Miter saw is one of the most integral and important tools in any woodworking space. There is a huge variety of miter saws available in the market with arrays of different features and functions.
Choosing the one is hard because if you look at the price, they are expensive and costs arms and legs. That adds more pressure, as none of us can afford to buy an expensive miter saw every other day.
Let me help you, to make you pick the best miter saw that adds value. Dewalt-designed dws779 and dws780 are the two leading 12-inches miter saw you will see on the market.
I am not discouraging you not to do research, I am just telling you the result beforehand. Yes, these two miter saws are the leading name, the best of the best.
Picking one out of the two mentioned is a task that makes it hard even me. I tried our best and shed light on both of them, tried to elaborate every area of both of these power tools. I also mentioned their disadvantages, and best fit for the job, to help it narrow down for the users with particular needs.
So without furder ado, let’s have a detailed comparison of the leading miter saws DWS779 vs DWS780 designed by Dewalt.
Dewalt DWS780 vs DWS779 Comparison Table
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
Editor’s Pick
| Editor’s Pick | Dewalt DWS780 |
| Check Price |
Runner’s Up
| Runner’s Up | Dewalt DWS779 |
| Check Price |
Dewalt DWS779 vs DWS780 Miter Saw
First, I will elaborate on Dewalt DWS780, shed light on every area and component of this miter saw. And after that same will be repeated for Dewalt DWS779.
1. Dewalt DWS780 MIter Saw Review
- Suitable For Professionals
- Transparent Plastic Blade Guard
- Back Fence With Cam Lock
- Great To Get Versatile Cuts
- Sturdily Constructed Model
As I had mentioned in the beginning there is not much difference between the DWS 779 and DWS 780 miter saws. You can call this miter saw the upgraded version or elder brother of DWS779.
It is meant to be used by professionals and those who deal with thick material cutting and professional scale project handling. Most of the features of this tool are more in favor of professionals than amateurs.
As it is designed for professionals and its construction supports the same. It is a durable miter saw that withstands high-scale tasks and heavy-duty workshop needs. It is a little heavy compare to its younger brother, and it got to be heavy due to the construction and scale of use.
It is a heavily constructed model that shares rugged iron material construction with stainless steel handle to help you withstand the roughest and toughest conditions.
Power
This DeWalt-designed DWS780 miter saw is as powerful as its younger brother, the counterpart I have reviewed above. From its amperage point, it also got a 15 amp motor that is there to help you out in cutting through any kind of material without struggling or any issue.
It is a corded miter saw that takes traditional 120 voltage. On remote sites or remote locations, you may use a power generator as a receptacle, and get things going.
This 15 amp motor provides the required power to run the blade at 3800 rpm, at the same speed as the DWS 779 model of the same brand. With the powerful motor, this machine too got plenty of push. This power makes you breeze through a variety of tasks including crown molding or 4×4 pressure treated post.
As long as the power is concerned, I can assure you that, this thing would not even come to your mind while cutting. That’s a good sign, as on job sites you have more than this thing to ponder upon, meeting the deadlines and handling an idiot project manager.
Cutting Capacity
It is a large saw that got a sliding rail system to help you get easy cuts with just one pass. Standard cross-cutting with this tool is more than just amazing. Without accumulating extras, a normal setup allows you to crosscut at 90-degree, up to 14-inches.
Plus, it got the back fence feature to expand the crosscut and it can go up to 16-inches. With that, I can say, it can cut full-size wall-shelving material in just one go.
Miter Cut
For miter cutting, it got the cam lock and metal detent system for adjustment to help the piece remain tight accurate for précised cut. As long as the miter capacity is concerned, it can cut a beam that is 4×8 inches in one pass at a 45-degree angle. Believe me, it is not easy, you can read about other miter saws and their miter cut capability.
Bevel Cuts
If you have to handle lots of trim projects or trim molding, this saw is the best fit for you. It allows you to cut baseboards vertically against the fence up to 6 3/4 inches. It allows nest crown molding up to 7 1/2 inches.
The dual bevel system includes a bevel detent system that quickly setup your bevel compound. You would not have to flip over the piece around for each end.
Accuracy
I can safely say, DeWalt DWS780 is designed for precession and guarantees next-level accuracy. It is the cutting-edge features or attributes of this miter saw that make it as accurate as it looks and people praised.
It supports a huge variety of cuts due to high visibility and easy angle adjustment. It got 10 positive points on the miter angle. But what made this system great to help you achieve the highest level of accuracy is its XPS cross-cut alignment system.
This system avoids recalibration thanks to its ultra-bright LED light. This light casts a shadow of the blade on the work area and helps the users learn whether the blade will be contacting.
Its fence support, and innovative back fence design with dented plate and cam lock ensure the highest scale accuracy for repeated cuts.
Dust collector
DeWalt-designed DWS780 sliding compound dual bevel miter saw also comes with an efficient dust collector technology.
It captures around 75-percent of the total dust produced. As a carpenter, you would love to get this amazing feature as it helps in capturing most of the dust particles generated after the cut. I have seen many that the percentage of collecting particles is not high. It can never be 100-percent, but the system it got is efficient that captures most of the dust particles.
In-Depth Video Review Dewalt DWS780
Pros
- Suitable for professionals
- Transparent plastic blade guard
- Back fence with cam lock
- Great to get versatile cuts
- 12-Inch carbide blade
- Sturdily constructed model
- XPS cross-cut alignment system for accurate cuts
- LED lights to guide blade
- Powerful motor that produces 3800 rpm
Cons
- Set the depth stop or the blade can go deeper and cut the plastic base
- Pricey
2. Dewalt DWS779 Miter Saw Review
- Great Cutting Capacity
- 8High Power Motor 3800RPM
- Compatible With Varipus Blades
- Efficient Dust Collection System
Dewalt Designed DWS779 is an amazing miter saw. It is a sliding compound miter saw that is particularly designed for professionals and DIYers. It is an affordable, efficient, and portable designed machine that can easily be taken around.
It shares 32.77 x 19.05 x 20 inches measurements and weighs just 56 pounds, making it easy to take it on remote job sites. Not just the weight, but the overall construction of this miter saw and its ergonomic handles make it easier for transportation.
From the first look and examination, it is witnessed that this tool might lack some advanced features but adores some basic and extremely amazing characteristics.
It got a powerful motor as many professionals designed miter saw. That provides the blade to run at a high 3800 rpm speed which is fast enough to get you a reliable and accurate cut with smooth finishing. This is the power of the motor that makes this amazing machine take on larger professional-scale projects.
Yes, the look might not be as comfortable as its counterpart got, not enough cushioning there. But for professional woodworkers, I do not think it will impact the performance. The motor does not vibrate as most of the miter saws do, so no buzzing noise in your head, and no fatigue in your hand.
Power
Dewalt is long been known for the performance of its power tools. Its large variety of tools with distinguished features are going to make you love the brand.
This particular tool got no exception, comes with a powerful 15 AMP motor that drives 120 voltage and makes the blade spin at 3800 rpm. This grunt, speed, and performance are more than needed not just for hobbyists but for professionals.
This power and blade spin speed translates into handling a larger capacity of tools. Not just the hardwood it can handle well but other alternatives such as Steel, plastic, and many other thicker workpieces that seem impossible to cut through by any other professional power tool.
I am safe to say that when it comes to performance and power, the DWS 779 is as good as any of the premium range power tools can be.
Capacity
If the only thing you want from your saw is to be accurate and cut straight without any fluctuations, believe me, this Miter saw is just a fine grab. With this everything is adjustable, and everything goes as accurately as you can imagine.
It allows you to cut through thicker material. Take the larger boards you got in your workspace and cut using a square to check the accuracy, I am sure from the right side of the blade to the right side, it will be as accurate as you can imagine, without being a hair off on any side.
For most of the 12-inches miter saw you will see handle workpieces up to 12-inches wide. But this one can handle 2×16 inches at 90-degree crosscuts and 2×12 at 45-degree bevel cuts. And when it is about crown molding it can go up to 7.5 inches, at the highest precession and accuracy.
Miter Angle
It is easier to change the miter angle, just a press of the button is required which is placed in front of the handle. The miter angle can go easily up to 60-degree on the right, and 50-degree on the left, it is amazing to see this range miter angle, it allows you the freedom to go any length.
The miter scale has 10-positive stops. They are defined at factory cutting setting, you can switch these presets angles stop get instant operation.
Bevel Angles
Bevel angles too are easy to switch. Just lose the bevel lock knob and rotate the angle. In this way, the bevel angle automatically stops at 45-degree. There is a level that you have to continuously pull to make it rotating to 49-degree.
Accuracy
Accuracy or precession is one of the positive points of this amazing tool. Its in-built cutline positioning system is there to help you, to provide adjustment-free cut line indication. This amazing cutline positioning system makes sure that the users get next-level accuracy not just on woods but on all materials cutting through at any angle you are cutting.
There is a drawback when it comes to the accuracy feature. The lack of this feature does not make the miter saw less on the accuracy, it got many classic features to ensure required accuracy. But it does not have the latest LED guide system. Well, this feature professionals do not concern about, as miter saws are already enough precise to get things rolled smoothly.
Still, novices like to have this LED guide system in their miter saw. It helps them match their cutline with the LED guide cutline to get unprecedented and results without the tiniest hair-off difference. And this LED guide system does that and provides require accuracy or precession.
Dust Collection System
Like many of the premium Miter saws we get to see, this Dewalt-designed DWS 779 miter saw got an efficient dust collection system that makes it possible for the system to captures more than 75-percent of the dust generated.
This dust collection system helps to shield from inhaling debris or sawdust, and if you go with the latest studies, not taking care of this dust collection system, and working in the debris or sawdust generated by the saw can lead to nasal cancer or lung carcinoma.
In-Depth Video Review Dewalt DWS779
Pros
- High power motor that produces 3800 rpm
- Compatible with various blades
- Easy to take on job sites due to its portability
- It is a double bevel sliding compound miter saw
- Provides 10-positive points for quick miter angle change
- An efficient dust collection system
- Great cutting capacity in miter as well as bevel
- Budget price range
Cons
- Lacks the LED guided mechanism
- Flimsy handling no cushioning in grips
7 Major Differences Between Dewalt DWS779 vs DWS780
Both of the miter saws come with lots of similarities, but many differences help users to pick the right one as per their needs. These unique features make them stand out from one another and make users learn which one is best for them.
1. Price Comparison
Price is one of the major factors that can change our decision. But here the difference in the price of both these amazing DeWalt-designed Miter saws is not much. For budget users, it is good to go with DWS779, it comes in hands under the $469 price range.
On the other hand, DeWalt DWS780 is cost around $100 more than DeWalt DWS779, which costs around $599. The difference in the price is due to obvious reasons. DWS780 is a sturdy robust designed model little heavy that lasts longer and withstands roughness.
DWS780 got advanced features and comparatively performs better in handling next-scale computing operations.
On the other hand, DWS779 is also robust, it is a great value of money, because it is less priced does not mean it goes sub-par in performance, it is for relatively new users, who don’t know how to handle an advanced designed Miter saw.
2. Difference In Cutting System & Capacity
As long as the cutting capacity is concerned, both the saws are almost the same. I mean not the same in crown molding and base cutting there are minor differences. It is the marketing tactics that describe both entirely different in cutting capacity.
DWS779 provides 2×14 inches cross-cutting in a dimensional lumbar at 90-degree and 2×10 inches cross cuts in dimensional lumber at 45-degree.
In the same way, DWS780 with its exclusive back fence design provides 2×14 dimensional lumber at 90 degrees and 2×10 at 45 degrees.
3. Light Mechanism
Now comes the cutting system, here both of the leading 12-inch Sliding compound dual bevel miters saw are different. It does not mean they lack in performance, they follow different technology to fits the needs of a different variety of users.
DeWalt DWS780 has a LED light system with the blade, on the other hand, DWS779 uses XPS light. Its cutline blade positioning system is also an amazing integration to help adjust the cut line and to get precise cutting due to cutting line indication.
But in my view, and as per most of the users mentioned, LED light is better than laser or XPS light system. LED lights provide supreme accuracy in positing and users can easily match their mark line with the LED-guided marline to get a precise cut.
It casts a shadow of light for the blade’s teeth to help you witness the cutline.
On the contrary, a laser-guided system can easily knock out of the position, and you may have a different cut than the cutline positioned or mentioned. In a laser-guided system, there is no shadow of the light on the cutline to behold cutting.
4. Miter Detent Plate
Parameters of Miter detent plate are also a significant difference between the two. Our elder brother DWS780 got a stainless steel miter detent plate with a cam lock feature that indicates the table’s miter angles to help you get a precise required cut at the desired angle.
On the other hand, DWS779 got stainless steel lever cam with positive stops.
DWS779 miter has due to its double horizontal rails and innovative clamping device produces precise, controlled, and accurate cutting. This system adheres to linear ball bearing, not roller ball bearing that produces more controlled and smooth results when cutting.
On the other hand, DWS780 has a lock angle system for desired angle adjustment. It has a cam lock miter button to instantly switch to the desired angle or lock. Its rail lock system improves vertical cutting and instantly switch to the desired angle.
5. Weight
Weight is another major difference, DWS780 is lighter with 56 pounds of total weight and an ergonomic handle to carry them around. On the other hand, DWS779 is heavy with 67 pounds of weight. It is hard to carry around and for maneuverability, there must be a transport system.
In weight comparisons, DWS780 is a clear winner, the other one, though can’t be called an entirely portable machine, compared to the DWS780, is a little easier to maneuver.
6. Power And Portability
Both the miter saws are almost the same power in terms of motor power. Both come powered with a 15 amp motor that provides them with the power to spin at the same 3800 rpm speed. But there are a few differences if you read help them pick the right one.
DeWalt DWS779 comes with the features to adjust the speed. It helps you control the speed of the blade and make it turn as per the need of the hour.
Both are enough powerful to provide you the required speed to cut through under any load condition. But cutting through thick materials and hardwood you may experience slower rpm. Yes, the rpm slowing will be noticeable when cutting at maximum depth or cutting into very dense wood species.
And about the portability in weight portion, I have mentioned that DWS779 is heavier with 67 Pounds of weight.
There is no built-in carrying system comes, so technically both are hard to carry from one location to the other location, except DWS780 comes with built-in handles that make it gripping easier and carrying it around.
7. Dust And Cleaning
The dust collecting system is another important attribute that you pay special attention to when buying. This system makes your working space clean, and you would be inhaling less debris that could affect your nose, eyes, lungs, and other organs.
Whatever dust system comes integrated with the miter saws, it can’t capture all the dust particles or dust debris. It is the maximum percentage of dust particles capturing capacity that you should look for. Both of the models come with the same percentage, offer around 75-percent dust capturing capacity.
The size of the dust collection bag is also great, but the DWS779 dust bag is of an odd size. You can say, DWS780 got a better dust collection bag and is a winner with a hair margin.
6 Major Similarities Between DWS779 vs DWS780
Both the miter saws got more similarities than differences. Yes, if you do not dive deep, they are almost the same with tiny differences that do not matter. So what are those similarities, sit tight and read.
1. Motor, power, and speed
The first feature that anyone looks into any power tool is its motor. Motor determines the power of that product. In our case, both the miter saws come with the same 15 amp motor. This motor runs the blade at the same speed of 3800 rpm.
So, in terms of motor, power, and speed both of these miter saws are the same and provides the same scale performance to help you get things rolled smoothly.
2. Blade Size and Bevel design
Both the miter saws come with the same 12-inch blade. Although both have the same size of the blade, DWS779 comes with just one type of blade, but DWS780 supports two types of a blade; stainless steel and carbide. The carbide blade is great to help in cutting dense materials that are durable to cut through.
But both support stainless steel blades of 12-inch size. About the bevel design, both are dual bevel tilt in both directions, to help you make cuts in any of the directions without any hassle.
Also Read: Best Miter Saw Blades
3. Dust management
Dust management is another common aspect. Both of the models can collect up to 75-percent of the dust that your saw is generating. It is understandable that both of the saw does not collect all the dust generated but captures enough to make you feel clean and inhale cleaner air.
4. Power source
Both of the miter saws are corded power tools. Both feature a corded that provides 120volts of power to the motor. If you are on remote sites, you will have to get a generator to make them working on remote job sites.
5. Safety Features
Safety comes first and DeWalt being the leader in power tools manufacturing did not neglect this feature besides offering arrays of amazing and advanced features. Both of the saws come with a blade guard that protects your hands if accidently you touch the head.
Not just the guard, it is a transparent guard that helps you view and inspect the cutting angle. Do not try to remove the blade, it is very dangerous and can lead to serious injuries.
6. Warranty Period
Power tools particularly Miter saws are expensive. We can’t afford to buy miter saws every other day. A warranty gives you peace of mind and a chance if there is something wrong due to the manufacturing of the product, you could get it fixed within a set period.
In the case of DWS779 and DWS780 miter saws, you are given with 3-years limited warranty time to protect you if there is any malfunction due to manufacturing.
Is Dewalt DWS779 discontinued?
Yes, you heard it right. DWS779 has been discontinued and has now been selling at a reduced price. DeWalt has replaced this with DWS780 which is an updated model that comes featured with the latest features and some DWS779 features upgraded.
Still, there is not much changed, for a novice or a beginner the differences would be unnoticeable.
Does dws780 come with a free stand?
No, DWS780 is not marketed with free stands or tables. But you can purchase the free stand separately and mount the saw on the table. The idea of installing this kind of tool on a free stand is not ideal, get it installed on the designed stand or table that is compatible with it.
What is XPS technology on the DeWalt miter saw?
XPS technology in the DeWalt miter saw is an LED light system that projects a shadow on both sides of the blade. It forms a shadow of the blade on the workpiece you are cutting. When you lower down the saw head, the shadow goes sharpens and darkens and shows exactly the place where the blade will meet the workpiece.
The XPS LED system is hard-wired in the power of the miter saw. There is no separate power supply or batteries to help you power up the saw. There is a switch under the handle that controls the on/off of this mechanism.
Which one to choose for fiberglass rod DeWalt 780 vs 779?
Both of the tools are designed and made to cut wood. It is better to use it for the purpose and type of material it supports. If you change the type of material to cut, better to match it with the blade type. There is no issue both of the miter saws can support stainless steel and fiberglass cutting.
It is the blade that will mark the difference and help you cut through as efficiently as you cut hardwood. So, technically both are good to cut Fiberglass rods.
Does Dewalt 779 miter saw have a Laser?
No, this saw does not come with a laser system. But you can add a laser system to it, the LED system that comes integrated with the DeWalt DWS780 can be purchased separately and you can turn your old miter saw into a new one, with the laser-guided system to get a precise cut.
Final Verdict
DWS780 is a clear winner and if you have read it thoroughly you know it already. DWS780 comes with upgraded features, it is the updated model of DWS779, which is already been discontinued by the brand itself with DWS780.
XPS Cross-cutting that DWS780 comes with offers a better alignment. The LED system speeds up your workflow and makes you get your work done precisely without any big trouble. Yes, DWS779 is a better option for those in the budget range, it is good for beginners and novices.