A small chop saw is an indispensable tool for hobbyists, DIY enthusiasts, and professionals who require precise, straight cuts in various materials without the bulk of a full-sized machine. These compact powerhouses are perfect for workshops with limited space, offering excellent portability and surprising versatility. Whether you’re cutting metal, wood, plastic, or even delicate materials for model making, a compact chop saw can significantly improve your efficiency and accuracy. This roundup delves into the best small chop saws on the market, comparing their features, performance, and value to help you find the perfect fit for your next project.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Small Chop Saw Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Evolution Power Tools RAGE4 7-1/4-Inch TCT Multipurpose Small Chop Saw for Metal & Wood
The Evolution Power Tools RAGE4 stands out as a top contender for its exceptional versatility. This small chop saw is engineered to cut through multiple materials like metal, wood, and plastic with a single blade, eliminating the need for constant blade changes. Its advanced TCT (Tungsten Carbide Tipped) technology ensures clean cuts with minimal sparks and no need for coolant, making it a safer and more efficient alternative to traditional abrasive saws or hacksaws.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Multipurpose TCT Blade: Cuts steel, aluminum, wood (even with nails), and plastic with one blade.
✓ Clean, Cool Cuts: Produces virtually no sparks and no heat, allowing for immediate material handling.
✓ Powerful 10-Amp Motor: Delivers robust performance for demanding cutting tasks.
✓ Compact and Portable: Easy to transport and ideal for smaller workshops or job sites.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend the Evolution RAGE4 for its remarkable multipurpose capability. It’s a game-changer for anyone who frequently switches between cutting different materials, streamlining workflow and saving valuable time. The clean, cool cuts also enhance safety and finish quality, making it an excellent investment for both efficiency and precision.
Best For
This compact chop saw is best for DIY enthusiasts, hobbyists, and professionals who work with a variety of materials and need a versatile, portable, and efficient cutting solution.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Cuts multiple materials (metal, wood, plastic) with one blade.
- Produces clean cuts with minimal sparks and no heat.
- Powerful motor for a compact size.
- Highly portable and easy to set up.
Cons:
- Can be slightly louder than some alternatives.
- Initial setup might take a little time for new users.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “At 10 amps this little saw has a lot of power, it took me about an hour just to set up but once set up is all good. Overall, is a powerful saw that can cut through metal with ease. It comes with a general saw blade that cuts wood, plastic and soft metal. I decided to buy an extra saw blade that is”
Customer Review: “I have only cut 4 cuts through 1/2 inch thick by 2 inch flat solid A36 steel bar, but even taking it slow it made each cut in about 6 seconds with the included 20 tooth blade, which is considerably faster than using abrasives to cut. You have to be careful to go slow and don’t pull down hard while”
2. Metabo HPT 10-Inch Single Bevel Compound Miter Saw, 15-Amp, Compact Chop Saw
The Metabo HPT 10-Inch Single Bevel Compound Miter Saw, often referred to as a compact chop saw, combines power and precision in a lightweight package. Its 15-Amp motor delivers ample power for various cutting tasks, making it a reliable choice for both woodworking and general construction. The user-friendly design with improved miter scale and controls ensures accurate and effortless adjustments, catering to both beginners and experienced users alike.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Powerful 15-Amp Motor: Provides high power for smooth and effortless cuts through dense materials.
✓ 10-Inch Blade: Offers a generous cutting capacity for common lumber sizes.
✓ Improved Miter Scale and Controls: Allows for precise and easy adjustments for accurate miter and bevel cuts.
✓ Lightweight and Portable (24 lbs): Easy to transport and maneuver, ideal for job site flexibility.
Why We Recommend It
We chose the Metabo HPT as our Editor’s Choice because it strikes an excellent balance between power, precision, and portability. It’s robust enough for demanding projects yet light enough for easy movement around the workshop or to different job sites. The intuitive controls make it an approachable tool that delivers consistently accurate results, essential for quality craftsmanship.
Best For
This compact chop saw is ideal for DIYers and contractors who need a reliable and portable miter saw for woodworking projects, trim work, and general construction.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Strong 15-amp motor for efficient cutting.
- Very lightweight for a 10-inch saw, enhancing portability.
- User-friendly controls for precise adjustments.
- Durable construction suitable for daily use.
Cons:
- Single bevel limits some compound cutting scenarios.
- Can be a bit loud during operation.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “As a first-time homebuyer tackling DIY projects around the house, the Metabo HPT 10-Inch Compound Miter Saw (C10FCGS) has been a fantastic addition to my tool collection. I wanted something simple, effective, and reliable—and this saw checks all the boxes. My father, who’s been woodworking for years,”
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”
3. 10-inch Single Bevel Compound Miter Saw with Extension Table: Small Multi-Material Chop Saw
This 10-inch Single Bevel Compound Miter Saw with Extension Table offers impressive features for its price point, making it an excellent budget-friendly choice among small chop saws. Equipped with a powerful 15-amp motor and a no-load speed of 5,000 RPM, it provides ample cutting power for various materials. The inclusion of an extension table significantly enhances its utility for handling longer workpieces, a feature often found on more expensive models.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Powerful 15-Amp Motor: Delivers a strong 5,000 RPM for efficient and precise cutting.
✓ Integrated Extension Table: Provides crucial support for larger or longer materials, improving stability.
✓ Safety and Precision Features: Includes a transparent blade guard for visibility and a vise clamp for secure workpiece holding.
✓ Versatile Angle Adjustments: Supports left miter angles from 0° to 45° and adjustable bevel cuts.
Why We Recommend It
As our Best Budget pick, this small multi-material chop saw punches above its weight. It provides the essential power and accuracy needed for most DIY tasks, coupled with thoughtful additions like the extension table and safety features. It’s a smart choice for those who need a capable miter saw without breaking the bank, offering great value for money.
Best For
This compact chop saw is perfect for budget-conscious DIYers, hobbyists, and homeowners undertaking various renovation or craft projects that require precise angle cuts in wood, plastics, and light metals.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for its price point.
- Comes with useful extension tables for longer materials.
- Powerful motor with high RPM for clean cuts.
- Good safety features including a transparent guard and vise clamp.
Cons:
- May not have the long-term durability of professional-grade saws.
- Some users might find angle adjustments less fluid than premium models.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This saw is versatile and offers the ability to make multiple types of cuts with total accuracy. Its easy to navigate and use, even for a new user. Its lightweight, but durable. Really impressed with it thus far.”
Customer Review: “So far my small projects I used this and worked for me”
4. Small Chop Saw for Hobby Model Making, Carbon Arrow Shafts, Stained Glass, and Brass
This specialized small chop saw is meticulously designed for delicate and precise tasks, making it a dream tool for hobbyists and crafters. It excels in cutting small, intricate materials such as zinc came for stained glass, carbon and aluminum arrow shafts, and various components for model making. With its high-speed motor and compact size, it delivers incredibly clean cuts without the need for extensive sanding, ensuring professional-grade finishes on small projects.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Ideal for Small Hobby and DIY Crafts: Perfect for materials like stained glass came, arrow shafts, and model parts.
✓ Small Benchtop Design: Extremely compact, ideal for limited workspace and precise, small-scale jobs.
✓ High-Speed 7800 RPMs: Ensures quick, clean, and precise cuts on light metals, wood dowel, and plastics.
✓ Versatile Material Compatibility: Cuts soft wood, plastic, aluminum, copper, and brass up to 1/2″ thick or diameter.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend this mini chop saw for its unmatched precision and suitability for niche crafting and hobby applications. Unlike larger saws, it’s specifically engineered for small, delicate cuts, reducing material waste and achieving a level of detail that conventional saws cannot. Its ease of use and clean cutting performance make it a valuable asset for any intricate project.
Best For
This compact cutoff saw is best for hobbyists, model makers, crafters working with stained glass, arrow building, and anyone needing extreme precision for small, delicate cuts in various light materials.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional precision for small-scale projects.
- Very compact and easy to store.
- High RPM ensures clean cuts, often without sanding.
- Versatile for a range of small materials.
Cons:
- Limited to very small materials and cut capacities.
- Not suitable for heavy-duty or large-scale tasks.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “The saw works very well for cutting brass tubing and the materials listed in the description. It’s easy to use and is a good value for the price. Its small size is ideal for the its purpose. I’ve only had it less than a week and cannot comment on durability. As cautioned in the description it is a”
Customer Review: “I love this JOUNJIP Mini Miter Cut-Off Chop Saw! This tool does a fantastic job for my needs; it’s safe, compact, easy to use, quiet and precise…and the after sale support is excellent! Everything you want in Customer service — ***** courteous professionals that stands behind their product *****”
5. 6 Inch Metal Cutting Chop Saw Miter Saw for Angle Iron, Rebar, Plastic
This 6-inch metal cutting chop saw is designed to tackle robust materials like angle iron, rebar, and various plastics with its powerful 1800W motor operating at 3,900 RPM. Built for stability and safety, it features a heavy-duty steel base and a spark deflector for clear visibility during cuts. Its miter saw capabilities allow for angle adjustments up to 45°, offering versatility for different project requirements, making it a strong contender in the small chop saw category.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Powerful 1800W Motor: Delivers 3,900 RPM for efficient cutting of tough materials.
✓ Heavy-Duty Steel Base: Ensures maximum stability and reduces vibration during operation.
✓ Spark Deflector: Enhances user safety and maintains a clear line of sight for accurate cuts.
✓ 0-45° Angle Capability: Allows for effortless and accurate miter cuts, adjustable to three locations.
Why We Recommend It
This 6-inch metal chop saw is highly recommended for its robust construction and specialized capability in cutting tougher materials. It provides the power and stability needed for challenging tasks like working with metal rebar or angle iron, which many smaller saws struggle with. The focus on safety features, combined with its angular cutting versatility, makes it a reliable tool for specific heavy-duty applications.
Best For
This compact metal cutting saw is best for welders, fabricators, and serious DIYers who frequently cut metal, rebar, angle iron, or thick plastics and need a durable and stable machine.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent power for cutting heavy-duty metals.
- Very stable with a heavy-duty steel base.
- Good safety features including a spark deflector.
- Adjustable miter angle adds versatility.
Cons:
- Heavier and less portable than some other small chop saws.
- Blade changes can be cumbersome.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This saw is a workhorse for its size! I’ve used it extensively for cutting rebar and steel tubing for a fencing project, and it powered through everything with surprising ease. The cuts are clean, and the base provides fantastic stability.”
Customer Review: “Perfect for my garage workshop. I needed something compact to cut metal stock for small fabrication jobs, and this 6-inch chop saw fits the bill. The angle adjustment is a huge plus, and it feels much more solid than I expected for the price.”
Complete Buying Guide for Small Chop Saw
Essential Factors We Consider
When selecting the ideal small chop saw, several key factors influence its performance and suitability for your projects. First and foremost is the motor power, typically measured in Amps or Watts. A higher amperage (e.g., 15-Amp) generally translates to more power for cutting tougher or thicker materials, while smaller hobby saws might have less power but higher RPMs for precision. Next, consider the blade size and type. Common sizes range from 6 to 10 inches. A multipurpose TCT (Tungsten Carbide Tipped) blade is excellent for cutting various materials, whereas abrasive blades are often best for hard metals. Material compatibility is also critical; ensure the saw you choose is designed for the specific materials you’ll be cutting most often, whether it’s wood, plastic, soft metals, or heavy-duty steel. Look for features like miter and bevel capabilities if you need to make angled cuts, and evaluate the stability of the base and clamping mechanisms for accuracy and safety. Finally, portability and footprint are key for a “small” chop saw, especially if your workspace is limited or you need to transport the tool frequently.
Budget Planning
The cost of a small chop saw can vary significantly based on its features, power, and brand. Entry-level models, often suitable for light DIY tasks and hobbies, might range from $80 to $150. These typically offer basic cutting capabilities in wood or soft metals. Mid-range saws, usually priced between $150 and $300, provide more power, better precision, and often include features like miter adjustments or multipurpose blades. These are great for serious DIYers and light professional use. High-end compact saws, which can exceed $300, generally offer superior build quality, advanced features (like compound miter capabilities, dust collection, or integrated lasers), and greater durability for heavy, continuous use. Assess your typical usage and frequency to determine which price tier offers the best value for your investment.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right small chop saw boils down to understanding your specific needs. Are you primarily cutting metal, wood, or delicate materials? Do you need portability, or will it be a dedicated benchtop tool? By prioritizing factors like motor power, blade versatility, material compatibility, and budget, you can narrow down your options. Always prioritize safety features such as blade guards and secure clamping systems. Investing in a quality compact chop saw can transform your cutting tasks, providing precision, efficiency, and professional results for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the main difference between a small chop saw and a miter saw?
A: While often used interchangeably, a traditional chop saw (especially for metal) primarily makes straight 90-degree cuts and uses an abrasive blade. A miter saw (including many small ones) is designed specifically for making precise angled cuts (miters) and bevels in wood and often uses a toothed blade. Many “small chop saws” today are actually compact miter saws, offering versatility for both straight and angled cuts across various materials.
Q: Can a small chop saw cut both wood and metal?
A: Yes, many modern small chop saws are designed to be multi-material. Models like the Evolution Power Tools RAGE4 use specialized TCT (Tungsten Carbide Tipped) blades that can cleanly cut wood, metal, and plastic with a single blade. However, traditional abrasive chop saws are typically only for metal, and dedicated miter saws are usually best for wood. Always check the blade type and saw specifications for material compatibility.
Q: How important is RPM for a small chop saw?
A: RPM (Revolutions Per Minute) is crucial for a small chop saw, but its optimal value depends on the material. High RPMs (e.g., 5,000-7,800 RPM) are excellent for smooth, clean cuts in wood, plastics, and softer metals, as seen in hobby saws. For cutting tougher, thicker metals with abrasive blades, a lower RPM (e.g., 3,000-4,000 RPM) is often preferred, as it generates less heat and prevents premature blade wear.
Q: What safety precautions should I take when using a compact chop saw?
A: Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, hearing protection, and work gloves. Ensure your workpiece is securely clamped before cutting. Keep hands clear of the blade path and never override safety guards. Disconnect power before changing blades or making adjustments. Work in a well-ventilated area, especially when cutting metal, to avoid inhaling dust and fumes.
Q: Are small chop saws suitable for professional use?
A: While many small chop saws are popular with DIYers, several high-quality, powerful compact models are perfectly suitable for professional use, especially for light fabrication, trim work, or on job sites where portability is key. Look for models with durable construction, powerful motors, precise adjustments, and good customer reviews from professional users to ensure they can withstand rigorous daily demands.
Selecting the perfect small chop saw for your needs doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By considering the cutting capacity, material compatibility, power, and specific features detailed in this guide, you can confidently choose a tool that will elevate your craftsmanship. Whether you’re a dedicated hobbyist or a professional needing a reliable, portable solution, our top picks offer exceptional performance and value. Don’t let limited space or intricate projects hold you back – invest in one of these excellent compact chop saws and experience the precision and efficiency they bring. Click on the “Check Price on Amazon” buttons above to find the best deals and get started on your next project today!
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.
