What is the Best Table Saw Fence? Convenient Tools This 2024

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As a woodworking expert in the field, I understand the frustration that comes with veering off course during a cut. Thankfully, a reliable table saw fence allows impeccable cuts while prioritizing safety at work. 

However, it’s essential to note that not all table saw fences are up to the task, and some models tend to lose their alignment during use, potentially leading to unfortunate mishaps. Here, I have carefully curated a selection of the best table saw fences available today so you don’t have to encounter this issue!

Best Overall
Vega U26 Table Saw Fence
Best for Beginners
Carter Magfence II Universal Magnetic Fence
Vega U26 Table Saw Fence
Carter Magfence II Universal Magnetic Fence
This is an easy-to-use, easy-to-install option that works for most table saws. This model makes it a breeze to make precision cuts.
This model features powerful magnets for stability or precision. It can secure the placement and adjustments that are perfect for a beginner woodworker.
Best Overall
Vega U26 Table Saw Fence
Vega U26 Table Saw Fence
This is an easy-to-use, easy-to-install option that works for most table saws. This model makes it a breeze to make precision cuts.
Best for Beginners
Carter Magfence II Universal Magnetic Fence
Carter Magfence II Universal Magnetic Fence
This model features powerful magnets for stability or precision. It can secure the placement and adjustments that are perfect for a beginner woodworker.

Reviews of the Best Table Saw Fences

1. Vega U26 Table Saw Fence

My choice for the best saw fence is the Vega U26. It has a 36-inch fence bar that moves 26 inches right and eight inches left. It’s a great size for both professional woodworkers and hobbyists. However, it can’t be used for heavy-duty projects.

This particular model carries some weight – a little over 30 pounds. But there’s a good reason for that; it’s built like a tank with solid steel construction. The best part is, you won’t need to break out the drill to set it up. 

It’s designed to be compatible with various types of table saws, thanks to its clever mounting system. Plus, the presence of both rear and front railings makes the installation process a breeze. And to help you get a more precise cut, this table saw fence is fully adjustable.

What I Like

What I Don’t Like

2. Delta 36-T30T3 30-Inch Fence System

The Delta 36-T30T3 is another top-notch power tool. The T3 fence system makes cutting rips easier with a three-point locking system with twin hairline pointers to provide accuracy within 1/64 of an inch.

The secure clamping points at the front tube and hook mechanism over the rear rails offer stability for your projects and allows users to add extra attachments. The body glides freely, and adjustments are possible through a pair of screws.

While the T3 fence system is made of durable steel, it can only be installed on a 27-inch table saw. During installation, users will probably have to drill holes for proper mounting.

What I Like

What I Don’t Like

3. Carter Magfence II Universal Magnetic Fence

Here is a table saw fence more suited to beginners.

While other models use locking systems, clamps, and other features to hold their boards in place, the Carter Magfence II Universal Magnetic Fence uses a pair of powerful magnets. These magnets work with almost any metal surface, which is excellent for newbies. It serves to avoid the hassle of drilling holes for installation.

All you have to do is place this fence on the table, and the magnets will ensure it stays in place. The Carter Magfence measures 16 inches in length and 3-1/2 inches in height, plus several T-slots.

What I Like

What I Don’t Like

4. Delta Power Tools 78-919BT2 Biesemeyer Table Saw Fence

The Delta Power Tools 78-919BT2 is a table saw fence made for older saws. If you inherited your old saw blade, this model is the best aftermarket table saw fence for you. The Delta Power Tools 78-919BT2 fence easily fits the Delta models 36-L352, 36-L552, and 36-L552LVC Type 2 Unisaws.

I really appreciate the simple yet accurate design of the Delta 78-919BT2. Much like the Delta 36-T30T3, the locking system it offers is quite handy. It makes adjusting the machine a breeze, allowing me to make precise cuts on my workpiece.

The main feature of this product is it is easy to use. Most people will get the hang of it without a manual.

What I Like

What I Don’t Like

5. Wixey WR700 1500mm/60" Digital Saw Fence Readout

I’ve come across a rather unique saw fence here. The Wixey saw fence stands out, primarily due to its impressive length, stretching to a whopping 60 inches. 

What’s more, it boasts a universal mounting bracket that is exceptionally versatile, allowing it to be easily installed on most rails. And let’s not forget that it’s constructed from robust aluminum, adding to its overall durability.

Its best feature is its digital readout. The Wixey WR700 uses its Precise Fraction Technology to give you accurate measurements (up to 0.002 inches per foot) of any fence. And when you’re done measuring, you can check on the measurements later. This is because it also maintains that calibration, though the magnetic attachments let you remove the fence.

What I Like

What I Don’t Like

6. Shop Fox W1720 Aluma Classic Fence

I have picked the Shop Fox W1720 Aluma Classic fence over the Shop Fox W1716 Aluma Classic Fence. As a background, the W1720 and the Shop Fox W1716 Aluma Classic share many features, but the former has a larger rip capacity.

The W1720 is a heavy-duty unit made from steel and aluminum. The rail system must be supported by leg stands when fully used. But, keep in mind that these rails are quite thin.

The measuring scale readings are seen through the magnified cursor. With your adjustments in place, the single-handed lock system and rail system hold the rip in place for easy and precise rip cuts.

What I Like

What I Don’t Like

7. Shop Fox W1410 Table Saw Fence with Standard Rails

The Shop Fox W1410 fence is a table saw fence that’s suited to smaller projects. I’ve been quite impressed with this fence, particularly its standard rails, which come with some standout features. The inclusion of ball-bearing guides ensures a smooth and effortless sliding motion during use. 

What I find especially convenient about the Shop Fox W1410 Fence are the fine-positioning knobs on both sides of the fence. They make quick adjustments a breeze, regardless whether your wood is mounted on the left or right side and irrespective of your dominant hand. This level of control certainly enhances the precision of your cuts.

The locks at each end ensure that rips are held securely. The rip fence capacity is 25 inches. However, the Shop Fox W1410 fence was made to fit table saws of 27 inches. You will have to drill new holes during installation.

What I Like

What I Don’t Like

8. Dewalt DW745 Table Saw Replacement Fence Assembly

The Dewalt DW745 is one of the best replacement table saw fences if you own a 10-inch Dewalt table saw. This replacement saw fence is made out of aluminum, so it only weighs two pounds. It is easily installed into your old Dewalt table for a low price until you can find the best table saw fence for your needs.

This product has a rip capacity of 20 inches. The Dewalt DW745 gets precise cuts and can withstand severe wear and tear. It’s a good option for those with a smaller workroom or beginners who aren’t working with large rips yet.

See Also: Dewalt DWE7485WS

What I Like

What I Don’t Like

9. Vega Pro 50 Table Saw Fence System

Here’s a big choice for expert woodworkers who work on large rips. The Vega Pro 50 has a 50-inch rip capacity and a 42-inch fence bar. More precisely, it has a rip capacity of 50 inches to the right and 10 inches to the left. There are also guide rails supported by brackets for stability.

This Vega product was cleverly designed to seamlessly fit into the table hole patterns of popular brands like Delta Unisaw, Contractor Saws, Powermatic 66, and Sears 10-inch saws. 

If you happen to use one of these saws, you’ll be pleased to know that installation can be a breeze, taking as little as 15 minutes. What’s even better is the option to make micro-adjustments using the auxiliary table support, which significantly enhances precision in your work.

What I Like

What I Don’t Like

10. DELTA BC30T2 30-Inch T-Square Fence and Rail System

The last Delta on this list is known for its sturdiness and adaptability. This DELTA BC30T2 power equipment is made of steel and 9-ply birch plywood sides that boost its durability.

This saw fence moves 30 inches right and 12 inches left, making it ideal for large and small projects. It has a which action handle with magnets and a clamp to secure the front tube and make it parallel to the blade.

This fence table saw can be used with most saws, making it the best replacement table saw fence. If it gets stuck, a little shimmying and oiling should make the fence with standard rails smooth.

What I Like

What I Don’t Like

11. Shop Fox W2005 Classic Fence with Standard Rails

The Shop Fox W2005 Classic Fence with standard rails is an upgrade from Shop Fox, and it comes with new features. The single-locking cam action lever allows users to lock rips with one hand. This product enables accurate cuts that can be used for intricate designs because of its lever and torsion box design.

The classic fence with standard rails on the Shop Fox W2005 offers a maximum rip capacity of 25 inches to the right, making it suitable for small to medium-scale projects. Another notable aspect is its universality, as it can be mounted on most tables.

However, I must point out three key factors that contributed to the lower ranking of the Shop Fox W2005 in my assessment: its relatively high price point, a somewhat underperforming saw blade, and less-than-ideal packaging.

What I Like

What I Don’t Like

12. Vega PRO 40 System Table Saw Fence System

This Vega PRO 40 System table saw was designed to be compatible with the hole patterns of most well-known table saws. It also comes with a measuring scale attached to the fence and the micro-adjustment feature. The combination of these two enables users to make extremely accurate cuts.

Those clean cuts are also helped by the fence locking feature in the Vega Pro 40 and the bracket adjustments, which allow the jacking plated to be adjusted to the user’s needs.

It does not hurt that the Vega Pro 40 upgrades precision at a reasonable price. Installation can also be done in under 15 minutes.

What I Like

What I Don’t Like

Table Saw Fences Buyer's Guide

Here are some of the key points to look out for when choosing your best fence.

Dimensions and Weight

It is important to look at the dimensions and weight of a table saw fence system. You would want a saw fence to be installed on your table comfortably. You’d also want a big enough fence to support your projects but small enough to fit in your workroom if space is an issue.

One of the most accepted lengths is a 36-inch fence, but you can do more or less depending on the scope of your regular projects.

You will also need to check out the measurements of both sides of the blade. Many fences give plenty of space on the right side and not so much on the left. If you’re left-handed [1], this could become an issue.

The right weight is also essential when considering the best aftermarket table saw fence for you. Most table saws can take tens of pounds of weight, but that doesn’t mean they should. A table saw fence that’s too heavy can put a lot of unnecessary strain on your table and even warp the surface.

However, a fence that is too light can break with just a bit of pressure. It may also be unable to clamp heavier boards and could cause injury if something snaps.

The ideal weight range for fences is between 30 to 50 pounds. This way, you won’t cause damage to your table saw or delicate accessories like a miter gauge, and you’ll have a solid fence to keep your boards in place.

Compatibility

When you’re buying a package that includes both a table saw and a fence, they’re usually designed to work seamlessly together. 

But if you’re like me and already own a functional table saw but want to upgrade with a new fence for added convenience, compatibility with your existing saw is crucial. Take the time to research and pick a table saw fence that’s compatible with your specific saw model.

To ensure that you buy the right fence for your table saw, you will need to take measurements. You should measure the length of your table and check the model and hole pattern.

Rip Size

To decide what your requirements for rip capacity are, you’ll need to consider your work and the kind of logs that you will split. Do you plan on taking on heavier projects in the future? If so, it might just be best to buy a fence with a large rip size to make sure that you won’t need to spend another two to four hundred bucks on a new table saw fence within a couple of years.

If you know you’ll be handling huge boards in the future, you may want to choose a fence with extended rails.

Ease of Use

The ideal fence should be easy and quick to set up. The controls should also be easily accessed such as a single-handed locking cam or lever.

Keep an eye out for these and front-locking fences. They allow you to manipulate the controls with only one hand.

Ease of Setup

The ease or difficulty of a product’s installation depends on the following factors:

If you’re buying a set, then there should be no problem. You’ll probably have your table saw and fence set up in half an hour at most.

If the table saw and table saw fence was made by the same brand, installing it will also be a breeze even if the saw fence was bought aftermarket.

Types of Table Saw Fences

There are many types of table saw fences. These four are the most commonly used:

The T-Square Fence

This type of fence has a three-point locking system to maintain stability and position even when holding heavy boards.

The Sliding Fence

These fences slide to and fro and allow your miter gauge to make accurate cuts on the right of the blade. They can also lay flat parallel to the blade to form a lower profile, which is especially useful when cutting thin boards. Sliding fences are usually found on sliding table saws.

Micro-adjusters

These fences give you the ability to adjust your fence when you turn a knob. This saves you the stress of manually adjusting your fence.

Digital Readouts​

Digital readout fences are new aftermarket tools. They give you accurate measurements.

Price

A good table saw fence would set you back around $100 to $400. However, beginner fences are cheaper. Only replacement table saw fences dip below $100, and are meant to be short-term stand-ins.

(If you are looking for a table saw that can complement these fences, then, you can check my review of Delta 36 725 table saw here

Advantages of a Table Saw Fence

Here are some advantages that come with using a table saw fence:

FAQ

What is the best table saw fence system?

The best table saw fence system is the Vega U26 table saw fence. This fence can handle an extensive range of jobs, is compatible with several saws, and has features like front and rear railings to enhance accuracy.

My Top Pick for a Table Saw Fence:
Vega U26 Table Saw Fence

The Vega U26 Table Saw Fence is the best table fence saw available in the market today. Not only is this table saw fence system compatible with several table saws, but it also possesses fine-adjustable knobs to make getting precise rip cuts a lot easier.

There are front and rear railings for fence clamping. This ensures that the board is highly stable, even after making multiple cuts. The rip capacity is also a generous 26 inches to the left side and eight to the right of the blade, which is enough space to handle both professional and hobby projects.

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Robert Johnson is a passionate furniture maker & carpenter, sought after for his knowledge on the craft.
You’ve probably seen his down-to-earth wisdom in USA Today, Bobvila, Family Handyman, and The Spruce, where he has shared commentary and guidance on various woodworking topics.

Robert is the brain behind Sawinery, where he aims to share tips, tricks, and a passion for all things carpentry.

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