When embarking on a bathroom renovation project that involves retiling or installing new mosaic flooring, a tile saw is an indispensable tool. This versatile power tool is capable of cutting through various materials such as ceramic, porcelain, glass, granite, stone, marble, masonry, and concrete with ease. As a valuable investment for any tile-cutting project, a tile saw offers numerous benefits that make it an excellent choice over hiring expensive tradesmen or resorting to makeshift methods.
A tile saw is designed to deliver powerful cutting performance similar to that of a circular saw or band saw, making quick work of thick stone and concrete tiles. Its precision allows for smooth, clean cuts on fragile ceramic without breaking the tile, while also producing accurate 90° angles, precise miter cuts, cross-cuts, and intricate beveled edges.
In addition to its impressive capabilities, a tile saw is remarkably easy to use, making it an ideal choice for DIY enthusiasts.
The 7 Best Tile Saws
When it comes to finding the best wet tile saw for your next project, there are several top-notch options to consider. For our money, the SKIL 3540-02 takes the top spot with its impressive 7-inch blade and robust features. But that’s not all – other great choices include the PORTER-CABLE PCE980, Ryobi 4-Inch Tile Saw, DEWALT D24000S Wet Tile Saw with Stand, DEWALT DWC860W Wet/Dry Masonry Saw, and MK Diamond 169612 10-Inch Wet Tile Saw.
And for those who prefer a dry approach, the Makita 4100KB Dry Masonry Saw is another solid option to consider.
Our Top Pick for the Best Tile Saw
When it comes to finding the best tile saw for your workshop, we highly recommend the SKIL 3540-02 7-Inch Wet Tile Saw. This top-notch tool is a powerhouse that combines unbeatable power, intelligent features, and exceptional precision in tile cutting. With its impressive capabilities, you’ll be able to tackle a wide range of projects with confidence. For more information and to check prices, head over to Amazon.
How to Choose the Best Tile Saw
When selecting a tile saw, consider two primary factors: portability and power. You may prefer a handheld model that allows for flexibility in your workspace, or a tabletop option that can be set up in your workshop. Additionally, think about the type of projects you’ll be working on – do you need a lightweight saw for delicate ceramic tiles or a heavy-duty machine capable of cutting through thicker materials like masonry or concrete pavers?
Handheld Tile Saw
Designed for small to medium-sized cutting tasks, handheld tile saws like the Ryobi 4-Inch Tile Saw and Makita 4100KB Dry Masonry Saw offer impressive versatility. While they excel at making straight cuts and intricate cuts on most tiles, thicker stone or concrete tiles may be beyond their capabilities.
Weighing in as compact and lightweight options, these saws have earned a reputation among professional tradesmen and DIY enthusiasts alike for their portability and ease of use around busy workspaces.
Tabletop Tile Saw
When it comes to cutting ceramic bathroom tiles or larger stone tiles for a new floor, consider investing in a tabletop tile saw like the SKIL 3540-02 or PORTER-CABLE PCE980. These versatile tools can handle a wide range of everyday cutting and ripping tasks, including heavy-duty projects. Some models may even come with a stand, similar to the DEWALT D24000S Wet Tile Saw, for added stability and precision.
A tabletop saw’s fence feature allows for accurate cuts, while a miter attachment enables perfect miters every time. However, if your chosen tile saw doesn’t come equipped with a fence, precision cutting may be more challenging for novice tile cutters. As you push the tile towards the saw, friction can also impact accuracy, particularly when working with thicker tiles. Nonetheless, with a little practice, you’ll soon become proficient in producing high-quality cut tiles.
Wet Tile Saw
A wet saw’s design allows for easy access to its water reservoir, which keeps the blade well lubricated and the cutting line free of dust, enabling clean cuts. However, users must be mindful of the amount of water added, as excessive water can create a messy splash, especially when working with certain tile materials. A splashguard is a valuable feature that prevents water from spilling onto the floor.
For optimal results, it’s recommended to set up your wet tile saw outside, allowing you to maintain control and minimize any potential mess.
Dry Tile Saw
While many handheld tile saws don’t require water for operation, they often lack an integrated water reservoir. Fortunately, some models allow for the attachment of a water hose, as seen in the DEWALT DWC860W Wet/Dry Masonry Saw. It’s essential to note that dry cutting can generate significant amounts of dust particles, emphasizing the importance of wearing quality protective gear such as a dust mask and eye protection.
Additionally, attaching a dust collector can further minimize the impact of these particles.
Power
When it comes to tile saws, the key performance indicators are measured in Horsepower (HP) and Amps, with speed expressed as rotations per minute (RPM). For most users, a 10-12 AMP or 1 HP motor spinning at around 3500 RPM should provide ample power for standard cutting tasks. However, if you need to tackle larger, thicker tiles that require more oomph, a 1.5 HP motor capable of producing speeds above 12,000 RPM will offer the extra muscle needed to get the job done.
Size
When selecting a tile saw, it’s crucial to consider the size of the tiles you plan to cut. The capacity for cutting small or large tiles, such as 12 x 12 or 24-inch squares, depends on both the blade and table dimensions. Blade sizes vary greatly, ranging from compact 4-inch options to larger 10-inch blades. Additionally, it’s essential to review product specifications, as a smaller blade can sometimes effectively cut through a larger tile when paired with a high-quality diamond blade.
7 Best Tile Saws – Reviews
SKIL 3540-02 7-Inch Wet Tile Saw
If you’re looking for an affordable DIY solution to tackle tile renovations, the SKIL 3540-02 7-Inch Wet Tile Saw is a great option. Despite its compact size, this tabletop saw packs a punch with its powerful 4.2 amp motor that delivers a no-load speed of 3600 RPM, making it capable of handling various tile types such as ceramic, glass, subway backsplash tiles, porcelain planks, and masonry.
The sturdy corrosion-resistant stainless steel table supports larger format tiles up to 20 x 20 inches, while the adjustable rip fence and miter gauge enable precise cuts with longer tiles and accurate miter cuts. For intricate designs, the 0-45° bevel allows for creative freedom. A blade cooling reservoir keeps the cutting process clean by minimizing dust on the cutting line.
The saw’s compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry, and the cord wrap storage area ensures tidy management. With a 30-day money-back guarantee and one-year warranty from SKIL, this tabletop tile saw is an excellent value for DIY renovators.
PORTER-CABLE PCE980 Wet Tile Saw
The PORTER-CABLE PCE980 Wet Tile Saw is an exceptional tool for any tile-cutting task, whether you’re working indoors or outdoors. Its sturdy stainless steel deck can withstand rugged job site conditions, and its powerful motor may surprise you with its ability to quickly complete tasks. The saw’s 7-inch blade effortlessly cuts through a wide range of materials, including ceramic tiles, subway tiles, porcelain tiles, mosaic tiles, glass, stone, and metal backsplash.
It also excels at ripping long planks of porcelain tile. To facilitate efficient work, the slide-out tray features an unlock button, while the cast iron deck boasts a splash guard and water channels to quickly drain excess water away. An adjustable rear fence and onboard miter square enable accurate miter cuts and repeatable rip cuts with ease. The saw’s portability is enhanced by its handle and roll cage, making it easy to transport around your workshop.
Additionally, the tile saw is available in 2-pack and 4-pack configurations for added convenience. With its high quality, excellent value, surprising power, and strong blade, this tool is ideal for both small and large tile-cutting projects.
Ryobi 4-Inch Tile Saw
The Ryobi 4-Inch Tile Saw is an upgraded power tool that redefines tile cutting with its impressive performance. Despite being a compact handsaw, it packs a punch with its 12 amp motor, capable of producing a fast speed of 13,700 RPM. The included 4-inch diamond cutting blade effortlessly slices through ceramic, granite, stone, or glass, making it an ideal tool for in-place tile cutting.
With a depth of adjustment allowing for precise cuts up to 1-5/32-inches at 90° and 45° beveled cuts, the Ryobi provides a secure set-up for any tile cutting task. Designed with ergonomics in mind, the saw features a GRIP ZONE overmold micro-textured handle that offers increased comfort during prolonged use. Additionally, a lock-on trigger provides added control when making long cuts in tight spaces.
Although it’s a dry tile saw, the Ryobi comes with a hose and brass water adapter for easy conversion into a wet tile saw. The package includes an arbor wrench and Allen key for effortless tool changes. With its impressive features and 3-year warranty, the Ryobi Tile Saw is a top-notch choice for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike.
DEWALT D24000S Wet Tile Saw with Stand
The DEWALT D24000S Wet Tile Saw with Stand is a powerful and portable tool that excels at delivering precise cuts. Its durable aluminum frame and sturdy metal stand make it suitable for even the toughest job sites, while its efficient 1.5 HP motor provides reliable power to help you tackle porcelain, ceramic, and stone tiles with ease.
With a 10-inch diamond-studded blade and a 24-inch ripping capacity, you can cut large 18-inch tiles diagonally, making it an excellent choice for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. The stainless steel rail system and adjustable rollers ensure that the table remains well-aligned, allowing for smooth and accurate cuts.
Additionally, the flip-style edge guide makes it easy to achieve precise 90° and 45° bevels, while the 3-1/8-inch depth of cut enables you to make V-caps and paver cuts with ease. The saw also features a plunge feature that allows for quick cuts around outlets and registers. Dual adjustable water nozzles and rear/side water attachments ensure proper water positioning over the blade, while a removable cutting cart facilitates quick clean-ups.
The stand folds up into an included carrying case, providing unlimited portability and storage options. DEWALT backs its product with a 3-year limited warranty. While some users may find the cart to be slightly rough on the rollers or the saw to be noisy compared to others, the overall value and performance of this tile saw far outweigh any minor drawbacks.
DEWALT DWC860W Wet/Dry Masonry Saw
The DEWALT DWC860W Wet/Dry Masonry Saw is a versatile and powerful tool that excels at performing various cuts effortlessly. Its 10.8 amp, 13,000 RPM motor provides the necessary cutting power and speed to tackle wet or dry tasks with ease. The premium 4-3/8-inch diamond blade efficiently cuts through a range of materials, including porcelain tiles, granite, concrete, marble, and glass tiles up to 1 3/8 inches deep, as well as ripping longer tile planks.
The saw’s adjustable depth-of-cut feature allows for precise control over the cutting process, minimizing chipping and enabling clean cuts at various depths. To prevent overheating, the adjustable water flow connection keeps the blade cool while minimizing water splashes. The dust-sealed switch also helps prolong the saw’s lifespan.
Designed for operator comfort, the DWC860W features a lightweight and compact design, an ergonomic rubber overmold grip, and a lock-on button to reduce user fatigue during extended use. Additionally, DEWALT backs its product with a 3-year limited warranty.
MK Diamond 169612 10-Inch Wet Tile Saw
The MK Diamond 169612 10-inch Wet Tile Saw is a powerhouse that excels in delivering high-quality results, making it an ideal choice for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Its robust features include a fan-cooled 1-1/2 HP motor with a micro V-belt driver, which enables the saw to efficiently transfer maximum horsepower from the motor to the blade.
This, combined with its high-torque performance, allows it to effortlessly cut through a variety of materials such as tile, marble, porcelain, masonry, and brick.
One of the standout features of this tile saw is its ability to handle larger tiles with ease. The 10-inch diamond blade can comfortably cut large 18-inch tiles diagonally, while smaller tiles can be cut on the non-slip table featuring a neoprene surface.
Additionally, the variable cutting head allows for plunge cuts, and the saw can also accommodate blades smaller than 10 inches.
The chrome-plated linear guide bar ensures precise and smooth tile cutting performance every time. Furthermore, the lockable blade shaft makes changing blades a breeze, while the blade guard optimizes water flow to both sides of the diamond blade, promoting safe and efficient operation.
To top it all off, the MK Diamond tile saw comes with a 90-day return policy and a 1-year warranty, providing added peace of mind for users. With its impressive features, durability, and quality construction, this tile saw is an excellent value for money.
Makita 4100KB Dry Masonry Saw
The Makita 4100KB Dry Masonry Saw offers a powerful dry-cutting solution for tiles, masonry, granite, and concrete. Its high-torque motor delivers a top speed of 12,200 RPM and features a 13-amp design. With a maximum depth cutting capacity of 1-9/16-inches at 90°, the saw is capable of handling demanding applications. The 5-inch blade accepts contour blades for radius cutting and can be attached to an optional guide rail (sold separately) to ensure accurate cuts.
To minimize dust, the saw features a 1-3/8-inch 360° dust extraction port that swivels in all directions. Additionally, the transparent upper guard dust cover provides increased visibility of the cutting line, reducing errors. The Makita tile saw boasts an ergonomic design with a large rubberized depth gauge lever and comfortable top handle, allowing for extended use without fatigue. The lock-off button enables continuous operation, while the double-insulated 8.
2-foot power cord facilitates easy mobility around your workspace. The tool comes with a hex wrench, spanner wrench, and dust bag. Makita stands behind its product with a 30-day money-back guarantee and a 1-year warranty. While it excels in many areas, some users may find the dry cutting only limitation and slightly tricky lock-off switch as drawbacks. Despite this, the saw’s high quality, great value, and powerful motor make it an excellent choice for professionals and hobbyists alike.
Our Top Pick for the Best Tile Saw
At the pinnacle of our evaluation, we confidently recommend the SKIL 3540-02 7-Inch Wet Tile Saw as the top pick for tile saws. This exceptional tabletop tool boasts an impressive array of features that make it a valuable addition to any workshop. Its potent power, intelligent design, and exacting tile-cutting capabilities will empower you to tackle a broad spectrum of projects with unwavering assurance. Check out the current price on Amazon.
