The 8 Best Portable Band Saws, Reviewed!

Regardless of whether you are cutting metal, wood, or even lumbering, you will require a quality band saw for clean cuts. Besides, a band saw can be used where a Sawzall or torch cutting cannot be used. The tools are effective and offer significant benefits. However, with the number of brands flooding the market today, it can be a daunting task to choose one which matches your needs. We understand well how a poor quality tool can impact your productivity levels. Thats why we have selected some of the high-quality brands in the market today to help you choose the best portable band saw for your project.

Best Pick

Makita XBP02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Portable Band Saw is compact, lightweight with six variable speed setting which allows for great versatility of the tool making it our best pick.

​Budget Pick

DEWALT DWM120K 10 Amp 5-Inch Deep Cut Portable Band Saw Kit is affordable, powerful with serviceable steel shroud and rubber bumpers for defying job site misuse without wearing out making it our best budget pick.

Quick Comparison Between The Best Portable Band Saw

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1. Makita XBP02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Portable Band Saw 

Highlighted Features

• Weighs 15 pounds
• Battery operated (18V)
• Ergonomically designed
• Six variable speed dial which delivers 275 to 530ft/min with no load speed
• An inbuilt motor which provides excellent torsion for improved efficiency
• Has an inbuilt LED light for use in dark working environments
• Fast charging speed
• 20 -5/8” long
• Compact size
• Removable hooks and rubber bumpers

Deliver cordless metal cutting superpower with this Makita XBP02Z. The tool features an inbuilt high torsion motor which enables you to deliver the required impact for the job to be done. The tool allows you to adjust your working speeds through the six setting speed dial which has the power to deliver 75 to 320 Ft. /min. This feature allows you to quickly cut through sheet metals, conduits, pipes, square tubing, and much more. Its size is more compact.Besides, its ergonomic design makes it easy for you to manage the most demanding jobs. Working in dark environments has never been this easy. Thanks to the inbuilt LED light that illuminates the working area for more precise cuts, and increased efficiency. The battery-powered band saw is one of the world’s largest cordless tools which tout of fast charging time. Makita18V band saw is an excellent pick for professional contractors who are looking for the best engineered cordless portable band saw.

2. DEWALT DWM120K 10 Amp 5-Inch Deep Cut Portable Band Saw Kit

Highlighted Features

• Comfy and ergonomically designed
• 10amps powerful motor for tough applications
• Replaceable cutting blades
• LED light for increased cutting precision
• Variable speed of between 100 to 350sfm
• Externally replaceable brushes
• Easy to maintain
• Delivers 5 inch capacity for round stock and 5 by 4 ¾ inches for rectangular stock
• Come with Hex wrench, kit box, and standard blade
• Electric corded

Manage your demanding onsite jobs with this DEWALT DWM120K portable band saw. The tool boasts of a 10amps powerful motor which delivers great torque required to get the job done. Its variable speed control feature allows you to switch and adjust your working speeds to suit the application at hand. Through its oversized front handle, you can easily adjust your working position. The handle is ergonomically designed to offer a secure grip, increasing your efficiency and precision cutting. Its back handle has not been left out. The handle is soft and ergonomically designed to help you manage most demanding jobs without draining your energy levels. Its LED light ensures you get a shadow-free view when working in dark environments, increasing your precision levels. DWM120K band saw is built to last. The saw has a long-lasting adaptable material which allows you to set up for optimum performance when working on varied materials. The tool delivers 100sfm to 350sfm without getting bogged down. Its rubber bumper and serviceable steel shroud make the saw guard defy job site abuse. Its blade tracking adjustments help enhance blade alignments and minimize blade wear. This is a plus feature which gives you the freedom to manage your projects without any need for blade replacements. Replacing your cutting blades is also simple and easy. The band saw blade changing lever is designed to loosen the blade tension allowing you to replace blades when needed. In case you may be looking for the best portable bandsaw for the money, then this one from DEWALT could be a great pick for your project.

3. DEWALT DCS374B 20V Max Deep Cut Band Saw

Highlighted Features

• Variable speed trigger and dial
• LED light for increased precision in dark working environs
• Incorporated hanging hook
• 5-inch cut capacity
• Easy to replace blades
• Can cut up to 149 cuts of 1 to 5/8 inch with a 14TPI blade
• Weighs 15.97 pounds

This DEWALT DCS374B battery operated band saw features a 5inch cut capacity for angle iron, strut, pipes, and other materials. Its speed dial and trigger allows you to switch your working speed to suit the application at hand. With a 14TPI blade, DCS374B can cut up to 149 cuts of 1 to 5/8” strut. The 20V band saw boasts of a convenient LED light with a 20-second delay which illuminates in dark working areas for increased precision. Changing cutting blades is easy, thanks to its tool-less blade changing lever which loosens blade tension. Its integrated hang hook allows you to hang the saw without damaging its base and its front handle. Note that the band saw is sold as a bare tool. Batteries are sold separately.

4. HILTI SB 4-A22 Cordless band saw

Highlighted Features

• Led lamp
• Cuts with low debris and minimal noise levels
• Versatile
• Accommodates 733 by 12.7 by 0.5mm
• Cuts up to a maximum of 2 ½."
• Cordless electric band saw

This SB 4-A22 electric cordless band saw from HILTI features strong blade which can cut up to a maximum of 2 1/2” (64mm). The saw is designed to allow you handle even the most demanding jobs with ease. Cutting metal and other hard materials can produce loud noise which can interfere with your hearing levels. This HILTI band saw is designed to cut with low debris and minimal noise levels making it a great tool for your projects. Its LED light makes working in dark environs easy and manageable. The band saw is versatile and can be used to cut plastic pipes, threaded rods, and MQ 41 channels.

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

Highlighted Features

• Lightweight and compact in size
• Delivers up to 280 spfm
• Led lamp
• Easy to maintain
• A powerful motor which cuts ¾ inches in as little as 3 minutes
• Meets OSHA requirements
• Accommodates 27” by ½” by 0.020 “ blade
• Ideal for single hand use
• Versatile
• Adjustable blade tracking and blade tension
• Handy

This Milwaukee 2429-21XC M12 has a powerful motor which delivers excellent torsions with fast cutting speeds to get your project done faster. With this band saw, you can cut ¾ inches EMT in as little as 3 minutes and up to 150 cuts per each charge with XC battery. Maintaining the tool is easy. Thanks to its adjustable blade tracking and blade tension adjustments which helps increase blade durability and reduce wear. The saw has a LED light which offers a shadow-free working environment. The tool is lightweight and compact in size which makes it easy to move around with. With this band saw, you can deliver up to 280sfpm which is a great impact for completing your projects.

6. Bosch GCB10-5 Deep-Cut Band Saw

Highlighted Features

• 10 amps powerful motor
• Ergonomically designed
• Weighs 14.5 lbs
• Delivers a maximum 380ft per minute
• Cuts up to 4 to ¾ inches
• Has a hanging hook for storage
• Compact design
• Offers a spark-free cutting operation for a safer job site when cutting metals
• Has a variable speed control
• LED light for illuminating dark working environs
• Delivers clean cuts
• Corded electric band saw

Bosch GCB10-5 band saw boasts of a robust 10 amps motor which delivers clean cuts faster. The tool has a capability of performing deep reductions of up to 4-3/4 inches with just a single pass. Its nearly spark free operation makes it ideal for managing demanding jobs. The tool gives you the freedom to change your working speeds when working on different applications. The saw cuts with high precision minimizing any need for reworking on tempering colors or burrs. Its lightweight and compact design make it highly portable and a perfect pick for most demanding jobs. Its ergonomic design helps reduce fatigue levels while providing exceptional performance. The device has a LED light which illuminates your working area for more precise cuts. Storing the tool has also been simplified. Thanks to the hanging hook which allows you to store your band saw after use.

7. ​Milwaukee 6238-20 AC/DC Deep Cut Portable Two-Speed Band Saw 

Highlighted Features

• Built to last
• Ergonomically designed
• Powerful 11 amps motor
• High quality materials
• Gear protective clutch for absorbing impact forces
• High precision cutting
• Dust and debris protection system
• Comfy and lightweight
• Adjustable tool-free locking shoe

In case you may be hunting for the best Milwaukee portable band saw, then this model could be an excellent pick for your next project. The device touts of the latest and exclusive Armor technology. The materials used to design this tool are of superior quality. Being one of the best in class tools, Milwaukee band saw offers you clean cuts each time. The device features 11 amps sturdy motor which delivers an unmatched power required to get the job done. To reduce impact forces caused by blade lock-ups, the tool has a gear clutch which extends the motor and gear life. A slimmer motor housing is also designed to help increased precision levels when using your tool. To ensure user comfort, the tool weight and size ratio has been balanced to offer a natural control and operation. When using your band saw you do not have to worry about dust or debris accumulation. The tool has a debris protection system which prevents debris from damaging your pulley.

8. Grizzly J1T-120A Portable Bandsaw with Stand

Highlighted Features

• Can be transformed into a portable band saw in seconds
• Cut capacity 4-3/4 inches
• Features two cut speeds
• 1HP motor
• 110V single face power supply
• Weighs 38 pounds

This 38-pound bandsaw from Grizzly features two speeds (190 and 262 feet per minute). The tool boats of a 1HP motor which delivers the required power to get the job done. The 110V band saw has a cut capacity of 4 to ¾ inches round. In just a few seconds, this Grizzly J1T-120A can be converted from a bench top cut off saw to a portable hand-held metal cutting band saw. The tool is electric powered with an AC single face. The band saw has been constructed in an ISO 9001 factory for optimal performance.

What are Portable Band Saws Used For?

As the name suggests, portable band saws are easy to transport. Band saws are a must-have tools for any handyman. Their versatility allows users to make use of them when needed. Some people often use portable band saws to cut different materials like conduit, pipes, metals, wood and other materials. The tools have varied speed control which allows you to change your working speeds to manage the material you are working on.

How to Use a Band Saw Safely

Dress Properly

When handling a band saw, you should ensure you are dressed properly. Avoid putting on loose clothing or jewelry which may be caught by the blade. Put on comfortable clothes which can allow you to move freely and maintain natural position when working. To avoid any mishaps, ensure your working area is dry. Wear non-skid shoes to prevent any injuries.

Prepare Your Working Area

Remove any mess or barrier that may interfere with your stability. This ensures you move freely around your working area and you do not risk bumping on to objects.

Load Your Cutting Blade

If your tool does not have a blade in place, loosen the blade tension pulley and install one. Ensure the blade locking system is in place to avoid any injuries or inaccurate cuts.

Test Your Device

Before commencing your project, it is a good idea to test your band saw to ensure everything is working on properly. If you are using a battery operated model, ensure you have enough batteries for replacement depending on the tool power consumption levels and your scheduled working hours. For electric corded models, ensure the cord is working properly.

Prepare Your Material 

After you have prepared your working area and you have tested your band saw and you are certain that everything is okay, then you can go ahead and prepare your material. This includes supporting loose material to minimize any chances of losing control over the tool or injuring your feet when the material being cut falls free. If you do not have anything to support your material, you can look for someone to hold the material firmly.

Measure and Mark the Material 

Measuring your material prior cutting increases your precision and minimizes any wastes. The mark should be visible enough to avoid any incorrect cuts.

Perform Your Cuts

Before performing your cut, ensure the blade is placed against the stock to be cut and parallel to the marked cut line. Press the trigger and let your band saw do its work. Do not use excessive force. Using much force will slow the cutting speed of the saw and increase the chances of blade snapping. Concentrate when operating your tool and keep a keen look at the cut line to ensure clean cuts and high accuracy levels. Once you done with the cutting process, you can release the trigger to stop the blade from rotating.

Bandsaw Safety Tips

• Portable band saw blades are not guarded. This means it will cut anything that comes its way. Operating it requires high alertness otherwise you may risk hurting yourself. Always ensure you are sober and dressed accordingly when operating your tool. Also avoid any bystanders who may steal your concentration.
• When replacing your blades, ensure the tool is unplugged from the power source.
• Heavy materials like metals can cause serious injuries when they fall. Take precaution and cover floor to avoid any costly damages that may occur.
• Avoid using a lot of force when performing your cuts. The blade may snap and injure you or anyone near.

Factors to Consider When Buying The Best Portable Band Saw

Like any other tools, band saws are made to make your job easier. However, each tool is designed to be used under certain requirements. We have a comprehensive guide to help you choose your preferred tool for the job. And among these factors include:

Power Source

Band saws are either electric or battery powered. A battery powered band saw is a great pick when working on tight areas, or in areas where there is no electric supply. However, batteries will require replacements. This can bring your project to a standstill especially if you happen to run out batteries. With an Electric corded band saw you do not have to worry about battery replacements.  However, using electric corded model requires you to be extra careful to minimize any risk of electric shock and will also force you to buy power extension. Though the power source will depend on one's tastes, it is a good idea to check out some important aspects. In case you opt for an electric corded type, ensure the tool voltage is recommended in your country and charges fast. For battery-operated models, you should check out if the tool comes along with a battery or you will need you purchase one. Though a model that comes with a battery helps you save some dollars, never comprise for quality for the sake of money.

Capacity

Every band saw has a cut capacity it can cut. When selecting the cut capacity of your band saw, you should put into consideration the size of material stock. As a rule, consider choosing one with a higher cut capacity than your stock material.

Speed

The cutting speed of your band saw will dictate how long it will take to get the job done. Time is critical to waste on slow tools. To ensure you increase your efficiency and productivity levels, you should consider choosing a band saw with variable speed control. This will allow you to switch your working speeds faster to match the application at hand.

Design

A poorly designed tool will always ruin your experience and impact your productivity levels. To ensure you get the best from your band saw, you should choose one which is ergonomically designed. Look at how the manufacturer has designed the handles. Are they padded? Do they offer enough space to accommodate your hand? Are the handles strategically placed to allow proper switching of your working position? Is the weight to size ration balanced? These features collectively can help you determine the design of your tool. A good band saw should at least meet all the above requirements.

Other Accessories

For you to perform your cuts, you will require a cutting blade. Some tools come with cutting blades while others do not. In case you happen to invest in a model which does not come with a blade, you should consider the size of the blade your tool is compatible with. If you are looking for a blade with fast cutting speed, consider choosing one with fewer teeth per inch. For tight curves and detailed design, consider selecting a narrow blade. Fine blades are a good pick if you are cutting thin materials.

Operation

A band saw may produce sparks or noise depending on the material you are working on. High noise levels can cause noise pollution. A good band saw should be cut with minimal noise and nearly spark-free operation.

Additional Features

Most modern band saws come with other features to help you manage your projects. Some of these features include LED light illuminates. This is a plus feature which offers you a shadow-free working area.

Weight

Though all portable band saws are easy to move around with, they come in different sizes and weight. If you are working on demanding project, you should choose one which is a little bit lighter and easy to control.

Final Verdict

Portable band saws are a great pick for every handyman. The tools are versatile and can cut on different stocks with high precision. They also come loaded with additional features to make your projects easy to manage. Having a grasp of what makes the best portable band saw can help you determine your preferred tool for the next project. Do not let a wrong choice of your tool ruin your working experience. A good band saw should be handy, versatile, durable, cut with high precision and easy to maintain.