What is the Best Budget Band Saw? (2024) — Options with Great Value for Money

If you buy something through our posts, we may get a small commission. Read more here.

Whether you’re a professional woodworker taking on big projects or an at-home handyman, you’ll need a bandsaw that’s sturdy and functional. While a good quality bandsaw doesn’t have to cost a fortune, it’s still best to find something that fits your needs.

I’ve learned the hard way that spending money on the wrong machine is a costly mistake. To save you that trouble, I’ve put together a list of the best budget bandsaws I recommend.

Best Overall
WEN 3962
Editor’s Choice
Rikon 10-305
Best for Beginners
Ryobi BS904G
WEN 3962 No Background
Rikon 10-305 No Background
Ryobi BS904G No Background
This compact bandsaw has a 3.5 amp motor that can generate 2 speeds at 1520 or 2620 FPM. The dual speeds gives woodworkers versatility and the brand has a 2-year warranty on the bandsaw to protect your purchase.
The Rikon 10-305 has a solid steel construction that makes it more durable than the rest. It also features a large cast-iron table that gives a larger and sturdier work surface that’s hard to find on a saw of this size.
The Ryobi BS904G has a 2.5 amp induction motor suitable for most jobs, and features the coveted rack and pinion fence system and the Rapid Set blade tensioning system. It’s a popular choice among consumers for its durability.
Best Overall
WEN 3962
WEN 3962 No Background
This compact bandsaw has a 3.5 amp motor that can generate 2 speeds at 1520 or 2620 FPM. The dual speeds gives woodworkers versatility and the brand has a 2-year warranty on the bandsaw to protect your purchase.
Editor’s Choice
Rikon 10-305
Rikon 10-305 No Background
The Rikon 10-305 has a solid steel construction that makes it more durable than the rest. It also features a large cast-iron table that gives a larger and sturdier work surface that’s hard to find on a saw of this size.
Best for Beginners
Ryobi BS904G
Ryobi BS904G No Background
The Ryobi BS904G has a 2.5 amp induction motor suitable for most jobs, and features the coveted rack and pinion fence system and the Rapid Set blade tensioning system. It’s a popular choice among consumers for its durability.

Reviews of the Top Budget Bandsaws

1. WEN 3962 Bandsaw

When you use the Wen 3962, you won’t be able to tell that it’s a budget option. This powerful bandsaw has a 3.5 amp motor and a 9.75-inch throat, and it can cut through 6-inch boards with ease.

If you’re after accuracy, you’ll be glad to know that the bandsaw can make angled cuts up to 45 degrees. Because it comes with a variety of blade options, you can cut between 1/8 to 1/2 of an inch depending on your project’s needs.

The dust port keeps your surroundings clean; its spacious table allows you to work comfortably, and the adjustable light helps with visibility.

What I Like

What I Don’t Like

2. Rikon 10-305 Bandsaw

If you have a limited workspace, but you still require all the handy features of a benchtop bandsaw, consider the Rikon 10-305 bandsaw. Although it doesn’t offer as much power, it’s compact, durable, and still very functional.

From my experience with bandsaws, I’ve noticed that many are made out of plastic. But not the Rikon. It’s crafted from steel, giving it that sturdy edge. And when you see its spacious work surface made of cast-iron, you can immediately tell it’s built to last. 

I’ve used this model to make precise cuts ranging from 1/8 to 1/2 of an inch. Though it runs on just 2.53 amps, which can pose some challenges with tougher materials, it’s still a commendable machine.

What I Like

What I Don’t Like

3. Ryobi BS904G Bandsaw

Because the Ryobi BS904G is very affordable and durable, it’s also a very popular choice among consumers.

Its 2.5 amp motor, 9-inch throat capacity, and 3.5 inch cutting capacity are quite impressive considering its low price. It even comes with a safety switch and settings, different blade options, and a built-in dust port for extra convenience.

Now, compared to other options like the Rikon 10-3061, this unit is a little more basic. But I think it’s a good option for beginners or for those who expect to do small-scale home repairs.

What I Like

What I Don’t Like

4. Milwaukee 2429-21XC Bandsaw

If you’re after the most lightweight and portable option, the Milwaukee is your best bet for a metal cutting power tool. More specifically, it’s the Milwaukee 2429-21XC bandsaw.

In my toolkit, I appreciate tools that give me versatility. With this one, I can make one-handed cuts and easily carry it around since it’s battery-powered. And what impresses me? After charging it for just 30 minutes, my Milwaukee can handle over 150 cuts. Quite the workhorse, if you ask me.

The bandsaw also meets OSHA requirements and has a blade tension adjustment just like some saws used to make cope cuts.

See Also: Milwaukee 2429-20 Review

What I Like

What I Don’t Like

Budget Band Saw Buyer’s Guide

Design

In my time working with bandsaws, I’ve come across various types like benchtop, freestanding, and cordless models. If you’ve got a good amount of space in your workshop, like I do, then both the benchtop and freestanding models would serve you well.

Power

Naturally, the largest type of bandsaw (freestanding) has the most horsepower, which is suitable for heavy-duty construction projects. If you’re not a professional, though, smaller bandsaws will be adequate, as they still boast around 0.5 to 1 horsepower [1].

Extra Features

Some bandsaws come with work tables, a light, and a dust collection port for added convenience. It’s best to purchase ones with a combination of these features as well.

More options for you:

My Top Pick for a Budget Band Saw: WEN 3962

The best budget band saw for me is the WEN 3962 Two-Speed Bandsaw. It’s affordable, accurate, and powerful, so it’s perfect for all kinds of projects. The two-speed design makes the WEN 3962 much more versatile than its competitors and has a very durable construction.

If you are still unable to afford these low-cost band saws, you may want to consider purchasing secondhand band saws instead.

For great bandsaw products, you can also visit the following pages: 

Powerful Jet bandsaws

robert headshot

Robert Johnson is a passionate furniture maker & carpenter, sought after for his knowledge on the craft.
You’ve probably seen his down-to-earth wisdom in USA Today, Bobvila, Family Handyman, and The Spruce, where he has shared commentary and guidance on various woodworking topics.

Robert is the brain behind Sawinery, where he aims to share tips, tricks, and a passion for all things carpentry.

Related Articles
Join our community on facebook and get 3 woodworking plans for free!
0
    0
    Your Cart
    Your cart is empty