It becomes a hectic search to get the right choice of saw for your shop. Generally, two basic saws are present in the market, i.e., panel saw, and table saw. A lot of varieties are present within these two saw types.
To choose between panel saw and table saw, you need to have accurate information about their features. This article entails the features and limitations of both these saws. Continue reading the article to find out what best matches your requirements and needs.
Panel Saw
The panel saw is a type of sliding saw that is large spacious equipment. It is one of the widely used saw with fascinating features that attract the workers. The other two forms are available in a panel saw; vertical panel saw, and horizontal panel saw. The horizontal sliding panel saw allows cutting height up to 83mm height. Hence it limits the width when you have a very wide workpiece to work on. It is larger, so the facility of length accommodation is huge. Its larger size allows you to cut large materials without any limitation easily.
Panel saw eases the sawing process with a very sharp sawing blade and a knife, which aids in cutting and ripping a workpiece. It is good for breaking down sheets and also oriented standard board material and wood materials. The sliding panel is very convenient to use. It can cut about 8 feet sheet on a slider by moving forward or backward. The added feature is the adjustable overhead guard that you can adjust up and down following your material’s width.
Moreover, the panel saw is safe to use. You can roll the blade up to a 45-degree angle with the presence of a digital angle meter. It makes your hand not reaching the sharp saw blade. The fence mechanism of the panel saw allows you to adjust your fence length. The slider slides in and out, and you can lock it in any position.
Pros
- The vertical panel saw is less spacious.
- The sliding panel saw is good for handling large pieces.
- You can make cabinets and cut pieces at different angles with them.
- It is easy to use.
- The precaution measures make it safe and reduce the chances of major injuries.
- You can have a top view of your workpiece clearly to see what you are cutting.
Cons
- For broader widths, the panel saw is not easy to handle.
- It is not suitable for plastic and plywood material.
- It requires additional staff to support as it is heavy to lift.
Table Saw
The table saw has a large base, and it is present in a horizontal form. Its most features resemble that of a panel saw. But it differs in precision and accuracy of work. It gives a more precise and refined structure to the material processed under it. The table saw contains a razor-sharp saw blade. Thus, it cuts very precisely and smoothly. Its workspace is large enough to accommodate large pieces of material. Angle cuts are also possible in it, but you need to have a horizontal floor.
Furthermore, it allows you to cut full-sized sheets and plywood easily. It performs a highly detailed job and very refined finishing to the materials. So, when you want more professional and detailed work, the table saw a better option. Although a bit expensive, it is an almost complete package that can make different types of cuts.
A portable version of the table saw is also available that is smaller in size. But this would not work alone as you will need support accessories with it. The sliding feature of this saw is very efficient for cross-cutting operations for large panels.
Pros
- It does a highly precise and accurate job.
- It allows you to cut full-sized sheets and plywood easily
- It is also available in a portable form.
- It is can repeatedly cut pieces of the same size.
Cons
- It is a bit expensive.
- You need proper skills to use it.
What To Choose between Panel Saw and Table Saw?
Choosing among panel saw and table saw depends upon your choice and the nature of your cutting work. Precision and quality of work are the utmost requirements of the worker and his customers both. Both these saws serve great finishing and output. But table saw has been found more precise and refined one.
A table saw can also cut full-sized sheets and plywood easily; in contrast, the panel saw cannot do it efficiently. However, a table saw is comparatively a bit more expensive. Other features of both the devices are almost the same such as sliding feature, high quality, and durable saw blades, adjustable and locking slider. So, considering all the features and investments, it is up to you to make the right pick for you.