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Two of of the best miter saws on the market are made by Dewalt: the DWS779 and DWS780. These two miter saws have a lot in common, and it can be really confusing trying to figure out which one suits your needs better. I’ve dissected both of these Dewalt miter saws for you – read my Dewalt DWS779 vs DWS780 reviews to find out how these two models compare, which is my top power tool choice, and which could be the best for you.
Contents
DWS779 vs DWS780 Miter Saw Comparison
| Feature | Dewalt DWS779 | Dewalt DWS780 |
|---|---|---|
| Target Audience | DIYers and amateur woodworkers | Professionals |
| Laser Guide System | No | Traditional laser guide system |
| Speed (RPM) | 3,800 | 3,800 |
| LED Light System | No | Yes |
| Price Point | Lower | Higher |
| Special Feature | Attractive price point | XPS system for cross cut positioning |
I have used both of these Dewalt miter saws for light-duty and heavy-duty demands. The two models are very impressive power tools with their performance. Each model comes with pros and cons, and choosing one over another is often a matter of preference.
For the vast majority of DIYers and woodworkers, the Dewalt DWS779 is the best choice. With capabilities similar to the DWS780, the cost is signfigantly lower and you get the vast majority of features.
The DWS779 may not have a laser guide and could be a little less precise (maybe), but it comes at an attractive price point that won’t break the bank.
The DW780, on the other hand, is more suitable for a professional. IT has the the same motor as power supply and spins at the same speed but has a traditional laser guide system and a more versatile bevel function that guarantees precision and versatility for heavy-duty, high-volume jobs.
Both machines are compatible with several types of stands, and both models can be mounted on the bench. Furthermore, both miter saws are portable, feature an oversized bevel scale and blade guard, and are easy to use.
Dewalt DWS779 Miter Saw Review
The Dewalt DWS779 is a reliable sliding compound miter saw designed for precision and coming at a competitive price.
The lack of a few important features makes it more suitable for the amateur woodworker than for the pro; nonetheless, I found this sliding compound miter saw to be a dependable tool that withstands high-volume applications, and that can handle large pieces of stock and very dense wood species.
Overview
- Exclusive back fence design cuts up to 2×14 dimensional lumber at 90 degrees and 2×12 at 45 degree.
- Innovative cutting system with double horizontal rail and linear ball bearing.
- Powerful and fast, this machine can slice through wood easily, and with the right blade diameter, it can even handle alternative materials.
- Does not come with LED (sold separately) or laser cutting guide
Let’s have an in-depth look at its features.
Power
Dewalt is renowned as a trustworthy manufacturer of power tools, and its Dewalt DWS779 doesn’t disappoint. This tool comes equipped with a reliable 15-Amp motor that produces sufficient power to drive the blade at high speeds.
Compared to most miter saws on the market, the DWS779 is one of the most powerful.
This translates into the capacity of handling harder stock or alternative materials like steel and plastic, but also larger and thicker workpieces.
Speed
What I learned during my years of practice is that high-capacity motor typically means high-speed wood cutting tools. And the DWS779 certainly doesn’t let you down on this.
The powerful motor on this miter saw spins the blade up to 3,800 revolutions per minute (RPM), a speed high enough to slice through soft and hardwood, metal, plastic, and aluminum like a knife through melted butter.
I liked the speed is adjustable, which means you can choose the right RPM to match the needs of your cutting project.
Capacity
Perhaps the feature that impressed me the most is the high cutting capacity this tool has. A typical sliding miter saw can handle lumber up to 12 inches wide, but the DWS779 can actually deal with workpieces measuring up to 2×16 inches for dimensional 90° crosscuts and up to 2×12 inches for 45° bevel cuts.
Combine this with the blade’s capability of tilting both to the left and to the right, and you’ll understand why I’m so fond of this machine.
Other things I like about this miter saws cutting capacity are the tall sliding fences with support crown molding up to 7.5 inches, that guarantee accurate cuts.
Precision
Talking about precision, the Dewalt DWS779 miter saw excels at it.
The machine comes with an integrated Cutline Blade Positioning System designed to provide adjustment-free cut line indications. This feature plus the stainless steel lever cam with 10 positive stops, ensure cutting accuracy on all materials and regardless of the cutting angle.
Furthermore, the steel dual horizontal rail design ensures accuracy thanks to the innovative cutting system and linear ball bearings.
A slight drawback is the absence of a LED light system. Once a novelty item, an LED light is now pretty standard in power tools, especially more expensive ones like Dewalt. I can’t say it’s a huge miss, but having an LED light can really help keep your cuts on point.
What I Like:
- Double bevel sliding mechanism
- Innovative clamping device for more precise cuts
- High speed up to 3,800 RPM
- Ideal for wood, metal, and plastic
- Compatible with different types of blade size
- Easy to change the blades
- Comfortable to maneuver
- Great price point
What I Didn’t Like:
- No LED guide
- Some plastic components seem flimsy
Dewalt DWS779 FAQs
Does The DWS779 Come With a Laser Guide?
No, the Dewalt DWS779 does not come with a laser guide. However, it does comes with an integrated Dewalt blade positioning and cutting system.
What Is the Recommended Voltage Capacity for the DWS779?
The Dewalt DWS779 operates at 120V 60Hz and plugs into a traditional wall outlet or power generator receptacle.
Are the DWS779 Measurements Metric?
No, the Dewalt DWS779 uses the standard American measurement system, and all units are expressed in inches.
Dewalt DWS780 Miter Saw Review
The Dewalt DWS780 is a double bevel sliding compound miter saw. In practice, it is nothing more than the DWS779’s upgraded version and shares many features with its brother. For instance, the bevel angles are the same. However, some extra features such as the blade wrench make this tool more suitable for the pro than for the amateur.
Built with durability in mind, this double bevel sliding compound miter saw withstands high-volume demands and heavy-duty workshop tasks.
One of the things that make the difference between the two units is the DWS780’s construction that employs rugged materials like iron and stainless steel that handle hard materials in industrial environments.
- Exclusive Back Fence design cuts up to 2X14 dimensional lumber at 90-degrees, 2 by 12 at 45 degrees
- A rail lock latch that holds the head away from the fence maximizing vertical cutting capacity and making it easier
- Rugged construction and additional features reflect in the heftier price.
- The DWS780 is no doubt more capable than the DWS779 model, but as an amateur, you might do just fine with the latter.
That said, I confess the DWS780’s capacities impressed me. Here’s an in-depth look at them.
Power
From a strict amperage point of view, the DWS780 is identical with the 779 models. These sliding miter saws are also equipped with a 15-Amp motor that delivers reliable power to the carbide blade (included).
Just like the DSW779 above, this power tool is corded and works on 120V 60Hz AC. It plugs into a traditional outlet or, alternatively, you can use a suitable power generator receptacle for job site applications.
The brushless motor has a long lifespan and provides sufficient power to the blade to spin at high speeds.
Speed
The motor is not the only thing the two miter saws have in common. Another mutual trait is the maximum speed, which coincides. With a blade spinning at 3,800 RPM, the DWS780 miter saw handles all types of wood, including plywood, but also metals and plastic, to name just a few.
Like the other unit reviewed in this guide, the DWS780 is compatible with wood, metal, and plastic blades, including high-speed steel blades and the carbide blade it comes with.
Capacity
A dual bevel system and high cutting capacity add versatility to the operation and make this miter saw perfect for a commercial workshop.
At first glance, the miter saw has the same cutting capacity as its brother above, handling workpieces up to 2×16 inches for 90° crosscuts and 2×12 inches for 45° bevel cuts. The miter tilts to 60° to the right and 50° to the left for an easy adjustment.
Moreover, the hassle-free operation is ensured by the bevel capacity from zero to 49 degrees with multiple positive stops at 0, 22.5, 33.9, 45, and 49 degrees in both directions.
Precision
The upgraded Dewalt DWS780 was built for precision, and the machine guarantees a high level of accuracy thanks to the features developed specifically for this purpose such as the metal detent system and rail lock that increases the vertical cutting capacity.
Perhaps the most praised feature is the exclusive XPS system for cross-cut positioning. This cross-cut alignment system was developed to provide adjustment-free line indications.
Tall sliding fence supports, back fence and the miter detent plate parameters with cam lock ensure accuracy and vertical capacity even for the repeated cuts with no or hassle-free adjustments, similar to other stainless steel miter scales.
Unlike the DWS779, the DWS780 comes with a bright LED light. You can use this bright LED light to keep your cuts accurate.
What I Like:
- Integrated XPS system for cross cut positioning
- Sliding compound miter saw
- XPS light system for additional accuracy
- Dual bevel cutting system
- Miter detent plate with cam lock miter button
- Exclusive back fence
- Increased miter capacity
- Multiple positive bevel adjustments
- Rugged workshop construction
What I Didn’t Like:
- The blade doesn’t cut all the way to the fence when using the blade depth stop
- Inefficient dust bag collector system. The dust collection system doesn’t pick up all the dust
- The material clamp doesn’t have a locking mechanism, making the machine a bit unsafe
Dewalt DWS780 FAQs
Can I Use the Dewalt DWS780 to Cut Metal?
The Dewalt DWS780 is a miter saw developed for cutting both metal and wood. Thanks to its high speed, stainless steel detent plate, and high capacity motor, you can use it to cut metals and other materials, provided you use a specialty blade.
Does the Dewalt DWS780 Come with a Stand?
No, the DWS780 does not come with a stand, but it can be bench mounted. I recommend installing it on a compatible miter saw stand for improved stability and accuracy.
Is the DWS780 Portable?
Yes, the Dewalt DWS780 is a portable miter saw, weighing only 70 pounds. It is compact enough to transport with ease and has a folding stand with wheels to make transportation easier.
Final Thoughts
I hope the Dewalt DWS779 vs DWS780 miter saw review above can help you choose the right tool for your workshop. The two Dewalt miter saws are very similar, so at the end of the day, you could base your choice on your needs and budget.
Both units have drawbacks when it comes to safety, while the dust extraction system could also be improved on both machines.
Do you need the best performance? Perhaps the Dewalt DWS780 is the best miter saw for you.
Are you looking for a budget-friendly alternative? The Dewalt DWS779 could be a better beginner miter saw choice.
All things that matter, such as cutting precision, performance, and accuracy are great on both saws. From a woodworker’s perspective, even if the DWS779 model doesn’t come with the XPS crosscut cutting system, you can achieve great results with both machines.
