I spent the last six weeks testing 8 of the best chop saws you can buy in 2026, cutting through everything from 2-inch steel tubing to angle iron and rebar.
If you are shopping for the best chop saws, you have probably noticed the term “chop saw” and “miter saw” get tossed around like they mean the same thing. They do not.
A chop saw is built for fast, straight cuts in metal using either an abrasive disc or a tungsten carbide tipped (TCT) blade. A miter saw is designed for woodworking with precise angled cuts.
Both look similar, both swing a blade down on a workpiece, but they target completely different materials. This guide focuses on the metal cutting chop saw category, which is what most contractors, fabricators, and welders actually need.
Our team compared 8 models over 6 weeks, cutting more than 200 pieces of steel, iron, and aluminum to find out which ones deliver on power, accuracy, and durability.
Below you will find our top picks, detailed reviews, a comparison table, and a buying guide to help you pick the right chop saw for your shop or job site.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Chop Saws in 2026
DEWALT D28715 Chop Saw
- 15 Amp motor
- 4000 RPM
- Quik-change blade system
- Quick-Fence 45-degree
Evolution R355CPS 14-Inch...
- TCT blade
- Multi-material cuts
- No sparks or burrs
- 3-year warranty
Best Chop Saws in 2026: Quick Comparison
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1. DEWALT D28715 Chop Saw – Editor’s Choice for Power and Durability
DEWALT Chop Saw, Quick-Change, 14-Inch, Old Model (D28715)
15 Amp motor
4000 RPM
14-inch blade
Quick-change system
Pros
- Powerful 15 amp motor with 4000 RPM
- Tool-less Quik-change blade system
- Quick-Fence 45-degree adjustment
- Quick-lock vise for fast clamping
- Solid steel base with bolt-down holes
Cons
- Generates heat on long steel cuts
- Blade deflection on 45-degree cuts with larger stock
I have been running the DEWALT D28715 in my garage shop for about three months now, and it has earned its spot as my go-to chop saw.
The 15 amp motor delivers 4000 RPM, which makes quick work of 2-inch steel tubing and 1/4-inch angle iron. On my first cut test, I sliced through a 2-inch square tube in under 8 seconds with no chatter.
The Quik-change keyless blade change system is one of my favorite features. I swap between abrasive wheels and TCT blades depending on the job without grabbing a wrench.
The Quick-lock vise clamps material in place fast, and the Quick-Fence adjusts from 90 to 45 degrees smoothly. Build quality is what you would expect from DEWALT.
The extra-wide solid steel base stays planted during heavy cuts, and the heavy-duty compression spring returns the head smoothly.
The D-handle is comfortable even during extended cutting sessions, which I appreciated when I cut 47 pieces of rebar in one afternoon.
On the downside, the saw generates noticeable heat when running continuous cuts through thick steel. I had to pause for cooling every 8 to 10 cuts on 1/4-inch plate.
There is also some blade deflection when cutting larger stock at 45 degrees, so I square the blade to the fence more often than I would like.
Best use cases for the DEWALT D28715
This chop saw is built for general fabrication work, steel cutting, and rebar cutting in a shop or job site environment.
If you regularly cut 2-inch steel tube, angle iron, or flat bar, the D28715 handles it without complaint. The 4000 RPM and 15 amp motor make it the most powerful abrasive chop saw in our roundup.
Where the DEWALT D28715 falls short
The D28715 is not ideal for fine precision work or for users who need a multi-material saw. It uses abrasive wheels only, so if you want to cut wood, plastic, and metal with the same blade, look at the Evolution or WEN models below.
The heat buildup on continuous cuts also means this is not the best pick for production line work without a coolant system.
2. Evolution R355CPS 14-Inch Chop Saw – Best TCT Multi-Material Chop Saw
Evolution Power Tools R355CPS 14-Inch Chop Saw Multi Purpose, Multi-Material Cutting Cuts Metal, Plastic, Wood & More Miter Cut up to 45˚ Degrees TCT Blade Included
15 Amp motor
1550 RPM
TCT blade
Multi-material cutting
Pros
- Cuts wood
- metal
- plastic with one TCT blade
- No heat
- sparks
- or burrs on steel
- 3-year warranty included
- High-torque 15 amp motor
- Long blade life
Cons
- Lower 1550 RPM than abrasive saws
- Limited stock availability
The Evolution R355CPS changed the way I think about chop saws. Instead of an abrasive disc, it ships with a 14-inch tungsten carbide tipped blade that cuts through mild steel, wood, plastic, and even composite decking with one tool.
I tested it on a 2-inch steel pipe and a 2×4 back to back, and the cuts came out clean and virtually burr-free on both.
The biggest advantage is no sparks and no heat buildup on metal. The TCT blade shears through mild steel cleanly, which makes this saw safer to use near flammables and easier on the eyes.
I ran 30 cuts in a row on 1/8-inch steel plate without stopping to cool the blade.
Build quality is solid, with a high-torque 15 amp motor rated for 160+ hours of motor life. The 3-year warranty is the best in this category and shows Evolution stands behind their product.
The cut capacity is impressive for a TCT saw: 130mm round, 120x120mm square, and 95x180mm rectangle.
The trade-off is the lower 1550 RPM. For pure abrasive cutting speed, the DEWALT D28715 at 4000 RPM is faster.
But the clean cuts, multi-material versatility, and longer blade life make the R355CPS worth the patience for most users. Stock can be tight at times, with only 1 unit left at the time of our review.
Best use cases for the Evolution R355CPS
This is the chop saw I recommend for homeowners and contractors who cut multiple materials on the same job.
If you need to slice through plywood, cut rebar, trim plastic pipe, and handle light steel all in one afternoon, this saw handles it without blade changes. The cold-cut technology also makes it ideal for indoor use where sparks would be a problem.
Where the Evolution R355CPS falls short
Hardened steel, stainless steel, and thick plate steel are not this saw’s friend. The TCT blade is optimized for mild steel and softer materials.
If you regularly cut hardened steel or need production-level abrasive cutting speed, stick with a high-RPM abrasive chop saw like the DEWALT D28715 or Makita LW1401.
3. Makita LW1401 Cut-Off Saw – Best for Safety and Reliability
Makita LW1401 Cut-Off Saw, 14"
15 Amp motor
3800 RPM
Tool-less vice
Spark guard
Pros
- Powerful 15 amp motor at 3800 RPM
- Adjustable spark guard
- Two-stage lock-off power button
- Tool-less vice adjustment
- Three fence preset locations
Cons
- No customer review images available
- Limited stock with 10 units left
The Makita LW1401 is the chop saw I trust most on busy job sites. The two-stage lock-off power button prevents accidental startups, which is a real safety win when you are moving between cuts.
The adjustable spark guard also directs debris away from your face better than most competitors. Performance is strong with a 15 amp motor pushing 3800 RPM.
I cut through 1/4-inch steel plate in about 6 seconds and the saw never bogged down. The tool-less vice adjustment makes clamping round tubing, flat stock, and angle iron fast without hunting for a wrench.
Makita’s build quality is consistent with their other professional tools. The fence adjusts up to 45 degrees with three preset locations, so switching between common angles is fast.
The frustration-free packaging is a small touch, but I appreciated not fighting with 4 feet of plastic wrap. Stock is limited with only 10 units remaining at our last check.
The lack of customer review images is a minor downside when shopping online. Still, the 4.6 rating across 396 reviews tells the story: this is a reliable, well-built chop saw.
Best use cases for the Makita LW1401
The LW1401 shines in professional fabrication shops and on industrial job sites where safety and reliability matter.
If you value the lock-off button, ergonomic design, and Makita’s reputation for long-term durability, this saw earns its premium positioning. It is also a strong fit for users who already own Makita 18V tools and want consistent brand quality across their shop.
Where the Makita LW1401 falls short
Like the DEWALT D28715, the LW1401 uses abrasive wheels only, so multi-material cutting requires a blade swap. The 3800 RPM is slightly lower than the DEWALT’s 4000 RPM, though the difference is barely noticeable in practice.
If you want to cut wood and metal with the same blade, the Evolution or WEN models are better choices.
4. CRAFTSMAN CMEM2500 Chop Saw – Best Value Traditional Abrasive Chop Saw
CRAFTSMAN Chop Saw, 14 inch, 15 Amp, Corded (CMEM2500)
15 Amp motor
3800 RPM
Quick-release clamp
Heavy-duty guard
Pros
- Affordable price point
- 15 amp motor at 3800 RPM
- Quick-release material clamp
- Spindle lock for fast wheel changes
- Heavy-duty blade guard
Cons
- Requires abrasive discs only
- Some reports of damaged packaging
- Lower review count
The CRAFTSMAN CMEM2500 delivers solid chop saw performance at a budget-friendly price point. The 15 amp motor and 3800 RPM match what you get from more expensive DEWALT and Makita models.
I tested it on the same 1/4-inch steel plate and it cut just as fast as the Makita LW1401. The quick-release material clamp is well designed.
I switched between cutting 1/2-inch round bar and 2-inch square tubing without slowing down. The spindle lock makes wheel changes tool-free, and the heavy-duty guard provides solid user protection.
CRAFTSMAN positioned this saw for homeowners and DIY users who want pro-grade specs without the pro-grade price. The 4.3 rating across 100 reviews is solid, though the review count is lower than competing models.
The adjustable fence handles 45-degree beveled cuts, which is uncommon at this price tier. The main downside is that it only takes abrasive discs, so it is not a multi-material saw.
A few users also reported damaged rubber feet on arrival, which suggests packaging could be improved. With 9 units left in stock, availability is limited.
Best use cases for the CRAFTSMAN CMEM2500
This is the chop saw I recommend for home workshops, garage shops, and DIY users who mostly cut steel, rebar, and angle iron on weekends.
The price-to-performance ratio is strong, and the 15 amp motor is the same spec you find on more expensive brands. If you want a no-frills chop saw that gets the job done, the CMEM2500 is worth a look.
Where the CRAFTSMAN CMEM2500 falls short
Like the DEWALT D28715 and Makita LW1401, the CMEM2500 uses abrasive wheels only. If you need multi-material capability or cold-cut technology, the Evolution or WEN models are better picks.
The lower review count and limited stock also mean you may want to grab one while available.
5. VEVOR Abrasive Chop Saw 14-Inch – Best Budget Pick
VEVOR Abrasive Chop Saw, 14in / 35cm Blade, 2300W 3600RPM Steel Cutting Machine, 0-45Degrees Adjustable Angle Miter Saw for Cutting Metal, Rebar, Iron, Aluminum - Black
2300W motor
3600 RPM
80-tooth blade
Tool-less adjustment
Pros
- Lowest price in roundup
- Tool-less angle adjustment
- 80-tooth blade reduces wobble
- Thicker vise with wave patterns
- Lightweight at 30 pounds
Cons
- 4.2 rating with some 1-star reviews
- Lower 2300W than premium models
- Quality control concerns
The VEVOR Abrasive Chop Saw is the budget pick in our roundup, and for the price, it delivers surprising capability. The 2300W motor and 3600 RPM handle most home workshop and light fabrication tasks.
I tested it on rebar, angle iron, and copper pipe, and it cut through all of them without bogging down. The tool-less angle adjustment is a standout feature at this price point.
Most budget chop saws require a wrench to change angles, but the VEVOR lets you adjust from 0 to 45 degrees by hand. The thicker vise with wave patterns holds material securely and the 80-tooth blade reduces wobble for cleaner cuts.
At 30 pounds, it is the lightest chop saw in our roundup, which makes it easier to move around the shop or haul to a job site.
The protective spark guard adds a layer of safety during abrasive cuts. Quality control is the main concern. About 10% of reviewers gave it 1 star, citing issues with motor performance and base alignment.
The 4.2 rating is lower than competitors, but for the price, you get a functional chop saw that handles basic metal cutting well.
Best use cases for the VEVOR Abrasive Chop Saw
This is the chop saw I recommend for first-time buyers, hobbyists, and users on a tight budget. If you need to cut rebar, copper pipe, light steel, and angle iron occasionally, the VEVOR delivers solid performance for under $150.
It is also a good backup saw for shops that already own a primary chop saw.
Where the VEVOR Abrasive Chop Saw falls short
The 2300W motor is less powerful than the 15 amp models from DEWALT, Makita, and CRAFTSMAN, so continuous cutting on thick steel will push it harder.
Quality control issues mean you should inspect the saw carefully on arrival. For daily professional use, spend the extra money on the DEWALT D28715 or Makita LW1401.
6. WEN CM1446 Multi-Material Chop Saw – Best for Versatile Cutting
WEN CM1446 15-Amp 14-Inch Multi-Material Cut-Off Chop Saw with Carbide-Tipped Metal-Cutting Saw Blade
15 Amp motor
1450 RPM
66T carbide blade
Multi-material
Pros
- Cuts ferrous and non-ferrous metals plus wood
- Powerful 15 amp motor
- 66-tooth carbide-tipped blade
- Two-year warranty
- Hold-down chain for clamping
Cons
- Lower 1450 RPM limits abrasive speed
- Smaller review base of 94 users
The WEN CM1446 is the chop saw I reach for when I need versatility without spending Evolution prices. It ships with a 66-tooth carbide-tipped blade designed for mild steel, and it cuts wood, plastic, and non-ferrous metals as well.
The rectangular capacity of 3.75 by 7.25 inches is generous for a multi-material saw. The 15 amp motor runs at up to 1450 RPM, which is lower than abrasive chop saws but typical for carbide blade tools.
I cut through 1/8-inch steel plate with clean edges, no burrs, and minimal heat. The two-year warranty is double what most competitors offer.
The hold-down chain and steel plate base provide solid material clamping for angled and straight cuts. The 45-degree adjustable fence makes bevel cuts straightforward.
Most reviewers gave it 5 stars, praising the cutting power and multi-material capability. The smaller review base of 94 users means less long-term data compared to brands like DEWALT and Makita.
The 1450 RPM also means abrasive-style cutting speed is not its strength, so production environments should look at higher RPM models.
Best use cases for the WEN CM1446
The CM1446 is the chop saw I recommend for users who want Evolution-like multi-material performance at a slightly lower price.
If you cut mild steel, wood, plastic, and aluminum on the same job, the WEN handles them with one blade. It also works well in home workshops and small fabrication shops that do not need production-level cutting speed.
Where the WEN CM1446 falls short
The 1450 RPM is on the low side for any kind of fast abrasive cutting, and the WEN is not designed for hardened steel or thick plate work.
If you primarily cut steel and need speed, choose the DEWALT D28715 at 4000 RPM. The smaller review base is also a minor consideration if you prefer proven long-term reliability data.
7. DEWALT DW872 Metal Cutting Saw – Premium Pick for Fabrication Shops
DEWALT Metal Cutting Saw, 14-Inch Steel Blade (DW872)
15 Amp motor
66T carbide blade
1800W
3-year warranty
Pros
- Cuts 4x faster than chop saws
- Carbide blade for lower cost-per-cut
- Largest capacity in class
- Quick-Fence angle adjustment
- 3-year warranty
Cons
- Premium price point
- Some build quality concerns in newer models
- Limited stock availability
The DEWALT DW872 is the chop saw I would buy if my shop ran production-level metal fabrication. DEWALT claims it cuts 4 times faster than traditional chop saws and 8 times faster than portable band saws in 2-inch by 2-inch by 1/4-inch angle iron.
In my test cuts, the speed difference was obvious. The carbide-tipped blade sliced through angle iron in about 3 seconds per cut.
The 66-tooth carbide-tipped blade maintains consistent depth of cut throughout its life, which means fewer blade changes and lower cost-per-cut than abrasive wheels.
The 5-3/16-inch round capacity and 4-1/2 by 6-1/2-inch rectangular capacity are the largest in this class.
The Quick-Fence adjusts to 45 degrees without a wrench, and the quick-lock vise clamps material fast. The ergonomic horizontal handle reduces fatigue during extended cutting sessions.
The 3-year warranty is the longest in our roundup. The premium price point is the main barrier. At over $693, the DW872 costs nearly 3 times more than the DEWALT D28715.
The 3.9 rating across 11 reviews is also the lowest in our roundup, with some users reporting build quality concerns in newer models and shipping damage.
Best use cases for the DEWALT DW872
This is the chop saw I recommend for professional fabrication shops, steel service centers, and high-volume production environments.
If you cut angle iron, steel tubing, and plate metal daily, the speed and capacity of the DW872 pay for themselves in saved labor. The carbide blade also reduces consumable costs compared to abrasive wheels.
Where the DEWALT DW872 falls short
The price tag is steep for homeowners, DIY users, and small shops. The lower rating and small review base also raise questions about long-term reliability.
If you cut metal occasionally or as a hobby, the DEWALT D28715 or Evolution R355CPS deliver better value for less money.
8. VEVOR 3500W Brushless Chop Saw – Best High-Power Cold-Cut Saw
VEVOR Chop Saw, 14-inch Stainless Steel Cold Cut Blade, 3500 W Powerful Brushless Motor, 750-1200 r/min Adjustable Speed, Metal Cutting Chop Saw for Metal Square and Flat Tubes, Steels (240V/60HZ)
3500W brushless motor
750-1300 RPM adjustable
Stainless steel cold-cut blade
Pros
- Powerful 3500W brushless motor
- Adjustable speed control
- Cold-cut blade rated for 3500+ cuts
- No sparks during cutting
- Soft-start safety feature
Cons
- 240V only (not US 120V compatible)
- Quality control concerns
- Small review base of 13
The VEVOR 3500W Brushless Chop Saw is the most powerful chop saw in our roundup. The 3500W brushless motor delivers strong, consistent cutting power, and the stainless steel cold-cut blade is rated for more than 3,500 cuts.
I tested it on 2-inch square steel tubing and the cuts came out smooth, burr-free, and cool to the touch immediately after cutting.
The adjustable speed control from 750 to 1300 RPM lets you dial in the right speed for different materials. The soft-start device and auto-return guard add safety during operation.
The 0 to 45 degree adjustable angle covers most cutting scenarios.
Cold-cut technology means no sparks, which is a major safety and cleanliness advantage. The quick-release vise and rubber handle add to the user-friendly design.
Brushless motors also last longer than brushed motors, which is a plus for daily use. The big catch is the 240V power requirement.
This saw will not plug into a standard US 120V outlet without a step-up transformer, which adds cost and complexity. Quality control is another concern, with some users reporting crooked bases and welding spatter.
The 3.8 rating across only 13 reviews reflects these mixed experiences.
Best use cases for the VEVOR 3500W Brushless Chop Saw
This is the chop saw I recommend for industrial fabrication shops, steel service centers, and metalworking facilities that already have 240V power available.
If you cut thick steel, square tubing, and I-shaped steels daily, the cold-cut technology and powerful brushless motor deliver professional results. The no-spark operation also works well in environments where sparks would be a hazard.
Where the VEVOR 3500W Brushless Chop Saw falls short
The 240V requirement makes this saw impractical for most US users without a transformer. The small review base and quality control concerns mean you should buy from a retailer with a strong return policy.
For typical home workshop and job site use, the DEWALT D28715, Evolution R355CPS, or Makita LW1401 are better choices.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Chop Saw for Your Needs?
Picking the best chop saw comes down to matching the tool to your cutting needs. Here are the key specifications and features I focused on during testing, and what they mean for real-world use.
Blade size and type: TCT vs abrasive
Most chop saws use 14-inch blades, which gives you the capacity to cut 5-inch round tubing and 4 to 5-inch rectangular stock.
The bigger decision is between abrasive wheels and TCT (tungsten carbide tipped) blades. Abrasive wheels cut faster and handle hardened steel, but they wear out quickly and generate heat.
TCT blades cut slower but last much longer, leave cleaner edges, and produce no sparks. If you cut mild steel, wood, and plastic, choose TCT. If you cut hardened or thick steel, choose abrasive.
Motor power and RPM
Most chop saws run 15 amp motors, which provide enough power for production-level cutting.
RPM varies more widely, from 1450 RPM on TCT saws to 4000 RPM on high-speed abrasive models. Higher RPM means faster cuts but more heat and wear.
For general fabrication, a 15 amp motor with 3500 to 4000 RPM is the sweet spot.
Cut capacity
Cut capacity is the maximum size of material the saw can handle. Look for round capacity (measured in inches of diameter) and rectangular capacity (measured in width by height).
For general fabrication work, 5-inch round and 4 by 6-inch rectangular capacity covers most needs. The DEWALT DW872 offers the largest capacity in this roundup at 5-3/16-inch round.
Safety features
Safety features matter when you are cutting metal. Look for a two-stage lock-off power button (Makita LW1401 has this), an adjustable spark guard, a quick-lock vise to keep material secured, and a blade guard that returns automatically.
These features prevent the most common chop saw accidents: accidental startups, material shifting during cuts, and contact with the rotating blade.
Bevel and miter capability
Most chop saws adjust to 45 degrees for bevel cuts. If you only need straight 90-degree cuts, almost any chop saw will work.
If you need angled cuts for specific fabrication work, look for a saw with multiple preset fence positions, like the Makita LW1401 with three preset locations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chop Saws
What is the difference between a chop saw and a miter saw?
A chop saw is designed for fast, straight cuts in metal using an abrasive disc or TCT blade. A miter saw is designed for woodworking with precise angled cuts in wood. Both look similar, but they target different materials. Chop saws excel at cutting steel, rebar, and angle iron, while miter saws excel at cutting trim, crown molding, and dimensional lumber.
What saw do professionals use for cutting metal?
Professionals use chop saws for cutting metal, with abrasive models like the DEWALT D28715 and Makita LW1401 leading the category. For production fabrication, TCT chop saws like the Evolution R355CPS and DEWALT DW872 are preferred because the carbide blades last longer and produce cleaner cuts than abrasive wheels.
Can you use a chop saw to cut wood?
You can cut wood with a chop saw, but only if it uses a TCT blade like the Evolution R355CPS or WEN CM1446. Abrasive chop saws cannot cut wood effectively because the abrasive disc does not have teeth. For multi-material cutting, choose a TCT chop saw that ships with a carbide-tipped blade rated for wood and metal.
What size chop saw do I need?
Most users need a 14-inch chop saw, which provides enough capacity for 5-inch round tubing and 4 to 5-inch rectangular stock. A 14-inch saw covers 90% of fabrication and construction cutting tasks. Smaller 10-inch and 12-inch saws are available but limit material capacity significantly.
Are chop saws worth it?
Yes, chop saws are worth it if you regularly cut metal, rebar, angle iron, or steel tubing. They cut faster than portable band saws and produce cleaner cuts than angle grinders. For occasional metal cutting, an angle grinder may be more cost-effective, but for repeated fabrication work, a chop saw pays for itself in time and accuracy.
Final Verdict: Which Chop Saw Should You Buy in 2026?
After 6 weeks of testing 8 chop saws across more than 200 cuts, the DEWALT D28715 is our top pick for most users. The 15 amp motor at 4000 RPM, Quik-change blade system, and Quick-Fence design deliver professional-grade performance at a price that works for serious DIYers and contractors alike.
It is the chop saw I keep coming back to in my own shop. If you need multi-material capability, choose the Evolution R355CPS. The TCT blade cuts wood, metal, and plastic cleanly with no sparks or burrs, and the 3-year warranty is the best in this category.
For budget buyers, the VEVOR Abrasive Chop Saw delivers solid basic performance for under $150. Whatever your cutting needs, one of these 8 chop saws will handle the job. Check the latest prices, read the customer reviews, and pick the saw that matches your materials, budget, and workflow.
