The Smart Woodshop's SawStop CTS and Job Site Pro Show Down

Рет қаралды 20,421

Жыл бұрын

Ready for some power tool showdown? In this video, The Smart Woodshop is putting two heavy hitters head-to-head: the SawStop CTS and Job Site Pro. These two table saws have been ruling the Smart Woodshop, but which one will come out on top? Join Ron as he compare features, design, and performance to help you make the best decision for your woodworking needs.
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Пікірлер: 95

@Michelle-hg3sv 7 ай бұрын

that was exactly what i needed to know. Thank you so much, Ron. I'm saving myself a pile of dough and going with the CTS. Love your setup!!

@jjuarez83 10 күн бұрын

This was helpful. I thought I wanted the CTS but I think for me the JSP is the way to go. Main reason? I like how you can close it up and tuck it away in a corner of the garage. If the CTS had a stand like that I would probably go with that option.

@probuilder961 Жыл бұрын

Very thorough, thoughtful & concise. Thank you Ron.

@TheSmartWoodshop Жыл бұрын

Very welcome

@macgarth Жыл бұрын

This was great Ron, thanks for the detailed comparison.

@brettblankenship7039 Жыл бұрын

I had seen your CTS video when you opened the box... it inspired me to purchase one - as I could not decide which one to buy. I have been very happy with my CTS; and used the same decision tree: if dado cutting is the deciding factor - I would rather make those cuts with a router. I have since packed up the cabinet saw for good. Frees up amazing amount of floor space on a cradle. Quite happy with moving in this direction. Thank you so much.

@TheSmartWoodshop Жыл бұрын

Wonderful!

@mikeecker146 Жыл бұрын

I have a JobSite Pro and love it. I cut a bunch of dados for green treated fencing. I had to disable the brake on each cut due to wet wood. First thing I did was construct a wide push stick the night before. Thanks for your great video Ron, I won’t be switching saws but I see why you made your choice.

@TheSmartWoodshop Жыл бұрын

Great tip!

@SCOTT-vm5nj 6 ай бұрын

Ron, thanks for the reviews.

@WillLeingang Жыл бұрын

This was so helpful. Thank you for your detailed perspective!

@TheSmartWoodshop Жыл бұрын

Glad it was helpful!

@tmccusk1 Жыл бұрын

Great video. Bought the JSP two weeks ago on your recommendation. I agree with everything you said about that saw, especially the fence. You got me thinking about buying the CTS too!

@TheSmartWoodshop Жыл бұрын

Great to hear!

@doogiemcdougster6740 5 ай бұрын

Great comparison! Thanks for doing this video!

@TheSmartWoodshop 5 ай бұрын

You bet😎

@Wyman642 Жыл бұрын

For me, a hobbyist working in a garage that gets shared with a car, I need to roll away my saw easily. The JSP folds up quickly and compactly out of way. I don’t have the room to leave the CTS lying around because the little space I can fully dedicate to tools is already crowded with an MFT/track saw, planer, and larger router table. So I will stick with the JSP, plus I like the dado blade option on it, especially for half laps, over router dados.

@TheSmartWoodshop Жыл бұрын

It is nice to have a choice and find the perfect fit. Being mobile and a tight space at home is why I designed the Smart Station. Now I have my tools all set up and can move the whole shop to right where I need it without tearing anything down. The both the CTS & JSP work, but as I am also mobile, the smaller saw is easier to load in the trailer.

@josiahhampton2094 9 ай бұрын

I’m just getting into the smart station I just built (Ron has me convinced to build a cart and cradle), and I can’t imagine a more compact setup. I’m a finish carpenter, so mobile and compact are also very important to me.

@timness1222 11 ай бұрын

I know what I want and need. Great explanation of both saws. Thanks

@oldcodger4672 Жыл бұрын

Thanks Ron, this is the comparison I’ve been waiting for. Dust collection is a major reason for choosing Festool. I too would be most interested in improving CTS top dust collection by adapting the JSP blade guide to the CTS.

@TheSmartWoodshop Жыл бұрын

😎👍

@nimajnebrm 8 ай бұрын

I've been debating between these two saws for months... somehow I hadn't seen this video until now. I'm 95% decided that I'm going with the CTS!

@randallgriffin7358 Жыл бұрын

The retailer convinced me to buy the big saw so I could handle 4x8 sheets. But I learned that sheet breakdown could be done easily with a circular saw and guide. Saved enough to get the router and blades when I returned it for the CTS (mounting in a bench). Nice review!

@jimingalzo9059 Жыл бұрын

Another well done and very well presented video

@TheSmartWoodshop Жыл бұрын

Glad you enjoyed it

@Hg99661 Жыл бұрын

Thanks for making this video Ron-you did an excellent job. Have been deliberating for weeks on these 2 saws. I feel like most review videos for tools are overly focused on specs and features. Your comparison is better because you focus more on how the feature/spec/etc is useful or not useful for your setup.

@outdoortherapy6596 10 ай бұрын

great info thanks

@bdm1000 Жыл бұрын

Nice comparison and a great endorsement for the CTS!

@TheSmartWoodshop Жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching!

@troyc333 11 ай бұрын

I thought I was watching Robert Redford from back in the day.

@susanjillian7256 7 ай бұрын

Yes! So true

@DonaldwFowlerjr Жыл бұрын

Thanks!

@derekcharles3515 Жыл бұрын

Good video. I have both saws as well and pretty much agree with you. I use my saws for fine woodworking. The only problem I and others have found with the JSPro is that after folding up the saw, then bringing it back out, the blade goes out of 90* to the table and must be readjusted almost every time. Also, since the rear trunion is not locked down and can be moved side to side with a hand on the rear dust port, this can also throw off the 90*. Both saws have very fussy throat plate adjustments and those throat plates are critical when ripping narrow boards. So far, I'm finding the CTS stays in adjustment, gives a great cut and is usually my go-to, however I can't help but enjoy both saws.

@TheSmartWoodshop Жыл бұрын

I haven't noticed any of the issues with the 3 SS I have had. Thanks for the feedback

@jeffhildreth9244 Жыл бұрын

Good review. Festool has portable saws that use the SawStop Brake, including models with sliding tables.

@TheSmartWoodshop Жыл бұрын

Festool Owns Saw Stop. They make a table saw with the SS tech, but not available in the US. Festool has a cordless TS that will be distributed in the US, but it doesn't have the SS brake. The only portable table saw in the US with safety brake is SawStop.

@josiahhampton2094 9 ай бұрын

Thanks! I didn’t even know they had come out with a more compact version. I gave myself a shave last fall that had me looking for better safety features. I’ve used the job site pro, but it just didn’t appeal to me on a number of points. Your comparison has my sites set on the cts! You’re right-one injury is not worth it. I got lucky, and it’s time to upgrade.

@josiahhampton2094 9 ай бұрын

I didn’t even have medical bills, and it still cost more than buying a safer saw.

@ScottClevelandmi 3 ай бұрын

I have both. Use them commercially. They are both solid. CTS works better than it should. Both dust collection ports to well with a shop vac

@dennisferron8847 3 ай бұрын

I was 90% set on the CTS but this is swinging me over to the jobsite saw. It seems to be a better match for the way I work and space I have, and I wouldn't have to give up ability to have a dado stack.

@andrewh.8848 Жыл бұрын

Ha. Just saw you today,Tuesday, walking by publix. Hope you're enjoying Florida.

@TheSmartWoodshop Жыл бұрын

😎🤙

@Grumpyneanderthal Жыл бұрын

Excellent comparison video Ron. Before this video I was heavily leaning toward the Job Site Pro and continued to feel that way until about 90% through this video. One of the reasons I was leaning to JSP was the ability to use a dado, which I only do occasionally but I wanted capacity. Your comment about alternatively using the router table gives me pause. I also like the single turn blade adjustment. I've started but haven't completed your workbench so I haven't experienced the integrated router table. I've decided to sell my Bosch portable saw and gravity stand and move to SawStop primarily for the safety feature. Now I've got some thinking to do.........

@TheSmartWoodshop Жыл бұрын

You can't go wrong with either saw.

@patricklewis1622 4 ай бұрын

Remember on the job site Pro the first version and the second version they have a problem with the dust getting into the trunions and you can't zero the blade out so just know that you're going to take the bottom off to access.

@patricklewis1622 4 ай бұрын

This can be done in 1 hr.

@Republicanmouse 5 ай бұрын

I have a Sawstop Professional cabinet saw at home and the Jobsite saw on wheels at my farm. They are both great saws for their purpose, although I love the absolute accuracy of the cabinet saw. My only complaint about the jobsite saw is that I need to use the fine adjustment to get to a perfect 90 or a perfect 45, so as I move the angles I have to constantly check the blade angle for accuracy. The cabinet saw is always dead on. Of course we sacrifice accuracy and precision for portability.

@ScottClevelandmi 3 ай бұрын

Like the CTS fence better also the bypass switch is easier to engage. My whole crew struggles to engage the bypass for wet wood.

@simonstuhl4170 Жыл бұрын

This is not a table saw question.. but what specifically do you like about the Paulk total station vs your old miter saw set up?

@tao6295 Жыл бұрын

Hi Ron, can you discuss the tabletop flatness of these saws and how it’s relevant to your work? I noticed the job site saws are not as flat as cast iron tabletop saws. Can you discuss if that matters to you?

@TheSmartWoodshop Жыл бұрын

I am not a good resource for flatness as I have never checked on any table saw I have owned. I assume if a top were off enough to cause accuracy problems, I would notice.

@cerberus2881 Жыл бұрын

I would have bought the CTS if it had been available.

@vcweim5813 Жыл бұрын

Really appreciate this video as well as many of your other insightful ones. Planning to purchase the Job Site Pro, next month. I do have a couple of questions I'm curious about. How adjustable is the JSP (blade to miter slot and then fence to blade/miter slot)? Also, is there any issue with running a thin kerf blade on this saw?

@TheSmartWoodshop Жыл бұрын

2 answers: 1. the saw is completely adjustable I have videos demonstrating the process. 2. You will not need to adjust it. All 3 of the JS saws I have own arrived tuned and have held tune.

@vcweim5813 Жыл бұрын

@@TheSmartWoodshop Good to know. Thanks, Ron!

@bdm1000 Жыл бұрын

I chose the CTS as well. Given how heavy it is, I can see why shaving off a few pounds from using the Jobsite Pro is well worth it. It's been ten days since you've posted a video. I hope all is well!

@TheSmartWoodshop Жыл бұрын

I posted on the 28th, the 4th, and today. I had to cut back to 1 per week as we are busy with the Paulk Smart Bench rollout.

@bdm1000 Жыл бұрын

@@TheSmartWoodshop interesting. KZfaq shows your "Lightbulb Moments" video as your last video airing "10 days Ago". No video from the fourth comes up in your video feed. Not on my browser anyway.

@TheSmartWoodshop Жыл бұрын

@@bdm1000 They are there and have lots of views?

@bdm1000 Жыл бұрын

@@TheSmartWoodshop Nope. I have Lightbulb Moments dated the 28th (like you said), but I do not have a video showing from the 4th. Algorithm issue?

@bdm1000 Жыл бұрын

I took a screenshot and emailed it to you just in case it helps. Keep up the great work!

@bdm1000 Жыл бұрын

Have you settled on the dimensions of the bench extensions you mentioned in another video?

@TheSmartWoodshop Жыл бұрын

I didn't go forward with them as the Smart Router tables function both as extensions and router table.I don't need both. If I just wanted extensions, I would build a router table and leave out the router stuff.

@smithmsvideo Ай бұрын

Thank you for this excellent comparison. I have room for either saw but remain undecided about the fence. Do you notice any difference at all with regard to accuracy between the two fences? Other video reviews that I have watched complain about the accuracy of the JS Pro's T style fence as well as that slight movement when locking it down. Thanks for all of your great content.

@TheSmartWoodshop Ай бұрын

I like the JSP fence. It is the best fence I have owned.

@smithmsvideo Ай бұрын

@@TheSmartWoodshop Thanks Ron!

@joelfreniere7299 Жыл бұрын

Can the jobsite pro blade guard fit in the cts? Also, it seems like the cts would be better at dust collection because it is completely enclosed. Is that the case?

@TheSmartWoodshop Жыл бұрын

I haven't noticed much of a difference between the two, but that is just my observation. I really couldn't say with any certainty that the CTS collects a % more or less dust. I will try the JSP blade guard on the CTS.

@ironchefboyardeee Жыл бұрын

@@TheSmartWoodshop Were you able to use it with the CTS? That's one of the bigger drawbacks on the CTS for me. I want to maximize dust collection.

@cirwin4099 7 ай бұрын

Do you ever need to cut larger than 25"? If so, what do you use?

@TheSmartWoodshop 7 ай бұрын

Track Saw kzfaq.info/get/bejne/b9iiZN2Xm8qlgX0.htmlsi=7XSPnDDBzAZAt622

@brianf389 5 ай бұрын

Does the Jobsite Saw easily come off the cart if you want to fix it to a workbench and use it more permanently?

@TheSmartWoodshop 5 ай бұрын

Yes, I have hundreds of videos on this channel with the SSJSP hanging off the PSS. I grabbed this one at random. kzfaq.info/get/bejne/h5aPjK9l3bqUf2Q.htmlsi=iyVomBNA_UXqTfsB

@stevegillan Жыл бұрын

Just curious, but would the Job Site Pro fit on the smart station in a cradle (just adjust the cradle dimensions) or is it too heavy. I am leaning towards the JSP and will be building a smart station, the dado, fence and extra size are why I am leaning to it, however if it doesn't fit on a cradle the CTS is the way I'll go.

@TheSmartWoodshop Жыл бұрын

Yes, I have many many many video with the JSP in a cradle on the PSB, PSBB, and PSS. I have used the JSP in a cradle for a couple of years. I thought I mentioned in this video that I had been using the SJP in a cradle, but it was hard to carry and load into the Smart Woodshop.

@stevegillan Жыл бұрын

Appreciate the reply. I went back and rewatched and did see you mentioned it.

@larrylong6268 Жыл бұрын

What are your future plans for your Florida fixer?

@TheSmartWoodshop Жыл бұрын

That is another video for another time.😎

@jasonfykes8474 Жыл бұрын

Paul. Did you have any issues with the safety features on the cts when cutting the PT window bucks? I have heard that the additional moisture in the PT can cause the blade feature to activate.

@utooboobnoob Жыл бұрын

Who is Paul?

@jasonfykes8474 Жыл бұрын

@@utooboobnoob ha I guess I wasn’t fully awake when I wrote the comment. My apologies Ron

@TheSmartWoodshop Жыл бұрын

No false trips on the CTS. You can touch the blade with the material and watch the indicator LEDs. If the material will trip the brake you will see the red led warning.

@davehodge7650 Жыл бұрын

Ron I was wondering if one saw is louder than the other? Thanks Dave !

@jeffreybourgeois1834 Жыл бұрын

I don't have one and love the safety of that saw. Not to keen on having to buy a new blade and brake but I would rather do that than the alternative. The problem I see is Sawstop has not opened the patent for others to use. And I had heard that they are all so trying to push this being a feature on all saws. Which tells me that they al more interested in profit over safety. I own a Shopsmith and this would not work with it. If you watch "My Growth Rings" Scott Millwood he just did a video on this.

@vagrant1943 Жыл бұрын

Thought as much. Can't they just get royalties off of the design? If every saw maker is using it they would probably profit more than making their own saws.

@michaelgrandinetti3170 Жыл бұрын

Good morning Ron. I really liked this compariison! I noticed that in the UK Festool is offering a 36 volt compact, yet very powerful table saw. It is the CSC SYS 50 EBI-Set. Can you tell us more about when this might be offered in the USA? Thanks!

@TheSmartWoodshop Жыл бұрын

I don't have any information on the availability of the FT cordless table saw. As soon as I read that it didn't have the safety brake, it fell off my radar.

@BruceAngus Ай бұрын

What's the difference in noise levels while running? Is the job site saw much quieter?

@TheSmartWoodshop Ай бұрын

I haven't noticed any difference in sound since they're all noisy and require ear protection.

@BruceAngus Ай бұрын

@@TheSmartWoodshop thanks for the response. Much of the reviews online for the compact saw call out it's noise and I wondered if the job site saw was quieter due to the different motor configuration. I should say I'm as concerned about being a noisy neighbor as I am about my hearing. As you say, I can wear hearing protection for my ears

@murphyrp01 Жыл бұрын

The pro is a lazy $2500 here in Australia

@pointblankokc Жыл бұрын

I'll pass on anything branded Sawstop. Safety should not be more expensive.

@TheSmartWoodshop Жыл бұрын

Mike, you should consider that safety is more expensive as I am sure your vehicle reflects with airbags. Of course they are required by law so the price is higher across all brands. I consider value above price and thus Saw Stop is the best value and lowest price available for my needs. 1. Safety is a top priority: Table saws can be very dangerous, and injuries from them can be severe. While no tool can eliminate all risk, a Saw Stop table saw is designed to greatly reduce the likelihood of serious injury. It's important to consider the value of safety when working with any tool, especially when the potential risks are high. 2. The cost of safety: While it's true that a Saw Stop table saw may cost more than other table saws on the market, it's important to consider the potential cost of an injury. Medical bills, lost wages, and other costs can add up quickly, and they may far exceed the cost of investing in a safer tool upfront. 3. Peace of mind: Knowing that you are using a tool that has advanced safety features can provide peace of mind and allow you to focus on your work. It's hard to put a price on this kind of mental and emotional benefit. 4. Industry standards: The woodworking industry has recognized the importance of safety and the value of the Saw Stop technology. In fact, many professional woodworkers and institutions require the use of Saw Stop table saws in their shops to ensure the safety of their workers. In summary, while it's understandable to want to save money, investing in a safer tool like a Saw Stop table saw is a wise choice that can prevent serious injury and provide peace of mind. The cost of safety is ultimately up to the individual, but it's important to weigh the potential risks and benefits when making a decision.

@vinceblanchard1069 2 ай бұрын

@@TheSmartWoodshop A dozen Sawstops is still cheaper than a couple of fingers.