Best Portable Band Saw: Excellent Tools for Easy and Precise Sawing (Reviews & Buyer’s Guide)

Adding a powerful tool as a band saw to your workshop is necessary for several reasons.

Aside from its portability, portable band saws perform intricate cuts and curves better than other saws. Hence, why woodworkers find them efficient and easy to use.

But, what is the best portable band saw, and how can you get one?

This is where buyers often get confused.

Most buyers spend several hours or even days searching for the best portable band saws with no proper guide. And this can be really tiring.

However, the good news is that you don’t have to go through all that stress with this review.

Here are the best portable band saws for performing intricate cuts and curves.

Quick Picks

Best for Overall Performance – Dewalt 20V Max Portable Band Saw (DCS371B)

“This Dewalt band saw possess features like a good cutting capacity and a large battery to enhance the performance of your cuts”

Best for Large Cutting capacity– Dewalt 20V Max Portable Band Saw (DCS374B)

“With the product’s large cutting capacity, you can cut several metals like iron, pipes, conduits, and wood with relative ease.”

Best Portable Band Saw for Ease of Cutting – Dewalt Portable Band Saw Deep Cut 10-AMP (DWM120K)

“The portable band saw is incredibly easy to handle. The tool feels comfortable in the hands.”

Best Portable Band Saw for Design – Milwaukee 2429-21XC M12 Cordless Sub-Compact Band Saw Kit

“The Milwaukee band saw is beautifully designed. It’s lightweight and compact for easy use.”

Best Cordless Portable Band Saw – Makita XBP02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Portable Band Saw

“This portable band saw uses no cords and convenient to move from one work site to another.”

Factors to Consider When Buying a Portable Band Saw

There’s every chance that your first time buying a portable band saw will end in uncertainty. It’s not surprising, though, as most buyers have gone through this phase.

Aside from portability, there are other crucial factors to consider before picking up the best portable band saw. Here are some of them;

Portability

This article is all about portable band saw. Still, you need to be sure that your pick is easy to move about. It should also be lightweight and easy to handle whether you are buying a cordless or a corded unit.

The Source of Power

A portable band saw runs in two ways – it either runs on cords or batteries. Both are great, but not without their limitations.

Cordless or battery-operated band saws are more portable than corded since the battery is rechargeable. On the other hand, corded possesses more power and can be used more extensively.

Your choice depends on what you want. If your job requires you to move from one job site to another, a cordless saw will be a better option.

The Capacity of the Cutters

The capacity of the cutters determines the level of deep cuts the band saw can make. Most portable band saws have a 5″ cutting capacity, like those in this review.

If you need to make deeper cuts, I recommend that you go for a band saw with a higher cut capacity.

Lighting

If you’re always working in a poorly lit environment, you should go for a portable band saw with a work light. Fortunately, all the band saws reviewed here come with this feature.

Casing

Purchasing a band saw with a casing is crucial. It safeguards the tool and might even have extra room to store other tools. This not only enhances the safety of the band saw but also promotes convenience.

Blades

Although most band saws come with blades, they may be unsuitable for the materials you want to cut. Therefore, I suggest you check the blade before use. If you find them unsuitable, you will have to buy additional blades.

Rubber Bumpers

Rubber bumpers are vital parts that ensure the band saw cuts precisely. Additionally, they prolong the tool’s lifespan by protecting it from wear and tear. When buying a portable band saw, you need to check if rubber bumpers are present.

Weight

Weight plays a significant role in how you use the band saw.

Did I hear you say ‘how’? Okay, I’ll explain.

It’s easy to grow tired and drop the band saw if the model is heavy. The heavier the model, the more fatigued you become. This would, in turn, prolong your project completion time.

Lighter models promote more maneuverability. But here is the thing; not all light models yield good results, and they are not always as efficient as the hefty counterparts.

I suggest you find a balance. If you can handle the weight of a portable band saw without feeling exhausted, you should go for it.

Battery

Several portable band saws are battery-powered, but it’s unwise just to pick up a tool because it’s battery-powered. You need to check the battery’s capacity, as it affects the number of cuts you can make before recharging it.

Go for units that provide above a hundred cuts per charge. Not only that; the unit must be able to charge fast. Longer charging time delays project completion.

Price

Portable band saws differ in price, as some are more expensive. You need to consider its overall features and check if it’s what you want before considering the price.

More expensive doesn’t always mean better quality and performance. This is why you should go for models that suit your needs, rather than going for costlier models.

Design and Materials Used

You should also check the design of the band saw before buying. The material used affects the sturdiness of the model. Plastic models are good but less durable than metals. So metal models are better investments.

Safety

A tool that’s safe to use will enhance cutting efficiency. You will be less-bothered with injuring yourself.

Although brands add specific safety features to their products, you must consider what safety features are included before purchasing.

Speed of Cutting

A quality portable band saw with different blade speeds will give you more options to cut different materials. When buying a portable band saw, you should check if it has a multi-speed setting.

Comfort

Of what use is a tool if you are not comfortable working with it? An excellently made band saw should be easy to work with. The handles should be made of rubber and soft to provide a comfy feel when holding them.

Versatility

A portable band saw shouldn’t be restricted to cutting wood alone. It should be robust enough to cut different materials like iron, pipes, and glass without hassles.

Vertical or Horizontal Standing

Vertical standing allows you to cut from an upright position, while horizontal standing enables you to cut in a lying state. Your choice largely depends on your cutting preference.

Variable Speed Motor

One of the most crucial factors to consider is the motor. There are two types – a brushed motor and a brushless motor.

The difference between a brushed motor and a brushless motor is the board. A brushed motor has a carbon brush that transmits current from the stator to the rotor. On the other hand, a brushless motor features an electronic circuit board.

A brushless motor is more efficient and expensive than a brushed motor.

Apart from the type of motor, you should also consider the amps. The higher the amps, the better the band saw’s performance.

Best Portable Band Saw for Cutting Conveniently

Here are the reviews of the best 10 portable band saws.

1. Dewalt DCS371B Portable Band Saw

When it comes to making portable band saws, Dewalt comes out top. This brand is not only known for making portable band saws but an excellent one at that.

Why is this product top on the list? I’ll tell you.

The tool has a 2½-inch cutting capacity, capable of cutting through a wide range of materials. Thanks to its efficient blade system, this band saw can cut through pipes, irons, etc.

What’s more?

It’s lightweight. It’s so light that a teenager can carry it conveniently.

Don’t mistake its low weight for poor durability anyway. This saw is designed with a tough material to offer superior resistance to pressure and abuse.

Although it is powered by a 20V Max battery, I was slightly disappointed that Dewalt didn’t include a battery or a charger in the package.

However, I was amazed by the tool’s long-lasting use after I tested the band saw with a compatible battery.

Also, I admire DCS371B for its ergonomics and balance. I neither felt exhausted nor pained while using it.

All thanks to the centered handle, which made handling comfortable.

Considering these features, it’s fair to say that this is the best cordless portable band saw.

What We Liked

• It comes with a work light.
• Cuts through various materials
• Easy to change the blades
• Ergonomic handle
• Long-lasting battery

What We Didn’t Like

• Doesn’t come with a charger and battery.

2. Dewalt DCS374B Portable Band Saw

If you want a portable saw with a large cutting capacity, the Dewalt 20V Max Portable Band Saw (DCS374B) is a great option.

The band saw’s 5″ capacity can rip through steel and thick lumber with so much ease. Aside from that, it can perform intricate cuts and safely cut curves.

Let’s talk about the blade and the tension.

This saw features a sharp-toothed blade that allows precise cutting.

In addition to that, it has a tool-less changing lever that aids in changing the blades. So, if you want to change the blade while on the job, you can easily do that!

Like Dewalt DCS371B, this band saw is easy to carry, although it’s a little heavier.

Also, the balancing is topnotch. DCS374B is one of the best portable band saws I’ve ever used.

How good is the battery?

I’ve seen a lot of people ask if the battery is long-lasting. The answer is YES.

Although Dewalt didn’t include any battery, this saw lasted long with the 20V Max battery that I tested it with.

On a single charge, you can use the battery for days. And isn’t that great?

What We Liked

• Straightforward to use
• Ergonomic design
• Exceptional cutting efficiency
• Superb control
• Tool-less blade changing system

What We Didn’t Like

• You’ll have to purchase the battery and charger separately.
• Getting a replacement blade is pretty difficult.

3. Dewalt DWM120K Portable Band Saw Deep Cut

Like DCS374B, here is another portable band saw that leaves you with the desired cuts.

Why should you buy this?

Importantly, this saw user-friendly and includes a casing, which is other Dewalt band saws lack.

Also, it is highly durable and withstands jobsite abuse and pressure. Thanks to the steel shroud and rubber bumpers.

The tool has a slightly more prominent ripping capacity for cutting large stock and steel. So, if you have 5 x 4¾ rectangular stock to cut through, this is the right band saw to get. It’s super-fast and accurate!

That’s not all…

This corded-electric band saw is powered by a 10-amp motor, guaranteeing the best cutting performance.

With its adjustable speed dial, you can cut more accurately and in a timely fashion.

What about the handling?

For a fact, DWM120K is one of the easiest to handle.

Although the band is relatively heavy, its big front handle makes handling so convenient that you don’t have to worry about fatigue.

Can I work in a lowlight environment with this tool? Absolutely!

You can cut pipes and thick stock at night or in a lowlight environment with the inbuilt LED work light feature.

For me, this is the best corded portable band saw I tested.

What We Liked

• Large ripping capacity
• Powerful motor
• Adjustable speed dial
• Convenient to handle
• Works in a lowlight environment
• Comes with a case

What We Didn’t Like

• Slightly heavy

4. Milwaukee 2429-21XC M12 Cordless Sub-Compact Band Saw Kit

Milwaukee 2429-21XC has one of the prettiest designs.

I must confess that I was attracted by its design initially. However, I soon realized that the band saw is not only attractive but also powerful feature-wise.

The cordless band saw is top-notch for its cutting efficiency. With its powerful 27” cutting blade, it can cut ¾” stock in three seconds. That’s quite fast!

Additionally, it can perform about 150 cuts per charge if the included XC battery is fully charged.

However, the 1⅝ rip capacity is low. Therefore, the band saw is only suitable for home use.

I admire the band saw for its compactness and low weight. It is easy to carry around and offers a single-handed cutting.

Any other excellent features?

Milwaukee 2429-21XC has adjustable blade tracking that allows easy changing of the blade. Plus, it has a bright work light, allowing you to cut more accurately in low light.

Another thing I admire about this saw is its warranty. While most band saws come with a three-year warranty, Milwaukee 2429-21XC comes with five.

What We Liked

• 5-year warranty
• Compact and lightweight
• Attractive design
• Great for home use
• One-handed use

What We Didn’t Like

• Relatively underpowered

5. Makita XBP02Z Cordless Portable Band Saw

I love Makita XBP02Z for many reasons. And here they are.

First off, the cutting efficiency and incredible motor are what defines this band saw.

Not only does this tool cut metals and wood, but it does the job accurately and fast – thanks to the 44⅞” blade.

Also, its fast, high-built cutting motor and variable speed controls allow you to cut at your desired speed.

It doesn’t end there…

Makita XBP02Z is compact and low-weight as well, making handling pretty easy. Plus, the rubberized handle and thick rubber bumper are durably made and well-positioned to enhance cutting performance.

How about storage?

Storing this band saw is easy. It includes an inbuilt hook that makes storage easy.

Does this unit come with a battery? Unfortunately not!

You will have to buy the battery and charger separately. I suggest you buy a genuine Makita battery and charger for the best performance.

Thankfully, though, the saw is compatible with 18V lithium-ion battery.

What We Liked

• Extremely durable
• Comes with an inbuilt work light
• Soft rubberized handle
• Adjustable speed controls
• Easy to use
• Includes a safety switch for extra protection

What We Didn’t Like

• Small cutting capacity

6. WEN 94396 Variable Speed Handheld Portable Band Saw

WEN 94396 is another portable saw that makes this list.

This 5-inch band saw has a 10-inch, 14 TPI blade for cutting through metals, pipes, conduits, and plastics.

Moreover, the tool has variable speed controls. You can easily adjust the blade speed to suit your task, ensuring you get the best output.

How about the handling?

The handle of the band saw is excellently made. Although it’s not centered, it’s big and well-positioned to maximize cutting and reduce fatigue. I’m pretty certain that you won’t have any issue making those deep cuts.

However, I wasn’t impressed with the included blade, as I found it somewhat difficult to align.

Plus, it isn’t so durable. In fact, I had to order new blades.

Interestingly, this tool’s portability and compactness don’t come at the power’s expense. With its 10-inch-amp motor, you can make deep cuts and take on large workpieces seamlessly.

Does the product come with a warranty? Definitely!

All WEN products come with a warranty, and the 94396 band saw is no different. The parts are backed by a 2-year warranty, giving you some long-term use.

What We Liked

• Large cutting capacity
• The cutting speed is great.
• Includes an LED light
• Affordable price
• Variable speed controls
• Efficient motor

What We Didn’t Like

• The included blade is junk and difficult to adjust.
• The manual is not comprehensive.

7. Dewalt DCS374PT Portable Band Saw Kit

If you are looking for a versatile band saw with a tough build, then this Dewalt product is for you.

Here’s why.

DCS374PT comes with a variable speed trigger that allows modification of the cutting speed, making it versatile. This means you can cut a wide range of materials like iron, pipe, strut, with the same blade.

Also, it has a similar design to the WEN 94396. The handles are positioned the same for cutting convenience, with the base plate sturdily designed.

However, Dewalt (DCS374PT) is hefty, which may affect the user’s comfort in the long run. The user may feel more tired as a result of prolonged use.

Aside from that, the band saw has no fault whatsoever. I find it incredibly efficient. And with the sharp 18TPI blade, cutting accurately would no longer be an issue.

It’s also straightforward to change the blades. The tool-less blade changing lever allows you to replace the blade in the blade tension while on the job.

Thankfully, Dewalt included a 20V MAX 5.0Ah battery in the package, saving you a few bucks from buying.

What We Liked

• Accurate cutting
• Versatile
• Highly durable
• Performs quick cuts
• Easy to adjust the blade
• Includes a long-lasting 5.0Ah battery

What We Didn’t Like

• It’s expensive.
• Heavy

8. Milwaukee 6232-21 Deep Cut Band Saw

Reliability and performance are what I describe this Milwaukee band saw with.

This saw is perfect for job sites because of its incredible build and ruggedness. It’s durably made with Milwaukee’s Armor technology and metal drive system to withstand pressure and job site abuse.

The Armor technology and metal drive system do not only make the band saw rugged. They ensure that the user has no issue using the band saw concerning handling.

That’s not all…

The trademark technology also prolongs the tool’s lifespan. With this additional protection, you can rest assured that the band saw won’t break regardless of the material cut.

Speaking of handling, this saw feels balanced. The power to weight ratio is pretty okay, and I didn’t feel exhausted using the tool for about an hour.

Although it’s slightly heavy, the good thing is it didn’t really affect my cutting. I cut thick lumbers and pipes without any hassle. Thanks to the variable speed control and the cutting capacity.

This tool’s downside is that it can’t cut a material that’s beyond 4.5″ in diameter. To cut larger materials, you may have to look at other products on this list.

What We Liked

• Well-made
• Comfortable and balanced in the hand
• Good cutting capacity
• Delivers superior cutting accuracy
• Tool-less adjustable system

What We Didn’t Like

• Not great for one-handed operation
• Suitable for cutting materials with small diameters.

9. Bosch Bare-Tool BSH180B Compact Band Saw

If you seek a band saw for home use and light cutting tasks, Bosch Bare-Tool is what you should invest in.

This cordless-electric band saw has what you need to cut accurately and speedily. It’s easy to use and cuts through conduit, pipes, and other materials – thanks to its 2½ by 2½ cutting capacity.

One of the things I admire about this product is its compact size and low weight. Of all the portable band saws I’ve tested so far, Bosch Bare-Tool is the lightest. It doesn’t feel as though you are holding a band saw.

And despite being incredibly light, it’s ruggedly designed. It comes with an aluminum base and a build that can withstand pressure and harsh conditions.

Also, this band saw is great for working in tight spaces. The best thing about it is you don’t need to use it with two hands. For me, this is the best band saw for a one-handed operation.

Is the battery long-lasting? Fairly!

The battery didn’t do quite badly during testing. This shouldn’t be a surprise, though, as the band saw is not designed for heavy use. The good thing about the battery is it comes with Electronic Cell Protection, so it stays protected from overheat and unnecessary discharges.

What We Liked

• Easy handling
• Great for working in compact spaces
• Well built
• Lightweight
• Fast cutting
• Compact

What We Didn’t Like

• Not designed for heavy use
• Small cutting capacity

10. Bosch GCB10-5 Deep-Cut Band Saw

This is another portable option to deliver fast, intricate cuts.

Like Bare-Tool BSH180B, this band saw is incredibly light, compact, and comes with decent features to make cutting smooth. Its cutting capacity is decent enough to cut through rebar and other metals to a 4¾” depth.

Can the tool handle professional cutting jobs? Slightly!

Although this band saw is specifically designed for home use, the 10-amp motor can get some professional cutting jobs done.

It can handle jobs involving cutting materials like threaded rods, pipes, and steel tracks.

It doesn’t end there…

To enhance the cutting speed, you can adjust the variable speed from 100 FPM to 380 FPM.

What about the handling?

This band saw has two handles – the main handle and the auxiliary handle. Both offer a firm grip and allows you to cut in various positions. I must say that this is one of the features I love best about it.

In terms of durability, I’d say that the band saw isn’t up to par. Some parts, especially the blade access doors, look inferior.

Also, this product doesn’t come with a carrying case, which is slightly disappointing.

What We Liked

• Straightforward to use
• Ergonomic handle
• Convenient to store
• Comes with a bright work light
• Cuts precisely and smoothly
• Lightweight and balanced

What We Didn’t Like

• Some parts look flimsy.

Final Verdict

As stated in this review, portable band saws can be an excellent addition to any workshop.

They cut thick woods and materials like metal better and easier with less effort.

What’s my top choice?

I’d say that Dewalt 20V Max Portable Band Saw (DCS371B) is my top choice, and here is why.

This saw can cut a wide range of materials, thanks to its sharp blades and good cutting capacity.

Also, it is designed to withstand pressure and wear from constant use, and the battery is long-lasting

That’s a wrap, guys!

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