Table Saw vs Circular Saw: find out how they compare

Whether you’re a DIY-er or professional worker, you know that each project needs specific tools. That statement is valid for power saws too.

However, choosing the right type of saw isn’t always easy.

For example, if you can’t afford both a table saw and a circular saw, you should learn what each is best for. And you’re on the right page for that.

Read along to find out how table saws and circular saws compare, their pros and cons, and the best model for your needs.

Table of Contents

Table Saw Vs Circular Saw Differences

Tl;dr:

You’re going to use table saws on a flat surface, like a table or workbench. Conversely, a circular saw is hand-held.
Table saws are larger and more expensive.
You’ll need a table saw for very minute cuts and longer pieces of material.
Table saws have built-in dust disposals.

To understand these differences, you should know what table saws and circular saws are.

What’s A Table Saw?

Table saws are specifically built to be attached to a table. The blade is encased, so only the blade above the table is visible.

Here’s how it works:

You grab a piece of material – like wood – even a large one, and you feed it to the table saw. Push it slowly, and you’ll get accurate cuts in straight lines.

There’s a downside:

You can’t use table saws for curved lines.

What’s A Circular Saw?

Circular saws are hand-held power saws that cut wood pieces. They’re smaller and flimsier, plus you’ll need more skill to get accurate cuts.

You can find different circular saw models depending on how large your projects are. For example, you can use a mini-circular saw for small-scale projects.

Table Saw Vs Circular Saw Pros And CONS

Let’s compare the advantages and disadvantages of table saws vs circular saws.

Table Saw Advantages

Precise cuts
Very stable
Easy for beginners
Best for ripping boards and cross cuts
Sawdust removal
Low maintenance
Easy to replace or repair their parts

Table Saw Disadvantages

Not portable
More expensive
Not value-for-money for casual DIY-ers

Circular Saw Advantages

Versatile – easy to use for different types of cuts and materials
Portable
Lightweight
Battery and cordless versions are available
More affordable

Circular Saw Disadvantages

Not as precise as a table saw
Lack of sawdust disposal

Table Saw vs Circular Saw: Best Use

Table saws are best for:

Exact straight lines
Rips
Crosscuts
Crown moulding
Correct crooked boards
Beginners

Circular saws are best for:

Mobility
Portability
Overhead cuts
Bevel cuts
More experienced people

Can A Circular Saw Be Used As A Table Saw?

Yes, you can use a circular saw as a table saw, but you’ll need a saw guide. Here’s how to make your own:

Get a wooden board and cut a piece from it like this:
- Make the straight edge by chalking in a line 5 inches from the edge.
- Saw along the line.
Use a 12-inch of inexpensive plywood for the base.
Set the base on top of the piece of wood you just cut.
Line up the edges and attach the edge on the straight edge with short screws.
Turn the saw guide around and saw off the excess material.

Here’s how to use the saw guide:

Mark both ends for your cutting width.
Line up the saw guide with the marks.
Clamp it at both ends.
Now you’re ready to cut.

Circular Saw Reviews

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Sam

Sam loves the outdoors and DIY-ing pretty much anything he can lay his dirty hands on. He is yet to find a project he doesn't like, which he always completes with great pleasure and enthusiasm.

Table Saw Vs Circular Saw: Find Out Which One You Should Get