When a regular table saw just doesn’t cut it, you’re not out of luck. Their larger cousins, the cabinet saw, can step up to the plate and make manhandling large bits of wood easy. They’re a heavy investment into your shop, but they’re irreplaceable for the serious woodworker.
Let’s hop right in with some of my favorites, then I’ll share the information you need to make sure you’ve got the best cabinet table saw for the job, and it will be smooth sailing from there.
My Top Picks for Best Cabinet Table Saw
Cabinet table saws are large, sturdy tools that are mostly found in industrial and commercial applications. Due to that fact, the brands may be a bit different than what you’re used to and the saws are considered differently.
If you’re in a hurry here a quick run down of my picks for the best cabinet table saw in 2023:
- Top Pick – SawStop PCS175-TGP252
- Top Premium Pick – Powermatic 1792001K PM2000
- Top Value Pick – Shop Fox W1819
- Powermatic PM1000 1791001K
- JET 708675PK
- Shop Fox W1820
- Delta 36-L352
- Grizzly Industrial G0651
There’s something for everyone, so check out all of the following if you’re in the market.
Top Pick – SawStop PCS175-TGP252 1.75-HP Professional Cabinet Saw
SawStop makes great saws, some of the best in the industry before you even take into account their safety modules. This one is no exception and the core functions are… well, what you’d expect from a saw in this price range. This one has a smaller motor than many cabinet table saws, but you’ll also be able to run it with a standard outlet.
Of course, the main draw of the SawStop is the protective modules. Your hand touches the blade, the blade stops, and slams under the table hard enough to crumple metal…. But leave you with barely a mark. For that reason, they’re always one of the first saws to recommend to professionals anyone looking for a professional cabinet table saw.
Another great feature for professionals and hobbyists alike is the 50 inch T-glide fence system. Thanks to the heavy duty steel construction precision is almost guaranteed.
The only real downside is the price of the saw. SawStops are expensive, and the modules are one-use and run $60 or more. It’s still a lot cheaper than reattaching a finger so that may balance out. This saw also has a less robust motor than many cabinet table saws, but the trade off is using it with any regular electric outlet.
It’s hard not to recommend SawStops when we’re talking table saws, but when it comes to cabinet table saws? They really take the cake.
| Power | 1.75HP |
| Voltage | 115V |
| Rip Fence Capacity | 52 inch |
| Blade Size | 10 inch |
| Unloaded RPM | 4000 |
| Capacity at 90° | 3 ⅛ inch |
| Warranty | 2 year |
Pros
- SawStop safety modules
- 50 inch T-glide fence system
- Smooth cutting saw overall
- Can be used with a standard outlet
- Super flat cast iron base
Cons
- Smaller motor than many saws
- Modules are one use, so keep an extra on hand
Sound good? Get a closer look and see why it’s the top of the list.
Top Premium Pick – Powermatic 1792001K PM2000, 3HP 1PH Table Saw
If you’re looking for something special, then you may be intrigued by this cabinet saw from Powermatic. It’s an expensive beast, but it comes with an accurate fence and even a router table attachment to give it more utility.
It handles everything thrown at it easily, and the vibration is minimal due to the heavy construction of the saw’s body. The table is enormous, with a 50 inch rip capacity to the right of the blade. It’s just overall smooth and well-built with just one exception.
The dust collection port is too small for the saw. There’s no real way around it and that means it’s going to spread a lot of dust unless you come up with a creative solution. It’s also very expensive, and you may need to figure out a 220V outlet if you’re going to bring it home.
Those minor flaws aside, the Powermatic 1792001K PM2000 is an overall excellent saw, and the router table attachment takes it over the edge into “worth it” territory.
| Power | 3HP |
| Voltage | 220V |
| Rip Fence Capacity | 50 inch |
| Blade Size | 10 inch |
| Unloaded RPM | 4500 |
| Capacity at 90° | 3 ⅛ inch |
| Warranty | 5 year |
Pros
- Very smooth cutting saw
- Minimal vibration
- Set up to work as a router table
- Great riving knife
- Heavy duty cast iron base
Cons
- Very expensive saw
- The dust collection port is undersized for the saw’s power
It’s a premium saw at a premium price, but if you think your workshop deserves it why not investigate further!
Top Value Pick – Shop Fox W1819 3 HP 10-Inch Table Saw
Shop Fox makes solid tools, and the W1819 is no exception. It’s on the cheaper end for a cabinet saw and has some significant drawbacks to come with it. If you’re okay with that, you’ll find it an excellent addition to the workshop.
It has good core functions and has an amazing 4” dust collection port to really clean up when hooked up to the right vac. The fence is smooth and accurate, and it comes with an excellent blade guard. Even the riving knife is nice.
So why is it so cheap? Well, unfortunately, this has a tiny capacity for a cabinet table saw. It comes in at 29 ½”, which is achievable with a much lighter saw. The power button could also be positioned better, it’s easy to bump if you’re not careful.
Overall, the Shop Fox W1819 is an excellent, precise saw at a moderate price for this kind of tool. The problem is that it lacks the rip capacity found on the majority of cabinet table saws.
| Power | 3HP |
| Voltage | 220V |
| Rip Fence Capacity | 29 ½ inch |
| Blade Size | 10 inch |
| Unloaded RPM | 4300 |
| Capacity at 90° | 3 ⅛ inch |
| Warranty | 2 year |
Pros
- Moderate pricing for good value
- Sturdy cast iron table
- Excellent fence
- Good riving knife and guard
Cons
- Small capacity for a cabinet table saw
- The power button is easy to bump
For an accurate saw that’s meant for the home workshop, you’d do well here. Take a closer look!
Powermatic PM1000 1791001K Table Saw
This is mostly the same saw as our premium pick with a smaller motor. The biggest difference is the lack of a spot for a router table. Otherwise, the saw is a great little bit of work with an accurate fence and excellent torque.
Oh, and this model will work with a standard outlet. That’s a big bonus for those who aren’t looking forward to paying an electrician to run a 220V outlet. Add in the overall excellent quality and it’s a good saw for home hobbyists who can afford to sink some money.
The downside is mainly in expense. The motor may also be a bit underpowered, sitting at 1.75HP, but in action, there seem to be no issues at all.
Overall, this is a solid pick for the home hobbyist, especially since it comes prewired for 115V outlets. Just be aware it’s not as powerful as the bigger saws.
| Power | 1.75HP |
| Voltage | 115V |
| Rip Fence Capacity | 52 inch |
| Blade Size | 10 inch |
| Unloaded RPM | 4200 |
| Capacity at 90° | 3 ⅛ inch |
| Warranty | 5 year |
Pros
- Smooth and accurate fence
- Runs on 115V
- Good overall build quality
- Runs relatively quiet
Cons
- Expensive
- A bit underpowered for a cabinet table saw
If something a bit smaller but still high quality is what your shop needs, Powermatic has you covered.
JET 708675PK 10″ Deluxe XACTA Saw
While not exactly budget-priced, the 708675PK is a good value for the money. It’s a good saw, which is able to rip through anything thrown at it. It even has a great vacuum port for those who want to keep the dust down.
The build quality is exceptional, and all of the controls are both easy-to-use and conveniently placed. All of the good engineering is to be expected, Jet and Powermatic are made by the same people. These are their “budget” line of saws.
Assembly is… long. You’ll be spending some time setting this one up and you’ll need a friend to make it easier. It also bogs down a bit in hardwood. It’s not a big deal and it’s not disastrously slow, but it takes a bit more time.
Overall, the Jet 708675PK is the kind of saw you buy for core function and to save some money. It’s not a premium pick, but it’s also not a super budget saw. For a lot of people, it’s just in the right place.
| Power | 3HP |
| Voltage | 220V |
| Rip Fence Capacity | 50 inch |
| Blade Size | 10 inch |
| Unloaded RPM | 4300 |
| Capacity at 90° | 3 ⅛ inch |
| Warranty | 5 year |
Pros
- Great construction
- Good at dust collection due to blade shroud
- Easy to operate
- Good value for money
Cons
- May bog down in heavier hardwoods
- Assembly takes a long time
Once assembled, this saw is an excellent addition to any workshop. Don’t just believe me, take a look!
Shop Fox W1820 3 HP 10-Inch Table Saw
Remember that nice Shop Fox saw a few reviews back? This is roughly the same saw, but it has a 50 inch rip capacity to bring it up to cabinet table saw standards. Fortunately, the price is still relatively low as well.
The W1820 is a great piece of work, having overcome the main flaw with the W1819. It handles most woods easily and has excellent core functions all the way around. The riving knife is still great, and it’s a safe saw to operate as long as you don’t pull the guard off.
It’s still no Powermatic. There’s a bit more vibration than I’d like, and it’s also a bit daunting to assemble. Get past that and it’ll earn its place in a hurry.
The W1820 is an excellent saw for the home workshop. While not “premium” in quality, it’s a respectable tool and most people won’t be disappointed.
| Power | 3HP |
| Voltage | 220V |
| Rip Fence Capacity | 49 inch |
| Blade Size | 10 inch |
| Unloaded RPM | 4300 |
| Capacity at 90° | 3 ⅛ inch |
| Warranty | 2 year |
Pros
- Good build quality
- 50 inch rip fence
- Smooth fence system
- Good safety features overall
Cons
- Vibrates more than some saws
- Assembly can be a pain
Not every saw is a masterpiece, but this may be the right saw for you. You won’t know unless you check it out, will you?
Delta 3 HP Motor 10 in. UNISAW (36-L352)
Solid as a rock is a good way to describe first impressions with this saw. This Delta is a monster, but it’s the table to the right that immediately catches most people’s attention. With a smooth, almost gliding, fence this cabinet saw seems to hit just right for some folks.
The fence is nice, but so is everything else. It sets up easily, and it’s even got a quick release for the blade. It weighs almost 700lbs as well, keeping vibrations down through gravity for the most part.
The downsides? Delta. The company is notorious for bad quality control and slow customer service. That can be a serious pain if you get a bad one out of the box, and it seems to happen often enough it’s a concern.
On the other hand, the saw we’re reviewing had the right parts and it’s a solid pick for the price. It’s precise, powerful, and smooth once you get any beginning kinks sorted out.
| Power | 3HP |
| Voltage | 220V |
| Rip Fence Capacity | 52 inch |
| Blade Size | 10 inch |
| Unloaded RPM | 4300 |
| Capacity at 90° | 3 ⅛ inch |
| Warranty | 5 year |
Pros
- Very durable saw overall
- Excellent fence
- Easy assembly
- The heavy table keeps vibrations to a minimum
Cons
- Quality control isn’t assured
- Customer service can be slow
If you’re willing to take a bit of risk here, you can come out ahead. Go decide for yourself!
Grizzly Industrial G0651-10″ 3 HP 220V Heavy-Duty Cabinet Table Saw
With a moderate price and excellent core function, the G0651 is welcome in any workshop with the room. It performs more than adequately and has all of the usual features required to make a saw stand out.
The distinguishing characteristic seems to be the digital readout for the blade angles. It’s a nice touch. Other than that? Well, there’s not a whole lot to ask for. Grizzly delivers, and this saw is a decent deal for the money. Especially considering it includes an outfeed table to make it easier to deal with larger workpieces.
The outfeed table is, unfortunately, kind of a pain at times. Some people will end up replacing it quickly. The saw also seems to require some calibration before it’s good to go in most cases. It’s a common issue and one that should be checked before using the saw regardless of the brand.
Overall, the G0651 is a solid cabinet saw. It’s a bit basic, except for the digital bevel readout, but it will do the trick for anything you need a great table saw for.
| Power | 3HP |
| Voltage | 220V |
| Rip Fence Capacity | 52 inch |
| Blade Size | 10 inch |
| Unloaded RPM | 4000 |
| Capacity at 90° | 3 3/16 inch |
| Warranty | 1 year |
Pros
- Good build quality
- Digital readout for miter angles
- The outfeed table is included for longer workpieces
- Good deal for the money
Cons
- The outfeed table is a bit narrow
- Usually requires a bit of calibration
The Grizzly does what it’s supposed to, and it’s a solid choice for those who aren’t sure which saw is right for them. Give it a look!
Things to Consider When Choosing the Best Cabinet Table Saw for Your Job
Cabinet saws are visually similar to a regular table saw, but like most tools, it’s the little differences that make them exemplary for their work.
Traditionally, a cabinet table saw will have an enclosed base. They’re more likely to be made of heavier materials than portable or contractor saws. The focus is on big capacity and accuracy, so heavy materials like cast iron and steel are great.
These saws will generally have more power than standard table saws, but the big draw for most is an enlarged rip capacity. They’re the tool you need when you have to cut something big, and they’re even better when it needs to be 100% precise right off the table.
In essence: a cabinet saw is an excellent choice for serious hobby woodworking, commercial applications, and even cabinetmaking. They’re not very portable, but they’re very precise and allow you to cut very wide pieces of wood.
Power, Speed, and Torque
The power of any table saw is determined by its motor and the configuration through which it runs. Most cabinet table saws intended for consumers are in the 3HP range and don’t vary much in RPM.
Variable speed is always desirable, although a bit rare. Tuning RPM to materials isn’t as important with woods as metals, but if a great finish fresh off the saw is desired it’s a good variable to control.
Torque is a measure of how hard the motor is running, rather than how fast. It’s a little more complicated than that but it’s easy to understand the end effect.
A motor with the same horsepower may cut more smoothly than another, and that’s due to how much torque the motor is applied. The most common increase in torque for a table saw comes from a worm-drive configuration, with special gearing that creates a lot more torque on the blade.
So, if you’re looking primarily to work with extra-dense materials like oak you may want to look for a worm-drive saw instead of a standard configuration.
Overall, it’s rare that a cabinet saw will feel underpowered. They’re heavy-duty tools for serious folks, there’s not a market for a consumer-grade saw here.
Keep in mind that the majority of these saws are powered with 220V or 230V, which requires a different outlet than the majority of tools. If you’re in the US you’ll have to install one to use a cabinet saw.
Accuracy
The other big factor for most people looking to invest in a cabinet-style table saw is precision. It’s where contractor’s table saws and jobsite models most often fall short, they sacrifice tight tolerances for the ability to be mobile.
On a jobsite saw used for construction, for instance, 1/16” is often considered good enough. That’s not the case when you’re doing things like cutting the back for a couch or slicing a tabletop out of a hardwood.
Most of these saws will put you on the right track, especially if you carefully calibrate them.
Unlike smaller saws as well, the miter gauges on cabinet saws tend to be at least decent. It’s a shame that so many are bad on smaller saws, but aftermarket options exist if you’re not satisfied.
Perhaps more than saws used for construction use, you can always consider aftermarket parts. Customizing a cabinet saw with the best-of-the-best bits is viable, and it will usually result in less work on your end.
Blade Size and Cutting Depth
The majority of cabinet saws are 10” but those with a dedicated industrial or commercial application are sometimes 12-14”.
A 10” saw blade is usually capable of cutting about 3 ⅛” with the blade straight up, and something like 2 ¼” at a 45° angle. Worm drive saws usually perform a little bit better since the blade can raise higher, but no 10” blade is going to rip 4x4s in one pass.
10” is perfect for most at-home use in my opinion, and those who regularly need a larger saw are going to have to look into industrial saws.
Fence and Stop Adjustments
Your fence is actually a key feature on the table saw. You press the workpiece into it so you can safely pass the blade through it.
On a standard table saw, 25” to the right of the blade is considered adequate, and 32” exceptional. On a cabinet saw, those numbers aren’t even available. Most fences for a cabinet table saw extend to at least 50”, making thick, long cuts of paneling viable.
Because the fence is so important to the accuracy of your saw, it also needs to be a very solid piece of work. Adjustments should be easy to change as well, but that’s simply not as important as the overall build quality of the fence.
The fence should also move in very small increments, in order to accommodate the varied sizes often required for advanced woodworking.
Most cabinet saws have the same style fence, which is based on one created by Biesemeyer. Aftermarket fences can be found in case something happens, or if you simply need something else.
Still, it’s one of the most important pieces in the box and you should examine the fence of any saw you want to buy carefully.
The bottom line for the fence?
The best cabinet table saw is sturdy, easy-to-use, and able to move in very small increments. In that order.
Dust Removal
The enclosed base of most cabinet table saws makes them better at keeping dust out of the air than contractor or portable saws. They’re most often used indoors as well, so it’s a welcome feature.
The saw will have a vacuum port somewhere, and most function well enough. The most important thing to consider is the size of the port, since you may need an adapter to fit your chosen vacuum.
Some saws do perform better than others in this regard, but for the most part, you can expect significant dust reduction out of a cabinet saw once you’ve got everything hooked up.
Safety Features
Table saws chew up people every day. They’re among the most dangerous tools to work with, especially for those who eschew common safety precautions. There is no such thing as a minor injury when you’re working with circular blades, the best-case scenario is “only” requiring stitches.
For that reason, it pays off to take a look at the safety features included with a saw. In the table saw world there are the basics, and then a couple of really advanced safety features.
The following are important.
Riving Knife or Splitter
Riving knives are a piece of metal that sits behind the blade, keeping the wood from closing on itself and binding. Kickback injuries can be serious, it’s more than just an irritating shock to the system.
Almost all new table saws have riving knives, but some older models come with splitters instead.
A splitter is much the same, but it doesn’t move with the blade and has to be removed for most applications other than ripping. A riving knife only needs to come off if you’re not cutting all the way through a workpiece.
Riving knives are simple, and one of the primary ways to stay safe when using your saw. Make sure any saw you’re looking at has one.
Blade Guard
Blade guards are important, and one of the most often removed pieces of safety equipment. Despite the temptation, it’s best to just leave it on.
A well-designed blade guard will allow the workpiece to move it on its own, with little pressure applied on your end. It should also fall back into place immediately once the workpiece has been cut through.
There is one thing you should note: blade guards don’t just protect you from not paying attention to your hands. The main purpose is to stop falling objects from hitting the blade. A small piece of wood can become a serious projectile when it touches a blade after all.
A blade guard that’s not your ideal shouldn’t be the only reason you don’t buy a saw, however important they are. Many people find that taking the time to look for an aftermarket guard that’s perfectly suited for them is easy enough.
Sawstop Brake
The Sawstop has to be seen to be believed, and it’s certainly earned its entry on this list.
The way it works is nifty: the blade is turned into a current sensor by the circuits inside the saw. When something conductive enough touches the blade, it stops and slams the blade underneath the surface of the saw within 3/1000ths of a second.
Containing that much force in such a short period of time naturally has consequences. The module is disposable, being built with crumple zones designed to catch the force of the spinning blade as quickly as possible. They’re single-use and run about $60 each, so you’re not likely to poke the blade as a party trick.
They also ruin the blade. While some have said they can use them afterward, I don’t recommend it unless it’s a very high-end blade and you sent it in for maintenance in the meantime.
The brake is ultra-reliable. The way things are set up inside the saw keeps the blade from functioning if the brake isn’t working. No brake? No cutting. It’s a nifty little failsafe.
While still mostly unique to Sawstop, you can also find a few other name-brand saws on the high end of things with similar modules.
While expensive, these modules will pay for themselves if you ever pop it on accident.
The best-case scenario for touching a spinning table saw blade is just getting stitches. An ER trip will run you at least $1,000. The higher initial cost of the saw, plus replacing a blade and module, pays for itself on that end, but the initial costs are much higher on saws using this technology.
Summing Up
In the end, there’s a lot of woodworking that can only happen if you have a cabinet saw in your workshop. Ripping immense paneling, handling exotic lumber, and being precise through the whole affair is what they’re made to do. And they’re quite good at it.
If you’re here and know the best cabinet saw is what you need… well, the only thing to do is pick up the one which best suits you!
