5 Best Table Saws for Small Shop (Tested & Reviewed in 2024)
If you’re like me, space in my work shop is hard to come by. Unfortunately, I don’t have one of those massive shops that you see others have.
But that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice when it comes to the tools and supplies you use!
That’s why I put together this list of the best table saws for small shop so you can get the most out of your space.
In a hurry? The best table saw for a small shop is the DeWalt 10″ Jobsite Table Saw. This table saw is powerful, compact, and does a great job of cutting virtually any wood. Because of its size, it’s great for small shops and you can easily transport it thanks to its rolling stand.
Quick Answer: Here are the Best Table Saws for Small Shops! 👇
Best Table Saw for Small Shop
- #1 Best Overall – DeWalt 10″ Table Saw
- Best Quality – SKIL 10″ Heavy Duty Table Saw
- Best Value – DeWalt 8 1/4″ Compact Table Saw
- Most Portable Table Saw – Bosch 10-Inch Table Saw
- Best Budget Benchtop Saw – Ryobi Table Saw
1. DEWALT 10-Inch Table Saw – #1 Best Overall
- Your purchase includes one Dewalt table saw, 10inch 24-tooth carbide blade, rolling stand, push stick, miter…
- Other Specs: Max rip to left of blade – 22inch | Max rip to right of blade – 32-1/2inch | Max width of…
- Rolling stand designed for easy set up and breakdown with excellent stability
If you’re looking for the best table saw for small shop, the DeWalt 10″ Table Saw is my top choice for a few reasons.
This table saw is powerful, compact, accurate, and has all of the safety features you’d want in a saw.
It features a 15-amp motor that can produce 4,800 RPM of speed which is great for hard woods that require more power to cut through them.
Adjustments are super easy to make on this saw and it’s extremely accurate thanks to the quality blade and fence. It also has a dust collection port that keeps saw dust out of the way while cutting.
What I Liked:
- Very powerful 15 amp motor that can produce 4,800 RPM of blade speed
- Large 32.5″ rip capacity so you can cut larger pieces of wood
- Extremely accurate and precise
- Portable wheels make it easy to move around as needed
What I Didn’t Like:
- Slightly more expensive than other saws
- Heavier than some other saws
- When cutting hard woods, the power can sometimes exceed 15 amps and trip your breaker
My Thoughts
The DeWalt 10″ table saw is the best table saw for small shops because of its mix of portability and power. This saw is a quality saw that will last for years, and it’s powerful enough to cut through the hardest woods. This table saw also has wheels, which make it easy to move around in a small shop. If you have a small shop like I do, this table saw is one of the best you’ll find and I highly recommend it. My only complaint is that when you cut super dense woods, it can sometimes trip your breaker – but this doesn’t happen super often. Overall, this is a great saw that you won’t regret buying.
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2. SKIL 10 Inch Heavy Duty Worm Drive Table Saw – Best Quality
- Legendary worm drive gearing with 3-5/8 inch depth of cut and 30-1/2 inch rip capacity
- Precision rack and pinion fence system makes fence adjustments quickly and smoothly for accurate cuts
- Rugged rolling stand with 16 inch Wheels and easy-load handles delivers unsurpassed mobility
If you’re looking for a more heavy duty saw that will fit in a small shop, you can’t go wrong with this 10″ SKIL Jobsite Table Saw.
This saw is very similar to the DeWalt table saw above, with a few small differences.
It features a similar 15 amp motor, a large rip capacity of 30.5″, and all of the safety features you’d expect.
This saw is different in that the larger 16″ wheels make this saw much easier to move around, which can come in handy. Additionally, I found that this saw had a slightly easier time cutting through denser hardwoods and it didn’t trip the breaker like the DeWalt did on occasions.
Given the power and quality of this saw it’s one of the best table saws you can buy for less than $1000. You can also read my full SKIL table saw review for more details.
What I Liked:
- High quality saw with a 15 amp motor that can cut through any material
- Large wheels make this saw easy to move around
- Dust collection system does a great job of keeping dust out of the way
What I Didn’t Like:
- More expensive than other table saws
- No storage area for tools and accessories
- Shorter cord means you’ll need to have an extension cord ready
My Thoughts
Overall, if you’re searching for a small shop table saw that can complete any cut, this SKIL 10″ Table Saw is a top of the line saw that’s worth the money. It’s slightly more powerful than the DeWalt above, but it does come with a slightly higher price. I also love the wheels on this saw. It’s easier to move than other saws, making it great for small shops and jobsites. This saw also features a 30 inch rip capacity – so you can cut larger boards, which can be helpful. Overall, I would highly recommend this SKIL table saw.
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3. DeWalt 8 1/4″ Compact Jobsite Table Saw – Best Value
- Included Components: (1) Dwe7485 8-1/4 In. Table Saw; (1) Fence; (1) Anti-Kickback Pawls; (1) Miter Gauge; (1)…
If you’re looking for an even more compact table saw that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg, this DeWalt 8 1/4″ Table Saw is a great choice.
This saw is super compact compared to other saws, making it perfect for those with a small shop.
It has a rip capacity of 24.5″ with a 15 amp motor capable of delivering 5,800 RPM of blade speed and includes many of the same safety features as other table saws.
Benchtop saws can be great for small shops because you can pick them up and move them around. This means if you’re lacking floor space – these saws could be the way to go.
What I Liked:
- Very compact and easy to setup and use making it a great table saw for beginners
- More affordable then other saws
- Same 15 amp motor as more expensive saws so you can cut dense materials
What I Didn’t Like:
- Isn’t as portable as other table saws because of the lack of wheels
- Smaller rip capacity so you won’t be able to cut large boards
My Thoughts
If you’re looking for a super compact table saw at a great price, this DeWalt 8 1/4″ Benchtop Table Saw is for you. This saw has all of the cutting power you’ll need in a smaller size. Benchtop table saws are great for small shops because you can place it anywhere in your shop wherever you have space. While it does have a smaller rip capacity and blade size – you won’t have any problems cutting smaller boards. Overall, if you want a great saw at a solid price – this DeWalt Benchtop Table Saw is a great choice!
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4. Bosch 10-Inch Table Saw – Most Portable Table Saw
- NEW VERSION AVAILABLE: GTS15-10
- POWERFUL TABLE SAW: Has 15-Amp saw with 4.0 max HP and 3,650 rpm, for rip-cutting and cross-cutting of fine and rough materials
- LARGE CAST ALUMINUM TOP: Provides increased work space and material support with a 30 In. ripping capacity
Another great 10″ Table Saw is this BOSCH Portable Table Saw. When compared to other table saws, this one has thicker wheels that make it super easy to move.
This is another high power table saw that features a 15 amp motor capable of delivering up to 3,650 RPM of blade speed. While it’s not quite as powerful as the DeWalt or SKIL saws above, it’s very close.
It has all of the safety features you could want including a riving knife, anti-kickback pawl, and blade guard.
What I Liked:
- Powerful 15 amp motor can deliver accurate cuts for any types of materials
- Soft start circuitry means that you won’t trip your breaker when cutting dense woods
- Inflatable tires make it easy to transport
- Larger 30 inch rip capacity allows you to cut larger boards
What I Didn’t Like:
- More expensive than other saws
- Not quite as powerful as some table saws
My Thoughts
The BOSCH 10″ Table Saw is another powerful, portable table saw that’s great for a small shop. This is a powerful saw that can deliver a wide range of cuts thanks to its 15 amp motor and an accurate miter gauge. The rack and pinion fence system is also extremely precise that makes accurate cuts a breeze. One thing I loved about this saw is the soft start circuitry that minimizes the chances of tripping your breaker. If you’re looking for a small shop table saw that’s easy to move around and offers great power, you can’t go wrong with this saw.
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5. RYOBI RTS08 – Best Value Benchtop Saw
- Tough, 13 Amp motor delivers 5600 RPM for powerful performance
- Rip fence easily guides material during rip cuts
- Lightweight design for easy transport
If you’re looking for a lightweight benchtop table saw, this Ryobi Table Saw is a great choice.
While you won’t get quite the same power as larger saws, this can still cut just about anything you’d need at a great price.
The 13 amp motor can deliver up to 5,600 RPM of blade speed and it features a 12″ rip capacity weighing at just 40 pounds!
I found the miter gauge to be pretty accurate and the rack and pinion fence system was pretty easy to adjust.
This table saw features a small storage area that can store your push stick which can come in super handy and for the price – you can’t go wrong here.
What I Liked:
- Great value for the price
- Very lightweight and portable design so you can move it around your shop
- Super convenient storage area for your push stick
- Accurate miter gauge and fence system so you can make precise cuts
What I Didn’t Like:
- Not as powerful as other saws with a 13 amp motor
- Smaller rip capacity so you might not be able to cut larger boards
My Thoughts
If you’re looking for an extremely lightweight benchtop table saw, this Ryobi 8 1/4″ Table Saw is an amazing option considering the price. This table saw is the most affordable on my list making it perfect for those on a budget. While you won’t get the same power as other saws, if you don’t need to cut extremely dense hardwoods, this saw will offer enough power for your work. Overall, for the price – this is a quality table saw that’s backed by a 3-year warranty.
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What to Consider When Buying a Table Saw for Small Shop
Size and Weight
Obviously, one of the most important considerations when choosing a table saw for your small shop is the size.
There’s quite a large variation in sizes you’ll find
Additionally, if your table saw doesn’t come with wheels, you’ll want to consider the weight of your saw. Heavier saws will be more difficult to move around but they can be higher quality, so you’ll have to decide which is more important to you.
Power
Power is another key consideration when selecting a table saw. After all, the more power that your saw can produce, the cleaner cuts you’ll get.
Power can be measured in a couple of ways. First the amps of the motor and second, the blade speed.
It’s worth noting that these don’t always go hand in hand and a higher blade speed doesn’t always means a cleaner cut.
The most powerful table saws will offer 15 amps of power – which is more than capable of cutting through any material.
Accuracy
As with any type of saw, accuracy is a critical factor that should be at the forefront of your decision process.
After all, what’s the point in purchasing a saw if it isn’t accurate!
There are many factors that play a role in accuracy when it comes to your table saw. Here are just a few:
- Blade quality – the sharpness and heat resistance of the blade can ensure a more accurate cut
- Fence quality – having a straight, stable, and easily adjustable fence will make your cuts more accurate and consistent. Check out these aftermarket table saw fences to make precise cuts.
- Miter gauge – if you’re making angled cuts, a more precise miter gauge will ensure your cuts are accurate. Check out these best miter gauges for table saws to increase accuracy.
- Vibration – table saws that reduce vibration are more precise than those with large vibrations
- Dust collection – keeping saw dust away from the blade will ensure a more precise cut
Rip Capacity
While you probably realize that purchasing a table saw for your smaller shop sacrifices the rip capacity, I think it’s still worth considering.
Most small shop table saws will offer a rip capacity between 12″ and 32.5″. The larger the rip capacity, the larger the boards you can cut.
This means if you’re working on big home improvement or woodworking projects, you might want to opt for a saw with a larger rip capacity.
Need help using a table saw? Check out the video below!
Portability
If you’re working in a small shop, there’s a good chance you’ll want (or need) to move your saw around as you’re working.
Some table saws feature a stand and wheels that make it easy to transport while others will sit on top of your workbench.
Dust Collection
Dust collection is another consideration worth taking a look at when purchasing a table saw of any kind. Most table saws will have a dust collection port or system that will help to remove saw dust from the area while cutting.
Dust collection plays a role in accuracy, as well. If saw dust is in the way when cutting, this can reduce the accuracy of your saw, which is one reason why it’s so important.
Durability and Warranty
If you’re planning to spend a decent amount of money on your table saw, you want it to last. I’ve found that you generally get what you pay for when it comes to power tools.
This means that cheaper table saws, while they can work great for a few years, tend to wear down after a few years and won’t last nearly as long.
Safety Features
While many people probably overlook the safety features of a saw, these are actually pretty important.
After all, the last thing you want is to loose a finger because you went with a model that cost a little bit less.
Most saws will have a large stop button, a blade guard, anti kickback pawls, and some will include a push stick. Some saws will feature the ability to detect a human finger on the blade and immediately stop the blade, but this is much more advanced.
Price
Just like size, there’s also a large variation in prices when it comes to table saws. Will you can find a table saw under $300, these are often less feature heavy and don’t last quite as long.
For a quality table saw, you can expect to pay around $600 to $1,000, give or take.
Cabinet table saws can cost upwards of $1,000 while portable table saws can cost less than $700.
Final Thoughts
So what’s the best table saw for a small shop? Hands down, the DeWalt 10″ Table Saw is the best you’ll find. This saw combines a powerful 15 amp motor with a larger 32.5 inch rip capacity in a compact design – at a pretty affordable price. It also features a rolling stand so you can move it around your shop when needed.
If you’re looking for something even more powerful, I’d recommend the SKIL 10″ Jobsite Table Saw. This is very similar to the DeWalt, but slightly more powerful and a tad easier to move around because of the larger wheels.
Finally, if you want a great value saw that doesn’t cost a fortune, go with the DeWalt 8 1/4″ Table Saw. This is a benchtop table saw that is powerful, accurate, and doesn’t take up much space at all. While you will sacrifice some rip capacity with this saw, if you have a super small shop – it’ll be perfect for you.