A miter saw is the perfect tool for making precise crosscuts on harder woods. With this piece of machinery, you can make angled, square, or beveled (non 90-degree cuts) cuts. The sliding compound miter saw even permits for beveling while simultaneously cutting the miter.
If you are in the market for a miter saw, one name is bound to stand out: Dewalt. Founded in 1922, this company created its first woodworking machine in 1922, establishing its position as an industry leader. Since then, Dewalt has gone on to produce everything from chainsaws to cordless power tools and even war machinery.
Regarding miter saws, Dewalt has three options you should take the time to compare: DeWalt DWS709, DeWalt DWS779 & DeWalt DWS780. Given that they’re all from the same brand, you can expect the same quality in terms of craftsmanship, durability, and customer care.
So how can you differentiate between the three — and determine which one is worth your money?
Let our guide lead the way. Below, we break down the differences between these three miter saws, considering each one’s characteristics in terms of construction, technological components, convenience and safety features, and practical considerations when purchasing.
With this information laid out in front of you, you can make an informed buying decision. If Dewalt isn’t your brand, we also offer reviews of other miter saws like the Hitachi C10FCG, Delta 26-2250, and Makita XSL06PT.
If you’re keen on sticking to Dewalt brands, we also have reviews of other models from this manufacturer, like the Dewalt DCS361B 20V Max Cordless Miter Saw Review.
Read on for a point-by-point comparison of these three Dewalt products.
Construction of DEWALT DWS709, DEWALT DWS779 & DEWALT DWS780
Nobody wants a flimsy power tool. These heavy-duty devices need to be able to cut through wood, after all. All of Dewalt’s products feature durable designs made of high-quality materials. There are differences in the construction details, however.
Size & Weight
Your miter saw’s size helps determine how transportable is, and is thus worth considering — especially if you plan to take your woodworking on the road. While heavier models are more sturdy, lighter ones are easier to transport.
- The DWS780 is 56 pounds and measures 21.46 x 17.72 x 17.13 inches.
- The DWS779 is 56 pounds and measures 2 x 23 x 18.5 inches.
- The DWS709 is a bit lighter, weighing just 51 pounds. Its dimensions are 30.75 x 22.75 x 19.5 inches.
The DWS779 is bulkier, but it does come with additional features that make up for the added heftiness. For example, it’s one-of-a-kind back fence design can cut up to 2 x 14 dimensional lumber at 90 degrees, or a 2 x 12 lumber piece at 45 degrees.
Blade Size & Type
The length of the miter saw blade determines how large of a piece of wood you can work on. In this respect, all three miter saws stack up equally. The DWS780, DWS779, and DWS709 each feature a 12-inch blade.
The Dewalt DS709 has 32 teeth on the blade while the DWS780 compound miter saw has 60 teeth. The DW779 has a 12-inch stainless steel blade.
In terms of arbor size, all three miter saws stack evenly. Each one offers ⅝ of an inch or 1 inch arbor size.
Versatility
These saws are all dual bevels, which means you can minimize cutting errors and choose the orientation by flipping the material you’re working on. You can enjoy maximum versatility.
Technological Components
Both of these models prioritize portability over power. While you don’t get the most potent engine, you get a relatively small, compact chainsaw that you can easily maneuver. The size impacts technical capability as well.
Motor
The motor is the driving force of any miter saw. The good news is that the Dewalt DWS780 Sliding Compound Miter Saw, Dewalt DWS779 Sliding Compound Miter Saw, and Dewalt DWS709 Double Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw all offer identical 15 amp motor capabilities. Even better news: They’re powerful.
All three tools have a high-quality motor delivering 3,800 rpm. The Dewalt motors are generally known for their long-lasting power and overall durability.
As far as energy, the DWS709 runs on AC power at 120 volts. The DWS780 runs on corded-electric power at 120 volts. Finally, the Dewalt DWS779 runs on AC/DC.
Cutting & Rip Capacity
Your miter saw is supposed to cut — so the question is, how much can it handle?
The Dewalt DWS779 has a maximum cutting thickness of 6.75 inches. The maximum vertical capacity of the 709 is 4.5 inches compared to 6.75 inches for the 780 and 779. The 780’s unique gearbox and belt-drive design help to boost the vertical cutting capacity.
The DWS709 offers a double bevel saw that can be adjusted 50 degrees to the left or 60 degrees to the right. At 90 degrees, it reaches a capacity of up to 9.5 inches.
At 45 degrees, it performs at 6 and 5/8 inches. A 13 stop adjustment allows for continual accuracy. A sliding fence allows you to add height as needed while working.
The DWS780 and DWS779 each have an adjustable stainless steel miter detent plate with 10 positive stops to ensure your cuts are adjustable and precise. The 780 can cut a 48-degree bevel to the left or the right, allowing for versatility while working. For miters, you can cut 50 degrees to the left and 60 degrees to the right.
In terms of horizontal capacity, the 709 measures up at 9.5 inches while the 780 offers up to 13 7/8 inches.
To learn more about compound miter saws read this: Things To Consider When Buying A Compound Miter Saw
Accuracy
The entire point of a miter saw is to deliver precise cuts. Accuracy is thus one of the most important considerations. Luckily, all three Dewalt models deliver on this point. All three provide a miter point, in bright red, which helps you determine your miter angles and determine accuracy.
The 780 additionally offers an integrated XPS crosscut positioning system. This allows for adjustment-free cut line indication. This positioning system is a great feature, as the light illuminates the length of the blade, casting a shadow on whatever you’re cutting to allow for improved vision.
Convenience & Safety Features
The practical considerations above aside, there are more features to look out for when selecting the perfect Dewalt miter saw to suit your needs. Keep an eye out for these convenience and safety features.
Dust Collection System
Woodworking inevitably creates dust that circulates in the air. Dust can be a health hazard for workers who breathe in the particles, and may even impede visibility for workers. Dewalt overcomes this inconvenience with its superior dust collection technology.
According to the manufacturer, the DWS780 is highlighted for its efficient dust collection system, reportedly capturing over 75% of dust. The DWS709 and DWS779 also share this cutting-edge innovation. All three tools come with dust bag. Whatever model you choose, you can be sure your workspace will be tidy.
Safety
The DWS709 features a material clamp and blade wrench for your safety, as well as a stable sliding system. A knob can securely lock the miter in place. The DWS779 and DWS780 similarly deliver, so you can use your tool with confidence and be sure you are protected.
Practical Considerations When Purchasing
Last but not least, there are some practical considerations that don’t fall into any of the above categories to keep in mind. As you browse the Dewalt products discussed here, keep an eye out for these aspects.
Included Components
The DWS709 includes just that — the miter saw itself, with no added components. The Dewalt DWS780 offers attachments, however.
The Dewalt DWS779 comes with the miter saw itself, plus a carbide blade and blade wrench. An LED and laser cutting guide is sold separately and is worth purchasing for the added accuracy it offers.
Warranty
Dewalt is a top name in miter saws, so you should expect an expertly made product. That said, technical or manufacturing defects can occur sporadically. When this happens, the warranty safeguards your investment.
Dewalt takes customer satisfaction seriously and thus offers a three-year limited warranty on its miter saws. You’ll get it whether you buy the DWS780, DWS779, or DWS709.
The Highlights
The above information helps to clarify what these differing Dewalt products offer. To simply matters, we have picked out a few highlights of DWS709, DWS779 & DWS780 for you to review below:
With the DeWalt DWS709 you can expect:
- This is the smallest of the bunch, weighing less than the other two models. If transportability is your priority, this may thus be your top pick.
- The saw features a powerful 15 amp motor & 3800 rpm.
- The DWS709 features a sliding fence, which gives vertical capacity: crown molding vertically nested upto 5.5 inches. This is great for projects using larger pieces of wood.
- The DS709 has 32 teeth on the blade. In contrast, the DWS780 has 60 teeth. Less teeth can actually be an advantage, as they result in less friction and thus mean great efficiency.
- 3-year limited warranty.
The DeWalt DWS779 offers:
- The Dewalt DWS779 comes with a raft of added components including a carbide blade, blade wrench and dust bag.
- The saw features a powerful 15 amp motor & 3800 rpm.
- With the 779, you can also purchase the LED laser cutting guide extra for added accuracy. Customer reviews emphasize this as a unique component, worth investing in.
- 3-year limited warranty.
Finally, the DeWalt DWS780 gives you:
- The 780’s XPS crosscut positioning system can’t be ignored. It allows for adjustment-free cut line indication.
- If horizontal capacity is what you’re looking for, opt for the 780. It offers up to 13 7/8 inches, compared to the 709’s 9.5 inches.
- The Dewalt DS709 has 32 teeth on the blade while the DWS780 has 60 teeth. The DW779 has a 12-inch stainless steel miter detent blade.
- 3-year limited warranty.
DWS709 vs DWS779 vs DWS780: Which Option Is Right for You?
The DeWalt DWS709 Sliding Compound Miter Saw, DeWalt DWS779 Sliding Compound Miter Saw & DeWalt DWS780 Double Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw. Is there a clear winner?
Ultimately, whatever Dewalt product you choose, you can count on getting a reliable, well-manufactured piece of machinery. The manufacturer also provides excellent warranty protection, which is likewise an advantage and can offer peace of mind — since these tools aren’t the cheapest.
When deciding which of these models is for you, it’s best to consider the practical purpose you plan to use it for. Will you be needing it in a stationary workshop or do you plan to take it to different workplaces, for instance?
If you’re looking for something transportable, size is a factor. Alternatively, if you’re looking to do detailed handiwork, accuracy may be your biggest consideration. In this case, the 779 is for you.
Splurge a little extra for the LED light accuracy system and you will enjoy easier oversight and greater accuracy of your cuts. This is essential for detailed fine tuning — the kind of work that requires a keen eye for detail.
With our comprehensive buying guides, we give you all the information you need to make an informed choice.
