Best Band Saws Under $1000 [2024 Review]

Looking for a reliable yet affordable band saw to complete your workstation?

These machines tend to cost a fortune, so woodworkers often wonder: does the market offer affordable band saws that still deliver quality performance and precise cuts?

Today’s article will help you find the best band saws under $1000 to meet your budget and cutting needs.

Band Saws Under $1000 Reviews

Below, I’m reviewing the 5 best Band Saws Under $1000 on the market. Each unit offers something unique, so you’re bound to find a unit to fit your cutting requirements.

Best Bandsaw Under $1000: RIKON Power Tools 10-3061 Band Saw

The RIKON Power Tools 10-3061 Band Saw is my top recommendation among bandsaws under $1k. It is the perfect combination of power, durability, and versatility. It also offers great cutting capacity, high precision, and convenient operation.

Reliable and versatile, the Rikon 10-3061 can tackle pretty much any material you throw its way, including wood and aluminum (but not steel).

This benchtop band saw is equipped with a 1/2 HP, 110 volts, 5.5 amps motor that rotates at a speed of 1,720 RPM. It can deliver more than enough power to handle cutting workpieces of width up to 10 inches and thickness up to 5 inches.

Product Specs

• Blade Size: 70.5 x 5/16 inches
• Blade Speed(s): 1,515 or 3,280 FPM
• Table Size: 13.75 x 12.5 inches
• Maximum Cutting Width: 10 inches
• Maximum Cutting Depth: 5 inches
• Motor: 1/2 HP, 110 volts, 5.5 amps
• Dimensions: 34.25 H x 21 W x 16.25 D inches
• Weight: 77.5 pounds

This cutting capacity is superior to all the other options I’ve seen, including the Grizzly Industrial G0803Z and the most expensive Jet Hvbs-56.

All this cutting is done over a cast-iron table measuring 13.75 x 12.5 inches to endure whatever pressure you put it through. The table also tilts 45 degrees to the right and 5 degrees to the left to facilitate angles cuts and accommodate a larger variety of workpiece shapes and sizes

For the blade, the Rikon 10-3061 houses a 70.5 x 5/16 inches with a 6 TPI rating. It’s strong and sturdy enough to efficiently meet all your cutting needs, with a width range between 1/8 and 0.5 inches.

Speed-wise, you can either go with 1,515 FPM or 3,280 FPM. The choice comes down to the density and size of the workpiece, but having multiple options boosts the versatility of the machine and gives you more flexibility in projects.

The Rikon 10-3061 is also big on accuracy. It has a large front guide rail with a built-in adjustable scale and a tool-less blade guide to support better precision.

The one thing I’d like to see improved is the bandsaw fence — the toggle cam feels a bit flimsy and the alignment sometimes seems to need more adjustment levels.

That said, I appreciate the included blade tension quick-release lever that allows you to set your preferred blade tension in no time. The large blade knob supports easier control and the large viewing window makes the operation more convenient.

Also, I like the updated dust port on this unit. Moving it up the base and tilting it made for easier fitting to workshop hoses so you can keep your workspace neat without much hassle.

At 77.5 pounds, the Rikon 10-3061 is on the heavier side, so it’s not the best option for on-the-go projects like the lighter weight Grizzly G0803Z and the Dewalt DCS371B. Still, it beats the Jet Hvbs-56 and the Wen BA4664 when it comes to portability.

Pros

• The largest cutting capacity on today’s list
• It’s highly versatile thanks to the multiple speeds and table tilt
• The price tag is very reasonable given the features

Cons

• The fence toggle cam isn’t as sturdy as you’d expect given the price

Best Value: Grizzly G0803Z Band Saw

The Grizzly G0803Z Band Saw is a terrific choice for woodworkers looking to get the most out of their hard-earned money.

This benchtop band saw is loaded with impressive features that exceed other candidates in its class, particularly when I talk about its sizable cutting capacity and robust motor.

The Grizzly benchtop saw is ideal for cutting all types of wood with efficiency and precision. It’s equipped with a 1/3 HP, 120 volts, 2.8 amps motor that runs powerful enough to cut through workpieces of width up to 9 inches and thickness up to 3-5/8 inches.

This cutting capacity is comparable to the Wen BA4664 and well exceeds the Dewalt DCS371B. However, it falls short of the Jet Hvbs-56 in the thickness department.

Product Specs

• Blade Size: 62 inches x  (1/8 to 3/8 inches wide)
• Blade Speed(s): 2,460 FPM
• Table Size: 12 x 12 x 5/8 inches
• Maximum Cutting Width: 8-7/8 inches
• Maximum Cutting Depth: 3-5/8 inches
• Motor: 1/3 HP, 120 volts, 2.8 amps
• Dimensions: ‎20.75 x 17 x 29.5 inches
• Weight: 42 pounds

The cutting is done over a table measuring 12 x 12 x 5/8 inches. It’s spacious enough to maximize user convenience and sturdy enough to withstand operation pressure. You can also tilt the table up to 45 degrees to the right to fit the stock’s size and shape.

The Grizzly G0803Z uses a 62-inch blade to efficiently handle your cutting needs. The unit can accommodate blade thickness between 1/8 to 3/8 inches without issues — a bit thinner than the Rikon 10-3061 limit though.

Unlike the Wen BA4664, the Jet Hvbs-56, and the Rikon 10-3061, you only get one speed in the Grizzly G0803Z, which is 2,460 FPM.  This can cover a wide range of wood types, but not metal.

That said, I like the fast alignment of this unit supported by lower and upper blade guides with adjustable wheels and ball bearings. Not to mention, the quick-release lever saves you time in setting your preferred blade tension.

A unique aspect of the Grizzly G0803Z is its laser system that emits laser lines to maximize your cutting precision. There’s also an LED work light that you can adjust to improve visibility while working.

Additionally, the unit has a safety paddle switch and a removable key for better protection. Weight-wise, the Grizzly G0803Z is decently portable at just 42 pounds.

Pros

• It has a laser marker to guide your cutting
• The cast-iron and ball bearing construction ensures a long lifespan
• Good portability given its power, weighing only 42 pounds

Cons

• The 2,460 FPM blade speed makes it unsuitable for cutting metals

Best Budget: Dewalt DCS371B Band Saw

If you’re a woodworker who’s short on money, I recommend the portable Dewalt DCS371B Band Saw to give you reliable and effective performance while being easy on your wallet.

The Dewalt DCS371B is one of the most user-friendly portable band saws on the market. It runs on a battery, so it’s ideal for on-the-go projects or away from your indoor workstation.

Its amazing portability is also thanks to its lightweight design of just 10 pounds, which allows you to transport and carry the unit with minimal effort.

Product Specs

• Blade Size: 32-7/8 inches 14/18 TPI
• Blade Speed(s):  570 FPM
• Table Size: 5.5 x 4.5 inches
• Maximum Cutting Width: 2 inches
• Maximum Cutting Depth: 2-3/8 inches
• Motor: 20 volts high-performance brushless motor
• Dimensions: 12.2 x 15.38 x 8.7 inches
• Weight: ‎10.2 pounds

The 20 volts high-performance brushless motor is powered by a premium Lithium-ion battery to accommodate the 2.5-inch cutting capacity, which is more than enough given the size of the band saw.

Granted, the Dewalt DCS371B isn’t as powerful as the other candidates on today’s list -with the closest option being the Grizzly G0803Z-, but that’s expected since it’s a portable model that costs just a couple of hundred bucks.

That said, it can cut through a variety of materials including metallic conduits thanks to its blade speed of 570 FPM.

The Dewalt DCS371B comes with a built-in hook hand so you can store it without damaging the machine’s base or front handle. I were also impressed by the improved blade tracking as it extends blade life.

Unlike the Wen BA4664 and the Jet Hvbs-56, the Dewalt DCS371B has an LED light with a 20-second delay to illuminate your workpiece for improved cutting precision.

One thing I wish I can change is the purchase package. It doesn’t include the battery or the charger, which isn’t very convenient.

Read more in my top budget bandsaw review.

Pros

• It can cut a variety of materials including metallic parts
• Very portable thanks to its compact and lightweight design
• The most affordable option on my list

Cons

• The 2.5-inch cutting capacity is the least among the rest of the candidates
• The purchase doesn’t include the battery or the charger

Best for Metal: Wen BA4664 Band Saw

When it comes to cutting metal, the Wen BA4664 Band Saw is especially suitable for the task if you’re looking for a unit under $1000. It has the appropriate speed options and a durable blade to efficiently get the job done.

The Wen BA4664  band saw is made specifically to address your metal cutting needs. It’s equipped with a 3/4 HP, 120 volts, 4.6 amps motor that delivers more than enough power to cut through workpieces of width up to 6 inches and thickness up to 4.5 inches or pipes of diameter up to 4.5 inches.

This cutting capacity well exceeds the Dewalt DCS371B and is similar to the Rikon 10-3061. However, it falls behind the Jet Hvbs-56 in the thickness aspect.

Product Specs

• Blade Size:  64.5 x 0.5 inches
• Blade Speed(s): 80, 120, or 200 FPM
• Table Size: 9.6 x 9.4 inches
• Maximum Cutting Width: 6 inches
• Maximum Cutting Depth: 4.5 inches
• Motor: 3/4 HP, 120 volts, 4.6 amps
• Dimensions: ‎38 x 37 x 20.5 inches
• Weight: 109 pounds

That said, the major difference between the Wen BA4664 and the Rikon 10-3061 or the Dewalt DCS371B is its speed. With 3 speed options of 80, 120, and 200 FPM, the Wen BA4664 can handle all types of metal such as steel, brass, copper, and aluminum without damaging the blade.

Speaking of which, the included blade is 64.5 inches long and 0.5 inches thick to hold its ground when working through hard metal stock.

The cutting in this unit is done over a table measuring 9.6 x 9.4 inches and made of cast iron to provide enough space and durability for metal cutting. It’s even fitted with a mitering vise that lets you make cuts at any angle between 0 and 60 degrees.

While the Rikon 10-3061, the Grizzly G0803Z, and the Dewalt DCS371B support vertical operation only, the Wen BA4664 lets you work both vertically and horizontally.

Additionally, it comes with a stand featuring two 4-inch wheels and a collapsible handle to make transportation a breeze. I do wish the stand was a bit sturdier, but I can’t complain much at this price point.

We appreciate the ball bearing guides that serve to extend the blade’s lifespan. I also like the automatic shut-off function that stops the blade once a cut is finished.

Pros

• Thanks to its speed options, this band saw can cut a variety of metals including steel and brass
• The cutting capacity is great for metals
• The blade is thick to resist damage when cutting metals

Cons

• The included stand can be sturdier

Best for Professionals: Jet Hvbs-56 Band Saw

Last but not least, the Jet Hvbs-56 Band Saw is more of a premium option that can meet the cutting of professionals when it comes to power, precision, and speed.

The Jet Hvbs-56 Band Saw is equipped with a 1/2 HP, 115/230 volts motor that delivers great power and versatility for cutting a wide selection of materials be it wood, metals, and plastics. Its motor beats the rest of the candidates on the list, including the Rikon 10-3061.

Like the Wen BA4664, the Jet Hvbs-56 is equipped with a 64.5-inch blade. It’s made out of heat-treated steel to endure the stress of small and large bandsaw projects for a longer time.

Product Specs

• Blade Size: 64.5 x 0.35 inches
• Blade Speed(s): 80, 120, or 200 FPM
• Table Size: 37 x 17.72 inches
• Maximum Cutting Width: 5 inches
• Maximum Cutting Depth: 5.75 inches
• Motor: 1/2 HP, 115/230 volts
• Dimensions: 88 x 51 x 55 inches
• Weight: 115 pounds

Unlike the Rikon 10-3061, the Grizzly G0803Z, and the Dewalt DCS, both vertical and horizontal operations are possible in the Jet Hvbs-56 — similar to the Wen BA4664.

That said, the included stand in this machine is a lot more rugged than the one accompanying the Wen option.

Its 14-gauge steel construction provides excellent stability whereas the built-in shelf is useful for storing your tools. It’s also fitted with sturdy wheels and a handle for convent transportation.

To improve cutting accuracy, the blade guides are resting on ball-bearing fixtures. Additionally, the operating speeds of 80, 120, and 200 FPM boost the versatility of the unit to suit an extensive variety of applications.

While the Jet Hvbs-56 offers one of the best cutting thicknesses on the market, I’m a bit disappointed by the cutting height given the price point. At half the cost, the Grizzly G0803Z offers more height.

Pros

• Excellent versatility for cutting wood, metal, and plastic
• The included heat-treated steel stand is very durable
• The motor is very powerful compared to the rest of the candidates

Cons

• The most expensive candidate on the list
• The cutting height is disappointing for the class

Features to Consider in a Band Saws Under $1000

$1k will get you a really nice bandsaw, but not the top end option. Therefore, you won’t be able to get ALL the bells and whistles, and are going to have to choose between a few key features.

The best bandsaws will typically come with larger motors and a bigger cutting capacity. However, most projects won’t require either of those.

Cutting Capacity

Cutting capacity lets you know the maximum size of workpiece you can cut using your band saw. It includes two parameters: a cutting width and a cutting height/depth.

Generally, you want a large cutting capacity to accommodate a variety of projects. That said, a band saw under $1000 will pretty much never offer a cutting capacity more than 10 inches wide and 6 inches thick.

Blade Speed

The speed of the blade depends on the material you’re planning to cut and is measured in FPM (feet per minute).

Wood can be cut at low and high speeds, but around 1,000 FPM is a common speed. Aluminum shares a similar speed range, however, steel and brass require a much slower speed to prevent damaging the blade.

For the latter, a range of 100 FPM will do the trick.

Motor Power

Band saws usually range between 0.5 and 3 HP. Since a $1,000 budget limits you, your options will probably never exceed 1 HP.

That’s a lot better than bandsaws in the $500 price range, as you typically are stuck with a 1/3 HP motor. Doubling your budget can really increase the motor size.

That’s fine though — 1/3, 1/2, and 3/4 HP are good enough for most average sized projects.

FAQs

Wrap Up

No workshop is complete without a dependable band saw to help you address your project’s cutting needs. If you’re looking for the best band saws under $1000, I recommend the RIKON 10-3061 Band Saw.

Not only is it durable, powerful, and comes at a competitive price, but it also offers high precision, multiple speeds, and a user-friendly operation.