Cutting plywood cleanly without tear-out can be a real challenge, especially if you’re using the wrong blade on your table saw. Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or a DIY enthusiast, achieving a smooth, chip-free edge on veneered plywood or laminates makes all the difference in the final look of your projects. Finding the best plywood blade for table saw is crucial, as it transforms frustration into satisfyingly crisp cuts. We’ve tested and reviewed some top contenders to help you pick the perfect blade for your workshop.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Plywood Blade For Table Saw Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Freud Thin Kerf Carbide Saw Blade for Plywood and Melamine – 10 Inch, 80 Teeth.
If you’re tired of chipped edges when cutting plywood, the Freud Thin Kerf Carbide Saw Blade is a game-changer. This 10-inch, 80-tooth blade is specifically engineered for ultra-smooth, flawless cuts in delicate materials like veneered plywood, melamine, and laminates. It truly delivers on its promise of a chip-free finish, making it a top contender for the best plywood blade for table saw.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Flawless Finish Cuts: Designed for an ultra-smooth, chip-free edge, ideal for veneered plywood, melamine, and laminates.
- ✓ Premium TiCo Carbide Blend: High-density carbide ensures maximum cutting performance, superior edge retention, and long-lasting durability.
- ✓ Hi-ATB Tooth Geometry: The High Alternate Top Bevel tooth design provides a superior shearing action, significantly reducing tear-out.
- ✓ Thin Kerf Design: Minimizes material waste and reduces the strain on your table saw motor, making cuts easier and more efficient.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend this Freud blade because it consistently delivers exceptional results on materials that are notoriously difficult to cut cleanly. The combination of its TiCo carbide, Hi-ATB grind, and thin kerf ensures that even the most delicate plywood receives a factory-finish edge. It’s an investment that pays off in time saved on sanding and the sheer quality of your finished projects.
Best For
This blade is best for woodworkers and DIYers who prioritize precision and a pristine, chip-free finish on expensive or delicate materials like veneered plywood, melamine, and laminates. It’s also excellent for fine crosscuts in solid wood.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Produces exceptionally smooth, chip-free cuts on plywood and melamine.
- High-quality TiCo carbide teeth offer impressive durability and edge retention.
- Thin kerf design reduces material waste and power consumption.
- Ideal for professional-grade finish work where perfection is key.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to general-purpose blades.
- May still experience minor chip-out on the bottom surface if a zero-clearance insert is not used.
- Thin kerf might be less stable for extremely thick or dense hardwoods.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “It came quite sharp, and cuts very well on the A surface (‘up’ side on table saw), the bottom has some chip out, which may be helped with a better zero clearance plate. But, this is listed as one side only, and it meets that expectation very well. I’m pleased with the results (but only have about 10″”
Customer Review: “These blades are the best. I use them in my table saw, chop saw & circular saw. They cut through both hardwood and softwood without issue. Once they become dull you can resharpen and they’re like brand new. I use a local company that sharpens them.”
2. WEN 10-Inch 80-Tooth Carbide Saw Blade for Fine Finish on Table and Miter Saws.
The WEN 10-Inch 80-Tooth Carbide Saw Blade is a fantastic option for anyone seeking clean, fine finishes without breaking the bank. With its 80 carbide teeth and ultra-thin kerf, it’s designed to provide smooth cuts on a variety of materials. This blade truly stands out as an excellent value pick if you’re looking for a reliable plywood blade for table saw applications.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ High Tooth Count: 80 carbide teeth deliver very smooth and fine finishes.
- ✓ Versatile Use: Suitable for both table saws and miter saws, ideal for slicing through hard and softwoods.
- ✓ Ultra-Thin Kerf: The 1/10-inch (2.4 mm) kerf ensures clean, efficient cuts and minimal material loss.
- ✓ Standard Dimensions: 10-inch diameter and 5/8-inch arbor fit most standard saws.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the WEN 80-tooth blade for its impressive performance-to-price ratio. It consistently produces clean cuts, comparable to more expensive blades, making it an excellent choice for hobbyists and professionals who need quality without overspending. It’s a solid performer for plywood and general fine finishing tasks.
Best For
This blade is best for DIY enthusiasts, hobbyist woodworkers, and anyone needing a reliable, cost-effective blade for fine finish cuts on plywood, laminates, and various hard and softwoods on their table or miter saw.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Offers excellent fine finish cuts at a very attractive price point.
- Durable carbide tips maintain sharpness over extended use.
- Ultra-thin kerf reduces load on the motor and produces cleaner cuts.
- Versatile enough for both table saws and miter saws.
Cons:
- May not match the absolute chip-free perfection of premium blades on extremely delicate veneers.
- Some users might desire a slightly lower noise level during operation.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This is a decent 80 tooth carbide blade at a very attractive price. I’m not making fine furniture for a living, and am not overly concerned about minimizing cutting time, tooth marks or sanding time, so very expensive blades are largely wasted on me. And having said that, this blade delivers a very”
Customer Review: “Works great, still going, sharp, strong great quality for the price. Cuts accurately for 1/8 the cost od DW junk”
3. Freud 10 Inch Carbide Saw Blade for Plywood and Melamine on Table Saws.
Another excellent offering from Freud, this 10-inch 80-tooth carbide saw blade is specifically designed for cutting plywood and melamine with exceptional results. It boasts a slightly thicker kerf than its thin-kerf sibling but still delivers outstanding splinter-free cuts, making it a reliable choice for the best plywood blade for table saw tasks, especially where stability might be preferred over the absolute thinnest cut.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Hi-ATB Tooth Design: High Alternate Top Bevel (Hi-ATB) grind ensures splinter-free, clean cuts on both sides of delicate materials.
- ✓ TiCo Hi-Density Carbide: Premium carbide blend maximizes performance, ensuring longevity and consistent sharpness.
- ✓ Optimized Hook Angle: A 2° hook angle is ideal for crosscutting and achieving fine finishes without aggressive grabbing.
- ✓ Standard Kerf: With a .126″ kerf, it offers a balance of stability and smooth cutting for various applications.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this Freud blade for its robust performance on plywood and melamine, delivering chip-free cuts consistently. It combines Freud’s renowned carbide technology with a stable design, making it a trustworthy tool for achieving professional results without the ultra-thin kerf considerations. It offers great value for its superior cutting quality.
Best For
This blade is best for serious woodworkers and professionals who frequently cut plywood, melamine, and laminates on their table saws and need a durable blade that consistently produces splinter-free, smooth edges.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional splinter-free cuts on plywood, melamine, and hardwoods.
- Premium TiCo carbide ensures excellent durability and resharpening potential.
- Stable .126″ kerf provides a solid feel during cuts.
- Produces whisper-quiet operation and razor-sharp results.
Cons:
- Not a thin-kerf blade, so it removes slightly more material than some specialized options.
- Higher upfront cost, though justified by its longevity and performance.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This 80 tooth blade will cut your plywood or hardwood with outstanding results. I’ve used it for about 2 weeks so far and it’s outstanding. If you care about really clean cuts with no tear-through or tear-out you should be using this blade. It’s definitely not cheap but it’s worth the investment”
Customer Review: “I have several more expensive 80T, H-ATB blades from other manufacturers and for some reason, this one beats them all by a longshot. It sliced through all of my pieces from 20sheets of 3/4″ good 2 side melamine…whisper quiet, chip-free razor sharp cuts on both sides, and still cuts like new. So im”
4. CMT 10-Inch 80-Tooth Fine Finish Saw Blade for Plywood on Table Saws.
The CMT 10-Inch 80-Tooth Fine Finish Saw Blade is renowned for its ability to produce glass-smooth finishes, especially on delicate materials like plywood, melamine, and laminates. With its specific tooth grind and hook angle, this blade excels in crosscutting and delivers exceptional results, making it another strong contender for the best plywood blade for table saw users who demand precision.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Glass-Smooth Finish: Specifically designed to produce extremely fine, smooth cuts on crosscuts and delicate materials.
- ✓ Versatile Material Compatibility: Excellent for solid wood, melamine, laminates, plywood, and chipboard.
- ✓ Optimized Tooth Geometry: Features a 5° hook angle and 40° Alternate Teeth Grind (ATB) for clean shearing action.
- ✓ Durable Construction: High-quality construction ensures longevity and consistent performance over time.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the CMT 80-tooth blade for its consistent ability to create pristine, chip-free edges. Its specialized design minimizes tear-out, making it ideal for projects where the cut edge is visible. Whether you’re working on cabinetry or fine furniture, this blade provides the clean finish you need.
Best For
This blade is best for woodworkers needing a dedicated fine-finish blade for radial arm saws, miter saws, and table saws, especially when working with sensitive materials like plywood, melamine, and laminates where a flawless edge is paramount.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Delivers incredibly smooth, glass-like finishes on a variety of materials.
- Minimizes tear-out effectively, even on delicate plywood and melamine.
- Durable construction ensures a long lifespan and consistent sharpness.
- Versatile for use on multiple saw types (table, miter, radial arm).
Cons:
- Can be a bit loud during operation for some users.
- The 5° hook angle is very specific for fine finishing and less aggressive for ripping thicker stock.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “amazing blades. I’ve been using a 10″ CMT blade on my table saw for several months now and it is still in great condition. I have been using a Dewalt blade in my 12″ miter saw for about the same time. It is still sharp abd delivers a clean cut (on mainly hardwood) BUT is screams so loud that it h”
Customer Review: “Exellent quality blade .I installed on my bosh 12″ miter saw it cuts like butter 🧈”
5. DEWALT 10 Inch 80 Tooth Carbide Table Saw Blade for Plywood and Fine Finish.
The DEWALT 10 Inch 80 Tooth Carbide Table Saw Blade is a powerhouse for achieving fine finishes, particularly on plywood and other delicate materials. Designed with durability and precision in mind, this blade promises an improved finish quality and longer life compared to standard blades. It’s a solid, dependable choice when you need a top-tier plywood blade for table saw accuracy.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Extended Blade Life: Engineered for up to 3 times the life of comparable blades, offering long-term value.
- ✓ Low Vibration Design: Patented body slot design significantly reduces vibration, leading to smoother cuts and less user fatigue.
- ✓ Optimized Tooth Geometry: Specifically designed tooth configuration enhances cutting accuracy and reduces tear-out on plywood.
- ✓ Fine Finish Quality: 80 carbide teeth ensure a clean, smooth cut surface ideal for visible edges.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the DEWALT 80-tooth blade for its combination of durability, low vibration, and impressive cutting performance. It’s built to last and provides consistently clean results on challenging materials like plywood, making it a reliable workhorse in any workshop. You can trust DEWALT to deliver precision and a great finish.
Best For
This blade is best for professional carpenters, cabinet makers, and serious DIYers who require a high-performance, long-lasting blade for intricate work on plywood, laminates, and fine finish crosscuts in various wood types.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional longevity, providing up to 3x the life of standard blades.
- Patented low-vibration design ensures smoother operation and greater accuracy.
- Delivers improved finish quality, especially on plywood and fine materials.
- Versatile for cutting both wood and even PVC pipe with clean results.
Cons:
- Might be an overkill for very basic or rough cutting tasks.
- The price point is on the higher side, reflecting its premium features and durability.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Really good blade, fine enough to leave a reasonably finished edge, but coarse enough to to cut with speed and not burn the wood. I’ve also used this to cut PVC pipe, leaves an almost factory end.”
Customer Review: “I bought a Skill table saw earlier this year after debating over a dewalt. The saw is great but the stock blade was horrible. I replaced it with this dewalt blade and it cuts through 2inch red oak like butter. The stock blade was 24t vice this dewalt 40t. The price is low and it’s great quality”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Plywood Blade For Table Saw
Essential Factors We Consider
When you’re searching for the best plywood blade for table saw, it’s not just about picking any blade. The right one can drastically improve your project quality and your woodworking experience. We look for several critical factors to ensure you get clean, tear-out-free cuts every time. High tooth counts, typically 60-80 teeth or more, are essential for fine finishes on plywood. The tooth geometry, like an Alternate Top Bevel (ATB) or High Alternate Top Bevel (Hi-ATB) grind, is key to shearing wood fibers instead of tearing them, minimizing splintering. Carbide-tipped teeth are a must for durability and sharpness, especially when working with abrasive materials. Lastly, a thinner kerf can reduce material waste and strain on your saw, though it requires a stable saw for best results.
Budget Planning
Investing in a quality plywood blade is worth it, but that doesn’t mean you need to empty your wallet. You’ll find blades ranging from budget-friendly options around $30-$50 to premium blades that can cost over $100. For hobbyists or those with occasional plywood projects, a mid-range blade like the WEN or a value Freud model will offer excellent performance without a huge expense. If you’re a professional or frequently work with expensive veneers, a premium blade from brands like Freud or DEWALT might be a better long-term investment due to its superior finish quality and extended lifespan. Remember, a cheaper blade often leads to more wasted material and extra sanding, so consider the overall value, not just the upfront cost, when selecting the best plywood blade for table saw.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, choosing the best plywood blade for table saw use comes down to balancing your specific needs, the materials you commonly cut, and your budget. Prioritize a blade with a high tooth count (80-tooth is ideal), a specialized ATB or Hi-ATB grind, and high-quality carbide tips. Don’t underestimate the impact a good blade has on the efficiency and aesthetic of your projects. Taking the time to select the right blade will lead to cleaner cuts, less frustration, and professional-looking results every single time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why do I need a special blade for plywood?
A: Plywood, especially veneered plywood, consists of multiple thin layers of wood glued together. A standard general-purpose blade can easily tear out these delicate veneers, leading to chipped and unsightly edges. A specialized plywood blade has a higher tooth count (typically 80 teeth or more) and a specific tooth grind (like Hi-ATB) that shears the wood fibers cleanly, preventing tear-out and delivering smooth, chip-free cuts.
Q: What does “Hi-ATB” mean, and why is it good for plywood?
A: Hi-ATB stands for High Alternate Top Bevel. This tooth geometry features alternating teeth with a high bevel angle, creating a knife-like cutting action. Instead of pushing and tearing the material, it scores and slices through the wood fibers cleanly. This shearing action is particularly effective on delicate veneers and laminates, minimizing splintering and producing a superior finish on both sides of the plywood.
Q: Is a thin kerf blade better for cutting plywood?
A: Thin kerf blades (typically around 3/32″ or 2.4mm) have a narrower cut width, which means they remove less material. This reduces waste and puts less strain on your table saw’s motor, making them energy-efficient. For plywood, a thin kerf can also contribute to cleaner cuts by reducing friction. However, they require a stable table saw and careful technique to prevent deflection and ensure straight cuts.
Q: Can I resharpen a carbide-tipped plywood blade?
A: Yes, carbide-tipped blades can be resharpened, but it requires specialized equipment and expertise. Many local saw sharpening services can do this for you. Resharpening extends the life of your blade, saving you money in the long run, especially for higher-quality blades. Make sure to choose a reputable sharpener to maintain the blade’s precise tooth geometry.
Q: What tooth count is best for plywood?
A: For cutting plywood and other fine-finish materials, a high tooth count is crucial. Blades with 60 to 80 teeth are generally recommended. An 80-tooth blade offers the finest, most splinter-free cut, ideal for veneered plywood and melamine. A 60-tooth blade can also work well, especially for thicker plywood, offering a balance between speed and finish quality.
Choosing the best plywood blade for table saw use is a simple step that can dramatically elevate the quality of your woodworking projects. From crisp edges on delicate veneers to smooth cuts through robust sheet goods, the right blade makes all the difference. We hope our detailed reviews and comprehensive buying guide have equipped you with the knowledge to make an informed decision. Remember, an investment in a good blade is an investment in the precision and beauty of your craftsmanship. Happy cutting!
I’m Darrell Julian, the founder, lead writer, and hands-on welding enthusiast behind ArcWeldingPro.com. With more than 15 years of real-world welding experience, I created this platform to share what I’ve learned in the field, in the shop, and in the heat of the arc.
