10 Best Contractor Table Saws – Reviews & Buying Guide 2023

If you’re buying a table saw for the first very time, it can be hard to know the right direction. Your jobsite/contractor table saw is a long-term investment and you need to make sure that all of your precision wood cutting expectations are met with the choice you make.

But how do make this tough decision as a novice woodworker? This is why Powertoolsgudie’s experts sawers took the trouble to go through a number of these heavy-duty machines and came up with a list of the best contractor table saws out there.

This is your opportunity to make an informed buying decision without having to go through several trial-and-error sessions that we did long ago.

Our 10 Top Rated Contractor Table Saw (Quick View)

10 Best Contractor Table Saw Reviews

01 Bosch 10-inch Worksite Table Saw 4100-09 (Editor’s Choice)

The Bosch 4100-09 is an excellent option for any contractor who wants to work with ease. Some of its features include a 15Amp 4.0HP motor, which enables it to cut through hardwood with speed. The fence is rock solid and square to the blade. It also allows you to cut 10-inch to the left and about 25-inch to the right. So, it’s easy to use and produces straight cuts.

This contractor table saw also has a soft start system for easy and smooth starting. This also helps prevent sudden tripping since it delays buildup of the motor power. The functional circuitry design offers overload protection while ensuring it operates at a constant speed under full-load.

The Bosch 4100-09 has a 10-inch carbide-tipped blade, which allows you to make clean cuts. This 40-tooth blade material also makes it durable and can withstand lots of wood sizes. The top’s powder coating ensures smooth glide of wood when you cut, making your work accurate.

Another outstanding feature of this machine is its foldable stand. With this, you can adjust its height to suit your needs. Many users said that the gravity stand was durable and easy to operate. We also loved the 8-inch pneumatic tires, which enabled us to transport the machine with ease.

The smart guard system boasts of a transparent barrier guard, riving knife, and anti-kickback pawls. This makes it convenient for use and gives you extra protection during kickback. Besides having many premium features, this Bosch saw comes with a one-year warranty.

Specifications

Pros

• Heavy-duty motor
• Transparent barrier guard
• Smart guard safety system
• Smart circuitry
• Collapsible and wheeled stand
• Square-lock rip fence

Cons

• A bit expensive

Our Verdict

The Bosch 4100-09 is easy to set up and offers smooth operation. It has many top-notch features, with a powerful motor and precise cuts. Though it’s on the high side, its specs and performance cover the price. If you want a contractor table saw that’s durable and easy to use, this is for you.

02 DEWALT (DWE7491RS) 10-Inch Table Saw (Great Value for Money)

The DEWALT DWE7491RS packs many impressive features, so we think it’s worth more than the price. The 32-1/2-inch rips capacity and 4800 RPM motor allow you to cut hard and vast woods quickly. The on-board storage ensures you have quick access to the attachments, and that makes your task easier.

The DWE7491RS table saw features a modular guarding system which you can adjust with no tools. Besides being stable, the stand is easy to set up and breakdown. The retractable fence rails make the machine more portable and could cut large panels with less stress. Many users were happy that the fence was plentiful and easy to adjust.

Though the unit is substantial, the included wheels make it easy to move around. This DEWALT comes with the essential safety gear, including a riving knife and anti-kickback pawls. Luckily, the guard accessories are easy to fix, meaning you won’t have much trouble.

This unit boasts a 2-1/2 –inch dust collection system and performs well when paired with a vacuum cleaner. With this, you can always limit dust mess at your workplace. Unlike our top pick, this one has a 3-year warranty, which is crucial if it has faults.

This DEWALT version received excellent reviews, and its high rating on Amazon indicated many users were satisfied. Though it didn’t have the slow start feature like our top pick, it’s working was quite impressive for us.

Specifications

Pros

• Rolling stand system
• Affordable
• Portable design
• On-board storage system
• Flip-over fence
• 4800rpm motor

Cons

• No slow start

Our Verdict

The DWE7491RS has excellent construction, offering precise cuts and reliable performance. It’s affordable yet comes in handy for small and heavy-duty projects. So, if you’re on a budget but need the perfect machine for home and commercial use, this is worth considering.

03 DEWALT Table Saw for Jobsite (DWE7485) (Top Compact Choice)

This is one of the best contractor table saws you’ll find. The DEWALT DWE7585 is the cheapest on this list, but it still offers many specs. With a 5800 rpm motor, you’ll complete your task on time. It also has an easy folding feature and remains stable when assembled. The rack and pinion fence helps you to make quick and precise adjustments. This means you’ll quickly adjust its length and width when you cut.

Another important reason we like this DEWALT DWE7585 is its portable design. It measures at 26.65 x 14.08 x 27.15 inches. So, it takes less space than the DWE7491RS model. Weighing at 53.3 pounds, the DWE7585 has a removable handle that makes it easy to move. It also has a smaller blade combined with the higher rpm to make clean cuts on hardwoods.

Another essential feature of this machine is on-board storage. With this, you can store and access your guard devices with comfort. This saw doesn’t come with a stand, which is acceptable for us looking at the price.

Specifications

Pros

• Light and portable
• Accurate fence and miter gauge
• On-board storage
• High-speed motor
• Easy to adjust the fence

Cons

• No stand in the package

Our Verdict

One of the best contractor table saws from DEWALT, it’s lightweight and portable but can handle most materials. Looking for an affordable and compact model for DIY projects at home? This one is for you.

04 Makita 2705X1 10-Inch Contractor Table Saw

The 2705X1 is a robust table saw that can tackle heavy-duty tasks at home and job site. The extendable table allows you to work with longer plywood sheets and boards. Makita made the top flat for smooth and accurate cuts. The lens over the scale makes it easy to read for fast and precise adjustments.

The 2705X1 features a sturdy stand for support, and the coated finish makes it more durable. Weighing around 140 pounds, this model is a bit heavy. The included wheels instead ensure a more natural means of transportation. The spring-loaded design makes it’s folding and storage easier. This saw has a large storage capacity for components like miter gauge, saw blade, wrench, etc.

This Makita version has a 15 AMP motor that runs up to 4800 RPM. So, it can handle different materials. What’s more, it can make bevel cuts, with a cutting capacity of 3-5/8” at 90-degrees and 2-1/2” at 45-degrees. You can adjust the riving knife to different positions with the throat plate intact for extra safety and convenience.

Many users liked this saw, but there were minor issues of the fence and riving knife alignment.

Specifications

Pros

• Adjustable blade guard assembly
• Large on/off switch
• High-Speed Motor
• Reliable construction
• Stand included
• Extendable tabletop

Cons

• Heavy

Our Verdict

This Makita model will make a fantastic addition to your workshop. The quality is excellent and will prove its worth when used in your job site. You’ll be satisfied with the ease of use, smoothness, and cut accuracy. If you want your saw to handle multiple tasks, this version is especially for your.

05 Delta 36-5052 10-Inch Left Tilt Contractor Saw

The Delta 36-5052 provides the confidence you need when cutting large wood sheets. It comes with a specialized stand with wheels and swivels feature for extra stability. The cast-iron tabletop makes it more substantial, weighing at 233 pounds but with more stability. Besides, the right-hand table extension adds extra 30-inch space for your workpiece.

The large switch at the front allows for easy power control. Once you turn the power off, the blades stop within seconds, providing extra protection in an emergency. One of the greatest things about this saw is that it allows voltages for 120 to 240 V outlets.

The Delta 36-5052 has a 1.75 HP motor, which seems small, but can still take heavy-duty tasks. It also uses a split-guard system, which allows you to replace the blades with no tools. Luckily, it has an energetic vibration dampening design, and the blade adjustments are easy to accomplish.

You’ll notice that all the installation hardware is marked for a straightforward assembly. Many users reported this saw had a smooth and quiet operation. Besides, cuts were accurate, clean, and squared.

Specifications

Pros

• Efficient dust management system
• Quiet operation
• Easy to assemble
• Split-guard structure
• Excellent support
• Auto blade brake

Cons

• Heavy
• Lower motor power

Our Verdict

Overall, the Delta 36-5052 is a stable, solid, and well-made saw. It runs quietly and stops quickly. Though expensive, its larger surface area makes it excellent for home enthusiasts and professional woodworkers.

06 SKILSAW SPT99-11 10” Heavy Duty Worm Drive Table Saw

Next on our list is the SKILSAW SPT99-11 version. This saw deserved a top spot on our list but for a few issues. Meanwhile, we still rated the SPT99-11 high for its superb quality and value.

So what makes this unit unique?

First, the worm drive gear gives this saw the needed torque to rip through wood with less effort.

This model has a 15 AMP motor that reaches the highest speed of 5000 RPM. Most importantly, this motor uses a dual field technology for cooling and safety. Besides, this model has a 3-5/8 cut depth and 30-1/2 rip capacity for cutting large planks in one sweep.

Like our previous choices, the SPT99-11 features the rack and pinion systems. Of course, this enables you to adjust the fence to achieve precise cuts quickly.

Another essential aspect of this saw is heavy-duty 16-inch wheels and stand. We loved the way the stands fold and the ease of transporting with the large tires. But we wished there was a way to lock the wheels to improve its stability.

This machine also has a supportive table at the left for cutting more extensive woods. Among other things, the package includes 24-T carbide blade, dust elbow, and smart guard system. Though it was challenging to set up, we were happy it worked well with all wood types.

Specifications

Pros

• 5000 no-load speed
• A patented warm drive gear
• Durable and foldable stand
• Large wheels
• Dust collection port
• Anti-kickback device

Cons

• Hard to assemble
• Unstable stand

Our Verdict

The SKILSAW SPT99-11 is worth the money if you’re looking for a high-performance and portable machine.

07 Delta Power Tools 36-5100 Delta 10-Inch Left Tilt Table Saw

The Delta is one brand that always comes to mind when searching for the best contractor table saw. With this 36-5100 saw from Delta, you can make smooth cuts with fewer hassles. Many users said it has the perfect set of blades, which made it pretty straightforward to manage. You’ll greatly appreciate how the blade enables you to cut the hardest wood pieces.

The fence width is 57 inches, making it a little smaller than the Delta 36-5052 version. In comparison with the 36-5052, this one has a lower rip capacity. Still, the 36-5100 is versatile, making it a reliable choice for handling cross or straight cuts. The stand has few parts, which makes it easy to setup. Besides, bearing the 260-pound load, the stand and wheels provide a more natural means to move the machine.

What’s more, this 36-5100 version has a powerful braking system that halts the motor without delay. You’ll also appreciate its specialized Biesemeyer style fence, which provides straight and precise cuts. But, a few buyers complained that the fence misaligned and need some adjustment before use. Meanwhile, we observed the table extender aligned smoothly with the main table. Hence, the woods could pass without any difficulty.

Specifications

Pros

• Single-piece rail system
• Large ON/OFF switch
• Biesemeyer style fence
• Moveable stand
• Braking system
• Fast and accurate cuts

Cons

• Fence needs adjustment

Our Verdict

The Delta 36-5100 combines premium features and sturdy construction to produce the top-notch woodwork creations. It’s one of the high-end models on this list, looking at its many pros, it truly deserves the price tag.

08 Rockwell RK7241S Table Saw

The Rockwell RK7241S is a great low-priced machine with many top-notch features. This unit packs a powerful 15Amp motor that runs at a no-load hi-speed of 4800 RPM. his means it can cut all timber types with speed and precision. Besides, it boasts of a quick release fence that guides the wood smoothly to the blade.

You can adjust the fence to the blade position to get a smoother and cleaner cut.

The most separating feature of the RK7241S is the laser indicator. This technology allows the blade to tilt, resulting in precise cuts. What’s more, you can fold out the fence to increase your work table size. This model also comes with a dust collection bag that helps to keep your workplace clean.

Like most models we’ve listed, the RK741S comes with a trolley with wheels for easy transportation. This saw is backed with a two-year warranty. But, some users stated it had many plastic parts, which makes it less durable.

Specifications

Pros

• Foldable fence
• Laser guide
• 4800 RPM
• Bevel function
• 10-inch blade
• Affordable and portable

Cons

• Includes plastic parts

Our Verdict

This unit is cheap and offers excellent value for money. The laser guide gives the Rockwell RK7241S an advantage over other models in its price range. So far, we were satisfied with the saw’s power, portability, and cut accuracy. Hence, we highly recommend it for a suitable contractor table saw to help complete their DIY projects.

09 Hitachi C10RJ 10” 15 Amp Jobsite Table Saw

Our research found this tool to be excellent for beginner woodworkers at home and job site.

So, why do we like it?

Besides being sturdy, the Hitachi C10RJ has great extras at an affordable price. It features a powerful 15Amp motor that speeds up to 4500RPM through hard materials. The fence and miter gauge which helps you to make smooth corner cuts between 0 to 45 degrees.

This tool has a 35-inch rip capacity, and 22 x 28-3/4 tabletop creates a super convenient work surface.

Another outstanding feature is the soft-start circuitry that provides a smooth start to prolong its lifespan. Besides, it’s equipped with an electric brake to boost your safety and confidence.

This model comes with a modular guard system and anti-kickback pawls to reduce the possibility of injuries. Still, the strategic location of the switch button makes it readily accessible in an emergency. For added safety, the blades stop rotating once you hit the power button.

Luckily, you can fold the saw for storage or transportation in a few minutes. The storage facility keeps you to organize your tools to put them to use quickly. The Hitachi C10RJ can only work on a 120V outlet and has a two-year warranty. Remember, you need to adjust the rip fence and riving knife position before you use it.

Specifications

Pros

• 15 Amp motor
• Large cutting surface
• Electric brake
• Soft start
• Foldable stand
• Onboard storage

Cons

• Can’t bevel over 45 degrees

Our Verdict

The Hitachi C10RJ is an impressive contractor table saw. It’s portable, compact, and works well for beginners. Above all, the C10RJ is one of the cheapest available and pretty much useful for lightweight tasks.

10 Delta 36-5000 10-Inch Left Tilt Contractor Saw

To complete our best contractor table saw reviews, we present the Delta 36-5000. This model has many great features, which is the reason for its high price.

The 36-5000 saw has a sleek design with a tubular stand to support the extendable table.

Like our previous Delta choices, the stand has solid wheels for easy transportation. It can make a straight, curve, and corner cuts, thanks to its 0 to 90-degrees bevel function.

This model also features a blade guard, anti-kickback pawls, and a riving knife for safety. Most importantly, it comes with a motor stop function that prevents severe injuries to the user when touching the blades.

What’s more, this Delta 36-5000 has a 15Amp 1HP motor that can smoothly handle soft and hard materials. The rip capacity is at 30-inches so that it can take large-sized plywood. With the Biesemeyer fence system, you can expect more accurate and effortless cutting action.

The 36-5000 was easy to assemble though the weight was an issue for us.

Specifications

Pros

• Easy to move
• Suitable for home and commercial use
• Stable and powerful
• High-quality rip fence
• Many safety features

Cons

• Heavy

Our Verdict

Overall, we never had many things to say against this model. The Delta 36-5000 was mobile-friendly, accurate, robust, and stable. Though it comes at a considerable price, we believe it’ll be a reliable option for all woodworkers.

Best Contractor Table Saw For The Money – Buying Guide

1. Build Material

Table saws are designed to handle tough tasks, so they feature the most durable materials. Cast iron tabletops are the sturdiest but also increases the machine’s weight. Other materials include aluminum, stainless steel, and stamped metal. Of course, these are lighter but also robust and long-lasting.

2. Weight

Generally, contractor table saws are substantial, as they weigh between 55 to 260 pounds. If you don’t always want to keep your machine in one location, pick a lighter model with wheels.

3. Table Size and Ripping Capacity

Since the contractor saw tables come in different sizes, your work type determines which one is perfect. For example, if you want to cut fencing panels, you need a larger table like the Bosch 4100-09. Likewise, a small table size like the Rockwell RK7241S can handle lightweight cutting tasks.

4. Stability

You need a stable base with fewer vibrations to make precise cuts. Besides ruining your work, an unstable unit could cause accidents. So, always opt for models with a sound shock absorption system like the Delta 36-5052 saw.

5. Blade Type

The cut speed and finish are dependent on the blade type and teeth number. Most saws on this list feature rip or crosscut blades, for instance. If you need a cleaner and faster cutting, choose rip blades. This is because they have more teeth and bigger gullets. Crosscut blades have more teeth number but smaller gaps, creating slower but more accurate cuts.

Many companies now develop blades that fall in the middle, without limiting cut speed and precision.

6. Blade Material

The workpiece determines the right blade material to use. While a steel blade is useful for woods, you need a tungsten diamond tips for harder metals. But for plastics, pick a tungsten carbide blade.

7. Horsepower

The saw’s weight and the proposed work volume will determine its motor power. For example, you need a 2HP motor for softer woods like pine and at least 3HP for hardwood. The Bosch 4100-09 saw with 4HP is one of the most powerful on the market today.

8. Fence and Miter Gauge

Making straight and accurate cuts are essential features for a good contractor table saw. Of course, you can only achieve this with the fence. Fencing also allows you to extend your table size, especially when working on larger boards. Likewise, the miter gauge helps you to make smooth angled cuts.

Each company has their fence type, but many woodworkers prefer the T-fence system. This one has a lock mechanism for extra stability and smoothness of cuts.

9. Safety Features

The most vital safety features to look out for are riving knife, blade guard, and anti-kickback pawls. Above all, they protect you against dust, splitters, and metal pieces, which could cause severe injuries.

Riving knife

You find this thin metal piece behind the blade. It keeps the split open to prevent a kickback.

Blade guard

Look for models with a transparent plastic cover to protect your fingers from touching the blade without blocking your view.

Anti-kickback pawls

Sometimes the workpiece moves towards the worker, that’s where the anti-kickback pawls are essential. These blades spikes cut into the wood to end its backward motion.

10. Storage Space

The best contractor table saws come with extra storage for quicker access to your favorite tools.

11. Dust Collection

Having a functional sawdust collection system helps saves you time and keeps the workplace clean.

12. Warranty

Generally, contractor table saws are expensive, so we suggest you pick one with at least 5-year warranty. Always opt for models with impressive warranty conditions.

13. Budget

As long as you fix your budget and specs, go for high-quality and durable models. However, the saws on this list range from 500 to 2000 dollars, so you can choose the best for your pocket.

Usage & Safety Tips

Table saws are excellent accessories to help you make straight, clean, and safe cuts. But they are risky and cause damages if used wrongly. To avoid accidents, here are a few things you need to know.

• Suit up

Before you start operation, you should wear the right clothing and safety gear. Avoid long sleeves, gloves, tie, jewelry, etc. Don’t use the machine without proper eye and ear protection equipment.

• Keep your work area clean

Create the habit of keeping your workspace clean. Besides the dangers of dust in the spinning blade, stepping on debris is more dangerous. This is because you might slip and hit your head.

• Use push sticks

The push sticks help to keep your fingers from sliding to the blade. Luckily, they’re cheap, and you can make one at home.

• Use splitters and blade guards

You shouldn’t ignore the included safety equipment as they protect you from accidents. The spacer keeps the saw serf open to keep the wood from binding with blade and fence. It also does a great job to prevent kickback.

• Use a feather board

The function of the feather board is to hold the stock to the fence and worktable. In turn, this reduces your effort to secure the wood, resulting in more accurate cuts. Feather boards can prevent kickback and the workpiece from hitting you during operation.

• Switch off the motor before you change the blade

Make it a good practice to power off your machine before adjusting the mechanical parts. This removes the possibility that the motor turns on while you work on it.

• Maintain a good posture

The standing position is vital for your safety when working on a contractor table saw. Here, you should maintain a broad base to enhance balance and stand beside the blade. This is to prevent being hit by the stock during kickback.

• Check stock to remove nails and foreign objects

Make sure no screws, nails, or loose knots is on the stock. Of course, these aliens might cause kickback if caught in the blade.

• Use the right blade

There are many blade types, but you need the right one to get good results. Besides, ensure the blade is sharp and maintain it regularly.

Care & Maintenance Tips

Regular maintenance of your tabletop saw is essential for its functioning and safety. So, here are the measures for effective saw maintenance.

• Wipe off the dirt from the fence, gear, and adjustment controls. Maintain a tight connection between dust port and airbag to prevent the escape of dust.
• Apply lubricants to the gear parts and other adjustment points to ensure their smooth functioning.
• Spray a light oil on the fence and tabletop, wipe off to remove grime and dirt buildup. This allows the wood to slide along the surface with less friction.
• Visually inspect the blades raisings and tilt system for loose nuts and bolts. Also, adjust the tilt angle per the manufacturer’s instruction.
• Clean the blades from dirt to eliminate feed pressure and the risk of kickback.
• Use mild detergents and water to clean the plastic parts. Never use any solution that contains ammonia to wipe your tool.
• Always check your saw’s alignment whenever you want to work; and readjust where necessary.
• Check the drive belt and blade teeth for any wear. If found, replace the broken parts at once.

It’s Time to Wrap Up

Having read our reviews, we believe you’re prepared to pick the best contractor table saw available today. As a woodworker, you can achieve lots more than your competitors if you use the right tools.

If you’re still unsure about the right model to pick, the Bosch 4100-09 saw should be perfect. This unit is robust and has many safety features. More than that, it provides straight and angled cuts while the stand makes it easier to move. Those on a budget but looking for a compact choice could opt for DEWALT DWE7491RS version.

We understand that our needs differ, so we’ve analyzed only their main specs to help you make the right decision. Above all, all our contractor table saw choices have outstanding specs with excellent performance. For whatever project you have at hand, these saws will deliver a decent job.

FAQs

1. What’s the difference between a hybrid table saw and a contractor table saw?

Ans. Contractor table saws have a simple design that makes them excellent for light projects. They have an open base with an expandable table in which you can increase your work surface. Though heavy, the wheeled stand makes them easy to move around. Since they’re portable, contractor saws are ideal for woodworkers with a medium-sized workshop.

Meanwhile, the hybrid models combine the features of contractor and cabinet table saws. In comparison with contractor saws, hybrid saws are less portable and might have accuracy issues. Hence, they’re not commonly used by expert woodworkers.

2. What is the best contractor table saw?

Ans. Your ideal saw is dependent on factors; so, we cannot tell which is best for you. But, read our reviews to know the right one to pick.

3. How does saw brake work?

Ans. Once your skin contacts the blade, the signal is sent to the circuit for the motor to stop.

4. Should I use a dado on my contractor table saw?

Ans. Not all saws have this function, so you can only use it if the design permits. The Delta 36-5052 allows the use of dado blades.

5. What is the arbor?

Ans. The arbor part that holds the blade is the arbor.

6. How dangerous are table saws?

Ans. In comparison with other home woodworking tools, table saws are the most dangerous. They can cause severe injuries if misused.

7. Do you need a stand for a table saw?

Ans. Yes. A stand provides a stable platform for the saw and workpiece. Besides, most of them come with wheels for you to move your machine.