Choosing the right band saw can make the difference between smooth, accurate cuts and wasted time, material, and money. Whether you need a compact benchtop for hobby projects, a cordless jobsite saw, or a resaw-capable shop tool, our recommendations come from extensive research, hands-on testing, and expert reviews to help you pick the right machine.
How we tested and what we considered
We evaluated band saws with a mix of hands-on testing, specification analysis, and customer feedback aggregation. Key factors we prioritized:
- Cut capacity and blade compatibility — How deep and wide the saw will cut and what blade sizes it accepts.
- Motor and cutting performance — Amp/Watt rating, no-load speed (FPM/rpm), and real-world cutting power under load.
- Build quality and table — Cast iron or stamped tables, trunnion quality, bevel range, and fence/miter accessories.
- Ease of use and maintenance — Tool-less blade changes, quick-release tension, blade guides, and dust ports.
- Portability vs. stability — Weight and size for mobile work vs. vibration control for bench usage.
- Safety features and ergonomics — Guards, switches, blade tracking, and user controls.
- Value and support — Included accessories, warranty length, and aftermarket support.
We combined lab-like cut tests (straight, curve, resaw), long-run reliability checks where possible, and a review of verified user experiences to balance initial performance with durability and value.
8-Inch Benchtop Bandsaw
Compact and friendly to beginners, this 8-inch benchtop bandsaw balances price and capability. It offers a 3-1/2 inch cutting height at 90°, 3A motor, and a rip fence—suitable for hobbyists who need accurate small cuts without a large footprint.
Overview
A great entry-level benchtop for hobbyists and makers who want a capable saw without a big investment. It delivers a 3-1/2" cutting height at 90° and a no-load speed around 1800 rpm. The included rip fence and tall work surface make straight cuts easy.
- Standout features: 3A pure copper motor, 0–45° tilting table, compact footprint, and dust port.
- Performance: Smooth for thin stock, curves, and small resaw tasks; slower than larger machines but adequate for hobby use.
- Drawbacks: Limited resaw capacity and less robust vibration damping compared with heavier cast-iron machines.
Who it's for: Beginners, craft woodworkers, and small-shop users wanting an affordable, reliable benchtop bandsaw.
9-Inch Benchtop Bandsaw
Roomier than entry-level saws, this 9-inch benchtop bandsaw offers a 2.8-amp motor, 3-1/2" cutting depth, and useful accessories. It suits DIYers who need a versatile benchtop saw with an included fence, miter gauge, and dust port for cleaner operation.
Overview
This 9-inch benchtop bandsaw is a strong mid-range pick for hobbyists and light shop use. With a 2.8‑amp motor spinning the blade up to 2,500 ft/min, it handles straight cuts, curves, and moderate resawing up to 3-1/2" deep.
- Standout features: 12-1/4 x 11-7/8" tilting table (up to 45°), included 1/4" blade, rip fence, miter gauge, and a 2-1/2" dust port.
- Performance: Good balance of speed and control; the included accessories and blade range support a variety of projects right out of the box.
- Drawbacks: Motor is modest for heavy resawing; will struggle with dense hardwoods at thicker cuts.
Who it's for: DIYers and hobbyists who want a well-equipped benchtop saw without stepping up to a heavy-duty shop machine.
RIKON 10-Inch Bandsaw
A shop-focused 10" bandsaw with a cast iron table, quick-release tension, and a 4-5/8" resaw capacity. Built for precision and durability, it suits hobbyists upgrading to a more serious, stable machine for resawing and repeated use.
Overview
This 10" bandsaw targets dedicated woodworkers and small shops. It combines a cast iron table, balanced wheels, and tool-less blade guides with a solid frame for steady, accurate cuts and a notable 4-5/8" resaw capacity.
- Standout features: Cast iron table with 0–45° tilt, quick-release blade tension, tool-less blade guides, and a 2-1/2" dust port for cleaner operation.
- Performance: Stable under load, minimal vibration, and precise tracking—excellent for resawing, curve work, and repeatable joinery tasks.
- Drawbacks: Larger footprint and higher price than compact benchtops; not as portable.
Who it's for: Serious hobbyists and small shops needing a reliable, accurate machine for frequent use and heavier stock.
DEWALT XR Cordless Bandsaw
A professional-grade cordless bandsaw with a brushless motor, 3-3/8" cut capacity, and variable speed control. Ideal for tradespeople who need portability without sacrificing cutting power and battery-system convenience on the jobsite.
Overview
A top pick for pros who need mobility and consistent performance. The DEWALT XR brushless bandsaw delivers strong cut speed and efficiency, with tool-connect readiness and built-in LED for improved accuracy on-site.
- Standout features: Powerful brushless motor, 3-3/8" cut capacity, variable speed trigger and dial, integrated blade guard, and LED work light.
- Performance: Fast and dependable for metal and wood applications typical on jobsites; cordless convenience removes need for extension cords and improves portability.
- Drawbacks: Battery and charger sold separately (bare tool), and maximum cut capacity is smaller than larger benchtop/shop saws.
Who it's for: Contractors, fabricators, and tradespeople who need a portable, high-performance bandsaw tied into a cordless battery ecosystem.
Quick comparison and who should buy which
- 8-Inch Benchtop Bandsaw (Best Budget Pick) — Compact, affordable, and easy to use. Best for beginners and hobbyists who prioritize price and small-footprint convenience.
- 9-Inch Benchtop Bandsaw (Best Value for Money) — Balanced features, useful accessories, and decent cutting depth. Ideal for DIYers who want a capable, ready-to-run benchtop saw.
- RIKON 10-Inch Bandsaw (Premium Choice) — Sturdier construction, larger resaw capacity, and shop-grade stability. Best for advanced hobbyists and small shops that need precision and durability.
- DEWALT XR Cordless Bandsaw (Editors Choice) — Portable, brushless, and jobsite-ready. Perfect for pros who need cordless freedom with consistent cutting performance.
Best overall: For a wide range of users, the DEWALT XR Cordless Bandsaw stands out for combining performance, portability, and professional features. If you need a stationary shop machine for heavier resawing, the RIKON 10" is the better choice. Budget-oriented hobbyists will find the 8-inch benchtop a practical starting point.
Final recommendation
Our testing and research show there is no one-size-fits-all band saw. Choose based on your workflow:
- Pick the DEWALT XR Cordless Bandsaw if you need a portable, powerful tool for onsite cutting and value integration with a battery system.
- Choose the RIKON 10-Inch Bandsaw if you want a stable, shop-grade machine for frequent resawing and precision work.
- Go with the 9-Inch Benchtop Bandsaw if you want a well-equipped saw that gives the most bang for your budget.
- Buy the 8-Inch Benchtop Bandsaw if your needs are light and you’re just getting started.
All recommendations are grounded in hands-on testing, specification comparisons, and aggregated user feedback to help match each saw to likely real-world needs. If you tell me what you plan to cut most (thickness, material, and whether you need portability), I can suggest the single best pick for your scenario.