The 5 Best Cordless Mitre Saws of 2023 | Ranked & Reviewed. Cordless mitre saw Bosch
The 5 Best Cordless Mitre Saws of 2023 | Ranked Reviewed
The cordless mitre saw is a godsend for anyone who loves DIY but hates being tethered to an electrical outlet. These versatile and powerful tools make short work of even the most challenging cuts and are much easier to transport than their corded counterparts.
With a battery-powered saw, you can take your projects just about anywhere – from the driveway to the backyard to the middle of the woods. And because there’s no cord to get tangled up, you can FOCUS on your work instead of worrying about tripping over a power cord or looking for a power outlet.
Considering all of the above, it’s no wonder that cordless mitre saws are becoming increasingly popular with woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts alike. However, if you’re on the hunt for the best battery-powered mitre saw for your next project, we know how overwhelming and confusing the search can be.
There are so many brands, models, and features to choose from, and it’s hard to know where to start. That’s why we’ve done the legwork for you, and compiled a list of the five best cordless mitre saws on the market today.
The 5 Best Cordless Mitre Saws (Comparison Table)
Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links where I may receive a small commission at no cost to you if you decide to make a purchase.
What is the Best Cordless Mitre Saw? Our Top Picks
Miter saws come in two basic varieties: wired and cordless. Both types have their advantages and disadvantages, so it’s essential to choose the right one for your needs.
Corded mitre saws are powerful and reliable, but they’re also tethered to an electrical outlet, which can be a real pain if you’re working in a tight space or outdoors.
Cordless mitre saws, on the other hand, are much more portable and convenient, but they’re also typically less powerful than their wired counterparts.
Since it’s hard to compare both types since they have such different strengths, we’ve decided to FOCUS on cordless mitre saws for this article. That way, you can make a more informed decision about which type of saw is right for your needs.
Makita Mitre Saw XSL02Z
- Powerful BL Motor delivers 5,700 RPM for fast cutting
- Weighs only 28.2 lbs. with battery (battery not included) for easy portability
- Large dimensional lumber cutting capacity: 2″ x 12″ at 90Degree and 2″ x 8″ at 45Degree
- 4-Steel Rail Sliding System increases rigidity to produce superior cuts
- 5,700 RPM for fast cutting, automatic speed change adjusts cutting speed and torque
We’ve tried and compared dozens of cordless mitre saws, and our top pick is the Makita XSL02Z. The powerful 18-volt Lithium-Ion battery provides plenty of power for even the most challenging cuts, and the saw’s compact design makes it easy to transport and store.
Weighing a little bit under 30 lbs., the XSL02Z is one of the lightest cordless mitre saws on the market. This allows you to carry it around the jobsite without breaking your back, and it’s easy to throw in the trunk of your car for quick trips to the hardware store.
The saw is also very well-balanced, thanks to its ergonomic handle. This makes it comfortable to use for extended periods of time and helps reduce fatigue.
In terms of cutting power, the XSL02Z doesn’t disappoint. The 5,700 RPM motor is more than capable of handling even the toughest cuts, and the saw has a large diameter cutting capacity that allows you to cut boards that are 12 x 2″ in terms of size.
DeWALT Cordless Mitre Saw DCS361M1
- DeWALT 20V miter saw utilizes 20V Max battery pack (DCB204) which provides on average 183 cuts of 2×4 Pine or 275 cuts of 3-1/4 pine baseboard
- Integrated cut line cross-cut positioning system provides adjustment-free cut line indication for better accuracy and visibility for the mitre saw
- DeWALT miter saw has the capacity to cup 3 5/8-inch nested crown and 3 1/2 base vertically
- Adjustable stainless steel miter detent plate with 11 positive stops improves productivity and ensures cutting accuracy,
- Oversized bevel scale makes bevel angle adjustments accurate and easy
This cordless mitre saw is perfect for precision woodworking. It utilizes a brushless motor for more power and longer life, perfectly partnered with a cross-cut positioning system. This means that you don’t have to worry about adjusting the line of sight, as it is already set for you.
We know how difficult it can be to cut crown molding and baseboards, so we were pleased to see that this model can handle those with ease. Additionally, adjusting bevel angles are a breeze with this saw thanks to its oversized bevel scale. Not only does it make the task easier, but it also increases accuracy levels at the same time.
In terms of battery life and power, this machine can cut about 183 2×4 pine baseboards on average. Talk about efficiency! And because it is on the lighter side, weighing in at only 31.6 lbs, it won’t be a burden to carry from one job site to the next.
Bosch GCM18V Miter Saw
- Portable, powerful 18V miter saw design – a truly mobile jobsite solution, This saw provides light weight and Pro capacity
- Pro capacity – delivers 3-5/8 In. nested crown cutting, with 47° left to 47° right cuts against fence and 10-5/8 In. crosscuts
- Convenient portability – weighs only 31.5 Lbs. (tool only, not including battery)
- Accurate laser guide system – precisely aligns the cut line to the blade
What makes the Bosch GCM18V stand out from the competition is its remarkable 10⅝-inch cross-cut. With this feature, you’ll be able to cut through thicker lumber with ease.
Additionally, with an 18-volt battery, you’d expect this machine to be quite powerful, and it doesn’t disappoint. Unfortunately, despite being cordless, it weighs a little bit on the heavier side. While it’s still portable and can be taken from one job site to the next, it might be a bit challenging for some users to lug around.
Another thing that we don’t like much about this machine is that the charger and battery is purchased separately. This might be a bummer especially if you don’t have any other Bosch tools that use the same battery. However, if you do have other Bosch tools, then this might not be an issue for you.
DeWALT DCS361B Miter Saw
- Integrated cut line cross-cut positioning system provides adjustment-free cut line indication for better accuracy and visibility
- Capacity to cup 3 5/8 in. nested crown and 3 1/2 in. base vertically
- Adjustable stainless steel miter detent plate with 11 positive stops improves productivity and ensures cutting accuracy
- Oversized bevel scale makes bevel angle adjustments accurate and easy
- Compact, lightweight design (30 lbs.) allows for easy transport and storage
The DeWALT DCS361B is the perfect choice for anyone looking for an easy-to-use and accurate cordless miter saw. Featuring an integrated cut line cross-cut positioning system and adjustable stainless-steel miter detent plate with 11 stops, getting the perfect cut every single time won’t be a problem.
With an 8″ cut capacity, you can work on larger pieces of wood with this machine. At less than 30 pounds, it’s also lightweight and practically easy to take with you wherever you go. Similar to the Bosch GCM18V, the DCS361B’s charger and battery are also sold separately, which can be a drawback if you don’t own other DeWALT tools.
Despite this drawback, this hefty little machine brings the value for your money. Not only is it packed with features that make cutting a whole lot easier, but it’s also built to last.
Pros:
- Integrated cut line cross-cut positioning system for accuracy
- Adjustable stainless-steel miter detent plate with 11 stops
- Lightweight and portable
- 8″-cut capacity
Makita Cordless Miter XSL05Z
- Weighs only 14.6 lbs. With battery (battery not included) for easy portability
- Automatic speed change technology adjusts cutting speed and torque during cut for optimum performance
- 18V LXT Lithium-Ion battery delivers the power and performance of a corded miter saw without leaving the 18V LXT platform (battery not included)
- Lxt technology delivers up to 270 cuts per charge in 1/2″ x 3-1/2″ baseboard using one 6.0Ah battery (battery not included)
- The BL Brushless motor eliminates carbon brushes, enabling the BL motor to run cooler and more efficiently for longer life
The Makita Cordless Miter Saw XSL05Z is a lightweight saw that is easily carried and uses a rechargeable 18-volt lithium-ion battery. The engine is brushless, so you get more cuts per charge, and this model delivers 270 cuts before you will need to plug it in. You no longer have to worry about changing the speed settings manually, thanks to its electronic speed control that automatically adjusts the blade speed according to the load.
An aluminum base helps make the saw more stable while an electric brake promotes safety.
At 15 pounds, this is by far one of the lightest miter saws out there. Unfortunately, being lightweight also has a price to pay. It can only cut 2 inches every time, and you might have some issues when you’re cutting denser lumber.
Pros:
- Lightweight and portable
- Brushless motor for more power and longer life
- Automatic speed change technology conserves energy
- Electric brake for safety
Things to Consider Before Buying A Cordless Mitre Saw
Despite their portability, cordless mitre saws still pack a lot of power. With that said, there are still a few things you need to take into consideration before purchasing one. Although we’ve made some recommendations, we understand if you still want to do your own research. To help you out, here are some factors you need to keep in mind:
Battery Life / Type of Battery
When it comes to cordless tools, battery life is always an important factor to consider. After all, what’s the point of having a cordless tool if the battery dies too quickly? For mitre saws, we recommend going for a machine that uses lithium-ion batteries. Not only do they have a longer lifespan, but they also tend to pack more power.
Of course, you also need to take into account the battery life itself. For most cordless mitre saws, you’ll be able to get around 50 to 200 cuts before needing to recharge. If you plan on using the saw for extended periods of time, then we recommend going for a model with longer battery life.
Blade Size and Cutting Capacity
Depending on the project you’re working on, the blade size and cutting capacity of the saw might be a dealbreaker. If you’re only going to be working on smaller pieces of wood, then a saw with a small blade size will do just fine. However, if you plan on tackling larger projects, then you might need to invest in a saw with a larger blade.
As for the cutting capacity, this is more of a personal preference. Some users might be fine with a saw that can only make 2-inch cuts, while others might need something that can handle larger pieces of wood. It really all comes down to what you plan on using the saw for.
Speed and Cutting Power
When it comes to mitre saws, speed and cutting power are directly related. The faster the blade can spin, the more powerful the cut will be. Of course, this also means that the battery will drain a lot quicker. If you’re only going to be making a few cuts, then speed might not be a big deal.
However, if you plan on using the saw for extended periods of time, then we recommend going for a model with adjustable speed settings.
This way, you can extend the battery life by dialing down the speed when you don’t need as much power.
Safety Features
When dealing with any kind of power tool, safety should always be a top priority. After all, you don’t want to end up in the hospital because you weren’t being careful. With that said, there are a few safety features you should look for in a mitre saw.
On top of our list, an electric brake is a must-have. This is one of the features that can help prevent accidents by stopping the blade quickly. Although it’s not safe to use this equipment with kids around the house, this particular feature can help reduce the risk of injury.
Another safety feature to look for is a blade guard. This will cover the blade when it’s not in use, preventing any accidents.
Finally, we also recommend going for a saw with an integrated dust collection system. This will help to keep your workspace clean and free of debris, making it a safer environment to work in.
Price
As with any tool, the price is always going to be a factor when choosing a mitre saw. Of course, you don’t want to spend more than you have to. However, you also don’t want to end up with a saw that doesn’t have the features you need.
Weight and Portability
One of the probable reasons why you’d want a cordless mitre saw is for the portability factor. After all, it’s a lot easier to move around a saw that doesn’t have a power cord attached to it. With that said, you also need to take into account the weight of the saw.
Ideally, you want something that’s light enough to carry around, without compromising on features or quality.
Customer Service and Aftersales Support
Finally, you also want to make sure that the company you’re buying from has good customer service. This is important because you never know when you might need to get in touch with them. Whether it’s for a warranty claim or just general questions about the saw, you want to make sure that they’re easy to get in touch with.
Warranty
Believe it or not, this one is one of the most overlooked factors when choosing a mitre saw. Ideally, you want a saw that comes with a good warranty. This way, you know that the company is confident in their product and is willing to stand behind it.
Customer Reviews
As far as we’re concerned, customer reviews are always going to be the best indicator of quality. After all, these are people who have actually used the saw and can give you first-hand accounts of their experiences.
Of course, you should take everything you read with a grain of salt. Some people are just never happy, no matter what they buy. Carefully read through the reviews and see if there’s a general consensus. If most people are happy with the saw, then chances are you will be too.
You may also want to take into account some of the negative reviews. These people have very specific complaints that you might be able to work around. For example, if someone says that the saw is too heavy, but you don’t mind the weight, then their complaint shouldn’t be a dealbreaker.
What is the Best Makita Cordless Mitre Saw?
Makita has been making tools for years, so it’s no surprise that they make some of the best cordless mitre saws on the market. The Makita XSL02Z is our top pick, that’s because of its portability and lightweight design. However, if you’re looking for something with more power and can cut larger pieces of wood, then we recommend you go with the XSL02Z.
What is the Best DeWALT Cordless Mitre Saw?
DeWALT is another great option when it comes to cordless mitre saws. Our top pick from them would have to be the DeWALT DCS361B. This saw has plenty of power and can make precise cuts. It’s also fairly lightweight and portable, and might pass off as a budget option. This is also an excellent choice if you already have some DeWALT tools as you won’t have to worry about buying new batteries and/or charger.
What is the Best Bosch Cordless Miter Saw?
If you’re looking for a cordless mitre saw from Bosch, then we recommend going with the Bosch GCM18V. Although it’s not as powerful as some of the other saws on this list, it’s still more than capable of getting the job done. It’s also one of the lightest and most portable options, making it a great choice for those who have to move around a lot.
The 5 Best Cordless Mitre Saws: Final Verdict
Different uses call for different tools. If you only need to make occasional cuts, a budget model might suffice. Always look into the reviews to see if there are any glaring issues. If you need a saw for more regular use, then spending a little extra on a high-quality model is worth it. If portability plays a crucial role, then go for a lighter model, but you may have to sacrifice some power.
At the end of the day, the right miter saw for you and your needs fairly depends on what you’ll be using it for most. Carefully consider all of your options before making a decision. It might take some time, but it’ll be worth it in the end when you have the perfect saw for your needs.
Miter saws are must-have tools for DIYers and pros alike. Check out our comprehensive guide and hands-on tool reviews so you can choose the best one for your workshop.
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Today’s miter saws are a significant improvement over the manual miter boxes of the 1960s. For anyone who does any type of carpentry work, a miter saw is usually a necessity to get work done on time. Mitering is the process of fitting two boards together at an angle. With trim work requiring so many of these cuts, miter saws are also sometimes called “trim saws” but are also invaluable for making other types of crosscuts as well, such as end cuts on hardwood flooring strips or angle cuts on roof rafters.
Selecting the best miter saw depends on the type of projects you are planning on doing. Keep reading to learn more about this essential woodworking tool and what we found when we performed hands-on testing with the following models.
- BEST OVERALL:Bosch Power Tools Corded Dual-Bevel Sliding Miter Saw
- RUNNER-UP:DeWALT 12-Inch Sliding Compound Miter Saw
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK:DeWALT 12-Inch Miter Saw 15-Amp Single Bevel
- BEST COMPACT:CRAFTSMAN V20 7-1/4-Inch Sliding Miter Saw Kit
- BEST FOR WOODWORKING:Makita LSO815F Slide Compound Miter Saw
- BEST ZERO-CLEARANCE:Makita 10″ Dual-Bevel Sliding Miter Saw with Laser
- ALSO CONSIDER:Metabo HPT 12-Inch Compound Miter Saw, Laser
Types of Miter Saws
All miter saws feature a circular blade encased in a swing arm that pivots from side to side to make crosscuts on narrow strips of wood (5 to 18 inches wide, depending on the saw). However, one saw doesn’t fit all types of projects, so individual woodworking needs will determine which saw is right. Depending on quality and features, miter saws can start at around 175 and run up to 1,000 or more. The following are the most common types of miter saws.
- Standard miter saw: This simplest of all miter saws is sometimes called a “chop saw” because the swing arm pivots to the appropriate angle and then chops through the material. These simple power miter saws only make miter cuts, so they’re not as popular as some other types of saws.
- Single bevel compound miter saw: In addition to cutting angles, the swing arm on a single bevel compound miter saw tilts in one direction (typically to the left) to cut a beveled and mitered cut. This comes in handy for tasks such as installing crown molding or certain types of roof rafters. Many miter saws on the market today are compound miter saws.
- Dual bevel compound miter saw: A dual bevel compound miter saw also cuts bevels, but unlike a single bevel compound miter saw, the swing arm tilts in both directions. This is strictly a convenience and a time-saver—a single compound miter saw can still make the same cuts, but the user has to turn the board over to cut a bevel in the opposite direction. The dual bevel ability saves that step.
- Compound sliding miter saw: Sliding rails on a compound miter saw allow the user to cut wider boards. Non-sliding miter saws cut boards a few inches narrower than their blade diameter, so a 10-inch miter saw will cut a board up to 6 inches wide. If cutting a wider board, the user will have to turn the board over to finish cutting through it.
A sliding compound miter saw is the best type of miter saw for cutting wide boards because the user can pull the saw’s motorhead toward themself, lower the head, activate the motor, and push it through the board. Depending on the model, a sliding miter saw can handle boards from 10 to 18 inches wide, and it can be either a single bevel compound or dual bevel compound miter saw. Some of the best compound miter saws also feature zero-clearance arms, which allow the saw to sit close to a wall without limiting the blade’s travel.
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Miter Saw
The type of woodworking projects a user intends to undertake will determine the features needed in a miter saw. Someone who only wants a miter saw to make crosscuts on wood flooring strips won’t need the extra features a professional trim carpenter needs to cut crown molding.
Size and Intended Use
Miter saws are labeled by the size of blade they accept. In general, the larger the blade, the larger the board the saw will cut. Not everyone needs the largest blade size—some prefer a tool with a smaller blade because those tools are typically lighter in weight and simpler to move (and often more accurate). A few off-sizes exist, but the most common miter saw blade sizes are 7¼, 8½, 10, and 12 inches.
- 7¼-inch and 8½-inch miter saws: Handy for around-the-house cutting, these saws will make a 90-degree cut on a 2×4 and a 45-degree cut on a 1×2.
- 10-inch miter saw: A 10-inch miter saw will make a 90-degree cut on a 2×6 and a 45-degree cut on a 2×4.
- 12-inch miter saw: The largest size used by DIYers and most builders, a 12-inch miter saw will make a 90-degree cut on a 2×8 and a 45-degree cut on a 2×6.
Any of the above miter saws can cut wider boards if they’re equipped with a sliding arm. For example, a 10-inch miter saw with a 6-inch sliding arm can make a 90-degree cut on a 2×12.
Keep in mind that 10- and 12-inch blades often suffer from a bit of deflection. Deflection is when the blade’s path wobbles a bit during cutting. While not usually an issue, discerning woodworkers and high-end finish carpenters will choose a saw that minimizes deflection.
Corded vs. Cordless
Until a few years ago, all miter saws were corded, and most still are, but these cords limit where the saw can operate. Cordless miter saws are the new kids on the block, and they operate on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. Battery runtime depends on the number of cuts and how thick the wood is, but expect an average of 150 to 275 cuts on a single battery charge.
Motor Power
The more power the saw’s motor has (measured in amperes), the longer the user can cut boards without the risk of overheating. Typical miter saw motor sizes are 10-amp, 12-amp, and 15-amp.
The larger motors will also generate enough blade-spinning force for cutting through thick, dense material. For example, if the user will be cutting only through pine boards, a 10-amp miter saw will likely offer more than enough power. However, a more powerful motor may be necessary for those who need to make repetitive cuts through fiber cement siding or oak stair treads.
Safety
A miter saw isn’t the most dangerous saw in the workshop, but it can still injure its user if misused or if it doesn’t come with safety features. The following safety features are standard on most of today’s miter saws.
- Blade guard: This is a clear cover that encases the spinning miter blade. When the user lowers the blade to cut, the guard rotates out of the way. When the user lifts the blade, the guard rotates back over the blade to cover it.
- Trigger brake: Not all miter saws have a brake, but if they do, the brake stops the blade from spinning when the user releases the trigger.
- Lockout button: If the saw has a lockout button, the blade won’t spin when the user pulls the trigger unless the lockout button is also depressed. This double-safety measure prevents unintentional cuts.
- Clamps: Most miter saws sold today come with a safety clamp to help hold the material in place while cutting. This keeps a board from slipping, which reduces the risk of the user grabbing it and inadvertently touching the spinning blade.
- Dust collection: Like all power saws, miter saws create a lot of fine dust that can irritate the eyes or lungs. If the saw has a dust-collection port, a user can attach a standard shop-type vacuum hose, and the suction from the vacuum will remove most of the dust before it becomes airborne.
Additional Features
Miter saws are versatile, and some come with additional features that expand on their use. Some accessories come built into the saw, and some can usually be purchased separately if desired. Keep the following extras in mind when deciding on a miter saw.
- Laser guide: Some miter saws have laser guides that mark a red or green line across the wood where the blade will cut. This is an excellent feature for DIYers and beginners to ensure the board is correctly positioned before cutting.
- Depth stop: A miter saw that comes with a depth stop allows the user to set the depth of the cut—similar to a radial arm saw. This allows the user to cut a groove in the material without cutting all the way through.
- Sliding fences: Sliding fences are built into some miter saws, and they pull out on both sides to allow the user to position the material securely along the fence.
- Flip fences: Flip fences come with locking stops, and the user can lock two or more stops on the fence and simply flip them up and out of the way to cut a different length. Flip fences are handy when the user needs to go back and forth between two or more lengths when cutting boards.
- Nonslip grip: Summer days can result in slippery grips on a miter saw handle. Some manufacturers now offer padded nonslip grips to reduce hand fatigue and allow for a better grasp.
- Dust collection: Miter saws tend to kick up sawdust, particularly when operated inside a workshop. To remedy this, two types of dust collection are available for miter saws. The first is a small bag designed to collect some of the dust that blows into it naturally as it comes off the blade. The second (and better) option is a dust-collection port that connects to the hose of a shop-type vacuum.
- Stand: Many miter saws come with holes that allow the user to bolt them to the workshop table for stability, but a few come with miter saw stands that hold the saw securely when cutting.
Our Top Picks
Not everyone will need the most powerful saw—or the advanced features of sliding compound miter saws—but based on individual mitering needs, one of these top-quality saws may be a beneficial addition to the workshop.
Best Miter Saws 2022 | Compound Sliding Cordless & Corded Mitre Saw
And, to ensure we’re only suggesting some of the very best miter saws, we performed hands-on testing with the following models.
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Home » Latest Tool Reviews » Head-To-Head » Best Compact Sliding Miter Saw
Best Cordless Compact Miter Saw Head To Head
For this installment of our “Head-to-Head” series, we took a look at compact cordless miter saws. These saws range from a tiny 6-1/2″ to 8-1/2″ with the majority falling into 7-1/4″. We’ve given these saws thorough testing, looking at a variety of criteria to help you decide which compact miter saw will work best for your needs.
Compact saws are a great option for small shops, homeowners, and carpenter’s with limited space. A compact sliding miter saw can have a horizontal cut capacity that rivals that of full size 12″ saws! Don’t be fooled by their size, these saws can hold their own and make most of the cuts that a professional needs to make on a regular basis. Between their impressive capacity, smaller size, and significantly lower weight these saws are definitely worth a look.
Best Compact Sliding Miter Saw Evaluation Format
Once again our team has put some serious time and effort into our Best Compact Cordless Miter Saw evaluation to bring you the most comprehensive information available. For this evaluation, we broke things into several categories including Precision Accuracy, Performance (speed/power), Features, Ergonomics, Dust Collection, Decibels, and Price. For each of these categories, we will rank the saws, and in the end, we will name the Best Compact Cordless Miter Saw based on the combined results.
- Precision, and Accuracy – In this category, we evaluated the accuracy of the miter saws out of the box and how easy it is to make adjustments.
- Performance [Power / Speed Test].We looked at cutting speed as an indicator of saw motor performance.
- Run-time – Lots of Pros think run-time is important. The performance evaluation took a very deep dive into the power of the saw motors and how well the saws managed repetitive cutting of framing lumber.
- Features – An overall comparison of features and specifications.
- Ergonomics – Ergonomics are really important to users and an important category to consider when purchasing any power tool. In addition to traditional ergonomics, we also included functionality in this category.
- Dust Collection – Construction is a messy business and dust is one of the biggest hazards in our industry.
- Decibels – We evaluated the sound level in decibels
- Price – Price is always an important factor in determining which saw is best for a user. We’ve included the current pricing found online for each of the saws “as-tested,” at the time of publication.
Compact Sliding Miter Saw Specifications
Below is a list of general specifications that relate to each saw
- Blade Size: 8-1/2″
- RPM: 4500
- Weight: 31.5 lb
- Max Angle Cut: 0-45 L/R
- Max Bevel Cut: 0-45 Left Only
- Vertical Capacity: 2-3/4″
- Horizontal Capacity: 10-5/8″
- Laser /Light: Laser
- Battery Voltage: 18V
- Battery Ah: 8.0 Ah
- Blade Size: 7-1/4″
- RPM: 3800
- Weight: 21 lb
- Max Angle Cut: 0-47 L/R
- Max Bevel Cut: 0-47 Left Only
- Vertical Capacity: 3-1/2″”
- Horizontal Capacity: 8″
- Laser /Light: Light
- Battery Voltage: 18v [20 volt max]
- Battery Ah: 4.0 Ah
- Blade Size: 7-1/4″
- RPM: 4100
- Weight: 31.6 lb
- Max Angle Cut: 0-48 L/R
- Max Bevel Cut:.1-46 Left
- Vertical Capacity: 3-1/2″”
- Horizontal Capacity: 8″
- Laser /Light: Light with Shadowline
- Battery Voltage: 18v [20 volt max]
- Battery Ah: 4.0 Ah
- Blade Size: 7-1/4″
- RPM: 5100
- Weight: 31 lb
- Max Angle Cut: 0-48 L/R
- Max Bevel Cut: 0-48 L
- Vertical Capacity: 2-1/4″
- Horizontal Capacity: 9-3/8″
- Laser /Light: Light
- Battery Voltage: 21.6V (24 volt max)
- Battery Ah: 6.0 Ah
- Blade Size: 7-1/4″
- RPM: 4000
- Weight: 34 lb
- Max Angle Cut: 0-45 L/R
- Max Bevel Cut: 0-47 L / 57 R
- Vertical Capacity: 3-1/3″
- Horizontal Capacity: 12-13/64″
- Laser /Light: Laser
- Battery Voltage: 36V
- Battery Ah: 2.5 Ah (at 36V)
- AC / DC capable with accessory
- Blade Size: 7-1/2″
- RPM: 5700
- Weight:
- Weight 28.9 lb
- Max Angle Cut: 0-47 Left and o-57 Right
- Max Bevel Cut: 0-45 Right and 0-5 Left
- Vertical Capacity: 2-1/16” x 11-3/4”
- Horizontal Capacity: 12-1/4″”
- Battery Voltage: 36V (running two 18V packs at same time)
- Battery Ah: 5.0 Ah
- Blade Size: 7-1/4″
- RPM: 5000
- Weight: 28 lb [w/ battery]
- Max Angle Cut: 0-45 L/R
- Max Bevel Cut: 0-48 L
- Vertical Capacity: 3-1/2″
- Horizontal Capacity: 8″
- Laser /Light: Light
- Battery Voltage: 18V
- Battery Ah: 5.0 Ah
Miter Saw Accuracy and Precision
To be consistent, all the saws, when able, were equipped with a Milwaukee 60-tooth blade.
Many users that buy a miter saw will open the shipping box and begin to use the saw right out of the box. Framers or other craftsmen that are not too concerned with the finest accuracy come to mind. However, other users will care a lot about the accuracy of their new saw and want to tune it to as near perfect as can be achieved. For a finish carpenter, or woodworker a miter saw’s ability to make an accurate cut must be routinely checked and maintained because a little misalignment can cause compounding errors on a project.
We checked the calibration of the saws out of the box, recorded our findings, and then calibrated the saws, noting the level of difficulty to get them tuned up. Miter saw calibration is a critical step because a difference as small as 1° over a 1-in. span will result in a 1/64-in. the gap in the finished miter joint. Similarly, 3° over 5-in. span gives you a 9/32-in. gap.
Compact Cordless Miter Saw Accuracy Testing Winner Craftsman
The TBB crew wanted to give the readers an idea of how well the saws scored on accuracy right out of the box. We looked at the following areas:
- Table flatness
- Fence flatness
- Bevel accuracy when set to 0 degrees
- Miter accuracy when set to 45 degrees.
- Crosscut accuracy when set to 90 degrees
The Craftsman showed up on this out of the box testing with a first-place score of 9 points. With exception of its 45-degree accuracy, it scored tops in every category. Bosch was second with 13-points, Makita had 14-points and Milwaukee 15-points.
| 45 Deg Miter | Bevel | Table / Fence | Totals | Rank | |
| 1 | 5 | 1 | 2 | 9 | 1 |
| 3 | 4 | 2 | 4 | 13 | 2 |
| 5 | 7 | 1 | 1 | 14 | 3 |
| 2 | 2 | 5 | 6 | 15 | 4 |
| 6 | 1 | 3 | 7 | 17 | 5 |
| 7 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 19 | 6 |
| 4 | 6 | 6 | 3 | 19 | 6 |
Table Flatness – For table flatness, we used a Bridge City Tool Works 24 inch stainless steel flat edge. We placed the flat edge onto the table and first looked for any light that could shine between the table surface and the stainless flat edge. Where the light shone through, we took a set of machinist feeler gauges and determined the size of the gap under the flat edge. We recorded the data and proceeded to check the fence’s accuracy. We turned the Bridge City flat edge and held it up to the lower part of each saws’ fence. Some of the saws have a single piece lower fence and others have a two-part lower fence. We measured any gap between the fence and the flat edge and noted the maximum reading from the feeler gauges.
0-Degree Bevel – For 90-degree bevel accuracy, we adjusted the saws to contact the factory setting for a 90-degree vertical cut. Then we used a Wixey digital gauge to measure the degrees between the table of the saw and the body of the blade. The Wixey gauge can be set to zero out any inclination in the saw as it sits on a bench. This enables the user to read the accurate relative difference in inclination between the table and the blade. We zeroed out the gauge each time we took a reading. 45-Degree Miter – Cutting 45-degree miters is a critical function of these types of miter saws. We measured the factory 45-degree cuts by setting the saw to its 45-degree setting. We made a cut into 2×4 lumber and read the actual cut with a digital T-Bevel gauge. For each cut, we zeroed the gauge. Then we took the reading and recorded the data. This type of gauge is accurate to one-tenth of a degree.
90-Degree Cross Cut – For this test, we set the saw to the factory 90-degree setting for a cross-cut. We crosscut a piece of plywood that had one edge squared with a track saw. We took the ‘cut-off’ piece and flipped it 180 degrees along the long axis. We lined up the two pieces against a straight edge and noted if there were a gap between the two halves along the cut edge. If we saw a gap, we measured this gap with feeler gauges. Flipping one of the pieces 180 degrees, meant that any deviation from a 90-degree cut would show twice the error than just measuring one side by itself.
Miter Saw Performance
For the performance section, we tested the run-time and speed of cut with the battery sold with the saw in a kitted form.
Power Test – Winner Makita
| Time | Rank |
| 2.0 | 1 |
| 2.2 | 2 |
| 2.7 | 3 |
| 2.8 | 4 |
| 3.6 | 5 |
| 4.2 | 6 |
| 4.7 | 7 |
The Power Test is a good indication of what the saw and blade configuration can cut. We made five timed cuts in 7-1/4″ LVL lumber and recorded the average time. This is a simple test with some uncontrolled variables, but our methods were fair.
We had the same operator conduct each cut, with the instruction to let the saw do the cutting, apply as much pressure as the saw and blade would allow. We waited for the blade to come to a complete stop, indexed the material, and then started a fresh cut. Time was started from the time the blade hit the wood till it exited out the back of the LVL and completed the cut. We timed 5 cuts per saw and took the average time.
The Makita crushed this test coming in at 2.0 seconds, with the Kobalt coming in second at 2.2 seconds per cut, followed by Metabo HPT in third at 2.7 seconds.
Run-time Test – Winner Makita
For the run-time test, we made repetitive cuts in KD lumber until the battery was exhausted or thermal overload prevented further cutting. Operators were instructed to start the saw and bring it up to speed. Bring the saw forward, make the cut, wait for the blade to stop, reset, and repeat.
| # Cuts | Rank |
| 328 | 1 |
| 252 | 2 |
| 248 | 3 |
| 185 | 4 |
| 182 | 5 |
| 174 | 6 |
| 154 | 7 |
Makita with its dual battery system crushed this test with 328 cuts. Bosch and Kobalt also shined in this test, with 248 and 252 cuts respectively, cutting 60 more cuts than the fourth-place Metabo HPT. No thermal overloads were encountered. Note, for the overall calculation of the best miter saw we are NOT using this run-time test, we use the normalized ranking that accounts for total battery pack energy (watt-hrs) listed below.
Run-time Normalization by Watt-hours – Winner Craftsman
Each of these saws came with a different sized “energy power plant” or battery configuration. As you can imagine, the saw with the greatest watt-hr battery theoretically has a leg up on its competition for run-time cuts. Whenever we do a cordless tool comparison, we level the playing field by taking the results and dividing the results by the number of watt-hr for the particular saws’ battery.
| Watt-Hr | Cuts/Watt-hr | Rank | |
| 174 | 72 | 2.42 | 1 |
| 154 | 72 | 2.14 | 2 |
| 185 | 90 | 2.06 | 3 |
| 182 | 90 | 2.02 | 4 |
| 252 | 129.6 | 1.94 | 5 |
| 328 | 180 | 1.82 | 6 |
| 248 | 144 | 1.72 | 7 |
In this H2H, the batteries varied both in voltage and amp-hrs. We derive watt-hrs by multiplying the load voltage by the amp-hours. The following table shows the results of the run-time test when normalized for the battery pack watt-hours.
After running the calculations, Craftsman came in first with 2.4 cuts per watt-hour, followed by DeWALT and Metabo HPT with 2.1 cuts/watt-hr, and third place was Milwaukee with 2.0 cuts/watt-hr. This test allows us to see who has the most effective combination of battery technology, stamina, and motor power on a per watt-hr basis.
Compact Miter Saw Features – Winner – Milwaukee
Comparing tools from multiple brands is never easy but the devil can live in the details at times so a comparison is certainly warranted.
We looked at the following 10 features and ranked them 1-5.
- Laser light
- Max Angle
- Max Bevel
- Dust port
- Outriggers
- Forward Slide / Compact
- Capacity
- Blade Brake
- Blade Guard Operation
- Dado Cut
| Metabo HPT | Kobalt | Makita | Bosch | Craftsman | DeWALT | |
| 1 | 5 | 3 | 6 | 3 | 1 | 1 |
| 2 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| 1 | 3 | 1 | 3 | 3 | 5 | 5 |
| 1 | 6 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 3 |
| 3 | 1 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 3 |
| 2 | 1 | 4 | 3 | 6 | 2 | 4 |
| 2 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 6 |
| 1 | 1 | 1 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| 5 | 1 | 3 | 1 | 2 | 4 | 4 |
| 3 | 2 | 6 | 3 | 1 | 3 | 3 |
| 5 | 1 | 4 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 5 |
| 21 | 22 | 28 | 28 | 31 | 34 | 37 |
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 |
The Milwaukee came in first with 21 points followed closely by the Metabo HPT at 22 points. The Makita and Kobalt tied for third with 28 points.
Milwaukee shined with its angle and bevel features, blade cut line, dust collection, and did well in the blade brake, compact size, and maximum angle. It is full-featured, with everything you’d want from a job site saw.
Metabo HPT scored tops in the maximum angle/bevel, outriggers, compact slide, electric brake, and crushes cut capacity. It is a feature-rich, beautifully crafted tool.
The team especially liked the rack and pinion bevel adjustment, the 52-degree max angle, and the dado with a scoring feature. This feature allows you to set a scoring cut or to set up a dado cut.
Notable Compact Miter Saw Features
Laser vs. LED Shadow Light – The Bosch and Metabo HPT miter saws both have a built-in laser that indicates one side of the blade. This laser also has a separate on/off switch. The laser displays the line-of-cut with the tool turned off and the blade not spinning, which we liked for lining up cuts.
On the Metabo HPT, the laser disappears as the saw approached the material. This is because the rubber dust shroud blocks the laser.
In general, the TBB Crew is not a fan of lasers and prefers the blade shadow light option similar to the Craftsman, Kobalt and Milwaukee saw. This shadow light marks the blade in ANY lighting situation, and unlike a laser, never has to be calibrated since it casts a shadow of any blade mounted on the saw onto the workpiece. It’s foolproof.
AC / DC Option – The Metabo HPT is the only miter saw of these three with the capability to run on battery or corded power. Metabo HPT accomplishes this with a battery pack adapter with a 20-foot cord and “brick-like” inverter.
Forward Rail Design – We found the Metabo HPT forward rail design to operate smoothly. The forward rails also take up significantly less space behind the saw. This takes up less room in the shop or on the job site. If you have a small shop or work in cramped spaces regularly this feature can open up a lot of floor space. Makita uses a 4-Steel Rail Sliding System increases rigidity to the saw head, producing accurate cutting.
We were impressed that all of these were precise and had little to no slop in the saw head.
Ergonomics – Winner – Bosch and Milwaukee
The ergonomics evaluation in this section is purely subjective and based on the opinions of the testing crew. After a full day of running performance tests, the team spent several hours in the shop testing and ranking the saws in seven [6] categories including:
We weighed each saw, and carried the saws upstairs, through doorways, transported one-handed to open doors or gates, and loaded/unloaded the saw into a work vehicle. Depending on the primary application of your miter saw needs, transportation is a major part of the day to day considerations you’ll want to take into account before committing to a new saw.
| Lbs. | Rank |
| 21.0 | 1 |
| 28.0 | 2 |
| 28.9 | 3 |
| 31.0 | 4 |
| 31.5 | 5 |
| 31.6 | 6 |
| 34.0 | 7 |
Bosch and Milwaukee took the ergonomics section with a score of 17-points. Metabo HPT came in second with 19-points.
| Milwaukee | Metabo HPT | Makita | DeWALT | Craftsman | Kobalt | |
| 1 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 5 | 5 | 4 |
| 1 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 4 | 5 | 4 |
| 3 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 4 | 5 |
| 2 | 4 | 1 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 5 |
| 2 | 3 | 1 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 4 |
| 3 | 1 | 4 | 4 | 2 | 5 | 2 |
| 5 | 2 | 7 | 3 | 6 | 1 | 4 |
| 17 | 17 | 19 | 20 | 27 | 28 | 28 |
| 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 5 |
The team was impressed with the third-place Metabo HPT’s manufacturing quality. Its design is precise, modern, and well made. The Bosch on the other hand is a venerable 10-year old design that still holds its own. The team would like to see Bosch re-design the top handle because of its tendency to pinch your hand when transporting.
The Craftsman was the lightest saw of the group, but not having a top handle hurt its score. Milwaukee and Kobalt hit the sweet spots for ease of transport with two side table handles, and a well-placed top handle.
The DeWALT has an oversized bevel scale that makes bevel angle adjustments accurate and easy. The compact, lightweight design (31.6 bs.) allows for easy transport and storage. It has a cam lock miter handle that was easy to maneuver and delivers quick and accurate miter angles.
Dust Collection – Winner –Makita
From carpenters working in finished spaces, to shop workers who want to reduce the amount of airborne dust in their environment, knowing how well a saw will integrate with a vacuum is an important measure of performance for any user.
We conducted a dust collection test by performing 25 cuts on a 2×6 piece of KD lumber and measuring the volume of wood dust collected by the vacuum. Additionally, we assessed the buildup of dust that didn’t make it into the vacuum but accumulated on the table and fence of the tool. The result of the dust collection test are depicted in the table below:
| Weight oz. | Rank |
| 8.9 | 1 |
| 7.9 | 2 |
| 7.9 | 2 |
| 7.5 | 3 |
| 7.1 | 4 |
| 6.6 | 5 |
| 5.6 | 6 |
Makita took first place by capturing 8.9 ounces of dust, followed by a tie between Bosch and Kobalt with 7.9 ounces of sawdust, and Milwaukee came in third with 7.5 ounces.
The DeWALT performed poorly on dust collection. The reason for this was that the dust chutes rubber flaps [behind the saw blade] collapsed when the dust extractor was turned on. While the easy field modification is to cut or remove these flaps – this really should be addressed by DeWALT.
Decibels – Winner Kobalt
These days more and more contractors are taking better care of their hearing. OSHA allows 8 hours of exposure for up to 90 dB, for exposures 95dB and greater, the exposure limits drop dramatically. So clearly these saws all need hearing protection. The quietest saw was the Kobalt with 84 decibels followed closely by Metabo HPT with 84.4 decibels. Third place went to the Bosch at 84.7 decibels.
Top 5: Best 12 Inch Miter Saws in 2023
| db | Rank |
| 84.0 | 1 |
| 84.4 | 2 |
| 84.7 | 3 |
| 85.7 | 4 |
| 87.9 | 5 |
| 89.8 | 6 |
| 90.3 | 7 |
Compact Miter Saw Pricing – Winner Craftman
| Price Kit | Notes | Rank |
| 249 | Kit | 1 |
| 369 | Kit | 2 |
| 412 | Tool, Bat, Chrg | 3 |
| 549 | Kit | 4 |
| 599 | Kit | 5 |
| 828 | Tool, Bats, Chrg | 6 |
| 1,168 | Tool, Bat, Chrg | 7 |
Above we’ve included the current pricing (at the time of publication). Pricing is based on kits where available. For the Kobalt, Makita, and Metabo HPT we used bare tool pricing plus pricing to buy a battery(s) and charger as those are only sold as bare tools.
The best-priced compact sliding miter saw was the Craftsman at 249. Second place is the DeWALT at 369 followed by Kobalt at 412. The Metabo HPT was the highest priced saw coming in at 1,168. This is the only saw with AC/DC capability so that’s something to consider.
