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Table saws remain as popular woodworking tools for hobbyists and professionals alike.
If you’re working with wood on a regular basis, having the right tools helps to make the job easier. It ultimately makes the process more standardized and reliable.
That said, buyers are often discouraged by their size and lack of mobility, which might raise some restrictions. From storage to transport, it can be a challenge to utilize your table saw in the most convenient way. Therefore, DeWalt table saws consist of a range of compact Jobsite table saws that provide you the desired performance while adding portability and flexibility.
While opening up options for you, the question of which model suits your needs props up. The company’s famed table saws include the DW745 and the DWE7480—each regarded as stellar products by those who own them. But which one is right for you?
Update: The DWE7480 has been discontinued and replaced with the DWE7485. We’ve replaced our review of the original product with the new release.
Read on below to see the differences, their features, pros/cons, and, ultimately, which table saw we recommend for your projects.
The Main Differences DeWalt DW745 vs DWE7480
The Main Differences Between DeWalt DW745 vs DWE7480 are:
- DeWalt DW745 has a 3850RPM, whereas DeWalt DWE7480 has more powerful motor power and takes the with a 4800 RPM which gives greater precision and accuracy
- DeWalt DW745 has a rip capacity of 20 inches, whereas DeWalt DWE7480 has a higher rip capacity which allows woodworkers to rip up to 24 ½ inches
- DeWalt DW745 has a more lightweight design and offers easier portability, whereas DeWalt DWE7480 is a bit larger and it does have some restrictions due to its size.
- DeWalt DW745 is the least expensive option of the two, whereas DeWalt DWE7480 may be priced since it’s a more recent version.
The Dewalt versatile 10-Inch Jobsite Table Saw features the Site-Pro Modular Guarding System for application-specific setups that result in quick, accurate cuts. It pairs a portable design with a powerful 15 amp motor and large 20-inch rip capacity. 
Ultimately, your decision to purchase a table saw is dependent on what it can do for you. In order to evaluate the capabilities, features, and application of each model, let’s discuss them individually.
DeWalt DW745
DeWalt DW 745 is a popular option for beginners, DIYers or those wanting to practice their craft. When compared to traditional table saws, the DW745 10 inch table saw offers up a powerful alternative that is competitively priced. It is specifically designed keeping professionals in mind and is definitely worth looking into.
One of its prime attractiveness is its portability. With its compact design and weight, users are able to carry the saw easily to their worksite. Its weight comes in about 45 lbs for the unit alone which allows individuals to load or unload by themselves with comfort. Additionally, its included accessories can be stored within the table body itself. These features also make it storage friendly as it can be tucked away neatly in your garage or basement.
It utilizes a 10-inch carbide miter blade which is ideal for some heavy duty cutting and has 24-teeth indents for precision and accuracy. The blade is suitable for most basic cuts, but users will need to buy blades with higher tooth count if more refined cuts are required.
The blade can be angled from 0 to 45 degrees and has a built-in gauge which allows you to set the miter as required.
When it comes to power, the 15-amp motor provides an impactful 1,850W of power with 3,850 RPM; therefore, giving you the ability to cut through stock without snags or stalls.
Accessories & Elements
Aside from the 10-inch carbide blade, there are some key components of the table saw that bear highlighting:
T-Fence
When it comes to sawing wood, having a fence is a critical element. The railing allows for smooth and straight cuts while keeping you safe from any slip-ups.
Most table saws within the price range do have fences, but the rack and pinion rip fence of the DW745 is steps above the competition. Crafters will be able to extend the fence up to 16 inches for accurate and customized cutting. Additionally, the fence can be easily locked into position as well.
Dust Collection Port
When it comes to on-site work, dust can be a hazard and an inconvenience; therefore, DeWalt has included a dust collection mechanism within its saw. The dust can be collected in a vacuum system or dust bag through a 2 ½ inch connector.
Blade Guard & Anti-Kickback Mechanism
The unit comes with your standard blade guard. It’s made from clear plastic which maximizes safety without compromising your visuals during cutting.
Additionally, it comes with an anti kickback mechanism that bites down on material on the sides of your cut to prevent any mishaps.
Push Stick
In addition to safety accessories, DeWalt packages a push stick allowing you to process your wood without getting your body actively involved.
In order to ensure maximum safety, the company does also includes instructions on how to make your own push stick in case you need a replacement or need customizations.
Miter Gauge
In addition to allowing users to set an angle, the set also comes with a miter gauge to add to its functionality. You can set your gauge to your desired angle and attach it on the table for perfect angles every time.
That said, the gauge isn’t known for its quality and is considered somewhat flimsy to use. Nevertheless, the company has equipped you with an option in case you need it.
Features of A DeWalt DW745
- Portable, lightweight table saw with on-site ready features
- 10-inch 24-tooth carbide blade for strong and steady cuts
- 20-inch rip capacity allowing for variations in cutting and trimming
- The 15-Amp motor which has a no-load speed up to 3,850RPM
- Fence attached with rack and pinion rails to make smooth and accurate adjustments.
- The telescopic fence allows you to retract fence rails according to your customization
- Bevels from 0-45 degrees and comes with a miter gauge for achieving a variety of bevel and miter cuts.
- Built-in storage provides quick, easy and safe access to blade change-over, guarding and push stick components.
- Comes with a metal roll cage base for added portability and durability
- Rear feet are adjustable enabling stability on uneven surfaces.
- Dust collection mechanism features a 2 ½ inch vacuum duct for easy cleanup.
- Workstation is coated with anti-friction materials for smooth cutting.
Pros of DeWalt DW745
- Durable Construction – With a brand name like DeWalt, the durability and design of the table saw is bound to stand out. Each component is built with job-sites and woodworkers alike and its minor configurations add to its sturdiness; therefore, making it a long-lasting unit fit for a variety of projects.
- Travel and Storage Friendly – With its compact build and lightweight construction, the DW745 makes for easy travel, set-up, and storage, as required.
- Powerful Motor – With a power of 1,850W, the table saw provides an RPM which gives you the capacity required for most standard cuts. .0
- Allows You to Adjust Angles – Its in-built bevel adjustment and additional miter gauge, the table saw can be fitted to carry out cuts beyond the typical with accuracy and precision.
- Attachments Allow for Greater Precision and Safety – With its fencing and guards, the table saw is great for woodworkers and enthusiasts alike to practice their skills without any immediate threats.
Cons of DeWalt DW745
- Rip Capacity Can Be Improved – The 20-inch rip capacity is rather small for models within the same price range and can limit your ability for cutting larger stock.
- 24-Tooth Blade Can Be Restrictive – While the DW745 is fitted with a powerful motor, the blade is not ideal for making more refined cuts. An additional blade can be purchased to make up for this drawback.
Dewalt DWE7485
The DeWalt DWE 7485 is a relatively new edition to the Dewalt popular line of portable table saws. This 8 ¼-inch table saw boasts a similarly lightweight and mobile functionality. It’s actually marketed as a shrinking table saw.
While the blade is smaller, it actually adds power and durability. It’s also so easy to set up that a monkey could do it.
This saw can provide a no-load speed of up to 5,800RPM, which is more than the DWE745, but with the smaller blade, that’s expected. It provides a good mix of speed and performance for other units within the price range. The DWE7485 also has the ability to accommodate 4×8-foot sheets, which upgraded from the DW745’s 20-inch capacity.
It utilizes a 8 ¼-inch carbide blade to cut through stock quickly and efficiently. This is smaller than the DWE745, but certainly not a new size in the portable table saw market. The added RPM allows for cleaner and smoother cuts.
Accessories & Elements
Rip Fence
Rather than just lock and slide, the DWE7485 actually has a track system. You can set the fence with a push clamp on either side of the blade, which is awesome when you’re doing left or right handed cuts.
There’s a support that folds down for wider rips that hang over the base of the saw, too, but what immediately catches your eye is how exact of a setting you can get just by turning the knob at the front.
You’ll experience a solid fence thanks to the knob and fence being perfectly square to the blade plane. Because there’s a front and back rail that interlock with the knob, you only have to set the measurement once and start cutting.
Safety Measures
If you’re looking for a compact table saw with plenty of protection, you’ve come to the right place. This unit has three different saw blade protection attachments, a splitter, an anti-kickback assembly, a standard blade guard, and a riving knife.
The standard blade guard has two plastic guards operating independently, so you can cut longer panels, but they also work well as siding to help you compensate for board lift or bowing near the blade.
Miter Gauge
You can angle the blade on the DWE7485 up to 30 degrees in both directions. You can achieve angled cuts with or without the fence, and you can get compound miters by tilting the blade. There’s a locking dial at the front with a range of -2 to 47 degrees.
Dust Collection
There is a primary dust port on the bottom of the saw that will collect dust as you work, but there’s also a secondary dust port that allows for a vacuum attachment when working indoors or anywhere else you don’t want to make a mess.
Extended Base
The extended base provides plenty of support for running longer sheets through. It’s a nice feature to have in a compact table saw, but the limitation is that you may not be within arms length of operation while trying to guide the
Features of a Dewalt DWE7480
- Mobile Table saw with a lightweight, durable construction
- Comes with plenty of safety attachments for a wide range of uses
- Extended base will accommodate 8-foot sheets
- Precisely set fence by turning a simply knob on the front
- Two dust collection ports for use indoors and out
- It comes packed with safety accessories which can also be stored within the unit itself.
- Weather resistant construction makes for a more durable tool
Pros and Cons of Dewalt DWE7480
Pros
- Lightweight Construction – It contains a smaller blade than the DW745, but it makes for light transport that’s compact enough for easier storage.
- Built-In Fencing for Added Support – With its high-quality fencing and its features, the DWE7485 provides enhanced stability and accuracy without the need of additional accessories or clamps, and it’s easy to set more precisely than the DWE745.
- On-board Storage – This feature ensures that, despite its size, you still have a place to put all of your accessories when you travel to the job site.
- Weather Resistance – Not all tools are weather resistant, so this type of construction ensures that you’ll have a working tool at any job site in any conditions.
Cons of Dewalt DWE7480
- Increased Weight – Despite having a smaller blade, this unit actually weighs more than the DWE745, making it a bit more difficult to carry.
- No Ability to Add a Dado Stack – If you’re dadoing boards, there’s really no way to do this with the DWE7485.
- A Lot of Plastic – Even though it has durable construction, much of it is plastic, which could be another deal breaker for serious woodworkers.
- Lack of Alternate Blade Options – You simply can’t put a larger blade on this table saw. It accommodates 8 ¼-inch blades, and your new blade must be able to withstand 6000RPM.
- Cutting Capacity May Still Be Limiting – For those used to traditional sized table saws, the portable versions will still be restrictive depending on their stock and project specifications.
- Relatively Expensive – While there are additions in features, the saw may appear to be more costly than its counterpart.
Take this Dewalt DWE7485 Jobsite table saw to break down four by eight plywood sheets for your DIY project or any needs. It comes with a bonus compact size for easy transportation and storage.
DeWalt DW745 vs DeWalt DWE7480: What to Look Out For
Below are some factors to consider when buying a table saw:
Power
Being a power tool, its output is a point of concern and consideration. Your table saw should be able to make cuts as per your required type, depth of cut and fashion. Both tools are 15-amp in power but have varying RPM levels that influence their abilities and finishes.
Table Space
Your wood stock should be level and stable as you perform your activities. Being of the portable variety, the tablespace of these models is relatively smaller. Your project will shed some light on whether the space provided would suffice or will you need extensions or a second person in order to achieve better results.
Rip Capacity
Table saw are the preferred tool when it comes to ripping aboard. However, given the structure of the Jobsite saws, the ripping capacity needs a little more consideration. The DWE7480 has a slightly better capacity of 24 inches as opposed to the DW745’s 20-inch capacity. Your requirement will generally vary, but the higher capacity naturally lets you be more flexible.
Blade Size
Your standard blade size is around 10-inches which is being used within the models as well. The cutting depth of these blades will give you an idea of whether you need additional blades; thus, influencing your overall budget.
Dust Collection
Operating a table saw can be messy. Given its efficiency and flow, having a dust collection set-up is crucial. Both DeWalt models come with an in-built dust port collection mechanism with the option of output through dust bags or vacuums within your shop or work area.
Accessories
While similar accessories are found in each unit, you can opt-in for the DWE7480’s stand which is a missing option in the latter. That said, you also need to consider any additional accessories you need in order to optimize your table saw for your needs.
Budget
In some cases, our own budget holds the biggest sway in our ultimate buying decision. The DW745 is an older model and is available at a cheaper price with slightly lesser optimized features.
Brand
Lastly, buying such an investment-heavy tool, the brand name should be considered. DeWalt power tools are well-known and reputable within the community and, therefore, are able to provide you with high quality, durable products with great customer support, if needed.
DeWalt DW745 vs DeWalt DWE7480: Which One Should You Get?
With the match-up being so close, our recommendation goes with either option, depending on your requirements.
DeWalt DWE745 is relatively cheaper than its newer version and offers the reliable tried-and-tested DeWalt quality. It has the power, speed, and blade to help you get through the projects in an efficient and safe manner while giving you the confidence and precision you need as well.
Being portable and lightweight, you can easily transport or store your table saw without much hassle or needing external help. That said, the lower rip capacity and RPM are ultimately going to be your trade-offs.
In case you have the funds and do not need the larger blade, the DWE7485 is the superior choice due to its capacity. It will allow you to easily work through more stock making your overall workflow more efficient.
As a woodworker, you’ll have to make a few compromises no matter which table saw you opt for. Our recommendation ultimately has to go with the DeWalt DWE7485 being an improved version of the former and a solid choice for your workshop.
Take this Dewalt DWE7485 Jobsite table saw to break down four by eight plywood sheets for your DIY project or any needs. It comes with a bonus compact size for easy transportation and storage.
Table Saw Safety Tips
Before purchasing a table saw, it’s important to familiarize yourself with its safety precautions. You can obtain detailed information through the company’s provided manual, but here’s some brief information about the precautions you should take:
- Wear Safety Goggles and Gloves. Dust and debris can lead to fly away or splintered wood and contact from such materials should be avoided. Use appropriate head and hand gear in order to keep yourself safe.
- Always Use A Dust Mask. While dust collection mechanism is available in most table saws, accidental inhalation can lead to some serious health concerns. When in the work area, you’re mouth covered at all times.
- Do Not Wear Loose Clothing. Accidental snags and tears in clothing can occur is form-fitting clothes are not worn during the process. This may lead to sudden movements that can be injurious.
- Utilize the Push Stick. Make sure of your fence and push stick to keep yourself away from any danger of accidental contact with the blade or sudden kickbacks.
- Practice Safety During Operations. Make safety a priority over efficiency. Allow the blade to come to a close before checking up on your cuts, turn off your unit if not in use and position yourself away from any dangerous situations.
- Handle Unit Carefully. While the table saws are generally lighter and can be typically handled by a single person, enlist help if you need to. It’s important to ensure you are protected from any accidents as you load, unload or store your unit.
FAQ’s About DeWalt DW745 and DeWalt DWE7480
Can You Use A Dado Blade with The DeWalt DW745?
While you can use alternate blades, the table saw does not support the use of Dado blades. Its short arbor cannot accommodate the width; therefore, it cannot be fitted in. For a detailed list of blades that can be used within the unit, you can browse through its manual.
How Do You Replace Its Blade?
The unit comes with a wrench fitted into its side which allows users to loosen or tighten the nut holding your blade. It is important to stay safe during the procedure and use the appropriate gear only.
Additionally, your table saw should be switched off before you make any replacements. For detailed information on blade replacement, refer to the provided instruction manual.
What is the DeWalt’s Site Pro Modular Guarding System?
The popular DeWalt’s Site-Pro Modular Guarding System is used for tool-free adjusting of the guarding components applicable for each utilization.
How much maintenance is needed?
Table saws are notoriously messy; but with its dust collection mechanism, the DW745 prevents dust-build-up. It is recommended to inform yourself of the safety procedures and conduct a regular inspection before use in order to ensure maintenance requirements as they may differ according to your project specifications.
What is its cutting capacity?
The saw is able to achieve a depth of cut of 3 1/8 inches at a 0-degree bevel and 2 ¼ inches at a 45-degrees angle.
Can a Dado Blade Be Used with The Saw?
Similar to the former, dado blades are not compatible with these portable table saws. Learn about the blades and attachments you can use by reading the provided instruction manual.
Can the Blade be Retracted All the Way?
Yes, you can retract the blade all the way inside your unit and in fact, it is recommended to keep the blade lowered until in use to avoid any safety hazards.
Does It Come with A Stand?
While the DW745 does not come with a stand, you can opt for purchase one customized for the unit with the DWE7480 and benefit for better stability and easy storage.
How Do You Adjust the Fence?
The unit has a built-in gauge on the front and knobs in order to accurately adjust the fence to your liking by going in either direction. For detailed instructions, refer to your instruction manual.
Take this Dewalt DWE7485 Jobsite table saw to break down four by eight plywood sheets for your DIY project or any needs. It comes with a bonus compact size for easy transportation and storage.
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