Band saws are one of those specialized tools that allow woodworkers to extend their capabilities. Often used as the first tool in the shop as their importance and versatility allows you to accomplish tasks that were once nearly impossible. As with a jig saw, band saws are capable of making irregular or curved cuts in your materials. If you’re on the hunt for a new power saw that will get the most out of your budget while considering quality and capacity, then we’ve got the review for you.
The following review showcases the Top 10 Band Saws in 2021 while highlighting their features and detailing all the reasons why we have rated them in the top 10. We have reviewed the more traditional vertical band saws as well as smaller, cordless portable options which are becoming increasingly popular for the DIY handyman working on a weekend project.
For a true metal cutting band saw, Shop Fox delivered a beauty that scores a 9.8 out of 10 and claims the top spot in this review. The W1715 is a true heavy-duty band saw that is powered by a ¾-HP motor, runs off 110-volts, and delivers 1725 RPM. This metal cutter features variable blade speeds that range from 78 FPM @ 40 RPM, 108 FPM @ 60 RPM, 180 FPM @ 80 RPM delivering on any type of project you have in mind.
The Shop Fox W1715 is a portable model that can easily be moved around the shop. Outfitted with a heavy-duty handle and durable wheels it is simple to move with just one person. Highlighted by a space saving, compact design and with plenty of power to handle any DIY or professional grade project. Weighing under 175-pounds, the lightweight design with the ability to get angled cuts from 0-60 degrees make this a band saw worth considering.
Specs and features
- Dimensions of product: 39 x 14.9 x 12.8 inches
- Weight: 139 pounds
- Voltage: 110 volts
- Automatic shutoff
- Blades, handles and wheels included
The Makita XBP02 portable band saw is a portable band saw that operates off cordless power. Powered by an 18-volt battery, which gives you hours of continuous use on a single charge, it’s a great companion for completing any DIY woodworking project. This band saw features an LED light built-in along with torque control which protects the motor from overheating.
The Makita XBP02 18V band saw is more durable than most as it features a protective bumper along the edge of the saw. A convenient tool hook allows you to hang it up which makes it a true space saver in smaller shops or for those looking to conserve space. The XBP02 uses standard blades 44-7/8-inch x ½-inch and works well with all types of projects including electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and metal.
Specs and features
- Product dimensions: 11 × 30 × 22 inches
- Weight: 20 pounds
- Power: 18V
- Battery: side-style lithium-ion
For those looking for a budget friendly band saw that offers portability and power in one package, then the 3rd spot in this review is for you. The DeWalt DCS371B band saw is a 20-volt cordless model that operates off efficient Lithium-Ion batteries, but they’re not included. This bare-tool model is aggressively priced which has helped it become a consumer best-seller on Amazon.
The DeWalt CS371B cordless band saw features a 2 ½-inch cut capacity which is enough to cut 2” SCH pipe. It also offers the perfect balance and ergonomics with a well-placed handle that’s on-top giving more control to the user. Other features include an LED light, 20 second delay, and guide rollers dual blade, and an adjustment for blade tracking.
Specs and features
- Item Dimensions: 15.38 x 12.2 x 8.7 in
- Item Weight: 10.2 pounds
- Origin: China
- Color: Yellow/Black
- Style: Band saw
- Power source: Cordless electric
- Voltage: 20 volts
- Max capacity round: 2-1/2″
- Max capacity square: 2-1/2″
- Blade length: 32-7/8″
- Cutting speed: 570 fmp.
Powermatic is one of the most recognized names of heavy-duty band saws that are best suited for professional use. This pro-grade model is a woodworkers dream and lets you take on some of the largest and toughest DIY projects right in your shop. This 14-inch deluxe model has a fully enclosed motor which keeps dirt and wood chips out therefore helping to protect your investment.
The Powermatic PWBS-14CS bandsaw is powered by a 1 ½-HP motor and features a sturdy base that tilts 45-degrees right and 10-degrees left. The stable construction is made of cast-iron and stainless steel which is extremely durable. Out of the box, you get the bandsaw, rip fence, work light, halogen light, foot brake, blade, and chip blower.
Specs and features
- Product dimensions: 20 × 34 × 68 inches
- Weight: 178 pounds
- Motor: 1-1/2 horsepower motor
- Includes foot brake, blade, miter-gauge, work light and rip fence
This 18-inch vertical bandsaw by JET has received all-positive reviews from consumers and claims the 5th spot in this review. This vertical model is a true heavy-weight and packs quite a punch and will be the last thing that stands between you and precision crafted wood projects. This professional grade model will take on metal and wood cutting projects with ease and powers through any cut with its 1-HP motor.
This JET 18” vertical band saw features a precision crafted T-square style rip fence. This gives the user precise and accurate cuts without hesitation. This model is packed full of features including roller bearing guides, miter gauge, fence and rail, heavy-duty gear box, 4” dust port and includes a 3/4-inch carbon steel blade.
Specs and Features
- Item Weight: 456 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 42 x 38 x 74 inches
- Power Source: Corded-electric
- Blade length: 137 inches (approximate)
- Horsepower: 1.5 HP
- Table size: 19 x 19 inches
- Motor: 1-3/4 HP, 115/230 volts, 1Ph, prewired 115 volts
- Cutting capacity, Height: 12 inches, maximum
- Warranty Description: 2 Year
- Cutting capacity, Throat: 18 inches, maximum
- Rip left of blade with fence: 16½ inches, maximum
- Blade speeds (SFPM): Low (80, 150, 265), High (1000, 1800, 3200)
- Table height: 37-1/2 inches (at 90 degrees)
- Blade width: 1/8 to 1-1/2 inches (wood); 1/8 to 1 inch (metal)
- Table tilt: 45 degrees right, 10 degrees left
Another heavy-duty shop band saw is this 14-inch model which is a pro-level power tool. This looks great in any shop and outperforms the competition while living up to JET’s lofty performance standards. Coming in with a price around $1000, it proves that some of the highest performance band saws don’t have to cost a fortune.
The JET JWBS-14DXPRO boasts a 12” resaw capability which is perfect for cutting thicker, larger pieces of wood. Powered by an efficient 2-speed poly-v belt drive system which delivers consistent power throughout the entire cut. Outfitted with an upper and lower cast-iron base giving users a better constructed and stronger model than the previous one.
Specs and features
- Item Weight: 258 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 29 x 28 x 77 inches
- Item model number: JWBS-14DXPR
- Size: Large
- Color: White
- Power Source: corded-electric
- Horsepower: 1.25 HP
- Included Components: stand
- Warranty Description: 5 Year
When comparing the best band saws of the year, it’s impossible to not consider a JET model. This JET bandsaw is easily among the best of the best which is agreed upon by consumers with plenty of all-positive reviews. The PM1500 has more cutting capacity than a standard 14” model with its 14-inch and 14 ½-inch of throat capacity.
The Powermatic PM1500 features a strong, durable trunnion assembly and the cast iron table provides the perfect base for cutting heavy-duty material. Powermatic’s Accu-Fence makes for simple adjustments for aligning to blade and squaring to table. Users have also come to appreciate the positive locking cam with pressure sensitive adjustments.
Specs and features
- Product dimensions: 8 x 27.5 x 83.5 inches
- Weight: 502 pounds
- Source of power: corded-electric
- Blade length: 153 inches
The Shop Fox W1770 is a single phase 21-inch bandsaw that was made to last and is well-supported with its stainless-steel construction. This 5-HP model gives you plenty of cutting power and delivers speeds to 1725 RPM. Giving you ultimate performance with Shop Fox’s own computer balanced cast iron wheels along with rubber wheels for great control.
The W1770 is a rugged bandsaw that outperforms the rest while boasting a maximum cutting capacity of 14-inches. This versatile professional grade band saw has a throat capacity of 20-inches and a blade length of 165-inches. Delivering blade speeds to 4600 FPM which is plenty of power to cut through any type of material you have in mind.
Specs and features
- Dimensions: 83.5 x 38.4 x 25.6 inches
- Weight: 688 pounds
- Cutting height: 14 inches
- Speed of blade: 4600 fpm
- Variable speed settings
If you’re looking for a slightly smaller band saw that’s a bit more affordable, then JET introduces the JWBS-14CS. This 14-inch bandsaw is powered by a 1-HP motor which was specifically introduced for all types of wood working projects and takes them on with ease. Powered by a 1-HP motor which delivers speeds to 3,000 strokes per minute which is plenty of power for all types of woodworking.
This JET 14” bandsaw features a max cutting capacity of 6-inch x 13-1/2-inches. Enclosed in a strong, durable stand which keeps the vital parts such as the motor and transmission free from chips and other debris which helps protect your investment for years to come. Out of the box, you get the bandsaw, 2-inch dust chute, and 3/8-inch blade.
Specs and features
- Item Weight: 185 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 19 x 26 x 68 inches
- Size: Large
- Color: port
- Power Source: corded-electric
- Horsepower: 1 HP
- Included Components: stand
- Warranty Description: 2 year
For those looking for a cordless bandsaw with deep cutting capability while being portable, the 10th spot in this review is just that. DeWalt introduced this cordless bandsaw which is powered by an efficient, long-lasting 20-volt battery. With a max cutting capacity of 5-inch x 4-3/4-inches, you get plenty of power and capabilities for all types of wood cutting.
The DeWalt DCS374P2 includes an LED light and features a 20-second delay for added safety. Users have come to appreciate the variable speed control and simple dial which adds control and versatility which is something you don’t see in most portable bandsaws. Included in the kit is the bandsaw, 20-volt battery, charger, and hard carrying case.
Specs and features
- Item Weight: 25 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 22.1 x 7.9 x 17.8 inches
- Batteries: 1 Lithium ion batteries required. (included)
- Power Source: Battery-Powered
- Voltage: 20 volts
- Included Components: (1) DCS374 20V MAX* Band Saw, (2) DCB205 20V MAX* 5.0Ah batteries, (1) Charger, (1) Kit Box, (1) 18TPI Band Saw Blade
- Battery Cell Type: Lithium Ion
Conclusion
As you can see there are a variety of band saws available from large, vertical saws with a maximum throat capacity to smaller portable, cordless band saws. When purchasing a band saw, budget will be a big consideration and the quality of the band saw’s construction may be an important factor depending on its use. How the band saw will be used and the materials you intend to cut with it will all help you determine how you decide which of the top 10 band saws in 2021 will suit your requirements.
