When it comes to choosing the right miter saw for your woodworking projects, DeWalt is a trusted brand known for its quality and performance. In this article, I will compare two popular models from DeWalt: the DeWalt DW716 and the DeWalt DW716XPS. Both these miter saws offer impressive features and capabilities, but they do have some differences. Let’s dive deeper into each model and explore their specifications, pros, and cons.
The DeWalt DW716
Overview
The DeWalt DW716 is a powerful and versatile miter saw designed for both professional woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts. With its robust construction and precise cutting capabilities, it has become a popular choice in the market.
Features of the DeWalt DW716
The DeWalt DW716 boasts several notable features, including:
- Motor Power: The DeWalt DW716 is equipped with a high-powered motor that delivers efficient cutting performance.
- Cutting Capacity: This miter saw offers a generous cutting capacity, allowing users to handle a wide range of projects.
- Blade Speed: The blade speed of the DW716 is optimized for clean and accurate cuts.
- Blade Diameter: The saw supports various blade diameters, enabling flexibility in cutting different materials.
- Blade Size: The specific blade sizes compatible with the DW716 depend on the model variant and are typically mentioned in the product specifications.
- Bevel Capacity: The DW716 has a versatile bevel capacity, allowing bevel cuts at different angles.
- Tall Sliding Fence: It is equipped with a tall sliding fence that provides excellent support for vertical cutting.
- XPS Laser Guide: The DW716 does not have an XPS laser guide. Please refer to the DeWalt DW716XPS for this feature.
- Dust Collection: The saw features a built-in dust collection system to keep your workspace clean and free from debris.
- Depth Stop: It comes with a depth stop feature that allows for making repeatable and precise cuts.
- LED: The DW716 is equipped with a built-in LED light that enhances visibility, especially in low-light conditions.
- Bore Size: The DW716 can accommodate different bore sizes, depending on the blade being used.
- Net Weight: It has a manageable net weight, making it portable and easy to transport.
- Dimensions: The compact design of the DW716 ensures it can fit in various workspaces and storage areas.
- Cord Length: The cord length of the DW716 varies, but it provides flexibility in positioning the saw based on your workspace setup.
- Safety Features: The DeWalt DW716 incorporates safety features to ensure user protection during operation. These may include blade guards, electric brakes, spindle locks, safety switches, and clear and intuitive controls.
- Warranty: DeWalt offers a warranty for the DW716, providing customers with peace of mind and product support.
Applications of DeWalt DW716
- Crosscutting and Miter Cutting: The DeWalt DW716 is suitable for crosscutting and miter cutting of wood materials, making it ideal for construction projects.
- Furniture Making: It is well-suited for precision cuts required in furniture making, ensuring accurate joints and seamless assembly.
- Cabinetry: The DW716 provides the necessary cutting capabilities to handle cabinetry projects, including cutting trim, molding, and paneling.
- Trim Work: With its accurate cutting abilities, the DW716 is an excellent choice for various trim work, such as baseboards, crown molding, and door casings.
- Molding Installations: The saw can handle intricate cutting tasks involved in molding installations, creating precise angles and miters.
Accessories and Add-ons for DeWalt DW716
- Miter Saw Stand: Utilizing a miter saw stand provides stability and support for the DW716 during operation, enhancing safety and ease of use.
- Different Types of Blades: The DW716 can be paired with various types of blades based on the specific material and cutting requirements, such as fine-tooth blades for smooth cuts or specialized blades for different materials like aluminum or laminate.
- Clamps and Work Supports: Using clamps and work supports can help secure workpieces in place, ensuring stability and accurate cuts.
- Dust Collection Attachment: Adding a dust collection attachment to the DW716 enhances its built-in dust collection system, further improving cleanliness and reducing airborne debris in the workspace.
- Workpiece Hold-Down: A workpiece hold-down accessory can be used to secure the workpiece firmly against the fence, preventing any movement during cutting and increasing safety.
These applications, accessories, and add-ons maximize the functionality and versatility of the DeWalt DW716, allowing users to tackle a wide range of woodworking projects with precision and ease.
Pros and Cons of the DeWalt DW716
Pros
- Powerful Motor: The DeWalt DW716 is equipped with a high-powered motor that delivers efficient cutting performance. This allows you to tackle tough materials and make precise cuts effortlessly.
- Generous Cutting Capacity: With a generous cutting capacity, the DW716 can handle a wide range of projects. It provides the versatility to cut through different materials and accommodate various workpiece sizes.
- Durable Construction: The DW716 is built to withstand the demands of professional use. Its sturdy construction ensures long-lasting performance and durability, making it a reliable tool for years to come.
- Excellent Dust Collection: The saw features a built-in dust collection system, which helps keep your workspace clean and free from debris. This not only improves visibility but also promotes a healthier working environment.
- Portable and Compact Design: The DW716 has a portable and compact design, allowing for easy transportation and storage. This makes it convenient for professionals who need to move the saw between job sites or for DIY enthusiasts with limited workshop space.
- Wide Range of Applications: The versatility of the DW716 makes it suitable for various applications, including crosscutting, miter cutting, furniture making, cabinetry, trim work, and molding installations. It can handle different woodworking projects with precision and accuracy.
Cons
- Limited Bevel Capacity: Compared to some other models, the DW716 has a slightly limited bevel capacity. While it can still make bevel cuts at different angles, it may not offer the same range as some higher-end miter saws.
- Cord Length Limitation: The cord length of the DW716 may limit mobility in larger workspaces or when working at a distance from power outlets. Users may need to use extension cords or plan their workspace accordingly.
- Weight: Some users may find the weight of the DW716 slightly heavy, especially during prolonged use. However, the weight contributes to the saw’s stability and durability, so it’s a trade-off for its robust construction.
The DeWalt DW716XPS
Overview:
The DeWalt DW716XPS is an upgraded version of the DW716, featuring an XPS laser guide system. This feature enhances cutting accuracy and allows for improved visibility of the cut line.
Features of the DeWalt DW716XPS:
- Motor Power: The DeWalt DW716XPS is equipped with a high-powered motor that delivers efficient cutting performance.
- Cutting Capacity: It offers a generous cutting capacity, allowing users to handle a wide range of projects.
- Blade Speed: The blade speed is optimized for clean and accurate cuts.
- Blade Diameter: The saw supports various blade diameters, enabling flexibility in cutting different materials.
- Blade Size: The specific blade size may vary depending on the model and variant.
- Bevel Capacity: It has a versatile bevel capacity, allowing bevel cuts at different angles.
- Tall Sliding Fence: The tall sliding fence provides excellent support for vertical cutting.
- XPS Laser Guide: The DW716XPS is equipped with an XPS laser guide system that casts a shadow of the blade onto the workpiece, providing a precise and visible cut line.
- Dust Collection: The saw features a built-in dust collection system to keep your workspace clean.
- Depth Stop: It comes with a depth stop feature for making repeatable and precise cuts.
- LED: The built-in LED light enhances visibility, especially in low-light conditions.
- Bore Size: The saw’s bore size is designed to accommodate different blade types.
- Net Weight: It has a manageable weight, making it portable and easy to transport.
- Dimensions: The compact design of the saw ensures it can fit in various workspaces.
- Cord Length: The specific cord length may vary depending on the model and variant.
- Safety Features: The DeWalt DW716XPS incorporates safety features to ensure user protection during operation.
- Warranty: DeWalt offers a warranty to provide customers with peace of mind.
Applications of DeWalt DW716XPS:
- Crosscutting and miter cutting of wood materials for construction projects.
- Precision cuts for furniture making and cabinetry.
- Trim work and molding installations.
- Flooring installation.
- Framing and decking projects.
Accessories and Add-ons for DeWalt DW716XPS:
- Miter Saw Stand: A stand provides stability and support for the DW716XPS, allowing you to work with larger materials and improve accuracy.
- Different Blades: Depending on your specific cutting needs, you can use various types of blades such as fine-tooth blades for clean cuts or specialty blades for specific materials like aluminum or laminate.
- Clamps and Work Supports: These accessories help secure workpieces and prevent movement during cutting, ensuring safety and precision.
- Extension Wings: Extension wings can be attached to the saw to provide additional support for larger workpieces, improving stability and accuracy.
- Dust Collection Bag or Vacuum Attachment: Adding a dust collection bag or connecting a vacuum attachment to the DW716XPS helps keep your workspace clean by capturing sawdust and debris during operation.
- Laser Guide Accessories: While the DW716XPS already comes with an integrated XPS laser guide, additional laser accessories can be purchased for specific applications or to replace the existing laser system if needed.
- Workpiece Hold-Downs: These accessories help secure irregularly shaped or small workpieces to the cutting surface, preventing them from shifting during cutting.
Pros and Cons of the DeWalt DW716XPS:
Pros:
- Enhanced Cutting Accuracy: The DeWalt DW716XPS is equipped with an XPS laser guide system, which casts a shadow of the blade onto the workpiece, providing a precise and visible cut line. This feature helps improve cutting accuracy, allowing for more precise and clean cuts.
- Clear Visibility of the Cut Line: With the XPS laser guide system, the cut line is clearly visible, even in different lighting conditions. This ensures that you can easily follow the desired cutting path and make accurate adjustments as needed.
- All the Features of the DeWalt DW716: The DW716XPS retains all the features of the DeWalt DW716, including its powerful motor, generous cutting capacity, bevel capacity, tall sliding fence, dust collection system, LED light, safety features, and warranty. This means you still get the benefits of a high-quality and versatile miter saw.
Cons:
- Higher Price: Compared to the standard DW716 model, the DeWalt DW716XPS comes with the added XPS laser guide system, which increases its price. This may be a drawback for those who are on a tight budget or don’t require the laser guide feature for their specific projects.
- Occasional Calibration Required: Some users have reported that the XPS laser guide system may require occasional calibration to maintain accurate alignment with the blade. While this can be a minor inconvenience, it’s important to ensure proper calibration for precise cutting results.
Head-To-Head Comparison: DeWalt DW716 vs. DW716XPS
To understand the differences between the DeWalt DW716 and the DW716XPS more comprehensively, let’s compare them side by side.
Comparison Table: DeWalt DW716 vs. DW716XPS
| Features | DeWalt DW716 | DeWalt DW716XPS |
|---|---|---|
| Model Name | DeWalt DW716 | DeWalt DW716XPS |
| Best For | Professional woodworkers, DIY enthusiasts | Professional woodworkers, DIY enthusiasts |
| Motor Power | High-powered motor | High-powered motor |
| Cutting Capacity | Generous cutting capacity | Generous cutting capacity |
| Blade Speed | Optimized for clean and accurate cuts | Optimized for clean and accurate cuts |
| Blade Diameter | Supports various blade diameters | Supports various blade diameters |
| Blade Size | – | – |
| Bevel Capacity | Versatile bevel capacity | Versatile bevel capacity |
| Tall Sliding Fence | Provides excellent support for vertical cuts | Provides excellent support for vertical cuts |
| XPS Laser Guide | – | XPS laser guide system for precise cuts |
| Dust Collection | Built-in dust collection system | Built-in dust collection system |
| Depth Stop | Depth stop feature for precise cuts | Depth stop feature for precise cuts |
| LED | Built-in LED light for enhanced visibility | Built-in LED light for enhanced visibility |
| Bore Size | Accommodates different blade types | Accommodates different blade types |
| Net Weight | Manageable weight for portability | Manageable weight for portability |
| Dimensions | Compact design | Compact design |
| Cord Length | – | – |
| Safety Features | Incorporates safety features | Incorporates safety features |
| Warranty | Warranty provided by DeWalt | Warranty provided by DeWalt |
| Price | – | – |
Difference Table: DeWalt DW716 vs. DW716XPS
| Features | DeWalt DW716 | DeWalt DW716XPS |
|---|---|---|
| XPS Laser Guide | No | Yes |
| Price | Lower | Higher |
Safety Features Comparison
| Safety Features | DeWalt DW716 | DeWalt DW716XPS |
|---|---|---|
| Blade Guard | Yes | Yes |
| Electric Brake | Yes | Yes |
| Spindle Lock | Yes | Yes |
| Safety Switch | Yes | Yes |
| Clear and Intuitive Controls | Yes | Yes |
- Blade Guard: Both the DeWalt DW716 and the DW716XPS are equipped with a blade guard. The blade guard acts as a protective barrier, preventing accidental contact with the blade during operation, thereby ensuring user safety.
- Electric Brake: The miter saws feature an electric brake system. When the user releases the trigger, the electric brake quickly stops the rotation of the blade, reducing the risk of injuries and allowing for safer and more efficient operation.
- Spindle Lock: Both models incorporate a spindle lock mechanism. The spindle lock holds the blade in place, making it easier and safer to change the blade when needed. This feature minimizes the risk of accidents during blade replacements.
- Safety Switch: The DeWalt DW716 and the DW716XPS are equipped with a safety switch. The safety switch helps prevent unauthorized or accidental start-ups, ensuring that the miter saw remains idle and safe when not in use.
- Clear and Intuitive Controls: Both models have clear and intuitive controls, making it easier for users to understand and operate the miter saws safely. The controls are designed in a user-friendly manner to minimize the risk of accidental operation and promote safe usage.
These safety features are essential components of the DeWalt DW716 and the DW716XPS, providing users with added protection and promoting safe working conditions while operating these miter saws.
Pros and Cons Comparison
When comparing the pros and cons of the DeWalt DW716 and the DW716XPS, it’s important to consider personal preferences and project requirements. Here’s a brief overview:
| Pros | DeWalt DW716 | DeWalt DW716XPS |
|---|---|---|
| Powerful motor | Yes | Yes |
| Generous cutting capacity | Yes | Yes |
| Durable construction | Yes | Yes |
| Excellent dust collection | Yes | Yes |
| Portable and compact design | Yes | Yes |
| Affordable price | Yes | No |
| Enhanced cutting accuracy | No | Yes |
| Clear visibility of the cut line | No | Yes |
| Cons | DeWalt DW716 | DeWalt DW716XPS |
|---|---|---|
| Limited bevel capacity | Yes | No |
| Cord length may limit mobility | Yes | No |
| Weight may be slightly heavy | Yes | No |
| Higher price | No | Yes |
| Laser system requires occasional calibration | No | Yes |
Pros
- Powerful motor: Both the DeWalt DW716 and the DW716XPS are equipped with powerful motors, providing efficient cutting performance.
- Generous cutting capacity: Both models offer a generous cutting capacity, allowing users to handle a wide range of projects.
- Durable construction: The DW716 and the DW716XPS are built with durable materials, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Excellent dust collection: Both miter saws feature effective dust collection systems, keeping the workspace clean and reducing dust inhalation.
- Portable and compact design: The DW716 and the DW716XPS have a portable and compact design, making them easy to transport and suitable for various workspaces.
- Affordable price: The DeWalt DW716 is available at a more affordable price compared to the DW716XPS.
- Enhanced cutting accuracy: The DW716XPS offers enhanced cutting accuracy with its XPS laser guide system, providing a clear visibility of the cut line.
Cons
- Limited bevel capacity: The DW716 has a limited bevel capacity compared to the DW716XPS.
- Cord length may limit mobility: The DW716 may have a shorter cord length, which can limit mobility in larger workspaces.
- Weight may be slightly heavy: The DW716 may have a slightly heavier weight, which can affect extended use or portability.
- Higher price: The DW716XPS is priced higher compared to the DW716 due to its added XPS laser guide system.
- Laser system requires occasional calibration: The laser system in the DW716XPS may require occasional calibration to maintain its accuracy.
The difference between the DeWalt DW716 and the DW716XPS lies in the enhanced cutting accuracy provided by the XPS laser guide system in the DW716XPS. While both models share many similarities in terms of performance and features, the DW716XPS offers the added advantage of a clear visibility of the cut line, thanks to the XPS laser guide. However, it’s important to consider the higher price and potential calibration requirements when choosing between the two models.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I change the blade on DW716 and DW716XPS?
To change the blade, first unplug the saw and loosen the blade bolt. Remove the blade and replace it with a new one, making sure to align the teeth in the right direction. Tighten the blade bolt and check the blade alignment.
Can I use a laser guide with these models?
No, these models do not have a laser guide. However, the DW716XPS comes with the XPS cross-cut alignment system that provides accurate and precise cuts.
What kind of wood can I cut with these miter saws?
You can cut various types of wood, including softwood and hardwood. However, it’s important to use the right blade for the type of wood you’ll be cutting.
How do I calibrate the XPS system on DW716XPS?
To calibrate the XPS system, first make sure the saw is properly aligned and the blade is perpendicular to the table. Then, turn on the saw and lower the blade. Adjust the XPS system so that the cutline aligns with the blade.
Are these miter saws compatible with other DeWalt accessories?
Yes, both the DW716 and DW716XPS are compatible with a range of DeWalt accessories, including stands, clamps, and blades.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the DeWalt DW716 and the DW716XPS are reliable and high-performing miter saws. The DeWalt DW716 offers impressive cutting capabilities, durability, and affordability, making it a popular choice for professional woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts. On the other hand, the DW716XPS provides the added advantage of the XPS laser guide system, enhancing cutting accuracy and visibility.
When choosing between the two models, consider your specific project requirements, budget, and the importance of laser-guided precision. If precise cutting is a top priority and you’re willing to invest in advanced features, the DW716XPS is a suitable choice. However, if you’re looking for a reliable and versatile miter saw at a more affordable price point, the DW716 is a solid option.
