Have less time to spare? These are my top selections for the best pole saw of 2023.
Best Overall
DEWALT DCS371B
- The saw has a 2 ½ inch cut capacity
- It is equipped with LED work light containing 20-second delay feature
- Has a cordless, portable design; ideal for outdoor work
Best 10 inch Bandsaw
WEN 3962
- Has a powerful 3.5 Amp motor
- It cuts 6 inches deep and 9 ¾ inches wide
- Comes with a spacious work table bevels up to 45 degrees
- Dual-operation speed: 1520 RPM and 2620 RPM
Best Benchtop Band Saw
WEN 3959
- Has a generous workspace
- Has a 2 ½ inch dust port
- It is powered by 2.5 amp motor
- It can cut through materials 3 ½ inches deep and 9 inches wide
Anyone familiar with the world of band saws must know that, even though there are tons of devices to choose from, only a tiny percentage of them are worth considering. But in the sea of choices, how do you pick one?
To make things easier for you, I have handpicked a set of 7 of the best band saw choices out there (including handy DIY band saws and unique, small band saws) and penned honest, individual reviews for them all.
However, despite them all being good band saws, you’ll only be able to select one, which is why you must go over each of these reviews in thorough detail!
7 Best Band Saws Reviews
Below is a collection of the very best band saw options in 2023. Each of these has its own set of unique characteristics that set it apart from its competitors, which have been carefully analyzed within these band saw reviews.
1. DEWALT DCS371B
Why you’ll choose it
Impressive Cut Capacity:
The DEWALT DCS371B can cut through materials that are up to 2 ½ inches thick with remarkable ease. For SCH 40 pipes, this capacity is at 2 inches.
Contains LED Work Light:
Thanks to the LED work light, you can use this saw in portable metal cutting band saw in dimly lit conditions, or use the light to illuminate the area when working on tedious projects that require extra focus.
Cordless Design:
Cordless devices allow you complete freedom of movement; the DEWALT DCS371B mini band saw can run for up to 30 minutes without needing to be plugged in again.
Centered Handle:
This device contains a centered handle position which allows you to hold your balance perfectly when holding onto it.
Integrated Hang Hook:
To hang this small metal bandsaw, simply employ its integrated hang hook. Hanging the device allows it to rest without the danger of damaging the front handle or base.
Dual-Bearing Blade Guide Rollers:
These provide increased durability and support seamless blade movement, allowing for an excellent and comfortable user experience.
What It’s good for
This professional bandsaw contains a 20V li-ion battery that allows it to run for up to 30 minutes on end, making it one of the best band saw options for those who want a reliable device that doesn’t need to be recharged too often.
Who should buy it
The DEWALT DCS371B is easily the best band saw under 500 for those who want a lightweight and portable handheld band saw. It weighs just 9 pounds, making it one of the least heavy mobile bandsaws out there.
Features
- 20V li-ion battery
- 30-minute run time
- Cordless mini metal bandsaw
- Weight: 8 lbs
- Length: 15 in
- Contains 14/18 tpi blade
Drawback
Bare tool; battery and charger not included
2. WEN 3962
Why you’ll choose it
3.5 Amp Motor:
This standing bandsaw can cut up to 6 inches deep and 9 3/4 inches wide thanks to its powerful 3.5-amp motor
Spacious Work Table:
The WEN 3962 contains a 14 1/8 x 12 ½ inch work table that offers a bevel range of 45 degrees.
Dual-Operation Speed:
The WEN 3962 two-speed bandsaw can operate at both 1520 RPM and 2620 RPM, allowing you to achieve all kinds of cuts by varying the blade speed.
2-Year warranty:
This stationary band saw comes with a 2-year long warranty coverage package accompanied by excellent customer service facilities.
What It’s good for
The WEN 3962 bandsaw can operate at 2 speeds and cuts 6 inches deep. These facts alone are enough to set it apart from most of the other band saws available in the market. You can also use this heavy duty bandsaw as a standalone device or place it over a benchtop counter.
Who should buy it
All those in search of a powerful and spacious commercial bandsaw should definitely consider the WEN 3962 two-speed band saw with stand and worklight, 10″. It also contains a handy work light, so if you’re used to working in dim lit conditions, the work light can add an extra layer of much-needed illumination.
Features
- Employs 72 inch blades
- Two speed options: 1520 RPM, 2620 RPM
- 2-year warranty
- Contains miter gauge, work light, and 3-in-1 dust port
Drawback
This bend saw is not pre-assembled
For more in-depth information, please check our Wen 3962 review
3. WEN 3959
Why you’ll choose it?
Extremely Fast Blade Rotation:
The WEN 3959 contains a 2.5 amp motor that allows its blade to rotate at high speed of 2500 feet per minute.
Deep Cut Technology:
This device can easily cut through materials that are 3 ½ inches deep and 9 inches wide.
Generous Workspace:
This saw contains a large work surface that’s 12 ¼ inches by 11 7/8 inches, allowing you enough space to take on large-scale sawing tasks as well as smaller ones.
Built-In Dust Port:
Thanks to its 2 ½ inch dust port, the WEN 3959 does an excellent job at keeping its work surface clean and dust-free at all times.
What it’s good for
The WEN 3959 2.5-amp 9-inch benchtop band saw has a generous work table size, which makes it a clear winner. It has led to a rise in its best band saw ratings on important product platforms like Amazon. Another appreciable element is its 2 ½ inch dust port that helps maintain a dust-free zone, which is particularly important for asthmatics and people with respiratory diseases.
Who should buy it
Anyone looking for a quality benchtop band saw should consider this one. It can make deep cuts, allows for extremely fast blade rotation, and supports cuts up to 3 ½ inches deep – this band saw is perfect for people of all skill levels! If you’re looking for cheap band saws, this is a great option.
Features
- Weight: 40 lbs
- Dimensions: 19 x 14.1 x 29 in
- Measures in metric system
- Powered by li-ion batteries
Drawback
Does not perform well on wood laminate, according to WEN 3959 reviews.
4. DEWALT DCS374B
Why you’ll choose it
5 Inch Cutting Capacity:
The DEWALT DCS374B handheld band saw allows you to cut through materials that are up to 5 inches thick.
Tool-Less Blade Change:
Simply lift this device’s blade changing level to loosen blade tension, after which you can replace the old blade with a new one – no tools required!
Variable Speed Function:
This quality band saw allows you to choose from a range of speeds, allowing maximum versatility and control during the cutting process. It is easily one of the best variable speed band saws on the market.
Extremely Lightweight:
The DEWALT DCS374B 20V max deep cut band saw weighs just 12.4 pounds, making it remarkably easy to carry around. You can use it as a hand bandsaw without causing muscle strain and tension.
What it’s good for
This wood cutting band saw offers excellent portability. This cheap bandsaw weighs just over 12 pounds, which makes it good for carpenters who are always on the go.
Who Should Buy It
This top rated band saw is ideal for beginners who aren’t familiar with the traditional blade changing system. Instead of needing to employ multiple tools for a blade change session, all you need to do is pull a single lever to get the job done! According to band saws reviews, this is a strong contender for the best bandsaw under 500.
Features
- Weight: 12.4 lbs
- Dimensions: 24.4 x 13 x 8.27 in
- Li-ion battery, 20V
Drawback
Only functions with 44-45 inch blades (limited blade range)
5. Rikon 10-305
Why you’ll choose it
Solid Steel Frame:
This big bandsaw is fashioned from a powerful steel plate that is much stronger than the plastic frames commonly found in band saws at home depot and other everyday stores.
Cast Iron Table:
This resawing band saw has a large cast iron table that does an excellent job at absorbing vibrations, allowing you to create perfectly straight and precise cuts.
Excellent Resaw Capacity:
The Rikon 10-305 bandsaw has a brilliant resaw capacity of 4 5/8 inches, making it a best band saw contender for woodworking and related resawing tasks.
2 Inch Tall Fence:
This timber band saw contains a 2 inch tall fence that allows for accurate resawing of wood and other relevant materials.
What it’s good for
This precision bandsaw is an excellent American made band saw that promises quality thanks to its sturdy steel frame. The Rikon 10-305 bandsaw with fence, 10-inch has a 2 inch tall fence that allows it to be used for resawing purposes, but it can also be used for regular saw work.
Who should buy it
Those looking for an easy-to-use, timber bandsaw with resawing abilities should definitely consider the Rikon bandsaw 10-305.
Features
- Weight: 75.8 lbs
- Dimensions: 35.5 x 18 x 13 in
- 2 inch tall fence
- 0.33 horse power
- 5-year warranty
Drawback
One of the large band saws, not ideal for small workshops
For in-depth information, check Rikon 10-305 review
6. Grizzly G0555LX
Why you’ll choose it
Cast Iron Table and Frame:
This device’s cast iron table and frame can easily absorb vibrations caused by fast-moving blades, ultimately allowing for cleaner, more precise cuts.
14 Inch Throat:
This device’s 14 inch throat allows it to cater to lengths of wood and other materials that are up to 28 inches long.
CSA Certified:
As a CSA certified device, you are promised both quality and safety when using the Grizzly G0555LX.
Rubber Tires:
The computer balanced rubber tires supporting this device help increase surface friction, ensuring that this band saw does not slide around when it is in use.
What it’s good for
The Grizzly G0555LX Deluxe Bandsaw, 14-inch offers excellent stability thanks to its noise-reduction elements, including a cast iron frame and worktable, plus its non-slip rubber tires. These features have made the Grizzly G0555LX one of the best band saw options out there.
This is also an excellent wood band saw. Do keep in mind that it should not be used on metal.
Who should buy it
This is a good hobby band saw for anyone who needs a device with a specific throat size of 14 inches for woodwork and is looking for the best band saw under 1000.
Features
- Measures in metric system
- Dimensions: 45 x 21.5 x 18 in
- Eye-catching green color
- Made in Taiwan
Drawback
Extremely heavy; weighs 247 lbs
7. WEN 3975T
Why you’ll choose it
Impressive Bevel Range:
This device allows you to create extraordinary cuts and designs thanks to its 0 to 60 degree bevel capacity.
Compact Design:
The WEN 3975T is one of the most compact and easy-to-store steel cutting band saws out there.
Adjustable Blade Speed:
This machine allows you to choose any blade speed between 125 and 260 feet per minute so you can work with different metals.
Large Cut Depth:
You can cut through pipes and rectangular materials that are up to 5 inches in size using the WEN 3975T bandsaw.
What it’s Good for
This is a useful device for creating detailed designs and achieving complex cuts, both of which are possible thanks to its 60 degree bevel feature.
It also has an excellent cut depth, making it helpful in slicing through larger pipes and chunks of metal.
Who should buy it
Those who want a compact band saw that does an excellent job at cutting through metals should seriously consider the WEN 3975T benchtop band saw.
Features
- Weight: 54.6 lbs
- Dimensions: 29.5 x 18.82 x 15.91 in
- Powered by li-ion batteries
- 2-year warranty
Drawback
Complex bevel system may be tricky for beginners to use
Factors to consider before choosing a band saw
If you’re new to band saws, don’t worry! I’ve compiled a detailed best band saw guide for you below to help you understand what to keep an eye out for when purchasing one of these tools:
i. Corded vs. Cordless:
The best bandsaws come in both corded and cordless (compact) versions. If you prioritize freedom of movement or plan on working outdoors, a cordless version is the way to go. However, suppose most of your carpentry work takes place indoors (or anywhere that allows access to a plug-in power source). In that case, I’d suggest going for a corded version.
Corded band saws can be either free-standing cabinet types or benchtop ones. Some devices can also transform from one form into the other with a few simple adjustments.
These wired best band saws typically offer a greater cut depth than their cordless counterparts. They also come with a worktable equipped with a bevel function, which can be extremely useful when you’re trying to achieve advanced cuts.
Cordless ones, on the other hand, can be put into action virtually anywhere. They are incredibly lightweight, unlike their corded counterparts, and can be carried around with ease. However, you’ll most likely need an external work surface if you plan on using a cordless band saw because they don’t come with a built-in one.
ii. Bandsaw Throat Size:
Before buying the best band saw, stop and ask yourself: “what size bandsaw do I need?”
Your bandsaw’s throat size determines what length of wood it can cut through in one go. The larger your saw’s throat size, the longer the piece of wood (or another relevant material) it can fit inside itself.
One of the most popular variants is the 14inch band saw. These can fit material that’s up to 28 inches long, which, by rule, is twice the length of the bandsaw’s throat.
Throat sizes may start at 9 inches in some band saws and go up to 21 inches in others. The size you choose to buy should be large enough to accommodate your material’s requirements. So, if you typically employ longer pieces of material, be sure to opt for a band saw with a large throat size!
iii. Bevel and Work Table:
Bevel only applies to corded devices that contain built-in tables. On that note, tables can be of two types: cast iron or steel. Cast iron is generally regarded as the superior option because of its natural ability to absorb the continuous vibrations that are caused by a moving blade.
A work table’s ability to tilt upwards (or downwards) at an angle refers to a bevel. Most best band saw tables offer an up to 45-degree bevel, which is enough to help users achieve a position at which they can create all kinds of cuts and designs.
iv. Lamp:
While not all band saws will come with an attached lamp light, it’s always a good thing to have one around.
These lamps can be handy when you’re working on a tedious, angled cut that requires excellent focus. To achieve the right amount of attention to detail, you must be able to clearly see what you’re cutting.
Suppose your work table isn’t sufficiently illuminated. In that case, you risk the chance of cutting your fingers, especially when you’re working with a high blade speed. To help avoid such mishaps, try finding a device that comes with a built-in lamp light.
Frequently Asked Questions
Now that you know what things to keep in mind when deciding which band saw to buy, let’s clear up some more queries with these popular FAQs:
What is the best bandsaw for the money?
Our top pick is the DEWALT DCS371B. If you’re looking for a band saw for sale, feel free to go over the top band saws listed above.
However, if you’ve already done this and still can’t decide which one to choose, it’s better to review the buying guide once more. This will help you gain insight into the different types of band saws and things you should be looking for when making a purchase. As a result, reading over the guide can ultimately help you choose a product that’s best suited to your needs.
Which band saw should I buy?
The best cordless pole saw is the Black + Decker LPP120
.
What is the best benchtop bandsaw?
The WEN 3959 Band Saw is hands down the best benchtop option on this list. Its blades can rotate extremely fast thanks to its 2.5 amp motor, and it can make cuts as deep as 3 ½ inches in no time.
Furthermore, it offers a generous table top workspace and contains a built in 2 ½ inch dust port, making it hands down the best band saw for benchtop use.
What is the best beginner band saw?
If you’re a beginner, small band saws might be a good idea to start with. Larger ones may come across as overwhelming, especially if you’re just starting out with band saws, which is why I’d advise buying the compact DEWALT DCS371B Band Saw.
This device weighs just 9 pounds and offers excellent portability. Also, it can cut through a maximum of 2 inches of material, which makes it a suitable choice for beginners.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are many excellent band saw brands out there, each putting out a fine range of products. However, as a serious buyer, you can only choose one band saw. So, before selecting the best band saw, be sure to conduct a bandsaw comparison. You can look at bandsaw reviews and refer to the band saw buying guide to get an idea of what you should be looking for.
It’s also helpful to understand your priorities and device requirements before you make the purchase. So, for example, if you’re on a tight budget, keep an eye out for a cheap band saw instead of wasting time looking at expensive options with high band saw prices. Additionally, to find the right product, you can also look for a band saw sale online.
Once you understand your requirements, you can keep an eye out for an Amazon band saw that falls into those categories.
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