Whether you do professional carpentry or occasional trim works to kill time, the first thing you will probably look for is a miter saw.
It cuts across the boards, pieces of wood at definite angles, making it easier for you to assemble them in a perfect structure. It is definitely something on which you would want to spend money.
But there are numerous miter saw available in the market. Which one should you choose? If you have come across this article, you are probably looking for the best miter saw for baseboards.
And yes, you have come to the right place. Despite having a common name, there are different types of miter saws available according to their usage.
In this article, we have categorized them so that you can easily select the one that fulfills your need. We have done our research and picked out some best miter saw that would surely impress you with their performance.
Eager to know more about the saws? Let’s dive into the article without any delay!
Best Miter Saw For Baseboards: Top Picks For You
There are numerous brands and types of miter saw. If you search online, you will get hundreds of recommendations, which is enough to make you confuse.
That’s why we have done our research and picked the five best miter saws that are perfect for both professional use and general use. They have the best overall performance among similar products.
Types Of Miter Saws
Miter saws are a power-tool designed to make angled cuts on boards, woods for general carpentry works like crown molding, trim work, frameworks, etc. As the name suggests, all miter saws are capable of making miter cuts across the boards. But that’s just so basic. Carpentry needs much more than that.
As the day advanced, miters saws also got upgraded, and they are now capable of making bevel cuts, compound cuts (a combination of miter cut and bevel cut), crosscuts along with miter cuts. Nowadays, there are compound miter saws that come with features like sliding, laser markers, and so on. They definitely make things easier for you.
Basic/ Standard Miter Saw
This is the most basic version of the miter saw. They can make angle cuts, generally between -45° to +45°. They have a circular blade attached to the arm, which can rotate to the side.
You need to set the blade at an angle and pull the arm from the top to cut across the board. Standard miter saws can not tilt, so they do not have the capability to create bevel cuts across the baseboards’ thickness.
Single Compound Miter Saw
A compound miter saw can make bevel cuts along with miter cuts and crosscuts. It is called a single compound miter saw because of its tilting capability in one direction.
The blade can tilt on the side, generally to the left, making it capable of bevel cuts. But you can use it for cutting both sides of a baseboard.
All you need to do is turn over the board so that the saw can make a bevel cut from the other direction.
Dual Compound Miter Saw
The dual bevel saw has all the functions of a single compound miter saw. It can also cut through the baseboard at miter cut, crosscut, bevel cut.
But it comes with an additional facility. Unlike a single compound miter saw, it can tilt on both sides. As a result, it can make bevel cuts on both sides of the board.
And you don’t even need to turn over boards for that! It is a timesaver and more convenient as it allows you to have definite cuts on each side of a board without the hassle of turning it over.
But yes, it is costlier than a single compound miter saw. If you are on a tight budget, you can always use a single compound miter saw. They almost have the same functions.
Compound Sliding Miter Saw
It is the most advanced version of a miter saw. It is a compound miter saw capable of making miter cuts, crosscuts, bevel cuts. But it has an incredible function that makes it the top quality saw.
It has extended rails that can slide forward. As a result, it can cut wider boards at ease. When you use a non-sliding miter saw, it can only cut up to a certain diameter, which is lesser than the blade’s diameter.
As a result, if you want to cut a wide board, you need to turn over the board to finish the cut. But this is a bit risky. The cut can become uneven if the board is not placed perfectly.
In such times, for cutting wider boards, a compound sliding miter saw is the best choice.
DEWALT 12 inch Sliding Compound Miter Saw
DEWALT is always a reliable brand when it comes to miter saws. This model (DWS779) is a corded miter saw. It comes with a 12-inch blade that is capable of cutting baseboards up to 16 inches wide.
It can also cut through 6.75 inches (maximum) thickness efficiently. This versatile power tool has an exclusive back fence design that can cut up to 2×14 dimensional lumber at 90° and 2×12 at a 45-degree angle.
DEWALT sliding compound miter saw has a 3800 RPM motor. This powerful motor delivers extended power and ensures the durability of the product.
This miter saw has an extremely efficient dust collecting system. It can collect up to 75% of the sawdust that is produced during its use. This product has three years of manufacturing guarantee.
Power | 15-Amp Motor |
Blade size | 12″ |
Light | No LED |
Abor Size | 1″ |
Bevel Capacity | 2×12 at 45 degree |
Type of milter saw | Slide |
Weight | 56 lbs |
- It has 90° cross-cut capacity
- It can make accurate cuts with a variety of angles.
- It is best for cutting wide and thick baseboards.
- 16″ straight cut capacity saw
- Get some additional Features.
- Comes with a lower quality 32 tooth blade.
- Sliding arm wasn’t locked down.
- The bevel wasn’t locked down.
Metabo HPT Dual Bevel Miter Saw
Metabo HPT 10 inch sliding compound miter saw has a powerful 15-ampere motor that can handle thick larger boards easily.
This power miter saw has a 10-inch miter saws blade that allows a 0-60° miter angle to the right and 0-55° angle to the left. It also provides bevel angles 0-48° on both left and right sides, making it easier for the user to flip the saw blade.
This miter saw has zero rear tolerance compact slide system that lets the saw head move along the fixed rails. It comes with an ergonomic upfront bevel lock which helps to make adjustments easily and quickly.
Metabo HPT compound miter saw can be the best compound miter saw for beginners doing baseboards as it comes with a laser marker system. The laser helps to make accurate angles and cuts.
It also has LED lights installed in it, which creates a safer environment in low-light workplaces. Finally, the saw is very lightweight, which makes it easily movable. It has five years manufacturing guarantee.
Power | 15 Amp Motor |
Blade Size | 10″ |
Light | LED |
Abor Size | 1″ |
Bevel Capacity | 60° Right and 55° Left Angle |
Type of Miter Saw | Slide |
Weight | 40.7lbs |
- t has a solid base that gives the tool stability.
- Able to lock in at gradual degrees.
- It comes with a laser marker.
- Dust collection is bearable with a bag.
- It is lightweight and easily portable.
- It is too difficult and dangerous to use the left hand.
- It is a bit expensive.
Skil 3821-01 12-inch Compound Miter Saw
The Skil 3821-01 12 inches quick-mount compound miter box is very easy to set up because of its quick-mount system.
This professional miter saw comes with a powerful 4500 RPM motor, making it convenient for cutting through baseboards easily.
This saw has a 12-inch carbide blade that is capable of cutting through the 3.5-inch thickness. It has nine positive stops that help to set common miter angles.
It also has extension rails on both left and right side that allows it to cut wider woods. It comes with laser guides that ensure the accuracy of the cuts. Laser guide makes things easier for beginners.
This miter saw has a dust bag installed in it which collects sawdust and makes the workplace cleaner.
Power | 15-Amp Motor |
Blade Size | 12″ |
Light | No |
Abor Size | 0.625″ |
Bevel Capacity | 47° Right and 45° Left Angle |
Type of Miter Saw | Slide |
Weight | 46.3 lbs |
- It has a solid base that gives the tool stability.
- Able to lock in at gradual degrees.
- It comes with a laser marker.
- Dust collection is bearable with a bag.
- It is lightweight and easily portable.
- It is too difficult and dangerous to use the left hand.
- It is a bit expensive.
CRAFTSMAN V20 7-1/4 inch Sliding Miter Saw Kit
The CRAFTSMAN V20 7-1/4 inch Sliding Miter Saw is a cordless system. It uses a 20-volt Lithium-ion battery to function. As it doesn’t need any direct power outlet, it is highly preferable for using anywhere.
It has a side carry handle which makes it easily portable. It is also very lightweight, only 21.8 lbs which makes it easier to carry.
These cordless miter saws have a powerful motor with 3800 RPM that allows it to cut 2x dimensional lumber, baseboards, crown molding, hardwoods without any problem.
It has the sliding dual bevel capability that allows it to make 8-inch crosscuts at 90° angle and 5.5-inch cuts with a 45° angle range.
It also has LED lights installed in it, which provides sufficient light and helps to make accurate cuts. This product has a three years warranty for any manufacturing problems.
Power | Lithium-ion batteries required |
Blade Size | 7-1/4″ |
Light | No |
Abor Size | 0.625″ |
Bevel Capacity | 47° Bevel Cuts |
Type of Miter Saw | Single Slide |
Weight | 21 lbs |
- It is a cordless miter saw which can be used anywhere.
- It’s a versatile miter saw with a nice design.
- The Lithium-ion battery is easily changeable and takes very little time to be fully charged.
- It is very lightweight and portable.
- It comes with LED lights.
- The price is affordable.
- The limited battery life can be a hindrance.
Genesis GMS1015LC Compound Miter Saw
Genesis GMS1015LC 10 inch Compound Miter Saw can be a trusted companion when it comes to cutting baseboards with a miter saw.
It features a powerful 15-Amp motor that deals with miter cuts, crosscuts, and bevel cuts with ease. It comes with a 60 tooth blade that is designed to give a fine finish to the cuts and trims.
There is an arbor lock system installed in this miter saw. This lock makes the blade change faster and easier without any hassle. There is a hold-down clamp that securely holds the boards in place.
It features an electric brake that does a mind-blowing job of stopping the saw within a few seconds after the trigger is released.
Genesis GMS1015LC comes with a laser guide that helps to angle the saw quickly and assures the cuts’ accuracy.
Along with a laser guide, it possesses nine positive miter stops that help make perfect cuts in common angles. This product has two years warranty for any manufacturing dysfunction.
- It has 60 tooth blade that gives perfect cuts and a smooth finish.
- The arbor lock changes blades super fast.
- The electric brake adds extra security.
- It comes with a laser guide that ensures the accuracy of angles and cuts.
- It is less costly in comparison to similar products in the market.
- It does not come with a sliding system.
- It may not be suitable for handling large projects.
Power | 15-amp motor |
Blade Size | 10″ |
Light | No |
Abor Size | 5/8″ |
Bevel Capacity | 45° Left Bevel Cuts |
Type of Miter Saw | Slide |
Weight | 24 lbs |
Things You Should Consider Before Buying A Miter Saw
Buying a miter saw randomly is not a smart thing to do. Firstly, you are going to use it for a long time. And secondly, it can be costly.
So, it is necessary to consider some facts before buying any kind of miter saw. We have chosen some common factors that you need to consider while buying a miter saw.
But yes, there are other variables too that can be taken into consideration. The more you judge a product, the better one you get.
So, it’s up to you how many things you want to check before buying anything. Now, let’s get straight to the facts.
Working Purpose
The very first step of choosing any kind of power tool is considering its working purpose or types of cuts. Why are you buying that tool?
Are you looking for a miter saw that can handle thick and wide woods, or are you looking for something for general trimming?
There are various power tools in the market depending on their use. If you want to have the best working experience with a miter saw, it is wise to choose one that can fit perfectly with your work.
Type Of Miter Saw
Based on their capability of making angles and cuts, there are now multiple types of miter saws in the market.
Basic/ standard miter saw, which can only do miter cuts and crosscuts, compound miter saws that can make bevel cuts along with miter and crosscuts.
There is also double bevel sliding miter saws that move forward and cut wide boards. Each type has specific functions that make them different from the other. You need to select one that fits your criteria well.
Blade Sizes
The blade size of a miter saw differs according to its usage. The 10 inch and 12-inch blades are the two most common blades and are widely used for various purposes.
The 10-inch blade is perfect for improving your cutting capacity less than 6 inches wide and 1 or 2 inches thick. But if you want to cut a wider and thicker board, a 12-inch carbide blade is the best choice.
There are also small blades like 8 inches, which is preferable for doing detailed works. Sometimes miter saw blades are increasing your vertical cutting capacity.
Power Source
Until very recently, miter saws only worked using AC power. It needs a direct power connection and electricity. These are called a corded miter saw.
But now, some miter saws can function perfectly using DC current/ batteries. These are non-corded miter saw, and they use 20-volt Lithium-ion batteries as their power source.
Non-corded miter saws are great for carrying them anywhere, and the fact that you can use them anywhere without worrying about a power outlet makes them more admirable.
However, the non-corded miter saws are not as powerful as the corded ones, and they have limited battery life.
Laser Marker
Nowadays, some miter saws come with laser markers. The laser light draws a path on top of the baseboard before cutting through it.
In this way, the user can set the angles correctly, and the cuts become more accurate. A laser guide is extremely helpful for beginners and the ones who face trouble in making precise cuts.
However, miter saws with laser guides are a bit costlier than regular miter saws.
Non-slip Grip
You need a firm grip on the saw while cutting any boards or woods with it. Else, it can be dangerous and can cause accidents. Carpenters face troubles when they work during hot seasons.
Because of sweat, the metal handle becomes slippery, and it becomes difficult to have a firm grip on it.
Some manufacturers now offer a non-slip padded material on top of the handle so that workers can have a firm grip while using miter saws.
Though it is optional and not all miter saws have this; it can be an extra advantage.
Dust Collector
Miter saws tend to produce dust during cutting through boards. Before, users had to clean this dust themselves.
But now, miter saws are more advanced, and they have a dust collection system installed inside them. Some dust collectors are even capable of sucking up to 75% of the dust generates during the cut.
This feature is highly helpful for those who have to spend a lot of time among sawdust.
Conclusion
Miter saws are versatile power tool that is an excellent help for carpenters. They trust this tool for making perfect cuts that help them create different types of woodworks.
That’s why it is something that can not be chosen randomly. You need to select a proper miter saw that can be your trusted companion.
In this article, we have tried to pick out the best miter saw for baseboards for you. We have also added all the necessary information that you need to know before buying a miter saw.
Hopefully, the article was helpful for you. We wish you to have a good working experience with your chosen miter saw.
FAQ of Best Miter Saw For Baseboards
What Size Miter Saw For Baseboards?
The size of a miter saw differs depending on the width and thickness of a baseboard. If you want to cut smaller boards, 8 inches, a miter saw can be enough.
If you aim to cut wider baseboards, 10 inches and 12 inch miter saws are mostly preferable.
What Is The Best Saw To Cut Baseboards?
Powdered miter saws are considered best for cutting baseboards and wide baseboards. There are two types of powered miter saws, corded and non-corded.
Both types work fine in cutting baseboards. However, corded ones deliver more power as they are connected to a direct electric outlet.
Which One Is The Best Miter Saw For You?
Depending on your project, the choice of miter saw can differ. However, DEWALT 12 inch sliding compound miter saw, Metabo HPT 10 inch sliding compound miter saw,
Skil 3821-01 12 inches quick-mount compound miter saw, CRAFTSMAN V20 7-1/4 inch sliding miter saw, Genesis GMS1015LC 10 inch compound miter saw can be a good choice for his safety feature.
What Size Miter Saw For Trim Work?
For small and regular trim work, a 10-inch miter saw works just fine. But if you want a miter saw for cutting larger and thicker boards and wood, you will need a 12-inch miter saw.
What Is The Best Way To Cut Baseboards?
The best way to cut the baseboard is by using a miter saw. Mark measurements correctly on the board and cut the sides using a miter saw.
It is best to use a powered miter saw for accurate and smooth cuts.
Who Makes The Most Accurate Miter Saw?
There are multiple manufacturers who make accurate miter saws. The DEWALT, Makita, Metabo HPT, Skilsaw.
CRAFTSMAN, Milwaukee miter saws has been so far delivered satisfactory services to the users.
What Is The Best DEWALT Miter Saw For Baseboards?
The latest DEWALT 12 inch sliding compound miter saw (DWS779) delivers the best performance in cutting baseboards. Their powerful 15-Amp motor, 3800 RPM gives it extreme power to cut wider and thicker baseboards.