Depends on use and location. As I recall the 10" saws have a larger table.
If this is something you're dragging around to the job site either will work, though I'd buy the 10". If it's going to live in your garage I'd look on marketplace for a stationary saw with an iron table.

 

I agree with the post above. My first table saw was a Delta 8.25". It did almost everything I asked of it. But the table is a little small. And there's not nearly the selection of blades. Blades that are available, rarely, if ever, go on sale. But it isn't too bad to move around.

I replaced it with an old Craftsman contractor's saw. It moves around my shop easily on a mobile base. But getting it outside to use is a PITA. Cuts like a dream, though. And blades are plentiful. And, it takes a dado stack without any trouble. Dust control was non existent. I've got that mostly solved with some expense and ingenuity.

 

It's rare that my 10" saw doesn't have enough blade above the table, but it happens.
Would happen that much more often with a 8-1/4".

I would hold out for the 10"

 

Appreciate all the responses so far. I am going to return the 8.25 even though I am reluctant too. I think the larger blade will be worth it. I want to stick with a jobsite saw as I know it will need to be moved occasionally.

 

I bought an old Craftsman table saw on facebook. it's pretty stout although not really portable. I think I paid $125. I see them fairly often for sale between $100-$200

 

I've got that same saw and I love it.

 

Definitely go for 10 inch,

I have a 10 inch, and sometimes I wish it was bigger, especially when I angle the blade to make cuts it is basically shortening the length of the blade

 

One of the most important features that I would need on a table saw of 8-1/4" or 10" is, will it accept a dado set?

I am no longer cutting much hard maple or red oak so a portable 8-1/4 works well for me.

I am thinking of selling all the other table saws I have and getting the Flex 8-1/4" 24 Volt battery saw.

Andy.

 

Hold out for the 10.
I bought that 8 1/4 in saw. under powered and the blades if you can find them are expensive.

 

I have a 8.25 Milwaukee cordless I use in my work trailer Fairly pleased with it for window and door work, have not found blades hard to find or to expensive. Have a 10" Craftsman at home for heavier cutting. Would love to have cast iron belt driven one.

 

In terms of blade size, you can go down but not up. I have a 10" 113 series table saw that I've had for over 30 years. I normally run a smaller blade in it but the full 10" blades are there if need be. On the other hand, you can't put a larger blade on a small capacity saw.

 

I don't know about the two models you're talking about.
But I do know that whenever I went with the lesser one, most times I later regretted it, and wanted the better one.

 

If you aren’t actively working in the trades humping the saw around, there is just about zero reason to buy an 8.25” saw.

I also would not buy a saw without a braking mechanism- currently Sawstop. More expensive, yes, but accidents happen, even to us. There was a strong push this year to mandate safety brakes- not sure where that landed.

 

I also would not buy a saw without a braking mechanism- currently Sawstop. More expensive, yes, but accidents happen, even to us. There was a strong push this year to mandate safety brakes- not sure where that landed.

Interesting article.

Safer table saws may get mandated, possibly preventing severed fingers : NPR

Given your incoming government, I suspect it is not particularly more-regulation-friendly.

 

I would get the 10" to insure there is enough depth to utilize a cross-cut sled or other jigs that can help keep your cuts consistent and safer for you the operator.

 

I used a Ridgid 10" for years. It was on a wheeled gurney that loaded on my trailer easily and large enough wheels that it traversed stairways well. Prices are high at retail, but I found mine in a pawn shop for $300 making it palatable. Step son is still using it in his business, so it has lasted quite a few years.

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