Table Saw vs Miter Saw: Which to Buy First, According to Reddit
When it comes to choosing between a table saw and a miter saw for your woodworking projects, the debate is as heated as the sawdust it produces. Both tools have their unique advantages and are essential in any workshop. But if you're starting out and can only afford one, which should you buy first? Let's dive into the Reddit community's wisdom to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding the Tools
Before we delve into the Reddit discussions, let's briefly understand each tool:
- Table Saw: A versatile tool that allows you to make rip cuts (along the grain), cross cuts (across the grain), and miter cuts (angled cuts) on large stock. It's a must-have for cutting large sheets of plywood and making precise, large-scale cuts.
- Miter Saw: Primarily used for making miter cuts and cross cuts on smaller stock. It's ideal for framing, trim work, and creating picture frames. Miter saws are known for their portability and ease of use.
Reddit's Verdict: Table Saw First
When asked about the order of purchase, Reddit users overwhelmingly recommended buying a table saw first. Here's why:
Versatility
Reddit user u/HandyHans pointed out, "A table saw can do everything a miter saw can, and more. You can't say the same for a miter saw." This versatility makes the table saw an excellent choice for a first tool.
Long-Term Investment
Many users, like u/CarpentryCarl, emphasized the long-term value of a table saw. "A good table saw will last you a lifetime. It's a bigger investment, but it's worth it in the long run." While miter saws are more affordable, they may not offer the same longevity or return on investment.
Safety and Precision
Table saws, when used with proper safety measures like push sticks and guards, can provide precise cuts. u/WoodworkingWiz shared, "I've had my table saw for 15 years, and it's never let me down. It's the backbone of my workshop."
When to Consider a Miter Saw
While the consensus leans towards the table saw, there are situations where a miter saw might be more suitable:
- Space Constraints: If you have limited workspace, a miter saw's portability and smaller footprint might be more appealing.
- Budget: If you're on a tight budget, a miter saw is a more affordable entry point into woodworking.
- Specific Projects: For tasks like trim work, picture frames, or small-scale projects, a miter saw might be sufficient.
Final Thoughts
Based on Reddit's collective wisdom, buying a table saw first is the way to go for most woodworkers. Its versatility, long-term value, and precision make it an excellent first tool. However, every workshop is unique, so consider your specific needs and constraints when making your decision.
Happy sawing!
More Details
21.08.2023 ... I had a miter saw first because I was doing outside projects like building a deck. Once I started building smaller stuff, the table saw became ...
20.07.2024 ... Miter saw is very limited in what it can cut. (It does those cuts really well, but that all it does. If you're not building decks or work with ...
06.11.2021 ... A miter saw is a good start because they are easier to work with. Table saws can be harder to work with in some cases and are not as easy to use ...
20.02.2022 ... You'll get a lot of opinions on this about what your "first" saw should be. But I think you could make an argument for a table saw, tracksaw or ...
19.08.2021 ... The only advantage to using a miter saw is when I work with really long planks or I need to cut some complicated angles. If you go with a ...
02.03.2024 ... Yes a table saw is more versatile, but those first few projects are more suited to the miter saw and circular saw you already have.
15.11.2025 ... The only way I'd buy a mitre saw first is if the projects I have in mind involve a lot of deck building or something.
12.01.2018 ... I regularly use wood over 12' long. I rehab old buildings. I'm using the first floor of a building I'm working on as a workspace. It's 16'x90' ...
07.10.2019 ... Simple projects with dimensioned lumber, buy the miter saw first. If your goal is to build more elaborate pieces or use lots of sheet goods, I'd ...
03.11.2023 ... Believe me, they'll sell you the tools at any time. But first learn to use what you own. Every tool, machinery or accessory requires a learning ...
28.07.2023 ... If you are cutting long thin boards like baseboards, crown moulding, floorboards, and framing lumber, the miter saw is going to give you a much ...
10.06.2025 ... For woodwork alone a table saw is a more useful tool. If you plan on doing any remodeling or flooring around the house a miter saw makes your ...
27.07.2023 ... That said, for the average person who is not doing woodworking, but is handy, a miter saw is a great option for space efficiency and being able ...
05.01.2017 ... Definitely a table saw. Miter saws are nice for cutting to length. But a cross cut sled will allow you to use the table saw for the same sort of work and as ...
20.11.2023 ... 90° crosscut are better on the tablesaw. It cuts cleaner and more accurate, less blade wobble. Where a miter saw really shines is being able to ...
18.12.2023 ... Table Saw. Table saws have a circular saw blade that extends from a flat table. To use it, you slide work pieces across the surface of the ...
06.04.2022 ... Miter saws are great for framing and trim, but if you are doing glue-ups for furniture a table saw is a must. Ripping three inch strips in ...
27.04.2024 ... I got the Miter first, got a SawStop CTS coming. Once the CTS gets here, it can do almost everything the miter can do and of course a lot more.
20.11.2023 ... Table saw 1st especially for building longer flat furniture. You'll be making more rip cuts than cross cuts and you can get cross cuts done with ...
06.09.2024 ... Spend most if not all of your budget on a table saw. Then cheap out on the miter saw. Imo a table saw is going to be much more useful for ...
