Sliding miter saws are necessary tools for any workshop, job site, or DIY project. It can be used to make all sorts of cuts, be it vertical or horizontal. These are so strong that they can often cut hard materials with ease and can quickly cut through in fractions of seconds. 

Finding the right sliding miter saw, particularly if you're a novice to woodworking, can be difficult with a plethora of options to choose from. So, to assist you in your quest for the best sliding miter saw, we tried and tested multiple models with the help of experts and specialists to narrow down your choices to five of the best that you can purchase online. Learn about the advantages and disadvantages of each, and determine which sliding miter saw is best for your project.

Also, once you found the perfect product, don't forget to click on the button below to search for Amazon's best deals.

Best Sliding Miter Saws Comparison & Rating

Sliding Miter Saws

Features

DEWALT DWS780 12-Inch Double Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw (DWS780)
  • 56 pounds
  • 3,800 RPM
  • bevels right and left from 0 to 49 degrees
Bosch Power Tools GCM12SD - 15 Amp 12 Inch Corded Dual-Bevel Sliding Glide Miter Saw with 60 Tooth Saw Blade
  • 3,800 RPM
  • patented axial-glider system
  • 48-degree bevel capability in both directions
DEWALT Sliding Compound Miter Saw, 12-Inch (DWS779)
  • 3,800 RPM
  • cuts up to 2 x 14 dimensional lumber at 90 degrees
  • cuts up 2 x 12 dimensional lumber at 45 degrees
Makita LS1019L 10" Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw with Laser
  • 3,200 RPM
  • bevel's from 0-48 degrees left or right
  • miters from 0-60 degrees left, right, or up
TACKLIFE Sliding Miter Saw, 12inch 15Amp Double-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw with Laser, Crosscutting Miter Saw, 3800rpm, Adjustable Cutting Angle, Extensible Table, 10ft Cable, 40T Blade - PMS03A
  • 3,800 RPM
  • 40 tooth tungsten carbide-tipped blade of the highest quality
  • laser marker

1. DEWALT DWS780 Sliding Miter Saw

DEWALT DWS780 12-Inch Double Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw (DWS780)
Specifications:
98% Overall

Dimensions

21.46 x 17.72 x 17.13 inches

Weight

56 pounds

Speed

3,800 RPM

Blade Size

12 inches

98%
performance
98%
features
98%
ease of use
97%
build
Pros:
  • Extended power and reliability are provided by the 15 amp motor.
  • Spins at 3,800 RPM and has improved accuracy.
  • Boasts a dual bevel system that features a high visibility bevel scale and the ability to bevel right and left from 0 to 49 degrees with positive stops at 0, 22.5, 33.9, 45, and 49 degrees in both directions.
  • At 90 degrees, the exclusive back fence style cuts up to 2 by 14 dimensional lumber, and at 45 degrees, it cuts up to 2 by 12-dimensional lumber.
  • Has a new handle configuration for optimum portability, as well as a cam lock miter, detent override, and bevel crown stops.
  • For optimum results, it features a new precise miter system including machined base fence support.
  • Adjustment-free cut line indication is provided by an integrated XPS cross-cut positioning system as well as a laser-like shadow on the work surface cast by the XPS LED light.
  • Improves productivity and precision with an adjustable stainless steel miter detent plate with 10 positive stops.
  • Increased vertical cutting capability, thanks to its innovative gearbox and belt drive design.
  • Saw capacities are designed to be simple and hassle-free to use.
  • Includes 12-inch carbide blade, dust bag, wrench, and user guide.
  • Quis nostrud exercitation
  • Quis nostrud exercitation
Cons:
  • lthough it comes with a dustbag, it falls short when it comes to dust collection. Even though it collects a reasonable amount of dust and is simple to set up, it leaves a lot of room for improvement, particularly in terms of fine dust. Keep in mind that the amount of dust generated is also dependent on the materials used.
  • There is almost no padding in the grip handle. Over time, you get used to it, but it's pretty uncomfortable.
Final Take:

Highlighting its integrated XPS cross-cut and XPS LED light, DEWALT DWS780 is suitable for craftsmen, cutting carpenters, framers, builders, and several other skilled professionals who need a tool that delivers the precision, power, versatility, functionality, and simplicity that this saw provides. This miter saw's blade tilts on both sides, providing for accurate cuts without the need to calibrate or modify things. You can cut up to two by 16-inch lumber at 90 degrees due to the design of the back fence. On the other hand, you can cut two by 12-inch dimensional wood at 45 degrees. It has a powerful 15-amp motor and has a little less friction than other saws, which is particularly impressive considering its powerful motor. You'll get a transparent blade guard that's pretty good for safety features. A rail lock latch for keeping the head away from the fence is included to simplify and optimize vertical cutting ability.

2. Bosch GCM12SD Sliding Miter Saw

Bosch Power Tools GCM12SD - 15 Amp 12 Inch Corded Dual-Bevel Sliding Glide Miter Saw with 60 Tooth Saw Blade
Specifications:
97% Overall

Dimensions

31 x 23.8 x 22.5 inches

Weight

88.2 pounds

Speed

3,800 RPM

Blade Size

12 inches

97%
performance
98%
features
97%
ease of use
97%
build
Pros:
  • Delivers a 15-amp motor that generates up to 3,800 RPM at a no-load rate.
  • Its patented axial-glider system enables for broader cross-cutting and excellent alignment yet still being compact.
  • It has a 12-inch blade with a 48-degree bevel capability in both directions.
  • Cutting capability enhanced to 14-inch horizontally and 61/2- inches vertically against the fence base and 6 1/2-inch crown range against the fence.
  • Its square lock fast release fences lock at 90 degrees to the table without any adjustments.
  • Both metal bevel lock lever and range selector are placed up front for fast and simple bevel adjustments without having to reach out behind the saw.
  • Dust collection is optimized at 90% for cutting 2x substance with a vacuum.
  • With a large, easy-to-read uniform bevel including stainless steel miter scales with specified detents and roof pitch angles, it's simple to make adjustments.
  • Features s a one-click lock/unlocks slide fence for better stability.
Cons:
  • The Bosch GCM12SD is heavy at 88 pounds, but with that weight comes a high level of quality.
  • The quality of the hold down clamp is not very impressive for its price.
  • No laser guide.
Final Take:

Introducing its Bosch-exclusive Axial-Glide system intended for powerful efficiency, effective control, and convenient workstations, the Bosch GCM12SD boasts its 12-Inch dual-bevel glide miter saw that delivers a smooth cutting process, precise measurement, and space-saving setup. This miter saw from Bosch is the only sliding miter on the rank designed with an axial arm rather than rails, that provides a 15-amp engine with a no-load rate of up to 3,800 RPM. It has a carbide blade of 12 inches. With this model, it is easier to work for wide workpiece material as it contains an extremely large, cast-in scales sliding fence. It also has a sliding base extension that supports longer workpieces respectively. Ultimately, it likewise comes from a reputable power tools development and production company.

3. DEWALT DWS779 Sliding Miter Saw

DEWALT Sliding Compound Miter Saw, 12-Inch (DWS779)
Specifications:
96% Overall

Dimensions

21 x 17 x 17 inches

Weight

56 pounds

Speed

3,800 RPM

Blade Size

12 inches

97%
performance
98%
features
95%
ease of use
95%
build
Pros:
  • The 15 amp motor provides more power and consistency.
  • Variable speed operates up to 3,800 RPM.
  • Features a dual bevel system with a carbide blade of 12 inches.
  • Offers a unique back fence design that cuts up to 2 x 14 dimensional lumber at 90 degrees and 2 x 12 dimensional lumber at 45 degrees.
  • Introduces a precise miter system, dual horizontal steel rails, and tall sliding fences.
  • Has a cam-lock miter handle that is simple to adjust.
  • Its unique back fence features a double bevel sliding compound miter as well as a slider miter saw.
  • Has a 6.75-inches maximum cutting thickness.
  • A blade wrench and a user guide are included in the package.
Cons:
  • Although the manufacturer claims it can collect up to 75% of dust, the dust bag's ability is disappointing. To put that into perspective, get used to emptying the dust bag regularly.
Final Take:

If you don't want to spend a lot of money on high-end equipment but still get the same quality, DEWALT DWS779 Sliding Miter Saw is a great option. Expect to receive the same quality as DEWALT DWS780, excluding XPS cross-cut and XPS LED light function with just $491.07 (DWS780 price was $599). It provides a great balance of value and efficiency because, at its price, it comes with a powerful 15 amp electric motor. As compared to other choices in the market, this powers a 12-inch cutting blade, which is one of the largest available. Its motor spins at a high speed of 3,800 RPM, allowing it to break through even the toughest materials with ease and can cut items up to 6.75 inches deep with no difficulties. That being said, it can be used for a wide range of applications without the need to worry about compatibility. Having DEWALT DWS779 is a matter of high-end product with a reasonable price, indeed, a good investment.

4. Makita LS1019L Sliding Miter Saw

Makita LS1019L 10" Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw with Laser
Specifications:
95% Overall

Dimensions

22.05 x 32.68 x 21.65 inches

Weight

72.77 pounds

Speed

3,200 RPM

Blade Size

10 inches

95%
performance
95%
features
95%
ease of use
95%
build
Pros:
  • Less maintenance is needed by the powerful 15.0 AMP direct-drive motor.
  • Offers a large cutting power and precision of 3,200 RPM.
  • A 10-inch dual-bevel sliding compound miter saw with laser and crown miter capability of a 12" miter saw.
  • Increased ability for vertically nested crown molding up to 6-5/8-inch, vertically nested baseboard up to 5-1/4-inch, and 90 degree crosscuts up to 12-inch.
  • Can miter from 0-60 degrees left, right, or up; bevel's from 0-48 degrees left or right.
  • Its large aluminum base increases the material's toughness, allowing for more effective cutting.
  • At the base of the saw, it has a big port that can be used for the dust collection scheme.
  • Soft start dampens the start-up reaction, resulting in smoother drives and longer gear life.
  • With a capacity of up to 4-3/4-inch baseboard, 4x4 dimensional lumber can be cut into one pass.
  • A 2-steel rail sliding system provides a single slide-glide, minimizing the saw's footprint, which enables operation flush against a wall.
  • "Dead-on" precise cuts using a linear ball bearing device.
Cons:
  • The Makita LS1019L is a little more expensive than any of the other 10-inch miter saws. This saw is a great buy for the price, particularly since it can allow you to keep your heavy 12-inch capability.
  • On long sliding cuts, the blade can drag a little. It seems to be due to the rails being slightly out of square.
Final Take:

The Makita LS1019L Sliding Miter Saw is made from one of the world's largest power tool lines, famous for providing quality equipment and supplies. It is a laser-mounted 10-inch dual-bevel sliding-compound saw with massive cutting capability and precision. With LS1019L in hand, you can be assured of all the cutting efficiency you need with the most lightweight design for improved portability. Its blade size, though just 10-inch, is enormous, equivalent to a 12-inch power miter saw. Also, the blade guard is transparent which helps the blade align the cut more quickly. It has a big, oversize trigger switch for convenience when operating large pieces of equipment. Indeed, the LS1019L can take on the toughest jobs while maintaining high output.

5. TACKLIFE PMS03A Sliding Miter Saw

TACKLIFE Sliding Miter Saw, 12inch 15Amp Double-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw with Laser, Crosscutting Miter Saw, 3800rpm, Adjustable Cutting Angle, Extensible Table, 10ft Cable, 40T Blade - PMS03A
Specifications:
95% Overall

Dimensions

28.94 x 13.78 x 17.32 inches

Weight

54.3 pounds

Speed

3,800 RPM

Blade Size

12 inches

95%
performance
95%
features
93%
ease of use
95%
build
Pros:
  • Smoothly cuts through various materials with 15 amp / 1700 W and 3800 RPM.
  • Includes a 40 tooth tungsten carbide-tipped blade of the highest quality.
  • The double linear sliding rail structure ensures that cutting operations are more smooth, steady, and accurate.
  • 45-degree cuts (left) of up to 2.36 x 12.99-inch and 45-degree cuts (right) of up to 1.38 x 12.99-inch are possible with the double-bevel design.
  • The laser marker precisely tracks the real-time location, allowing for more accurate and skilled cutting.
  • Ability to freely change the angle for acute cutting from -45 degrees to 0 degrees to 45 degrees.
  • Comes with a clamping system, eliminating the need to support the wood with your hands, resulting in increased protection.
  • Compatible with a range of 12-inch blades for added convenience and versatility.
  • Dust collection bag with a wide capacity makes work more clean and safe.
  • User comfort is enhanced by a soft-grip cutting handle and a base angle shift handle.
Cons:
  • There is no manual or user guide included in the package. Unless you're familiar with this kind of saw, you're not going to have a problem. However, if you are a first-time owner, you may get confused as to how to use and assemble it.
  • Adjusting its laser is such a challenge, it's like trying to adjust a see-saw, with a fulcrum that is risky. 
Final Take:

If you're searching for a budget-friendly top prospect miter saw, TACKLIFE PMS03A Sliding Miter Saw is the best choice. For just $279.97, this heavy-duty sliding miter saw brags a powerful motor that produces 3,800 RPM and a very sharp blade capable of cutting through hardwood, plastic, and soft metals. It has a dual bevel system so you don't need to move your workpiece or step up your cut to make bevel cuts. It has a built-in tungsten carbide-tipped blade that helps you to cut wood and plastic. It's a dust-proof laser-cutter with a clear blade guard. This tool has everything you need to get started as a first-time user and will stand the test of time.

Best Sliding Miter Saws - Buyer's Guide

Motor power

A miter saw's electric motor is rated in amps. Motors with a 12 amp or 15 amp power rating are available, with the latter performing better. Often check the amp of the motor when purchasing a sliding miter saw for your project, as this implies the cutting power of the tool. Find one with a higher amp if you can afford it. A strong motor produces higher RPMs, resulting in cleaner and smoother cuts.

blade size

It's crucial to double-check the blade's size. There are various sliding miter saws available with blade sizes of 12 inches or 10 inches. Bear in mind that a larger blade provides better efficiency because it allows for deeper cuts. When considering the correct sliding miter saw for your project, think about the dimensions of the materials you'll be dealing with. Sliding miter saws with 10′′ and 12′′ blades can make longer cuts than their smaller counterparts.

miter angle

Before purchasing a sliding miter saw, make sure to check the miter angle. A cut's miter angle is the cut's horizontal angle. There is a broad range of miter angles available, ranging from 50 to 60 degrees. When cutting wood, this range is normally different in the left and right directions. As you would imagine, a miter saw with a higher miter angle is recommended.

bevel angle

A miter saw's bevel angle helps to cut at a specific vertical angle. This, like the miter angle, can come in handy when creating joints. The majority of sliding miter saw choices offer a variety of bevel angles. A bevel angle range of 0 degrees to 45 degrees or 0 degrees to 60 degrees is possible. As you could ever anticipate, a wider range leads to a better miter saw because you can use it with greater accuracy.

dust collection

A dust collection system is available on so many saws. This ensures that when you're cutting, the dust collects in a designated area where it will be contained even if you're done. Please note that no dust-collection device would be completely perfect. Saws generate a lot of dust, however, a good system of dust collection can lessen such.

Best Sliding Miter Saws - FAQs

Which is better, non-sliding or a sliding miter saw?

A sliding miter saw. Because of their sliding feature, these highly functional saws provide you with the flexibility that a standard non-sliding compound miter saw literally will not. When cutting, you can shift the blade back and forth, which ultimately means you can extend the length of your cuts.

Is it possible to cut straight with a sliding miter saw?

Yes, a straight cut at a 90-degree angle. Miter cuts are when you make cuts that are angled around the width of a board. Miter saws can also make bevel cuts, which are angled cuts created by cutting through the board's thickness. Circular saws can be used to make both miter and bevel cuts, but this isn't always a good idea.

Is a sliding miter saw essential in woodworking?

Definitely, yes. Since the blade can move in a sliding motion, a sliding miter saw is ideal for dealing with longer pieces of wood. Not only longer pieces of wood but even thicker pieces of lumber are ideal for cutting with a sliding miter saw.

Which sliding miter saw is better, a 10-inch or a 12-inch?

The answer would be depending on the materials you are working on. The 10-inch miter saw spins quicker, while the 12-inch miter saw takes longer to spin due to its heavy blade. The 10-inch miter saw is less expensive because it has a clear-cut option, while the 12-inch miter saw is more expensive because the blades have teeth, which increases the saw's value.

Author

Jimmy Black started his career as a construction and carpenter foreman. After years of hard work, he decided to go on his own. Now, Jimmy is one of the trusted experts at SolidSmack who knows at first glance whether your hammer would do a great job or not. He still involves himself in various construction projects and works for individual clients. Behind formalities, he enjoys being a father to two lovely kids who keep on asking him why they can’t quit school and travel the world like Dora The Explorer.