DeWalt Miter Saw DWS779 Review: Worth It? (October 2026)
The DeWalt DWS779 is a sliding 12 in miter saw to consider if your projects need that size and cutting action. Compare its features with the DWS780 and make sure you have room for the saw.
On this page (9 sections)
- What does the DWS779 offer?
- How much space does a sliding saw need?
- DWS779 vs DWS780: what should you compare?
- What parts and accessories may help?
- What should you check before buying?
- Is the DWS779 a good fit for a small workshop?
- Should you wait for a newer DeWalt miter saw?
- Is the DWS779 comfortable to operate?
- Is the DeWalt DWS779 worth choosing?
The DeWalt DWS779 is a sliding 12 in miter saw to consider if your projects call for that size and cutting action. Compare it with DeWalt 12-inch miter saws if you want to weigh other models.
Compare its features with the DWS780 and confirm your workspace has enough room for the saw.
We compared the available model information and focused on fit, replacement parts and decisions to make before buying. Measure the bench and surrounding clearance before setting up a sliding saw.
What does the DWS779 offer?
The DWS779 is a sliding 12 in miter saw for buyers who need that blade size and a sliding design. Whether it suits your work depends on the material you cut, available space and the features you need.
Generic Zero Clearance Insert: Best for customizable blade opening
- Compatible with DWS779
- Customizable blade opening
- 17.25 x 3.37 x 0.5 in
This insert is compatible with the DWS779 and can be customized for the blade opening. Check its dimensions and fit for your saw before buying.
Pros
- DWS779 compatibility is specified
- Customizable opening
- Designed to support material close to the blade
Cons
- Requires customization for the blade
- Check fit and dimensions before ordering
A zero clearance insert is an accessory option for the DWS779. This insert is compatible with the model and can be customized for the blade opening, but check its dimensions and fit before buying.
Who should consider the DeWalt DWS779?
Consider the DWS779 if your projects call for a sliding 12 in saw and you have room for its setup. It may suit a workshop where the saw stays in place and you often work with larger stock.
If your work is mostly small trim or short cuts, a sliding saw may take more space than you need. Compare the DWS779 with which DeWalt miter saw to buy to narrow the choice around your typical projects.
How much space does a sliding saw need?
A sliding saw needs clearance for the saw and its moving rails, so check the installation instructions and measure before setting up the DWS779. Bench depth alone may not show whether the saw can move through its full range.
Measure the space from the wall to the front edge of your bench, then account for the saw's rails and the materials you expect to support. Leave room to stand and move long stock without blocking an aisle.
If you need to reposition the saw, check its weight and the manufacturer's handling guidance before moving it. A dedicated stand or stable bench can help set up the saw at a workable height, but choose one that supports the saw and your stock.
Our guide to using a DeWalt miter saw covers setup and operating steps to review before making cuts.
DWS779 vs DWS780: what should you compare?
Compare the DWS779 and DWS780 by their included features and your needs. For another sliding saw, read the Makita LS1019L miter saw review.
Model names alone don't tell you which saw better fits your work.
Check the current manufacturer specifications for each model, including the features, accessories and configuration offered where you live. For Bosch alternatives, see the best Bosch miter saws.
Then compare those details with the cuts you make most often and the space available in your workshop.
If a specific feature matters to you, verify that it comes with the exact version you're considering. Bundles and configurations can differ, so compare the saws you can actually buy.
Read our DeWalt DWS780 vs DWS779 comparison for a closer look at how to weigh the two models.
What parts and accessories may help?
The right accessory depends on what you need to replace or add. For the DWS779, the compatible kerf plate is a replacement part, the zero clearance insert is an optional accessory, and the blade wrench is for maintenance.
Dewalt OEM N544383 Miter Saw Kerf Plate: Best for OEM replacement
- Genuine DEWALT replacement part
- Part number N544383
- Compatible with DWS779
This DEWALT OEM kerf plate is compatible with the DWS779. Match the part number and dimensions to your saw before ordering.
Pros
- Genuine DEWALT replacement part
- DWS779 compatibility is specified
- Dimensions are provided
Cons
- Replacement part only
- Confirm the exact model and part number
The DEWALT N544383 is an OEM replacement kerf plate compatible with the DWS779. Match its part number and dimensions to your saw before ordering.
DEWALT OEM N600007 Blade Wrench for Miter: Best for blade maintenance
- Compatible with DWS779
- Dual-ended wrench
- For arbor nuts and guard or fence adjustment screws
This DEWALT replacement wrench is specified for the DWS779 and has a dual-ended design for arbor nuts and guard or fence adjustment screws.
Pros
- DWS779 compatibility is specified
- Dual-ended design
- Zinc-plated finish
Cons
- Maintenance tool, not a cutting accessory
- Confirm the part number
The DEWALT N600007 is a replacement blade wrench specified for the DWS779. Its dual-ended design is for arbor nuts and guard or fence adjustment screws, so it may help if your original wrench is missing or needs replacement.
For a blade change, check that the replacement blade suits the material and cut you need. Follow the saw manual for blade selection, installation and adjustment, and disconnect power before maintenance.
What should you check before buying?
Check workspace, model details and the work you expect to do before choosing the DWS779. These checks can help you avoid a mismatch between the saw and your shop.
- Measure bench depth and clearance for the sliding mechanism.
- Confirm the saw's exact model and included accessories.
- Compare the DWS779 with the DWS780 on features you will use.
- Check that the saw can be supported at a stable working height.
- Review the manual for power, setup, blade and safety requirements.
- Consider whether you need an OEM replacement part or an optional insert.
The DeWalt miter saw price guide can help you compare models and configurations. Check current prices before buying, since they can change.
Is the DWS779 a good fit for a small workshop?
The DWS779 can fit a small workshop if you have clearance for its sliding design and room to support long stock. Measure the full setup area rather than the saw base alone.
A compact bench may leave too little room for the rails or for handling boards. If you want a smaller blade size, compare 10-inch sliding compound miter saws.
If you can't provide enough clearance, consider a different saw type or a setup that gives you more working space.
Also plan where offcuts and longer boards will go. Keep walkways clear and position support so the workpiece stays level during a cut.
Should you wait for a newer DeWalt miter saw?
Wait only if a newer model is confirmed and its features matter to your work. Rumors or expectations about future models aren't a reliable reason to delay a purchase.
Check DeWalt's current product information for announced models and compare any new option with the DWS779's features, availability and your needs. If the saw suits your projects and the setup works, a possible future release may not change your decision.
For updates and model context, see Is DeWalt coming out with a new miter saw?.
Is the DWS779 comfortable to operate?
Comfort depends on your reach, work height, lifting needs and ability to manage the saw. A saw that suits your projects can still be difficult to use if its controls and workpiece support don't fit you.
Set the saw at a height that lets you operate controls without leaning over the blade area. Arrange support for long stock so you don't have to hold it in place while cutting.
If lifting or moving a heavy saw is a concern, plan for help and a stable location. Our guide to the best miter saw for seniors discusses factors that can make a saw easier to use.
Is the DeWalt DWS779 worth choosing?
The DWS779 is worth considering if you need a sliding 12 in saw and have clearance to use it. Compare its features with the DWS780 and choose based on the work you do.
Pick the DWS779 if its configuration fits your projects and workspace. Choose another model if you need a smaller setup or a feature the DWS779 doesn't provide.
Review which DeWalt miter saw to buy to compare your options.
Frequently asked questions
Is the DeWalt DWS779 a sliding miter saw?
Yes. The DWS779 is a sliding 12 in miter saw.
Measure your available bench depth and space around the saw before choosing a location.
What is the difference between the DeWalt DWS779 and DWS780?
Compare the DWS779 and DWS780 by the features included, the work you plan to do and the exact saw configurations available to you. Check the manufacturer specifications for both models before deciding which better fits your needs.
Can I replace the DWS779 kerf plate?
The DEWALT N544383 kerf plate is specified as compatible with the DWS779. Confirm the part number and dimensions before ordering, and follow DEWALT's instructions for replacement.
Does the DWS779 come with a blade wrench?
The DEWALT N600007 blade wrench is specified for the DWS779 and is available as a replacement maintenance tool. Check the saw's included accessories and manual, then match the wrench part number if you need a replacement.
