Hybrid table saws combine aspects found in two models, contractor and cabinet saws. The other term for these woodworker aids is mixed purpose saws. One can think of a hybrid table saw in the same way as they would crossbreed animals or plants.
Depending on the manufacturer, different hybrid models will have superior features and inferior ones. Nonetheless, even with the customizations, the product must still rip through and cut wood as desired. It must also trim the edges in a manner that leaves a user satisfied with their work.
Just like the unique models available in the market, hybrid table saws come in diverse models. The pros and cons of each will depend on features the manufacturer has opted to co-opt from the mother models.
As this review takes shape, readers and prospective hybrid saw buyers must note that the functionality of the products they choose will vary. Such variations depend on the percentage contribution of the parent cabinet or contractor saw.
Top 8 Hybrid Table Saw – Reviews and Comparisons:
Product Name | Brand | Price Range | Rating | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Grizzly G0690 Cabinet Table Saw | Grizzly | $$$$ | Excellent | |
Powermatic PM1000 1791000K Table Saw | Powermatic | $$$$ | Excellent | |
Shop Fox W1837 10″ 2 hp Open-Stand Hybrid Table Saw | Shop Fox | $$$$ | Excellent | |
SawStop PCS175-TGP236 1.75-HP Professional Cabinet Saw | SawStop | $$$$ | Excellent | |
LAGUNA TOOLS Fusion 36in. Rip 110V | Laguna | $$$ | Excellent | |
Jet Proshop Table Saw 708494K JPS-10TS | Jet | $$$ | Excellent | |
SawStop PCS175-PFA30 1.75-HP | SawStop | $$$$ | Excellent | |
Shop Fox W1819 3 HP 10-Inch Table Saw | Freud | $$ | Excellent |
Our Picks of 8 Best Hybrid Table Saw
1. Grizzly G0690 Cabinet Table Saw
From the 3HP Lesson motor to the massive cast iron table, the Grizzly G0690 packs quality and performance. The engine has a triple belt drive for heavy torque blade rotations. Also, it has a magnetic switch, heavy cast handwheels, and a T-slot miter gauge.
The G0690 has a 10-inch blade capable of tilting to the left. The sawblade also forms a perfect 90-degree angle with the table. Besides having a riving knife as a safety feature, the table also comes with a blade guard. To eliminate the possibility of injury, the Grizzly G0690 uses a quick release for the splitter assembly, motor, and the riving knife.
Knurled knobs help a user adjust the glide fence system to their liking. The 3HP motor generates enough kinetic energy for slicing wood materials such as purpleheart, maple, and padauk. However, the table’s design does not allow for mobility. It must remain stationary. If the user wants to move it around, they must procure a mobile base or custom-make one for the G0690.
The table has a height of 34 inches from the floor. Together with the extensions, the table surface measures 27 inches by 40 inches. Overall, it measures 62 x 41 x 40 (length, width, and height). Its arbor speed is 4,300 rotations per minute (RPMs), a dado width between 13-16 inches with a rip capacity of 29-1/2 inches.
Pros:
Easy installation and use.
Powerful hybrid saw.
Durable.
Cons:
The power cord has limited length; too short.
The dust collection port does not work as effectively as one would expect from such a powerful machine.
Features
- Weighs 530 pounds when shipped
- Operates on a 3HP 220V single-phase Lesson motor with a triple belt drive
- Table made from cast iron that can withstand the weight of the material
- Safety components include a blade guard and a riving knife
- The fence system glides over the table smoothly and uses knurled knobs for adjustment
- Features a quick release for the motor guard, riving knife, and splitter assembly for enhanced safety
- It is CSA certified.
- A 4-inch port for the collection of dust to keep the moving parts and workshop clean
2. Powermatic PM1000 1791000K Table Saw
The PM1000 has a compact design that allows it to fit into any work area or home (for a hobbyist). Its fence spans 50 inches providing enough space and working comfort. It runs at a power output of 115 volts.
Besides having a dust port, the Powermatic PM1000 has a collection hose as an added feature. The entire dust collection system ensures that no debris gets in the way of a sawing activity.
Its 1.75 HP motor also comprises a poly-v belt, which runs with reduced vibrations and increases efficiency. The hybrid saw measures 36 x 27.5 x 63.75 inches. It has 7-inch handwheels featuring an ergonomic design for smooth bevel and blade height adjustments. Also, the blade guard assembly leaves plenty of room on the side, hence maximizing safety.
However, the bolts holding the blade guards in place tend to collide with the bade occasionally. Although it does not happen all the time, it could happen when one least expects it. The PM1000 is also heavier and bulkier than the typical hybrid saws.
Like other hybrid saws in its family, the Powermatic PM1000 has a 10-inch blade and comes with a 5-year warranty.
Pros:
It is a low-power consumption hybrid table.
It has an elaborate dust collection system complete with a hose.
Cons:
Powermatic has a reputation for poor customer service.
Contact between the blade and blade guard bolts is always an accident waiting to happen.
Riving knife adjustment poses a challenge during installation owing to the lack of clear instructions.
Features
- Dust collection port with a connected hose for non-obtrusive collection
- Has a shipping weight of 418 pounds, which is lighter than other hybrid saw models
- It has an arbor or motor speed of 4,200 RPMs
- Comprises of a tool-less guard assembly that gives users ample space to maneuver material
- Belt drive design runs motor with reduced vibrations boosting efficiency
- 30-inch fence for a proper lining of the wood material and a clean rip
- Has a hand-free power switch conveniently located
3. Shop Fox W1837 10″ 2 hp Open-Stand Hybrid Table Saw
The Shop Fox W1837 runs off a 2 HP single-phase motor. It features an enclosed cabinet at the bottom. It also has a 4-inch dust collection port. The table, made from cast iron, measures 40-1/4 inches by 27 inches together with its steel wings. The entire equipment dimensions are 58 x 38 x 36 inches.
The motor delivers a rip capacity of 30 inches and 12 inches to the right and left, respectively. Also, the blade tilts 45 degrees to the left.
The table saw has a 5/8-inch arbor size with a speed of 3,850 RPMs. The Shop Fox delivers a high accuracy of cuts with the smooth sliding of its moving parts.
It runs smoothly without vibrations, as characterized by the nickel test. However, assembling the table takes time. Also, the miter gauge is not of the highest quality.
One must buy a new one as they will need to replace it within a few weeks of use. The start button offers some resistance and requires one to press it with some effort.
The W1837 is ideal for both professional woodworkers and hobbyists seeking a piece of equipment for a budget. For occasional sawing tasks, the W1837 delivers value for money.
Pros:
Its motor is quiet and has no noise, unlike other hybrid saws.
Makes consistent, precise cuts during operation.
It has wheels which, together with the steel wings, enhance mobility.
The construction is sturdy and of good quality.
Cons:
Clumsy handles.
If not appropriately shipped, some pieces may not align easily during assembly.
The tabletop is not smoothly flat.
Features
- Weighs 260 pounds when shipped
- It has an arbor speed of 3,450 RPMs, which is safe for both hard and softwood materials
- Has a foot-operated stand and wheels for increased mobility when needed
- A 4-inch dust collection port located at the bottom of the cabinet
- Components include a riving knife and a blade guard assembly
- Single-phase motor with a 2 HP 110/220V output that runs quietly
- 45-degrees blade tilting ability for precise angled cuts that are essential in furniture making
4. SawStop PCS175-TGP236 1.75-HP Professional Cabinet Saw
The PCS175-TGP236 features an extension table and a 36-inch T-glide fence. It weighs 335 pounds and runs off a 1.75HP motor. The cast iron table dimensions are 20’’ W x 27’’ D. The blade diameter is also 10 inches, the same as other hybrid table saws reviewed here.
The thick gauge steel T-glide fence ensures smooth operation over an expansive work surface. It also facilitates precision without any deflections on the material. Its dust collection mechanism removes up to 99 percent of all debris generated during the saw’s operation.
SawStop also features a heavy-weight trunnion and thick arbors. Gas piston technology assists trunnion travel helping to maintain vertical accuracy. Also, the open-gearing system ensures minimal dust compaction, an aspect that keeps the parts running without replacement for many years.
For mobility, the SawStop cabinet saw comes with two wheels on its base. Besides, the manufacturer has added four 360-degree casters coupled with a hydraulic foot pedal. Pumping the lever three times with the foot helps raise the saw and enables the user to move the equipment around.
The fully enclosed design provides for efficient dust and debris collection. Besides, a user will find that everything they need is within their reach. The cabinet saw has a neat arrangement of measuring instruments. The secure lockdowns on the equipment’s T-Glide fence remove any doubt over deviations.
Pros:
Fully enclosed unit.
Excellent dust-collecting abilities.
Patented automatic blade-stopping system for injury prevention.
Cons:
Pricey, out of reach for users on a low budget.
Features
- Easy assembly assisted by an installation guide; the table also comes in several boxes
- 10-inch blade diameter for both the 1.75HP and 3HP models
- Package includes components such as miter gauge, extension wings, blade guard, riving knife, and push stick
- An electronic signal that helps detect the slightest contact between blade and skin and stops the blade immediately
- Brake pawl that gets in the way of the blade’s teeth to prevent it from spinning
- 99 percent dust collection efficiency both on and below the table
5. LAGUNA TOOLS Fusion 36in. Rip 110V
The Laguna Tools Fusion hybrid table saw weighs 266 pounds and runs off a ¾ HP TEFC motor. Such motor power keeps the table running and helps withstand the immense pressure from dense wood. The unit requires a power output of 110 volts. It has tabletop dimensions of 20 inches by 27 inches.
Unlike other hybrid saws, Laguna’s trunnion is on the tabletop, helping keep the work surface as flat as possible. When other models do not offer storage options, the Laguna has enough to hold the fence. The storage capacity is not the largest among all hybrids, but this one is fine.
Besides, the unit has in-build wheels that come in handy during the movement of the equipment. However, one should not rely on the holding power of the wheels as the sawing machine is quite bulky.
Nonetheless, what the Laguna lacks in wheel support, it has compensated with four leg knobs. Using these knobs, users can adjust the hybrid saw to the stability of their choice.
Concerning safety, the equipment features a simple anti-kickback system but nothing unique. The unit also has a sizeable on-off button for ease of use just in case something unexpected happens. The positioning of the switch is such that one can push it using their knee.
Pros:
The table saw features an excellent design.
The parts consist of high-quality materials ranging from steel to cast iron.
Affordable equipment for those on a low budget.
Cons:
It requires assembling and tuning up after shipping.
Beginners may find operating the table a little difficult.
Features
- It has a 1-3/4 HP motor powerful enough for diverse types of cuts for both hard and softwood material
- This iron-made hybrid table saw offers stability during operation coupled with its iron and extension wings
- Its 36-inch fence for enhanced user safety and increased precision
- The Laguna’s riving knife is not only interchangeable but also performs diverse other functions
- It also features a cast iron table for smooth, accurate cuts and stability during operation
- Wheel system for added mobility
6. Jet Proshop Table Saw 708494K JPS-10TS
The Jet Proshop table weighs 299 pounds. It measures 39 inches from top to bottom and 35 inches sideways. As for the wings, buyers have a choice between cast iron or stamped steel. Also, the table saw features a transparent blade guard and a quick-release riving knife.
It has an arbor speed of 4,000 rotations per minute. Besides, the cast-iron tabletop yields stability every time one operates the table saw. However, cast-iron makes hybrid saws heavy and poses challenges during the movement of the unit. Aside from weight issues, the components are easy to change without using tools.
The easily accessible arbor lock allows a user to change the blade quickly. The riving knife and blade guard easily snap into place and do not require tools. Also, with the fence, one can measure the standard 30 inches, but this may extend to 52 inches if the need arises.
Jet Proshop Table Saw comes with a 5-year warranty and runs off a 1.75 horsepower motor. The saw is ideal for small projects and light-duty cutting. It is a high-quality product that offers value for money but only for users that handle light tasks.
Pros:
The main body does not require assembly.
For parts that need installation, the manufacturer provides an easy-to-understand user manual.
Jet Proshop motor generates enough power for both woodworking pros and enthusiasts.
Miter gauge, blade, and fence require minor adjustments during assembly.
Cons:
Wings, extension bars, and legs require assembling.
The Dust collection system is poor.
The saw cannot handle heavy-duty projects.
Features
- Weighs 299 pounds
- Table made from cast iron but offers the option of stamped steel for the wings
- It comes with a stand
- The blade guard is transparent, enabling a user to anticipate when the saw meets the wood accurately
- Fence system with a 30-inch rip capacity; 52-inch option also available
- Tool-free mountable and removable components (riving knife and blade guard)
- Quiet engine with minimal vibrations for a less noisy workshop environment
7. SawStop PCS175-PFA30 1.75-HP Cabinet Saw 
Next on our list is SawStop PCS175-PFA30, which is perhaps one of the best saws currently in the market, is made for serious woodworkers who have a lot of work to do. It comes with a 30-inch premium fence system, ensuring you get the smoothest cuts you always need. It also ensures that you have very smooth operations and precision when it comes to your measurements. It features two small wheels at the end of the fence, enabling you to slide the wood effortlessly.
Since sawdust is one of the causes of cancer, SawStop has ensured that they combat this problem. This machine comes with an Overarm Dust Collection. Besides, this is one cabinet table saw that has been made to last longer. That’s why it comes with heavy-weight TRUNNION, which has the thickest arbors in the market. It features Poly V-ribbed belts that ensure easy operation and very minimal noise.
There is something unique with this saw, which is not seen in most of the cabinet saws on the market. It has a safety system. Assuming that your skin comes into contact with the blade, an electrical signal is transmitted directly to the system, which activates the safety mode. A brake is immediately applied to the blade, causing a complete halt of the blade and the motor. All this happens within five milliseconds. That’s an excellent feature that ensures you are safe.
Pros:
It has one of the best safety systems; whenever the blade encounters the skin, it instantly stops spinning.
Removes up to 99 percent of the dust generated during sawing.
Very quiet in its operation.
It is very stable, which gives smooth cuts.
Simple instructions with exceptional customer service.
Cons:
One of the major weaknesses of this saw is the 1.75Hp motor. While sufficient for most jobs, it can lag noticeably when working continuously on dry hardwoods and reclaimed lumber.
You have to install safety brake cartridges before you use them.
Features
- It requires 110-volt power with a 1.75 HP, 1 PH, and 14 Amps.
- Comes with an elaborate dust collection system terminating with a 4-inch thick dust port
- Interchangeable blades, the saw can work with both the 10-inch and 8-inch blades
- Its cast-iron table measures 20 x 27 inches while its extension wings measure 44 x 27 inches.
- It measures 44 x 29.8 x 34 inches
- It has a premium fence system of 30 inches
- SawStop safety system for instant blade stoppage
8. Shop Fox W1819 3 HP 10-Inch Table Saw
The Show Fox W1819 is a high-value hybrid saw with a cast-iron tabletop and wings. Currently retailing at $2,042.04, Amazon requires buyers to append their signatures upon delivery. It features a quick-release splitter assembly, blade guard, and a riving knife. Also, the T-Fence system has a smooth glide aided by nylon runners. The product weighs 300 pounds.
A polycarbonate coating helps an operator see the blade, especially when it meets the wood. It has a powerful 3 HP motor that provides for the ease of cutting wood without strain. Besides, the tabletop has a large surface area. Dust collection is through a 4-inch thick dust port where an operator can hook an industrial vacuum.
The W1819 has a design like that of the W1824 from the same manufacturer. The durability of materials used means that an operator does not need to worry about possible damage and costly replacement of sensitive parts. Also, the product features knurled knobs that aid a user in fine-tuning the T-Glide system.
Concerning safety systems, there is nothing peculiar. The Shop Fox carries the mandatory blade guard with an anti-kickback. Also, despite having an on/off button, it is not as visible as expected. Where an operator needs to respond to something swiftly, the switch would hinder and slow them down.
Pros:
The unit yields high precision cuts.
Massive power from a 3 HP motor.
Cons:
The on/off switch is too small.
Requires a user to re-assemble the unit and fine-tune it upon delivery.
Costly and out of reach for hobby woodworkers.
Features
- A well-constructed hybrid table saw gives it a solid base for long-term use
- Polycarbonate shield on its blade for increased visibility when using the saw
- Riving knife with quick release
- 4-inch dust collecting port that works together with most industrial vacuum hoses
- The blade tilts up to 45 degrees for furniture-making adjustments
- Smooth-running motor with minimal vibrations for a calm and quiet workshop environment
- Extension table for increased workspace
- Thermal switch to detect and deter power overload in the grid
- A storage cabinet for accessories
Buying Guide – How To Choose The Best Hybrid Table Saw?
When you are buying a hybrid table saw, there are important features to consider:
1. Motor Horsepower
A low horsepower cannot cut through some material, especially the heavy-duty type. Also, excessive engine power destabilizes the power saw. If this happens, an operator can pick injuries or lose cutting accuracy and ruin their project. Besides, a blade that is spinning at rotations way beyond its rating could break loose.
Buyers must be keen on choosing equipment with the right horsepower, depending on the type of jobs they handle. Motors that generate between 1.5 to 2.0 HP can cut through hardwood two inches thick. On the other hand, 3.0-5.0 HP motors can handle three inches or more.
2. Safety: Skin Sensitive Safety Feature
Woodworking accidents are not only painful and costly to treat but also deprive a pro of their ability to earn a living. For this purpose, one needs to find a hybrid saw with a sensor feature. How it works is that it detects even the slightest contact between the skin and the saw blade. It immediately stops the blade from spinning. Meanwhile, the operator gets away with only a nip on their skin.
Models such as the SawStop feature an electronic detection system. It has an electric signal that can intelligently differentiate between wood and human skin. It stops the blade in a 200th of a second.
3. Dust collection ability
Workshops and designated work areas must be clean and clear of dust. Besides, operating equipment that keeps thrusting debris at a user’s face is not only a nuisance but dangerous. Such a malfunction can make the saw operator lose focus. They find themselves dealing with two problems, keeping tabs on their work and avoiding dust from getting in the way.
Judging from the hybrid saws reviewed here, most feature a 4-inch dust collection port. A saw with an efficient dust collection system could be pricey, but the result is worth the money spent. It also helps prevent health-related risks.
4. Ease of installation
Some hybrid table saws require a complicated assembly process. Buying such equipment comes at an added cost since the user would need to find an expert and pay them. Fortunately, most saw manufacturers provide buyers with user manuals. However, not all manuals are easy to understand.
A poorly assembled table saw not only yields poor performance but is also a disaster in waiting. Unless one is buying the product directly from a manufacturer’s outlet, they should carefully sift through the models available. Prospective buyers must exercise due diligence in their search for equipment that they can assemble with ease. Reviews can help greatly in narrowing down their choices.
5. Portability
Hybrid table saws are usually bulky. In some models, the design suits installing in a permanent place at a workshop, garage, or user’s basement. Other models have a wide span and cannot fit in areas where space is a challenge. However, professional woodworkers cannot stay in one place forever. They need to move as and when their job dictates.
One should opt for a hybrid saw with wheels attached to its base. If not, then it should have custom-made support whose features ease mobility. If the decision to procure heavy equipment stands, the operator must find ways to transport it to different work sites.
6. Always wear safety equipment
Wear hearing protection and safety glasses. You should also avoid loose-fitting clothes, jewelry, and necktie when using a table saw.
7. Keep your work area clean
Always keep your work area free from sawdust, cutoffs, and stock. A clogged table will hinder your ability to make accurate cuts, and you could step on cutoffs and fall while working.
8. Study and learn about your equipment’s safety features
Every heavy equipment comes with its safety features, and you may not be able to take advantage of them if you don’t read and study them properly. It is important to read the manual for the safety features of your table saw before use.
Anti-kickback pawls, riving knife, and blade guard are all meant to protect users. So, they should be adjusted appropriately.
9. Disconnect from power before changing the saw blade
Whenever you want to remove the blade or fix anything in your table saw, it is necessary to disconnect the equipment from power completely because you could mistakenly hit the power button and switch it on.
10 Ensure there is no obstruction before starting the table saw
It is also necessary to ascertain that nothing hinders the spinning of the blade before you start it.
11. Other miscellaneous safety tips
Always maintain a good standing position while working. You need a good balance, and you should not stay in the way of kickback so that you won’t be hit if it occurs.
When necessary, use a push stick to push the board through the blade instead of your hands. This will protect your fingers from the blade.
Final Verdict
Hybrid table saws combine both the functions in a cabinet and contractor saws. They are mainly stationary saws not meant for a lot of movement. Buying such a saw is an investment whose returns depend on whether the product meets a buyer’s needs or not.
Price also impacts the type of model one can find waiting for them at their doorstep. As woodworkers zero-in on a table saw, they must compare their options with the funds at their disposal. In most cases, it takes a delicate balance as there are lots of giving and take.
As technology advances, cutting tools follow suit. Manufacturers are continually finding ways of creating powerful cutting tools that make woodcutting work easy and accurate. The hybrid table saws featured in this review have got, among others:
• Superior construction designs
• Powerful motors
• Cutting precision
• Dust collection
• Safety systems
Whether one is a woodworking professional or a hobbyist, their ideal table saw should have a balanced combination of the reviewed features. Buyers must not forget product warranties that come in handy during the first few months of ownership.
Hopefully, this review will help potential buyers narrow down their choices and find their desired table saw to deliver value for money.