Any business or person that operates within the built environment needs a good table saw in their power tool arsenal. There are a few different types of table saws, each with its own unique specifications and features, which can sometimes make choosing the right one a little tricky. 

Scads of new and experienced people who are looking to buy table saws, or replace existing ones, make poor decisions when it comes to choosing the right type, with the right features at the right price. Table saws aren’t small investments. Nor do they simply cut materials into pieces. These handheld power tools make crosscuts, cut mitre joints, enable bevel cutting and a host of other jobs that allow projects to come to life. They cut wood, tile, bricks and blocks. The worst thing you can do is purchase, or settle for, something less than you should have, only to have to replace it later. 

Every construction professional knows that the right high frequency sawing equipment makes all the difference. Here are a few pointers that will help to determine the correct table saw for you. 

Step 1: Consider Where and How It Will Be Used

Do you want to do basic cutting like ripping boards to width, or will you be making furniture, need to cut unique joints or be working with thick, heavy-duty concrete? Always buy a table saw that is capable of performing the most complex operations you plan to perform. 

Step 2: Pick the Right Saw 

Table saws are split into different categories, each fitted with features to support various types and levels of saw-related work.

• Contractor Table Saw

This is generally a 10-inch table saw with an open stand and outboard motor. It is a high-frequency sawing tool that has a larger work surface. Typically, these saws produce 1.5 to 2 horsepower, with a 115-volt amperage draw ranging from about 11 to 18. It accommodates large pieces of plywood and is best suited to professional carpentry and construction, medium to large furniture and building projects, heavy-duty home improvement and DIY.

• Portable Table Saws:

The portable table saw usually has a set of wheels that allow it to be moved easily from one point to another. Often made with an integrated stand, they’re a versatile option that are ideal for temporary building sites. It is powerful enough to easily cut through thick lumber, hardwoods, plastics and metals. Portable table saws also work best in professional carpentry and construction, medium to large furniture and building projects, heavy-duty home improvement and DIY.

• Cabinet Table Saws

This is the king of table saws, built with an astounding combination of accuracy, power and huge rig capacity. They are big saws designed for heavy use. Their massive weight makes them smooth in operation so that cuts are even more accurate and smoother. These saws work well for professional-quality woodworking, furniture making of all sizes, larger construction projects, milling boards to size and cuts requiring extreme accuracy and precision.

• Hybrid Table Saws

As the name suggests, hybrid table saws combine different features from other types of table saws into one. They offer long-term reliability, can be transported and are a high-end saw of choice for anyone short of a professional woodworker or furniture maker.

• Benchtop Table Saw

These offer a cost-effective solution for small-scale sawing needs. They are lightweight, portable and ideal for basic home repairs and light woodwork projects. This type of saw is most often used by homeowners and DIYers. They almost always have a direct-drive universal motor.

Step 3: Decide Which Features Are Needed

Each table saw type has unique features that support various functions. The most common features to consider are power, blades, mitre gauge, flatness deviation, dust collection and safety. If you are unsure of where to start, a Gölz representative can help you decide based on your needs.  

The most important factor to consider when choosing a table saw is how big your projects will be. Gölz offers powerful and robust table saws for the building construction and stone market at economical prices that deliver high-precision cutting for wood, tiles, bricks and blocks. To view our range, click here.