings are spot on! From my previous experience with the miter saws, the angle marking is never exactly what it says, but, in this case, it was pretty much accurate!

Just a heads up: if you have any confusion about the product or technicalities of it, you should message the manufacturer directly, and they reply pretty soon, at least in my experience.

Pros

  • Study and durable built
  • Good for detailed projects
  • Bevels left and right

Cons

  • A bit technical to set up
  • Not for DIYers or newbies

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5. WEN MM1011 15-Amp 10″ Sliding Compound Miter Saw

Listed below are some of the prominent features of this miter saw and some of its pros and cons:

  • Runs on battery
  • 15-amp motor that cuts 12 inches wide and 3.5 inches thick
  • Miter cuts and bevels 45 degrees
  • Class 2 laser guide
  • 7.5-inch crown molding nested capacity 
  • Includes a 10-inch 40-Tooth carbide-tipped blade

This miter saw is more compact than others, making it an ideal purchase for homeowners like me who are already short on space in their homes/garages. The saw does not take up much space.

Additionally, the laser of this saw is spot on! The accuracy does not stop at the laser; the blade was at precisely 90 degrees as well. You can be sure that this saw is as precise as it claims.

Also, the angles are easy to read due to the carving in the aluminum that I faced no difficulty reading the degrees off the machine. People who have used miter saws will tell you how much of a hassle this can become.

However, one issue with this is that the extension tables provided with it do not stay in place sometimes and fall apart in some cases, so you need to be vigilant.

Pros

  • Excellent sliding design
  • Compact and lightweight
  • User-friendly built

Cons

  • No laser guide
  • Not cheap

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6. BOSCH Power Tools GCM12SD

  • Blade length is 12 inches
  • Electric
  • Have axile glide system which cuts wider and has better alignment
  • 14-inch horizontal cutting capacity and 6.5 inches vertical
  • Square lock to lock fences to the table at 90 degrees
  • Upfront bevel controls including lever and range selector
  • Can handle wood and laminates etc.

This miter saw will cut anything and everything you will throw at it, from fragile solid maple inlays to railroad ties. It will cut both with the same ease and no hassle whatsoever.

Moreover, the axile gliding system meant that I no longer had to rely on my foot to slide it across; the glide folds and unfolds itself!

The sliding mechanism is also sometimes inefficient when the dust gums up the mechanics.

This miter saw also comes with switches, which means that you can easily cut from either side and find a safety switch. The instructions are clear and accurate only if you follow them religiously.

One setback of this machine is that the dust collection bag is inefficient since the rubber elbows are redundant now.

Pros

  • Powerful motor
  • Unparalleled safety features
  • Bevel detents for precision cuts

Cons

  • The dust collection bag is not very useful

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7. Makita 10″ Compound Miter Saw

  • Dimensions are 20 x 10 x 21 inches
  • 15-amp direct-drive motor with 4600 rpm
  • Dual compound pivoting arm
  • Nine positive miter stops
  • Bevel cuts up to 45 degrees
  • Weighs 27.3 lbs
  • 1-year warranty
  • Has a shaft lock for blade changes

For all the people who indulge in DIYs, this one would be a treat for them, just like it is for me. Given the intensity and power of this miter saw, I was pleasantly surprised to find out how lightweight it was; effortless to move around the house.

In snowy areas, this miter saw is perfect if your fence breaks and you want to replace it. Since it works well with pressure-treated lumber, I can easily maintain my house with this one.

The product proved long-lasting. For a machine, you’re paying hundreds of dollars; it would be a big deal if they cost you a fortune and still not last long. That was not the case with this one.

One issue with the product was that it lacked work aids and accessories, especially for unprofessional homeowners.

Pros

  • Great for newbies
  • Powerful despite its compact size

Cons

  • Doesn’t include enough features and extras
  • Shorter warranty compared to other saws

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8. Evolution Power Tools Compound Sliding Miter Saw Plus

Evolution specializes in power tools and has a range of products that help in construction, at home, or professionally. Following are features of one of its best-selling products:

  • Blade length is 10 inches
  • Hi-torque 15-amp motor with adjustable depth
  • Quick-release holds down camp
  • 3-year warranty
  • Weighs 41.8 pounds
  • No batteries required

I found unique to this miter saw how sharp its blades were; generally, with time, the edge starts to get less precise, but this one cut as smoothly years later as the first time.

Also, I have come across very few miter saws that cut steel with precision, and without a doubt, this is one of them. You can cut not just steel but all kinds of wood with ease.

The start feature of the product is pretty smooth as well. Unlike other saws, it doesn’t yank the handle out of your hand while starting, nor does it make a lot of noise.

One thing to be careful about is that the dust bag does not collect dust, so you should wear proper safety before chopping off anything.

Pros

  • Sharp blades for precise cuts
  • Quite
  • Doesn’t require batteries

Cons

  • Blade length is small relative to other similar saw tools
  • Bulky
  • Not portable

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9. Metabo HPT 12-Inch Compound Miter Saw

  • Dimensions are 26.9 x22.2 x 21.3 inches
  • Weighs 47.4 pounds
  • The cutting angle is 52 degrees
  • 15-amp motor
  • 5-1/8 inches tall pivoting aluminum fence
  • Thumb actuated positive stops
  • 5-year warranty

Unpacking this miter saw was a piece of cake, as compared to other miter saws. Nothing was damaged or unnecessarily wrapped, which meant that I could get straight to the assembling part.

Also, the laser shone in the sun because of sharpness! This feature can come in handy when you are cutting off wood or trees.

The product is of excellent value for the price too! You will hardly find a decent enough saw in this budget, that too, a sliding one. This one not only costs less but is also pretty reliable.

One issue with this saw was that the thumb button was too small and made for right-handed people. As a left-hander, it was a bit annoying. 

Pros

  • Great value for money
  • Laser ensures swift and efficient sawing
  • Powerful motor
  • Precise controls for miter cuts

Cons

  • A bit heavy
  • Not portable

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10. Delta 10″ Sliding Compound Miter Saw

  • Blade length is 10 inches
  • Dimensions are 22.5 x 29.5 x 20 inches
  • Arbor hole size is 5/8 inches
  • 15-amp motor
  • One-hand front miter controls with push button
  • Molded handle and full-sized trigger
  • Weighs 55 pounds

The power and speed of the blade were incredible; it was quick and accurate! The blade cuts smoothly through all kinds of woods and other materials.

Also, the front of this miter saw controls require minimal effort to adjust. Loosening and locking the bevel gauge can be done within seconds with a single finger.

It’s not just great for homeowners, but the quality is excellent for woodworkers, too, who have to focus on finishing as well. The product oozes quality!

One downside of this miter saw is that the alignment is slightly off; the blade sometimes ends up on the throat plate at extension. 

Pros

  • Incredible power
  • Made for both newbies and pros

Cons

  • Bulky
  • No light or laser

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Factors To Consider While Buying A Miter Saw

  • Blade size:

Blade size affects the maximum level of vertical cut you will be able to make. So, for example, if you regularly cut taller trim, you will typically need a 12-inch blade to give you more clearance.

  • Sliding miter or chop saw:

A chop saw will provide you with miter and bevel cuts in all directions but cut up to 2×6 at 90 degrees. On the other hand, a sliding miter will be able to cut up to 2×14 easily. Also, the chop saw is lighter in weight.

  • Corded vs. cordless:

Cordless miter saws are more convenient and portable as you can move them around. However, they cost a lot more than their corded counterparts and are sometimes less powerful too. It would be best if you prioritized what matters more to you.

How We Tested Miter Saw?

The selection of a miter saw depends on what you will do with it. The advanced features a skilled craftsman requires to cut crown molding won’t be necessary for someone who merely wants to use a miter saw to shape living room flooring.

Blade size

Typically, the bigger the blade, the deeper the cut. However, some people prefer using a miter saw with a smaller blade since they tend to be lightweight and more maneuverable than those with larger blades, which not everyone requires.

The most common blade sizes include 7¼, 8½, 10, and 12 inches.

Small blades inherently have a limited reach; thus, unless the miter saw has moving rails, a 10-inch cutting tool will typically only be able to slice a 2×6. Denser material can also be sliced with a larger blade, although this also relies on how high the cutting tool is lifted.

A saw can only slice through a certain amount of standing height. This is crucial for trim work, as you might need to erect an upright panel to cut the mitered edge.

Note that 10 and 12-inch blades frequently experience some deflection. When the blade’s path sways a bit while cutting, this is called deflection. Even though it’s not a problem, sophisticated woodworkers and fine detail-oriented craftsmen will pick a saw that reduces deflection.

Detents

We advise purchasing saws with positive end detents, which are generally always a standard feature. A structural catch called a detent prevents the tool from moving until it is freed. This feature eliminates the need for guessing precise degrees.

At the very least, miter saws should feature detents at the most typical angles of 90°, 45°, and 22.5°. To move the tool without the detent locking at every end and return, search for a tool with a simple, seamless detent override.

Even though there may not be many bevel detents on saws (and some don’t even have any), it’s still desirable to have them at least at 0° and 45°.

Saw Type

Depending on the cuttings and angles they can produce, there are wide varieties of miter saws. All miter saws can perform a miter cut, which is an angular cut across the spacing of the platform, as the name implies, and a crosscut, which is a straightforward cut across the deck.

However, some miter saws can also perform bevel cuts, which are angular cuts that produce something similar to an “overhang” at the cut edge.

The five basic types of saw include the basic variant, single compound, dual compound, single compound sliding, and dual compound sliding. The basic variant provides simple miters and crosscuts, whereas the dual compound sliding, the most versatile out of all variants, provides multiple types of cuts.

Bulky or travel-friendly?

Some put their miter saws on their workplace, intending never to move again. You should not think twice about how big or hefty your saw is if you want it to live the same way.

On the contrary, some saws are frequently moved around the workplace depending on the most practical location. A smaller, lightweight saw could be a major benefit in these circumstances.

In short, the size of your saw should depend on whether you wish to move it around or not.

Cord or cordless?

Most miter saws are still corded, as they were until a few years back. However, this limits the usability of the saw. The newcomers to the market are cordless miter saws, which run on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. You can expect between 150 and 275 cuts on a single charge, based on the number of chops and the thickness of the board.

Motor Power

The higher the power of the saw motor, the longer you can slice the board without the danger of overheating. Common motor sizes for miter saws include 10amp, 12amp, and 15amp.

The bigger motors will also be able to rotate the rotors with enough power to slice down thick, hard material. For instance, a 10-amp miter saw should have more than adequate power if the user has to cut through hardwood planks.

A more potent engine might be required for people who need to cut through fiber cement siding or oak stair steps repeatedly.

Safety

Despite not being the most deadly saw in the workplace, a miter saw can cause harm to its operator if handled improperly or without safety measures. Most modern miter saws come equipped with the following default safety measures.

Blade guard

A rotating miter blade is enclosed in this transparent cover. When the operator lowers the tool to cut, the guard moves out of the way. As the operator raises the blade, the cover swings back over the blades to secure it.

Trigger brake

Although not every miter saw has a brake, if it does, it prevents the blade from rotating when the trigger is released.

Lockout button

If the cutter includes a lockout button, it must also be depressed for the blade to start spinning when the trigger is pulled. This dual safety feature prevents accidental wounds.

Clamp

Most modern miter saws have a security clamp to hold the workpiece while sawing firmly. This feature prevents a plank from slipping, which decreases the chance of you accidentally grasping it and contacting the rotating blade.

Dust collection

Miter saws produce a lot of debris that can affect your vision and airways. The majority of the grit will be removed before it goes into the air if the cutter has a dust-collection outlet to which a user can connect a typical vacuum cleaner hose.

Additional Features

Miter saws are adaptable, and some of them include extra features that enhance their functionality. Some attachments are pre-installed on the saw, while others are often available for optional purchase. When choosing a miter saw, keep the following features in consideration.

Laser Guide

A red or green line is marked on the board by a laser pointer on some miter saws, indicating where the blade will carve. This option is fantastic for DIY enthusiasts and newbies who want to make sure the plank is properly positioned before sawing.

Depth stop

Similar to a rotary arm saw, a miter saw with a depth stop lets the operator control the cut’s degree. This means the user can carve a groove without fully going through the plank.

Sliding fence

Some miter saws include sliding fences that can be pulled out from both ends, allowing you to place the workpiece firmly along the fence.

A no-slip grip

Particularly in summer, the grip on the miter saw can get slippery. To ease hand discomfort and provide a stronger grip, certain makers now offer cushioned, non-slip handles.

Stands

A few miter saws come with miter saw stands that firmly support the saw during cutting, but most of them include holes that enable the user to clamp them to the workplace bench for support.

Dust disposal

Miter saws frequently produce debris, especially when used in a factory. Manufacturers offer two forms of dust collection in miter saws to address this issue. The first is a little pouch intended to catch part of the dust that automatically falls into it as it leaves the blades. A dust-collection outlet connected to the hose of a retail vacuum is the next (and superior) choice.

FAQS

Can a miter saw cut metal?

It depends on the type of blade you use. A miter saw can slice light metals like aluminum and steel with the correct blade. There are a few factors to consider before buying a miter saw because these saw types aren’t usually designed for slashing metals.

To achieve the best results, you should go for blades designed for cutting metal to avoid inaccurate slices, saw breakage, and—most importantly— injury.

How is a miter saw different from a chop saw?

Miter saws are designed to perform precise cuts at several angles, unlike chop saws, which are durable and generally simple equipment.

How is a sliding miter saw different from a compound miter saw?

A miter saw comes in sliding and compound varieties. A compound miter saw is generally used to cut small bevels. On the other hand, a sliding miter saw has a chopping arm that you can pull to cut bigger panels.

How is a miter saw different from a circular saw?

Miter saws are usually fixed to the workshop tables, whereas circular saws are portable, handheld tools. Circular saws are great for taking board products apart, and miter saws are great for cutting long boards.

How is a single miter saw different from a dual bevel miter saw?

A single bevel saw can only slice an angle in one direction, often to the left, which makes it different from a dual bevel saw. Without moving the board, a dual bevel miter saw’s ability to rotate allows you to cut bevels in both directions.

Is miter saw a good tool for beginners?

Yes, it can be an excellent investment for beginners. Invest in a miter saw with safety measures, and before using the tool, make sure to read the instruction booklet in its entirety. Observing someone else operate a miter saw—either live or by viewing tutorial videos online—might also be helpful.

Can a miter saw cut 2×4?

A 10-inch miter saw would generally cut a 2 x 6 at 90 ° and a 2 x 4 at 45 °, whereas a 12-inch miter saw will slice a 2 x 8 at 90º and a 2 x 6 at 45°.

Final Word

This article will guide you in buying a miter saw that suits your needs, keeping in mind the pros and cons of each miter saw and your needs. These saws work differently from the Stihl chainsaws, so if you have been using them already, you might want to look into the working of miter saw before purchasing them.

You might also want to measure the length of chainsaw bar.

It’s not a product you frequently purchase, so make your choice wisely!

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