The modern age carries a lot of responsibility, but a lot of innovation as well. The days of endlessly cutting through lumber are over.
You won't ever need to pick up an ax again and lose countless hours, sweat, tears, and blood while working.
If you've ever wondered how it's made and what it takes to create not just a perfect shape but an irregular shape in wood as well, you've come to the right place.
The best band saw is capable of cutting curves in thick lumbers, ripping it, and creating crosscut pieces. If the machine is strong enough, it can even cut through metal with ease.
All that's left for you to do is go on Amazon and order one. Still, we're here to make your job much more comfortable.
Take a look at the list of the best band saws that we singled out and learn more about bandsaws in the process!
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The Best Band Saws Available: My Top 11 Picks
You came for the best, and you've found it. We present to you the very best product we could find. Take a look at the WEN 3962 Two-Speed Band Saw.
When it comes to tools, you've got to trust WEN. The sheer quality and materials they use to manufacture their fantastic tools are out of this world. Take a look at this product, for example.
It has a 3.5 amp motor and a 9-3/4 inch throat that enables this band saw to cut through boards with absolute ease, and even the six-inch deep ones.
Since this type of woodworking can cause quite a mess, this device features a 3-in-1 dust port that fits a variety of collection hoses, from 1-inch to 4-inch dust ports.
The blades are quite efficient in handling all types of materials as well.
This bandsaw also comes with a fully functional 25-inch stand that keeps the device stable and elevated and a work light that sheds light on your workpiece as you cut.
You'll also get a miter gauge that holds your workpiece at a set angle to help you make precise cuts in a way you see fit.
Considering that you're getting a fully functional two-speed bandsaw with a stand and a work light for under 500 dollars, you're in for a treat.
The ratio between the price and quality of this device is through the roof and definitely worth the trouble of investing.
- Reliable manufacturer
- Sturdy construction
- Sharp blades
- A miter gauge, 3-in-1 dust port, and a work light
- 3.5 amp motor
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Next up is our runner-up, the infamous SKIL 3386-01 9-Inch Band Saw with Light, a bandsaw that sparks an interest.
If you're a novice woodworker who's just getting into this world and you're not entirely sure where to start, this is the band saw for you.
Skil's bandsaw is perfect for cutting irregular shapes and ripping lumber in an easy-to-use and fun way - all in all, an essential in your work shed.
It features a rip fence that enables straight cuts and six TPI blades that can cut through various types of material -softwood, hardwood, plywood, and even thinner metals.
Once you've started the entire process, a work light will help you guide the way towards accuracy and precision.
Of course, it features a dust port that keeps the area clean and debris-free and a miter gauge that will enable you to make criss-cross cuts.
One more important thing to mention is the three-year warranty supplied by SKIL. It protects you with not only this purchase but also all consumer benchtop tools that they manufacture.
One of the flaws in the design is that the blade guides are kind of hard to adjust. In essence, it's due to the upper guide that's rather flimsy, so you might find yourself spending some time tweaking it in a way you see fit.
Otherwise, it's an excellent product that goes for a relatively low price that you'll undoubtedly appreciate.
- Perfect for beginners
- Features a rip fence and six TPI blades
- A miter gauge and a dust port
- A three-year warranty
- Flimsy blade guides
If you've ever purchased a power tool, you've come across DeWalt. It's one of the best manufacturers out there, and you'll undoubtedly love their DEWALT 20V MAX Band Saw (DCS371B).
First off, durability is the main thing about this product.
If you're worried about its life span, the duration at which the blades will run smoothly, and the overall quality, it's time to put those worries to rest.
The blade tracking adjustment increases blade, base, and handle lifespan while the superior build of this device takes care of the longevity.
Furthermore, this DeWalt device has an LED work light that enables you to work in dark areas and places. Dual bearing rollers for blade guides are also included to increase the overall durability.
It's a portable device, meaning it operates on a battery.
It's a 20V lithium-ion battery that gives you approximately one hour of running time, but you can rest assured because the cuts per minute that you'll get with this device are unmatched.
It also features an integrated hang hook. It comes in quite handy when there's a lot of tools and pieces of wood on the table, and you're not sure where to put the band saw. Hanging the bandsaw on a hook will not damage the base or the handle.
The only real problem with this product is that the ratio between the price and the quality is a bit unbalanced. For the money you'll be investing in this product, you can get a perfectly good bandsaw and have some leftover cash.
Still, for a DeWalt product that included a three-year warranty, it's a safe bet!
- Durability
- Balance
- 20V Li-Ion battery
- Blade tracking adjustment
- Price-quality ratio
Moving on, we have a bandsaw that will never have you worry about durability again. We give you the Rikon 10-305 Bandsaw With a Rip Fence.
Building a functional bandsaw with a table is no easy task, especially considering that the build needs to contain quality materials that will account for the device's longevity.
Rikon's product, however, has a frame made out of a steel plate, which is almost as good as an iron frame, unlike plastic ones from other manufacturers.
Moreover, the table is made out of cast iron, a robust alloy with a content of carbon more than 2%, which ensures sturdy and stable construction.
Even though this brand of band saws is generally small, cast iron brings a new mix to the table. Also, it features a rip fence which can be removed easily for manual woodworking.
The blade of this device will do this job, but if you feel that it's just not going to work for you, you can easily remove it and insert a new one and continue with the work. The table can also be rotated from 0 to 45 degrees.
Overall, the entire band saw is fully operational and easy to use, except that the price is just too high. Still, you know you're getting a quality product for this amount, so it's worth a shot.
Also, the miter gauge is not available in this package, and you'll have to order it separately. Other than that, go for it!
- Longevity
- Quality build
- Sturdy, cast iron construction
- 45 degrees table rotation
- Overprice
- A miter gauge is not included
If you’re looking for a mix of power and portability for your woodworking and metalworking projects, you’ll be pleased with the Anbull SPA0174 Portable Band Saw.
Let’s see what it’s about.
The first and most obvious feature that stands out while inspecting this band saw is the incredibly strong 1100 W motor that runs on 10 amps.
Thanks to its design and copper build, cutting through metal won’t produce sparks and burns on the stock, which would normally occur with low-tier products.
It has a removable steel alloy base that can cut 4 by 3-⅕-inch deep cuts or 5 by 4-¾ -inch cuts without the base, with rectangular stock.
Overall, it works quite nicely considering its size and weight, and it’s all due to the powerful motor and design.
Since this is a portable band saw with a removable base, it’s natural that it doesn’t weigh a lot - the document weight is only 14.6 lbs or 6.6 kg. This is quite handy since the swivel range is set between 0 and 90 degrees - 0-45 for wooden stock and 45- 90 for metal.
It also comes with a 14 TPI blade, which offers you smooth cuts in combination with the fast motor, resulting in scot-free material with a smooth finish.
All in all, there isn’t anything wrong with this band saw, except for the fact that it doesn’t have a trigger lock, meaning you’ll have to lower and adjust it yourself each time.
- Easy to use
- Portable
- Strong 1100 W motor
- 0-90 degree swivel
- No trigger lock
The next product on our list of reviews is the Milwaukee 6232-21 Deep Cut Band Saw, a different bandsaw that meets all the expectations.
Coming from the manufacturers in China, this product has been widely known as a staple in metal production, metalworking, but also woodworking. The main reason for this is the introduction of Job Site Armor™ Technology.
This type of technology is known for the durability it brings to its products. The crush zone barriers provide a kind of protection that some other manufacturers can only dream of.
When you combine this with the deep cut this bandsaw has, you get the formula for one of the best band saws out there.
Also, it's highly suitable for beginners since it's so easy to use.
The gearing system for the direct metal drive delivers a prolonged life span for this bandsaw and makes it top of the notch product.
Another innovation that this band saw has is the motor housing and the tool-free locking shoe. This system is fully adjustable and enables the carpenter to adjust the design in a matter of seconds.
Also, it's very lightweight, which makes it excellent for simple DIY projects at home.
However, the blade for this brand of band saws is sold separately from the package, so that comes as a disappointment.
Otherwise, it's as good as it gets. If you're ready to put your trust in a different product, you're in for a treat.
- Job Site Armor™ Technology
- Suitable for beginners
- Easy to use
- Motor housing and tool-free locking shoe
- The blade is not included
Coming straight from Jet, this product will undoubtedly amaze you.
Stay tuned for the JET JWBS 14DXPRO 14-Inch Band Saw Kit. If you're ready to invest some big money for a premium deluxe product, you've found it.
Suitable for professionals, but also beginners, this brand of best 14-inch band saws on the market features a built-in blade guard that's retractable, meaning it moves up and down from 0 to 12 inches to enable you to work with larger workpieces.
Furthermore, the cast-iron frame brings a new model of durability on the table, thus leaving you worry-free for the next decade or so.
Since it comes as a full deal, the table is constructed in a way to offer you maximum flexibility and maneuverability with your projects while allowing you to rotate the table according to your needs.
Next to the table, a neatly placed storage helps you keep track of all your materials, tools, and any unnecessary equipment that gets in the way. Your table will be debris-free, and you'll finish your projects in no time.
Safety is one of the salient concerns with band saws, so a blade tracking window is included that helps you follow the entire process without being directly exposed.
The only real deal-breaker here is the price. But, if this is more than a hobby for you, there's no going wrong with this customer favorite.
- Cast iron frame
- A built-in blade guard
- Durability
- Storage area
- Powerful motor
- Affordability
If you plan on working on larger projects that require a lot of power, space, and stability, you’ll need an industrial-grade, heavy-duty band saw.
That’s why we'll give you the Grizzly G0555 Band Saw.
In spite of being a large and heavy-duty band saw, the G0555’s motor is capable of running extremely fast and yet remaining quiet thanks to the solid build of the housing.
Furthermore, it has a precision cast-iron table that further ensures the safety of your stock in terms of burns and friction.
This band saw features a ball-bearing guide system that makes the entire thing go smoothly and without pauses. Each cut is made in synchronization, and multi-toothed blades leave no scratches.
When it comes to some added accessories, it comes with a 4-inch dust port to keep everything hygienic, a miter gauge for bevel cuts, and a heavy-duty stand for a machine of this size.
When you need to switch the blades, you can do it quickly by pulling on the quick-release tension lever. Just remember to turn the device off and unplug it from the power source.
The efficiency of this band saw speaks for itself.
The speed range it can achieve is between 1500 and 3200 RPMs, it can cut stock up to 6 inches, and the cutting capacity at the throat is 13-½ inches.
It is expensive, and that’s the major flaw, but it shouldn’t concern you that much if you’re going for the sheer quality. In that case, you have our full recommendation for this band saw.
- Precision cast-iron table
- Heavy-duty band saw
- 3200 RPMs
- 13-½ inches of throat-cutting capacity
- Price
If you're a fan of robust devices, you'll fall in love with this one. We present to you the Makita Cordless Compact Band Saw.
Makita has long been in the talks as one of the leading tool manufacturers and continues to bombard the market with its excellent products. For example, take a look at this one.
The motor designed by Makita is capable of supplying a blade speed of 630 feet per minute, more than what the competitors have to offer. This type of gear makes cutting through wood, conduits, rods, and iron a straightforward job.
Moreover, it's perfectly safe to use this brand of band saws with one hand since a cover encloses the blade and makes the entire process secure.
Housing as the whole, including the motor housing, is made out of aluminum rather than plastic, so durability is a bonus here, and it can cut on a 45 degrees angle.
Also, exterior blade adjustment is beneficial when it comes to blade tracking. Because of this, the overall speed, performance, and precision are through the roof.
And even though this is a cordless device, the overall effect is not lessened by this since the battery is quite powerful - an 18 V lithium-ion battery.
Overall, it's a fantastic product, and the only reason it takes the sixth place is the lack of some extensions that are crucial with band saws, such as a 4-inch dust port, sturdy frame, or a cast iron construction.
- Powerful motor
- Blade speed
- Versatility
- Blade tracking
- Lack of added features
Not everyone needs a high-power machine for their home projects, and the price of these machines is certainly something that all of us don’t appreciate.
So, why not go for a quality mid-range saw such as the BILT HARD TL-WBS-9 2.5-Amp 9-Inch Bandsaw.
This band saw runs on a 2.5 amp motor that can achieve speeds of 1450 RPMs.
It’s not much in comparison to the previous band saws, but it’s more than enough to get smooth cuts across the grain of most types of wood. It will struggle a bit with metal, meaning it’ll take more time to finish up, but it’s still efficient.
Moreover, it has a beautiful and sturdy cast-iron table that can be tilted to 45 degrees for extra maneuverability and easier bevel cuts.
Most band saws operate at a two-wheel design that can either support one or two blades, and that’s the case here.
The size of the blade cannot exceed 59-½ inches, but that’s more than enough for a saw of this size.
Another great thing that you don’t normally see with such products is the 1-year warranty that comes with this Bilt Hard band saw.
Moreover, you’ll get a 90-day window to return this product in case you don’t like it, but what are the chances?
Not only is it highly efficient, but it’s also very affordable and a perfect solution for those that don’t have much working space in their woodworking shed or area.
We did see that the blade is a bit loose, so make sure to check the blade-tension lever from time to time, just to make sure everything’s OK.
It might have been a specific design flaw with the model in question, but it’s still something to keep in mind.
- Mid-range wonder
- Efficient
- Sturdy and stable
- 1-year warranty
- The loose blade tension lever
And for the last product on our best bandsaw list, we offer you a glimpse into the Ryobi 18-Volt ONE+ Cordless 2.5 in. Portable Band Saw.
Here we have another well-known manufacturer that specializes in producing quality tools and devices that help our lives run smoothly.
As you can see, this brand of best band saws is not that heavy. It's quite lightweight, weighing only 9.3 pounds.
In comparison to other products, this lack of weight enables you to work freely and with a lot of maneuverability.
It has a blade speed of 560 FPM, which proves to be quite efficient with a variety of materials, including wood and also metal pipes and rods.
This band saw also features a hanging hook that enables you to store the band saw without worrying about damaging it.
What it does lack is the battery and the charger, which are sold separately from the package. It does come as a surprise, but if you feel like giving this product a shot, it'll be worth it.
Finally, adjustable blade tracking is included to help you guide the blade and make irregular cuts along the workpiece with ease.
In all honesty, it's not the very best product on the market, but it'll do the job.
- 560 FPM
- Adjustable blade tracking
- Lightweight
- Reliable manufacturer
- Hang hook
- The battery and the charger are sold separately
How to Find the Right Band Saw For You? - Buyer's Guide
Now that we know what the best band saws on the market are, it's essential to make a distinction between some features and characteristics that separate the good from the wrong products.
Take a close look at the following and see if it helps you make the final decision.
1. Added Features
It's perfectly reasonable to assume that a fully functional band saw has the primary attributes that make it just that - sturdy construction, fast and sharp blade, powerful motor, and a table large enough to support all your workpieces.
However, the best are separated by some added features that help make life easier.
For example, the addition of a dust port helps clear out space, keep your area debris-free, and improve the overall efficiency of the entire process.
Also, a cast iron construction is quite beneficial since it enhances durability and overall performance in the years to come.
2. Warranty
Even the best band saws suffer a malfunction now and then, due to the exposure to rough elements and harsh conditions.
Also, the cost is quite a bit, so if you're already investing in one, make sure to get a band saw with a good warranty, preferably a 3-year plan since that's the average for these devices.
3. Application
As you've already noticed, some of these devices are not suitable for everyone.
Some are designed especially for professional use, so if you're a beginner and you're not sure which one to get, try to look for some band saws that are easy to use, don't cost much, and don't have a lot of features that might confuse you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a band saw?
Like all saws, a band saw has a motor that powers up the machine and a blade that cuts stock.
However, band saws are different in the design of the blade that’s made up of a band of toothed metal that protrudes from the upper part of the machine and loops back through the lower part.
The band rotates at high speeds to achieve cutting efficiency, and blades are usually measured in TPIs (Teeth Per Inch).
What is a band saw used for?
Band saws are generally used in woodworking and metalworking facilities, but there are more and more models that are made for home use, such as some of the products that we went over in this list.
Band saws can cut grooves, regular and irregular shapes, and even jigsaws.
You can also use it to style preexisting objects or even cut plastic or materials that are not made of wood or metal.
However, make sure they won’t burn, considering the speed at which a band cuts can cause burns to the stock.
What is the best band saw for the money?
Based on our list of reviews, the best one you could get for the lowest amount of money is the Makita XBP03Z 18V LXT Cordless Compact Band Saw.
If we're talking about price to quality ratio, it's got to be the DEWALT 20V MAX Band Saw (DCS371B).
What is the best 14 bandsaw?
It's a JET JWBS 14DXPRO 14-Inch Band Saw Kit, and it's out of the question.
The fantastic construction behind this device and the features it possesses are top of the notch.
Who makes the best horizontal band saw?
Both Jet and WEN are excellent companies that excel in creating powerful horizontal band saws.
How to measure band saw tires?
It’s not rocket science - simply subtract two inches from your band saw’s wheel, and you’ll get the proper dimensions for the tire.
What is the difference between a band saw and a table saw?
Well, aside from the fact that a band saw uses a band-group metal blade, the main difference is that a table saw is potentially more dangerous to use.
Still, newer products have all the necessary precautions to prevent any injuries, such as blade guards and quality fences.
Final Thoughts
When you first get into the sphere of woodworking, you realize that you probably have no idea what you're doing. There's so much to learn, so many things to experience, and so many tools to try.
Luckily, the internet is there to help Amazon to supply you with the number one band saw on the market. It's no wonder that that one is the WEN 3962 Two-Speed Band Saw.
A 3.5 amp motor is there to pave the way towards perfectly cut workpieces, all the features are there to help, and all you have to do is guide the way and witness perfection.
In all honesty, all of the devices on this list will get the job done, and it's up to you to use them and perfect your skill.
Don't wait around and delay honing your skills without this fantastic product.
- 3.5 amp motor creates cuts up to six inches deep and 9-3/4 inches wide
- Uses 72-inch blades anywhere from 1/8 to 1/2 inches in size
- Spacious 14-1/8 x 12-1/2 inch work table bevels up to 45 degrees
- Operates at two speeds of either 1520 or 2620 FPM
- Optional stand allows for either floor standing or bench top applications