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A band saw is a great technology for those who love making DIY things. You can use it for many different tasks such as cutting, metalworking, woodworking, and lumbering materials.
However, these works require good skills and a proper band saw. If not, you may cause dangers for yourself.
Choosing the best one is another challenge. You have to consider many elements such as dust controller, fence, miter gauge, tilts, brand, size, respective power source, and the efficiency of the blade.
Many readers said that they don’t have enough knowledge and information about the portable band saw to pick up a suitable choice. Thus, understanding the importance of this product, we write this post to help you make the right decision.
Now, it’s time to discover everything about the best portable band saw in details:
A band saw is a machine used for cutting many different materials such as wood and metal.
Portable band saw means you can bring it around to perform your tasks.
Specifically, it is used for cutting railroad ties, metal signposts, or anything outside the workshop. Even you can cut extensive materials which don’t fit for regular band saw machine. It’s fine to cut pipes and similar things as well.
There are two kinds of band saws: cordless and corded models. In general, the cordless band saw has a smaller blade than a corded saw, so it doesn’t have enough power to cut a thick board.
How To Choose The Best Portable Band Saw?
To select the best portable band saw, you have to consider the following features:
Your demand
Let you think if you need a portable band saw or not.
This is a portable machine, so it’s light and easy to maneuver. It doesn’t take your valuable time for transporting materials to a particular place. Thus, you complete your task quicker.
However, if you are looking for a product that can help you deal with heavy use, this is not an ideal choice due to its low power.
Cutting capacity
The majority of portable band saws can cut up to about 5 inches thick, but some only can go up to 1 ⅝ inch.
If you need to cut small things, 1 ⅝ inch is enough. Thus, ensure to check the cutting capacity before purchasing.
Cutting speed
The typical band saw can cut about 3.500 feet every minute. This number may change depending on the different materials. You should consider the variable-speed tool to change speeds easily.
Comfort
Usually, the ergonomic designs will bring a natural holding. It’s better if the handles are padded.
The weight will also influence how comfortable you feel when using your saw. We suggest you choose a lightweight model to lessen your fatigue and cut easier.
Durability
A durable portable band saw should have a simple, tough plastic outer coating and a steel shroud to keep the most vulnerable parts from danger.
When it comes to durability, we can’t skip its accessories. A sturdy holder will keep your model safe in place when not use.
Don’t forget to consider how durable the blade is. Can it last long? If not, you must spend an extra amount of money for purchasing another one.
When your blade breaks, you should learn whether it is low-quality or the motor is too strong for the blades. Then find out a suitable solution.
Versatility
Some band saws can serve for many different purposes because they can cut most of the things from lumber to sturdy metal. Even you cut smooth things precisely.
It’s not a big problem to deal with hard-to-reach areas.
So, if possible, you should choose a product with these features.
Budget
Many people think that for a tight budget, they have to sacrifice quality while for a bigger budget, buying the most expensive machine is the best portable band saw.
This is not right. Once you learn enough knowledge, you can freely choose a good-quality and reasonable product.
Your workspace
If you have an ample space for working, this consideration is not essential. However, for a small workspace, you have to make sure buying a model which fits your place and doesn’t take too much room when storing.
Other features
We have a high opinion of a product with a variable speed setting, which makes sure you can cut as exact as possible.
You should choose a bandsaw which can prevent wear and tear on the blade. Some models allow you to adjust the blade position at the micro level to minimize blade breakage.
When connecting the battery and the tool, some saws can fight against overloading and overheating. Pay attention to this feature more since it keeps you safe all the time.
Safety
To be safe while working, you had better buy a product having a safety lock. A saw with a button can cause unexpected dangerous cases if you accidentally press.
Based on our own experiences as well as other readers’, we help you narrow down the top 10 portable band saw on the market. Just read their features and consider your demands, and you will pick up a suitable machine:
Best Portable Band Saw Under $200
1 – DEWALT DCS371B 20V MAX Portable Band Saw – I Highly Recommended
From the renowned manufacturer in woodworking tools, DEWALT DCS371B is one of the best cordless portable band saw around $200.
With 2-1/2” cut capacity and a powerful 20V motor, this band saw enables you to deal with several materials and especially pipe up to 2” SCH 40 pipe. Plus, LED work lights will illuminate dark surfaces and help you with more precise cutting.
This band saw scores the highest points in customer experience with a soft grip back handle that provides comfort and shock absorption. Moreover, the handle will give you more control and better balance while working.
Along with the blade support system, backtracking adjustment offers you great help to increase the durability of the blade. You can also hang the saw up without damaging the base and the blade.
And if you worry about blade replacement, this DEWALT DCS371B can help you with a tool-free blade changing system. All you need to do is to loosen the tension and pull the blade out with ease.
However, since this tool is sold separately, you will need to pay more for the battery and charger. It is best if you purchase a 20V battery as it is lightweight and sufficient at the same time.
Pros
Ergonomic design for better handling and more balance
Among all products we recommended, the Milwaukee 2429-21XC M12 is considered the most compact and lightweight, portable band saw (6.75 pounds of weight and 12 inches in length). If you have a small place for storing and need to move your saw more regular, this cordless model is perfect.
As advertised, you are allowed to use this saw with one hand, so it meets the following requirements:
Its blade comes with a lower guard, covering the outside of the blade when cutting. After learning several models available on the market, we see this is the only band saw that has this feature.
And Milwaukee 2429-21XC is the saw that can cut 1 ⅝ inch. Thus, we strongly recommend it for those who want to cut small pipes and rods only, not bigger things.
The unit is designed with a LED light, supporting your work in low-light places better.
Pros
Reasonable
Easy to use
5-years warranty
3-years warranty for the battery
Clean Cuts
Cons
Not as powerful as a corded saw
No hook and case, leading to the difficulty in storing
Not suitable for professionals and heavy users
3 – Milwaukee 2429-20 Cordless Sub Compact Band Saw
It is not too much to say that this Milwaukee 2429-20 Band Saw is an excellent combination of compact size and power capacity.
With the weight of only 6 pounds, this woodworking tool is ready for cutting tasks anywhere and at any time. You can pack it in a small bag and carry it around without any hassle. Plus, the specific design makes this tool perfect for one-handed use.
Although it comes without any cord, you don’t have to worry about the power of this compact tool. It can cut up to 1⅝ inches with a maximum of 150 cuts per charge.
Moreover, this Milwaukee 2429-20 band saw meets OSHA guarding requirements. It also comes with a safety button to prevent unauthorized actions. Thus, you don’t have to worry about accidentally pull the trigger and activate the blade.
However, this band saw might in inappropriate for heavy-duty tasks. It can work well with Strutt, conduit, all thread in a smaller size. But the cutting capacity is quite small so that it cannot deal with hardened metals. On the other hand, you will have a compact and light tool for residential tasks.
Moreover, you will have to spend an extra amount of money for battery and charger since this tool comes without both of them. Please pay attention to the demand voltage and ampere of this tool to purchase the right battery.
Pros
Long-lasting battery
Suitable for one-handed use
Handy and lightweight
Safety button for unauthorized actions
Cons
Not ideal for heavy-duty tasks
Not include battery and charger
4 – WEN 94396 10-Amp 5-Inch Variable Speed Handheld Portable Band Saw for Metal
The first impressive feature of this WEN 94396 is the rugged look with two handles for better controlling. The ergonomic design with an adjustable handle to reduce vibration and fatigue during long days working.
While many people said that a good band saw should be heavy, this fantastic saw can provide you with full features in just a weight of 14.5 lbs.
With this portable band saw, you will have the complete control to adjust the blade’s speed for different materials. The pace is ranging from 60 FPM to 420 FPM that allows you to deal with several types of metal.
Moreover, the 10-amp motor, along with a cutting capacity of 5 inches x 5 inches, can work like a charm with both metal, plastic, rebar and pipes. Hence, this WEN 94396 can help you tackle tasks in different shapes and sizes.
Last but not least, this band saw comes with a 3-year warranty for extra certainty about the quality. Plus, you can reach out to the friendly customer service of WEN and ask for your problems without any hassle.
When purchasing this product, we strongly recommend you replace the original blade since it might move off the bearing while working. Moreover, it also comes without the alignment. Thus it is better to purchase a new blade with full features.
Pros
Variable speed for different materials
Portable design
Deep-cut capability
Lightweight
Cons
Poorly-made original blade
Best Portable Band Saw Around & Under $300
1 – DEWALT DWM120K 10 Amp 5-Inch Deep Cut Portable Band Saw Kit – I Highly Recommended
The DEWALT DWM120K is the combination of versatility and durability. So, it can complete most tasks correctly.
The powerful 10-amp motor provides you with variable speed control, which doesn’t cause an unexpected accident for beginners with fewer using experiences.
It is added additional enhancements to help you complete a few specific tasks. Perhaps you aren’t surprised with this feature because even the default version can deal with the most complex tasks.
What we want to say is its variable speed dial:
This feature allows you to adjust the right setting for each specific job.
No matter when you perform your project, the bright LED light of DeWALT will help you keep track of any cutting area.
The durability and lifespan are pretty high since this unit is made from solid steel material and has a blade tracking adjustment, which can monitor the wear and tear on its blade.
There is a large, fully adjustable front handle, which provides you with more space for working as comfortable as possible. Meanwhile, the soft back handle keeps you from all pains, no matter how long you use it.
However, it lacks a trigger lock, which is the only drawback of this product.
In our opinion, the mix of the typical design and high-end feature provide convenience for both professionals and amateurs. Choose it, if you don’t care about a trigger lock.
This best cordless portable band saw around $300 has a strong point for its specialized application.
How?
Its built-in motor offers a fast speed of cutting on even durable materials.
In spite of the variable speed dial, it’s hard to cut precisely, if you don’t have perfect skills.
The Star Protection Computer Controls innovation adds extra safety and protection while cutting. Cutting at high speeds can lead to overheating and overloading problems. But, the battery and the saw of Milwaukee 2729-20 are connected to solve these problems.
Another benefit is that it’s effortless to cut in awkward positions and hard-to-reach areas.
With its advanced technology, we believe that this band saw is a worthy consideration. But, if you are looking for something which can perform several different tasks, Makita XBP02Z is not an ideal choice.
Pros
Easy to move around
Well built
Quick and easy to use
Cons
Lack of precision and versatility
Produce noise
3 – Milwaukee 2729-20 M18 Fuel Deep Cut Band Saw
Many people think that the cordless band saw will limit power. Yes, this fact is right with many models available on the market, but Milwaukee 2729-20 is an exception. The cordless Milwaukee 2729-20 will provide you with a lot of power.
Because of its compact and portable size, you can move it around effortlessly.
How wonderful the power of a corded band saw in a cordless body is!
Like other products, this unit has an electronic variable speed control off cutting on different materials. Even it cuts faster than a corded model.
The construction materials and built-in mental make sure you can use this saw in a long time without requiring regular maintenance.
The package doesn’t include a charger or battery, so you have to spend an extra amount of money on buying it.
In case the budget is not your problem, we believe that this is a perfect solution to perform many different tasks.
Pros
Can perform a wide range of tasks
Has a durable construction
Cons
Must spend more money on a charger or battery
4 – DEWALT DCS374B 20V Max Deep Cut Band Saw
The first outstanding features of DEWALT DCS374B are durability, adjustment, and versatility.
When it comes to battery, it not only is effective but also works for a long time before each charge.
The bad news is that you need to buy the battery separately. That means you have to spend an extra amount of money.
There is a hook to help you store easily when not in use. This tool supports you in getting the saw out without damaging its base and handle.
Here is the best thing:
Its variable speed dial provides you with complete control, so it’s free to use the saw on any material.
When purchasing this product, we strongly recommend you change a new blade with alignment and adjustment. With the simple design of this model, it is easy and quick to change a new one.
Once you know how to adjust correctly, you can cut safely on any material. To make the right adjustment, you have to prepare an Allen wrench, and this tool is available in the package.
Like the product above, this unit helps you complete several different jobs with excellent performance.
If you have enough room to store this band saw, it will help you bring results as impressive as possible.
Pros
Cordless design for better portability
Powerful
Has a trigger lock
Easy to cut
Cons
Big size
A little pricey
Best Portable Band Saw Under $500
1 – Milwaukee 6232-21 Deep Cut Band Saw W/Case
From the legendary in woodworking tool manufacturer, this Milwaukee 6232-21 is one of the worth considering products in this list.
The first feature that makes this tool the best corded portable band saw under $500 is the high durability. It comes with a case to prevent damage during transportation. Thus, you can rest assured to bring it along anywhere without damaging the core and the blade.
Moreover, this tool features Job Site Armor Technology, which is made of force-resistant composite material, combining with crush zone barriers that offer long-lasting rugged protection.
Besides, this Milwaukee 6232-21 band saw, with the slimmer and lighter motor, can offer you more comfort and less fatigue while working for a long time.
Plus, the powerful motor can deliver significantly better cut accuracy as well as cut visibility whilst a balanced body offers more control and comfort during working.
Last but not least, the tool-free locking shoe enables you to switch from extended shoe to no shoe in a matter of seconds. You will have the whole control to adjust the tool depending on your needs.
Although this amazing device meets all the requirements of a good band saw, it still has some problems. The first thing is the loud noise that it produces when working. It might be quite annoying for you to suffer from that noise in a long time.
Moreover, the case that comes along with the saw is not durable. It cannot withstand heavy impacts and might break down after several uses.
Pros
Highly durable
Job Site Armor Technology
Come with a case
Powerful yet well-balanced motor
Tool-free locking adjustable shoe
Cons
Loud noise
Low-quality carrying case
2 – DEWALT DCS374P2 20V MAX Portable Band Saw Kit, Deep Cut
Next on our list of the best portable band saw under $500 is the DEWALT DCS374P2 Band Saw Kit. This product will tick all your check boxes of a great band saw for both commercial and residential use.
First, this band saw comes with a high cut capacity up to 5” x 4¾” that enables you to glide through strut, pipe,angle iron, and various other tough materials.
Moreover, the speed adjustment allows you to control the speed of the blade for the best clean cut with your material. To deal with sturdy material, you should adjust the speed trigger to reach the maximum rate.
You can make the best use out of this tool even in the dark with the LED work light and a 20 seconds delay for better visibility and more accuracy in the dark surface.
Finally, when you purchase this DEWALT 20V DCS374P2 Band Saw Kit, you will get not only a band saw but also a case, 5V batteries, charger, and a pre-installed blade. It will be used right out of the box for the best convenient and no extra money for accessories.
However, it might be quite expensive than other products on the list since it comes in a kit with full accessories. Moreover, it might be relatively heavy, thus it is more likely to cause fatigue and muscle pains if using in a long time.
Pros
Huge cut capacity
Speed adjustment and dial
LED work light
Built-in hanging hook
Comes with batteries, a charger, a blade and a kit box.
Cons
A little bit pricy
Quite heavy
The best portable band saw of 2024 is….
The band saw can meet our requirements, and all its drawbacks are not our big problem. We usually do small DIY projects with pipes and rods, so its weak power is acceptable. Even we worry that a too strong motor may cause an accident.
Now, it’s time for you to let us know your answer. Which band saw is your choice? Why do you choose it? Can it complete your work correctly? Please leave all your comments in the section below. Also, don’t forget to share our post with your friends if you find the information informative.
DEWALT DCS371B
Milwaukee 2429-21XC
Milwaukee 2429-20
WEN 94396
DEWALT DWM120K
Makita XBP02Z
Milwaukee 2729-20 M18
DEWALT DCS374B
Milwaukee 6232-21
DEWALT DCS374P2
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