Looking to getting a miter saw for my DIY projects, you could not just pick any from your shelf. But here’s something I learned: miter saws come in two main types!
I’ve delved into the sliding vs. non-sliding miter saw debate to figure out which one cuts wood better. Let me share what I found.
What is a Non-Sliding Miter Saw?
True to its name, non-sliding miter saws are designed without sliding rails. As a result, you cannot expect a non-sliding model to move its saw blade forward and backward. However, this power tool is still capable of achieving miter cuts at various angles.
Non-sliding miter saws have a simple and light design, so you wouldn’t have much problem using them even if you’re a beginner.
Functions
Besides straight cuts, non-sliding saws are capable of producing angled cuts. However, it’s crucial to note that power tools like these are limited to your cut’s width.
It doesn’t have a sliding mechanism, so you’ll need to do partial cuts and flipping when dealing with wide boards.
Cuts
Despite the absence of the sliding feature, our resident woodworkers find non-sliding miter saws reliable for making extreme angles. Because of their construction, most non-sliding models can do cross, miter, compound, and bevel cuts.
Since they’re easy to assemble, users can make angle cuts faster and more efficiently with this tool.
Blades
If your non-sliding miter saw has a small structure, you can’t expect it to have a bigger blade diameter. Typically, the saw blade size also determines the exact cuts you can do to a material.
For example, if your non-sliding saw has a 12-inch blade, the precise cuts it can make range up to 8 inches.
Safety Precautions
It’s not a dangerous power tool to have on your job site, but our resident woodworkers still recommend being aware of the blade while using it.
Even if it’s your first time cutting wood with this miter saw, your safety isn’t compromised, thanks to its automatic shut-off feature and working lights that provide better visibility.
Cost
Most miter saws under this category are affordable miter saws. However, it’s important to note that cutting tools with extra features can cost higher than other miter saws.
Pros and Cons
What I Like
- It is more affordable than most sliding miter saws.
- This miter saw is a suitable tool for angle cuts.
- It has a lighter design.
What I Don't Like
- Not suitable for cutting larger boards
- Non-sliding miter saws tend to wear faster
What is a Sliding Miter Saw?
If you need to cut wider boards, sliding models are the standard miter saws professional woodworkers often use. Unlike its alternative, you can move the sliding miter saw upward and downward.
A sliding miter saw is also heavier in construction, so you’ll need to make enough space in your workstation and storage to accommodate this tool.
Functions
A sliding miter saw is capable of everything a non-sliding model can do. It’s easier to work with because it has a sliding function, especially if you’re working with large boards. These miter saws can handle longer pieces of wood thanks to their rails.
Cuts
From cross cut to bevel cut, it can achieve regular angle cuts just like the non-sliding miter saw models. However, as you use a sliding miter saw, you’ll find that it has cutting limitations on extreme angles.
Blades
Given that a sliding miter saw has bigger construction, it’s no surprise that this tool is equipped with wider blades. Because of this, it can cut boards as wide as 16 inches.
Safety Precautions
As you know, a sliding miter saw has more moving parts than its alternative. Due to this, its blade has a higher chance of injury-infliction than a non-sliding miter saw.
Wearing safety glasses and gloves is a great way to prevent undesirable accidents. On top of that, a sliding miter saw also has safety features like blade guards and fences.
Cost
Although both cutting tools are capable of almost the same cuts, buying a sliding miter saw can cost you more. Why? Because it carries a blade that can cut down further into the wood. Most sliding saw options are sold for around $450 or higher.
Pros and Cons
What i Like
- It can cut longer pieces of wood
- It can produce precise and clean cuts.
- It has a more extensive reach than a non-sliding saw.
What I Don't Like
- It is more expensive than a regular miter saw.
- It is harder to adjust than a non-sliding miter saw.
Why You Need a Miter Saw + Variety of Options
If you want utmost cutting accuracy, getting a miter saw for your project is the key. Unlike a chop saw and circular saw, these tools produce angular and straight cuts at a faster rate.
Besides sliding and non-sliding miter saw options, you’ll need to consider if you’re buying standard, compound, single, or dual bevel miter saws.
Which is the Right Miter Saw For You?
Wood Size
You’ll need to do a lot of flipping when dealing with 6 to 12-inch boards, so using a non-sliding miter saw is still your best option. If your project doesn’t involve frequent cuts on wider wood strips, there’s very little need to get a sliding saw.
Saw Size
The smaller your miter saw, the easier you can move it around the workshop. Because of this, some users prefer non-sliding miter saw models.
However, if you prefer your cutting tool to remain at the miter table, it wouldn’t matter if you buy heavier options like sliding miter saws, like the Dewalt DWS779.
Angle of Cuts
You must assess what kind of cuts you’ll be making before you compare and decide between non-sliding vs. sliding miter saws.
If you’re aiming for intricate cuts in small pieces like picture frames, you can’t get it through sliding miter saw models because their rails will get in your way.
10-inch or 12-inch Miter Saw?
Buying a sliding or non-sliding miter saw means you’ll have to choose between 10-inch and 12-inch miter saw varieties. When tackling this debate, remember that smaller blades are limited in materials they can handle, and bigger blades can cut wider wood pieces.
Level of Experience
Handling power tools can get hazardous if you don’t have enough experience and skillset for it [1]. And since a non-sliding miter saw is easier to set, I highly recommend it for beginners. Meanwhile, you’ll need a bit of experience to handle sliding miter saws at ease.
Comparing the Features of Sliding and Non-Sliding Miter Saws
Versatility
While non-sliding saws can achieve extreme cuts, their limitation lies in how much lumber they can handle. A sliding miter saw has an extensive reach, so there’s no need to readjust it all the time.
Ease of Operation
A tool with fewer moving parts is naturally easier to use, and that’s what non-sliding miter saws have. Since its alternative has sliding blades, beginners may find it harder to operate.
Size and Portability
Most sliding options have extra parts, so they’re naturally heavier than non-sliding miter saws. If you want a tool you can carry from one place to another, the latter is still the best option.
Safety Features
Since non-sliding units have fewer moving parts, it’s safer to use, especially if you’re a beginner. Although sliding models have blade guards and fences for extra safety, these features take time to get used to.
Cost and Warranty
As previously stated, sliding miter saws are more expensive than non-sliding. However, the overall cost still depends on the features of your cutting tool. I highly suggest buying from authorized sellers as the warranty policy varies per brand.
my Handpicked Recommendations
Best Non-Sliding Miter Saws
1. Hitachi C10FCE2 10-Inch Single Bevel Compound Miter Saw
Equipped with a 10-amp motor, this unit can handle the toughest cutting task in your workshop. It also has an Elastomer grip that reduces vibration for extra user comfort.
2. DeWalt DW715 12-Inch Compound Single Bevel Miter Saw
Running at a speed of 4,000 rpm aided by a 15-amp motor, the DeWalt DW715 can deliver a powerful performance no matter what material you’re going to cut.
3. Makita LS1221 12-Inch Compound Miter Saw
No matter what cutting application you intend to produce, Makita LS1221 will surely deliver it with its nine positive miter stop settings.
Best Sliding Miter Saws
1. DeWalt DWS780 12-Inch Dual-Bevel Compound Sliding Miter Saw
You might not know, but DeWalt DWS780 features a special crosscut positioning system that provides accurate cut line. Its detent plate also has a cam lock that assures repeated accuracy.
To adjust and ensure accuracy, you must know how to lock and unlock the Dewalt miter saw.
2. Bosch GCM12SD 12-Inch Sliding Compound Miter Saw
Bosch GCM12SD’s Axial-Glide system doesn’t only save space but also provides smooth blade motion and precise cutting performance.
3. Makita LS1216L 12-Inch Sliding Compound Miter Saw
As a product designed with a 4-Steel Rail Sliding System, users can expect Makita LS1216L to deliver superior cuts at an increased rigidity.
Conclusion
When deciding between a sliding and non-sliding miter saw, you should determine which tool will finish the task efficiently. But it all boils down to the kind of projects you’re working on. After all, these tools will only be at your advantage if it suits the materials you’re using.
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.
