A miter saw is an essential tool for any carpenter or DIY enthusiast. The right saw can make a big difference in the quality and accuracy of your cuts. Two popular options are the Hitachi C10FCE2 and the Makita LS1040. In this article, I will compare the two saws in detail and help you decide which one is right for you.
Head To Head Comparison
Cutting Capacity
The maximum crosscut dimensions of the Hitachi C10FCE2 are 2-5/16 inches by 5-21/32 inches at 90 degrees and 2-5/16 inches by 4 inches at 45 degrees. The Makita LS1040, on the other hand, has a maximum crosscut of 2-1/2 inches by 5-1/8 inches at 90 degrees and 1-3/8 inches by 3-5/8 inches at 45 degrees. In terms of maximum miter cut angles, the Hitachi C10FCE2 can cut up to 52 degrees to the left and right, while the Makita LS1040 can cut up to 45 degrees to the left and 52 degrees to the right. The maximum bevel cut angle for the Hitachi C10FCE2 is 45 degrees to the left, while the Makita LS1040 can bevel up to 45 degrees to both the left and right.
Blade
The Hitachi C10FCE2 comes with a 10-inch, 24-tooth TCT saw blade, while the Makita LS1040 comes with a 10-inch, 40-tooth carbide-tipped saw blade. Both blades are suitable for cutting through various materials such as wood, plastic, and aluminum. However, the Makita LS1040’s blade has more teeth per inch, which means it can make smoother cuts.
Motor Power
The Hitachi C10FCE2 has a 15-amp motor that can generate a maximum speed of 5,000 RPM, while the Makita LS1040 has a 15-amp motor that can generate a maximum speed of 4,600 RPM. While the Hitachi C10FCE2 has a higher maximum speed, both saws have sufficient power to make accurate cuts.
Accuracy
The Hitachi C10FCE2 features a laser guide system that helps ensure accurate cuts. The Makita LS1040, on the other hand, has a precise miter system that features positive stops at 9 settings. Both saws also have a fence that can be adjusted for accurate cuts.
Dust Collection
The Hitachi C10FCE2 has a dust port that is compatible with a standard vacuum hose, while the Makita LS1040 has a dust bag that can collect up to 2.5 liters of sawdust.
Weight and Portability
The Hitachi C10FCE2 weighs 26.3 pounds and features a horizontal handle that provides a comfortable grip. The Makita LS1040 weighs 27.3 pounds and has a vertical handle that makes it easy to carry.
Price
The Hitachi C10FCE2 is usually priced around $150, while the Makita LS1040 is priced around $230. While the Makita LS1040 is more expensive, it comes with a more powerful motor and a higher-quality blade.
Pros And Cons Comparison
Hitachi C10FCE2
Pros
- Lightweight
- Laser guide system for accurate cuts
- Affordable price
Cons
- Dust collection system could be better
Makita LS1040
Pros
- More powerful motor
- Smooth cuts due to 40-tooth blade
- Positive stops for accurate cuts
Cons
- Expensive compared to Hitachi C10FCE2
- Dust collection bag needs to be emptied frequently
Detailed Comparison And Difference Table
| Feature | Hitachi C10FCE2 | Makita LS1040 |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting Capacity | 2-5/16 inches by 5-21/32 inches at 90 degrees, 2-5/16 inches by 4 inches at 45 degrees | 2-1/2 inches by 5-1/8 inches at 90 degrees, 1-3/8 inches by 3-5/8 inches at 45 degrees |
| Blade | 10-inch, 24-tooth TCT saw blade | 10-inch, 40-tooth carbide-tipped saw blade |
| Motor Power | 15-amp motor, maximum speed of 5,000 RPM | 15-amp motor, maximum speed of 4,600 RPM |
| Accuracy | Laser guide system, fence, positive stops | Precise miter system, fence, positive stops |
| Dust Collection | Dust port compatible with standard vacuum hose | Dust bag with capacity of 2.5 liters |
| Weight | 26.3 pounds | 27.3 pounds |
| Price | Around $150 | Around $230 |
Important Points And Keynotes
- The Hitachi C10FCE2 is a lightweight and affordable miter saw that features a laser guide system for accurate cuts.
- The Makita LS1040 is a more expensive saw that has a more powerful motor and a higher quality blade, resulting in smoother cuts.
- Both saws have a maximum crosscut of over 2 inches and can make bevel cuts up to 45 degrees.
- The Hitachi C10FCE2’s dust collection system could be better, while the Makita LS1040’s dust bag needs to be emptied frequently.
- The Hitachi C10FCE2 has a horizontal handle that provides a comfortable grip, while the Makita LS1040 has a vertical handle that makes it easy to carry.
Accessories
Both the Hitachi C10FCE2 and Makita LS1040 come with some accessories to help you get started with your cutting tasks. Here are the accessories that come with each saw:
Hitachi C10Fce2 Accessories
- 10-inch, 24-tooth TCT saw blade
- Dust bag
- Box wrench
- Vice assembly
- 5mm hex bar wrench
Makita Ls1040 Accessories
- 10-inch, 40-tooth carbide-tipped saw blade
- Vertical vise
- Dust bag
- Triangular rule
- Socket wrench
While the Hitachi C10FCE2 comes with a box wrench and a 5mm hex bar wrench, the Makita LS1040 comes with a socket wrench and a triangular rule. Both saws come with a dust bag for easy cleanup and a vise assembly for holding your workpiece securely in place.
It’s worth noting that additional accessories such as stands and laser guide systems can be purchased separately for both saws, depending on your specific needs.
FAQs
Which Saw Is Better For A Beginner?
Both saws are suitable for beginners, but the Hitachi C10FCE2 may be a better choice due to its affordable price and easy-to-use laser guide system.
Can Both Saws Be Used For Heavy-Duty Projects?
Yes, both saws have sufficient power to handle heavy-duty projects.
Does Either Of These Saws Come With A Warranty?
Yes, both saws come with a 1-year warranty.
What Kind Of Blade Is Best For These Saws?
The Hitachi C10FCE2 comes with a 24-tooth TCT saw blade, while the Makita LS1040 comes with a 40-tooth carbide-tipped saw blade. Both blades are suitable for cutting through various materials such as wood, plastic, and aluminum.
Can You Use These Saws To Make Precise Cuts?
Yes, both saws have features such as laser guide systems and positive stops that help ensure accurate cuts.
Which Saw Is Best For A Workshop Setup?
It depends on your specific needs and budget. The Hitachi C10FCE2 is more affordable and lightweight, while the Makita LS1040 has a more powerful motor and a higher-quality blade.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Hitachi C10FCE2 and the Makita LS1040 ultimately comes down to your specific needs and budget. The Hitachi C10FCE2 is a great option for those who are looking for an affordable and lightweight saw with a laser guide system for accurate cuts. The Makita LS1040 is more expensive, but it comes with a more powerful motor and a higher-quality blade, resulting in smoother cuts.
Key Takeaways
- The Hitachi C10FCE2 and the Makita LS1040 are two popular miter saws that have different features and capabilities.
- The Hitachi C10FCE2 is more affordable and lightweight, while the Makita LS1040 has a more powerful motor and a higher-quality blade.
- Both saws have features that help ensure accurate cuts, such as laser guide systems and positive stops.
- Both saws are suitable for heavy-duty projects and come with a 1-year warranty.
- Ultimately, your choice between the two saws will depend on your specific needs and budget.
