Best Small Bandsaw Reviews in 2023

Finding the best small band saw can be a hassle nowadays. Typically, you would have to know how ergonomic a particular band saw is, its cutting capacity, and the power of its motor.

Luckily, we picked out six great band saws that you should consider before settling on a band saw of your choice. However, from the six, the DeWalt DCS374B was probably our best as it was all-inclusive with regards to features and performance.

Here are some worthy mentions besides the top 3 picks that had been highlighted earlier. Note that some of the products are cordless while others are corded.

Top 6: Best Small Bandsaws

1. DEWALT 20V MAX DCS374B

If you are in search of a versatile saw, then the DeWalt DCS374B may be the band saw for you. Ideally, it lets you cut curves just like any other band saw but with a focus on safety and simplicity.

The DCS374B also offers programmable workstations. This means that repetitive and heavy-duty jobs will be a breeze with this band saw.

Variable speed control and tool-less blade changing are some of the other features that this band saw has. In addition to making the saw versatile, it also enables you to get your work done fast so that you can switch your attention to something else in your workshop.

WHY IS THIS A TOP PICK?

1. Variable Speed Control

You will most likely use different speeds when cutting different materials. Since the DeWalt DCS374B comes with a variable speed control, you can adjust the speed with which the material is being cut for the best results.

In addition, its 5" cutting capacity is quite generous as it allows different sizes of stock. This makes the band saw highly versatile.

2. Tool-less Blade Changing

There are obvious benefits of tool less blade changing on a band saw such as the reduction of blade tension. As the DeWalt DCS374B offers tool less blade changing, you can rest assured that your cuts will always be precise due to low blade tension. Tool less blade changing on the DeWalt DCS374B also improves productivity as changing the blades is often fast.

3. Integrated Hang Hook

DeWalt DCS374B took into consideration the damages that that go into a bandsaw's front handle or base to come up with the integrated hang hook. It lets you hang your bandsaw without bringing any damage to the front handle or base. This prolongs the lifetime of the saw.

4. LED Worklight

Sure, you could always illuminate your workspace while operating the bandsaw. With DeWalt DCS374B's LED work light, you can get more accurate cuts as the light from the DCS374B is beamed directly to the surface. You can thus work on dark surfaces with more ease than before.

2. DEWALT DWM120K

The DeWalt DWM120K comes with a powerful 10-amp motor that has variable speed settings ranging from 100-350 SPM. Other than that, its 5-inch deep cutting capacity is also something to marvel about.

The saw has a maximum capacity of five inches for round stocks and 5 by 4-3/4 inches for rectangular stocks. It also comes with an integrated hang hook just like the DCS374B.

Durability is not taken for granted on the DWM120K. Besides its integrated hanging hook which prevents damage to the front handle or base, it features a serviceable steel shroud and rubber bumpers. These usually enable the guards to withstand a lot of force without incurring any damages.

WHY IS THIS A TOP PICK?

1. Powerful and Controllable

The 10-amp motor on the DeWalt DWM120K makes it a bandsaw worth consideration. It is capable of providing speeds that can hit up to 350 Surface per Minute (SFM). However, if need be, you can turn it down to a minimum of 100 SFM by using the variable speed dial. This kind of power and adaptability is highly desired in any workshop.

2. Ergonomics

This DeWalt bandsaw also features a comfortable grip which is capable of reshaping your entire experience with bandsaws. Other than the comfortable grip, you'll also appreciate the generous hand space that the saw provides. Since its body is generally balanced, it also increases the saw's maneuverability while reducing user fatigue.

3. Convenience

The DWM120K comes with an LED light which enables you to operate it in dim areas. You might not only find this useful in dark environments alone. The LED lights could also illuminate your stock better especially when visibility on the region being cut is low. The DWM120K's integrated hook for hanging is also another feature that many people would find convenient. 

4. Decent Blade Life

Blade life on the DWM120K is generally good. This is thanks to the saw's dual bearing blade guide rollers and the blade tracking adjustment feature. The saw's blade tracking adjustment feature reduces unnecessary wear and tear to the blade. On the other hand, the dual bearing blade guide rollers increase the general durability of the saw's blade support system.

3. Makita XBP02Z 18V

The Makita XBP02Z is all about speed and performance. It packs a 6-speed motor which enables it to be used in a wide range of situations.

This motor also helps it deliver speeds from 275 FPM to 530 FPM. Such a range enables the tool to cut through different kinds of material and with a great deal of accuracy.

A built-in LED also helps with illuminating work surfaces better. Makita also took an ergonomic design with the XBP02Z since its grip handles are rubberized. These offer comfort and prevent chances of slipping.

WHY IS THIS A TOP PICK?

1. Great Design

Not only does the Makita XBP02Z look great, but it also feels great on the hands because of its bumper design. You are also capable of looking straight down on the blade to ensure that it is making the cut as you intended. When combined with some of its features like the built-in LED make its overall design really impressive.

2. Fast Speeds

The Makita XBP02Z has a variable speed range of 275-530 FPM which is relatively fast. Fast speeds mean one thing when it comes to bandsaws – versatility. Since you can use this handsaw on both wood and metal, you'll find fast speeds particularly helpful when cutting hard metal. Slower speeds, on the other hand, will be useful when cutting materials like wood.

3. Durable and Sharp Stock Blade

Few people often place a lot of emphasis on the stock blades that come with handsaws. However, it is worth mentioning that the Makita XBP02Z's stock blade is sharp. Considering that the bandsaw can achieve speeds of up to 530 FPM, you can already see why it is a great saw for cutting different types of material.

4. Fast and Easy Blade Changes

True, you don't change blades every other day. Nevertheless, the Makita XBP02Z offers you fast and easy blade changes so that you can remain focused on your tasks. As there are bandsaws that still require tools when making blade changes, you can thus appreciate this bandsaw's fast blade changes.

Related post: Best 14 Inch Bandsaw Reviews

4. Milwaukee 2429-21XC M12

The Milwaukee 2429-21XC stands out when it comes to power, convenience, and weight. Its compact size, for instance, allows it to be among one of the lightest cordless band saws you can find.

Its motor may not be the most powerful, but it can deliver up to 280 FPM. This can enable you cut a ¾" EMT in as little as 3 seconds. The battery on this bandsaw is also incredible. It can allow you to make up to 150 cuts on a full charge with the XC battery.

With a cut capacity of 1-5/8", the Milwaukee 2429-21XC is capable of delivering quality cuts for a range of applications.

WHY IS THIS A TOP PICK?

1. Compact Design

This is perhaps one of the biggest perks of the Milwaukee 2429-21XC. Compared to other bandsaws, you would find that the Milwaukee 2429-21XC lacks plenty of the additional features that other bandsaws have. 

However, with the tool weighing in at just 6.75 lbs., you can tell that this bandsaw was made with a specific user in mind. For instance, since the bandsaw is light, it enables you make overhead cuts with more ease.

2. Cutting Power

It would be a lie to call the Milwaukee 2429-21XC's motor the most powerful. Nevertheless, its motor is quite compact and powerful enough for a bandsaw of its size.

In addition to this, the bandsaw has a variable speed trigger which makes the tool more versatile. The ability to switch between speeds enables you to make different types of cuts depending on your stock.

3. Adjustable Blade Tracking

Despite its small size, the Milwaukee 2429-21XC has the adjustable blade tracking feature. Ideally, it ensures that your blade is constantly in good condition.

Found near the counter wheel on the bandsaw, the blade tracking alignment also allows you to see when it is in use. Other than that, the Milwaukee 2429-21XC equally features blade tension adjustment. This gives you additional control over your saw.

5. Bosch GCB10-5

With a robust 10-amp motor, variable speed settings, and its deep-cut capability, the Bosch GCB10-5 is an all-round band saw. It is capable of providing some of the cleanest cuts with no needs for rework.

It promises a nearly spark-free operation which shows how safe the tool can be in the job site. While the Bosch GCB10-5 is not the lightest band saw we've reviewed so far, it does have a compact design.

You equally get variable speed settings on this band saw. This makes it versatile and desirable for people who wish to make deep cuts and on different kinds of materials.

WHY IS THIS A TOP PICK?

1. Safety

With the Bosch GCB10-5, you get nearly spark-free operations on the job site. This might not be something that most people would generally consider. It also comes with other extra features that complement the tool's overall safety.

A good example is the inclusion of the hanging hook. Apart from prolonging the life of the band saw, it also makes it easy for the tool to be stored safely.

2. Convenience

The bandsaw features an LED light which comes in handy when in need of accurate cuts. As it illuminates the cutline, you get better control over your cut so that there will be no need for reworks.

Additionally, you can vary the bandsaw's speed. This allows you to match the tool's cutting speed to the material that you are working on.

3. Deep Cut Capability

After reviewing a bandsaw like the Milwaukee 2429-21XC, it is evident that not all bandsaws are capable of making deep cuts. Though with the Bosch GCB10-5, you can make cuts of up to 4-3/4" in just one pass. Not only does this make you finish your work faster, but it also makes it one of the safest tools to use.

6. Grizzly Industrial G8692

The Grizzly Industrial G8692 bandsaw is unlike any other that we've reviewed. If versatility is one of your main reasons for getting a bandsaw, then the G8692 may be the tool for you.

This band saw is capable of converting from a bench-top metal cutoff saw into a hand-held portable band saw easily. Other than that, it has a maximum cutting capacity of 4-3/4" for round stocks.

It operates in two speeds – 190 FPM and 262 FPM. Even though this does not necessarily brand it as a variable speed bandsaw, it can still help with plenty of jobs around your workshop.

WHY IS THIS A TOP PICK?

1. Versatility

The steel base of this table saw provides unparalleled stability when you’re cutting through anything and also ensures that it’ll survive any falls without so much as a scratch. If you want a durable and stable table saw then this is definitely the product for you.

2. Deep Cut Capacity

This product is only the second item on our list to surpass the 4,800 RPM benchmark set by DeWalt and enter the 5,000 RPM territory.

Whether or not the extra 200 RPM is perceivable is open to interpretation, but our team definitely noticed the increased speed while they were testing this portable table saw out.

If you’re the type of person who wants to maximize the performance of each of your investments, you’ll love the GTS1031.

3. Durability

While we have no reason to ask for a refund when using this stellar product, it’s always nice to see manufacturers offering money-back guarantees.

The fact that they’d put their own money on the line shows that they’re very invested in their product and trust its capabilities entirely.

Very few manufacturers are confident enough to risk their money rather than risking yours, but Bosch knows that no one is ever gonna ask for a refund after using this formula one portable table saw.

4. Stability

While it may be bulky and heavy, the Grizzly Industrial G8692 does come with the advantage of stability. Its weight enables it to be more stable when used as a bench-top metal cutoff saw. This gives you better grip over the tool and more control whenever you want to make precise cuts.

5. Dual Operating Speeds

Rather than being a single speed band saw that would be limited to one material, the Grizzly Industrial operates in both 190 FPM and 262 FPM. Whereas a variable speed control system would be more efficient, a dual speed control system is locked on the two main speeds that most people normally use.

Conclusion

All in all, your selection of the best small band saw will mostly depend on your needs. Most of the tools we've reviewed have their individual strengths and weaknesses.

For instance, a band saw like the Milwaukee 2429-21XC may be one of the most compact saws. However, the same cannot be said about the power it delivers.

As such, you may need to prioritize what you need in a bandsaw first. This is because choosing the best band saw will be more of a personal choice. Nevertheless, at least you now have an idea of what to look out for when purchasing your next bandsaw.