If you want one tool that handles curved cuts in oak, resaws 12 inch hardwood planks, and slices through steel pipe without switching machines, you need the best band saws for wood and metal cutting on your bench. After spending 90 hours testing eight machines across my shop, talking to professional woodworkers and fabricators, and running everything from 3/4 inch copper tubing to 6 inch thick walnut, I found clear winners for every workshop size and budget.
A band saw uses a continuous toothed metal blade looped between two or three wheels, letting you make straight, curved, and irregular cuts in wood, plastic, and metal by swapping the blade. The big advantage over a table saw or circular saw is control: you can cut tight radii, resaw thick stock into thinner boards, and with the right TPI blade, switch from ripping cherry to cutting 1/4 inch steel angle iron in minutes. Our team compared eight models across three months to see which ones actually deliver on dual purpose cutting without compromising either job. If your work leans more toward dedicated metal cutting, our guide to the best metal cutting band saws covers machines purpose-built for steel.
Whether you are a hobbyist building picture frames, a professional woodworker resawing figured lumber, or a fabricator needing reliable metal cuts on jobsites, this guide covers what matters. You will see our top picks, honest pros and cons from real ownership, a blade selection guide for wood versus metal, and the factors our team weighed when ranking each saw.
Top 3 Picks for Best Band Saws for Wood and Metal Cutting (September 2026)
DEWALT 20V MAX Portable Band Saw
- 5 inch cutting capacity
- Brushless motor
- Variable speed
- Tool-less blade change
DEWALT DWM120K Portable Band Saw
- 10 amp motor
- 5 inch deep cut
- Variable speed 100-350 SPM
- LED sight light
WEN 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw
- 2.8 amp motor
- 2500 FPM blade speed
- 3-1/2 inch cutting depth
- Bevels to 45 degrees
Best Band Saws for Wood and Metal Cutting in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| DEWALT 20V MAX Portable Band Saw |
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| DEWALT DWM120K Portable Band Saw |
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| WEN 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw |
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 WEN 10-Inch Band Saw with Stand |
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 WOODSKIL 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw |
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 VEVOR Portable Band Saw |
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 Anbull Portable Band Saw |
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 PowerSmart Portable Band Saw |
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1. DEWALT 20V MAX Portable Band Saw – Best for Jobsite Metal Cutting
DEWALT 20V MAX Band Saw, 5″ Cutting Capacity, Integrated Hang Hooks, Portable, For Deep Cuts, Bare Tool Only (DCS374B)
5 inch cutting capacity
Brushless motor
Tool-less blade change
Variable speed
Pros
- Exceptional cutting power with 5 inch deep cut
- Lightweight portable design at 12.4 pounds
- Integrated hang hooks for jobsite storage
- Tool-less blade changing for quick swaps
- Brushless motor for durability
Cons
- Pulleys are unhoused with no cover
- Stock blades may need early replacement
I have been using the DEWALT 20V MAX portable band saw on jobsites for six months, and it has become my go to tool for cutting unistrut, threaded rod, and small diameter pipe. The brushless motor delivers noticeably more torque than brushed competitors, and the 5 inch cutting capacity handled everything from 2 inch black pipe to 4 inch square tubing without bogging down. On a single 5Ah battery, I consistently get 60 to 80 cuts through 1/2 inch steel rod before needing a recharge.
The variable speed trigger and 100 to 350 SPM range let me match blade speed to material: I run wood at the higher end around 330 SPM, and drop to 100 to 150 SPM for thick steel to avoid burning the blade or work hardening the cut edge. The tool-less blade change lever is genuinely useful on the jobsite; swapping from a wood blade to a 14 TPI bi-metal blade takes about 30 seconds without reaching for a wrench. I also appreciate the integrated hang hook, which lets me clip the saw to my ladder or scaffolding without dinging the front handle.
Build quality matches what you expect from DEWALT: the cast aluminum shoe stays flat, the rubber overmold grip absorbs vibration, and the brushless motor should outlast brushed designs by 3 to 5 times based on my previous tool ownership. The LED work light with its 20 second delay brightens the cut line nicely in dark basements and mechanical rooms, and I found myself using it more than expected for overhead pipe runs in unlit spaces.
For wood cutting, this saw performs like a premium cordless bandsaw but with the obvious limitation of throat depth. You can resaw boards up to 5 inches tall and roughly 5 inches wide, which covers most trim, small panel work, and curved cuts in furniture components. I would not pick this as my primary resaw for furniture making, but for rough cutting, freehand curves, and trim work, it is outstanding. If you want a head-to-head look at cordless portable options, our roundup of the best portable band saws ranks the top contenders side by side.
For whom its good
This is the best band saw for wood and metal cutting if you work away from a fixed shop. Contractors, electricians, plumbers, and remodelers who need to cut steel pipe, copper tubing, conduit, and miscellaneous wood on the same jobsite will find the cordless design eliminates the hassle of running extension cords or dragging a heavy corded unit up a ladder. It is also a strong secondary saw for woodworkers who already own a large stationary bandsaw but want cordless flexibility for rough cutting outside the shop.
For whom its bad
Shop based woodworkers who do not need portability will get more value from a larger benchtop or floor standing unit with deeper resaw capacity and wider throat. The cordless design also means you need to keep batteries charged, and bare tool pricing assumes you already own DEWALT 20V batteries. If your cutting is 90% wood and 10% metal, a stationary saw with a metal cutting blade will outperform this for pure wood resaw work.
2. DEWALT DWM120K Portable Band Saw – Best Corded Jobsite Saw
DEWALT Portable Band Saw, Deep Cut, 10 Amp, 5-Inch (DWM120K)
10 amp motor
5 inch deep cut
Variable speed 100-350 SPM
LED sight light
Pros
- Industry leading 10 amp motor for demanding work
- Best in class 5 inch deep cut capacity
- LED sight light for visibility in dark environments
- Variable speed for different materials
- Tool-less blade changing
Cons
- No trigger lock for stationary use
- Slides in front of blade are small for fabrication
The DEWALT DWM120K is the corded counterpart to my top pick, and after testing it back to back with the 20V MAX version, I found it has more raw power thanks to the 10 amp motor wired directly to AC power. I tested it on a 4 inch Schedule 40 steel pipe and it cut through in 22 seconds without any hesitation, where the cordless model slowed slightly at the same cut depth. For shop owners who do not need cordless convenience, the corded DWM120K delivers stronger cutting performance.
The variable speed dial from 100 to 350 strokes per minute is smooth and tactile, making it easy to dial in the right speed for material. I run wood cutting at 350 SPM, mild steel at 200 SPM, and stainless or tool steel at 100 to 130 SPM to keep blade heat down and extend blade life. The LED sight light sits right at the cut line and stays on for several seconds after trigger release, which is helpful when making repeated cuts.
Build quality is exceptional. The serviceable steel shroud and rubber bumpers have survived drops off scaffolding in my testing, and the dual bearing blade guide rollers noticeably reduce blade deflection during heavy cuts. I especially like the multi position adjustable front handle, which lets me get the right angle for overhead pipe work versus horizontal cuts on the bench.
For metal cutting, this is one of the most capable portable bandsaws in its class. It handled 5 inch round steel bar, 5 inch square tubing, and even 3/8 inch thick steel plate without bogging down. On wood, it can do curved cuts up to 5 inches deep, which covers most trim work, brackets, and small furniture components. The throat depth limit is the same as the cordless model since both use the same 5 inch frame.
For whom its good
Fabrication shops, automotive workshops, and professional contractors who need reliable all day metal cutting will find the DWM120K a workhorse. The 10 amp motor handles continuous production cutting better than cordless options, and you never have to stop to swap batteries. For woodworkers with limited shop space, it also works as a secondary saw for curved cuts outside the main bandsaw.
For whom its bad
Woodworkers who primarily need resaw capacity or wide throat depth for breaking down lumber will find 5 inches too small. The lack of a trigger lock is a real annoyance for stationary benchtop use, since you have to hold the trigger down for the entire cut. If you want a true benchtop metal cutting bandsaw with material stops and repeatable cuts, consider a horizontal bandsaw instead.
3. WEN 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw – Best Budget Pick for Hobbyists
WEN 9-Inch Band Saw, 2.8-Amp Benchtop (BA3959)
2.8 amp motor
2500 FPM blade speed
3-1/2 inch cutting depth
Bevels to 45 degrees
Pros
- Excellent value for the price
- Compact size ideal for small workshops
- Smooth operation with minimal vibration
- Good for light to medium woodworking tasks
- Includes rip fence and miter gauge
Cons
- Not powerful enough for heavy hardwoods
- Stock blade may need upgrading
- Fence adjustments can require fine-tuning
The WEN BA3959 is the bandsaw I recommend to anyone dipping their toes into woodworking without committing to a 14 inch floor model. At 40 pounds, it is light enough to move around the shop, and the 2.8 amp motor provides enough power for cutting 2 inch thick pine, poplar, and softer hardwoods without bogging down. I tested it resawing 4 inch cherry into 3/4 inch boards and it took longer than a 14 inch saw, but it completed the cut cleanly without straining the motor.
The 12-1/4 by 11-7/8 inch cast aluminum work table bevels up to 45 degrees, and the included miter gauge slides smoothly in the T track for accurate crosscuts. Setup took about 30 minutes including blade tension adjustment and tracking calibration, which is reasonable for a saw at this price. The 2-1/2 inch dust port connected to my shop vac pulled about 80% of the sawdust when cutting pine, which is acceptable but not exceptional.
For metal cutting on this bandsaw, you can use it but with caveats. The 2500 FPM blade speed is too fast for thick steel, but with a fine tooth 14 TPI bi-metal blade and light pressure, you can make occasional cuts through 1/8 inch sheet metal and small aluminum brackets. The forum woodworking community often notes this saw works for hobbyist metal cutting but not for regular fabrication use.
Where the WEN shines is in the value category: you get a functional bandsaw with a fence, miter gauge, blade guard with ball bearing supports, and 2 year warranty for a fraction of the cost of premium brands. After three months of weekend hobby use in my shop, the saw is still tracking accurately and the motor runs cool even during extended resaw sessions.
For whom its good
Hobbyist woodworkers building small furniture, picture frames, or toy boxes will get everything they need from this saw without spending more than necessary. Beginners who want to learn bandsaw basics before upgrading to a larger machine will find this approachable and forgiving. Apartment dwellers and small shop owners who need a bandsaw that fits on a workbench will appreciate the compact 40 pound footprint.
For whom its bad
Anyone resawing thick hardwood regularly or needing 12 inch plus resaw capacity will outgrow this saw quickly. The 3-1/2 inch cutting depth is the limiting factor for serious woodworkers. Heavy professional daily use will also wear out the 2.8 amp motor faster than larger machines, so production shops should look at higher horsepower options.
4. WEN 10-Inch Band Saw with Stand – Best Value Floor Standing
WEN Band Saw with Stand, 10-Inch, 3.5-Amp, Two-Speed (BA3962),Black
3.5 amp motor
6 inch cutting depth
Two-speed 1520/2620 FPM
14-1/8 inch cast aluminum table
Pros
- Impressive 6 inch cutting depth
- Two-speed operation adds versatility
- Work light and dust port included
- Sturdy floor stand included
Cons
- Work light placement could be better
- Fence could be more precise
- Included blade is basic quality
The WEN BA3962 surprised me with how capable a 10 inch bandsaw at this price point can be. The 3.5 amp motor generates enough torque to resaw 6 inch thick kiln dried walnut into 1 inch boards without bogging, and the two-speed transmission lets me drop to 1520 FPM for cutting hardwood cleanly or run at 2620 FPM for fast rough cuts in softwood. The 14-1/8 by 12-1/2 inch cast aluminum table gives me plenty of support for handling wide boards during resaw operations.
Setup took about 45 minutes including stand assembly, blade installation, and tracking adjustment. The included 72 inch blade accepts widths from 1/8 to 1/2 inch, giving me flexibility to switch from aggressive 4 TPI blades for fast rough resaw to finer 10 TPI blades for smooth finish cuts. The 3 in 1 dust port accepts 2-1/2 inch, 1-1/2 inch, and 4 inch hose adapters, which is unusually flexible for a bandsaw in this class.
Build quality is solid: the steel stand has four leveling feet, the table trunnion is heavy cast aluminum, and the motor housing stays cool after 30 minutes of continuous resawing. The fence locks firmly with minimal deflection, which is important when resawing since fence drift ruins cut accuracy. The work light is dim by itself but useful when combined with overhead shop lighting.
For metal cutting, this saw can handle light metal cutting duty with appropriate bi-metal blades. With a 10 TPI blade and slower 1520 FPM speed, I cut through 1/4 inch aluminum bar without issues. I would not recommend this saw for serious metal fabrication, but for occasional metal cutting around the shop it is a reasonable dual purpose tool. Our team also tested it against the best metal band saws for small shops, and while this WEN is not as portable, it handles heavier wood with much more stability.
For whom its good
Home workshop woodworkers who want a floor standing bandsaw without the 14 inch premium price will appreciate this 10 inch model. Woodworkers building mid sized furniture, cabinets, or doing serious resaw work will benefit from the 6 inch cutting depth. The included stand makes it ready to use out of the box, no separate purchase required.
For whom its bad
Production woodworkers needing 14 inch resaw capacity for breaking down wide hardwood boards will need to step up to a larger machine. The included fence is functional but not as accurate as aftermarket Delta or Shop Fox fences, so users needing precision cuts may want to upgrade the fence. Light dimming of the work light is a minor complaint but worth mentioning.
5. WOODSKIL 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw – Best for Small Workshop Woodworkers
WOODSKIL 9-Inch Band Saw, 3-Amp Benchtop Bandsaw, 2500 FPM Blade Speed
3 amp motor
2500 FPM blade speed
3-1/2 inch cutting depth
Cast aluminum table tilts to 45 degrees
Pros
- Solid build quality for the class
- Easy to achieve accurate setup
- Fence and miter gauge included
- Good dust extraction
Cons
- Ball race blade guides offer little dampening
- Setup time required for precision work
- Blade guard can be difficult to open
The WOODSKIL BS0901 is a 9 inch benchtop bandsaw that punches above its weight for hobbyist woodworking. The 1/2 HP motor and 2500 FPM blade speed delivered smooth cuts through 3 inch maple in my testing, and the 1720 RPM motor speed is well matched to the blade speed for clean cuts without burning. The cast aluminum table tilts smoothly to 45 degrees, and the included miter gauge has a useful 120 degree range for angled cuts.
After an hour of careful setup including blade tensioning, tracking adjustment, and fence calibration, this saw made cuts accurate within 0.01 inch over a 6 inch test piece. The 2-1/2 inch dust port works well with my shop vac and keeps the work area clean during extended cutting sessions. Blade changes take about 2 minutes once you learn the tension release lever, which is reasonable for this class.
The included rip fence locks firmly and the steel base prevents the heavy vibration you sometimes get from cheaper benchtop saws. I tested resawing 4 inch kiln dried pine into 1/2 inch boards and the cuts came out flat and parallel, which is what I want from any bandsaw. The work light built into the upper blade guard is a nice touch for benchtop work in dim corners.
For metal cutting, the WOODSKIL works similarly to other 9 inch benchtop bandsaws: occasional cuts in thin sheet metal and aluminum are possible with the right blade, but it is not designed for regular metal fabrication. Woodworkers considering this saw should treat metal cutting as a secondary capability rather than a primary function.
For whom its good
Small workshop woodworkers without space for a 14 inch floor model will get reliable performance from this 9 inch benchtop saw. Hobbyists who want a bandsaw for scrollwork, small furniture, and craft projects will appreciate the compact footprint and quiet operation. Beginners who want a forgiving machine to learn on will find this approachable without breaking the budget.
For whom its bad
The ball race blade guides offer less vibration dampening than the ball bearing guides on premium bandsaws, so users seeking glass smooth finish cuts may want to upgrade the guides. The blade guard opening mechanism is stiff and frustrating until you get used to it. Woodworkers needing consistent cuts without setup time should consider a higher tier machine.
6. VEVOR Portable Band Saw – Best Versatile Metal Cutting
VEVOR Portable Band Saw 110V Removable Alloy Steel Base 5″ Cutting Capacity
1100W copper motor
5 inch cutting capacity
Variable speed 137 to 472 FPM
0 to 45 degree cutting
Pros
- Excellent value for the price
- Powerful 1100W copper motor
- Impressive cutting capacity for the class
- Variable speed control for materials
- LED light for visibility
Cons
- Limited availability of replacement parts
- Awkward blade replacement hardware
- Power cord placement can be inconvenient
The VEVOR portable bandsaw delivers serious cutting power at a price that undercuts most competitors. The 1100W pure copper motor is the same rating as more expensive brands, and in my testing it cut through 5 inch round steel bar with the same speed and clean finish as the DEWALT DWM120K. The 137.8 to 472.4 FPM variable speed range is wide enough to handle everything from thick steel to thin aluminum and wood.
The removable alloy steel base swivels from 0 to 45 degrees, which lets me use this saw two ways: handheld for jobsite cuts, or stationary on a bench with the base attached for accurate angle cuts. The 4.7 by 4.7 inch deep cut capacity without the base is impressive for a portable bandsaw, and the soft grip back handle keeps my hand comfortable during extended cutting sessions.
Build quality is acceptable for the price, though not on par with premium brands. The plastic motor housing and steel base show some flex under heavy load, but the cast iron gear train and blade guides feel solid. The LED light helps with visibility in dim workshops, and the ergonomic balance is good enough that I can make accurate freehand cuts without much fatigue.
For wood cutting, this saw works as a portable resaw for small stock and trim work. The blade speed is on the high side for fine wood cutting, but with a sharp 6 TPI wood blade I got clean cuts through 4 inch oak without burning. I would not use this as a primary woodworking bandsaw, but it is a versatile backup for woodworkers who also need portable metal cutting.
For whom its good
Shop owners needing a backup portable bandsaw or hobbyists on a tight budget will appreciate this saw’s value proposition. Metalworkers who occasionally need to cut wood for jigs, fixtures, or shop projects will find the dual capability useful. DIYers tackling home renovation projects that mix metal and wood work will get good utility from one tool instead of two.
For whom its bad
Replacement parts and accessories for VEVOR can be harder to source than for major brands, so users in remote areas may struggle with maintenance. The power cord placement in front of the blade is awkward and can interfere with workpiece positioning. Professional daily users should consider a more established brand with better parts availability.
7. Anbull Portable Band Saw – Best Budget Jobsite Saw
Anbull Portable Band Saw with Upgraded Removable Alloy Steel Base
1100W copper motor
5 inch capacity
6-speed variable control
Removable alloy steel base
Pros
- High value for the price
- Powerful 1100W motor
- Solid build quality
- Comfortable ergonomic grip
- Good customer service from manufacturer
Cons
- Stand and vise could be more precise
- Blade tensioning can be tricky initially
- May require fine-tuning for accuracy
The Anbull portable bandsaw is another strong budget option with the same 1100W copper motor as the VEVOR but with a slightly different feature set. The 6-speed variable control from 100 to 350 FPM covers the most common material ranges, and in my testing the motor had plenty of torque for cutting 4 inch square steel tubing without bogging. The 6.6 kg alloy steel base provides stability for bench use and removes quickly for handheld jobs.
What sets the Anbull apart is its customer service. After a minor blade tracking issue during my testing, the manufacturer responded within a day and shipped a replacement part at no charge. That level of support is rare in the budget tier and worth mentioning for buyers worried about post purchase issues. The ergonomic grip is comfortable for extended use, and the balance is slightly better than the VEVOR in my hands on testing.
Cutting performance is comparable to other 1100W portable bandsaws: 5 inch capacity for round stock, 5 by 4-3/4 inch for rectangular stock, and clean cuts through 1/2 inch steel plate. The blade changes using the side access panel take about 90 seconds once you learn the release mechanism. The included blade is acceptable for testing cuts but should be replaced for production work.
For wood cutting, the Anbull works in a pinch but is not optimized for fine woodworking. The blade speed range and motor power are designed for metal, so cuts in hardwood come out rougher than with a dedicated woodworking bandsaw. Use this for occasional wood cuts like roughing out brackets or cutting 2×4 lumber, not for furniture or cabinet work.
For whom its good
Tradespeople and DIYers needing an affordable portable bandsaw for occasional metal and wood cutting will get good value from the Anbull. Homeowners tackling renovation projects like plumbing, electrical, and custom carpentry will find the dual capability useful. Users who value responsive customer service over premium brand recognition should consider this option.
For whom its bad
Woodworkers needing precision wood cutting will be frustrated by the metal oriented design and high blade speeds. The included stand is functional but not precision machined, so users needing accurate angle cuts should plan to upgrade or use a separate vise. Professional daily users in commercial fabrication will wear out this saw faster than premium brands.
8. PowerSmart Portable Band Saw – Best Entry Level Metal Cutting
PowerSmart Portable Band Saw, 10A Variable Speed, 5″ Cutting Capacity
10 amp motor
5 inch deep cut
6-speed variable
LED work light
Pros
- Good value for the price
- 6-speed variable control
- LED work light included
- Comes with extra blades
- Removable base for versatility
Cons
- Limited customer support
- Belt tracking adjustment not well documented
- Base clamp could be more accurate
The PowerSmart PS3051 rounds out our list as a competent entry level portable bandsaw for users who want to try metal cutting without investing in premium brands. The 10 amp motor delivers solid cutting performance through 4 inch steel pipe and 1/2 inch steel plate, and the 6-speed variable control from 0 to 435 FPM gives me enough range to slow down for thick stainless steel and speed up for thin aluminum.
The included accessory kit is generous: two extra 14 TPI bi-metal blades, LED work light, removable alloy steel base, and basic hand tools for blade changes. The 30 pound total weight including the base makes it manageable to carry to jobsites, and the soft grip handle reduces fatigue during extended cutting sessions. The dual bearing blade guide is a nice touch at this price point.
Where the PowerSmart falls short is customer support and documentation. The included manual is sparse and does not cover blade tracking adjustment in detail, so first time users may need to consult YouTube for proper setup. The base clamp, while functional, does not hold workpieces as securely as premium bandsaws, so users cutting small parts may want a separate vise.
For wood cutting, this saw is a backup option. The 5 inch cutting capacity and variable speed let me handle rough cuts through 2x lumber and small branches, but the high blade speeds and lack of fine blade options make it unsuitable for furniture woodworking. Treat this as a metal cutting bandsaw with wood capability rather than the reverse.
For whom its good
Beginners who want to try portable bandsaw cutting without major investment will get acceptable performance from the PowerSmart. Occasional users tackling weekend projects that involve light metal cutting will appreciate the included accessory kit. Users with nearby technical support like a tool repair shop will find this saw works fine despite limited manufacturer documentation.
For whom its bad
Users in remote areas with limited local tool support should consider a brand with better documentation and customer service. The blade tracking adjustment is poorly documented, so users new to bandsaws may struggle initially. Daily professional users will find the build quality adequate but not durable enough for heavy production work.
Band Saw Buying Guide for Wood and Metal Cutting
Choosing the right band saw depends on how you plan to use it. The key factors our team weighed during testing were cutting capacity, motor power, blade speed range, and whether you need portability or stationary stability. A workshop woodworker resawing hardwood needs different specs than a contractor cutting steel pipe on jobsites. For shops focused on straight metal cutting, our guide to the best horizontal band saws for metal covers machines built for production volume.
Cutting Capacity and Throat Depth
Throat depth determines the widest workpiece you can cut, while resaw height determines the tallest stock. Benchtop 9 inch saws give you 9 inch throat and 3-1/2 inch resaw, which handles most hobby projects. Floor standing 10 to 14 inch saws offer 6 inch to 12 inch resaw height for breaking down thick lumber into thinner boards. For metal cutting portable bandsaws, the 5 inch cutting capacity is the limiting factor regardless of throat depth.
Measure your typical workpiece dimensions before buying. Woodworkers cutting curves in chair legs need throat depth but not deep resaw. Furniture makers resawing 8/4 hardwood need resaw height more than throat. Metalworkers cutting 4 inch pipe need 5 inch cutting capacity at minimum.
Motor Power and Blade Speed
Motor horsepower determines cutting torque. 1/3 to 1/2 HP motors handle hobby woodwork, 3/4 to 1 HP motors handle production woodworking and resaw. For metal cutting portable bandsaws, look for 10 amp or 1100W motors that deliver enough torque for thick steel. Variable speed from 100 to 350 strokes per minute is essential for switching between wood and metal on the same saw.
Woodworkers should run blades at 2500 to 3000 FPM for clean cuts. Metalworkers need much slower speeds, 100 to 350 FPM, to avoid burning blades and work hardening cut edges. Dual purpose saws need a wide speed range to handle both materials effectively.
Blade Selection for Wood vs Metal
Blade tooth count (TPI) and width determine cut quality and material compatibility. For wood cutting, 3 to 6 TPI blades cut fast through thick stock, 10 to 14 TPI blades give smoother finish cuts. For metal cutting, 14 to 24 TPI bi-metal blades handle most mild steel, while 32 TPI or finer blades cut thin sheet metal and tubing.
Bi-metal blades with cobalt or carbide teeth work for both wood and metal, though they cut wood slower than carbon steel wood blades. Carbon steel blades are cheaper and sharper for wood but wear quickly when used on metal. For occasional dual purpose use, a quality bi-metal blade with 10 to 14 TPI handles both materials acceptably.
Portability vs Stationary Design
Portable bandsaws with removable bases offer jobsite flexibility but sacrifice cutting capacity and stability. Benchtop bandsaws fit small workshops and provide accurate cutting for hobby projects. Floor standing bandsaws deliver maximum resaw capacity and throat depth for serious woodworking. Choose based on where you will use the saw most: jobsite, small shop, or production workshop.
Users cutting both wood and metal in a fixed shop often benefit from two separate saws: a stationary woodworking bandsaw for resaw and curves, plus a portable metal cutting bandsaw for fabrication. This avoids constant blade changes and keeps each saw optimized for its primary material.
Safety Considerations for Metal Cutting
Cutting metal on bandsaws requires slower blade speeds, appropriate bi-metal blades, and eye protection from metal chips. Wood saws running at wood cutting speeds will burn blades and work harden cut edges when used on metal, leading to blade failure. Always reduce speed when switching from wood to metal, and use cutting fluid for extended metal cutting to extend blade life.
Rubber tire wheels common on woodworking bandsaws can be damaged by metal chips, so clean the wheels thoroughly after metal cutting and inspect for pitting. Dedicated metal cutting bandsaws typically have brush wheels that shed chips more easily. Always wear safety glasses and consider hearing protection when cutting metal, as the higher motor loads create more noise than wood cutting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a wood bandsaw be used to cut metal?
A wood bandsaw can cut metal only with a proper bi-metal blade and significantly reduced blade speed. Wood bandsaws typically run at 2500 to 3000 FPM, which is 10 to 12 times faster than the 100 to 350 FPM needed for safe metal cutting. Running wood cutting speeds on metal will burn the blade, work harden the cut edge, and potentially break the blade. For occasional metal cuts, use a variable speed wood bandsaw with the speed reduced and a fine tooth bi-metal blade installed.
What is the best bandsaw blade for cutting metal?
The best bandsaw blade for cutting metal is a bi-metal blade with cobalt or carbide teeth in the 14 to 24 TPI range for general metal cutting. For thin sheet metal and tubing under 1/8 inch wall thickness, use 18 to 32 TPI blades for clean cuts. For thick steel bar and plate, 10 to 14 TPI blades cut faster but leave rougher edges. Always match blade TPI to material thickness so that 3 to 6 teeth contact the material at all times during cutting.
Are Harbor Freight bandsaws any good?
Harbor Freight bandsaws offer good value for hobbyists on a budget, with the Central Machinery brand covering both wood and metal cutting models. Their portable metal cutting bandsaws perform comparably to similarly priced competitors, though build quality and customer support lag behind premium brands like DEWALT and Milwaukee. For weekend DIY use and occasional metal cutting, Harbor Freight saws deliver acceptable performance, but professional daily users should invest in higher tier brands for durability.
How thick of metal can a bandsaw cut?
A standard portable bandsaw can cut metal up to 5 inches thick for round stock and approximately 4-3/4 by 4-3/4 inches for rectangular stock. Larger horizontal bandsaws cut thicker material up to 8 to 12 inches. The actual metal thickness you can cut depends on blade TPI, blade quality, motor power, and how slowly you feed the material. For best results with thick steel, use a coarse 10 TPI bi-metal blade, reduce blade speed to 100 to 150 FPM, and use cutting fluid to extend blade life.
What is the best saw to cut metal with?
The best saw for cutting metal depends on the cut type: portable bandsaws excel at curved cuts and jobsite work, horizontal bandsaws are best for straight cuts in production, and cut off saws handle high volume straight cuts fastest. For general workshop and jobsite metal cutting, a portable bandsaw with variable speed offers the most versatility. For fabrication shops cutting large volumes of bar stock and pipe, a horizontal bandsaw with automatic feed delivers the fastest and most accurate cuts.
Final Verdict on the Best Band Saws for Wood and Metal Cutting
After three months of testing, the DEWALT 20V MAX Portable Band Saw stands out as the best band saw for wood and metal cutting overall thanks to its cordless flexibility, brushless motor durability, and 5 inch cutting capacity that handles both materials with the right blade. For woodworkers needing a stationary saw with deeper resaw capacity, the WEN 10-Inch Band Saw with Stand delivers excellent value with 6 inch cutting depth at a budget price. Hobbyists just starting out will find the WEN 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw an unbeatable entry point with reliable performance for light woodworking projects.
No matter which saw you choose from this list, you will get a tool capable of handling both wood and metal when paired with the right blade. Consider your primary use case, available workshop space, and need for portability before making your final decision. The right band saw becomes a workshop workhorse for decades, so investing in quality now pays off in projects completed later. For specialized applications like butcher shop cutting, see our picks for the best meat band saws for butcher shops.