Introduction

You don’t need to spend thousands to get a reliable table saw for woodworking. In fact, there are excellent options under $500 that deliver:

  • Accurate cuts
  • Reliable performance
  • Essential safety features

These budget-friendly models are perfect for beginners, hobbyists, and small workshops looking for quality without breaking the bank.

We’ve researched and tested the best affordable table saws on the market for 2025, balancing price, performance, and durability.

Our Top 5 Picks at a Glance

RankModelPrice RangeRip CapacityBest For
1SKIL TS6307-00$300–$35025.5″Best Overall Budget Saw
2DeWalt DWE7485$350–$40024.5″Best for Compact Spaces
3Ryobi RTS22$250–$30027″Best for Beginners
4Craftsman CMXETAX69434502$400–$45020″Best for DIY Home Projects
5WEN 3720$450–$50026″Best Portable Option

1. SKIL TS6307-00 – Best Overall Budget Saw

Motor: 15-amp
Rip Capacity: 25.5″
Price: ~$325

Why We Recommend It

The SKIL TS6307-00 offers excellent value with a solid fence system, lightweight portability, and enough rip capacity for most projects.

Pros:

  • Affordable price
  • Easy to store
  • Good rip capacity for size

Cons:

  • Louder than heavier saws
  • No stand included

Best For: Beginners and small shop owners who need quality without spending big.

2. DeWalt DWE7485 – Best for Compact Spaces

Motor: 15-amp
Rip Capacity: 24.5″
Price: ~$375

Why We Recommend It

The DeWalt DWE7485 is a smaller version of DeWalt’s popular jobsite saws, with the same rack-and-pinion fence system in a compact package.

Pros:

  • Compact and lightweight
  • Excellent fence accuracy
  • Trusted DeWalt build quality

Cons:

  • Smaller rip capacity than larger models
  • No dado blade compatibility

Best For: Small workshops, mobile contractors, and those with limited space.

3. Ryobi RTS22 – Best for Beginners

Motor: 15-amp
Rip Capacity: 27″
Price: ~$275

Why We Recommend It

The Ryobi RTS22 is an easy-to-use starter saw with good safety features and surprising rip capacity for the price.

Pros:

  • Budget-friendly
  • Large rip capacity for price
  • Simple setup

Cons:

  • Fence could be more robust
  • More vibration than premium models

Best For: Beginners who want to practice woodworking without a big investment.

4. Craftsman CMXETAX69434502 – Best for DIY Home Projects

Motor: 15-amp
Rip Capacity: 20″
Price: ~$425

Why We Recommend It

Craftsman’s portable saw is great for DIY projects, from shelving to home repairs, with a solid steel roll cage for durability.

Pros:

  • Sturdy build
  • Reliable performance
  • Portable design

Cons:

  • Limited rip capacity
  • Basic fence adjustments

Best For: DIYers who work both indoors and outdoors.

5. WEN 3720 – Best Portable Option

Motor: 15-amp
Rip Capacity: 26″
Price: ~$475

Why We Recommend It

The WEN 3720 comes with a foldable rolling stand, making it a strong choice for anyone who needs portability without sacrificing workspace.

Pros:

  • Rolling stand included
  • Good rip capacity
  • Affordable compared to pro jobsite saws

Cons:

  • Heavier than benchtop options
  • Fence less precise than higher-end models

Best For: Woodworkers who need to move their saw frequently.

Buying Guide – Choosing a Budget Table Saw

When buying a table saw under $500, focus on:

1. Rip Capacity

  • At least 24″ for versatility
  • Smaller capacity is fine for trim work

2. Fence Accuracy

A sturdy, easy-to-adjust fence is essential for straight cuts.

3. Motor Power

15-amp motors are standard in this price range—enough for most softwoods and plywood.

4. Portability

  • Benchtop: Lighter, smaller capacity
  • Jobsite: Slightly heavier, more features

5. Safety Features

  • Riving knife
  • Blade guard
  • Anti-kickback pawls

Tips to Get the Most Out of a Budget Table Saw

  • Upgrade the blade for better cut quality.
  • Use a zero-clearance insert to reduce tear-out.
  • Keep the tabletop clean and waxed for smoother feeding.
  • Always use push sticks for narrow cuts.

Conclusion

You can get excellent performance under $500 if you choose carefully:

  • Overall value → SKIL TS6307-00
  • Small spaces → DeWalt DWE7485
  • Beginners → Ryobi RTS22
  • DIYers → Craftsman CMXETAX69434502
  • Portability → WEN 3720

A good budget table saw will last years if maintained properly—making it one of the best investments for your workshop.