Best Budget Table Saw – Reviews & Buyer’s Guide

Table saws can rip long boards, process sheets of plywood or medium-density fibreboard, and even perform crosscuts and other intricate cuts using jigs. They are often regarded as the most useful tool in woodworking, and you’ll likely find yourself using one in just about every project. 

Every woodworker wants to have a reliable and accurate table saw, but they can be prohibitively expensive.

We tested mid-range table saws and true budget options, and the two are drastically different in more than just price. To help you choose the absolute best table saw for your situation, we’re separating our top picks into two categories: table saws under $400 and table saws under $600.

Best Budget Table Saws Under $400

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We have always found that Dewalt designs their tools for heavy use and a long lifespan, and this table saw stays true to these attributes.

The saw has a powerful, 15-amp motor capable of an impressive 5800 revolutions per minute (RPM). This power means consistent, clean cutting of just about any material.

Despite being durable and stable during operation, it weighs just 46 lbs. The saw is lightweight enough to be transported to and from job sites, so moving it within your workshop will be a breeze.

It comes equipped with numerous safety features, including:

• a safety switch with easy shut-off, 
• a blade guard, 
• a riving knife,
• pawls to prevent kickback,
• a push stick,
• and a miter gauge to keep your fingers away from the blade.

Our favorite thing about this saw is the locking fence mechanism. It extends well beyond the edge of the saw for an impressive 24.5” rip capacity. It also locks very securely and includes onboard measurements and a micro-adjustment knob to provide the most accurate cuts.

This saw accepts dado blades for cutting rabbets and can handle up to a 10” blade for a versatile cutting depth.

Not only does Dewalt offer a 3-year limited warranty on this saw — which covers manufacturer defects — but they also include a whole year of free service. This means they will maintain the tool and replace worn parts caused by everyday use for free. Such warranties are rare, and it shows Dewalt trusts that their products will last.

If you want to know more about the Dewalt DWE7485 read our full review here:

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Delta table saws are often regarded as the highest quality in the industry. Unsurprisingly, this saw is another powerhouse of a tool with a 15-amp, 120-volt motor. It’s slightly slower than our top pick at 5,000 RPM. Still, this saw can comfortably handle softwoods, hardwoods, and composite materials, so it’s useful for just about any project.

It’s equipped with a slew of safety features like 

• a blade guard, 
• a riving knife,
• and a push stick.

However, it doesn’t come with a miter gauge, so you’ll have to purchase one separately if you want more accurate crosscuts.

The saw comes with a low-clearance insert, but we found that the table’s vibration causes the blade to wear down the plastic piece a bit.

This table saw can accommodate dado blades and regular blades up to 10” in diameter. The dust collection port also works phenomenally well, so clean up after use should be minimal.

Our favorite thing about this saw is the vast 25” rip capacity, at which point the fence still remains stable during cutting.

This saw is lightweight and transportable at 59.9 lbs, but it’s still durable and made of heavy-duty materials.

Rockwell is a mid-range tool manufacturer that offers decent quality and consistent performance, and this table saw fits into their business model as one of the cheapest we tested.

It is unique because it takes a 4” T-shank blade commonly used in jigsaws rather than a standard, circular table saw blade.

Your table saw and jigsaw will be able to share blades, but you’ll have a much smaller cutting depth with this table saw than with other options. You’ll only be able to cut wood up to 1.5” thick.

While you may not have an issue with the possible cut depth, the width of your material may limit you. At just 6 inches, the rip capacity is the most significant limiting factor while using this saw.

The saw is very lightweight at just 17 pounds and very easy to assemble. However, much of the construction material is plastic, so the saw feels much less durable and a bit less safe than our top two picks. Rockwell covers this table saw under a limited warranty for 3 years, but only for manufacturer defects and not damages that may occur in your shop.

The price is significantly lower than most other saws, so you may prefer this table saw if you’re looking to spend the least amount of money possible.

It includes safety features like:

• an easy shut-off,
• an adjustable blade guard for zero top clearance while cutting, 
• a riving knife to prevent kickback,
• a miter gauge,
• And five blades to get you started on projects right away.

It has a dust collection port, but we found that its placement allows quite a bit of sawdust to fly free and create a mess on the floor.

Best Budget Table Saws Under $600

Bosch makes contractor-grade tools built to stand up to some abuse, so this table saw will likely last through countless projects. This 10” saw is our favorite sub-$600 option. It has a rugged, 15-amp motor capable of speeds up to 3,650 RPM, so it’s an excellent option for multiple applications and materials.

It includes numerous safety features to keep you protected during use. You’ll get:

• a lockable rip fence, 
• a blade guard
• pawls,
• a push stick, 
• a riving knife,
• and a massive power switch with an easy shut-off feature for emergencies.

The saw itself is rather heavy at 94 lbs, but the included stand makes the tool highly portable. It’s very convenient to set up and collapse so that you can maneuver it with one hand. The saw and stand are both easy to assemble.

Our favorite feature is the soft-start technology, which begins spinning the blade slowly before ramping up the speed. This feature provides a safe start to your cut and won’t vibrate the blade and damage the low-clearance insert.

The saw is capable of a broad, 25” rip capacity, making it suitable for wide crosscuts or ripping down plywood sheets.

Metabo is another mid-range tool manufacturer, but their products are often a bit more durable than others in the same category and can stand up to somewhat heavy use. This saw is our top pick for rip capacity and also the expected Metabo quality for the price.

It’s capable of cutting up to 35” sections of wood, and the outfeed extension is a nice feature that complements the lengthy rip fence. The extensions make this the best saw we tested for ripping down plywood sheets.

It also has a generous cut depth of over 3”, and it can handle up to 13/16” dado blades. The versatility of this saw means you’ll be able to tackle most woodworking projects with a single tool.

It’s powered by a capable, 15-amp motor that runs at 4,500 RPM for clean, consistent cutting.

The safety features abound with this table saw. It comes with a sturdy rip fence, soft start technology, a blade guard, push stick, a miter gauge, a riving knife, and pawls to protect against kickback. There is also an easily located shut-off switch and an electric brake for emergencies.

The saw is rather heavy and bulky at 96 pounds, but it comes on a collapsible stand with wheels to make it easy to transport. Despite the weight, some of the pieces are made of plastic and less durable than other heavy-duty options.

A limited 2-year manufacturer’s warranty covers this saw, but it will only cover damage caused by defects.

This table saw from SKILSAW has a rugged, 15-amp motor that includes the company’s patented “worm drive” technology for added torque and cutting capability. SKILSAW is known for durable entry-level tools that are suitable for frequent use, and this table saw feels to be of their expected excellent quality.

The rip fence extends to 25”, and you can adjust it with a rack and pinion system for accurate cuts. This saw doesn’t have an outfeed extension, so it’s not ideal for ripping down plywood.

It also doesn’t include a stand, but it’s more affordable than the other sub-$600 table saws, so you can purchase the stand separately and still fall within the price range of the previously reviewed options.

It feels very durable and includes mostly metal components, and it’s still lightweight enough to be portable at 44 lbs.

It doesn’t include a miter gauge or push stick, but you will get a securely locking rip fence, blade guards, and a riving knife for safety. The power switch is easy to locate and shut off in an emergency.

The cut depth is lacking a bit because the saw only accepts 8.25” blades. However, it will accept dado blades for cutting rabbets.

Lastly, SKILSAW covers this saw for 1-year under a limited warranty for manufacturer’s defects.

Buyer’s Guide

As you can probably tell from our reviews, choosing a table saw isn’t an easy task because of the various specs possible on different models. 

Whether you decide on one of the saws we’ve reviewed above or continue looking for the perfect match, make sure you consider the below factors that will have the most significant impact on your table saw experience.

Cutting Options

Since a table saw is likely the most versatile tool you’ll add to your collection, the cutting options will be some of the most critical factors to look for in a saw. Cutting depth, rip capacity, and beveling capability will all make your work much more comfortable.

Most table saws can cut thicknesses of 1.5”, which is the actual size of standard 2-by material. However, the deeper cutting capability will mean you can potentially cut thicker wood or multiple workpieces simultaneously.

A large rip capacity is handy for breaking down sheet goods like plywood, melamine, or larger project boards. The wider the rip capacity, the larger the panels you’ll be able to cut for your projects.

Lastly, most table saws allow for beveled cuts, but some include rack and pinion settings for fine adjustments, and others have bevels that lock at standard angles for the most accurate cut. These locking adjustments also allow you to cut confidently without measuring the blade angle while you adjust it.

Blade Options

Next, you’ll want to consider the blade options that your saw will be able to handle. 10” saws can safely house smaller diameter blades, giving you more blade options.

Many table saws can also handle dado stacks, which let you cut rabbets or grooves in a single pass. The blade width that a saw can accept will determine how wide of a groove you can cut.

Speed & Control

The speed at which a table saw runs is just as important as the power because it determines how smooth and efficient your cutting will be.

Higher speed motors coupled with a high-tooth blade will make super-clean cuts on finishing material and more expensive hardwoods. They’re less likely to burn your workpiece, making them suitable for all projects. They’ll also power through sheet goods with a lower risk of blowouts, even when using a lower-tooth blade.

Slower motors are usually cheaper, but they’re more likely to create blowouts or splintering, depending on the blade you’re using.

Some saws come equipped with a slow-start technology, which means they’ll start spinning at a low speed and increase the RPMs to prevent vibration and blade wobble.

Durability & Comfort

Since your table saw is likely a tool that you’ll use during every woodworking session, the longevity you get from it and the comfort you have using it are both essential factors.

Higher-end table saws tend to be made primarily of metal parts built to survive some workshop abuse. Some cheaper options may be more affordable but are more likely to include plastic pieces that can wear down or break more readily.

If you’re an avid woodworker, a long-lasting table saw will give you a great return on your investment. On the other hand, a cheaper option with less durable parts might be enough if you’re a weekend warrior and put less wear and tear on your saw.

Comfort plays an important factor when it comes to components as well. Metal parts tend to create a more stable table saw that is more comfortable to use. Plastic pieces can cause your tool to feel unsteady. When you’re pushing a piece of wood with force through your table saw, you’ll want to be confident that the table won’t wobble or flex.

Of course, there are plenty of saws with plastic components that can stand firm and steady during use. If you prefer a more affordable saw with plastic parts, make sure it’s built for strength and won’t be unsteady during operation.

Visibility

An unobstructed view of your workpiece is helpful while you’re cutting, both to ensure that it remains flush against your rip fence to reduce the chance of kickback and that your cut is as accurate as possible.

Many table saws include large, plastic blade guards that improve safety. They prevent you from accidentally making contact with the top and back of the blade, and they will protect the blade from any dropped cut-offs that could kick back at you at dangerous speeds.

However, not all blade guards are created equal. For example, the blade guards on the Metabo HPT Jobsite Table Saw reviewed above are angled to allow a clear line of sight to the cutting area without sacrificing safety. They’re also transparent, allowing views from the top and sides of the blade.

Conversely, the blade guard on the Rockwell BladeRunner X2 Table Saw is black and opaque. It protects you just as well but doesn’t allow for viewing from the side or directly above where the blade is cutting your workpiece.

Safety always trumps visibility, but being able to see your blade clearly can help you make accurate cuts.

Safety

There are numerous options at all price points: push sticks, blade guards, pawls, and sturdy rip fences to provide you with the safest possible cutting surface. These features are essential for giving you confidence and helping to prevent injury, so a saw that includes all of these will keep you the safest.

One of the most dangerous and most common table saw injuries occurs because of kickback, which is when a workpiece wraps around the back of the blade, gets caught on the teeth, and is propelled toward the saw operator at extremely high speeds.

This is why the most useful safety feature is a riving knife, which prevents kickback from occurring. Most modern table saws have a riving knife, but you should make sure that any saw you consider includes one.

Lastly, most table saws include a safety ON/OFF switch that prevents accidental turning on and makes it fast and easy to shut off in case of an emergency. The last thing you want to have to do when uncomfortable with a cut is search for the power button. A large button that you can hit instantly is a crucial safety feature you should look for in a table saw.

Table Saw Features

Although safety is the most important feature, other factors should play into your purchasing decision as well.

Amps/Motor Power

First, you should consider the motor’s power. A powerful, 15-amp motor will not only last longer and stand up to more use and stress than weaker engines, but they’ll also provide smoother cutting of all kinds of materials.

A weak motor will be cheaper but may struggle to cut through harder woods. Strong motors will be versatile enough to use on any woodworking project, but they come at a higher price point.

Dust Collection

Many saws include a port to connect to a dust collection system. Adequate removal of sawdust can improve your workpiece’s visibility and make for a simpler cleanup after cutting.

If you plan to use a dust collection system, choosing a saw with an internal outlet that can provide power to your vacuum via the saw’s power button will be most convenient.

Table Inserts

All table saws come with throat plates to provide a safe surface on which to cut and prevent cutoffs from falling into your saw. However, some table saws accept various plates to improve the safety of your saw’s adaptability. 

For example, zero clearance plates hug the blade perfectly and won’t allow any cutoffs or smaller pieces of wood to fall between the plate and your sawblade. These make operation a bit safer and can improve cleanup time.

You can also purchase dado plates that allow dado stacks in your saw, which let you cut grooves in workpieces close to an inch thick.

You may desire a saw that can accept multiple throat plates to improve your tool’s safety or versatility.

Portability

More expensive table saws often include stationary cabinets that require multiple people to move. Still, many budget table saws are portable and can easily be moved around your workshop or from job site to job site.

Some of the saws we’ve reviewed above include wheels for easy transportation, while others need to be carried. Some are lightweight despite being made of durable metal materials, while others weigh near 100 pounds.

You should aim to find the right balance between weight, durability, and portability to ensure you get the saw that is best suited for you that you can reposition in your shop without too much effort.

Warranty

Lastly, you should consider the manufacturer’s warranty of any saw you’re considering. Saws that come with a warranty can offer a bit of peace of mind that defects won’t just render your tool useless.

Most warranties don’t cover damage caused by use or accidents, but some — like DEWALT’s — include free service that can help fix issues that occur in the workshop.

Wrapping Up: Which Budget Table Saw is Best?

We’re sure it’s clear by now that there’s no such thing as the perfect table saw. Every woodworker’s needs are different, and a saw that appeals to some may not be ideal for others.

You should consider various features when purchasing a budget table saw, and there are numerous options in every price range. Hopefully, these reviews and our in-depth buyer’s guide have helped you focus on what’s most important in a table saw and narrow in on the tool that will serve as the best addition to your shop.

If you’re on a moderate budget and are looking for the best table saw under $600, we recommend the Bosch 10-Inch Worksite Table Saw. It’s rugged and powerful while remaining highly portable. If you’re looking to spend the least amount of money possible but still want a high-quality table saw under $400, we recommend the Dewalt Table Saw for Jobsite. This saw will outperform most others at the price range and is sure to last through many projects.