Best Budget Bandsaw For Home Shop

Buyers Guide, Tool

best bandsaw for home shop
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Table of Contents

Well, in this post, I’ll walk you through some of the “best budget bandsaws” available on the market.

Moreover, I’ll also throw light on various aspects of these budget bandsaws to help you make an informed buying decision.

Lastly, I’ll try to help you in clearing your doubts related to the “best budget bandsaw review” in order to help you buy the “value for money” bandsaw.

But, before all these miracles happen, I would be needing your help to further improve our buying guide on the best affordable bandsaw.

Are you willing to help me?

ALRIGHT!

All you need to do is to respond to the questions that I’m gonna ask you in a while.

So, which is your favorite bandsaw brand?

How much are you willing to spend on your best-budget bandsaw?

Do you read product reviews for every product that you buy?

Fervently, awaiting your response in the comment section.

So, without any further ado, let’s begin…

What Is The Best Budget Bandsaw For A Beginner?

Frankly speaking, all the bandsaws that made it to our list are of high quality and worth the investment.

However, our core team has recommended the below-mentioned bandsaw as they have performed extremely well on a wide range of evaluation parameters.

Editor’s Recommended

(Check the Current Price On Amazon)

best budget bandsaw review

Best Budget Bandsaw Review

To be honest, I along with my team have literally worked hard to come up with some of the best budget bandsaws that would be a great addition to your home shop or small woodworking shop.

Each of the bandsaws that made it to our buying list has been evaluated over a wide range of parameters that we would be discussing in the “buying guide” section.

Furthermore, all the evaluating parameters carry a certain weightage depending upon their capability to influence the buying decision.

Finally, the summation of the marks assigned to the bandsaw helps us to find out the best budget bandsaw.

Does it make sense?

Cutting long-story-short, let’s discuss all the ten budget bandsaws that made it to our list for this year.

Best Budget Bandsaw Under $200

Well, in this section, I would be walking you through some of the best budget bandsaws that fall in the range of zero and 200 dollars.

These tools are perfect for your weekend projects as well as small-sized woodworking projects.

Whether you own a small woodworking shop or you’re a DIYer, the tools that I’m going to discuss now could be a great value addition to your shop and the best part is you don’t have to worry at all about the investment.

So, are you ready for the ride?

WEN 3939T Benchtop Band Saw

The WEN is an established brand in the power tool segment and is known for manufacturing cost-effective products.

To begin with, we’ve WEN 3939T, a 9-inch benchtop bandsaw, that comprises a 2.8 amp motor capable of rotating the blade up to 2460 feet per minute.

In spite of the bandsaw costing you less than $200, it is capable of creating cuts up to 3-5/8 inches deep and 9 inches wide which is definitely good enough to take care of small woodworking projects with ease.

It uses 62-inch blades anywhere from 1/8 to 3/8 inches in size making the entire cutting process smooth and hassle-free.

Furthermore, the spacious 12 x 12-inch work table with beveling capability encourages angular cuts as well as accommodate workpiece of different shapes and sizes.

WEN 3939T 2.8-Amp 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw

The included dust port can be used to connect to a vacuum for cleaning the dust and debris.

With the help of included fence and miter gauge, you can easily expedite both straight and angular cuts with ease.

The adjustable blade guard ensures the proper functioning of the blade by preventing it from getting deviated from its position.

The benchtop bandsaw is compact, robust, and portable.

And, of course, the small footprint helps you to utilize your workshop space in the best possible way.

Lastly, the 46.7 lbs WEN 3939T is backed by a 2-year warranty.

All in all, a great budget benchtop bandsaw that you’ll NEVER regret investing into.

Features
  • 9-inch benchtop bandsaw
  • 31.8 x 17.72 x 16.38 inches product dimensions
  • Weighs 46.7 lbs
  • Includes 2.8 amp motor that is capable of rotating the blade up to 2460 feet per minute
  • 12 x 12-inch spacious worktable with a beveling ability of up to 45 degrees
  • Includes a 3/8-inch-wide blade
Pros
  • Includes high-end features such as a dust port, a fence, a miter gauge, etc at an affordable price
  • 2-year warranty
  • Includes dust port for tackling debris and dust
  • Capable of making rips and cross-cuts
  • Comprises of ball bearings that give the blade smooth operation as well as elongate the lifespan
  • High cost-to-performance ratio
Cons
  • Relatively vibrates more
Check WEN 3939T Price On Amazon

WEN 94396 Variable Speed Handheld Portable Band Saw

Here I’m with another great offering from the brand WEN.

The WEN 94396 is a variable-speed portable bandsaw that comprises a 10-amp powerful motor and thus can cut up to 5 inches wide and 5 inches deep.

WEN 94396 10-Amp 5-Inch Variable Speed Handheld Portable Band Saw for Metal

Moreover, variable speed allows you to set the blade speed in the range of 60 to 420 feet per minute, and as a result, you can use this budget metal cutting bandsaw for cutting a wide range of materials, interesting, isn’t it?

The bandsaw is uniquely designed and weighs as little as 14.5 lbs which makes it one of the lightest budget metal cutting bandsaws available on the market.

It also includes some high-end features such as a 10/14 TPI metal-cutting blade, an adjustable front handle, ball-bearing blade guides, and an external blade tensioning lever.

Furthermore, you can’t take the credit away from the adjustable front handle that limits fatigue during long days on the job.

Lastly, the 14.5 lbs WEN 94396 is backed by a two-year warranty.

Features
  • 20.25 x 13 x 8.25 inches product dimensions
  • Weighs 14.5 lbs
  • Includes a 10/14 TPI metal-cutting blade
  • Capable of cutting up to 5 inches wide and 5 inches deep
  • Comes with a variable speed falling in the range of 60 to 420 feet per minute
Pros
  • 2-year warranty
  • Compact and lightweight design and maximizes portability without sacrificing power
  • One of the best budget metal cutting bandsaws available on the market
  • Includes adjustable front handle to limit fatigue during long hours of work
Cons
  • Some users have complained about the blade moving off the bearing when tool runs
Check WEN 94396 Price On Amazon

Best Budget Bandsaw Under $300

Let’s have a quick look at some of the best budget bandsaws that fall under the $200 and $300 range.

To be honest, these bandsaw models might not be a perfect fit for a heavy-duty job but are well-versed in dealing with small to medium size woodworking projects.

WEN 3962 Two-Speed Band Saw with Stand and Work light, 10″

The first budget bandsaw that made to our list is from the brand “WEN”.

The 10″ bandsaw not only comes with a stand but also gives you an option of two speeds which is definitely something amazing at this price.

Moreover, the WEN 3962 is highly capable of cutting wood boards up to six inches and the credit goes to the 3.5-amp motor and a 9-3/4 inch throat.

WEN 3962 Two-Speed Band Saw with Stand and Worklight, best budget bandsaw under 300 dollars

The thing that I personally liked about this little beast is the built-in 14 x 12-1/2 inches spacious worktable and its capability to swivel up to 45-degrees is something that has definitely blown my mind.

Trust me, I wasn’t expecting all these superlative features at such an affordable price.

In case, you own a very small woodworking shop wherein you’ve got a scarcity of space then I’ve got good news for you, guess what?

Well, you can exploit the easy-to-assemble stand feature of the WEN 3962 that would prevent you from sacrificing space on your shop’s workbench.

Not only that but also the machine comes with good quality ball bearings so that the operation could be smoothened and the bandsaw lifespan could be elongated.

Furthermore, the availability of two speeds, that is, 1520 or 2620 FPM gives you the feasibility to work on a wide range of materials.

In short, you can easily deal with the cutting needs of small to medium woodworking projects.

The 3-in-1 dust port would help you in dealing with dust and debris by connecting the bandsaw to an effective dust collection system.

On top of it, the bandsaw is packed with additional accessories and also equipped with a full 6-inches of resaw capacity, and again I’m saying you, all this you get a very affordable price.

To deal with dim light working conditions, the WEN 3962 comes with a flexible and effective work light.

Lastly, the 73 lbs WEN 3962 comes with a 2-year limited warranty.

Do I still need to convince you to buy this “value for money” bandsaw?

Features
  • Weighs 73 lbs
  • 20 x 25 x 58 inches product dimensions
  • 3.5-amp motor
  • Capable of cutting up to six inches deep and 9-3/4 inches wide
  • 14 x 12-1/2 inches spacious work table and can swivel up to 45 degrees
  • Capable of using 72-inch blades anywhere from 1/8 to 1/2 inches in size for a variety of both intricate and powerful cuts
  • Comes with 2 speeds 1520 or 2620 FPM
Pros
  • Lightweight and portable bandsaw
  • Affordable and one of the best budget bandsaw under $300
  • Very high cost-to-performance ratio
  • Assembling this little beast is relatively easy and straightforward
  • Includes high-end features such as work light, 3-in-1 dust port, adjustable fence, sliding miter gauge, etc at an affordable price
Cons
  • Not suitable for heavy-duty projects
Check WEN 3962 Price On Amazon

DEWALT Portable Band Saw (DWM120K)

The DWM120K is a great offering from the brand DEWALT as it is NOT only affordable but portable also.

Unlike the aforementioned budget bandsaw model that offers two speeds, the DWM120K offers a variable speed that enhances both the material-specific as well as application-specific performance.

With a 10 amp motor and variable speed ranging from 100 SFM to 350 SFM, the portable bandsaw is bound to perform extraordinarily against both round stocks as well as rectangular stock.

DEWALT Portable Band Saw, Deep Cut, 10 Amp, 5-Inch (DWM120K),Yellow,Large, best  budget bandsaw under $300

Moreover, when dealing with round stock the DEWALT bandsaw permits you to cut up to 5 inches.

On the other hand, when working with rectangular stock you get a 5 by 4-3/4-inch capacity.

It goes without saying that an affordable bandsaw is uniquely designed to help you achieve optimum performance.

The LED work light is definitely a great addition at this price to help you deal effectively with dim light working conditions.

Well, Jobsite abuses are very common when it comes to a bandsaw, isn’t it?

And, the brand DEWALT also understands it, and so has inculcated not only serviceable steel shrouds but also rubber bumpers to help the bandsaw deal with such abuses.

If I’m NOT wrong none of us would be ready to compromise on the quality or performance of a bandsaw even though it falls in the “affordable bandsaw” category, right?

And, if that is the case, then definitely, I’ve good news to share with you.

The DEWALT bandsaw includes a durable material guide that you can adjust easily for optimum performance when working with a wide range of materials.

It also includes an effective blade tracking system that you can easily adjust to enhance blade alignment and also reduce wear and tear.

Overall, the portable bandsaw from the brand DEWALT is a unique blend of performance, durability, and accuracy.

Last but not least, the 15 lbs DWM120K comes with a 3-year limited warranty which definitely shows the trust of the manufacturer in its offering.

So, are you willing to buy this portable and affordable bandsaw?

If NOT, then keep reading, we’ve quite a few more bandsaws to review under the “cost-effective bandsaw” category.

Does it make sense?

Features
  • 14.25 x 23.5 x 7.94 inches product dimensions
  • Weighs 15 lbs
  • Corded electric power source
  • Comes with a powerful 10 amp motor that offers variable speed
  • 44 7/8 X 1/2 X 0.020 Inches blade size
Pros
  • Comprises of a powerful motor and variable speeds that allow you to cut a wide range of materials
  • Lightweight, portable, affordable, and performance-driven bandsaw
  • The budget bandsaw is uniquely designed for optimum durability and convenience
  • Low-maintenance bandsaw with enhanced blade life
  • 3-year limited warranty
Cons
  • Below-par finish for people looking for smoothness
Check DWM120K Price On Amazon

Milwaukee 2429-21XC M12 Cordless Sub-Compact Bandsaw Kit

Here I introduce you to one of the most compact and lightweight bandsaws available on the market.

The Milwaukee 2429 is a cordless bandsaw that comes with a powerful motor to help you with small to mid-sized woodworking projects.

Definitely, the cordless design is something that will grab your eyeballs, and it is powered by a 12V XC battery that is powerful enough to help you with 150 cuts on just a single charge, amazing, isn’t it?

Milwaukee 2429-21XC M12 Cordless Sub-Compact Bandsaw Kit, best budget lightweight and portable bandsaw under $250

Once discharged the battery will need at least 30 minutes to get into action again.

With 27” x ½” x .020″ blade length and cutting capability of 3/4″ EMT in 3 seconds, the cordless beast is bound to deliver high performance, and trust me, this is the feedback that I’ve received from my clientele.

Moreover, the LED light would help you to expedite the cutting process without having you deal with dim light conditions.

Since the Milwaukee 2419 claims to cut up to 1-5/8″ so you can definitely use it for a wide range of materials without any hassle.

The blade tension adjustment is easy and newbie-friendly so that people like me and you can experience smooth operation.

If you’re in search of a bandsaw that offers one-handed use then definitely the Milwaukee 2429 is the product for you, and the best part is, the machine meets OSHA guarding requirements.

Lastly, the 12.4 lbs lightweight bandsaw comes with a 5-year warranty which definitely shows the trust of the brand in its offering.

Features
  • Battery-powered lightweight and portable bandsaw
  • 13.6 x 18.8 x 8.5 inches product dimensions
  • Weighs 12.4 lbs
  • Runs on 12V lithium-ion batteries
  • Single-speed of up to 280 SFPM
Pros
  • Comes with a plastic hard carrying case for ease of portability
  • 5-year warranty
  • Newbie-friendly and smooth operation
  • Easy to use with a single hand
  • Can be used for a wide range of applications
Cons
  • Some users have complained about the quality of the blade
Check Milwaukee 2429-21XC Price On Amazon

Milwaukee 2829-20 Compact Band Saw

So, here is yet another high-quality offering from the brand Milwaukee.

In spite of Milwaukee 2829 being lightweight and compact, it is faster and capable of cutting larger materials.

To my surprise, the 2829 Milwaukee was capable of even cutting metals such as steel and aluminum to up to 1 inch thick.

Milwaukee 2829-20 M18 FUEL Compact Band Saw

Moreover, the manufacturer claims to have the largest cutting capacity of any compact bandsaw at 3-1/4” X 3-1/4”.

The portable bandsaw is well capable of absorbing impact and the credit goes to the crush zone barriers that the little beast comes with.

Not only that but also the tool is protected from drops and debris with proprietary composite material.

Like other budget bandsaws that made it to our “best budget bandsaw” review list, it also comes with a LED light to tackle the visibility problem effectively if it prevails.

The tool has inculcated REDLINK PLUS intelligence to help you with optimum performance and overload protection, and the best part is all these superlative features get at an affordable price.

All in all, 2829 is a unique blend of power, capacity, efficiency, and performance which you’ll never regret investing in.

Lastly, the 7.7 lbs Milwaukee 2829 comes with a 5-year warranty.

Features
  • Weighs 7.7 lbs
  • Cordless portable bandsaw
  • 17.9 x 6.3 x 11.6 inches product dimensions
  • 3-1/4” x 3-1/4” capacity allows cutting the larger workpiece
  • The portable bandsaw is equipped with Jobsite Armor Technology
Pros
  • 5-year warranty
  • Lightweight portable bandsaw
  • Powerful motor and large capacity allow you to cut larger materials
  • The Milwaukee 2829 claims to be the fastest-cutting bandsaw in its class
  • Includes idiosyncratic features such as variable speed trigger, tool-free locking adjustable shoe, and LED work light to help you with enhanced control and productivity
Cons
  • Definitely, NOT THE BEST choice for heavy-duty projects
Check Milwaukee 2829-20 Price On Amazon

WEN 3959 Benchtop Band Saw

So, we’re back with yet another great offering from the brand WEN.

Needless to say, in the affordable power tool category, the brand WEN has always dominated.

Again, it is my observation based on a decade of experience that I carry in the woodworking domain.

The WEN 3959 is a 9-inch benchtop model that comes with a powerful 2.5 amp motor capable of cutting up to 3-1/2 inches deep and 9 inches wide.

On top of it, the motor generates enough power to rotate a 1/4-inch blade at up to 2500 feet per minute, and thus you can expedite the cutting process on a wide range of materials.

No doubt, the 12-1/4 x 11-7/8 inches worktable is spacious enough to accommodate a wide range of workpieces and also encourages angular cutting by beveling up to 45 degrees.

And, an onboard 2-1/2 inch dust port would definitely help you in keeping the worktable clean and free from dust and debris by connecting the tool to an effective dust collection system.

To deal with your woodworking projects’ demand for straight cuts, a highly effective fence is included.

Not only that but also a blade guard is included to prevent the blade from getting deviated and thus ensures precision.

At the same time, ball bearings ensure smooth operation and longevity of the power tool.

Lastly, the 9-inch benchtop bandsaw comes with a 2-year warranty.

Features
  • 2.5-amp motor
  • 12-1/4 x 11-7/8 inches worktable
  • Capable of using 59-1/2 inch blades anywhere from 1/8 to 3/8 inches in width
  • Includes a miter gauge, an onboard 2-1/2 inch dust port, a fence for creating straight cuts, and an adjustable blade guard
Pros
  • Lightweight and compact bandsaw model
  • Comes with a powerful motor that is capable of rotating blades up to 2500 feet per minute
  • Newbie-friendly and smooth operation
Cons
  • Doesn’t fit the prerequisite of a heavy-duty project

Best Budget Bandsaw Under $600

Moving further, we would be reviewing some of the best budget bandsaws that fall in the range of $300 and $600.

Trust me, if you’re willing to spend somewhere around $500, you’ll definitely get some high-quality bandsaws with superlative features and smooth operation.

Rikon 10-305 Bandsaw

Frankly speaking, I’m a big admirer of the brand Rikon and have been recommending it to my clientele quite a few times now.

The Rikon 10-305 is one of the best budget bandsaws for both woodworkers and hobbyists that doesn’t require a very large cutting capacity and huge power for their projects.

In short, the 10-305 can do wonders for small and mid-sized projects if operated in the correct way.

Rikon 10-305 Bandsaw With Fence, best budget bandsaw under $500

Moreover, is you work from your home office or own a small woodworking shop then definitely this is a great budget bandsaw for you, and investing in this tool wouldn’t be a regret for you ever in the future.

I can this very confidently just because I’ve received very positive feedback about this little beast.

The Rikon bandsaw model comes with a 13-3/4-Inch by 12-1/2-Inch spacious cast iron work table that is capable of accommodating a wide range of workpieces.

You can tilt the table up to 45 degrees for angular cutting.

Also, a removable rip fence is put in place for straight cutting and smooth operation.

In case, you want to expedite freehand work simply remove the fence.

With a 1/3 HP motor and 4-5/8″ re-saw capacity, the tool is bound to deliver high performance against small to mid-sized woodworking projects.

Like the aforementioned budget bandsaw, it also comes with a 2-1/2″ dust port to deal with debris and dust issues.

In case, you want a miter gauge or steel stand then you need to buy it separately as both of them aren’t available with the package which is definitely I see a downside of this product.

On the other hand, the tool includes a micro-adjustable guidepost, and to raise or lower the height of the guidepost, all you need to do is to turn the handle which clearly highlights the user-friendliness feature of the bandsaw.

The safety paddle ON/OFF switches would definitely add to the safety measures.

Lastly, the 75.8 lbs Rikon 10-305 is backed by a 5-year warranty.

Features
  • 35.5 x 18 x 13 inches product dimensions
  • Weighs 75.8 lbs
  • 1/3 HP motor
  • AC power source
  • 13-3/4-Inch by the 12-1/2-Inch spacious worktable
  • 4-5/8″ re-saw capacity
Pros
  • Includes spacious worktable to accommodate a wide range of workpieces
  • Robust construction, highly stable, and vibrates relatively less
  • Includes dust port to help you in cleaning dust and debris
  • Comes with a safety paddle switch to help you with safety measures
  • 5-year warranty
Cons
  • Miter gauge and stand not includes
Check Rikon 10-305 Price On Amazon

Rikon 10-3061 Deluxe Bandsaw

The Rikon 10-3061 is yet another budget bandsaw that comes with a powerful motor and two-blade speeds.

It goes without saying that the 10-3061 is a great fit for small woodworking shops as well as DIYers.

Not only the design is unique but also saves you a lot of space because of its small footprint.

Rikon 10-3061 10" Deluxe Bandsaw, Includes Fence and Two Blade Speeds

With a 1/2 HP motor and a cutting capacity of 5” high and 9-5/8” wide the 10-3061 Bandsaw is bound to deliver high performance.

Moreover, the 2-1/2” dust port would help you in cleaning the dust and debris by connecting the tool to an effective dust collection system.

The 13-3/4” x 12-1/2” worktable is good enough to accommodate a wide range of workpieces, and the table’s ability to tilt 45 degrees right and 5 degrees left makes the angular cuts hassle-free and smooth.

Trust me, even though you’re a first-time user you’ll NOT face any problem with the bandsaw blade tension.

Lastly, the 77.5 lbs 10-3061 is backed by a 5-year limited warranty.

Features
  • Includes 5/16” x 70-1/2” 6TPI bandsaw blade
  • 12.75 x 35.5 x 18.25 inches product dimensions
  • 70.5 Inches blade length
  • Weighs 77.5 lbs
  • 1/2 HP motor
  • The capacity of 5” high and 9-5/8” wide
  • 12-1/4” x 2-3/8” fence size
Pros
  • 5-year limited warranty
  • Two speeds: 1515 or 3280 feet/min gives you the feasibility to cut a wide range of materials
  • Includes safety paddle on/off switch
  • Spacious worktable with the ability to tilt up to 45 degrees
  • One of the best budget bandsaws for Craftman’s project
Cons
  • NOT the best choice for heavy-duty projects
Check Rikon 10-3061 Price On Amazon

SHOP FOX W1715 3/4 HP Metal Cutting Bandsaw

The SHOP FOX W1715 is a 3-speed bandsaw that is NOT only portable, and economical but also easy to use.

So, in spite of you being a newbie, you can easily operate this tool, and the credit goes to the user-friendly features that the W1715 comes with.

SHOP FOX W1715 3/4 HP Metal Cutting Bandsaw

Moreover, with a blade size of 64-1/2″ x 1/2″ x 0.025″ and blade speeds of 78 FPM at 40 RPM, 108 FPM at 60 RPM, and 180 FPM at 80 RPM, the little Shop Fox budget model is bound to deliver high-performance while cutting a wide range of materials including wood, plastic, and metal.

In case, your project has vertical cutting requirements, then all you need to do is to install a vertical cutting attachment.

Frankly speaking, changing the speed is a hassle-free job as all you need to do is to change the v-belt placement.

The W1715 has a robust construction and compact design so even though you own a small woodworking shop you’ll not find it difficult to accommodate this little beast.

On top of it, the bandsaw features a built-in mobile base to help you with portability.

Since the SHOP FOX model includes a vise so you don’t have to worry at all about the angular cutting operations as it can hold stock for angles ranging between zero and 60 degrees.

It also includes an automatic shut-off feature to tackle unprecedented situations.

A spring and handle are used to control the W1715 feed rate, and you can achieve a slow feed rate with the help of a handle by twisting it clockwise.

The anti-clockwise twisting of the handle would encourage a fast feed rate.

All in all, the SHOP FOX W1715 is worth your investment because of its user-friendliness, and idiosyncratic features, and I highly recommend you should invest in this beast.

Features
  • 41 x 17.5 x 14 inches product dimensions
  • Weighs 121.7 lbs
  • 3/4 HP, 110V, single-phase 1,725 RPM motor
  • 64-1/2″ x 1/2″ x 0.025″ blade size
Pros
  • Includes handle and wheels for enhanced portability
  • Automatic shut-off feature to deal effectively with an unprecedented situation
  • For effectively expediting horizontal operation a vise is also included
  • Robust construction, uniquely designed, and vibrates less
  • The feed rate can be easily controlled with the help of the handle
Cons
  • Some users have a complaint about the quality of the sheet metal base
Check SHOP FOX W1715 Price On Amazon

Studio Pro Precision 2000 Wet/Dry Bandsaw

The Studio Pro Precision could be a good choice for hobbyists, DIYers, and weekend warriors.

Needless to say, the Precision 2000 is a unique blend of affordability, quality, and performance.

It wouldn’t be wrong if I’ll say that the Studio Pro Precision 2000 is one of the best budget bandsaws for hobbyists.

For your information, the frame and interior support walls are rust-free since they are made of aluminum.

Studio Pro Precision 2000 Wet/Dry Bandsaw with Diamond and Wood Blades

The good thing about the Precision 2000 is that it can expedite dry and wet cutting with ease.

One Studio Pro Wood blade does a fantastic job when it comes to dry cutting.

On the other hand, One Diamond Blade makes the wet cutting hassle-free.

The 1/8 HP motor is capable enough to deal with the power requirement of small and mid-sized woodworking successfully.

Other than wood, the tool is also good at cutting materials such as glass, ceramic tile, metal, and plexiglass.

On top of it, the small footprint adds to the flexibility by allowing the tool to expedite the cutting process even in a tight space.

Personally, I’ve used this idiosyncratic tool for cutting small tiles for my kitchen backsplash project, and you know what, the experience of operating this little beast was superlative, indeed.

As a word of caution, refrain from using Studio 2000 for tiles above 6″.

On the downside, the tool comprises plastic making it relatively durable and sturdy.

Definitely, NOT the best budget bandsaw for long-term investment and heavy-duty projects.

Lastly, the 11 lbs Precision 2000 is backed by 3 years.

Features
  • 20.5 x 12 x 10 inches product dimensions
  • Weighs 11 lbs
  • Comprises 1/8 HP motor
  • Includes easily adjustable blade guide arm for varying thickness
Pros
  • The motor is powerful and operates quietly
  • User-friendly and smooth operation
  • Capable of expediting both dry and wet cuts
  • 3-year warranty
Cons
  • The tool comprises a good percentage of plastic making it less durable and sturdy
Check Studio Pro Precision 2000 Price On Amazon

Grizzly Industrial G0803Z Benchtop Bandsaw

The Grizzly is a well-known brand in the power tool segment, and now we’re going to review the budget bandsaw model “G0803Z“.

It’s a 9″ benchtop bandsaw packed with superlative features at an affordable price.

The G0803Z is highly portable and also boasts high performance.

After doing some about this Grizzly model, I came to know that it was awarded as “TOP VALUE” for its unique set of features including an efficient 1/3 HP motor, rip fence, adjustable blower, laser guide, etc.

The tool has a robust construction and will give the feel of a heavy-duty machine.

Not only that but also the tool features a 62″ blade and accept blade up to 3/8 inches wide which is definitely something to brag about, isn’t it?

Moreover, the efficient and high-quality blade is capable of cutting up to 3.5 inches high, and changing the blade is a smooth process and will not consume much of your time.

Even the tracking and tension adjustment is a hassle-free process and wouldn’t consume a lot of your time.

The thing that really grabbed my eyeballs was the ability of this tool to work equally well at a job site and home office so that you can save a good amount of money by using the same tool for both places.

Don’t worry, you’ll NOT at all face any issue with the portability as the budget tool not only has a small footprint but also comprises a well-gripped handle to make the move effortless.

The manufacturer has given high importance to safety and thus has inculcated features such as a paddling safety switch with a removable key.

For proper positioning and effective functioning of the blade, you’ve upper and lower ball-bearing guides in place.

Similarly, for dealing with the dim light working condition, you’ve adjustable LED work light in place.

The debris and dust generated during the cutting process are well taken care of with the help of a 2″ dust port.

All in all, one of my favorite budget benchtop bandsaw that you’ll never REGRET investing into.

However, I don’t force my decision on you, all I’m trying to do is to help you with adequate product information so that you can easily make your bandsaw buying decision.

Features
  • 1/3 HP, 120V, single-phase, 2.8A motor
  • 12″ x 12″ x 5/8″ spacious and robust worktable
  • 0° – 45° right worktable tilting ability
  • 2460 FPM blade speed
  • 9″ throat capacity
  • 3-5/8″ maximum cutting height
  • Weighs 42 lbs
Pros
  • Built-in 2″ dust port for helping you in getting rid of dust and debris
  • Adjustable work light to tackle dim light working conditions effectively
  • Ball-bearing blade guides for effective positioning and functioning of blades and their longevity
  • To prevent the build-up of dust on the wheel the tool also comes with a lower wheel brush
  • Rack-and-Pinion table tilt for smooth and angular cuts
  • One of the best budget tabletop bandsaws available on the market
Cons
  • For newbies, the setting up process could be tedious and time-consuming

Best Budget Bandsaw Under $1000

Moving further, I would be bringing to your notice some of the best budget bandsaws that fall in the range of $600 and $1000.

All of them are of high quality and worth the investment.

JET 708115K JWBS-14CS 14-Inch Woodworking Bandsaw

Personally, I love the brand JET because of the kind of innovation it has been involved in the power tool segment.

The JET 708115K is yet another high-quality 14-inch bandsaw that might be the only tool you will be needing for your small and mid-sized woodworking projects for all cutting needs.

JET 708115K JWBS-14CS 14-Inch 1 Horsepower Woodworking Bandsaw with Graphite Guide Blocks, 115/230-Volt 1 Phase with JMB-UMB Universal Mobile Base

Not only does it comes with a powerful 1 HP motor but also a sturdy and strong mobile base.

With 6-inch by 13-1/2-inch cutting capacity and blade ability to move at 3,000 strokes per minute, the JET 708115K is bound to deliver high-performance.

The cast-iron worktable is spacious and can accommodate a wide range of workpieces.

And, its ability to tilt encourages angle cutting.

Lastly, the 185 lbs JET 708115K is backed by a 5-year warranty that shows the trust of the brand in its offering.

Features
  • 6 inch by 13 to 1/2 inch cutting capacity
  • 14 inch budget band saw
  • Graphite impregnated polymer blade
  • 15 inch by 15 inch work table
  • Weighs 185 lbs
Pros
  • Comprises of a powerful 1 HP that allows you to cut a wide range of materials
  • Spacious and robust worktable make it possible to accommodate workpiece of different shapes and sizes
  • Backed by 5-year warranty
  • The package includes a mobile base that can be expanded from 18 X 18 inches To 24 X 24 inches
  • One of the best budget 14-inch bandsaws for home workshop use
Cons
  • Might not be the best choice for 6″ resawing
Check JET 708115K Price On Amazon

SHOP FOX M1013 Metal Bandsaw

So, here I come with an effective yet affordable metal-cutting bandsaw from the brand SHOP FOX.

The M1013 is equipped with quite a few high-performance features such as a 1/2 HP powerful motor, three speeds, an automatic shut off, and ball bearing blade guides in order to make this little beast a “must-have” budget bandsaw for your metal shop.

The headstock swivel system is unique and bound to grab your eyeballs.

SHOP FOX M1013 5-Inch by 6-Inch Metal Bandsaw

It can be easily swiveled to up to 45 degrees.

The process is quite simple and in spite of you being a newbie can easily expedite the process.

All you need to do is to loosen the headstock lock lever, and then swivel the headstock to the needed angle of cut and again lock the lever in place.

Well, it can highly improve your efficiency and thus production would be positively impacted.

I would suggest you should use headstock along with cast iron stop for consistent repeat cuts at the same length.

On top of it, the M1013 also comes with a built-in chip tray which is very helpful for cleaning purposes as it can direct small workpieces into the bucket when the cut is complete.

Another great feature is the adjustable carbide blade guide which ensures that the blade does its work properly and also prevents blade twist by stopping it from being pushed back during a cut.

To deal with unprecedented situations, you’ve got an auto shut-off feature in place.

Lastly, the 176 lbs Shop Fox M1013 is backed by a 2-year limited warranty.

Features
  • Weighs 176 lbs
  • 40.2 x 21.6 x 18.1 inches product dimensions
  • 1/2 HP, 110V/220V, prewired 110V, single-phase, 1725 RPM powerful motor
  • 80, 120, and 200 FPM blade speeds
  • 64-1/2″ x 1/2″ blade size
  • 4-1/2″ x 12″ spacious and robust worktable
Pros
  • 2-year limited warranty
  • Comprises a powerful motor and offers three speeds to expedite the cutting process on a wide range of materials
  • Auto shut-off feature to deal with the unprecedented situations
  • A headstock swivel system to help you with consistently repeated cuts
  • Adjustable feed rate and pressure for smooth and hassle-free operation
Cons
  • Not a perfect choice for heavy-duty projects
Check SHOP FOX M1013 Price On Amazon

Jet 414458 HVBS-56M Horizontal/Vertical Bandsaw

The  Jet 414458 HVBS-56M band saw comprises a 1/2 HP powerful motor and three-blade speeds to help you with cutting a wide range of materials including aluminum and steel without any hassle.

The ability of the horizontal/vertical bandsaw to shut off automatically after each cut helps you prevent both accidents and loss of control.

Jet 414458 HVBS-56M 5-by-6-Inch 1/2 HP Horizontal/Vertical Bandsaw, best budget bandsaw under $1000

With the vise ability to swivel up to 45 degrees and a throat depth of five inches the tool allows you to gain more flexibility and control over each project.

A fully adjustable ball-bearing blade guide is in place to ensure the proper functioning of the blade, and also longevity.

Moreover, portability wouldn’t be an issue and you can easily move the bandsaw from one place to another with the help of the wheels and handle that it comes with.

Lastly, the 121 lbs Jet 414458 HVBS-56M is backed by a two-year limited warranty.

Features
  • 1/2-horsepower, 115-volt motor
  • 1/2-inch carbon steel blade
  • 80, 120, and 200 sfpm blade speeds
  • 64-1/2 inches blade length
  • 5 inches throat depth
  • Vise swivels up to 45 degrees
  • Weighs 121 lbs approximately
  • 37 x 17.72 x 41.4 inches product dimensions
Pros
  • One of the best budget horizontal/vertical bandsaws with a 2-year limited warranty
  • Comes with three operating speeds to help you work on a wide range of materials
  • Includes heavy-duty 14-gauge stand with two large wheels and a built-in handle for easy movement of the tool from one place to another
  • Robust construction, uniquely designed, and a stable bandsaw
  • Features a ball bearing-supported blade wheel for added durability and longevity
Cons
  • There is NO feed control
Check Jet 414458 HVBS-56M Price On Amazon

Best Budget Bandsaw Under $1500

In this section, I would be throwing light on some of the best budget bandsaws that fall in the range of $1000 and $1500 in order to help you make an informed buying decision.

TRUST ME, all the bandsaw models that made it to our review list are worth your time and investing.

Grizzly Industrial G0561 Metal-Cutting Bandsaw

I totally agree that the Grizzly Industrial G0561 is a bit costlier as compared to the aforementioned budget bandsaw models that we discussed so far.

And, trust me, there is a reason for it.

Many of you might not be aware of the fact that the G0561 is one of the most popular metal-cutting bandsaws available on the market, right now.

Grizzly Industrial G0561-7" x 12" 1 HP Metal-Cutting Bandsaw

It goes without saying that this little beast has a huge capacity but the good thing is that it has NOT only a small footprint but also is completely mobile.

Definitely, mobility, a small footprint, and huge capacity are gonna grab your eyeballs.

It comes with idiosyncratic features including hydraulic down feed control, coolant system, and blade brush, and is also capable of cutting 7″ round and 7″ X 12″ rectangular stock and thus can cater to most of your cutting needs.

Moreover, adjustable blade guides ensure the proper functioning of the blade and longevity without compromising performance.

The coolant nozzle is in place to deal with the overheating conditions.

Similarly, the auto shut-off feature would help you to deal with unprecedented scenarios in an effective way.

Not only that but also the Grizzly model is equipped with cast-iron wheels and heavy-duty ball bearings to help you achieve smooth and hassle-free operation.

All in all, one of my favorite metal-cutting budget bandsaws and trust me, you’ll never REGRET investing in this little yet performance-driven beast.

Features
  • 18.5 x 51.25 x 42.25 inches product dimensions
  • Weighs approximately 343 lbs
  • 1 HP, 110V/220V, single-phase powerful motor
  • 90, 135, 195, 255 FPM speeds
  • 93″ x 3/4″ blade size
Pros
  • Comprises of cast-iron wheels and heavy-duty ball bearing for smooth and hassle-free operation
  • Adjustable blade guide for proper positioning and longevity of the high-quality blade
  • Also, capable of vertical cutting operation ability
  • Stable, portable, and vibrates relatively less
  • Comes with a powerful 1 HP motor and 4-speeds to help you expedite the cutting process on a wide range of materials
Cons
  • A bit expensive and might NOT be the best budget bandsaw for someone who is on a shoestring budget
Check Grizzly Industrial G0561 Price On Amazon

Grizzly Industrial G0513ANV Bandsaw 

Yes, you heard it RIGHT!

I’ve come up with yet another power-packed offering from the brand Grizzly Industrial.

As compared to the aforementioned grizzly model, the G0513ANV comes with a powerful 2 HP motor.

Grizzly Industrial G0513ANV - 17" 2 HP Bandsaw

With a 16-1/4″ throat and a maximum re-saw capacity of 12-1/8″, the G0513ANV is NOT only bound to deliver high performance but will also suffice most of your project’s cutting needs.

Trust me, as compared to its competitors, the Grizzly 17″ 2HP bandsaw is definitely more affordable as well as packed with some extremely mind-boggling features such as a deluxe fence, heavy-duty miter gauge, dual 4″ dust ports, micro-adjusting geared table, and European-style blade guides to help you achieve optimum result effortlessly.

The tool has a unique design and robust construction which makes it relatively stable and vibration-less.

Moreover, it comprises a robust and spacious 17″ x 17″ x 1-1/2″ worktable to help you accommodate a wide range of workpieces.

The ability of the worktable to tilt 10 degrees left and 45 degrees right encourages angular cuts.

Frankly speaking, it’s the Euro-style blade guides that make all the difference when it comes to proper positioning, functioning, and longevity of the blade.

Furthermore, the dust and debris are well taken care of with the help of two 4″ dust ports.

It also includes a miter gauge for efficient straight cuts.

Well, the tool gives you an option to switch between two speeds, that is, 1700, and 3500 FPM, with ease, and the credit goes to the quick-release blade tensioning.

All in all, a great powerful industrial bandsaw to help you achieve the optimum results with ease.

Features
  • 21 x 31 x 81 inches product dimensions
  • Weighs approximately 341 lbs
  • Meets CSA C22.2 #71.2-10 and UL 987-8 standards
  • 2 HP, 110V/220V, single-phase, TEFC capacitor start induction, 1725 RPM powerful motor
  • 17″ x 17″ cast-iron table
  • Includes 131-1/2″ x 1/2″ 6-TPI hook blade
Pros
  • Comprises a powerful motor and offers two speeds to cater to the cutting needs of a wide range of materials
  • Uniquely designed, robust construction, and highly stable bandsaw
  • Includes height scale measurement on guidepost for high precision
  • Built-in dust port for tackling dust and debris in an effective way
  • Spacious 17″ x 17″ cast-iron table for accommodating a wide range of workpieces
Cons
  • Expensive
Check Grizzly Industrial G0513ANV Price On Amazon

Best Budget Bandsaw Under $2000

In this section, I would be walking you through some of the best budget bandsaws that fall in the range of $1500 and $2000.

All the bandsaw models that were made to our list are worth the investment as I along with my woodworking team have tested them on a large number of parameters in order to help you with the best products.

JET JWBS-15 Bandsaw

The JET JWBS-15 is one of its kind and a perfect budget bandsaw for projects that involve cutting large pieces of wood, slicing veneers, etc.

Moreover, the 15″ bandsaw is known to deliver not only more re-saw capacity but also greater throat depth and horsepower to help you achieve optimum results with ease.

JET JWBS-15 1.75 hp Bandsaw

Personally, I liked the heavy-duty cast-iron fence system that is known for providing adequate support and sturdiness that might be the need of your woodworking or metal-crafting projects.

Not only that but also the tool features a micro-adjust dial for exact placement.

It goes without saying that the JET bandsaw model comes with a spacious and sturdy worktable to help you expedite the cutting process on a wide range of workpieces.

Furthermore, the table’s ability to tilt 5 degrees left and 45 degrees right is an addon if your project involves angular cuts and different shapes and sizes of workpieces.

On top of it, upper and lower bearing guides help in smoothening the overall process including proper functioning of the blade.

Furthermore, the JET JWBS-15 comes with a powerful 1.75 HP motor to help you deal efficiently with both small and mid-sized projects.

Lastly, the 446 lbs JET JWBS is backed by a 5-year warranty.

Features
  • Weighs 446 lbs
  • 29.9 x 24.6 x 79.5 inches product dimensions
  • Corded electric power source
  • 1.75 HP powerful motor
  • 133 inches blade length
  • Includes 21-1/2 x 16″ precision ground cast iron table
Pros
  • Comprises of a powerful 1.75 HP motor for cutting large pieces of wood, slicing veneers, etc
  • Spacious worktable to accommodate a wide range of materials
  • Worktable tilting ability ensures successful expedition of angular cuts
  • A 5-year warranty shows the trust of the manufacturer in its offering
  • Features such as 90 degrees horizontal and vertical, easy blade tension adjustment, accurate fence adjustment, and easy blade change. 6″ high fence for re-sawing sets it class apart
Cons
  • Doesn’t include magnetic-base LED light to deal with dim light working conditions
Check JET JWBS-15 Price On Amazon

SHOP FOX W1729 19-Inch Bandsaw

The SHOP FOX W1729 is a 19-inch bandsaw that is highly popular among professional woodworkers because of its heavy-duty construction and extra cutting capacity.

It goes without saying that the W1729 would deliver power-packed performance because of the 2 HP motor and other idiosyncratic superlative features that it comes with.

Well, if you’re looking for a powerful bandsaw for re-sawing purposes then definitely you should opt for this little beast because of the idiosyncratic features including a 12-inch maximum cutting height, two-blade speeds, and a deluxe fence.

SHOP FOX W1729 19-Inch Bandsaw

Needless to say, with 12-inches of cutting height, an 18-1/4-inch throat capacity, and a 2 HP motor; this bandsaw has plenty of power for re-sawing thick lumber, and most importantly, even though you’re a newbie you can easily expedite the re-sawing process effortlessly.

The worktable is robust and spacious and can be tilted to accommodate large workpieces as well as expedite angular cutting without any hassle.

Furthermore, the control units are user-friendly and features such as heavy-duty blade guides and an easy-to-read tension scale would contribute to the smooth operation.

Moreover, you can expect an efficient dust collection with the help of a pair of dust ports that come with W1729.

Features
  • 2 blade speeds: 1700, 3500 FPM
  • 143-inches long blade length
  • 12-inch maximum cutting height
  • 18-1/4-inch throat
  • 2 HP, 110V/220V, single-phase, TEFC capacitor start induction, 60 Hz, prewired 220V powerful motor
  • Weighs 473 lbs approximately
  • 26-3/4 x 19 x 1-1/2-inch spacious worktable with the tilting ability of 10 degrees left and 45 degrees right
Pros
  • Comprises of a powerful motor and high-end features that help in expediting large projects without any hassle
  • Sturdy, robust construction with relatively less vibration
  • Includes dust ports to deal with the dust efficiently
  • Spacious and sturdy worktable with tilting ability to deal with angular cutting effortlessly
  • One of the best budget bandsaws for re-sawing thick lumber
Cons
  • Relatively expensive bandsaw
Check SHOP FOX W1729 Price On Amazon

Buyer’s Guide

In this section, we would be discussing a long list of parameters that you should consider when it comes to buying a “budget bandsaw”.

Moreover, depending upon your budget and requirements you can prioritize these parameters which will help you to buy a bandsaw that NOT only caters to your needs but also falls within your budget.

How can I choose the best budget bandsaw?

To be honest, buying a bandsaw on a tight budget isn’t as easy as we think.

And, there are loads and loads of features that might influence the buying decision.

Let’s have a quick look at each of these buying parameters.

Cutting Range

It is really important that you know what kind of cutting range would suffice for your woodworking or metal crafting project needs.

But, before that let’s understand the best way to determine the cutting range of a saw.

All you need to do is to measure the distance between the upper blade guard and the table to find the cutting range of a bandsaw model.

Moreover, there are bandsaw models that come with the flexibility of increasing their capacity and you can do that by simply installing some riser blocks.

But, at the same time, even using riser blocks would extend the limit to a certain extent only beyond which it wouldn’t be possible to increase the capacity.

In short, the more the cutting capacity of a budget bandsaw the higher would it cost.

Motor

The unit used to determine the power of a motor is horsepower (HP).

In simple words, the higher the horsepower the more powerful the motor would be.

I highly recommend you buy a bandsaw that has a horsepower of at least 1.5 HP in order to deal with small to mid-size projects.

On the other hand, for weekend small projects, DIYer, a hobbyist who mostly deals with small and tiny projects, anything above 1 HP would do the trick.

Size

The bandsaw comes in different shapes and sizes and depending upon your need and available space in your workshop you can select one.

In case, you’ve got a scarcity of space in your garage then I would highly recommend you go for a sit-on-table bandsaw.

On the other hand, you can opt for a benchtop model if you want a huge and powerful bandsaw that occupies less space.

Lastly, you can go for a full-size machine that is mostly used for industrial purposes.

Work Light

I always recommend my clientele to go for a bandsaw that comes with a built-in flexible work light so that working in a dim light conditions wouldn’t be a difficult task.

Moreover, the LED light would also play a crucial role if your project involves complex cuts.

Wheels

It is equally important to consider the type of wheels your bandsaw would be having.

Well, wheels made of cast aluminum tend to be cheaper as compared to ones made of cast iron or steel.

But, the problem with wheels made of cast aluminum is that they are lighter in weight and as a result, they are NOT able to provide adequate inertia thereby reducing the inertia of the entire machine.

On the other hand, if you’ll opt for a heavy-duty bandsaw then you’ll not have to face such a problem because it comes with cast-iron internal wheels that are capable enough to provide enough inertia to lead to steady speeds.

Band Saw Types

I’m assuming that till now you would be well aware of the fact that bandsaw comes in different shapes, sizes, and colors.

So, selecting any one of the many types available on the market can become tedious at times.

To make things simple and easy, all you can do is have proper information about different types of bandsaws.

However, if you’re NOT well informed about these bandsaw types then stay with us as we would be discussing each one of them right now.

Portable Band Saw

The portable bandsaws are quite popular among DIYers and hobbyists.

They are commonly referred to as handheld band saws.

The portable band saws are quite good at handling curved lines and irregular shapes but it doesn’t mean that they can’t handle straight edge cuts.

Since they are compact and small in size so you can easily carry them from one place to another without any support or need for professional help.

But, at the same time, like any other power tool, they also come with certain flaws, and the most important one would be their inability to cut larger stocks.

Stationary Band Saw

As the name suggests, stationary band saws are quite huge and bulky.

They are present in two models, that is, horizontal, and vertical.

A horizontal bandsaw could do a perfect job when it comes to cutting long materials.

In the case of a horizontal band saw, the material is held stationary and the blades of the horizontal band saw would swing to make the cut.

In most of the horizontal bandsaw models, once the cutting process is completed the saw would automatically shut off which definitely adds to safety measures.

On the other hand, a vertical band saw differs from a horizontal counterpart in terms of the positioning of the blade.

The vertical bandsaw model doesn’t move at all.

In fact, the object needs to be moved through the blade.

You can opt for a vertical bandsaw model if your project involves complex cuts.

Cordless Band Saw

The good thing about a cordless band saw model is that it overcomes the limitation of a corded power source.

In layman’s language, a cordless band saw has seen a surge in demand in the last couple of years and the credit goes to features such as portability and flexibility.

They are of utter importance, especially in the places where you face the problem of getting a corded power source such as an outstation place.

The only thing that you might consider as a drawback is they need to be charged on a timely basis.

Type of Blade

Thinking of what type of blade should I settle for is definitely an obvious question and nothing is wrong with it.

To be honest, the type of blade you should opt for totally depends on the type of materials you want to cut.

Trust me, there isn’t anyone size fits all blade available on the market.

What I’ll try is to give you adequate information about the type of blade you should look for cutting wood and similarly for metal.

Wood

When it comes to cutting wood the number of teeth per inch (TPI) matters a lot.

In fact, the more the number of teeth per inch the smoother the cut would be.

On the other, if your priority is to achieve a faster cut then definitely opt for a blade that comes with a lesser TPI.

Let’s have a quick look at the extreme TPI.

A 2 to 3 TPI qualifies as a coarse tooth blade and an 18 to 32 TPI qualifies as a fine-toothed blade.

So, my recommendation would be to select something between the extreme positions as per your project requirement.

Metal

Many of you might not be aware of the fact that metal cutting is a bit different from wood cutting as the former requires a bit of torque along with some patience.

As per my experience and knowledge, look for a blade whose TPI falls in the range of 2 and 10.

When cutting thick materials the lesser the TPI the better would be the performance.

Bandsaw Accessories

To get the best outcome from your bandsaw, it would be great if you could spend a few dollars in buying some really awesome accessories.

Well, it can be adhesive, micro-adjuster, bearings, urethane bands, etc that can benefit you in more than one way.

Coolant

Definitely, an effective coolant would enhance the blade performance multifold.

An effective coolant will reduce the heat which is typically caused by friction between the moving parts.

Not only that but also it can help in removing chips as well as prevent blade teeth from getting damaged.

Band Saw Blade Sharpener

As the name suggests, a blade sharpener would help you in sharpening the blade which might get blunt over a period of time.

Again, depending on the severity of the problem you can select between a manual and a mechanical sharpener.

Though the mechanical sharpener is costlier still I would recommend you should invest in it for a better outcome.

Warranty

Always look for the bandsaw model that comes with a warranty.

The more the warranty duration the better it would be.

Frankly speaking, a bandsaw model with a longer warranty duration depicts the confidence of the brand in its offering.

I highly recommend my clientele to buy a bandsaw model that comes with at least 2 years of warranty.

Anything less than that wouldn’t be a good bet.

Price

It goes without saying that the price is an important buying parameter and can easily influence the buying decision.

For example, even though you like a high-end bandsaw model but you can buy it if your budget does permit you to do so.

And, the same holds true with any product.

But, what I would suggest is to look for a product that caters to your project needs as well as falls within your budget.

Safety Features

Trust me, safety features are important and you shouldn’t overlook them at all.

Even though you’re planning to buy a budget bandsaw still I would say you should look for the models that come with safety features such as auto shut-off, etc.

What is a bandsaw?

A bandsaw is a power tool that comprises a long sharp blade consisting of a continuous band of toothed metal stretched between two or more wheels to cut material.

Moreover, a bandsaw is mostly used for woodworking, metalworking, and lumbering.

Most bandsaws have two wheels rotating in the same plane, and one of which is powered.

But, at the same time, I wouldn’t deny the fact that some bandsaw models might have three to four wheels to distribute the load.

To my knowledge and experience, almost all the bandsaw models are nowadays powered by an electric motor.

In other words, a bandsaw can be considered as a scaled-down version of a sawmill.

What is a bandsaw used for?

Well, a bandsaw can be used for expediting a wide range of jobs including cutting curves and circles, re-sawing, making veneer, rip cutting, metal cutting, meat cutting, etc.

Let’s discuss each one of them in detail.

Metal Cutting

The bandsaw is one of the best power tools to be used for cutting metals such as steel, aluminum, etc.

Needless to say, metals are thicker as compared to woods and to cut them effectively you need to select an appropriate blade.

Here I would like to highlight that metal-cutting blades are mostly different from the ones used for cutting woods.

Meat Cutting

Many of you might not be aware that there exist bandsaw models that are used for cutting meat.

You can find such types of a bandsaw in slaughterhouses as they do a great job when it comes to cutting bones.

Rip Cutting

Rip cutting can be expedited easily on both boards and thick stocks with the help of a wide blade with few large teeth.

Not only does it help in reducing the piece to the required size but also resets its edge if it was crooked.

Moreover, bandsaws are widely used to make crosscuts for cutting to size, resetting the face, or even exposing the grain if working on thick stock.

Making Veneer

Yes, you heard it RIGHT!

The bandsaws are used for making veneer and the process involves chopping boards on their thickness in such a way that the outcome is very thin slices.

You can correlate it to re-sawing as making veneer also involves creating a beautiful effect of the wood grain patterns.

Furthermore, veneers can be used as decorative coverings on doors, tabletops, and cabinets.

Not only that but also they can be used to cover imperfections on the underlying surface or for lamination.

Re-Sawing

It goes without saying that re-sawing is a popular use of a bandsaw.

And, some bandsaw models are very good at expediting the re-sawing.

Re-sawing is a process that involves cutting boards on their thick sides resulting in two thinner boards with book-matched inner faces.

The unique thing about the re-sawing is that it produces a beautiful effect which is the result of matching the wood grains of the split board.

Furthermore, you can use the two sides to create a mirror effect on cabinet doors.

Cutting Curves and Circles

Needless to say, cutting curves and circles are some of the most common uses of the bandsaw.

Even you can use a jigsaw for cutting curves and circles but a bandsaw is preferred because it allows you more control when expediting the cutting process.

In case of the bandsaw, both of your hand is involved in feeding and directing the stock to the blade.

However, you should also ensure that you’re selecting the correct blade for cutting curves and circles.

I highly recommend that you should use a narrow blade 1/8″ or 1/16″ with more teeth for fine finishing.

A TPI (teeth per inch) of 14 would be sufficient for fine finishing.

On the other hand, if you want to cut fast then the lesser the TPI the better would result.

Anything between 3 and 10 TPI would expedite fast cutting.

Safety Tips When Using A Band Saw

  • First and foremost, you need to adjust the upper blade guard in such a way that it is positioned as low as possible without touching the wood. Moreover, it is highly important that you minimize the length of the exposed blade to prevent accidents in case your finger slips
  • Always use a push stick and in case you’re using your hand then keep it away from the cutline
  • When cutting a long piece such as when re-sawing, it is highly recommended that you pull the board from the back of the saw as opposed to pushing it from the front
  • Similarly, if you’re working on lengthy boards then you must use infeed as well as outfeed supports. Not only this enhances safety but also helps you in maintaining high accuracy
  • Furthermore, I highly recommend you use the correct blade width for each and every bandsaw project. Just for your information, thin blades are better for cutting curves and the thicker ones have an edge in case of straight cuts

FAQs

In this section, I would be responding to the queries related to the best budget bandsaw review to help you make an informed buying decision.

In case, you also have any doubts related to budget bandsaw then feel free to ask us in the comment section.

Are Rikon bandsaws any good?

Definitely, Rikon bandsaws are good and affordable.

The Rikon has launched bandsaws in both budget segments as well as a high-end segment so depending upon your budget and requirement you can select the one that suffices your project requirements.

What does a 14″ bandsaw mean?

Well, a 14″ bandsaw refers to the 14″ cutting capacity that it possesses between the blade and the column.

How can I replace the blades on a Craftsman band saw?

It’s A Wrap

First and foremost, I would like to thank you for staying with us till the end.

I along with my team have tried to the best of our capabilities to put all the information needed for buying the best budget bandsaw in this comprehensive guide of 10000 words.

Moreover, I’m sure that you would’ve found your favorite bandsaw model, and if that is NOT the case then please let us know your favorite budget model in the comment section, and we would love to evaluate its potential.

Last but not least, share this piece of information with the ones who are searching for the buying guide on the best budget bandsaw.

After all, sharing is caring, isn’t it?

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