Best Sliding Compound Miter Saw. Buyer's Guide + Reviews

DEWALT Sliding Compound Miter Saw, 30 Cm (DWS779)

Whats not to like about a sliding miter saw that can cut a 2 by 41 cm piece of lumber at 90 degrees accurately and wood up to 17 cm thick?

This DeWalt Miter Saw has a large cutting capacity, delivers 3,800 rpm from its 15-amp motor, and has a blade positioning system that allows for better visibility and accuracy.

What We Like

  • Its wood cutting capacity can be measured in depth and width
  • According to cut-carpenters, their angle cuts are accurate to a degree.
  • Weighing 25kg, it is heavy to transport but the extra weight ensures stability and a precise cut
  • It is considerably cheaper than similar machines in terms of price and quality

What We Dont Like

  • A laser is not available. A laser add-on kit is also available but most people find it difficult to attach.
  • It is a single bevel machine. It is convenient to have a dual-level machine. There is no need to flip the wood constantly to ensure the right angle.
  • The dust collector. It is too small and fills quickly.

Bottom Line:

The miter saw is great for woodworkers and carpenters, but it’s also good for beginners.

Bosch Power Tools GCM12SD 15 Amp 12 In. Corded Dual-bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw With 60 Tooth Saw Blade

The Axial Guide System reduces the workspace by 30 cm, which is what makes this model unique. That reduction is great for anyone who has a smaller workspace or who needs room for all his tools.

What Do We Like

  • Its cutting ability-it cuts any wood thrown at it, including hardwoods
  • Machines with similar features are much more expensive than theirs.
  • Sawdust unit is designed so an independent dust catcher can be attached
  • Covered grease joints mean no dust or grease sticking on the rails

What We Dont Like

  • Without an independent dust catcher, dust collection is inefficient. One shouldnt have to modify a dust catcher to make it larger
  • Because of the wide kerf plate and high fence, cutting smaller pieces can be tricky
  • It should be laser-readable for its price.

Bottom Line

This is a machine designed for those who work with wood regularly. This machine is not equipped with a laser and has a high price. If you plan to use a compound miter saw occasionally, buy a less expensive model and treat yourself to a portable miter saw stand.

Makita XSL06PT 18V X2 LXT Lithium-Ion (36V) Brushless Cordless 25 Cm Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw With Laser Kit

Makita is a pioneer in power tools and was the first to sell a battery-operated drill. They have more experience in perfecting this technology because of it.

This saw is a one-stop shop for all your laser, dual-bevel and saw-sliding needs. This saw has a 4,400 rpm speed that matches any comparable-sized electric saw. The batteries last for 200 cuts.

What We Like

  • A cordless miter-saw that is both cordless and has all the best features of a miter see
  • The automatic speed adjustment that corrects for torque and load
  • Direct drive for smoother starts
  • The Star-equipped technology allows communication between the battery and the tool to prevent over-charging, overloading, or over-discharging.

What We Dont Like

  • We recommend the 25 cm model to keep prices competitive. It reduces the wood that can easily be cut.
  • Adapter to connect to a dust vacuum does not come included. Seems stingy that Makita didnt include this (especially since they manufacture an attachement)
  • Battery performance is affected by lower temperatures. But this is true for all batteries

Bottom Line

This is almost the perfect miter saw, except for one thing-price. The 30 cm saw is even more expensive than the 25 cm. If you plan to use this saw occasionally, you should go with the DeWalt. It is a great investment if you plan to use this saw more frequently.

Sliding Compound Miter Saw Vs. Compound Miter Saw

Sliding miter saws have a bar or rails that let you pull the blade forward. On a compound miter saw, you put the wood on the turntable, and then bring the blade down. A sliding compound miter saw allows you to pull the blade towards you, and then you can let it drop.

This lets you cut a much wider piece of wood. A regular compound miter can only cut a 2×8 by 30 cm piece of wood with a blade that is 30 cm long. One with a 25 cm blade can only cut a 2 by 6. A 10 or 30 cm mitersaw is sufficient for cutting picture frames and crown molding. A sliding miter is ideal for cutting larger boards such as those used to fence.

Why spend more on a dual-bevel saw?

If youre one of those people who second-guess themselves, then you might find yourself flipping the wood over and readjusting it to make sure youre going to cut the wood in the right direction. Trust me, Ive been there.
A second reason is precision. With a dual- bevel, you set the angle and cut, slide the wood and flip the saw, and it can cut at the same angle from the other direction. Let’s say you are cutting a 23-degree slanting cut to the right. When you finish that cut, slide the wood and flip the saw to the 23-degree mark and cut.
However, a dual bevel saw will cost more. Woodworkers and carpenters don’t notice the difference until they purchase a dual-level. Most never go back. If you want to see the differences between 10 and 30 cm miters, click here. For other videos comparing sliding miter saws to regular miters, click here or here.

Final Thoughts

Any of these miter saws would be a good purchase, but we cant make a final recommendation. To do that we would need to know what you plan to do with your miter saw and how much you can afford. Do you need brand-specific guides for miter saws. If so, you can check out Best Ryobi Mitersaw: Which One Should I Buy?, Best Hitachi Mitersaw: Top 3 Picks + Review, and Best Bosch Mitersaw: Our Top 3 Picks.