Introduction
When it comes to making accurate cuts using a powerful motor and steady base, a table saw is the best power tool in the shop. A table saw can give you stable power that can cut through a variety of materials including wood, wood panels, acrylic, metal, and tile. A table saw is so powerful that some models can take a large stock like lumber. You can also use this to cut even delicate materials as well.
In the table saw the market, two top brands share the spotlight: the Craftsman and the Riyobi. These two table saws have updated models which can be used for a variety of applications and projects. The latest Craftsman portable table saw model called the Evolv uses 24T carbide tipped blades and has a stand that allows you to take it anywhere. It has a powerful 15-amp motor that lets you rip through different tough materials. It is easy to assemble and easy to take down when you are down. It weighs 50.4 pounds but still makes a good portable saw for worksite or home use.
Meanwhile, the most updated Riyobi table saw has an X-stand to keep it steady no matter what kind of project you are making. It has a tough 15-amp motor that lets you work on a variety of materials. It is lightweight, easy to assemble and perfect for any mobile cutting project. It could be the portable power table saw you need at home or at work.
Craftsman Table Saw vs Ryobi Table Saw
| Product | Craftsman Table Saw | Ryobi Table Saw |
| Product Dimensions | 26.9 x 19.8 x 12.9 inches | 34.9 x 22.9 x 22.9 inches |
| Weight | 50.4 pounds | 50 pounds |
| Motor Power | 120 volts | 120 volts |
| Accessories | Bare Tool | Bare Tool |
| Ratings | 4 out of 5 | – |
| Price | Check Lowest Price | Check Lowest Price |
Buying Guide
There are many types of table saws and each one has its own features, pros, and cons. First things first, find out what your cutting needs are and surely you will be able to purchase the right kind of power cutting tool that’s right for you. Here are a few table saws features and parameters that you must keep in mind.
Jobsite table saw vs a benchtop table saw
How do you intend to use your table saw? If you plan to take it to the worksite then a portable, compact job site table saw is your best bet. This saw usually has its own stand and may have wheels. On the other hand, if you prefer to use a table saw at your worksite or workstation then a stationary table saw or benchtop saw is the best one for you. This doesn’t come with a stand and rely on a table or a workbench to support the weight of the saw. You may also use a cabinet saw which is both portable and sturdy. This is a table saw with its own metal or cast-iron cabinet hence the name.
A table saw should have a powerful motor
Table saw motors vary greatly. For instance, smaller models come with direct-drive motors that run on 120 V power to give you 2 HP. This type of saw can cut thinner materials like thin wooden panels, vinyl, laminates and thin metal plates. Usually, a specific kind of blade is used to make delicate cuts. Table saws with more powerful motors are stationary or benchtop saws that can give you tough 3 to 5 HP. Table saws with stronger motors rely on a belt drive to transfer power from the motor to the blade and these use 240 V.
Table saw blade size, teeth, speed and more
Saw blades may be grouped according to the diameter, arbor size, number of teeth, kerf size, speed, application and the material from where the blade was made. Commercial table saws use 10 or 12” saw blades while you may also find portable table saws with small 5” blades. Saw blade teeth is between 24 and 80 and the most common material used to make table saw blades is carbide, carbon steel, and diamond. Carbon steel blades are the most common and are replaceable, cheaper and available almost anywhere.
The importance of a fence and miter gauges for table saws
The fence of a table saw gives the saw the advantage over other types of saws. The most common fence design is a T-square fence which is a 0strong design that gives you improved cutting accuracy. A fence also allows you to make complicated cuts like crosscuts or angled cuts.
Important table saw safety features
You need safety features on your table saw especially if you are new to using this power tool. Safety features like splitters, electric brakes, guards, riving blades and anti-kickback pawls are available in an updated table saw models. These will help you use the table saw safely and more comfortably.
What We Look For
Quality
The quality of a table saw depends on the type of material the saw is made, the type of blade, any good features or standout features that are not available from other table saws. For instance, the Craftsman table saw has a number of quality features. First, it has a powerful motor that can cut through many kinds of material. It also has an easy to adjust miter gauge for quick and accurate cuts plus push button assembly so you can quickly assemble the table saw as soon as you arrive at the worksite.
Meanwhile, the Riyobi table saw also has a few top quality features. This has a quick-folding stand that will let you easily assemble and install it anywhere. It also has a powerful motor that will help you cut through different materials for a variety of applications. Whether you are framing a door or constructing a deck, this portable saw can help you get done in half the time.
Price
This updated Craftsman table saw costs around $160 online while the latest Riyobi table saw costs around $200 online. Take note that these prices are just for the bare tool. You need to spend more on replacement blades, accessories, and tools.
Blade Size
The updated Craftsman table saw has a 10-inch blade and the Riyobi table saw also has a 10-inch sharp circular blade. These blades are completely replaceable and replacement blades are available online and also from local shops that sell genuine parts and accessories for Craftsman and Riyobi power tools.
Weight
Both the Craftsman table saw and the Riyobi table saw weigh at least 50 pounds. Both are very heavy but despite this, are portable and easy to use because of their working tables. But despite the heavy weight of these tables, these are still used as portable table saws. The heavyweight creates stability in the use of the table. This is especially needed when you have to cut large pieces of material.
Why Use the Craftsman Table Saw and Who Is It For?
The Craftsman table saw is for people who would like a stable, efficient and accurate power saw for their specific project. This saw will provide precise cuts without a wobble. It is portable and compact therefore you can take it anywhere you wish to go or where you need to work.
Short Review
The updated Craftsman table saw has a carbide tipped blade that will help you cut through different materials in the nick of time. It is a table saw with a sheer tabletop for smooth cuts as well as improved blade coverage. It has an upper guard assembly that installs the material with a clamp that has a latching action. This has a push-button assembly so you can use the kickback pawl easily. it has a large steel 25” x 17” tabletop work surface that can support a variety of materials. It also features a large flip off or on the switch so you can easily access it when it comes to emergency stops. The Craftsman has a die-cast aluminum table with a tilt range of 0-45 degrees. This is easy to set up and folds away making it a good table saw to use anywhere you wish to work.
Main Features
- With a 24 teeth carbide-tipped blade
- With a die-cast aluminum stand
- With a sheer table top
- Can cut through tough materials
- With a push button assembly
- With a 25 x 17 inches table top
- With a large on/off switch
- Can be transported anywhere
Q & As
Where can you get accessories and parts for a Craftsman table saw?
You can get accessories and parts for your Craftsman table saw from online sites or from a local store. Make sure you use only genuine Craftsman blades and accessories. Using generic parts and accessories can affect the way you use your power saw.
Can you clean a table saw with soap and water?
No, you cannot use soap and water to clean your saw. Use a dry, soft and clean cloth to wipe away dust, dirt, and grime from the blades as well as on the saw body. If you need to clean the worktable, use only a soft brush to remove dust and debris. Follow manufacturer’s instructions on how to clean your table saw.
What to do with a broken table saw?
If your Craftsman table saw is still under warranty, take it to an accredited repair center to have it fixed. Make sure to have your receipts, warranty card and guarantees handy. If your tool is no longer under warranty, take your tool to an accredited service center still for specialized service.
Pros
- With a push button assembly.
- With a large on and off switch for safety.
- With a large tabletop to accommodate large materials.
Cons
- This is a bare tool without any accessories.
- This table saw is very heavy
- Does not have wheels and this makes it very hard to move.
Why Use the Riyobi Table Saw and Who Is It For?
The Riyobi table saw is a portable power saw that is made for people who want to cut material accurately and efficiently. It works well with large, heavy and compact materials because of its powerful 15-amp motor. It could be the table saw that you can use at home or at the worksite.
Short Review
The latest Riyobi Portable Table Saw is a power saw with an X-Stand. It comes with the latest features and a powerful 15-amp motor that will help you tackle a variety of materials especially heavy-duty materials. It has a quick-folding stand that will allow you to transport this saw to anywhere you need to work. It is easy to use and can be easily set up or disassembled after you are done.
Main Features
- With a 10-inch blade
- With an X-Stand
- With a powerful 15-amp motor
- Can be used on a variety of materials
- With a quick-folding stand
- May be easily transported to anywhere you wish to work
- Durable
Q & As
Where can you take a broken Riyobi table saw to be serviced?
You can take a Riyobi table saw to an accredited service center for repairs. You can check the nearest service center from your location or you can call customer service for details. If your saw is still in warranty, don’ forget to take your receipt and your warranty card, if you have one. If the saw is no longer under warranty, take it to an accredited service center still because it needs expert repair.
Where can you purchase a table saw blade?
You will be able to purchase a table saw blade from an accredited Riyobi local shop or you can purchase from an online site. Make sure you purchase only genuine blades and accessories and never use generic blades because this can affect the way you use your table saw.
Can you use just any kind of table saw blade on this power saw?
You can’t use just any kind of blade for the Riyobi power saw. You must use only genuine blades because these will make your work more efficient.
Pros
- With a powerful motor
- With an X-Stand, so you can work safely.
- May be transported anywhere you wish to work on.
Cons
- The table saw cart legs look flimsy and may wobble.
- Does not have wheels to move the heavy saw.
Verdict
When it comes to portable table saws, the Riyobi and the Craftsman seals the deal. These two come with powerful motors, good features, and safety features as well. However, these two portable table saws do not have wheels which allow you to transport the saw easily. These two saws are also very heavy and therefore may be too cumbersome to take anywhere despite being a transportable cutting tool.
