R

Good for

If you’re looking to work with a range of materials, a benchtop saw is probably your safest bet. These units are able to cope with materials such as wood, plastic, metal, and even meat. Furthermore, they are ideal for projects that require you to cut curved edges and complex shapes. On top of that, benchtop units are much quieter in comparison to other types meaning you can operate on one without having to take breaks due to constant noise.

While sawdust doesn’t seem particularly dangerous, it can cause severe issues, especially when it comes to respiratory effects. However, these units produce significantly less dust in comparison to other types and most of them feature dust extracting ports which allow you to eliminate as much dust as possible. As far as the price goes, one can consider these machines quite affordable and user-friendly.

Q

Not recommended for

These saws can cut through almost anything, but they make rough cuts. In other words, every piece of material requires additional finishing due to rough edges. Even though it’s a useful power tool for woodworkers, it’s not something that’s high on the list of priorities for an average Joe. It’s also not recommended for projects that require high precision on particularly thin materials. That doesn’t mean these machines can’t cope with thin pieces, but it’s not something they are foreseen to do. Instead, processing large and thick pieces of wood is where these units show their usefulness and efficiency.

If you’re an absolute beginner, a benchtop saw is probably not the ideal first tool. While they are relatively easy to use, there is a certain level of expertise required for best results. Also, if you’re looking for high portability, these units aren’t the best choice.

Top Rated Benchtop Bandsaws


In our opinion, the best bandsaw benchtop has to be the Rikon 10-305 simply down to the supreme durability and reliability derived from its exclusively metallic design.

Rikon 10-305 – Editor’s Choice


Rikon 10-305 Product Image

Our Rating: 4.9
  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

While other manufacturers usually include some plastic parts in their design, this particular one consists only of metal parts, mainly steel. It’s a good thing for durability and reliability, but it can be a burden for people who are looking to get a lightweight unit. In simpler words, if you’re aiming for portability, this model isn’t the thing for you.

The 1/3 HP motor is decent, but we would prefer a bit more power. It can cope with pieces of various size and density, but it can show some signs of a struggle sometimes. It’s not something most people should be worried about, but if you’re a devoted professional, it can be a deal-breaking factor. The included worktable is quite spacious and sturdy. It may seem like an irrelevant feature, but a 13 x 12-inch table isn’t something you’ll see on other benchtop saws within the same price range. On top of that, a high-quality rip fence is included for more accurate cuts. The best thing about it is the fact that it can be easily removed for freehand work in a matter of seconds.

The main thing people complained about is related to fine adjustments. While it’s not particularly complicated or hard to fine-tune this machine, it can be a nuisance for inexperienced users. However, the solution is pretty simple – you should either refer to the user manual or contact the customer support. On the other hand, some users reported that the customer support department isn’t the strongest point of this company.

The price is pretty good and more than acceptable for most people. It’s not a professional piece of equipment per se, but it can definitely tackle a demanding project without too many issues. However, if you’re more than a hobbyist, you might want to check some other models out before investing in this particular one.

Rikon 10-305 Product Image

  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

POWERTEC BS900


POWERTEC BS900 product image

Our Rating: 4.0

  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

POWERTEC BS900


Our Rating: 4.0

The BS900 model is an all-around unit with a bunch of useful features and a hefty amount of quality components. If you’re looking for a high-quality machine at a reasonable price, this particular one is definitely suitable for consideration. Whether you’re an absolute novice or an established contractor, this machine certainly has something to offer for both sides. While it’s relatively easy to use, it’s also quite consistent and yields respectable results most of the time.

The design feels durable and trustworthy. The fact that it’s mainly made of metal components implies good quality and longevity. Naturally, regular maintenance is an imperative for keeping the unit in good condition, but the overall reliability is quite good. As far as the features go, one of the most notable ones is certainly the patented blade release mechanism. While some other models can give you a headache when it comes to changing and adjusting new blades, this particular one works on a pretty simple principle of quick-release. The versatility of this model comes from the fact that it can utilize blades that are in width range of 1/8-inch up to 3/8-inch.

As for the shortcomings, most people complained about frequent inconsistencies during operation. Whether this is because of a faulty unit or it’s an inherited design flaw is open for discussion. However, as far as we are concerned, it’s a minor flaw that is easily shadowed by all the advantages that come with this bandsaw. It’s by no means a perfect piece of equipment, but it’s definitely a worthy tool for a lot of professionals and DIYers.

The price is reasonable and it’s significantly more balanced in comparison to some other well-established brands. In simpler terms, instead of paying for the brand name, you are actually paying for quality and smooth performance.

Skil 3386-01


SKIL 3386-01 product image

Our Rating: 4.2
  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

DIYers and occasional users love this particular model because of its simplicity and compactness. This is by no means a professional piece of equipment, but it definitely yields great results for people who are looking to tackle a simple project from time to time.

The 1-speed motor might seem subpar to some other ones available on the market, but you can rest assured that it’s capable of cutting through most things you put in front of it. The worktable features a mechanism that allows you to cut at a particular angle. The best thing about the table is the fact that it can be adjusted within seconds thanks to the simplistic design of the turning mechanism. The unit also features a dust port that keeps the work area relatively clean and sawdust-free.

While an adjustable rip fence is included, it’s far from an ideal one. There’s nothing particularly wrong with the design of it, but the small size of the whole machine is not something that works good in conjunction with the fence. In simpler terms, the unit is small and thus can’t be used for demanding tasks that include the use of the rip fence. However, Skil is a well-respected brand and they somewhat solved the issue by making the unit more stable. As far as the additional features go, the LED light is the most notable one. It’s not something that should be a deciding factor for anyone, but it’s still worth mentioning. If you’re frequently working in a dim environment, the LED light does come in handy, especially when it comes to projects that demand high accuracy.

There aren’t many downsides, but the included blade is something you should change as soon as you get the unit delivered. Many people have complained about it and it can turn into a disappointment quite quickly. Instead of risking the outcome of your project with a subpar blade, you should invest in a high-quality one and reduce the risk to a bare minimum.

SKIL 3386-01 product image

  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

WEN 3975


WEN 3975 product image

Our Rating: 4.5

  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

WEN 3975


Our Rating: 4.5

When it comes to compactness and durable design, the WEN 3975 seems like a pretty safe solution. This model can cut pipes that are up to 5 inches in diameter as well as rectangular pieces that are up to 5 x 4-7/8 inches. In other words, the WEN 3975 is a somewhat portable unit that will meet your expectations and requirements most of the time.

As we already said, the main advantage of the design is its durability. The high-quality build guarantees longevity and reliability. It can withstand a dynamic environment without breaking a sweat. The beveling blade allows you to cut at an angle from 0 to 60 degrees. While it doesn’t feature a hydraulic knee which should reduce the overall fatigue levels, it shouldn’t cause fatigue in the first place thanks to the well-designed mechanical knee. The 4.5-amp motor is able to cut through a wide range of materials and the blade speed can be adjusted anywhere from 125 to 260 FPM, depending on what materials are you planning on cutting.

As far as the downsides go, there aren’t many, but there are some that need to be pointed out. For example, a couple of people complained about some parts that are made of plastic instead of metal. They aren’t necessarily the main weak points of this machine but are definitely a concern for someone who’s looking to get an all-metal unit. As we all know, plastic parts tend to wear out after a while which can cause some issues in the future. However, by the time those parts get worn out, you’ll probably plan on upgrading your power tools regardless.

The price is acceptable and quite budget-friendly. This model is an ideal solution for people who occasionally tackle a woodworking project and are looking for precise and efficient cuts.

Craftsman 21400


Craftsman 21400 product image

Our Rating: 4.0
  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

Craftsman is a well-known brand in this particular industry and they have been issuing versatile and trustworthy machines for quite a while now. Not all of their products are ideal, but this particular one might be of interest for both the occasional users and professionals. It features a 1/3 HP 3.5-amp motor with one speed. In other words, it’s foreseen for working with wood exclusively. Other materials may cause blade damage.

The design is pretty straightforward, although the machine requires some assembly and fine-tuning. It may not be the most user-friendly one around, but it’s also not as complex as one might think. The included user manual is comprehensive and well-written which further eases the pain of adjusting and assembling it the correct way. However, if you stumble upon any issues during assembly, it’s recommended that you contact the customer support department or refer to the FAQ page before taking any action. It’s important that you take the correct steps or else you risk damaging the machine itself. One of the most notable advantages is the fact that the machine doesn’t vibrate at all. It’s quite a rare occurrence nowadays, especially with highly powerful benchtop saws.

The cutting table bevels up to 45 degrees and it’s quite easy to set it up on the go. It also features a dust port which allows you to connect a vac for ultimate dust reduction. The rotation speed of the blade is 2780 FPM which is more than enough for smooth and accurate cuts. However, it’s only recommended for cutting plastic or wood. Any other harder material will cause the blade to malfunction and eventually snap or wear out.

The price is affordable, especially if you consider the overall potential of this unit. It’s a good choice for most people who are looking to get a decent all-around unit with plenty of additional features.

Craftsman 21400 product image

  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

Quick Product Comparison


MOTORBLADE SPEEDWEIGHTPRICE
Rikon 10-305 Product Image

RIKON 10-305

1/3HP, 3.5Amps2780 FPM76 pounds$$$Check Price
Powertec BS900 Product Image

POWERTEC BS900

1/2 HP, 2.5 Amps1725 FPM50 pounds$Check Price
Skil 3386-01 Product Image

SKIL 3386-01

2.5 Amps2800 FPM36 pounds$Check Price
WEN 3975 Product Image

WEN 3975

4.5 Amps125 to 260 FPM45 pounds$$Check Price
Craftsman 21400 Product Image

CRAFTSMAN 21400

1/3 HP 3.5 Amps2780 FPM72 pounds$$Check Price

Before You Buy: How a Benchtop Bandsaw Works?


While most people think these machines are relatively harmless and safe, it’s far from the truth. They can be considered safe as long as you as a user follow the instructions and precautionary measures, but misuse can cause some serious issues. Therefore, before you buy a particular model, it’s a good idea to get familiar with the principles on which it operates. The more you know about it, the less risk there is for something to go wrong.

The Principle


Most models work on a pretty simple principle that includes two or more wheels that drive a serrated blade in a continuous loop. The sheer efficiency and smoothness of these units are caused by the simplicity of the driving mechanism. On top of that, most models that are available on the market are quite easy to use and get the hang of. Even if you’re an absolute beginner, it shouldn’t take long until you acquire some basic knowledge about these units.

Versatility


The vast majority of models that are available on the market can cope with a few different materials, depending on the speed of the motor. The most common materials are wood, metal, and plastic. However, the units that feature a 1-speed motor are usually foreseen only for woodworking due to certain limitations.

The Design


Some models come with a stand included while some don’t. It’s more a matter of personal preferences, but it’s recommended that you get one with a stand because it’s much more compact and easier to handle. However, if you already have a surface that you plan to dedicate to your new tool, an included stand isn’t something you should exclusively look for. Also, a well-designed stand helps when it comes to the reduction of vibrations and improvement of stability.

Best Benchtop Band Saw – Buyer’s Guide


In order to avoid some of the most common mistakes people make when buying a power tool, you must thoroughly research the pros and cons of these machines. On top of that, even if you have some basic knowledge on how these things work and what should a potential buyer look for, there are always a couple of factors you should account for when investing significant amounts of money in your future endeavors. This guide is designed to offer you a better insight into the things one should pay attention to in order to make the best possible decision. Bear in mind; these are just guidelines and not mandatory rules one should follow at all costs.

The Power


While not the most important feature of them all, the amount of power can be a deciding factor quite often. It all depends on what are you planning to cut with your new tool, but the rule of thumb here is to go with as much power as possible. Now, thanks to the modern technology, most of the recently issued models can cope with both thick and thin pieces equally. There are some notable differences between different power values, but most of them are negligible. In simpler terms, if you’re buying a brand-new machine, the probability of getting one with subpar power output is very low.

The Frame


Contrary to popular belief, the frame is extremely important for the overall usefulness and integrity of a particular model. In fact, it’s probably the most important thing you should think about when investing in a bandsaw. The first thing you should pay attention to are the materials used in production. If the model consists of too much hard plastic, then it’s probably not the best idea to take it seriously or plan on tackling a serious project with it. The thing you should aim for is either steel or any other hard metal that guarantees stability and reliability. Aluminum is also a decent choice, but it’s more fragile than, for example, cast iron. On the other hand, it’s also the lightest one around meaning it could be a notable factor if you’re looking for lightweight units.

Powertec from the Back

The Price and Your Budget


It’s important that you don’t expect a miraculous performance from a particularly affordable unit. Even though these machines aren’t cheap per se, the affordable ones do come short when it comes to handling massive projects. You should always look for a model that fulfills your requirements, regardless of your budget. If you find one that seems good but is too expensive for your budget, try finding a similar one with less additional features or one that’s made by a lesser known brand. This method does involve certain risks, but it can yield some good results. The biggest risk here is related to putting your trust in a non-established brand as those tend to have underwhelming warranty conditions or subpar customer support departments. In the end, it all comes down to how much money you have and how much are you willing to spend on a high-quality machine. A fine balance between those two things can be achieved, but it requires extensive research.

WEN Benchtop Bandsaw With LED Light

Auxiliary Features


Things like LED lights, beveling tables, and miter gauges can make or break a product. Even if you don’t necessarily need any of those, it’s still a good idea to get a unit that includes as many additional features as possible, as long as they are useful instead of just being in the way. Dust ports are also something you should consider as recommended by many users, regardless of whether you have a vac or not. In case you don’t, we strongly recommend getting one as sawdust is known to have a negative impact on the respiratory system.

The conclusion


Even though it seems exhausting and complicated, finding a decent benchtop bandsaw isn’t a tough task, especially if you follow some basic guidelines and unwritten rules. We have covered some of them, but there are plenty of other methods you can use in order to find the best-suiting unit for your needs. The most important thing is to find something that has practical value for you but comes at an affordable price.

There are dozens of different models available on the market and it’s pretty hard to find the one that stands out as the best of the best. In fact, they are all similar to each other with only a few fundamental differences. Therefore, there isn’t the “best one” because any of those could potentially be the “best one,” it all depends on your expectations and especially your budget. Naturally, the smaller the budget, the fewer features you can expect.

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