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6 Best Portable Band Saws in 2024 (Review & Guide)
- WWPN Staff
Portable band saws are very useful and often the tool of choice if you work in different locations and conditions and need to cut a variety of materials while on the go. The band saw is typically a large, refrigerator-like machine that is used for cutting curves from wood, veneer, panels, and sometimes even metal and aluminum. Several innovations, called portable band saws, are changing this stereotype.
It’s easy to find a light-duty band saw that’s suited to weekend warriors who just want something that will do the job. Here you will find a list of some of the best portable band saws that will help you get started. Each one is reviewed so you will be able to find out which one will be best for your project.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Milwaukee Electric Tool 6242-6 Compact Corded Band Saw
Product Description
Some people do not have the space or need a benchtop or stand band saw. Any person who enjoys working outdoors, who moves their saw from worksite to worksite, or who generally likes to save space might want to consider a portable saw. Compact, reliable, and portable, the Milwaukee band saw is a great option for any job that requires a band saw.
This band saw is lightweight and portable, making it ideal for cutting pipes and metal work. In addition, this tool weighs less than 10 pounds and measures only 16 inches long, so you can use it in any situation, and its easy-to-hold grip makes any movement feel natural. Cutting copper or steel is made easier with this machine’s variable-speed system. It ranges from 200 to 360 rpm. Easily eject the blade by adjusting the shoe without tools. The gear casing is made of aluminum, just in case, it drops. The cutting capacity is 3-1/2 inches. A blade is also included with this Milwaukee saw, as well as a carrying case.
Milwaukee Electric Tool 6242-6 Compact Corded Band Saw, 120 VAC, 7 A, 200-360 spam
- Includes compact band saw, blade, case
- Overall weight: 9.5 lbs.
- Overall length: 16”
- Built-in LED work light
- Ideal for electrical, plumbing, and mechanical tasks
Things we love about it
- Easy to use on-the-spot
- integrated work light
- Provides reliable performance
- Hands-free operation
- Convenient for confined spaces
Things we should consider
- There is a limited selection of blades
- There is a modest cutting capacity
- It is not suitable for heavy-duty work
POWERTEC BS900 9 Inch Benchtop Band saw
Product Description
Compared to most portable bandsaws I mentioned above, this one has a metal-cutting blade with a 10/14 TPI for heavy-duty operations, and a cutting capacity of 5 x 5 inches.
It is similar to many of its classes in that it has a variable speed control between 60 and 420 FPM to suit various needs. It has a ten-amp motor that allows it to cut materials such as steel, rubber, conduit, pipes, rebar, plastic, aluminum, brass, bronze, cast iron, and copper.
It is not too heavy at 14.5 pounds and comes with a two-year warranty. The front handle can be adjusted for ergonomics and to lessen fatigue. It accepts blades with a size of 44-7/8 x 1/2 inches.
WEN Portable Band Saw for Metal, 10-Amp, Variable Speed, Handheld (94396)
- Huge cutting capacity makes cuts up to 5 inches wide and 5 inches deep
- Variable speed operation adjusts the blade speed anywhere from 60 to 420 feet per minute
- Powerful 10-amp motor glides through metal, plastics, and more
- Lightweight portable design weighs in at a mere 14.5 pounds
- Features a 10/14 TPI metal-cutting blade, an adjustable front handle, ball-bearing blade guides, an external blade tensioning lever, and a two-year warranty
Things we love about it
- Metals and other hard materials are strong enough to be used.
- The machine also has a good speed bracket and a large cutting capacity.
- Small projects are ideal for hobbyists.
Things we should consider
- There is no brushless motor on the bandsaw.
- It is difficult to maintain straight cuts, according to some complaints
Ryobi 18-Volt ONE+ Cordless 2.5 in. Portable Band Saw
Product Description
It’s a good choice for beginners looking for a low-cost bandsaw. Plastic, wood, and metal can all be cut with this 2-1/2-inch cutting capacity. It can cut at speeds of up to 560 FPM due to its small size and cutting capacity. This makes it simple to use around the house and on job sites.
The integrated pommel handle makes it easy to see what you are doing and shouldn’t cause fatigue. There is an adjustable blade tracking mechanism, and you can also see the material in place thanks to the LED light.
An 18V battery powers this bandsaw, which has a blade size capacity of 32-7/8 inches. With your purchase, the tool comes with two 18 TPI blades and a hex key. The brushless motor is another feature I like about this budget-friendly pick.
Ryobi 18-Volt ONE+ Cordless 2.5 in. Portable Band Saw (Tool Only) P590, (Bulk Packaged, Non-Retail Packaging)
- 2-1/2 in. cut capacity for a wider range of applications, Designed to cut wood, metal, or plastic
- Integrated pommel handle delivers more comfort and increased visibility
- 560 SFPM for quick cuts in all materials
- Bare Tool, Battery and charger sold separately
- International products have separate terms, are sold from abroad and may differ from local products, including fit, age ratings, and language of product, labeling or instructions.
Things we love about it
- Easily maneuverable and compact.
- Cost-effective.
- Compatible with over 225 tools in this line.
- It has a brushless motor, a fast speed, and a well-designed handle.
- This blade is good for light to medium cutting tasks.
Things we should consider
- Batteries and chargers are not included.
- Intended for light use on work sites.
- Compared to other brands and models, the blades and wheels aren’t as smooth.
DEWALT Portable Band Saw, Deep Cut
Product Description
The accuracy of cutting with a portable band saw depends on the user’s skill and control. Sometimes precision matters more than a few degrees here or there, but for many jobs, a few degrees here or there make little difference.
Its steel base prevents this problem with the Anbull portable band saw. Its non-slip feet do not move as well as its stable weight. Hold the workpiece with a clamp. It also features presets for cutting straight and at 45 and 25 degrees. With a variable speed between 100 and 350 FRM, the blade provided is 14 TPI for metal.
DeWalt’s band saw is primarily aimed at professionals but is popular among DIYers. The tool’s metal shroud and thick rubber bumpers offer rugged protection on the job site, but it is still lightweight. Cutting accuracy is maximized with precision blade tracking and dual roller bearings.
Despite its higher price, it is a competitively priced portable band saw. Its cutting speed range is 100–350 FPM, and it is rated as 14 tpi for cutting metal. It features an LED work light focusing on the cutline, as well as an adjustable auxiliary handle for comfort.
Things we love about it
- Capacity for large cuts
- Reputation for reliability
- Durability
- There is a variable-speed option on this bandsaw, and the motor is brushless.
Things we should consider
- Moderate speed range
- Replacement blades are slightly wobbly.
Makita XBP02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Portable Band Saw
Product Description
This Makita XBP02Z portable band saw is versatile, all-around, and doesn’t rank as the “best” portable band saw.
Rubber bumpers protect the metallic wheel shrouds, so they are able to withstand hard knocks. Ergonomic handles add to its ergonomic design. To prevent accidental starting, the unit is equipped with overload protection and a lock-off safety switch. LED work lights are included.
An 18-TPI metal-cutting blade is included with the Makita portable band saw. This blade is better suited than the standard 14-tpi type for this tool because it runs at 275-530 FPM. The price might be too high for DIYers, but for tradespeople, particularly those who cut a lot of metal, it’s a quality choice.
Makita XBP02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Portable Band Saw, Tool Only
- 4-3/4″ Cutting capacity accepts a 44-7/8″ Blade and is ideal for cutting multiple metal materials
- Makita-built motor delivers faster cutting with variable speed 275-530 ft./min.
- Protection circuit with built-in alert light provides over-torque motor protection warning for increased durability
- Trigger switch with lock-off feature requires two actions to power on the band saw
- Conveniently located variable speed control dial enables user to match the speed to the application
Things we love about it
- An excellent, reliable tool
- Capable of cutting tough materials quickly
- Safety is enhanced by the lock-off feature on the trigger switch.
Things we should consider
- Speed slowest is 275 FPM
- No battery or charger included
- Brushless motor not included.
BOSCH GCB10 5 DEEP-CUT BAND SAW
Product Description
The feeling of having choices is one of the most amazing things that can happen to a shopper. This is usually given to clients by large companies. As a result, they are able to stay relevant in the market while simultaneously gaining a greater number of customers.
The Bosch GCB10-5 Deep-Cut portable band saw has been perfected entirely and is a new band saw on the market.
The device is more compact than another one. A powerful motor is supported by a 10 AMP power supply. By using only one sweep, you benefit from cleaner and finer cuts. You’ll also be able to keep your material’s color intact.
BOSCH GCB10-5 Deep-Cut Band Saw, Blue
- Robust 10 amp motor – provides clean cuts, with almost no rework needed for burrs or tempering colors
- Nearly spark-free operation – affords a safer jobsite
- Deep-cut capability – delivers cuts up to 4-3/4 in. In a single pass
- Compact, light design – weighs only 14.5 lbs., ideal for cutting tough overhead materials
- Variable-speed settings – offers versatility to match the cutting speed to the material and application
Things we love about it
- Compact and lightweight for portability.
- The engine is powerful.
- A security feature that prevents sparks.
- The blades are deep-cutting.
- For right cuts, the speed is automatically varying.
Things we should consider
- Due to the lack of hooks and cases, it is difficult to store and unsafe to use
Buying Guide
We haveve written a brief guide for those of you who are unsure of what to look for in a portable band saw.
Power Source
Power sources such as batteries have advanced greatly in recent years, making high-performance cordless tools more available. The difference between a corded and cordless band saw can be as much as 50 percent. It is also common to need at least one spare battery in order to use a cordless tool all day. To maximize runtime, choose a spare with the highest amp-hour (Ah) rating.
The cords on corded models are usually around 8 feet long, so an extension cable is often necessary, which can be annoying. Home users usually have an outlet nearby, and many job sites have generators for power. Corded tools are still a good option for those on a budget, although cordless portable band saws are preferred.
Cutting Capacity
If you’re unsure, check to make sure the width and depth measurements are the same. In the context of a band saw, the “width of cut” refers to the length of the blade or the distance between the bodies that house the band saw wheels. The depth of the cut is the distance from the blade to the back of the frame.
The smallest band saws have a maximum cutting size of 1½ inches by 1½ inches, whereas the largest portable band saws measure 5 inches by 5 inches.
Speed and Blade Type
SFPM (surface feet per minute) or simply “FPM” (foot per minute) is the speed measurement for mobile band saws. Various portable models allow you to cut materials at speeds ranging from 0 to 550 FPM.
Up to six speeds are possible with many machines. By controlling the saw speed with a thumb wheel attached to the handle, changing and adjusting the speed is easy.
The portable band saw is generally considered a metal-cutting tool, and some models are so labeled. Machines typically come with a general-purpose blade with between 14 and 18 teeth per inch (tpi).
There is, however, a wide selection of wood-cutting blades, typically 8 to 10 tpi. A manufacturer’s description provides guidance on performance when looking for replacements or alternatives. The quality of your band saw blades matters a lot; cheap blades tend to wear out quickly.
Size and Portability
There are some compact and subcompact portable band saws designed for single-handed operation. Generally, the bigger models have an auxiliary handle near the front for better control, which is usually adjustable for working at different angles. Be sure to factor in the battery weight when checking the weight of a cordless portable bandsaw. When working in confined spaces, consider the external dimensions of the battery as well as the weight.
Bumpers, Cases, Lighting, and Bare Tools
Occasionally, a storage case is provided, but not always. LED work lights are available on many portable band saws to help brighten dark corners. Many wheel shrouds come with rubber bumpers around the exterior. This can result in significant savings with compatible tools, but if your tools are more than five years old, check compatibility.
Final Word
The DEWALT Deep-Cut Portable Band Saw is the best, which has varying speed control for varying application and material cutting performance. Similar capacity is available for around a third of the price on the WEN 94396. Though its portable band saws don’t have the same degree of build quality, they are still within the reach of almost anyone. However, if you prefer something less expensive, you can buy the Ryobi 2.5-amp 9-inch band saw for an affordable price.
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