House Grail is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.
3 Different Types of Miter Saws & Their Uses (with Pictures)
Pete Ortiz
Last updated:
With all the saw choices out there, things can get quite confusing. Even if you have, it narrowed down to knowing you need a new miter saw there are still decisions to make. Miter saws are an extremely functional took, and if you are doing almost any type of woodwork, you will likely need to include one as part of your setup. The three types of miter saws are a standard miter saw, compound miter saw, and sliding compound miter saw.
The 3 Types of Miter Saws
1. Standard Miter Saw
Image credit: Mark Hunter, Flickr
A standard miter saw is a fast and accurate way to cut wood. Standard miter saws come in a variety of sizes and power capabilities, but overall, this is usually a lighter weight tool that works quickly to cut objects. Standard miter saws tend to be priced moderately and are mostly recommended for crosscuts and miter cuts. There are cordless miter saw options available, but the specifications as far as power will be different than a standard miter saw.
What it’s used for
Any simple crosscut, on at least a 90° and 45° angle
Standard Miter Saw Pros
Usually lower in cost
Capable of making fast and dependable cuts
Can get lots of power and size options
Standard Miter Saw Cons
Not very portable
Larger in size
2. Compound Miter Saw
A compound miter saw can make the same basic cuts that a standard miter saw can, but it is best for bevel cuts. The compound miter saw has more versatility than the standard miter saw. Within the compound miter saw options, you will find some dual bevel models and some single bevel models. The dual bevel will allow compound cuts in both directions without having to flip around the board you are cutting. With the more advanced features of a compound miters saw you could be looking at spending a bit more money with this option.
What it’s used for
Crosscuts
Miters
Bevels
Compound (miter and bevel)
Compound Miter Pros
Can move around with ease
Great for bevel cut and compound cut
Can get in dual bevel mode as well
Compound Miter Cons
Usually a little more expensive
Not as good for very thick cuts
3. Sliding Compound Miter Saw
A sliding compound miter saw makes the same basic and bevel cuts that the standard and compound saw can make, but it also has sliding capabilities. If you need to cut through more full pieces of wood or metal, you can simply slide the saw blade along a track to cut through the material. There are three types of slidng compound saws: single sliding compound (the blade tips to one side), double sliding compound (the blade tips both left and right), and cordless sliding compound (runs on batteries).
What it’s used for
Crosscuts
Miters
Bevels
Compound cuts
Sliding Compound Pros
Adds the ability to slide
Great for compound and bevel cuts
Good for wider pieces of wood
Sliding Compound Cons
A little larger than standard compound
You will pay for extra features
Which Saw Is Best?
None of these types of miter saws are really better than the other; they are all just a bit different. We will honestly say that most miter saws are now being made to look and act more like a compound miter saw. The benefits of the size and the maneuverability of the compound miter saw make it a great purchase. As far as the sliding capabilities go, not every woodworker will need this option. If you don’t find yourself cutting through wider pieces of wood, you will likely not need the sliding compound. The sliding compound miter saw is also bigger than the compound, so if you don’t need it, you won’t want to lug it around either.
A 12-inch saw is best if you don’t mind a larger saw and aren’t worried about moving it around much. Since the 12-inch saws have a larger blade and usually a bit more power, they work best when used with a stand.
A 10-inch saw is the go-to size. If you don’t think you will be cutting deeper material that often and you just want the standard size saw go for the 10-inch, and you will be satisfied.
Some saws are sold at the eight-inch size as well. These are going to be very compact and will work best for those that need to move this saw with them wherever they go. If you are a carpenter working on trim in a house, this is an excellent option for a saw that can move along with you and cut thinner wood quickly and easily.
Conclusion
Now that you have a better understanding of the three different types of miter saws, it should be easier to decide which one you need. Each model has its own positives and negatives, but we feel as though the compound miter saw is the most popular choice for the broadest range of users.
Pete has been working in the trades since high school, where he first developed a passion for woodworking. Over the years, he has developed a keen interest in a wide variety of DIY projects around the home. Fascinated by all sort of tools, Pete loves reading and writing about all the latest gadgets and accessories that hit the market. His other interests include astronomy, hiking, and fishing.
As the founder of House Grail, Pete's primary goal is to help consumers make educated decisions about DIY projects at home, in the garage, and in the garden.
