
Tools of the Trade editor Chris Ermides has tested the capabilities of eight 10-inch sliding dual-bevel compound miter saws from seven major manufacturers, in order to determine the performance and overall value of each saw.
The miter saws tested are the highest-end models from each manufacturer, including the Bosch CM10GD, the Hitachi C10FSHC and C10FSHPS, the Makita LS1019L, the Delta “Cruzer” Model 26-2240, the Festool Kapex, the Ridgid R4210, and the Dewalt DW717. Each saw was tested for its ergonomics, ease of use, raw power and accuracy, cut quality and capacity, dust collection, table and fence alignments, ease of recalibration, blade wobble, and bevel detent setting accuracy.
The Ridgid was noted as the Best Value, and the Dewalt as the Best Overall.
To pick the winner, I factored in the saw’s performance in testing, its overall features, ergonomics, and ease of use, as well as the saw’s price: Does the saw provide good value? With those factors in mind, the DeWalt DW717 won top honors. It was a solid performer, was consistent and easy to adjust and maintain, was built with professional remodeling contractors and trim carpenters in mind, and at $500, is fairly priced. A close second was the Makita LS1019L. Had it performed better on the slide accuracy and not been banged up due to poor packaging, it would have tied with the DeWalt.
Best value goes to the new Ridgid R4210. At $350, it’s packed with features and performed very well. While it’s 4 pounds lighter than the DeWalt, its footprint is large, so it’s not a great option for a small shop. But it’s a strong performer for the money.
Click below to review each saw’s results in detail: