How Much Are Table Saws? A 2024 Price Breakdown

The cost of a table saw varies greatly depending on several factors. In 2024, you can expect to pay anywhere from under $200 for a basic portable model to upwards of $5,000 or more for a high-end professional cabinet saw. This article will break down table saw prices by type, feature, and provide a table saw buying guide to help you find the best table saw for the money. We’ll also explore used table saw value and answer common questions.

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Deciphering Table Saw Price Ranges

Table saw price range depends on the type of saw, its features, and the brand. Let’s look at the main types and their typical price points in 2024:

• Portable Table Saws: These are the most affordable, ranging from $150 to $500.
• Contractor Table Saws: These saws offer more power and stability, priced between $500 and $1,500.
• Hybrid Table Saws: Combining features of contractor and cabinet saws, these cost $800 to $2,000.
• Cabinet Table Saws: The most powerful and accurate, these saws range from $2,000 to over $5,000.

Portable Table Saw Price

Portable table saw price is typically the lowest of all table saw types. They are designed for easy transport and storage, often used on job sites.

• Budget Range ($150 – $300): These saws are lightweight and compact. They are good for small projects.
• Mid-Range ($300 – $500): These offer better features and more power. They can handle more demanding tasks.
• Features Affecting Price: Stand type, fence quality, and motor power.

Table: Portable Table Saw Price Examples

Brand & Model	Price (USD)	Key Features	Best For
SKILSAW SPT70WT-01 15 Amp 8-1/4 In. Table Saw	$299	Lightweight, rack & pinion fence, folding stand	Small projects, portability
DEWALT DWE7485 8-1/4-Inch Table Saw	$399	Telescoping fence, on-board storage, 15 amp motor	General DIY, small to medium projects
Bosch GTS1031 10-Inch Portable Jobsite Table Saw	$500	All-steel base, lightweight and sturdy, squarelock rip fence	Jobsite use, better accuracy for its size

Contractor Table Saw Price

Contractor table saw price represents a step up in power and capacity compared to portable models. They’re often favored by contractors and serious DIYers.

• Budget Range ($500 – $1,000): These offer a good balance of power and portability.
• Mid-Range ($1,000 – $1,500): Expect better fence systems, more robust motors, and greater stability.
• Features Affecting Price: Motor size, fence type (e.g., T-square), and dust collection capabilities.

Table: Contractor Table Saw Price Examples

Brand & Model	Price (USD)	Key Features	Best For
Ridgid R4520 15 Amp 10 in. Table Saw	$649	On/Off safety switch, easy transport, easy blade change	General Contractors, jobsite work
SAWSTOP JSS-MCA 120V Jobsite Saw Pro	$1,399	SawStop safety system, portable cart, rack and pinion fence	Safety-conscious users, fine woodworking

Hybrid Table Saw Price

Hybrid table saws bridge the gap between contractor and cabinet saws. They provide many of the benefits of a cabinet saw at a lower price point.

• Price Range ($800 – $2,000): This price point is influenced by the motor power, trunnion design, and fence quality.
• Benefits: Enhanced dust collection, quieter operation, and greater stability than contractor saws.

Table: Hybrid Table Saw Price Examples

Brand & Model	Price (USD)	Key Features	Best For
Laguna Tools Fusion F1 Table Saw	$1,799	Heavy-duty trunnions, enclosed cabinet, precision fence system	Serious DIYers, small woodworking shops
Grizzly G0771Z Hybrid Table Saw	$1,395	Cabinet base, riving knife, 2 HP motor	Small woodworking shops, upgrade from contractor saw

Professional Table Saw Cost

Professional table saw cost, particularly for cabinet saws, reflects their robust construction, powerful motors, and precision components.

• Price Range ($2,000+): High-end models can exceed $5,000 or even $10,000 with advanced features.
• Features: Heavy-duty motors (3-5 HP or higher), precision-ground cast iron tables, advanced fence systems, and integrated safety features.

Table: Cabinet Table Saw Price Examples

Brand & Model	Price (USD)	Key Features	Best For
SAWSTOP PCS31230-TGP236	$3,999	SawStop safety system, 3 HP motor, professional fence	Professional woodworking shops
Powermatic PM2000B Table Saw	$4,499	Heavy-duty construction, cast iron trunnions, premium fence system	High-volume woodworking, furniture making
Laguna Tools Platinum Series Table Saw	$5,499	Digital readout, Heavy-duty, smooth operation	Professional woodworking shops, demanding users

What Impacts Table Saw Prices?

Several factors affect table saw prices.

• Type of Saw: As discussed, portable saws are cheapest, while cabinet saws are most expensive.
• Motor Power: More powerful motors (measured in horsepower) increase the price.
• Fence System: High-quality fence systems (e.g., T-square fences) improve accuracy and add to the cost.
• Table Material: Cast iron tables provide greater stability and durability, increasing the price. Aluminum tables are more common on portable saws, reducing cost.
• Safety Features: Features like riving knives and blade guards are standard. SawStop’s safety system significantly increases the price.
• Brand Reputation: Established brands often command higher prices due to their reputation for quality and reliability.
• Features: Digital displays, automatic blade adjustment, and other features will increase the overall price of the table saw.

Is a More Expensive Table Saw Worth It?

Whether a more expensive table saw is worth it depends on your needs and usage.

• Occasional DIYer: A portable or contractor saw might suffice.
• Serious Woodworker: A hybrid or cabinet saw offers better performance and longevity.
• Professional: A cabinet saw is a worthwhile investment for accuracy, power, and durability.

Consider the following:

• Accuracy: High-end saws offer better precision for fine woodworking.
• Power: More powerful motors handle hardwoods and thicker materials with ease.
• Durability: Cabinet saws are built to last, providing years of reliable service.
• Safety: Advanced safety features like SawStop can prevent serious injuries.
• Resale Value: Higher-quality saws tend to hold their value better over time.

Grasping the Used Table Saw Value

Purchasing a used table saw can be a cost-effective way to acquire a high-quality machine at a lower price.

• Factors Affecting Value: Age, condition, brand, and original price influence the value.
• Where to Find Used Saws: Online marketplaces (e.g., Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace), auctions, and classified ads.
• Things to Check:
  • Motor functionality: Listen for unusual noises or vibrations.
  • Blade alignment: Check for squareness to the table.
  • Fence accuracy: Ensure the fence locks securely and runs parallel to the blade.
  • Rust and corrosion: Look for signs of rust on the table, fence, and other components.
  • Safety features: Verify the riving knife, blade guard, and anti-kickback pawls are present and functional.
• Negotiating Price: Research comparable models to determine a fair price. Be prepared to walk away if the saw is not in good condition or the seller is unwilling to negotiate.

Table: Estimating Used Table Saw Value

Condition	Percentage of Original Price	Considerations
Excellent	70-80%	Minimal wear and tear, well-maintained, all original components present.
Good	50-70%	Some cosmetic imperfections, but mechanically sound, may have minor repairs needed.
Fair	30-50%	Noticeable wear and tear, may require some repairs or replacement parts.
Poor	Less than 30%	Significant damage or missing components, may not be worth repairing.

A Table Saw Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Saw

Here is a brief table saw buying guide to assist in the selection process.

1. Assess Your Needs: Determine your typical projects, material types, and budget.
2. Research Different Types: Understand the pros and cons of each type of table saw.
3. Set a Budget: Establish a price range and stick to it.
4. Read Reviews: Get feedback from other users about specific models.
5. Inspect in Person (if possible): Before buying, examine the saw for quality and functionality.
6. Consider Safety: Prioritize saws with essential safety features.
7. Factor in Space: Ensure you have adequate space for the saw and its operation.

Tips for Saving Money on a Table Saw

• Consider a Refurbished Model: Many manufacturers offer refurbished saws at discounted prices. These saws have been inspected and repaired to like-new condition.
• Shop During Sales: Look for discounts during holidays and promotional periods.
• Buy a Used Saw: As discussed, a used saw can save you a significant amount of money.
• Start with a Basic Model: If you’re on a tight budget, begin with a basic saw and upgrade later as needed.

Determining the Best Table Saw for the Money

The best table saw for the money varies from person to person based on the individual’s priorities and circumstances. For example:

• Budget-Conscious DIYer: A portable table saw with a decent fence system offers value for the money.
• Serious Hobbyist: A contractor or hybrid saw provides a good balance of performance and affordability.
• Professional Woodworker: A cabinet saw with advanced features is a worthwhile investment.

Ultimately, the best table saw is the one that meets your specific needs and budget while providing the performance, accuracy, and safety you require.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the average table saw price?
A: The average table saw price ranges from $500 to $2,000, depending on the type and features. Portable saws average around $300-$500, contractor saws $700-$1,200, hybrid saws $1,000-$2,000, and cabinet saws $2,000 and up.

Q: Can I cut metal with a table saw?
A: No, standard table saws are designed for cutting wood. Attempting to cut metal with a wood-cutting blade is dangerous and can damage the saw. Use specialized metal-cutting saws for metalwork.

Q: Who is SawStop?
A: SawStop is a table saw manufacturer known for its patented safety system that detects contact with skin and stops the blade within milliseconds, preventing serious injuries. SawStop saws are generally more expensive due to this added safety feature.

Q: What size table saw do I need?
A: This depends on the size of your projects. For small projects, a portable saw with a 10-inch blade may suffice. For larger projects and sheet goods, a contractor, hybrid, or cabinet saw with a larger table surface is recommended.

Q: Is a riving knife necessary on a table saw?
A: Yes, a riving knife is a crucial safety feature. It helps prevent kickback by keeping the kerf open and preventing the wood from pinching the blade.