There are many different types of saws: hand saws, chainsaws, electric saws, etc. If you are new to woodworking tools, it will undoubtedly be confusing to distinguish and make a choice.
This article will introduce you to the two most common types of saws: table saw vs. cabinet saw. So, which tool is better? What are the outstanding features of each kind of tool? The answer will be available shortly at Geariz.com
Table Saw And Cabinet Saw Comparison
| Design | Motors | Features | Dust Collection | Best for | |
| Table saw | Motor, blade, integrated control “table”. | Universal motor, direct drive | Folding arms for cross cutting, handling thick materials. | Difficult to control dust. | The job requires flexibility. |
| Cabinet saw | Like table saws, motors are housed in cabinets. | induction motor | The tearing range is up to 50”.
Easy to adjust saw blade. Safe design.
|
Easy to collect wood dust. | Heavy-duty handling. |
The Basic Difference Between Table Saw And Cabinet Saw
We compare these two versions based on many criteria such as design, capacity, and performance.
Design
Table saw
The structure of the table saw includes the motor, the cutting edge, the control, and the integrated “tablet” for you to perform manipulations with the material.
There are four main table saws: portable table saws, contractor saws, and hybrid saws. And even a cabinet saw is a form of a table saw. Depending on the type of saw, table saws range in weight from 65 pounds to 280 pounds.
Cabinet saw
The cabinet saw is the complete type of table saw. The cabinet saw has a tabletop to support the operation and design like an actual cabinet, adding stability.
Cabinet saws are usually quite heavy, typically weighing 450 pounds or more. Machine construction material is usually steel or iron with a heavy tension mechanism. So you can work with the most challenging materials with ease.
Motors
Table saw
With small table saws, which can be easily moved, often use a general-purpose motor, direct drive.
With the same engine and construction, the cutting depth of the small table saw is not too impressive, but it is enough for you to handle materials less than 3 inches thick.
Meanwhile, contractor saws, also a table saw, have an induction motor that produces 1-1/2 to 2 horsepower. Compared with saws using direct-drive motors, contractor saws can cut deeper, and the cuts are also smoother.
Cabinet saw
The cabinet saw uses an induction motor. A unique feature is the cabinet design to help protect the engines better.
You can use the cabinet saw in most environmental conditions and continuously for a long time without any problems related to the motor.
Due to the larger frame, the motor size of the cabinet saw is more significant than that of the table saw. That also means more capacity. The cabinet saw can cut through any material.
Critical features
Table saw
Most table saws use riveting knives to reduce kickback. In addition, the tabletop machine has an additional folding arm for cross-cutting and handling of thick materials.
Cabinet saw
There is no folding arm like a table saw, but the cabinet saws have an extension that makes the machine’s material handling capabilities second to none: the cabinet saw has a tearing range of up to 50”.
In addition, the cabinet saw has a shaft body that attaches to the cabinet, so you can easily adjust the saw blade. The design of the machine is very safe, and little accidents can happen when you are performing sawing operations.
Dust Collection
Table saw
It is challenging to control dust when using a table saw. You can choose the most straightforward way: Hang the bag on the underside of the table to collect wood dust. However, this approach does not yield any significant results.
It would help if you learned about the types of dust blowers and then found a way to fix them on the table saw. However, some portable table saws have a light base, plastic material that cannot be welded but can only use tape.
Cabinet saw
Table saw, more convenient, can quickly collect wood dust. You can also easily connect a duct to the vacuum cleaner to keep the workspace clean.
User
Table saw
The table saw is easy to use, very suitable for beginners who do not have much experience. Or, if you prioritize the portability of a saw, a table saw will be the optimal choice.
Cabinet saw
The cabinet saw is very durable, not easy to damage. Besides, the table saw has a powerful induction motor that works continuously.
Therefore, the machine is very suitable for use in construction works, handling powerful tasks. In addition, wood professionals often love the precision that the cabinet saw provides.
A Quick Run-down Of Each Type
The list of advantages and disadvantages of each model below will help you summarize and make the right choice for your needs.
Table saw
Pros
- Cut more precisely than hand saws or similar tools.
- Easy to use.
- Flexible cutting angle.
- High mobility.
- Some table saws also have quite effective shaping and sanding features.
Cons
- Small cutting surface, not suitable for large projects.
Cabinet saw
Pros
- Minimize vibration.
- Higher accuracy than table saws.
- Powerful induction motor for continuous operation.
- Fast cutting speed.
- Efficient dust collection.
Cons
- The cabinet saw weighs at least 450 pounds, so it’s not easy to move.
FAQs
To help you better understand these two types of machines, we gathered and answered a few questions that many people are interested in.
What are the five safety rules for a table saw?
Most accidents involving chainsaws, especially table saws, can be avoided if you follow these three safety rules:
- Read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. In the manual, there are always warnings to prevent you from misbehaving when using the machine.
- Use protective equipment such as glasses, masks, gloves.
- Keep the saw in the best condition: you should regularly check the state of the saw, do not forget to clean, lubricate to adjust the saw.
What should I look for in a cabinet table saw?
Here are the most critical factors you need to consider:
- Plane: The acceptable plane deviation is 0.005.”
- Blade: You should give preference to saws that can change blades effortlessly.
- Bevel cutting ability: Some saws allow you to tilt the floor blade to the left, others to the right. Your choice depends on personal preference.
- Safety: You should consider choosing a saw with an automatic blade brake that retracts immediately when the blade touches the skin.
What should you never use a table saw for?
You should not wear loose clothes, jewelry, or any cumbersome accessories when using a table saw to ensure labor safety. It’s best to wear well-fitting work clothes and use goggles and hearing protection.
Conclusion
Table saw vs. cabinet saw, which tool is better? The answer depends on the purpose of use and your workload.
If you’re a beginner, get acquainted with the easy-to-use versatile table saw. On the contrary, if you are an expert in carpentry, investing in a cabinet saw is the right decision.
Whatever your choice, don’t forget to follow safety guidelines to have both productive and safe working hours.
