Dewalt has proven to be a strong contender in the power tool industry. So it’s not surprising that most of their products receive raving reviews. The Dewalt DWS780 and DWS779 miter saws are great examples.
These are powerful and reliable pieces of equipment that you can count on to perform any cut; be it miter, bevel, or compound.
In fact, they are both sliding compound miter saws. What this means is that they have rails that boost their cross-cut capacity. And they add a left bevel, allowing you to perform compound cuts.
Aren’t sure of which miter saw to buy? We’ve got you covered. In the following guide, we’ve provided a detailed analysis of the Dewalt DWS779 vs DWS780. Let’s dig in…
Precise, and coming in at a pocket-friendly price, the Dewalt DWS779 is among the best miter saws on the market. Its features - like the 15 amp motor and 12-inch blade - make it equally suited for simple DIY tasks and professional applications.
Here’s a brief overview of its core features:
Beveling capacity
We'll start with the basics. The miter saw is powered by a 15-amp motor. This is the element responsible for driving the 12-inch blade that spins at a speed of 3,800 rpm.
One of its biggest selling points is that it lets you pick the bevel cutting angle, which ranges from 0° to 48°. So contrary to other miter tools that only allow you to create standard 45° cuts, this one lets you go all the way up to 48°.
Ten positive stops
Apart from being able to choose a specific bevel angle, the Dewalt sliding compound miter saw comes with ten positive stops. These are predetermined manufacturer cutting settings designed to help you alternate between the preset angles for customized joints.
Crosscut capacity
By now, you know that this tool can make miter and bevel cuts. But just what is its cross-cutting capacity? Well, this cutting depth varies slightly depending on the number of teeth the saw has.
The version we’re reviewing here is capable of cutting 2 x 16-inch dimensional lumber at 90 degrees and 2 x 12-inch dimensional lumber at 45 degrees.
Even though this miter saw has a great cutting performance, it lacks features that would enhance the precision of cuts. It doesn't have a laser guide system nor a LED light.
Horizontal sliding rails
If you’re about to invest in a compound sliding saw, then one of the things you should pay attention to is its accuracy. You don’t want your homemade dining chairs or picture frames to end up looking like they were made by a newbie.
Thankfully, this 12-inch miter saw includes top-notch sliding rails that deliver pinpoint accuracy. The dual-structured horizontal steel rails include an advanced clamping mechanism and linear ball bearings. Both of these features work nicely together, helping you achieve smooth, precise cuts.
Dust collection system
Another impressive feature is the miter saw’s efficient dust collection system.
Dewalt has designed it to trap up to 75% of the sawdust generated during the cutting process. Thanks to this, you’ll never have to worry about your precision or visibility being compromised by the resulting sawdust.
Tall sliding fence
Apart from the sliding rails, this miter saw comes fitted with tall fence support that is 6 ¾ inches. Mounted perpendicularly to the blade, this back fence provides stop blocks that add to the saw’s precision and functionality.
Pros of the DW779
There are several things you'll love about this sliding compound miter saw, such as:
Pros
Cons of the DW779
For the most part, this miter saw is a worth investment. But there are a few things you might not like about it, such as:
Cons
What It’s Best For
According to Dewalt, their DWS779 miter saw can be used to cut a number of materials including:
- Dimensional lumber
- Shelving
- Crown molding
- Baseboard
- Cabinets
- Window or door casing
- Flooring
Dewalt DWS780
If you’d not guessed it already, the Dewalt DWS780 is an upgrade to its predecessor - the DWS779.
Being an improvement, the manufacturer refined this piece of machinery and included the few features that were missing from the DWS779.
For starters, the Dewalt DWS780 is a 12-inch double bevel sliding compound miter. What this means is that its blade can rotate both left and right instead of only one side. This allows you to make deep bevel cuts without flipping your workpiece.
Here’s a breakdown of its other features:
Miter cutting
This double bevel sliding compound saw relies on a 15-amp motor. This is what powers its 12-inch blade, resulting in an impressive speed of 3800 rpm and superior cutting functions.
Its predecessor had basic miter cutting functions. The DWS780 has taken things up a notch by extending the miter angle beyond the standard 45°. Specifically, it lets you extend this angle to 60° on the right and 50° on the left.
Bevel cutting
Like the DWS779, this miter saw includes a tall split fence on the dual-bevel sliding rails. These are designed to seamlessly get out of the way, allowing you to make bevel cuts of up to 48°.
Better yet, the 12-inch miter saw includes a gigantic bevel scale. This allows you to adjust the bevel angle in an accurate and simple way.
One thing that differentiates the sliding fence on this miter saw is the level of support it offers. With the DWS779 sliding compound miter saw, it can only support base molding up to 6 ½ inches. But the fence system of the Dewalt DWS780 model also supports crown molding up to 6 ⅝ inches.
Integrated XPS cutline blade positioning system
Even though we’re listing this feature, this is its biggest selling point. It's popularly referred to as the XPS system and comprises a small but powerful LED light added directly above the saw blade.
The XPS cross-cut system works by casting a shadow of the blade onto the workpiece below. So as the blade lowers, the shadow becomes narrower to the precise width and position of the cut. This then allows you to cut more accurately.
The icing on the cake is the fact that the shadow cut line system works perfectly well in daylight too. Unlike laser systems that get compromised by sunlight, the XPS light retains its sharp visibility throughout.
Miter detent plate
In other saws, the detent plate usually comes as an add-on. But Dewalt has gone an extra mile and provided a stainless steel miter detent plate with a cam lock miter handle.
If you're new to miter saws, this plate is simply a scale showing the tool's miter angle. It has a couple of stops along the scale for the most popular angles.
Pros of the DW780 Miter Saws
There are several things you're sure to love about this sliding miter saw, namely:
Pros
Cons of the DW780
Cons
What It’s Best For
Here are a few of the things you’ll be able to cut using the Dewalt DWS780 miter saw:
- Stair tread (14-inch crosscut capacity with the exclusive back fence)
- Crown molding - it should be vertically nested against the fence
- Base molding
- Cuts twice the material and makes accurate cuts for woodworking projects
Similarities Between DWS779 and DWS780
These two miter saws have several traits that they share. These include:
Blade size
One common feature you’ll find between the Dewalt miter saws is the size of their blades. The two models each have a 12-inch blade with fairly similar cutting capabilities. The blades can cut 2x16 dimensional lumber at a 90° angle and 2x12 lumber at 45°angle.
Power and Speed
When it comes to power supply, neither of the miter saws is superior to the other. Each one is powered by a 15-amp-rated motor that achieves a top speed of 3,800 RPM.
Bevel design
Both Dewalt miter saws have beveling capacities. This simply means that their blades can rotate either to the left or right, allowing you to make angled bevel cuts.
In the case of the DWS780, the blades can bevel both right and left, starting from 0 to 48°. Its beveling capability includes positive stops at 0°, 22.5°, 33.9°, 45°, and 48° in either direction.
Dust management system
The miter saws also have identical dust collection systems. You can rely on them to capture more than 75% of the dust produced during the cutting process.
Safety
Another thing you’ll love about the Dewalt DWS779 and DWS780 is that they have several safety mechanisms in place. These include:
Blade guard
This is the part that encloses the outer or exterior edge of the blade. As the saw blade cuts, the guard rises, allowing the wood wastes to fall.
Miter saw stand
Whichever of the two models you choose, you'll have the freedom to buy it with the DWX726 rolling stand. This makes it incredibly easy to move your piece of equipment within your workshop. More importantly, it secures the miter saw in one position, enabling you to cut safely and accurately.
However, take note this addition causes the price to soar quite a bit. So before buying the model that comes with a stand, consider its application. Ask yourself, "do you really need to move your miter saw around?"
Clamping system
Yet another safety feature you’ll find in these saws is a clamping system. The purpose of this is to secure the workpiece in position. This way, the lumber doesn’t wobble when you’re cutting and lead to accidental injuries.
Warranty
Whether you decide to go for the Dewalt DWS779 vs DWS780 miter saw, you can rest easy knowing that each one is backed by a 3-year limited warranty.
Therefore, Dewalt covers any repairs or defects that stem from faulty materials or workmanship for a period of three years. This warranty doesn’t include any issues that may be caused by normal wear or misuse of the tool.
On a more positive note, the manufacturer also offers:
- A 1-year free service contract - this means that they’re ready to maintain and replace any damaged parts.
- 90-day money-back guarantee - if you’re not contented with your purchase, then you can return the miter saw within three months from the purchase date.
Durability
As is the case with other Dewalt power tools, the DWS779 and DWS780 are highly durable. They’re constructed using heavy-duty and tough materials, resulting in exceptional durability.
Differences Between DWS779 and DWS780
Are you torn between the Dewalt DWS780 vs DWS779 miter saws? If you are, these differences can help to narrow down your options:
Price
An important factor that differentiates the Dewalt DWs779 vs dws780 is pricing. Specifically, the DWS780 is more expensive by a few hundred dollars. So if you’re working with a shoestring budget, your best bet is to buy the DWS779 model that’s currently priced at less than $500.
Cutting system
If there’s one thing that sets the Dewalt range of miter saws apart, it has to be their cutting efficiency.
Dewalt uses different cutting methods in different power tools. Thus, it’s not surprising to learn that the DWS780 model uses a more sophisticated cutting technology referred to as XPS cross-cut alignment system.
What makes the XPS system unique is the use of a LED light fixture that casts light down on either side of the blade. As you lower the blade, the shadow becomes darker, helping you exactly where the cut will be made.
Unfortunately, the DWS779 does not have such fancy features. It doesn't have a laser-guided system or a LED light.
Also crucial to note is that the DWS780 boasts a higher vertical cutting capacity thanks to its complex gearbox and belt drive.
Miter detent plate
Another feature that differentiates the Dewalt DWS779 vs DWS780 miter saw is the detent plate.
In the case of the DWS780, you’ll find a stainless steel plate along with a cam lock miter button for easy angle adjustments. Dewalt has also added a rail lock that enables you to perform smooth, vertical cuts.
Conversely, the DWS779 is equipped with a double horizontal rail system alongside an exceptional clamping system. This works pretty well and includes a linear ball bearing designed to enhance your accuracy.
If you’re wondering which one is superior to the other, the answer is neither. Both mechanisms work very efficiently, enabling you to make ultra-precise cuts. Thus, whichever one you choose boils down to your tastes and preferences.
Weight
Generally speaking, miter saws aren’t the kind of equipment that you can haul around. But other than portability, the weight also determines how easy it is to wield the machine.
On that note, the DWS780 is the clear contender in this font. It tips the scales at 56 pounds, and includes a handle for easy portability. By comparison, the DWS779 weighs a whopping 70 pounds, making it less portable.
FAQs
What is the difference between a DWS780 and DWS779?
The major difference between these two saws is the cutting system that each one uses. The DWS779 uses a simpler cutting system, where you have to rely on your vision to make precise cuts.
The DWS780, however, uses a more advanced system that comprises a bright LED light. This fixture casts a shadow, showing you a clear line of where to cut. This, in turn, boosts your precision level.
Furthermore, the Dewalt DWS780 is a 12-inch double bevel sliding compound whereas the DWS779 is a single bevel model.
Is the DeWalt DWS779 discontinued?
No, the DWS779 has not been discontinued. Though Dewalt has created a more refined version of it, the earlier model is still in production.
Can DWS780 cut metal?
Yes, it can. According to Dewalt, this miter saw shouldn’t be used to cut ferrous materials, that is, those made of either steel or iron. However, it can be used to cut non-ferrous materials, such as aluminum, copper, and lead. Just be sure to fit it with the right blade.
What is the most accurate miter saw?
Of the two, the DWS780 offers better accuracy. This stems from the fact that it uses a more advanced cutting system that relies on an ultra-bright LED lighting fixture.
Does the Dewalt dws779 have a laser?
No, it does not. If you already own the DWS779, then consider adding an aftermarket laser. Alternatively, consider upgrading to their latest miter saw that has its own LED light.
What blade comes with dws779?
The DWS779 comes with a 12-inch premium-quality carbide blade with up to 10 positive stops.
How to use dewalt miter saw dws779
Using the Dewalt DWS779 miter saw is a relatively simple process. Ideally, you’ll want to start by marking the precise point on the wood where you want to cut. Place your workpiece on the table and lift the carbide blade head.
Finally, slide the blade head towards you and push it down on the workpiece. If you don’t get it right the first time, don’t worry. Navigating it takes a little bit of getting used to.
Wrap Up
The DWS779 and DWS780 are some of the most powerful and durable miter saws on the market. The DWS779 is a simple sliding compound miter saw that lets you perform miter, bevel, and compound cuts.
The DWS780 is a step-up as it’s a dual-bevel sliding compound miter saw. This means that its beveling capabilities go both right and left, eliminating the need to flip your workpiece.
Although different, these power tools share several similarities. For instance, both saws achieve a top blade speed of 3800 rpm. Each saw also has a dust bag, back fence system, and cam-lock miter handle.
Question is, which is better: Dewalt DWS779 vs DWS780? Well, this depends on your individual needs. If you’re looking for an affordable Dewalt sliding compound miter that doesn’t have any frills, then the DWS779 is ideal. But if you prefer the bells and whistles that come with the DWS780, then go for it.