Carpentry is a great skill. Thus, you have to be very accurate while cutting the workpiece. Any errors you make could result in a poorly completed construction project and a waste of lots of wood.
When a beginner makes their first error, it could be regarded as a learning process. Often, they begin their carpentry careers by purchasing an expensive miter saw that may not be user-friendly or suitable for their needs. This is due to the lack of expertise in choosing the right product. However, many of these errors can be avoided if you exercise caution.
In any case, if you are a beginner and desperately searching for the best miter saw for beginners that will meet your demands, we will show you currently available options and well-aligned with your interests.
Our top 3 picks:
Metabo HPT 10-Inch Miter Saw | ||
Dewalt (DWS715) 12-Inch Miter Saw | ||
Bosch GCM12SD Sliding Glide Miter Saw |
Types of Miter Saw
Depending on the variations in the features, there are different types of miter saws. Before making a purchase, consider which model will best meet your requirements.
Sliding Miter Saw:
If a miter saw has rails, it is referred to as a sliding miter saw. Blade movement is made possible by rails. Compared to other types of miter saws, sliding miter saws enable users to cut the workpiece at a much deeper level.
Compound Miter Saw:
Compound miter saws are a particular kind of miter saw that enable users to adjust the saw in both the miter and the bevel positions. Bevel position refers to tilting the miter to the right or left, and miter position refers to rotating and fixing the saw blade around the base.
Sliding Compound Miter Saw:
As the name suggests, while setting the saw and considering both the miter and bevel position, you can also slide the saw. This miter saw adds comfort and accuracy while cutting some deeper material.
What to Consider When Buying a Miter Saw for Beginner
Each person has unique needs. Beginners only need a few basic features in a miter saw since they mostly do cross cuts, whereas experienced carpenters need additional features. For instance, some people only need a single bevel, while others might need a double bevel.
So, when it comes to choosing the best miter saw, there are many things to consider. We have accumulated a few points that you must consider before purchasing a miter saw.
Size of the Blade
Before choosing a miter saw, it is important to consider the blade’s size. A few key considerations should be made when determining the sizes. You require a 12-inch saw if you frequently cut pieces 1 or 2 inches in dimension.
A 10-inch saw, on the other hand, is a good option if you prefer portability. While there can be many other sizes, 12 inches, 10 inches, 7.5, and 8.5 miter saws are more popular and widely used. For beginners, 10 inches, 7.5, and 8.5 miter saws are the best options.
Motor Power
This is yet another crucial thing to consider. Beginners typically don’t need a more powerful motor because they typically perform simpler tasks or redesigns that can be completed with a 10-amp motor. If the price is reasonable, you can choose a motor with more amperage. There are three possible options: 10-amp,12-amp, and 15-amp.
Corded Vs. Battery
A battery-powered miter saw is probably slowed down if you work with hard materials. In contrast to battery-powered saws, corded miter saws are slightly more powerful. On the other hand, a corded miter saw has restrictions. Typically, you can’t use a corded miter saw in an area without a power source. Due to this benefit, beginners like you most probably choose the battery power saw.
Safety Features
Make sure the miter saw you choose has the necessary safety features so you can prevent injury. Your miter saw must come with the following safety features:
- Blade guard: Blade guard keeps you safe by preventing accidental contact between your hand and the blade.
- Trigger brake: It stops the blade and avoids unintentional cuts.
- Clamps: They hold the workpiece firmly in position, so you don’t have to. The likelihood that your hand will come into contact with the blade accidentally increases when you grasp the workpiece.
- Dust collection: Small dust may enter your lungs or irritate your eyes. Effective dust collection reduces dust from the air.
Leser Guide or Led
Beginners must check if the miter saw has a laser guide. Lesser demonstrates the path to ensure that the blade is properly positioned and makes more precise cuts so that beginners are less likely to make mistakes. Led, on the other hand, illuminates the work area and improves cutting accuracy.
Portability
A Miter saw that weighs less than 35 pounds is considered lightweight. Portability is an important consideration for those who frequently change the workplace.
Price and Warranty
If you are a beginner and want to sharpen your carpentry skill, you must try a miter saw for less than $250. Check the warranty as well. An extended warranty is a sign that the product is reliable.
10 Best Miter Saw for Beginners – Review
Now we get to the meat of this article. When making our choices, we prioritize our individual product experience. At the same time, value for money, ease of use, portability, price, real consumer opinion, and expert suggestions are all taken into account.
1. Metabo HPT 10-Inch Miter Saw (Best Value for Money)
If you want a compound miter saw for occasional DIY projects but have a budget limitation, consider this one. It offers precision, reliability, and versatility and is one of the best miters saws for beginner DIY.
Motor Capacity
It has a powerful motor, sufficient to handle some challenging workpieces. The motor is powered by a 15-amp. A 6-foot cable connects the motor to the electric source. The blade spins at 5000 RPM and completes the task quickly while ensuring smoothness.
Blade and Cutting Capacity
A blade that comes with it works well. At 90, we cut approximately 6″ in and 4 1/4″ in at 45°. From ½ inch to 4-inch thick wood should not be an issue. If the workpiece has a wider cutting depth, you can flip the workpiece and cut from the opposite direction.
Miter, Bevel Capacity, and Stops
We were able to make some finer compound cuts. It features a 0-52 degree miter capacity and a 0-45 degree bevel capacity with several positive stops and adjustable bevel stops, allowing users to make the cross-cut and crown molding without difficulty.
Support, Safety, and Comfort
While the blade is cutting through the workpiece, the fences and clamps ensure that the workpiece remains in place and stable.
On top of that, the Metabo HPT C10FCGS includes a dust bag to keep the area tidy while you work and a blade guard to keep you safe by preventing accidental contact between your hand and the blade.
What we like about this product
- Lightweight and easy to use
- It provides excellent value for the money
- Powerful motor
- Metabo comes with a large Working table
Weak points
- While working, the dust collection system might not catch all of the dust.
- A beginner may find the manual directions difficult to understand
Verdict
Metabo HPT is extremely lightweight, which is the first important consideration. So, moving it around is simple. The value for money is great and is considered the second important factor that could persuade you to purchase it.
2. Dewalt (DWS715) 12-Inch Miter Saw (Best Overall)
Overall, it’s the best miter saw for beginners and experts as well. The features of this saw are specifically designed to make compound cuts with ease and are slightly more compatible with the professionals’ interests.
Motor Capacity
The Dewalt (DWS715) has a strong motor that can rotate the 12-inch blade at up to 4000 RPM without experiencing any lag. Such an RPM allows users to handle most workpieces without much difficulty.
Blade and Cross Cutting Capacity
We found that the blade can handle larger lumber and is more versatile. With a 12-inch blade, it can make cross-cuts at a depth of 6-½” at 90 degrees on the 2-inch x 8-inch dimension and produce smoother cuts.
Miter, Bevel Capacity, and Stops
The miter range goes in both directions, 0-50° (left and right). Cutting through typical angles requires less time and effort, thanks to its 14 positive stops.
On the other hand, the bevel feature enables the user to move the miter 0-48° to the left and 0-3° to the right, producing compound cuts with accuracy and precision.
Support and Safety
Regarding support, it comes with a tall sliding fence that supports up to 5-½” from the base. The sliding fence was easy to use and was adjustable without much effort.
Additionally, vertical clamps allow users to hold the workplace in place, which results in finer cuts. The clear saw blade guard keeps you safe by preventing accidental contact between your hand and the blade.
What we like about this product
- Provide cutting stability
- Less expensive
- Lightweight
- It can cut larger material
Weak points
- No laser guidance
- It may be a bit heavy for some users
Verdict
A powerful motor can cut through most workpieces. There are more positive stops and a bevel feature for finer cross and angle cuts. It is safe, easy to use, and affordable.
3. Bosch GCM12SD Sliding Glide Miter Saw (Expert Choice)
Earlier, we reviewed miter saws without sliding Glide and dual bevel. However, this miter saw comes equipped with both of these features. Axial Glide allows wider cross-cuts while saving valuable workspace.
Motor Capacity
The motor capacity was really impressive. We were able to handle some tough workpieces without difficulty. The motor is powered by 15 AMP that rotates the 12 inches blade up to 3800 RPM with no load condition. 6-8 inches wire connects the motor with the power supply.
Blade and Cross Cutting Capacity
This saw is big. With a 12” stainless steel blade with 60-Tooth, it can deliver some quick and detailed cuts. Sliding glides allow the blade to move back and forth, extending up to 14 inches and producing deeper cuts. The blade can reach a depth of 6-½”.
Miter, Bevel Capacity, and Stops
The dual bevel tilt is 48 degrees left and right, with stops at 0, 33.9, and 45 degrees on the left and right. Such a bevel feature allows users to make bevel cuts with accuracy and perfection.
Support and Safety
A fence equipped with a squire lock allows users to complete the job with much less effort. On top of that, a soft grip handle, blade guard, and dust extraction system add safety and comfort.
What we like about this product
- Required less space
- Easily Adjustable bevel angle
- Enough power to cut the hardwood
- Perfect Zero clearance
Weak points
- It is a bit costly for a beginner
Verdict
Dual-Bevel, Sliding Glide, and larger blade put this miter saw on the expensive side. However, this saw is popular among novice and experienced carpenters due to its more comprehensive features, effortless control, and wider cutting capacity.
4. Skil MS6305 10″ Dual Bevel Sliding Miter Saw
Skil MS6305 has a lot to offer for beginners. The combination of a strong motor, a dual bevel, cutting capacity, and—most importantly—the LED shadow line makes it the best 10-in miter saw.
Motor Capacity
It comes with a decent cutting capacity. Without exerting too much force, you can cut the hard lumber or any other 2X material in a single pass. The handle was fairly simple to hold onto, especially for right-handed people. The motor is powerful enough to turn the blade at 4,800 RPM and complete the task quickly.
Blade and Cutting Capacity
As a beginner, you might believe you require a larger blade, but your skill has adequate cutting capacity. Neither too long nor too short, the blade on this miter saw measures 10 inches. The blade can cut through 2×12 lumber and, to some extent, 4x4s when angled at 90 degrees. Therefore, you probably don’t need to be concerned about larger miter saws.
Additionally, changing the blade is incredibly simple and takes just a few minutes. Use the wrench included with the saw to remove the blade bolt cover and retention bolt. That’s all.
Miter, Bevel Capacity, and Stops
We have found that this miter saw was capable of cutting strong workpieces at 45 degrees to the left and right. For an accurate bevel cut, the bevel can be adjusted to the right at 45°, to the left, and at 48°.
Miter cuts at a common angle are limited to a maximum of 50 degrees to the left and right, with positive stops at 0°, 15°, 22.5°, 31.6°, and 45° to the left and right, respectively.
Support, Safety, and Comfort
The LED indicator on this saw displays the cutline better than the lasers do. The left and right fences can also be used to make crown cuts up to 6.5 inches. Moreover, you can choose a table extension and a convenient clamp that secures the object.
What we like about this product
- At only 48 Lbs, it can be considered lightweight
- It is reasonably priced at $269
- LED indicator is easy to follow
- Excellent for DIY projects and beginners
Weak points
- The dust collection bag could be bigger
Verdict
You get all the tools you need for a fair price, making this miter saw a great choice for beginning carpenters.
5. Dewalt DWS713 Miter Saw
At $ 226, a Dewalt miter saw can be an excellent option for the beginner. It is portable, ergonomic, and easy to adjust. It can serve as a good starting point for honing your carpentry skills. Additionally, Dewalt products are reliable, well-made, and accurate.
Motor Capacity
We were able to cut the 2X toughest material at a real quick is not a difficult task with this handy miter saw. It has a 15 Amp motor that can deliver up to 5000 RPM. Hopefully, you can manage the majority of workpieces with this much power.
Blade and Cross Cutting Capacity
In a real sense, the smooth-cutting experience would surprise you. It comes with a 10″ Carbide Tipped Blade. Also, when it comes to changing the blade, it’s easy and not a big deal. You can do it on your own. The blade can be changed by removing the bolt with the help of the included wrench from the bag.
Miter, Bevel Capacity, and Stops
Cutting the 2-inch x 6-inch dimensional lumber at a 90-degree cross is as easy as cutting butter, and on 2-inch by 4-inch dimensional lumber at a 45-degree angle. As a beginner, if you want to try more, you can also make quick work of cutting on 1x4s, 2x4s, and 4x4s.
For an effortless bevel cut, the miter can be tilted left by more than 45 degrees. Additionally, the miter capacity makes it easy to cut at various angles.
Support, Safety, and Comfort
With this price point, its safety feature is really impressive. First, it is portable, and you can carry it and set it up at your convenient place. Next, the miter comes with a vertical clamp and a dust collection bag. Additionally, the sliding fence supports up to 4-1/4-inch from the base.
What we like about this product
- It is lightweight and portable
- This miter saw comes in fully assembled
- It can make both simple cuts and intricate cuts
- It can be mounted to a secure place
Weak points
- Bevel tilt only 0 degree- 3degree to the right
Verdict
At $ 226, Dewalt DWS713 can be an excellent option for the beginner. It nearly has every feature a miter saw ought to have and is perfectly suited to the interests of beginners.
6. Genesis GMS1015LC Compound Miter Saw
If you are a beginner and want to break the bank, the Genesis miter saw will surely do. This is one of the best compound miters saw for beginners. Because it’s easy to handle and can perfectly suit your needs. The most important reason to try it is that it costs only $150 and has every feature a miter saw ought to have
Motor Capacity
The 15-Amp motor in this miter saw has no trouble trimming your house or cutting baseboards. The blade rotates at 4,600 RPM, which completes the task quickly and results in smooth cutting.
Blade and Cutting Capacity
The blade is certainly impressive. We were able to cut the 5″ x 5″ dimension with ease. The arbor lock on the blade, made of high-speed steel, enables users to change the blade quickly.
Miter, Bevel Capacity, and Stops
We found it to be very accurate while making angle and bevel cuts. With 9 positive stops, cutting at a common angle is quite easy. The bevel and the miter can be set to a 45-degree angle for compound cuts.
Support, Safety, and Comfort
Before making your first cut, beginners should align the fence with the laser. It provides a built-in laser guide for precision and alignment. The dust collection bag, aluminum base, easy-to-use handle, and electric brakes ensure your safety and security.
What we like about this product
- Easy to assemble
- More accurate cutting with less guidance
- Only $150
- Portable and easy to control
Weak points
- Cutting larger pieces is a bit difficult since you can’t move the saw back or forward
Verdict
This miter saw is more useful when used for cutting smaller objects. Additionally, you can purchase this one if you want to make a low-cost purchase. Also, an integrated laser guide adds more value to this saw.
7. Makita LS1040 Miter Saw
Do you have a little workshop at home? You’re going to enjoy this product if the answer is yes. It is well-made, powerful, and considered the best miter saw for a small shop. All the credit goes to its manufacturer. Makita is a renowned manufacturer that offers valuable products all over the world.
Motor Capacity
Would you prefer to cut the tough lumber in one motion? The task can be completed without any problems by the Makita miter saw thanks to its 15 AMP motor, which can rotate the blade at 4,600 rpm. It is controlled by a soft start technology and has an effective mechanism to maintain speed.
Blade and Cutting Capacity
The 10 inches blade works perfectly fine. You can swap it out for a blade with more teeth if you want to. However, you risk that you might misplace the safety switch because it is detachable. Thankfully, Makita includes additional switches.
Miter, Bevel Capacity, and Stops
Despite having a maximum cutting length of 5-1/8″, I believe it to be a little longer. The miter range is 0 to 52 degrees to the right and 0 to 45 degrees to the left. The user can easily cut at common angles to the 9 positive stops.
Support, Safety, and Comfort
It has a fluorescent light that illuminates the workspace and improves comfort. Additionally, this miter saw weighs only 27 lbs, eliminating the concern of portability. The clear saw guard prevents accidental contact of your finger with the blade. Finally, the collection bag collects dust to clean the work area.
What we like about this product
- Lightweight and portable
- Beginner friendly
- The factory setup is good
- Easy to adjust
Weak points
- Removable Safety switches
8. Craftsman CMCS714M1 Sliding Miter Saw
Craftsman CMCS714M1 is the best miter saw for homeowners and is ideal for DIY projects. The reason lies in its compact design, excellent build quality, and complex task handling. However, let’s find out how it has secured a position in our top 10 list.
Motor Capacity
It uses battery power instead of corded power. Therefore, it makes sense that you might have concerns about its battery life, but in my opinion, the battery life is quite good. The blade is capable of handling multiple workpieces and rotates at 3800 rpm.
Blade and Cutting Capacity
This handy little saw comes with a 7-1/4″ inch diameter blade. There is no extra width created when it cuts. What’s more, it can penetrate to a depth of 8 inches at a 90-degree angle, which is a significant amount. It has a 5-1/2-inch cross cut at 45.
Miter, Bevel Capacity, and Stops
On 2x4s, it can be used to cut and trim. You could also try 4×4. I should point out that since the tool is battery-operated, cutting slowly will produce better results than cutting quickly. A precise compound cut is produced by using the bevel option and 9 positive points.
Support, Safety, and Comfort
Since it is lighter, moving it to a new location is not too challenging. Before cutting, check the fence and blade to see whether they are squire. The Led aid in cutting more accurately.
What we like about this product
- There is a side carry handle
- LED works great
- Only $250
- Extended battery life
Weak points
- Battery powered
Verdict
Overall, it’s a great little handy miter saw. It is battery-powered. That’s an important decision point about this miter saw.
9. Wen MM1011 15-Amp 10″ Single Bevel Compact Sliding Miter Saw
DIYers do not have to spend $500 on the miter saw. If you have a budget limit but are looking for a saw that perfectly meets your needs, consider this product without a second thought. It can make perfect cuts and can be used for quick builds.
Cutting Power
This comes with plenty of power and torque. I would say power for making cuts is more than sufficient. At 4500 RPM blade will slice through 2X hard workpieces without any difficulty.
Blade and Cutting Capacity
Once the laser shows the path, a 10-inch 40-Tooth carbide-tipped blade is ready to slice. You can adjust the cutting height. Use the sliding feature to cut through 1 x 4 pieces while lowering the blade. The blade has a maximum thickness of 3-1/2 inches and can be cut down to a depth of 12 inches.
Miter, Bevel Capacity, and Stops
The miter has 5 inches clearance and 12 inches horizontal cutting depth. It makes a perfect compound cut at 45 degrees at the bevel and miter. Beginners can try cutting at common angles and unique angles.
Nine positive stops are provided for cutting at typical angles, and a locking system enables the saw to be locked at any angle other than the nine positive angles.
Support, Safety, and Comfort
The leser is located left of the cut line, which is great for right-handed users but a little inconvenient for left-handed users. Clear saw guard prevents accidental contact of your finger with the blade. And the dust collection bag collects dust to keep the work area clean.
What we like about this product
- The sliding mechanism is pretty smooth
- Leser guide is accurate and helpful for the beginners
- Easy to assemble
- Excellent fence alignment
Weak points
- The dust bag does not collect all the dust
Verdict
It works best to redesign and remodel rather than do extensive work. For a beginner, the laser guide feature is quite helpful. The miter’s portability and affordability also perfectly suit beginners’ interests.
10. Metabo HPT 10-Inch Miter Saw
The Metabo portable miter saw is a nice product that fits your needs and budget. Both professionals and beginners can use it. The product is sturdy and includes a lengthy 5-year warranty.
Motor Capacity
This miter saw has a strong motor powered by a 15-amp that can easily finish DIY projects or some of the toughest cutting jobs. A fast-rotating blade will cut the pieces in really quick with a smooth finish.
Blade and Cutting Capacity
The blade on this little, compact saw is 10 inches long. It easily handles cutting 2x4s and 4x4s. At 90 degrees, it has a maximum cutting depth of 5-21/32 Inches. You can use this miter saw to cut PVC pipe as well.
Support, Safety, and Comfort
It has laser markers, which improve precision. Users can cut the crown molding vertically by raising the fence by 4 inches. The handle’s elastomer grip felt natural and simple to grasp as we touched it.
What we like about this product
- Onboard tool storage
- The Miter scale is pretty accurate
- Extended warranty
- Lightweight and portable
Weak points
- No Sliding mechanism
Miter Saw Tips for Beginners
Hopefully, you have chosen the miter saw that suits your needs. You should be aware of a few fundamental guidelines before you press the switch and turn it on. Here we have accumulated a few of them.
- Ensure your hands are in the right place and far away from the blade.
- Make a small line with a pencil on the wood when you are prepared to cut so you will know where to cut.
- When the cut is done, make sure the blade stops rotating completely before you lift the miter up.
- Sometimes there is sat buildup around the teeth; in this case, clean the blade’s teeth with a wire or brush.
- If you lack prior experience, read the manual first for the correct instructions.
- Put on a dust mask and safety glasses.
- Make sure to wear protective footwear and hearing protection if necessary.
Final Words
Hopefully, you can successfully choose the best beginner miter saw for your small shop or DIYers projects. All the products we reviewed are suitable for beginners and can effectively meet your needs.
However, we have a few suggestions. While selecting the saw, think about the intended use. If you have a tight budget, go with the option that offers comprehensive features but is less expensive. Metabo HPT 10-Inch Miter Saw can be an option.
Try the Dewalt (DWS715) 12-Inch Miter Saw if you prefer something a little more robust. Additionally, if portability is important to you and you frequently switch workplaces, choose the Skil MS6305 10″ Dual Bevel Sliding Miter Saw.
Therefore, make informed decisions to prevent costly errors.
Here’s all about our editorial staff. We have a team of 5 expert editors specializing in all kinds of tools. From their years of experience, they provide all kinds of solutions related to your tools. Our experts always try to find the most unsolvable tool-related issues and provide the most effective solutions. Also, we research the market and provide reviews on the best available tools after vigorous testing.
