Best Benchtop Band Saw – Top Models Compared

Planning your at-home workshop is always a wonderful experience. From planning the layout to ordering the tools, the entire experience can take you back to your memories of completing woodworking and metal craft projects with a beloved family member. But for some would-be craftsmen and craftswomen, workshop space can be a considerable problem.

Whether you’re installing your workshop in a cramped basement or compact garage, you may be worried about having enough room to fit all of your critical power tools into your newly-christened workshop. In fact, you may even need to downsize and reach for a benchtop bandsaw to replace a bulky, outdated cabinet bench saw.

Whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional craftsperson, your woodworking and metal crafting needs will be well-served by a benchtop bandsaw. Though their size would imply a compromise with performance, you’ll find that these models manage to save space while outputting an exceptional standard of material cutting capability.

Like any power tool, selecting the best benchtop bandsaw can be a challenge. You’d rather be working on your latest project instead of traveling store to store, comparing prices and features. In order to take this hassle out of your workshop planning process, I’ve created this handy guide covering 2021’s best benchtop bandsaws.

With this guide, you’ll be able to compare benchtop bandsaws from leading brands including Grizzly, Delta, WEN, and Rikon.

Top 10 Best Benchtop Bandsaws for Amateur and Professional Woodworkers

Based upon a wealth of industry research, I’ve isolated 10 of the most durable, best-performing benchtop bandsaws available to amateurs and professional craftspeople alike. For each outstanding model, I’ve broken down each key specification and bonus feature in a detail-by-detail review. Be sure to read each and every review in order to gain a full appreciation of what makes these model’s great workshop additions.

No matter how small your workshop space is or how tight your budget may be, you will certainly find a benchtop bandsaw on this list that will meet and exceed your performance-based expectations. Good luck and here’s to making a valuable, long-lasting addition to your workshop arsenal!

Best Benchtop Bandsaws – Reviews

1. Grizzly G0555 Ultimate 14-Inch Bandsaw

Professionals and amateurs alike have nothing but great acclaim to rain down upon the Grizzly G0555 Ultimate 14-Inch Bandsaw. A sure entrant into a hypothetical benchtop bandsaw hall of fame, this model provides some top-quality performance and construction that will gladly take on even your toughest cutting projects.

In terms of performance, this model is capable of handling 92-1/2 to 93-1/2-inch blades, each of which can function comfortably at between 1500 and 3200 feet per minute cutting speeds. All of this is powered by a 1 horsepower engine, which is more than enough to power through most any tough wood.

But the Grizzly G0555’s special features are what make this bandsaw’s performance really stand out. Case in point, the quick blade tension release. While functioning, many bandsaws can take on the tension that runs the risk of damaging the blade and the cut. With the top-mounted quick blade tension release knob, you’ll be able to release this risky tension without placing your hands in harm’s way.

Durable construction is another key component to the Grizzly G0555’s overall superiority. The entire frame is constructed from durable cast iron, making it sturdy beyond all reasonable expectations. Even the internal components are built to last, such as the die-cast aluminum wheels and optional heavy-duty steel stand. Even the extruded aluminum fence is built from better materials than its competition.

As noted, Grizzly G0555 owners gladly recommend it to others. Several owners noted that the built-in fender scale and magnifying window make this model among the easiest to use when it comes to making precision woodcuts. They’re also pleased with its overall versatility, such as the table’s ability to tilt 45 degrees right and 15 degrees left.

Overall, the Grizzly G0555 really packs a lot of value into a single durable package. Though it runs a moderately costly price tag, know that ever cent that you pay for this model will come back to you in year after year after year of woodcutting reliability.

Strengths:

• Between 1500 and 3200 feet per minute cutting speeds
• Specialized quick blade tension release and magnifying window
• Exceptionally durable frame made from cast iron, with cast aluminum internal components

Weaknesses:

• Very heavy
• Pricier than many other competing models
• Problematic customer service

2. Rikon 10-305 10-Inch Bandsaw with Fence

The Rikon 10-305 10-Inch Bandsaw comes in at a much more affordable price range that is better attuned to the needs of a craftsperson fully retrofitting their workshop. Even for its reasonable price, this model still backs in solid functionality and construction that will help it become a mainstay for future woodworking projects.

During regular use, the Rikon 10-305 runs at 1/3 horsepower. Some may claim that this is not enough power to complete “serious” woodworking projects, but real users of the Rikon 10-305 can vouch for this model’s ability cut through even hardwoods like oak. Even so, this model’s sawing capacity makes it best geared towards the hobbyist’s needs.

Along the same lines, this model incorporates a 13-3/4 by 12-1/2-inch cutting table (which is in fact slightly larger than tables seen in another compact, cost-effective benchtop bandsaws). This work surface is built from solid cast iron, giving it enhanced durability over the course of many, many woodworking projects. In order to keep the table workspace clear, this model even includes a 2.5-inch dust port.

As noted, the Rikon 10-305 qualifies as a compact benchtop bandsaw. This makes this model ideal for transport from place to place. Even down to the Rikon 10-305’s frame – which is made from high quality, lightweight steel – this model is one of the best for a hobbyist on the go.

Owners of the Rikon 10-305 are willing to admit that they didn’t buy a “precision German-engineered product” for its affordable price tag. But even so, they are glad to recommend it to others based on its ability to easily cut up to 4-inch thick oak with ease. If you’re shopping on a budget, you should definitely give the Rikon 10-305 a hard look before making a purchase decision.

Strengths:

• 13-3/4 by 12-1/2-inch cast iron cutting table
• 2.5-inch dust port
• Affordable price tag

Weaknesses:

• Requires adjustments after each blade replacement
• Stand sold separately
• Cannot fit the 1.8-inch blade

3. Grizzly G0513ANV Anniversary Edition Bandsaw

If I were to describe the Grizzly G0513ANV Anniversary Edition Bandsaw in one word, it would be “deluxe”. In nearly every regard, the Grizzly G0513ANV raises the bar for what a bandsaw is capable of and how a bandsaw should be constructed. Even this model’s special features are outstanding, allowing it to not only complete every woodworking job, but also do so with an enhanced sense of control and precision.

The Grizzly G0513ANV kicks hard with two horsepower. Combined with two blade speeds – at 1700 and 3500 feet per minute – this bandsaw is capable of making professional-grade cuts look easy. Moreover, the euro-style roller disc blade guides ensure that you are always in full control of your cut, even as the mechanism shakes into actions.

This model’s 17 by 17-inch cast-iron work table is roomy beyond compare, allowing you to run some sizable hunks of lumber through the saw without needing to make initial trim cuts. Perhaps most outstanding among these added features are the dual dust ports, which allow for easy removal of wood dust and debris without interrupting your cuts.

Altogether, Grizzly G0513ANV owners like their deluxe bandsaw a great deal more than their old models. Several speak highly of the easy-to-read blade tension indicator, while others were quick to praise the unique paint scheme applied to this special edition model. Once you add the Grizzly G0513ANV to your workshop, you too will get an opportunity to feel the power and precision that comes with using a deluxe bandsaw like this.

Strengths:

• Two horsepower engine with two blade speeds at 1700 and 3500 feet per minute
• Euro-style roller disc blade guides
• Dual dust ports

Weaknesses:

• Exceptionally expensive due to limited edition release and high shipping cost
• Not very portable
• Decals are known to bubble up after extended use

4. Delta 28-400 Steel Frame Band Saw

A gentle giant of a benchtop bandsaw if ever there was one, the Delta 28-400 Steel Frame Band Saw is designed to provide an optimal level of performance with a minimal amount of sound pollution. This model’s smooth precision cuts down on wasted machine effort, which really improves your ability to cut wood efficiently in the long run.

The Delta 28-400’s minimized sound output can be attributed to several key specifications, each of which works together to cut down on noisy, inefficient blade actions. For example, this model features five-blade guides that work in unison to keep the cutting blade in line and unaffected by continuous contact with the wood. Each of those five guides includes an internal ball bearing, allowing it to move about freely without risk of friction slowing down the full process.

Blade tracking on the Delta 28-400 is also outstanding. Two durable rubber-coated aluminum wheels control the blade while it is in motion, allowing for superior control without wasted effort. Each of these wheels contains nine full spokes, allowing them to remain sturdy and stable after years of wear and tear.

This model does have some drawbacks, however. Though the Delta 28-400’s price alone isn’t too bad, you will need to buy a rip fence and miter guide for it because it does not come with one standard. This is unfortunate, as these built-in features have otherwise become a standard for benchtop bandsaws. Even without these add-ons, this model is certainly worth adding to the workshop, especially if you need to keep the volume down while you are hard at work.

Strengths:

• Exceptionally quiet operation
• Five ball bearing-based blade guides
• Durable construction including nine-spoke aluminum blade tracking wheels

Weaknesses:

• Does not come standard with a rip fence or miter guide
• Pricey, when accounting for purchasing missing key features
• Set up can be tricky with challenging instruction guide

5. WEN 3959 2.5-Amp 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw

While working to restock your workshop on a budget, you may be putting the bulk of your purchasing power towards a power tool you use a lot. While you may not use bandsaw often, you simply must have one to use for occasional woodcutting jobs. In such a case, a price-conscious benchtop bandsaw like the WEN 3959 will be right at home among your more expensive power tools.

The WEN 3959’s core cutting capacity is nothing to scoff at after seeing its affordable price. The 2.5-amp motor is able to rotate the main blade at speeds up to 2500 feet per second – a remarkable feet for any consumer-grade benchtop bandsaw. In fact, this model is capable of making cuts 3.5 inches deep and 9 inches wide, which is certainly more impressive than other models within the WEN 3959’s modest price range

The WEN 3959 is fairly versatile, too, all things considered. It’s able to accept blades between 1/8 and 3/8 inches in width, allowing you to pop your own favorite blade into this model without fear of incompatibility. Perhaps most importantly, the WEN 3959 doesn’t leave out key features in the name of cutting costs. A rip fence and miter gauge come standard with this model, making it useful right out of the box.

WEN 3959 owners are universally pleased to have such a useful power tool in their workshop that didn’t cost them an arm and a leg to obtain. Many note that this model’s size and cutting capability are ideal to fit their needs, whether that be carving out ornamental letters or chopping blanks. Budget-minded woodworkers should surely rejoice, knowing that an affordable, yet productive benchtop bandsaw is finally available.

Strengths:

• Very affordably priced
• The 2.5-amp motor rotates blade at up to 2500 feet per second
• Accepts blades between 1/8 and 3/8 inches

Weaknesses:

• Owners believe it is too small for large scale woodworking operations
• Flimsy construction components that are liable to denting
• Does not come with a blade

6. SWAG Offroad V3.0 Portaband Powder Coated

When you go to purchase a benchtop band saw, what if you could have the value of nearly every major brand packed into a single model? It sounds impossible, but with the SWAG Offroad V3.0 Portaband Powder Coated Tablesaw, it’s the truth! This base model is used by many high-end tool brands, including Milwaukee, Harbor Freight, DeWalt, Bosch, and Makita. If you’ve ever owned a benchtop bandsaw from these companies, then this is the exact saw you used.

With that many major brands behind this one model, you can count on it to provide a great standard of performance and construction. With regards to the later, the SWAG Offroad V3.0 comes standard with a 1/8-inch lightweight steel base that securely supports the entire body. This simple frame makes this model exceptionally portable, allowing you to take it wherever your craftsperson work requires you.

That being said, the SWAG Offroad V3.0 also makes a worthwhile permanent fixture in your workshop. To make this conversion process easier, each foot on the frame contains a simple port through which a bolt could be inserted. As an added bonus, this stationery set up adds enhanced stability to the entire power tool’s operation.

SWAG also takes pride in calling their products 100% American made. Many craftspeople appreciate this commitment to American labor. If you count yourself among these patriotic ranks, then the SWAG Offroad V3.0 will satisfy your commitment to the country as well as your commitment to your craft.

Strengths:

• Base model used by leading brands including Milwaukee, DeWalt, and Bosch
• Portable construction that can easily be converted to a stationary unit
• Made in the USA

Weaknesses:

• Saw plate anchored at a single point
• Overlapping countersink holes
• May need to alter plastic shielding to plate to fit tray correctly

7. WEN 3962 Two-Speed 10-Inch Band Saw

Another worthwhile model from WEN, this model – the WEN 3962 – features an enhanced portfolio of production-focused specifications that even outrank other WEN benchtop bandsaws. These improvements make for a worthwhile upgrade for any amateur or professional craftsman who is limited to overall workshop space.

In terms of production, the WEN 3962 comes through where you need it most. At its core, this model’s 3.5-amp motor is capable of creating cuts up to 6 inches deep and 9-3/4 inches wide. The WEN 3962 is also broadly compatible with your existing bandsaw blade arsenal, accepting blades anywhere between 1/8 and ½ inches.

A key special feature can really help a benchtop bandsaw stand out from the pack, and for the WEN 3962, that key special feature is its 3-in-1 dust port. Built with your existing hardware in mind, this dust port is capable of accepting several different sized dust output hoses, including 1.75, 2.75, and 4-inch models.

As a considerable drawback, many owners complain of this model’s need for constant adjustment. While this can be caused by a variety of machine and human errors, you should take this issue into consideration if you prefer to have a benchtop bandsaw that is reliably ready to cut work accurately.

Even with its minor drawbacks, the WEN 3962 will surely serve as a worthwhile upgrade for those growing tired of their old, tired benchtop bandsaws.

Strengths:

• The 3.5-amp motor can cut up to 6 inches deep and 9-3/4 inches wide
• Compatible with 1/8 to ½ inch blades
• 3-in-1 dust port for multiple hose sizes

Weaknesses:

• Requires constant adjustment
• Pre-packed blade known to turn and warm easily
• Tension knob prone to breaking off

8. WEN 3975 5-Inch Metal-Cutting Benchtop Bandsaw

Not all craftspeople are satisfied with cutting wood alone. In fact, the craftsperson’s calling sometimes leads them to cut metal for recreational and practical uses. For these types of craftspeople, the WEN 3975 5-Inch Metal-Cutting Benchtop Bandsaw is among the best options available to chew through metal without complaint or risk of hardware damage.

The WEN 3975 can perform quite a number of metal cutting tasks without complaint. A great deal of these capabilities derives from its adjustable blade speed, which can be easily toggled between 125 and 260 feet per minute. While this sounds like a far inferior cutting rate compared to other models on this list, this moderate cutting speed is justified given how much more effort is needed to cut through metal as opposed to wood.

To that end, the WEN 3975 is able to cut pipes up to 5 inches in diameter without any special attachments. In addition, it can chew threw rectangular materials up to 5 by 5-inch steel bars without requiring you to constantly change the blade. Bevel cutting with the WEN 3975 is no sweat either, as it can angle all the way up to 60 degrees.

WEN 3975 owners are complimentary of all of these quality features in addition to its compact form factor. This minimalist size, they assert, allows them to easily store it away so it doesn’t take up unnecessary space in their cramped working quarters.

In all, the WEN 3975 is a great model to turn to if you want a solid standard of metal cutting that can handle most standard-sized material you throw at it.

Strengths:

• Capable of cutting metal at between 125 and 260 feet per minute
• Can complete bevel cuts up to 60 degrees
• Compact form factor for easy storage

Weaknesses:

• Cutting speed sometimes decreases without user input
• Blades prone to breaking if not operated with precision
• Produces a great deal of sound pollution, even without metal on the table

9. Grizzly G0561 Metal Cutting Bandsaw

Professional metal cutters take notice! The Grizzly G0561 Metal Cutting Bandsaw is the new power tool you’ve eagerly awaited. Packed with special features unseen in any other benchtop bandsaw, this model is capable of cutting nearly any standard metal material without falling apart in the short-term.

The Grizzly G0561 is the master of operator control, down through every last special feature. One worth noting is the hydraulic feed control system. Combined with the automatic shut-off switch, these feed controls allow the operator to control the cutting rate with unmatched precision. To add to this, the Grizzly G0561 features four different blade speeds – 90, 135, 195, and 255 feet per minute – in order to allow the operator to work as quickly or as precisely as necessary.

The Grizzly G0561 is also built to last, beyond a doubt. This model is equipped with full cast iron construction, from the outside to the inside. A cast iron working bed, a cast iron exterior frame, a set of cast iron control wheels…all of these components work together to make this one of the most durable benchtop bandsaws available on the today’s market.

Among these many features, Grizzly G0561 owners most appreciate the internal cooling system. Using liquid coolant, this apparatus allows the operating components to automatically cool themselves down as the create friction against the cut metal. This can really expand the life of your metal saw blades, an added value that is not to be missed by metal crafting professionals.

Strengths:

• Full cast iron construction
• Hydraulic feed system for full control of cutting rate
• Internal cooling system to ensure internal function longevity

Weaknesses:

• Very expensive
• Blade changes take extra long
• Does not come with coolant

10. Rockwell ShopSeries RK7453 9-inch Band Saw

Finally, the Rockwell ShopSeries RK7453 represents one of the most cost-efficient built benchtop bandsaws available to consumers today. Because of its generally simple construction and operation, this model is ideal for first-time benchtop bandsaw users.

An affordable price tag isn’t the Rockwell ShopSeries RK7453’s only worthwhile feature. In fact, this model comes with a number of worthwhile components that can stand up to the test of long-term woodworking hobbies. For instance, the die-cast aluminum table is fairly lightweight, while still retaining durability that won’t degrade after the first use.

Also, this model comes standard with a specialized tungsten carbide blade. This is the same material many wedding rings are made of, so you can count on this blade to remain just as durable as those physical representations of marital commitment.

The Rockwell ShopSeries RK7453 hasn’t cut corners on safety in order to attain its modest price tag, either. In fact, it includes a keyed safety switch that prevents accidental starting – a feature not even seen in some expensive benchtop bandsaws.

If you’re a first-time woodcutter or simply want a fairly low-cost benchtop bandsaw, then the Rockwell ShopSeries RK7453 is definitely a great choice for you.

Strengths:

• Affordably priced for first-time users
• Comes with a unique tungsten carbide blade
• Keyed safety features for improved operator security

Weaknesses:

• Difficult to contact customer service
• Casing chips and cracks easily
• Faulty miter gauge

Conclusion

When it comes time to buy, you’ll find that there are a wide variety of options available to you today on the benchtop bandsaw market. Each model includes some quality special features, including specialized dust ports and ball-bearing controlled blade guides. After taking all of these specifications into account, I simply cannot award the best benchtop bandsaw award to just one model.

When it comes down to it, the best benchtop bandsaw is truly dependent on your needs and budget, above all else. I highly encourage you to take time and use these reviews to determine which model will serve those requirements best, as there is nothing worse than regretting a major power tool purchase. Once you have your new benchtop bandsaw in your workshop, you’ll finally be ready to fully enjoy your craft and take on complex construction projects once more.