The primary purpose of using a miter saw is to make angled crosscuts. If you want to become a master in woodworking, then you will require a good miter saw. All the miter saws available in the market are known to perform the same job. So it becomes a little more tricky to choose a good miter saw. How to get ahead of this problem? Well, to find the best miter saw one need to own complete knowledge about miter saws. Once you’re aware of every detail of single and double bevel miter saws, it becomes easier for buyers to get the best product.
Miter saws come in a wide range of blade sizes that begin from 7.25-inch and goes on up to 20-inch. But, miter saws with a blade size of 10-inch and 12-inch are the most common ones. The question that arises in every buyer’s mind is, what difference does a 10-inch and a 12-inch miter saw make with your woodworking tasks? So without making any more delay, let’s make our mind clear with these 10-inch vs 12-inch Miter Saw.
Know About 10-inch Miter Saw
The 10-inch miter saw is quite a popular saw that features a 10-inch blade. This blade is capable of cutting pieces that are about 6 inches wide. It means you can cut a variety of materials, including molding boards. A 10-inch miter saw is inexpensive, smaller, and lighter by weight. Even the blades are cheaper and are available in a variety of choices. Moreover, they can be easily found in the market and can be sharpened again at more affordable rates.
In terms of blade spin speed, a 10-inch blade will spin at a faster rate when compared with the 12-inch version. If both the miter saws are equipped with a motor of the same power, then users will experience higher RPM in 10-inch blade rather than a 12-inch blade. Higher RPM means smoother cuts with excellent finishing.
Moreover, the smaller size of the blade will generate less wobble that will result in more accurate cuts. So, if a 10-inch miter saw offers more convenience and better results, then why should we even compare 10 vs 12 miter saw? We’ll find out.
Things We Like About It
Speed – As we know that miter saws come with a blade that performs cutting actions. A 10-inch blade has a smaller radius, and hence, it spins at a faster rate. The smaller blade is even easier to control and makes smoother cuts.
Price – The most important thing that a buyer consider while buying a new tool/gadget is the price. For any power tool, the larger the size you opt, the higher you have to pay. The 10-inch miter saws are relatively cheaper than the 12-inch version. You can find high-end 10-inch miter saw models as well, but we are talking about general criteria. Buyers will save money with 10-inch miter saws.
Blades – Apart from any other thing, the blade is the most crucial part for any miter saw. 10-inch blades are smaller in size, spins faster, and are less costly. Also, the 10-inch blade is even cheaper to be sharpened and makes more accurate cuts. Overall, users will be saving their hard-earned money with a 10-inch blade.
Pros
- 10-inch saw blade spins faster than a 12-inch blade.
- High speed also produces clear and sharp cuts.
- The blade requires less maintenance.
- Blades of this saw are easily available.
- It is portable, versatile, and affordable.
Cons
- Cutting capacity is limited, can’t cut more than 6-inches of material.
Know About 12-inch Miter Saw
Undoubtedly, a 12-inch miter saw is an expensive, and heavyweight saw when compared with the 10-inch version. The blades of this saw are harder to find, and also costly to be sharpened again. Moreover, it also makes less precise cuts comparatively. Hold on, the reasons for this behavior of 12-inch miter saw is yet to arrive.
But ask yourself, Will you be able to cut wider and thicker boards with 10-inch miter saws? Nope, right. But if you have a 12-inch miter saw, then it is possible to work with heavier wood. In this scenario, a 12-inch miter saw will provide you great convenience and also save time for you.
How is a 12-inch miter saw capable of dealing with larger crown molding pieces? Actually, this saw features a strong motor that produces more power to deal with heavy-duty tasks with less stress. Moreover, these saws also tend to have more extended durability. Since this saw will last for a longer period, paying extra penny will not disappoint you in any manner.
You can insert 10-inch blades on your 12-inch miter saw (if the arbor holes are of the same size), but obviously, you cannot put the 12-inch blade on your 10-inch saw. Overall, 12-inch miter saw offers you more power and versatility.
Things We Like About It
Durability – You don’t buy a new miter saw daily, so you need a durable tool. The size and rough texture of the blade enhance the durability of the unit. So overall, a 12-inch miter saw can last longer and would serve you continuously.
Power – Almost all the 12-inch miter saws are equipped with a 15 amp powerful motor which is the most convincing part of them. As said, users can even use a 10-inch blade with 12-inch versions that means you’ll be benefited with higher velocity. Not all the 12-inch saws offer you this feature, but some models provide this feature.
Capability to deal with larger projects – As we’ve seen, 12-inch miter saws come with a more powerful motor and increased blade size. Therefore, it allows you to work with bigger wood pieces. With only two cuts, you can easily slice a 12-inch workpiece, providing you more scope of work. The 12-inch saws are also known for cutting hardwood like plywood and can cut laminated lumber into small pieces. It will be a savior for you if you have more significant projects.
Pros
- Because of heavyweight, the unit is very strong.
- It can easily cut harder materials.
- It has a more powerful motor.
- It can be used with a 10-inch blade as well.
- Comparatively, it has a higher cutting capacity.
Cons
- It is relatively expensive.
- Not easy to carry or move.
Conclusion
When comparing a 10-inch vs 12-inch miter saw, the first thing you need to do is figure out your woodworking needs. If you’ve to cover up small projects or if you’re a beginner, then buying a 10-inch miter saw will be an excellent investment by you. Else, you can blindly go for a 12-inch miter saw if money is not your concern or you’re a millionaire in simpler terms. Another reason for saying this is, 12-inch miter saws are also compatible with 10-inch blades.
If you’re an intense woodworker or a serious professional, then there’s nothing good on leaving the 12-inch version. A 12-inch miter saw is designed specifically for you guys who have to deal with a large number of big wood pieces every day. You have to invest in it to save your precious time.
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