Introduction
Miter saws are designed to help you achieve 90-degree angled cuts or crosscuts on your workpieces. This is done by pulling a motorized circular blade into a wood piece in a plunging action. These saws can perform various tasks, including cutting window trims or 2x4s. These miter saws are mostly constructed out of aluminum or steel, even though the actual handle and blade guard may be made out of heavy-duty plastic.
In the power tools industry, different brands are competing in creating quality miter saws. Among them are DeWalt and Ridgid, two of the most recognized manufacturers of miter saws available. Each of these models offers their own set of features, advantages, and disadvantages. In this guide, we will take a look at what each brand has to offer.
DeWalt Miter Saw vs Ridgid Miter Saw
| Â | DeWalt Miter Saw | Ridgid Miter Saw |
| Year Founded | 1924 | 1923 |
| Price | Depending on the model | Depending on the model |
| Quality | High | High |
| Types of Scroll Saw | Compound Miter Saw; Double Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw | Dual Bevel Miter Saw; Compound Sliding Miter with Laser |
Buying Guide
How to pick the right miter saw
In order to come up with a wise purchasing decision, there are certain factors that you can take into consideration. Here are some of them:
Miter Saw Variations
The basic miter saws are designed to create miter cuts, but not angled ones. They are ideal for completing projects including trimming some studs in order to frame a house, where simple 90 degrees or less of cuts are needed. On the other hand, you can also opt for a compound miter saw. They are designed to adjust both miter and bevel cuts, offering a leg up on the standard miter saws.
They make bevel cuts in a single direction, either to the left or right, even though certain models pivot in both directions, providing better flexibility. You can also opt for a sliding compound miter saw, which is considered the most versatile option available. Both the blade and motor assembly are mounted on a movable arm, thus allowing for the cutting of longer wood pieces, though they can also work really well on smaller pieces.
Construction Material
Usually, miter saws are mostly constructed from aluminum or steel, even though the handle and blade guard may be constructed out of heavy duty plastic. These miter saws are built and designed to withstand even a serious workload.
How do we compare DeWalt Miter Saw vs. Ridgid Miter Saws?
Quality
There is no need to question the quality that these brands promise. Therefore, regardless of your pick, you can be guaranteed of pure performance. The DeWalt model comes with a powerful 15-amp, operated through a 3,600 RPM motor that delivers extended durability and power. It also has an adjustable stainless steel miter detent plate and 10 positive stops, thus enhancing accuracy and productivity.
The Ridgid model, on the other hand, comes with an extra feature that is not available in the other model. It features an adjustable laser guide which allows you to accurately align your blade with a cut line. It is also powered internally, which means that there is no need for batteries to operate it. This model also operates in a 15-amp motor that powers through even the most challenging cuts.
Price
Both the DeWalt and Ridgid miter saw models fall under the same $200 to $400 category. The price may vary depending on whether you are purchasing a new one or a refurbished model. Therefore, there is not much comparison that can be made using this factor.
Additional Features
In terms of weight, the Ridgid model is lighter, at only 52.3 pounds, compared to the 68 pounds weight of the DeWalt model. The latter model also comes with an extra feature, the laser guide, which is not available with the DeWalt model. This is an added feature for those who are aiming for the utmost accuracy.
DeWalt Miter Saw
If power and quality are what you are looking for, the DeWalt miter saw model is definitely a good choice to consider. It is a double-bevel sliding compound miter saw that is backed by a dependable and powerful 15-amp motor, offering no-load speed of up to 3,600 RPM, thus making some quick work in cutting molding or framing, as well as miter-cutting and crosscutting tasks.
Main Features
- 15-amp, 3500 RPM motor
- Precise miter system
- Machined base fence support
- Adjustable stainless steel miter detent plate
- Tall sliding fences
- Compact sliding rails
Q&As
What is the arbor size of this miter saw model?
It has a 5/8 inch arbor size, though it also comes with an adapter which slides on easily to accommodate other sizes.
Does this miter saw work with 220V?
Unfortunately, it does not.
How convenient to carry around this model?
This model is designed to be lightweight for convenient carrying. It also introduces a built-in carry handle. This also allows for easier storage at the end of the day.
Pros
- Compatible and portable with the DEWALT laser system
- Increased bevel capacity
- Increased durability and accuracy
- Innovative clamping mechanism
- Ideal for a wide range of applications
Cons
- Some issues on durability
Ridgid Miter Saw
The Ridgid miter saw is a standout option given the fact that it comes with an adjustable laser guide that allows you to align the blade with cut line accurately. The bonus is that it is also internally powered, which means that there are no batteries required for it. It is also operated by a heavy duty 15-amp motor that can power through the most challenging cuts.
Main Features
- Adjustable laser guide
- Dual bevel 0 to 48 degree
- Extended miter ranges: 0 to 50-degree miter capacities
- 15-amp motor
- Sliding miter fences
- Fixed dust port
- Quick release miter lock
Q&As
What is the material used in the construction of the arm holding?
The arm holding of this miter saw is made of plastic (for the handle), while the arm in itself is made of metal.
How effective is the dust port system of this model?
This miter saw from Ridgid comes with a fixed dust port which maintains optimal position, thus ensuring superior quality of dust collection.
How does the adjustable laser guide of this miter saw work?
The adjustable laser guide helps in accurately aligning the blade with the cut line.
Pros
- Sliding miter fences offer support for wider material use
- Ergonomic D-handle design
- Maximum cut through support
- Accurately align the blade with the cut line
- Quick angle adjustments
Cons
- Some issues with durability
Alternative Choices
Makita LS1016L 10-Inch Dual Slide Compound Miter Saw with Laser
This miter saw from Makita is often considered to offer the largest crown molding cutting capacity in its category. It also features a compact design with its 4-steel rail sliding system which further improves rigidity, thus allowing a user to produce amazingly superior cuts. Its exclusive 6 linear ball bearings also deliver solid, smooth and adjustment free accurate cuts. This model also offers an innovative direct drive gearbox, together with a patented retractable guard system which is engineered for enhanced vertical cutting capacity.
With its patented rail sliding system, offering less deflection. As a result, you can expect a much larger cutting capacity, with better cutting accuracy. In terms of convenience, this model also comes with a compact and ergonomic design. It is lightweight, and as such, it can be very portable, and easy to transport. Also, its rubberized, ergonomic horizontal D-handle design features a better fit, along with added comfort. Its larger trigger switch also offers easier operation.
DEWALT DWS780 12-Inch Double Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw
This model operates with a 15-amp motor, along with an integrated XPS cross cut positioning system, thus ensuring an adjustment-free and accurate cut line indication. It also features a tall sliding fence which supports 7-1/2 inch nested crown and 6-3/4 inch base molding vertically. Other amazing features of this model include a hassle-free operation design, allowing you to easily bevel from o to 49 degrees with various positive stops in both left and right directions.
It also features ultimate durability. It comes rugged guards, fences, precision-machined castings, as well as a bevel system. Its tough stainless steel miter detent plate is also designed to effectively withstand the constant rigors in the job site.
Hitachi C10FCE2 15-amp 10-inch single Bevel Compound Miter Saw
This model promises accurate and smooth miter cuts and crosscuts in a wide range of workpieces, including aluminum sashes, hardboard, soft fiberboard, decorative panels, plywood and common wood. Its compound cutting capacity and flexible miter angles combined offer versatility when performing tasks. As such, this model is perfect for framers, trim carpenters, as well as woodworkers who depend on reliability and precision.
In terms of design, this model comes with a 45-degree bevel and a dust bag. This dust collecting system keeps the interior parts of the saw dirt-free. It also features an elastomer grip, which is very easy to use, and comes in a comfortable horizontal handle, and a vibration-reducing elastomer grip, keeping you in full control at all times.
DEWALT DW715 15-amp 12-inch Single-Bevel Compound Miter Saw
Another DEWALT model that is recommended by many woodworkers is the DW715 model. It is a single bevel compound miter saw which is powered with a 15-amp, 4,000 RPM motor. It also uses a stainless steel miter detent plate, along with a cam miter lock, offering reliable durability and accuracy with easy adjustments. Portability wise, this model comes in a lightweight design, along with a built-in carry handle for convenience.
The miter detent override featured in this model enables you to override the miter stops, adjusting to the specific setting that you desire without worrying that the saw slips into the miter detents. It also features tall sliding fences which support crown molding of up to 5-1/14 inch.
Hitachi C12FDH 15-amp 12-inch Dual Bevel Miter Saw with Laser
This miter saw comes equipped with a laser marker that offers accurate and smooth miters and crosscuts in a wide variety of workpieces. This is a tool that is ideal for carpenters, as well as other woodworkers who consider reliability and precision ad very important factors in their tasks. The manufacturer of this brand also made sure that this model is easy to use and is versatile. For example, its thumb-actuated positive miter stops allow you to change the cutting angle of the blade easily when creating miters in crown molding, along with other trim pieces.
This model has also been filled with some user-friendly features, including its powerful 15-amp motor which creates a no-load speed of up to 4000 RPM, working really well even through the toughest hardwoods. It also features a large base that offers support and balance combined, thus preventing the material from warping. Its built-in clamping system also holds your workpiece right in place.
The Final Cut
DeWalt and Ridgid, as manufacturers, have been successful when it comes to producing high-quality models for miter saws. Now, the decision as to which model to choose depends on your personal preferences, as well as your purpose of use. Comparing the two models above, the main difference has something to do with the addition of a laser guide with the Ridgid model. If you feel that this component is very important in your task, then the Ridgid miter saw may be a good option for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a basic miter saw that will still help you accomplish some difficult tasks, then the DeWalt model is another option to consider, one that is backed up by the reputation of the manufacturer.
