DEWALT DWE7480 Table Saw Review [2023]

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DEWALT DWE7480 Table Saw Review [2023]

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Summary

Don’t let the word “compact” fool you because there’s nothing compact about the feature set of the DeWalt DW7480 Table Saw. It’s got bigger than average rip capacity, a powerful motor, and it’s ideal for taking on location or doing smaller jobs. When it comes to smaller portable saws, this one is tough to beat.
Editor's Rating: 4.4/5

At a glance

  • 15-amp motor
  • 1.75 HP motor
  • Blade speed: 4800 RPM
  • 3 1/8 depth of cut at 90 degrees and 2 ¼ inches at 45 degrees
  • 2.5-inch dust collection port
  • Table dimensions: 19.094 x 22.441”
  • Weight: 48 pounds
  • Max Rip cut to the right of blade: 24”
  • Max Rip cut to the left of blade: 12”
  • Warranty: 3-year limited

What's in the box

  • Jobsite saw
  • Miter Gauge
  • Push stick
  • 10-inch, 24-Tooth Carbide Blade
  • Blade Guard

Features

Rack and Pinion Telescoping Fence Rails

Make fence adjustments fast and with accurate precision. The fence runs smoothly on dual tracks, and the rack and pinion system also moves well, and it is comparable to premium models on the market. There’s a bright yellow measuring tape that you can also see easily. The solid locking mechanism is another big plus. And if anything goes off spec, you can make adjustments on site with nothing more than an Allen wrench.

Powerful Motor

The 15-amp motor has become the standard among jobsite table saws, but given the compact version of the DWE7480, this adds to the desirability of this lower cost unit.

Massive Rip Capacity

Again, this little saw is impressive! Having a 24-inch rip is a game changer for a saw like this. For most woodworkers, this should accommodate about 99% of their cutting requirements.

Fence Support

When you’ve extended the telescoping fence rails for cutting a wide board, there’s additional support for the piece, which keeps it steady and eliminates rocking.

Forward Facing Hand Crank

Adjusting the height of the blade is simple with this hand crank that’s smooth and precise, though it’ll take multiple turns to get it to full height.

Ergonomic Carrying Handles

Grab it from almost any angle, and you’ll have a decent grip. It’s also light enough that it can be carried in one hand by most people.

Compact Design

If you’re a carpenter working out of a van, SUV or tight space, you’ll appreciate how compact and low profile this unit is.

Site Pro Modular Guarding System

This safety and convenience feature gives you the capability for tool-free adjustments for the blade guards and the riving knife, which is a new addition. This is a huge timesaver and an advanced feature that’s becoming more common.

Tilt-Up Blade Guards

Tilt one or both blade guards so that you can measure from your blade to your fence, you can move it out of the way. It locks in place while you’re measuring, and then it easily slides back down into place.

Metal Roll Cage Base

This feature is a nice touch that’s more durable than the cheap plastic bases found on other lower priced products.

Onboard storage system

Being able to store tools and accessories on the apparatus is quickly becoming the standard as it’s a necessity, not a luxury, to have a singular spot for everything, especially on a job site. The only shortcoming here is there’s no dedicated storage spot for the miter gauge.

Fast and Simple Set Up

All you have to do is snap on the fence and install the guard. The only tool you’ll need to accomplish this task is a wrench for the blade. Being able to get this machine up and running quickly while you’re on a site is a big plus.

Pros

  • A durable metal roll cage base
  • Lightweight and portable
  • High rip capacity for the size of the unit
  • In addition to the warranty, it includes a 1-year free service contract
  • The blade is adjustable from 0 to 45 degrees for bevel applications
  • Adjustable rear feet help level the saw to uneven work surfaces
  • Coated table for a smoother cutting surface
  • Onboard storage for tools and safety accessories
  • Tool-less blade guard assembly

Cons

  • Stand sold separately
  • No dado capability
  • Stability is an issue, especially for wide sheet cutting operations
  • Inferior miter gauge with a dial that’s nearly impossible to read with black on black writing
  • The motor is quite loud
  • No extension for the outfeed

Verdict

This compact saw still has a ton of functionality and it’s ideal for those with limited space or who are on the go. The most significant shortcoming is that the arbor is too short to accommodate a dado stack, so if making those cuts are important to you, you may want to look elsewhere or considering getting those cuts using another method.

For this lower price, this saw packs a lot of value. Its portability is best in class for a job site table saw, making it a top pick for people who need to travel with their tools or have limited workshop space.

FAQs

+What are the differences between the DeWalt DW7480 and the DeWalt DWE745?

The DW745 has only a 20” rip capacity and 3,850 RPM. It is a lighter weight version of a similar saw. The new and improved 7480 has a slightly upgraded motor with 4,800 RPMs, and it also comes with a stand, but only if you get the DWE7480XA model. The DW745 has no stand, and it must be purchased separately.

The DW7480 is also 3 pounds heavier but given the motor upgrade and the extended table surface, this tradeoff is more than fair.

+Can you use a dado blade with this saw?

No, a 10” dado set would require a more powerful motor than what’s available on this model. But, there are some other workarounds if you’re looking to cut ¼” or 3/8” grooves:

  1. The saw will accommodate the Freud SBOX8 Box Joint Cutter Set.
  2. Cut a dado joint with a router.
  3. Create the groove you need by making multiple passes.

+Can this saw do small cuts as well as large rips?

Yes, but you’ll first need to get a zero-clearance blade insert. You would likely also need a different blade than what comes stock. We recommend getting a fine-tooth blade like a very thin kerf blade.

+How high is the saw when it’s placed on the DeWalt branded stand?

The overall height is about 33 inches, which is slightly shorter than the industry standard of 36 inches. This is also an awkward height for taller individuals, though likely not a deal breaker.

+Where is the machine made?

The DW780 is made in Taiwan.

Editor's Rating: 4.4/5

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About Jacob Hanson

Jacob is the Editor at Toolsfirst.com. He used to be the owner of a local construction company with over 20 years experience in the trade. He now enjoys thoroughly researching DIY tools as well as publishing guides to help readers.

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