PORTER-CABLE PCE980 Saw Review
Our verdict
With 1,500 reviews and a 4.4-star rating, the PORTER-CABLE PCE980 is one of the most proven tile saws in its price class, offering a 1300-watt motor and 7-inch cutting capacity at $311.99.
Check price on AmazonBest for
Remodelers and DIYers who want a battle-tested, high-wattage 7-inch tile saw at a mid-range price
Skip if
Buyers who need a blade larger than 7 inches or who prioritize portability over power
- Power Source Corded Electric
- Voltage 120 Volts
- Speed 2850 RPM
- Motor 1300 watts
- Weight 32 Pounds
- Material Stainless Steel
- Priced 24% above the category median ($251.72 across 19 tracked models)
Our scorecard
-
Owner rating4.4/5
4.4 average across 1,500 owner ratings
-
Popularity4.7/5
1,500 owner reviews, more than most models here
The overall score is owner satisfaction weighted by how many reviews back it, so a high rating from few reviews counts for less. The bars below show where this model stands against the other power tools and workshop machinery we track in this category on price, popularity and size. Context, not marks against it, and our read of the data, not a lab test.
Overview
The PORTER-CABLE PCE980 backs its reputation with 1,500 verified reviews, the highest review count of any saw in the Tile and Masonry category based on this data set. Running on 120 volts with a 1300-watt motor at 2850 RPM, it delivers strong cutting performance for a sub-$350 saw.
A 7-inch diamond blade capacity covers standard floor tile, wall tile, and most backsplash materials. At 32 pounds it is not the lightest option, but owners consistently highlight the motor's ability to handle porcelain and harder tiles without bogging down. The stainless steel construction contributes to durability.
At $311.99 the PCE980 represents a compelling value proposition for the wattage on offer. The sheer volume of reviews (1,500) means buyers have detailed, real-world feedback to draw from, and the sustained 4.4-star average across that sample size signals genuine quality rather than a small, curated review pool.
Pros
- 1300-watt motor handles porcelain and hard tile without stalling
- 1,500 verified reviews provide the most reliable buyer feedback in this category
- 2850 RPM blade speed produces clean, efficient cuts
- 7-inch capacity covers the majority of residential tile formats
- Stainless steel construction adds long-term durability
Cons
- 32 pounds is on the heavier side for a 7-inch saw
- No cordless option for users who work in locations without convenient power access
- 0 bought last month suggests it may be losing ground to newer competitors
Specifications
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 120 Volts |
| Speed | 2850 RPM |
| Motor | 1300 watts |
| Weight | 32 Pounds |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Capacity | 7 Inches |
Performance notes
Corded 120-volt operation delivers stable power throughout cuts. The 1300-watt motor is significantly more powerful than entry-level options and handles both standard ceramic and denser porcelain tile. The 2850 RPM blade speed is in the productive mid-range for 7-inch wet saws. At 32 pounds it requires a stable work surface.
What buyers say
Owners consistently praise the PCE980's cutting power and reliability across a wide variety of tile types. The most common complaints focus on water containment and the weight making it less convenient to move between rooms or job sites.
Similar power tools and workshop machinery to consider
Featured in
Frequently asked questions
Can the PORTER-CABLE PCE980 cut 12-inch tile?
The PCE980 has a 7-inch blade capacity. It can cut 12-inch tile with multiple passes or diagonal cuts, but a 10-inch saw would handle larger formats more cleanly in a single pass.
What voltage does the PCE980 require?
The PCE980 runs on 120 volts, which is the standard US household outlet voltage. No special electrical work is required.
Questions about the PCE980 vs other options? Email hello@toolgalaxy.com for a personalized recommendation.
We compare specs, review data, and price across the full tile saw lineup to help you choose the right tool.