Best Sliding Compound Miter Saws Reviewed
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last updated:
Mar 28, 2018
While they enjoy all of the same components of regular compound miter saws, the added rail component of the sliding ones allows their blades and cutting heads to effortlessly track along a straight fixed path. This makes it possible to cut wider stock, which any contractor or craftsman will tell you is a nice ability to have.
The sliding rail mechanism, however, also limits the thickness of material the saw is able to cut. Despite this, these saws are the most versatile type of miter saw available. That being said, they’re the most expensive as well.
Nonetheless, if you’re a seasoned carpenter like myself or have a nice budget and simply want the best option your hard-earned money can buy, you can’t go wrong with one of these awesome tools.
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Advantages and Disadvantages
The advantages of owning a sliding miter saw and being able to cut wider stock precisely and accurately far outweigh any disadvantages they may have. However, since you’re here to learn the ins and outs of miter saws in order to find the right one for you, it’s a good idea to examine the pros and cons of these saws in order to determine if it’s the right type of saw for you.
Advantages:
- Very accurate
- Increased cutting versatility
- Sliding arm enables you to cut through wider stock
- Built for professionals yet easy enough for beginners to use
Disadvantages:
- Larger and more difficult to transport
- Limited in their ability to cut thick material
What is the Best One?
There are quite a few wonderful sliding compound miter saws, but the DEWALT DWS780is considered by many to be the best sliding miter saw around. The powerful 68-pound machine provides the perfect combination of rugged durability and ultimate precision.
Complete with DEWALT’s patented XPS Crosscut Alignment feature, wide miter and bevel angle ranges, plenty of positive stops, and everything else you could ask for in a sliding miter saw.
7 Best Sliding Compound Miter Saws
1. DEWALT DWS780
As one of the latest and greatest miter saws to hit the market, the DEWALT DWS780 is a sophisticated cutting tool capable of being used for a multitude of home improvement and construction projects. Designed to be durable enough to withstand years of abuse on the jobsite yet accurate and precise enough for the finest of woodworking tasks, you can’t go wrong with the DEWALT DWS780.
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Product Details (specifications):
0-50 degree left and 0-60 degree right miter angle range
0-49 degree left and right bevel range
XPS positioning system
Adjustable miter detent plate with 10 positive stops
Patented fence design
Powerful dust collection system
Review
The fully adjustable dual-bevel system, bi-directional miter cutting abilities, stainless steel detent plate, and exclusive XPS positioning system of the DEWALT DWS780 make it one of if not the best all-around miter saw being made today.
The cutting-edge saw provides a combination of industry-leading cutting capacities and also has a proprietary back fence design that allows it to make larger cuts than the competition with the precision every carpenter or woodworker needs. When you factor in its super-effective dust collection system and all of its other smart design elements, there’s no denying that the DEWALT DWS780 is simply one of the best miter saws around.
Conclusion
As you can see, the DEWALT DWS780 has a lot going for it. Ideal for everything from framing to fine woodworking, it’s an excellent option for framers, trim carpenters, cabinet makers, and anyone else in need of a durable and versatile miter saw that not only works but works extremely well. If your budget allows and you want the best of the best, this miter saw should definitely be on your short list.
0-50 degree left and 0-60 degree right miter angle range
0-49 degree left and right bevel range
XPS positioning system
Adjustable miter detent plate with 10 positive stops
Patented fence design
Powerful dust collection system
Review
The fully adjustable dual-bevel system, bi-directional miter cutting abilities, stainless steel detent plate, and exclusive XPS positioning system of the DEWALT DWS780 make it one of if not the best all-around miter saw being made today.
The cutting-edge saw provides a combination of industry-leading cutting capacities and also has a proprietary back fence design that allows it to make larger cuts than the competition with the precision every carpenter or woodworker needs. When you factor in its super-effective dust collection system and all of its other smart design elements, there’s no denying that the DEWALT DWS780 is simply one of the best miter saws around.
Conclusion
As you can see, the DEWALT DWS780 has a lot going for it. Ideal for everything from framing to fine woodworking, it’s an excellent option for framers, trim carpenters, cabinet makers, and anyone else in need of a durable and versatile miter saw that not only works but works extremely well. If your budget allows and you want the best of the best, this miter saw should definitely be on your short list.
Pros
- Extremely durable and well-built
- Very versatile
- Cutting-edge features and design
- Quiet operation
- Easy to use
- Three-year warranty
Cons
- Slightly more expensive
- Slide sticks on occasion
2. DEWALT DWS709
If you want the power, durability, and trusted performance of a DEWALT but don’t want to shell out for the larger and more impressive DWS780, you may want to consider its smaller cousin, the DWS709. This impressive 12 inch sliding compound miter saw is equipped with a powerful 15-amp motor, stainless steel miter detent plate, up to 10 positive miter stops, an over-sized bevel scale, and many of the bells and whistles found on the DWS780, except it’s lighter and less expensive. What’s not to like about that?
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Product Details (specifications):
0-60 degree right and 0-50 degree left miter angle range
Power motor spins the blade up to 3,800 rpm
Oversized bevel scale
Uniquely designed sliding fences
Dual horizontal rails
Linear ball bearings
Innovative material clamping mechanism
Review
It has a powerful 15-amp motor and a rugged durability that has made DEWALT a household name in the world of power tools.
While it lacks the size, power, and XPS positioning system of the DWS780, it has nearly all of the same features yet is more compact and lightweight, making it a worthy smaller and less expensive option worth considering.
Similar to the best miter saws in the industry, the DWS709 has an extra-wide miter and bevel angle range, giving you much more cutting capacity and versatility. Meanwhile, its over-sized bevel scale makes angle adjustments a breeze.
With dual horizontal rails that roll via linear ball bearings, a tall sliding fence, and a machined fence support as well, this sliding compound miter saw is well worth its asking price.
Conclusion
The DEWALT DWS709 is one of the least expensive sliding compound miter saws being made today, but it’s far from being the worst. With a smart advanced design and a slew of features that make crosscuts miter cuts, bevel cuts, and crosscuts a piece of cake, it’s tough not to like this nifty, reasonably priced saw.
0-60 degree right and 0-50 degree left miter angle range
Power motor spins the blade up to 3,800 rpm
Oversized bevel scale
Uniquely designed sliding fences
Dual horizontal rails
Linear ball bearings
Innovative material clamping mechanism
Review
It has a powerful 15-amp motor and a rugged durability that has made DEWALT a household name in the world of power tools.
While it lacks the size, power, and XPS positioning system of the DWS780, it has nearly all of the same features yet is more compact and lightweight, making it a worthy smaller and less expensive option worth considering.
Similar to the best miter saws in the industry, the DWS709 has an extra-wide miter and bevel angle range, giving you much more cutting capacity and versatility. Meanwhile, its over-sized bevel scale makes angle adjustments a breeze.
With dual horizontal rails that roll via linear ball bearings, a tall sliding fence, and a machined fence support as well, this sliding compound miter saw is well worth its asking price.
Conclusion
The DEWALT DWS709 is one of the least expensive sliding compound miter saws being made today, but it’s far from being the worst. With a smart advanced design and a slew of features that make crosscuts miter cuts, bevel cuts, and crosscuts a piece of cake, it’s tough not to like this nifty, reasonably priced saw.
Pros
- Powerful motor
- Very durable and well-built
- Amazing cutting versatility
- Compact and lightweight design
Cons
- More limited in the size of stock it can cut
3. DEWALT DW715
If your budget is a little leaner or you don’t necessarily need a dual-bevel miter saw, then the DEWALT DW715 may be for you. The competitively priced saw has an extremely powerful motor and a ton of features that make cutting jobs super easy and efficient. Renowned for its accuracy, precision, ease of use, and speedy performance, the DEWALT DW715 is one of the most popular miter saws being made today.
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Product Details (specifications):
0-50 degree left and right miter angle range
0-48 degree left bevel angle range
11 positive miter stops
Motor spins the blade at 4,000 rpm
Adjustable miter plate
Tall sliding fence for greater cutting capacity
Review
Designed with speed and accuracy in mind, the DEWALT DW715 is a great tool for a number of cutting applications.
Although it’s only a single-bevel saw, it comes with a super strong and durable steel bevel that can cut 45-degree bevel cuts through 2 x 8 lumber with ease.
The 12-inch, single-bevel DW715 is also equipped with a powerful 15-amp motor that spins at a blazingly fast 4,000 rpms, allowing it to quickly and effortlessly finish any cutting or trimming task.
What I like best about this DEWALT, however, is its portability. In addition to being lightweight in comparison to a number of other miter saws, it features a built-in handle, allowing you to easily carry it from one site to another.
Conclusion
The DEWALT DW715 is powerful, fast, and accurate. It’s priced rather reasonably for all that it offers and is able to tackle a variety of cutting tasks easier and faster than the majority of saws out there. When you factor in its three-year warranty and limited money back guarantee, there’s no reason not to check out the DW715 and see for yourself why it’s one of the most popular miter saws around.
0-50 degree left and right miter angle range
0-48 degree left bevel angle range
11 positive miter stops
Motor spins the blade at 4,000 rpm
Adjustable miter plate
Tall sliding fence for greater cutting capacity
Review
Designed with speed and accuracy in mind, the DEWALT DW715 is a great tool for a number of cutting applications.
Although it’s only a single-bevel saw, it comes with a super strong and durable steel bevel that can cut 45-degree bevel cuts through 2 x 8 lumber with ease.
The 12-inch, single-bevel DW715 is also equipped with a powerful 15-amp motor that spins at a blazingly fast 4,000 rpms, allowing it to quickly and effortlessly finish any cutting or trimming task.
What I like best about this DEWALT, however, is its portability. In addition to being lightweight in comparison to a number of other miter saws, it features a built-in handle, allowing you to easily carry it from one site to another.
Conclusion
The DEWALT DW715 is powerful, fast, and accurate. It’s priced rather reasonably for all that it offers and is able to tackle a variety of cutting tasks easier and faster than the majority of saws out there. When you factor in its three-year warranty and limited money back guarantee, there’s no reason not to check out the DW715 and see for yourself why it’s one of the most popular miter saws around.
Pros
- Quiet and effortless operation
- A good value for the money
- Improved miter and bevel angle range
- Smaller and lighter than other models
- Three-year warranty
Cons
- Laser not included
4. Bosch GCM12SD
At the opposite end of the spectrum, the Bosch GCM12SD is one of the absolute best miter saws on the planet, regardless of price. Bosch has a reputation for excellence and it really shows in this impeccably built and oh so capable sliding compound miter saw. From its innovative Axial Gliding System and over-sized cutting capacity to its detailed miter scales and everything in between, from top to bottom this Bosch compound miter saw shines in every way.
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Product Details (specifications):
Extra wide 0-60 degree left and 0-50 degree right miter angle range
Stainless steel miter scale
Easy-to-set angles with common detents
Patented Axial Gliding System
Square lock fence with 90-degree table alignment for perfect crosscuts
Comfortable ergonomic trigger handle
Oversized 14-inch horizontal cutting capacity
Review
Bosch GCM12SD is one of the best sliding miter saws on the market today.
With a laundry list of useful and innovative features, a superior design, and a reputation for being one of the best sliding compound miter saws around, the Bosch GCM12SD is a high-performance miter saw with incredible accuracy.
In addition to its precision and accuracy, which is arguably the best in the industry, Bosch’s patented Axial Gliding System makes it extremely easy to use as well.
While it’s designed to give you complete control over its super smooth cutting action, what people really like about this system is the fact that it’s unique set-up takes up much less work space.
The Bosch GCM12SD has a ton of other features and a smart, unique design that make it one of the best miter saws you’re going to find anywhere. There are only a few miter saws that I use on a regular basis and this is one of them. That’s saying a lot!
Conclusion
Bosch is well-known for making top-quality power tools, and the Bosch GCM12SD is no exception. While different people have different needs and it’s on the higher end of the price scale, this tool is the go-to choice for carpentry professionals around the globe and I highly recommend it.
Extra wide 0-60 degree left and 0-50 degree right miter angle range
Stainless steel miter scale
Easy-to-set angles with common detents
Patented Axial Gliding System
Square lock fence with 90-degree table alignment for perfect crosscuts
Comfortable ergonomic trigger handle
Oversized 14-inch horizontal cutting capacity
Review
Bosch GCM12SD is one of the best sliding miter saws on the market today.
With a laundry list of useful and innovative features, a superior design, and a reputation for being one of the best sliding compound miter saws around, the Bosch GCM12SD is a high-performance miter saw with incredible accuracy.
In addition to its precision and accuracy, which is arguably the best in the industry, Bosch’s patented Axial Gliding System makes it extremely easy to use as well.
While it’s designed to give you complete control over its super smooth cutting action, what people really like about this system is the fact that it’s unique set-up takes up much less work space.
The Bosch GCM12SD has a ton of other features and a smart, unique design that make it one of the best miter saws you’re going to find anywhere. There are only a few miter saws that I use on a regular basis and this is one of them. That’s saying a lot!
Conclusion
Bosch is well-known for making top-quality power tools, and the Bosch GCM12SD is no exception. While different people have different needs and it’s on the higher end of the price scale, this tool is the go-to choice for carpentry professionals around the globe and I highly recommend it.
Pros
- Very accurate
- Impressively durable and well-built
- Versatile and designed to make an array of cuts
- Excellent design and robust features
- Great reputation
Cons
- On the expensive end of the price scale
- No quick-release material clamp
5. Bosch 4310
If you’re a fan of Bosch products, like most people are, and looking for a quality 10 sliding compound miter saw, the Bosch 4310 may be exactly what you’ve been searching for.
Bosch is well-known for making top-notch professional-grade products, and the 4310 is no exception. Featuring easy-to-use upfront controls, a micro-fine miter adjustment, adjustable base, tool-free clamp, and other great design details, it’s a worthy saw any carpenter or craftsman would be proud to own.
Bosch is well-known for making top-notch professional-grade products, and the 4310 is no exception. Featuring easy-to-use upfront controls, a micro-fine miter adjustment, adjustable base, tool-free clamp, and other great design details, it’s a worthy saw any carpenter or craftsman would be proud to own.
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Product Details (specifications):
0-60 right and 0-52 left miter angle range
Micro-fine miter adjustment
Metal range selector and bevel lock features
Integrated base extensions
Dual sliding fences
10 innovative and precise miter detents
Electric brake
Review
The 4310 is my favorite 10-inch sliding compound miter saw on the market today. With miter and bevel stops, an extra-wide miter angle range, table extensions, a tall adjustable fence, clearly etched cast-aluminum scales, and a number of other thoughtful design details, it’s clearly in a league of its own.
While the Bosch 4310 has plenty of innovative features, it also has an awesome 60-tooth kerf carbide blade that will slice through anything and last for years. Although some users have reported having difficulty changing the blade, this minor gripe is one of the only complaints myself or others have had about this amazing Bosch carpentry tool.
Conclusion
The Bosch 4310 is an excellent saw built to deliver flawless results time and time again. Whether you’re working on a large job or simply need a well-made sliding saw for random projects here and there, this professional-grade saw should be at the top of your list.
0-60 right and 0-52 left miter angle range
Micro-fine miter adjustment
Metal range selector and bevel lock features
Integrated base extensions
Dual sliding fences
10 innovative and precise miter detents
Electric brake
Review
The 4310 is my favorite 10-inch sliding compound miter saw on the market today. With miter and bevel stops, an extra-wide miter angle range, table extensions, a tall adjustable fence, clearly etched cast-aluminum scales, and a number of other thoughtful design details, it’s clearly in a league of its own.
While the Bosch 4310 has plenty of innovative features, it also has an awesome 60-tooth kerf carbide blade that will slice through anything and last for years. Although some users have reported having difficulty changing the blade, this minor gripe is one of the only complaints myself or others have had about this amazing Bosch carpentry tool.
Conclusion
The Bosch 4310 is an excellent saw built to deliver flawless results time and time again. Whether you’re working on a large job or simply need a well-made sliding saw for random projects here and there, this professional-grade saw should be at the top of your list.
Pros
- Made by Bosch
- Fully adjustable and very precise
- Easy to use
- Very versatile
Cons
- Heavier than most models
- Blade can be difficult to change
6. Makita LS1018
Like Bosch, Makita makes professional-grade products with superior durability and performance. Therefore, the Makita LS1018 is also an excellent option. Made to perform like a champ right out of the box, there are very few saws that can compete with this Makita. It’s ideal for carpentry, woodworking, general construction, and a whole lot more.
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Product Details (specifications):
0-60 degree right and 0-47 degree left miter angle range
0-45 degree bevel angle range
13-amp direct-drive motor
10 positive stops
Linear ball bearing system for incredible accuracy
Bevel lock
Electric brake
Review
The folks at Makita sure knew what they were doing when they designed and built this sliding compound miter saw. Unlike other miter saws that feature belt-driven motors that jerk and run rough over time, the Makita LS1018 is equipped with a unique direct-drive 13-amp motor that runs super smooth with each and every use.
Beyond its innovative motor, the LS1018 also incorporates a number of other smart features, including a linear ball bearing system to provide the best accuracy in the industry. With an extra-wide miter angle range and all of the standard miter stops as well, it’s a great all-around saw that can just about do it all.
Conclusion
If you like spending a little more for quality and want a solid, accurate sliding saw that you can rely on for years of precise cutting, look no further than the Makita LS1018. It’s tough as nails, has all of the features you need, and is made to flat out perform, making it a winner in my book.
0-60 degree right and 0-47 degree left miter angle range
0-45 degree bevel angle range
13-amp direct-drive motor
10 positive stops
Linear ball bearing system for incredible accuracy
Bevel lock
Electric brake
Review
The folks at Makita sure knew what they were doing when they designed and built this sliding compound miter saw. Unlike other miter saws that feature belt-driven motors that jerk and run rough over time, the Makita LS1018 is equipped with a unique direct-drive 13-amp motor that runs super smooth with each and every use.
Beyond its innovative motor, the LS1018 also incorporates a number of other smart features, including a linear ball bearing system to provide the best accuracy in the industry. With an extra-wide miter angle range and all of the standard miter stops as well, it’s a great all-around saw that can just about do it all.
Conclusion
If you like spending a little more for quality and want a solid, accurate sliding saw that you can rely on for years of precise cutting, look no further than the Makita LS1018. It’s tough as nails, has all of the features you need, and is made to flat out perform, making it a winner in my book.
Pros
- Highly accurate
- Very durable
- Portable and lightweight
- Smooth direct-drive motor
Cons
- Could be easier to operate
7. Makita LS1016L
Makita makes tools with pros in mind, and the brand’s LS1016L is no exception. The well-equipped and impeccably made miter saw utilizes a unique rail system, a five-inch tall fence, an over-sized table area, and a veritable buffet of other smart design elements, making it a favorite among “in the know” weekend warriors and carpentry pros.
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Product Details (specifications):
0-52 degree left miter angle range and 0-60 degree right miter range
10 positive miter stops
Power motor with soft-start feature
Patented 4-Steel Rail Sliding System
Linear ball bearing design for ridiculous accuracy
Best-in-class crown molding cutting capacity
Review
Let me begin by saying I love this Makita’s soft-start feature. Unlike many other models that can’t help but jerk you around, the LS1016L smoothly delivers power just like any good miter saw should. While other saws utilize a drive belt, the Makita LS1016L features a direct-drive motor for increased response and durability. With a laser guidance system, efficient dust collector, and a number of other top-notch features, it’s easy to see why myself and others love this capable miter saw.
When putting the LS1016L to the test, I was happy to find its motor tracked straight and it was able to produce smooth, uniform, and polished compound angle cuts. This makes it a winner in my book and it should be one in your as well.
Conclusion
Known for making some of the best miter saws in the industry, it’s hard to go wrong with a Makita. Thanks to its innovative design and wide range of first-class features, the Makita LS1016L is hands down one of the best 10-inch miter saws around.
0-52 degree left miter angle range and 0-60 degree right miter range
10 positive miter stops
Power motor with soft-start feature
Patented 4-Steel Rail Sliding System
Linear ball bearing design for ridiculous accuracy
Best-in-class crown molding cutting capacity
Review
Let me begin by saying I love this Makita’s soft-start feature. Unlike many other models that can’t help but jerk you around, the LS1016L smoothly delivers power just like any good miter saw should. While other saws utilize a drive belt, the Makita LS1016L features a direct-drive motor for increased response and durability. With a laser guidance system, efficient dust collector, and a number of other top-notch features, it’s easy to see why myself and others love this capable miter saw.
When putting the LS1016L to the test, I was happy to find its motor tracked straight and it was able to produce smooth, uniform, and polished compound angle cuts. This makes it a winner in my book and it should be one in your as well.
Conclusion
Known for making some of the best miter saws in the industry, it’s hard to go wrong with a Makita. Thanks to its innovative design and wide range of first-class features, the Makita LS1016L is hands down one of the best 10-inch miter saws around.
Pros
- Very accurate and precise
- Durable and well-made
- Versatile
- Increased angle range and cutting capacity
Cons
- One of the more expensive 10-inch saws on the market
Making the Decision
If you’ve managed to make it this far, then you have all the info you need to make an informed decision and purchase the best option for you. So, take what you’ve learned, perform some additional research by reading our in-depth reviews, and weigh all of your options in order to find the sliding saw you’ve been looking for.
