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DeWalt 12-Inch Double-Bevel Sliding Compound DWS780 Review

This is a highly powerful, user-friendly tool with a significant cut capacity, ideal for professionals and demanding DIY tasks
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DeWalt 12-Inch Double-Bevel Sliding Compound DWS780 Review
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Price:  $669 List
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Manufacturer:   DeWalt
By Isaac Laredo and Austin Palmer  ⋅  Dec 12, 2023
85
OVERALL
SCORE


RANKED
#1 of 10
  • Ease of Use - 45% 9.4
  • Dust Collection - 20% 6.8
  • Cut Capacity - 15% 6.8
  • Cutting Power and Speed - 15% 9.0
  • Precision and Accuracy - 5% 10.0

Our Verdict

The DeWalt 12-Inch Double-Bevel Sliding Compound DWS780 stands out for its cutting power, ease of use, and high cut capacity, making it ideal for professionals and ambitious DIY enthusiasts. Key highlights include an easy-to-use miter adjustment system, an efficient blade-changing system, and an improved blade depth lock. However, it has a large and heavy footprint, which might be challenging for those with limited storage. The dust collection system provides average performance, but using a medium-power vacuum improves it effectively. Its high power and large cut capacity make it perfect for those with ample storage or dedicated workshop spaces.
REASONS TO BUY
Easy adjustments
Well-built
Easy blade change
Quality blade change tool
REASONS TO AVOID
Large footprint
Dust collection curtains may close with strong vaccums

Compare to Similar Products

 
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Best Overall Miter Saw
Top Pick Award
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Top Pick Award
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Best Buy Award
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Best Buy Award
Best Budget Battery-Powered Miter Saw
Price $669 List
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Bottom Line A dynamic and user-friendly device with substantial cutting capacity, making it a preferred choice for professionals and intensive DIY venturesThis saw provides a significant amount of power, impressive construction, and excellent dust control. However, it does have a slight drawback of reduced cutting capacity and free bevel rangeThis is one of the top battery-powered saws on the market, with user-friendly features and a sturdy buildThe saw is efficient and makes cuts quickly and easily, but it struggles with collecting dust effectivelyThe battery-powered saw offers an impressive cut capacity. However, it is important to calibrate before starting any work and throughout its lifespan
Rating Categories DeWalt 12-Inch Doub... DeWalt 12-Inch Sing... DeWalt 20V Max 7-1/... SKIL 10-Inch Dual-B... Ryobi 18V ONE+ 7-1/...
Ease of Use (45%)
9.4
8.3
8.9
7.2
6.4
Dust Collection (20%)
6.8
7.3
8.2
3.5
8.3
Cut Capacity (15%)
6.8
4.5
3.0
6.3
4.6
Cutting Power and Speed (15%)
9.0
9.0
4.3
8.3
3.5
Precision and Accuracy (5%)
10.0
10.0
9.5
9.5
9.3
Specs DeWalt 12-Inch Doub... DeWalt 12-Inch Sing... DeWalt 20V Max 7-1/... SKIL 10-Inch Dual-B... Ryobi 18V ONE+ 7-1/...
Cut Line Indicator Shadow None Shadow Shadow None
Measured Weight 61.13 lbs 37.31 lbs 29.44 lbs 40.25 lbs 22.86 lbs
Measured dust collection after 100 cuts 1.36 oz 1.17 oz 0.75 oz 2.67 oz 0.71 oz
Max Measured Cut Depth at 90 13.6 in 8.1 in 8.2 in 12.6 in 9.9 in
Blade Diameter 12" 12" 7-1/4" 10" 7-1/4"
Positive Stops Miter (10)
45º, 31.6º, 22.5º, 15º, 0,º 15º, 22.5º, 31.6º, 45º, 60º
(14)
45º, 35.3º, 31.6º, 22.5º, 15º, 10º, 0º, 10º, 15º, 22.5º, 31.6º, 35.3º, 45º, 50º
(13)
45º, 35.3º, 31.6º, 22.5º, 15º, 10º, 0º, 10º, 15º, 22.5º, 31.6º, 35.3º, 45º
(9)
45º, 31.6º, 22.5º, 15º, 0º, 15º, 22.5º, 31.6º, 45º
(9)
45º, 31.6º, 22.5º, 15º, 0º, 15º, 22.5º, 31.6º, 45º
Positive Stops Bevel / Tilt (9)
49º, 45º, 33.9º, 22.5º, 0º, 22.5º, 33.9º, 45º, 49º
(4)
48º*, 45º, 0º, 3º*
(4)
47º, 45º, 0º, 3º
(4)
48º, 45º, 0º, 45º
(2)
45º, 0º
Blade Cut Depth Stop Yes No No Yes Yes
Sliding Yes No Yes Yes Yes
Bevel Dual Single Single Dual Single
Miter Angle Range 50° Left
60° Right
47° Left
47° Right
60° Left
60° Right
51° Left
51° Right
47° Left
47° Right
Bevel Angle Range 49° Left
49° Right
48° Left
3° Right
47° Left*
3° Right*
48° Left
45° Right
45° Left
Measured RPM 4050 3990 3940 4960 3450
Average Measured Blade Runout Time 1.75 seconds 2.25 seconds 1.65 seconds 3.11 seconds 1.75 seconds
Measured Table Width 24-5/8" 21-5/8" 21-3/8" 20-7/16"
Two bars: 22"
15-9/16"
Measured Table Width with Extensions 32-7/8" No Extensions No Extensions 33-7/8" 23-9/16"

Our Analysis and Test Results

The DeWalt 12-inch Double-Bevel Sliding Compound DWS780 is a highly capable and user-friendly saw, thanks to its impressive cutting power, capacity, and simple design features. It can efficiently tackle any miter-appropriate project and is an excellent option for professionals and DIY enthusiasts with ambitious project goals.

Performance Comparison


The DWS780 is a highly capable saw that offers great value for those who are willing to invest in its initial start-up cost.
Credit: Natalie Kafader

Ease of Use


Home improvement projects can involve learning new skills, multiple trips to the hardware store, and more time than you originally planned. Projects can take less time with tools that are efficient and easy to use. To evaluate the user experience provided by each product, we calibrated, cut, and changed the blade on each model to ensure we used every feature, like the blade depth lock. The DeWalt DWS780 proved to be one of the most user-friendly models in the review due to its easy adjustments, blade change process, and blade depth lock system.


The saw has an easy calibration process and is fully adjustable. Its miter adjustment system was a favorite within our test team because of its easy-to-use handle, override system, and ergonomics. Lift the handle and freely move to your desired miter angle without any intermittent stops. The tools offer ten positive stops up to 45 degrees on the left miter and 60 degrees on the right. The saw features a simple tri-claw knob to adjust the bevel and clear numerical markings. The bevel has nine positive stops up to 49 degrees on both sides.

This model features one of our favorite blade-changing systems. The blade change process is relatively quick, and the blade guard is securely out of your way.

The blade depth lock is an improved version of the classic two-screw system. It allows for faster cuts, including a depth stop lever and wing nut, to lift and lower without unscrewing or resetting the stop.

The DeWalt DWS780 employs a shadow cut line, which helps you line up your cuts faster and more accurately.

One notable disadvantage of this model is its heavy weight and large footprint. The saw weighs 61 lbs and 2 oz and measures 32 7/8 inches with the table extensions fully elongated. As a result, this model requires more storage space and can be challenging to move, making it ideal to be kept in a designated location.

The dust collection port is equipped with flaps that effectively direct sawdust into the port, allowing the vacuum's suction to take over and efficiently remove it.
Credit: Austin Palmer

Dust Collection


An efficient dust collection system is great for DIY aficionados working in confined spaces or professionals who cut trim or floorboards onsite. It dramatically reduces cleanup efforts and enhances workflow efficiency. To gauge this feature, we created a small enclosure to contain dust and made 100 cuts on a 2x4, utilizing a vacuum on the hose port during testing. We gathered and measured the residual dust around the saw. The DeWalt DWS780 provides middle-of-the-road performance that scatters a manageable amount of dust around.


Utilizing the saw with the supplied dust bag doesn't yield optimal results. The dust bag fell short of effectively capturing the byproduct of the sawing operation. This resulted in a considerable amount of sawdust scattering around the tool and workspace.

When a vacuum was initially connected for a more robust dust collection, it showed encouraging results, effectively capturing the sawdust for the initial cuts. However, the curtain designed to direct the dust flow experienced issues, getting suctioned in and disrupting the process, leading to a scatter of sawdust across the space. Particularly with high-powered vacuums, the curtain flaps tend to close off, reducing dust collection capabilities.

dewalt 12-inch double-bevel sliding compound dws780 - the saw produced a similar amount of dust compared to the average...
The saw produced a similar amount of dust compared to the average model in our review, leaving a total of 1.36 ounces behind.
Credit: Austin Palmer

On the other hand, medium-powered vacuums showed considerable dust collection efficiency, leaving only 1.36 ounces of dust within the enclosure, which counts as one of the minimal recorded values.

dewalt 12-inch double-bevel sliding compound dws780 - this model effectively made cross-cuts through a 4x4 and achieved...
This model effectively made cross-cuts through a 4x4 and achieved one of the longest distances, measuring 3-21/32", at a 45-degree bevel.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Cut Capacity


The miter saw's cut capacity will dictate if it suits your project needs. We tested each saw to determine the largest pieces of lumber each saw could handle across the horizontal and vertical planes. The DeWalt DWS780 has one of the largest cut capacities within the review.


We conducted tests to evaluate the performance of the DeWalt DWS780 saw on both the vertical and horizontal planes of a board. The saw made a 90-degree cross-cut through a 2 x 12 board and a 45-degree miter cut through a 2 x 8 board across the horizontal plane. The saw made complete cross-cuts along the board's vertical plane through a 4x4 board.

dewalt 12-inch double-bevel sliding compound dws780 - this model was able to make a 45-degree bevel cut through a...
This model was able to make a 45-degree bevel cut through a vertically oriented 2x4, but it was not able to make the same cut through a 4x4. In the case of the 4x4, the saw was only able to cut 3-21/32 inches deep.
Credit: Austin Palmer

Additionally, using a 45-degree angle, the saw completed a cut through the thickness of a 2x4 board and traveled 3-15/16 inches on a 4x4 board.

dewalt 12-inch double-bevel sliding compound dws780 - few can match the exceptional cutting power delivered by this model.
Few can match the exceptional cutting power delivered by this model.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Cutting Power and Speed


Insufficient cutting power for the given material can lead to stalled saw blades and the potential to cause project delays or poor-quality cuts. Our evaluation procedures included slicing a two-inch aluminum angle bracket with the sharp point directed upwards. This setup provided a considerable trial for the saw as it had to cut through both sides. Additionally, the saw was tasked with attaining consecutive cuts on 4x4 beams. Furthermore, we used a tachometer to record each product's revolutions per minute (RPMs). Although these readings did not contribute to our final scoring, they enhanced our comprehensive understanding of each product's capacities. The DeWaltDWS780 has best-in-class power well suited for rigorous materials.


The DWS780 maintains 4050 RPMs and makes quick work of our test materials. It cut through the 4x4 in rapid succession with little to no effort. When cutting through our 2-inch aluminum, the saw cut through like a hot knife through butter.

dewalt 12-inch double-bevel sliding compound dws780 - the tool was perfectly calibrated straight out of the box and...
The tool was perfectly calibrated straight out of the box and exhibited minimal to no drifting during our testing process. It is worth noting that on this particular model, the miter angle on the right can be adjusted up to 60 degrees.
Credit: Natalie Kafader

Precision and Accuracy


A driving reason to own a miter saw is because of the variety and precision of the cuts the tool is capable of. In this metric, we assessed the accuracy of the miter, bevel, and cross-cut angles before and after testing. The DWS780 delivered perfect marks and the results one would expect from one of the top tool brands.


The meticulous build quality of this tool was evident from the outset. It was perfectly calibrated out of the box, with precise measurements across the square, miter, and bevel angles. The tight tolerances and machining quality ensured the saw remained aligned throughout the testing process. The fence was square to the table with no discernible gaps. The DeWalt saw is ideal for providing long-term accurate cutting, and the user should ensure precision through regular checks.

Should You Buy the DeWalt 12-Inch Double-Bevel Sliding Compound DWS780?


The DeWalt is one of the top-performing saws in this review. Its incredible power and cut capacity make it an excellent choice for professionals and homeowners with ample storage or shop spaces. However, if you have limited storage or shop space resources, you may want to consider a smaller unit.

dewalt 12-inch double-bevel sliding compound dws780 - the double bevel saw has a range of motion up to 49 degrees on both...
The double bevel saw has a range of motion up to 49 degrees on both the left and right sides.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

What Other Miter Saws Should You Consider?


If you're searching for a smaller, lighter option without compromising power, look at the SKIL 10-Inch Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound MS6305-00. Despite weighing just 40 lb 4 oz, it performed exceptionally well in our test materials. However, if you're on a tighter budget and don't require as much cutting capacity, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ 7-1/4-Inch Single Bevel Sliding Compound PBT01B might be a suitable choice. It offers a compact, portable, and battery-powered solution.

dewalt 12-inch double-bevel sliding compound dws780 - our testing places the dws780 as a top-of-the-line miter saw, and...
Our testing places the DWS780 as a top-of-the-line miter saw, and although it comes with a higher price tag, it offers exceptional value for those seeking exceptional performance.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Isaac Laredo and Austin Palmer