Top 10 Miter Saws Review: 2021 Ranking

The miter saw, which can be used to accurately cut material at a specific angle, is widely used by professional and home craftsmen. The tool is irreplaceable when performing a number of assembly, joinery and finishing works. Today we will tell you what technical characteristics the best miter saw should have, and also consider the most interesting models.

The purpose of the miter saw

The purpose of the working tool is determined by the name itself: trimming is used to neatly decorate the ends of the workpieces. For example, a circular saw is used to make a longitudinal cut, and a miter saw cuts a piece of wood across the grain.

Thanks to the use of saw blades and high strength, the tool can be used to cut natural wood, wood material, plastic and metal profiles. In fact, the workpieces used in the work can be of any shape, while the longitudinal axis is considered weak.

Many DIYers who do not have sufficient experience with such tools mistakenly assume that trimming only cuts at right angles. But in modern devices, it is possible to cut the material along the horizontal and vertical axis, as well as at the inclination set by the operator. The tool is used for the production of cabinet furniture from wood and wood material, door and window frames, laying laminate, parquet and baseboards.

Device and functionality

The functional block of the working device is represented by four main components: the motor, the cutting element, the gearbox and the control handle. The functional unit is installed on the base (the second name is the bed). The bed is made of impact-resistant and high-quality material and has a turntable.

There are pendulum, butt-miter and combined trims. There are models that rotate the lever in two directions. But the width of the angle cutter is small. So, a trimmer with a 10-inch cutting disc cuts wood boards up to 69x135 mm in size. Unfortunately, this saw is not suitable for working with large items.

You can change the width of the cutting angle to a larger side using the traction function. The function block moves around the axis and along the cutting line along the guide joints. Such devices are called broaching trimming.

Miter Saw Selection Criteria

How Do I Pick a Good Miter Saw? Many people ask this question. After all, the final result depends on the quality and strength of the working tool. Consider the main nuances of choosing miter saws.

engine's type

In most modern models, the engine is located to the right of the cutting blade. To expand the working surface, a slight offset to the rear of the function block is possible. The type of motor can be asynchronous, collector and brushless.

Asynchronous

The asynchronous model has no internal contacts, so it is characterized by low noise performance, reliability and economy. The service life is long, since there is practically nothing to wear out there. Mounted bearings are wear resistant.

However, few craftsmen like to work with such devices. Unfortunately, the asynchronous motor has a large specific weight and low power output.

Collector

If we compare the parameters and power of the tool, then a miter saw with a collector motor is considered the most successful option. Such an engine produces from 5,000 to 10,000 rpm. The specified performance is enough to perform a large amount of work. For this reason, many manufacturers install brushed motors.

The disadvantages include increased noise and the need to regularly replace the collector brushes.

Brushless

In a brushless engine, an electronic unit is installed instead of a brush-collector unit. The advantages of the electronic unit are called low resistance and high switching speed of the power valves. The brushless miter saw features quiet operation, low maintenance and high productivity. There is only one drawback - it is the overestimated cost of trimming with a brushless motor.

: Asynchronous

: Collector

: Brushless

Power

The working resource of the tool depends on its power. The higher this technical moment, the greater the productivity of the working apparatus. Often, household saws are characterized by a relatively low power, which cannot be said about professional devices. So, for a household appliance, you can watch a saw with a power of up to 1.8 kW.

Rotational speed

An equally important selection criterion is the rotational speed of the saw blade. The number of revolutions of the cutting element per minute affects the quality of the cut. A high-quality and clean cut has no chips, irregularities and chipped fibers. The optimal value of this parameter should be in the range from 3200 to 6000 rpm.

Gearbox transmission type

There are two types of gearbox transmission: gear and belt. The first option - the gear transmission of the reducer - is characterized by high reliability. The saw blade does not spin even under heavy loads. If we talk about the shortcomings, it is worth noting the increased noise and the likelihood of vibration. This, in turn, negatively affects the accuracy and cleanliness of the cut.

The belt drive of the gearbox guarantees a high-quality and clean cut. The reason for this is the minimal probability of a vibration mode. The disadvantages of a belt reducer are called frequent cranking of the shaft and the need for periodic tool adjustments.

Dimensions (edit)

For stationary devices, dimensions play practically no role. If frequent movement of the tool is expected, due consideration should be given to its weight and parameters. But do not forget that the dimensions of the trimming affect its power: the smaller the dimensions, the worse the performance.

For household use, we recommend buying trims that are small in weight and dimensions. The massive tools are suitable for semi-professional and professional use.

Author's advice

Cutting disc

When choosing a saw blade, it is important to choose the right size. Carefully study the recommendations of the miter saw manufacturers regarding the rim and inner diameter of the blade.

Most manufacturers make miter saws for use with a 30 mm disc. It is about the bore diameter. The most common saw blade outer diameter is 10 or 12 inches. Cutting elements with a diameter of less than 185 mm and more than 360 mm are extremely rare on sale.

Working at an angle

More and more tools with advanced functionality are in great demand among joiners, furniture makers and simple home craftsmen. In particular, many are interested in sawing workpieces at a given angle.You can make an oblique cut of the material by turning the work table or turning the cutting element.

Additional options

Currently available miter saws are equipped with many options and functions. Let's consider only a part of the possible additional functionality:

Fast (keyless) replacement of the cutting element.
Cover protection.
Smooth and easy start.
Saw blade speed control.
Changing and limiting the cutting depth.
Disable automatic type when blocking the cutter.
Laser pointer.
Maintaining a given number of revolutions during intensive use.
Connecting a vacuum cleaner or dust collector to remove shavings and wood chips.
Illumination of the work surface.

We bring to your attention an overview of the best trims of 2019. The rating was compiled on the basis of recommendations from service center specialists and user reviews.

Best budget miter saws

Budget miter saws are in demand by novice craftsmen. Such tools are indispensable for household use. Consider the TOP 3 best budget models.

Hammer STL800

The best option for performing household work in the country or in a private yard. The Hammer STL800 trimmer guarantees a neat and even cut in wood material, steel and light aluminum profiles.

The manufacturer has carefully considered and ensured the protection of the user. The model is equipped with an automatically lowering guard and a wide fixed base. An insulating barrier between mechanical and electrical components reduces the likelihood of electric shock.

Key Features:

power - 800 W;
number of rotations per minute - 5000;
parameters of the cutting element (inner and landing diameters) - 190 and 20 mm;
cutting dimensions (maximum value of height and width) - 48/100 mm;
weight - 5.5 kg.

Pros:

low specific gravity;
small size and mobility;
good quality components;
the ability to connect a vacuum cleaner.

Minuses:

the soft start function is not provided;
heats up under intense load or prolonged use.

Video Comparison of Hammer STL800 and Hammer STL1600 Miter Saws

This video provides a brief comparative analysis of two devices from the same manufacturer.

BISON ZPT-210-1400 L

Compact universal trimmer for household use. The tool performs straight, oblique, oblique and combined cuts of workpieces. The laser pointer will help to increase the accuracy of the cut. The ZUBR ZPT-210-1400 L model provides the ability to tilt in both directions and fix the working surface in any position.

Key Features:

power - 1300 W;
number of rotations per minute - 5500;
cutting element parameters (inner and landing diameters) - 210 and 30 mm;
cutting dimensions (maximum value of height and width) - 60/120 mm;
weight - 5.4 kg.

Pros:

easy to use;
the presence of a lock of a random start;
an electronic brake system is provided;
combination of price and quality.

Minuses:

poor placement of the rotation lock;
backlash of the protective casing drive lever.

Video "Review of BISON ZPT-210-1400 L"

This video covers the key parameters and characteristics of the model.

CALIBER PTE-1400 / 210M

Electric side saw for shaping straight, bevel and side cuts in wood material. CALIBER PTE-1400 / 210M is suitable for joinery and assembly work in the garden, in the country and in the garage. For intensive loads, the power of the device is not enough - the engine may heat up.

It is possible to connect a dust collector to remove shavings and small wood chips.

Key Features:

power - 1400 W;
number of rotations per minute - 5000;
parameters of the cutting element (inner and landing diameters) - 210 and 30 mm;
the dimensions of the cut (the maximum value of the height and width) - 55 and 120 mm;
weight - 7 kg.

Pros:

lightness and compactness;
slight backlash;
low noise.

Minuses:

fragility of the protective casing;
angle adjustment required.

Video "Review of the saw CALIBR PTE-1400 / 210M"

In this video, you can view user feedback on the tool.

Top mid-range miter saws

The next selection in today's ranking is the mid-range miter saws. Such devices are suitable for domestic and semi-professional use. For professional use, the intensity of the tool must be controlled.

Hammer STL1800 / 255P

According to consumer reviews, the Hammer STL1800 / 255P trimmer regularly saws wood blanks and metal profiles. The presence of support extensions allows you to cut long wooden planks and battens. Burrs, chips and uneven cutting are not encountered. The model is distinguished by high productivity and high rotational speed of the saw blade.

Key Features:

power - 1800 W;
frequency of revolutions per minute - 5000;
saw blade (inner and landing diameters) - 255 and 30 mm;
maximum cutting dimensions (height / width) - 83/295 mm;
weight - 13.5 kg.

Pros:

neat and clean cut;
ease of use;
excellent build quality;
robust and damage-resistant housing.

Minuses:

negative reviews about the work of the dust collector.

Video "Hammer STL1800 / 255P Review"

This video covers the technical specifications of the instrument.

Interskol PTK-216/1100

Universal type trimmer for straight, angled, oblique and combined cuts in wood, metal profiles and plastic material. Interskol PTK-216/1100 is actively used in furniture production and baguette workshops. Due to its compactness and low specific weight, the working device does not cause difficulties with transportation and storage.

Key Features:

power - 1100 W;
frequency of revolutions per minute - 5000;
saw blade (inner and landing diameters) - 216 and 30 mm;
maximum cutting dimensions (height / width) - 18/133 mm;
weight - 9.5 kg.

Pros:

rich equipment;
thoughtful dust extraction;
high-quality assembly;
strong components;
the ability to adjust the working surface.

Minuses:

there is no carrying handle;
weak fixation of the power button.

Video "Acquaintance with the model Interskol PTK-216/1100"

In this video you can watch the unboxing and first impressions of the device.

Metabo KS 216 M Lasercut

Compact and easy-to-use miter saw for domestic and professional use. The design is characterized by strength and ergonomics, the body is resistant to various mechanical damages. Saw head locking and carrying handle are provided. The Metabo KS 216 M Lasercut has an ultra-precise laser for identifying the cut line.

Convenience of operation can be attributed to the built-in LED lamp, which covers the entire area of the working surface.

Key Features:

power - 1350 W;
frequency of revolutions per minute - 5000;
saw blade (inner and landing diameters) - 216 and 30 mm;
maximum cutting dimensions (height / width) - 60/120 mm;
weight - 9.4 kg.

Pros:

high-quality assembly;
die-cast aluminum body;
lack of backlash;
precise and accurate cutting;
the presence of a laser marker and LED backlight.

Minuses:

about 30% of shavings and sawdust do not fall into the dust collector;
average power;
noticeable level of noise.

Video "Review Metabo KS 216 M Lasercut"

This video shows the parameters and functionality of the device.

The best premium miter saws

In conclusion, we will consider the most interesting premium end trim models. Such devices allow you to make a perfectly clean and neat end edge.

DeWALT DW713

When folded, compact trimming does not cause difficulties with storage and transportation. Users note the absence of backlash and high-quality assembly of the tool. The noise of the hinges is hardly noticeable. An electrodynamic braking system is provided.

The disadvantages of the DeWALT DW713 model, as noted by the masters themselves, include the lack of a laser guide and a smooth start function. Although the jerk of the device at startup is insignificant.

Key Features:

power - 1600 W;
frequency of revolutions per minute - 5000;
saw blade (inner and landing diameters) - 254 and 30 mm;
maximum cutting dimensions (height / width) - 89/162 mm;
weight - 13.6 kg.

Pros:

excellent assembly;
lightness and compactness;
suitable for a large amount of work;
easy-to-use work surface;
lack of backlash;
high quality and durable fasteners.

Minuses:

lack of a vertical dimension ruler;
divergence of the graduation on the rotary scale;
there is no soft start function.

Video "Pros and cons of DeWALT DW713"

This video shows the strengths and weaknesses of the model.

Makita LH1040

It is used for cutting natural wood, wood materials, plastic blanks and aluminum profiles. The manufacturer has taken care of the operator's safety: double insulation is provided. Working with trimming does not require additional grounding.

The advantages of the Makita LH1040 model include electronic engine protection, the ability to connect a dust collector and a well-thought-out backlight.

Key Features:

power - 1650 W;
frequency of revolutions per minute - 4800;
saw blade (inner and landing diameters) - 260 and 30 mm;
maximum cutting dimensions (height / width) - 93/130 mm;
weight - 13.7 kg.

Pros:

reliability and durability;
resistance to damage;
good transportability;
high-quality cutting of the material.

Minuses:

low quality circular table ruler;
backlash is noticeable;
flimsy clamps.

Makita LH1040 Review Video

In this video, experts talk about the technical specifications of the Makita LH1040.

BOSCH GCM 8 SJL

According to consumer reviews, the BOSCH GCM 8 SJL saw is considered one of the most powerful and efficient. The presence of side extensions allows you to cut long boards and beams. The fixation of the functional unit to the working surface is rigid, while backlashes are not noticed. BOSCH GCM 8 SJL has a convenient and reliable tilt adjustment mechanism.

The body made of aluminum is resistant to impacts and other mechanical damage.

Key Features:

power - 1600 W;
frequency of revolutions per minute - 5500;
saw blade (inner and landing diameters) - 216 and 30 mm;
maximum cutting dimensions (height / width) - 70/312 mm;
weight - 17.3 kg.

Pros:

high-quality German assembly;
comfortable and durable clamps;
great functionality;
the presence of extension cords;
accuracy and ease of movement.

Minuses:

weak laser illumination;
small volume of the dust collector;
heavy weight;
noticeable level of noise.

Video "BOSCH GCM 8 SJL - the best premium miter saw"

In this video, you can see the capabilities and explore the functionality of the model.

Metabo KGS 216 M

The saw of a new generation, which has received an improved design and an ergonomic body. Compared to its predecessor, the KGS 216 model, the Metabo KGS 216 M has an offset illumination area and a changed position of the laser guide.

Convenient and well thought out design makes it easy to transport the tool. The trimmer is suitable for domestic and semi-professional use. Engine heating is minimal. The advantages of the Metabo KGS 216 M are called a pre-installed rotary mechanism of the work table, a quick clamping clamp and a convenient LED lamp.

Key Features:

power - 1500 W;
frequency of revolutions per minute - 5000;
saw blade (inner and landing diameters) - 216 and 30 mm;
maximum cutting dimensions (height / width) - 65/305 mm;
weight - 13.5 kg.

Pros:

precision and accuracy of the cut;
the presence of a laser pointer and backlight;
durable and ergonomic body;
the possibility of expanding the working area;
high degree of operator protection;
value for money.

Minuses:

the soft start function is not provided;
small capacity of the dust collector.

Video "Review of the model Metabo KGS 216 M"

This video shows the first cut with the Metabo KGS 216 M.

When choosing a miter saw, be sure to carefully study the technical characteristics and functionality of the devices. It is also important to determine the level of load on the tool in advance. For domestic use, you can buy a mobile and compact saw, for professional work you will need a device with high power and high performance.