As a DIY artist, I often get questions from my peers about the debate on 10 Vs 12 Inch Miter Saw. In the initial days, I had the same confusion. What is actually the deal about these miter saws? Why is it so difficult to choose one?
It is a surprise that choosing the right blade is confusing as there are so many sizes from 8.5 to 10 to 12. Now many of you might wonder what a difference of 2 inches can make. I tell you what!
In this article, I will decipher the secrets of a 10-inch miter saw and 12-inch miter saw. I will also decode every minute detail of both the miter saws. By the end of the piece, hopefully, you will learn to choose the right one.
Note: Check out our in-depth miter saw reviews – Click here to see our Top 7 Picks of 2023
Top 10″ vs 12″ Miter Saw Chart.
[amazon bestseller=”10 inch miter saw” items=”5″ price=”none” template=”table”]
[amazon bestseller=”12 inch miter saw” items=”5″ price=”none” template=”table”]
Main Difference Between A 10 vs. 12 Inch Miter Saw
Power:
Let’s talk about the 12 inch miter saw first. The first thing I’d like to mention that it is extremely powerful. You can cut anything without any issue. The extreme power comes from a 15 amp motor (in most cases). And the more powerful the motor, the more cutting ability the miter saw will have. And this power will compensate for the drawbacks of speed if there is any.
On the contrary, a 10 inch miter saw has a relatively lower power capacity than a 12 inch. In the case of power, the one is a little behind the former one.
Speed:
One particular advantage that separates the 10 inches one from a 12 inch is its speed. While a 12 inch has a speed of 4000 rpm, a 10 inch has 5000rpm. The reason lies behind the radius of the blade. A smaller radius will spin faster.
But like I said before, a 12 inch will compensate for its lack of speed with a higher power.
When it comes to time, 12 inch miter saw is way faster than a 10 inch miter saw. It is a real time saver when working on bulkier or heavier objects.
Weight:
The 12 inch miter saw has bigger power, and bigger power means bulkier and heavier. You won’t be able to move this one easily.
But the 10 inch miter saw is lighter. Although I am not saying, that is super light but relatively lighter than 12 inch. They are pretty portable, which makes them perfect for those who work in different places.
Cutting capacity:
Also, the blade is 12 inches in size, which means it can cut bigger objects than 10 inches. So, at a professional level, 12 inch miter saw is unparalleled. A 12 inch miter saw max cut capacity is up to 2×6/2×8.
Whereas a 10 inch sliding miter saw cut capacity is up to 4×4. It is a perfect trait for most woodworkers. Also, having only 10 inch blade, they are relatively lighter in practical use.
In comparison, a miter saw 12 inch is definitely definite ahead of a 10 inch miter saw.
Cost and availability:
If you are a regular user, you might already know that this one is way more popular among woodworkers. The main reason is that it comes with a good price-quality ratio. You will get a more versatile yet cheaper product with a 10 inch miter saw.
As I said before, they are very common, and thus the replacement materials are available everywhere. Not to mention that the price is also affordable for most of the DIY workers.
On the contrary, the price is a bit higher in the case of this particular product. Not only the buying price, but the replacement is going to cost you a fortune.
Steadiness:
Very often, we forget to consider one important point- steadiness.
When working on a project with machines like these, steadiness is very important. A shaky or wobbly machine will not only lower the quality but also annoy the worker.
Being a relatively lighter and smaller miter saw, 10 inch saw is less shaky and wobbly. This is totally opposite in the case of a 12 inch saw. It makes a louder sound and vibrates more.
However, there is a controversy on this matter. Many professional woodworkers have claimed that only lower-grade low cost 12 inch miter saw does that.
Overall:
The 12 inch miter saw is more powerful, faster, and can pull off more rugged jobs in reality. But again, if you are not a regular user or do not work on larger projects, this one might not be for you.
But on the other side, 10 inch miter saw have a limitation in capacity. They are not as efficient as 12 inch when it comes to a larger quantity of work. So, if you are going to work on a professional level, 10 inch isn’t worth it.
A Quick Comparison Table on 10 vs 12 Miter Saw:
| Specification | 12 inch miter saw | 10 inch miter saw |
| Weight | Heavier | Relatively lighter |
| Capacity | Higher | Slightly lower |
| size | Bigger, heavier, and difficult to move | Relatively smaller, lighter, and easy to move |
| Power | 15 amp | 14 amp |
| Maximum cutting capacity | 7 -1/2 inches
2×8 4×4 | 5-1/2
2×4 |
| speed | 4000rom | 5000rpm |
| Availability | Not so much | Maximum available |
| Cost | 200-600$ | 100-300$ |
Which is Better 10 inch or 12 inch Miter Saw?
I must tell you that I didn’t compare 10 vs 12 inch miter saw to prove one worse than the other. I simply wanted to highlight the best of both worlds. Now, to summarize the whole point of 10 inch vs 12 inch miter saw, the choice will depend on the job. Both the saws are great in their own way.
If you are a part-time woodworker or a DIY enthusiast, spending more money should not be the option. To get the best work with little money, a 10 inch miter saw will just be fine.
But, if you have a larger project, the 12 inch miter saw will be the right choice in a professional way. As I said, its higher power, greater capacity, and faster work mode will help you achieve your goal in no time. Also, you will get a smoother and quality result. If you get past the cost, a 12-inch miter saw is totally worth the dough.
You might also be interested-Dewalt Miter Saw DWS779 VS DWS780-Which One’s Best?
Can You Use A 10 Inch Blade On A 12 Inch Miter Saw?
In general, they are both versatile in use regardless of the miter saw sizes and types. The differences of 10 vs 12 inch miter saw has nothing to do with the functions. You can do a wide range of jobs with both the miter saws.
Having said that, there is one little benefit in a 12 inch miter saw. You can use a 10 inch blade in a 12 inch miter saw. That means you have the benefits of two saws in one machine. Isn’t that something amazing?
Dewalt 12 Inch Miter Saw
When it comes to heavy-duty works, nothing can be better than a Dewalt 12 Inch Miter Saw. Everything a perfectionist woodworker wants comes within this machine. The brand has always been a popular choice for its quality, capacity, and power. Whether it is Dewalt 10 miter saw or 12, you get the best guaranteed.
Features:
- 15amp powerful motor;
- 3600rpm-3800rpm spin;
- 4 specific bevel points (0 degrees, 22.5 degrees, 33.9 degrees, and 45 degrees);
- Manufactured to improve cutting efficiency;
- Extremely durable;
- Blade with carbide tip;
- Cutline blade positioning system for improving product visibility and accuracy;
- Multiple features working together, including linear ball bearings, an innovative mechanism, and two horizontal steel rails.
Things I liked:
- Simplicity in use.
- Sliding miter saw with an integrated positioning system that illuminates the cutting line for better visibility and greater precision.
- Powerful 15 amp motor.
- Left and right bevel cut adjustment.
- Highly efficient vacuum system that captures up to 75% of the dust generated.
- Includes: holder, carbide blade, blade wrench, dust bag, and material clamp.
Things I didn’t like:
- Quite expensive.
- Difficulty in adjusting the miter mark.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a 10-inch miter saw cut a 4×4?
Absolutely. In fact, a 10 inch miter saw has the ability to cut up to 4×4. Above that mark, it will struggle to make the cut smoothly.
What size wood can a 12 miter saw cut?
A good quality miter saw can cut logs as big as 2×8 at 90 degrees. It can also cut 2×6 at 45 degrees.
Will a 12 miter saw cut a 6×6?
No, a 12 miter saw cannot cut a 6×6 in one cut. A 12-inch saw can cut a maximum depth of 4.5 inch. To cut a 6×6, you need to flip it and cut from the other side.
Can miter saw cut plywood?
A miter saw can cut plywood but with the right blade. The default ones that come with the saw will not be able to do it. You will need specialized blades for plywood (20 carbide tip)
See More reviews:- Miter Saw Protractors
Conclusion
Finally, all we want to say is that the only thing that really matters is what size miter saw do I need. All will depend on the project I am doing. The debate on 10 vs 12 Miter Saw will end at this point.
When the project is more personal than professional, a 10 inch miter saw is more than ok. It will give the freedom of carrying around and finer precision within the budget.
But if the project is massive, 12 inch miter saw should be the priority. It’s faster, powerful and saves a lot of time. Also, if you can look past the budget, get a 10 inch blade suitable for 12 inch miter saw.
Happy woodworking!
