How to Choose The Best Budget Bandsaw for Your Needs

Bandsawing is a woodworking tool that cuts straight lines and curves in wood. It is one of the most common woodworking tools used for various projects like cutting cross-grain or rip-cuts.

If you’re considering starting woodworking, you’ll need a bandsaw. But which band saw should you buy? And how do you choose the best budget bandsaw for your needs? This blog answers these questions and more. Read on to learn everything you need about the best budget bandsaws!

Looking For Best Bandsaw?

Are you a professional woodworker looking for the best band saw? Here we have an answer for you. Facing the need to deliver intricate cuts is not a challenge. The challenge is finding a versatile band saw to perform the job correctly. In that case, you will be better off if you go for nothing but a super band saw. 

But how do you go into finding such a saw? Here are the details and critical facts of the best affordable band saw. Also, by the end of the guide, you will know what to consider for a group saw.

Which Bandsaws is Perfect

For woodworking enthusiasts and beginners, the best budget bandsaw is the manual saw. These saws tend to be cheaper but require more effort from the user. They also tend to be less accurate and power-based. On the other hand, belt-driven saws are easier to use and are more accurate but more expensive. Chain-drive bandsaws are the most expensive but offer the best accuracy and power.

It’s essential to consider the type of bandsaw that best suits your needs and budget. For example, there may be better options than a belt-driven saw for cutting heavy wood. Additionally, each type of bandsaw has its benefits and drawbacks, so choosing the one that best suits your needs are essential.

Buying guide for best budget bandsaw

Budget is an essential factor when choosing the best bandsaw for your needs. Various types and brands of bandsaws exist, so deciding which is the best for you is challenging. However, by taking the time to read user reviews and compare the features and specifications of different bandsaws, you can make an informed purchase that will meet your needs.

Additionally, it’s essential to choose the suitable budget bandsaw for your needs and budget. Be sure to consider factors like blade type, RPMs, power ratings, and more. Ultimately, the best bandsaw for you is the one that meets your specific needs and budget. So, don’t wait. Get started shopping now!

How to choose the best budget bandsaw

Choosing the best budget bandsaw can be a daunting task. But don’t worry. We’re here to help! This blog post will discuss the different types of bandsaws, their benefits, and drawbacks and help you choose the best one for your needs. After reading this, you’ll be able to make an informed decision and buy the perfect band saw for your needs. So, without further ado, let’s get started!

What to consider while buying a bandsaw

When choosing the best budget bandsaw for your needs, there are several factors to consider. Make sure to read reviews and compare features before making your purchase. Some bandsaws range in price from around $100 to well over $1,000. Choosing the right band saw for your specific needs and budget is essential.

Examples of factors you may want to consider when buying a bandsaw include blade size, power level, portability, and cutting capacity. You can also check out our band saw buying guide to help you get started. Happy sewing!

Features to look for in a budget band saw.

When choosing the best budget band saw for your needs, it’s essential to verify that the safety features are up to par. This includes features like automatic blade stop and reverses blade protection.

Additionally, you’ll want to ensure the band saw has a lot of cutting depth – at least 7 inches – to ensure versatility. Additionally, look for a band saw with a blade guard and arbor adjustment to ensure precision and accuracy when cutting. Finally, compare price points and find a model that meets all your needs!

Why is a bandsaw important?

Bandsaws are versatile and essential woodworking tools. They’re perfect for cutting wood quickly and accurately. Furthermore, they’re versatile and can be used for various projects, such as cutting boards, furniture, and even woodworking projects. Before you make your purchase, check the size of the bandsaw to ensure it fits your needs.

Additionally, read user reviews to understand better what features are important to you. Finally, keep your bandsaw in good condition by regularly sharpening the blade and lubricating it.

Top 10 Budget Bandsaw Reviews

1. WEN 3962 Two-Speed Band Saw

Top Features

• Efficient ball bearing for a stunning performance
•  Brilliant adjustable fence for smooth operations
•  Versatile work light for illumination in low light environment
•  Flexible onboard measuring guide
•  Durable milter gauge

WEN’s reputation is known entirely in the universe for its efforts to produce the best saws in a highly competitive environment. WEN 3962 is the most price-friendly and efficient on our list. That makes it adaptable in any workshop. The saw measures 20 * 58 inches, with a reasonably small footprint that complements its performance. That means it is less spacious, working well to free your room and make it compatible with work. Also, the saw comes with a super compact design to accommodate small and large pieces of wood.

The latter is well known for a durable table that measures 14-1/8 * 12-1/2 inches. WEN boasts one of the few meals that can rotate up to 45 degrees to the right to help you make a deep timber cut. Besides, the machines come with a potent motor of 3.5-amp to sustain even the notorious wood species. The engine is so fast that it can cut a piece as broad as 9-3/4 inches and up to 6 inches deep in a single pass. The blade comes in two different types to choose what suits you best. It is thick to deliver intricate cuts without any compromise.

Pros

• Easy to assemble and set up for operations
•  Powerful cutting strength
•  It has a longer lifespan
•  Effortless to work with
•  Very versatile in poorly lit conditions

Cons

• Some parts are plastic
•  Produces light with a big shadow over the wood you are working on.

2. RIKON 10-305 Bandsaw With Fence

Top Features

• Features a durable rocking steel
•  Large Cast iron tables
•  Quality rip fence
•  It comes with an adjustable guidepost
•  1/3HP sturdy motor

Rikon is not the king of populism since the crown goes to the WEN. But they crown themselves with pride in offering high-quality woodworking tools necessary to earn a reputation. As far as affordability is concerned, Rikon goes hand in hand with WEN and other budget-friendly brands. You will get a complete package of specific features for long-term service for such an affordable price. Rikon comes with heavy-duty construction to enable you to work on the notorious hardwood species. The machine boasts a 1/3 HP motor that runs like a small beast from the celestial planet.

The motor can run the blades at a terrifying speed of up to 2,780 amps. Besides, the saw includes a 2-inch fence to make the cuttings straight and super accurate. Moreover, you can remove the saw when you feel like doing some free work. That is why the band saw can work well with hobbyists. If not enough, Rikon 10-305 features an adjustable guideline post that enables you lower or raises its height with an effortless turn of the handle.

Pros

• Easily adjustable rip fence
•  Effortless to install and setup
•  It is very spacious and takes only a tiny piece of your room
•  Good choice for hobbyists
•  Silent operations

Cons

• Does not include a miter gauge
•  Blade wear up fast and are subject to constant replacement
•  No free stand as a part of the purchase

3. WEN 3939T 2.8-Amp 9 Inch Benchtop Band Saw

Top Features

• Rack and pinion adjustable for the table
•  Comes with a blading rocking tracking window
•  Durable and patent blade-guard
•  Table supports
•  3-5-amp high-potent motor

WEN 3939T may be the most heavy-duty bandsaw on the market today. The machine is very super to make the work done. No one can estimate WEN’s ability to offer quality machines that the world can’t fail to notice. It features an induction motor with a top speed of 2000 RPM. As such, it can handle lighter workloads without any complications. Moreover, it comes with an aluminum die-cast table for a spacious and sturdy work surface without sacrificing the content the quality.

The blades set are correct to ensure you complete your work on time. Their thickness of them ranges from 1/8 to 3/8 inches. These blades allow maximum versatility, especially when it comes to re-sawing and cutting of scroll. Also, it employs a unique style of releasing tension quickly with a lever; hence adjustment is made effortless and straightforward. Furthermore, you will be given a stand as an addition to the purchase, which is very adjustable to the needs of your workshop.

Pros

• The model is very durable
•  Easily changeable blade
•  Rocking bearings on the guide
•  A 25-inch stand that is simple to assemble
•  High-quality motor for smooth performance

Cons

• Does not come with a rip fence
•   The tension knob is of cheap design

4. Grizzly Industrial G0555LX

Top Features

• Cast iron wheels with rubber tires
•  Comes with a stand
•  Durable ball-bearing construction
•  Two-speed blade construction
•  13-1/2 throat capacity

Grizzly has been in the game for a long time and boasts one of the most extensive selections of the band saw in the universe. The saw evolves from being one lane functioning brand to a versatile band saw to deal with large pieces of timber without strain. The construction of the beast is easily recognizable. The wheel, frame, and table are all made of cast iron for optimal stability, durability, and high-quality performance.

With a weight of 200 pounds, the saw is very stable when working with sturdy materials. But you may need some assistance when moving the machine around. However, the saw is heavy-duty and can deal with whichever material you place on the table. Moreover, the device constitutes a 1 HP electrical driven motor which may need improvement for weighty equipment but is the right choice for other pieces of wood and metal. The engine can move at a speed of between 1800 RPM and 3100 RPM; hence you can choose the pace you prefer

Pros

• Extremely dependable
•  Easy to change blades
•  Comes with a dust port for making your workshop clean
•  Comes with a blade guide
•  Built to last

Cons

• They are not portable since they stand and don’t come with wheels
•  To make re-sawing effective, you will have to buy a band saw riser

5. SKIL 3386-01 2.5-Amp 9-Inch Band Saw

Top Features

• Comes with durable-grade steel
•  Full optimization of tooth geometry for better performance
•  Single 2.5-amp motor
•  Versatile LED lamp for visibility
•  Dust port

Skil 3386 features a single-speed 2.5 Amp motor that is excellent for novice wood professionals. The band is essential for commercial use since it saves your budget to a great extent. It is suitable for all workshops, irrespective of the size of your shop. Though the band may be unsuitable for heavy-duty cutting, it can cut full pieces of timber or metal materials without leaving a trace. The best feature we all adore with the band is the dust port. It is incorporated in the saw to ensure your workplace is debris-free.

Another essential feature of the band is the rip fence. The fence has one primary purpose ensuring your cuts are precise and accurate. Making cuts straight is the dream of any woodworker since it raises your standards as a professional. That feature makes the band highly efficient to work as your companion for ages to come. Besides, for easy crosscuts, the saw includes a miter gauge that is very powerful for such a class. Another addition to the features is the LED generation of light forming the central part. You can work in the dark without inconvenience.

Pros

• Zero noise motor
•  Adjusting the height and angle of the table is very effortless
•  Super light model
•  Ensure your workshop is free from dust
•  You can easily change the blade

Cons

• Plastic Flimsy tension knob
•  Perform poorly with heavy-duty pieces of timber

6. WEN 3975T Metal-Cutting Benchtop Band Saw

Top Features

• The adjustable rate for the blade
•  Comes with a compact design
•  Motor protection system
•  Powerful motor for the excellent cutting system

WEN 3975T is among the best budget-friendly units in the market today. The latter combines high performance with quality construction. Like any other WEN machine, the motor utilizes constant power technology to maintain the speed and efficiency of the device. The engine is heavy-duty and can cut any material on the table within a span of period. You can adjust the speed of the blade, which varies from 125 to 260 feet per minute.

The compact design of the machine is the reason why it is accessible. It is so agile and flexible for secure storage and transportation. Sometimes transporting devices of such nature may be challenging, and that’s why the former needs a compact design to keep it moving and stealthy. Also, WEN 3975T is known for its beveling blades. Such blades help to perform in-depth and straight cuts anywhere from 0 to 60 degrees.

Pros

• Durable blades
•  Has a balanced body for incredible control over the whole unit
•  Lightweight model
•  Performs deep cuts due to the terrifying speed

Cons

• Quite noisy
•  Installation may be challenging

7. DEWALT DWM120K Portable Band Saw

Top Features

• 10 Amp motor for sustaining all Jobsite application
•  Durable steel makeup
•  LED slight light for working in a dark environment
•  Integrated hang hook for hanging the saw when not in use

Our list could only be complete by talking about the DEWALT band saw. DEWALT is a perfect machine from a comprehensive manufacturer. It owns the reputation of a powerful motor that takes even the most robust materials. You shall not see the machine bogging down in your life because of a tough job. Moreover, the machine has a top speed of between 100sfm and 350sfm. That makes the whole system versatile for optimal performance.

Besides, DEWALT includes a variable speed dial to help you choose the right speed for your work. The machine is very affordable, and with its price, it comes with rubber bumpers with a service shroud of steel. That makes the band saw very indispensable. Also, that is the explanation for the long-lasting performance of the machine. Another feature is the LED light that illuminates the cut line to boast your working accuracy, especially in a dark environment.

Pros

• Lightweight for maximum portability
•  Durable blade easy to maintenance
•  Comes with a hanging hook
•  Easy replacement of the brushes
•  Compact body design for stability

Cons

• Blade gets very blunt and dull fast
•  Not very quiet

8. Milwaukee 2429-21XC M12 Cordless

Top Features

• One-Handed cuts
•  Compact size band saw for portability
•  Includes blade tension adjustment
•  Comes with an Aluminium guard to protect the motor and the gear
•  Can run on 12v lithium-ion batteries

Here comes a game-changer in our list of the best band saws. Milwaukee 2429 is a perfect choice for persons who love lightweight machines. You can efficiently operate the band saw using one hand. That’s how portable and secure the device is. It boasts an excellent cordless design, second to none. Indubitable, the band saw is one of the most legal the world has seen in the modern era. The saw is powered by a 12V XC battery that allows you to make more than 150 cuts on only a single charge. Interestingly, the battery takes only 30 minutes to charge. Is that not brilliant?

Also, the saw comes with a relatively powerful motor for its class. It can cut through ¾ inches of EMT conduct in just 3 seconds. That is very impressive, considering that the band is only a small footprint. Another remarkable feature of the saw is LED light availability. Considering its speed, you will need a built-in light source, and the saw doesn’t fail either. You will need the light to illuminate the cut line while working in a darker environment. That makes it possible for you to be more attentive to the accuracy of each cut.

Pros

• One can use it with a single hand
•  The design is very reliable and cordless
•  Makes accurate cuts which are very straight
•  Comes with a plastic case for carrying
•  Easy to slow start through the use of variable speed trigger

Cons

• Blades are of low quality
•  Does not support heavy-duty materials

9. DEWALT DCS374B 20V MAX Portable Band Saw

Top Features

• Comes with an optimal center handle position for more balance
•  LED light for illumination
•  Integrated hang hook for hanging the saw when not in use
•  Double-bearing blade guide and durable rollers
•  Ergonomic soft grip back handle for versatility and comfortability

DEWALT 20V MAX is one of the band saw working machines that offer standard value for your money. You have the upper hand if you know how to operate the tool effectively. It comes with some aspects of programming that you need to understand to complete your tasks fully. The saw comes with LED light, an excellent feature for band saws. Such a feature is significant when you are operating in a darker room.

Another critical aspect of the saw is the speed trigger. You can quickly start the motor at a low pace and increase the speed while the machine is in motion. That gives you flexibility and proper control of the machine. Furthermore, the saw comes with an integrated hook for hanging. Once you finish with the machine, you can hang it to enhance safety precautions. Besides, the rollers are versatile and will serve your band for an extended period.

Pros

• Excellent LED light for working in the dark
•  Easy to operate and set up
•  Super hang hook for safer storage
•  Available at an affordable price
•  An above-average potent motor

Cons

• The blades are not durable
•  The finishes are not very smooth

10. Makita XBP02Z 18V

Though not widespread, Makita is overgrowing in the market. It uses expandable Makita 18V Lithium-ion battery series that is faster to charge and can support cuts for relatively long rounds. Also, the machines include a cordless and lethal design making them stunning and powerful simultaneously. It comes in less weight for quite a broad range of commercial use. You can also take the saw out to perform more jobs since it is very versatile.

Makita also includes externally accessible brushes that serve the saw well to increase its lifespan. Another relevant spec is the rubber soft-grip handle which increases the comfort when handling the saw. We may confidently crown Makita as the king of support for all the above band saws on our list. Onboard, you also have super wrench storage and effortless stopper plate adjustment. To conclude, Makita also has LED lights to illuminate the cuts accurately.

Top Features

• Comes with a thick protective rubber bumper for durability
•  Hook tools for safer storage
•  LED light for illumination
•  Accessible brushes for better services

Pros

• Comes with a comfortable rubber handle
•  Easy to operate
•  Proper positioning of the blade tensioner
•  Horizontal and vertical versatility

Cons

• The quality assurance is low
•  You have to buy a charger and batteries

Things to Consider for Best Budget Bandsaw

Before you buy a bandsaw, you need to have a few important considerations in mind. Some of them include the following:

Motor

The band saw motors can determine what type of wood or metal you can deal with. These motors are electrical systems, and you can measure their effectiveness in terms of horsepower. Therefore, you need an efficient and robust system to take your woodworking job to another level.

Motor with a rate of less than 1.0 HP might be inferior or too tiny to support your demanding commercial work. Heavy-duty wood and metal pieces demand a powerful motor of more than 1.5 HP for a precise and easy task. So if you regularly cut, you need to consider a band saw with higher-rated horsepower.

Size

Whether you plan to have a mobile or a stationary bandsaw, the amount of space available in your workshop matters greatly. You should have a sit-on-table band saw to save space. Alternatively, you can also consider having a benchtop if you need a broad bandsaw but don’t have a spacious room.

These two ways will help minimize the space the machine will occupy in the room. Also, if you don’t have an issue with space, you may consider going for a full-size machine since they are more potent and reliable for carrying out the work.

Work Light

Yet another factor you need to consider in your band sawmill is the work light. Don’t underestimate the importance of a LED light, especially when dealing with intricate cuts. Sometimes your schedule may be so tight during the day that you can only perform the cuts at night. Since that is no simple work, you can consider using a band saw with a built-in work light in the package. That will work well for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict

The bottom line is that all the above benchtop band saws have special unique features that make them on our list. However, they may seem to differ in terms of power and performance, but at the end of the day, they stand out as supermodels that need applause. They are affordable and ready to cope with your financial situation throughout the year.

So with that, you have an assurance that it is not a trick venture to undertake when choosing any of the above band saws. With that knowledge in mind, you can choose the saw that suits you well.