The Differences Between Cabinet Saws and Table Saws

What’s the difference between a table saw and a cabinet saw?
Both cabinet saws and table saws are strong woodworking tools that can make precise cuts in wood and other materials. However, there are a few main ways in which they are different:

1. Building and Construction:

Cabinet Saw: These are built to last longer and be stronger. The motor is usually housed in a cabinet base that is closed off, which reduces vibration and noise. The trunnions, which hold the saw blade and control its movement, are usually attached to the cabinet. This makes the saw stable and accurate.

Table Saw: Table saws come in many shapes and sizes, but most of them have an open base or stand. They might not be as heavy-duty as cabinet saws, which could mean that they make more noise and vibration when they’re in use.

2. Performance and Power:

Cabinet Saw: Most cabinet saws have motors that are stronger than most table saws, usually between 3 and 5 horsepower. With this extra power, they can easily handle bigger jobs and tougher materials.

Tablet Saw: There are different motor sizes for table saws, with the smallest ones starting at about 1 to 2 horsepower. They can cut a lot of different things, but compared to cabinet saws, they might not be able to handle very thick or dense materials.

3. Accuracy and Exactness:

A cabinet saw is usually more stable and accurate when cutting because it is built to be heavier. Having the trunnions attached to the cabinet helps with alignment and cutting with more accuracy.

Table Saw: Table saws can be very accurate if they are set up correctly and have high-quality fences and miter gauges attached. However, they may not be as precise by nature as cabinet saws.

4. Price:

Cabinet Saws: These are usually more expensive because they are built to last longer, have bigger motors, and have extra features that make them better for professional use.

Table Saw: There is a wide range of prices for table saws, from smaller, less expensive models for hobbyists to larger, more expensive models for professionals.

5. Being portable:

Cabinet saws are usually bigger and heavier than table saws, which makes them harder to move around.

Table Saw: Many table saws are made to be portable, with stands or wheels that fold up and out of the way for easier movement.

There are pros and cons to both types of saws, and users should choose the right one for their needs, workspace, budget, and the type of woodworking they plan to do. Professional woodworking shops often choose cabinet saws because they are strong, accurate, and long-lasting. On the other hand, hobbyists and contractors like table saws because they are flexible and cheap.

Woodworking Supplies Mesa by Timber Woodworking

Timber Woodworking offers hardwoods in Mesa, Arizona. We specialize in woodworking tools, equipment, and supplies for commercial woodworking cabinet shops or furniture manufacturers as well as the home shop hobbyist. Contact us today, or call if you should have any questions.