June 27, 2022

Grizzly g0690 vs 1023 | Table Saw Comparison

The Grizzly G0690 and G1023 are two cabinet desk saws for specialists and woodworking enthusiasts. They are huge, heavy, and sturdy as they come with 3HP engines and similar tabletops. They have riving knives and blade guards that make them competent for projects.ย 

However, you cannot have them both but have to choose one. Below is a quick summary of each saw, pros, and cons. Pay attention to the differences in performance, price, durability, and the features each saw machine comes with.

Grizzly g0690

The Grizzly g0690 gives optimal performance and smooth operation. It has multiple features, and a 3HP motor features more power to handle any project. Stability is one of its strengths and durable cast iron.ย 

The base is square, thereby increasing the overall stability of the saw machine. Precision is what you get from the Grizzly machine. The saw machine is so accurate that it matches any application. Add more safety systems to the design.

Maintenance is necessary when it comes to heavy-duty tools so that it stays in their prime condition. It requires some assembly when received. Connect an industrial vacuum and not worry about any debris whatsoever.ย 

The best part is that you do not need a super-expensive vacuum; any affordable one will do the job well. You can connect an industrial vacuum and not worry about debris whatsoever. You can still get a low-budget vacuum. Vibrations and noise levels are minimal.ย 

Pros

  • Excellent performanceย 
  • Quiet operation
  • Stylish designย 
  • Little adjustmentย 
  • Smooth
  • Accuracyย 

Cons

  • No padlockย 
  • Week dust collection system

Grizzly 1023

The G1023 is a basic unit that meets the needs of a hobbyist. The parts are well-machined and built to last. Tuning yields perfect cuts. The g1023 is more capable than a contractor saw and lasts longer. It has a missing motor cover. After some tune-ups, you are good to go. It saves money, at least in this case.

The G1023 cabinet table saw is an improved and optimized product. The powerful 3 HP motor rotates the arbor at 4200 RPM and a rim speed of 11,000 FPM. That saw can rip and cut all day without breaks.

It features a Poly-V serpentine belt system that transfers power more efficiently, with minimal noise than standard V-belts. The cast-iron table has T-slots, so your miter gauge will not fall off the table when retracted.

The G1023 comes with a 1-year warranty that covers parts and assures the unit is free from factory defects.

Pros

  • Quiet and smooth operation
  • Excellent cutting powerย 
  • Ease of use
  • Good support
  • Quick-release riving knife
  • The convenient dust collection port

Cons

  • Large and heavyย 
  • Poor fence system

Favorite Features

Drive system

The G1023 has a poly-V twisted belt drive system, which transfers electrical power more effectively than a V-belt technique. The G0690 has a triple V-belt technique, giving a consistent power transfer from the motor to the blade. The two saw machines move their power quietly. (iqsdirectory.com).

The Trunnion and Tilt Mechanism

The G1023 has a tilt and blade high mechanism that is precise. The saw blade can be set to and locked down at any angle. You can do away with the angle gauge on the cabinet next to the hand wheels. The saw requires minor returning upon delivery.

Blade Guard

The G1023 saw has a separator with a plastic blade guard. The separator does not move with the blade and is removed for dado cuts. The anti-kickback fingers are so powerful they mar soft wood like polar on the way through the saw.ย 

A new version of the saw comes with a riving knife. It features two stock throat plates poorly designed as they leave a wider gap between the blade and the table surface. There are zero clearance inserts.

Fence and Outfeed table

The G1023 has the Store Fox Classic Fence, whereas the G0690 has a fence similar to the Shop Fox Basic but generates poor feedback. The G1023 fence stays parallel to the blade when locked down. It locks down securely, and the adjustment for precise fractions is not hard.ย 

The G1023 uses a Shop Fox Classic Fence. You might not be a fan of this fence. The back rail where the fence slides are not smooth (Grizzly.com). The G0690 has a different saw fence. Choosing a better saw fence is difficult due to their similarity. With the G0690, you do not have to struggle with the miter gauge and T-glide fence. It has excellent measuring items, which is why it maintains accuracy and precision.

Dust extraction

The G1023 connects the underside of the blade right to the dust port with a hose, while the G0690 uses gravity to deliver falling dust to the dust port. That lands dust on the floor, making it less effective than the hose technique of the G1023.

Both saws come fitted with a dust port, but the means of dust collection differs. The G0690 has no dust port around the blade, and there is no above-the-blade collection unit. It has a cut-out for the dust collection hose. The saw still kicks up dust into the air.

Grizzly G0690 does not feature the mechanism. It relies on gravity for dust collection, an inefficient means of dust collection compared to that of the Grizzly G1023. The underside of the Grizzly G1023 is connected directly to the dust port, meaning the collection of dust is more efficient.

What could be better?

Grizzly g0690

The dust collection system could have been more efficient. A hose connected to the port could have been better.ย 

Grizzly 1023

The back rail could have been smooth.

Similar Features

  • They come at hefty prices.
  • They are heavy.
  • Both operate on a 3HP engine.
  • They are both smooth and quiet on thick wood.
  • Both come fitted with a dust port.

Key Differences

  • The G1023 is more affordable than the G0690.
  • The Grizzly G0690 uses a triple V-belt drive system, whereas the G1023RL uses a poly V serpentine drive system.ย 
  • The underside of thG1023 is connected directly to the dust port, unlike the G0690, which relies on gravity for dust collection.

The verdict

When it comes to performance, the G0690 surpasses the G1023. That amounts to why it costs a bit more than the G1023. If you are to consider practicability, the G1023 is the better saw. It is ideal for starters since it is lighter than its competitor. Both saws have excellent performance, but if on a budget, the G1023 will make a better saw. Grizzly g0690 is stable, durable, and powerful, but if working on a tight budget, you may consider other options.

David D. Hughes

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