Best Table Saw Blade for Acrylic: Top Picks for Clean, Chip-Free Cuts in 2025

Cutting acrylic—whether it’s Plexiglas, Lexan, or another plastic sheet—can be tricky. You need a table saw blade that slices smoothly without chipping, melting, or cracking the material. The wrong blade can turn your project into a mess of jagged edges or melted goo, and nobody wants that. As a woodworker who’s dabbled in acrylic for display cases and craft projects, I’ve learned the hard way what works and what doesn’t. In this 2,500+ word guide, I’ll share the best table saw blades for acrylic, along with tips to get flawless cuts every time.

This article is packed with hands-on insights, user feedback, and expert advice to help you choose the perfect blade for your table saw. Whether you’re a DIYer building a custom aquarium or a hobbyist crafting signage, I’ve got you covered with top picks, detailed reviews, and practical know-how. Let’s find the blade that’ll make your acrylic cuts look like they came from a factory.

Why Cutting Acrylic Is Different

Acrylic, unlike wood, is brittle yet prone to melting under heat. It demands a blade that balances sharpness, tooth design, and cooling to avoid chipping or fusing the material. Here’s what makes cutting acrylic unique:

• Brittleness: Acrylic can crack or chip if the blade’s teeth are too aggressive.
• Heat Sensitivity: Friction from a fast or dull blade can melt the edges, leaving a gummy mess.
• Smooth Edge Needs: Many acrylic projects (e.g., display cases) require polished, chip-free edges for a professional look.
• Dedicated Blades: Using a wood-cutting blade risks dulling it and damaging the acrylic.

The best table saw blade for acrylic has specific features: high tooth count, specialized tooth geometry, and carbide tips for durability. I’ll break down these features and review the top blades that deliver clean, precise cuts.

What to Look for in a Table Saw Blade for Acrylic

Before diving into the top picks, let’s cover the key factors to consider when choosing a blade for acrylic. These specs will help you understand why certain blades outperform others.

1. Tooth Count

• 80–120 Teeth: High tooth counts (80 or more for 10-inch blades) produce smoother cuts with less chipping. Fewer teeth (e.g., 40–60) can work for thicker acrylic but may cause rougher edges.
• Why It Matters: More teeth mean smaller bites, reducing the chance of cracking brittle acrylic.

2. Tooth Geometry

• Triple-Chip Grind (TCG): Alternates between a beveled “crown” tooth and a flat-top “raker” tooth to remove material in three chips (center, left, right). This minimizes chipping and heat buildup.
• Modified Triple-Chip Grind (MTCG): A variation with slight bevels on the raker tooth for even smoother cuts.
• Negative Hook Angle: A slight backward tilt (–2° to –5°) reduces grabbing, keeping cuts controlled and cool.
• Why It Matters: TCG or MTCG is ideal for acrylic, as it slices cleanly without aggressive tearing.

3. Blade Material

• Carbide-Tipped: Carbide teeth stay sharp longer than steel, essential for cutting abrasive acrylic.
• Micrograin Carbide: Finer grains (e.g., C4 carbide) offer superior durability and edge retention.
• Why It Matters: Acrylic dulls blades faster than wood, so carbide is a must for longevity.

4. Kerf and Clearance

• Thin Kerf (1/10″ or less): Reduces material waste and heat, ideal for underpowered saws.
• Radial/Side Clearance: Extra space around teeth minimizes friction and melting.
• Why It Matters: Less contact with the acrylic keeps the blade cool and prevents binding.

5. Blade Size

• 10-Inch: Standard for most table saws, offering a good balance of speed and control.
• 12-Inch: For larger saws or thicker acrylic stacks, but less common in home shops.
• Why It Matters: Match the blade size to your saw’s arbor (usually 5/8″ for 10-inch blades).

6. Anti-Vibration and Cooling

• Laser-Cut Slots: Reduce vibration and noise, improving cut quality.
• Anti-Friction Coatings: Silver I.C.E. or non-stick coatings minimize heat buildup.
• Why It Matters: Vibration can cause chipping, and heat is acrylic’s enemy.

7. Dedicated Use

• Acrylic-Only Blades: Never use an acrylic blade for wood or metal, as it dulls the teeth and ruins performance.
• Why It Matters: A dedicated blade stays sharp and delivers consistent results.

Top 5 Table Saw Blades for Acrylic in 2025

After scouring user reviews, expert tests, and manufacturer specs, I’ve rounded up the best table saw blades for acrylic. These picks are tailored for home woodworkers and DIYers, balancing performance, durability, and price. All are 10-inch blades with a 5/8-inch arbor, compatible with most table saws.

1. Freud LU94M010 10-Inch 80-Tooth MTCG Plexiglass and Plastic Blade

Price: ~$104
Tooth Count: 80 (MTCG, –3° hook angle)
Kerf: 0.110″ (thin)
Best For: Professional-grade acrylic cuts with minimal finishing

The Freud LU94M010 is the gold standard for acrylic cutting, designed specifically for Plexiglas, Lexan, and other plastics. Its modified triple-chip grind and negative hook angle deliver butter-smooth cuts without chipping or melting, even on 1/4″ to 1-5/8″ thick sheets. The micrograin carbide teeth and Silver I.C.E. coating keep the blade cool and durable.

Key Features

• MTCG Tooth Design: Minimizes chipping with slight bevels on raker teeth.
• Silver I.C.E. Coating: Reduces friction and heat for cleaner cuts.
• Laser-Cut Anti-Vibration Slots: Lowers noise and stabilizes the blade.
• Micrograin Carbide: Stays sharp through abrasive acrylic.
• Thin Kerf: Eases the load on smaller table saws.

Pros

• Razor-sharp edges with little to no finishing needed.
• Cuts thick acrylic (up to 1-5/8″) without melting.
• Quiet and stable, thanks to anti-vibration slots.
• Durable for frequent use in hobbyist shops.
• Highly rated by users for display cases and aquariums.

Cons

• Premium price may deter budget shoppers.
• Not ideal for wood or metal—strictly for plastics.
• Requires careful feed rate to avoid chipping thin sheets.

User Feedback

Amazon reviewers rave about the LU94M010, with one user saying, “It cuts Plexiglas like a knife through butter, leaving a laser-sharp edge.” Another noted, “No chipping or cracking on my display case project.” Some warn about feeding too fast, which can cause minor chips on ultra-thin acrylic.

Why It’s Great for Acrylic

The Freud LU94M010 is the top pick for its flawless performance on acrylic sheets of all thicknesses. It’s perfect for projects requiring exposed edges, like signage or display cases, and its durability justifies the cost for frequent users.

Freud LU94M010: 10" Plastic Blade

• Precision Cutting – Delivers clean, smooth, accurate cuts in acrylics, plexiglass, polycarbonate, and other plastics without melting or chipping, thanks to a specially modified triple chip grind tooth design.
• Premium Carbide – Features Freud’s advanced TiCo Hi-Density Carbide blend for longer life, precise cuts, and superior cutting performance in plastics, laminates, and chipboard, even in high-volume industrial use.
• Cool Operation – Modified Triple Chip Grind and -3° hook angle reduce heat buildup, helping to prevent melting and warping while keeping material edges crisp, clean, and ready for finishing or assembly.

New starting from: 85.48

Go to Amazon

2. Diablo D1080N 10-Inch 80-Tooth Non-Ferrous/Plastic Blade

Price: ~$54
Tooth Count: 80 (TCG, –5° hook angle)
Kerf: 0.098″ (ultra-thin)
Best For: Budget-friendly acrylic cuts with great results

The Diablo D1080N, made by Freud, is a more affordable alternative that doesn’t skimp on quality. Designed for non-ferrous metals and plastics, it uses a triple-chip grind and super-thin kerf to cut acrylic cleanly. Its TiCo carbide blend and Perma-Shield coating reduce heat and extend blade life.

Key Features

• TCG Tooth Design: Prevents chipping and ensures smooth edges.
• Perma-Shield Coating: Non-stick surface minimizes friction and melting.
• Ultra-Thin Kerf: Reduces material waste and eases motor strain.
• Laser-Cut Stabilizers: Lowers vibration for precise cuts.
• Versatile: Also cuts aluminum and PVC.

Pros

• Half the price of premium blades with near-comparable performance.
• Clean cuts on 1/4″ to 1/2″ acrylic sheets.
• Lightweight and easy on smaller saws.
• Great for occasional acrylic projects.
• Widely available at Home Depot and Amazon.

Cons

• Slightly rougher edges than the Freud LU94M010 on thick acrylic.
• Less durable for heavy, daily use.
• May require light sanding for polished edges.

User Feedback

Home Depot customers praise the D1080N for its value, with one saying, “Cut 1/2″ acrylic sheets with no issues—super clean edges.” Another noted, “It’s not as perfect as a $100 blade, but for the price, it’s fantastic.” Some report minor melting if fed too slowly.

Why It’s Great for Acrylic

The Diablo D1080N is a budget-friendly gem for DIYers cutting acrylic occasionally. It’s versatile enough for other materials like PVC, making it a practical choice for mixed-material projects.

Diablo Saw Blade for Medium Aluminum – 10" Diameter, 80 TCG Teeth, 5/8" Arbor, .094" Kerf, -5° Hook Angle, .071" Plate, 6000 Max RPM – D1080N

• Clean Cuts – Triple Chip Grind (TCG) Tooth Design delivers clean, burr-free finishes and virtually eliminates any need for rework, ensuring a superior cut every time. Ideal for cutting aluminum, copper, plastics, brass, and fiberglass.
• Impact Resistance – Built with Tri-Metal Shock-Resistant Brazing, allowing the blade to slice through metal materials while withstanding extreme impact, ensuring maximum durability on the job.
• Protection – Perma-SHIELD Non-Stick Coating offers protection against heat, gumming, and corrosion, keeping the blade clean and performing at its peak for longer periods.

New starting from: 50.00

Go to Amazon

3. Forrest No-Melt NM108011100 10-Inch 80-Tooth Plastic Blade

Price: ~$165
Tooth Count: 80 (Modified TCG, –3° hook angle)
Kerf: 0.100″ (thin)
Best For: High-volume acrylic cutting with no melting

The Forrest No-Melt blade is a premium choice for woodworkers cutting acrylic stacks or delicate plastics like ABS and PVC. Its modified triple-chip grind and extra side clearance eliminate melted burrs, while the C4 micrograin carbide ensures long-lasting sharpness. It’s a favorite for professional shops but works wonders in home workshops too.

Key Features

• Modified TCG: Special side clearance reduces heat and burrs.
• C4 Micrograin Carbide: 40% stronger than standard carbide for durability.
• Double-Hard Steel Plate: Minimizes vibration and wobble.
• Hand-Tensioned: Ensures perfect balance for smooth cuts.
• No-Melt Design: Ideal for stacked sheets or brittle acrylics.

Pros

• Exceptional for cutting multiple stacked acrylic sheets.
• No melting or chipping, even on high-speed cuts.
• Ultra-smooth edges rival factory finishes.
• Long lifespan, even with frequent use.
• Made in the USA with top-tier craftsmanship.

Cons

• Expensive, best for serious hobbyists or pros.
• Requires precise setup to maximize performance.
• Limited availability compared to Freud or Diablo.

User Feedback

Users on Forrest’s website call the No-Melt “the best blade for acrylic stacks,” with one saying, “I cut three 1/4″ sheets at once with no chips or melt.” Another noted, “It’s pricey, but the edges are so smooth I barely need to sand.” Some mention the high cost as a barrier for casual use.

Why It’s Great for Acrylic

The Forrest No-Melt is the go-to for high-volume or stacked acrylic cutting. Its no-melt design and premium build make it worth the splurge for projects demanding perfection, like custom aquariums or signage.

4. Tenryu PRP-25580CB 10-Inch 80-Tooth Plastic Blade

Price: ~$120
Tooth Count: 80 (Unichip grind, 0° rake)
Kerf: 0.110″ (thin)
Best For: Smooth cuts for fabrication and exposed edges

The Tenryu PRP-25580CB is a pro-grade blade tailored for acrylic fabrication, offering a unique “Unichip” grind that delivers chip-free cuts. Its zero-degree rake and carbide-tipped teeth are optimized for smooth, silent operation, making it a top choice for picture framers and fabricators.

Key Features

• Unichip Grind: Proprietary tooth design for ultra-smooth cuts.
• Zero-Degree Rake: Prevents grabbing for controlled cutting.
• Carbide-Tipped Teeth: High-density carbide for longevity.
• Precision Ground: Ensures concentricity and minimal runout.
• Quiet Operation: Reduces noise for a better shop experience.

Pros

• Factory-smooth edges ideal for visible cuts.
• Silent and low-vibration, even at high speeds.
• Excellent for thin (1/8″–1/4″) acrylic sheets.
• Durable for daily fabrication tasks.
• Trusted by picture framing professionals.

Cons

• Higher price than Diablo, less versatile than Freud.
• Not ideal for stacked sheets or very thick acrylic.
• Harder to find at major retailers.

User Feedback

A user on The Picture Framers Grumble forum said, “The Tenryu 80-tooth Unichip blade gives the smoothest cuts I’ve ever seen on acrylic—no chips!” Another noted, “It’s pricey, but perfect for framing where edges are exposed.” Some wish it handled thicker materials better.

Why It’s Great for Acrylic

The Tenryu PRP-25580CB excels for projects requiring polished, visible edges, like picture frames or display panels. Its quiet operation and precision make it a joy to use in home shops.

Tenryu PRP-25580CB 10" Carbide Tipped Saw Blade ( 80 Tooth ATAF Grind – 5/8" Arbor – 0.125 Kerf)

• Sold on Amazon

New starting from: 125.71

Go to Amazon

5. WEN BL1080 10-Inch 80-Tooth Carbide-Tipped Blade

Price: ~$37
Tooth Count: 80 (TCG, –5° hook angle)
Kerf: 0.098″ (ultra-thin)
Best For: Budget acrylic cutting for small projects

The WEN BL1080 is a steal for budget-conscious DIYers, offering solid performance for acrylic at a fraction of the cost. Its 80-tooth TCG design and ultra-thin kerf cut cleanly through thin acrylic sheets, though it may require more finishing than premium blades. It’s a great entry-level option for occasional use.

Key Features

• TCG Tooth Design: Reduces chipping on thin acrylic.
• Ultra-Thin Kerf: Minimizes waste and motor strain.
• Carbide-Tipped: Decent durability for the price.
• Heat Expansion Slots: Helps dissipate heat during cuts.
• Affordable: Perfect for hobbyists on a budget.

Pros

• Dirt-cheap price for good acrylic performance.
• Clean cuts on 1/8″–1/4″ acrylic with minimal chipping.
• Lightweight and easy on small table saws.
• Good for beginners or one-off projects.
• Widely available online.

Cons

• Edges may need sanding or flame polishing.
• Less durable than premium blades for frequent use.
• Can melt if fed too slowly or used on thick acrylic.

User Feedback

A Reddit user in r/BeginnerWoodWorking said, “The WEN 80-tooth blade cut my 1/4″ acrylic beautifully—way better than expected for $37.” Another noted, “It’s not perfect, but for small projects, it gets the job done.” Some report minor chipping without proper feed rate.

Why It’s Great for Acrylic

The WEN BL1080 is a budget-friendly choice for hobbyists cutting acrylic infrequently. It’s not as refined as Freud or Forrest but delivers impressive results for the price, especially for thin sheets.

WEN BL1080 10-Inch 80-Tooth Carbide-Tipped Ultra-Fine Finish Professional Woodworking Saw Blade for Miter Saws and Table Saws

• Featuring a 10-inch diameter (254 mm), a 5/8-inch arbor (15.88 mm) and a rating of up to 6000 RPM
• Perfect for slicing through both hard and softwoods of all kinds
• Ultra-thin 1/10-inch kerf (2.4 mm) provides clean and efficient cuts

New starting from: 18.66

Go to Amazon

Comparison Table: Top Table Saw Blades for Acrylic

How to Cut Acrylic with a Table Saw: Expert Tips

Getting clean cuts isn’t just about the blade—it’s also about technique. Here are my top tips for cutting acrylic like a pro:

1. Use the Right Blade Height:
   • Raise the blade 1/4″–1/2″ above the acrylic to reduce heat and direct chips downward. A higher blade angle (more vertical) forces material down for cleaner cuts.
2. Optimize Feed Rate:
   • Feed slowly but steadily to avoid chipping (too fast) or melting (too slow). Practice on scrap acrylic to find the sweet spot, typically slower than wood cuts.
3. Keep Masking On:
   • Leave the protective film on acrylic sheets to lubricate the cut and protect the surface. If unmasked, apply painter’s tape along the cut line.
4. Support the Material:
   • Use infeed and outfeed supports to prevent sagging, especially with thin (1/8″ or less) acrylic. Sandwich very thin sheets between plywood for stability.
5. Maximize Dust Collection:
   • Acrylic “dust” is hot and sticky, forming stalactites inside the saw. Connect a shop vac to the dust port and clean the blade insert regularly.
6. Polish Edges if Needed:
   • For visible edges, sand with 320–600 grit sandpaper, then flame polish with a propane torch for a glossy finish. Test on scrap first to avoid over-melting.
7. Avoid Common Mistakes:
   • Don’t use a wood blade—it’ll chip or melt the acrylic.
   • Don’t remove the riving knife unless the kerf is too thin (e.g., WEN BL1080); acrylic rarely kicks back, but safety first.
   • Don’t force the cut—let the blade set the pace to avoid splintering.

Common Issues and How to Fix Them

Even with the best blade, acrylic cutting can go wrong. Here’s how to troubleshoot:

• Chipping: Caused by feeding too fast or using a low-tooth-count blade. Slow your feed rate and ensure an 80+ tooth TCG blade.
• Melting: Results from feeding too slowly or a dull blade. Increase feed rate slightly and check blade sharpness.
• Rough Edges: Often due to vibration or misalignment. Tighten the blade and use stabilizers to reduce wobble.
• Cracking: Occurs with brittle acrylic or improper support. Sandwich thin sheets and use infeed/outfeed supports.

FAQs About Table Saw Blades for Acrylic

1. Can I use a wood-cutting blade for acrylic?

No, wood blades (e.g., 40-tooth combo) are too aggressive and cause chipping or melting. Use a dedicated plastic blade with 80+ teeth and TCG geometry.

2. What’s the best tooth count for acrylic?

80–120 teeth for 10-inch blades is ideal. Use 80 teeth for general acrylic cutting and 100–120 for thin or brittle sheets requiring ultra-smooth edges.

3. Do I need a special blade for thin acrylic?

Yes, thin acrylic (1/8″ or less) is prone to chipping. Use a high-tooth-count blade (100–120) and sandwich the sheet between plywood for support.

4. Can I cut stacked acrylic sheets?

Yes, but use a blade designed for stacking, like the Forrest No-Melt, with extra side clearance to reduce heat. Keep masking on for lubrication.

5. How do I polish acrylic edges after cutting?

Sand with 320–600 grit sandpaper, then flame polish with a propane torch for a glossy finish. Move the flame quickly to avoid melting.

Conclusion: Which Table Saw Blade Is Right for You?

Choosing the best table saw blade for acrylic depends on your budget, project needs, and cutting frequency. Here’s a quick recap:

• Freud LU94M010: The ultimate choice for professional-grade, chip-free cuts on all acrylic thicknesses. Perfect for display cases and signage.
• Diablo D1080N: Best value for DIYers, offering clean cuts at half the price. Great for occasional projects.
• Forrest No-Melt: Ideal for high-volume or stacked cutting with no melting. Worth the splurge for pros.
• Tenryu PRP-25580CB: Top pick for fabrication and exposed edges, with silent, smooth performance.
• WEN BL1080: Budget-friendly for beginners or small projects, with decent results for thin acrylic.

For most home woodworkers, the Diablo D1080N offers the best balance of price and performance, delivering clean cuts for occasional acrylic projects. If you’re cutting acrylic regularly or need flawless edges, the Freud LU94M010 is worth the investment.

Ready to slice through acrylic like a pro? Grab one of these blades from Amazon, Home Depot, or Forrest Blades. Have questions or tips to share? Drop a comment below, and let’s talk acrylic cutting!

Finlay Connolly

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.