Is the SKIL 10-Inch Table Saw Still the King of Budget Table Saws?
If you’ve been hunting for the best budget table saw for your shop or garage, chances are you’ve seen the SKIL 10-inch Jobsite Table Saw pop up more than once. I first reviewed this saw about three years ago and crowned it the “King of Budget Table Saws.” But with new competition from Hercules, Evolution, and others, it’s fair to ask: does it still deserve the crown in 2025?
Let’s dig into this latest review, plus I’ll show you five budget-friendly upgrades that make this little saw punch way above its weight.
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Watch The Full Youtube Video Here: I Found The BEST BUDGET Table Saw for Woodworking
Why the SKIL Table Saw Still Impresses
Right out of the box, the build quality and packaging are top-notch. Everything’s neatly secured with zip ties and foam, which matters when it’s being shipped to your door.
The setup couldn’t be simpler, making this an excellent pick for beginners. The rack-and-pinion fence system is the standout feature—it’s gear-driven front and back, which keeps it square and accurate every time.
Out of the box, the blade and fence alignment were spot on. No tweaking needed. That’s rare in this price range.
Key Specs:
Blade Size: 10 inches (standard 5/8-inch arbor)
Motor: 15 amps, 4,600 RPM
Cut Capacity: 3-1/2” at 90°, 2-1/2” at 45°
Rip Capacity: 25-1/2” to the right of the blade
Weight: Just under 60 lbs
Bevel Range: -2° to 47°
It also includes folding legs for quick setup and storage—perfect if you’re working in a small garage or driveway shop.
Safety First: Use That Riving Knife and Blade Guard
This saw comes with both a riving knife and a blade guard. If you’re new to table saws, listen up: these aren’t optional accessories—they’re critical for preventing kickback.
The riving knife keeps the wood from pinching behind the blade, and the anti-kickback pawls on the guard dig into your stock if it tries to push back toward you.
✅ Pro Tip: Use the blade guard whenever possible, and always keep your riving knife installed.
Performance and Cut Quality
The stock 24-tooth blade will get you through basic construction cuts, but it’s rough. Expect tear-out, especially on plywood.
When I swapped in a Kreg 60-tooth blade (you could also go with DeWalt’s 40T or CMT ITK Xtreme), the results were night and day. Paired with a zero-clearance insert, the cuts were smooth and splinter-free.
Recommended Blade Upgrades:
With a quality blade and dust collection hooked up, the SKIL handled hardwoods like walnut and leopardwood with ease.
5 Budget Upgrades That Take This Saw to the Next Level
1. Zero Clearance Insert
Zero Clearance Insert for SKIL
Prevents tear-out and keeps small pieces from falling between the blade and plate. A must-have upgrade.
2. Better Fence System
TSO Fence Upgrade for SKIL
Adds T-tracks and compatibility with Bow Featherboards or JessEm stock guides for extra safety and precision.
3. Premium Featherboards and Push Sticks
The Bow tools add both horizontal and vertical pressure, reducing kickback risks. And the GRR-Ripper remains one of my all-time favorite safety tools—worth every penny.
4. Miter Gauge Upgrade
Both offer more accuracy and smoother operation than the small stock gauge.
5. Dado Stack Compatibility
Yes, you can use a dado blade stack on this saw!
The CMT Locking Dado Set fits nicely once you remove the washer and one chipper. You’ll get about a 5/8-inch dado width—perfect for joinery projects.
What Could Be Better
No saw is perfect, and this one’s no exception:
The stock blade is too rough for fine woodworking.
The push stick feels brittle—upgrade that quickly.
The miter gauge is undersized, though replaceable.
The stock throat plate isn’t zero clearance (again, fixable).
But at around $330, it’s hard to complain much. For the money, this saw offers outstanding performance, accuracy, and safety for beginners and hobbyists alike.
Final Verdict: Still the King of Budget Table Saws
After retesting this saw in 2025, I can confidently say the SKIL 10-inch Table Saw still holds its crown.
It’s powerful, accurate, and incredibly beginner-friendly—and with a few simple upgrades, it can rival saws twice the price.
If you’re setting up your first shop or upgrading from a circular saw table, this one’s tough to beat.
👉 Buy the SKIL Table Saw:
Wrap-Up
Whether you’re cutting plywood for cabinets or ripping walnut for furniture, this SKIL table saw continues to be a go-to choice for woodworkers who want precision without spending a fortune.
Stay safe out there, keep learning, and I’ll see you in the next one.
– Matt Outlaw, 731 Woodworks
