Grizzly G0690 vs G1023RL: Which One’s Best?
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The Winner (#1) 
The Runner up (#2)
Model
Grizzly G1023RL 3 HP Cabinet Left Tilting Table...
Grizzly G0690 Cabinet Table Saw with Riving Knife,...
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The Winner (#1)
Image
Model
Grizzly G1023RL 3 HP Cabinet Left Tilting Table...
User Rating
User Reviews
More Info
The Runner up (#2)
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Model
Grizzly G0690 Cabinet Table Saw with Riving Knife,...
User Rating
User Reviews
More Info
The Grizzly G0690 and G1023RL are both cabinet table saws aimed at the woodworking enthusiast. Both are big, heavy, sturdy machines with 3HP engines and the same size and quality table tops. Both have riving knives and blade guards, nearly identical cutting capabilities, and both would be the centerpiece of any accomplished hobbyist’s shop. If the power tool fairy left either in our garage, we’d fire it up and be thrilled.
But if that power tool fairy took us shopping and we got to choose, we’d struggle a bit but eventually choose the Grizzly G1023RL.
What’s the difference between them?
Grizzly points out six specific differences between these two models, but we think these are the three most important:
Drive system – different but equal
The G1023RL has a poly-V “serpentine” belt drive system, which transfers power more quietly and efficiently than a single V-belt system. But the G0690 has a triple V-belt system, which also does a great job at consistently transferring power from the motor to the blade. At the end of the day, both tools get equally high marks for being powerful and quiet.
Dust extraction – G1023RL wins
The G1023RL connects the underside of the blade directly to the dust port with a hose, whereas the G0690 just uses gravity to send falling dust towards the dust port. In our opinion, any effort to corral dust before it lands on the floor is a step in the right direction, so we prefer the hose system of the G1023RL.
Fence – G0690 comes out on top
The G1023RL comes with the Shop Fox Classic Fence, which Grizzly describes as hugely popular, but our (admittedly non-scientific) conclusion is that this item is either a love it or hate it kind of feature. The G0690 comes with a fence that is quite similar to the Shop Fox Classic but generates fewer adamant comments, favorable or unfavorable. Since there seem to be fewer people who object to the G0690 fence, we’re going to give it the win here.
And there is one factor Grizzly doesn’t point out as a difference:
Price – the G1023RL is cheaper
You will find that the G1023RL is about 20% cheaper than the G0690, so if you are already stretching to buy a cabinet saw, the G1023RL is going to look pretty appealing.
Quick Rundown of the Grizzly G0690:
Grizzly G0690 Cabinet Table Saw with Riving Knife,...
- Arbor speed: 4 300 RPM • Arbor size: 5/8-Inch; Maximum dado width: 13/16-Inch • Maximum rip...
- Maximum dado width: 13/16-Inch • Maximum rip capacity: 291/2-Inch
- Maximum depth of cut @ 90-Degree: 3-1/8-Inch • Maximum depth of cut @ 45-Degree: 2-3/16-Inch
A cabinet table saw at home in any shop
Pros
- Powerful and precise cutting
- Quiet
- A fence that fewer users dislike
Cons
- More expensive
- Weak dust collection system
- Can’t be locked with a padlock (like the G1023RL can)
Quick Rundown of the Grizzly G1023RL:
Grizzly G1023RL 3 HP Cabinet Left Tilting Table...
- Head sliding rails feature fully adjustable gab plates
- Quality product from the manufacturer
- Made in United States
A very similar cabinet table saw that would be at home in any shop
Pros
- Powerful and precise cutting
- Quiet
- Effective dust management system
- Quick release lever for switching between blade guards
Cons
- Included fence generates goodwill as well as hostility
Conclusion
We’re looking at two very similar cabinet table saws here. Users are very happy with the performance, power, precision, and build of both machines. Neither is a bad choice.
We give the win to the Grizzly G1023RL. It’s cheaper and has better dust extraction capabilities. And while you can change out the fence on either machine if you don’t like it, you’re pretty much stuck with the dust collection system.