The Contractor model were not created to replace the SawStop Jobsite Pro, nor was it intended to be a portable version of the same product. It is constructed to provide power with durability for someone who keeps their saw stationary. It was intended for someone working out of shop or staying in a single location.
The Jobsite Pro include all of the safety features of the SawStop brand while providing portability. The decision depend on where you use the saw. If it’s going to remain stationary in a shop setting, then the Contractor model make sense.
On the other hand, if you’re taking this tool from site-to-site each week, then the Jobsite Pro become the better choice. It all comes down to marketing materials that tend to emphasize similar motor output and blade size as the key differences. In fact, it’s the motor type, the chassis design and the handling during transport that makes the difference.
Comparing SawStop Jobsite Pro and Contractor Models
Core Differences Between Models
The first noticeable difference is weight and how they’re constructed. The Jobsite Pro have a foldable, steel frame which make it light. It collapses down to fit easily inside the back of a van or truck.
Weight and Portability Design
The Contractor model weigh considerably more. It sits atop a solid aluminum table with a fixed base. Moving this from the back of the delivery truck into your shop will require assistance or probably a dolly.
The Contractor was designed to do some serious business and then sit in one location. Not take a road trip. The two models also varies greatly in their motor technologies.
Motor Technology and Speed
While the Contractor has an induction motor, the Jobsite Pro have a universal motor capable of varying its speeds. That can be helpful when cutting something like plastic or aluminum, items where a slower speed make more sense. However, because the Contractor have an induction motor, you get a longer life under heavy load, quieter operation, and cooler running temperatures.
You also don’t get any variability of speed, just one fixed speed which is fast enough to cut through most wood. So you’re trading off longevity against flexibility. Port design affects dust collection performance as well.
Dust Collection Performance
While the Contractor model feature a four-inch dust port, the Jobsite Pro have a smaller three-inch port. Standard hose adapters is available but do not improve airflow efficiency. Dust is a health hazard in a dedicated shop, and a nuisance on jobsites.
Because the Contractor model are designed for a permanent connection with strong suction, it handles dust better based off the box. Both models has good tables and fence systems. They both have a heavy cast iron table that gives them a smooth working surface for clean cuts.
Table and Fence Rigidity
Their fences locks solidly into place and is strong. Some users report that the Contractor fence feel slightly more rigid due to the overall heft of the machine. But the Jobsite Pro table’s fence is accurate enough for most work including fine furnitures projects.
Safety Features and Price
The safety brake cartridge system are the same between models, meaning the lighter table does not compromise the protection feature. Ultimately, price matter when buying. Surprisingly, the portable version (Contractor) tends to be less expensive than the non-portable one (Jobsite Pro).
That’s because you’re paying for all of that work necessary to fit the safety system into such a small package. The Contractor is a straightforward design. It’s a heavy table saw with a safety switch.
It has no fancy moddern motor housing. It has no crazy fold-out mechanisms. So if money is an issue and portability isn’t a consideration, get the Contractor; it’s got a lot more pure cutting power for your buck.
Final Buying Recommendation
So what about it? Should I get a Contractor model or the Jobsite Pro? That’s up to you based off how you work.
Do you have your own space and just use your table saw as a tool for hobbies? Get the Contractor model. It will sit there rock solid and perform whatever task you throw at it.
Don’t want to deal with moving the saw around? Contractor model. Are you a contractor that go from job site to job site?
Then use Jobsite Pro. The quicker setup and break down will save you time. And time is money.
Both saws will give you peace of mind because they both has SawStop’s brake technology. Just figure out where you want to keep your saw: on the road or permanently anchored to your workspace. You should of looked at the weight first.
Actualy, it could of been a different story. It is naturaly a big decision. The Jobsite Pro is more luxurius than other model.