The Best Sliding Compound Miter Saws for 2022
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Best Sliding Compound Miter Saw
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When it comes to framing and finishing work, there’s nothing like a durable and reliable miter saw. These handy tools come at a variety of price points, with features such as lasers, ergonomic handles, articulating arms, and more.
UPDATED: January 21, 2022.
Whether you’re an experienced DIY-er looking to add another tool to your collection of circular saws and table saws, or a professional who needs a reliable model for the job site, read on to find the best sliding compound miter saw for your needs.
MY TOP PICK:
If you are looking for the best overall, I recommend the DEWALT DWS779 because it features a 12" blade, smooth sliding action, and an adjustable stainless steel miter plate.
What are the Different Types of Miter Saws?
Miter saws are used to cut at an angle. They’re used for crosscutting: cutting against the grain of the wood. They’re often used for picture frames, crown molding, and framing work.
Miter saws come in two basic types: standard and compound. A standard miter saw, also called a chop saw, is typically used for basic cuts or framing work. It can cut at 90- and 45-degree angles and is able to make miter cuts and crosscuts.
For more complex work, such as crown molding, you’ll need a compound miter saw. These saws can cut a mitered and beveled cut at the same time. A regular compound saw can make a miter cut at any angle and can tilt to the left to make bevel cuts. A dual compound miter saw (or a dual-bevel compound miter saw) is slightly more versatile: it can tilt to the left and the right, allowing you to cut bevels from both sides without having to flip the material.
Sliding compound miter saws are the most versatile of all. In addition to making miter cuts and single or dual bevel cuts, the saw slides forward and backward on a track, allowing you to make wider cuts.
They have much more capacity than regular compound miter saws, with a maximum crosscut capacity of up to around 12 to 13 inches as compared to 6 to 8 inches. They’re often used for larger framing jobs, such as kitchen cabinets, beveling, picture frames, etc. The maximum angles of these cuts vary by manufacturer but are typically around 45 to 50 degrees.
How to Use a Sliding Compound Miter Saw
Here’s a basic outline of how to operate a sliding compound miter saw. Working with a saw of any kind can be dangerous, and you should approach the process with caution. Make sure to read the user’s manual and any safety guidelines that come along with your saw.
Start by lowering the blade and line it up with the piece of material you will be cutting.
Then, raise the blade back up. The motor should be off the whole time.
Now that you’re lined up, turn on the saw.
Once the blade is at full power, lower it again slowly until it reaches the piece of wood.
Firmly hold the head of the saw and guide the blade into the workpiece.
Release the trigger, but don’t let go of the head.
Once the blade has come to a total stop, raise it back up.
You should always wear gloves, ear, and eye protection when operating a miter saw. If it’s your first time, practice moving the tool with the motor off before you use the saw. You will also need to calibrate your miter saw before using it for the first time out of the box.
Which Sliding Compound Miter Saw Features Should You Look For?
There are a number of features you should look for when you’re searching for a sliding compound miter saw. I have listed the important ones below.
Motor Size
The rotation of the blade is delivered via the onboard electric motor. The power of these motors is measured in amperes or amps. This is a measure of the strength of an electrical current, meaning how fast it flows. Higher amps translate to a quicker flow of electricity which results in more power. These tools are usually equipped with around 15 amp motors but can vary depending on the model.
Revolutions Per Minute (RPM)
As the name implies the revolutions per minute (RPM) of the tool is simply how fast the saw blade spins. This is listed as a “no-load” speed, meaning that it is measured while not cutting. Standard speeds for these tools range from around 3,500 up to 5,000 RPM. Generally speaking, the faster the speed the faster the cuts.
Blade Sizes and Types
Standard blade sizes for these units are 10 and 12 inches. This is a measurement of the diameter of the saw blade. The larger the saw blade the deeper and wider it can make cuts in material.
In addition to size, there is a range of things to consider when selecting a blade, such as the number of teeth. The more teeth a blade has the finer and slower the resulting cut will be. Inversely, the fewer teeth it has the rougher, but generally faster, the cut. The tooth cutting edge can also be capped with materials such as tungsten carbide to help it stay sharper longer.
Other blade features include the kerf and the hook angle. The kerf is an indication of how much wood is removed when the cut is made. The hook angle is a measure of how much the blade has a tendency to pull the wood into the blade. In other words, the higher the hook angle the more the material will want to move when cut.
Lasers
Some saws come with a built-in laser that shines on the wood, allowing you to see the exact location the saw will cut. This is an optional feature, but it can improve the accuracy of your cuts.
Dust Collection
Nearly all miter saws have a feature for dust collection. Some have dust ports that attach to a vacuum for easy clean-up, while others have a simple bag. I prefer the vac connection if possible, although it can be a pain if you also need to haul a vacuum to the worksite.
Corded vs. Cordless
Most miter saws use a standard 110v plug, but there are a few cordless models that run on batteries. If you work on locations without power, look for a cordless model.
Also, if you already have a cordless drill you may want to pair it with the same brand so they can share battery packs. Check to make sure it is indeed the same battery, as it can differ even within the same brand.
Just be aware that the motors on cordless versions are typically less powerful than corded units. You may also not want to deal with recharging batteries and prefer uninterrupted plug-in power.
Weight
If you are going to be regularly working on site this saw to site it is important to note the weight of the tool, as frequently transporting a heavy tool can be exhausting.
Safety features
Look for a saw with an electric brake. This is located on the handle, and it will stop the blade from spinning when you release it. Other common safety features include blade guards and safety clamps. You will need to purchase protective equipment separately, such as eye and ear protection.
Price
If you’re on a strict budget, look for a saw without a laser and a smaller blade diameter. These are usually more affordable. But don’t try to cut costs too much. A high-quality miter saw will last for years, so it’s better to see it as an investment.
Now, on to the saws themselves. Each unit has been assigned a key feature that makes it particularly noteworthy. Every saw has been broken down according to its essential functions to help you make a selection that works for your needs.
So here is my list of The Best Sliding Compound Miter Saws for 2022.
Enjoy!
Best Overall: DeWalt DWS779 12-inch
A subsidiary of Black & Decker, the DeWalt brand is widely known across the US. Their tools are highly durable and used by professionals and tradesmen as well as hobbyists. The DeWalt DWS779 is one of the best sliding miter saws for everyday use.
This saw is very heavy (it weighs 56 pounds) and it’s incredibly well-built. A 12-inch blade slides smoothly along the track, with 10 positive stops that let you make quick, precise cuts. A sliding fence will support boards up to 6.75 inches.
The only drawback is that it doesn’t come with a laser, but that omission is reflected in the lower price tag. If you don’t need a laser for your work, save the money and get the DWS779. The saw comes with a 3-year limited warranty.
Other features:
Powerful 15 Amp, 3800 RPM motor
Comes with an adjustable stainless steel miter plate
Bevels 0 to 48 degrees left and right
Crosscut capacity of 2 x 14 inches at 90 degrees and 2 x 10 inches at 45 degrees
For more information check out this unboxing and overview video of the DWS779:
Runner-Up: Delta Cruzer 26-2241 10-inch
The Delta Cruzer 26-2241 features an ergonomic, intuitive design. The dual bevel lever is located on the front of the saw, so you don’t have to reach around to adjust it. The saw also has a comfortable molded handle and a full-size trigger that can be used with either the right or left hand.
This dual bevel sliding compound miter saw comes with a 5-year manufacturer’s warranty. It tilts back and forth and slides on a track, so you can make wide cuts and cut bevels at any angle. The saw’s frame is highly durable: it’s made from military-grade aluminum and supported by 18 sturdy bearings. In other words, this tool is an investment that will last in your workshop for years.
At 55 pounds, the saw is heavy-duty but still able to be moved. It comes with a cutting system that shines an LED light while you work, so you can see the exact line you’re cutting. The saw has an enormous crosscut capacity of 16 inches, allowing you to cut boards up to 6, 8, or even 10 feet long. It comes with a 10-inch carbide blade and a bag to hold sawdust.
One excellent safety feature is the brake lock. When you let go of the handle, the blade stops spinning within 10-15 seconds. Due to its design and accuracy, this saw is a great choice for small workshops or compact job sites.
Other features:
15 Amp motor
Bevels 45 degrees left or right with a front bevel release
Has 7 positive bevel stops for efficiency
Miter capacity of 50 degrees to the left or 60 degrees to the right, with 10 miter detents and positive stops
Has a max cut thickness up to 5.5 inches
Best Sliding System: Bosch GCM12SD 12-inch
Bosch is a high-quality tool manufacturer that uses innovation to improve the lives of both professionals and DIY-ers. Their GCM12SD 12-inch miter saw is the perfect example of this innovation.
The saw features a patented Axial-Glide system that uses an articulating glide arm instead of a typical sliding rail. This keeps the saw from taking up too much space on the job site, but it still allows you to make wide cuts. It also keeps the saw from malfunctioning over time due to dust build-up.
You can use the saw for years and it will still glide like it did on day 1. This tool is perfect for professionals or DIY-ers, especially if you’re working from a cramped space.
Other features:
Quick-release SquareLock fence increases the precision of 90-degree cuts
Has a 14-inch horizontal capacity, 6½-inch vertical capacity, and 6½-inch crown capacity
Comes with a limited 1-year warranty
Soft grip handle is comfortable to use
Best Capacity: DeWalt DWS780 12-inch
Another great product by DeWalt, this saw is very similar to the DWS779 with one important difference: the patented Cutline blade positioning system. The technology shines an LED light onto the wood, allowing you to make more precise cuts.
The addition of the LED light is reflected in the higher price tag. If you don’t need an LED light, go with the DWS779. Otherwise, this model is an excellent option for accurate cutting. The saw weighs about 58 pounds and has a sophisticated dust collection system that captures around 75% of your sawdust. It comes with a powerful 15 Amp, 3,800 RPM motor and an oversized bevel scale.
Other features:
Comes with a carbide blade and dust bag
Bevels 0 to 48 degrees left and right
Crosscut capacity of 2 x 14 inches at 90 degrees and 2 x 10 inches at 45 degrees
Has 10 positive stops for quicker cuts
Bevels 0 to 48 degrees left or right
Has a base capacity of 6.5 inches and a crown capacity of 6⅝ inches
Most Portable: Delta Power Equipment S26-263L 10-inch
The Delta Power Equipment Corporation has been around for almost 100 years. They’re known for their reliable, professional-grade tools and equipment. The S26-263L sliding compound miter saw is lightweight, easy to use, and comes with a powerful 15-Amp motor.
The saw weighs 30 pounds, so it’s easy to transport. It comes with table extensions, allowing you to work on long pieces from anywhere. The saw also has a laser that you can turn on or off for more accurate cuts. With a 3-year warranty, an electric brake for safety, dust collection bag, and work clamp, this saw is perfect for contractors or experienced DIY-ers.
Other features:
12-inch crosscut capacity
Has a spindle lock for blade changing
Bevels left from 0 to 45 degrees
Cuts 2 x 12 inches at full bevel
Features a front lock control system with 10 positive miter stops for better efficiency
Best Value: Skil MS6305-00 10-inch
The Skil MS6305-00 offers a lot of features for the price point. The dual bevel setup allows the blade to tilt to the left and right up to 45 degrees for a range of angled cuts. As with all of these saws, it rotates to make miter cuts with detents at commonly used angles. The maximum nominal lumber sizes it will cut are 2x8s at 45 degrees and 2x12s at 90 degrees.
It weighs in at just under 40 pounds, so it offers the ability to be moved around easier than some of the heavier options. It comes with a system called “Shadow Line” that shines an LED light to show exactly where the blade is going to cut on the workpiece. The U-shaped molded handle is equipped with a trigger switch for quick and easy control.
It comes with a 10-inch blade and a dust bag to minimize clean-up when you are done working. It also includes a three-year limited warranty.
Other features:
Powered by a 15 Amp motor for up to 4,800 RPM
Has four positive bevel stops for ease of use
Miter capacity of up to 45 degrees to the left or right, with 11 miter detents and positive stops
Best Budget Pick: Hitachi C10FCG 10-inch
**The Hitachi C10FCG does not feature a sliding action but I felt it was worth including in the list.
Lightweight and affordable, this saw by Hitachi will be an excellent addition to your toolkit. It weighs just 24.2 pounds, the lightest model on this list which makes it easy to transport from home to the job site and back. The C10FCG is powered by a 15 Amp motor that generates a no-load speed of up to 5,000 RPM.
This model is best for cutting 2-inch dimensional lumber, baseboards, and trim. The only downside is that is simply a compound miter saw without the sliding action, so this will limit the width of the board that it can cut in one go.
It includes a dust collector attachment to minimize the incidence of airborne particles in the work area, making cleanup faster and easier. Also, for better material support the saw features a vice clamping system to properly secure the workpiece to the large table.
Other features:
0-52 degree miter angle range to the right and left for increased flexibility
0-45 degree bevel range to the left to provide clean and accurate bevel cuts
Thumb actuated positive stops for quick miter adjustments
I hope this list of the best sliding compound miter saws was helpful.
If you think I left out one that is important or have a suggestion for a future article, let me know in the comments below.
Brandon Hubbard, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C
