7 Best Band Saws to Buy In 2024 – Bandsaw Reviews
The band saw is an incredibly useful power tool for cutting material in an intricate and accurate manner. It is very user-friendly with a small learning curve. In this band saw review we are going to cover some of the best band saws available on the market. We will only give priority to professional models that are dependable and reputable as they offer the best bang for your buck. Whether you are looking for the best cordless bandsaw available, or a powerful floor model, we got you covered. Without further ado, let us get started with this bandsaw review.
You may also like to read other product reviews such as table saw, scroll saw, reciprocating saw, jig saw, Rikon 10-305, Skil 3386, Delta 28203.
7 Best Band Saws - Reviews
Image | Product Name | Type | Power | Max depth of cut | Rating | Current Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 1. DeWalt DCS370B Cordless Band Saw | Portable | 18 V | 2 - 1/2 in | 4.6 | |
 | 2. DeWalt DCS371B Lithium-Ion Band Saw | Portable | 20 V | 2 - 1/2 in | 4.8 | |
 | 3. DeWalt DWM120K Deep Cut Band Saw | Portable | 10 Amps | 5 in | 4.8 | |
 | 4. Powermatic 1791216K - PWBS-14CS Deluxe Bandsaw | Benchtop | 1.50 HP | 6 in | 4.2 | |
 | 5. Laguna Tools MBAND1412-175 Band saw | Stand mounted | 1.75 HP | 2 - 7/8 in | 4.2 | |
 | 6. Rikon 10-305 Stand Mounted Bandsaw | Stand mounted | 1/3 HP | 4 - 5/8 in | 4.4 | |
 | 7. JET JWBS-14DXPRO Deluxe Pro Band Saw | Floor | 1.25 HP | 12 in | 4.3 |
#1. DeWalt DCS370B Cordless Band Saw
Editor's Rating: 
(4.6 / 5)
The DeWalt DCS370B is a portable band saw with a professional finish and robust features. Since it is portable, it is fairly small at only 12.2 x 15.4 x 8.7 inches and weighs 7.75 pounds. It can be easily carried the job and will comfortably fit in a small work bag.
This bandsaw is powered by an 18V heavy duty battery that allows this unit to cut through material at 570 FPM (foot per minute). This is nothing to write home about, but it is still very decent for a small and compact bandsaw.
This model is excellent for cutting small material less than 2 inches in thickness. It is also has a fairly decent 1/2-inch cutting capacity that can be extended to 2 inches on the fly. In fact, changing the cutting capacity is one of the easiest and best features of this small band saw.
This compact bandsaw has a very ergonomic form factor that limits hand fatigue. Its handle is made from a very soft rubber plastic that is comfortable to hold for long hours. Unlike other band saws we have reviewed so far, this unit can be used in a totally different way. Indeed, as most band saws require you to bring the material to the blade, the DeWalt DCS370B allows you to bring the blade to the material. This provides more maneuverability and control over your cut.
Additionally, changing blades on this unit is very easy thanks to the rapid blade changing mechanism. It is a simple latch that you pull and consequently releases the blade. Very easy!
Pros
- Compact and small form factor. Ergonomic and limits hand fatigue.
- Blade tracking adjustment provides superior tracking and increases the life of the blade.
- Hang hook allows you to hang the device without causing damage.
Cons
- Not as powerful as other stationary band saws in this bandsaw review.
- Expensive for its power, features, and depth of cut.
Who should buy?
This model, due to its small form factor and ergonomic shape is ideal for busy professionals who require to take their cutting power tool to the job. Electricians, technicians, plumbers et cetera will find good use for this bandsaw. It is definitely one of the best small band saw on the market.
#2. DeWalt DCS371B Lithium-Ion Band Saw
Editor's Rating: 
(4.8 / 5)
The DeWalt DCS371B is very similar to the DeWalt DCS370B except that it is slightly more powerful and has a better cut capacity of 2-1/2 inches. Under the hood of this small bandsaw lies a 20V lithium ion battery that allows it to perform a little better than the model above. It will cut more easily through higher density material.
Best of all, DeWalt gives you the possibility to “beef up” this small bandsaw by purchasing upgrades. You can get this unit with a two pack battery, a three pack or the vanilla bandsaw that does not come with a battery or additional blades.
The cut depth is a little bit better with a maximum cut capacity of 2-1/2 inches. Best, it is almost similarly priced as the DCS370B which makes this model the best portable bandsaw so far. It can easily go through SCH 40 pipe up to 2 inches without breaking a sweat.
Again, we see the blade tracking adjustment that boosts cutting efficiency as well as prolongers the life of the blade. Moving this bandsaw on the surface material is very easy due to the dual bearing blade guide rollers. It offers low friction and great maneuverability that in turn translates to more accuracy on the job.
One extra feature of this portable band saw is the presence of a LED light that allows you to use this device in dimly lit areas. This makes it very practical especially if you need to work in tight spots at a client’s site.
Pros
- Small and compact form factor.
- Ability to purchase additional blades and battery packs.
- Better cut capacity of 2-1/2 inches. Can easily go through SCH 40 pipe for up to 2 inches.
- LED work light for better visibility in dim areas.
Cons
- A little expensive.
- Depth of cut still fairly small at 2-1/2 inches.
Who should buy?
Again, this bandsaw is suited for professionals who are on the move. It can easily go through any type of material, whether it is wood or metal fairly easily. Cutting SCH 40 pipe up to 2 inches is a piece of cake with this bandsaw and it will come in handy more often than not. If you require a small, compact and powerful cutting machine, this model is one of the best cordless band saw on the market.
#3. DeWalt DWM120K Deep Cut Portable Band Saw
Editor's Rating: (4.8 / 5)
Lastly, we list a more powerful “portable” band saw that will run circles around both the DeWalt DCS371B and DeWalt DCS370B. It sports a beastly 10-Amp motor that will breeze through any type of material, whether it is low-density ones like wood or high density like metal.
What is more incredible is the 5-inch cut depth of this little beast. It is literally twice as much as the other DeWalt portable band saws we have reviewed previously. With a 5-inch depth of cut, it will work with most commercially available materials including most type of metal or plastic pipes.
Furthermore, this unit is heavily armored with rubber bumpers and a steel shroud that gives it the protection and durability required on busy worksites. It can easily undergo abuse and will last a long time due to its excellent build construction.
Once more, we see the presence of a LED illumination in dark areas and the relatively small form factor of this portable bandsaw allows you to work comfortably with it in tight spots.
What we like the most about this 5-inch band saw is the variable speed control that allows you to change the speed with a speed dial. With this function, you can quickly and easily adapt to the type of material for the most efficient cut possible. The speed dial allows you to change the movement of the blade anywhere between 100 - 350 SPM. This is by far the most useful feature in this device which makes it the best portable band saw we can recommend.
Pros
- Excellent build construction with rubber and metal protection. Durable and long-lasting bandsaw.
- LED light for working in dim lit areas.
- Variable speed control of 100 - 350 SPM allows you to adapt to the material for a very efficient cut finish.
- 5-inch depth of cut which is more than enough for cutting any type of material, including plastic and metal pipes for plumbery work.
Cons
- N/A
Who should buy?
If you are looking for a small bandsaw for professional or even casual use, we cannot think of a model that is better than this one. It has an excellent depth of cut, a variable speed control and built like a tank. It should last you a very long time and can withstand abuse quite easily. This model from DeWalt is by far the best small bandsaw we can recommend to you.
#4. Powermatic 1791216K - PWBS-14CS Deluxe Benchtop Bandsaw
Editor's Rating: 
(4.2 / 5)
The Powermatic 1791216K is a popular professional bandsaw with a very rich set of features. But above all, it is a straightforward and easy to use saw that even beginners can quickly and easily start using right away. It is a benchtop model, and right off the bat we can tell you that it is one of the best benchtop band saw on the market.
The TEFC motor in this model is quite powerful and rated at 1-1/2 horsepower. With this kind of power, it can cut right through any type of material, be it a low density one like wood or a high-density material like metal sheeting. Anyone who worked with a bandsaw will tell you that one of the most important factors is the motor power. With a 1-1/2 horsepower motor, this power tool will not stall and produce a professional and clean cut in any type of stock.
In addition, the table is quite spacious at 15-inch by 15-inch providing you with ample space to work. But it does not stop there. What we like about this model is that the table itself can be rotated to make intricate angular cuts in material. It can be tilted 45-degree to the right and 10-degree to the left. This provides a lot of versatility and allows you to make complex cuts that would otherwise not be possible.
The construction is also excellent with a nice mix of solid steel and cast-iron for durability and longevity. This is a unit that will last a long time, even if used a few years down the line.
The 14-inch blades are long enough to provide a lot of versatility and maneuverability when cutting through material. It can easily be changed in a matter of seconds and is also quite safe to use by newbies. Additionally, this model is equipped with a lot of very useful features like a foot brake for stopping the blade, a work light that allows you to clearly see your stock as well as an aluminum fence to guide your material for better accuracy.
Pros
- Powerful motor of 1-1/2 HP can cut right through any type of material for a clean and professional result.
- Metal T-Square fence for guiding your material with greater accuracy.
- Long 14-inch blade provides a lot of versatility and maneuverability when cutting large materials.
- Generous 15 x 15 inches table provides a lot of space to work with your stock.
- Blade can quickly and easily be tensioned with the help of the tensioning gauge.
- Built-in dust port for a clean and debris-free cut.
Cons
- N/A
Who should buy?
We can confidently recommend the Powermatic 1791216K as one of the best benchtop bandsaw on the market. It is not a light bandsaw, but as long as your table can withstand its 250lbs weight, it will perform exceptionally well. It is also a very silent model with the right amount of useful features.
#5. Laguna Tools MBAND1412-175 14-Inch Band saw
Editor's Rating: (4.2 / 5)
At roughly the same price as the Powermatic 1791216K, the Laguna Tools MBAND1412 is an unbeatable stand mounted band saw. It has an equally performing TEFC motor rated at 1-3/4 horsepower which means that this bandsaw is literally a beast on a stand.
The metal table is even bigger at 21 x 16 inches. It offers a large surface area for you to unleash your creativity. Furthermore, the surface is polished and provides a very low friction. In turn, this boost your productivity and maneuverability when working with this device. Another noteworthy point is the throat depth of 2-7/8 x 5-1/4 inches that allows you to cut thick stock pretty fast without sacrificing accuracy.
The 18 x 5-1/2 x 1/2 inches aluminium fence is very interesting in this unit. It has a high and low form factor that gives you the versatility required when working with different types of material. Additionally, the 14-inch blades can quickly and easily be changed as well as be tensioned with the quick release blade tensioner stops. It provides a very convenient feature that allows the blade to automatically switch between wood and other types of material for a more efficient cut. This is a feature rarely seen in other models, and we are glad that it is present in this unit as it makes it incredibly easy to work with different types of materials.
Lastly, this model is equipped with a one-piece heavy-duty polyurethane tires that are dynamically balanced and tough enough to support the heavy weight of this bandsaw.
Pros
- Powerful 1-3/4 TEFC motor can cut right through anything with great ease.
- High-quality and durable build construction.
- Polyurethane tyres is tough and can support the heavyweight of this device.
- Aluminium 18 x 5-1/2 x 1/2 inches fence can be used as a high or low fence. Easily switchable.
- Table can be tilted 45-degree to the left and 7-Degree right for angular cuts.
Cons
- Expensive.
Who should buy?
If you require a band saw that can easily be moved around but does not sacrifice power or versatility, then we cannot think anything better than the Laguna Tools MBAND1412. It has a solid build construction and very dependable when making intricate cuts in material. The fence helps a lot in making accurate straight lines.
#6. Rikon 10-305 10-Inch Stand Mounted Bandsaw
Editor's Rating: 
(4.4 / 5)
The Rikon 10-305 is another stand mounted band saw that has many competitive features. It has an all solid steel design that is very tough, durable and will last a long time. Basically, this model can withstand heavy-duty action.
One thing that we do not like about this bandsaw is the motor. It is a little bit on the lower performance spectrum at 1/3 horsepower. While this 3.5 Amps motor is still sufficient for cutting through wood or thin sheets of metal, it will struggle with metal thicker than 1/2 inch.
This is a smaller bandsaw with a blade of 10 inches. Ideally, it is suited for smaller projects than the other band saws we have reviewed so far. It still sports a decently sized table at 13-3/4 x 12-1/2 inches which is enough for most commercially available material like engineered lumber, wood planks or plastic sheets.
On the other hand, the blade range is quite decent at 1/8 to 1/2 inch which allows you to quickly and easily cut through material. It can equally be used on fairly thick stock as it has a decent cutting capacity of 4-5/8 inches.
It even features a 2-1/2 inches dust port that helps keep your cut line free from sawdust. With the help of an adapter, you can even connect this unit to a vacuum system. Lastly, this model also comes with a metal fence that allows you to guide your stock with more accuracy.
Pros
- Aluminum fence for more accuracy.
- Solid steel building construction. Very durable.
- Super flat and sturdy 13-3/4 inches by 12-1/2 inches table provide low friction and great maneuverability.
- Micro-adjustments of the blade for more accuracy.
Cons
- Smaller 10 inches blade.
- Motor rated at only 1/3 HP.
Who should buy?
The Rikon 10-305 is a smaller unit with a 10-inch blade. It is intended for mostly DIY tasks and general purpose bandsaw jobs. It does not take a lot of space in the workshop and is less imposing than other professional models reviewed so far. If you require a small and accurate stand mounted bandsaw then this model is one of the best 10-inch band saw on the market.
#7. JET JWBS-14DXPRO Deluxe Pro 14-Inch Band Saw
Editor's Rating: 
(4.3 / 5)
The JET JWBS-14DXPRO is a little cheaper than the other models in this bandsaw review thus far, but it is still sport a professional price. But this does not mean that it has lesser features. Quite the contrary. The Blade itself has a capacity of cutting through material with a width of 13.5 inches and height of 12 inches. As we can see, this model has a 14 inches blade with full 12 inches resaw capacity, which is especially helpful when cutting large stock.
The rack and pinion allows for easy and accurate adjustment of the blade height. This feature is very helpful and it allows you to use this bandsaw without the need of a riser block. One interesting feature of this bandsaw is the retractable blade guard that can be adjusted with the rack and pinion system to any height you want. This is very helpful if you want to focus your cut on only a small area of stock.
This model has a variable speed that allows you to change the speed between 1500 and 3000 SFPM. This variable speed allows you to adapt to the material for greater cutting efficiency. It also provides more accuracy on the job.
The guides in this model are powered by a ball bearing system that helps reduce friction and extend the longevity of this bandsaw. Furthermore, this stand mounted band saw has a decent 15 x 15 inches sturdy metal table that provides low friction and easy glide of your stock. It is not the biggest table and similar to the Powermatic 1791216K in size, but it is sufficiently big to get the job done especially when working with fairly large material.
Pros
- New design that provides more rigidity, lower vibrations, and more performance.
- Variable speed control of 1500 and 3000 SPM to adapt to your material.
- Large and sturdy 15 x 15 inches metal table.
- 14-inch Blade with 12-inch resaw capacity. The blade guard can be adjusted to any height you want with great accuracy. Excellent throat depth of 12 inches.
- Ball bearing fence guides for longevity and heavy duty work.
Cons
- Does not include a miter gauge or a fence out of the box. You will need to purchase them separately.
Who should buy?
This Stand mounted band saw does not have a few of the features we see any other models, like a LED light or rollers. However, if you are looking for a farily small stand mounted bandsaw that provides excellent performance as well as accuracy for intricate cuts, then this model is one of the best band saw for the money.
Types of Band Saws
There are several types of band saws available in the market. Understanding them will help you make a better purchase decision.
#1. Benchtop Band Saws
Benchtop band saws are usually portable and fairly small. They can easily be affixed to a workbench or stand and provide decent stability and accuracy.
This type of bandsaw is not the most powerful, but it is one of the most practical. Indeed, it can be easily carried to the worksite as most models do not weigh a lot.
One of the greatest characteristics of the benchtop band saw is that the blade does not require a belt to run, but instead is directly connected to the motor mechanism. This provides a direct motion that lacks power but make the blades move in a reciprocating manner (slightly forward and backward) more accurately. Therefore, it is better suited for work where accuracy is required over power.
#2. Stand Mounted Band Saws
The stand mounted band saw is easy to spot. It has the motor pack at the bottom of the table instead of the top, as well as has a distinct appearance. It can either come in an open frame or a closed structure (similar to a cabinet) for storage convenience.
The wheel size is usually 14 inches which is not too big. This type of band saw is fairly compact and best suited for small workshops. Due to the form factor that offers a lot of “free” space, this type of band saw offers more maneuverability and is better suited for cutting curves rather than making straight lines.
Additionally, the stand mounted band saw has almost the same size, specs and power as benchtop band saws - depending on manufacturer and model, of course. But in general, that’s the trend.
#3. Floor Band Saws
The floor band saw is the most powerful and imposing type of bandsaw available. It is intended mostly for professional use due to its expensive price and heavy duty performance.
One of the most distinct features in a floor bandsaw is the presence of a fence. The fence allows the user to make very accurate straight cuts in an easy way.
As everyone knows, the bandsaw is not the best tool for making straight lines. However, with a floor bandsaw and the presence of a fence, this is no more a problem.
The floor bandsaw does not sacrifice accuracy for power. It is still a very accurate cutting machine that can be used for making any type of cuts, including intricate and angular cuts in material. The floor bandsaw also provide the deepest depth of cut in material. This makes it ideal for working with very large and very thick stock.
Many floor band saws have rollers at the bottom so that they can easily be moved around. Floor band saws are extremely heavy and the presence of rollers make them more manageable around the workshop.
#4. Portable Band Saws
Portable band saws are lighter and compact band saws that can easily be carried around. Those devices are generally powered by a Lithium-Ion battery that gives the power tool sufficient autonomy and power to cut through material quite efficiently.
On the downside, they are not as powerful as the other types of band saw previously mentioned.
However, despite their weaker performance, they are still quite effective at cutting plastic, wood and metal pipes or sheets.
One of the main advantages of portable band saws is that the battery pack can quickly and easily be replaced with a spare pack for a continuous workflow. Lithium-Ion batteries support the quick-charge function, which allows some models to fully charge in less than an hour.
Additionally, there is no worry of wires getting in the way, and its compact form factor means that it can be used at odd positions or tight spots quite easily. For freestyle material cutting, the portable band saw offers the best maneuverability.
What to Look For When Buying a Band Saw
Before purchasing a bandsaw, here are some important factors to keep an eye on.
#1. Power
The bandsaw is reputed for its accuracy rather than power. However, power is equally important because it allows this power tool to cut through a wider range of material. For example, an underpowered bandsaw with a small motor will cut through wood fairly easily but will have difficulty when working with metal. The power in a bandsaw is usually measured in horsepower and they usually range between 1/3 HP - 1-1/2 inches. The more the better.
#2. Build Construction
It is equally important to look for the build quality of the bandsaw. A good build quality made from metal means that the power tool is durable and will last you a long time. This is especially important if you plan to use this tool for heavy-duty applications.
#3. Size
Both the size of the bandsaw as well as the size of the table needs to be taken into consideration. If you mostly do small DIY Tasks, it is a waste of money to get a very big device. Furthermore, the work table needs to accommodate the size of stock that you work with often. Keep in mind that the bigger the bandsaw, the more expensive it gets.
#4. Ease of Use
To be the most productive with a band saw, it needs to have some features that are user-friendly. For example, making adjustments of the blades, whether it is adjusting the depth of cut or replacing it must be easy. The presence of a fence is more than welcome as it aids in making straight cuts. The table needs to be super flat and polished with low friction. This provides greater maneuverability which translates to more accuracy in your cut, allowing you to make even more intricate designs and materials.
#5. Blade Guide
The blade guide allows you to adjust the “length” of the blade which is in direct contact with the material. To get the most accurate cut possible, ensure that the bandsaw has a rack and pinion system for making adjustments. This provides the highest degree of adjustment accuracy possible.
#6. Vibration
It is the poison of a bandsaw. Since this device is geared for accuracy, the bandsaw needs to output as little vibrations as possible. Look for ball bearing mechanism that do a great job limiting those vibrations and boosting the overall longevity of the unit.
#7. Table Tilt
While it is not the most important feature, a table tilt provides a lot of versatility and allows the user to make even more complex patterns in material. A table tilt is usually a default feature that comes in floor band saws.
Conclusion
This best band saw review comes to an end. We have seen quite a few models that have their own features and benefits. They come at different price ranges for different budgets and needs. Depending on your need, you will most certainly find the best bandsaw money can buy in this review. If you have not, we recommend that you go through it one more time.
Last Updated on August 7, 2020 by