Even as a beginner in woodworking, there comes a time when you should move on to power tools, and a table saw is one of the essentials. However, what you need as a beginner is a simple and affordable table saw, void of advanced features you don't need as a beginner. There are several table saw models on the market that are simple, affordable, and functional enough. So many that selecting just one can be confusing. If you are looking for the best table saw for beginners, we have selected and reviewed some of the best options for beginners available on the market today.
Comparison Table of Table Saws
Top 6 Best Table Saw for Beginners
1. SKILSAW 10-Inch Portable Worm Drive Table Saw
Key Features
The SKILSAW SPT70WT-01 Table Saw is touted to be the world's first worm drive table saw. The unique worm drive gearing maximizes the torque and power for ripping through work pieces without getting bogged down. It has a 25-inch rip capacity, which is more than enough for most beginner projects. Table saws tend to get hot, especially after extended use. However, the SKILSAW SPT70WT-01 comes with dual copper windings that help the machine run cooler than most similar table saws.
The machine is powered by a 15 Amp dual-field motor, with a no-load speed of 5300 RPM. The bevel is designed such that at 45°, you get a cut depth of 2-3/10" and a cut depth of 3-½" when cutting at 90°. As powerful as the motor is, it runs quieter when compared to similar models from other brands. Unlike the SKIL 3410-02, it has a reliable dust collection port that can easily fit into a standard 21/4" vacuum hose. Even with these amazing features, it remains a reasonably priced piece.
2. DEWALT DW745 10-Inch Table Saw
Key Features
When it comes to table saws that are easy to use, the DEWALT DW745 is one of the best options for beginners. It comes with a decent 15 Amp motor that cuts through hardwood easily. Weighing less than 50 pounds, it is one of the most portable table saws you can get. The 10-inch blade spins with a no-load speed of 3,850 RPM for clean cuts, and the exclusive fence configuration makes for a high 20-inch rip capacity. Although it has a work surface that is limited in size, the fencing system will allow you to cut large sheet materials to size. Another feature that makes it so perfect for beginners is the 0 to 45 degrees beveling.
The array of safety features incorporated into the design of the DEWALT is impressive as well. Dust collection is decent as well, with a dust port that allows 2 ½" vacuum hookup. Another feature that makes it perfect for beginners is the convenient guarding system that allows tool-free adjustment. If ever dropped by mistake, the steel roll cage protects it from the destructive impact. Also, the rack and pinion system makes for more accurate cuts.
3. DEWALT DWE7491RS 10-Inch Table Saw
Key Features
While it may not be the easiest table saw to handle, the DEWALT DWE7491RS is still one of the best options for beginners in woodworking. It is a jobsite table saw with 32 ½ inch rip capacity. It features a 15-amp motor that is very decent for light-duty tasks. There is also a rack and pinion fence system that is very accurate and easy to operate. One of the things we love is the inbuilt stand, as it comes with wheels for mobility. There is an onboard storage space that allows you to tuck the power cord and other loose parts away easily.
When buying a table saw for beginners, safety is one of the most important things to consider. The DEWALT DWE7491RS comes with essential safety features, from the blade guard assembly to the riving knife that prevents binding and kickbacks, to the push stick that protects your hand from the blade. Although this is one of the more expensive options, there are sufficient features that justify the price. If you are ever in the market for a simple, portable, and functional table saw as a beginner, this is one of the tools you should consider.
4. Bosch 10-Inch Worksite Table Saw
Key Features
Bosch is a trusted brand in the power tool world, and the 4100-09 Worksite Table Saw is just one of their many tools. It features a powerful 15 Amp motor that is rated at 4HP and has a fixed speed of 3650 RPM. The machine has a rip capacity of 25 inches with a blade diameter of 10 inches. Furthermore, it has a 40-tooth blade, made from carbide, that is perfect for cutting various wood types. Interestingly, the uniquely designed stand has wheels that make the unit easier to move around.
As you would expect, there are some necessary safety features, from the blade guard to the anti-kickback system. Furthermore, there is a dust collection system that will get rid of most of the dust produced as you use the saw. One of the unique features is the SquareLock Rip Fence, which is made out of aluminum and designed to slide up and down the rail easily. The miter gauge is not the best but is functional enough for beginner usage.
5. Makita 2705X1 10-Inch Contractor Table Saw
Key Features
The Makita 2705X1 is closely related to the Makita 2705, but the only difference is the absence of a stand in the 2705X1. This is one of the options suitable for both beginners and professionals alike. The large rip capacity, the sturdy build, and several additional features make it one of the best table saws available. It has a 15 Amp motor that has a high 4800 RPM speed level. While it has telescopic fence rails, the table surface measures a generous 24 x 22 inches. When extended, the rails can provide an impressive 25-inch capacity.
The 15 Amp motor is just adequate to make full use of the large cutting capacity. Stability is another important feature for a beginner, and the tool comes with a cast frame that holds the motor and keeps it stable during operations. An electric brake is not a common feature in portable table saws, but the Makita 2705X1 comes with one. Also, quick adjustments are made possible by the rack and pinion telescoping function. There are not many disadvantages to this table saw, but we do not like the low quality of the miter gauge in particular.
6. SKIL 15 Amp 10 Inch Table Saw
Key Features
The SKIL 3410-02 is another table saw that is perfect for beginners in woodworking. The first thing we fell in love with is the heavy-duty steel construction; this makes it a bit heavier than typical portable saws and makes it more durable. It has a stand that folds away easily, albeit without wheels. The tool is powered by a 120-volt, 15 Amp motor with an impressive no-load speed of 5000 RPM. Quite interestingly, the 20 x 26 inches cast aluminum table can extend to 20 x 32 inches for longer work pieces.
All necessary safety features are featured on the saw. The riving knife is installed to prevent kickbacks, while the blade guard increases the level of protection. You can store accessories onboard the machine as there is a storage compartment provided. With the 2° - 47° bevel angle range, the EZ view measurement, and the self-aligning rip fence, you get a variety of applications and accurate measurements. The blade that comes with it is a 28 tooth carbide-tipped blade that is perfect for ripping but not the best for cross-cutting.
Overall Best - SKILSAW SPT70WT-01 Table Saw
Features and Factors to Consider When Buying a Table Saw for Beginners
Simplicity and functionality should be the highlight of any table saw for a beginner in woodworking. Here are some of the critical features and factors to look for when considering table saw options for beginners.
Ease of Use
The ease of use is one of the most important factors to consider when the table saw is for a beginner in woodworking. Table saws take some getting used to, more so for people with little or no experience. Regardless of the advanced features on a saw, you should never get a tool that is not easy to handle and operate as a beginner. As a rule of thumb, you should avoid units that require blade adjustments before they can be put on. In addition to the ease of use, the tool should also be easy to set up.
Left/ Right Tilt
These are the two directions in which the blade can tilt for angle and bevel cuts. For beginners, we would recommend a left tilt blade, mainly because the fence will be situated on the right-hand side of the blade. A left tilt blade reduces that chance of binding, causing the workpiece to get pulled up to the spinning saw blade. While there are ways to prevent the possible negative effects of blades with right tilt, beginners should go for tools that are comfortable enough as they come.
Direct Drive or Belt Drive Motors
Depending on the type of table saw, you can either have a belt drive or a direct-drive motor. Both have their respective advantages and disadvantages, so we leave it up to you to select whichever you believe is the perfect option for you. Belt drive motors are more durable, quieter, and they cut deeper compared to direct drive motors. However, direct drive motors are lighter and more portable.
Dust Collection
Many of the woodworking tools require efficient dust collection systems because of the quantity of dust that is usually produced during woodworking operations. Higher-end saws typically feature better dust collection systems, but we don't expect you to choose high-end models as a beginner. All you need is a decent dust collection system that will keep most of the dust produced out of your way as you work.
Price
The best table saw for beginners does not have to be so expensive. Simplicity is one of the things you need, so buying expensive tools with several advanced features is not the best way to go. After you get more familiar with the operation of table saws, you can always switch to more advanced models.
Safety When Operating a Table Saw
Table saws can be very dangerous, so you should look out for safety features that will ensure a safer woodworking experience. Most especially, look out for features that will prevent kickback. The on/off switch should be easily accessible, just in case you need to cut power quickly. A riving knife is another feature you should look out for, as it prevents kickbacks from occurring. Blade guards and anti-kickback pawls are some other features that will make a table saw safer to use.
How to Align Your Table Saw Blade?
The first thing you want to do when you get a new table saw is to make sure that the blade is perfectly aligned. When the blade is not straight, there is a higher risk of kickbacks. It may seem hard at first, but aligning your saw blade with the miter slot is quite straightforward.
You need a good miter gauge to align your blade perfectly. The miter gauges on a lot of portable table saws are of inferior quality, however. The solution to this is to calibrate the miter gauge on your tool.
Get a scrap board of about 2" by 6", cut a corner off and make a hole with a drill. Install your dial indicator in the hole at an angle. Next, put the miter in the miter slot and, with the tip of the dial pressed against one end of the blade, clamp the piece of wood with the dial indicator to the miter gauge.
With your dial indicator set at zero, move the miter gauge such that the indicator reads at the other end of the blade and then compare the readings at both ends. Continue the process until the error is eliminated.
There are several other methods for aligning table saw blades, with each aligning process varying with the saw type. You can always research the alignment process of your table saw model online.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I do with a table saw?
A table saw is one of the more versatile woodworking tools, and there's not much you can do in a workshop without one. For beginners who are new to woodworking, a table saw is needed to make rips, cross cuts, square cuts, rabbit cuts, miter cuts, and more.
What is a riving knife?
A riving knife is one of the essential safety features on table saws. It is the most effective way to prevent kickbacks. The riving knife is typically situated behind the saw blade, and stops the cut workpiece from making contact with the backside of the saw blade as it moves past.
Can I use a dado blade on any table saw?
Typically, one should be able to use a dado blade on any table saw, as the typical dado sets measure 8" in diameter. Most table saws feature similarly sized arbors that can fit the blade. Nevertheless, some table saws are not designed to fit the standard dado blade. Before you get dado blades for your saw, make sure that the arbor size on the saw matches the blade size.