Are you in the carpentry industry? Or, are you planning to undertake some serious woodworking projects? If you answered yes to either one of these questions, a hybrid table saw will make a superb addition to your arsenal of tools.
These power tools operate in a fairly similar manner to other table saws. But, they offer several perks that you don’t get from the other modes.
Wondering if this piece of equipment is right for you? Well, here’s a detailed guide to the best hybrid table saws on the market.
What is a Hybrid Table Saw?
The term “hybrid” is derived from Latin’s ‘hybrida’, which translates to an offspring from two different animals.
In the world of woodworking, a hybrid table saw is a tool that combines the features of a contractor table saw and a cabinet table saw into one.
Just in case you’re new to these saws, here’s a brief description of each:
Cabinet Saw
This is a bulky and heavy woodworking saw that is particularly revered for its power.
A cabinet table saw typically constitutes a large and powerful motor, a completely enclosed base, and huskier and improved mobile parts.
Thanks to these features, cabinet saws are super easy to use, considerably more powerful, and precise.
The biggest downside to this tool is its weight. A cabinet table saw is so heavy that it’s impossible to move it without a forklift or helping hand.
Contractor Saw
This is a much lighter power tool, which is why some woodworkers prefer it to a cabinet saw. Contractor saws are incredibly light, making them highly portable.
However, they’re not nearly half as powerful as the cabinet models. But they’re less expensive and relatively easy to carry to your job site.
Hybrid Table Saw
Now a hybrid table saw combines the best of both worlds. It’s almost like a modest version of a cabinet saw, equipped with a couple of elements from a contractor table saw.
With regards to structure, they’re sturdy and thoughtfully designed. Some have a cabinet-style design whereas others have a stout base and legs.
But in both cases, the base is completely encased with the motor positioned inside the base. This is contrary to a contractor saw whereby the motor is mounted on the rear.
When it comes to power, most hybrid table saws come fitted with motors averaging a rating of 1 ½ to 1 ¾ HP.
The good thing about this is that it allows you to hook it to a standard household’s 110-volt power supply.
The motors of hybrid table saws are also belt-driven induction varieties. These are very different from the gigantic outboard motors used in contractor saws.
The hybrid models are also more compact and lighter- a significant difference from cabinet table saws that can weigh as much as 500 pounds.
While hybrid table saws can’t provide the sort of power you get from cabinet varieties, they’re good at what they do and they’re cheaper.
Benefits of Hybrid Table Saws
Wondering whether a hybrid table saw is worth investing in? Well, here are a few perks you stand to gain:
Portable
One of the greatest benefits of purchasing a hybrid table saw is its lightweight profile. Contrary to others like cabinet table saws, these are some of the most portable table saws.
Decent Power in a Small Package
A hybrid saw is primarily designed for small-scale woodworking jobs. This makes it an excellent choice for hobbyists and DIYers.
While it’s not as powerful as other saws, it offers a decent amount of power to help you tackle most cutting jobs.
Easier Cleanups
Another reason that makes hybrid models so popular entails their working mechanism.
This tool is designed to trap most of the sawdust just under the blade. This makes it superior to most saws that tend to blow dust everywhere, resulting in messy cleanups and impeded visibility.
How to Choose the Right Hybrid Table Saw
Power and Speed
Among the most important factors to consider is the cutting power that the tool provides. To determine this, think about the applications you’ll be using your hybrid table saw.
More specifically, you’ll need to figure out a rough estimate of the thickness of stock. The thicker your workpieces, the higher the power rating should be. As a bonus, powerful motors also provide higher cutting speeds.
For illustration purposes, slicing through a 2-inch thick wood would require a motor with at least 1.5 to 2 horsepower. However, if you’ll be cutting wood thicker than this, say 3.5 inches thick, then a motor with 3.5 HP is the best suited.
You’ll also want to consider the type of outlets you have in your household. Powerful motors, such as those with a 3HP rating may have to be plugged in a 240V power supply.
Rip Capacity
If you’re thinking of purchasing a hybrid table saw, another factor you should take into account is the rip capacity.
This metric determines the maximum width of stock that can be fit into the table saw blade. In simpler terms, it’s the distance estimated from the blade to the uttermost distance that the fencing system can travel either to the right or left side of the blade.
At a minimum, you’ll want to get a table saw with a rip capacity of no less than 24 inches. This capacity is enough to help you rip a 4’ by 8’ sheet of wood in half; hence, creating two boards each measuring 2’ by 8’.
If you’re looking to perform rip cuts on larger pieces of wood, then be sure to get a model with a higher rip capacity.
Cutting Depth
Once you’ve examined the rip capacity, the next thing you’ll want to check is the maximum cutting depth offered by the power tool.
This one is a bit more self-explanatory, and it determines just how deep into the stock, the blade can cut through.
The maximum cutting depth will depend largely on the size of the blade. To put things into perspective, a 4-inch blade offers a maximum cutting depth of 0.75 inches. Hybrid table saws with blades that are 10 to 12 inches big offer a bigger cutting depth of up to 3 ½ to 4 inches.
Dust Collection
As we mentioned earlier, one of the advantages of investing in a hybrid table saw is the fact that it doesn’t blow sawdust all over.
Nonetheless, it’s good to have a dust collection system that can capture the small amount of debris produced during the cutting process. So before making any purchase, ensure that the machine has a sizable dust port that allows you to hook a shop vac.
Drive Belt
Unless you’ve purchased a table saw before, you may not be very familiar with this feature.
Well, a drive belt is what connects the saw blade to your hybrid saw’s electric motor. Low-quality drive belt systems can result in too much vibration and noise as your machine operates.
To cut back on such noise and vibrations, you’ll want to ensure that the drive belt system incorporated in your hybrid table saw is of premium quality.
More specifically, prioritize models equipped with poly V-belt drive systems. Compared to regular drive belts, the poly V varieties provide smoother operations and more power.
Left Blade Tilt Function
Whenever possible, we recommend investing in hybrid table saws with a left blade tilt function. This is because they have a lower risk of kickback.
On the same note, check whether the blade can pivot through 45 to the left. This way, you’ll be able to perform angled and bevel cuts effortlessly.
Adjustability
The best hybrid table saws are those that let you make adjustments easily. Ideally, you shouldn’t have to start looking or purchasing extra hardware so that you make certain adjustments. Similarly, the adjustment process itself ought to be simple and straightforward.
Accuracy
If precision is an important part of your projects, then you’ll want to invest in a hybrid table saw with features that improve its accuracy.
For instance, a miter gauge that holds the stock at a specific angle while it’s being cut improves the accuracy of your results. Similarly, an extension is an excellent addition because it accommodates and keeps longer stock steady during the cutting process.
Ease of Use
You’ll also want to think about the projects you’ll be undertaking and whether they call for any special accessories.
For instance, if you’d like the freedom to move your piece of machinery around, then consider one that comes with wheels or a stand for easy mobility. And for ease of set up, you may want to opt for a unit with a gravity rise stand.
Another feature that contributes to this saw’s ease of use is a lighting fixture. This illuminates your work area helping you see the cut line; hence, perform accurate cuts.
Safety Features
As with any power tool, it’s important for a hybrid table saw to have the necessary safety features. Examples of these include:
Flesh Sensor
The purpose of this is to bring your blade to an immediate stop in case it comes into contact with human flesh.
Riving Knife
The main benefit of a riving knife is to prevent kickbacks. It achieves this by keeping the kerf open; thus, preventing it from being grabbed by the rear teeth.
Blade Guard
This elements plays several roles, one of which is to protect the blade.
Tips for Using a Hybrid Table Saw
Here are a few tips that will help you make the most of your hybrid saws:
- Check your workpieces for nails before feeding them into the machine
- Confirm that safety mechanisms like the riving knife are working properly
- Remember to unplug your saw from the outlet prior to changing blades
- Always use a push stick, more so when you’re dealing with very small pieces of wood
- Don’t forget to wear personal protective gear when operating your hybrid table saw
Best Hybrid Table Saw Reviews
1. Dewalt DWE7491RS 10-Inch Table Saw
Dewalt is one of the most renowned manufacturers of power tools. So it comes as no surprise that their DWE7491RS is ranked one of the best hybrid table saws. This machine includes a wide range of handy features and comes at a price that’s hard to beat.
The hybrid table saw measures 31 x 24.5 x 31 inches, making it relatively compact. But what’s even more intriguing is the built-in rolling stand that it comes with.
This stand really enhances the tool’s stability, enabling you to make smooth and accurate cuts. It also eliminates the need to get a customized stand that would help to minimize vibration.
Dewalt DWE7491RS is equipped with a 24-tooth carbide blade. With this, you’ll be able to get a 32 1/2 inch rip capacity to the right and 22 inches to the left. With regards to depth, the blade can cut up to 2 ¼ inches at 45° and 3 1//8 inches at 90°.
If your projects involve performing ultra-smooth cuts, then you’re in luck! This is because Dewalt includes an extra 80-tooth crosscutting saw blade, perfectly suited for applications that require a high precision level. And, it has patented material support, enabling you to perform narrower rip cuts.
The blade is powered by a high-torque 15-amp motor. This provides sufficient power to tackle a vast range of applications. Whether it’s ripping deck boards or cutting framing lumber, Dewalt DWE7491RS is up to the task.
Dewalt considered user's safety when designing this piece of equipment. As such, it's outfitted with a blade guard and riving knife.
Pros
Cons
If you're looking for a tool with a powerful motor, a cabinet table saw is not your only option. Hybrid table saws like the Shop Fox W1837 are just as powerful.
The table saw draws its power from a 2HP single-phase motor that arrives already pre-wired to run on a 20-amp circuit. This is a huge plus as it saves you from having to hire an electrician to start installing a compatible outlet in your garage or workshop.
Another feature you’re sure to love about Shop Fox W1837 10 inch hybrid table saw entails its dust collection system.
The power tool comprises an encased steel-made stand with a 4-inch dust collection port. This allows you to hook a shop vac that can trap any sawdust released. So regardless of the amount of wood you cut, you’ll never have to worry about your workshop resembling a woodlot during spring.
The 10-inch 40-tooth blade is another component that sets this hybrid saw apart. It has tilting capabilities in the range of 0 to 45 degrees. This enables you to perform bevel cuts, compound miters, and chamfers.
The saw Shop Fox W1837 also offers a 30 inch rip capacity to the right and a 15-inch rip to the left. In terms of depth, you should be able to cut up to 2 ¼ inches at 45° and 3 ¼ inches at 90°. More importantly, it has a T fence system, enabling you to achieve maximum accuracy in your projects.
The table saw also comes outfitted with heavy cast iron trunnions. These not only help to absorb vibration but also facilitate proper alignment of the blade relative to the fence.
One thing you may have noticed is that the Shop Fox W1837 10 inch is more expensive than others. But for the price, you’ll have access to numerous safety features. These range from an interchangeable riving knife to a clear blade guard, and anti-kickback pawls.
Pros
Cons
If you don’t mind splurging on a high-end power tool, then Powermatic PM1000 1791000K is the best hybrid table saw.
At first glance, you’ll notice that the machine has a remarkable design. The gold color really makes the cabinet stand out, and complements the black tabletop beautifully. Better yet, this work table is made of precision ground cast iron material, resulting in ample durability.
A powerful piece of equipment, the PM1000 utilizes a 1 ¾-HP motor. What sets this motor further apart is its poly V belt that helps to cut back on vibrations and optimize motor efficiency.
Once you invest in the 5 Powermatic PM1000 table saw, one thing you’ll never have to worry about is accuracy. It comes fitted with the brand's 30 inch fence system. We were particularly impressed that it's an accu-fence system as it's able to lock to the rail very easily.
You will also be able to slice through any stock regardless of size. This is made possible by the extension, which increases the tabletop’s size from a 20 by 27-inch to a 40 by 27-inch. Also included alongside this table is a 10-inch blade. This offers a maximum rip capacity of 52 inches to the right and 12 inches to the left.
Another thing we like about Powermatic PM1000 is the fact that it includes safety measures. These include a tool-free blade guard assembly and riving knife.
Are you a little hesitant to invest in such a pricey power tool? Powermatic understands that this is a hefty investment, which is why they offer a 5-year warranty. So if you encounter any problems, all you need to do is reach out and you’ll be given a replacement or refund.
Pros
Cons
Looking to invest in the best hybrid table saw for small shop? Well, you’re in luck because the Laguna Tools F2 Fusion fits this description perfectly.
Right off the bat, you’ll notice that it has a very striking design. It has an innovative and futuristic design that’s sure to make a statement in your workshop.
Laguna Tools Fusion has a cabinet-mounted style, which is a superb addition as it provides onboard storage. This way, you can keep your most frequently-used tools in close proximity.
The F2 Fusion includes a 10 inch carbide tipped blade with up to 60 teeth per inch. This makes it well suited for projects that require smooth finishes.
Better yet, this blade is powered by a 1.75 hp Totally Enclosed Fan-Cooled (TEFC) motor. The TEFC motor is designed to prevent external air from circulating within the motor's interior; hence, maximizing its performance.
Important to note though is that the machine is quite big. It measures 42.51 x 66.81 x 42.91 inches and weighs approximately 276 pounds. The saving grace is that it’s equipped with wheels, which make for easy portability.
Its massive weight is not too surprising considering the F2 is made up of a cast iron table. It's made of other heavy duty materials like cast alloy, and steel, guaranteeing you years of service.
Though this Laguna Tools Fusion unit does not have the highest number of safety features, it includes standard measures. The main one is the anti-kickback system, which is very effective and straightforward.
We also like how roomy and well-secured the tabletop is. This prevents workpieces from moving around when the saw is in operation.
Besides, the power on/off dial on the 1 3/4 hp 10 inch table is big and strategically located. This makes it incredibly easy to push it with your knees.
The 4-inch dust port is another excellent addition to Laguna Tools F2 Fusion. This allows you to attach an industrial vacuum for effective dust control.
Pros
Cons
If you’re a professional contractor and are in need of a powerful machine, then Shop Fox W1819 is the ultimate worksite table saw.
It has a striking resemblance to the W1837 model we looked at earlier. It’s just as sturdy and stable, so you’ll be able to perform precise cuts with ease.
Another thing we like about its design entails its ultra-spacious tabletop, which measures 40 ¼ by 27 inches. The best part is, it includes a fence extension, enabling you to increase your tabletop to a 27 by 53 ⅝ inch-size.
As we pointed out earlier, the Shop Fox W1819 gives you a decent amount of power to work with. Thanks to the 3 hp motor, triple belt drive, and 10 inch blade, this tool is perfectly suited for heavy duty cutting jobs.
A crucial point to note about the blade is that it can tilt leftwards in the range of 0 to 45 degrees. And you’ll be able to adjust the angle to make the most accurate angled cuts.
The adjustable T slot miter gauge is a nice addition to this 3 hp 10 inch hybrid table saw. It includes a flip stop, which is particularly useful when you want to perform multiple cuts of similar width.
You can easily pivot this stop out of the way, and fit in a bigger-sized stock, then pivot it back down to make more cuts at your preferred cutting width. The table saw also includes cast iron trunnions that further help with alignment and precision.
To guarantee your safety, the manufacturer included a couple of safety mechanisms. First off, the magnetic switch has thermal overload protection.
Secondly, the blade comprises a clear polycarbonate guard. This allows you to see exactly how the blade is moving so you can keep a distance.
Lastly, there’s a quick release riving knife that keeps your freshly cut stock from pinching the rear of the blade and causing kickback.
Pros
Cons
Conclusion
One of the best hybrid table saws that you can invest in is Dewalt DWE7491RS 10-Inch Table Saw. It’s fairly priced, yet it has a wide range of handy features, giving you maximum value for money.
The table saw is outfitted with a standard 24-tooth carbide blade, offering a maximum cutting depth of 2 ¼ at and 3 ⅛ inches at 90. The saw also offers a variable rip capacity; 22 inches to the left of the blade and 32 ½ inches to its right.
A 2 inch dust collection port helps to keep your work area clean while an extra 80-tooth blade allows you to handle projects that require a high precision level. Lastly, the table saw comes with an array of accessories including a mobile stand, push stick, miter gauge, rip fence, and blade guard assembly.