{"id":5301,"date":"2020-02-15T16:25:18","date_gmt":"2020-02-16T00:25:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.toolazine.com\/?p=5301"},"modified":"2020-02-18T11:43:41","modified_gmt":"2020-02-18T19:43:41","slug":"table-saw-vs-circular-saw-for-woodworking","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.toolazine.com\/table-saw-vs-circular-saw-for-woodworking\/","title":{"rendered":"Table Saw vs. Circular Saw \u2013 Which is best for Woodworking?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Two benchmark tools in the woodworking world \u2013 the table saw and the circular saw<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Because they serve such a similar role within one\u2019s workshop \u2013 these two tools oftentimes leave woodworkers scratching their hard hats when trying to determine which one will best serve their needs.<\/p>\n

Therefore, to save you the headache of going back and forth between these two saws, we\u2019ve listed out some of the notable differences and similarities between each of these tools.<\/p>\n

So, without wasting any more time, let\u2019s jump into the mechanics of the circular saw.<\/p>\n

The Circular Saw<\/h2>\n

The circular saw is a staple of almost anyone woodworkers\u2019 workshop. It\u2019s lightweight, easy to transport, and can handle just about anything you throw in front of it.<\/p>\n

In fact, circular saws typically weigh less than 15 lbs. Therefore, if you\u2019re someone that travels around a lot, or simply moves around from room to room, you may want to consider picking one of these up.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, circular saws are fairly inexpensive. As mentioned by Woodwork Made Easy<\/a>, circular saws are typically between the price range of $50-$150.<\/p>\n

Related: best circular saws under $50<\/a><\/p>\n

Related: best circular saw under $100<\/a><\/p>\n

Related: best circular saws under\u00a0 $200<\/a><\/p>\n

This makes it a great choice for anyone trying to dip their toes into the world of woodworking. Spending $500 on a table saw may be a bit of a turn-off, especially not knowing exactly what you\u2019re doing and whether you\u2019ll enjoy the hobby. Therefore, a circular saw would probably be a good place to start.<\/p>\n

On the other hand, circular saws can be a bit difficult to handle. You\u2019re sort of free handling your cuts when using a circular saw.<\/p>\n

You won\u2019t have the same guidance as you would with a table saw.<\/p>\n

This isn\u2019t something that should change your opinion if you\u2019re interested in purchasing a circular saw, but it is something to keep in mind. A few how-to videos on YouTube will definitely help you advance your skills when using a tool such as a circular saw.<\/p>\n

Related:<\/strong> what is a circular saw?<\/a><\/p>\n

Related: <\/strong>What is a circular saw base plate (shoe)?<\/a><\/p>\n

Related:<\/strong> What is spindle lock on circular saw?<\/a><\/p>\n

Related:<\/strong> Trim saw vs Framing saw: Types of portable circular saws<\/a><\/p>\n

Related:<\/strong> Circular saw vs skill saw: What is the difference?<\/a><\/p>\n

<\/a>\"\"
\nMy recommended circular saw: PORTER-CABLE 7-1\/4-Inch Circular Saw, Heavy Duty Steel Shoe, 15-Amp (PCE300) is available on Amazon<\/a><\/p>\n

Now that you know a little more about the circular saw, let\u2019s check out the pros and cons of the table saw.<\/p>\n

The Table Saw<\/h2>\n

The table saw is an excellent tool that will make woodworking a breeze! Although it\u2019s a bit on the pricier side, table saws provide guidance that circular saws simply can\u2019t match.<\/p>\n

Rather than handling the saw yourself as you would with a circular saw \u2013 the saw on a table saw is built into the table. Therefore, making straight and consistent cuts is a lot easier.<\/p>\n

All you have to do is adjust the saw to your specifications, and simply push the stock through the blade. Essentially, it does all the hard work for you!<\/p>\n

Although table saws are user-friendly and extremely precise, they do have their downfalls. First of all, table saws are expensive. Don\u2019t be surprised if you have to spend somewhere in the price range of $300-$1,000.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, table saws don\u2019t offer the same level of portability that circular saws offer. Although they have various types of table saws, the most portable type being the \u201cjobsite table saw\u201d, you\u2019re still going to have to wheel around a 60 lb. piece of equipment.<\/p>\n

A 10 lb. circular saw is definitely going to be easier to transport, as it\u2019s much easier to carry and will easily fit into any type of vehicle.<\/p>\n

<\/a>\"\"
\nMy recommended table saw: DEWALT (DWE7491RS) 10-Inch Table Saw, 32-1\/2-Inch Rip Capacity is available on Amazon<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Related<\/strong>: read reviews of contractor table saws in different price ranges.<\/a><\/p>\n

Related:<\/strong> Benchtop vs Cabinet vs Contractor vs Hybrid: What Is the Difference in Table Saws?<\/a><\/p>\n

Related:<\/strong> What is spindle lock on table saw? (arbor lock)<\/a><\/p>\n

So, Which Type of Saw Should I Purchase?<\/h2>\n

The type of saw you decide to go with depends on your personal needs. If you\u2019re just starting out and you want to dip your toes in the water, go with a circular saw. On the other hand, if you\u2019re a little more experienced or you\u2019re fully committed to the hobby of woodworking, go ahead and invest in a good table saw.
\nIt\u2019s also important to consider what kind of portability will work best for you. If you\u2019re travelling around a lot, you may want to go with a circular saw \u2013 as you can easily throw it in the back of your car and go. If you have a truck or van, you could look into buying a jobsite table saw. They have wheels and they\u2019re typically a bit lighter than a standard table saw.<\/p>\n

Of course, price is obviously a factor to consider. As previously mentioned, table saws are much more expensive. Although they\u2019re much more precise and generally easier to use, you\u2019re going to have to spend a pretty penny on a good table saw. If money is no obstacle, I would highly recommend investing in a table saw. However, keep in mind, almost all professional woodworkers are going to have both of these saws. They will use them both in different situations. Sometimes, it makes more sense to use a circular saw. Other times, it\u2019s a no-brainer that a table saw will handle the task more efficiently.<\/p>\n

\"man<\/p>\n

Conclusion<\/h2>\n

Deciding between a table saw and circular saw can be a difficult decision to make. They\u2019re both excellent tools that serve a similar role in a woodworker\u2019s workshop. However, there are various factors to consider when telling these tools apart. Hopefully, with the use of this guide, you\u2019re able to narrow down your decision a little further! Just remember to always stay safe when handling any type of saw \u2013 and of course, have fun!<\/p>\n

Related: Steel vs Aluminum vs magnesium circular saw base plates – what is the difference<\/a><\/p>\n

Related: Circular saw vs jig saw<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Two benchmark tools in the woodworking world \u2013 the table saw and the circular saw. Because they serve such a similar role within one\u2019s workshop \u2013 these two tools oftentimes leave woodworkers scratching their hard hats when trying to determine … <\/p>\n

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