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7 Best Tile Saws of 2024

Updated
Make grafting work easier — use a tile saw.

If you have ever worked with tiles or had tiling installed in your home, you know precision is essential. This is especially true when you need to cut tiles to fit, which you will probably need to do at some point.

A tile saw will help you cut tiles smoothly and accurately, without damaging them. There are numerous tile saws to choose from, including both handheld and stationary models, so you might need some advice to find the right model.

To help you find a suitable saw, we have reviewed 7 of the best tile saws that are currently available. We chose these saws for their type, speed, size, and power.

Our Top Picks

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Image
Model
Product Comparison Table
Features

Product Image of the Craftsman Small Angle Grinder Tool
The Handiest Tile Saw
Craftsman Small Angle Grinder Tool
  • 3-position handle adjustment
  • 6-amp, 12,000 RPM motor
  • Tool-free guard and spindle lock
Product Image of the SKIL 3540-02 7-Inch Wet Tile Saw
Best for Glass Tiles
SKIL 3540-02 7-Inch Wet Tile Saw
  • Corrosion-resistant stainless steel
  • Water cooling
  • 45-degree bevel cuts
Product Image of the DeWalt Angle Grinder Tool
Best Budget Tile Saw
DeWalt Angle Grinder Tool
  • 9-amp motor
  • Weighs just 5 pounds
  • One-touch guard
Product Image of the Ryobi 4 in. Tile Saw
Best Powerful Tile Saw
Ryobi 4 in. Tile Saw
  • Diamond cutting wheel
  • Lock-on trigger
  • Water delivery system
Product Image of the Delta Cruzer
Best Wet Tile Saw
Delta Cruzer
  • 13-amp, 5,300 RPM motor
  • Smooth-sliding rails
  • 24-inch cutting capacity
Product Image of the Raimondi Gladiator 130 51
Best Bridge Tile Saw
Raimondi Gladiator 130 51
  • Adjustable cutting depth
  • Telescopic legs
  • Included accessories
Product Image of the Porter-Cable PCE980 Wet Tile Saw
Most User-Friendly Tile Saw
Porter-Cable PCE980 Wet Tile Saw
  • Cast metal sliding tray
  • 17-inch cutting capacity
  • 3-year limited warranty

Review Methodology: At Sensible Digs, we pride ourselves on our comprehensive and meticulous analysis of the best tile saws in the market. Our team of professionals conducts hands-on testing of each product, comparing performance, design, and user experience. We evaluate the products from a user’s perspective, identifying decision-making factors like precision, power, versatility, and durability. We track and measure these criteria, using factual data and results from our tests. Our reviews also assess unique features that set a product apart from its competitors. You’ll find our findings and rankings based on these standards, providing you with the most reliable assessment to guide your choice. The trust you place in us stems from our commitment to presenting you with the facts, giving you the confidence to make the best decision.



The Best Tile Saws of 2024

Tile saws and other cutters are widely used tools, so there are many different models to choose from. To help you find the right one, we have reviewed 7 of the best tile saws you can buy today, which we chose for their power, size, user-friendliness, and reliability.

Craftsman Small Angle Grinder Tool

The Handiest Tile Saw

If you are relatively new to cutting tiles, it can be difficult to find a cutter that is beginner-friendly. However, this small angle grinder from Craftsman is an excellent option for any user. Despite being easy to use, it is still an effective, powerful tile cutter.

The high-power 6-amp motor spins the blade at up to 12,000 RPM, which is very fast for any tile cutter. It will cut through tiles quickly, helping you keep up with even the most demanding jobs.

The handle can be adjusted to 3 different positions, helping you hold the tool safely and comfortably, whatever angle you need to work at.

What We Like

3-Position Handle

The 3-position handle adjustment will ensure you hold the grinder comfortably and securely while cutting tiles. In addition, the tool-free guard and spindle lock provide quick and easy adjustments.

Powerful Cutting

Simplicity doesn’t have to mean less power. The 6-amp, 12,000 RPM motor provides plenty of power to effortlessly cut through most tile materials.

Additional Accessories

This tool is well-suited for smaller, awkward cuts and is great for amateur tile cutters. Craftsman has included some very helpful accessories: a grinding guard, grinding wheel, and a 3-position handle and wrench.

What We Don't Like

Overheating

While this is an effective tile-cutting tool, some users have reported overheating issues while using it. You should use it in short bursts, so it is best suited to smaller-scale jobs.

Product Specs

Type Angle grinder
Weight 4.65 pounds
Motor 12,000 RPM, 6 Amp
Cutting Diameter 4 ½ inches
Warranty 3-year limited warranty

Our Ratings

Power
4 / 5
Accuracy
4 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Durability
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

User Experience

In my experience, this angle grinder has been an unexpectedly versatile tool that's handled a variety of tasks with ease. Despite its gear noise being louder than my other grinders, it backs up this noise with an impressive power output. I've used it for cutting through rusted car bolts, oil filters, and even stubborn old sway bar links. When it comes to tasks around the house, this grinder was ideal for cutting off the dated designs on our indoor/outdoor railings and slicing through some PVC pipes. It's important to mention that it's not a tool to be taken lightly, safety should be your top priority when using it. For the cost, it's a handy tool for occasional DIY or mechanic tasks.

SKIL 3540-02 7-Inch Wet Tile Saw

Best Tile Saw for Glass Tiles

There are many tile saws to choose from, each designed to excel at cutting different materials. The SKIL 3540-02 is a benchtop wet saw model that is ideal for cutting glass tiles, which are among the most fragile you are likely to cut.

The saw’s table measures 12 x 12 inches, so your tiles will be safely supported while you cut them. The table is made of corrosion-resistant stainless steel, which is particularly important because the saw uses water to cool the blade while you work

With a mid-range price and numerous positive customer reviews, this is an excellent tile saw that you can buy with confidence.

What We Like

Sturdy Build

This wet tile saw is sturdy and durable thanks to its corrosion-resistant stainless steel construction. This not only protects the tool, but it can also hold tiles measuring up to 12 x 12 inches.

Water Cooling

The blade cooling water reservoir will prevent overheating and help your blades last longer. It will also keep the release of dust and debris at a minimum.

Bevel and Capacity

You can use this saw to make 45-degree bevel cuts while the tool holds the tile in place. Its cross-cut capacity measures 7.75 inches, with a diagonal-cut capacity of 7.25 inches.

SKIL has equipped this tool with an adjustable rip fence and a miter gauge for easier alignment and greater precision.

What We Don't Like

Excessive Water

Some customer reviews mention that too much water spills from the table during use. This won’t impact the tool’s performance but it could get messy if you are working indoors.

Product Specs

Type Wet Tile Saw
Weight 17.69 pounds
Motor 3,600 RPM, 4.2 AMP
Cutting Diameter 7 inches at 45 degrees, 1 inch at 90 degrees
Warranty 30-day money-back guarantee, 1-year warranty

Our Ratings

Power
3.5 / 5
Accuracy
4 / 5
Design
4 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Personal Perspective

Got this SKIL 3540-02, a benchtop wet saw model, and it's been a reliable tool in my toolbox. This tile saw is particularly great for cutting glass tiles, which are admittedly among the most delicate materials I've worked with. The 12 x 12 inch corrosion-resistant stainless steel table gives me peace of mind as it ensures the tiles are safely supported while I cut. What's more, the built-in water cooling feature is a fantastic addition that keeps the blade cool during operation. Considering its mid-range price and sturdy build, it's clear this tile saw is well worth the investment.

DeWalt Angle Grinder Tool

Best Budget Tile Saw

This is one of the most affordable yet effective tile cutters we have seen during our research. With particular care given to creating an ergonomic design, this DeWalt angle grinder is an excellent option for construction work.

If you need to cut tiles for hours at a time or occasionally work on large-scale projects, this is a great tool for your needs. Its slim shape can be held comfortably and easily maneuvered, reducing hand fatigue during use.

The 12,000 RPM motor removes debris as soon as it is released. This makes it even more suitable for extended tile-cutting jobs.

What We Like

Powerful

This angle grinder packs a punch thanks to its powerful 9-amp motor that spins the blade at up to 12,000 RPM. It also quickly removes debris and protects against overloading. You won’t need to worry about losing control of this tool.

Light and Portable

Weighing a mere 5 pounds, this angle grinder is both easy to use and very portable, so it is ideal for working on-site. The paddle switch makes this tool less strenuous to use than most tile saws. When combined with the quick-change wheel release, it will minimize fatigue when cutting numerous tiles.

Accessories

DeWalt has included a one-touch guard and a hex wrench to make your user experience as smooth as possible. It is also possible to purchase more accessories to further increase this angle grinder’s versatility.

What We Don't Like

Excessive Power

Despite its ergonomic design, this angle grinder might be too powerful for some users to handle comfortably. Make sure you can maintain full control of the tool at all times before you start using it for cutting tasks.

Product Specs

Type Angle grinder
Weight 5 pounds
Motor 12,000 RPM, 9 AMP
Cutting Diameter 4 ½ inches
Warranty 3-year limited manufacturer’s warranty

Our Ratings

Power
4.5 / 5
Accuracy
4 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Community Feedback

My experience with this grinder has been nothing short of satisfying. It's the perfect balance of size, weight, and power, making it a breeze to use for various tasks such as cutting porcelain tile, cement board, tin roofing, and even cast iron bars. The control mechanisms are well-designed, making it easy to handle even for someone with small hands like me. However, the manual could use some improvement as it lacks clear instructions on how to use the hex wrench to change cutters and how to install the safety shroud. Despite these minor inconveniences, the grinder's impressive cutting power and the quality of its construction are undeniable.

Ryobi 4 in. Tile Saw

Best Powerful Tile Saw

This Ryobi tile saw’s 12-amp motor makes it very powerful and versatile. It generates enough power to cut through tough tile materials including ceramic, marble, granite, masonry, porcelain, and others.

It runs at 13,700 RPM, making it one of the fastest tile saws we have looked at. Thanks to a built-in water cooling system, you won’t need to worry about it overheating during use.

The four-inch diamond cutting wheel will make smooth, accurate cuts and is ideal for safely cutting delicate tiles. There is also a lock-on trigger so you won’t need to manually hold it down for the duration of each cut.

What We Like

Diamond Cutting Wheel

Equipped with a four-inch diamond cutting wheel, this tool will reliably make smooth, precise cuts. You won’t need to worry about chipping delicate materials such as ceramic and porcelain, as diamond blades are made for these jobs.

Lock-On Trigger

The user-friendly lock-on trigger will keep the blade spinning at the same speed without you having to manually apply pressure. This is great for making long cuts or when you need to cut numerous tiles on a large project.

Water Delivery System

Less dust should be released when using this saw thanks to its water delivery system. This system constantly feeds water to the blade to keep it cool and wets the cutting line to keep it cleaner. You can adjust the water flow to suit whichever task you are working on.

What We Don't Like

Confusing Water System

The water system is very effective once it is working but some users find it confusing to set up and can’t keep the tube in place. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully.

Product Specs

Type Wet tile saw
Weight 9.28 pounds
Motor 13,700 RPM, 12 AMP
Cutting Diameter 1.15 inches at 90 degrees, 0.75 inches at 45 degrees
Warranty 3-year warranty

Our Ratings

Power
5 / 5
Accuracy
4.5 / 5
Design
4 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

First-Hand Impression

This tile saw is a handy tool, especially when cutting glass tiles. The water spray feature, although positioned awkwardly, prevents chipping when used at full blast. It also performs well with regular tiles and larger ones, but I've noticed less chipping when the tile is cut upside down, a task made trickier by the nature of the tile's texture. There's a learning curve to it, but once you get the hang of the water distribution and blade usage, it's quite useful. Also, a pro tip: marking your tiles with a crayon and laying them on a slight gradient makes for quicker and cleaner cuts.

Delta 96-107 7-Inch Cruzer Wet Tile Saw

Best Wet Tile Saw

Tiling can be an intimidating job, especially if you don’t have much experience. However, having the right tools will make a significant difference, which is why this Delta wet tile saw is an excellent option.

With a powerful 13-amp motor that spins its blade at 5,300 RPM, you can be confident that this tool is up to whichever tiling job you need it for.

This is a large, ergonomically-designed, high-performance tool that is ideal for heavy-duty tile-cutting work, whether you are an amateur or a professional. Its 7-inch diamond-cutting blade will make short work of tiles and the unit’s large table means it can accommodate tiles up to 24 inches wide and 2.375 inches thick.

What We Like

Powerful Cutting

Like any electrical construction tool, power is critical for tile cutters to perform properly. This saw has a 13-amp, 5,300 RPM motor. Delivering 2 horsepower, it will be more than enough to cut through tiles.

User-Friendly Design

If you are working on a large project, you may need to spend hours at a time cutting tiles. In these situations, it is important to minimize fatigue.

Delta Cruzer has equipped this machine with a diamond cutting wheel, as well as smooth-sliding rails with 12 bearings. It also has two water nozzles for effective cooling and cleaning. This tool will provide an easier cutting experience, which will help you work for longer.

Durable

This Delta wet tile saw is built to last. It can comfortably cut granite, porcelain, concrete, and other stone materials without being damaged. Its diamond cutting blade is also top quality, which will make the machine’s task easier.

What We Don't Like

Heavy Tool

This wet tile saw weighs 63 pounds, so it is quite heavy if you need to frequently carry it from place to place.

Product Specs

Type Wet tile saw
Weight 63 pounds
Motor 5300 RPM, 13 AMP
Cutting Diameter 24 inches
Warranty 1-year warranty

Our Ratings

Power
4.5 / 5
Accuracy
4.5 / 5
Design
4 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

User Experience

I'm an amateur DIY enthusiast who was tasked with a kitchen and bathroom renovation project. This saw has proved to be worth its weight in gold. The precision and ease of use are top-notch, even for someone like me who isn't a professional tile installer. It cuts through ceramic tiles effortlessly, and the 45-degree bevel cuts are a breeze to accomplish. I also appreciate the compact fold-up design, which makes it easy to store when not in use. However, do note, it can be a tad loud, so I would recommend using hearing protection.

Raimondi Gladiator 130 51

Best Bridge Tile Saw

If you need a tile-cutting tool that will be up to the challenge of large-scale tiling projects, this Raimondi bridge tile saw could be your ideal option. With a high-end 110-volt motor, the Gladiator lives up to its name and will be able to slice through every tile material you are likely to encounter.

This tool is ideal for working on job sites as it has telescopic legs, so you won’t need a separate table to use it at a comfortable height. These legs are easy to set up and they are sturdy and won’t collapse easily.

It is both powerful and precise, with an ergonomic design that will ensure it is comfortable to use for cutting numerous tiles.

What We Like

Versatile

This tile saw’s unique design allows it to cut through ceramic, porcelain, marble, granite, and glass. Its adjustable cutting depth provides greater control. This makes it ideal for large-scale projects where you might need to cut various materials.

Great Design

To ensure the tool is comfortable to use, it has an aluminum housing sliding motor assembly and re-adjustable pulleys. The aluminum framework provides greater strength and durability.

Accessories

If you are cutting tiles for the first time, this product contains all the tools you will need. It includes a dressing stone, 10-inch blade, square, and wrench kit, so you won’t need to spend extra money buying them separately.

What We Don't Like

Carry Weight

This wet tile bridge saw weighs a hefty 172 pounds. If you need a tool for small-scale projects or one that can be moved easily, this one will probably be unsuitable for your needs.

Product Specs

Type Wet tile bridge saw
Weight 172 pounds
Motor 3360 RPM
Cutting Diameter Adjustable
Warranty N/A

Our Ratings

Power
4 / 5
Accuracy
4 / 5
Design
3.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Personal Perspective

I'm genuinely content with these warehouse items my team and I decided to purchase. From the moment we started using them, it was clear that they were of high quality and built to last. Their performance has been reliable, making our warehouse operations smoother and more efficient. It's rare to find products that meet our needs so precisely. In my opinion, these are certainly worth considering if you're in need of similar warehouse solutions.

Porter-Cable PCE980 Wet Tile Saw

Most User-Friendly Tile Saw

This 120-volt Porter-Cable tile saw is ideal for large-scale, specialist work, but it is user-friendly enough that anyone will be able to get to grips with it quickly. The designers at Porter-Cable pride themselves on the performance, reliability, and overall quality of their products.

This wet tile saw has a 17-inch cutting capacity, so it is suitable for cutting 12 x 12-inch tiles. Its cutting is accurate to 1/16 of an inch, so you will be able to use it to achieve a professional finish.

It also has a built-in water cooling system that will prevent overheating while minimizing the amount of dust that is released during use. This tool is wireless, so you will be able to use it anywhere, which is great for construction work where you might not have a power supply.

What We Like

Convenient Design

This product is a great choice if you want a user-friendly tile saw. Its cast metal sliding tray with water channels allows smooth maneuvering, while the water minimizes dust clouds.

The roll cage and carry handle enhance this tool’s portability and durability, making it ideal for taking to work on jobs.

Cutting Power

This tool will get you through the toughest, most strenuous projects. Its impressive 1-horsepower motor spins the 7-inch blade at up to 2,850 RPM. It is capable of cutting through materials such as stone, porcelain, and ceramic gently but efficiently.

Customer Service

Porter-Cable show consideration for their customers with a 3-year limited warranty. They also offer a 1-year free service contract and a 90-day money-back guarantee.

What We Don't Like

Wireless Tool

A wireless tool is convenient in that it can be used anywhere, but we have seen complaints that this saw’s batteries run out quite quickly.

Product Specs

Type Wet tile saw
Weight 32 pounds
Motor 2850 RPM, 6.5 AMP
Cutting Diameter 17 inches
Warranty 3-year limited warranty

Our Ratings

Power
3.5 / 5
Accuracy
4 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Durability
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Community Feedback

When I first started using this wet saw for my bathroom remodel, I was initially pleased with its tile cutting function. However, after a handful of cuts, I noticed the blade chipping at the end, leaving a rough edge. Switching out the original blade for a higher quality one significantly improved the cuts, even giving me a factory edge when cutting the tile upside down.

Product Comparison Chart

Product Best Type Weight Motor Cutting Diameter Warranty
Craftsman Small Angle Grinder Tool Handiest Angle grinder 4.65 lbs 12,000 RPM, 6 Amp 4 ½” 3 year limited
SKIL 3540-02 7-Inch Wet Tile Saw Glass Tiles Wet Tile Saw 17.69 lbs 3,600 RPM, 4.2 AMP 7″ (45°), 1″ (90°) 1-year
DeWalt Angle Grinder Tool Budget Saw Angle grinder 5 lbs 12,000 RPM, 9 AMP 4 ½” 3-year limited
Ryobi 4 In. Tile Saw Powerful Wet tile saw 9.28 lbs 13,700 RPM, 12 AMP 1.15″(90°), 0.75″(45°) 3 year
Delta Cruzer Wet Tile Saw Wet Tile Saw Wet tile saw 63 lbs 5300 RPM, 13 AMP 24″ 1-year
Raimondi Gladiator 130 51 Bridge Tile Saw Wet tile bridge saw 172 lbs 3360 RPM Adjustable N/A
Porter-Cable PCE980 Wet Tile Saw User-Friendly Wet tile saw 32 lbs 2850 RPM, 6.5 AMP 17″ 3 year limited

What Is a Tile Saw Used For?

Tile saws are used to cut tiles, usually thicker tiles that require a high degree of precision. They have proven themselves invaluable for large-scale projects, especially when renovating bathrooms or kitchens.

Due to the precision required, these tools usually have extra features designed to help you make smooth, accurate cuts. These include water cooling systems, stationary table designs, and gradual angle rulers.

The right tile saw will provide sleeker cuts, release minimal dust, and protect your blade as much as possible. Unlike masonry saws, which can only make cross cuts, tile saws are also capable of miter cuts.

Traditionally, construction workers had to cut ceramic tiles by hand, using tools such as hammers and chisels to shape them. In 1951, the Boada brothers created the tile cutter for hydraulic mosaic after watching their father struggle to install tiles.

What Type of Tile Saw Do I Need?

Three are three broad types of tile cutters to choose from. Each of these three types can be effective but the best one to choose will depend on the specific job you need it for.

Manual Snap Cutter

Manual snap cutters provide a basic way to cut tiles without the need for a power supply. The scoring wheel and foot components are designed to make straight, smooth cuts on most tile types, including mosaic or ceramic. They also result in minimal chipping, so they can help you achieve a neat finish.

The tile should be marked using a ruler before being placed inside the cutter and lined up with the mark. You then need to roll the cutting wheel across the surface of the tile several times, applying light pressure. The tile will eventually snap along the line you have scored.

Pros

  • Very beginner-friendly
  • Relatively inexpensive
  • Can be used for most tile types
  • Makes straight, smooth cuts

Cons

  • Only suitable for straight, simple cuts

Motorized Wet Tile Saw

Motorized wet tile saws are large power tools for heavy-duty sawing, so you will probably want to hire one instead of buying one unless you are a professional. For cutting thick tiles or working on large-scale projects, one of these tools will be your best option. A basic tabletop saw won’t provide the same quality of finish.

In comparison to manual snap cutters, where the cutting wheel is moved across the tile, here the blade is fixed in place. Tiles are placed on the sliding table and pushed toward the blade. A pump supplies water, which coats the blade to cool it and acts as a lubricant.

These saws are similar to miter saws but they are far more accurate and effective for cutting tiles. If you need to cut tiles, a motorized wet tile saw is the ideal choice.

Pros

  • The best tool for large tiles
  • Well-suited to large-scale projects
  • Easy to use

Cons

  • Tile size will be limited by the saw’s capacity

Angle Grinder

Angle grinders typically measure 4 inches and are attached to stone blades. Each blade type is more suitable for cutting specific tile materials:

  • Diamond blade: Best for ceramic tiles
  • Serrated blade: Best for natural stone tiles
  • Notch blade: Best for cutting porcelain tiles

Unlike a wet tile saw, an angle grinder can make angled cuts, hence its name. It is ideal for making rougher, more awkward cuts.

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Can cut different tile types with the right blade
  • Best for angled cuts

Cons

  • Ceramic tiles will crack if the blade is not tightly fitted

Do You Need a Wet Saw to Cut Tile?

Whether or not you need a wet saw depends on the type of tile, cut, and overall scale of the project.

Wet saws can make curved cuts in tiles, whereas traditional tile cutters only cut straight. In the hands of a skilled user, a wet tile saw will cut intricate shapes and patterns into tiles. They can also cut harder materials than more basic tile cutters.

If you are working on a large-scale project that requires many tiles to be cut, a wet tile saw will help you manage the workload far better than other cutters.

How to Choose the Best Tile Saw

When trying to find the best tile saw for your needs, you should consider whether or not it will be suitable for the specific job you are working on. Here are some of the most important points to consider:

RPM – Rotations Per Minute

RPM, or rotations per minute, measures how many times the blade will rotate fully in 60 seconds. A standard maximum RPM for a tile saw is between 3400 to 5400 rotations per minute.

Generally, more expensive tile saws have a higher RPM than their budget-friendly alternatives. However, even similarly-priced saws will often have different RPMs from brand to brand.

For cutting tiles, the higher the RPM, the better. This is because a faster blade will be able to cut through tiles without damaging them. If you only need to cut some thin tiles for a small job, you will probably be fine with a cheaper, slower cutter.

Try to balance the cost of the saw with the speed you need. If you have the budget, you can buy a high-end saw that will cut any tile, but there is no point in overspending on one that is more powerful than you need.

Blade Size

Standard tile blades range between 4 to 10 inches. Wider blades will be more suitable for large-scale projects or cutting numerous tiles quickly. The larger diameter will help the blade cut through material faster, which will make your work more efficient. If you are working on small-scale projects or cutting thin tiles, you will be fine with a smaller blade.

Horsepower

The amount of horsepower has a significant influence on the effectiveness of a motorized tile saw cutter. Each “HP” is a unit of power — approximately 750 watts in the International System of Units.

The term was created by James Watt — an 18th-century Scottish engineer. A motor only needs to hit a certain horsepower rating for several seconds to make cuts (1).

One horsepower is the amount of power needed to lift a weight of 550 pounds through a distance of 1 foot in 1 second (2).

Higher horsepower is generally reflected in a more expensive product. If you want a durable, powerful tile saw, a 1.5-horsepower motor will be a good option.

Types of Cuts

The best tile saws will be versatile enough to make different cuts in a variety of materials. However, you should still try to choose the right option for the job at hand. Angle grinders will produce the best results when making awkward or angled cuts.

Motorized wet tile saws will tackle large-scale or heavy-duty projects. They are also effective at making mitered and bevel cuts.

For a cheaper alternative, manual snap cutters can produce good results and they are easy to use. Just keep in mind that it will take a very long time to complete anything other than the smallest jobs.

Warranty

The length of the warranty might not be your top priority when buying a power tool but it is very important in the event that you encounter any issues later.

Reputable manufacturers usually protect their customers with warranties lasting a year or more, but this isn’t always the case.

Look for a warranty that is longer than a year to give you enough time to ensure the saw works properly. Long warranties are also a reflection of a manufacturer’s confidence in its products.


How to Use a Tile Saw

Before you do anything else, you should always read your product’s manual. This will be written specifically for the tool you are using, so you should trust it over any generic guides.

You should also take some time to familiarize yourself with the machine. This means learning which buttons and levers do what and locating any safety buttons to ensure you can reach for them instinctively if any accidents occur.

The following steps can be used alongside the advice given in the product manual, but you should always defer to the manual as every tool is different.

1. Safety First

Make sure you have the necessary safety equipment before you start working, as cutting tiles can be hazardous.

A dust mask is essential as tiles will usually release a lot of dust when they are cut, which can be harmful. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that construction workers are vulnerable to respiratory diseases, silicosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asbestosis, and lung cancer (3).

You should also wear work gloves, earplugs, and safety glasses to protect you against debris and hearing damage, especially if you are working on an extended tile-cutting job.

It is also essential that you focus when using any tool, particularly power tools such as a tile saw. Try to remove any distractions and keep your eyes on the machine throughout the cutting process. This will reduce the risk of injury.

2. Tools for Saws

A motorized wet tile cutter requires some specific equipment. This often includes:

  • The wet tile saw itself
  • A faucet
  • A garden hose with a minimum length of 15 feet
  • A short hose, several feet in length
  • A five-gallon bucket to collect wastewater

3. Connect the Equipment

Once you have all the necessary equipment, you will need to start connecting everything. Connect the long hose to a water faucet. Clean water will help lubricate the tile saw, while the wastewater flows into the bucket.

4. Electrical Outlet

Connect the motorized wet saw to a power outlet. The product manual should provide specific instructions regarding the required voltage.

5. Wastewater Management

Place the five-gallon bucket below the motorized wet tile saw to collect excess water. If you need to work for extended periods without stopping, consider using a bigger bucket.

6. Tile Placement

Your tiles should be placed on the sliding work tray. Ensure everything is stable, then manually push the tray through the blade to cut the tiles.

Tips for Using a Tile Saw

  • Finishing: Some saws won’t provide a smooth cut — you may need to file the edges after cutting if they seem too rough.
  • Light touch: Apply light pressure when pushing the tile through the blade. Don’t rush; you are far likelier to achieve positive results if you take your time.
  • Pay attention at all times: Wet tile saws necessitate water and electricity in close proximity, so it is very important to pay close attention. Always keep an eye on whatever is happening around the equipment.

Tile Saw FAQs

Can a Tile Saw Cut Marble?

A tile saw can cut marble, but you will need to use a suitable tool and blade. Marble can’t simply be scored or snapped; you will need to cut all the way through it. As such, a diamond blade will be your most effective option.

If you place the blade in an angle grinder, you will be able to make curved or angled cuts. On the other hand, a wet saw with a diamond blade will provide straight, neat cuts.

Can I Cut Quartz With a Tile Saw?

Quartz is classed as an oxide mineral. It is composed of oxygen atoms and silicon. As it is dense, strong, and brittle, you won’t be able to cut it with a low-end tile saw. However, a wet saw should have the power required to cut it effectively.

Will a Tile Saw Cut Granite?

You will need a good blade to cut through granite, but a diamond-tipped or carbide blade should be able to do it as long as your saw is powerful enough.

Is It Worth Buying a Tile Saw?

Investing in a tile saw can be an excellent way to save time and money for tile-cutting projects. Not only do they enable precise, accurate cuts on ceramic, porcelain, and scored tiles, but the process is also far less labor-intensive than traditional methods like using a hammer and chisel.

If investing in a quality saw, the cost of ownership will be more expensive than renting due to fewer maintenance costs over time. Buying a tile saw is worth considering for anyone who does frequent tile work or has larger projects requiring quick, precise cuts.

How Thick a Tile Can a Tile Saw Cut?

Tile saws are designed for cutting both porous and non-porous tile. The maximum thickness of a tile that can be cut with a tile saw depends on the depth of cut or the blade size.

Generally, most wet tile saws will allow a maximum cutting depth of about 3/4 inch. However, some higher-end models may have greater capacity. Always refer to any operating instructions with your saw to ensure safety before making deeper cuts.

Is an Overhead Tile Saw Better?

Overhead tile saws are a great option for those who need more precision and less mess. These saws are typically mounted on a wall, ceiling, or stand and operate using an overhead arm to move the blade down onto the material.

This technique’s advantages include greater cutting line visibility, adjustable side and back fence, and better dust control. Because the tile is placed on a table instead of directly on the ground, any dirt or debris is less likely to interfere with accuracy when making cuts.

For these reasons, an overhead tile saw can provide greater convenience and accuracy than traditional methods.

What Is the Difference Between a Wet Saw and a Tile Cutter?

A wet saw uses a diamond blade to cut through the tile while continuously spraying water, reducing the dust created.

Tile cutters can only make straight cuts, while a wet saw can cut more intricate designs, such as curves and circles.

With the help of a diamond-tipped blade, the wet saw can easily create these shapes with virtually no dust created during the process. This makes them ideal for cutting into tiles that need to fit around corners and tight spaces.

But, tile cutters are limited to straight lines, as they use a hardened tungsten wheel that scores the tile before it is snapped off by hand.

The precision of a wet saw is significantly better than that of a tile cutter – making it the perfect tool for complex cuts needed in tiling projects.

Tile cutters utilize a hardened tungsten carbide wheel that scores the tile before it is snapped off by hand. This means less dust than a wet saw, although accuracy and precision aren’t as great.

Wet saws tend to be more expensive than tile cutters because of their larger size and specialized blades.

What Tile Saw Do Professionals Use?

Professionals typically use wet saws for their superior accuracy and precision when cutting tiles. Wet saws utilize a diamond-tipped blade that is continuously sprayed with water to reduce the amount of dust created.

This makes them ideal for intricate designs required in tiling projects, such as curved and rounded shapes. The larger size of a wet saw means it is more powerful and can cut through harder materials than tile cutters.

As a result, many professionals prefer wet saws over tile cutters due to their versatility and reliability.

What Saw Is Best for Cutting Porcelain Tile?

For cutting porcelain tile, a wet saw is the best choice. A diamond-tipped blade is paired with a continuous spray of water which minimizes dust and helps create intricate designs with precision.

Porcelain tile is particularly hard, so a wet saw can handle even the toughest cuts while creating clean, finished results.

Additionally, wet saws are larger than tile cutters and thus have more power, making them ideal for deep or complex cuts needed in tiling projects.

This versatility and accuracy have made wet saws the go-to tool for many professionals when cutting porcelain tiles.


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About the Author

Mark Weir

Mark spent 24 years working in real estate, so he knows his way around a home. He also worked with contractors and experts, advising them on issues of planning, investments, and renovations. Mark is no stranger to hands-on experience, having renovated his own home and many properties for resale. He likes nothing better than seeing a project through to completion.