What Saw Blade Is Best for Cutting Wood?

The best saw blade for cutting wood depends on:

1. The type of saw you're using (circular saw, band saw,table saw, miter saw, etc.).

2. The kind of wood you're cutting (softwood, hardwood, plywood, MDF).

3. The type of cut you want (rip cut, crosscut, or fine finish).

Here’s a general guide:

By Saw Type:

Circular/Table/Miter Saw:

* General-purpose blade: 40-tooth combination blade (good for both rip and crosscuts).

* Rip cuts (with the grain): 24-tooth blade (removes material quickly).

* Crosscuts (across the grain): 60–80-tooth blade (clean, smooth finish).

* Fine finish cuts (e.g., cabinetry): 80–100-tooth blade (for smoothest results).

By Wood Type:

Wood Type:Recommended Blade

Softwood:24-tooth or 40-tooth

Hardwood:40–60-tooth (use carbide tips)  

Plywood/MDF:80–100-tooth, alternate top bevel (ATB)

Laminates:80+ tooth, triple-chip grind (TCG)

✅ Blade Quality Tips:

* Carbide-tipped teeth last longer and stay sharper.

* Look for thin kerf blades if you have a lower-powered saw.

* For ultra-clean cuts, choose ATB (Alternate Top Bevel) or Hi-ATB grind.