10 Best Benchtop Band Saws for Woodworking

It’s fairly difficult to find a benchtop band saw if you’re into woodworking. I mean, most of them:

• Have low-potency motors that can’t help woodworkers in cutting dense types of woods
• Lack of durability features
• Are manufactured with low-quality materials

Due to this, I decided to review many benchtop band saws to arrive at a list of the best ones for woodworking applications. I hope it helps you.

 

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The 10 Best Benchtop Band Saws for Woodworking

This is the list of the best benchtop band saws for working on wood I’ve arrived at after extensive research:

1. RIKON 10-305 10-inch Benchtop Band Saw for Woodworking
2. Anbull Portable Benchtop Band Saw for Woodworking
3. XtremepowerUS 9-inch Benchtop Band Saw for Woodworking
4. PROXXON 37172 MICRO Benchtop Band Saw for Woodworking
5. BILT HARD 2.5-Amp 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw for Woodworking
6. Rikon 10-3061 10″ Benchtop Band Saw for Woodworking
7. POWERTEC BS900 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw for Woodworking
8. WEN 3959T 2.5-Amp 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw for Woodworking
9. SKIL 3386-01 120-Volt 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw for Woodworking
10. Studio Pro Precision 2000 Wet/Dry Benchtop Band Saw for Woodworking

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1. RIKON 10-305 10-inch Benchtop Band Saw for Woodworking

Knowing you spent your hard-earned money on a top-quality benchtop band saw is the best feeling ever. I mean, how wants to waste their money?

This is exactly why I selected this RIKON 10 inch bandsaw as one of the best bandsaws for woodworking applications, as it comes with:

• Strong 1/3 HP motor that outputs a solid level of cutting power
• 13-3/4-Inch by 12-1/2-Inch cast iron workbench that’s spacious enough to tackle serious woodworking projects

Moreover, the bandsaw has other very convenient features such as its rip fence and blade tension knob that together speed up the cutting process a lot.

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2. Anbull Portable Benchtop Band Saw for Woodworking

When looking for a bandsaw for woodworking one hopes to get one with such reliable features as this Anbull Portable benchtop bandsaw has.

I mean, it comes with an 1100 watts 10 amp motor that provides a solid level of cutting power to go after any woodworking project the user might have in mind.

Convenient-wise, the tool has a variable speed dial to achieve maximum cutting accuracy and a LED light that makes it very easy to work in low-light places.

Last but not least, its non-slide alloy steel base that’s adjustable up to 45 degrees is spacious enough to let the user work on any woodworking job they’d have to.

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3. XtremepowerUS 9-inch Benchtop Band Saw for Woodworking

There’s no better feeling than investing your hard-earned money on a powerful bandsaw that’ll help you finish your woodworking projects more efficiently.

Luckily, this XtremepowerUS bandsaw comes with serious features such as its 0.47 HP motor that outputs up to 2,340 FPM of max band velocity which is perfect for taking ambitious woodworking projects on.

In terms of convenience, this bandsaw blew other similar machines out of the water with features such as its:

• 11-3/4″ x 11-3/4″ workbench that allows users to comfortably work on their wood projects enjoying lots of space
• Angle and height changes are readily achievable thanks to accessible rack and pinion table adjustments
• 9-inch max cutting width and 3-1/2″ max cutting height which is enough cutting capacity for any woodworking shop

Last, this machine comes with a dust port readily available to make sure no dust or debris is in the way of maximum wood-cutting efficiency.

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4. PROXXON 37172 MICRO Benchtop Band Saw for Woodworking

Isn’t it the best when a benchtop bandsaw ACTUALLY lets you work on all the woodworking projects you have in mind?

Well, luckily, that’s exactly what this PROXXON 37172 benchtop band saw brings to the table thanks to attributes such as its powerful motor that delivers up to 820 ft/min of maximum speed which is sufficient to efficiently cut through any wood type.

Moreover, it comes with a 7 7/8″ x 7 7/8″ machined table with slot for miter gauge which is great for cutting wood accurately. This workbench also tilts up to 45 degrees allowing for angle cutting.

Its convenience features are something out of the world too.

For instance, it comes manufactured with a vibration-free ribbed die-cast aluminum housing that’s both light and very sturdy, making it perfect for tackling serious woodworking projects.

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5. BILT HARD 2.5-Amp 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw for Woodworking

With lots of wood moving around the workshop, a woodworker needs a powerful benchtop bandsaw to help them tackle all the projects available.

Due to this, I selected this BILT HARD 2.5-amp 9-inch benchtop band saw as it comes with serious features such as its:

• 2.5 amp ball bearing induction motor that outputs up to 2,500 ft/min of maximum cutting speed which is more than enough to tackle any serious woodworking project
• 3 1/2 in of max depth cut and 9 in of max-width cut

This bandsaw surpassed my expectations in terms of comfort too.

For instance, it comes with an adjustable cast-iron workbench that can tilt up to 45 degrees (for angle cutting) and that measures 12-1/4 x 11-7/8 inches which is enough surface area to comfortably maneuver all kinds of wood parts.

Last but not least it has a guide post locking knob that allows to efficiently control the depth of cut, which is an essential feature for most woodworkers to increase their productivity.

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6. Rikon 10-3061 10″ Benchtop Band Saw for Woodworking

The best way to know your money was well invested on a benchtop bandsaw is by making sure it outputs enough power to take on all your potential woodworking projects.

Luckily, this is exactly what this RIKON benchtop bandsaw offers as it comes with a powerful 1/2 HP motor that outputs up to 1720 RPM of top velocity. This is essential for lots of carpenters as it grants them the chance to work on hard and thick wood planks.

Speaking about its convenience, I can tell you this bandsaw comes with a cast iron workbench that measures 13-3/4” x 12-1/2” which is spacious enough to let the user easily handle sizeable wood parts.

It also comes with small little attributes that on their own don’t seem much but that in combination make the life of a woodworker much simpler, such as:

• Tool-less blade guides
• Safety paddle on/off switch
• Large blade tracking knob for maximum cutting control
• Quick-release blade tension

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7. POWERTEC BS900 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw for Woodworking

This Powertec BS900 benchtop band saw for wood comes with solid features such as its:

• Powerful 1/2 motor that delivers enough cutting power to tackle any woodworking project
• Cutting capacity of up to 3-5/8 inches deep and 9 inches wide

It also comes with very convenient features aimed at making the life of a woodworker easier.

For instance, it has a miter gauge that provides carpenters the chance to achieve superior cutting precision on all types of wood.

Its sizeable worktable also tilts up to 45 degrees which are perfect for woodworkers used to cutting in angles.

Last, it has a 2″ dust port which is perfect for hooking a vacuum up and making sure no sawdust or debris gets in the way of a perfect finished job.

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8. WEN 3959T 2.5-Amp 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw for Woodworking

I’d hate wasting money on a benchtop bandsaw that doesn’t have top-quality features.

Luckily, this WEN 3959T benchtop bandsaw comes with great features that make it perfect for woodworking projects, such as its:

• 2.5 amp ball-bearing motor that provides up to 25000 ft/min of top speed which is enough for cutting even the hardest of woods
• Cutting capacity of up to 3-1/2 inches deep and 9 inches wide which is sufficient to take on ambitious woodworking projects

Additionally, its convenience features made this benchtop bandsaw stand out from the rest.

For instance, its sizeable 12-1/4 x 11-7/8 inch workbench that can tilt up to 45 degrees is comfortable enough to let carpenters easily maneuver big wood parts while cutting them.

Lastly, to improve on cutting accuracy, this bandsaw adds a miter gauge.

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9. SKIL 3386-01 120-Volt 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw for Woodworking

The risk of wasting money on a low-quality benchtop bandsaw is seriously high nowadays. I mean, manufacturers are more focused on cutting costs than on bringing a powerful tool for woodworkers to the market.

Luckily the guys at SKIL released this solid bandsaw that comes with solid features, such as its 2.5 amp motor that outputs a max speed of up to 2,800 SFPM.

Moreover, it provides a cutting capacity of 3-1/2 inches and a throat capacity of 9 inches, making it perfect for a wide range of woodworking applications.

Regarding its convenience, the tool has a spacious 12 x 11-3/4 Inches workbench that allows the woodworker to easily maneuver big wood parts. To top it off, the bandsaw has a LED light that improves illumination which is essential in low light conditions.

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10. Studio Pro Precision 2000 Wet/Dry Benchtop Band Saw for Woodworking

This Studio Pro Precision 2000 benchtop bandsaw comes with very surprising features for a bandsaw of this size.

For instance, its 1/8 HP motor is somehow powerful enough to cut through very thick wooden boards which allows serious carpenters to easily work on their woodworking projects.

Moreover, this bandsaw has very convenient attributes such as its:

• Blades that can cut through metal, plastic, and wood
• Blade guide arm that allows the user to adapt the bandsaw to different kinds of thicknesses

Last but not least, this benchtop bandsaw comes with aluminum interior walls and frame making it weigh only 11 pounds, which is surprising for a bandsaw of this amount of potency.

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What Is The Best Benchtop Band Saws for Woodworking Overall?

Rikon 10-3061 10″ Benchtop Band Saw for Woodworking

I selected this Rikon 10″ benchtop band saw mainly due to the following features:

• Powerful 1/2 HP motor that outputs enough power to cut through any kind of woodworking project
• Dust collection port to make sure no debris or sawdust is in the way
• Sizeable 13-3/4” x 12-1/2” workbench tilts up to 45 degrees making letting woodworkers easily maneuver all kinds of wooden boards

If you’d like to read its full review, you’ll be able to find it by clicking the button down below.

Review

What Is The Most Powerful Benchtop Band Saw for Woodworking?

POWERTEC BS900 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw for Woodworking

This POWERTEC BS900 benchtop bandsaw is by far the most powerful tool of all the reviewed bandsaws in this article due to the following attributes:

• Powerful 1/2Hp 2.5 amp motor
• and its cutting capacity of up to 3-5/8 inches deep & 9 inches wide

By clicking the button down below you’ll be redirected to the full review where you’ll learn a bit more about the tool.

Review

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Quick Comparison Table

Name	Power	Dust Collection Port	Table
1. RIKON 10-305 10-inch Benchtop Band Saw for Woodworking Review	1/3 HP motor	Yes	Cast iron 13-3/4-Inch by 12-1/2-Inch table
2. Anbull Portable Benchtop Band Saw for Woodworking Review	10 amp motor	No	Alloy steel workbench can be adjustable up to 45 degrees
3. XtremepowerUS 9-inch Benchtop Band Saw for Woodworking Review	3 amp motor	Yes	11-3/4" x 11-3/4" work surface
4. PROXXON 37172 MICRO Benchtop Band Saw for Woodworking Review	Strong motor outputs from 395 to 820 ft/min of speed	Yes	Table size 7 7/8" x 7 7/8" adjustable from 0 - 45°
5. BILT HARD 2.5-Amp 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw for Woodworking Review	2.5 amp ball bearing induction motor	Yes	Cast iron table measures 12-1/4 x 11-7/8-in
6. Rikon 10-3061 10″ Benchtop Band Saw for Woodworking Review	1/2HP motor, 5.5Amp	Yes	13-3/4” x 12-1/2” and it tilts 5 degrees left, 45 degrees right
7. POWERTEC BS900 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw for Woodworking Review	½ HP, 2.5 amp motor	Yes	Aluminum die-cast table 11-3/4-Inch x 11-3/4-Inch
8. WEN 3959T 2.5-Amp 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw for Woodworking Review	2.5 amp motor	Yes	Work table measures in at 12-1/4 x 11-7/8 inches in size and can be beveled up to 45 degrees
9. SKIL 3386-01 120-Volt 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw for Woodworking Review	2.5 amp motor	Yes	12 x 11-3/4 inches work table
10. Studio Pro Precision 2000 Wet/Dry Benchtop Band Saw for Woodworking Review	1/8 HP motor	Yes	9" x 10" table

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Must-Have Features of the Best Benchtop Band Saws for Woodworking

To save you some time, I made a list of the features benchtop band saws must have to be perfect for woodworking projects.

Cutting Capacity

The cutting capacity (a.k.a. “cutting depth”) of a benchtop band saw measures the distance between its workbench and the band saw’s upper guide. As a result, this limits the width of the wood planks the worker can work on which, in turn, limits the woodworking projects they can go after.

If you asked me, I’d say a benchtop band saw should have a cutting depth of at least 3 inches as it lets the user work tackle ambitious woodworking projects with a bit of leeway.

Power

This is an easy one.

Just as it is with standing drill presses, the more powerful the benchtop band saw’s motor is, the easier cutting through wood will be.

As a general rule, I’d say the best benchtop band saw for woodworking projects should have a motor with at least a 1/3 HP motor. That way you’ll make sure the bandsaw is gonna be strong enough to cut through thick and dense wood planks.

Pro-tip: If you’re tackling serious woodworking projects you might be better of with a 1/2 HP bandsaw. Make sure to know what you’re looking for before pulling the trigger.

Durable Frame

Frames are a frequently overlooked part of bench-top bandsaws. The thing is these frames cannot be changed, so, if you get a bench-top bandsaw manufactured with a low-quality construction, you’ll be stuck with it forever.

I believe the best benchtop band saw for woodworking projects must be made of a solid material such as cast iron or aluminum. That way, you’ll enjoy the guarantee the bandsaw is going to last for a lot of time without breaking or bending.

Throat

Throat size refers to the distance that goes from the blade to the frame of the band saw.

Manufacturers use it as an indicator of the maximum width of wood a specific band saw can handle. They usually include this measurement as part of the name of the product. For instance, if you are looking at a “WEN 3959T 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw” that means its throat size is 9 inches.

I believe the minimum throat the best benchtop band saw for woodworking must-have is at least 9 inches as this gives woodworkers and carpenters enough space to maneuver wood parts of different widths.

Blade Width Versatility

This is a big one for me. There are different blade widths for different purposes.

For instance, if you use a wider saw band, you can make straighter cuts on thick hardwood. On the other hand, a thinner band saw allows one to make scrolling cuts and curves, which is essential in some woodworking projects.

So, I’d say it’s seriously recommended to get a benchtop band saw that can take on blades of different widths as this will allow the user to go after a wide range of woodworking projects that need different natures of cutting.

Heaviness

There’re many opinions about how lightweight a benchtop bandsaw should be.

Some think that given that the benchtop bandsaw is going to be placed on a flat surface and never be moved, it really doesn’t matter how much it weighs. And others think that the heavier it is, the more difficult will be to move around and the more strain it will put on the structure holding it.

Me? I believe it doesn’t matter that much. However, I think that a benchtop bandsaw should weigh more than 60 pounds. That’s lightweight enough to be easily carried around the wood workshop.

Dust Collection Port

Sawdust and debris are a huge topic for woodworkers. It’s not only annoying for the sight but also very bad for your health as it flows in the air commonly ending inside your lungs.

This is why I think that benchtop band saw for woodworking projects should have a dust collection port for hooking a vacuum. This is the fastest way to guarantee the woodworker that he’ll be able to cut wood without dealing with the woodworker sawdust generated.

Safety

As you may know, a benchtop bandsaw can easily cut your fingers and even provoke more serious injuries.

Luckily, nowadays, technology is paving the way to allow bandsaws to be very safe to operate at a workshop.

This is the list of features I believe are necessary for all benchtop bandsaw nowadays:

• oversized stop easy-to-reach buttons
• adjustable blade guards
• safety triggers
• sliding bevels and tension gauges

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a benchtop band saw for woodworking good for?

A benchtop bandsaw can be used for cutting across a board (crosscutting) or with the grain (rip cutting). But the benchtop bandsaw really shines in making curved and complicated cuts thanks to the maneuverability it brings to the table.

This last feature is possible thanks to thin blades that allow the user to make a more controlled and precise cut on the board. As a result, the woodworker can work on precise woodworking projects such as furniture and home decor pieces.

The last thing a benchtop band saw is good for is for woodworking shops where space is an issue. These tools take a smaller space than regular bandsaws and are easier to carry around the shop, which is essential for some carpenters that are constantly re-arranging their shops to maximize efficiency.

Can I use a benchtop band saw for cutting metal?

You most definitely can.

In fact, most benchtop band saws nowadays come with powerful motors and solid blades that can cut through metal easily.

The only thing you have to make sure of is checking with the manufacturer that that specific bandsaw you’re looking for can handle metal sheets.

Do I need specific saw blades for different cuts?

Yes.

As I explained earlier if you’re planning on making straight cuts on thick wood boards, then you’ll need wider bandsaw blades. This will provide the solidity necessary to cut through dense wood parts.

If you’re looking to cut on thinner wooden boards and you need more curved cuts, then a thinner blade should be in order. A thin blade will travel through the grain of the wood faster making precision cuts possible.

How do I sharpen band saw blades?

Most people think that sharpening saw blades is not necessary and you just have to go ahead and shop for a new bandsaw blade.

However, I like to save money and sharpen the existing ones myself. I mean, I only need my trusty Dremel with a cutoff disc and a clamp!

This is how you do it:

1. Install the clamp on the blade to know when to stop
2. Graze the top of each tooth with the cutoff disc (starting on one side of the clamp)
3. Do this until you do the full circle (when you reach the other end of the clamp)

Pro-tip: Make sure to sit comfortably in a nice chair, because it might take up to 15 minutes for each blade.

Here’s a video of this nice man showing us how to exactly sharpen a band saw blade in a few easy steps: