All professional woodworkers will tell you that owning a practical and quality bandsaw will only increase your abilities as a carpenter.
Bandsaws are becoming more and more necessary for a modern-day woodworker, and the market is proving it.
There are tons of powerful machines that are tailored for everyone's needs.
Recently, portable bandsaws have prevailed as one of the market's top searched saw products due to their practicality and simplicity.
So, this article will strive towards finding the best portable band saw that Amazon has to give.
There will be a number of products with many different features, so stay tuned to make sure you make the right choice.
More...
Since we'll cover 7 bandsaws and you might not be interested in all of them, here's a quick overview of the salient features from our top 3 picks.
We hope you'll enjoy them!
Amazon's Best Portable Band Saws: Top 7 Reviews
Is there a better way to jump into the reviews than with the best portable bandsaw there is?
Let's see what the DEWALT 20V MAX Portable Band Saw is all about.
It's quite rare to encounter a portable band saw that can function and do all the things that a professional-grade benchtop model can.
Still, products like the DeWALT 20V Max just go to show how much technology has progressed in time.
It has a 5-inch throat capacity that allows you to cut through wood, metal, pipes, and every other material you might associate with a standard bandsaw.
Since it's battery-powered, there is a limit to the cutting capacity in a single session, which is approximately 149 cuts based on professional estimates.
It comes equipped with some features that will undoubtedly serve you well on the field.
An LED light that has a 20-second delay is incorporated with the package, which is great in low-lit conditions.
Moreover, this machine works with variable speeds that can be adjusted with a simple dial that rotates and sets to your preferred setting.
Not only does it come from a verified manufacturer that is DeWALT, but it's quite impressive to see that the price is extremely affordable, so you won't have to worry about that aspect when choosing should you or not buy this machine.
Overall, we couldn't find a single reason to skip out on such a band saw.
- Easy to use
- Lightweight
- An included LED light with a 20-second delay
- Variable speed with a dial
- /
Even though portable band saws are much more affordable than a regular benchtop or a resaw model, it doesn't mean that you should set aside a lot of money for its purchase.
However, products such as the WEN 94396 10-Amp 5-Inch Handheld Portable Band Saw show that you can find a compact band saw for a reasonable sum.
WEN is a leading manufacturing company for power tools, and when we say leading, we mean that most woodworking and metalworking products that are popular among the customers come from their facilities.
They specialize in producing large and heavy-duty models, but the 94396 unit is another example of their versatility.
It's a variable-speed machine that can offer you any speed in the range of 60 and 420 feet per minute, which is more than you'll get from a standard portable band saw kit.
Also, there's the incredible 10-amp motor that helps the entire process to run smoothly.
You can choose what you want to cut with this handheld device - metal, plastic, or wood.
Thanks to the multi-toothed blades that come with the package, cutting metal has never been easier.
It supports both 10 and 14 TPI blades that are ideal for house projects that don't require a heavy-duty machine.
Of course, we wouldn't be talking about this device with such praise if it weren't for the phenomenal price.
It doesn't mean it's not good, because it is, but it's quite surprising to see such a quality product be this cheap.
The only thing we don't appreciate is the blade that comes with the package.
It's not that durable, which is why you should consider purchasing new blades if you get this device.
- Variable speed (60-420 f/m)
- Quality build
- Universal use
- Affordable
- The quality of the included blades
The next band saw that we have in store for you is another DeWALT portable kit whose properties and abilities will simply astound you.
Without further ado, here's the DEWALT DWM120K 10 Amp Portable Band Saw Kit.
The first reason we wanted to include this band saw kit in the list was the full package that comes from purchasing it.
Not only will you get a quality machine, but you'll also receive an LED work light and a 3-blade pack with a 24 TPI profile.
The blades are extra hardened with an 8% cobalt content that is known for its durability and resistance to wearing off in time.
When it comes to this portable band saw's specifications, you'll be delighted knowing that it has a 10 amp motor that can power up any project that you wish to start.
Whether you're sawing through round or rectangular objects that require finesse, this DeWALT DWM120K unit will be more than enough to handle it.
The housing and the internals are constructed in a way to endure any possible work-related mishaps that could potentially damage the DeWALT DWM120K.
Thanks to the rubberized bumpers and steel shroud, you'll be secured in any given environment and situation.
The one thing we disliked was the fact that it's quite loud and that the blades do not seem to be resilient enough for metal-cutting.
Other than that, this bandsaw will prove to be useful in the future.
- Full-package deal
- Round and rectangular objects
- Durable housing
- Safety features
- Loud
- Low-quality blades
One of the benefits of using a portable bandsaw is the fact that you don't require a direct power source to saw away.
Cordless electronic devices are the future, and here's one of them - the Makita XBP02Z Li-Ion Band Saw.
Makita Industries has made a name for themselves thanks to the incredible machines and tools that they've produced over the years.
They are a Japan-based manufacturing company that has been supplying the market for over 100 years, and they still continue to dazzle their customers.
When it comes to the Makita XBP02Z 18V, in particular, you won't find anything that would make you think it's a mid-tier product.
Their proprietary Makita motor has an incredible strength that allows the user to cut through the toughest of materials with absolute ease.
The Makita XBP02Z 18V has variable speed options that range between 275 and 530 feet per minute, which is impressive for a portable band saw kit.
The cutting capacity just goes to show how perfect this unit is for sawing through metal since it accepts 44-7/8" blades that can cut at 4-3/4" height.
Furthermore, the housing and extra accessories have safety features that significantly decrease potential damage during the action.
The grip handle is rubberized, and it has a thick rubber bumper that adds a layer to the overall durability of this portable band saw.
It is a bit pricey for a portable band saw, and it doesn't have a lock-on switch that comes in handy for longer projects.
Other than these small flaws, the Makita XBP02Z 18V is a fantastic portable band saw that should be in your consideration.
- Reliable manufacturer
- Powerful motor
- Cutting capacity
- Durability
- Price
- No lock-on switch
Ryobi is well known for their prowess when it comes to gardening equipment, but they're also perfectly equipped to manufacture a quality electrical device such as a bandsaw. In this case, it's the Ryobi 18-Volt Portable Band Saw.
We should first mention that this is not your standard band saw in the sense that it's not the best you can do.
However, the beauty of this saw lies in the fact that it's simple, straightforward, and completely affordable.
It's excellent for beginners and for people working in the field that require something simple and elegant.
Its primary use is for cutting wood, but it'll handle pipes and non-ferrous metal quite nicely, as long as they're not too thick since the cutting capacity is 2-1/2 inches.
On the other hand, the motor is quite capable of delivering great speeds at 560 feet per minute, which is astounding for such a lightweight machine.
It's compact, small, and weighs only 9.3 pounds!
If that's not the perfect combination for a field worker, nothing is.
When it comes to its flaws, there are a couple that shouldn't pose a huge deal for the eventual purpose.
Firstly, it doesn't come with a lithium-ion battery and a charger when you order it.
Since it's affordable, buying a new battery and a charger won't change the final sum that much.
Also, it's not designed for professional use, so you might want to look at some of the previous saws if you're planning on doing some serious woodworking.
- Easy to use
- Cutting speed
- Lightweight
- Excellent for beginners
- No lithium-ion battery and charger
- Not for professionals
Up next is another fantastic portable band saw that is a bit different from the rest of the machines that we have had to display so far.
Let's talk a bit about the Anbull Portable Band Saw.
You could argue that this is a 2-in-1 machine in the sense that it can be used as a portable machine, but you can also set it up in your workplace and use it as a sturdy and reliable piece of equipment.
Thanks to the removable steel base, you'll be able to cut wherever and whenever you want.
When it comes to specs, we can safely say that you'll be more than impressed since this portable saw offers serious solutions for DIY woodworkers.
It packs a 10-amp motor that runs at 1100 W, and it's capable of cutting through steel without leaving any marks or burns.
It's not only the base that improves the overall balance of this bandsaw since it also features rubber bumpers and a serviceable shroud made of steel.
Another nice feature is the swivelling base that can be tilted anywhere between 0 and 45 degrees for easier and improved angled cutting.
The machine allows you variable speed adjustment anywhere between 100 and 350 f/m with a twist of a dial - it's that simple.
It seems way too perfect to be true, but that's what Anbull offers from their band saws. However, it does have some flaws.
Some customers have noted that it's not that accurate since it runs too fast and cuts through rough metals.
It's not a large deficiency, but it will make an impact if you plan on doing larger projects.
- Removable steel base
- Perfect for metal
- Not expensive
- 2-in-1 portable band saw
- Accuracy
Finally, we have another amazing product to wrap up this article, and it comes from Bosch facilities, a well-respected manufacturer in the field.
Here's the BOSCH GCB10-5 Deep-Cut Band Saw.
When it comes to the cutting capacity of Bosch products, whether they're gardening, construction, or woodworking machines, their quality is unmatched by most manufacturers.
That's the case with the BOSCH GCB10-5 Deep-Cut Band Saw, thanks to its deep-cut properties and a robust 10-amp motor that sticks out from most machines you'll encounter.
The variable-speed settings allow you to cut with a minimum of 100 f/m speed with a larger precision or to switch it up to a more powerful setting of 380 f/m.
Either way, you'll be impressed with the overall speed, and precision that the Bosch Deep-Cut Band saw has to offer.
Another important reason why we had to include this portable bandsaw in the list is the size and compactness.
It weighs only 14.5 pounds and is less than 10 inches in height, which is something you'll appreciate if you don't have any room for massive benchtop models.
Also, it has a 1-year limited warranty - something that we truly value when it comes to Bosch facilities.
The only problem with this bandsaw is, ironically, the price.
It's not that expensive, but the quality-to-price ratio is not that clear since there are better bandsaws in this price range.
- Compact
- Easy to use
- Six speeds
- 1-year limited warranty
- Price-to-quality ratio
Learning More About the Portable Band Saws - Buyer's Guide
As you could see from the portable band saw reviews, these machines differ significantly from benchtop or resaw models due to their design and size.
It doesn't necessarily mean that they are less potent, but they usually prioritize compactness over strength, which is their main appeal.
However, the key is to find the balance between strength and size, which is where we come into play.
We'll go over the things we consider to be problematic for beginners when they're trying to find the best portable band saw for their necessities.
Stay tuned!
1. Motor Strength
Motor strength differs with all band saws.
For example, benchtop models will usually pack powerful motors that will enable your machine to rotate the blades at 2000-3000 feet per minute.
On the other hand, portable band saw motors function a bit differently as they're smaller and made to be compact to balance out the size vs strength ratio.
Therefore, the best portable band saws will offer close to 400 feet per minute speeds.
On the other hand, most portable band saws have variable speed settings, which is not the case with benchtop models.
The beauty of it lies in the constant shifting of speeds which allows for more versatility on the job site, unlike with heavy-duty models.
2. Weight
Even though this may be a given, it's important to recognize that the main reason a person might choose a portable or a cordless band saw lies in size.
No one really wants a huge machine that takes space around the house or the basement, so portable band saws are the go-to solution.
You'll usually find that they weigh somewhere between 20 and 30 pounds, depending on the model and the manufacturer, but you can even find some that weigh less than 10 pounds.
They will lack some features, so make sure it's not something you'd expect from your next band saw.
3. Manufacturer
It's often said not to judge a book by its covers, and it's true - you shouldn't make a choice by simply reading the name of a manufacturer and trusting them.
However, there are some companies that consistently produce and distribute quality band saws on the market, and they have rarely made one that customers have complained about.
If you're not sure which is the best, it's okay because there's not a right answer.
Essentially, you'll find that the best products come from companies such as WEN, DeWALT, Bosch, JET, and Makita.
They are long-standing companies that have made their fame with the quality of their products, including some from this list.
We're personally inclined towards WEN products as they offer the most versatility and flexibility with their features, but DeWALT never seems to disappoint, especially when it comes to the portable band saw blades.
4. Included Features
There are some things that are essential that you should look for in your next band saw.
For example, blade tracking adjustment is something that most people overlook, but it'll make all the difference in the world when tackling some heavier and bulkier materials.
Also, portable band saws have variable speeds, which is why a variable speed dial is a nice accessory that helps make the entire process more endurable.
Don't forget the rubber bumpers for stability and to make sure that the band saws you're looking at come with a blade.
5. Portable vs. Cordless
Both profiles have their benefits and flaws.
The obvious pro of owning a cordless device is no cords, obviously.
However, band saw motors exert a lot of power, which is why you won't get a lot of running time.
Take our best pick, for example, the DEWALT 20V MAX Portable Band Saw.
It has a fantastic battery and even better battery life, but it'll offer you 149 cuts overall.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best portable band saw?
Without a single doubt, it's the DEWALT 20V MAX Portable Band Saw.
It took a while before we chose this one over the WEN 94396 10-Amp 5-Inch Handheld Portable Band Saw, but it's in a league of its own.
Even though we're more inclined towards WEN products, the DeWALT band saw takes the win in this case.
What can you do with a portable band saw?
Portable band saws are the most useful tools that you can have on the field, thanks to their compactness and low weight.
Even though they have less strength than benchtop models, they can still cut through metal and rough material, and they can even resaw if the material is not too thick.
What is the best 10-inch band saw?
The best 10-inch band saws usually come from manufacturers like Rikon and JET.
You won't encounter that many portable 10-inch saws due to their size, but if you do, they'll come from either of these two companies.
Final Thoughts
After going through all these products, learning about them, testing, and reviewing them, we can safely and proudly say that the best portable band saw is undoubtedly the DEWALT 20V MAX Portable Band Saw.
The quality and the handiwork behind this model are truly remarkable, and it's a device that you'll want to have at every opportunity.
On the other hand, the WEN 94396 10-Amp 5-Inch Handheld Portable Band Saw and DEWALT DWM120K 10 Amp Portable Band Saw Kit have put up a fight, and they're definitely worth the attention.
Either way, make no mistake - these portable band saws will be the best purchase in your woodworking career.