In this article, we will see the comparison between two table saws that are available in a similar price range, DeWalt DWE7480 vs Bosch GTS1031. They both are aimed for professionals who need a durable and reliable jobsite table saw. So, which one is actually better? Continue reading below to find the answer.
What we are going to discuss below include:
– Which model that is more portable and easier to carry around
– Which model that is generally easier to use and maintain
– The rip fence and rip capacity on each model
– The power of DeWalt DWE7480 vs Bosch GTS1031
– The warranty that comes with each model
– Which table saw that is more recommended for the money
Portability
The first thing that you need to consider when choosing between DeWalt DWE7480 and Bosch GTS1031 is the portability. This factor is essential for a table saw. While both models here are generally portable, Bosch GTS1031 turns out to be more portable and more practical to carry around. See also: DeWalt DCS380B vs DCS381.
At first, that may sound a bit surprising because DeWalt DWE7480 is actually lighter than Bosch GTS1031. The weight of DeWalt DWE7480 is about 45 lbs, whereas the weight of Bosch GTS1031 is about 54 lbs. Then again, note that the nine-pound difference is not very huge, even though it is indeed quite noticeable when you need to carry them all day.
The advantage of Bosch GTS1031 comes from the neat design. You will definitely appreciate the one-handed carry handle of this model, as the carry handle has been designed to allow you to transport the whole thing easily in a way that is similar to carrying a briefcase. In addition, Bosch GTS1031 also has an onboard storage compartment which will allow you to store tools and accessories inside it. So, Bosch GTS1031 will be incredibly convenient and practical.
That said, DeWalt DWE7480 is not a bad choice. If, somehow, you need the lightest option available (for example, for traveling), then you may choose this model. The lighter body will allow you to cut a few pounds from the total weight that you need to carry.
Build Quality
Both DeWalt DWE7480 vs Bosch GTS1031 have excellent build quality. This is not surprising at all because these models come from renowned brands. In terms of build quality, they are quite comparable to each other. However, they also come with similar weaknesses.
Their frames and parts are mostly made of metals. The all-steel base will protect the table saw from on-site stress as well as general wear and tear which may occur during a transport. For sure, the all-steel base will be able to withstand various worksite conditions.
However, there are some parts that are made from hardened plastic. These parts won’t last long. In addition, both models use low-end miter gauges and average-quality blades, which are more suitable for cheaper table saws. Fortunately, you can upgrade the miter gauges and blades easily.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
So, between DeWalt DWE7480 vs Bosch GTS1031, which one is easier to use? Well, all experienced contractors and even home carpenters will find that these models are simple and easy to use. If you have ever used a table saw before, you will be able to use either model without any problem. Both models are equipped with clear labels and intuitive designs, so they both are very easy to use.
Both DeWalt DWE7480 and Bosch GTS1031 have effective and efficient dust collection systems. They are ready to be connected to vacuum systems or collection bags. Both models make it very easy to take care of dust buildup issues which commonly happen on an open saw design.
Both DeWalt DWE7480 and Bosch GTS1031 are also equipped with safety features that are required by the industry standards. They have clear blade guards that allow easy sighting and proper safety. They also have kickback pawls to prevent unnecessary jobsite accidents. They feature push sticks for working with smaller material pieces.
They also have maintenance requirements that are pretty much similar to other modern table saws. They both have maintenance-free motors. Their motors are sealed and lubricated permanently. In other words, you won’t need to break your table saw apart just to take care of the motor. This is very convenient.
There are just few things that you still need to keep in mind. First, you need to remove all excess dust on and under the table. This is probably already a natural thing to do every after working. Second, you need to lubricate the exposed moving parts, such as the adjustment mechanisms. The exposed moving parts are easy to access, so lubricating them every once in a while should not be a problem.
Rip Fence and Rip Capacity
The next important difference between DeWalt DWE7480 vs Bosch GTS1031 is the rip fence design. Each of the two models here comes with a rip fence, but the design of DeWalt DWE7480’s rip fence is quite better.
DeWalt DWE7480’s rip fence has a rack-and-pinion design which will allow you to make adjustments easily. This design allows accurate movements, so that you will not miss the correct alignment. This design is incredibly convenient and reliable. It will let you save some time as you won’t need to re-align the rip fence repeatedly.
Furthermore, DeWalt DWE7480 has a larger rip capacity. This model is able to cut up to 12 inches to the left of the blade, and up to 24 inches to the right of the blade. So, it can easily handle large-sized projects.
Bosch GTS1031, on the other hand, comes with a basic sliding-style rip fence. It is manually pushed across the surface of the table. Any person who has ever used a basic sliding-style rip fence will tell you that you’ll need to get used to the jarring movements when adjusting, and this often ends up with the rip fence falling out of the correct alignment.
In addition, Bosch GTS1031 falls behind when it comes to the rip blade capacity. It only has a left blade capacity of 7.75 inches and a right blade capacity of 18 inches. Well, it is not bad at all; the rip capacity is actually quite respectable. But it is still lower than DeWalt DWE7480.
Power
In terms of power, DeWalt DWE7480 and Bosch GTS1031 are pretty much identical. They each come with an impressive 15-amp motor which should be powerful enough to allow you to work through any jobsite sheet material.
You can use an extension power cord on either table saw, but there are some requirements for the extension. A 25-ft cable should be made from an AWG 14-gauge wire, whereas a 50-ft cable should be made from an AWG 12-gauge wire. Both manufacturers don’t recommend any cable that goes over 50-ft.
There is just a small difference in the maximum speeds. DeWalt DWE7480 can generate 4800 rotations per minute, whereas Bosch GTS1031 is able to generate 5000 rotations per minute. Keep in mind that power and speed are not exactly similar, even though they do work hand in hand. A more powerful motor will allow you to cut tougher materials, whereas a higher speed will allow you to make quicker, cleaner cuts.
If the difference was about a thousand rotations per minute, the effects would be quite significant. However, the difference between DeWalt DWE7480 and Bosch GTS1031 is only about two hundred rotations per minute. The discrepancies in performance will be very minimal. Still, if you want the most power and the highest speed, Bosch GTS1031 is the way to go.
In the test, both DeWalt DWE7480 and Bosch GTS1031 are able to provide decent torques and rotational speeds. They both are capable of cutting hard wood and soft wood with good results, as long as you are using a good multi-toothed blade on the table saw. They both are capable of providing a cut depth of 2-1/4 inches at 45 degrees, and 3-1/8 inches at 90 degrees.
Warranty
Last but not least, let’s take a look at the warranty that comes with each model. Well, both companies are known for their good customer support, so you don’t need to worry so much. Besides, both companies are known for their excellent quality control. Still, DeWalt DWE7480 is slightly better in terms of warranty.
DeWalt DWE7480 comes with a three-year warranty. The long coverage will give you a total peace of mind. It also comes with a one-year free maintenance period for particular cases. This is really great.
Bosch GTS1031 comes with a one-year warranty. Unfortunately, it does not include a free maintenance period. Still, the warranty duration is good enough to ensure that your product is free from defects.
DeWalt DWE7480 vs Bosch GTS1031
Conclusion
Between these two models, DeWalt DWE7480 is generally more recommended. This model is equipped with a better, more accurate rip fence. It also has a larger rip capacity. Furthermore, it has a longer warranty and a period of free maintenance. In terms of power, it is great. It is able to cut all kinds of jobsite sheet material with excellent results.