A table saw is a versatile tool that belongs in any well-equipped workshop. You can use it to cross-cut, bevel, or rip wood — and even use it for other materials like tile. There’s no doubt that a table saw is an investment worth making, but knowing exactly which model to buy is tricky.
When shopping around for a table saw, you will see two names again and again: the Hitachi C10RJ and the Dewalt DWE7491RS. These are among the most popular models, thanks to their effectiveness and reliability. Both are manufactured by reputable, big-name brands that have been around for decades.
Dewalt was founded in 1924 and Hitachi in 1948. (Note that the name Hitachi Power Tools was changed to Metabo HPT, following a buy-out of Metabo by Hitachi in 2017).
Either option will give you a trustworthy product meeting good-quality manufacturing standards. As a result, deciding which model to buy gets even tougher. On top of that, you have competing manufacturer table saws like the Milwaukee 2736-21HD or BOSCH GTS1031.
Our guide gives you the details you need to choose the right table saw to suit your unique needs. We lay out a side-by-side comparison of these two table saws, covering practical considerations, technical details, and safety.
We give you even more insights into the Hitachi C10RJ Table Saw and the Dewalt DWE7491RS Table Saw with our dedicated individual reviews. Read on for the breakdown.
A Few Basic Considerations
Buying a top-line table saw doesn’t do you any good if you don’t have the storage space for it — or can’t easily transport it from your indoor to your outdoor workshop. Consider the below practical considerations first when deciding which tool is right for you.
If you want more detailed guide on how to choose the right table saw read this article.
Portability
A rolling stand makes the Dewalt DWE7491RS table saw easy to set up, break down, and move. The Dewalt’s telescoping fence rails are extendable and retractable, allowing you to create a small, portable package. You can use it as jobsite table saw as well. If portability is your priority, check out our guide to the most portable table saws.
The Hitachi is likewise compact but has an edge up in terms of portability thanks to its all-terrain wheels. Hitachi’s table saw is equipped with 8-inch rubber wheels while the Dewalt has plastic wheels. It’s Stable and durable fold & roll stand ensures accurate cuts with less wobble and provides for easy transport.
Size
Size is also a factor to consider when moving your table saw and storing it. The Dewalt is 110 pounds and measures 31 x 24.5 x 31 inches.
At 96 pounds, the Hitachi C10RJ comes in a bit lighter. It’s also more compact, measuring 22 x 28 x 26 inches. Overall, the Hitachi requires less storage space.
Table Size
Although it’s smaller in overall size, the Hitachi offers a more expansive work table, with dimensions of 28¾ x 22 inches. This size is ideal if you’re going to be working with larger wood pieces.
In comparison, the Dewalt’s working table is only 26 x 22 inches in total. Although smaller, it’s still serviceable and plenty big enough to handle most standard woodworking projects.
Stability
Both the Dewalt DWE7491RS and Hitachi C10RJ are professional-grade tools with excellent stability. You don’t have to worry about shoddy manufacturing, leaving you with a shaky (and potentially dangerous) table saw structure. The Dewalt DWE7491Rs comes with rack and pinion fence control which gives superior stability.
The Hitachi’s extra-wide base offers added support compared to the Dewalt’s slightly thinner base, however. The Hitachi’s base is also a bit lower, offering a lower center of gravity and added security.
Warranty
Even prime products from top brands aren’t immune to technical difficulties and defects. You want a warranty to cover possible issues if they do arise.
The Dewalt comes with a three-year limited manufacturer warranty. Hitachi’s warranty is only two years, offering you one year less protection if you experience problems.
Technical Capabilities
Now to get to the nitty-gritty. Practical details aside, just what can these table saws accomplish in the workroom? We break down the capabilities of each table saw below.
Motor
The Dewalt DWE7491RS gives you a 15 amp high torque motor ideal for cutting lumber and hardwood. The speed with no load is up to 4,800 RPM.
The Hitachi C10RJ has a direct drive universal 15 amp motor with a no-load speed of 4,500 RPM. With less RPM, the Hitachi is thus slightly less efficient than the Dewalt.
Cutting Capability
The Dewalt DWE7491RS table saw offers a 10-inch 24-tooth carbide blade. The Hitachi C10RJ comes with a 10-inch 40-tooth carbide blade. Here’s what that means in terms of usability:
- Power: Both table saws can cut harder woods in addition to lumber.
- Depth: Both the Dewalt and the Hitachi cut a depth of 2¼ inches at 45 degrees and 3⅛ inches at 0 degrees.
- Speed: The Hitachi has more teeth. While this might seem like a pro, it creates more friction and heat during use, resulting in slower cutting.
Bevel Range
Beveling involves creating edges that aren’t a 90-degree angle. For this handiwork, the Hitachi C10RJ and Dewalt DWE7491RS both offer a standard range of 0 to 45 degrees, for cuts ranging from 3⅛ inches (at 0 degrees) to 2 ¼ inches (at 45 degrees) respectively.
According to some users, the Hitachi’s miter gauge may fall out during use, however. This can no doubt be disconcerting for first-time users. The Dewalt does not appear to have this issue.
Rip Capacity
Ripping refers to longitudinally cutting wood. The Hitachi has a telescoping table extension capable of supporting 35 inches of rip capacity to the right and 22 inches to the left.
The Dewalt comes up a bit short in comparison. The table saw offers a max rip to the right of 32.5 inches. The max rip to the left is on par with the Hitachi, coming in at 22 inches.
Related Reading: Delta 36-5000 Left Tilt Heavy Duty Contractor Saw
Dust Collection
Woodwork is a messy business, and any workman knows that using a table saw will have dust flying. Dust ports helps keep things clean. The Hitachi C10RJ dust port & collection system meets standard table saw criteria, with a port measuring 2½ inches in size. It’s rear-positioned, in line with the industry standard.
The Dewalt is unique thanks to an extra dust collection port, making for less sawdust and faster cleanup. One large 2.5-inch port is located below the carbide blade while a second 1.25-inch port is placed atop a blade guard.
Safety Features
Safety is a significant point whenever using cutting tools — especially when sharp carbide blades are involved. While safety is maybe not at the top of your mind when comparing table saws, it’s an essential element to assess.
Both the Hitachi C10RJ and the Dewalt DWE7491RS have the usual table saw safety elements like a blade guard and push stick. Both devices also have an on/off switch set at the user’s knee level. This ensures quick, fast, and easy hands-free shut-off in case of emergencies.
Overall, Hitachi C10RJ has a few characteristics that give it a slight edge when comparing safety side-by-side. One unique aspect is the electric brake, which stops blade rotation within seconds for added security.
The Hitachi also has a more massive on/off switch than the Dewalt. A common critique of the Dewalt is the small size of the power button, which potentially makes it harder to locate and activate in an urgent situation.
Related Reading: Skil 3410-02 Table Saw Review
C10RJ vs Dewalt DWE7491RS: The Bottom Line
We’ve given you a lot of information above. Here’s a quick recap of the highlights to make the choice easier.
With the Dewalt DWE7491RS you get:
- More efficient cutting speed than Hitachi, thanks to the Dewarlt’s 4,800 RPM 15 AMP motor and fewer blade teeth.
- Two dust ports (instead of the industry-standard single dust port) allows for less mess and helps to keep the workspace cleaner.
- A three-year warranty (compared to Hitachi’s two years of protection).
The Hitachi C10RJ offers the following:
- 15 Amp motor, smaller, lighter, and more compact design. It requires less storage space and also has all-terrain wheels, ideal for indoor and outdoor transport.
- Added safety features, including a larger on/off switch plus an electric brake to rapidly stop the carbide blade rotation.
- A broader base, providing for added stability.
Finally, if you’re looking to save some money, the Hitachi is cheaper. That said, Dewalt offers more comprehensive warranty coverage (three years compared to Hitachi’s two) so that price difference may be justifiable.
Ultimately, the “right” choice for you depends on your needs and preferences. If you need something that you can easily transport, you may prefer the Hitachi.
If you want something more permanent in your workspace that won’t cause a big mess, the Dewalt may be for you. The bottom line is that with either of these table saws, you’ll get a reliable product from a reputable manufacturer.
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