Cutting tiles are made easy with tile saws. It provides precise cuts, fast and convenient cutting of ceramic, porcelain, stone, or other types of tiles.
At present, tile saws are categorized into three: wet tile saws, handheld or masonry saws, and tile grinders or the angle grinders. The first type is famous among the latest releases of known brands such as Dewalt and Skil. As the name suggests, wet tile saws have a blade that is mounted in a water reservoir. These tools are perfect for large projects that include the major quantity of cutting tiles. Meanwhile, masonry saws are good for curved or odd-shaped cuts. They are more portable than the previous one. And, the handiest among these three is the angle grinders. They are cordless and do not require a tedious setup.
Prior to purchase, it is important to check the motor size of the tile saw. The bigger the motor, the better. Bigger motors can overcome the friction produced by cutting tiles. Aside from this, the blade diameter, the tile saw capacity in handling varied sizes of tiles, the beveling variation, and the special features are important factors in choosing the right tile saw for you.
Among the tile saw models we reviewed, Dewalt D24000S offers the best set of features. It is durable and equipped with stunning details such as the powerful 1.5 HP motor that delivers 4200 RPM. Add to this, the purchase comes with a D24001 saw stand that makes it convenient and ready to use.
Nonetheless, it is still true that there are still a lot of other models worth considering. So, to help you, we enlisted the help of Solidsmack experts to guide us with their insights. To help you choose the right tool for the right job, we tried and tested the quality products of the best brands. Listed below are the most recommended ones. We hope to give you the best advice as we scrutinize each product. Moreover, don’t forget to click on the button below to get the latest Amazon deals.
Best Tile Saws Comparison & Rating
1. DEWALT D24000S Tile Saw
Blade Diameter | 10 inches |
Power | 15 amps |
No Load Speed | 4200 RPM |
Weight | 69.0 pounds |
Apart from the wide range of tile type compatibilities, plunge cutting is also one of the best features of Dewalt D24000S. After outlining the area to be cut, simply release the cutting head, adjust the depth of the cut knob, align and place the tile on the cutting tile, turn the saw on, and you can now cut the centerpiece or a portion of the tile. Whether your purpose is to cut for electrical outlet storage or air conditioner register, this tile saw fits your needs.
It can also rip cut a tile up to 25 inches and 28 inches (with plunge). For diagonal cut, it supports 18 inches x 18 inches tiles. This tile saw has a powerful 1.5 HP motor and 10 inches continuous rim diamond cutting blade that cuts through porcelain, ceramic, granite, marble, and glass tiles. Hence, making this a very versatile tool. Further, D24000S has a maximum depth cut of 3 ⅛ inches for impressive and seamless cuts.
As to its ergonomic design, the D24000S is easy to set up. Upon purchase, it already has its own folding stand. For further stability, it has a stainless steel rail system that is integrated into the tile saw frame. The bottom of the tile saw itself has 6 stainless steel rollers for swift movement of the top board. The additional side and rear water extensions, on the other hand, keep the workplace clean and dry as it directs back the water into the tub.
2. DEWALT DWC860W Handheld Wet/Dry Tile Saw
Blade Diameter | 4⅜ inches |
Power | 10.8 amps |
No Load Speed | 13,000 RPM |
Weight | 6.6 pounds |
This masonry tile saw has an advanced mechanism beyond traditional saw design. It can function as a dry or wet tile saw. The tool has a water line that is attached to a sink faucet or garden hose for continuous water supply. This keeps the blade and material cool just like the heavy tile saws. For powerful control, it has a water valve lever to turn the water on or off when desired. Just a reminder, never use the water valve assembly without a properly functioning pressure regulator. If this happens, this could damage the water tubing due to excessive build-up.
On the other hand, while the DWC860W looks pretty lightweight at 6.6 pounds, it has a very powerful speed of 13,000 RPM that is decent enough for most of your needs. For more convenient use, this tool has a durable rubber overmold grip to aid operators in the handling of the tool. It also has a lock-on button to reduce fatigue during operation and reduce operator error. With this, the user doesn’t have to continuously press the trigger while cutting huge materials. On the other hand, keep in mind that it does not require oiling or lubrication as this may damage the components of the saw.
Lastly, this tool can bevel up to 45 degrees and has a premium 4-3/8" diamond blade that allows the user to cut ceramics and stone materials up to 1 3/8' deep, be it wet or dry.
3. Skil 3550-02 Tile Saw
Blade Diameter | 7 inches |
Power | 7 amps |
No Load Speed | 3600 RPM |
Weight | 24 pounds |
The Skil 3550 boasts its hydrolock water container. The top guard holds the water near the blade efficiently. It reduces the cleaning time of the blade as it contains the water inside and douses the dirt frequently. Upon setting, just properly fill the water reservoir in between the minimum and maximum fill levels. In case you missed it, there is an overflow hole to allow easy adjustments.
4. Makita 4100NHX1 Handheld Dry Cut Masonry Saw
Blade Diameter | 4 ⅜ inches |
Power | 12 amp |
No Load Speed | 13,000 RPM |
Weight | 6.5 pounds |
This Makita model 4100NHX1 offers a flat rear side motor housing that is designed for easy blade change. To do this, use the included socket wrench to loosen the hex bolt clockwise. Afterward, remove the hex bolt, outer flange, and diamond wheel. To install the new wheel, ensure that the arrow on the wheel points in the same direction as the arrow on the blade case. Secure the hex bolt tightly and you’re ready to go.
Furthermore, there is an easy-to-adjust depth gauge for precise cuts. Its maximum cutting capacity is 1 ⅜ inch. Add to this, the tile saw’s high-grade 4 ⅜ inches turbo rim diamond blade matches its powerful 12 amp motor to precisely cut stones, masonry, tile, and concrete materials seamlessly. It is an amazing feature of the device despite having a small 8 ⅝ inches body and weight of 6.5 pounds.
Above all, we love the very fast speed, durable component build, and the ensured safety features of Makita 4100NHX1. Just like the Dewalt DWC860W, it also has a lock-off feature to prevent accidental start-ups.
5. Makita XAG04Z Cordless Cut-Off/Angle Grinder
Blade Diameter | 5 inches |
Power | 18 V Lithium-Ion |
No Load Speed | 8,500 RPM |
Weight | 5.6 pounds |
Enjoy corded performance with this cordless angle grinder. The Makita XAG04Z uses the 18V Lithium-Ion to power up and run. These types of batteries are known for fast charging time. Hence, this will ensure more working time and less charging time. Another amazing feature of this angle grinder tile saw is that it automatically adjusts the speed and the torque operation. Whenever additional speed is demanded by the load, the tool detects and adjusts its speed for better sawing performance. Combining with the high 8,500 RPM speed, the brushless motor effectively matches the auto-adjustment feature of this tool.
This tile saw is full of technological advances. Apart from those features, it is also equipped with Star Protection Computer Controls. Herein, the data can be transferred and monitored real time in order to prevent overloading, over-discharging and overheating. A LED gauge is added to indicate the battery life. The charger,on the other hand, although separately purchased, has a built-in-fan to cool down the battery for efficient and long lasting use. The AFT (active feedback-sensing technology) is also incorporated with the saw. This feature turns off the motor if the rotation of the wheel is suddenly forced to stop.
As to the tile saw build, it is compact and easy to transport since it is only 14 ¼ inches long. It has a rubberized soft grip that provides excellent comfort to the operator. There is also a wire mesh that prevents the debris from the tiles from entering the motor.
Best Tile Saws - Buyer's Guide
A diamond tip blade is the type of blade that suits a wide range of applications. For instance, grinding, cutting, and sanding tiles, concrete, pipe, and many more. Ceramics, porcelains, glass, and other types are also compatible with tile saws with diamond blades. Furthermore, these types of blades can handle the pressure and water mechanism of the latest tile saws.
Conversely, concrete saws are not meant to be used with water. They have segmented rims that are best suited for dry tile saw activities. Herein, the airflow through the segment acts as the cooling agent.
Rotations per minute (abbreviated as RPM) is the unit that describes how many times an object completes a cycle in a minute. In this case, it is the rotation speed of the tile saw blade that is being measured. It is important to consider its maximum RPM rating since it guides the tool in handling the stress needed in doing its job. Furthermore, higher RPM means more powerful performance, though it also results in a higher power consumption. If you are looking for tile saws that can offer as high as 13,000 RPM, Dewalt DWC860W and Makita 4100NHX1 have the highest RPM rating we can offer.
Cut quality and accuracy define the final impression of your tiles. To achieve this, tile saws are equipped with a miter guide, adjustable deep gauge, and/or a rip fence for easy measurement and maneuver. Through these additional accessories, operators are guided metrically. Hence, clean, even, and accurate cuts can be achieved at ease. However, not all tile saw units offer them so it is best to check the features of the unit before purchase.
Each of the reviews provided above has its own unique and special features. For your reference, we highlighted every item. Eventually, the most common and latest innovation among tile saws is the water feed system. To relieve the cleaning time of operators, the water system does the work easily and in real-time.
Best Tile Saws - FAQs
A tile saw is a more advanced way of separating or plunging tiles. Technically, tile saw blades are run by a motor while the tile cutter wheels are manually pressed and push forward until the tiles are cut. Add to this, tile saws are more versatile than the tile cutter since it is more capable of accurate straight, bevel, and shaped cutting.
Yes, you can. That is through the manual tile cutters. However, quality cuts require a lot of skills that are mastered and achieved best by professionals. But with the help of tile saws, straight or curve cuts, grinding, shaping, and sanding tiles and other types of materials can be established easily.
Apart from having a durable component build of the tile saw, it is also important to keep the tool clean after use. Make sure that there is no cavity build up on the blades and the water tray (if there is any) is cleansed and dried properly. The cable wires must also be kept away from the unnecessary dangers. Lastly, make sure to follow the safety measures listed on the manuals of every product. This will surely help a lot in preserving the value and shelf life of your tile saw.
Any saw can be dangerous if it is not properly used, specifically tile saws. However, with proper safety gears, you are ensured of safety. Plus, each tool is manufactured with safety features to prevent accidents from happening. For instance, the Makita XAG04Z has active feedback-sensing technology (AFT) that turns off the motor if the rotation of the wheel is suddenly forced to stop. Likewise, the Dewalt DWC860W and the Makita 4100NHX1 have a lock-off feature to prevent accidental starts.
