DEWALT DWE7485 Table Saw Review Compact Power and Precision for Jobsite Use

Description

Design and Build Quality

The DEWALT DWE7485 Compact Portable Jobsite Table Saw feels rugged and sturdy right out of the box. Its metal roll cage base was the first thing I noticed, and it screams durability. I’ve dropped tools onto it (oops), and it stood firm without so much as a dent. The compact size makes it incredibly easy to transport, especially for those of us who don’t have a dedicated workshop space. At just 46 pounds, I could carry it without straining myself. The bold yellow and black design is classic DEWALT, and let’s be honest—it just looks cool sitting in my garage.

What’s more, the on-board storage system is a game-changer. I could neatly stow away the blade guard, miter gauge, and wrenches, which eliminated my frustration of misplacing tools mid-project. The craftsmanship here is top-notch, though I did notice the push stick felt a bit plasticky compared to the rest of the machine.

Performance and Power

This table saw runs on a 15-amp motor, and let me tell you, it’s a beast. With a 5800 RPM speed, it chewed through everything I threw at it—plywood, MDF, you name it. The rack & pinion fence system deserves a special shoutout because it made dialing in precise cuts ridiculously easy. Adjustments were smooth and accurate, which saved me time and effort. I was particularly impressed with the 24.5-inch rip capacity, as it allowed me to handle 4×8 plywood sheets without breaking a sweat.

However, I did notice that the 8-1/4-inch blade might not be ideal for thicker hardwoods. It handled most tasks well, but if you’re into heavy-duty carpentry, you might feel its limits. For me, working on household projects, it was more than sufficient.

Key Benefits

• Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to transport.
• Rack & pinion fence system ensures smooth and accurate adjustments.
• The 5800 RPM motor is powerful enough for most applications.
• On-board storage keeps tools organized and accessible.

Areas of Concern

• The push stick feels a bit flimsy and could be improved.
• Blade size might not be ideal for cutting through very thick hardwood.

Safety Features

Safety was clearly a priority in this design. The Site-Pro Modular Guarding System was intuitive and allowed for tool-free adjustments, which is always a win in my book. The anti-kickback pawls added an extra layer of protection, and I felt secure using this saw even without a second set of hands around. One feature that stood out was the power-loss reset. If the power goes out or the tool is unplugged, it won’t restart on its own when power is restored. This might seem like a small detail, but it’s a big deal if you’ve ever had an accidental restart scare.

Competing Products

Comparing this to other jobsite table saws, I had my eye on the Bosch 4100XC-10 and the SKILSAW SPT99T. The Bosch model has a slightly larger blade and a soft-start feature that some users rave about. However, it’s bulkier and harder to move around, which is where the DEWALT stands out. The SKILSAW offers excellent cutting power but lacks the rack & pinion fence system, which I found indispensable for precision work. For anyone prioritizing mobility and accuracy, this table saw is a clear winner.

Affordable Quality

For the price, this compact table saw delivers excellent value. The material quality, combined with its performance and durability, makes it a solid investment. While it’s not the cheapest on the market, the features like the rack & pinion system and on-board storage justify the cost. If you’re someone who needs a reliable saw for DIY projects or light professional work, this is definitely worth considering. In my experience, you’re getting a lot of bang for your buck here. Other models might offer some additional bells and whistles, but they often come at a much higher cost without necessarily improving on the essentials.

Pros

• Lightweight yet durable construction.
• User-friendly adjustments via rack & pinion fence.
• On-board storage keeps everything within reach.
• High-powered motor tackles most materials with ease.

Flaws

• Push stick could be sturdier.
• Limited blade size may not meet heavy-duty needs.

Final Thoughts on Use

Using this saw has been a breeze for smaller projects. I’ve cut everything from trim molding to furniture pieces, and it’s made my work so much more efficient. The fact that it’s compact enough to store in my garage without taking up valuable space is a huge plus. For DIYers or even professionals who need a portable and reliable table saw, this one ticks most boxes. Sure, it has its limitations, but for the price and portability, I couldn’t ask for much more.

Additional information