8 Best 12-inch Miter Saws In 2024 | Reviews & Buyer’s Guide

Generally, these power tools come in two distinct variations–10-inch and 12-inch. Though they perform the same basic functions, the 12-inch miter saws prevent the need to adjust your lumber with a wider working area. For larger projects, a 12-inch miter saw is the better pick. 

When it comes to 12-inch miter saws, you may consider choosing one of the following options. These are the best in the business and will satisfy any expectations that you may have of the power tool. Let's find out which suits your woodworking needs the best. 

Best 12-Inch Miter Saws

Here is the list of the 8 best 12-inch miter saws that you can use to create precise and accurate cuts for carpentry, woodworking, and other related projects.

1. Bosch 12-Inch Miter Saw - Best for Precision & Accessibility

Bosch has been the forerunner of engineering innovations for ages now. Thus, every product it makes has a tangible effect on its competitors. The GCM12SD is no different; it brings to the table many features that make woodwork simpler and more effective. Here's how Bosch's Miter Saw is a game-changer. 

Why Did We Like It?

Bosch GCM12SD Miter Saw boasts a broader cutting capacity, easy adjustments for bevel angles, and its gliding feature. All you need is a finger to make it travel the distance you need. The Axial Glide system is what differentiates the GCM12SD from the competition. 

The build quality of this miter saw is excellent. The design is more compact than an average miter saw and may help those who like a smaller workspace. The saw locks in if you ever need to cut out a square with a one-touch locking fence. The controls are placed up front for swift access without you having to reach around the machine. Accessibility is key and Bosch does it well. 

What Could Have Been Better?

At 65 lbs, it’s hefty and can be an issue if you want to move it around a lot. The GCM12SD could have benefitted with the inclusion of safety gear. You may also get into trouble cutting at a 45-degree angle against a fence, which may be a problem in some situations. 

2. Dewalt DWS715 Miter Saw - Best for Affordability & Versatility

Thanks to its versatility, the DWS715 is often regarded among woodworkers as the go-to miter saw. It allows the user to make a variety of cuts with its adjustable bevels. This miter saw is priced quite competitively, being the most affordable of the ten. The Dewalt DWS715 may suit your needs and here’s how. 

Why Did We Like It?

The miter has 14 positive stops on either side, providing you with various cutting angles. With a 4,000 RPM motor, you'll find that it easily cuts through wood as thick as six inches. The saw also features a precise miter system and machined base fence support. 

The Dewalt DWS715 is stable and reliable equipment. It comes with vertical clamps to ensure that the saw doesn't move during operation, resulting in the finest quality cuts. This miter saw is cheaper than most other products of its caliber. You'll find it does everything without burning a hole in your wallet. 

What Could Have Been Better?

The angle markings may be a bit imprecise by a small margin. Having to correct this can end up eating into your time, unfortunately. The dust collection system also leaves much to be desired. You'll have to clean up after working with the DWS715 since it comes equipped with a basic dust bag. 

3. Dewalt DWS716XPS - Best for Portability & Accuracy

Dewalt continues to improve its lineup of miter saws with the DWS716XPS. What may pique your interest with the miter saw is its low weight. At 49 lbs, you will find it easy to move around when needed. This saw will be an excellent tool for your woodworking projects. 

Why Did We Like It?

Though the motor is not as powerful as its competitors, the DWS716XPS makes up for it with more accurate cuts. A modern LED guidance system will aid you in improving the accuracy even further. 

The Dewalt miter saw is reliable with features aplenty, making your woodwork easy and hassle-free. This miter saw also boasts four positive stops on either side, allowing you to make cuts at angles ranging from 0 to 48 degrees on each side. It is simple to adjust and quick to boot. It has a cam lock miter handle with detent overrides. This enables fast and precise miter angles. 

Its tall sliding miter fences support crown molding up to 6⅝ inch nested and 6½ inch vertically. This will help you make large cuts nested on or against the fence. 

What Could Have Been Better?

The lighter weight does come with a notable caveat which is reduced durability. With woodwork, some damage to the miter saw is quite likely to happen. Where the Dewalt saw may also come up short is the dust collection system, which may not function properly at times. As a result, the DWS716XPS may leave much to be desired. 

4. Metabo HPT Miter Saw 12-Inch

A glance at Metabo's lineup will be enough to understand why the company has made such a splash in the power tools industry. With the C12RSH2S, the company has made further improvements to the tried-and-tested C12RSH2. The Metabo C12RSH2S may very well be the miter saw for your woodworking purposes, and here's why. 

Why Did We Like It?

Featuring a fixed rail system, the C12RSH2S glides freely for easy operation. With the aptly named Compact Slide System, you will not need to worry about rear space management. The gliding system is central to the saw's design, and all of its features work together for a smooth woodworking experience. 

The vertical handle is an unusual design choice, but it works with the glide system. With the saw's maneuverability, your cuts will be smooth, precise, and hassle-free. 

Its impressive cutting ability will have you slicing through the wood in no time. The miter saw is large, has a wide degree range, and occupies less space than you would expect. If you want to set it up against a wall, you can do so. Metabo successfully kept the design ergonomic without sacrificing the saw's cutting capacity. 

What Could Have Been Better?

The bevel-locking lever is relatively inaccessible, located around the back of the miter saw. Its laser guidance system is not easy to calibrate and the clamp may give you some grief while adjusting. 

5. Milwaukee 12-Inch Miter Saw

The Milwaukee 6955-20 has carved out a distinct identity for itself in the miter saw market. With Milwaukee's build quality and the variety of saw features, woodworkers will have an easier time with their jobs. You'll find 6955-20 to be one of the most rugged miter saws in the industry. 

Why Did We Like It?

The 6955-20 maintains its RPM even when under load. The 3250 RPM motor remains steady during operation, providing you with quick, clean cuts. It boasts a digital miter system that will give you precise markings, along with a self-zeroing feature. This will allow you to work on the entire miter range. 

The miter saw will perform as per your expectations, thanks to its robust build quality. Even in darker environments, the built-in work lights function well. Like its competitors, this tool also features a sliding miter for smooth cuts. The 6955-20 is user-friendly because of these features and is one of the top-of-the-line miter saws. 

What Could Have Been Better?

The 6955-20 has no digital bevel adjustment, which is a bit of an inconvenience. Its design is also quite hefty and may deter you from moving it to different job locations. The laser guide may also not be visible at times. It may end up being an issue in daylight. 

6. Makita LS1219L Slide Compound Mitre Saw with Laser Guide

The Makita LS1219L is considered a powerhouse in the miter saw industry. It's fast, precise, and smooth consistently. The Makita miter saw certainly stands out among its competitors, coming with features like a carbide-tipped blade right out of the box. Described as a production workhorse, the Makita saw will meet your carpentry needs well.

Why Did We Like It?

With the aforementioned carbide-tipped blade, the LS1219L provides you with chipping-free cuts. The miter saw is equipped with two extension wings, a vise, a socket wrench, and a dust bag. Featuring a high cutting capacity as well, the Makita saw will surprise you with its power.

Since it's quick and easy to set up, you will find yourself using this miter saw more often than you'd initially expect. You will also find its performance consistent, which is essential when working on something that requires precision. Consistency is key, and the Makita saw has it. 

What Could Have Been Better?

The lack of a laser system is a glaring flaw since most other miter saws in the market have it. However, the Makita saw makes up for it in every other department.

7. WEN 12-inch Miter Saw

The WEN MM1214T has been the miter saw of choice for homeowners. It’s a versatile power tool that will fulfill its job well. Its power rivals that of its competitors, with a strong 15 amp, 3800 RPM motor. This miter saw is a solid option for woodwork of all kinds, be it DIY projects or large-scale crafts. 

Why Did We Like It?

Like the LS1221, the MM1214T comes with a 60-tooth carbide-tipped blade for clean cuts. It's strong and cuts through timber with no trouble.

It features 45 degrees bevel and miter on either side of the saw with nine stops. The bevel controls are placed on the front for easy access. The MM1214T features an onboard laser that works in tandem with the work light for illumination. You'll be able to work in darker environments with relative ease. 

The saw also comes with two retractable extensions that increase the work capacity to 38 inches. The WEN saw also has a large cutting capacity, and with its powerful 15 Amp motor, you'll find it ideal for most lumber work.

What Could Have Been Better?

The saw has some weight to it, which may make mobility an issue. Its accuracy may also suffer due to markings on the bevels and slightly off miter. These markings are not laser-engraved and may shift upon repeated use.

8. SKIL 12-inch Miter Saw

The SKIL 12-Inch Miter Saw may catch your eye immediately with the performance it offers. With a feature list that rivals competitors far above its price range, its swiftness and quality are undeniable. From woodworking amateurs to seasoned professionals, this compound miter saw will satisfy anyone’s needs on a budget. 

Why Did We Like It?

The aptly-named SKIL Quick Mount Miter Saw is fast and efficient, thanks to its 15 Amp motor. You'll find it simple to use with its various adjustable angles and the aforementioned quick-mount system. The miter saw is pretty durable, thanks to its build quality. 

The SKIL 3821-01 is a compound miter saw. This allows it to make a bevel cut and a miter cut in one go. Since it can slide as well, the saw can make larger cuts with a wider reach. Its movement along the rail is smooth and requires little effort. With the included table extensions, this power tool has extra support to maintain precision while working. Once you have the saw mounted, the LED laser guide will help in increasing your cutting accuracy.  

What Could’ve Been Better?

Though the SKIL 3821-01 performs its job well, a few things are left to be desired. This miter saw is single bevel rather than the double offered by its competitors. It provides the most common adjustable angles for sawing, but you may find its use limited. 

Buying Guide For The Best 12-Inch Miter Saw

Miter saws have become the norm for both hobbyists and professional woodworkers alike. They are portable, sturdy, and most importantly, accurate. The convenience they pose is undeniable and so, it’s no wonder that people have gravitated to them. The variety of saws has expanded dramatically in the past few years and it can be quite daunting for a newcomer to choose which one suits their fancy the best. 

Here’s what you should look for when purchasing a 12-inch miter saw. 

Motor

A 15 Amp motor is standard for a 12-inch compound miter saw. The output these motors provide may vary wildly, depending on the make. With RPMs ranging from 3000s to 5000s, the motor’s power will decide if your saw cuts through lumber like butter or not. 

Build

Naturally, build quality is a significant part of any tool's efficiency. A miter saw ought to perform through the long working hours and so, heavy-duty miter saws are preferable. Many companies also offer a product warranty, so it would be wise to look out for those. 

Bevel Capacity

It’s crucial for a miter saw to provide a good range of angles. A 45-degree bevel is the norm for most miter saws, with some offering even wider angles. In conjunction with miter stops, the bevels form a core part of any miter saw’s success. 

Accuracy

This is quite self-explanatory: if a miter saw is not accurate, you’ll be left with a mess. In the worst cases, a project may come to a screeching halt if the saw doesn’t perform with precision. Many miter saws have a built-in laser marker system, which you can watch for when buying a miter saw. 

Features

A miter saw ought to be packed with essential features to suit the scale of a project. It must have a large enough working area in order to accommodate lumber of all sizes. Its dust collection system should minimize the dust produced during woodwork, with 75% collection being the standard in most miter saws. A sliding miter saw will be preferable over a non-sliding one. 

Safety Features

With any miter saw, the lack of safety options can be a deal-breaker. You may look for easy-to-operate trigger switches, quick-switch functionality for blades, and guards. A brake for the saw is also a must, in case you need to turn it off quickly. 

What’s in the Box

A miter saw comes packaged with a number of accessories. These include table extensions, carbon brushes, wrenches, clamps, and a dust bag. 

12-Inch Miter Saws FAQs

Choosing between 10 and 12-inch miter saw: which is better?

10-inch saws are more versatile and 12-inch saws have a higher cutting capacity. The higher range alone puts the 12-inch saws at a more significant advantage. But, in the end, it all comes down to the task the saw must perform.

Standard and compound miter saws: what’s the difference?

Compound miter saws can rotate the saw head at several angles. Their rotational capability provides you the freedom of cutting wood at angles beyond the basic 90 and 45 degrees which is what the standard saws offer.

What is the cutting limit of a 12-inch miter saw?

The maximum thickness of any piece of wood must be 7½ inches. It is as far as a 12-inch blade can go. These saw blades can quickly go through 4×4 or 4×6 pieces with minimal adjustments. 

Conclusion

Choosing the perfect 12-inch miter saw for your woodworking projects can be quite challenging, given how varied the market remains in terms of quality, pricing, and features. After our in-depth study and analysis of the top miter saws, we are keen to share our expert recommendations on the three best based on different factors:

For those who are looking for the ideal combination of precision and accessibility, the Bosch 12-Inch Miter Saw comes across as an ideal option. The dominant features, including broader cutting capacity, easy adjustments for bevel angles, and excellent build quality, are impressive. However, bear in mind that its heavier build might be an issue for transporting it around.

Meanwhile, if affordability and versatility are high on your priority list, you can't go wrong with the Dewalt DWS715 Miter Saw. It scores highly for a variety of cutting angles, consistent performance, and dependable build quality, all within an affordable price range. However, you may need to pay close attention to its slightly imprecise angle markings.

Lastly, for professionals looking for portability and accuracy, Dewalt DWS716XPS is the right choice. Noteworthy features such as a modern LED guidance system for better accuracy, four positive stops for different angles, and its lower weight for easy transport make it a popular choice. However, its lighter weight may compromise its durability.

To summarize, the selected miter saws are impressive in their categories, offering a balance of functionality and affordability to suit different woodworking requirements. Whether you're a seasoned woodworker or a novice, remember that choosing the right power tool can make a significant difference, driving efficiency and precision in the execution of your projects. Armed with one of these top picks, you're well on your way to achieving satisfaction in your woodworking endeavors.

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