Best Bandsaw Under 500 – Perfect For Work

When versatility matters, you want to stick with the bandsaw. This power tool cuts irregular shapes, rips, and resaw lumber into thinner slabs and delivers smoother cuts. Also, it can cut other materials such as metal, glass, etc.

Since you’re here, you know nothing beats this power tool for resawing, crosscutting, and ripping stocks into smaller pieces. With these machines’ convenience and precision, it’s only reasonable to expect them to come with a hefty price tag.

Sadly, hundreds of options are out there, and needless to say, not all of them are worth your pennies. Thus, we’ve whipped up a list of the best bandsaw under 500 for DIYers.

Top 8 Best Bandsaw Under 500 for You

1. WEN 3962 Two-Speed Band Saw

Equipped with a powerful 3.5 amp motor, this model from WEN tops our list and retails for under $500. This unit works well with different blade sizes for impressive versatility and delivers intricate cuts up to 6 inches in depth.

WEN 3962 Two-Speed Band Saw has a work table offering a generous space measuring 14 inches by 12.5 inches. Also, it allows you to swivel up to 45 degrees. This power tool features a built-in ball bearing to ensure the 10-inch wheels serve your purpose for a longer time and operate smoothly.

Another thing we love about the WEN 3962 Two-Speed Band Saw is the easy-to-assemble stand that elevates the saw without taking up space on the bench. This machine comes with 3-in-1 dust ports and can deliver bevel cuts from 0 – 45 degrees for incredible flexibility.

That’s not all: this equipment has an integrated work light to make adjustments, cutting, and other woodworking processes easier. It helps improve sight lines to guarantee accurate cuts at any time. WEN 3962 Two-Speed Band Saw has a blade length of 72 inches and works well with any size from ⅛ to ⅜.

You should consider this tool if you don’t plan on coughing up on a bandsaw and want a large workspace. WEN 3962 Two-Speed Band Saw comes with a rip fence and a miter gauge to make straight, precise cuts. Thus, making this two-speed bandsaw an excellent pick for beginners in woodworking.

Unlike its predecessors, this model has a bigger table and is significantly lighter. More so, it’s a benchtop version, meaning you can easily set this power tool anywhere, provided there’s a table and store without any hassle after use.

Besides, the manufacturer backs this product with a 2-year warranty to show potential customers the level of confidence in this model.

Pros:

• Two speed saw: 520 or 2620 feet per minute
• Inbuilt work light
• Ball-bearing operation for reliable performance
• 3-in-1 dust collection port

Cons:

• The miter gauge could be more sturdy

2. Grizzly Industrial G0803Z – 9″ Benchtop Bandsaw

The Grizzly Industrial G0803Z – 9″ Benchtop Bandsaw will always be a favorite thanks to its heavy-duty construction. Its incredible construction and design make it a bang for your buck.

If you’re willing to shell out on a bandsaw, then the G0803Z is your best bet. This model brings a fantastic performance to any workshop. It’s equipped with an efficient 1/3HP motor and delivers unrivaled performance. The frame features cast iron for optimal durability.

This model weighs 42 pounds which should be enough to keep the machine-stitched to the base for a wobble-free operation. Also, it has wheels made of cast iron and rubber tires for easy maneuvering. Plus, its carrying handle makes the overall handling experience stress-free.

Another feature of Grizzly Industrial G0803Z – 9″ Benchtop Bandsaw is the quick-release blade tension and miter gauge, allowing users to change the blade without fuss. Also, this machine does not feature an adjustable speed option to let users control the speed for desired results. This means you can’t choose how fast or slow the cutting process will be.

Grizzly Industrial G0803Z – 9″ Benchtop Bandsaw only offers a one-speed option – 2460 FPM. This sturdy machine comes with a 62-inch blade that can accommodate up to ⅜-inch wide. Even better, this bandsaw cuts your stock into manageable sizes about 3.5 inches high. In addition, it packs enough power to cut through denser materials and green woods with ease.

Like other models from this brand, this unit features a 2-inch dust port to prevent the buildup of wood chips. With laser and adjustable led work light, working under any light conditions won’t spell trouble.

Pros:

• All ball-bearing construction
• laser sight and adjustable led light
• Premium heavy-duty stand
• Lightweight design, wheels, and carrying handle for easy transport

Cons:

• Only one-speed option

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

Despite its low price tag, this bandsaw is a head-turner and offers great value for your money. Its range of adjustments and a wide variety of blades makes it a great choice for DIYers looking for a budget-option model. The cutting depth is maxed at 3.5 inches, perfect for small workshops.

What we love about the WEN 3959 2.5-Amp 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw is the lightweight design that makes it easier to transport. However, we’d have preferred if the fence could reach the auto square. Nonetheless, it’s easy and quick to readjust to make longer cuts.

This unit has a 2.5 amp motor to rotate the blade up to 2500 feet per minute. This should be sufficient to cut through small stocks at different angles and curves. The WEN 3959 2.5-Amp 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw supports any blade between ⅛ to ⅜ inches. Thus, you can expect this 9-inch saw to be able to work through a wide range of material densities, shapes, and sizes.

As said earlier, this machine retails at a lower price. Hence, it has fewer features, and the build quality won’t blow your mind. WEN 3959 2.5-Amp 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw was designed for beginner woodworking projects and to handle most basic DIY tasks.

What’s more? This, arguably the best bandsaw under 500, offers a spacious work surface with enough room to stretch and get your work done. Although the build quality is not up to par, the manufacturer backs this budget-option bandsaw with a 2-year warranty to offer the purchaser peace of mind.

You can replace the stock blade with a high-quality one for better cutting performance. On the bright side, it comes with a miter gauge, which most high-end models lack.

Pros:

• Works well with a wide range of blades
• Lightweight and easy to transport
• Affordable price point
• Up to a 3.5-inch cutting depth
• Constructed with quality components

Cons:

• No auto squaring fence

4. DEWALT Portable Band Saw

Durable and versatile, this power tool is one of the most sought-after from the spectrum of bandsaws offered by the Dewalt brand. This machine is equipped with a powerful 10 amp motor and offers variable speeds from 100 – 350 rpm, making it perfect for any job site application.

With built-in LED sight light, users can easily see the cutting line to guarantee a precise cut regardless of the lighting conditions. Plus, it has an integrated hanging hook that comes in handy for storing the saw hassle-free.

As said earlier, DEWALT Portable Band Saw offers variable speed control, making this product extremely versatile and cutting deep up to 5 inches. Thus, you should expect this best bandsaw under 500 to handle demanding woodworking tasks.

What’s more? The DEWALT Portable Band Saw has an ergonomically designed handle to deliver maximum control. Besides, this machine comes with a hex wrench, kit box, and standard blade.

Protected by rubber bumpers and steel shroud, this bandsaw is rugged and sturdy enough to handle any job site application. More so, DEWALT Portable Band Saw features a blade tracking adjustment system to make aligning the blade more effortless, increase the blade’s lifespan, and reduce wear and tear.

This best portable bandsaw has a superior balance between minimizing fatigue and improving your cutting accuracy. With dual-bearing blade guide rollers, this machine’s blade support system is tougher and more reliable.

This unit is backed by a 3-year limited warranty from DEWALT and a 1-year free serving, making this power tool worth considering.

Pros:

• Lightweight and portable design
• Built-in LED light
• 3-year limited manufacturer’s warranty
• Variable speed option: 100-350 rpm

Cons:

• The case quality is poor
• Lacks an integrated trigger lock

5. SKIL 3386-01 120-Volt 9-Inch Band Saw

Whether you need to cut odd shapes or rip lumber into manageable pieces, the SKIL 3386-01 120-Volt 9-Inch Band Saw is the way to go. Equipped with a 6 TPI blade, this power tool can easily cut through any wood material. Also, you get a rack and pinion adjustable table to simplify and hasten the angle and height-changing process.

This machine features EZ View Blade Tracking to keep the blade aligned in between cuts easily. In addition, the SKIL 3386-01 120-Volt 9-Inch Band Saw has a rip fence and miter gauge to let users make straight cuts and crosscuts.

What’s more? SKIL 3386-01 120-Volt 9-Inch Band Saw has a dust port to help maintain a dust-free workspace and make cleaning a cinch. Like other products reviewed in this list, this model has LED work lights to illuminate your workspace under poor lighting conditions for precise cuts.

This top-tier product is an excellent acquisition for DIYers and home workshops to easily handle all versatile woodworking projects. On top of that, SKIL offers a 3-year manufacturer warranty, which gives users confidence in this affordable power tool.

Pros:

• Easy blade alignment with EZ View Blade Tracking
• Rip fence and miter gauge
• Built-in dust port
• 3-½ maximum cutting capacity

Cons:

• The LED Work Light is not very bright
• The blade adjustment is a bit tricky

6. RIKON 10-305 Bandsaw

This model earns a spot on our list with its impressive features and stunning looks. Although it looks fancy, don’t be quick to write this bandsaw off when it comes to performance. It’s one of the best bandsaws under 500 we’ve come across.

This 10-inch bandsaw is equipped with a ⅓ HP motor to deliver incredible performance for professional application and versatility. Although the RIKON 10-305 Bandsaw was designed to cut wood, it comes in handy for cutting other materials like metal or plastic.

Talking about its design, this tool features a steel construction that makes it rigid and highly durable. The frame is engineered with a steel plate to ensure it is not flimsy like other models using plastic frames. The manufacturer integrated a knob system to allow users to adjust the guidepost easily.

Among many highlights is the cast ironwork table offering a generous amount of space measuring 13-3/4-inch by 12-1/2-inch. Also, this table tilts between 0 – 45 degrees to let you make curved or angled cuts.

Considering the many features this model has, this price is justifiable and acceptable – good value for your buck. Its high-quality inclusive rip fence helps make straight cuts and can easily be removed to allow freehand work. However, RIKON 10-305 Bandsaw features a lightweight design for easy transportation and effortless storage.

Pros:

• ⅓ HP induction motor
• 4-⅝ inch maximum cutting capacity
• 5-year manufacturer warranty
• Edge facing thirst bearings
• Safety paddle switch

Cons:

• The base tends to bend

7. MILWAUKEE’S 2429-21XC M12

For people looking to purchase a compact power tool for easy carry between job sites and store in a small workshop, the MILWAUKEE’S 2429-21XC M12 is an ideal choice.
Thanks to its lightweight construction and incredible compact size, this tool is suitable for performing one-handed cuts – a super convenient cutting performance. More so, it’s a cordless model, which means you can use the MILWAUKEE’S 2429-21XC M12 in any location. Without worrying about a power outlet, this model brings much flexibility to your woodworking skills.

While this battery-powered tool is lightweight and compact, you won’t feel like you are trading off performance. This model comes with a powerful motor that can cut 3/4-inch EMTs in less than 5 seconds, and a single charge of the lithium battery delivers up to 150 cuts. This saw has a maximum cutting capacity of 1-⅝ inches.

This machine is equipped with an integrated LED light to illuminate the cutting line for improved visibility and guarantee more precise cuts. The MILWAUKEE’S 2429-21XC M12 features adjustable blade tracking, further improving your cutting accuracy.

Even better, this machine comes with a sturdy plastic carry case, a charge, two XC 12V batteries, three spare blades, and a charger. To offer buyers total peace of mind with the MILWAUKEE’S 2429-21XC M12, this manufacturer offers a 5-year manufacturer warranty.

Pros:

Adjustable blade tracking
Cordless design for more convenient operation
5-year manufacturer’s warranty
Light and compact for one-handed operation

Cons:

• No hook to hang the power tool
• It runs on a battery, which means there’s a waiting time.

8. Gryphon 37″ AquaSaw Diamond Band Saw

Last on the list but not least best bandsaw under 500 is the Gryphon 37″ AquaSaw Diamond Band Saw. If you need a power tool with high performance, you can’t possibly go wrong with this model.

This bandsaw is a great acquisition for anyone who doesn’t mind paying mid-range prices for a premium machine. The Gryphon saw is made of anodized aluminum and stainless steel to ensure it won’t degrade or rust. This sturdy and reliable corrosion-resistant construction is called AquaSaw by the manufacturer.

Although this machine was designed with cutting corals and wood in mind, it packs enough power to cut other materials such as stone, tile, glass, etc. The Gryphon 37″ AquaSaw Diamond Band Saw has fewer moving parts for higher resistance to wear and tear. The motor is powerful and robust enough to cut through wood, ceramic, and other dense materials.

On the downside, the Gryphon 37″ AquaSaw Diamond Band Saw’s blade could be better calibrated for precise cutting. Also, the blade guides are not correctly placed and might spell trouble when working with a larger workpiece.

Pros:

• Simple, sturdy design
• High resistance to wear and tear
• Suitable for cutting a wide range of materials
• Easy to use

Cons:

• The blade is not well calibrated
• 1-year warranty

Key Things to Consider for the Best Bandsaw Under 500

There are several factors to bear in mind when pinning down the right bandsaw without breaking the bank. Here are some of the elements you want to consider before making a choice:

Purpose

This is the most crucial factor. You want to figure out what purpose you want the bandsaw to serve. Bandsaw offers a lot of functionality. However, if you only intend to use this power tool occasionally, you shouldn’t be looking for higher-priced or sophisticated models.

Your best option is to invest in a battery-powered bandsaw with some essential features. Similarly, you should splurge on a power tool if you have enormous demands or intend to use it regularly.

Price

How much you’re willing to spend on these tools determines the best bandsaw for you. There are a lot of incredible machines retailing at affordable prices. Thus, you don’t necessarily have to stick with the expensive models. Remember that a pricey product does not always mean the best option.

In addition, budget-option models won’t come with many high-end features. Hence, you should expect an outstanding performance or something extraordinary for an affordable bandsaw and vice versa.

Materials

Regardless of how much you spend on these tools, you want to ensure you spend on a high-quality product. The best way to figure this out is to check the material construction to give you an insight into how durable the bandsaw is. Products made with steel, cast iron, or aluminum can withstand the rigors of daily use. Also, the materials and build quality determine the level of maintenance. Don’t be too carried away with the frame construction alone; consider the parts.

Frame

As mentioned earlier, consider the frame quality before making a purchase. The frame houses every component, so if you don’t want these parts to start falling apart, you should stick with steel or cast iron frames.

Wheels

On the same note, you want to check out the saw’s wheels. The best option for you should be made of cast iron or aluminum. After trying, the wheels need to be perfectly balanced for accurate results.

Wheels made of aluminum material are lighter and deliver faster cutting. In summary, you want strong wheels that can provide fast-cutting action.

Types of Bandsaw

There are three main types of bandsaw – portable, benchtop, and stand. The right type to opt for should depend on your needs and preference.

Warranty

Before purchasing a bandsaw, you want to consider the warranty policy. Most products reviewed in this list are backed with a decent warranty policy to protect your investment, as bandsaws are machines and can spell trouble at any time.

Also, it gives you an insight into how durable and reliable the device will be. Most manufacturers out there offer up to three years. However, we don’t advise you to purchase a product with no or less than two years warranty.

FAQ Best Bandsaw Under 500

Conclusion

Hopefully, this guide is valuable and helps you make the right call. We are confident that our top 8 best band saws under 500 are durable, convenient to use, and highly demanding. They are suitable for anyone – beginners or professionals – to handle a wide range of woodworking projects. Above all, we’ve only whipped up pocket-friendly bandsaws to fit your budget.

But if you’re still unsure which bandsaw to go for, you should stick with WEN 3962 Two-Speed Band Saw. It has two variable speed options, sturdy construction, and dust collection ports to make cleaning hassle-free.