Last Updated on June 15, 2023 by Georgie Smith
To get the perfect woodwork, you must make sure that you have adequate tools, including a miter saw. However, there are many options on the market. How do you make sure that you are choosing the right one? You know you want quality, but, is “quality” in your budget?
It is a struggle to have a project to do, and you find the tools you have are either not adequate or ragged. That makes anyone’s day miserable, right? Here is where we step in to help you with everything you need to know about both, the 10 inch and 12-inch miter saws.
This article ensures that you get everything right. Apart from size, what other advantage does one have that the other lacks? Stick around, and you will find out interesting things about both so that you are guaranteed to choose the best one for your project and wallet.
Which Fits Your Awesome DIY Projects?
| 10 Inch Saw | 12 Inch Saw |
|---|---|
| These Cost Less | Quite Expensive |
| Has Faster Speed Ability | Slower Because the Blade is Large |
| Blade Quality | Great for More Significant Projects |
Here is an Explanation of the Differences:
One of the most critical questions that people ask when they want to do some DIY projects is what size is the wisest addition. Because everyone has different needs, there really is no one-size-fits-all project or tools.
While there are 7.5 inches, 8.5 Inch or 15-inch miter saws, the 10-inch and 12-inch miter saws are the most popular. Here are a few things that people love about these two types of tools.
The 10-inch Saws
These are the default choices for people who start out in woodworking. Here are some of its pros and cons.
What We Love:
The price
Like with any other tool you will buy, you need to look at cost. The 10-inch saw cost less so you will save more right off the bat if you opt to buy it. This option is excellent for people who need to buy a great tool but have to work on a tight budget.
Speed
Do you regularly need to get your job done fast? If this is the scenario, you should consider the 10-inch miter saw. Its blades have a small radius and thus spins quicker to ensure you get an accurate and smooth cut. You do not just get your job done faster; you get an excellent outcome thanks to a 10-inch saw that provides superior cuts.
The Blade
Comparing the two blades of similar quality, you will only pay half the amount of money you will pay for a heavier blade with the same number of teeth. It is crucial to ensure that the tips are sharp. If you are a serious woodworker, you want a blade that will be cheaper and easy to sharpen. The 10 inch, once again, saves you both time and money both in short and long terms.
Other than the price issue, it is easier to find 10-inch blades, and you will get numerous options. If you have to, you can ever get a blade from your table saw. When it comes to cutting, the fewer the teeth, the more precision and the better the cuts.
Deflection and Wobble
Some people say that larger blades will deflect more while working and thus causing wobbling which causes inaccuracies. This fact is also true if you use a low-cost, flimsy 12-inch saw.
If you are doing framing and demanding interior trim jobs, a 10-inch saw is excellent because it will give you more accuracy.
Flexible and Portable
The best part about the 10-inch saw is that it allows you to work at both your workshop and other job sites. This saw is also great for people who have storage issues as they are small and compact which make storing simple.
What Is Not Favorable:
There is always an advantage and disadvantage with each product. Here are some features that you will not like about the miter saw:
The Cutting Capacity
The main drawback to buying a 10-inch miter saw is that it has a small cutting capacity as compared to the 12-inch saw. While you can comfortably cut 6 inches of material at a time, this is nowhere near what a 12-inch one can do. If you want to cut 4X4 pieces, this will be an issue. However, if you’re going to cut more ambitiously, you may find it tiresome to work with a smaller tool. [1]
The 12-inch Miter Saw
This device is excellent for people who want a robust miter saw. This section highlights the benefits and demerits of a 12-inch miter saw to help you make the right choice when making worthwhile investments.
Power
Most of these devices use a 15-amp motor. Some people put a 10-inch blade in a 12-inch saw to ensure that they will get higher velocity and uprated amperage which is a double win. While it is not the case with all the 12-inch tools, it is relatively common. Not only do you get high RPM but you also get more exceptional cuts and finesse.
Larger Projects
The power along with the size ensures that you will work confidently and will have larger workpieces. Most 12 inch saws will slice their way through the pieces that are 12 inches wide ensuring that you have a broad scope of work.
The devices are great for tough materials like plywood to make sure that they are cutting down laminated lumber in smaller bots. Understand that you must get multiple cuts for the large workpieces, it is a great tool, but, you should never push a tool past its limits.
Durability
When it comes to a tool that you can rely on for years, this is the tool you need. It has a rugged and excellent size naturally translates to a more durable unit. You, however, need to ensure that the price to quality ratio works.
What is Not Favorable
The Cost
The 12-inch saw is costlier because of its size and improved functionality. The throw-in blades are stiffer, and the saw itself is bulkier in size.
Blade
As mentioned, these blades are also expensive and harder to find. Sometimes, you may not get the range that you want either.
Is Bigger Always Better?
First, you must understand what size means. Size here indicates the diameter of the blade mounted on the saw. The size of the blade dictates the width of the board that it can cut. The larger the blade, the wider the cuts.
When it comes to selecting a saw, you always want to look for one that will do your entire project easily. When choosing between a 12 inch and a 10 inch saw, the big question is, is bigger always better? The answer is no. Bigger is not always better unless you are working on hardwoods. It is also better if you are making significant cuts.
However, when it comes to versatility, affordability, and speed, you are better off with a smaller saw.
According to physics, the smaller the surface area, the more the pressure. Therefore smaller blades have more surface area and allow you to make precise cuts easily.
Top 3 Best 10 Inch Miter Saws on the Market
See Also:
| Picture | Product Name | Features |
|---|---|---|
 |
DEWALT DW713 | – High power motor operation – Highly portable table saw – Stainless steel plate material – Adjustable blade levels |
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Hitachi C10FCE2 | – Ideal for both side angle cuts – Elastomer handle design for comfort and controls – 15 Amp motor operation – Easy adjustments |
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Hitachi C10FCG | – Precise and accurate cutting – Durable construction – High-speed dust collector – High range angle cuts |
DEWALT DW713 15 Amp 10-Inch Compound Miter Saw
Want to feel excellence in your work while in the comfort of your workshop? Then introduce this DEWALT DW 713 10” compound miter saw. It is lightweight, which guarantees you that you can take the saw with your job site.
Also, it allows you the freedom of working even in the most challenging circumstances. The 10” blade will ensure you attain smooth, accurate cuts even on tight angles. This saw is ideal for a range of miter cutting and crosscutting applications.
It is designed using top quality stainless steel material, which is durable and resistant to weather conditions. The saw also has an easy to adjust cam lock handle for convenience of use. Additionally, the table has tall fencing to ensure your hands and fingers are safe from any possible injuries. It operates in high power and has a fast running motor to ensure you save your time.
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Hitachi C10FCGS15-Amp 10-inch Single Bevel Compound Miter Saw
Hitachi has been in the saw manufacturing industry for quite some time. That guarantees that they offer customer satisfaction in all their products. With this 10” single bevel compound miter saw, you are sure of easy cuts through a variety of different materials.
The blade has a durable and robust construction style to ensure it lasts longer and gives you the same quality results with every use.
Additionally, it comes with a 5-year warranty to ensure you have the confidence of everyday use. This miter saw features an elastomer grip handle design, which guarantees that it will remain in position for precision in every cut. The saw also has a convenient dust collection bag to keep your work area clean and safe for your health.
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Hitachi C10FCH2S 15-Amp 10″ Single Bevel Compound Miter Saw
If you have been having trouble traveling to different job sites due to heavy tools, then here is a solution for you. This compound miter saw from Hitachi has a lightweight design from materials for easy transportation. It gives you a bevel-cutting range from 0-45 degrees. Therefore, you can rest assured that you can use this saw for clean, accurate, and smooth cuts.
If you are an enthusiast about precision and versatility in your work, this miter saw is all you need in your arsenal. It operates with high speed to ensure that you spend little time but achieve excellent results. Additionally, the material is durable and will provide you with years of excellent service.
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Top 3 Best 12-Inch Miter Saws on the Market
| Picture | Product Name | Features |
|---|---|---|
 |
DEWALT DWS716XPS | – 3-year limited warranty – Powerful 15 Amp 3,800 Rpm motor – Super efficient dust collection – Exclusive back fence design |
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DEWALT DWS716X | – Highly portable – Convenient handle system – Ideal for angle cutting – 90-day money-back guarantee – Durable material construction |
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Bosch GCM12SD | – Easy-to-read stainless steel miter scale – Adjustable blade levels – Compact, durable construction |
DEWALT DWS716XPS 12″ Sliding Compound Miter Saw
It is possible to experience excellence in your work with just a simple cutting tool. This tool is exactly what you get if you invest in this DEWALT 12” sliding compound miter saw. It has a unique design that guarantees you stability, durability, and reliability of the tool. With this saw, you will enjoy a cutline positioning system on the blade for smooth cuts without adjusting the edge.
Additionally, it features dual horizontal steel rails to ensure the blade remains in place even when cutting through angles. For the sake of customer satisfaction, DEWALT covers this miter saw with a 3-year limited warranty against mechanical and material defects.
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DEWALT DWS716 12-Inch Double Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw
This Double Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw is what you need to take your cutting job to the next level. It operates with a high-power motor to ensure you can handle massive cuts within a short period. The miter saw gives you hassle-free reductions through angles on either side.
This saw has a carbide blade design, which is strong and will ensure to offer you precise and accurate cuts through any material. It also features a dust collection bag to ensure your working area is clean and safe. Additionally, it has a 3-year limited warranty against material and structural defects. (pdf manual)
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Bosch 120-Volt 12-Inch Dual-Bevel Glide Miter Saw GCM12SD
There is more to look for while shopping for a tool to improve your workshop and give precision to your work. Handle design and blade type are among the key features to consider before settling for a particular miter saw.
With this Bosch Dual-Bevel Glide Miter Saw, you are sure of not only getting a quality product but also excellence in your work. It features a pre-aligned square lock fence design, which keeps the blade in place for accuracy in all your work throughout its lifetime.
The handle is ergonomic with soft ambidextrous grip, which guarantees the users comfort while working. Additionally, it has a combination of a dust chute to ensure your working environment is conducive and accommodative.
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How to Choose the Right One?
The price of the saws will vary depending on the brand, the features and the quality of the products you buy. If you do not select the right miter saw, you will have problems when you have to make cuts. Here are a few of the things you need to consider when shopping:
The Diameter
Each miter saw has a specific miter saw blade that it can fit. The base width will cause issues and will not allow you to get the great cuts you want. This reason is why it is critical for you to always check the user manual for your saw when buying a blade. In most cases, if you have a 12-inch miter saw, you will not be able to use any other-sized saw.
The Intended Purpose
You must consider the meaning of the tool before making a purchase. This fact means that the blade you buy must make be able to work with the materials you use frequently. Most manufacturers make the items and use different configurations to ensure that they can work appropriately.
Of course, if you work with a wide range of materials, you have the freedom to buy more than just one type. It is better than relying on the same blade for different workloads and just hoping that it will work as it should.
The Blade Specifications
Various specifications come with the blade type. Some blades are convenient for different kinds of saws and others are strictly for just one kind of saw. For the best miter saw blades, there are two critical features to think about:
The Tooth Count
These matters because it determines whether the edge will be effective at cutting or not. For smoother cuts, go with a tool that has many teeth. If you usually cut thick materials, go for one that has fewer teeth. Remember that the bigger the saw, the more the teeth. This reason is why 12-inch blades cannot be used to cut plastic because the friction therein will cause it to melt.
The Design of the Teeth
You also need to think about the design of the blade. These designs include:
- Triple chip grind
- Flat top gringo
- ATB w/Raker
- Alternating top alternating face
- High or steep alternating top bevel
These get based on the shape of the teeth. Simpler designs are great for simple jobs, but they are not great for professionals who need perfection.
How Wide Can a Miter Saw Cut?
If you are using a 10-inch blade, you will be able to deliver right angled cuts that are about 5.5 inches wide. This cut should be sufficient for a 6X2 lumber. A 10-inch saw can also cut a 2X4 lumber if placed at a 45 degrees angle. It can also comfortably cut plywood or lumber that is 1.25 inches thick.
A 12-inch miter saw is great for professionals. It is useful for broader and thicker cuts. If you have a cut that is at least 6 inches, this one will do a better job. However, it can cut a maximum of 7.5 inches which is great for a 2X8 lumber. It can also achieve a maximum of 3.5 inches thickness which is perfect for a 4X4 piece of lumber.
Can You use a 10-inch Blade on a 12-inch Miter Saw?
Yes, you can comfortably use a 10-inch blade on a 12-inch saw. It will allow you to make powerful cuts faster and more precisely.
Can a 10” Miter Saw Cut a 4×4 Lumber?
The truth is, a 12-inch saw can cut 3.5-inch thick lumber which is perfect for a 4X4. It will be a comfortable and convenient cut. However, if you do not have that device, it does not mean that you will not achieve the cut. All you have to do is use a square and mark all four sides of the 4X4 pole.
Once that gets done, place the wood at a straight angle concerning the blade. Ensure that they tightly lock to keep everything in place. Here, the edge will go about 2.5 inches deep, and in just three cuts, the piece will come apart.
It may not be the right way to “do business,” but it gets the job done for people who need to make these cuts occasionally.
Can a 12” Miter Saw Cut a 6×6 Lumber?
No, a 12-inch blade cannot easily make a 6X6 lumber cut.
How to use 10 inch and 12-inch Miter Saws?
10-inch saws
- Use it to make perpendicular cuts which mean 45 degrees both clockwise and anticlockwise
- Use clamps to hold smaller pieces
- If you need to join a couple of pieces let the stocks end behalf the joint’s angle
12 inch saw
- It will not bog down if you want to force specific materials over the 12-inch blade
- 12 inch saws are great for ripping a piece of laminated lumber up to 2 inches thick
FAQs:
Q: What do you do if the blade gets stuck at 42 degrees?
A: Make sure you have set the angles correctly. These will adjust the base of the tilt.
Q: Can you cut metal with these types of saws?
A: Yes, but make sure you have changed the blades.
Q: Can you make a dado?
A: Yes, screw the adjustment style and use a clamp.
Conclusion
Unless you need to do jobs that specialize in one type of miter saw, it is always best to go with one that offers quality at a price you can afford. When shopping, make sure that you compare amperage, warranties, and reviews to ensure that you find one that will be suitable for your needs.
If you go for a 12-inch saw, make sure that it is compatible with both a 10-inch and a 12-inch blade. This method will save you time and money. A job is only as good as the tools you have to work with, in this case, miter saws.
With this guide, we aim to educate consumers on products so that people like you can get the best tool for the best price. While you are here, tell us what you thought about this article on the 10-inch vs. 12-inch Miter Saw. Also, share it on social media and make it easier for people to find the most suitable tool for them.
