Looking for the best cheap miter saw to tackle your DIY projects or light professional work without breaking the bank? You’ve landed in the right place! Miter saws are essential tools for precise crosscuts and angled cuts, perfect for everything from framing to intricate trim work. While premium models can be pricey, there are fantastic budget-friendly options that offer excellent accuracy, power, and durability. We’ve thoroughly tested and reviewed five top contenders that deliver impressive performance for their cost, ensuring you get the most bang for your buck.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Cheap Miter Saw Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Delta 10-inch Miter Saw with Laser Guide, a Smart Choice for DIY Enthusiasts.
The Delta 10-inch Miter Saw with Laser Guide is a fantastic option for anyone seeking an affordable yet capable saw. It offers a great balance of features and performance, making it a smart choice for a wide range of DIY woodworking projects. Its user-friendly design and robust build quality ensure you can tackle tasks with confidence and precision.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Laser guide for enhanced cutting accuracy, helping you line up cuts perfectly.
- ✓ Compatible with virtually all miter saw stands, offering versatile setup options.
- ✓ Features a spindle lock for secure and easy blade changes.
- ✓ Impressive cutting capacity, handling nominal 4×4 and 2×6 at 90° and 2×6 with a single pass.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Delta 10-inch Miter Saw because it hits that sweet spot of functionality and affordability. The laser guide is a game-changer for precise cuts, and its compatibility with various stands means you won’t be limited in your workspace. It’s a reliable workhorse for its price point, perfect for everyday DIY tasks.
Best For
This saw is best for DIY enthusiasts and hobbyists who need a dependable, accurate miter saw for home renovation, craft projects, or basic carpentry.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for money with solid performance.
- Laser guide significantly improves cutting precision.
- Good cutting capacity for common lumber sizes.
- Lightweight and easy to move around the workshop.
Cons:
- The plastic angle adjustment knob could be more robust.
- Some users report the angle pivot may occasionally loosen.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Great saw! Only slight worry is the accuracy of the swivel… It’s a plastic knob and for me; if I tighten it good, I feel like I’m about to break it.. Sometimes the angle pivot comes lose and if I don’t notice, it will cut slightly beveled! – Maybe user-fault, but if it was a locking latch style it “
Customer Review: “This miter saw is really easy to use. It’s lightweight and easy to move from place to place. The angle is easy to adjust, and the laser line shows you exactly where you need to cut. You can pay more and get more bells and whistles, but if you’re interested in a really good basic tool, this one will “
2. 12-inch Miter Box and Saw Set for Precise Woodworking, Crafting, and Carpentry Projects.
For those needing absolute precision on smaller projects without the bulk or cost of a power tool, this 12-inch Miter Box and Saw Set is an outstanding choice. It’s a comprehensive manual solution designed for intricate cuts in woodworking, crafting, and carpentry. This set combines traditional accuracy with modern efficiency, making it incredibly versatile.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ A complete 4-in-1 Miter Box and Saw Set, including a Japanese saw, fine-toothed blade, coarse-toothed blade, and the miter box itself.
- ✓ Achieves precise miter and bevel cuts like 45° and 135° miter cuts, 90° straight cuts, and 45° bevel cuts.
- ✓ The included Japanese saw features triple-ground teeth for incredibly sharp, efficient, and precise cuts.
- ✓ Versatile blades designed for cutting various materials, including hardwoods.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend this miter box and saw set for its exceptional precision and versatility for manual work. It’s incredibly satisfying to make perfectly angled cuts by hand, and this set gives you all the tools to do just that. It’s truly one of the best cheap miter saw alternatives for fine detail work.
Best For
This set is best for crafters, model makers, DIYers with small projects, and anyone who prioritizes silent, highly accurate manual cuts over speed.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unbeatable precision for fine cuts without power tool limitations.
- Includes a versatile selection of saws and blades.
- Excellent for small, intricate projects and delicate materials.
- Quiet operation and no electricity required.
Cons:
- Manual operation means slower cuts compared to electric saws.
- Limited to the size of materials that fit in the box.
- The plastic miter box might benefit from user reinforcement for extended durability.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This little miter box is perfect for small projects. Nice consistent cuts.”
Customer Review: “Must layer the plastic box with wood it will last longer”
3. Metabo HPT 10-inch Single Bevel Compound Miter Saw with Shadow Line, Lightweight and Accurate.
The Metabo HPT 10-inch Single Bevel Compound Miter Saw is a powerful and precise tool that stands out for its budget-friendly price. It delivers exceptional quality and performance, making it a serious contender for the best cheap miter saw. With its robust motor and user-friendly features, it’s designed for effortless and accurate cuts on various projects.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Features a powerful 15-Amp motor, providing ample strength for effortless and fast cuts.
- ✓ Equipped with an improved miter scale and controls for highly accurate adjustments and repeatable results.
- ✓ A handy shadow line accurately indicates the cut line, enhancing precision.
- ✓ Incredibly lightweight at only 24 lbs, making it exceptionally portable and easy to transport to any job site.
- ✓ The large 10-inch table offers better material support for stability during cutting.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Metabo HPT for its impressive power and accuracy at such an accessible price. The shadow line is a fantastic feature usually found on more expensive models, and its lightweight design makes it incredibly practical for mobile use. It truly offers professional-grade features without the professional price tag.
Best For
This saw is best for homeowners, general contractors, and DIYers who need a powerful, accurate, and highly portable miter saw for a range of cutting tasks.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent power from the 15-Amp motor for tough materials.
- Shadow line provides superior cut visibility and accuracy.
- Very lightweight and compact, ideal for transport and storage.
- Great value, offering advanced features at a budget-friendly price.
Cons:
- Single bevel design means less versatility for complex compound cuts.
- Brushed motor, though efficient for corded saws, may require brush replacement eventually.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This was a surprise for my wonderful, construction worker husband and it was a big hit. He uses this saw on every single job he decides to take on. He just started his business and has no helpers yet. He advised me this had been a life saver when he has to cut angles in he boards. Even though i”
Customer Review: “While the knee-jerk reaction to brushed tools in general is to avoid them, in something like a corded saw where the motor directly spins a blade, a brushed motor is less of an issue due to the constant power from an outlet and the minimal efficiency loss of the motor spinning the blade. The torque y”
4. Hoteche 7-1/4-inch Compound Miter Saw with Laser for Versatile Wood and Metal Projects.
The Hoteche 7-1/4-inch Compound Miter Saw is a compact powerhouse, perfect for those who need precision and versatility for both wood and light metal projects without a large footprint. This cheap miter saw comes equipped with a laser guide and an extended sliding capacity, making it an excellent all-around tool for various applications around the home or workshop.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Integrated laser guide system ensures razor-sharp accuracy for flawless cuts on every project.
- ✓ A powerful 7.5A copper motor (5000 RPM) delivers smooth and robust cuts through hardwoods, PVC, and even some metals.
- ✓ Features an extended sliding cutting capacity, allowing for wider crosscuts (up to 120mm x 45mm at 90°).
- ✓ Its compact 7-1/4-inch blade size makes it highly portable and suitable for smaller, more manageable tasks.
Why We Recommend It
This Hoteche miter saw is a fantastic recommendation for its combination of laser accuracy, powerful motor, and impressive sliding capacity in a compact form factor. It’s incredibly versatile for its size and price, handling more than just wood, which adds significant value. It’s a stellar option among the best cheap miter saw contenders.
Best For
This saw is best for DIYers, small workshop owners, and crafters who need a precise, portable miter saw capable of handling both wood and occasional light metal cutting.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Laser guidance ensures high precision for critical cuts.
- Strong copper motor handles various materials effectively.
- Sliding feature allows for cutting wider stock than typical 7-1/4″ saws.
- Compact and lightweight design enhances portability and storage.
Cons:
- The 7-1/4-inch blade limits maximum cutting depth and height.
- Fence position might restrict some wider cuts without adjustment.
- Build quality might feel less premium compared to high-end brands.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I do recommend this saw. It’s well made. Affordable. I just wish the fence was set back a bit to allow wider cuts. But I am still happy having gotten this saw and recommend it.”
Customer Review: “It’s a cheep saw but it works great we used it on a set of steps did a beautiful job would recommended it to everyone”
5. DEWALT 12-inch Single Bevel Compound Miter Saw for Reliable and Accurate Cuts.
While DEWALT might not be the first brand that comes to mind when you hear “cheap,” this 12-inch Single Bevel Compound Miter Saw offers incredible value within its class, making it a strong contender for the best cheap miter saw if your budget allows a bit more. Known for reliability and accuracy, it provides features that many budget saws lack, backed by a trusted name in power tools. It’s built for consistent, dependable performance on a variety of tasks.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ A stainless-steel miter detent plate with 14 positive stops ensures reliable and accurate angle adjustments.
- ✓ Features a precise miter system and a machined base fence support for stability and accuracy.
- ✓ Tall sliding fence effectively supports 5-1/2-inch base molding vertically, enhancing versatility for trim work.
- ✓ Powered by a robust 15-Amp motor, providing ample power for demanding cutting applications.
- ✓ Offers single bevel and compound cutting capabilities for a range of angled cuts.
Why We Recommend It
This DEWALT miter saw is a fantastic recommendation for anyone serious about their projects who wants brand reliability without breaking the bank entirely. Its precision features, like the detent plate and tall fence, ensure professional-quality cuts, and the 12-inch blade handles larger stock with ease. It’s a long-term investment that offers excellent performance for its price.
Best For
This saw is best for serious DIYers, home renovators, and semi-professionals who require a durable, accurate, and powerful miter saw from a reputable brand for consistent work.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Renowned DEWALT quality and durability.
- 12-inch blade provides large cutting capacity for diverse materials.
- Precise miter detent plate and system ensure accurate, repeatable cuts.
- Powerful 15-Amp motor tackles tough wood efficiently.
Cons:
- Still on the higher end of the “cheap” spectrum.
- Single bevel design limits compound cutting versatility compared to dual-bevel saws.
- Dust collection could be more efficient and requires frequent emptying.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “The DEWALT DWS715 is a powerful and reliable 12-inch miter saw that delivers smooth, accurate cuts every time. The 15-amp motor provides plenty of power, while the single bevel and compound features enhance versatility. It’s sturdy, easy to adjust, and perfect for both DIYers and professionals. The “
Customer Review: “Nice saw, cuts great. Used it to cut trim for my entire house. The dust bag fills up fast, I hooked up the saw and a shop Vac to the same switch and just connected the hose to where the bag was and works out great. I have had it for less than a year so not sure about durability yet, but I don’t see “
Complete Buying Guide for Best Cheap Miter Saw
Essential Factors We Consider
When you’re searching for the best cheap miter saw, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. We focused on several key aspects to narrow down our choices. First, accuracy is paramount; even an inexpensive saw needs to make clean, straight, and precise angled cuts. We looked for features like laser guides or shadow lines that aid in this. Second, power and capacity are important. A saw needs enough motor strength to cut through common materials without bogging down, and sufficient blade size to handle your typical stock. We balanced these with the saw’s overall weight for portability, especially for DIYers who might move their tools often. Lastly, build quality and features like miter stops, blade changing mechanisms, and fence design were evaluated to ensure they offered practical value without unnecessary complexity or cost.
Budget Planning
Finding the best cheap miter saw means striking a balance between cost and performance. Define your needs clearly: Are you doing light trim work, or will you be cutting thicker lumber? Manual miter boxes are incredibly affordable and offer unmatched precision for small tasks, while electric saws bring speed and power for larger projects. Decide on your maximum budget, but also consider the long-term value. Sometimes paying a little more for a reliable brand or a specific feature (like a laser guide) can save you frustration and money in the long run. Remember that “cheap” doesn’t have to mean “low quality” – it’s about smart purchasing within your means.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best cheap miter saw is the one that fits your specific projects and budget while still delivering reliable performance. Don’t feel pressured to buy the most expensive model if your tasks are simple. Our reviews highlight saws that punch above their weight class, offering features and accuracy that make them truly great deals. By considering your personal needs and the factors we’ve discussed, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision and find a miter saw that serves you well for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the difference between a single-bevel and dual-bevel miter saw?
A: A single-bevel miter saw can tilt the blade in one direction (usually left) to make angled cuts. A dual-bevel saw can tilt both left and right, which offers more versatility for compound cuts without having to flip your workpiece. For many DIY projects, a single-bevel saw is perfectly adequate and often more affordable.
Q: Do I really need a laser guide on a cheap miter saw?
A: While not strictly essential, a laser guide or shadow line can significantly improve your cutting accuracy, especially if you’re new to miter saws or need to make many precise cuts quickly. It helps you visualize the cut line before engaging the blade, reducing errors and material waste. For the best cheap miter saw, finding one with a laser guide is a bonus for precision.
Q: Can a 7-1/4 inch miter saw handle most home projects?
A: Yes, a 7-1/4 inch miter saw can handle a surprising number of home projects, particularly those involving trim, picture frames, small shelving, and other common woodworking tasks. While it won’t cut through very thick or wide lumber in a single pass like a 10-inch or 12-inch saw, its compact size and portability make it excellent for smaller jobs where precision is key.
Q: How important is a powerful motor for a budget miter saw?
A: A powerful motor (typically 10-15 Amps for electric saws) is quite important, even for a budget miter saw. It ensures the blade can spin at a consistent speed and maintain torque when cutting through harder woods or thicker materials. A weaker motor can lead to bogged-down cuts, splintering, and potential motor strain. Look for higher amperage within your budget for better performance.
Q: What should I look for in terms of safety features on an affordable miter saw?
A: Even the best cheap miter saw should prioritize safety. Look for a reliable blade guard that retracts smoothly, a trigger lock-off button to prevent accidental starts, and good stability when the saw is set up. A dust collection port is also beneficial for keeping your workspace clean and improving visibility, although dust collection efficiency can vary greatly among budget models.
There you have it – our top picks for the best cheap miter saw options available today! We hope this guide has helped you navigate the choices and find a tool that perfectly suits your needs without stretching your budget. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or just starting your woodworking journey, a reliable miter saw is an invaluable addition to your toolkit. Don’t wait to start those projects you’ve been dreaming about; click the “Check Price on Amazon” buttons to secure your new miter saw and get 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.
