Small Miter Saws

Renee Nelson
15 min readJun 14, 2024

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Get ready to dive into the world of small miter saws as we present you with a roundup of some of the best options on the market. Our article will take an in-depth look at these saws, exploring their features, effectiveness, and value for money. So sit back, relax, and let us guide you through the process of selecting the perfect small miter saw for your next projects.

The Top 10 Best Small Miter Saws

  1. Ryobi Sliding Miter Saw with LED and Miter Saw Stand for Precision Cuts — Ryobi TSS103RMS10G Miter Saw: Lightweight, versatile miter saw with 4–1/4 in. crosscut capacity and dust collection system for clean and efficient cutting on small projects.
  2. Zona Mini Miter Saw Set for Precision Cuts — Experience precision and craftsmanship in one compact tool with the Zona Mini Miter Box & Saw Set, perfect for cutting square ends, splices, and mitered corners in materials up to 1/4" thick.
  3. VEFOR Mini Miter Saw — Versatile and Portable Cutting Tool — This versatile VEVOR Mini Miter Cut-Off Chop Saw boasts a powerful 90W motor and two 2–5/16" blade options, perfect for cutting metal, wood, and plastic with its adjustable 0–45° miter gauge.
  4. Delta 26–2250 12" Dual Bevel Sliding Miter Saw with Wide Fence and Durable Materials — The Delta 26–2250 12" Dual Bevel Sliding Cruzer Miter Saw offers unparalleled accuracy, speed, and durability with its robot arm design and advanced control features, making it the perfect choice for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike.
  5. Hitachi C10fshps 10" Compact Laser Marker Miter Saw — Experience ultimate precision and power with the Hitachi C10FSHPS 10" Sliding Dual Compound Miter Saw, featuring an adjustable laser marker, 12 Amp motor, and 57/45 degree miter angles for flexible cutting capabilities.
  6. Kobalt 7–1/4-in 10-Amp Single Bevel Compound Corded Miter Saw — Cut Precision and Versatility — The Kobalt 7–1/4-in 10-Amp Single Bevel Compound Corded Miter Saw offers precision and power for accurate cuts with its LED cut-line indicator, versatile miter and bevel ranges, and 2–1/2-in fence height.
  7. Kobalt SM1817LW 7.5-Inch Compact Miter Saw for Effortless Woodworking — The Kobalt Compact 7-in10-Amp Single Bevel Miter Saw offers impressive accuracy, durability, and portability, making it perfect for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike.
  8. WEN Compact Sliding Miter Saw with Laser — The WEN 15 Amp 10 in. Single Bevel Compact Sliding Compound Miter Saw with Laser showcases powerful performance, versatile angles, and accurate cuts, making it a perfect choice for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike.
  9. Powerful 10-inch Sliding Compound Miter Saw with Easy Adjustments — The Chicago Electric 10 in. Sliding Compound Miter Saw 61971 offers superior cutting precision and ease of use, but may lack durability in some areas.
  10. Skil MS6305–00 10" Dual Bevel Sliding Miter Saw for Precise Angled Cuts — The Skil MS6305–00 10" dual bevel sliding miter saw offers extended power and durability with its 15-Amp motor, delivering fast and precise cuts at an affordable price.

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Reviews

Ryobi Sliding Miter Saw with LED and Miter Saw Stand for Precision Cuts

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With a professional and versatile design, the Ryobi TSS103RMS10G 10-inch sliding miter saw is perfect for those who need an efficient tool for cutting through wood. Its impressive miter and crosscut capacities make it ideal for a wide range of tasks, from small DIY projects to larger construction jobs.

The tool-less height adjustment allows for quick and easy setups, while the dust collection system ensures a clean workspace. Despite its powerful capabilities, this saw remains compact and lightweight, making it easy to transport and maneuver from one job site to another.

Zona Mini Miter Saw Set for Precision Cuts

The Zona Mini miter box & saw set is a handy tool for DIY enthusiasts and crafters. Boasting perfect splices on materials up to 1/4 inch thick, I found it incredibly useful for my crafting projects.

Its adjustable stop and beveled channel for tubing and dowels made it versatile, but I must admit, its plastic surface felt a bit flimsy compared to some more established products on the market. Despite that, the high-speed steel blade and the quality craftsmanship of the miter box made up for it.

The saw proved to be incredibly sharp too, but be careful not to saw the mitre block! Overall, it’s a neat little package that has been made right here in the US, and it’ll surely become a valuable addition to your workshop. Just ensure you take proper care of the plastic surface to prolong its life.

VEFOR Mini Miter Saw — Versatile and Portable Cutting Tool

Introducing the VEVOR Mini Miter Cut-Off Chop Saw, a small yet powerful addition to your workshop for precise cutting tasks. With two types of blades, one steel and one resin, this versatile saw can easily handle various materials, including metal, wood, and even plastic. The 0–45° adjustable scale allows for flexibility in cutting at different angles, making it perfect for creating intricate designs or simply achieving precise linear cuts.

Its low noise motor ensures a peaceful work environment, while the compact benchtop design and portable nature make it the ideal companion for those with limited workspace or nomadic work habits. Despite its small size, the VEVOR Mini Miter Cut-Off Chop Saw offers a cutting depth of 1/2" and can generate a 7800 RPM rotation speed for efficient, smooth cutting. Whether you’re a hobbyist, model maker, or a professional in need of an efficient and versatile cutting tool, the VEVOR Mini Miter Cut-Off Chop Saw is the perfect choice to help you bring your designs to life one cut at a time.

Delta 26–2250 12" Dual Bevel Sliding Miter Saw with Wide Fence and Durable Materials

The Delta CRUZER miter saw has easily become a favorite in my workshop. The first thing that stood out to me was its 12-inch blade, which is perfect for larger projects. With a versatile flip-down fence design, it made cutting crown molding and vertical baseboard a breeze.

The dual bevel with a 47-degree L/R range, combined with the front bevel release and 7 positive bevel stops, made angle adjustments a breeze. The miter adjustment offered 50-degree left and 60-degree right capabilities, providing precise cuts.

However, the best part was the accessibility of the travel adjust and the easy-to-reach bevel switch. These features made the Delta CRUZER undoubtedly the fastest and easiest to use miter saw I’ve ever used. Its heavy-duty construction gave me the confidence that it would last for years. Overall, I am thoroughly impressed with this miter saw.

Hitachi C10fshps 10" Compact Laser Marker Miter Saw

The Hitachi C10FSHPS 10-inch Sliding Dual Compound Miter Saw with Laser Guide is here to make your woodworking life a whole lot easier. Its powerful 12-amp motor delivers intense power for even the toughest cutting jobs, while the unique adjustable laser marker allows for precise cutting lines that can be easily adjusted to your preference. The 57-degree miter angle to the right ensures ultimate flexibility with a 45-degree miter angle to the left, and the 45-degree bevel angle range, to the right and left, enables users to quickly and easily flip the saw blade and leave the material in place.

The positive stops on the miter and bevel scale offer easy-to-read measurements and quick settings, while the linear ball bearing slide system ensures superior accuracy and control. Plus, with features such as electronic speed control and electronic soft start, this miter saw is everything you need for professional-grade performance, all within a compact and sturdy design.

Kobalt 7–1/4-in 10-Amp Single Bevel Compound Corded Miter Saw — Cut Precision and Versatility

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I recently had the opportunity to try out the Kobalt 7–1/4-in 10-Amp Single Bevel Compound Corded Miter Saw, and let me tell you, it exceeded my expectations in many ways. Although I’ve tried my fair share of miter saws in the past, this one stood out for its lightweight design and powerful motor.

One of my favorite features was the upfront LED cut-line indicator. It allowed me to have a clear pre-cutting line for precise alignment, which is crucial when working with delicate materials. The large, lightweight die-cast aluminum base and table made it easy to transport and set up for various projects, even in smaller spaces. The miter and bevel ranges offered plenty of flexibility for different projects, both at 90 and 45 degrees.

However, one small drawback was the arbor bolt. It was overtightened in the saw, making it difficult to loosen and remove. But besides that, I found the Kobalt Miter Saw to be an excellent tool for anyone looking to get started in woodworking or needing a reliable and versatile companion on small projects. Its affordability, compact size, and ease of use make it a top contender in the world of miter saws.

Kobalt SM1817LW 7.5-Inch Compact Miter Saw for Effortless Woodworking

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I recently had the chance to try out the Kobalt Compact 7–1/4-in 10-Amp Single Bevel Sliding Compound Corded Miter Saw and I have to say, it’s been a game changer in my DIY projects. The saw’s compact size made it easy to transport from storage to my work area, and it has definitely made my life easier when dealing with those tricky miter cuts.

The saw’s powerful 10-amp motor delivers clean, precise cuts, and the upfront LED cut-line indicator helps you align your cuts perfectly. The large die-cast aluminum base and table provide great support during setup and cutting, and the dual slide rail system ensures smooth and accurate operation. I also appreciate the tall die-cast aluminum fence, which gives me confidence during setup and cutting.

However, there were a few drawbacks to using this saw. The dust collection system didn’t seem to catch everything, which caused a bit of a mess. Additionally, I found the saw’s blade replacement process to be quite a challenge, as I had to take it back to the store to get it removed.

Overall, I’ve been really happy with the Kobalt Compact Miter Saw. It’s a great tool for DIY enthusiasts and anyone looking for a high-quality, portable miter saw at a reasonable price. Just be prepared to deal with the occasional dust mess and potential hassle when replacing the blade.

WEN Compact Sliding Miter Saw with Laser

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I had the chance to try this WEN 10-inch single bevel compact sliding compound miter saw, and I have to say it’s quite a handy tool. The first thing that caught my attention was its powerful 15-amp motor, which effortlessly cuts through even the toughest woods. The 45-degree miter angle range, coupled with the 45-degree bevel left, really gives you a lot of flexibility when making different cuts.

One specific feature that stood out was the onboard class II laser guide, which illuminates the line of cut for maximum accuracy. It’s a small detail, but it can make a big difference in achieving precise cuts. On the other hand, I noticed that the dust collection could be better — the included dust bag works, but it might not be the most efficient for larger projects.

The compact design of the saw is perfect for anyone with limited storage space, and its portability makes it ideal for moving around from job to job. I particularly enjoyed its easy-to-use controls and the inclusion of a dust port adapter for convenient dust collection.

In summary, this WEN 10-inch single bevel compact sliding compound miter saw is a fine tool for those looking to tackle various cutting projects. Its powerful motor, versatile cutting angles, and convenient features make it a reliable choice for any handyman or DIY enthusiast. However, do keep in mind that its dust collection might require some improvement. Overall, a great option to have in your toolbox!

Powerful 10-inch Sliding Compound Miter Saw with Easy Adjustments

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I recently tried out the Chicago Electric 10 in. Sliding Compound Miter Saw, and overall, I had a pleasant experience with it. The miter saw makes perfect cuts up to 10 inches wide, thanks to its powerful sliding action and smooth dual linear ball bearing rails. The laser guide has proven to be incredibly accurate, ensuring precise alignment for cuts.

One of the highlights of this miter saw is its lightweight and compact design. It’s easy to move around for work in different areas of the house, and despite its small size, it still packs a punch when it comes to power. It’s especially useful for those who need a saw for occasional small projects around the home.

However, there were a couple of drawbacks that I noticed during my experience. First, the design of the saw felt a bit sturdy, making it a bit challenging to move and position. This might be slightly inconvenient for those who need to work with it frequently or in tight spaces.

Another downside was the dust management. The saw does not do a great job collecting dust, which can be quite annoying and messy when working on projects.

In conclusion, the Chicago Electric 10 in. Sliding Compound Miter Saw is a powerful and affordable saw that’s perfect for occasional, small-scale projects. Despite the issues with sturdiness and dust management, it’s still a great value for the price, and its accuracy and ease of use make it worth considering.

Skil MS6305–00 10" Dual Bevel Sliding Miter Saw for Precise Angled Cuts

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When I first got my hands on this 10" dual bevel sliding miter saw, I was amazed at the sheer power it delivers. In fact, it’s not just about power — it’s about precision, too. With four positive stop positions at 48 and 45 left, 0, and 45 right, it’s like having an extra pair of hands to guide your cuts.

But what really stands out is the convenience. The lightweight design and built-in carrying handle are perfect for those times when you need to move it around or take it to a different location. The quick work clamp also makes it incredibly easy to secure materials for safer cutting.

However, it’s not all smooth sailing. I did notice a slight noise level when in use, which might be a deterrent for some. And although the blade is of great quality, I found that it could use some improvements when it comes to cutting dust.

Overall, I think this 10" dual bevel sliding miter saw is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a powerful and precise tool. While it might not be perfect, its benefits far outweigh any shortcomings.

Buyer’s Guide

Welcome to our comprehensive buyer’s guide for small miter saws! In this section, we’ll be discussing the essential features, considerations, and general advice that will help you make an informed decision when purchasing a small miter saw. Remember, we will not be mentioning any specific product picks or external resources in this guide.

Important Features to Consider

When shopping for a small miter saw, there are several key features you should consider. These features include: Cutting capacity, blade size, bevel range, fence system, and corded/cordless operation. Let’s take a closer look at each of these features and what they mean for your purchasing decision.

Cutting Capacity

The cutting capacity of a small miter saw refers to the maximum width of the material it can cut. This is an important specification to consider if you plan on cutting thicker or wider materials. Small miter saws typically have a cutting capacity ranging from 3.5 to 10 inches, depending on the model. Make sure to choose a saw with a cutting capacity that meets your needs for various projects.

Blade Size and Type

The blade size of a small miter saw is another crucial consideration. Smaller blades offer better precision, while larger blades provide more cutting power. The type of blade also matters, as some are designed for woodworking, while others are suitable for metal or tile cutting. Familiarize yourself with the blade options available for each saw and consider which one will best suit your project requirements.

Bevel Range and Functionality

Bevel range refers to the maximum angle at which a miter saw can tilt its blade. A wider bevel range allows for more versatility when making angled cuts. A good small miter saw should have a bevel range of 45 to 55 degrees, providing sufficient flexibility for various applications. Take the time to assess the bevel range and functionality of each saw you’re considering to ensure it meets your needs.

FAQ

What is a compact miter saw?

A compact miter saw is an innovative power tool designed for making precise and bevel cuts in workpieces up to 12 inches wide. It is known for its portability and ease of use, making it the perfect tool for DIY enthusiasts, woodworkers, and homeowners who need an efficient cutting solution for their projects. These saws are available in various sizes, but the “compact” category typically refers to lightweight and portable models, suitable for smaller workspaces and handyman projects.

When selecting a compact miter saw, consider factors such as the size and power of the motor, the maximum cutting capacity, the number of bevel settings, and the ease of adjustments and portability of the tool. Some popular brands in this category include Bosch, Dewalt, and Makita, among others. These tools can efficiently cut a wide range of materials, including wood, plywood, composite materials, metals, and even some plastics, depending on the blade type, size, and power capabilities of the saw.

What materials can a compact miter saw cut?

A compact miter saw is capable of cutting a wide variety of materials, such as wood (both hard and soft), plywood, composite materials, metals, and some plastics. The specific materials a saw can handle depend on its blade type, size, and power capabilities. It is essential to choose the right blade for the material you plan to cut. For instance, a high-speed steel blade is ideal for cutting hardwood, while a bi-metal blade is suitable for cutting metal.

When cutting different materials, always ensure that the workpiece is stable, secure, and aligned with the saw’s cutting line to achieve accurate results. Be cautious when cutting softer materials, as they may dull the blade more quickly or cause kickback if the workpiece is not held securely. Always dress appropriately and follow the manufacturer’s safety guidelines when using a compact miter saw.

How does a compact miter saw work?

A compact miter saw operates by utilizing a powerful electric motor to turn the blade at high speeds. As the blade spins, it cuts through the workpiece by exerting force on the material, creating precise and angled cuts. To make a cut, you need to adjust the compact miter saw’s angle, clamp down the workpiece, and then align the cutting area with the blade’s path. The cutting action can be controlled by a trigger-style switch, which allows for easy start and stop.

When working with a compact miter saw, it is crucial to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper setup and operation. Become familiar with the saw’s features, such as the blade guard, handle, and adjustment mechanisms. Always wear the appropriate safety gear, including goggles, gloves, and a dust mask, and ensure that the work area is clean and well-lit.

What should I consider when purchasing a compact miter saw?

When purchasing a compact miter saw, consider the following factors to ensure you get the best tool for your specific needs and budget. These factors include the motor’s power (measured in amps) and the blade size (usually measured in inches), the maximum material thickness the saw can handle, the number of bevel settings, and the ease of use and portability of the tool.

Additionally, consider the brand’s reputation for quality and durability, customer reviews, and price. It is a good idea to research different models and read honest reviews to help narrow down your choices and make an informed decision. Always check the warranty provided by the manufacturer, as it may offer peace of mind in case of any issues with the tool.

How do I maintain and clean a compact miter saw?

To ensure your compact miter saw functions efficiently and lasts a long time, it is essential to perform regular maintenance and cleaning. Here are a few key steps to follow: after each use, turn the saw off and unplug it. Then, remove any dust or debris from the blade, body, and guard using a soft-bristle brush or compressed air. Make sure to clean the blade in a specific direction, as doing so will help maintain the blade’s sharpness.

Periodically, inspect the blade for any signs of wear, such as bent or chipped teeth. If any damage is detected, replace the blade with a new one that is appropriate for the material you plan to cut. Additionally, lubricate moving parts such as the blade spindle and arbor according to the manufacturer’s recommended schedule. This step is vital for the long-term performance and durability of the tool.

What safety precautions should I take when using a compact miter saw?

When operating a compact miter saw, it is essential to follow proper safety precautions to minimize the risk of injury. Always read and understand the owner’s manual before operating the saw. Ensure that the work area is clean and well-lit, and position the saw on a sturdy surface away from any flammable materials.

Always wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as safety glasses, gloves, and hearing protection. Secure the workpiece with clamps, and never attempt to cut metal with a compact miter saw unless specifically designed for that purpose. Be cautious when cutting thicker materials, as they may require multiple passes or the use of a specialized blade. Always keep your hands and fingers away from the blade, and never use the saw to cut wood that is too close to your body or clothing.

As an Amazon Associate, we receive compensation from qualified purchases!

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