There are so many things to consider when looking at tile cutting saws such as the type of blades, size, and power. Without proper knowledge on how to pick the right one, your tile saw won’t be precise nor effective with its cuts.
I’ve personally tested the top tile saw models in the market to ensure that they can handle plunge cuts, straight cuts, and more with pinpoint accuracy.
Reviews of the Top Tile Saws in the Market
1. DeWalt D36000S
The D36000S is a DeWalt wet tile saw that comes with a stand for more stability. It also features multiple trays you can adapt to your workspace by using a minimal setup or a full-tray setup. To help users get an even more accurate cut, the DeWalt tile saw has a cutline indicator to minimize errors with the help of stainless steel rollers as well.
As for the cutting capacity, it is really what sold me on the DeWalt D36000S. You can get a 37-inch rip cut without a plunge and an 18-inch cutting clearance. The 15-amp motor can power the 10-inch wet tile saw through heavy-duty materials and tasks.
What I Like
- The cutline indicator enhances precision during cutting tasks.
- Its wet saw capability ensures smoother cuts with less dust.
- The rigid frame offers enhanced stability and durability.
- Powered by a robust 15-amp motor, it handles tasks efficiently.
- The tray system facilitates easy water management and cleanup.
- The provided porcelain blade is adept at delivering clean cuts.
- Useful extensions expand the workspace for larger tiles.
- The angle and rip guide aid in achieving consistent and accurate cuts.
- The included submersible pump efficiently circulates water, reducing overheating.
What I Don't Like
- Its weight can be cumbersome, making portability a challenge.
- The absence of a laser guide means relying more on manual measurements and alignments.
2. SKIL 3540-02
Good things can come in affordable packages, and the SKIL 3540-02 tile saw is a great example of that. The 3540-02 is a 7-inch wet tile saw that has a durable and stainless steel top that can cut large tiles 12×12 inches. There are two features onboard that make this tile cutter an even more accurate unit: the miter gauge and adjustable rip fence.
In my professional assessment, the tile saw comes equipped with a blade cooling reservoir, a notable feature that diligently keeps the blade cool, subsequently helping to minimize the accumulation of dust and debris during operations. The blade of the SKIL tile saw, driven by a competent 4.2 amp motor, operates at a substantial no-load speed of 3600 RPM.
What I Like
- The stainless steel top offers lasting durability.
- Its 7-inch wet tile saw ensures precise and clean cuts.
- The adjustable rip fence and miter gauge add to its versatility.
- The ability to make up 45-degree bevel cuts is quite commendable.
- A blade cooling reservoir helps maintain blade performance.
- Its small and compact design makes it easily portable.
- The tool consistently delivers accurate cuts.
- With a no-load speed of 3600 RPM, it performs effectively.
- Driven by a 4.2-amp motor, it's both reliable and efficient.
- The budget-friendly price is a great advantage.
What I Don't Like
- Handling larger projects can be time-consuming.
- Adjusting the fence might pose some challenges at times.
3. Ryobi 4 in. Tile Saw
There are handheld saws on the market that I recommend for simple, small and quick jobs. The Ryobi 4-inch tile saw is the best choice for portability. Weighing just under 10 pounds, the small saw can still cut tile without tiring out your arm. The small saw can handle both dry or wet tile with a 12-amp motor powering the blade.
You may wonder about the accuracy of long and continuous cuts, but the compact handheld tile saw has a lock-on trigger, which helps you exert less effort when you’re trying to hold the saw still.
What I Like
- The lock-on trigger enhances operational ease.
- Being a handheld tile saw, it offers flexibility during tasks.
- It's notably lighter than many tabletop tile saws I've encountered.
- It's versatile, suitable for both dry and wet tile.
- With a 12-amp motor, it has a commendable power output.
- Its compact nature is a definite advantage in various scenarios.
- The price point is quite reasonable, offering good value.
What I Don't Like
- It might not be the best fit for more substantial, professional jobs.
- It doesn't seem as heavy-duty compared to some other models I've used.
4. Delta 96-107
If you’re looking for a professional-grade tile saw for demanding jobs, then the Delta 96-107 will not disappoint. When I examined this tile saw, its efficiency captivated me, especially when compared to other saws in the market. It offers flexibility, coming in either a 7 or 10-inch option to cater to various needs.
In the 7-inch model, there is a robust 13-amp motor, while the 10-inch one is powered by a 15-amp motor. Notably, the 7-inch saw boasts a diamond cutting wheel, making it capable of handling stone up to 2-⅜ inches thick. This Delta tile saw possesses one of the largest rip capacities in its category, reaching a remarkable 24 inches.
What I Like
- The rail system ensures impeccable straight-line cuts.
- Its large rip capacity stands out in its class.
- The diamond cutting wheel is a touch of excellence.
- The motor packs a punch, delivering consistent power.
- It's available in two sizes, catering to varied needs.
- The heavy-duty rip fence ensures stability during cuts.
- The expansive steel frame adds to its robustness.
- The inclusion of a diamond blade is a significant advantage.
What I Don't Like
- The absence of a stand is a slight drawback.
- Its weight can be a bit cumbersome, especially during transport.
5. DeWalt D24000S
For professionals like me, the Dewalt D24000S wet tile saw is a must-have. It’s easy to manage and maintain even for one person and cuts tiles incredibly and efficiently. The tile saw frame and the rail system are combined together for more precise cuts.
The stand it comes with makes it easy to transport this tile saw and it folds down easily to a more compact size for storage. The wet saw sees dual water nozzles that you can adjust to minimize sprays. The water attachments can be put directly on the saw to contain runoff, which greatly decreases the mess.
What I Like
- The design facilitates a hassle-free setup and use by a single individual.
- Its portability is commendable, allowing for easy movement.
- The adjustable water nozzles add a layer of precision.
- The 1.5HP offers a reliable performance for its class.
- It includes useful extensions and water trays, enhancing its functionality.
- The cutline indicator aids in achieving accurate cuts.
- The integrated rail system ensures a seamless cutting process.
- Its aluminum framing not only provides durability but also a sleek finish.
What I Don't Like
- Despite its many advantages, it can feel a bit hefty.
- The lack of a laser guide is something I missed during precision tasks.
6. RIKON 7in. Wet Tile Saw
The Rikon 7-inch wet tile saw is quite a small and compact tabletop unit that can manage what larger models can do. It has everything onboard to create straight, angled, and bevel cuts. The 1HP [1], 6.5-amp motor powers the saw blade at 3450 RPM, to cut through man-made and stone tiles.
From my hands-on experience with the Rikon wet tile saw, I’ve found that cleanup is a breeze. The water reservoir is thoughtfully designed with a drain plug, making it straightforward to empty. Plus, the inclusion of carrying handles enhances its portability, and the onboard storage is a nifty feature I genuinely appreciate.
What I Like
- Its ability to make a diverse range of cuts is impressive.
- The onboard storage keeps essential tools within arm's reach.
- The safety paddle switch is a commendable feature for added security.
- The drain plug in the water reservoir streamlines the cleanup process.
- Powered by a 6.5-amp motor, it strikes a good balance between efficiency and power.
- The adjustable bevel is versatile for varied cutting angles.
- Its large cut capacity can handle sizable tiles with ease.
- The 2-year manufacturer warranty speaks volumes about its quality.
- The inclusion of a diamond blade further bolsters its cutting prowess.
What I Don't Like
- It might not be the top choice for intense professional contractor tasks.
- The fact that batteries aren't included can be a tad inconvenient.
7. Grizzly Industrial T28360
The Grizzly Industrial T28360 is an overhead wet saw that is powered by a very quiet 1HP motor and dual sliding rails. The table is adjustable, giving users much more room to work with and there is a material back-stop clamping plate to keep things secure.
The unit can create bevel cuts up to 45 degrees and cut tiles up to 1-¼-inch thick and 18 inches wide. There is no stand at the moment for this particular wet saw, but it only weighs around 45 pounds, which is lighter than most tile saw models of its size.
What I Like
- Its ability to handle larger tiles is truly commendable.
- Given its size, it's surprisingly not too heavy.
- The 45-degree bevel offers versatility in cutting angles.
- The 1HP induction motor delivers consistent power.
- Dual sliding rails ensure smooth operation.
- I'm quite fond of its battery-powered design for added mobility.
- With a speed of 3450 RPM, it operates efficiently.
- The overhead saw design enhances its functionality and precision.
What I Don't Like
- The lack of an available stand for purchase is a bit of a letdown.
- I've noticed the slide bearing can be a tad on the stiff side.
8. MK Diamond 169612
The price is a bit up there, but the MK Diamond 169612 is the best tile saw engineered for multiple purposes. Other than tile, you can also get through marble and porcelain as well. The wet tile saw distributes water to both sides of the blade, which keeps it efficient and cool.
One of the best features of the 169612 is the powerful thermal-protected motor. The motor is fan-cooled and produces high torque, making it perfect for DIY or contractor jobs. What makes this unit particularly versatile is the adjustable cutting height that can accommodate larger or smaller tiles.
What I Like
- The tool's multipurpose cutting ability stands out, providing flexibility.
- It manages both small and bigger tiles quite efficiently.
- Being a wet tile saw, it ensures precise and clean cuts.
- Its multi-position motor enhances adaptability during various tasks.
- Equipped with a powerful high-torque motor, its performance is robust.
- The adjustable cutting head is a feature that enhances its versatility.
- A fan-cooled motor is a thoughtful addition, prolonging the tool’s life.
- The cast aluminum guards contribute to its durability and safety.
What I Don't Like
- I noticed it might require some adjustments to optimize performance.
- The factory blade included may not meet all cutting standards and might need replacement.
Tile Saws Buyer’s Guide
Picking out the best tile saw is more than just looking at the power, size, and durability. It’s also about the blade, and the capacity it can handle. Below are the most important features to look for to make sure your tile saw is up to the task.
Size and Portability
Speaking from an expert’s viewpoint, the size of the tile saw significantly influences its mobility, convenience, and cut capacity. Deciding whether you need a portable model is essential. Portable tile saws vary; they can be handheld or lightweight, with some models even coming with stands, while others are designed to be placed on tabletops.
There isn’t necessarily a “best size” for a tile saw. It truly comes down to finding a size that aligns seamlessly with your needs. I often find myself working on projects at various locations, necessitating a preference for more mobile options, like units equipped with stands, to suit the ever-changing worksites. If your circumstances resonate with this, a similar type of tile saw might be your ideal choice.
If you’re a homeowner looking to purchase a saw for a home reno, then you probably won’t need a large heavy-duty 10-inch tile saw. If this is the case, I suggest a simple handheld tile saw or a benchtop model.
Tile Saw Type
Regarding tile saws, the market offers a range of options, with wet saws being the most commonly used. However, it’s important not to choose the most popular choice. Take the time to understand how each type of tile saw works to find the one that best suits your needs.
Wet Tile Saw
The best wet tile saw is meant for precision and speed. Most of these tile saws are equipped with diamond blades and they resemble table saws in the sense that they both have circular blades but a wet tile saw will feature a water reservoir, which is not present on a table saw. You can also make use of miter saws to cut tiles when the miter saws are fitted with diamond blades.
The water in the reservoir aims to lubricate and cool down the blade while it’s in action, which will help to decrease dust and debris accumulation. Many of the best tile saws I chose fall under this category. Many options on the market also come with a sliding table that makes more accurate and clean cuts.
You may also have noticed that wet saws can cut bevels and angles as well as straight lines. It just takes some adjustments on the cutting head and deck to achieve. Bigger beds and rip fences on these saws will help accommodate larger tiles, which is why I recommend wet saws for big projects.
Handheld Tile Saw
Next are the compact handheld models that make great portable tools. This type is understandably smaller than the others and can be as small as 4 inches. Due to the size, handheld tile cutting saws are not the best for large projects. However, they are the most ideal tile saws for quick and intricate cuts.
You will be surprised to know that the best tile size for handheld units is actually the larger ones. You may notice that the handheld tile saws look like circular saws, which is why they work in a similar way. There are also dry and wet versions and ones that can do both when cutting tiles.
Like the most common wet models, the handheld tile saws also come with diamond blades. Since diamonds are currently the hardest material on earth, the blade life and blade quality are excellent.
Handheld models excel when dealing with smaller cutting surfaces that demand intricate cuts and sharp angles. However, controlling the unit manually can pose a challenge in achieving flawless and precise cuts. If you’re just in need of a quick cut or two, based on my experience in construction, I’d recommend a handheld tile saw.
Grinding Wheel
A grinding wheel is not so much a tile saw in itself, but it’s a grinder that is outfitted with a diamond cutting wheel. Grinders are very powerful, which makes it a great choice for a heavy-duty tile project, but they aren’t the best for balance. A grinder can kick up a ton of dust and debris, which can make it a headache to work with if you don’t have a reliable shop vac.
Would I recommend tile cutting with a grinding wheel? Yes, but only if you already own one, because it would make more sense to invest in a dedicated tile saw than to convert your grinder, or if you need to cut through tough materials such as granite.
Tile Cutter
Moving on to tile cutters, from my standpoint, a manual tile cutter reminds me of a paper cutter. You simply size the tile to your desired measurements, both in length and width. While its usage is straightforward, I’ve observed that they don’t offer the same versatility as many tile saws available in the market.
For starters, these cutters can only cut straight, and they do not require a power source. What I really like about these cutters is the minimal mess they create. You may get some dust, but nothing a quick wipe with a wet rag can’t take care of. If you’re okay with not being able to make curved cuts and have perfectly smooth edges, the tile cutter is an excellent and affordable type that is available at your local hardware store.
Motor Power
Definitely go with a tile saw that has significant power – or at least enough to cut through what you need. You need enough power and a decent blade to get through ceramic tile and other materials that rank on the MOH Hardness Scale and even softer materials. I suggest 10 to 15 amps depending on your project.
A higher motor power has the ability to spin the blade faster and deliver a higher RPM, which is why a blade guard, splash guard, will contain the mess and keep your fingers safe.
Cutting Capacity and Accuracy
Tiles are used to enhance the aesthetics of a particular space, so you can imagine the negative impact an unevenly cut tile will do. With accuracy being a key factor in appearance, you want your cutting tile saw to perform as expected. There are certain things portable and stationary tile saws can have that will aid in your quest for precision.
For starters, a saw may have a fence to keep the material in place or even a guide that creates a cutline for your blade to follow. Bevel adjustments make cutting tile corners an easier job. The type of tile saw you pick will also impact the features it provides. A sliding table will give you more versatile cuts on the job.
The blade plays a pivotal role in determining the cut capacity and accuracy of your saw. It’s essential to have a blade with sharp edges; using dull or subpar blades can wreak havoc on your tiles. While many tile saws come with diamond-embedded blades, which are often a good choice, I’d advise not hesitating to upgrade if you see the need. I can’t stress enough how a poor-quality blade can potentially jeopardize your entire project.
Feeding Mechanism
What is the water feed method on the saw? The purpose of having water fed to your blade while you cut is to decrease the mess. There are a lot of models that have the blade continuously dip into a water containment system below the cutting surface, while others rely on a water pump that delivers the water directly to the blade.
Water pumps are better because they are more efficient. However, I’d like to remind readers that it will cost extra to get this type of feeding mechanism, but it is well worth the extra cost. I understand the hesitancy to use a cutting tile saw with water since water and electricity traditionally do not mix.
However, I say there is nothing to worry about as the motors are all sealed and protected. It’s also important to go for high-quality models for better motor integrity and components, preferably ones with a roll cage for the saw’s protection.
FAQ
Which is better, a tile saw or a cutting saw?
A tile saw is better if you want motor-powered blades with the ability to create diverse cuts. A cutting saw is excellent if you only need simple straight cuts and don’t require a powered blade. They are also more affordable but are not the best for industrial jobs or complex cuts.
My Top Pick For a Tile Saw:
DeWalt D36000S
The best tile saw in the market today is the Dewalt D36000S wet saw with a stand. The sand acts as a support and can fold down to a smaller footprint for easy storage. The saw has an impressive cut capacity and works on a variety of materials. There is also a cutline indicator that will make your straight cuts accurate, even for continuous and repeating jobs.
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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