Miter saws are cutting tools that are mainly used for cutting thick boards and trim work. They are also known as chop saws or drop saws. Having a reliable miter saw can make a significant difference in your projects. Dewalt and Ridgid come with their benefits and limitations.
That’s why it might be confusing when it’s about Dewalt vs Ridgid Miter saw.
The Ridgid R4222 and Ridgid R4221 miter saws offer advantages in terms of larger lumber size capacity, higher RPM, wider miter range, and stiff sliding rails Ridgid miter saws are also more affordable than the DeWalt ones. However, the DeWalt DWS779 and DeWalt DWS780’s lighter weight and comparable bevel range make them suitable options as well. Consider your specific needs and preferences to make an informed decision.
Well, this is just a sneak peek of the whole debate. After many years of experience working with these tools, I can share with you my expert skills and explain to you in detail the differences between these sliding miter saws.
Let’s jump into the article to learn more information on every miter saw.
Dewalt vs Ridgid: Quick Comparison
Well, Ridgid and Dewalt both have a long lineup of miter saws of different sizes. But just like the DeWalt DW734 and Ridgid R4331 are two widely used planers, the most popular miter saws from these brands are:
So, I’ll be comparing these 4 miter saws throughout this content. Now, let’s have a quick look at their features.
| Features | DeWalt DWS779 | DeWalt DWS780 | Ridgid R4222 | Ridgid R4221 |
| Blade Diameter (Inch) | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 |
| Motor Power | 15 Amps | 15 Amps | 15 Amps | 15 Amps |
| Maximum Lumber Size (Inch) | 2 x 14 | 2 x 14 | 2 x 16 | 2 x 16 |
| No Load RPM | 3800 | 3800 | 4000 | 4000 |
| Miter Range (Horizontal Cutting Angle) | 50L/60R degrees | 50L/60R degrees | 67.5L/67.5R degrees | 67.5L/67.5R degrees |
| Bevel Range (Vertical Cutting Angle) | 48L/48R degrees | 49L/49R degrees | 48L/48R degrees | 45L/45R degrees |
| LED Shadowline | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | 56 lbs | 56 lbs | 64 lbs | 64 lbs |
| Warranty | 3-year limited warranty | 3-year limited warranty | 3-year limited warranty |
Dewalt vs Ridgid: In-depth Comparison
Now, I’ll cover each feature of these miter saws in detail so you get the best bang for your buck. But be sure you know how to use a miter saw if you are new to them.
Blade Diameter
The DeWalt DWS779 and the DeWalt DWS780 as well as the Ridgid R4222 and Ridgid R4221 have a 12-inch blade diameter. This provides ample cutting capacity for various materials.
Result: Tie.
Motor Power
All four models, the DeWalt DWS779, DeWalt DWS780, Ridgid R4222, and Ridgid R4221, feature a powerful 15 Amp motor. A 15 Amp motor ensures sufficient power for cutting tasks.
Result: Tie.
Maximum Lumber Size
Both Dewalt, the DeWalt DWS779 and DWS780, can handle lumber up to 2 x 14 inches. In contrast, the Ridgid R4222 and R4221 have a slightly higher capacity of 2 x 16 inches.
The larger lumber size capacity of the Ridgid gives you the advantage of cutting thicker and wider materials. This is ideal for larger construction or woodworking projects.
Winner: Ridgid for its increased lumber size capacity.
No Load RPM
The Ridgid R4222 and Ridgid R4221 have a higher no-load RPM of 4000, while the DeWalt DWS779 and DeWalt DWS780 operate at 3800 RPM.
The higher RPM of the Ridgid translates to faster cutting speeds, enabling you to complete your projects more quickly.
Winner: Ridgid for its higher RPM range.
RIDGID 15 Amp 12 in. Corded Dual Bevel Sliding Miter Saw with 70° Miter Capacity R4221
- The RIDGID 15-Amp 12 in. Dual Bevel Sliding Miter Saws can handle any job thrown its way.
- It features an industry-leading 0-70-degree miter range with 70 degrees to the left and to the right.
- A dual-bevel design with crown molding stops enables you to move the saw head instead of the material for added convenience.
- It boasts a work light to improve the accuracy of the cut for precision and a 15-amp motor that easily handles the toughest of materials.
Miter Range (Horizontal Cutting Angle)
The DeWalt DWS779 and the DeWalt DWS780 offer a miter range of 50 degrees left and 60 degrees right. The Ridgid R4222 and Ridgid R4221, however, provide a wider range of 67.5 degrees left and 67.5 degrees right.
The wider miter range of the Ridgid R4222 and Ridgid R4221 (67.5 degrees left and right) provides enhanced flexibility for angled cuts, making them suitable for a broader range of applications.
Winner: Ridgid saw for its wider miter range.
RIDGID 15 Amp 12 in. Corded Dual Bevel Sliding Miter Saw with 70° Miter Capacity
- Corded Dual Bevel Sliding Miter Saws
- Product Dimensions 38.75″L x 22.38″W x 20.5″H
- Amperage 15 Amps
- Item Weight 64 Pounds
- Blade Length 12 Inches
- Cutting Angle 70 Degrees
- Special Features Brushless
Bevel Range (Vertical Cutting Angle)
The DeWalt DWS779 and the Ridgid R4222 have a bevel range of 48 degrees to both the left and right. In comparison, the DeWalt DWS780 offers a slightly wider range of 49 degrees to both sides. The Ridgid R4221, on the other hand, has a bevel range of 45 degrees to both the left and right.
The bevel range allows you to make precise bevel cuts, enhancing the versatility of your saw for different cutting angles.
Result: Tie for DeWalt DWS779, DeWalt DWS780, and Ridgid R4222, a slight disadvantage for Ridgid R4221.
DEWALT Miter Saw, 12 Inch, 15 Amp, 3,800 RPM, Double Bevel Capacity DWS780
- Integrated CUTLINE Blade Positioning System provides adjustment-free cut line indication for better accuracy and visibility for the 12-inch miter saw blade
- XPS technology uses an LED to project light down either side of the blade, creating a shadow on the cutline once the saw arm is lowered
- The super-efficient dust collection system of the DEWALT miter saw captures over 75% of dust generated
- Tall sliding fences support crown molding up to 7-1/2-inch nested and base molding up to 6-3/4-inch vertically against the fence while easily sliding out of the way for bevel cuts
- Exclusive back fence design cuts up to 2×14 dimensional lumber at 90 degrees and 2×10 at 45 degrees
- Adjustable stainless-steel miter detent plate with 10 positive stops improves productivity and ensures cutting accuracy
- Miters 60 degrees to the right and 50 degrees to the left providing increased capacity
LED Shadowline
All four models, the DeWalt DWS779, DeWalt DWS780, Ridgid R4222, and Ridgid R4221, feature an LED Shadowline. This feature provides enhanced visibility, precision during cutting operations, and accurate cuts.
Weight
The DeWalt DWS779 and the DeWalt DWS780 weigh 56 lbs, while the Ridgid R4222 and Ridgid R4221 are slightly heavier at 64 lbs.
DeWalt DWS779 and DeWalt DWS780 weigh 56 pounds, making them lighter and easier to move.
Result: DeWalt DWS779 and DeWalt DWS780 are lighter.
DEWALT Miter Saw, 12 Inch Double Bevel Sliding Compound DWS779
- The stainless steel miter detent plate of the 12-inch miter saw blade comes with 10 positive stops
- The sliding compound miter saw has a precise miter system and machined base fence support
- Precise miter system and machined base fence support Cam-lock miter handle with detent override deliver quick and accurate miter angles for DEWALT miter saw
- Tall sliding fences support a 6-3/4-inch base vertically
- Bevel detents 0 degree – 48degree left and right
- 2-inch x 14-inch dimensional lumber cross-cut capacity at 90 degrees and 2-inch x 10-inch dimensional lumber at 45 degrees
- Dual horizontal steel rails with innovative clamping mechanism and linear ball bearings for accuracy and durability
- The dual bevel saw DWS779 is one of their top-rated sliding compound miter saws, widely praised for its precision and durability.
- Larger cutting capacity
Warranty
The DeWalt DWS779, DeWalt DWS780, Ridgid R4222, and Ridgid R4221 all come with a 3-year limited warranty, ensuring peace of mind and customer support.
Result: Tie.
Which Miter Saw to Choose?
When comparing the DeWalt DWS779, DeWalt DWS780, Ridgid R4222, and Ridgid R4221, each power tool model has its strengths that cater to different use cases.
If you prioritize versatility and the ability to handle a wide range of cutting tasks, the DeWalt DWS779 and DeWalt DWS780 are reliable choices. This tool has a 12-inch blade diameter, 15 Amp motor, and 2 x 14-inch maximum lumber capacity, making it great for general woodworking and construction.
In contrast, if you frequently work with larger materials or require a wider range of miter angles, the Ridgid tools ( Ridgid R4222 and Ridgid R4221) are ideal choices. With their 2 x 16 inches maximum lumber size capacity, these models allow you to handle bigger construction projects or work with thicker materials.
Furthermore, their 67.5 degrees left and right miter range suits them for advanced woodworking tasks or projects requiring precise metering.
Additionally, the Ridgid models boast a higher RPM, allowing for faster cutting speeds with an affordable price tag, while the DeWalt models are lighter, providing greater portability and maneuverability.
All these power tools are versatile miter saws perfect for home repair projects. Considering your specific needs and intended applications will help you determine which model best fits you.
Bonus tip: Whichever saw you choose, make sure you bolt down the miter saw while working.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can I adjust the DeWalt miter saw bevel angles?
Yes, you can adjust the DeWalt miter saw bevel angles. To do that, you need to turn the knob and use it at the base of your saw. It is a simple process.
Can I use a laser guide with my miter saw?
Yes, you can use a laser guide with your miter saw. But a laser guide doesn’t come with the Miter saw. That’s why you need to purchase and install a laser saw another way.
Can I use different brand blades with my Ridgid or DeWalt miter saws?
Dewalt and Ridgid both allow you to have different blades. Make sure to check the compatibility before using.
Which is better a table saw or a miter saw?
The table saw’s versatility and stability make it a reliable workhorse for long rip accurate cuts and joinery tasks. On the other hand, the miter saw’s precision in angled cuts makes it indispensable for projects involving moldings, trims, and compound cuts.
Is it worth buying a miter saw?
Miter saws are best for cutting longer boards thanks to their large cutting capacity. Typical applications of a miter saw include making quicks and accurate miter cuts (such as at 45-degree angles for making picture frames) or for making cross cuts for molding.
Final Thoughts
With that, we can conclude the discussion on Dewalt vs Ridgid Miter saw.
I can conclude that all four are powerful and versatile miter saws. You cannot go wrong with either of the miter saws. But the preference of your project can help you decide better. Considering your specific needs and intended applications will help you determine which model of miter saws is the best fit for you.
Be free to write in comments what miter saws you prefer and what your preferences are when choosing the best miter saw.
Good luck!
Ahmed Saleh is an experienced content writer at Power Tool Institute. With a passion for power tools and an eye for detail, he specializes in writing informative and user-friendly articles that help readers make the most of their tools.