Ryobi 7 in. Tabletop Tile Saw

The Ryobi 7 in. Tabletop Tile Saw (WS722) is an intriguing option for any DIY enthusiast or handyman looking to tackle tile projects without breaking the bank. Priced around $120, this compact, portable saw promises to be a convenient tool for various tile cutting tasks. Here’s my hands-on experience with it.

Design and Build Quality

Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the saw's compact and sturdy build. Weighing just over 27 pounds, it’s easy to transport and set up, which is a significant advantage for those who might not have a dedicated workspace. The stainless-steel table feels robust and adds a touch of durability, although it does tend to gather chips and scratches over time.

The assembly was straightforward, although the instructions could use some improvement. I found it easier to refer to online videos for clarity, especially when setting up the stand. Speaking of the stand, it’s surprisingly sturdy for its price point and adds a lot of convenience by elevating the saw to a comfortable working height.

Performance

The saw is equipped with a 7-inch diamond cutting wheel, which is supposed to prevent chipping. However, in my experience, the included blade leaves much to be desired. Cutting through ceramic tiles was relatively smooth, but porcelain and stone tiles often ended up with chipped edges. This issue is particularly problematic for visible cuts, where aesthetics matter.

To mitigate this, I replaced the original blade with a higher-quality one. This simple upgrade made a world of difference, resulting in cleaner cuts and significantly reduced chipping. It’s worth noting that the saw’s motor, rated at 4.8 amps, has enough power to handle most DIY tasks, although it’s not something a professional would rely on for heavy-duty use.

Features

One of the standout features of this saw is its ability to perform bevel cuts at 22.5 and 45 degrees. The table tilts easily, and the locking rip guide provides added precision for straight cuts. The miter guide, however, could use some improvement. It’s a bit tight and doesn’t slide as smoothly as I would like, but it gets the job done with a bit of patience and adjustment.

The water reservoir is easy to fill and helps keep the blade cool and reduce dust, but be prepared for some splashback. Working outdoors or in a well-prepared indoor space is advisable to manage the water mess. The saw’s noise level is also manageable, not overly loud but noticeable.

Usability

For a non-professional, this saw is quite user-friendly. The compact size and portability make it ideal for small to medium-sized projects like kitchen backsplashes, bathroom floors, or fireplace surrounds. The rip guide and adjustable table are useful for making precise cuts, although you might need to double-check measurements for accuracy, as the table’s inch scales aren’t always perfectly aligned.

One thing to be cautious about is the blade guard. In my experience, it wasn’t perfectly aligned with the blade, causing some initial frustration with angled cuts. A bit of manual adjustment fixed the issue, but it’s something to be aware of.

Value for Money

Considering its price, the Ryobi 7 in. Tabletop Tile Saw offers good value for money. It’s not a high-end professional tool, but it doesn’t claim to be. For around $120, you get a functional saw that can handle most DIY tile projects with relative ease. The key is to manage your expectations and be prepared to invest in a better blade if you want cleaner cuts.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Affordable: At around $120, it’s a budget-friendly option for DIYers.
• Portable: Lightweight and easy to transport.
• Versatile: Capable of bevel cuts and equipped with a rip guide for precision.
• Sturdy Stand: Adds convenience and stability.

Cons:

• Blade Quality: The included blade tends to chip tiles, especially porcelain and stone.
• Instruction Manual: Could be clearer, especially for stand assembly.
• Miter Guide: Tight and not very smooth.
• Splashback: Be prepared for some water mess.

Final Thoughts

Would I recommend the Ryobi 7 in. Tabletop Tile Saw? Yes, but with reservations. If you’re a DIYer or a handyman looking for an affordable, portable tile saw for small to medium-sized projects, this saw is a solid choice. It offers good value for money and gets the job done with some minor adjustments and an upgraded blade.

However, if you’re a professional or have a large-scale project requiring precision and flawless cuts, you might want to invest in a higher-end saw. The Ryobi WS722 is a great entry-level tool, but it’s not without its limitations.

In summary, the Ryobi 7 in. Tabletop Tile Saw is a practical, budget-friendly option that performs well for most DIY tasks. Just be prepared to replace the blade and make a few manual adjustments for optimal performance.