Verdict
Head-to-head · Best Miter Saws

DeWalt DWS780 vs Makita LS1019L 10" Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

DeWalt DWS780 comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.7 vs 4.5). DeWalt DWS780 is best for: dedicated workshop users who prioritize stability and precision over mobility. Read the strengths below before deciding.

DeWalt DWS780
Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best Miter Saws
DeWalt DWS780
2 sources$449as of Oct 28

The DeWalt DWS780 delivers powerful cutting performance through its 15-amp motor and XPS shadow alignment system, which Bob Vila found superior to traditional laser guides. TechGearLab measured the maximum cut capacity at 90 degrees as 13.6 inches, confirming its ability to handle wide stock for cabinetry projects. However, the tool weighs between 58 and 61 pounds, making it a stationary unit that is difficult to transport frequently. Dust collection performance is rated as average by reviewers, often requiring a connected vacuum to manage debris effectively. Additionally, plastic hinges on the sliding rail have been noted by users as potential durability concerns prone to damage. This miter saw fits dedicated workshop environments where stability and precision are prioritized over mobility.

Strengths
  • — Powered by a 15-amp motor running at 3,800 RPM to handle demanding cuts through dimensional lumber and trim.
  • — Features the XPS crosscut positioning system that uses an LED light to cast a blade shadow for precise alignment without calibration drift.
  • — Equipped with double-bevel capability allowing tilts up to 49 degrees left and right for efficient compound crown molding cuts.
Watch-outs
  • — Weighs between 58 and 61 pounds, making it a stationary tool that is difficult to transport frequently.
  • — Dust collection performance is rated as average by reviewers, often requiring a connected vacuum to manage debris effectively.
  • — Plastic hinges on the sliding rail have been noted by users as potential durability concerns prone to damage.
Makita LS1019L 10" Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw
Ranked #2 in Best Miter Saws
Makita LS1019L 10" Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw
2 sourcesall derived$799as of Oct 28

The Makita LS1019L combines a compact dual-bevel head with a front-mounted two-steel-rail sliding system, allowing it to sit flush against a wall while delivering 12-inch crosscut capacity. Electropro.blog found that this design saves bench depth and maintains accuracy across the slide, though Woodworkingadvisor notes its 3,200 RPM no-load speed is slower than several competitors in its class. The tool’s substantial 57.9 lb weight ensures stability during operation but requires two hands for transport, limiting mobility on large job sites. This saw fits professional finish carpenters who prioritize space efficiency and precise cut quality over raw cutting speed or portability.

Strengths
  • — 2-steel-rail sliding system allows the saw to operate flush against a wall while maintaining a 12-inch crosscut capacity at 90 degrees.
  • — Cuts nested crown molding up to 6-5/8 inches and vertical baseboards up to 5-1/4 inches, matching many 12-inch miter saws.
  • — Laser guide projects a cut line on the workpiece for precise alignment without lifting the blade guard.
Watch-outs
  • — 3,200 RPM no-load speed is slower than several competitors in its class.
  • — 57.9 lbs weight requires two hands to carry and is not considered lightweight by some reviewers.

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

DeWalt DWS780

The DeWalt DWS780 features a powerful XPS crosscut positioning system that reviewers found superior to the laser guides used by the Makita LS1019L and SKIL MS6305-00. It provides a substantial 13.6-inch cut capacity at 90 degrees, far exceeding the non-sliding DeWalt DWS715, but its heavy weight of 58 lb makes it less portable than the cordless DEWALT DCS361B.

Makita LS1019L 10" Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw

The Makita LS1019L features a compact dual-bevel head with a front-mounted two-steel-rail sliding system that allows it to sit flush against a wall. However, its 3,200 RPM no-load speed is slower than the faster motors found in the SKIL MS6305-00 and DeWalt DWS715.

Specs side-by-side

SpecDeWalt DWS780Makita LS1019L 10" Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw
Blade Size12 inches10 inches
No-Load Speed3,800 RPM3,200 RPM
Bevel Capacity49 degrees Left / 49 degrees Right48° left and right
Weight58 lb57.9 lb
Miter Range—0 to 60 degrees left and right
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