Herbert Miller
In woodworking or metalworking projects, one of the most expensive additions to your tool inventory is a band saw. These power tools look like a beast and often run over a thousand dollars. Hence, before you buy one, you need to do your research right so that you don’t end up with the wrong machine!
It’s not every day you buy a massive band saw. So, make sure to take your time and consider your work requirements and personal preferences. Only then, start looking for a band saw and get the one that ticks all the boxes!
Since you are here, we believe you are fully aware of all the benefits and convenience a band saw could bring into your workshop. Hence, we won’t go through that. Instead, we’ll directly take you through some of the best band saws in the market today that you can buy.
Our list of the 10 best band saws is a versatile one. We have picked different products that offer different features. Thus, make sure to read through every review before getting your hands on the one that suits you best!
Our Top Picks:
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Best Overall
Grizzly G0555 The Ultimate
- Durable
- Sturdy build
- Versatile
- Precise
- Value for money
Premium Choice
Powermatic PM1500
- Heavy-duty band saw
- Durable
- Great resaw capacity
- Excellent safety
Best Budget
WEN 3962 Two-Speed
- Great adjustability
- Two-speed settings
- Affordable
- Powerful
- Inbuilt light for added visibility
1. Grizzly G0555 The Ultimate Band Saw
First up, we have an amazing band saw from the well-known brand, Grizzly. The Grizzly G0555 band saw has made it to our best overall position for all the right reasons. It includes tons of features and comes at a reasonable price point.
The Grizzly band saw is a versatile one as it can cut through various materials without making any noise. It can also perform multiple cutting methods, including crosscuts, circles, resaw, curved cuts, etc.
With a cast iron cutting table and frame, this unit is also super durable and sturdy. Another impressive feature of this band saw is its precise aluminum t-shaped fence, ball-bearing blade guides, and miter gauge. Also, it includes computerized aluminum wheels for added precision and a user-friendly experience.
Pros:
- Durable
- Sturdy build
- Computerized wheels
- Versatile
- Precise
- Value for money
- Great cutting capacity
Cons:
- Does not include a warranty
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2. Powermatic PM1500 Band Saw
If you’re looking for a premium, heavy-duty, and durable band saw for your workshop, this can be your go-to! The Powermatic PM1500 band saw comes with a huge work table that is expandable. Unlike other traditional band saws, this unit features a 14-inch resaw capacity and 14½ inch throat capacity.
Additionally, the band saw uses a 153-inch blade with thickness ranging from 1/8 inches to 1-inch. Like other Powermatic band saws, this model also features the signature T-square Accu-Fence that maximizes safety and accuracy.
Though this band saw is massive and packed with excellent features, it is extremely easy to use. Hence, it is perfect for all woodworkers, DIYers, and hobbyists out there.
Pros:
- Heavy-duty band saw
- Durable
- Massive expandable work table
- Great resaw capacity
- Excellent safety
- Features a foot brake
Cons:
- Quite expensive
3. WEN 3962 Two-Speed Band Saw
The WEN 3962 band saw is a total steal as compared to the awesome features it offers. This band saw comes in three size variants – 9inch, 10inch, and 14inch. Hence, you can buy any size depending on your project requirements.
The great thing about this band saw is that it stands on a highly adjustable stand that tilts up to 45 degrees. The unit operates on a 3.5 amp motor that features two-speed settings – 1520 FPM and 2620 FPM.
As far as the blades are concerned, it uses 72-inch long blades with a width variation of 1/8 inch to ½ inches. The saw also features a 9¾ inch throat and 6-inch resaw capacity, which is pretty decent for the price you pay.
Pros:
- Great adjustability
- Two-speed settings
- Affordable
- Straight and precise cuts
- Powerful
- Features an inbuilt light for added visibility
Cons:
- Initial assembly is quite difficult.
- Sensitive controls
4. Shop Fox W1706 Band Saw
Next up, we have a professional-grade band saw by the brand Shop Fox. Shop Fox is a popular brand in the market of power tools. Hence, when you come across a product from the brand, you know you’re putting your money in the right place.
The Shop Fox W1706 comes with some crazy features that you can expect from high-end band saws such as a storage cabinet, cast iron upper and lower wheels, 1 HP motor to cut through even the hardest workpieces, etc.
It is a freestanding band saw that uses a 93½-inch blade and offers a 14-inch table. The only possible drawback of this unit is its cutting height at 6-inches. However, you can even fix this by purchasing the Shop Fox extension kit and adjusting the cutting height to 12-inches.
The band saw has a very straightforward design with a slim build. Hence, it fits conveniently into small workshops without occupying much space.
Pros:
- Large work table
- Cast iron upper and lower wheels
- 1 HP motor power
- Two-year warranty
- Storage available
Cons:
- Limited 6-inch cutting height
5. SKIL 3386-01 Band Saw
The SKIL 3386-01 band saw is relatively smaller than other band saws on our list and is more suitable for DIYers and hobbyists. Thus, for all the DIY enthusiasts out there who want a decent band saw without breaking the bank, you can rely on the SKIL 3386-01 band saw.
It is a stand-alone band saw that is useful for cutting through irregular shapes of wood and ripping them into thinner stacks. The saw operates on a 2.5 AMP 120V motor and offers a 9-inch throat capacity with a cutting height of 3½ inches.
This unit features a 12×11 inches table and accepts blade dimensions of 59½ inches long with varying widths between 1/8-inch and 3/8-inch. Hence, this band saw is perfect for minor projects and other DIY decorative works.
Additional features include an inbuilt LED work light, dust port, miter gauge, and a rip fence.
Pros:
- Excellent features
- Lightweight and compact
- Inexpensive
- Anti-vibration feature
- Suitable for DIYS and minor projects
Cons:
- Not suitable for heavy-duty work
- Low power
6. Jet JWBS- 14DXPRO Deluxe Pro Band Saw
Next up, we have a band saw that is all about convenience, reliability, and balance – none other than the JWBS-14DXPRO model by Jet. With a large cutting capacity of 13½ x 12 inches, this band saw is suitable for cutting through any kind of wood. It also does not require any riser block as the cast iron frame keeps the entire structure firm and steady.
It offers a 15-inch work table that can be tilt up to 45 degrees right and 10 degrees to the left. Like other high-quality band saws in this price range, the Jet Deluxe Pro unit also offers a storage compartment. Additionally, with a 1¼ HP motor and a 12-inch resaw capacity, this unit is excellent for heavy-duty cutting works.
Pros:
- Easy adjustments
- Storage available
- Large capacity
- Five-year warranty
- Sturdy frame
- Large table
Cons:
- The price is on the higher side.
- Does not include a rip fence
7. Delta 28-400 Steel Frame Band Saw
The Delta 28-400 band saw is a mid-price-ranged model that supports both wood and metal cutting. It works on a 1 HP motor and comes with adjustable speed settings – 1620 FPM and 3340 FPM.
It features a massive 15¾ inch by 18 7/8 inch cast iron work table, which is slightly larger than other similar band saws on this list. Since it has a heavy-duty steel frame, you can barely feel any vibration while working on this beast.
It has a 6-inch height capacity, a poly v-belt drive, and a dust brush. With two aluminum upper and lower nine-spoke wheels, this band saw’s precision and sturdiness are top-notch.
Pros:
- Adjustable speed options
- Can work on wood and metal
- Massive work table
- Heavy-duty steel construction
Cons:
- Does not include extra features
8. POWERTEC BS900 Benchtop Band Saw
The POWERTEC BS900 band saw is one of the most low-priced and lightweight band saws in the market. If you’re just getting started with woodworking projects or other minor works, this band saw can be a good start!
For the price you pay, you get a pretty decent performance from this band saw. It features a 2.5 amp motor that runs at 1725 RPMs. It offers an 11¾-inch table that tilts at 45-degrees, which is enough for most DIY projects. You can easily adjust the blade to get a 2-inch angled cut or 3 5/8 inches cut on flat surfaces.
Additionally, this unit features a quick-release blade action, aluminum cast table, miter gauge, and 2-inch dust port.
Pros:
- Low price
- Easy to use
- Suitable for crafts, DIY works, and other minor projects
- Lightweight
- Includes tracking window
Cons:
- Low motor power
- Not suitable for heavy works
9. Makita XBP02Z Portable Band Saw
For those of you looking for a portable hand-held band saw, we’ve got something for you as well! The Makita XBP02Z band saw operates on an 18V lithium battery and offers a cordless cutting experience. It is popular for its lightweight, compact, and torque motor features.
The inbuilt motor on this band saw allows you to adjust the speed between 275 and 530 FPM. It has an ergonomic design with a rubber grip handle to reduce fatigue and enhance the working experience. It also features an inbuilt LED light for better visibility and on-board wrench storage.
Pros:
- Used for multiple metal cutting projects
- Inbuilt LED light and wrench storage.
- Easy on/off feature
- Affordable
- Durable
- Great rubber grip
Cons:
- You need to buy the battery and charger separately.
- Does not include a warranty
10. Grizzly Industrial G0561 Metal-Cutting Band Saw
If you’re looking for a band saw that would strictly help you in metal-cutting works, the Grizzly Industrial G0561 band saw can be an ideal pick. It is compact and portable as it comes with caster wheels.
This band saw can cut in two styles – 7×12 inches rectangular stocks and 7-inches round shapes. You can adjust the cutting speeds in four settings – 8-, 130, 180, and 235 FPMs. The 1 HP motor power can conveniently cut through any metal blocks.
Other additional features include a quick-release vise, hydraulic down feed control, vertical cutting options, coolant system, and an automatic shut-off system.
Pros:
- Four-speed settings
- Features auto-off feature
- Precise metal cuttings
- Packed with features
Cons:
- Heavy
Band Saw Buyer’s Guide:
Here are some things that you should keep in mind while buying a band saw:
Power source:
There are two main types of band saws based on the power source – benchtop or corded band saws and compact or cordless ones. Both types come with their own advantages and disadvantages. A corded band saw will run as long as it is connected to a power source. They are also usually more powerful and precise. However, sometimes, the cord may limit your movements.
On the other hand, a cordless band saw operates on a battery. This puts limitations on the usage period. However, the plus point is that you can carry this around your workshop and from one job site to another.
Hence, choosing a type completely depends on your requirements.
Motor:
This is one of the most important things to consider while buying a band saw. All band saws come with either a brushed motor or a brushless one. Brushless motors tend to be more powerful and generate less noise than the usual ones.
Also, don’t forget to check the power of the motor. You can measure it in amps and can easily find this information on the label. The higher the speed, the stronger the machine! Hence, depending upon your workload, pick the right motor power.
Ease of use:
Nobody wants to waste hours cracking how to use a machine, let alone working on it. Hence, go for band saws that have a simple design with a user-friendly approach. This is even more important if you’re just starting out as a woodworker.
Most of the above band saws come with a detailed instruction manual. Thus, you won’t have a hard time learning how to use the machine.
Tilt feature:
For bevel cutting, you’ll need a band saw that offers tilting features. Thus, if your projects require you to make tons of angled cuts, make sure that the band saw you buy can be tilted. Most band saws offer up to 45 degrees tilt features.
Conclusion:
If you are still here with us, we believe you have found your perfect match! All the above-reviewed products are among the best-selling band saws in the market that are loved by several customers. Hence, whichever one you pick, we are confident that you won’t regret your decision.
It is not an easy task to buy any product online. However, we believe our reviews and buyer’s guide have helped you make a better decision.
