Drillly is audience-supported. When you buy through links on this site, we may earn an affiliate commission that we use for site maintenance. Learn more

Saws Best Saws

The Best Miter Saws for Crown Molding to Buy Now According to Over 9,300 Customers

If you’re into woodworking, you might need a miter saw sooner or later for accurate angles, cross-cuts and trim. As the younger brother of a pro woodworker, I was privileged to closely see the right use of miter saws with different techniques.

Although he used hand saws and miter boxes initially, it cost him a lot of time and effort. Right after getting a quality miter saw, things got easier for him and he could smoothly cut woods and other materials even from the most complicated angles.

You need to get well-familiar with the different types of miter saws and their specific cutting purposes. Also, there are enough miter saw models in the industry to keep you looking for the best one for a long time. To make the process a bit easier for you, the Drillly team reviewed a number of these versatile woodworking tools and nailed down the perfect miter saw for you and your workload.

Recommended Best Miter Saw For Crown Molding in 2023

Best Sliding Compound Miter Saws

01 DEWALT DWS779 Sliding Compound Miter Saw

DEWALT DWS779 Sliding Compound Miter Saw

DEWALT is highly acclaimed for their compact and high quality miter saws. This DWS779 model ranks first on our list because of its advanced features and precision cuts through different materials.

You’ll be at ease working with this sliding-compound miter saw. Professional craftsmen will surely love its accurate cutting but hobbyists will also be comfortable with it.

Its 15-amp powerful motor allows you a hassle-free cut through a variety of materials at a higher speed. The motor doesn’t vibrate much. You’ll love its versatility too. You can cut a board as thick as 6.75 inch with this amazing miter saw.

DEWALT DWS779 allows you to change the cutting angle and lock the adjustment without any hassle. It has standard safety features. The blade guards control your cuts all the time.

This miter saw comes with a conventional design. You can cut up to 2×16? at 90 degrees and 2×12? at 45 degrees with its back fence design. This capacity is high compared to other miter saws that can handle up to 12 inches wide lumber.

We found this one of the easiest to set up and use. However, we weren’t so impressed with its dust collection capabilities. Considering its tons of useful features at an affordable price, this is obviously an excellent choice for any carpenter or woodworker.

Specifications

  • Motor: 15-AMP
  • Speed: 3800 RPM
  • Cutting Capacity: 2×16? @90°, 2×12? @45°
  • Max Vertical Capacity: 6.75 inches
  • Max Horizontal Capacity: 7.5 inches
  • Miter Range: 50° left, 60° right
  • Bevel Range: 49° left & right
  • Weight: 56 pounds
  • Dimensions: 2 x 23 x 18.5 inches
  • Power Source: AC/DC
  • Blade Size: 12?

Pros

  • High speed
  • Great price
  • Easy to use
  • Accurate cuts
  • Durable
  • 3-Year Warranty

Cons

  • Dust bag not spacious

Our Verdict

This DWS779 model is one of the most reviewed and highest-rated miter saws on Amazon. It’s also strongly recommended by numerous professionals and DIYers from all corners of the USA. The accuracy of this sliding compound miter saw is probably its best-selling point. It operates smoothly with a high motor speed. This is a smart choice to invest your money in that’ll serve you for years.

02 DEWALT DWS780 Double Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw

DEWALT DWS780 Double Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw

Our 2nd miter saw also belongs to DEWALT but we placed it here because it costs around $250 more than the DWS779 model. As you can guess from the price difference, it has some upgraded features although most are still the same.

The sliding function of this sliding compound model allows you to cut large pieces of wood at ease. Moreover, the double bevel feature helps you cut complex bevels without the need of flipping over your workpiece.

You can perform a wide range of cutting jobs with this versatile miter saw. The 15-amp powerful motor allows you to cut at a high speed of 3800 RPM. What’s more, this model features an advanced LED light located at the XPS cross-cut system, allowing you to see clearly during operation.

With a 90 degree angle, it can cut up to 16 inches. Another amazing feature we liked was that it could simultaneously cut horizontal miters and vertical bevels with an increased cutting width.

The 10 positive stops of Dewalt DWS780 let you make easy adjustments and easier repeat cuts. It comes with a 12-inch 60-tooth blade that you can use for most cutting jobs. It can collect over 75% of dust, which is decent.

We found the slides a bit sticky and a few other users reported the same problem as well. However, regular oiling and cleaning can solve this problem.

Specifications

  • Motor: 15-AMP
  • Speed: 3800 RPM
  • Cutting Capacity: 2×16? @90°, 2×12? @45°
  • Max Vertical Capacity: 6.75 inches
  • Max Horizontal Capacity: 7.5 inches
  • Miter Range: 50° left, 60° right
  • Weight: 56 pounds
  • Dimensions: 21.5 x 17.7 x 17.1 inches
  • Power Source: AC/DC
  • Blade Size: 12?

Pros

  • Accurate cuts
  • Double bevel design
  • Strong and durable
  • 10 positive stops
  • User-friendly
  • Long warranty period

Cons

  • Sticky slides

Our Verdict

This DWS780 model is again a highly applauded miter saw from DEWALT suitable for both professionals and amateurs. We think its best features are its high capacity and accurate cutting capability. The bright LED light helps you cut more precisely with a clear view.

Overall, the performance of the miter saw is satisfactory and it’s a great value for money. So if you don’t mind spending more money for upgraded features, this DWS780 model is a great choice for you.

03 Bosch Power Tools GCM12SD

Bosch Power Tools GCM12SD

Bosch is known for its elegant and quality power tools, and the well-designed GCM12SD model lives up to that expectation.

This high-quality miter saw has a durable and powerful 15-amp motor that operates smoothly. Its bevel and miter cuts are precise and clean. It doesn’t overheat so you can work for long hours.

GCM12SD’s lock fences allow you to do your cutting job accurately. The base can tilt from 0 degrees to 47 degrees left and right. We loved its versatility in terms of angles and cuts. Moreover, it’s axial-glide system saves you space and allows you to work with it in a tiny workspace.

You’ll feel comfortable with this easy-to-use miter saw. It ensures safety with its large and transparent blade guard. It comes with a 12″ sharp blade. You should read its well-written manual first to be able to handle it properly and avoid any sort of injury.

We were satisfied with its dust management system that collected around 90% of dust generated as it claimed.

Its ability to cut through wood of large lengths is an added bonus. The integrated 40-inch side supports hold the large wood pieces during the cut and you don’t need anyone’s help for that!

However, GCM12SD is not a budget miter saw and the price might be out of your range if you’re a cost-conscious craftsman. But you know ‘quality comes at a price!’

Specifications

  • Motor: 15-AMP
  • Speed: 3800 RPM
  • Cross Cut Capacity: 4? x 14?
  • Vertical Cut Capacity: 6-1/2?
  • Bevel Stops: 0°, 33.9°, 45° and 47° (L/R)
  • Miter Range: 52° left, 60° right
  • Weight: 65 pounds
  • Dimensions: 33.2 x 26.5 x 22.8 inches
  • Power Source: Corded
  • Blade Size: 12?

Pros

  • Well designed
  • Large cutting capacity
  • Good dust collection system
  • Easy to use
  • Durable
  • High Quality

Cons

  • Comparatively expensive

Our Verdict

If you’re looking for a reliable sliding compound miter saw with all the features that any pro craftsman prefers, Bosch GCM12SD is exactly what you need. Though you would have to spend a good amount of money, it is worth every penny. It saves your space with an axial-glide system and operates smoothly. You can perform various cutting jobs with different angles with this amazing saw at ease.

04 DEWALT DWS709 12-Inch Sliding Compound Miter Saw

DEWALT DWS709 12-Inch Sliding Compound Miter Saw

The DWS709 model from DEWALT is a great compound choice for both seasoned craftsmen and hobbyists. Its professional-grade, accurate cuts make it a great value for the money.

This compact and lightweight miter saw are portable and comfortable to use. The bevel adjustments are seamless to simplify your cutting process.

The 15-amp motor with 3800 rpm speed generates enough power for cutting through timber at an ease. It saves your time and you don’t need a lot of effort. Additionally, it can deal with a wide variety of materials and cut them at different angles.

DWS709 cuts with high precision like most other miter saws from DEWALT. Its 12″ blade functions excellently. There are 10 positive stops that allow you micro-adjustments and maintain cutting accuracy.

You can cut larger pieces of wood at 45° and 90° positions with its large blade. You can easily adjust the position of its sliding back fence to ensure straight edges and accurate cuts.

DWS709 comes at a lower price than DWS780 but shares a lot of common features. However, unlike DWS780, it has no laser or LED light. This is one feature that we wished this quality miter saw included.

Specifications

  • Motor: 15-AMP
  • Speed: 3800 RPM
  • Max Vertical Capacity: 4.5 inches
  • Max Horizontal Capacity: 9.5 inches
  • Cross-Cut Capacity: 2×10? @90°
  • Miter range: 50° left, 60° right
  • Bevel range: 49° left & right
  • Weight: 51 pounds
  • Dimensions: 30.8 x 22.8 x 19.5 inches
  • Power Source: AC
  • Blade Size: 12?

Pros

  • Powerful motor
  • Accurate cuts
  • Lightweight
  • Smooth bevel adjustments
  • Sturdy construction
  • 3-Year Warranty

Cons

  • No LED light

Our Verdict

DEWALT DWS709 is an excellent choice that allows for professional-grade cutting with a powerful motor. Although it doesn’t include LED lights, you can still cut your workpiece with high precision. This is a highly recommended choice by many professionals as well as DIYers since it exhibits a lot of good features and comes at a reasonable price. If you’re looking for a sturdy and quality miter saw at a good price, DWS709 should be in your consideration.

05 Metabo HPT C12RSH2S Sliding Compound Miter Saw

Metabo HPT C12RSH2S Sliding Compound Miter Saw

Metabo HPT, formerly known as Hitachi power tools, is a well-known brand for quality power tools. The C12RSH2S model is one of their finest creations that comes with many advanced features.

The C12RSH2S has a fixed-rail design that saves your space but doesn’t compromise on the cutting capacity. You can even set it against a wall. Its tall sliding fences allow you to cut up to 7-1/2″ vertically and 5-1/8″ horizontally.

You can get highly accurate cuts with this sliding compound miter saw. Bevel cuts and miter cuts are easy with the range of angles it offers. What’s more, you can easily adjust the angles with positive stops located on both miter and bevel scales.

The glide system is a unique feature of Metabo HPT C12RSH2S that sets it apart from its competitors. You can use it without any rear clearance in a tight workplace.

This model includes lasers with adjustable laser markers aligned with the blade to see the exact cut location. This helps even the novice to cut with high precision.

If you need a portable miter saw then this one can disappoint you. It’s a heavyweight saw. Its dust collection system is also not up to the mark. The dust bag collects around 70% of the dust.

Specifications

  • Motor: 15-AMP
  • Speed: 4000 RPM
  • Max Vertical Capacity: 7-1/2?
  • Max Horizontal Capacity: 5-1/8?
  • Cross-Cut Capacity: 4-3/16?x12-1/4? @90°
  • Miter range: 45° left, 57° right
  • Bevel range: 45° left & right
  • Weight: 78 pounds
  • Dimensions: 36.6 x 24 x 23.4 inches
  • Power Source: Corded
  • Blade Size: 12?

Pros

  • Powerful motor
  • Laser marker
  • Compact design
  • Vertical handle
  • 5-Year Warranty
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Comparatively heavier
  • Poor dust collection

Our Verdict

You need this miter saw if you want to improve your efficiency at woodcutting. Its powerful motor and laser marker make your cutting super easy and accurate. Metabo HPT C12RSH2S is also great if your workshop is a tiny place since it takes up only a little space, thanks to its compact design and glide system.

06 Festool 561287 Kapex-KS-120 Sliding-Compound Miter Saw

Festool 561287 Kapex-KS-120 Sliding-Compound Miter Saw

Festool 561287 is the most expensive miter saw on our list. It’s also one of the finest sliding-compound saws available. It ensures your safety and is loaded with exceptional switch-between and easy-to-use features.

This high-end power tool weighs only 47 pounds with a small footprint. You can even place the flush of the saw against the wall to save space.

The innovative rail design guarantees fine accurate cuts. You can expect the most accurate cut with this miter saw. It also has an awesome cutting capacity. You can do more cutting jobs in very less time precisely when you have it in your arsenal.

Festool 561287 features a variable speed from 1400-3800 rpm depending on the application. It slows down while cutting through scrap pieces. It’s amazing that you can increase its cutting capacity to 12″ with a 10-1/4″ blade.

Its adjusting mechanism is easy with its oversized light green indicators. The angle ranges from 50° left to 60° right.

You can expect the highest level of safety with Festool 561287. The special design of the blade reduces vibrations and noise. All the elements are also well-aligned on this model. The amazing dual laser system allows you to cut precisely with a clear view. What’s more, the dust collection system works efficiently for enhanced safety.

Specifications

  • Motor: 10-AMP
  • Speed: 1400-3400 RPM
  • Max Vertical Capacity: 4-3/4?
  • Max Horizontal Capacity: 6-5/8?
  • Miter range: 50° left, 60° right
  • Bevel range: 45° left & right
  • Weight: 47 pounds
  • Dimensions: 29.5 x 22.75 x 20 inches
  • Power Source: Corded
  • Blade Size: 10-1/4?

Pros

  • High-end power tool
  • Great safety
  • No vibrations
  • High precision
  • Good dust collection
  • Ultra-lightweight

Cons

  • Premium price

Our Verdict

Festool 561287 is a bit expensive but it’s a top-tier sliding-compound saw. The features it offers are unmatchable. This is certainly best for commercial purposes but hobbyists can also try at home. If you can afford it, we’ll recommend that you get it without any hesitation.

Best Compound Miter Saws

07 Hitachi C10FCG 15-Amp 10″ Single Bevel Compound Miter Saw

Hitachi C10FCG 15-Amp 10" Single Bevel Compound Miter Saw

This budget compound miter saw is a great one for beginners. This is the cheapest product on our list but has a number of great features to offer.

The Hitachi C10FCG has an incredible cutting capacity. You can expect a lot of flexibility with 0 to 52 degrees miter angle range to both left and right. The 45 degree bevel angle offers you the most accurate bevel cuts possible.

The positive stops allow you to quickly adjust the angles. In terms of comfort and precision, Hitachi C10FCG is flawless!

It comes with a powerful 15-amp motor that allows you to smoothly cut through different materials. On top of that, its 10″ blade spins at a speed of 5000 rpm. Your workpiece can get the finest finish possible with such a blade speed.

Compared to other miter saws, this one is ultra-lightweight that you can carry from one Jobsite to another without any hassle. Moreover, its dust collection system works fine and keeps your workshop tidy and clean.

Hitachi C10FCG exhibits such features that you can get on expensive miter saws only. It’s a great value for money product that surely deserves your attention.

Specifications

  • Motor: 15-AMP
  • Speed: 5000 RPM
  • Miter range: 52° left & right
  • Bevel range: 45° left & right
  • Weight: 24.2 pounds
  • Dimensions: 21.46 x 18.12 x 22.9 inches
  • Power Source: AC
  • Blade Size: 10?

Pros

  • Ultra-lightweight
  • Affordable
  • Blade is easily changeable
  • Easy to use
  • Wide ranges of miter angle

Cons

  • No laser or LED lights
  • Poorly written user manual

Our Verdict

Hitachi C10FCG comes with features that allow you to finish your cutting work with minimal errors. It is specially designed for beginners. You will be at ease working with this amazing compound miter saw. If you’re on a budget, this is the choice for you. You can’t get a better miter saw at such an affordable price!

08 DEWALT DWS715 12-Inch Miter Saw

DEWALT DWS715 12-Inch Miter Saw

This is another amazing miter saw series on our list from DEWALT. The DWS715 is cheaper than the previous models we reviewed but functions as accurately as them. In fact, it’s similar to the DWS780 model.

It has a powerful 15-amp motor just like the other miter saws of DEWALT. The 12″ blade with a speed of 4000 rpm can cut through wood of any hardness or density.

The DWS715 model comes with one of the best compact designs we have seen. All the components that come with it are well-made. Its weight of 42.8 pounds makes it portable too.

This model can give you sleek cuts with utmost accuracy with ease. The steel detent plate with 14 positive stops offers you a 50° miter angle to both left and right. This wide range gives you more cutting capacity. Moreover, it lets you cut any bevel cut without any hassle.

The slow movement of the tool and its transparent blade guard ensures great safety. Moreover, changing the blade on this model is easier. There is a dust bag and the dust collection system is pretty much similar like the other models of DEWALT.

However, just like the DWS709, the DWS715 also doesn’t feature any laser guide or LED light. This disappoints us a little but overall, we liked its overall performance and features.

Specifications

  • Motor: 15-AMP
  • Speed: 4000 RPM
  • Max Vertical Capacity: 6-1/2?
  • Crosscut Capacity: 2×6? @45°, 2×8? @90°
  • Miter range: 50° left & right
  • Bevel range: 48° left & 3° right
  • Weight: 42.8 pounds
  • Dimensions: 26.8 x 21.9 x 18.9 inches
  • Power Source: Corded
  • Blade Size: 12?

Pros

  • Accurate cuts
  • Durable
  • Reduced noise
  • Powerful motor
  • Good price

Cons

  • No laser guide

Our Verdict

The smooth performance and incredible accuracy make DEWALT DWS715 a great choice for craftsmen. Is it worth investing money in this compound miter saw? Well, we would say yes! Unless the laser guide is an important feature for you, you can definitely invest your money in this reliable power saw.

09 Metabo HPT C10FCH2S 10″ Compound Miter Saw

Metabo HPT C10FCH2S 10" Compound Miter Saw

This is another great budget miter saw on our list. Metabo HPT C10FCH2S offers you excellent accuracy with its laser marker. If you’re a beginner, you won’t find it difficult to use.

It comes with a powerful 15-amp motor that doesn’t make a lot of noise. Its 10″ blade is sharp enough for crosscuts and rips cuts. Moreover, the blade spins at 5000 rpm without load, making your cut accurate.

The C10FCH2S is equipped with a laser guide that lets you clearly see the cut location. This is certainly a cool feature for miter saws. The pivot-shaped large flip fence is another cool feature that makes your cuts more accurate around mold or any other obstacles.

It offers up to 52° miter angle to both left and right and 45° bevel angle on the left. You even get an extension for cutting larger pieces of wood.

This compound miter saw weighs only 26.5 pounds. You can easily carry it anywhere. However, you need to be careful since its construction isn’t very strong.

The dust collector bag isn’t spacious enough for collecting much dust. You’ll need extra tools for keeping your work area clean. However, it still comes at a low price for the features!

Specifications

  • Motor: 15-AMP
  • Speed: 5000 RPM
  • Cutting Capacity: 1-5/8? x 4? @45°, 2-5/16? x 5-21/32? @0°
  • Miter range: 52° left & right
  • Bevel range: 45° left
  • Weight: 26.5 pounds
  • Dimensions: 13.7 x 20.6 x 15.7 inches
  • Power Source: Corded
  • Blade Size: 10?

Pros

  • Powerful motor
  • Laser marker
  • High cutting precision
  • Large flip fence
  • Lightweight and portable

Cons

  • Poor dust collection system

Our Verdict

The dead-on accuracy and easy-to-use features make it an ideal choice for new users. You can do your basic cutting jobs accurately and comfortably with it. Though the dust collection system is not that great, you can solve this problem easily with other tools for cleaning.

If you’re a beginner or hobbyist, you’ll love Metabo HPT C10FCH2S. But this might not be the best choice for professionals.

10 DEWALT DWS716XPS Double Bevel Compound Miter Saw

DEWALT DWS716XPS Double Bevel Compound Miter Saw

Here comes another great compound miter saw from DEWALT. The DWS716XPS is designed for professionals but hobbyists can also use it with less effort.

The motor is powerful with a decent 3800 rpm speed just like most other DEWALT miter saw series. You can cut a wide range of materials with the 12″ blade of this dual bevel compound miter saw.

The durable materials used to build the DWS716XPS give it a solid build. You can expect it to last a long time without any glitch if you take good care of it. Its lightweight design with a built-in handle makes it portable too.

There are LED lights along with an integrated XPS system of positioning. This way you can have highly accurate cuts even in lower light conditions.

It has awesome cutting capacity. You can crosscut 2×8″ at 90° and 2×6″ at 45° angle. You can also bevel the saw up to 48° to both left and right. It even offers up to 50° miter angle on both sides.

The only significant drawback we found with DWS716XPS as well as most other models from DEWALT was its dust collection system. We hope the brand will focus on a better and more spacious dust collection bag in the future.

Specifications

  • Motor: 15-AMP
  • Speed: 3,800 RPM
  • Max Vertical Capacity: 6-1/2?
  • Crosscut Capacity: 2×8? @90°, 2×6? @45°
  • Miter range: 50° left & right
  • Bevel range: 48° left & right
  • Weight: 49 pounds
  • Dimensions: 26.5 x 22.5 x 19.5 inches
  • Power Source: Corded
  • Blade Size: 12?

Pros

  • Powerful motor
  • Versatile
  • Durable
  • LED light
  • Great for professionals

Cons

  • Poor dust collection

Our Verdict

DEWALT DWS716XPS is a sturdy, portable, and versatile miter saw that you can rely on all year round. Users on Amazon gave it a great rating for its extraordinary performance. If you’re a professional searching for a compound miter saw at a good price, this model will be a wise deal for you!

11 DEWALT DW716 12-Inch Compound Miter Saw

DEWALT DW716 12-Inch Compound Miter Saw

DEWALT DW716 is a relatively expensive compound miter saw. But aside from the high price, you can expect superb performance and high precision cuts. It’s also user-friendly.

There is a 15-amp motor like other DEWALT miter saws. Its cross-cutting capability is pretty impressive. You can cut through an 8-inch board with a single press at a 90° angle. In fact, with the back fence, you can cut through a 10-inch board.

You’ll be happy with its 50° miter angle range to both left and right. This offers great versatility to the model and allows you to have even more custom cuts. Its miter gauge is also easy to set up and use.

Its competitive bevel capacity is above the industry standard. You get a max 48° angle on both sides. It’s especially great for trim molding.

The DW716 has a solid construction with a compact design. The miter plate is calibrated accurately to make the right adjustments. The components are mostly made of stainless steel that make it extra durable.

The dust collection system of the DW716 model is average. You can expect around 75% dust collection with it. It also lacks a cutting guide that we think is important for today’s miter saws.

Specifications

  • Motor: 15-AMP
  • Speed: 3,800 RPM
  • Crosscut Capacity: 2×8? @90°, 2×6? @45°
  • Miter range: 50° left & right
  • Bevel range: 48° left & right
  • Weight: 49 pounds
  • Dimensions: 27.5 x 20 x 20 inches
  • Power Source: Corded
  • Blade Size: 12?

Pros

  • High precision
  • Versatile
  • Good safety
  • Easy to use
  • Sharp blade

Cons

  • Relatively expensive
  • Lacks cutting guide

Our Verdict

DEWALT DW716 offers a competitive cutting accuracy and capacity that enhance your craftwork. Very few miter saws can match up to its versatility. Even if you’re a beginner, you’ll feel at ease when using this model. It has great online reviews too. It’s a bit expensive but there is a 3-year warranty. So get it if you can afford it!

12 Makita LS1040 10″ Compound Miter Saw

Makita LS1040 10" Compound Miter Saw

Our last but not the least choice is an affordable and reliable compound miter saw from Makita. It’s an easy-to-use saw and a great option for beginners.

LS1040 has a conventional design. It weighs only 32.5 pounds and is easily portable. We also loved its compactness. Its small dimensions let you set it up in a smaller workshop.

This model features a 15-amp powerful motor that can cut through any materials. Its 10″ blade with a 4600 rpm spin rate cuts through wood smoothly but it’s not that great for wider cuts. However, you can change its blade without any hassle.

It has an impressive cutting capacity. The max depth of cut is 3.56-inch, which is great for applications like indoor finishing and other wood cutting. You can also have basic miter and bevel cuts with it.

Its transparent blade guard prevents you from injuries. The dust collection system is also standard. You need to clear the dust bag frequently to keep your work area clean.

Specifications

  • Motor: 15-AMP
  • Speed: 4,600 RPM
  • Max Depth of Cut: 3.56?
  • Max Cross Cut Capacity: 5.12?
  • Miter range: 45° left, 52° right
  • Bevel range: 45° left
  • Weight: 32.5 pounds
  • Dimensions: 20 x 10 x 21 inches
  • Power Source: Corded
  • Blade Size: 10?

Pros

  • Easy blade change
  • Portable
  • Affordable
  • Good cutting capacity
  • Great fence

Cons

  • Not suitable for wider cuts

Our Verdict

Even though we placed it last, it includes many features that only top-quality miter saws have. Makita is a renowned Japanese brand for reliable power tools. It can cover most of your cutting needs with a good miter and bevel range. What’s more, you can get it at a low price!

Best Miter Saw for Crown Molding – An Ultimate Buying Guide

Best Miter Saw Buyer's Guide

1. Durability and Reliability

Your miter saw is effective only when it’s reliable and durable. Its performance also depends on these factors.

2. Power

You should get a power tool that’ll meet the highest standards to ensure safety. This is one of the most important concerns for miter saws. The motor power ranges between 10-15 AMP.

3. Types

  • Compound

Compound miter saws are great for bevel or tilted cuts. You can try miter cuts making some adjustments. You can use compound miter most effectively for cutting crown moldings.

  • Sliding compound

Sliding compound is the most versatile and costly type here. Along with providing all the benefits of a compound miter saw, it additionally can cut thick and wide pieces of wood.

  • Dual compound

Unlike all compound miter saws, they can cut both ways for bevel cuts. All other functions are the same as the compound type.

  • Original miter box and saw

You can use a miter box for a perfect angle cut. The original miter box consisted of a three-side box that could cut at a 45° and 90° angle.

  • Power/Standard

The powered version is designed for 45° straight cuts on any piece of work.

  • Laser/LED

Laser miter saws are used for more precise cutting. A disk shaped washer is used to make the laser that is attached to the saw blade and illuminates the line. Some saws feature LED for better illumination.

4. Bevel Adjustment

  • Single Bevel

Each single bevel saw usually has a similar cutting capacity and can cut a 12 inch wide board. The weight ranges from 36 pounds to 42 pounds.

  • Double bevel

You can make opposite bevels by double bevel saws without reorienting the piece. This saves you time. The weight of double bevel saws ranges from 43 to 55 pounds.

5. Blade

  • Blade Size

These types of saws come with different blade sizes. For wider boards, you need larger blades. The average blade size is 10-12 inch.

  • Blade Guards

The best choice of a blade guard is an articulated one that you can keep out of your way when not in use. Such guards will cover your blade as soon as you lift the saw.

  • Easy blade changing

You don’t need to change the blade often for a miter saw. But it’s better to have a saw that allows you to easily and quickly change the blade.

6. Accuracy

The most desirable feature of a miter saw is its accuracy. For framing a building or just carrying out carpentry at home, accurate cutting is of paramount importance.

7. Ease of Use

Your miter saw should be user-friendly. The bevel scales and miter should be visible and clearly marked for easier cutting and adjustment.

8. Portability

The portability of your miter saw is an important factor when you need a jobsite saw. In that case your saw needs to be lighter. But if you want to use it only in your workshop, you don’t have to worry about its weight and portability.

9. Capacity

Capacity is another major factor for miter saw because the horizontal capacity determines the width and the vertical capacity determines the length and the thickness that you can cut with it.

10. Handle/Trigger

The handle provides you grip to hold and transport the device. It can be mounted either horizontally or vertically. You’ll get a power switch or trigger built into the handle.

11. Slide Bar

This is an exclusive feature of sliding miter saws. It guides the saw arm’s sliding motion.

12. Depth Stops

Depth stops help you adjust the blade’s height to control how deep you cut into the wood.

13. Electric Brakes

This is an important safety feature. By hitting its trigger, you can reverse its electricity flow, which instantly stops the motor.

14. Laser Guides/ Guide Lights

Both these features aid in accurate cutting by projecting a beam on your workpiece.

15. Fences

There are either flip or slide fences that provide you additional support for cutting taller wood pieces. But they flip down or slide out of the way when you work with larger wood pieces.

16. Dust Collection

The dust produced by miter saws needs to be collected for a clean working environment and for ensuring accurate cuts. You should have blowers and dust chutes to get off the saw dust from your work table.

17. Table Extensions

These accessories add space to support large wood pieces.

18. Shaft Locks

You need shaft locks for changing the saw blade. They lock everything into the place and allow you to easily change the blade.

Miter Saw Care & Maintenance Tips

Miter saws are a valuable tool for any woodworker. So, to make your one last longer, it’s important that it is maintained and taken care of regularly.

Here are few valuable tips for you to maintain and clean it properly:

  • Clean debris from the surface of the tool regularly. You can use compressed air and a piece of dry cloth. You can also use a shop-vacuum for clearing away debris.
  • Clean the cutting table and fence with a scotch-bright pad after every use.
  • You have to clean the blade carefully since it is sharp. Use a brush or wear a pair of thick work gloves. After cleaning it, you should apply cutting oil on the surface.
  • Sharpen the blade with the right sharpening tool if it becomes blunt.
  • Don’t overlook the exterior moving parts of your miter saw. Lubricate them regularly to reduce friction.
  • Always check for cracks or breakages on the power cord and brushes. Replace any worn out parts as soon as possible.

Safety Tips

You should prioritize on your safety when using any power tool. The sharp blade can cause you serious injury if you’re not careful.

  • Keep protective blade guards in place at all times
  • Unplug your saw when you’re not using it
  • Remove scraps from the machine before operation
  • Make sure your workpiece is set firmly against the fence and table before cutting
  • Wear the right protective eyewear and hearing protection
  • Make sure your blade guard is transparent to easily see through
  • Let the blade stop completely before lifting it
  • Operate the machine with your right hand and hold the material on the left side with your left hand so your arms don’t cross
  • Maintain a 6″ distance from the blade
  • Use a vice or clamp for holding the workpiece in place

Wrapping It Up

In this miter saw buying guide and review, we selected the finest miter saws out of hundreds of available options so it becomes easier for you to find the right match.

Once you know your specific cutting needs and the size of your workpiece, coming to a final decision will be a matter of a few moments. Don’t forget to share your experience with the Drillly team.

About the author

Brent Butterworth

A Professional Woodworker & Custom Furniture Builder

Brent lives in Wisconsin and is a woodworker, custom cabinetmaker, interior consultant, and a freelance writer who got the opportunity to write several magazine articles for different publications on home improvement and woodworking. He’s always amazed at the depth and breadth of woodworking all over the globe, and feels proud to be a part of this great effort. Brent has built everything one can imagine, from unique art furniture to different types of home furniture to canoes and even a sailboat.

Leave a Comment