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Indulging in weekend-warrior renovations can be exciting and daunting all at the same time, especially without the proper tools or experience.
When it comes to cutting tile, there are a few specific qualities you want your saw to feature. Without proper knowledge, you may end up with a model that under performs or isn’t what you expected.
Hoping to cut right to the chase? Below are the best tile saws for homeowners:
Comparison of the Best Tile Saws For Homeowners
Product | Our Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|
SKIL 7-Inch Wet Tile Saw  | ||
QEP 700XT  | ||
DEWALT D24000S Heavy-Duty 10-inch Wet Tile Saw  | ||
Lackmond Beast Wet Tile Saw  | ||
DEWALT DWC860W  |
In this review, we’re going to take a look at some of the best tile saws for homeowners and discuss the reasons as to why they made our list. For each model, we’re going to be highlighting their main features, then go over some pros and cons reported by recent buyers.
While pictures may be worth a thousand words, word of mouth is everything. We’ve done our homework when it comes to selecting these models and identifying what users had to report on. Trust when we say, if you’ve been on the search for a new tile saw, you won’t want to skip this review.
What is a Tile Saw?
A tile saw is a type of saw used by commercial contractors, homeowners, and people who are taking on projects that require tile to be formatted in a variety of sizes. While other saws may get the job done, investing in a credible tile saw can alleviate future headaches. With this, there are a few types of tile saws available. Each come with their own unique perks to help you conquer your project when it’s all said and done.
Types of Tile Saws
Before we discuss the products on our list, we’re going to break down a few of the common types of tile saws. By doing so, we hope to help you identify which model is suited best for you and the projects you plan to tackle. The four types of tiles saws we plan to discuss are handheld, rail cutters, overhead motor saws, and table top tile saws.
Handheld Tile Saws
One of the more popular types of tile saws available is a handheld model. These are often very affordable and come in cordless and corded variations. These are especially convenient for smaller projects and tasks that require precise cuts.
Additionally, one of the greatest benefits to handheld models are their portability. Anyone can easily transport them house to house, or from project to project.
Rail Cutter Tile Saws
When a majority of folks think of tile saws, more often than not they’re thinking about rail cutter saws. These models are great for at-home projects and folks engaging in weekend-warrior style projects. They are fairly straightforward to use and can be operated with ease. Simply place the tile on the base of the saw and drag the scoring wheel across the section you wish to cut.
Overhead Motor Tile Saws
Overhead motor tile saws are a step up from the previous models mentioned, and grant users more control when cutting tile. Due to their size, they may require some extra assembly, and are often designed to incorporate water cooling outlets.
One of the greater advantages to overhead motor tile saws is that since the cutting wheel is located above the tile, this provides users with a top-down perspective and greater vision while cutting.
Table Top Tile Saws
Table top saws are widely popular in the world of woodworking and have transitioned into tile. Their push-through design allows users to guide tile across a cutting wheel, which is often located under the base of the table. While these are great for cutting large pieces, performing cuts on smaller, more intricate sections of tile may be challenging and unsafe.
Reviews of the Best Tile Saws for Homeowners
Now we’re going to move toward the review section of our review and highlight the models that made our list for the best tile saws for homeowners. As previously mentioned, we’ll be going over the top qualities as to why these stand out and what people have to say about their experience. Let’s get started!
1. SKIL 7-Inch Wet Tile Saw
PROS
CONS
Our Review
Since their company delivered the first portable saw in 1924, SKIL has been innovating ways to deliver high-end products to those who need them most. The SKIL 3540-02 7-Inch Wet Tile Saw is an ideal addition to every homeowner’s collection of tools. It’s compact, durable, and easy to work with.
Built with a stainless steel table top, buyers can adjust the miter and bevel positioning up to a 45° angle for those tricky, delicate cuts. This table saw features a blade cooling water reservoir, which is preferred for extended use and minimizing mess. Through the use of the cooling system, debris is diminished and while the blade is kept from overheating .
One of the greatest advantages to this wet tile saw is its size. Users can cut a piece of tile up to 12” x 12” (at a 0° angle), then easily store the saw away. After registering your purchase, this model is backed by a 3-year limited warranty - an overall excellent pick for remodels and renovations.
Bottom Line
When it comes down to it, the bottom line with SKIL 3540-02 7-Inch Wet Tile Saw is that this model is packed with stress-reducing features and perfect for DIY projects. Many buyers report that this is preferred over renting a saw from Lowes or Home Depot for the weekend, since it performs well and can be used in the future.
The most common drawback we found is that people sometimes have difficulty adjusting the fence. While this may require a little extra patience, once in place, the fence is strong and ready to hold up during use.
2. QEP 700XT
PROS
CONS
Our Review
The QEP 700XT (also known as the QEP 22700Q) is a powerful, yet cost effective, wet tile saw. Featuring ¾ HP fed by a 550-watt motor, this saw can cut any tiling you may need for an at-home project. It is made of a combination of sturdy plastic as well as some base metal.
The water reservoir holds more than enough water for any DIY or home remodel project and the water circulation channel ensures that your blade will stay cool while cutting. The included diamond-rimmed blade won’t get hot on small jobs, but if you’re doing a whole bathroom you will definitely appreciate this.
The blade guard works very well for protecting from chips and debris as well as for preventing splashing during cuts. The non-slip feet and lock-down rip guide make sure you will have a perfect, stable cut every time. You can even angle the guide to 22.5 degrees, 45 degrees, or 90 degrees for quick angled cuts, while the right cutting table is also adjustable for any miter cuts you may need to do.
It includes several accessories expected from a table saw including an internal cord compartment, a built-in handle for easy transportation, and an 8-inch table extension to ensure a useable workspace.
Bottom Line:
QEP sets the standard pretty high with their products – despite them often being quite affordable. Our favorite things about this saw were how easy it was to use and to set up. It took less than 10 minutes to go from box to job, including a few practice cuts to familiarize ourselves with the saw.
While it is a fantastic model, we suggest it mostly for homeowners or DIY enthusiasts. A professional tiler will likely want to go with a higher end model, as we found that tougher tiles could bind up with prolonged use.
The included blade is great for most projects; however, we do suggest purchasing an upgraded tile saw blade if you plan on doing heavy-duty cutting of porcelain or hard tiles.
3. DEWALT D24000S Heavy-Duty 10-inch Wet Tile Saw With Stand
PROS
CONS
Our Review
Next on our list is the DEWALT D24000S Heavy-Duty 10-inch wet tile saw. Whereas the previous model was for smaller projects, this model is an all round model ready to undergo anything you have in mind. Although this saw is pricier compared to others on our list, quality is the biggest benefit when buying tile saws from Dewalt.
Since it comes with a stand, setup and takedown is a breeze. It also features two water nozzles, which can be placed to minimize mist and over-spray. For accurate, diagonal cuts, the saw can tilt and lock at a 22.5° or 45° angle. To grant more control, rollers can be easily adjusted and aligned to guide tile during the process.
One of the biggest advantages to this model is without a doubt it’s size. When working on larger projects, the saw has a ripping capacity of 24”, which is decreased to 18” once you begin cutting at a diagonal. After designing that one of a kind backsplash, you’ll be happy you made the decision to invest in a Dewalt saw.
Bottom Line
The bottom line with the DEWALT D24000S is that this is perfect for those looking to invest wisely and pull the trigger on a top of the line model that has great power, and can be setup (and stored) at a moments notice.
While recent buyers admit the price tag is higher than others, majority rules that it’s well worth it and the price reflects the quality received from Dewalt. Backed by a 3-year limited warranty, this saw is designed to withstand whatever project you have in mind.
4. Lackmond Beast Wet Tile Saw
PROS
CONS
Our Review
Since their inception, Lackmond has been continuously striving to exceed customer expectations and introduce innovative technology. Their Beast of a model is appropriately named and for good reason.
This wet tile saw features a dual-snake-pipe-water system so users can easily manipulate the placement of the cooling hoses and gain extra control over where water is dispersed. With this, these hoses are extremely easy to replace if they ever become clogged.
The Beast an ideal model for those who are just learning to cut tile, or are looking for their first wet tile saw for DIY projects. This saw has a rip cut capacity of 24” and a diagonal rip cut capacity of 18”. Additionally, it can rotate from 22.5° to 45° for those complex bevel cuts. On top of everything, the Beast is backed by an excellent 3-year warranty.
Bottom Line
The bottom line with the Lackmond Beast is that this is a wonderful model for homeowners looking for a high performance wet tile saw. Although it’s a little bit on the pricier side, this model pays for itself in quality, durability, and overall versatility. If the 7” model seems like it may not be what you’re after, be sure to check out the other wet tile saws offered by Lackmond.
5. DEWALT DWC860W 4-3/8-Inch Wet/Dry Masonry Saw
PROS
CONS
Our Review
Last, but certainly not least, is the DEWALT DWC860W. This 4 ⅜” saw is handheld and can be used for wet or dry tile cuts. During wet tile operations, the saw uses a 13’ water line to boost productivity and minimize mess.
Don’t be fooled by its size though, this little saw is powered by 10.8 amps and can easily cut through a variety of materials with the help of its diamond blade. The size makes it an ideal pick for DIY project-goers, being that it’s lightweight and simple to use. When the time comes for specialized cuts, this saw also bevels to 45°.
Designed for all types of projects, buyers note that one of the best features of the DEWALT DWC860W is that it’s dust protected and reliable. This saw also features a custom ermold grip for enhanced comfort, and comes with a 1-year warranty.
Bottom Line
In the end, the bottom line with the DEWALT DWC860W is that this is an excellent hand-held saw. It’s functional as either a wet or dry tile saw, and perfect for backyard projects and remodels.
Buyers can expect a compact saw that’s powerful and very straightforward to use. One of the more common drawbacks according to recent users is that the plastic water valve could be improved. However, this does not play a major role in the performance or functionality of the saw.
6. QEP 22650Q 650XT Tile Saw
PROS
CONS
Our Review
The QEP 22650Q 650XT is another top pick of ours and a popular choice among homeowners looking for an affordable, compact model. This corded-electric, wet tile saw is backed by a ¾ horsepower motor, capable of generating up to 3,600 RPM.
Whether you plan to cut ceramic tile, marble, stone, or granite, this saw won’t let you down. One of the greatest benefits to this model is that it comes with an 8” extension for the left or right side of the table to ensure no piece of tile is too large. Just be sure to take it slow and focus in on your cuts, whether they be diagonal or straight.
The blade included with your purchase measures 7” and will hold up against routine projects. For more intricate cuts and patterns, we recommend changing out your blade to accommodate to your exact needs. Overall, this saw weighs just over 15 lbs and operates using 120 volts. Let’s review what some recent buyers had to say about their experience.
Bottom Line
In general, the bottom line with the QEP 22650Q 650XT is that this is a near perfect pick for new homeowners and those looking to take on a few projects here and there. It’s affordable price provides a means to learn, while also completing to-do lists without breaking the bank account.
The saw is sturdy, easy to operate, and ideal for storing away after each use. The only main drawback we found is that the blade may require an upgrade if you have larger projects in mind. The blade that comes with the saw will get the job done, but be prepared for slower cuts.
Quick Take: Best Tile Saws for Homeowners
In summary, here are the best tile saws for homeowners:
Conclusion
Overall, we hope this review has helped identify a new tile saw and allows you to start renovating and crush those upcoming projects. If there’s anything specific that stood out to you within the article, be sure to drop a comment and let us know!
If you ended up choosing a model from our list, visit us again after you’ve put it to the test and share your experience. Not only do we love hearing from readers, but it’s a great way to help future shoppers in need. Best of luck while using your new tile saw!