Best Tile Saw – Reviews and Buying Guide 2020

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DEWALT D24000S

Best 10” Tile Saw

Lackmond BEAST7

Best 7” Tile Saw

DEWALT DWC860W

Best 4”Tile Saw

As we are all aware, the marketplace is awash with different types of tile saws. It does not matter whether you look domestically or across the borders, the story is still the same-a pool of options awaits you. Going into the stores to look for the best tile saw is akin to entering the Amazon rainforest. If you know nothing about the jungle, surviving there is difficult. Similarly, surrounded by all the tile saw specs, features, prices etc., one can suffer consequences of a bad choice. We prepared this review of the best tile saws today to help you make the right decision.

A tile saw (may be wet or dry) has a unique operation in which the cutting action is accompanied by cooling (for the wet saw). In real sense, the saw does not cut the surface; it grinds it. To achieve this, the edge of the saw is coated with diamonds. This operation produces a lot of heat and dust, so water may be used as a coolant. The water cools the surface, absorbs the dust and acts as a lubricant.

Several companies have been in the business of selling/manufacturing the best tile saws and are releasing great products every year. A section of manufacturers focus on cheaper models and others are known for heavy-duty models. Choose well and you will love your tile saw. You may go for a low-end saw if you just want to tile your small bathroom. However, if you are a contractor, investing in a nice heavy-duty tile saw is a no-brainer, just like investing in a solid table saw is a must if you are a woodworker. Read on for a categorization of these tools in terms of blade size.


Tile Saw Reviews


Best 10-Inch Tile Saw

Smaller tile saws are emerging in their numbers, but the 10” tile saw still rocks. Most professionals are looking for powerful, fast and big tools. In most cases, a 10” Tile Saw will fulfill these needs. Tools in this category can handle both straight and diagonal cuts in brick and tile materials. Contractors love them not just for this capability, but also for their table sizes.

As you would expect, these high quality tile saws can be expensive. Unlike smaller and less powerful saws that rarely exceed the $100 price mark, the best 10” Tile Saws can cost in the excess of $500.

These prices are intimidating, and you can incur a huge loss if you land the wrong machine. Nevertheless, we feel that user should not shy away from these saws if for sure they are searching for firepower, accuracy and life. We have three of the best tile saws in this category analyzed below.


A) DEWALT D24000S Heavy-Duty 10-inch Wet Tile Saw with Stand

DEWALT D24000S

Cantilevering rail cart system allows for 24-inch ripping capacity and 18-inch tile on diagonal

A contractor looking for a tile saw will be excited the moment he/she sees this machine. The size and weight are major concerns during transportation, and heavy-duty machine is impressive. Most users will be able to carry this 69 pound without asking for an extra pair of hands. Also contributing to the portability of this tile saw is the compact frame.

This is not to saw that the saw has significantly less features than other heavier machines. One of the most remarkable features is the degree miter, which has both 22.5 and 45 degrees. This feature makes the machine swift and efficient in making angled cuts.

When choosing the best tile saw, some people tend to dwell on the size of machine, but this can be deceiving. Some tools can amaze you with their power to size ratio. Its 1.5 HP motor and 15 AMP powerful motor is enough to handle a wide range of jobs involving the bathroom, porcelain, kitchen and so on.

Cutting things like tiles and getting smooth edges is a major challenge for users. More often than not, the user needs to push the material slowly to avoid rough edges. This kind of approach has the undesirable effect of slowing down production.  Thanks to its powerful motor, the DEWALT D24000S glides through the brittle materials leaving behind excellent cuts.

The smoothness of the cuts is also attributed to the integration between the saw frame and the stainless steel rail system. Tile saws without stainless steel systems are prone to corrosion, which makes tile movement problematic.

To ensure continual wetness of the blade, this tile saw comes with dual water nozzles. The availability of two nozzles allows the user to cool the blade at different angles.

What else is in the package? You will get the stand so you can be set for the most efficient cutting ever.

While the plastic components can be damaged over time, good care and maintenance of the machine can lead to fulfilling service for many years.


B) QEP 61900Q 2.25 HP Professional Tile Saw, 10-Inch

QEP 61900Q

Powerful 2.25 HP, 15 Amp motor cuts for fast and accurate cutting of all types of tile including ceramic, porcelain, slate, stone and marble

The QEP 61900Q has also earned its place in this prestigious list, mostly because of its sturdy construction. Its stand while easy to fold up is strong. Complementing the stand are the two sizeable wheels, which can move on rough surfaces easily. The user does not need help to move this machine from one site to another. For this reason, we would not hesitate to recommend this tool for any contractor.

No doubt, cutting capability is one of the most critical characteristics of the best tile saws. Bring the toughest tiles and this machine will still deliver. It comes with a 10-inch diamond blade. Furthermore, its motor head is adjustable, allowing the user to achieve clean rip/angle cuts, interior cuts and miter cuts. This tile cutter is suitable for a wide range of projects.

The secret behind this remarkable versatility is the 2.25 HP, 15 Amp motor. Anyone who has experience with this kind of power will tell you that it is enough for different materials including marble and porcelain. The manufacturer claims the tool can also cut stone, slate and porcelain, and we tend to agree with that.

You can never be so sure about the size of materials you will need to cut during the life of a tile saw. You can cut larger tiles with the QEP 61900Q because it comes with a side extension table, which can add a few in to the worktable.

The designers did a splendid job on the water pump. The water containment tray is sizeable to curb overspray. The inlet is strategically positioned for easy adjustment and cleaning of filter.

If you are looking for a practical tile saw, look no more. With its foldable stand, this machine can get into tight spaces easily. Its dimensions are very manageable at 28.75 x 39 x 20.5 in.

The high price may be an impediment to many users, but it justifiable.


C) DEWALT D24000 1.5-Horsepower

DEWALT D24000 1.5-Horsepower

Only 69 pounds, allowing one person to transport it and set it up

Unlike the earlier analyzed version, this tile saw does not have a stand. This is a plus if space is extremely limited or easy transportation is a priority. Of course, you also get to save a few dollars with this option over the one with a stand.

Like the version with a stand, this tile saw is designed for durability. For example, the stainless steel rail system will withstand many years of use before it deteriorates. This is a heavy-duty machine that that is also built for convenience and compactness. We particularly like its compact frame (29.25 x 36 x 20.38 in) because this means ease of set-up and transportation.

This is a wet tile saw, so you can make cuts for as long as you want. You do not have to wait for the blade to cool to continue with your work. There is more to this tool’s blade cooling system though. It comes with an innovative dual water nozzle arrangement, which minimizes overspray. The tool also features water catchments on both the sides and rear to prevent spray and runoff. With the DEWALT D24000, you will produce some of the tidiest cuts.

Cut accuracy is one factor you do not want to ignore when selecting the best tile saw. The secret behind the saw’s incredible accuracy is the sturdy rail system. The rail’s integration to the frame brings both durability and accuracy.

When you need to make diagonal cuts, the system’s cantilevering design comes into play, allowing for diagonal cuts on tiles as large as 18 in. With its 24in ripping capacity, this tile saw is ideal for both small and sizeable jobs.

The saw is versatile from the way it is able to make quick cuts in a wide range of materials including stone and porcelain. A combination of the powerful 1.5hp motor and the ever-reliable 10in diamond blade makes this saw unstoppable in the face of hard materials. Consequently, you can use the tool to cut pavers and tiles. It would also be an ideal choice when you are making plunge cuts for A/C registers, electrical outlets and so on.

There are some bad reviews, but the overwhelming positive reviews confirm the superior quality of this product.


D) 2.5 Horsepower 10″ Industrial Tile

2.5 Horsepower

Oversized steel frame with precision linear bar system for smooth operation

For many years, Chicago Electric has brought us some of the most reliable power tools, and this 10-inch tile saw advances this trend. This powerful yet smooth operating piece of machine fits industrial level work perfectly.

The type of material and construction of a tile saw is an important consideration. The reason is that it affects quality and the longevity of the machine. In the 2.5 Horsepower 10-inch industrial tile saw, you get a heavily built tool able to withstand the harsh industrial environments. It will serve for many years thanks to the reliable and tough steel frame.

You do not want to overlook the budget when looking for the best tile saw. Getting a tool that is both within the budget and reliable is some kind of a gamble nowadays. For this powerful tool, the price can be intimidating to a home-based user, but for an industrial unit, this is fair pricing. You realize how good this machine when you consider that it can cut a wide range of materials, including bricks.

Practical is the word when describing this tile saw. When you are at the construction site, you need a machine that is not only sturdy, but also flexible for a wide range of projects. The tool comes with an adjustable cutting head so users can cut tiles and bricks of up to 3-1/2″ thickness. Look at the numerous cutting possibilities and you will realize why this saw is already a hit. The head-pivoting feature gives the machine ability to make bevel cuts at 22.5 and 45 degrees.

Another irresistible capability of this tool is capability to cut 24 in tiles swiftly. If you are wondering how this is possible, the secret is the precision linear bar system that ensures smooth cuts even in materials this big.

Here are more reasons to consider this tool:

  • Thermal overload protection
  • Sealed bearings
  • Accuracy

While this tool may not please the eyes of many users, we can conclude that its many pros win.


Best 7-Inch Tile Saw

For this size of tile saw, expect to pay at least $200, which is much cheaper than in the previous category. These tools are cheaper because they do not have as much capacity as the bigger ones. DIY users and homeowners can still find these cutters suitable for their projects, but the cutters are mostly designed for professionals. Most of these saws come with a powerful pump and a stand.

A contractor needs a cutter that will stand granite and other hard materials. A cutter that can handle large projects. That cutter is the Best 7” Tile Saw category. Do not worry if you are handling sizeable stock. These saws come with large tables to cater for a wide range of sizes. With these tables, it is also possible to make angled and custom miter cuts.

7 in is the lower measure of a blade for cutting hard materials. The following four products will give further idea what having this type of tile saw means to the user.


A) Lackmond BEAST7

Lackmond BEAST7

Durable steel pipe saw frame is constructed to withstand the toughest conditions. Tube steel provides excellent strength without adding excess weight.

Lackmond is associated with robust innovative solutions, as evidenced in this tool loaded with features and capability. Probably this is the reason they baptize their tools Beast.

Straight cuts are some of the most desirable things for in a tile saw for a professional. The designers obviously put this into consideration by incorporating a direct drive motor. The 13 AMP powerful motor is adequate for bevel cuts at 22.5⁰ and 45⁰. Users can make use of the plunge cut component to make a wide range of cuts including wall sockets, V-Cap cuts and cutouts.

The machine comes with a powerful blade capable of making a 24-inch rip cut and diagonal cuts on 18 x 18 inch tile. The blade is cooled using an ingenious water system. The snake-pipe design enables complete control of water volume and placement. In case you desire multiple streams of water or any other customization, you can get a “Y-fitting”.

Professionals prefer this 56.7 pounds beast because of its sturdy construction. As many users have come to expect from Lackmond tools, every component proves that this tile saw is built for the toughest job conditions.

The saw frame is made of steel for enhanced durability. Since it is tubular, it does not add unnecessary weight to the tool. This machine can never disappoint a contractor because these qualities make it highly portable.

The user wants some reassurance even with the best tile saws. The manufacturer has catered for this so users can knock their tasks out of the park without worry. The 3-year warranty gives users extra peace of mind.

This tile saw is available at a friendly cost and will serve you for many years as long as you accord it proper care. It offers value for money in terms of power, durability, resilience, and user friendliness. Remember you can get two types of stands separately.


B) MK-370EXP 1-1/4 HP

MK-370EXP 1-1/4 HP 7-Inch

Lightweight and portable tile saw is made to the highest professional specifications

No doubt, the MK Diamond MK-370EXP 1-1/4HP 7-Inch wet cutting tile saw is a top-end tool, but the price seems favorable. Many cutters of its class are above the $387.99 price mark. When you consider that shipping is free, you might be more inclined to appreciate the offer.

The ease of use on this machine is astounding. Assembly of the corded-electric machine is as simple as black and white. Carrying the 49 pounds tool will be easy for contractors. Maintenance is almost non-existent because both the gearbox and pinion are maintenance-free.

A 120V motor capable of 6000 revs per minute is highly effective for all those outlet cuts and plunge cuts. It makes this machine a darling for professionals. However, this feature is also extremely dangerous if not controlled. That is the reason the tool comes with a safe switch. The machine will not operate when the safe switch is removed.

Another reason this tool is so incredible is the diamond blade, which is consistent on hard materials such as pavers, porcelain and ceramic. It can cut 13-In and 18-In diagonally and lengthwise respectively. The blade is 0.05 in thick and 7in in diameter.

When you look at the blade more keenly, you notice how easy it is to maintain and change it. To change the blade, you only need a key. Inspection and maintenance is seamless thanks to the hinged blade guard.

A tile saw without precision simply does not fit the bill. The MK Diamond MK-370EXP has received positive reviews for its accuracy even for angled cuts. The guide bar, with its chrome-plated surface, is rigid, straight and sturdy for precise results even when cutting stone.

Still, some users have complained about the guide bar design. They think that the table does not slide as expected. We believe that if the manufacturer redesigns this component, we should have a perfect tile saw on our hands.

Overall, the MK Diamond MK-370EXP has all the qualities of a good portable tool for doing most professional jobs swiftly.


C) SKIL 3550-02 7-Inch Wet Tile Saw

SKIL 3550-02 7-Inch

Hydro Lock Water Containment System keeps water contained near the blade and reduce clean-up time

You will constantly see SKIL power tools on the lists of best in various categories. The reason for this dominance is that since the company was incepted in 1924, it has maintained top-level research and innovation.

If you are a DIY looking for a combination of ease of operation and swiftness, I would suggest you give this machine a chance. The SKIL 3550-02 comes with a beastly 5-amp motor capable of delivering as much as 3600 revs per minute.

The items weighs a partly 24 pounds, making it so easy to carry from jobsite to jobsite. You are also going to have an easy time assembling this tool for the same reason.

Working in different areas of the home is now easier thanks to the reliable HydroLock System, which minimizes overspray. Instead of setting the machine outdoors and wasting a lot of time moving up and down, simply place this innovative machine in the bathroom, kitchen or wherever you are working.

Stop worrying about lack of enough working space or deterioration of tabletop. As one of the best tile saws in this category, the SKIL 3550-02 comes with an adjustable tabletop for extra working space. The tabletop is aluminum so it offers excellent rust resistance and durability.

Accuracy of cuts, whether miter or straight, is a factor you do not want to overlook when selecting the best tile saw. This machine is impressively accurate, thanks to its adjustable rip fence. Alongside this is flexibility attributed to bevel cuts capability at 0, 22.5 and 45 degrees.

When it comes to making the cuts, this tool does not disappoint. Of course, you do not expect mediocre results from a diamond-coated blade with a 7-inch diameter. This blade makes 0.75 in deep cuts. The table it sits on can extend to handle tiles as big as 18 x 18 in.

Like many tile saws, several issues may not impress the user. For example, the plastic guard may get muddled and interfere with cutting. In addition, some users have complained about the general quality of the rip fence. Alignment has caused some users problems.


D) SKIL 3540-02 7-Inch Wet Tile Saw

SKIL 3540-02

Corrosive resistent stainless steel top supports tiles up to 12 x 12-in.

This is another reliable tile saw from the SKIL portfolio. SKIL may be making top-of-the-range tools for the professional, but they have spared some effort for the household tile saw user. Now, there is no reason why your bathroom and kitchen renovations should wait for a contractor. The reason this tile saw eases into this list is a combination of ease of use and power, just what you need for all those projects at home.

Talking of power, we find the 4.3A power perfect for home based projects. It combines this power with a 7-in diameter blade and a no load RPM of 3,600 to make smooth cuts. Anyone making basic cuts will find these qualities ideal.

So what is the difference between this tile saw and the 3550-02? Actually, there are several differences. First, the 3540-02 lacks the innovative Hydrolock System™, instead featuring a half guard. While the 3550-02 features and aluminum tabletop, this tool comes with a stainless steel one. There are also differences in amperage and bevel cuts.

Cutting with this tool is enjoyable and safe, thanks to the blade cooling water reservoir. Whether you are cutting stone, masonry materials, tiles on any other material, the constant water flow keeps debris and dust at bay. Its cooling effect prevents heating and subsequent deterioration of the diamond blade.

We must confess that getting good price for a good tile saw is not an easy thing. This is one are where you will appreciate the work done on this tool. An under $100 with such qualities is such a rarity. The only drawbacks are lack of water pump, inability to cut sizeable tiles and inability to give deep cuts. Since the casual user can forego these things, we insist that this tile saw is rightfully among the best tile saws in this category.


Best 4-Inch Tile Saw

Since these tile saws are smaller, they obviously hold less power and cut slower that those we have discussed so far. Therefore, you will mostly find these tools in homes where DIY users and hobbyists use them in minimally demanding projects. Furthermore, these tile saws are cost friendly and smaller so they are popular with users who cannot afford a lot of space and money. Unfortunately, you will need to look for a stronger and bigger tool in case you need to cut harder materials.

With this saw, making small and fine cuts on ceramic tiles has never been easier. However, safety must always be a priority. Therefore, we would recommend a saw that has a cooling system. Expect to pay about $40 for this kind of cutter. This is a good bargain considering you can a lot around the homestead with this machine. With this brief background, it is time we checked out a few of the best tile saws with 4-inch blades.


A) DEWALT DWC860W 4-3/8-Inch

DEWALT DWC860W

Power 10.8 amp motor delivers the cutting power to cut through granite, porcelain, concrete and other stone materials

Are you looking for the best tile saw in terms of all this: portability, compactness and versatility? You might just have found an answer in this handheld tile cutter. Whether you are a professional or a casual user, you will be pleased to know that this saw has characteristics of several tools including biscuit joiner and angle grinder.

Both this tile saw and a biscuit joiner have a fence for miter cuts. Similar to a wet tile saw, this Dewalt product cuts tiles and stones, and features a water feed.

Sometimes bringing tiles or other materials to the tile saw is impossible or simply cumbersome. DEWALT DWC860W comes in handy in such instances. It is handheld so it offers immense convenience to users.

Cutting through granite, stone and tile requires a good deal of power, like the 12.5 Amp on this tool. It also requires a good blade to match. Because the 4-3/8-inch blade is made of diamond, cutting through hard materials must be smooth and effortless.

For the DEWALT DWC860W, user fatigue is already minimal because the tool is only 9 pounds in weight. However, fatigue will eventually develop for long projects. The lock-on power button comes in handy in production cuts. For starters, a lock-on button is a widely used button in tile saws and other power tools. Its purpose is to control speed.

Handheld tools are usually prone to dust and debris, but not with this lightweight tool. Everything is nicely covered to prevent entry of foreign matter and eventual premature deterioration of this machine.

We also love the long (13 feet) water line that feeds the blade for long life and superior performance. While using water while cutting is crucial, sometimes you may want to cut your concrete, tile or porcelain dry, or simply there is no time to connect to water supply. This tool is designed in such a way that you can continue with your cuts without water supply.


B) QEP 22400Q 3/5 HP Torque Master Tile Saw

QEP 22400Q

Tilting table with extension side table allows for easy miter cuts

What exactly are you looking for in a tile saw? If you are looking for good torque yet your space is limited, we would suggest that you opt for this China made tool. It measures only 14.2 x 15.8 x 4.6 in and comes with an impressive 3/5 HP High-torque motor. It is the ideal tool for the bathroom or any other tiny spaces. This is not the only reason the tool features in the list of best tile saws.

Ease of use and maintenance is clearly a strong characteristic on this machine. Consider its weight of only 8 pounds. The direct meaning of this is that the user can rush to any jobsite without worrying whether the truck is working or not. When it comes to maintenance, there are very few components to handle.

The QEP 22400Q has the versatility to cut different sizes of granite, terracotta, ceramic, etc. Its 4 in. diamond blade helps cut these materials for as long as you want.

This performance would not be seamless without the cleaning and water control features. The cooling water system is a marvel of a design, combining both water catchment and run-off reduction techniques. Kudos to the manufacturer particularly for the water recycling capability on this saw

The tool has a sturdy durable table that not only tilts, but also comes with two extensions. It is the perfect partner to the very effective blade.  Users can make rip cuts and diagonal cuts to unlimited number and proportion of materials.

As expected, a light tool such as this one demands extra keenness from the user when cutting delicate materials. The QEP 22400Q may be easy to use and maintain, but it may be unstable. Therefore, take care when you do such tasks. We must mention that some buyers are turned off by the price.


C) Chicago Pneumatic Dry Tile Saw 4″

Cut tile, block, stone, granite, marble and masonry.

Interested in a small tile saw for all those remote projects? The 4″ handheld tile saw from Chicago Pneumatic could be for you.

A handheld tile saw is great when maneuverability and portability are important considerations for your tile saw selection. A tiny machine fitted with a 4″ blade, this saw can work through kilometers of material if you have the patience and the time to guide it.

Without doubt, a bigger saw will do the job faster and probably more cleanly. However, dollar for dollar, we are convinced not many tools can beat this pneumatic tile saw.

Because this tool can be taken anywhere, it is ideal for cutting materials that are too wide or big for the ordinary tile saw.

Any tile saw will cut a ceramic tile. You can take that to the bank. However, this Chicago Pneumatic Dry Tile Saw is the ideal workhorse, whether in the homestead or jobsite. Its precise cutting is amazing on different materials including block, granite, masonry and block.

The heart of this saw has to be the 7-amp motor. It does carry adequate power to cut a wide range of materials.  It can attain a 12,800-RPM maximum speed without experiencing any performance issue, for example flexing, because the motor sits firmly on a heavy arm.

Another feature that impresses us about this dry tile saw is the compact design. At a weight and dimensions of 7 pounds and 9 x 9 x 8 in, this tiny machine is the ideal solution for handling scattered cutting jobs fast.

For the same reason, cutting materials is effortless. Handling is good and the vibrations are manageable. Here is what this saw contains:

Overall, the Chicago Pneumatic Dry Tile Saw 4″ is a good product. It may not have the water cooling system, but it still does a wonderful job on tiles and several other materials.


D) QEP 21643Q Professional Handheld Tile Saw

QEP 21643Q

With diamond blade to cut through tile, stone, granite, block, brick and marble

The QEP Professional Handheld Tile Saw is another tool that offers immense value for its price of less than $100. Its comfort, power and versatility are characteristics every professional will admire.

What is the most remarkable feature on this saw? The steel base.  The base incorporates an innovative design whereby it can be adjusted to achieve different angles and depths. This kind flexibility is exactly what you need on those bevel cuts.

The high performance motor is the next awesome thing in this machine. With this power, you can whiz through tile cuts quickly. This can save you a lot of time, especially if you are dealing with large projects. A torque amounting to 1-1/2 HP enables the tool to handle almost any task you throw at it.

This tool may not be the most powerful in this category, but you can rely on it for unbeatable power to weight ratio. Weighing in at a partly 8.1 pounds, the QEP 21643Q Professional Handheld Tile Saw saves the user a lot of trouble during transportation from worksite to worksite. Portability is a huge asset in this case because other professional tools offering the same performance can be heavier or bulkier.

The tool’s housing has double insulation, which is not only compact, but also light.  It is durable and probably nothing will break or bend it. It has amazing resistance to damage, but you might want to protect it from scrapes and dings.

We cannot fail to mention the 4-inch diamond blade, which has impeccable capability.  It will definitely last even when you use it regularly on stone, tile, granite, block and brick. There will definitely come a time when you need to replace the blade. It will take you a few seconds to remove the blade guard so that you can swap your blade and continue with your cuts.


Is Bigger Better with Tile Saw Blade Sizes?

Undoubtedly, blade size matters a great deal in tile saws. First, the blade should be able to cut through the material in one pass. Second, it should be strong enough to finish the work in good time. It therefore should not be surprising that the bigger tile saws often cost more than the smaller ones.

We have reviewed the above tools in terms of blade size, but you can still see the correlation between price and the general quality of product. The truth of the matter is that any of the reviewed models is capable of doing a stellar job if it is rightly applied.

Whether you are a home renovation buff or contractor handling multiple products, a good tile saw is something you might want to add to your toolbox. The most important thing is to look at your budget vis-à-vis the type of job.  For instance, a 7-inch tile saw can produce a 13-inch rip cut, so it suits professional contractors and experienced homeowners.

Looking back at the specific products, DEWALT D24000 and DEWALT D24000S are impressive for their great rip capacity and user friendliness. As usual, DEWALT is out there setting standards, but other brands are also showing up. A good example is QEP, which is doing well with the accurate and powerful QEP 61900Q.

Of the three blade categories, which one do you prefer and why? Help us take this conversation further by letting us know which of the featured best tile saws wins for you.

We will be happy to hear your thoughts

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