Bosch GTS1031 vs DeWalt DWE7480 which portable table saw should you buy ?

If you are in the market for a new table saw and have narrowed it down to between a Bosch or DeWalt model the you have probably ​had a look at the GTS1031 and DWE7480.

Both are aimed firmly at those users that value portability and compactness over high end power or cutting ability.​

Lets take a more in-depth look at both models individually and then a comparison below.​

Bosch GTS1031

​The GTS1031 is a compact table saw that has a max no-load speed of 5,000 RPM thanks to its 15 Amp motor.

It has a standard 10 inch blade which you will find on most portable table saws. That blade combined with the 5,000 RPM top speed will give you some pretty accurate and clean cuts.​

​Anything below about 4,500 RPM on a job site table saw is really not and option. You would also expect to have a 15 Amp motor as standard. The GTS1031 hits both of these minimum standards easily.

​The GTS1031 has a max rip capacity of only 18 inches which is on the low end. However, that smaller rip is some what by design as it is clear that Bosch really were setting out to make portability of the saw a major selling point.

​The 1031 comes in at about 52 lbs in weight so if you are a busy pro moving from job to job it is sufficiently light enough to move about easily. It also has a pretty small form factor so it can be stored easily in the back of most trucks or trunks without taking up all the room.

Just be aware though that the DWE7480 below is even lighter at 48 lbs in weight yet it still has much larger rip capacity at 24-1/2 inches.

Bosch has supplied the GTS1031 with a blade guard which it dubbed the "smart guard system". It is essentially a plastic cover over the blade so not at all an auto-stop for the spinning blade. It can be easily detached and stored underneath in the on tool storage.

You can see how the GTS1031 stacks up against the larger 4100 also from Bosch here.​

DeWalt DWE7480

The DWE7480 is also a 10 inch portable table saw and powered by a 15 Amp motor.

It tops out with a no-load maximum speed of 4,800 RPM which is pretty decent given it is quite a light weight saw at 48 pounds.​

It has a significantly bigger rip capacity than the GTS1031 above at 24-1/2 inches. The fence is adjustable rack and pinion system that will give you near perfect parallel alignment time and time again.

At the normal 90 degree blade angle you get a max cutting depth of 3-1/8 inches and at 45 degrees 2-1/4 inches​.

The 7480 comes with a tool less blade guard and uses DeWalts anti-kickback system.

There is also a dust port helping to keep your work space that little bit cleaner which is 2-1/2 inch.​

​Included is a 24T carbide blade, push stick, meter gauge and a blade guard.

Like the majority of DeWalt saws it comes with a 3 year limited warranty.​

We have also run a comparison of the DWE7480 against its lesser powered brother the DW745 here.  ​

Bosch GTS1031 vs DeWalt DWE7480

So what exatly is the difference between the ​Bosch GTS1031 and DeWalt DWE7480?

​The Bosch has a much smaller rip capacity at 18 inches versus the DeWalts 24-1/2 inches. That's a pretty significant difference.

The DWE74870 is also about 4 pounds lighter than the GTS1031, not a huge amount but still significant given the higher rip capacity of the DeWalt. ​

​Bosch GTS1031 vs DeWalt DWE7480 how do they compare ?

​The DWE7480 has more power, a bigger rip capacity and is also lighter. Price wise depending on where you purchase from they are both marked in and around the same level. 

For the reasons listed above the DeWalt DWE7480 is the one to get. ​

​Dremel 4000 vs 4300 which Dremel rotary tool kit is best?

Rotary tool kits make those fine sanding and grinding jobs a breeze especially for fine detail work in hobbies and crafts. Dremel are by far the market leader and there is quite a range to choose from which can be a little confusing at first.​

If you are in a hurry then the top pick is the Dremel 4300. If has a newer more powerful and has a lot more attachments and accessories available to it. ​

Top Pick

Dremel 4300

Bigger more powerful motor at 1.8 amp versus the 4000 at 1.6 Amp

Considerably more attachment and accessories available than the 4000.

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Below we take a more in-depth look at the 4000 and the 4300 and have a look at some of the specifications and features that each model has.

Dremel 4000 6/50

The 4000 series from Dremel is powered by a 1.6 Amp motor. That motor is capable of operating in a range of between 5,000 and 35,000 RPM.

It features Dremel's "electronic feedback" feature which allows the speed controller to respond to a reduction in RPM depending on the material and attachment being used.

Within the 4000 range there are four different kits available. The 4000 2/30, 4000 3/34, 4000 4/34 and the largest 4000 6/50.

The Dremel kit naming convention all follows the same pattern. The first number is the number of attachments and the second number is the number of accessories included in the kit. ​

The 4000 ​6/50 contains 6 separate attachments and 50 accessories. 

It comes with an array of different types of accessories. It can sand/grind, sharpen and cut so it is a very versatile tool to have at home or in your workshop.​

We also compare the 4000 against the older model 3000 here 3000 vs 4000​ or the previous model 4200 here 4000 vs 4200.

Dremel 4300 9/64

​Dremel's latest and greatest rotary tool kit is also its most powerful handheld model of the 4K series.

The Dremel 4300 range is powered by a beefy 1.8 Amp motor. It has a variable speed range from 5,000 to 35,000 RPM. It also features electronic feedback for more consistent RPM during cutting procedures.

​There are two kit options available in the 4300 range. The 4300 5/40 has five attachments and forty accessories and the 4300 9/64 which has 9 attachments and sixty four accessories.

The kit includes a nice range of both cutting and sanding type accessories there is also a right angle attachment for those awkward to reach spots.

The 4300 has a universal 3-jaw chuck which is backward compatible with all Dremel accessories and attachments.  ​

For enhanced visibility the 4300 has an integrated rotating pivot light that illuminates the ​attachment/accessory from directly behind. The light can be rotated around the chuck so you can find a position that does not obstruct your view yet lights up the immediate work surface.

Dremel 4000 vs 4300​

​Dremel 4000 vs 4300 which one do you choose?

Without a doubt the 4300 is a clear winner. It is the newer model, has​ a more powerful motor and comes with even more attachments and accessories.

Price wise depending on where you purchase from the 4300 may even be cheaper than the older less powerful 4000 range. ​So you are getting a better tool for less money!

Dremel 4000 vs 4200 which rotary tool is best?

Dremel has really carved a niche for itself in the rotary tools department and has quite a few models to choose from in their 4000 series.​

Both models at first glance seem almost identical. However, on closer inspection there are a few subtle differences.

Lets take a brief look at both and then decide on a winner at the end.​

Dremel 4000

The Demel 4000 rotary tool is powered by a 1.6 Amp motor and has a variable speed range of between 5,000 and 35,000 RPM.

There are several different kits available with the 4000-6/50 being the largest one that contains the most accessories. All the kits in the rage regardless of the model number come with the rotary tool and a tough built plastic carry case.​

The 4000-6/50 being the top of the range comes with 6 attachments and 50 accessories making it quite a versatile all in one tool.​

You can also see how the 4000 stacks up against the older 3000 model here 3000 vs 4000 and the newer flagship model of the range here 4000 vs 4300.

Dremel 4200 Review

​The Dremel 4200 is a 1.6 Amp variable speed rotary tool. It has a speed range of between 5,000 and 35,000 RPM. The 4200 has a separate speed and on/off controls, meaning you can start and stop it at your desired speed.

Although they have practically the same motor and performance the major design difference between the 4000 and the 4200 is the improved ventilation and cooling of the newer 4200 model.

Like most Dremel's in the 4000 line of rotary tools the 4200 comes in a tough plastic carry case with a handle and all of the accessories along with the rotary tool fig neatly and securely inside.

Ergonomically the 4200 is just as usable for a left handed person as a right handed. And it can be gripped in several different ways depending on how and what you are working on.

There are three different kits to choose from all of which has a varying number of attachments and accessories.

The ​4200-4/36 has 4 attachments and 36 accesories, the 4200-6/40 comes with 6 attachments and 40 accessories and the largest kit in the series the 4200-8/64 comes with 8 attachments and 64 accessories.

Dremel 4000 vs 4200​

​So what are the differences between the Dremel 4000 and 4200? 
The 4000 is a more versatile tool as it can accept more than just the 1/8th inch shank that the 4200 is limited to. The 4000 can a collet shank from between 1/32 - 1/8 of an inch. 

The 4200 has a slightly better cooling thanks to an ​improvement in the venting design that Dremel claim reduces running heat by up to 20%.

The Dremel 4200 does not require the use of a tool to change the bit however you can also purchase a tool-less chuck for the 4000 separately.

​Dremel 4000 vs 4200 performance wise both machines are on a par and are both highly capable rotary tools.

For us the 4200 is the winner as the built in EZ chuck makes changing bits a breeze. 

Dremel 3000 vs 4000 which is the right rotary tool for you ? 

Both models from Dremel are great little tools for the hobbyist of home crafts maker. Lots of professionals will also have one lying around the shop for the more detailed delicate finishing work.​

Before we compare both lets first have a quick review of each models features and specifications below after we will compare them directly against each other.​

Dremel 3000 2/28

​The Dremel 3000 is powered by a 1.2 Amp motor and has a variable speed range of between 5,000 and 32,000 RPM. It is an older model than the Dremel 4000.

There are three variations in the 3000 range. The 3000 1/24, 3000 1/25 and the 3000 2/28.

Each Dremel rotary tool will generally have a combination of numbers after it's name to denote what attachments and accessories are provided with it in that specific kit.​

The ​3000 1/24 has one attachment(sanding) and 24 accessories. The bulk of the accessories are geared towards sanding in one form or another.

The 3000 1/25 has one attachment and 25 accessories.​ The extra accessory over the 1/24 model is an added clear shield.

The 3000 2/​28 comes with two attachments and twenty eight accessories. The attachments are a sanding/grinding attachment and a cutting guide. The majority of the accessories are for either grinding, sanding or polishing.

Who is the 3000 2/28 for ?

The 3000 range is best suited towards someone who is generally going to be doing a lot of sanding type work. ​

Dremel 4000 6/50

​The Dremel 4000 is a variable speed rotary tool that is powered by a 1.6 Amp motor. That motor has a speed range of between 5,000 RPM and 35,000 RPM.

The 4000 also includes "electronic feedback". This features allows the motor in the 4000 to adapt to how it is being used.

For example if you run the tool at a specific setting then when you press against the material you are working on it will ensure that the friction does not slow down the speed of the motor.   

There are 3 models available in the 4000 range. The 4000 3/4, 4000 4/34 and the ​largest kit which is the 4000 6/50.

The 6/50 gives you 6 different attachments and 50 accessories to choose from.​

The attachments are sanding/grinding guide, circle cutter and straight edge guide, tool sharpener, shield and lawn mower and a flex shaft attachment​.

​The accessories are a mix of grinding, sanding, polishing, cutting and engraving bits.

The Dremel 4000 especially in the 6/50 kit has a heck of a lot of actions that it can perform. It is a very capable tool for just about anyone that needs to do a lot of small fine detail work.

You can see how the 4000 stacks up against some others in the Dremel range in our 4000 vs 4200 article and 4000 vs 4300.

Dremel 3000 vs 4000​

​So which is better Dremel 3000 or Dremel 4000 ?

The 4000 is the bigger and more powerful machine. Not only that but it has a lot more attachments and accessories available to it. It also comes with the variable speed response that keeps the motor at its programmed speed level.This makes the Dremel 4000 the clear winner.​

​However if all you really need a rotary tool for the occasional bit of sanding the 3000 is still quite capable. But, it does not have either the power or the versatility of the 4000 range.

DeWalt vs Hitachi Miter Saw which brand makes the better miter saw?

​There are several 12 inch models available from each manufacturer. From DeWalt in the 12 inch space there are three models beginning with DWS. From Hitachi the C12RSH and C12RSH2.

Lets take a look at the two top miter saws from each brand DeWalt DWS780 vs Hitachi C12RSH2.

Both are 12 inch double bevel compound miter saws and both have a 15 Amp motor with fairly similar miter and bevel ranges.

We'll take a closer look at each model first and then a comparison between the DWS780 and C12RSH2 at the end.​

​

Hitachi C12RSH2

​The Hitachi C12RSH2 has a top speed of 3,800 RPM and is powered by a 15 AMP motor.

It can cut crown molding up to 7-1/2 inches in height and has a bevel range on both sides of 45 degrees, although there is no micro bevel adjustment.

On the miter front it has a max angle of 57 degrees to the right and a lesser angle of 45 degrees to the left.​

The main design difference between the Hitachi and a lot of other miter saws is that it has a very compact slide rail system. Unlike the majority of other miters it requires very little free space or clearance to the rear of the saw.

The C12RSH2 also has a laser guide system something that is fairly standard on miters these days with the exception of the DWS780 below.​

DeWalt DWS780

​Powered by a 15 Amp motor the DWS780 from DeWalt is a 12 inch double bevel sliding compound miter saw.

​Miter angles of 50 to the left and 60 degrees to the right. The bevel angles are 45 degrees on either side. Both the miter and bevel have positive detents at the most popular angles.

With a top speed of 3,800 it is similar to the majority of other 12 inch miters just like the Hitachi.

Cutting capacity is 2x15 inch at 90 and 2x14 inch at an angle of 45 degrees.

When it comes to 10 vs 12 inch miter saws the 10 inchers with the smaller blades will have a higher RPM as their top speed. This higher RPM can make them more suitable for finer woodworking assuming you are using a quality blade.​

There is also the DWS779 available from DeWalt that is virtually the same specifications as the DWS780 yet is can be as much as 200 dollars cheaper depending on where you purchase it.

If would like to see both saws compared check out our other article 779 and 780​.

DeWalt vs Hitachi Miter Saw

​So who wins the battle of DeWalt vs Hitachi Miter Saw?

Both saws have a similar power rating with a 15 Amp motor that spins their blades at 3,8​00 RPM.

The major advantage of the CS12RSH2 is that is requires little to no rear clearance so for those with very limited space in their wood shop it does make sense.​

The DeWalt DWS780 is more expensive than the Hitachi although the DWS779 is priced roughly the same online. ​

Well for the DeWalt DWS780 vs Hitachi C12RSH2 the DeWalt is by far the more popular miter saw brand. DeWalt have built a very solid following over the last decade for the majority of their power tool range. 

​Personally if I were on a budget and had to choose I would pick the cheaper option. Practically the same price as the Hitachi but definitely a superior machine.

However, DeWalt may discontinue this particular model soon so you may be purchasing a soon to be discontinued line and it will become harder to find. Saying that if it is discontinued there may be stock clearance sales available.

If money is not an issue then the DWS780 with the added XPS cross cut alignment is the standout winner!

The C12RSH2 is the current 12 inch double bevel compound miter saw from Hiatchi. It replaced the older model C12RSH. You can read our Hitachi C12RSH2 Review as a comparison with the older model here C12RSH vs C12RSH2.

Both are very capable miter saws with the C​RSH2 being a slightly bigger and heavier model.

Hitachi C12RSH2 Review

​The C12RSH2 is powered by a 15 Amp motor giving a maximum no-load speed of 3,800 RPM.

The miter range on the Hitachi runs from 45 degrees on the left hand side through to 57 degrees on the right.

The bevel action is 45 degrees on either side. Note that the older model C12RSH had a micro-bevel adjuster, that feature is has been omitted from the newer model. 

There are positive stops throughout the ranges of both the miter and bevel settings.

However it is a slightly large miter saw than it's predecessor and that small increase in size has resulted in a marginal gain in cutting capacity. The C12RSH2 is capable of ​cutting crown molding up to 7-1/2 inches in height thanks in part to a raised fence of 5-1/8 inches.

One advantage the Hitachi has over other brands of miter saw is a very compact slide system. This rail system virtually eliminates the normal rear clearance that is encountered on other miter saws.

So, if you have a limited amount of space in your work shop or on you counter top where you may mount the C12RSH2 ​you can save almost a foot of rear clearance room over other miter saws.

The Hitachi also has a laser guide to help improve your cutting accuracy. Laser guides have become the norm on the majority of modern miter saws so you should always expect to find one on a quality saw.

The blade that is included is a ​60 inch  tooth one which should be more than sufficient for all but the busiest of users.

One distinct feature on the C12RSH2 is the fact that Hitachi have made accessing the ​saws carbon brush. Having the ability to easily change out a brush on a power tool like this can dramatically extend it's working life.

Who is the Hitachi C12RSH2 for ?

​The Hitachi is a great choice for the home woodworker that has limited space in their garage and need a miter saw that can handle just about any home project.

That being said it is still a fairly capable saw on a busy work site. However it is DeWalt that tend to dominate that market right now with the DWS779 and DWS780. The DeWalt miters saw are bigger and more powerful and can be considered real work horses.

However the C12RSH2 can be bought for almost $200 dollars cheaper than the DeWalt DWS780 so if you are on a budget it is still a pretty good choice. ​However you can find the DWS779 for roughly the same price as the Hitachi.

Looking for a highly portable job site table saw? Chances are you have probably already narrowed down you search between the Bosch 4100 vs DeWalt 7491. 

Both are highly regarded table saws that can handle a lot of abuse on a busy site whilst still maintaining a high level of quality.

Before we compare the Bosch 4100 vs DeWalt 7491 lets first have a quick look at each saws features. Below you will find a review of each saw and then the comparison after.

Bosch 4100 Review

The 4100 from Bosch is a 15 Amp portable table saw that comes with a stand called "gravity-rise". The stand folds down quickly and easily to allow the saw to be rolled easily on the wheels on the frame.

​The Bosch is a 10 inch table saw that has a 25 inch rip capacity which can be extended out to 40.5 inches which is certainly a nice to have feature if you find yourself cutting large sheet material.

The 15 Amp motor spins the blade to a no-load speed of 3650 RPM.​ At 3650 RPM the 4100 is slightly slower than a lot of other table saws but it is still a solid performer especially with a high quality blade.

If you would like to see how the 4100 stacks up against the ​GTS1031 also from Bosch then check out our review GTS1031 vs 4100.

There is also a smooth start system and Bosch constant response circuitry that is found among its other power tools which gives a smoother power output through the range.​

DeWalt DWE7491RS Review

​The DeWalt DWE7491RS is a 15 AMP, 10-inch table saw with rolling stand.

That 15 Amp motor is able to spin the 10-inch blade to a max no-load speed of 4800 RPM. At that speed with a high quality blade it can handle a lot of abuse all day long including hardwoods.

​It has a max rip capacity to the right of 32-1/2 inches but if used from the left you gain an extra 2 inches a 34-1/2. However that capacity is fixed and not extendable like on the 4100 above.

The DWE​7491RS does not feature DeWalts "Guard Detect System" which can be found on the DWE7499D. This protection system basically disables the blade unless the blade guard is installed. However, there is a bypass switch should you want to use it.

We also compare the DeWalt DWES7499D against the DWE7491RS and give an overview of each features. The 7491 wins out as it is several hundred dollars cheaper than the 7499 and is just as capable.

Bosch 4100 vs DeWalt 7491

​The choice between the Bosch 4100 vs DeWalt 7491 is certainly not down to price. They are both roughly marked at around the $500 price point depending on where you purchase them from.

​Although the 4100 has the extendable rip capacity it is somewhat under powered compared to the DeWalt. There are also a lot of reports about the fence on the Bosch not being 100% true. 

So on these issues alone the 7491 is the preferred choice.​

​Bosch GTS1031 vs 4100 which is the better choice as your next portable table saw?

Bosch have started to find a footing in the portable table saw market. Although you could say that DeWalt are the dominant force with the DW745 and DWE7480, yet these two table saws from Bosch do have their fans. 

​Before we choose which is the best between the GTS1031 and 4100 let's first have a quick look at each of them and their strengths and weaknesses.

Bosch GTS1031 Review

The Bosch GTS1031 is a 10 inch compact table saw that is powered by a 15 amp motor. That motor can spin the the GTS1031's blade at a no load speed of 5000 RPM.

At 5000 RPM you are firmly in the medium to upper segment for blade speed. These higher speeds paired with a high tooth count carbide blade will cut with a lot more accuracy and will generally leave a much smoother cut than lower speed saws.

​The GTS1031 has a small 18 inch rip capacity. This smaller rip capacity and it's all round design makes it a very compact portable table saw. 

Portability is definitely what the designers at Bosch had in mind when they planned the GTS1031. It has a single carry handle that is placed in a position that allows the saw to find a natural balance point as you carry it. For lifting onto trucks or table tops however there are still two normally positioned handles. 

​The GTS1031 has what Bosch calls it's "smart guard system" or in other words a simple plastic blade guard. The blade guard can be easily attached or detached depending on your preference. Like all of the accessories included with the saw the blade guard can be stored on board when in transit.

Bosch 4100 Review

​The Bosch 4100 is a 10 inch portable table saw powered by a 15 Amp motor. The motor has a maximum no load speed of 3650 RPM.

At 3650 RPM we would put this table saw in the low to medium bracket for cutting speed.

​The motor has Bosch's "Constant Response Circuitry" that can be found in some of its other power tools. This features means a more stable power output and rpm under load. It also has "Smooth Start" that enables a smoother ramp up speed when the saw is initially switched on.

Although the 4100 may have a slower motor than the GTS1031, what it lacks in blade speed it makes up for in rip size and usability.

The 4100 has a 25 inch rip capacity. That rip capacity can be extended from 25 inch up to 40.5 inch making it one of the largest rip sizes and work surface areas on any portable table saw.​

As you can see from the picture above the 4100 comes with an integrated stand. The stand comes with 8 inch wheels that make transportation a cinch. It features a simple collapsible design that will have you up and running in seconds. ​

Bosch GTS1031 vs 4100

​So which should you choose between the Bosch GTS1031 vs 4100?

Both are highly capable job site table saws but they do differ in size and usability.

If you are looking for a lightweight and highly portable table saw then the GTS1031 is a pretty good choice. It does have a faster RPM on the motor than on the 4100. However it does have a pretty small rip capacity at only 18 inches.​

The GTS1031 is probably best suited to smaller jobs.

The Bosch 4100 however does have a large extendable rip capacity and comes with a sturdy stand. ​At 60 lbs it is heavier than the GTS1031 and luckily that stand has some large wheels on it to help with transportation.

Who should choose the Bosch 4100? If you are looking to cut large stock then its bigger rip capacity is a must. It is the bigger more robust brother to the GTS1031. 

Bosch GCM12SD vs DeWalt DWS780 which one is best?

This is basically a Bosch vs DeWalt miter saw showdown as both miters from each manufacturer are considered their flagship 12 inch models.  

Before we pick a winner lets first have a brief run down of each saws features. Below you will find a quick review of each one and then the final verdict below that.​

Bosch GM12SD Review

The Bosch GM12SD is a 12 inch double bevel miter saw powered by a 15 Amp motor that has a no-load speed of 3800 RPM.

Unlike more traditional sliding compound ​miter saws the GM12SD does not use a rail based system. Instead it uses Bosch's "Axial-Glide" system which can saw up to 12 inches of work space less than a regular miter. The Axial-Glide also has the added advantage of have slightly wider cross cutting capacity.

It is a dual or double bevel miter saw that has a bevel range of 47 degrees on either the left or right side.​ There are also positive detents at 0, 33.9 and 45 degrees.

The GM12SD has a 14 inch cut capacity horizontally. At 90 degrees it can cut 6-1/2 inches and at 45 degrees has a maximum cutting capacity of 6-1/2 inch also.

The base also has integrated extensions to allow for materials up to 40 inches in length.​

DeWalt DWS780 Review

​The DeWalt DWS780 is a 15 Amp double bevel sliding compound miter saw with a 12 inch blade.

Capable of a maximum no-load speed of 3800 RPM. It has a cutting capacity of 2x16 inch at 90 degrees and at 45 degrees it can cut up to 2x12 inch.

​On the miter front it can cut up to 50 degrees on the left and a slightly higher range of 60 degrees on the right. 

With regards to the bevel the DWS780 can work from ​0 to 49 degrees in both directions. There are also positive bevel stops at 0, 22.5, 33.9, 45 and 49 degrees.

The DWS780 comes with DeWalt's XPS cross-cut alignment system. THE XPS shines a very bright LED along the face of the blade. This lights cast a very clean cut shade the is perfectly inline with the blade. This gives a small advantage over laser guides that may need to re-calibrated from time to time especially after blade changes.​

There is also a version of the DWS780 available without the XPS system called the DWS779. The DWS779 is a cheaper alternative to the DWS780 to the tune of almost 200 bucks depending on where you purchase it from. You can read our comparison of both DeWalt miter saws here DWS779 vs DWS780.

Bosch GCM12SD vs DeWalt DWS780

​So who is the winner in the Bosch vs DeWalt miter saw head to head?

The DeWalt machine is by far the most popular you will find on a busy work site. It has a proven reputation of being a real workhorse and the XPS system along with very precise miter and bevel adjustments means that is the more accurate of the two.

These things combined means that the winner in the DeWalt vs Bosch miter saw shootout is the DeWalt DWS780. 

The Bosch has one added advantage in that the omission of a rail based system means you do not require a huge amount of room to the rear of the saw. So if you have a small wood shop or garage then you may find it a more suitable choice based on that. ​

10 vs 12 miter saw which one do you need and how do they differ apart from the obvious blade size?

I you are looking to treat your self to a new miter saw for you woodworking shop or are a busy pro on a job site you might be torn between a 10 inch or 12 inch miter saw.

As stated the obvious difference will be in the blade size.

But, is blade size alone the only difference?

​In short they will differ in their cutting capabilities and what they can be used for.

The 10 inch Miter Saw​

​A ten inch miter saw is usually used for more detailed work, but why?
Because the smaller blade can spin at a higher RPM all things being equal. The blade will generally have smaller, finer teeth on it. 

Like any cutting tool or saw the finer the teeth and the higher the RPM​ the finer the cut you can make, assuming the blade is suitable for the material you are trying to cut.

A lot of 10 inch miter saws will ​

​

The 12 inch Miter Saw​

The larger 12 inch miter saws are almost always going to better than the 10 inch at cutting thicker stock.

They have a bigger capacity, are generally larger, more bulky machines which also means they are a little more solid too.

The 12 inch miters also will usually have a more powerful motor. The average power of the motor in a 12 inch miter will be about 15 Amps. That is not always the case on a 10 incher.

​Lets take a look at the 10 inch and 12 inch miter saw offerings from DeWalt, the DW717 and the DWS779. 

DeWalt DW717 Review

The DW717 is a 10 inch double bevel sliding compound miter saw. It has a 15 Amp motor that can spin it's blade to a max no-load speed of 4,000 RPM.

It has a miter range of sixty degrees to the left and fifty two degrees to the right.

It is a double bevel miter saw so you don't have to flip your work piece over to make the opposite cut. There are seven positive ​stops on the bevel detent system at the most popular angles.

The DWS717 has a tall fence which makes working with larger pieces a lot easier. It is roughly 22 inches wide and at full extension you get a full 37 inches of work surface.

​Cutting capacity on the DWS717 is pretty good for a 10 inch miter saw. It can handle crown molding up to six inches.

DeWalt DWS779

The DeWalt DWS779 is a very popular 12 inch sliding compound miter saw.

The DWS779 has a 15 Amp motor giving out a no-load speed of 3,800 RPM.​

It has a double bevel design that has positive stops at 0, 22.5, 33.9, 45 and 49 degrees. The bevel ranges from forty nine degrees from the left through to forty nine degrees to the right.

On the miter front the DWS779 ranges from fifty degrees to the left and sixty degrees to the right.

If has a cutting capacity of 2x16 inch lumber at a ninety degree angle. At forty five degrees it can cut up to 2x12 inhces.​

The newer version of the DWS779 is the DWS780. It is essentially the same miter saw with the exception of the inclusion of the XPS system. XPS uses a bright LED shone along the blade to cast a shadow that is perfectly in line with the blade. 

This system is more reliable than a laser guide that may move or need to be re-calibrated after a blade change. You can read more about the DWS779 and DWS780 here. ​

10 vs 12 Miter Saw

​Who should buy a 10 inch miter saw ?

Anyone that does not need the ability to cut large crown molding on a regular basis. A 10 inch miter is more than enough for the average home woodworking shop or garage.

Also those that need to make extremely accurate cuts where the quality of the cut really matters, so quite a few furniture makers will favor the 10 inch miter saw.

Who should buy a 12 inch miter saw ?

A 12 inch miter is usually found in a busy commercial wood shop. However there are plenty of home DIY/woodworkers that will always opt for the larger blade diameter.

Just bear in mind that quite a few 12 inch miter saws will allow you to replace the blade with a 10 inch one. In this scenario you get the best of both worlds. 

Occasionally you may get caught out working on a slightly bigger than normal piece and it is nice to know that you have that extra cutting capacity if you need it.​

Don't forget that not only will the 12 inch miter saw be more expensive to purchase so too will the blades. If you are a heavy user this may be a concern if you opt for the best blades possible.​