If you’re considering a bandsaw but not sure you would really find the value in spending a ton of money on one, you’re in luck. In the world of band saws, it is actually a pretty reasonable expectation to find a high quality machine that doesn’t cost a lot.
When it comes to woodworking projects, there are a few things to be familiar with but you can find versatile tools that you can depend on for under $500. We’ve sorted through the options to narrow it down for you. Whether you just want to make straight cuts or perhaps want to be able to handle more intricate cuts, we’ve got you covered!
As we looked into the options, we specifically monitored details like the motor, the capacity, the performance, and several other features. We used these details to narrow it down so you can surely find something to fit your woodworking needs here.
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Top Rated Inexpensive Band Saws Compared
In this part of our guide, we will walk you through the best bandsaw options that fall under $500. You will find touch machines that can effectively work for you and you will have options so you don’t have to spend a ton of money. The price matters and we’re here to help!
1. Best Overall: Wen 3962 Two Speed Band Saw w/ Miter Gauge and Rip Fence
First up is our best overall pick. Wen 3962 Two Speed Band Saw w/ Miter Gauge and Rip Fence is a flexible machine that effectively will work for all of your projects. It comes on a stand that can be removed so you can leave it in a single location or you can move it around. This makes the Wen model incredibly versatile in your work area, giving it an edge above most of the others.
With this Wen model, you will find that you can handle cutting metal, plastic, and other material needs including the tough jobs. It is adjustable so you can cut straight, handle depth for ripping lumber, and even cut at an angle.
For this price, you really won’t find much better. This two speed band saw model gives you quality, speed, performance, and a stand, which is nearly impossible to find. It really is probably the best band saw for the price when you consider all of the features it has to offer.
Tool Ratings (On a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the highest)
- Cutting capacity: 10
- Power: 10
- Functionality: 10
- Make precise cuts on a spacious work table
- The blade is easy to change and adjust as needed
- The stand can be removed to give you a more compact band saw when needed
- High quality at an awesome price
- Setting the machine up for irregular shapes and curves with a thinner blade can be challenging because of the blade alignment
Why We Like It:
This is the best value for the money for woodworking projects. It takes a bit of work up front but this band saw has variable speed controls for two speeds, it makes accurate cuts, and it’s a versatile tool overall. The dust port is also incredibly convenient.
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2. Budget Pick: DeWalt 20V Max Portable Band Saws
This next option is considered to be a compact band saw, or a portable saw. DeWalt 20V Max Portable Band Saws will be a handheld saw that won’t have your miter gauge, rip fence, or even a dust port but it does have blades and it will help you make precise cuts as needed. This battery operated band saw has the powers and can make accurate cuts with no problem.
You can use this with or without a table and you can take it on the go so you are always equipped for any task you may need. These are made for durability and the motor is powerful enough to handle your cutting needs and projects.
The visibility is awesome and this is a tough little band saw. You have total control in a compact form and you can keep this in your work area or take it to any job site.
Tool Ratings (On a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the highest)
- Cutting capacity: 8
- Power: 10
- Functionality: 10
- Flexible capability for an assortment of projects
- Adjustable speed
- Perfect for compact space and on the go
- This model is the tool only – blades and batteries have to be purchased separately
Why We Like It:
We When it comes to those compact projects or you need a model that is versatile at a work site, this particular compact band saw has got you covered. Forget plastic frames with this best band saw choice.
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3. Best Value: Grizzly Industrial G0803Z w/ Laser Guide
Finally, if you really want the best bang for your buck, check out this option from Grizzly. Grizzly Industrial G0803Z w/ Laser Guide is a powerful beast with thrust bearings, a miter gauge, a rip fence, and a dust port. It also has an added laser guide that will give you the edge for straight cuts with your blade every single time.
These saws do not come on a stand but is a benchtop model that you can place anywhere you like in your shop. Add it to a work table or just set it up when you need it. The model is precise and has a lot of feature potential for cutting just about anything you need. It can handle steel, wood, and more and that added visibility will make your cutting accurate every time.
The motor is plenty powerful for steel and other materials. The entire saw is made up of steel and quality built. It offers speed and adjustability and should give you a long life of cutting capability as well.
Tools Ratings (On a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the highest)
- Cutting capacity: 10
- Power: 10
- Functionality: 10
- This model has a powerful motor for a saw of this magnitude
- Great features like a fence, miter gauge, dust port, and laser guide
- Makes straight cuts or more intricate cuts as needed
- Blade alignment is a breeze
- You may need to make some initial adjustments to get everything square
Why We Like It:
This saw really stands out because of the size and capability. It has great features and it’s built to last. You can make simple blade adjustments and the visibility is top notch.
Inexpensive Band Saw Buying Guide
Before you step out and purchase a band saw, we have just a few things for you to consider. While all of the options here are under $500, there are still a few key concepts to keep in mind.
Blade Control
When you’re looking in the inexpensive realm, there are certain factors you want to pay close attention to. Blade control should be at the top of the list. Your blade should be adjustable and if it isn’t adjustable, you may want to look elsewhere.
An adjustable blade will allow you to set the tension and prepare the blade specifically for your needs. In these cases, you will want to know exactly what to look for and how to make those adjustments.
On top of tension, you want guides and tracking capability. Tracking is what will help prevent drifting issues so getting your tracking right is essential. Finally, the blade guides matter as well to give you the exact adjustments that you need for success.
Table
Your work table on the saw is also important. Most of these will allow you to adjust them and even angle them for beveling purposes. However, you will want to watch these details. In addition, check out what your surface has to offer.
Does it have the fence or the gauge or is it laid bare and open? How large is the tablespace? Will it be sufficient for the work that you need to accomplish?
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Best Bandsaw for the Money?
Hands down, we would tell you to choose the Wen model listed as our best overall option. It’s got all of the versatility and functionality you could possibly need, right down to a removable stand. It really doesn’t get much better for the cost on this one.
What is the Best Small Bandsaw?
If you want a handheld option, DeWalt always delivers. If you’re looking for a benchtop model, check out Grizzly’s sturdy and reliable small saw.
Are Band Saws Really Worth It?
Yes! This may be one of the most functional and versatile things out there. While it’s known for making curved cuts, it can do so much more and they generally don’t take up an excessive amount of space. You can get a lot for just a little in this case.
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Conclusion
We hope you find this guide to a budget-friendly bandsaw to be a valuable resource. We’ve kept it short and sweet with 3 really great options that you certainly cannot go wrong with, regardless of what your needs may be.
Which saw did you add to your wish list?
Expert Tip
Always choose a saw that will allow you all of the controls and adjustments you need for your work. If you can adjust the blade to your needs, then you can make just about any bandsaw work for you.
Did You Know?
A portable bandsaw gives you the ability to make straight cuts and rip lumber in a fast and efficient manner. These are incredibly when you need to have the ability to work hard on the go or have a saw that you can keep in your work truck.
Amazon Recommends:
- Turn your stationary tools into mobile machines, helping you to get the most out of your work space
- Perfect for band saws, table saws, tool chests, cabinets, safes, planers, sanders, jointers, drill presses and more
- Fits square base configurations anywhere from 11.8 by 11.8 inches up to 35.4 by 35.4 inches
- Fits rectangular bases up to 51.2 by 19.7 inches in size
- Features two fixed casters, two swivel casters, two foot-locking brakes, and a two-year warranty
- 2.8-amp motor rotates the blade up to 2500 feet per minute
- Create cuts up to 3-1/2 inches deep and 9 inches wide
- Uses 59-1/2-inch blades anywhere from 1/8 to 3/8 inches in size
- Spacious 12-1/4 x 11-7/8-inch work table bevels up to 45 degrees
- Includes a 1/4-inch-wide blade, a 2-1/2-inch dust port, a rip fence, a miter gauge, an adjustable blade guard with ball-bearing supports, and a 2-year warranty
- 500 lbs Capacity: The heavy-duty universal mobile base is made of Q235 carbon steel, which is sturdy and durable. Therefore, it has an excellent weight capacity of 500 lbs and is ideal for mobilizing heavy equipment. VEVOR mobile tool base help you to get the most out of your work space.
- Adjustable Size: You can adjust the mobile base from 12" x 12" to 36" x 36". The user is able to change the mobile base size in 1-inch increments to suit various large machines and power tools. Applicable to various sizes of equipment.
- Fixed Feet & Universal Wheels: Fixed feet with rubber foot pads can effectively fix the mobile base. The rubber pad at the bottom is non-slip and shock-absorbing, not damaging the floor. The base is equipped with two 3" (7.6 cm) non-destructive ball-bearing casters that rotate 360°for free and stable gliding on uneven surfaces, including concrete floors.
- Low Profile Design: This tool stands mobile base raises the height of your machine by less than 1 inch. Meanwhile, it allows your equipment to be moved flexibly without affecting your everyday use of the devices. You only need to spend 5 minutes assembling it expeditiously. The base is equipped with two foot-operated steel locking lever, which controls the movement and fixation of the mobile base by foot.
- Extensive Use: The rolling mobile base is widely used for mobilizing various tools, such as table saws and band saws, woodworking equipment, planers, joiners, spindle sanders, refrigerators, and washing machine and other stationary power tools.