Ryobi 10" Expanded Capacity Table Saw with Rolling Stand

If you're in the market for a table saw that balances affordability with functionality, the Ryobi 10" Expanded Capacity Table Saw with Rolling Stand (RTS23) might catch your eye. As a seasoned woodworker and DIY enthusiast, I took the plunge to see if this model could live up to its promises and meet the demands of my diverse projects. Here's my comprehensive take on it.

First Impressions and Setup

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the saw's lightweight design. The portability is a major plus, especially for those who need to move it around a workshop or job site. The cast aluminum tabletop and steel roll cage give it a rugged appearance, but the real test lies in its performance.

Setting up the saw was relatively straightforward, although aligning the legs required a bit of finesse. The instructions were clear enough, but it did require some patience. One minor hiccup was the bolt installation for the wheels, which seemed to be hindered by a thick coating on the threads. A quick cleanup with a wire brush did the trick.

Performance and Power

This table saw boasts a 15 Amp motor with a no-load speed of 5,000 RPM, which is quite impressive for its price range. I put it to the test with some cabinet-grade oak, and it handled the material smoothly. The motor didn't falter, and the blade brake was a nice safety feature. However, the dust collection system left much to be desired. Even with a shop vac hooked up, sawdust managed to escape all over the place. If you’re working indoors or in a shared space, be prepared for some extra cleanup.

Precision and Accuracy

One of the most critical aspects of any table saw is its ability to make precise cuts. Here, the Ryobi RTS23 showed some limitations. The fence, although easy to use, required frequent adjustments to ensure it stayed parallel to the blade. This isn't a deal-breaker but does add extra steps to your workflow. The throat plate, made of plastic, flexed under pressure, causing occasional binding and potential kickback. This was particularly concerning when making more intricate cuts.

The single miter slot is another drawback. While it’s functional, its non-standard size and the tabs within the slot make it challenging to use aftermarket accessories or build custom jigs. For those who rely on a sled for crosscuts, this could be a significant limitation.

Stability and Durability

The folding stand with integrated wheels is a convenient feature, making the saw easy to store and transport. However, the legs felt a bit flimsy and could benefit from being more robust. During use, there was noticeable flexing, which can affect the stability and accuracy of your cuts. The overall build quality didn’t inspire long-term confidence, especially for someone who plans to use the saw frequently.

Usability and Convenience

Despite its shortcomings, the Ryobi RTS23 offers some user-friendly features. The onboard storage for accessories is a thoughtful addition, although the execution could be improved. The tools are secured with screws underneath the table, which is not the most practical design.

Adjusting the blade angle was straightforward, thanks to the easily accessible controls. However, the plastic lever for the bevel adjustment felt cheap and stripped after a few uses. This is a critical flaw that could affect the saw’s longevity.

Final Thoughts

The Ryobi 10" Expanded Capacity Table Saw with Rolling Stand is a mixed bag. It shines in its portability, motor power, and ease of setup but falters in precision, stability, and dust management. For a novice or occasional user, it offers good value for money and can handle basic tasks with relative ease. However, for anyone seeking a reliable, precise, and durable table saw for more demanding projects, this model may fall short.

Would I recommend this tool? It depends. If you’re a DIY enthusiast looking for an affordable, portable table saw for light to moderate use, the Ryobi RTS23 is a decent option. It’s not perfect, but it gets the job done for basic tasks. However, if you’re a professional or serious hobbyist who requires precision and durability, you might be better off investing in a higher-end model. The initial savings might not be worth the compromises in performance and build quality.

In summary, the Ryobi RTS23 is a functional table saw with some notable limitations. It’s a suitable choice for beginners or those with budget constraints but may not meet the needs of more advanced users. Choose wisely based on your specific requirements and workload.