When talking about the essential tools in the workshop, one of the essentials would be the band saw. Whether you are a professional woodworker or a DIY enthusiast, this will definitely be an excellent investment as it will allow you to accomplish sawing tasks accurately and easily. It is a good thing that it can deliver versatility, as it can be used on a wide array of materials, including wood, glass, and plastic, among others.
Are you looking for the best band saws that are available in the market? Keep on reading the rest of this post and we will provide you with insights, best band saw reviews, as well as some of the tips that you need to know. We hope you find this compilation of the best band saw reviews will be instrumental towards making a well informed decision.
Types of Band Saws
If you are looking for the best band saw, the first thing that you should do is to consider the specific type that you will need. In this case, the following are the options that you will have:
Horizontal Band Saw
If you are a professional and if you are looking for a band saw that can be perfect for most demanding tasks, this is the best choice for you. The best band saw you will keep the material stationary and the saw will do the moving as it cuts. The electric motor drives the blades of the saw. They are typically floor-mounted and can be quite large.
Pros
- Extremely quiet operations
- Perfect even for demanding applications
- Cuts precisel
Cons
- Cannot cut curved lines
Vertical Band Saw
In the case of this best band saw, the blade is positioned vertically. An electric motor provides the transmission that is needed to power this type of band saw. The material will be loaded in the front in this type of saw, and the material is pushed through the band saw blade. It can be used for several tasks, such as stock cutting, polishing, and contour cutting, among others. This is the perfect choice for hobbyists or for casual users.
Pros
- Can perform complicated tasks
- Some can be used as a welder
- Some have built-in blower
Cons
- High risk of injury
Portable Band Saw
For people who are on the go, this is the perfect choice and the best band saw for your garage or shed. It is designed in such a way that it will be easy for you to work with this in the workshop or in any other place where you need to work. Serrated metals are used to be able to make accurate cuts. It works in the same way as other types of band saws, with the only difference being its size.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Portable
- Can work even on large materials that cannot fit on the band saw table
Cons
- Minimal power compared to its counterparts
Top 8 Best Band Saw Reviews
In this part, we will take a quick look at some of the best options that you can find in the market, as well as the features that make them commendable.
This 9-inch band saw can be an excellent choice for both hobbyists and professionals. It is feature-rich and innovative, making it an excellent choice even for people with discerning preferences. It is not only powerful, but it is also versatile and best of all, it comes with an economical price. Even in spite of being practical in terms of cost, it can deliver a wide array of benefits that can be comparable to those that are in the higher end of the market.
Powerful Motor
One of the best things about this band saw is its 2.5 amp motor. This may not be the most powerful within the product category, but it is exceptional for most jobs. Whether it is for cutting wood or metal, you can expect that its performance will be dependable.
LED Light
Even if you are working in an area that is poorly lit, there is no need to worry. The LED light that is integrated in the unit will provide the illumination that will be needed, guaranteeing better accuracy in every task that will be completed. With improved visibility, you can also anticipate better precision.
Easy Adjustability
Another thing that is worth noting about this band saw is its ability to be customized based on the cutting depths that will be required for a specific task. The blade adjustments can be done in a manner that is almost effortless on your end.
Pros
- Lightweight and portable
- Comes with a work light
- High-powered
Cons
- Can be wobbly
- Blades may not last long
If you are looking for a band saw that can be perfect for people on the go, this is a top pick. With its portable design, you can use it effortlessly even outside of the workshop. It is also a good thing that you do not need a source of power. You will not be limited in terms of movement or jobs that you can do since it is battery-powered. To top it all, this is made by one of the most trusted brands in the market, which can be more than enough to convince you to have it chosen above all others.
LED Light
While there are many things that will be impressive about this model, one of the best is the fact that it comes with LED work light, providing you with the illumination that is needed in the work area. This is good not only for safety, but also for accuracy of the outcomes.
Ergonomic Design
This is also an excellent choice if you need the best band saw that is going to be user-friendly. It is designed in such a way that it will be able to deliver optimal comfort. The centered position of the handle is one thing that will make this possible.
Easy Blade Adjustments
With the blade that is integrated in this unit, you will be able to cut a depth of up to 2.5 inches. The best thing is that you can make the necessary adjustments in a snap. It also offers tool-free blade changing, which is another reason why it is excellent when it comes to ease of use.
Pros
- Excellent portability
- Impressive battery
- Made by a trusted brand
Cons
- Cutting depth is a bit minimal
- Can be heavy
This is another model that is made by a trusted brand, providing it with an advantage above many others. It has a cutting depth of 5 inches, which is more than many of its counterparts, which also means that it is going to be versatile in terms of its applications. Based on the specifications of the manufacturer, it is asserted that it can cut stock of up to 5 x 4 ¾-inch thick. It also comes with LED sight light, providing you with the illumination that is needed.
Powerful Motor
Among others, one thing that should be given emphasis about this model is its 10 amp motor, which is powerful, especially given the fact that this is a portable band saw. Given this motor, it will be able to deliver impressive performance at a speed of 100 to 350 square feet per minute.
Variable Speed
If you are looking for versatility, you will have another good reason to consider this above other models that you can find in the market. It is equipped with a speed dial, which will make it easy for you to have it customized depending on the specific application where it will be used.
Ergonomic Grip
When it comes to operating portable band saws, comfort is one of the most important concerns amongst users. The good news is that this model is designed in such a way that handling it will be comfortable, even for an extended period. This also means that fatigue will be minimized.
Pros
- Powerful motor
- Provides illumination
- Variable speed
Cons
- Factory blade looks inferior
- A bit heavy
From the design of the fence to the motor that provides power to the unit, this is definitely going to be an impressive choice. The steel plate fence will make it more durable than its inferior counterparts. This is even made better by the fact that it is integrated with a cast iron table, which is known for its stability, regardless of how intense is the cutting job that is performed by the saw. If you have a stationary workshop and if you often have to deal with demanding projects, this option should be on the top of your list of alternatives.
Steel Frame
If you are looking for durability and reliability, this is one option that should be looked at. The material that is used in the frame will make it not only long-lasting, but will also be excellent when it comes to stability. It will not rust through time and won’t also shake, regardless of the intensity of the sawing that will be performed.
Powerful Motor
One of the most important considerations when looking for the best band saw is the quality of the motor. You will surely not be disappointed with the use of this model. It comes with 1/3 HP motor that can deliver dependable performance in a wide array of tasks.
Easy Maintenance
It is also a good thing that you do not have to exert too much effort in the maintenance of the unit. It comes with a tile cleaning brush and it is also integrated with a dust port. Even with frequent use, maintenance will definitely be a snap.
Pros
- Sturdy table
- Easy to install
- Detachable rip fence
Cons
- Heavy
- No light
This is another option that you should not miss in your search for the best band saw. While this is far from being the best within the product category, it is impressive because it is feature-rich. Among others, one of the best is having a work table that comes with a generous size, making it possible to work with a wide array of materials with different sizes. In addition, it can also bevel to an angle of up to 45 degrees. To be able to perform its function, it makes use of 72-inch blade.
Variable Speed
One of the things that you will love about this model is its versatility, specifically because you will be able to choose the speed that you want depending on a specific application. You can choose from 1520 or 2620 FPM.
Smooth Operations
Compared to most of the competitors in the market, it is asserted to be smoother in terms of its operations. The reason for this is most probably the balanced ball-bearing. With the latter, you can expect that vibration will be significantly minimized.
Wide Array of Accessories
To provide the best value for money, it is also a good thing that it comes with a number of accessories. For instance, it is inclusive of 25-inch stand, which will provide the elevation that is needed by the unit. There is also a 3-in-1 dust collection port, fence, and work light.
Pros
- Variable speed
- High-performing motor
- Spacious work table
Cons
- Can be unstable
- Lack of quality control
The portability of this band saw is one thing that gives it a distinct advantage above many others within the competitive landscape. It has an ergonomic, well-balanced design, which means that handling it will be effortless on your end. Even if you have to work for an extended period, this will not result into too much fatigue. It comes with ½-inch cutting capacity. It also comes with a hang hook, which will make it possible to have it stored in the absence of causing damages on the blades. This specific product, on the other hand, is a bare tool. You will have to purchase the battery separately.
Lightweight Design
This is a compact band saw, which is why it is ranked well when it comes to being the best band saw for your shed or workshop. Given its sleek profile, it can offer job site flexibility. You can use it anywhere especially because it is battery-powered.
Increased Blade Life
The design and quality of the blade should also be highlighted as another feature that gives this an advantage above many others. It has blade tracking adjustment, which is one of the reasons why it will be functional even through the years. The dual bearing blade guide also gives you another good reason to choose this band saw.
Ergonomic Soft Grip
The design of its handle is one more thing that has been well-received by many people. This means that having it handled for a prolonged period will not be a problem. It is designed in such a manner that it will lessen the fatigue that you will feel.
Pros
- Portable
- Lightweight
- Impressive performance
Cons
- Battery is not yet included
- May not be ideal for heavy-duty tasks
With a cutting capacity of 5 x 5 inches, this is another option that you might want to take into consideration. It is reliable and powerful. It is also a good thing that there is a case included, making it easy to keep the saw and the accessories organized. However, it should be noted that the blade is not yet included, so you have to purchase it separately. It is also equipped with a LED light, providing the work area with the illumination that is needed for better precision. It also offers tool-free adjustments, which is one of the reasons why it is user-friendly.
Maintains Correct Speed
One of the best features that you can see in this product is the Constant Power Technology, which has been developed exclusively by the manufacturer. With the latter, regardless of the work that is being done, you can be assured that optimal speed will be maintained.
Powerful Motor
It is also an exceptional choice because it comes with an 11 amp motor, which is powerful enough to handle a wide array of applications. Given its size, it is surprising that the motor is that powerful. With this, you can expect optimal performance even in the most demanding jobs.
Durable Construction
There are many features that significantly contribute to the durability of this band saw. For instance, it has All Metal Direct Drive, which helps in protecting the internal components from easy wear and tear.
Pros
- Powerful motor
- Durable construction
- Can be used in a variety of applications
Cons
- Flimsy case
- Can be heavy
This is the perfect choice for those who are looking for a band saw that is easy to use. Even with a single hand, you can have it operated and expect a high level of accuracy. This is a portable option allowing you to work outside of your workshop. It can cut up to 1 and 5/8 inch and is powered by a 12-volt battery. You will not be limited with cords and you can work even if there is no power socket nearby. It is also integrated with LED light to provide the illumination that is needed when you are working in an area that is poorly lit.
High-Capacity Battery
The lithium ion battery that powers the unit is one of its most impressive features. It can deliver up to 150 cuts per charge, which is pretty much impressive compared to others within the competition. More so, it is also a good thing that it comes with a charger that can fully charge the battery within half an hour.
Variable Speed
This is one of the reasons why this is an excellent choice when talking about versatility. Depending on the force that will be applied on the trigger, its speed can change, allowing you to customize its performance on a variety of tasks and materials.
Pros
- Lightweight and compact
- Can be operated with one hand
- Battery-operated
Cons
- Limited cutting depth
- Not as powerful as corded counterparts
Essential Factors to Consider
In your search for the best band saw that is available in the market, make sure that the following factors will be given careful thought:
- Frame: This is important as it will be indicative of the overall quality of the band saw. The frame should be built in such a way that it will be able to provide the stability that is required by the unit. Some of the most popular materials that are available include cast iron, die cast, and welded steel.
- Intended Applications: What is it going to be used for? How often will I be using the band saw? By asking these questions, you will find it easier to decide which one to pick. For occasional use and DIY applications, those with basic features will suffice. On the other hand, if you are a professional, you need one that is more advanced, which can also be more expensive.
- Blade: The quality of the blade should also be given emphasis. This will be reflective of the quality of the cuts that will be delivered by the band saw. Its width will be essential, making sure that it will be able to handle a wide array of sawing tasks. There should also be several blade adjustments, making it versatile for a variety of applications.
- Motor: Take a look at the horsepower of the motor. This will be indicative of its powerful performance. For professionals, higher HP is needed in order to tackle even the most demanding tasks. For casual use, on the other hand, you will be good enough with a small motor.
- Ease of Use: Another important thing is to choose one that will prove to be user-friendly. In this case, there should be features that will make it possible to operate the machine in a snap. The manufacturer must also provide comprehensive instructions on how it can be assembled and used.
Conclusion
From the best band saw reviews discussed above, as well as the tips that we have given, we hope that it is now easier for you to arrive at the right decision. At all times, we recommend that you do not pick one product only because it comes with the cheapest price. At the end of the day, quality should be given more emphasis. Even if it is expensive, if performance is going to be commendable, it will be worth every dollar that will be spent. Take time as well to research about the technical specifications, and more importantly, what other users have to say.
