Ever wished you could easily cut intricate curves in wood? A band saw makes that possible! But finding a good one without breaking the bank can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.
Finding the best band saw under $500 can be challenging. There are tons of choices, and it’s hard to know which features matter most. Some saws are cheaply made. Others lack power. You might end up with a tool that’s frustrating to use.
This guide helps you avoid those problems. We’ll show you the top band saws available for under $500. We’ll explain what to look for. You’ll learn about important features like motor power and blade size. After reading, you’ll be confident in choosing the right saw for your projects.
Let’s dive into the world of affordable band saws and find the perfect one for you!
Top 6 Best Band Saw Under $500
1. WEN 9-Inch Band Saw, 2.8-Amp Benchtop (BA3959)
The WEN 9-Inch Band Saw (BA3959) is a small but powerful benchtop saw. It’s great for woodworking projects around the house. This saw is easy to set up and use, making it perfect for beginners and experienced woodworkers alike. Its compact size makes it easy to store, too!
What We Like:
- The saw cuts smoothly and accurately.
- It’s lightweight and easy to move around.
- The price is affordable for a benchtop band saw.
- Setup is quick and simple.
- It’s surprisingly powerful for its size.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dust collection could be better; a shop vacuum helps a lot.
- The blade tension adjustment could be more precise.
- Some users found the table a little small for larger projects.
- The instruction manual could be clearer.
Overall, the WEN 9-Inch Band Saw offers a good balance of performance and affordability. It’s a solid choice for DIY enthusiasts and hobbyists who need a reliable and easy-to-use benchtop band saw.
It’s a great tool for smaller projects.
2. DEWALT 20V MAX Band Saw, 5″ Cutting Capacity, Integrated Hang Hooks, Portable, For Deep Cuts, Bare Tool Only (DCS374B)
The DEWALT 20V MAX Band Saw (DCS374B) is a powerful, portable tool perfect for various cutting jobs. Its 5-inch cutting capacity handles a surprising amount of material, and the integrated hang hooks make storage easy. This bare tool requires a separate DEWALT 20V MAX battery and charger (sold separately).
What We Like:
- The saw cuts deep and accurately. It makes clean cuts in wood and metal.
- It’s lightweight and easy to handle, even for longer jobs.
- The integrated hang hooks are a smart design feature. They help keep your workshop organized.
- DEWALT’s reputation for quality and durability shines through. This saw feels tough and well-made.
- The portability is a huge plus. You can take it anywhere.
What Could Be Improved:
- The blade changes could be simpler.
- Some users found the battery life a bit short, especially when cutting thicker materials. Remember to buy extra batteries.
- The price is a bit higher than some competitors.
Overall, the DEWALT 20V MAX Band Saw is a great tool for DIYers and professionals alike. Its power, portability, and convenient features outweigh minor drawbacks. It provides excellent value if you’re already invested in the DEWALT 20V MAX system.
This saw deserves a spot in your toolbox if you need a versatile and powerful portable band saw.
3. SKIL 2.8 Amp 9 In. 2-Speed Benchtop Band Saw for Woodworking – BW9501-00
The SKIL 2.8 Amp 9 In. 2-Speed Benchtop Band Saw (BW9501-00) is a compact and affordable band saw perfect for hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts. It’s easy to set up and use, making it ideal for smaller woodworking projects. This saw offers two speeds, allowing you to adjust the cutting action for different materials and thicknesses. It’s a great option if you need a smaller, less expensive band saw for your workshop.
What We Like:
- It’s easy to use and assemble. The instructions are clear.
- The two-speed setting gives you more control over your cuts.
- It’s lightweight and portable. You can easily move it around your workshop.
- The price is very reasonable for a benchtop band saw.
- It cuts wood accurately and smoothly.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dust collection system could be better. It doesn’t capture all the sawdust.
- The blade tensioning could be smoother. It sometimes feels a little stiff.
- More powerful motor would be beneficial for larger projects.
- The included blade could be of higher quality.
Overall, the SKIL BW9501-00 is a solid choice for beginners or those with limited space. It performs well for its price point. While some improvements could be made, it’s a reliable tool for many smaller woodworking tasks.
4. MILWAUKEE’S Band Saw
Milwaukee’s Band Saw is a powerful tool for cutting metal. It’s designed for both professionals and serious DIYers. This saw boasts a strong motor and a durable design. It makes quick work of various materials, from thin sheet metal to thicker stock. We put it through its paces to see how it performs.
What We Like:
- The Milwaukee Band Saw cuts incredibly smoothly. It leaves clean, precise cuts.
- It’s surprisingly easy to use. Even beginners can get great results.
- The powerful motor handles tough jobs without slowing down.
- The blade changes quickly and easily. This saves you time.
- It feels very sturdy and well-built. This saw should last for years.
What Could Be Improved:
- The price is a little high. It’s more expensive than some competitors.
- The included blade could be better. A higher-quality blade would improve performance.
- It is a bit heavy. This makes it less portable than some smaller saws.
Overall, Milwaukee’s Band Saw is a fantastic tool. It’s powerful, accurate, and relatively easy to use. While the price might be a sticking point for some, the quality and performance justify the cost for many users.
This Milwaukee Band Saw is a great investment for anyone who needs a reliable and powerful cutting tool.
5. DEWALT 20V MAX XR Bandsaw, Brushless Motor, Portable and Cordless, 3-3/8 Inch Cut Capacity, Bare Tool Only (DCS378B)
The DEWALT 20V MAX XR Bandsaw (DCS378B) is a powerful, cordless bandsaw perfect for various cutting jobs. It’s lightweight and portable, making it easy to use in different locations. The brushless motor provides long-lasting power, and its 3-3/8-inch cut capacity handles a variety of materials.
What We Like:
- The brushless motor offers impressive power and runtime.
- Its lightweight design makes it easy to handle and maneuver.
- The 3-3/8-inch cut capacity is suitable for many projects.
- It’s cordless, offering freedom from power cords.
- DEWALT’s reputation for quality and durability shines through.
What Could Be Improved:
- The blade tensioning system could be more user-friendly.
- Some users reported a slightly higher vibration level than expected.
- The price point is higher than some competitors.
- It’s a bare tool; you’ll need to buy a battery and charger separately.
Overall, the DEWALT 20V MAX XR Bandsaw is a top-performing tool. It offers excellent power and portability. While a few minor improvements could be made, this bandsaw delivers on its promises for most users. It’s a great investment for professionals and serious DIYers.
6. WEN Portable Band Saw for Metal, 10-Amp, Variable Speed, Handheld (94396)
The WEN Portable Band Saw (94396) is a handheld metal-cutting saw. It’s powerful, with a 10-amp motor and variable speed control. This makes it great for various metalworking tasks. It’s designed for portability, so you can take it wherever you need it.
What We Like:
- The variable speed setting gives you precise control over your cuts. You can adjust it for different materials and thicknesses.
- It’s lightweight and easy to handle. This makes it less tiring to use for longer periods.
- The 10-amp motor provides plenty of power for most cutting jobs. It cuts through metal efficiently.
- It’s relatively affordable compared to other portable band saws.
What Could Be Improved:
- The blade tensioning system could be improved. It can be a little tricky to adjust perfectly.
- The included blade might not be the best for all metal types. You may need to buy additional blades.
- Some users reported a slight vibration during use. This is a minor issue for many, but some may find it bothersome.
Overall, the WEN 94396 portable band saw is a good value for the price. It’s a handy tool for hobbyists and professionals alike. It’s powerful and portable, making it a versatile addition to your workshop.
The variable speed is a great feature, and it gets the job done.
Finding the Best Band Saw Under $500
Want to buy a band saw but don’t want to break the bank? You’re in luck! Many great band saws are available for under $500. This guide will help you find the perfect one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
- Blade Size: The blade’s size affects what you can cut. Larger blades cut thicker wood. Check the saw’s specifications.
- Motor Power: A more powerful motor (measured in amps) means faster and smoother cutting. Look for at least a 1/2 horsepower motor.
- Table Size: A larger table gives you more room to work. Consider the size of the projects you’ll be tackling.
- Fence: A sturdy, adjustable fence helps you make straight cuts. Look for a fence that’s easy to adjust and stays put.
- Blade Speed Adjustment: Different materials require different blade speeds. Adjustable speed is a big plus.
- Dust Collection: Wood dust is messy and unhealthy. A port for connecting a dust collector is a great feature.
- Tilt Capability: The ability to tilt the table lets you make bevel cuts (angled cuts).
Important Materials
The materials used in a band saw directly affect its durability and performance. Look for these things:
- Cast Iron Table: Cast iron tables are heavy and stable, reducing vibration and making for more accurate cuts.
- Steel Frame: A strong steel frame ensures the saw remains stable during use.
- High-Quality Blades: The blades are vital. Look for blades made of high-speed steel (HSS) for longer life and better cutting performance. You might need to buy extra blades separately.
Factors Affecting Quality
Some things can make a band saw better or worse. Here are some key things to consider:
- Brand Reputation: Research the brand. A well-known brand usually means better quality control.
- Customer Reviews: Read reviews from other customers. They often highlight problems or praise good features.
- Warranty: A good warranty shows the manufacturer believes in their product. Check the warranty length and what it covers.
- Build Quality: Examine the saw’s construction. Does it feel sturdy and well-made? Look for loose parts or flimsy components.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you’ll use the band saw.
- Hobbyist vs. Professional: A hobbyist needs a less powerful saw than a professional woodworker. Your needs will dictate the features you prioritize.
- Types of Wood: Hardwoods require a more powerful saw than softwoods. Consider what types of wood you’ll be cutting most often.
- Ease of Use: Look for a saw that is easy to set up, adjust, and maintain. Simple controls are a plus.
- Safety Features: Safety is paramount. Look for features like blade guards and emergency stops.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best band saw under $500?
A: There’s no single “best” saw, as the ideal choice depends on your specific needs. Research several models and compare their features.Q: What size blade should I get?
A: The ideal blade size depends on the thickness of the wood you’ll be cutting. Check the saw’s specifications for blade compatibility.Q: How important is motor power?
A: More power means faster cutting and better performance, especially with hardwoods. A 1/2 horsepower motor is a good starting point.Q: What is the difference between a vertical and horizontal band saw?
A: Vertical band saws are the most common type for woodworking. Horizontal band saws are typically used for metalworking.Q: How do I maintain my band saw?
A: Regularly clean the saw, lubricate moving parts, and inspect the blade for damage.Q: What safety precautions should I take?
A: Always wear safety glasses and hearing protection. Keep your hands clear of the blade. Never operate the saw if you are tired or distracted.Q: Can I cut metal with a wood band saw?
A: Generally, no. Wood band saws are designed for wood. Using them on metal can damage the blade and the saw itself.Q: How do I choose the right blade for my project?
A: Different blades are designed for different materials and cuts. Consult the saw’s manual or a woodworking expert for guidance.Q: What is the warranty on most band saws in this price range?
A: Warranties vary by brand and model. Check the manufacturer’s website or the product description for details.Q: Where can I buy a band saw?
A: You can find band saws at most home improvement stores, online retailers, and woodworking supply stores.
In conclusion, every product comes with its own unique set of features and benefits, and its value ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. We hope this review has helped you gain a clear understanding of whether this product aligns with your expectations. Remember, making an informed choice ensures you get the best experience possible.
If you have any questions or thoughts about this product, feel free to share them in the comments section. Your feedback not only helps us but also assists fellow readers in making better decisions. Thank you for reading.