Makita LS1040
Score: 82/100
DeWalt DWS779
Score: 88/100Rankings
The DEWALT DWS779 is a heavy-duty, corded sliding compound miter saw designed for professional contractors requiring maximum cutting capacity. Its double-bevel design and high-torque motor excel at complex trim and wide lumber cuts. However, its significant weight and size make it less suitable for users with limited workshop space or those needing high portability.
The Makita LS1040 is a 10-inch corded compound miter saw designed for precise miter and bevel cuts in woodworking, cabinetry, and framing tasks. It features a powerful 15 AMP direct drive motor and a lightweight aluminum base for easy transport. Ideal for DIYers and finish carpenters who prioritize portability and accuracy over wide crosscut capacity.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
10 inches | 12 inchesbest | |
15 ampsbest | 15 ampsbest | |
45 degrees | 96 degreesbest | |
97 degrees | 100 degreesbest | |
4,600 rpmbest | 3,800 rpm | |
| ↓ lower better | 12.38 kgbest | 25.4 kg |
9 count | 10 countbest | |
1 years | 3 yearsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Build & Design(1) | ||
Product Weight (kg) | 12.38 kg | 25.4 kg |
General(1) | ||
Warranty Length (years) | 1 years | 3 years |
Power & Motor(2) | ||
Power Source | Corded | Corded Electric |
Motor Type | Direct Drive | Brushed |
Performance(6) | ||
Blade Diameter (inches) | 10 inches | 12 inches |
Bevel Range (degrees) | 45 degrees | 96 degrees |
Miter Range (degrees) | 97 degrees | 100 degrees |
No-Load Speed (rpm) | 4600 rpm | 3800 rpm |
Bevel Type | Single-Bevel | Double Bevel |
Miter Detents (count) | 9 count | 10 count |
Features(3) | ||
Dust Collection | Yes | High Efficiency |
Sliding Mechanism | false | true |
Electric Brake | true | false |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers and editors praise the Makita LS1040 for its rock-solid construction, precise locking mechanisms, and lightweight portability. It is highlighted as a top pick for finish carpenters and woodworkers who prioritize reliability and accuracy over sliding complexity.
Everyday users commonly praise the powerful motor, accuracy out of the box, and lightweight design for transport. Recurring themes include smooth, reliable adjustments for frequent miter work and durability.
Professional reviewers highly praise the DWS780 variant for its cutting power, high cut capacity, and superior ergonomics. Experts highlight the excellent miter adjustment system, rapid performance through dense materials, and ease of calibration as key strengths.
Users appreciate the saw's reliability, accuracy, and versatility for trim and molding work. Recurring concerns focus on the difficulty of storing such a heavy, large tool and the need for external vacuum systems to improve dust collection efficiency.
