Buying a tile saw wouldn’t have appeared to be as tricky in the early 2000s as it is now.
Every time we visit the market to buy one, we get more confused between the varieties of models that offer features we don’t know anything about. After all, it just used to be a dull moving blade that would come handy while cutting through ceramics and porcelain. When did things get so complicated?
Well, we’re not exactly sure as of yet, but 2020 did witness the launch of some of the most advanced tile saws in the market. So, in case you’re looking forward to upgrading your professional workspace, we might have what you need.
We have enlisted 13 of the most advanced tile saws of 2020 so that you can access the latest technologies at the best prices. Also, we’ve included a brief buyer’s guide, just so that you get familiar with the key factors to consider while buying a tile saw.
So, let’s get into it!
Starting off our list with the no.1 brand in the power tools market, Dewalt has never failed to surprise us with its groundbreaking innovations. The brand recently launched a new addition to its tile saw range, the iconic D24000S model. Without a doubt, it appears to be an ideal choice for the professionals who’re in search of high power and performance.
Why did we like it?
We came across this product through the mutual recommendation of numerous professionals, and we can say that it offers serious performance at a considerably fair budget. We’re quite impressed by its cantilevering rail system, which comes with a robust ripping capacity of 24 inches and a diagonal cutting capacity of 18 inches.
Most of the customers complain about the saws being damaged by corrosion. As durability is the key feature of the Dewalt products, this tile saw features a rust-proof stainless steel frame that’s guaranteed to last for years to come. Coming to the blade dimensions, it is around 10 inches in diameter and has a maximum thickness of 0.06 inches, which makes it an eligible professional tool.
Nonetheless, despite its blade size, the overall tool is quite compact and portable, making it easier to carry around and use. Also, the water pan of this device is capable of storing a maximum water capacity of 5 gallons and is easily detachable. Overall, the features of this product seem to be specially designed for professional activities, so there’s that.
What could have been better?
Although this product features one of the most powerful motors we’ve tested yet, we’re a bit upset about its deafening noise levels. We wish that Dewalt would focus more on reducing the loud noises the motor produces while being used. Furthermore, it’s so powerful that it may appear as overkill for completing small personal tasks.
Porter-Cable is one of those names that smart buyers prefer to opt for when it comes to availing of best values under a bargain-basement price tag. The Porter-Cable PCE980 model is best known for bringing a wide array of features to the table without putting a hole in your wallet. So let’s check out what this tile saw has to offer.
Why did we like it?
This semi-professional device is every DIY enthusiast’s delight, to begin with. It’s rather challenging to find another tool that provides similar user convenience and performance at this price range. Apart from being lightweight, the model features quite a sturdy and compact frame that ultimately helps it in providing a hassle-free user experience to the users.
Now, we’ve noticed that although its 7-inch blade isn’t as large as the Dewalt model, it’s sufficient for cutting through porcelain tiles with ease. On the other hand, the blade also appears to be reasonably resistant to rust and corrosion, enhancing its durability by a great deal. Like Dewalt’s D2400S model, it comes with a stainless steel rail system that reasonably extends its longevity.
However, we’re more impressed with how Porter-Cable has prioritized portability and user convenience the most while designing this product. In other words, the roll cage of this model makes this device even more comfortable to carry around. Furthermore, it also appears to protect the cutting cart from any damage while being moved around.
What could have been better?
Although it’s quite capable of cutting through porcelain tiles, this blade thumbs its nose drastically when it comes to cutting through other types of hard tiles. And that’s why we wouldn’t recommend this product for heavy-duty professional use, as it lacks the powerful motor that it takes to cut through hard tiles smoothly. Nonetheless, it doesn’t disappoint at completing small DIY jobs.
Coming down to some of the best value products available right now, our list can’t be complete without the Skil 3550-02-7 model. Skil has managed to equip some impressive features under an exceptionally meager price with this model. Specifically, the hydro-lock water containment feature of this model had our undivided attention at first glance.
Why did we like it?
We wouldn’t mislead you into considering this model as eligible for professional usage. No, this product rather offers a set of standard features under a fair budget and is more suitable for DIY enthusiasts. Similar to the Porter-Cable unit, it also comes with an efficient 7-inch blade that’s good enough to cut through moderately hard tiles. However, it may not be ideal for cutting porcelain tiles with ease.
So, what makes it worth your attention? Without a doubt, its Hydrolock water containment system. In other words, the water containment in this model is designed in such a way that the blade can always access water without putting in a lot of effort. Thanks to this feature, it’s a lot easier to acquire accurate cuts and clean the blade afterward.
This tool weighs as little as 24 pounds and comes with a reasonably sturdy frame that ensures its long-lasting product life by a good deal. This way, it’s not very hard to carry it around, unlike most of the heavy-duty saw we come across nowadays. Last but not least, it comes with an extended 3-year warranty period and is worth the attention of every beginner.
What could have been better?
Although the Hydralock water containment system makes it easier for the tool to avail of water, it comes with a significant limitation. The thing is, the water pan is not detachable, which makes emptying the water a lot more troublesome and hassling. Furthermore, we’ve noticed that the splash guard of this model gathers dust quickly, and needs to be cleaned quite often.
Skil Co. has managed to return on our list with another of its best value products, the Skil 3540-02 wet tile saw. Being the predecessor of the famous 3550-02 model, this is also one of those best values products that can simplify your DIY jobs handsomely.
The diamond blades of this model integrate good looks and high performance at its best.
Why did we like it?
Although this product is standard amongst heavy-duty professionals, we found it to be more suitable for the intermediate craftsmen and DIY professionals. It’s because the motor can rev up to 2 horsepower, resulting in an average of 3600 rotations under a minute. Furthermore, the model also allows diagonal capacity, along with 14 inches of maximum ripping capacity.
Coming to the blade, we’re quite satisfied with how its 7-inch diamond blade stands eligible to cut through various types of hard tiles while maintaining a fair accuracy. This gives it a decent advantage over its successor, the 3550-02-7 model. On the other hand, although it doesn’t come with an advanced HydraLock Water Containment System, its cooling water reservoir can store up to 2 gallons of water. It altogether helps in keeping the blade from overheating or getting dirty too frequently.
Furthermore, we’ve noticed that the ergonomic design of this model allows us to have total control of the device while being used, which isn’t the case with many professional tools. Specifically, we were able to adjust the angle according to our needs that led towards getting the desired cuts we were searching for. Overall, this model doesn’t disappoint and can be easily held as a worthy option to consider.
What could have been better?
One thing that we’ve personally observed is that the motor overheats pretty quickly, which makes it challenging to use this device for a long time in a single run. Furthermore, many customers have also complained that the reservoir sprays water in the wrong directions at times, which is a powerful safety hazard.
The MK Diamond MK-370EXP is one of those products that are not too expensive, yet not also reasonably priced either. Bridging the gap between the heavy-duty professional tools and DIY personal tools, the MK-370EXP stands out as an ideal tool if you’re searching for high versatility.
Let’s dive deep into its core features!
Why did we like it?
When it comes to product durability, the MK Diamond model doesn’t disappoint. It features a sturdy zinc-plated steel frame, which alone speaks for the longevity of this model. The slopes can be adjusted to a maximum of 45 degrees, which helps in ensuring the accuracy of the cuts. Also, this product seems to offer a standard 13 inches of diagonal cut capacity, which gives fierce competition to the Dewalt and Porter-Cable tool.
Furthermore, we’ve noticed that this product comes with a safety switch feature, which helps in maintaining the safety of the user and prevent them from accidental injuries. The product further takes performance to a higher level with its 1.25 horsepower motor, which can rev up to a maximum of 6000 rotations per minute. This way, this model gives fierce competition to the Skil 3540-02 model in terms of efficiency.
Not to forget, this product also offers a standard 7-inch diamond blade that doesn’t find it challenging to cut through hard tiles, making it eligible for professional use. So, our overall verdict here is that this product is the most suitable for DIY enthusiasts and small-scale professionals.
What could have been better?
Similar to the D2400S model, this unit appears to produce deafening noises while being used. We’re guessing that it’s due to its high-performance motor, but it can get quite frustrating while we’re trying to focus on getting more accurate cuts. That’s why we wouldn’t recommend it for regular use, as it may harm our hearing abilities if used without adequate protection.
Now coming back to some of the highest-rated tools in the market, The Harbor Freight Chicago Electric Tile Brick Saw has left us spellbound with its powerful 2.5 horsepower motor. Not only is it visually elegant, it’s efficiency is also second to none.
Altogether, this makes an appropriate tile saw that qualifies for heavy-duty professional use.
Why did we like it?
Similar to the D2400S model, this unit also features a sturdy 10-inch blade, which is built with stainless steel material. This way, this product guarantees us a long-lasting product life while preventing the edges from rust or corrosion. Furthermore, the water pan is also built with durable ABS plastic material, which altogether assures us that this product will last us for a lifetime.
Not to forget, the flexibility of this model is significantly enhanced by its oversized frame, which leaves enough room to bring higher accuracy in the cuts. It also makes it pretty simple to set up, compared to other professional tools. Also, the blades on this model contain an industrial-grade 10 inches of diameter and 0.05 inches of thickness.
Now coming to its core features, it’s 2.5 horsepower motor can deliver up to an average of 3800 rotations within a minute, which is good enough for professional jobs. Furthermore, we’ve figured out that it comes with a flexible cutting head, which comes handy at cutting bricks with ease as well. Overall, the versatility that this product offers at this budget is applaudable.
What could have been better?
Despite its astounding features, we’ve noticed that the water pump of this model is seriously flawed and gives out very shortly after the purchase. Furthermore, it’s quite tricky to find a replacement water pump as the Harbor Freight accessories aren’t readily available, giving this product a thumbs down from our side.
Speaking of mid-range products that offer decent performance, it’s hard to match the power and accuracy that the all-new MK Diamond MK-170N provides us. Being one of the highest-rated products of 2019, this tile saw has also impressed us with its high efficiency and deep-cutting capabilities.
Nonetheless, this product has a lot more to offer.
Why did we like it?
The best thing about this model is its high-torque universal motor, which is capable of revving up to an impressive 5,500 rotations under a minute. In comparison, some of our top picks, including 3540-02, offered a maximum of 3600 rotations. This way, the MK-170N stands out as a comparatively powerful tool that can cut through hard tiles quicker and easier.
Coming to its portability, this product is compact and weighs around 17.8 pounds and can be carried around easily without demanding for larger storage. It also appears to be reasonably easy to use as a semi-professional power tool, which is rare these days.
This brings us to its blades, which are built of premium diamond material with a 7-inch diameter that is capable of making 2-inch deep cuts. Altogether, although it isn’t the best option for the professionals, it doesn’t seem to be an overkill for personal use either.
What could have been better?
Many buyers tend to have an issue with the water containment system, as apparently, it doesn’t seem to spray sufficient water. This way, it becomes a little more challenging to clean the blades after a rough tile-cutting session. On the other hand, we’ve felt that the rip guide of this device isn’t very helpful, which is quite a bummer.
If you’re dealing with a budget as low as two figures, finding a trustworthy tool becomes harder than ever. However, the QEP 22650Q unit stands out as a best-value tile saw that surprisingly caters to an abundance of standard requirements. Nevertheless, the most impressive feature here is its extensive rip capacity, which beats some of the big brands out there.
Why did we like it?
As we said, the main reason behind the popularity of the QEP 22650Q is its meager price, making it affordable for almost everyone. However, the efficiency of this model shouldn’t be underestimated due to its price range. The model comes with a powerful 2-horsepower motor that can make up to 3600 rotations within a minute.
The blades offer an impressive rip capacity of 30 inches, whereas the 3540-02 unit provides 14 inches. We’ve tested this tool on numerous materials, and it stood out to be the most suitable for cutting pavers and ceramics. However, it isn’t the best at cutting other hard tiles.
Furthermore, we’ve noticed that it comes with a 2-gallon water pan, which helps in keeping the machine neat and tidy. Moreover, the water pan is equipped with an advanced interior baffle, which helps in reducing refills and water spray. Last but not least, it weighs around 15.7 pounds and is relatively easy to carry around and use.
What could have been better?
As it’s an incredibly cheap product, it’s futile to expect it to be quite long-lasting and durable. Likewise, the plastic casing of this model appeared to be quite inexpensive to us. Furthermore, the build material of the blade isn’t rust-resistant and gets damaged easily if not dried properly after cleaning.
As implied by its name, the Lackmond 7-inch saw is an absolute beast of a machine when it comes to performance and versatility. This product is well recommended by professionals when it comes to cutting, grinding, and drilling. Let’s check out what this model brings out the table.
Why did we like it?
If you’re a professional who’s in search of a study and high-performance device, the Lackmond beast 7-inch tile saw makes a worthy option to consider. The 7-inch blade comes with a throbbing 24-inch rip capacity that helps in delivering highly precise cuts. Furthermore, we’re quite satisfied with its sturdy build, as it features a steel pipe frame. This way, the product is assured to last for years to come.
Now coming to its power, the model features an efficient 13 amp motor that ensures a substantial 22.5/45-degree bevel cut. The icing on the cake here is that the model allows us to perform cut-outs and cap cuts with precision.
However, the most impressive feature here is its snake pipe watering system, providing us ample water volume as well as the blade hit. Overall, this product seems to give us total control while being used, which makes it an efficient, professional tool.
What could have been better?
Although this product offers us an impressive performance, we’re not entirely satisfied with its user convenience. It’s mainly because the device is quite tricky to set up. This way, although it wouldn’t be hassling for the professionals, the intermediates and beginners may find it quite hard and stressful.
Speaking of tools that offer fair versatility under an affordable budget, Ridgid is one of those brands that has built a name for itself in the market based on these grounds. This 7-inch tile saw strives to deliver a satisfying and accurate cutting experience, which makes it one of our favorite recommendations.
Why did we like it?
This tool is one of the most reasonably priced tile saws we’ve come across till now for a professional tool. What makes it more of the best value product is that it offers some of the most competitive features provided by the big brands in the market, at a lower price.
To begin with, Ridgid hasn’t compromised with the durability of this product to compensate for its low price at all. The tile saw is protected with a sturdy and durable aluminum frame, extending its longevity by a great deal. Furthermore, its 7-inch blade delivers almost perfect cuts in a short time, which can be delightful for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.
The secret behind it is its 24 inches rip capacity, which gives it an instant advantage over the 22650Q unit. Furthermore, the submersible water pump and optimized water nozzle technology of this product prevents sediment buildup around the blades, enhancing the product quality by a great deal.
What could have been better?
Being a heavy-duty performance tool, this tool is a little too loud. Therefore, we’d advise you to wear noise-cancellation headphones for ear protection while using this model. Otherwise, it may damage your hearing abilities.
QEP returns on our list with its all-new 61024 24-inch professional tile saw, one of the most powerful tools in the market right now. Considering the monstrous power it offers, it’s an overplus for small personal jobs. Nonetheless, it comes quite handy at completing heavy-duty professional cutting jobs with precision.
Why did we like it?
The motor comes with a very powerful 1.5 HP motor, which is the key secret behind the high-class performance of this tool. Furthermore, this tool is, without a doubt, very convenient and easy to use, thanks to the tilt-up blade guard. Changing blades in the middle of a session has never been easier!
Now coming to its durability, this product features a rust-resistant fiberglass water tray that helps in keeping the motor from being overheated. Plus, the tray also slides very quickly, making it easier for us to refill it and clean the device with precision. The dual spray system also distributes the water flow in such a technique that helps in enhancing the long-lasting durability of the diamond blade.
Speaking of performance, this model is capable of delivering up to a maximum of 90-degree accurate bevel cuts. This instantly gives it the upper hand over most of the professional tile saws in the market right now. Last but not least, this product comes with an extended 1-year warranty period and an angle/rip guide.
What could have been better?
Most of the buyers have complained that the device arrives broken and dama