Are you looking for the best portable band saw? if yes, you are in the perfect place. Nowadays everyone likes portable band saws that are easier to use and carry around.
But on the market, there are so many different types of portable band saws available. To choose one we will guide you with some useful ideas that you must have to take into consideration while buying.
Table of Contents
What is Band Saw?
A band saw is a power saw with a long sharp blade that consists of a serrated metal, commonly used to cut through wood, metal, and a mixture of work materials. To use, all you have to do is place the material on the table that rests beneath the blade and within the frame of the saw and power the device.
In this article, we will review eight of the best portable band saws that will rather leave you wanting.
Are you in a Rush? Need one top-rated portable band saw quickly? Here’s DEWALT DCS371B which is our winner after 62 hours of research!
Our Favorite Product Comparison Table [Updated- 2022]
The 8 Best Portable Band Saw Reviews & Guideline
There are loads of band saws out there, each fulfilling the duty of cutting through tough materials. But what undertaking discerns the authenticity of each saw, read our reviews to find out.
1. DEWALT DCS371B Portable Band Saw.
Key-features
- 20V battery system
- 10.2lbs weight
- 2.5-inch cutting capacity
- LED work light
- Integrated hang hook
- Blade tracking adjustment for increased blade life
- Dual-bearing blade guide.
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What We Loved
- Compact and lightweight design
- Powerful motor
- It can cut up to 2-inch SCH 40 pipe
- Easy to use on any project
- Centered handle position for excellent balance
- Comes with LED work and a 20-sec delay for low-lit work areas
- Ergonomic soft-grip handle for flexibility and comfort
What Could Be Better
- It doesn’t come with a variable speed
- You will have to purchase the battery and charger separately.
Overview
If you are looking for the top-picking portable band saw in 2022, this one from DeWalt should be among your first selections.
One thing that makes this model a customer’s choice is the fact that it comes with impressive power output, especially since it is a battery-powered model. Plus, it is compact and lightweight, which doesn’t have any compromise on the power delivery.
When it comes to the ergonomics of the saw, this one scores decently. There is a centered handle that offers a superior balance to the saw. In turn, this lets you make accurate cuts with minimal fatigue. Besides that, there is a back blade with a soft grip, which betters the comfort and control of the unit. These are some of the features that make this model feature among the top portable band saw reviews.
Verdict- Who Should Buy?
With the excellent score in terms of quality and capability, we’d recommend this saw to professionals that need a backup model for their projects. It can also serve DIY artists or homeowners without fail.
2. BOSCH GCB10-5 Portable Band Saw.
Key-features
- Spark-free operation ensure safer Jobsite
- Robust 10 Amp motor.
- Cuts up to 4-3/4 In. in a single pass.
- Weighs 14.5 Lbs.
- Ideal for cutting tough overhead materials.
- Convenient saw hook.
- LED light for more accurate cuts.
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What We Loved
- Lightweight.
- Powerful motor of 10-amp ad 120 volts.
- LED light present.
- Provides deep cuts.
- Highly convenient.
What Could Be Better
- Does not make use of batteries.
Overview
This is one of the best portable band saw. Bosch Manufacturers surpassed themselves with this lightweight powerhouse. Weighing in a 14.5-pound, GBC10-5 is a solid and relatively small device that is easy to handle. Since it is lightweight, it is easily controlled and provides clean deep cuts, with detailed discretion. It is also convenient to use, also arising from its lightweight. It has a 10-amp motor and provides a total of 120 volts. Neat right?
Although it does not make use of batteries, it comes with its blade and hanging hook. It provides spark-free cuts with varying speed settings. So, easy to control and handle. This also makes it easy for overhead cuts. Amazingly with all its features, it still adds an LED light to its litany. GBC10-5 is powerful enough to handle professional based works with a high level of correctness.
Verdict- Who Should Buy?
This is a perfectly suitable powerhouse that is lightweight and a go-getter. Perfect for in-house and professional jobs that are heavy; and definitely worth the money spent.
3. DEWALT DWM120K Portable Band Saw.
Key-features
- Motor designed Industry best 10 amp.
- Serviceable steel shroud & rubber.
- WEIGHT 15.0 LBS.
- LED sight light.
- Superior balance and ergonomics.
- Externally replaceable brushes.
- Integrated hang hook.
- Multi-position large front handle.
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What We Loved
- Works fast.
- Durable, with long-lasting features.
- Presence of an LED light for poorly lit environments.
- A sturdy and soft hand grip.
- Well-built safety features to withstand workers’ injury and worksite abuse.
What Could Be Better
- High-quality surface finishes may not be achieved.
Overview
Made in China; with dimensions of 7.94 x 14.25 x 23.75, and a weight of fifteen pounds, this mobile and cost-effective saw on Amazon seems like a dream come true for most saw users. It has speeds of 100 – 350, surface ft per min low 100 to surface fit per min high 350. A voltage 120, Hz 60 and a drive worm gear with chain and a blade size of 44 7/8 x ½ x 0.020. It is durable and versatile and reasonably easy to use.
As a deep cut and best band saw 2022, it features a 10-amp motor with varied speed control for cutting specific materials with special cuts too. It also has a soft grip that considers ergonomic features for comfort and accuracy. This allows the user to make accurate cuts, with a detailed grip, drastically reducing user fatigue.
And guess what? The saw has an LED light for dark surfaces! As it is generally designed for user’s convenience, and durability, the saw has a long life span with rubber bumpers that aid in withstanding abuse in the job site. In this, the blades are also easy to maintain. The blades possess dual bearing rollers that improve this factor, reduce wear, and allow it to be easily changed brilliant right?
And as a bonus, it makes work easier by enabling the user to make deep cuts, making work-life comfortably laid-back.
Verdict- Who Should Buy?
This saw comes with powerful power output, batteries, and is lightweight, but does not attain high-quality surface finishes. I suggest this saw if you are looking to partake in works that are not totally professional.
4. MILWAUKEE 2429-21XC M12 Portable Band Saw.
Key-features
- Dual-Actuation Trigger.
- For wide range of applications.
- with LED Light.
- Blade Length 27” x½” x.020″
- Per charge UP to 150 cuts with XC battery.
- Suitable for One-Handed use.
- Blade Tension adjustable.
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What We Loved
- Extremely lightweight.
- Fast charge batteries.
- Presence of LED light.
- Can be used with handed.
- Easy to change the blade.
What Could Be Better
- Presence of only one battery.
Overview
This is one of the best cordless band saw on the market and this 12.4-pound cordless bandsaw is highly compact with a powerful motor and has dimensions of 13.6 x 18.8 x 8.5 inches. With minute vibrations, cuts are simple to make, with fluid movements.
It makes use of XC batteries which are lithium-based and charge in thirty minutes. The saw makes ¾ cuts in 3 seconds. It has an LED light that highlights the cut lines, and very suitable when used with one hand. The M12 compact saw is easy to use, easy to handle, and cost-effective. The blade is also easily adjustable with an attractive five-year warranty. So changing its blade is as easy as pie.
Verdict- Who Should Buy?
Looking for something simple, easy to use, and cost-effective? Then this is for you. I totally recommend if you want a fully portable band saw that is moveable and compact.
5. DEWALT DCS374B 20V MAX Portable Band Saw.
Key-features
- WEIGHT 12.4 LBS.
- Integrated hang hook.
- motor for performance & durability.
- 5” Cutting Capacity.
- LED Work Light.
- Variable Speed for control.
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What We Loved
- Presence of a hanging hook for hanging saw to without incurring damages.
- Compact and lightweight.
- Five-inch cutting capacity.
- Speed control for accurate cuts.
- Tool-less blade changing.
What Could Be Better
- Battery and charger sold separately.
Overview
If you want a deep cut, then this is the saw for you! The 20V MAX has a 5” inch cutting capacity, which is absolutely deep and thorough, enabling it to cut through virtually anything it set sits blade on. It is similar in weight to the MILWAUKEE 2429-21XC M12; mainly made of metal, battery-powered band saw, and possesses a voltage of 20 volts. With dimensions of 24.4 x 13 x 8.3 inches, it is easily compact, lightweight, and can be utilized with one hand. 20V MAX deep cut band saw cuts through angle iron, pipes, struts, and various other materials.
The hanging hook lets users hang the saw without damaging the base or front handle, and the tool-less blade changing feature prevents tensions in the blade. The battery for this item is sold separately, which accrues another set of expenses for these sets of users. The current price of the saw sits within the range. Like most compact band saws, it has an LED work light, however, with a delay of twenty seconds before it powers.
Verdict- Who Should Buy?
If you are willing to spend extra bucks for the battery and charger of this saw, then you won’t be skipping a beat. With the ability to control its speed, it provides excitingly accurate cuts.
6. MILWAUKEE 6232-21 Portable Band Saw.
Key-features
- 11 Amp Motor w/ CPT™.
- Maximum tool life with all metal direct drive.
- Balanced Body Design.
- LED Light for increased accuracy.
- Industry’s Largest Cut Capacity.
- Proprietary composite material.
- Gear Protecting Clutch.
- Weight, 14.5 Lbs.
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What We Loved
- New exclusive job site Armor Technology.
- Long-lasting and durable.
- Easy-grip for users.
- A slimmer motor for accurate cuts.
What Could Be Better
- Not compact and lightweight.
- No LED light.
- Does not make use of a battery.
- The blade is sold differently from the body of the band saw.
Overview
Not exactly compact but good enough to satiate your band saw taste buds. This model of Milwaukee band saw is an 11A port saw, 21.9 pounds and easy to use. As a product manufactured in China, the band saw still delivers on the feature of long-term reliability and you know what? It has an exclusive job site Armor technology made 0f composite material. This new feature heightens durability, deterring all sorts of job site injuries that a band saw without such may incur. It secures protection.
Further, it is made of plastic and does not include battery usage. 6232-21 has a new slimmer motor housing that increases superior cut accuracy and revolutionary cut visibility. Due to the new balanced body design, the tool easily rests on the hands of the user. However, the blade is sold separately from the body of the band saw.
Verdict- Who Should Buy?
Not a good choice if you want to feel a compact and lightweight aura within your saw, but one of the best band saws to get for accuracy and durability.
7. MILWAUKEE 6238-20 Portable Band Saw.
Key-features
- Balanced Body Design.
- Button actuated tool-free design.
- Debris Protection System.
- All metal direct drive gearing system.
- Revolutionary Cut Visibility.
- Lighter Weight, 14.5 Lbs.
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What We Loved
- 11-amp motor.
- 120 volts of power.
- 5 x 5-inch cutting capacity.
- Large power output.
What Could Be Better
- Weighty and not compact.
- No battery.
Overview
Another best portable band saw that powerhouse from Milwaukee manufacturers provides a potent 11-amp motor for high performance and maximum utilization. It has a gear protecting clutch, tool-less locking adjustable shoe. The reality of an all-metal direct drive increases tool life, thereby preventing wears and tears. The tool has a large cutting capacity of 5 inches by 5 inches, thus allowing users to make deep and accurate cuts.
Encompassing a total amount of 120 volts, it makes use of an AC/DC power source that gives it a large base of efficacy.
Verdict- Who Should Buy?
A strict go-getter to suit your tastes however, not entirely lightweight. If you don’t mind a cord, this will be a great addition to your toolbox.
8. BOSCH BARE TOOL BSH180B Portable Band Saw.
Key-features
- Weight of only 7.1 Lbs.
- Clean cuts (without sparks).
- Cuts common electrical & plumbing materials.
- Cuts 530 surface feet per minute.
- Soft-grip handle delivers comfort.
- Durable aluminum base.
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What We Loved
- Extremely lightweight.
- Rugged aluminum base.
- Electronic Cell Protection (ECP) feature.
- Presence of LED light.
What Could Be Better
- Batteries and charger are sold separately.
- It has a shallow cut capacity.
Overview
Extremely lightweight (8.8 pounds), the best compact band saw and sixty percent lighter than deep cut saws. It has an integrated LED work light with 18 volts. Besides, it has a cutting capacity of 2.5 inches by 2.5 inches. Although it doesn’t cut deep it is ideal for working in tight spaces and cutting light materials.
It makes use of lithium batteries protected by the Electronic Cell Protection (ECP) feature that prevents the battery from overloading, overheating, and discharging. So, you can use the battery without hanging the worry of overheating. Although it is lightweight, with an aluminum base, the BSCH180B can withstand rugged job site conditions. The battery and charger are sold separately.
Verdict- Who Should Buy?
It’s a good choice for amateurs, Not very efficient for professional and heavy worksites.
Cordless vs Corded – Which is Better?
Both the corded and cordless saws come with their benefits and shortcomings. For instance, the corded power tools tend to deliver more power that is consistent enough. You will not have to worry about the battery running out, but they have portability limitations.
On the other hand, cordless power tools are more convenient in terms of portability and control. However, they don’t have much power for handling demanding projects.
Portable Band Saw Buying Guide
We want you to have the best possible experience with the best portable band saws available. With the review above and this guide, we are piquing your interest to decide on the best compact band saw to get. Here are further points to consider when buying a portable band saw.
Lightweight or Heavy?
In contemplating a portable electric band saw, the weight matters. Since it is portable, you would have to carry around. You don’t want your arms to give in while cutting. Lightweight band saws give you the laxity of control, whereas heavyweight best benchtop bandsaws do not allow you to regulate your movement effectively. Buying a lightweight band saw is the logical choice to take.
Batteries or Cords?
Ask yourself these questions before considering if you want your saws to come with or without batteries. How often will you use it? What will you use it for? What functions do you want it to perform? Portable band saws with batteries come with chargers but do not have a large power output. On the other hand, those who derive power directly are powerhouses that can perform a multitude of tasks. So you are looking for batteries or cords? Depends on how you will utilize these tools.
Cutting depth
Do you want deep or shallow cuts? Your projected need will let you know if you want a deep cut portable band saw or one that only offers shallow cuts. Advisably, however, getting a deep cut saw with speed variation will enable you to make intricate cuts accurately.
How deep can a band saw cut?
Normally, the capacity of a saw will be determined by how deep it can cut the workpiece. That being said, a 12-inch band saw that is used by most DIYers or in-home workshops can cut a depth of up to 6 inches. However, for commercial uses like cabinet making, it is best to go for a 16-inch or 26inch throat.
Versatility
What is a band saw without versatility? This is the main crux of its functions and you’ll definitely have to get one that comes with versatile cutting abilities. Most portable band saws come with the ability to cut through numerous work materials, such as metal, wood, plastic, etc. It all boils down to what you want and the core of your niche.
FAQs
Q. How deep can a saw band cut?
Ans. A standard saw band can cut up to around 5 inches deep in a piece of wood. Nevertheless, most of the models out there can cut as deep as 3 inches, which is satisfying enough for most users.
Q. Do all cordless saw bands come with a charger and battery?
Ans. Unfortunately, this is not the case. Some manufacturers offer their models with a battery and charger, while others will require you to purchase them separately. But this shouldn’t be a factor to determine the delivery of a band saw.
Q. How does a portable band saw work?
Ans. A portable band saw comes with blades that are made in the shape of a ring, which also looks like a band. Here, the band will rotate on the wheels continuously. As a result, it will create a smooth cutting motion. With the band saw, you can cut straight lines or change the direction rapidly to make curves on the workpiece.
Q. Conventional vs Portable Band Saw – What’s the difference?
Ans. A portable band’s saw allows you to carry it around from Jobsite to Jobsite. They are best suited for bigger projects, especially if the material won’t fit into a conventional band saw. Also, the portable band saw would work for you if the band saw is needed to be operated outside the shop or garage.
Conversely, a conventional band saw is installed on the floor, and it is used for cutting and carving irregular shapes or tear lumber into thinner slabs. Also, this band saw can be used for re-sawing. They are massive in size and aren’t meant to be moved around.
Q. Do all band tools come with bumper rubbers?
Ans. No. Sometimes not. You will need to buy separately & Adjust them by yourself.
Q. What is the Best Band Saw for the Money?
Ans. There is no monopoly as to which is the best bandsaw 2022 or not because an assortment of them exist, and each, for different functions with its unique selling point. Meat, wood, vertical or horizontal, portable or compact, and even metal band saws are available.
But which portable band saw, from the aforementioned reviewed items is the best?
This is a tough one, but, in choosing the best, we consider the compactness, power capacity, and ability to carry out fine works. For me, BOSCH GBC10-5 portable band saw wins it, with very few disadvantages; such as the absence of a battery, and a compact band saw with lots of power as its most viable pro.
Q. How do you Change the Blade on a Portable Band Saw?
Ans. Changing band blade saws can be tricky if the rudiments put in place are not followed. What are these rudiments? To change a blade, we have to consider the size and type of the blade that suits the band saw. Follow these steps and you’ll be adept in changing blades on a portable band saw.
- Remove the tension blade: Begin by twisting the handle of the blade tension 180 degrees to release the tension of the spring on the blade. This will allow the blade to easily slide out the pulley. Make sure you are delicate with this as the spring may snap.
- Remove the blade from the wheels: To do this, pull the opposite side of the blade out of the pulley. When doing this carefully work the blade, forward and backward out of the guide rollers.
- Clean the saw: You might encounter some chips in the saw. Make use of a rag or a vacuum to evict unwanted particles.
- Install the new blade: Slide the blade between both guide rollers, ensuring that the blade falls between the pulleys. Make sure it doesn’t sit on the pulley. Once you have determined this, use one hand to work the blade around the pulleys. Once that is done, push the blade back so that the teeth are nearly in line with the front of the rubber wheels on the pulleys. Then turn the tension handle back, 180 degrees; remember, be careful.
- Test and cut: After the above processes have been executed you can now test. If the saw is powered on and the blade runs smoothly without wobbling or shaking, then you have successfully installed the blade.
Final Words
The advent of technology is a remarkable triumph. Today, not only professionals make use of Best Portable Band Saws, but also amateurs and people who only understand the basics of such a tool. It is so easy to use and is now very inclusive. It has also made work easier.
Portable or compact band saws are a simple innovation. From the above review, its compactness is something to drool over and is a major point of attraction.
How can I tell which one is the best product among those mentioned on the list here?
Here’s DEWALT DCS371B which is our winner after 62 hours of research! you can say best band saw out there