Best Band Saw 2021 – Reviews & Buyer’s Guide

Last Updated on July 13, 2021 by James

Band saws are one of the significant tools for cutting curves, creating short pieces or making out irregular shapes. They are a must tool to have in the toolbox for a perfect craftsman. They have wheels to that hold a thin rotating blade with a table to support and a motor to rotate the saw to get the required shape from any ferrous metal or wood. Without the best band saw in the shop floor it is quite difficult for a master artisan to give their creation a perfect shape and fulfill the need. They can be found in various size and length that has a continuous metal tooth and used for woodworking, lumbering or metal working.

The popularity of band saws has increased over the years as they have become a perfect tool to cut the odd shapes and meet the requirements. One can get many brands for using however to get the best results only the best band saw should be used. The cut that was once made by hands consuming much energy and time is now done without any hassle using the best band saw and more and more master craftsmen are using them to each to the perfection and give shape to their odd & unique creation without any glitches or hassles.

One should always use the best band saw so that there is no scope of imperfection; no matter how tough it may be to make the design and get the cut. It is easy to move the object while obtaining the required shape using the best band saw.

Best Band Saw 2021

Here’s a list of the best band saws we found on the market today:

1. Grizzly G0555LX Deluxe Bandsaw

This band saw uses a cast iron table and frame to withstand the pressure and not to wrap or bend even if the material to give shape is tough and hard. The two-speed setting allows cutting wood perfectly with the support of the computer balanced wheels made up of cast iron. 

It is a strong band saw weighing 247 pounds and works like a beast cutting any solid material giving the required pressure. The purpose of Grizzly G0555LX stands out to be one of the best band saws for heavy duty work without giving any trouble.

Advantages Of The Equipment

  • It is powered by a 1 horsepower engine and has a blade length of 93.5 inches that rotates around the wheels.
  • The maximum blade length is 3/4 inch, and the minimum length is 1/8 inch with a blade speed varying between 1800 to 3100 FPM.
  • This model allows having a table tilt of 45 degrees on the right side and 10 degrees on the left side.
  • The dimension of this best band saw is 27 inches wide, 67 7 ¼ inch high and 30 inches deep.
  • It has a sturdy T Shaped design.
  • The floor to the table height is 43 inches giving ample space to maneuver the items to be cut and work efficiently with the material.
  • This best band saw comes with a 4-inch dust port to collect the flakes while the cut is on.
  • The Grizzly G0555LX Deluxe Band Saw has a sturdy cast iron frame that can hold much weight and pressure easily to get the exact cut needed.
  • The cast iron wheels are balanced by the computer to give the perfect rotation and maintain the alignment as per requirement. The wheels also have rubber tires mounted on them so that the blades last longer.
  • The fence is of the adjustable type having a magnifying window.
  • The blade guides are done by the upper and lower ball bearings, and this gives a smooth rotation, and they can guide the thrust bearings.

Disadvantages Of The Equipment

  • The band saw is powered by 1 horsepower motor, and this is a significant drawback to get the perfect cut gaining high FPM when the material is hard. Enough power cannot be generated for heavy odd shaped cuts.
  • The dust port is shallow, and specks of dust are not perfectly collected.
  • It is weighty and not at all easily portable.
  • Sometimes the fence slips even if it is locked giving undesired cutting shapes.

2. Rikon 10-305 Band saw

Rikon 10-305 Band saws had made its presence felt in the best band saw 2019 list. It is a benchtop band saw that is compact and good to use for light cutting works. The size is so compact that it can be placed in any corner of the workshop.

It can be used on a stand in place of a benchtop; however, that is available byspecific order. There is a 5-year warranty, and the price is rather low. Although it is a small band saw, it gives the perfect cut and can even be fitted on the worktable.

Advantages Of The Equipment

  • Rikon 10-305 band saw is powered by 0.75 horsepower motor.
  • It has a blade length of 70 & 1/3 inches and the blade is maximum 1/2 inches wide and minimum 1/8 inch wide.
  • The speed of the blade is 2780 foot per minute.
  • It gives 45 degrees right table tilt and does not have any option for left tilt.
  • The weight of this model is only 76 pounds.
  • The cutting capacity is 4-5/8 inch height-wise and 9-5/8 inches in width-wise.
  • The overall height of his band saw is 33-1/4 inches.
  • There is one dust port, and it is 2 and 1/2 inches in size.
  • The thrust bearings are edge facing, and it includes a safety paddle switch.
  • The tall fence is 2 inches in size.
  • It is incredibly lightweight and portable.
  • Needs less space and even fits on the work table.
  • The tracking adjustments can be made efficiently.
  • The warty of 5 years speaks of its working quality in this range and is the best.
  • The price is quite low when compared with others in this range.
  • The safety paddle switch enables to stop it in an emergency and avoids accidents.

Disadvantages Of The Equipment

  • The horsepower is quite low, and a massive cut is not possible.
  • It has only the right table tilt, and there is no provision for left tilt making the adjustments of the tilt difficult for fine edges.
  • One needs to buy the stand additionally as it only comes with the cast iron table.

3. WEN 3962 Two-Speed band saw

This band saw is also a benchtop model and comes with a stand. It is perfect for woodwork and DIY projects and can almost cut anything as the saw is high performing.

It is one of the best band saw with a budget price to fit every pocket. The work light feature helps to get the perfect toss-up when needed. The saw comes with two speeds, and one can adjust them according to the use.

Advantages Of The Equipment

  • WEN 3962 Two-Speed band saw is powered by a 1/3 horsepower motor.
  • It can work on two speeds, and they are 1520 fpm and 2620 fpm.
  • This model has a 3 in 1 dust port and comes with a straight cut fence and meter gauge.
  • The length of the blade is 72 inches, and the width is 1/8 inches to 1/2 inches.
  • One 6 TPI 3/8 inches blade is fitted with the model.
  • This band saw is also lightweight and weighs 73 pounds.
  • There is a 2-year warranty on the product.
  • The size of the worktable is 14 X 12-1/2 inches, and it can be swiveled to 5 degrees.
  • It is incredibly lightweight and easily portable.
  • Stands are provided with this model of WEN 3962 Two-Speed band saw.
  • The toss-up feature in this band saw is an additional advantage.
  • As it comes with two speeds, hey can be varied as per need.
  • The ball bearings help the blades to run smoothly.
  • It is perfect for light cuts.

Disadvantages Of The Equipment

  • The controls are susceptible and give some problem in adjusting the required settings.
  • The lights for tossing up sometime shifts and blur the eyes while working.
  • As this saw has two speeds, the belts of the motor need to be changed every time one wants to alternate the speed, and this makes the operation cumbersome. There is no direct switch or method to shift between the speeds.
  • Not suitable for massive cuts.

4. SKIL 3386-01 Bench Top Band Saw

Being extremely lightweight and compact is size this SKIL 3386-01 Bench Top Band Saw has also found its place in the list of the best bench saw for 2019. It comes with many attractive features.

Despite being lightweight, this model from SKIL is very user friendly, and the cast iron base of the table stabilises the saw perfectly when in use. It is perfect for light work, beginners and DIY works and can only cut soft and thin slices of wood. It is also pocket-friendly.

Advantages Of The Equipment

  • The motor that is used in this model has 0.04 horsepower and is single speed.
  • The length of the blade 59-1/2 inches.
  • The maximum width of the blade is 3/8 inches, and the minimum width is 1/8 inches.
  • The model provides 45 degrees right table tilt, and there is no option for the left tilt of the table.
  • The weight of the SKIL 3386-01 Bench Top Band Saw is only 30 pounds.
  • There are LED lights to see the cuts better while working.
  • The size of the dust port is 1-1/2 inches.
  • The table is a rack & pinion type and allows getting the quick angles and adjusting the height.
  • It is incredibly lightweight and easy to move to different places.
  • The LED lights help to get a better view while working.
  • The adjustments are straightforward to do.
  • The angle scales are easy to read.
  • The EZ feature for the view blade tracking helps to get the precise cuts.
  • The blades have 6 TPI and cutting thin slices of wood is easy.

Disadvantages Of The Equipment

  • Not meant for heavy work or cannot handle thick materials.
  • The engine horsepower is too low.
  • The dust ports are rather small to collect all specks of dust accumulated while cutting.
  • The product warranty is unknown.

5. Powermatic PWBS-14CS Woodworking Bandsaw

This model of the band saw from the house of Powermatic works like a beast. It has an expandable and large worktable made in two parts and joined while working to hold the big pieces. It is perfect for all types of home job and light commercial work.

The band saw works without vibration due to the cast iron wheels that are made with precision and are placed correctly. One can use various sizes of blades with this saw and the changing is easy. It is a magic machine that works wonderfully at the price it is available. The built is quite robust to carry out almost all types of household cutting works.

Advantages Of The Equipment

  • This band saw is powered by a 1-1/2 horsepower motor to give enough power to do the cutting work perfectly.
  • Powermatic PWBS-14CS Woodworking Band saw has a long blade length of 93 -1/2 inches.
  • The maximum blade width it can accommodate is ¾ inches, and the minimum is 1/8 inches.
  • It can produce a blade speed of 3000 feet per minute.
  • This band saw gives 45 degrees right table tilt, and 10 degrees left table tilt.
  • The weight of the band saw is 178 pounds.
  • It comes with 4 dust ports to collect the flakes.
  • There is a foot brake to stop the blades from working.
  • The meter gauge is easy to read.
  • It comes with a built-in 60 watts halogen lamps.
  • The band saw is warranted for 5 years.
  • The work table is extra large giving a total working surface area of 15 inches by 20 inches.
  • The built-in halogen lamps enable us to see the blades while working.
  • No assembly is required to work with this saw.
  • The control gauges can be easily read and can be set for different blade sizes.
  • The quick release lever helps to change the blades without any hassles.
  • It comes with the chip blower to give a clear vision of the cuts.

Disadvantages Of The Equipment

  • The blade saw is quite heavy and is not possible by one person to move it.
  • The belts and tensions are difficult to adjust.
  • The assembly on the table that comes in two parts is a bit cumbersome.
  • The alignments cannot be done easily.

6. JET JWBS_14DXPRO Deluxe Pro Band saw

This is a powerful and versatile band saw that is hard to ignore for mentioning in the list of best band saw of 2019. It can work with material sizes that are 13.5 inches in width and 12 inches in thickness. It can also handle small pieces.

The JET JWBS_14DXPRO Deluxe Pro Band saw is one of the kinds that have a retractable blade guard. There is no need for any riser block as the cast iron frame maintains the steadiness of the saw. There is a high tension spring that allows consistency in working.

Advantages Of The Equipment

  • The band saw comes with a 1-1/4 horsepower motor.
  • The blade length is long and stands to be 105 inches.
  • The maximum blade width it can accommodate is ¾ inches, and the minimum is 1/8 inches.
  • It has two blade speeds, and they are 1500 FPM and 3000 FPM
  • The table tilt is 45 degrees on the right side and 10 degrees on the left side.
  • The height of the table from the floor is 43.5 inches.
  • There is an easy view blade tracking window.
  • The lower and upper ball bearing guides reduces the friction and extends the blade life.
  • The wheel diameter is 14 inches.
  • The drive system has a poly-v belt drive system.
  • The band saw comes with a 5 years limited manufacturer’s warranty.
  • The weight is 258 pounds.
  • It has a high tension spring system design that keeps the tension of the blades and helps in getting more power and better control while doing the fine cuts.
  • There is a built-in storage space, and a unique stand is provided with the saw.
  • The 5-year limited warranty is outstanding and speaks about the manufacturer’s confidence in the quality.
  • The blade tracking window allows viewing the blade effortlessly.

Disadvantages Of The Equipment

  • The blade saw is too heavy to move.
  • No rip fence comes with this band saw and one need to purchase it separately.
  • The tension on the different sizes of the blades is not always uniform.
  • The price is on the higher side.

7. POWERTEC BS900 Benchtop Band Saw

This band saw is extremely lightweight and is suitable to be used in a home workshop. Given below are the features of POWERTEC BS900 Benchtop Band Saw which will convince you to bring home this piece of wonder.

Advantages Of The Equipment

  • It is very easy to use. The presence of the patented window makes sure that the user can see every time
  • where the blade is cutting. Horsepower of this product is ½.
  • The “quick release blade action” facilitates ease of adjustment.
  • Despite being extremely lightweight, this equipment has an aluminum cast table which makes sure
  • that the device remains stable during use.
  • Although power-packed with features, this device comes at an extremely affordable rate.
  • This equipment is ideally suited for small DIY crafts and small workshops. However, it cannot handle
  • much stress due to the low horsepower and low speed of the blade. It can only hold the blades which
  • are up to ⅜ inches.
  • This is easy to be used by beginners.
  • Length of blade is 62 inches and width of blade is Minimum- ⅛; Maximum- ⅜
  • Speed of blade: 1725 FPM
  • Weight of the device: 44 pounds
  • Table tilt: 45 degrees (right) and 0 degrees (left)
  • This device has a tracking window which will help to see through it and look at the blade easily.
  • The blades are small which provide detailed work.
  • It comes at an extremely affordable rate.
  • It is ideally suited for jobs which are small and intricate.
  • Being lightweight, it is easily portable from one place to another.

Disadvantages Of The Equipment

  • The disadvantages of using POWERTEC BS900 Benchtop Band Saw are as follows:
  • This device is not suitable for heavy work.
  • The speed is relatively slower.
  • It also has a low power which abstain it from doing heavier works.
  • It is limited in function as well as power.

If you have to cut a number of boards at a time or you have to cut circles, curves and other shapes which are irregular, a bandsaw is the equipment which will help you get your work done. This is an essential tool which is going to help you in the best possible way. If you are looking for a reliable bandsaw in the market, POWERTEC BS900 Benchtop Band Saw is the name you can trust. This bandsaw has thin blades which run in loops and form an even cut because of the regularly spaced teeth. It is one of the most popular and sought after bandsaws which is available today.

Band Saw Buyer’s Guide

Getting hold of the perfect band saw which will suit your needs perfectly is a difficult task. This article is going to guide you through the process. An exorbitant number of models makes the process a bit overwhelming. There are a number of factors which need to be taken into consideration while buying a band saw. This will help you to find the best band saw which will be equipped with all the features that you have been looking for.

A band saw is ideal for cutting out precise and intricate curves and cuts. With the wide range of options available in the market, choose the one which will serve your purpose. Before you start choosing, you need to make your mind up about the purpose for which you need a band saw- for heavier tasks or for something light, occasional and detailed?

Two Kinds Of Band Saws

1. Floor-Standing Cabinet Modes

These band saws are mainly heavier and larger. They are built in such a way that they can handle heavier work with great ease. They are mainly used for professional purposes by contractors and woodworkers. They are comparatively more stable and sturdy. The prices are also slightly on the higher side.

2. Bench Top Models

These band saws are the ones which are small and lightweight. They are ideally suited for domestic and home use. One can easily set this band saw on the top of a table or a workbench. Some of these band saws have stands which are available separately in the market. These back saws usually do not take up much space in the work area.

Factors To Consider While Buying a Band Saw

1. Frame

It is important to have a look at the frame of the band saw which will provide support to the entire unit. It is most desirable if the frame is made out of cast iron or steel. The frames that are made up of plastic are not much durable or sturdy. Therefore, if you are planning to get a back saw which you can use on the larger pieces of materials, it is essential to have a look at the frame of the Band saw.

2. Horsepower

You should also look at the amount of power that your motor can produce. A large number of band saws that are available in the market are known to have a power of around 1 horsepower. Those which are used for professional purposes have a power slightly higher than 1 HP while the others usually have ½ HP. If you are planning to use your band saw for doing heavier tasks, you will require a device which has more horsepower. A band saw which has power less than 1HP is suitable for smaller tasks.

3. Throat

The term “throat” of a band saw refers to the distance in between the vertical frame and the blade. This will help you to determine the width which the model of the bandsaw can handle. If you are planning to use the bandsaw for larger materials, then it is advisable to opt for a band saw which will help to accommodate material which is larger.

4. Table

Make sure that the table is made up of things like aluminium alloy, steel or iron. This will help to provide support which is sturdy enough when you work. Some of them are large and some of them have options to extend the table. Also, have a look at the tilt. A band saw table usually tilts 45 degrees to the right. This makes the device even more versatile.

5. Width Of Blade

This is another factor which needs to be looked into. The measurement of the blade is to be given as a maximum measurement and a minimum measurement.

6. Weight

Some of the band saws are extremely heavy and are immobile while the others are lightweight and can easily be moved from one place to another.

7. Extras:

There are some other lesser important factors which can bring about a big difference. For instance, work lights, provision for faster blade change, windows which will help to see the blade and onboard storage are some of the factors which can bring about a huge difference.

Conclusion

Before we settle for any equipment, we need to decide the purpose for which we will be using it. Different kinds of the same equipment can serve different purposes. Once you have figured the purpose out, look for the one which will serve your purpose the best. This article gives you a detailed overview of some of the best band saws available in the market and how to make a smart choice.

Be it for professional or for DIY purposes, this article lists the names of some of the best, most popular and most widely sought-after band saws that are worth mentioning! Now, you can forget the hassle of having to make perfect round and unique-shaped cuts with the help of a saw and settle for a band saw instead which will make your work a hundred times easier!

Best Band Saw 2021
  • Grizzly G0555LX Deluxe Bandsaw
  • Rikon 10-305 Band saw
  • WEN 3962 Two-Speed band saw
  • SKIL 3386-01 Bench Top Band Saw
  • Powermatic PWBS-14CS Woodworking Bandsaw
  • JET JWBS_14DXPRO Deluxe Pro Band saw
  • POWERTEC BS900 Benchtop Band Saw