When it comes to the search for a bandsaw, sometimes you don’t have to spend an absolute fortune to get what you want.
You could waste your time scrolling through page after page of very expensive options, or you might be looking for the best budget bandsaw that is just right for you and your needs.
This review of the top 5 budget bandsaws should save you just as much time as it does money, because we all know that time is money, and money doesn’t exactly grow on trees.
Makita 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Wireless Handheld Band Saw
Our Top Recommendation for Budget Bandsaw!
The Makita XBP02TX comes with 44 inches blade powered by an 18V LXT lithium-ion battery. This portable cordless band saw has a 6-setting variable speed control dial that enables the user to match the speed to the application.
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Our number one top pick is the SKIL 3386–01, which we think will impress you with both in its affordability and its surprisingly powerful capabilities. If that one doesn’t tick all your boxes, fear not, as there are two other options to consider.
If you haven’t got the time to read our more detailed reviews and descriptions of the best 5 budget bandsaws, don’t worry, as we’ve put together this comparison table to help you make your mind up with all the vital details you need to know.
Top Budget Bandsaws
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Makita 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Wireless Handheld Band Saw | • Cutting Capacity: 4-3/4" • Weight: 7.5 Lbs | |
 | Milwaukee 2429-21XC | • Cutting Capacity: 1-5/8" • Weight: 12.4 Lbs | |
 | Milwaukee 2429-20 | • Cutting Capacity: 1-5/8" • Weight: 6.6 Lbs | |
 | WEN 94396 | • Cutting Capacity: 5" • Weight: 14.5 Lbs | |
 | WEN 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw | • 62-inch blades • Weight: 39.7 Lbs | |
 | BUCKTOOL Bench | • More Convenient Design • Weight: 44.6 Lbs | |
 | POWERTEC BD4600 | • Voltage: 120 Volts • Weight: 36.6 Lbs |
1. Makita 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Wireless Handheld Band Saw
The Makita 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Wireless Handheld Band Saw (model XBP02TX) is a wireless metal cutting tool that may be used for a variety of tasks. The Makita XBP02TX boasts the highest torque Makita motor, a compact design with minimal weight, and convenience features including varying frequency and a built-in L.E.D. light. It works well with Unistrut, all thread, channel, corrugated, conduit, pipe, sheet metal, square tubing, and other materials. Two 18V LXT 5.0Ah cells are included in the set and each charges in 45 minutes.
Quick Summary
- Powerful Motor
- Sleek Design
- Wheel Cover
- Standard 32-7/8″ x 1/2″ Blades
- LED Light
This is the perfect economical bandsaw. It may also be used to cut EMT, Allthread/threaded rod, and thick/thin strut. It’s comfortable to hold overhead thanks to its lightweight construction, and the clip allows you to free your arms while climbing a ladder. The mouth is larger and broader than that of other bandsaws in almost the same price bracket.
WHY IS THIS A TOP PICK?
Easy to Use Overhead
Because this type is approximately 18-1/2″ long and weighs only 7.5 lbs, it is the ideal bandsaw for overhead use by electricians. The lightweight design reduces risk and increases the amount of time you can work comfortably without injuring or exhausting yourself.
Long-lasting Battery
The battery life on this gadget is pretty outstanding, as evidenced by the reviews. One customer claimed that with just one charge, they were able to utilise the saw for two days.
Minimalistic Design
This bandsaw is lightweight but not really pocket-sized, so it won’t break the bank or clog up the vehicle. This is a fantastic alternative for folks who only require bandsaws on sometimes; for those who need them every day, it’s a good replacement.
Makita developed Star Shield Computer Controls to increase tool performance and extend battery life. Star Protection is a communication system that allows a Star Protection-equipped equipment and battery to share data in real-time while in use and monitor conditions to safeguard against overloading, over-discharging, and overheating. The tool may also be powered by Makita 18V LXT and Compact Lithium-Ion batteries for extra versatility, with the star emblem on the battery denoting Star Protection within.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Bumper Protector
- Accepts a variety of blades
- Star Shield Computer Controls
Cons
- So much Plastic
2. Milwaukee 2429-21XC
If you’re the type of person who doesn’t like using a hacksaw, this could well be the tool for you. Its vital statistics mean that you’re able to regulation dimensions at the same time as trimming all of your materials to the precise and required lengths.
For the workman on a budget, you can do a lot worse than picking up this bandsaw, you’d struggle to do much better though!
Quick Summary
- One-Handed Cuts
- Powerful Motor: Cuts 1-5/8
- Cut Capacity
- LED Light
One-handed cutting is a must have facility for any serious bandsaw. A lot of folks think that opting for something at the lower end of the price range means that you lose out on the convenience of things like one-handed sawing. They’re wrong, and they’re wrong about a few other things as well.
WHY IS THIS A TOP PICK?
One-Handed Cuts
As mentioned, the one-handed cuts stand out with this bandsaw, but why is it so great at this? Well, the answer lies with the fact that it is the most compact and lightweight of any cordless bandsaw.
Powerful Motor Cuts
Skimping on price doesn’t mean you have to skimp on power either, as this bad boy can cut 2 to 4” EMT in only 3 seconds, as well as making up to 150 cuts per charge. You weren’t expecting that were you?
Stylish Case
What’s more, is, no one will ever know you bought cheap or a budget, as the case that comes with this bandsaw is almost worth the money alone. Slick, sleek and stylish.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Stylish Case
- One-handed capability
- Cost
Cons
- The cutting edge can slip
- User Manual
- Almost too light
3. Milwaukee 2429-20
This bandsaw is an absolute must-have for the commercial or residential electrician. Cutting smoothly and easily through a wide range of materials, it always allows for the straightest of cuts. The low weight and excellent control mean you’ll be able to work for longer without getting worn down.
Quick Summary
- Compact Size
- Powerful Motor
- 1-5/8 Inch Cutting Capacity
- LED Light
If a budget bandsaw is what you’re seeking, there are a few things which would count as non-negotiable when it comes to making your mind up. At the top of that list of non-negotiable things would probably be the three things that we’ve picked out here as the major plus points for this bandsaw.
WHY IS THIS A TOP PICK?
Compact
As with most of the Milwaukee bandsaw, this bandsaw is one of the lightest weight bandsaws amongst the competition of cordless band saws. It can be hard to stand out in a crowded marketplace and this does just that. Its size easily allows the user to perform one-handed cuts.
Powerful Motor
With a motor that is just as powerful as the Milwaukee model, we rate just ever so slightly better, this bandsaw still managed to cut 3 – 4″ EMT in up to 3 seconds, which is a power that is not to be sniffed at. Lengthwise too, you should be looking to get around 150 cuts per charge with this model.
LED Light
Since the first LED light was fitted to a bandsaw, it’s become kind of a deal breaker for any new models. The LED light on this model perfectly highlights the cut line to minimize mistakes.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Battery Life
- Design
- One-handness
Cons
- Battery and Charger Sold Separately
- Misleading Marketing
- Not the best Milwaukee
4. WEN 94396
Whilst this model is a little chunkier and heftier than those made by other manufacturers, like DeWalts for instance, it really isn’t too bad considering the price tag that comes with it. The running is always smooth and slick, with the light providing just enough clarity on fine pencil marks.
Quick Summary
- Huge Cutting Capacity
- Variable Speed
- The Powerful 10 Amp Motor
- Lightweight and Portable Design
Comparing this model to those made by other manufacturers such as DeWalt isn’t necessarily all that helpful, given the difference in price, but it does give you a good picture of what you can expect when you save a bit with a lower budget. There are some features here though which wouldn’t look out of place next to a much higher price tag.
WHY IS THIS A TOP PICK?
Huge Cutting Capacity
The colossal cutting capacity of this thing makes for brilliant reading and cutting. It’s depth and brevity mean that it can easily make the most accurate and consistent cuts that go up to 5 inches wide and 5 inches deep.
Variable Speed
Sometimes you need to slow the pace right down when you’re working with a bandsaw, just as at other times you need to speed it right up. The clever operation of this model means that you can adjust the blade speed from anywhere from 60 up to 420 feet per minute. Impressive.
Lightweight and Portable
Weighing in at the ever so light weight of 14.5 pounds, this model is as lightweight as it is portable. The perfect piece of kit to take with you from job to job.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Two-year Warranty
- Huge Cutting Capacity
- Lightweight
Cons
- Too Light for Some
- Front handle
- Design
5. WEN 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw
The WEN 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw cuts up to 3-5/8 inches deep and 9 inches broad into boards. The blades spin at a speed of up to 2460 meters per minute thanks to the 2.8-amp motor. This saw’s design makes use of 62-inch blades with widths ranging from 1/8 to 3/8 inch for both complex and strong cuts. The large work table is 12 by 12 inches in diameter and can be swivelled to a 45-degree angle.
Quick Summary
- Huge Cutting Capacity
- Speed Control
- Powerful Motor
- Light in weight
- Amzing Design
While this version is a little chunkier and heavier than those offered by other brands like DeWalt, it isn’t terrible for the price. The working is usually smooth and clean, with just enough light to see minute pencil lines clearly.
WHY IS THIS A TOP PICK?
Massive Saw Capacity
This thing’s massive cutting capability provides for excellent reading and cutting. Because of its depth and shortness, it can make the most precise and consistent cuts up to 5 inches broad and 5 inches deep.
Adjustable Speed
When using a bandsaw, you may need to slow down at times and speed up at other times. You can adjust the blade speed on this device from 60 to 420 feet per minute thanks to its intelligent functioning. Impressive.
Portability and lightness
This model is as portable as it is lightweight, at only 14.5 pounds. The ideal piece of equipment to take from job to job. Given the cost variance, compared this model to ones made by other brands.
A convenient carrying grip, an integrated dust port, a barrier for straight cuts, a mitre gauge, and a retractable blade guard are all included in one kit. Ball bearings ensure that the blade runs smoothly and has a long life, ensuring years of dependable service. Your WEN 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw also comes with a two-year guarantee, a worldwide network of professional service experts, and a friendly and courteous consumer phone line, all to help you know WEN.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- 2-Year-Warranty
- High Efficiency
- Light-weight
Cons
- Front handle
6. BUCKTOOL Bench
BUCKTOOL is a reliable brand that delivers high-quality products and exceptional service to meet your needs and exceed your expectations. Our ultimate goal is to establish quick and direct communication among tool aficionados all across the world. This mission is what distinguishes us as a company and drives us to keep going forward.
Quick Summary
- Powerful motor
- Metal sanding & belt dust outlet
- Angle adjustment tool
- Two worktables
- Increased Efficiency
- Cast Aluminium Body
- High Performance
- Durable
Bucktool is an abrasive disc and belt paper are professional metal plating tools, with the sanding disc paper having a buckle design allows for easy replacement. The aluminium sharpening belt dust outlet prevents dissolving, and the knife milling components can be assembled on the belt plate and eliminated when not in use. This equipment can also be used to deal with wood.
WHY IS THIS A TOP PICK?
IMPROVED Performance
The 1HP direct-drive driven compressor is more powerful and specialist than the furniture making device BD4603&BD4801, the engine direct-drive design is 25% better than the conventional design, it can maximize the advancement of 1 HP insulated induction motor, offering quiet but impactful results.
MORE Accessible Construct
The switch box is located on top of the device, making the procedure more comfortable; the belt suspense is adjustable; the durable cast aluminium base with rubber foot reduces vibrations; the sand port can be excluded to expand the work area, making it ideal for polishing long materials; and the dust port can be eliminated to expand the work area, making it ideal for plating long components.
MULTI-ANGLE Polishing
The sanding belt task worktop can lean from 0 to 90˚ for lateral and vertical sanding, and the fueled drum enables for sanding contoured work-pieces, it has a rapid sanding belt substitute layout and track regulate feature, and the plush sanding disc task worktop can modify from 0 to 45 degrees to meet your different angle needs.
BUCKTOOL is a reliable brand that offers high-performance goods and exceptional service that meet and surpass your expectations. Our ultimate goal is to establish a quick and direct connection among tool aficionados all across the world. This purpose identifies us as a brand and inspires us to keep going forward. We appreciate traditional values such as hard labour. You earn pride and satisfaction from your hard work, and so do we. BUCKTOOL has the tools and equipment you need to complete the task. We are honoured to accompany you and provide solid assistance throughout your working project. Complete the task!
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Stylish Design
- Good Capacity
- Affordable Rate
- Best Performace
Cons
- Difficult User Manual
7. POWERTEC BD4600
This high-quality 2-1 combination sander was created to optimise your workspace while providing multi-functional sanding and woodworking applications. It has a 4 x 36-inch belt and a 6-inch disc as among its major characteristics. Both are easily accessible and may be utilised in conjunction with the cast aluminium working table and mitre gauge, which are used for high precision angle adjustments. This machine is also built with a strong, cast-iron foundation that offers stability and low vibration while in use.
Quick Summary
- Cast Iron Base
- Heavy-Duty Belt
- 2-1 Design
- Powerful
- Dust Storage System
- Study & Durable Machine
Sanding is simple both vertically and horizontally. The belt tilts from 0 to 90 degrees to suit your workpiece and provide simple vertical and horizontal sanding.
Angled sanding with precision, Stand with mitre gauge bevels ranging from 0 to 45 degrees, enabling for precisely angled sanding and accurate stock squaring.
WHY IS THIS A TOP PICK?
Ample Workspace Is Provided by a Cast-Aluminum Table
A well-built sanding bed provides a solid and roomy platform intended to steady and handle a wide range of project sizes. A 6-1/2 x 8-3/4 inch cast aluminium table that tilts up to 45 degrees and provides great work support, a precision tracking system, a safety key switch, and a rapid release belt replacement.
Embedding Holes in Cast Iron Bottom
This machine is built on a solid cast iron foundation with mounting holes to prevent wandering and swaying and to reduce vibrations.
4″ x 36″ Premium Sanding Belt with 6″ Disc
The belt is powered by a 1/2 horsepower induction motor, which provides enough power for any sanding project, small or large. Its vertical and horizontal tilting movement enables project-to-project adaptability, with the ability to operate at 0 or 90-degree angles depending on your task’s requirements. The belt also features a fast release tension lever, which makes replacing a belt quick and straightforward. The belt and disc are both correctly positioned, with replaceable tables for adjustability and completing curved workpieces.
The BD4600 combo sander was created to maximise your workspace while providing multi-functional sanding and sanding quality that is second to none. It has a 4 x 36-inch belt sander and a 6-inch disc sander. Both are conveniently positioned to provide a variety of operations and may be used in conjunction with the cast aluminium working table and mitre gauge, which are utilised for high precision angle adjustments. The BD4600 Belt and Disc Sander from POWERTEC USA are built with a robust, cast iron base that offers stability and low vibration while in operation, making it truly vital equipment for your workshop.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- 2-1 design
- Powerful Motor
- Easy to Use
- Top-Rated
Cons
- Expensive
Table Saw Buying Guide
Warranties
The longer the warranty that comes with the bandsaw, the better the bandsaw tends to be. With budget bandsaws, the warranty can sometimes be lower than you’d like. Something to think about.
Overhead and One-handed Use
If your budget bandsaw doesn’t allow for easy overhead use or one-handed use, you bought the wrong one. These two features and functions should come as standard, even for a low price.
Read the Small Print
This is especially important when buying a budget bandsaw, as sometimes the devil is in the detail. Make sure that the money you save on the model isn’t then spent on batteries and blades that you thought were included.
Conclusion
This was a list of the top 5 budget bandsaws that are currently available, so whether you’re looking for compact and lightweight, powerful and pretty, or long-lasting and durable, you should be in the right position to make a decision on which model to buy.
If you get it wrong, don’t worry, it won’t cost you all that much to have a second try!
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