What size mitre saw do you need?

Blade size and cutting depth

Blade diameter mainly sets the depth of cut, how thick a board you can cut in one pass. A bigger blade reaches deeper. Width is set mostly by whether the saw slides and how long its rails are. That is why a 216 mm slider can cut wider boards than a fixed 254 mm saw.

Exact capacity varies a lot between models, so always check the listing.

Real listing figures

The table shows capacities stated in some current listings, to give a sense of real numbers.

Compare sliding mitre saws →

216 mm: the all rounder for most homes

Saws around 210 to 216 mm are light, compact and use affordable blades. A sliding 216 mm saw typically handles skirting, architrave, flooring, stud work and many decking boards. Depth is usually around 60 to 65 mm, enough for 47 mm timber. For most DIY and many trades, it is the sweet spot.

254 and 255 mm: more depth

A 254 or 255 mm saw cuts deeper, typically 75 to 90 mm, which helps with thicker timbers, fence rails, sleepers trimmed in two passes and tall skirting cut upright. They are heavier and need a larger bench. Multi-material saws like Evolution's are often this size.

305 mm: maximum capacity

305 mm saws handle large section timber, wide boards and big crown moulding. They are heavy, the DeWalt DCS782N lists 34 kg, and blades cost more. They suit carpenters and joiners who need the capacity every day.

Match the saw to the job

Use this as a starting point, then check the capacity of the exact saw you are considering.

Cutting tall skirting and crown moulding

For skirting and architrave, the important figure is vertical capacity: the tallest board you can stand against the fence and cut. Some listings give it directly, such as the DeWalt DCS782N's 165 mm. If yours does not, check the maker's data sheet or cut tall boards flat using the bevel.

Crown and coving can be cut nested against the fence at an angle, which needs a saw with enough height and depth, or flat using a compound setting. Larger saws handle bigger profiles more easily.

Fixed or sliding?

A fixed saw of any size cuts far narrower boards than a sliding one. If you only cut trim and narrow timber, a fixed saw is lighter and simpler. If you cut boards wider than about 150 mm, a slide is the bigger upgrade than a larger blade.

Sliding saws need room behind them for the rails, so measure your bench space before you buy.

Other things to weigh up

Think about space, weight and power. Cordless saws need large batteries; see our cordless mitre saw guide. For home use, buy a 230 to 240 V model rather than a 110 V site saw. If you also need to rip boards, a combination table and mitre saw may suit. Compare sliding and fixed saws in compound vs sliding mitre saw.

Note:Larger blades store more energy and can throw offcuts harder. Keep guards working, clamp the work and wear eye and ear protection. Follow the manual and HSE woodworking guidance.

Blades for each size

Blade bore and diameter must match your saw. Common pairings are 216 mm with a 30 mm bore and 254 or 305 mm with 30 mm bores, but check the manual. More teeth give a cleaner finish. See mitre saw blades explained and our mitre saw guide.

Frequently asked questions

Is 216 mm big enough for decking? Usually, on a sliding saw. Check the stated width and depth against your boards and joists.

216 mm vs 254 mm: which should I buy? 216 mm if you want light weight and cheaper blades; 254 mm if you regularly cut thicker timber.

Can I cut a 100 mm post on a 254 mm saw? Often not in one pass. Many 254 mm saws cut around 90 mm deep; you can cut from two sides.

Does a bigger blade mean a better finish? No. Finish depends on tooth count, sharpness and technique more than diameter.