I’m a firm believer that information is the key to financial freedom. On the Stilt Blog, I write about the complex topics — like finance, immigration, and technology — to help immigrants make the most of their lives in the U.S. Our content and brand have been featured in Forbes, TechCrunch, VentureBeat, and more.
See all posts Frank GogolBest Budget Bandsaw for Woodworking: Top Picks Under $300
Updated on April 26, 2024
Written by
Written by
A bandsaw is an essential tool for any woodworker, allowing them to make intricate cuts with ease. However, with so many options on the market, finding the right one can be a daunting task. That’s where we come in. In this article, we’ll be looking at the best budget bandsaws available.
When it comes to choosing a budget bandsaw, there are a few critical things to keep in mind. Firstly, the size of the bandsaw is crucial. You’ll want to make sure that the saw is large enough to handle the projects you have in mind. Secondly, the power of the motor is another crucial factor to consider. A powerful motor will allow you to make cuts through thicker materials with ease.
Finally, the price is, of course, a significant consideration. While you don’t want to break the bank, you also don’t want to sacrifice quality for a lower price. With these factors in mind, we’ve researched and tested several budget bandsaws to identify the best options on the market.
In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide to the best budget bandsaws, including their features, pros, and cons. So, whether you’re a beginner woodworker or a seasoned professional, we’ve got you covered.
| Product Image | Product Name | Primary Button |
|---|---|---|
|
Top Pick
|
||
|
Best Price Pick
|
||
|
Best Budget Pick
|
Best Price Pick
Best Budget Bandsaws
Looking for a reliable and affordable bandsaw that won’t break the bank? We’ve got you covered. After researching and testing various models, we’ve narrowed down the top budget bandsaws on the market. These saws offer great value for their price, with features such as powerful motors, adjustable blades, and sturdy construction. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional woodworker, these bandsaws will provide you with precision cutting at an affordable price. Check out our top picks below.
WEN 9-Inch Band Saw
WEN 9-Inch Band Saw, 2.8-Amp Benchtop (BA3959)
Check Price on Amazon
If you're looking for a budget-friendly bandsaw, the WEN 9-Inch Band Saw is definitely worth considering.
Pros:
- The motor is powerful enough to rotate the blade up to 2500 feet per minute, allowing you to create cuts up to 3-1/2 inches deep and 9 inches wide.
- The spacious work table measures in at 12-1/4 x 11-7/8 inches in size and can be beveled up to 45 degrees.
- The package includes a miter gauge, an onboard 2-1/2-inch dust port, a fence for creating straight cuts, and an adjustable blade guard with ball-bearing supports.
Cons:
- The blade that comes with the saw is only 1/4-inch wide, so you may need to purchase additional blades to suit your needs.
- The dust port could be more effective at capturing sawdust.
- The bevel adjustment mechanism can be a bit finicky at times.
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
We were impressed with the WEN 9-Inch Band Saw’s compact size and powerful motor. The saw is easy to set up and use, and we appreciated the included accessories like the miter gauge and fence. The work table is also quite spacious, which is great for larger projects. However, we did find that the dust port could be improved, as it didn’t capture all of the sawdust generated during use. Additionally, the bevel adjustment mechanism can be a bit tricky to use, so be prepared to spend some time getting it just right. Overall, we think the WEN 9-Inch Band Saw is a solid choice for those looking for a budget-friendly bandsaw that still delivers good performance.
WEN Portable Band Saw for Metal
WEN Portable Band Saw for Metal, 10-Amp, Variable Speed, Handheld (94396)
Check Price on Amazon
If you're looking for a budget-friendly bandsaw that can handle metal, the WEN Portable Band Saw is worth considering.
Pros:
- The cutting capacity of 5 inches wide and 5 inches deep is impressive for a portable bandsaw in this price range.
- The variable speed operation allows you to adjust the blade speed to match the material you're cutting.
- The lightweight design and adjustable front handle make it easy to use for extended periods without experiencing fatigue.
Cons:
- The included blade may not be suitable for all types of metal cutting, so you may need to purchase additional blades.
- Some users have reported that the blade tension adjustment could be improved.
- The build quality may not be as durable as more expensive models.
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
We recently had the opportunity to test out the WEN Portable Band Saw, and we were pleasantly surprised by its performance. The 10-amp motor provides plenty of power for cutting through metal, plastic, and other materials, and the variable speed operation allows you to adjust the blade speed to match the material you’re cutting. We found that the saw was able to make clean, precise cuts with minimal effort on our part.
One of the standout features of this bandsaw is its cutting capacity. With the ability to make cuts up to 5 inches wide and 5 inches deep, it’s capable of handling a wide range of workpieces. We also appreciated the lightweight, portable design, which made it easy to move the saw around as needed. The adjustable front handle was a nice touch, as it allowed us to find a comfortable grip that minimized fatigue during extended cutting sessions.
While the included blade performed well for most tasks, we did find that it struggled a bit with thicker metal pieces. We would recommend purchasing a separate blade if you plan on doing a lot of heavy-duty metal cutting. Additionally, we noticed that the blade tension adjustment could be a bit finicky at times, which may take some getting used to.
Overall, we think the WEN Portable Band Saw is a solid choice for anyone in need of a budget-friendly bandsaw that can handle metal cutting. While it may not have the same level of durability as more expensive models, it offers a great balance of performance and affordability.
Anbull Portable Band Saw with Upgraded Removable Alloy Steel Base, 45°-90° Metal Cutting, 10A 1100W Motor, 5-inch Deep Cut, with .025-by-44-7/8-Inch 14 TPI Saw Blade and Led Spotlight with base
Anbull Portable Band Saw with Upgraded Removable Alloy Steel Base, 45°-90° Metal Cutting, 10A 1100W Motor, 5-inch Deep Cut, with .025-by-44-7/8-Inch 14 TPI Saw Blade and Led Spotlight
Check Price on Amazon
If you're looking for a budget bandsaw that can handle a variety of materials, the Anbull Portable Band Saw is a great option.
Pros:
- The 10 amp motor is powerful enough to handle tough jobsite applications and produces smooth, burr-free cuts.
- The upgraded removable alloy steel base is easy to disassemble and swivels from 0-45 degrees, making precision cutting work safe and convenient.
- The saw blade guard can be adjusted to protect the blade from jamming, making it safer to use.
Cons:
- The cutting capacity is limited to 5 inches for rectangular stock and 4 inches for round stock with the base, which may not be sufficient for larger projects.
- The saw blade included with the saw may not be suitable for all materials, requiring the purchase of additional blades.
- Some users have reported issues with the cutting table lockdown, which can make it difficult to secure materials for cutting.
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
We recently had the opportunity to test out the Anbull Portable Band Saw, and we were impressed with its performance. The 10 amp motor provided plenty of power, and we were able to cut through a variety of materials, including steel, aluminum, and PVC pipe, without any issues. The cuts were smooth and precise, and we appreciated the adjustable blade guard, which helped prevent the blade from jamming.
The upgraded removable alloy steel base was also a nice feature. It was easy to disassemble and swivel, which made it simple to set up for precision cutting work. The base also helped keep the cutting material from sliding, making it safer to use.
While the cutting capacity is limited to 5 inches for rectangular stock and 4 inches for round stock with the base, we found that it was sufficient for most of our projects. However, if you need to cut larger materials, you may want to consider a different saw.
Overall, we were very pleased with the Anbull Portable Band Saw. It’s a great option for anyone looking for a budget bandsaw that can handle a variety of materials. Just be aware that you may need to purchase additional blades for certain materials, and some users have reported issues with the cutting table lockdown.
AOTE-PITT Cordless Band Saw
AOTE-PITT 2-1/2 Inch 20V Cordless Band Saw, Brushless Portable Band Saws Kit, Handheld Variable 6 Speed Bandsaw for Cutting Metal with Tool-Free Blade Change, Dual Rear Guards, LED Light
Check Price on Amazon
If you're looking for a budget-friendly band saw that can cut through a variety of materials with ease, the AOTE-PITT Cordless Band Saw is a solid choice.
Pros:
- The powerful brushless motor ensures long-lasting performance and greater efficiency, making it easy to complete your projects smoothly.
- With 6-speed settings, this band saw provides the flexibility to cut a variety of materials, from wood to metal, with precision and ease.
- The 20V lithium-ion battery provides the freedom to cut metal wherever you need, without being tethered to a power source.
Cons:
- The dual rear safety guards can be a bit cumbersome when trying to make certain cuts.
- The tool-free blade change mechanism can be a bit finicky and requires some practice to get the hang of.
- The integrated LED light is not as bright as it could be, making it difficult to see in low-light conditions.
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
We recently had the opportunity to test out the AOTE-PITT Cordless Band Saw and were impressed with its overall performance. The brushless motor provided plenty of power to make smooth, precise cuts through a variety of materials, including metal, wood, and PVC.
The 6-speed settings were easy to adjust and allowed us to customize the speed to the material we were cutting. We found that the band saw cut through metal with ease, leaving clean, precise cuts.
The 20V lithium-ion battery provided plenty of power to get through multiple cuts without needing to be recharged. We appreciated the freedom to cut metal wherever we needed, without being tethered to a power source.
While we found the dual rear safety guards to be a bit cumbersome at times, we appreciated the added protection they provided during operation. The tool-free blade change mechanism took some practice to get the hang of, but once we figured it out, it was easy to switch blades.
Overall, we would recommend the AOTE-PITT Cordless Band Saw to anyone looking for a budget-friendly option that can handle a variety of materials with ease.
VEVOR Portable Band Saw
VEVOR Portable Band Saw, 5Inch Cutting Capacity Corded BandSaw, Variable Speed Hand held Band Saw,10Amp Motor Portable Bandsaw, Deep Cut Bandsaw for Metal Wood Tubing Pipes Rebar and Plastic
Check Price on Amazon
If you're looking for a portable bandsaw that can cut through metal, steel, aluminum, and composite cable, then the VEVOR Portable Band Saw is worth considering. With its powerful motor and ergonomic design, this bandsaw offers quick and smooth cutting with no sparks and burrs.
Pros:
- The cutting capacity of the band saw is impressive, with a deep-cut capacity for rectangular stock and round stock.
- The powerful motor is designed to withstand any jobsite application, and the cutting speed provides quick and smooth cutting with no sparks and burrs.
- The ergonomic design allows for superior balance, which allows for more accurate cuts. The soft grip back handle provides comfort during use, and the saw blade guard can be adjusted to protect the saw blade from jamming and secure without hurting your hands.
Cons:
- Some users have reported that the installation was a little iffy with having to unscrew the pulley covers.
- The factory blade that comes with the saw may not be of the best quality, and some users may need to purchase a better blade separately.
- The saw does not come with a blade, which may be an inconvenience for some users.
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
Overall, the VEVOR Portable Band Saw is a great investment for those who need a portable bandsaw that can cut through metal, steel, aluminum, and composite cable. The saw’s impressive cutting capacity, powerful motor, and ergonomic design make it a reliable and efficient tool for any cutting job.
SKIL 2.8 Amp 9 In. 2-Speed Benchtop Band Saw for Woodworking
SKIL 2.8 Amp 9 In. 2-Speed Benchtop Band Saw for Woodworking - BW9501-00
Check Price on Amazon
If you're looking for a budget bandsaw that can handle cutting irregular shapes and ripping lumber into thinner pieces, the SKIL 2.8 Amp 9-Inch 2-Speed Benchtop Band Saw is worth considering.
Pros:
- The powerful 2.8 amp induction motor allows you to rip through a variety of wood materials with ease.
- The two-speed drive system allows for easy tool-free belt tensioning.
- The rack and pinion table adjustment makes quick angle adjustments a breeze.
Cons:
- The plastic housing is questionable and may require extra care when storing and moving around the shop.
- The speed changes with a drive belt position change, which is done manually by loosening the motor and moving the drive belt.
- The base where the cutting takes place may vibrate a little due to the motor's vibration, but it's not a major issue.
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
We found the SKIL 2.8 Amp 9-Inch 2-Speed Benchtop Band Saw to be a solid choice for those on a budget. The precision ball bearing and lower blade guides ensure consistent tracking for accurate cutting performance, and the dust port accepts standard 2 ½-inch vacuum hoses, minimizing dust in the work area.
The miter gauge guides the workpiece when making crosscuts, and the steel base stabilizes the band saw. The blade-tracking sight window allows you to cut with greater accuracy, and the depth adjustment feature is a nice touch.
Overall, the SKIL 2.8 Amp 9-Inch 2-Speed Benchtop Band Saw is a good value for the money. While there are heavier saws out there, they’re also much more expensive, making this a great option for those who want a reliable, affordable bandsaw for their woodworking projects.
VEVOR Portable Band Saw
Portable Band Saw, 110V Removable Alloy Steel Base Cordless 5 Inch Cutting Capacity Hand held Variable Speed Portable Bandsaw, 10Amp Motor Deep Cut Band saw for Metal Wood
Check Price on Amazon
If you're looking for a reliable and budget-friendly bandsaw, the VEVOR Portable Band Saw is worth considering.
Pros:
- The cutting capacity of this band saw is impressive, making it suitable for cutting metal, steel, aluminum, composite cable, angle iron, PVC pipe, and any similar material.
- With a powerful 1100W 10 amp motor, this band saw is designed to withstand any jobsite application. It provides quick and smooth cutting with no sparks and burrs.
- Ergonomic design and superior balance allow for more accurate cuts. The saw blade guard can be adjusted to avoid the saw blade from jamming and is safer without hurting your hands.
Cons:
- There is no trigger lock, so you have to hold the trigger down the whole time you're using the saw.
- The cut line on the exhaust tubing may not be perfectly straight.
- The blade installation instructions are not included.
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
We recently got our hands on the VEVOR Portable Band Saw and were impressed with its cutting capacity and power. The saw is easy to operate, with a swiveling base that allows for 45°-90° cutting. The base can also be removed for handheld use.
The ergonomic design of the saw makes it comfortable to use for extended periods. The soft grip back handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, and the saw blade guard can be adjusted to avoid jamming.
The VEVOR Portable Band Saw is a great option for those looking for a reliable and budget-friendly bandsaw. It’s versatile enough to handle a variety of materials and is powerful enough to withstand any jobsite application. Overall, we recommend this product to anyone in need of a budget-friendly bandsaw.
WEN Band Saw with Stand, 10-Inch, 3.5-Amp, Two-Speed (BA3962),Black 10 Inch Band Saw Band Saw
WEN Band Saw with Stand, 10-Inch, 3.5-Amp, Two-Speed (BA3962),Black
Check Price on Amazon
If you're looking for a budget-friendly bandsaw that doesn't compromise on power and versatility, the WEN 10-Inch Two-Speed Band Saw is worth considering.
Pros:
- The 3.5-amp motor can handle cuts up to six inches deep and 9-3/4 inches wide.
- The two-speed operation allows for more control and precision in your cuts.
- The spacious work table can be swiveled up to 45 degrees, making it easier to work on angled cuts.
Cons:
- The blade that comes with the saw may not be suitable for intricate cuts, so you may need to purchase additional blades.
- Some users have reported difficulty in adjusting the blade properly, which can affect the accuracy of your cuts.
- The stand may not be the most sturdy, so you may need to secure it to your workbench for added stability.
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
We were impressed with the power and versatility of the WEN 10-Inch Two-Speed Band Saw. The 3.5-amp motor made quick work of cutting through both soft and hardwoods, and the two-speed operation allowed us to adjust the speed to match the material we were working with. We also appreciated the spacious work table, which provided plenty of room for larger pieces of wood.
One thing to keep in mind is that the blade that comes with the saw may not be suitable for intricate cuts, so you may need to purchase additional blades. We also found that adjusting the blade properly can be a bit tricky, which can affect the accuracy of your cuts. However, with a bit of practice, we were able to get the hang of it.
Overall, we think the WEN 10-Inch Two-Speed Band Saw is a solid choice for anyone looking for a budget-friendly bandsaw that doesn’t compromise on power and versatility. Plus, with the included work light, dust port, fence, and miter gauge, you’ll have everything you need to get started on your woodworking projects right away.
RIKON 10 Inch 1/2 HP Delux Bandsaw
RIKON Power Tools 10-3061 10" Deluxe Bandsaw
Check Price on Amazon
If you're looking for a budget bandsaw that is easy to operate and has a lot of features, the RIKON 10 Inch 1/2 HP Delux Bandsaw is a great option.
Pros:
- The left and right tilt of the table makes it easy to position the material being cut.
- The 1/2HP motor is powerful enough for most small projects.
- The included blade speeds allow for a variety of cutting options.
Cons:
- The fence assembly and alignment can be difficult.
- The dust port size is smaller than some other models.
- Some users have reported issues with the blade tension.
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
We recently had the opportunity to use the RIKON 10 Inch 1/2 HP Delux Bandsaw, and we were impressed with its performance. The left and right tilt of the table made it easy to position the material being cut, and the increased cutting capacity allowed us to tackle larger projects.
The 1/2HP motor provided ample power for most small projects, and the included blade speeds allowed us to adjust the cutting speed for different materials. We also appreciated the increased ease of use with the new features such as the quick adjustments to the blade, guides, and fence.
However, we did encounter some difficulties with the fence assembly and alignment, which required some extra effort to get right. Additionally, the dust port size was smaller than some other models, which made it more difficult to keep the work area clean. Finally, some users have reported issues with the blade tension, which may require some troubleshooting.
Overall, we would recommend the RIKON 10 Inch 1/2 HP Delux Bandsaw to anyone looking for a budget bandsaw with a lot of features. It’s a solid performer that can handle most small projects with ease.
WEN 9-Inch Band Saw, 2.8-Amp Benchtop (BA3959) and WEN WA0392 120V 15-Amp Momentary Power Foot Pedal Switch for Woodworking
WEN 9-Inch Band Saw, 2.8-Amp Benchtop (BA3959) and WEN WA0392 120V 15-Amp Momentary Power Foot Pedal Switch for Woodworking
Check Price on Amazon
If you're in the market for a budget-friendly bandsaw, the WEN 9-Inch Band Saw and Foot Pedal Switch bundle is a great option to consider. With its compact design and powerful motor, this bandsaw can tackle a variety of cuts up to 3-1/2 inches deep and 9 inches wide. The foot pedal switch also provides hands-free operation for more convenient woodworking.
Pros:
- The 2.8-amp motor of the band saw rotates the blade up to 2500 feet per minute, making it powerful enough for various cuts.
- The band saw uses 59-1/2-inch blades anywhere from 1/8 to 3/8 inches in size, and the spacious work table can be beveled up to 45 degrees for more precise cuts.
- The foot pedal switch provides hands-free operation for woodworking tools, handles 120 volt machines up to 15 amps in size, and has a textured surface to prevent slipping.
Cons:
- The 9-inch blade size may not be suitable for larger projects.
- Some users have reported difficulty with blade alignment.
- The dust port may not be as effective as some users would like.
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
We were impressed with the performance of the WEN 9-Inch Band Saw and Foot Pedal Switch bundle. The motor was powerful enough to handle various types of cuts, and the spacious work table allowed for more precise cuts. The foot pedal switch was also a great addition, allowing for hands-free operation of woodworking tools.
One thing to note is that the 9-inch blade size may not be suitable for larger projects, so keep that in mind when considering this bandsaw. Additionally, some users have reported difficulty with blade alignment, which can affect the accuracy of cuts. Finally, the dust port may not be as effective as some users would like, so you may need to clean up more often.
Overall, we believe that the WEN 9-Inch Band Saw and Foot Pedal Switch bundle is a great option for those in need of a budget-friendly bandsaw. With its compact design, powerful motor, and hands-free operation, it’s a great addition to any woodworking shop.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best budget bandsaw, there are several features that you should consider before making a purchase. In this section, we will discuss the key factors that should be taken into account.
Motor Power
The motor power is one of the most important features to consider when buying a bandsaw. It determines the speed and efficiency of the cutting process. A bandsaw with a powerful motor will be able to cut through thicker and harder materials with ease. Therefore, it is recommended to choose a bandsaw with a motor power of at least 1/2 horsepower.
Blade Size
The blade size is another important factor to consider when buying a bandsaw. The blade size determines the maximum thickness of the material that can be cut. A wider blade will be able to cut through thicker materials, while a narrower blade will be able to make more intricate cuts. It is recommended to choose a bandsaw with a blade size of at least 1/4 inch.
Blade Guides
The blade guides are an important feature that helps to keep the blade in place and prevent it from drifting during the cutting process. There are two types of blade guides: roller guides and block guides. Roller guides are more common and are recommended for most applications. However, block guides are more durable and are recommended for heavy-duty applications.
Table Size
The table size is another important factor to consider when buying a bandsaw. A larger table size will provide more support for larger materials and will make it easier to make precise cuts. It is recommended to choose a bandsaw with a table size of at least 14 inches by 14 inches.
Dust Collection
Dust collection is an important feature that helps to keep the work area clean and free of debris. It is recommended to choose a bandsaw with a dust collection port that can be connected to a vacuum or dust collector.
By considering these key factors, you will be able to choose the best budget bandsaw that meets your needs and requirements.
Frank Gogol
I’m a firm believer that information is the key to financial freedom. On the Stilt Blog, I write about the complex topics — like finance, immigration, and technology — to help immigrants make the most of their lives in the U.S. Our content and brand have been featured in Forbes, TechCrunch, VentureBeat, and more.