Best Portable Band Saw Reviews
Contents
- The Best Porta Band Saw Reviews Are:
- 1. Makita XBP02Z Portable Bandsaw – Best Overall
- 2. Dewalt DWM120K Portable Bandsaw – Most Versatile Design
- 3. Dewalt DCS374B Portable Bandsaw – Most Ergonomic Design
- 4. Dewalt DCS371B Portable Bandsaw – Most Versatile Tool
- 5. Dewalt DCS374P2 Portable Bandsaw – Best 5” Cutting Capacity
- 6. Makita XBP03Z Compact Bandsaw – Highest Cutting Speed
- 7. Milwaukee 2429-21XC M12 Cordless Compact Bandsaw – Best One-Hand Operation
- 8. Milwaukee 2429-20 Cordless Sub-Compact Bandsaw – Most Maneuverable Design
- 9. Bosch GCB10-5 Deep Cut Bandsaw – Best Value for Money
- Buying Guide
- Corded or Cordless
- Surface Feet Per Minute (SFPM) or Cutting Speed
- Cutting Capacity
- Ergonomics
- Safety
- Final Thoughts
- Sources
A portable band saw is a handheld saw built mainly for cutting metal: conduit, pipe, threaded rod, Unistrut and angle. It cuts cleaner and quieter than a reciprocating saw or abrasive cutoff wheel.
Below we compare nine corded and cordless models on capacity, blade speed and handling.
OUR TOP PICK
Our Top Pick is the Makita XBP02Z Portable Bandsaw. It has a 4 3/4-inch cutting capacity, a six-setting speed dial and an LED light.
The Best Porta Band Saw Reviews Are:
| Product | Details | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Makita XBP02Z Portable Bandsaw | 1. Makita XBP02Z Portable Bandsaw | - Weighs 14.3 pounds - Cordless and compact design - Six variable speed settings - Built-in LED light for increased visibility | Check Current Price |
| 2. Dewalt DWM120K Portable Bandsaw | 2. Dewalt DWM120K Portable Bandsaw | - Corded electric design - Deep cutting capacity - Ergonomic and durable construction - Strong motor power that supports variable speed - Serviceable rubber bumpers and steel shroud | Check Current Price |
| 3. Dewalt DCS374B Portable Bandsaw | 3. Dewalt DCS374B Portable Bandsaw | - Cordless electric design - 5-inch cutting capacity - Controlled power and variable speed - Integrated hang hook - Tool-free blade changing lever | Check Current Price |
| 4. Dewalt DCS371B Portable Bandsaw | 4. Dewalt DCS371B Portable Bandsaw | - Cordless electric lightweight tool - Centered handle for proper balance - Great blade tracking adjustment - Integrated LED work light - Dual bearing blade guide rollers | Check Current Price |
| 5. Dewalt DCS374P2 Portable Bandsaw | 5. Dewalt DCS374P2 Portable Bandsaw | - Large 5-inch cutting capacity - Cordless electric design - Tool-free blade changing lever - Variable speed trigger and dial - Integrated LED work light | Check Current Price |
| 6. Makita XBP03Z Compact Bandsaw | 6. Makita XBP03Z Compact Bandsaw | - 2-1/2-inch cutting capacity - Powerful motor that delivers up to 630 surface feet per minute - Exterior blade adjustment - Aluminum blade housing - Tool-less blade changing lever | Check Current Price |
| 7. Milwaukee 2429-21XC M12 Cordless Compact Bandsaw | 7. Milwaukee 2429-21XC M12 Cordless Compact Bandsaw | - 1-5/8-inch cut capacity - Most compact and lightest weight - Guard addresses OSHA requirements for one-handed use - Dual actuation trigger - Integrated LED light | Check Current Price |
| 8. Milwaukee 2429-20 Cordless Sub-Compact Bandsaw | 8. Milwaukee 2429-20 Cordless Sub-Compact Bandsaw | - 1-5/8-inch cutting capacity - Extremely lightweight and portable - OSHA guarding requirements compliant - Features LED lighting - Tool-free blade tension adjustment | Check Current Price |
| 9. Bosch GCB10-5 Deep Cut Bandsaw | 9. Bosch GCB10-5 Deep Cut Bandsaw | - Features a powerful 10-amp motor - Deep cut capacity of 4-3/4 inches - Variable speed settings (100 to 380 surface feet per minute) - Ergonomic and very comfortable handle - Built-in LED light for better visibility | Check Current Price |
1. Makita XBP02Z Portable Bandsaw – Best Overall
The Makita XBP02Z is an 18V LXT cordless portable band saw with a deep 4 3/4-inch capacity.
Specs
- Weighs 14.3 pounds
- Cordless and compact design
- Six variable speed settings
- Built-in LED light for increased visibility
What I Liked About Makita XBP02Z
It weighs 14.3 pounds with the battery, per Makita's XBP02Z page.
Its six-setting speed dial runs from 275 to 530 feet per minute, so you can slow down for harder metals.
This bandsaw has a very user-friendly design, which is great because you can easily locate the variable speed control dial for quick and easy operation.
Another great feature is the built-in LED light, which is quite resourceful when working in low-light conditions.
What I Didn’t Like About Makita XBP02Z
The XBP02Z is the bare tool: the battery and charger are sold separately.
Pros
- Lightweight design that’s simple to pickup
- Heavy-duty torque motor generates fast speeds
- 4 3/4-inch cutting capacity
- More visibility with the built-in LED light
- Brushes are easily accessible for effective serviceability
Cons
- Doesn’t come with the battery
Conclusion
If you want deep capacity without a cord, the Makita XBP02Z is a strong choice.
Overall Rating: 5
2. Dewalt DWM120K Portable Bandsaw – Most Versatile Design
The Dewalt DWM120K is a corded deep-cut portable band saw. You can also mount it in a stand to use it as a small benchtop saw.
Specs
- Corded electric design
- Deep cutting capacity
- Ergonomic and durable construction
- Strong motor power that supports variable speed
- Serviceable rubber bumpers and steel shroud
What I Liked About Dewalt DWM120K
It has a 10-amp motor with variable speed.
This bandsaw features an adjustable material guide, which is something you will love about this saw when working on a variety of materials.
I really appreciate the ergonomics of this saw, considering the large hand space the multi-position handle offers and its remarkable adjustability.
Another good feature Dewalt DWM120K offers you is precision blade tracking adjustment, which is what you need for reducing wear and improving blade alignment.
What I Didn’t Like About Dewalt DWM120K
The stock blade is basic; a quality bi-metal blade matched to your material cuts better and lasts longer.
Pros
- Dual bearing blade guide rollers
- Reliable blade tracking adjustment
- Easy handling with its multi position handle
- Deep cutting capacity for demanding jobs
- Not as noisy as conventional designs
Cons
- Stock blade is basic
Conclusion
Dewalt DWM120K is the ideal choice for hobbyist and professionals. With this product, you get versatility, easy handling, superior performance, and serviceability.
Overall Rating: 4.8
3. Dewalt DCS374B Portable Bandsaw – Most Ergonomic Design
The Dewalt DCS374B is a 20V MAX XR deep-cut band saw (tool only) with a 5-inch capacity.
Specs
- Cordless electric design
- 5-inch cutting capacity
- Controlled power and variable speed
- Integrated hang hook
- Tool-free blade changing lever
What I Liked About Dewalt DCS374B
Per DeWALT's DCS374B page, it has a brushless motor, cuts up to 5 x 4 3/4-inch rectangular stock or 4-inch round stock, and runs at up to 490 SFPM.
I really like the variable speed dial and trigger, which improves versatility by allowing you to set the appropriate speed with respect to your application.
It has a tool-less blade changing lever, which is a great feature because it allows you to loosen the blade tension without using any tools.
You will also like the LED work light that comes with this machine, which does a great job of illuminating dark work spaces for precision cutting.
What I Didn’t Like About Dewalt DCS374B
The battery and charger are sold separately, and some owners replace the stock blade early.
Pros
- Cuts round stock up to 4 inches
- Brushless motor is very power efficient
- Cordless design is easy to maneuver upwards
- Loosening blade tension is super easy
- Easy storage after use with the integrated hang hook
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- A little bit heavy
Conclusion
This tool cuts metal pipe, conduit and strut as well as plastic pipe, and it is easy to operate.
Overall Rating: 4.8
4. Dewalt DCS371B Portable Bandsaw – Most Versatile Tool
The Dewalt DCS371B is a compact 20V MAX band saw with a 2 1/2-inch capacity, sized for conduit and small pipe.
Specs
- Cordless electric lightweight tool
- Centered handle for proper balance
- Great blade tracking adjustment
- Integrated LED work light
- Dual bearing blade guide rollers
What I Liked About Dewalt DCS371B
It is a cordless electric bandsaw with superior maneuverability, which makes it the perfect tool for working on roof tops, ceiling roughs, and wall roughs.
Although it is smaller than other portable bandsaws, it still has a powerful motor, which allows you to cut a variety of materials.
There is an LED light installed underneath, which is a great addition because it improves visibility in poorly lit areas.
Another great feature of this tool is the center handle, which is strategically positioned for improved balancing and ergonomics.
What I Didn’t Like About Dewalt DCS371B
Its cutting capacity is small, so it is not the tool for larger pipe or wide flat bar.
Pros
- Powerful motor for cutting a variety of materials
- Dual-bearing blade guide rollers improve performance
- Strategically positioned and ergonomic handle
- Cuts smoothly through conduit
- Lightweight and suitable for above the head applications
Cons
- Has a short cutting capacity
- Battery and charger sold separately
Conclusion
The cutting performance of this tool is exceptional; even though, it has a limited cutting capacity that will not be suitable for cutting flat bars.
Overall Rating: 4.7
5. Dewalt DCS374P2 Portable Bandsaw – Best 5” Cutting Capacity
The Dewalt DCS374P2 is the kit version of the DCS374, with two 5Ah batteries and a charger. It cuts round stock up to 4 inches.
Specs
- Large 5-inch cutting capacity
- Cordless electric design
- Tool-free blade changing lever
- Variable speed trigger and dial
- Integrated LED work light
What I Liked About Dewalt DCS374P2
This tool comes with a maximum blade speed of 490 surface feet per minute, which is easily adjustable on the side with the ergonomic dial lever for more control and versatility.
Its capacity is 5 x 4 3/4 inches for rectangular stock. For woodworking, a stationary 14-inch bandsaw is the better tool.
This is a battery-powered unit, which means you don’t need any permanent power source, such as a generator or power coming out of your wall.
Dewalt also included a very large storage hook on the back, which allows you to hang it upside down on a pipe or against the wall.
What I Didn’t Like About Dewalt DCS374P2
It is the heaviest cordless option here once the 5Ah battery is fitted.
Pros
- Wide throat allows you to cut larger workpieces
- Easy to increase or decrease speed with variable speed dial and trigger
- Battery powered unit can be used off-the-grid
- Loosening blade tension is easy with tool-free lever
- Large hanging hook allows for safe storage
Cons
- Heavy with the battery
Conclusion
Cutting through metal is no issue with the Dewalt DCS374P2, and the kit saves you buying batteries separately.
Overall Rating: 4.7
6. Makita XBP03Z Compact Bandsaw – Highest Cutting Speed
Introducing Makita XBP03Z, a compact band saw that brings lithium-ion cordless cutting power to your shop or off-the-grid jobsite.
Specs
- 2-1/2-inch cutting capacity
- Powerful motor that delivers up to 630 surface feet per minute
- Exterior blade adjustment
- Aluminum blade housing
- Tool-less blade changing lever
What I Liked About Makita XBP03Z
Its motor runs the blade at 630 feet per minute for conduit, threaded rod, copper pipe and Unistrut. Per Makita's XBP03Z page, it weighs 9 pounds with the battery.
It runs on Makita's 18V LXT batteries, which are sold separately.
This bandsaw has a tool-free exterior blade adjustment, which is great because it allows for more accurate blade tracking, increasing cutting performance.
Another amazing feature is the aluminum blade housing that does an exceptional job of protecting the blade from damage.
What I Didn’t Like About Makita XBP03Z
It has a single fixed speed, and the 2 1/2-inch throat is too narrow for 4-inch pipe.
Pros
- Incredibly fast blade speed
- Accurate blade tracking with exterior adjustments
- Loosening blade tension is easy with tool-less lever
- Light at 9 pounds with battery
- Features LED lighting for increased visibility
Cons
- Limited cutting capacity of 2-1/2-inch
Conclusion
This is a powerful tool for cutting through metal components, but your cutting capacity is limited to 2-1/2-inch.
Overall Rating: 4.7
7. Milwaukee 2429-21XC M12 Cordless Compact Bandsaw – Best One-Hand Operation
OSHA does not approve tools, but Milwaukee designed the 2429 with a guard that addresses OSHA guarding requirements for one-handed cuts. The 2429-21XC is the kit with an M12 XC battery and charger.
Specs
- 1-5/8-inch cut capacity
- Most compact and lightest weight
- Guard addresses OSHA requirements for one-handed use
- Dual actuation trigger
- Integrated LED light
What I Liked About Milwaukee 2429-21XC M12
Per Milwaukee's 2429 page, it cuts 3/4-inch EMT in about 3 seconds and has a 1 5/8 x 1 5/8-inch capacity.
A dual-latching lower guard covers the blade outside the cutting area, which makes it suitable for one-handed use.
It has dual actuation trigger, which is a great feature for maintenance professionals and electricians, providing increased control as well as productivity.
What I Didn’t Like About Milwaukee 2429-21XC M12
Its small capacity limits it to conduit, small pipe and rod.
Pros
- Extremely compact design
- One-handed operation improves maneuverability
- Dual actuation trigger offers more control
- Quiet-running motor and low-noise blade movements
- Easy blade tension adjustments
Cons
- 1 5/8-inch capacity
Conclusion
With Milwaukee 2429-21XC M12, you get extreme portability, controlled power, and remarkable cutting speed for your applications.
Overall Rating: 4.6
8. Milwaukee 2429-20 Cordless Sub-Compact Bandsaw – Most Maneuverable Design
The Milwaukee 2429-20 is the same M12 sub-compact band saw sold as a bare tool, for people who already own M12 batteries.
Specs
- 1-5/8-inch cutting capacity
- Extremely lightweight and portable
- OSHA guarding requirements compliant
- Features LED lighting
- Tool-free blade tension adjustment
What I Liked About Milwaukee 2429-20
It cuts 3/4-inch EMT in about 3 seconds, and Milwaukee rates it at over 150 cuts per charge with an M12 XC battery.
Its guard addresses OSHA guarding requirements for one-handed use. No tool is completely safe, so keep your free hand clear of the blade.
Another good feature is the tool-less blade changing, you just need to install the blade a couple of times to master the technique. Not to mention how easy it is to adjust blade tension.
What I Didn’t Like About Milwaukee 2429-20
The "-20" model is the bare tool, so it ships with no battery or charger. Buy the 2429-21XC kit if you need them.
Pros
- Very compact and maneuverable
- Easy to operate with one hand
- Very powerful for cutting through metal pipes
- Blade tension adjustment is simple
- Integrated LED lights improve visibility
Cons
- Bare tool: no battery or charger included
Conclusion
If you want a tool that offers more portability and one-handed operation, look no further than the Milwaukee 2429-20.
Overall Rating: 4.4
9. Bosch GCB10-5 Deep Cut Bandsaw – Best Value for Money
The Bosch GCB10-5 is a corded deep-cut band saw with a 10-amp motor.
Specs
- Features a powerful 10-amp motor
- Deep cut capacity of 4-3/4 inches
- Variable speed settings (100 to 380 surface feet per minute)
- Ergonomic and very comfortable handle
- Built-in LED light for better visibility
What I Liked About Bosch GCB10-5
This tool features a corded electric design, which is great when you want constant supply of power, especially if you are working on time-consuming applications.
Bosch used a 10-amp motor to power this machine with a variable speed dial, allowing you to conveniently vary the speed from 100 to 380 surface feet per minute.
I really appreciate the considerably large throat this bandsaw comes with, considering how easy it is to cut pipes of up to 4-3/4-inch on a single pass.
Another impressive and convenient feature is the integrated LED light, which illuminates the cutline for more accurate cuts.
What I Didn’t Like About Bosch GCB10-5
It does not come with a storage case.
Pros
- Has a long 13-1/2-foot cord for more maneuverability
- Cuts deep up to 4-3/4-inch thick
- Being able to vary speed improves versatility
- LED lighting improves visibility and accuracy
- Comes with a hanging hook for safe storage
Cons
- Does not come with a storage case
Conclusion
This is a powerful saw that cuts deep and works great with copper pipes, conduit, and rebar. But Bosch should provide a storage case.
Overall Rating: 4.4
Buying Guide
There are not many tools that can cut metallic tubing and other types of conduit more easily than a compact bandsaw. Here are the tips for selecting the best model.
Corded or Cordless
You can choose corded or cordless. Cordless models are popular for their mobility.
Corded models run on 120V and deliver steady power for long cutting sessions. Cordless models run on 12V to 20V packs; the larger ones cut as well as corded saws but are limited by runtime.
Which one is lighter? Corded models are usually lighter in weight. On the other hand cordless compact bandsaws tend to be heavier because of the extra weight of the battery.
What is the usability of each design? Corded portable saws can be used for power-demanding jobs, but they cannot be used in places with no electricity.
On the other hand, the maneuverability of cordless saws allows you to use them on roof tops, ceiling roughs, and wall roughs. They are also the best for off-the-grid applications.
Surface Feet Per Minute (SFPM) or Cutting Speed
SFPM (surface feet per minute) is how fast the blade teeth move past the material.
Faster is not always better. Soft metals like aluminum and copper cut well at higher speeds, while steel and stainless need slower speeds, or the blade overheats and dulls.
That is why variable speed is worth having if you cut different metals.
A variable speed unit allows you to vary the speed from a lower to a higher setting with respect to your application. This makes your cutting experience highly customized and versatile.
Cutting Capacity
This refers to the maximum width of cut you can make on a given compact bandsaw, which usually ranges from 2 inches to 5 inches.
It does not matter how powerful the portable unit is, if the cutting capacity is low, your use of the tool will be limited to smaller workpieces.
For example, a tool with a cutting capacity of 2-1/2-inch would be ideal for cutting threaded rod and conduit of smaller diameter.
A deep-cut saw with a 5 x 4 3/4-inch capacity handles pipe up to about 4 inches. For wood, a stationary saw like a 17-inch bandsaw is the better tool.
Ergonomics
A good tool should always be high-performing and easy and comfortable to handle. This means you need a compact bandsaw with a user-friendly handle for consistent hand-placement and maneuverability.
Tool-free blade changes and tension adjustments save time.
Safety
Wear eye protection, since chips fly and blades can break. Clamp or support the work, and remove the battery or unplug the saw before changing blades, as OSHA advises for all power tools.
Final Thoughts
Our top pick is the Makita XBP02Z Portable Bandsaw.
Its 4 3/4-inch cutting capacity handles deep cuts, and its variable speed dial lets you match the speed to the metal. The handle keeps the dial and lock-off switch within easy reach.
Overall, you need to decide between a corded and cordless model. Then, choose the cutting capacity, speed, and ergonomic features. Finally, confirm if the price point matches your budget.
Sources
- XBP02Z 18V LXT Portable Band Saw, Makita
- XBP03Z 18V LXT Compact Band Saw, Makita
- DCS374B 20V MAX XR Brushless Deep Cut Band Saw, DeWALT
- M12 Sub-Compact Band Saw 2429-20, Milwaukee
