His interested in DIY started in high school, and eventually led to him studying an BEng in Enginneering at University of California, Berkley and then Mechanical Engineering at Stanford University.
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Woodworking enthusiasts, DIYers, and professionals know that having the right tools can make all the difference in the success of a project. One such essential tool is the band saw, which allows for precise and intricate cuts in various materials. However, when you decide to buy a band saw, you’ll be surprised as there are multiple brands offering these saws.
That’s why we’ve compiled this comprehensive list of the best band saws under $200, $300, $500, and $1000 to help you make an informed decision and get the most value for your money.
Best Band Saws Under $200, $300, $500 & $1000 (Jan 2025)
Best Band Saws Under $200
The band saws in this category offer a great balance of affordability and functionality, making them ideal for beginners and those working with a tight budget. These band saws are perfect for basic and DIY tasks as they have features that can handle different types of materials. The following are our best choices for the best band saws under $200:
1. WEN 3959 Benchtop Band Saw
The WEN 3959 2.5-Amp 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw is a good choice for those seeking a reasonable and efficient band saw. Its 2.5-amp motor provides ample power for various cutting applications, while the compact design makes it suitable for small workshops or limited spaces.
This band saw features a spacious 12 x 12-inch work table, an adjustable blade guard, and a 2.5-inch dust port to help keep your workspace clean. The WEN 3959 is capable of cutting up to 9 inches wide and 3-1/2 inches deep, making it a versatile choice for woodworkers and hobbyists alike.
- Affordable price point
- Compact design suitable for small workshops
- Spacious 12 x 12-inch work table
- 2.5-inch dust port for a cleaner workspace
- Provides accurate cutting with good width and depth
- Not suitable for heavy-duty tasks
- May require more frequent adjustments and maintenance
2. BOSCH GCB18V-2N 18V Compact Band Saw
The BOSCH GCB18V-2N 18V Compact Band Saw is a versatile and powerful cutting tool that offers the convenience of cordless operation. Designed for portability and ease of use, this compact band saw is perfect for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike who require a reliable saw for various cutting tasks.Â
The 18V battery provides ample power for consistent performance, while the ergonomic design ensures comfortable operation during extended use. This BOSCH band saw features a 2-1/2-inch cutting capacity, making it suitable for a wide range of materials, including metal, wood, and plastic.Â
The tool’s blade tracking adjustment ensures precise alignment, while the integrated LED work light enhances visibility in low-light conditions. The GCB18V-2N also boasts a no-load blade speed of 530 surface feet per minute, allowing for fast and efficient cutting across various applications.
- Cordless operation for increased portability and convenience
- 2-1/2-inch cutting capacity for versatile use
- Ergonomic design for comfortable operation
- Blade tracking adjustment for precise alignment
- Integrated LED work light for improved visibility
- More costly as battery and charger are sold separately
- Some users may prefer a larger cutting capacity for more demanding tasks
3. POWERTEC BS900V Benchtop Bandsaw
The POWERTEC BS900V 9 Inch Benchtop Bandsaw is suitable for those who need a reasonably priced and lightweight cutting machine. This user-friendly bandsaw is perfect for hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts who require a versatile and precise tool for various woodworking projects.
With its 2.5-amp motor, the BS900V provides consistent performance and is capable of handling a wide range of cutting tasks.
This benchtop bandsaw features a spacious 12 x 12-inch cast aluminum work table, which can tilt up to 45 degrees for bevel cuts. The saw’s blade tracking window allows for easy alignment, while the quick-release blade tension lever ensures fast and hassle-free blade changes.Â
The POWERTEC BS900V also includes a built-in dust port, keeping your workspace clean and free of debris.
- Compact and affordable design suitable for hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts
- 2.5-amp motor for consistent performance across various cutting tasks
- Spacious 12 x 12-inch tilting work table for added versatility
- Smooth alignment with the blade tracking window
- Quick and easy blade changesÂ
- Not ideal for professional and heavy-duty projects
- Some users may find the assembly process challenging
Best Band Saws Under $300
Band saws in this price range offer more power and features than their budget counterparts, making them suitable for more demanding tasks and advanced users. They generally have a larger cutting capacity and provide better performance overall. The following are our picks for the best band saws under $300:
4. Ryobi BS904G 9″ BANDSAW Green
The Ryobi BS904G 9″ BANDSAW is another budget-friendly option that offers reliable performance and versatility. The bandsaw features a powerful induction motor that allows the user to handle various cutting tasks with great accuracy and improved efficiency.
The BS904G features a tilting work table that can be adjusted from 0 to 45 degrees, allowing for angled cuts and greater flexibility in your projects. Additionally, the rack and pinion blade adjustment ensures accurate blade tension and tracking, while the quick-release blade tension lever makes blade changes a breeze. The integrated dust collection system keeps your workspace clean and free from debris.
- Budget-friendly option
- 2.5-amp induction motor for reliable performance
- Tilting work table for angled cuts
- Rack and pinion blade adjustment for accurate tension and tracking
- Efficient dust collection feature for a debris-free workspace
- Not the best choice for professional tasks
- Limited cutting capacity compared to larger models
5. SKIL 3386-01 2.5-Amp 9-Inch Band Saw
The SKIL 3386-01 2.5-Amp 9-Inch Band Saw is an ideal choice for those looking for an entry-level band saw with a compact design and user-friendly features. This saw boasts a 2.5-amp motor that provides sufficient power for most light to medium-duty cutting tasks, making it an excellent option for hobbyists and occasional woodworkers.
The 3386-01 band saw comes with a work table that can be tilted up to 45 degrees for bevel cuts. The saw also features an adjustable rip fence with a miter gauge for added precision and versatility in cutting.Â
The LED work light illuminates the cutting area, enhancing visibility and accuracy. The saw’s EZ view blade tracking ensures proper blade alignment and improved blade performance.
- Compact and user-friendly design
- 120V 2.5-amp motor suitable for light to medium-duty tasks
- Tilting work table for bevel cuts
- Adjustable rip fence with miter gauge for precision cutting
- Better visibility due to LED light
- Professional usage may require better features than this one
- Some users may find the build quality lacking compared to more expensive models
6. Grizzly Industrial G0803Z – 9″ Benchtop Bandsaw With Laser Guide
The Grizzly Industrial G0803Z 9″ Benchtop Bandsaw is a feature-rich option for woodworkers who want a reliable and precise band saw without overspending. Equipped with a 1/3 HP motor, this saw can handle various materials and tasks with ease. The laser guide ensures accuracy and precision during cutting, making it an invaluable addition to any workshop.
The G0803Z boasts a large 11-3/4 x 11-3/4-inch cast aluminum table with a 45-degree tilting capability for bevel cuts. The saw also features a quick-release blade tension lever, an adjustable rip fence with a miter gauge, and a built-in LED work light for better visibility. The 2-1/2-inch dust port helps keep your work area clean and dust-free.
- 1/3 HP motor for versatile cutting
- Laser guide for enhanced accuracy and precision
- Broad tilting table provides better bevel cuts
- Quick blade changes with the blade tension lever
- Improved visibility with the built-in LED light
- The laser guide is a bit difficult to align
- May not be suitable for heavy-duty tasks
Best Band Saws Under $500
In this price range, band saws offer enhanced performance, features, and durability suitable for more advanced users and professional workshops. These models typically have larger cutting capacities, more powerful motors, and better overall build quality. These are our choices for the best band saws under $500:
7. Rikon 10-305 Bandsaw With Fence, 10-Inch
The Rikon 10-305 Bandsaw is a mid-range option that delivers impressive performance without breaking the bank. Its 1/3 HP motor offers enough power for a wide range of cutting applications, while the large 13-3/4 x 12-1/2-inch cast iron table provides ample workspace and stability.
This 10-inch band saw features a sturdy steel frame, a 4-5/8-inch cutting capacity, and a 2-inch tall rip fence that can be easily removed for freehand work. The micro-adjustable guidepost ensures precise blade adjustments, while the safety paddle switch prevents accidental start-ups. The Rikon 10-305 is an excellent choice for serious hobbyists or those looking to upgrade from an entry-level band saw.
- Powerful 1/3 HP motor
- Large cast iron table for added stability
- Sturdy steel frame construction
- 4-5/8-inch cutting capacity
- Micro-adjustable guidepost for precise blade adjustments
- Assembly is a bit difficult
- The supplied blade may need to be replaced for optimal performance
8. Klutch Benchtop Metal Cutting Band Saw
The Klutch Benchtop Metal Cutting Band Saw is a robust and reliable cutting tool designed specifically for metalworking applications. With a powerful 1 HP motor, this bandsaw delivers exceptional performance and precision, making it an ideal choice for professionals, as well as DIY enthusiasts who frequently work with metal materials.Â
The saw’s compact design allows for easy storage and portability, while its durable construction ensures long-lasting use. This Klutch band saw offers a 3-inch cutting capacity, which is perfect for handling various metal materials such as tubes, pipes, and profiles.Â
The adjustable blade guide enhances precision, while the three-speed operation allows users to select the optimal cutting speed for the task at hand. The saw also features an automatic shutoff function, which stops the blade once the cut is complete, ensuring safety during operation.
- Powerful 1 HP motor for efficient metal cutting
- Compact design for easy storage and portability
- 3-inch cutting capacity suitable for various metal materials
- Adjustable blade guide for enhanced precision
- Three-speed operation for optimal cutting performance
- Woodworking tasks are difficult with this saw
- Limited cutting capacity compared to larger, more expensive models
Best Band Saws Under $1000
Band saws in this price range are top-of-the-line models, offering the best performance, features, and build quality. These saws are designed for professional use and serious woodworking enthusiasts who demand the best tools for their projects. These are the reviews of the best band saws under $1000:
9. WEN 3966T Two-Speed Band Saw
The WEN 3966T 14-Inch Two-Speed Band Saw offers more power and a larger cutting capacity than many other models in this price range. Its 9.5-amp motor provides reliable performance, while the two-speed operation (1520 and 2620 FPM) allows for greater versatility in cutting various materials.
This band saw features a spacious 21-1/2 x 15-3/4-inch work table with a 45-degree tilting capability for bevel cuts. The saw has a 13-3/8-inch throat and a 6-inch cutting depth, making it suitable for larger and more demanding projects. The WEN 3966T also comes with a flexible work light, a rip fence, and a miter gauge for added precision and convenience.
- 9.5-amp motor with two-speed operation for versatility
- Large work table with tilting capability
- Impressive 13-3/8-inch throat and 6-inch cutting depth
- Flexible work light for better visibility
- Rip fence and miter gauge included for precise cuts
- Set up is a bit time-consuming
- The supplied blade may need to be upgraded for optimal performance
10. Grizzly Industrial G0926 Variable-Speed Metal-Cutting Bandsaw
The Grizzly Industrial G0926 4″ x 5-1/2″ Variable-Speed Metal-Cutting Bandsaw is a high-quality and versatile cutting tool designed to tackle a variety of metalworking tasks. This bandsaw is perfect for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts seeking a durable and reliable machine for their metal-cutting needs.Â
With a powerful 1/2 HP motor and variable speed control, the G0926 offers the perfect balance of power and precision for efficient cutting. This Grizzly bandsaw boasts a 4-inch x 5-1/2-inch cutting capacity, making it suitable for cutting a wide range of metal materials, such as tubes, pipes, and profiles.Â
The saw’s adjustable blade guides ensure precise cuts, while the built-in coolant system helps to prolong blade life and reduce heat during operation. The G0926 also features a quick-release vise for easy material changes and a sturdy, all-metal construction for enhanced durability and longevity.
- Powerful 1/2 HP motor for efficient metal cutting
- Variable speed control for optimal cutting performance
- 4-inch x 5-1/2-inch cutting capacity suitable for various metal materials
- Adjustable blade guides for enhanced precision
- Built-in coolant system for prolonged blade life and reduced heat
- May be too specialized for users seeking a general-purpose bandsaw
- A bit expensive model
Wrap Up!
Selecting the best band saw for your needs and budget can be a challenging process, but this roundup of the best band saws under $200, $300, $500, and $1000 should help simplify your decision. Each of the saws featured in this guide offers excellent performance, features, and value for their respective price points.
Remember to consider your specific needs, such as cutting capacity, power, and additional features, when choosing the perfect band saw for your workshop. By investing in a high-quality band saw, you’ll be able to tackle a wide range of woodworking projects with precision and ease.
