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10 Best Portable Bandsaws 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Milwaukee Electric - M18 Fuel DEEP Cut Band Saw

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,272
Cutting Capacity
Motor Power
Weight and Portability

Most important from
6 reviews

Cutting Capacity
A reliable choice for those needing strong cutting performance in a portable, cordless tool.
Motor Power
Delivers great power while remaining surprisingly lightweight.
Weight and Portability
Delivers great power while remaining surprisingly lightweight.
Durability and Build Quality
Handles daily, all-day use with consistent satisfaction.

The Milwaukee M18 Fuel Deep Cut Band Saw is a powerful cordless tool designed for users needing strong cutting ability in a portable package. Its brushless motor delivers a fast blade speed of 550 surface feet per minute, which means it can cut through tough materials quickly. The saw offers a generous cutting capacity of up to 5" x 5", making it suitable for a variety of projects like metal struts or square tubing. Despite its power, the saw weighs about 13 pounds, which is reasonable but might feel a bit heavy during extended use.

One helpful feature is the automatic blade brake, which helps protect delicate materials near the cut. It can make up to 78 cuts on a single battery charge, showing good efficiency. Milwaukee’s design also includes an integrated rafter hook for easy storage on job sites. The build quality, backed by Milwaukee’s reputation and a manufacturer warranty, suggests good durability for demanding work.

This band saw is well-suited for professionals or serious DIYers who want cordless convenience with solid cutting power, though those looking for a lighter or simpler saw might want to compare options.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,272
Cutting Capacity
Motor Power
Weight and Portability

Most important from
6 reviews

Cutting Capacity
A reliable choice for those needing strong cutting performance in a portable, cordless tool.
Motor Power
Delivers great power while remaining surprisingly lightweight.
Weight and Portability
Delivers great power while remaining surprisingly lightweight.
Durability and Build Quality
Handles daily, all-day use with consistent satisfaction.
#2

Milwaukee Electric - M18 Fuel Compact Band Saw KIT

Rating
9.7
Motor Power
Weight and Portability
Durability and Build Quality

Most important from
57 reviews

Motor Power
Impressively powerful performance that meets the demands of typical cutting tasks.
Weight and Portability
Compact and lightweight design makes it exceptionally easy to handle for small jobs.
Durability and Build Quality
Highly reliable and durable, fitting well into a collection of trusted Milwaukee tools.

The Milwaukee M18 Fuel Compact Band Saw is a cordless, portable tool weighing about 7.7 pounds, making it fairly easy to carry around for various cutting tasks. Its 18-volt lithium-ion battery and brushless motor provide solid power and efficiency, which means it should handle most cutting jobs smoothly. Milwaukee’s Fuel line is known for strong motor performance and durability, so this saw is likely suitable for cutting metal pipes and other common materials up to about 1 inch thick. The compact size helps with maneuverability in tight spaces.

Users will appreciate the brushless motor because it typically lasts longer and requires less maintenance. Changing blades is designed to be straightforward, which is helpful if you need to switch blades often during a project. On the downside, the cutting capacity is moderate, so it might not be the best choice if you need to cut very thick materials regularly. Also, being cordless means you rely on battery life, so having extra batteries could be necessary for longer jobs.

This band saw is well suited for DIYers and professionals who want a reliable, portable cutting tool with enough power for everyday metal-cutting tasks, combined with easy handling and decent battery performance.

Rating
9.7
Motor Power
Weight and Portability
Durability and Build Quality

Most important from
57 reviews

Motor Power
Impressively powerful performance that meets the demands of typical cutting tasks.
Weight and Portability
Compact and lightweight design makes it exceptionally easy to handle for small jobs.
Durability and Build Quality
Highly reliable and durable, fitting well into a collection of trusted Milwaukee tools.
#3

DEWALT 20V MAX Band Saw, 5" Cutting Capacity, Integrated Hang Hooks, Portable, For Deep Cuts, Bare Tool Only (DCS374B)

Rating
9.4
Cutting Capacity

Most important from
1693 reviews

Cutting Capacity
The tool is powerful, capable of cutting 2-inch thick rebar with ease, making it a beast for tough jobs.

The DEWALT 20V MAX Band Saw is a solid choice for those needing a portable saw for various cutting tasks. With a cutting capacity of 5 inches and a brushless motor, this tool offers efficient performance and durability, making it suitable for deep cuts in wood. One standout feature is the integrated hang hook, which allows users to conveniently hang the saw without risking damage to the handle or base, enhancing its portability.

The LED work light is another valuable addition, providing illumination for accurate cuts in low-light conditions, further increasing its usability on job sites. Additionally, the tool-less blade changing feature simplifies the process of switching blades, saving time and effort.

There are some considerations to keep in mind. The band saw is battery powered, meaning its performance may be limited by battery life, especially during extensive use. Users will need to invest in a compatible battery, as it does not come with one included, which could add to overall costs. The 12.4-pound weight makes it relatively portable, but some users might find it slightly heavy for prolonged use or overhead jobs. In terms of versatility, the variable speed control allows for better adaptability to different materials, but it's primarily designed for wood, so those looking to cut other materials should consider this limitation.

Rating
9.4
Cutting Capacity

Most important from
1693 reviews

Cutting Capacity
The tool is powerful, capable of cutting 2-inch thick rebar with ease, making it a beast for tough jobs.

Buying Guide for the Best Portable Bandsaws

Choosing the right portable bandsaw can make a significant difference in your cutting tasks, whether you're a professional tradesperson or a DIY enthusiast. Portable bandsaws are versatile tools that can cut through various materials like metal, wood, and plastic. To find the best fit for your needs, it's essential to understand the key specifications and how they impact the tool's performance and usability.
Cutting CapacityCutting capacity refers to the maximum size of the material that the bandsaw can cut. This is important because it determines the range of projects you can tackle. Cutting capacities are usually measured in inches and can vary widely. For light-duty tasks, a smaller cutting capacity (around 2-3 inches) may suffice. For more demanding jobs, look for a larger capacity (4-5 inches or more). Consider the typical size of the materials you'll be working with to choose the right cutting capacity for you.
Motor PowerMotor power, measured in amps, indicates the strength and efficiency of the bandsaw. A more powerful motor can handle tougher materials and provide smoother cuts. Light-duty bandsaws may have motors around 5-6 amps, which are suitable for occasional use and softer materials. For heavy-duty use and cutting harder materials, look for motors with 10 amps or more. Think about the types of materials you'll be cutting and how frequently you'll use the tool to determine the appropriate motor power.
Blade SpeedBlade speed, measured in feet per minute (FPM), affects how quickly and smoothly the bandsaw can cut through materials. Variable speed settings are beneficial because they allow you to adjust the speed based on the material you're cutting. Lower speeds (100-200 FPM) are better for harder materials like metal, while higher speeds (300-500 FPM) are suitable for softer materials like wood. If you plan to work with a variety of materials, a bandsaw with adjustable speed settings will offer greater versatility.
Weight and PortabilityThe weight of a portable bandsaw affects its ease of use and transportability. Lighter bandsaws (10-15 pounds) are easier to carry and maneuver, making them ideal for jobs that require frequent movement. Heavier bandsaws (20-25 pounds or more) may offer more stability and power but can be cumbersome to transport. Consider how often you'll need to move the bandsaw and the typical working conditions to choose the right balance between weight and portability.
Durability and Build QualityDurability and build quality are crucial for ensuring the longevity and reliability of your bandsaw. Look for bandsaws made from high-quality materials like steel or aluminum, which can withstand regular use and harsh conditions. Features like rubberized grips and protective guards can also enhance durability and user comfort. If you plan to use the bandsaw frequently or in demanding environments, investing in a well-built, durable model will pay off in the long run.
Ease of Blade ChangeThe ease of changing blades is an important consideration, especially if you need to switch between different types of cuts frequently. Some bandsaws feature tool-free blade change systems, which allow you to replace blades quickly and easily without additional tools. This can save time and reduce frustration during your projects. If you anticipate needing to change blades often, look for a bandsaw with a convenient blade change mechanism.

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