Table saw vs jointer: If you’re wondering which tool to pick, here’s the quick answer—get a table saw like the DEWALT DWE7491RS for versatile cutting or a jointer like the WEN JT630H for flattening and squaring boards. Both shine in woodworking, but their purposes differ. A table saw cuts wood to size with precision, while a jointer preps rough lumber for seamless joinery. This guide dives deep into their differences, uses, and top Amazon picks to help you decide which tool (or both!) fits your workshop best.
Why Understanding Table Saw vs Jointer Matters
Woodworking projects demand precision, and the right tool ensures efficiency and quality. A table saw is a versatile cutting machine, while a jointer specializes in flattening and squaring wood surfaces. Choosing between them—or deciding if you need both—depends on your project goals, budget, and workshop space. Picking the wrong tool can lead to frustration, wasted time, or subpar results. Let’s break down what each tool does and how they compare.
What Is a Table Saw?
A table saw is a woodworking tool with a circular blade mounted on a flat table, used for cutting wood with precision. It’s a workshop staple for ripping, crosscutting, and making angled cuts. Table saws are versatile, handling everything from plywood to hardwoods.
Key Features of a Table Saw
- Blade Size: Typically 10” or 12” for standard models.
- Rip Capacity: Ranges from 24” to 50” for cutting wide boards.
- Fence System: Ensures straight, accurate cuts.
- Safety Features: Blade guards, riving knives, and anti-kickback pawls.
What Is a Jointer?
A jointer is a woodworking tool designed to flatten and square the edges or faces of boards. It uses a rotating cutter head with sharp knives to remove material, creating smooth, flat surfaces perfect for joining boards together.
Key Features of a Jointer
- Bed Width: Common sizes are 6” to 12” for different board widths.
- Cutter Head: Typically 2-4 knives for smooth planing.
- Fence: Adjustable for precise edge jointing.
- Dust Collection: Ports to manage wood shavings.
Table Saw vs Jointer: Key Differences
While both tools are essential for woodworking, they serve different purposes. Here’s a head-to-head comparison:
1. Purpose and Function
- Table Saw: Cuts wood to size with straight, angled, or beveled cuts LSI Keywords: wood cutting tool, rip cuts, crosscuts.
- Jointer: Flattens and squares board surfaces or edges for seamless joints LSI Keywords: wood planing, edge jointing.
2. Versatility
- Table Saw: Highly versatile for ripping, crosscutting, mitering, and even dado cuts with the right blade.
- Jointer: Specialized for surface prep; limited to flattening and squaring.
3. Precision
- Table Saw: Excels at precise cuts but doesn’t prepare rough lumber.
- Jointer: Ensures perfectly flat and square boards, critical for glue-ups.
4. Cost
- Table Saw: Ranges from $200 for entry-level models to $1,500+ for professional ones.
- Jointer: Starts at $300 for compact models, up to $2,000 for industrial versions.
5. Workshop Space
- Table Saw: Requires moderate space, especially with outfeed tables.
- Jointer: Needs ample room for infeed and outfeed of long boards.
Comparison Table: Table Saw vs Jointer
| Feature | Table Saw | Jointer |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | Cutting (ripping, crosscutting) | Flattening, squaring boards |
| Best For | General woodworking, furniture making | Preparing lumber, joinery |
| Price Range | $200-$1,500 | $300-$2,000 |
| Space Needed | Moderate | Large (for long boards) |
| Versatility | High | Specialized |
| Skill Level | Beginner to advanced | Intermediate to advanced |
When to Choose a Table Saw
A table saw is ideal if you need a versatile tool for cutting wood to size. It’s a must-have for:
- Ripping long boards into narrower strips.
- Crosscutting boards to length.
- Making mitered or beveled cuts for furniture or trim.
- Cutting sheet goods like plywood or MDF.
Top Table Saws on Amazon
1. DEWALT DWE7491RS 10” Jobsite Table Saw
DEWALT 10-Inch Table Saw with Rolling Stand, 32-1/2-Inch Rip Capacity (DWE7491RS)
- Rack & Pinion Telescoping Fence System Make fence adjustments fast, smooth and accurate
- Patented material support, can be used for narrow rip cuts.
- 32-1/2″ rip capacity easily cuts a variety of larger shelving and trim materials
List Price :
Offer: 649.99
Go to Amazon- Features: 32-½” rip capacity, 15-amp motor, rolling stand
- Price: Approximately $600–$650
- Why Buy: Combines portability and power—ideal for job sites or small workshops
2. SKIL SPT99-11 10” Heavy-Duty Table Saw
SKIL 10 Inch Heavy Duty Worm Drive Table Saw with Stand – SPT99-11
- Legendary worm drive gearing with 3-5/8 inch depth of cut and 30-1/2 inch rip capacity
- Precision rack and pinion fence system makes fence adjustments quickly and smoothly for accurate cuts
- Rugged rolling stand with 16 inch Wheels and easy-load handles delivers unsurpassed mobility
List Price :
Offer: 649.00
Go to Amazon- Features: 30” rip capacity, worm drive motor, rack-and-pinion fence system
- Price: Approximately $500–$550
- Why Buy: Built for durability and precision, perfect for serious DIYers and contractors
3. Bosch GTS15-10 10” Jobsite Table Saw
BOSCH GTS15-10 10 Inch Portable Jobsite Table Saw with Gravity-Rise Wheeled Stand, 15 Amp, 32-1/8 Inch Rip Capacity, 4 HP
- 15-Amp saw with 3,800 rpm for rip-cutting and cross-cutting of fine and hard wood materials
- CONVENIENCE BRAKE: Helps blade stop in approximately three seconds, increasing productivity
- CLAMPZONE AREAS :Allow tabletop to be used as a light-duty, secondary work surface
List Price :
Offer: 602.97
Go to Amazon- Features: 25” rip capacity, Gravity-Rise wheeled stand, Smart Guard System
- Price: Approximately $650–$700
- Why Buy: Offers professional-grade performance with enhanced safety features
When to Choose a Jointer
A jointer is essential if you work with rough lumber or need perfectly flat, square boards for joinery. It’s perfect for:
- Flattening warped or cupped boards.
- Squaring edges for seamless glue-ups.
- Preparing lumber for furniture or cabinetry.
- Creating smooth surfaces before planing.
Top Jointers on Amazon
1. WEN JT630H 6” Spiral Benchtop Jointer
WEN JT630H 10-Amp 6-Inch Spiral Benchtop Jointer
- Spiral cutterhead system utilizes 12 staggered HSS blades for an ultra fine finish
- Features a spacious 30-by-6-inch table
- Remove 0 to 1/8 of an inch of material with each pass
List Price :
Offer: 273.83
Go to Amazon- Features: 6” cutting width, 10-amp motor, spiral cutterhead
- Price: Approximately $300–$350
- Why Buy: A compact and budget-friendly option, ideal for small woodworking shops
2. CRAFTSMAN CMEW020 6” Benchtop Jointer
CRAFTSMAN Benchtop Jointer, Up to 22,000 cuts per Minute, 10 Amp, Corded (CMEW020)
- Variable speed: range of 6,000 to 11,000 RPM allows the user to select the right speed for the size and hardness of material
- Easy replacement and knife adjustments: two-knife cutter head with Jackscrew knife leveling arrangement allows for easy replacement and adjustment of knives
- Accurate cutting: center-mounted fence gives needed support throughout the cut for accurate edge jointing
New starting from: 349.00
Go to Amazon- Features: 6” cutting width, variable speed (6,000–11,000 RPM), sturdy fence
- Price: Approximately $350–$400
- Why Buy: Great for beginners—easy to use with consistent performance
3. JET JJ-6CSDX 6” Deluxe Jointer
JET 6-Inch Long Bed Jointer, 3 High-Speed Steel Knives, 1 HP, 115/230V 1Ph (Model JJ-6CSDX)
- Built-in 1/2-inch rabbeting ledge adds versatility
- Center fence controls are conveniently mounted to allow quick adjustments
- Extra-long heavy-duty cast iron infeed and outfeed tables (56 inches total length) feature a precision-machined finish
New starting from: 1399.99
Go to Amazon- Features: 6” cutting width, quick-set knives, cast-iron bed
- Price: Approximately $1,200–$1,400
- Why Buy: Designed for professionals who need precision and long-term durability
Can You Use a Table Saw and Jointer Together?
Absolutely! In fact, a table saw and jointer complement each other perfectly. Here’s how they work together:
- Step 1: Joint the Board – Use the jointer to flatten one face and square one edge.
- Step 2: Rip to Width – Use the table saw to rip the board to your desired width, using the jointed edge against the fence.
- Step 3: Crosscut to Length – Use the table saw’s miter gauge or sled to cut the board to length.
This workflow ensures your boards are flat, square, and cut to size, resulting in professional-quality projects.
Tips for Using a Table Saw and Jointer
Maximize performance and safety with these tips:
Table Saw Tips
- Use a Sharp Blade: A dull blade causes burn marks and kickback.
- Check the Fence: Ensure it’s parallel to the blade for accurate cuts.
- Use Push Sticks: Keep hands safe when ripping narrow pieces.
- Wear Safety Gear: Goggles, ear protection, and dust masks are a must.
Jointer Tips
- Feed Slowly: Let the cutter head do the work for smooth results.
- Check Knives: Sharp, properly aligned knives prevent tear-out.
- Use Dust Collection: Jointers produce a lot of shavings.
- Joint in Small Passes: Remove 1/16” or less per pass for best results.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls to get the most out of your tools:
- Skipping the Jointer for Rough Lumber: Cutting warped boards on a table saw leads to uneven results.
- Using a Dull Blade/Knives: Dull tools create rough surfaces and strain motors.
- Ignoring Safety: Always use guards, push sticks, and protective gear.
- Overloading the Tool: Don’t force thick or dense wood through either machine.
FAQ Section
Q: What’s the main difference between a table saw and a jointer?
A: A table saw cuts wood to size with rip, cross, or angled cuts, while a jointer flattens and squares boards for joinery. For cutting, try the DEWALT DWE7491RS; for jointing, the WEN JT630H is great.
Q: Can a table saw replace a jointer?
A: No, a table saw can’t flatten or square boards like a jointer. For best results, use a jointer like the CRAFTSMAN CMEW020 to prep lumber before cutting on a table saw like the SKIL SPT99-11.
Q: Do I need both a table saw and a jointer for woodworking?
A: For professional results, yes. A jointer preps rough lumber, while a table saw cuts it to size. Combine the JET JJ-6CSDX Jointer with the Bosch GTS15-10 Table Saw for a complete setup.
Q: Where can I buy a table saw or jointer?
A: Amazon offers top options like the DEWALT DWE7491RS Table Saw, SKIL SPT99-11, WEN JT630H Jointer, and JET JJ-6CSDX. Check Amazon for competitive prices and fast shipping.
Conclusion
Deciding between a table saw vs jointer comes down to your woodworking needs. A table saw like the DEWALT DWE7491RS is perfect for versatile cutting, while a jointer like the WEN JT630H excels at preparing flat, square boards. For the best results, consider using both in tandem to transform rough lumber into polished projects. Amazon makes it easy to find top-rated tools from brands like DEWALT, SKIL, and JET, with options for every budget.
Ready to level up your woodworking? Head to Amazon, pick the right tool for your shop, and start creating with confidence! Have questions or need help choosing? Drop a comment below—I’m here to help.
Finlay Connolly is a woodworking enthusiast and power tool specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience in the workshop. As the founder and lead writer at ProTableSawReviews.com, Finlay combines expert knowledge with real-world testing to help woodworkers, DIYers, and professionals choose the best tools for the job. With a sharp eye for detail and a passion for precision, Finlay is committed to providing trustworthy, practical advice backed by years of experience and research in the field. Whether you’re cutting dados or comparing fence systems, you can count on Finlay for honest, reliable reviews that make your next cut your best one.