When you need to make angled cuts, a compound miter saw is your best option. In most cases, it’s used to cut fence posts, door frames, picture frames, and similar items. However, there are many different types of miter saws. DeWalt alone has four models. Although they seem similar, they’re actually quite different in almost every aspect — pricing, weight, material, etc.
In the following text, I’ll present and compare four different miter saws offered by DeWalt.
1. DeWalt WS709
The DeWalt WS709 is a feature-packed sliding compound miter saw. Thanks to its sliding system, it can handle wide boards with ease. Additionally, this model can achieve multi-angle cutting, which allows you to cut the tough crown molding pieces.
Construction
The WS709 has a lightweight, yet sturdy frame. Its motor is mounted above the back of the blade, which allows for excellent vertical cutting. You can cut up to 2×14” of lumber at a 90° angle, and up to 2×10” of lumber at 45°. Also, it sits on steel rails that contain linear ball bearings to ensure cutting precision.
Blade and Cutting Power
The WS709 comes with a 15A high-power electric motor, which goes up to 3800RPM. You can cut hardwood using the WS709 and easily maintain a clean cut. The blade itself can tilt 49° to either left or right. Thanks to this feature, you can make bevel cuts without having to flip the board between cuts, saving you both time and effort. In addition, the miter detent plate has 13 positions, which ensures optimal accuracy.
Safety and Additional Features
The WS709 comes with an included dust bag, blade wrench, and material clamp. Even though the sliding mechanism is secure, you have to use a knob to lock the miter. Unfortunately, a lever would have been a better choice here. Also, this model doesn’t come with a laser guide.
2. DeWalt DW716
The DeWalt DW716 is a compact compound miter saw with double-bevel capabilities. Even though it lacks the sliding ability of the other models, it works great for smaller boards and more precise cutting.
Construction
DW716 is a sturdy, high-quality machine. It’s surprisingly small and lightweight for its power. But despite its size, the DW716 has excellent cross-cutting abilities. It can cut through an 8” board in a single pass. Unfortunately, you can only cut 2×10” of lumber at 90°, and up to 2×8” of lumber at 45°. Still, thanks to its double-bevel ability, you can tilt it at 0°, 33.9°, 45°, and 48° on either side. And being that it weighs only 44 lbs, it’s easy to transport.
Blade and Cutting Power
The DW716 features the same 15A motor and 12” blade as all the other saws on this list. However, its RPM limit is at 3600, which is lower than its counterparts. On the other hand, it has a miter detent override that allows you to adjust the miter stops however you want. This feature might turn out to be extremely valuable when it comes to custom woodworking.
Safety and Additional Features
As far as safety is concerned, this model comes with only a dust bag. However, it does feature a locking lever, as well as a carry handle for optimal portability.
3. DeWalt DWS779
The DeWalt DWS779 is the second most popular product in the company’s miter saw line, right after the DWS780. However, most people don’t need the advanced features of the DWS780, so they opt for DWS779, as it’s also much cheaper.
Construction
The DWS779 features the same design as the previous models. However, it does look bulkier, and it has a few additional features. The DWS779 is large, but that allows it to cut 2×16” of lumber at 90°, and up to 2×12” of lumber at 45°. Additionally, it can support up to 7.5” of nested crown molding.
Blade and Cutting Power
One of the biggest differences between the DWS779 and DWS780 is the blade material. The DWS779 comes with a stainless steel 12” blade, which should work fine for most applications. However, it does not leave as smooth a finish as the carbide blade used for DWS780.
Safety and Additional Features
The DWS779 comes with significant feature upgrades. For starters, it comes with a new dust vacuum system, guaranteed to eliminate at least 75% of the residue. Additionally, you can enjoy the benefits of an integrated laser guidance system, which makes precise cutting easier than ever.
4. DeWalt DWS780
The DeWalt DWS780 is by far the most popular model in the DeWalt miter saw range. Even though its price is somewhat outrageous, you can rest assured that no corners were cut in the making of this model.
Construction
The DWS780 has a similar construction to DWS779’s. However, while the DW779 features a laser guidance system, the DW780 has a brand new XPS alignment system, which we’ll get to in a bit.
Blade and Cutting Power
The DeWalt DWS780 comes with a standard 15A 3800RPM motor which is connected to a carbide steel blade. Unlike the stainless steel blade used on the DWS779, a carbide steel blade leaves a smooth finish, topped with sharp edges.
Safety and Additional Features
In addition to the new dust vacuum system we’ve already seen on the DWS779, the DWS780 also has an XPS crosscut alignment system. This new system uses an extremely strong LED to cast a shadow of the blade on your wood, ensuring precise cuts every time. In contrast to the laser system on the DWS779, you don’t have to realign the setup each time you change the blade.
Conclusion
So, which DeWalt saw should you buy? Well, it depends on your workplace needs. If you need a basic miter saw for DIY projects, you should go with the DWS709. It has more features than you’ll ever need, but it is reasonably priced.
However, if you’re a professional and you need a serious tool for your business, I recommend the DWS779. It has awesome features, but it doesn’t cost as much as the DWS780.
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