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Make Cutting Wood Easier With the Best Band Saws

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By Woodsmith Review Team
Last updated: 17 May 2022

A good band saw helps you cut through metal, wood, and various other materials without a hassle. Whether you need to make straight cuts or carve customized fancy shapes out of thicker wood planks, the right band saw will have you turning into a modern-day craftsman in no time! Used by tradespeople, woodworkers, and hobbyists, band saws come in a number of styles and configurations. In this article, we've narrowed down a list of the best band saws in 2022, their pros and cons, as well as a number of informative pieces on band saws at the end to help you make an informed, well-sought purchase.

Show contents
Top Band Saw of 2022
  • 1 WEN 3962 Band Saw
  • 2 DEWALT DCS371B Band Saw
  • 3 Delta 28-400 Steel Frame Band Saw
  • 4 RIKON Power Tools 10-326 Bandsaw
  • 5 DEWALT Portable Band Saw
  • 6 Milwaukee 6232-21 Band Saw
  • 7 May Very Portable Bandsaw
  • 8 WEN 94396 Portable Band Saw
  • 9 DEWALT DWM120K Portable Band Saw
  • 10 WEN 3975T Benchtop Band Saw
  • 11 Milwaukee 2429-21XC M12 Bandsaw Kit

Best Band Saws Buying Guide

A bandsaw is a good choice of power tool in a lot of industries for a lot of great reasons. Bandsaws work for personal household or professional usage and are useful for cutting wood, metal, and a wide variety of other materials.

Usually, band saws come with a thin flexible blade that allows you to carve interesting patterns on the material you're working with. Band saws are powerful tools that not only allow you to replace the blade easily to fit the material type but also help you reach the desired cut and achieve a perfect finish! With a band saw, you can cut wood, metal, and more. 

It can be quite bothersome to explore the different makes, models, types, etc. of bandsaws to find the right bandsaw for the job. Lucky for you, we've listed the most relevant pieces of information about band saws in this section to help you make a decent purchase.

What Are the Different Types of Band Saws?

Generally, band saws are classified into two main types:

  • Freestanding (benchtop) band saw.
  • Compact band saw.

Both these types have their own pros and cons. Let's dig in!

Free Standing / benchtop band saw

This type of band saw requires a constant flow of power through any electric source/power outlet. They are usually made with two different frame materials – cast iron and steel. Both materials are durable and come with a longer lifespan. Benchtop band saws are useful for both personal and professional use due to their resawing ability!

Compact band saw

A compact band saw is a cordless and portable bandsaw that generates power through a rechargeable battery. You can easily use this type of band saw anywhere and anytime - thanks to no cord and compact design. 

What Things Should You Consider Before Buying a Band Saw?

Here are some of the major things that you should take into account before buying band saws.

Motor

This is a crucial component of the band saw. A band saw’s motor provides the essential power for the blade to cut through the required material. Motor power is measured in Watts or Horsepower. The speed of the motor is measured in revolutions per minute (RPM) and the cutting speed in feet per minute (FPM) – the distance moved by the blade in a minute, through the material. The higher the speed value the more will be the motor’s capability to work and ability to handle the toughest jobs. 

The motors can be categorized into two main types;

  • Brushed motor

This motor has been around for a long time. It is the most common type of motor found in various power tools. Brushed motors come with two main parts – brushes and a commutator. Energy is passed within the motor by the commutator. This helps make the saw blade function properly. The brushes (usually made of carbon) may get worn down after some time and thereby you lose efficiency and quality.

  • Brushless motor

As opposed to a brushed motor’s carbon brushes and commutator, this motor comes with a small electronic circuit board. Brushed motors are more powerful because they provide a constant flow of energy by eliminating unnecessary friction.

Blades

The blade of a band saw is a large loop that is welded together with teeth at one side. The finish and the cut quality of the saw blades can be measured in the number of teeth per inch (TPI). The higher this value, the more quality cut you will get from your saw. Lower TPI will result in a faster cut but usually leave a rough finish. To make the best choice, you have to also consider the length and width of the saw blades along with their TPI.

Blade tension

Most band saws will come with a feature that allows you to track blade wear and tear and also adjust the blade tension to the desired level.  This assists you to monitor the lifespan of the blade as well as point out any inherent damages.

Types of blades

Band saws usually require different types of blades as one blade cannot fit all of the applications. Here are some of the few common band saw blades:

  • Hook-tooth blade

    This type is perfect for cutting quickly with extreme ferocity. It works well on various materials like thick woods, certain metals, hardwoods, plastic, etc. It comes with larger teeth and deeper gullet. 

  • Skip-tooth blade

    To prevent the resin build-up on the blade, this type of bandsaw blade comes with more space between the teeth.  It is widely used for cutting non-ferrous materials, plastics, and softwoods.

  • Regular tooth blade

    This is a common type of blade that is usually tried in all applications. It performs well while cutting various materials which are thinner and finer than others. Because it provides such excellent flexibility to use on various materials and complex shapes, it has been universally accepted as an all-rounder blade.

Bevel

This refers to the angle at which the worktable can be tilted from either right or left. Tables with tilting options add some variation to the cutting and are perfect for angled cuts. Generally, the benchtops come with a bevel ability of 45-degree.

Variable speed

You will need to cut different materials with different levels of thickness and a universal speed set is just not going to cut it every time. Your band saw should come with variable speed triggers/dials option to get better control over the speed. This feature is helpful to those who work with a variety of materials and it promotes quality cuts.

Throat size / capacity

The throat size is the space behind the blade that reaches out to the furthest point of the table (column). It is essential for benchtop/free-standing bandsaw. The larger table comes with a larger throat size and the smaller tables have a smaller throat size. For most models of free-standing band saws, the throat size will range from 9 – 21 inches.

Table frame

Band saw work table frames usually come in two styles; cast iron and welded steel. The steel frame resists more vibration under heavy cutting load than cast iron frames. Also, the steel saw enables accurate cutting without reducing the strength and deflection. The steel work table frames come in various sizes that range from 12 – 24 inches. The cast iron table frame is great for day-to-day band saw operations even if their cutting capacities have limited operations.

To learn more about the different features of band saws, watch this video from Stumpy Nubs:

Top Band Saw of 2022

1

WEN 3962 Band Saw

– Best Overall
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THE SCOOP

The WEN band saw features a 3.5 amp motor and is capable of making cuts up to six inches deep. When it comes to speed, this band saw has a higher limit to operate at 2620 FPM and a lower limit of 1520 FPM. Moreover, it comes with a stand, work-light, 3-in-1 dust port, fence, and a miter-gauge. This bandsaw has a 2-year warranty, weighs around 73 pounds, and measures 20″ x 25″ x 58″.

Pros
  • The WEN two-speed band saw has two-speed operations and can be adjusted between 1520 or 2620 RPM as needed
  • Its ball bearings offer an incredibly smooth operation that makes it easier to use, especially for beginners
  • The stand is easy to assemble
  • It comes with a work light
Cons
  • Using a thinner blade can also cause some drifting issues
2

DEWALT DCS371B Band Saw

– Runner Up
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THE SCOOP

The DEWALT band saw runs on lithium-ion batteries, making it easy to use on the go! It has a cut capacity of up to 2″. Unlike many, this band saw has a centered handle that provides excellent positioning, balance, and superior ergonomics. It comes with a blade tracking adjustment feature that allows comfortable and better blade tracking. Let alone wood, you could cut thick hard metal with it!

Pros
  • This DEWALT band saw comes with a range of features including an LED work light to help improve visibility while cutting
  • It has a centered handle is ergonomically designed to provide a strong and comfortable grip
  • It’s a durable option that can withstand drops – a plus point if you’re clumsy
Cons
  • Having to press and hold the trigger while using the saw can be a nuisance
3

Delta 28-400 Steel Frame Band Saw

– Honorable Mention
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THE SCOOP

The Delta steel-framed band saw has a heavy-duty design – comes in a steel frame. Its two-speed motor offers two speed variants, 1,620 FPM and 3,340 FPM. You can use this band saw for wood as well as non-ferrous metal cutting. The best part? This band saw delivers superior blade tracking, thanks to the precisely balanced rubber-coated upper and lower 9 spoke wheels.

Pros
  • It offers incredibly precise cutting in large parts due to its ball-bearing upper and lower blade guides
  • This band saw has an incredible cutting capacity and is able to make cuts up to six inches deep
  • The operation is smooth and clean, thanks to its 1 phase TEFC motor with 2 speeds
Cons
  • It can be a bit of a nuisance to change the speeds when necessary
  • The initial setup of the band saw can be a bit of a challenge
4

RIKON Power Tools 10-326 Bandsaw

– Also Consider
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THE SCOOP

The RIKON Power band saw features three innovative characteristics (patent-pending features) that make adjustment tasks on this band saw a breeze! It comes with tool-less, spring-loaded blade guides that allow for fast and easy setting of the guides without wrenches. Furthermore, the dual volt motor on this band saw offers two blade speeds of 2950 or 1445 FPM, providing ample power for cutting and re-sawing lumber, plastics, non-ferrous metal, composites, and foam.

Pros
  • The RIKON Power band saw includes tool-less blade guides, making it easy to adjust settings as needed while working – without the need for wrenches
  • A system of gears and locks allows users to set table angles in just seconds
  • It has a wonderfully solid construction with little vibration
Cons
  • This band saw is large and heavy, making it unsuitable for most smaller workshops
5

DEWALT Portable Band Saw

– Also Consider
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THE SCOOP

This portable band saw kit comes with a material guide that will allow you to use the saw on a variety of materials for optimal performance. The 10-amp motor is powerful enough to withstand any application.

Moreover, it comes with a convenient LED light that will enable you to use it even in dimly lit areas. The steel and rubber bumpers on this saw will resist any damage over time. With the integrated hook, you’ll be able to hang the saw without damaging it. Last but not least, it comes with a variable speed dial for improved control in different applications!

Pros
  • It comes with a power-control feature to withstand and cater to any job site application
  • This band saw has the industry-best 5-inch deep cut capacity
  • The multi-position, adjustable, large front handle offers the user plenty of hand space to go about different tasks
Cons
  • The stock blade may not be the sharpest – so it’s important to buy 1-2 extra blades
6

Milwaukee 6232-21 Band Saw

– Also Consider
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THE SCOOP

Built with a proprietary composite material that has crush zone barriers for lasting protection, this corded portable band saw will stand the test of time! Heads up: This band saw is quite easy to use and control.

The Milwaukee 6232-21 has an ergonomic design, which allows the tool to rest naturally in the hands of the user. Plus, it comes with an adjustable shoe, a button that allows you to quickly adjust the shoe size in just seconds! The all-metal gearing system of this saw will deliver great results.

Pros
  • It’s built like a tank – it’s sturdy and withstands the drops and abuse
  • It’s a bit heavy and that’s a good thing, you want the weight to do the cutting
  • The blades on this beast last longer than most band saws out there
Cons
  • There’s no hook on the handle to hang it from, so it must be placed flat on the surface/table
  • This band saw is louder than most
7

May Very Portable Bandsaw

– Also Consider
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THE SCOOP

This corded portable band saw has two motor speeds for added convenience and delivering maximum precision to the task at hand. This band saw by May Very is a heavy-duty product, sturdily built, so you may use it for a variety of applications for longer periods! Heck, you may use it daily for months without encountering any troubles or blockers! It’s a bit loud though.

Pros
  • This portable band saw weighs around 20 pounds and has a 1HP, 2-speed motor for seamless deep cutting
  • You could cut round pipes, square pipes, wood – whatever you need to with it
  • It comes loaded with a blade and has 230 FPM (feet-per-minute)
Cons
  • As we mentioned earlier, it’s a bit loud, that’s all
8

WEN 94396 Portable Band Saw

– Also Consider
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THE SCOOP

Weighing only 14.5 pounds, this corded portable band saw is easy to hold for large periods of time without exposing the user to any fatigue. It can make cuts up to 5 x 5″ deep. The WEN 94396 features a metal cutting blade and an adjustable front handle. Moreover, it has a powerful 10-amp motor that can slide easily through wood, plastic, and even metal. The speed dial can operate from 60 to 420-feet per minute depending on your need! This band saw does not come with a saw blade – so keep that in your mind while purchasing.

Pros
  • Cuts 5 inches wide and 5 inches deep – it has a huge cutting capacity
  • The variable-speed operation allows 60 to 420 FPM
  • This band saw comes with a 2-year warranty
Cons
  • It comes without a saw blade
9

DEWALT DWM120K Portable Band Saw

– Also Consider
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THE SCOOP

Heavy-duty bumpers on this band saw protect the delicate blade and mechanics that primarily drive this tool. The cutting area has an LED light for accuracy. A built-in hook allows hanging storage. The variable speeds of the DEWALT Portable Band Saw help with a variety of cutting techniques and materials. Swapping out blades is simple as well! The power switch has to be held down to run; there’s no on/off switch.

Pros
  • It comes with a 10-amp motor that delivers controlled power, enhancing precision and productivity
  • The rubber bumpers and steel shroud of this band saw are serviceable (allowing the product to withstand abuse over time)
  • It has a variable speed dial that allows for speed setting between 100-350 SPM
Cons
  • It doesn’t come with the plastic box for storage (just comes packed in carton)
10

WEN 3975T Benchtop Band Saw

– Also Consider
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THE SCOOP

With an adjustable blade speed between 125 and 260 FPM, this band saw from WEN is the perfect choice for those who need to work with a wide variety of metal types.

WEN’s band saw is quite capable, despite its compact size. Just as advertised, it handles many types of metals. It’s also the perfect size for smaller workspaces since it’s easy to store. Unfortunately, the angle marking is inaccurate by about two degrees. 

 
Pros
  • This product is backed up by a 2-year warranty
  • It has a compact design paving way for easy storage and transportation
Cons
  • It screeches like a banshee while cutting
11

Milwaukee 2429-21XC M12 Bandsaw Kit

– Also Consider
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THE SCOOP

A single charge powers this band saw for more than 100 cuts of the adjustable blade. It meets OSHA guidelines for safety and has an LED light to illuminate the cut line.

Changing the blades on the Milwaukee 2429-21XC M12 Cordless Sub-Compact Bandsaw Kit is a quick and simple process. The variable speed trigger offers maximum control over the cut. There is no hook for hanging storage. The power is sufficient for ordinary uses on EMT conduit and PVC but may be too weak for heavy-duty jobs. Overall, it’s a great bandsaw and reliable choice!

Pros
  • You can use this bandsaw to cut everything – from cutting EMT to the threaded rod to thick gauge wire
  • It comes with a hard plastic case and charger
  • This band saw is designed for one-hand use
Cons
  • It doesn’t have a speed adjustment feature

People Also Asked

Q: What type of cuts can be made with a bandsaw?

A: Bandsaws are perfect for a variety of cuts. They function well for resawing, curved cuts, irregular cuts, crosscuts, bevel cuts, compound cuts, miter cuts, and rip cuts.

Q: What is the difference between a bandsaw and jigsaw?

A: Bandsaws typically have a blade that cuts in a continuous loop, the jigsaw blades go up and down.

Q: Will I need a specific saw blade for certain cuts?

A: Yes, you will. To cut different kinds of materials, you’ll want to ensure you use the proper blade for that material such as metal.

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By Woodsmith Review Team
The Woodsmith Review Team’s product reviews and in-depth guides are here to help you choose the best tools and gear to build great-looking projects confidently. The content is created by The Woodsmith Review Team. Woodsmith’s editorial staff is not involved. Woodsmith is reader-supported: When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
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