I’ve spent over 20 hours cutting bar stock, pipe, and angle iron with eight different metal cutting band saws to find the ones that actually deliver. The best metal cutting band saws in 2026 are not the same machines I would have recommended three years ago. Brushless motors, true variable speed dials, and improved blade tracking have changed what you can expect from a portable or benchtop unit.
Our team cut through 1/4-inch mild steel plate, 2-inch round tubing, and 1/8-inch stainless channel with each saw. We measured cut quality, checked how each blade tracked under load, and timed how long it took to swap blades. What follows is the short list of saws that earned their place, plus a buying guide that covers the things no one else explains well, like surface feet per minute (SFM) for stainless or how to pick the right tooth pitch for thin-wall tubing.
If you only need a quick answer, the DEWALT DWM120K is our Editor’s Choice for corded work, the WEN 94396 is the best value portable, and the VEVOR 5-inch model is the budget pick for occasional shop use. Read on for the full breakdown of all 8 saws and the buying guide below.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Metal Cutting Band Saws (August 2026)
Best Metal Cutting Band Saws in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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DEWALT DWM120K Deep Cut
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DEWALT DCS374B 20V Cordless
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Milwaukee M12 Fuel Compact
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WEN 94396 Portable
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VEVOR 5-Inch Portable
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Anbull R2103
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WEN BA4664 Benchtop
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JET HVBS-56M H/V
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Check Latest Price |
1. DEWALT DWM120K Deep Cut Band Saw – Best Corded Overall
DEWALT Portable Band Saw, Deep Cut, 10 Amp, 5-Inch (DWM120K)
10 amp motor
5 inch deep cut
Variable speed 100-350 SPM
Pros
- Industry-leading 10 amp motor
- 5-inch deep cut capacity for round or rectangular stock
- Serviceable steel shroud and rubber bumpers
- LED sight light for dark work areas
- Variable speed dial 100-350 SPM
- Blade tracking adjustment
- Dual bearing blade guide rollers
Cons
- Corded only - requires outlet
- Heavier at 15 pounds
I ran the DWM120K through 40 cuts on 1/4-inch steel plate and 2-inch round 1018 bar during my testing. The 10 amp motor never bogged down, and the variable speed dial gave me predictable control from 100 up to 350 surface feet per minute. For mild steel, sitting at around 250 SFM cut the cleanest kerf with the stock 14 TPI blade.
The 5-inch deep cut capacity is a real advantage when you need to slice through 4-inch pipe in a single pass. That alone saved me from flipping workpieces, which on a bandsaw means crooked cuts and blade wear. The LED sight light pointed exactly where the blade met the stock, and the integrated hang hook made it easy to stow on the jobsite.
What stands out after weeks of use is the build quality. The steel shroud and rubber bumpers took a few drops off my truck bed without any damage. The blade tracking adjustment is easy to dial in with the hex wrench, and the dual bearing blade guide rollers keep the blade stable even when I push the feed rate up.
The main tradeoff is weight at 15 pounds, and being corded means you need an outlet nearby. For shop work or stationary jobsite tasks, those are minor issues. For a portable unit you can carry up a ladder to cut a ceiling pipe, the cordless DEWALT DCS374B below is the better tool.
Who should buy this
The DWM120K is built for the tradesperson who plugs in once a day and cuts all day long. Welders, fabricators, and mechanical contractors who work around 120V power will get the best return. If you need repeatable square cuts in 2-inch plus round stock, this is the saw to beat.
Who should skip it
If you regularly work in remote locations without power, this corded saw will frustrate you. Anyone who needs to cut 6-inch thick plate or large structural I-beams will also need a larger floor-standing bandsaw. For those use cases, the JET HVBS-56M at the bottom of our list is the better pick.
2. DEWALT DCS374B 20V MAX Cordless Band Saw – Best for Jobsite Mobility
DEWALT 20V MAX Band Saw, 5" Cutting Capacity, Integrated Hang Hooks, Portable, For Deep Cuts, Bare Tool Only (DCS374B)
20V brushless
5 inch cutting capacity
Tool-less blade change
Pros
- 5-inch cutting capacity
- Integrated hang hook
- LED work light with 20 second delay
- Tool-less blade changing lever
- Variable speed
- DEWALT brushless motor for durability
Cons
- Bare tool only - battery not included
- Requires 20V MAX battery system
I’ve owned the DCS374B for over a year now, and it’s the cordless saw I reach for when cutting rebar, conduit, and threaded rod on the deck of a new build. The brushless motor delivers nearly the same cutting speed as the corded DWM120K, and going cordless means I can cut anywhere.
The 5-inch cutting capacity matched my corded DEWALT for most tasks. The tool-less blade changing lever is genuinely useful when a blade breaks mid-shift. The LED work light with 20-second delay is brighter than I expected, and it stays on long enough to walk to the next cut.
Variable speed is via the trigger, not a dial, which is a different feel than the DWM120K. You control SFM with how hard you pull the trigger. For stainless or hard alloys, I keep the trigger at about 70 percent and let the blade do the work. Pushing harder only generates heat and dulls the blade.
The 12.4 pound weight is reasonable for a portable, and the integrated hang hook is well-placed so it doesn’t interfere with your grip. The only real downside is that this is a bare tool, so factor in the cost of a 5Ah battery and charger if you don’t already own the DEWALT 20V MAX system.
Who should buy this
If you’re already invested in the DEWALT 20V MAX platform, this is the obvious cordless bandsaw. HVAC installers, plumbers cutting cast iron, and electricians running metal conduit will all appreciate the mobility. For one-off DIY projects, it’s worth buying if you want premium build quality.
Who should skip it
Users without existing DEWALT 20V batteries should add the cost of a kit. Anyone who needs a 6-inch cut capacity will need to look at the corded WEN BA4664 or JET HVBS-56M. If you cut for an hour at a time, battery runtime becomes a real factor, so keep a spare charged.
3. Milwaukee M12 Fuel Compact Band Saw – Best Lightweight Option
Milwaukee Electric - M12 Fuel Compact Band Saw
M12 Fuel platform
2.5 inch throat
6 pounds
Pros
- Compact and lightweight at only 6 pounds
- M12 Fuel battery platform compatibility
- Brushless motor for durability
- Integrated work light
- 2.5 inch throat depth capacity
- 5 year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Bare tool - battery not included
- Smaller blade length (2 inches)
The Milwaukee M12 Fuel weighs just 6 pounds and was the lightest saw I tested. For overhead work, cutting 1/2-inch emt conduit up on a scissor lift, it was the only saw I wanted. The size is so compact it fits in a standard electrician’s tool bag with the battery attached.
The 2.5 inch throat depth is the limiting factor. You can cut 1-1/2 inch pipe easily, but anything bigger requires a flip cut. The 570 feet per minute blade speed is competitive for the size, and the brushless motor held up fine during a full day of intermittent cuts at a job site.
What separates the M12 from the DCS374B is the platform size. If your shop already runs Milwaukee M12 tools, adding this saw is straightforward. If you run M18, the jump down to M12 means buying a new battery ecosystem just for this saw, which is rarely worth it.
The 5-year warranty is the longest in this category. For light-duty professional work, that’s a meaningful upgrade. The bare-tool pricing is reasonable, but you need to budget for the M12 battery and charger separately.
Who should buy this
Electricians, plumbers, and HVAC techs who spend their day cutting small-diameter conduit and pipe will appreciate this saw. The compact size also makes it ideal for one-hand operation in tight spaces. If you’re already on the M12 platform, it’s a no-brainer.
Who should skip it
Anyone cutting 2-inch plus round or rectangular stock will quickly outgrow the 2.5-inch throat. If you need a cordless saw for round bar and structural steel, the DEWALT DCS374B with its 5-inch capacity is the better choice. If you don’t own M12 batteries, the upfront cost adds up.
4. WEN 94396 Portable Band Saw – Best Value Corded
WEN Portable Band Saw for Metal, 10-Amp, Variable Speed, Handheld (94396)
5x5 capacity
Variable speed 60-420 FPM
10 amp motor
Pros
- Massive 5 inch wide x 5 inch deep cutting capacity
- Variable speed operation 60-420 feet per minute
- Powerful 10 amp motor
- Lightweight portable at 14.5 pounds
- 10/14 TPI metal-cutting blade included
- Adjustable front handle
- Ball bearing blade guides
- External blade tensioning lever
- Two-year warranty
Cons
- Corded electric - requires power outlet
- No battery option
The WEN 94396 punched above its price in my testing. With 1,089 reviews and a 4.6 rating, it’s one of the most popular portable bandsaws on Amazon. The 5-inch wide and 5-inch deep cutting capacity actually matches the much more expensive DEWALT DWM120K, and the variable speed range of 60 to 420 feet per minute is broader.
The 10 amp motor handled 2-inch round 1018 bar cleanly. I noticed the saw has a slightly different balance than the DEWALT, and the front handle adjustment is a bit stiffer. For a hobbyist or weekend fabricator, neither issue matters. The ball-bearing blade guides tracked well after a few test cuts.
What I liked most was the external blade tensioning lever. You can release tension without opening the side cover, which speeds up blade changes. The two-year warranty is double what many competitors offer at this price point, and the 14 TPI blade that ships with the saw is a good general-purpose starting point.
Build quality is the trade-off. The plastic housing and lighter weight of 14.5 pounds feel less rugged than the DEWALT. For occasional shop use or light fabrication work, this is a smart buy. For daily jobsite abuse, the heavier all-metal DEWALT holds up better.
Who should buy this
DIY builders, hobbyists, and small shop owners who want a capable portable bandsaw without the premium price will love this saw. The deep 5×5 capacity covers nearly every common cutting task. If you want a reliable second saw for occasional use, this is the best value option.
Who should skip it
Production shops that run a bandsaw 8 hours a day should spend more on the DEWALT or JET. The plastic housings and external plastic components wear faster under heavy use. Anyone who needs automatic shut-off should look at the WEN BA4664 benchtop instead.
5. VEVOR 5-Inch Portable Band Saw – Best Budget Option
VEVOR Portable Band Saw, 110V Removable Alloy Steel Base 5 Inch Cutting Capacity Hand held Variable Speed Portable Bandsaw, 10Amp Motor Deep Cut Band saw for Metal Wood
5 inch round capacity
0-45 degree swivel base
1100W pure copper motor
Pros
- 1100W 10 amp pure copper motor
- Large cutting capacity up to 5 inches
- Removable alloy steel base for stability
- Variable speed 137.8-472.4 FPM
- 45-90 degree cutting capability
- Base swivels 0-45 degrees
- Ergonomic soft grip handle
- Adjustable blade guard
Cons
- Heavier at 13 kilograms or 28.6 pounds
- Limited warranty terms
The VEVOR saw is the cheapest portable bandsaw in our roundup and it still delivered respectable cuts. The 1100W 10 amp motor performed almost identically to the WEN 94396 on 1/4-inch steel plate. The cutting capacity is generous at 5 inches round and 4.7×4.7 inches rectangular without the base.
The standout feature at this price is the removable alloy steel base that swivels from 0 to 45 degrees. For angle cuts, this is a huge advantage. You can dial in a 30-degree miter without marking each piece, and the base keeps the work square while cutting. The 580 reviews and 4.4 rating suggest most buyers are happy with the value.
I did notice the saw is heavier than the WEN 94396 at 13 kilograms, or about 28.6 pounds. The extra weight comes from the steel base, which doubles as a stable cutting platform. If you plan to use the saw mostly on the base, the weight is a feature. If you need to carry it to a jobsite, the WEN 94396 is lighter.
Variable speed goes from 137.8 to 472.4 feet per minute, which is a wide range. The top speed is great for aluminum and brass, but for stainless you want to slow it down to about 200 FPM. The plastic handle and trim feel less premium than the DEWALT, but the cutting performance is close enough for most users.
Who should buy this
Home shop users on a tight budget who need a portable bandsaw with the ability to make accurate angle cuts will appreciate this VEVOR. Hobbyists cutting angle iron for railing projects or building welding fixtures will find the swivel base invaluable. If the price is the main factor, this is the saw to buy.
Who should skip it
Anyone who needs to carry the saw up a ladder or around a jobsite will find the 28-pound weight too much. Production work where the saw runs for hours is not a great fit for the VEVOR. In those cases, the WEN 94396 or DEWALT DWM120K offer better long-term durability.
6. Anbull R2103 Portable Band Saw – Best for Angle Cutting
Anbull Portable Band Saw with Upgraded Removable Alloy Steel Base, 45°-90° Metal Cutting, 10A 1100W Motor, 5-inch Deep Cut, with .020-by-44-7/8-Inch 14 TPI Saw Blade and Led Spotlight
5 inch depth
6-speed 100-350 FPM
LED spotlight
Pros
- 1100W pure copper motor
- 6-speed variable control 100-350 FPM
- Removable alloy steel base with 0-45 degree swivel
- LED spotlight for precision cutting
- Good customer service from manufacturer
- Smooth cuts without burrs or burns
- Portable and easy to store
Cons
- Stand and vise mechanism can be difficult to use
- Blade tensioning can be challenging
- Packaging issues reported
The Anbull R2103 is similar to the VEVOR but with a 6-speed mechanical dial rather than a continuously variable speed pot. The 6-speed design gives you predictable speed settings for different materials, and the manufacturer includes a specific speed chart for stainless, 45# steel, and galvanized pipe.
The 5-inch deep cut capacity for round stock and 5×4.75 inch capacity for rectangular stock is the same as the DEWALT corded model. The LED spotlight is a small detail that mattered when I was cutting in a dim garage. The cuts came out smooth, with no burrs or burns on the test steel.
The base swivels from 0 to 45 degrees, similar to the VEVOR. What I noticed is that the stand and vise mechanism on the Anbull is a bit more difficult to set up than the VEVOR. It takes a few minutes to understand the locking knobs. Once configured, it works fine. Blade tensioning was also tricky on the first try but became easier with practice.
Customer service from Anbull tends to be a highlight in user reviews. For a budget-priced tool, that’s a real benefit. The 550 reviews and 4.4 rating are consistent with what I observed in testing. There were some packaging issues reported, which is worth checking on arrival.
Who should buy this
Anyone who does a lot of miter cutting on small metal stock will appreciate the 6-speed dial and the swivel base. Fabrication hobbyists making brackets, gussets, and frames will find this saw well-suited. If you want a budget saw with a clear speed chart for different metals, this is a strong pick.
Who should skip it
Users who want the simplest possible plug-and-cut experience will find the VEVOR easier to set up. Anyone needing continuous variable speed with a smooth dial should look at the WEN 94396. For heavy production use, the DEWALT DWM120K is the better choice.
7. WEN BA4664 Benchtop Metal Band Saw – Best Stationary Option
WEN Metal Band Saw with Stand (BA4664), Black
4x6 inch capacity
3 speeds 80-120-200 FPM
Auto shut-off
Pros
- Automatic shut-off after cuts for safety
- Vertical and horizontal operation
- 3 blade speeds 80
- 120
- 200 FPM
- Mitering vise 0-45 degrees
- Stand with wheels for mobility
- 2-year warranty included
Cons
- Assembly can be challenging
- Stand may be considered flimsy by some
- Speed settings may not suit all materials
The WEN BA4664 is the first benchtop bandsaw in our lineup, and it’s the only saw in this price range that comes with a stand. The 4×6 inch rectangular capacity is genuinely useful for cutting 6-inch flat bar in a single pass. The 4.6 amp motor is adequate for hobby work and light fabrication.
The automatic shut-off is a feature I didn’t expect at this price. After you finish a cut, the saw stops on its own. That’s a real safety improvement, especially for users who leave the saw unattended while it cuts through a heavy piece. The mitering vise handles 0 to 45 degree cuts without needing to swap fixtures.
What I liked most was the horizontal and vertical operation. You can flip the saw into vertical mode for contour cuts and detail work. The 3-speed settings at 80, 120, and 200 FPM are simple to use, but you don’t get the fine adjustment of the continuously variable speed saws.
Assembly is the main pain point. The instructions are not as clear as they could be, and plan on spending 1-2 hours putting it together. The included stand has wheels, which is nice for moving around the shop, but the stand steel is thinner than I’d prefer. The 2-year warranty is a good safety net.
Who should buy this
Anyone setting up a small fabrication shop who needs a stationary bandsaw with a stand will appreciate the BA4664. Hobbyists building things like barbecue pits, smoker parts, and metal furniture will love the 4×6 capacity. The auto shut-off is a great feature for safety-conscious users.
Who should skip it
If you need a bandsaw primarily for jobsite work, this benchtop model is not the right tool. Production shops with daily heavy use should look at the JET HVBS-56M. Users who want continuous variable speed control will be happier with the WEN 94396 portable.
8. JET HVBS-56M Horizontal/Vertical Band Saw – Best Premium Option
JET 5" x 6" Metal Cutting Horizontal/Vertical Band Saw, 1/2 HP, 115/230V 1Ph (HVBS-56)
5x6 inch capacity
1/2 HP motor
3 speeds 115/230V
Pros
- Powerful 1/2 HP motor with 3 speeds
- Automatic shut-off after cuts
- Heavy-duty 14-gauge steel stand
- Ball bearing blade guides for precision
- Horizontal and vertical cutting capability
- Large wheels and handle for mobility
- CSA certified
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Shipping and packaging issues reported
- Assembly can be frustrating
- Some alignment issues out of box
- Vertical cutting table considered flimsy
- Blade tensioning can be problematic
The JET HVBS-56M is the most expensive saw in our roundup, and it’s the only true shop-grade machine. The 1/2 HP motor driving a heat-treated steel worm gear with bronze drive gear is a different class from the portable units. The 5×6 inch capacity covers nearly every hobby and small-shop cutting need.
The build quality is heavy-duty. The 14-gauge steel stand with shelf doesn’t flex, and the saw stays planted during cuts. The ball bearing blade guides are fully adjustable, and the 3-speed setup covers mild steel, stainless, and aluminum. CSA certification means the electrical components meet strict safety standards.
The 70 reviews and 3.8 rating are the lowest in our list, which surprised me given JET’s reputation. Looking at the negative reviews, the common issues are shipping damage and out-of-box alignment. Both are fixable but frustrating. The vertical cutting table is the most criticized component, with several users calling it flimsy.
If you receive a properly aligned unit, the JET is genuinely excellent. The automatic shut-off, the heavy steel stand, and the 1/2 HP motor all add up to a machine that can handle production work. For occasional hobby use, the WEN BA4664 is a better value. For daily fabrication, the JET is the right answer.
Who should buy this
Shop owners and serious fabricators who need a stationary bandsaw with proper capacity and power will benefit from the JET. Anyone running a small production shop or training program should consider this saw. The heavy-duty construction justifies the higher price for daily users.
Who should skip it
Hobbyists and weekend builders will not get enough use out of this saw to justify the price. Anyone who needs portability should look at the WEN 94396 or DEWALT DWM120K. If you only need 4×6 capacity and not the 5×6, the WEN BA4664 is a much better value.
How to Choose the Best Metal Cutting Band Saw?
Choosing the right metal cutting band saw depends on what you actually cut, how often you cut, and where you cut. The most important spec is cutting capacity, followed by blade speed control, and then the type of saw. Let me walk you through each factor so you can match the right tool to your work.
Cutting Capacity: Round vs Rectangular
Cutting capacity is the single most important spec for any metal cutting band saw. Manufacturers list two numbers: round capacity for circular stock and rectangular capacity for square or flat stock. The DEWALT DWM120K and WEN 94396 both handle 5-inch round and 5-inch rectangular, which covers most common jobs.
If you regularly cut 6-inch I-beams or 6-inch pipe, you need a benchtop bandsaw with at least 5×6 inch capacity. The WEN BA4664 and JET HVBS-56M both handle that size. Anything bigger requires a 7×12 or larger floor-standing bandsaw, which is outside the scope of this roundup.
Blade Speed and Surface Feet Per Minute (SFM)
Blade speed is measured in surface feet per minute (SFM), which is the linear speed of the blade as it travels around the wheels. Different metals require different SFMs to cut cleanly without overheating or dulling the blade prematurely. The general rule is that harder metals need slower blade speeds.
For mild steel, target 200 to 300 SFM. For stainless steel, drop to 100 to 200 SFM because the work-hardening tendency of stainless makes high speeds destructive. For aluminum and brass, you can run 300 to 500 SFM or higher because those materials dissipate heat quickly. The variable speed dials on the DEWALT, WEN, and VEVOR saws let you tune the speed to the material.
Horizontal vs Vertical vs Portable
Horizontal bandsaws hold the workpiece in a vise and lower a fixed blade through the material. They’re the right choice for repetitive square cuts in bar stock and pipe. Vertical bandsaws use a moving table with the blade in a fixed position, similar to a wood bandsaw. They’re better for contours and irregular shapes.
Portable bandsaws are handheld units that you bring to the workpiece. They’re standard equipment for plumbers, electricians, and HVAC installers. The WEN 94396 and DEWALT DWM120K are belt-drive portables. The JET HVBS-56M is a horizontal/vertical combo that covers both production cuts and detailed work.
Blade Selection Basics
Blade tooth pitch matters as much as blade speed. The general rule is to have at least 3 teeth in contact with the material at all times. For thin-wall tube (1/16 inch wall), use a fine 18 or 24 TPI blade. For 1/4-inch plate, a 10 or 14 TPI blade works. For 1/2-inch solid bar, drop to a 6 or 8 TPI blade to clear chips efficiently.
Bi-metal blades last longer than carbon steel blades. They cost more but cut faster and survive intermittent use better. The 14 TPI blade that ships with the WEN 94396 is a fine general-purpose starting blade. For production work, buy blades in TPI 10/14, 14/18, and 24 to cover all common materials.
Corded vs Cordless Trade-offs
Corded bandsaws deliver consistent power and unlimited runtime. For shop work, that’s the right answer. Cordless bandsaws offer mobility for jobsite and overhead work, but you trade runtime and need to manage batteries. The DEWALT DCS374B and Milwaukee M12 Fuel are the cordless options in this roundup.
A 20V battery like the DEWALT 5Ah will give you roughly 30-50 cuts through 1/4-inch steel before needing a recharge. For all-day jobsite use, carry a spare battery. For occasional shop work, the corded saws are simpler and more reliable. If you regularly work in remote locations without power, the cordless saw is the only practical option.
Safety Tips for Metal Cutting
Always wear safety glasses and gloves when cutting metal. A bandsaw blade can shatter if it hits a hard inclusion in the stock, and broken teeth fly at high velocity. Keep the blade guard adjusted to within 1/4 inch of the workpiece. Never reach across a running blade, even if the saw is in vertical mode.
For long cuts, support the workpiece with a roller stand or have a helper hold the offcut. Letting the cut piece fall can damage the blade or nick the cutoff end. For stainless or hard alloys, use cutting fluid or a stick wax lubricant on the blade to extend blade life and improve cut quality.
Metal Cutting Band Saw FAQs
What is the best metal-cutting bandsaw?
The best metal-cutting bandsaw for most users is the DEWALT DWM120K because of its 5-inch deep cut capacity, 10 amp motor, and variable speed dial from 100 to 350 surface feet per minute. For budget-focused buyers, the WEN 94396 portable saw matches the capacity at a lower price. For stationary shop use, the JET HVBS-56M is the premium pick with its 1/2 HP motor and 5×6 inch capacity.
What blade speed do I need to cut metal?
For mild steel, target 200 to 300 surface feet per minute (SFM). For stainless steel, use 100 to 200 SFM because stainless work-hardens at higher speeds. For aluminum and brass, you can run 300 to 500 SFM or higher. Most metal cutting bandsaws have variable speed dials that let you match the speed to the material, which is critical for blade life and cut quality.
Horizontal or vertical bandsaw for metal: which is better?
Horizontal bandsaws are better for repetitive square cuts in bar stock, pipe, and angle iron because the vise holds the workpiece and the blade drops through it. Vertical bandsaws are better for contours, irregular shapes, and detail work because the blade stays fixed and the workpiece moves on a table. Some models like the JET HVBS-56M and WEN BA4664 convert between both orientations for maximum flexibility.
Can a portable band saw replace a benchtop metal bandsaw?
A portable band saw can handle most of the same cuts as a benchtop bandsaw, but with limitations. Portable saws typically max out at 5-inch cutting capacity, while benchtop saws reach 5×6 inches or larger. Portable saws also lack vises and automatic shut-off features, which means less repeatable cuts and more hands-on time. For production work in a shop, a benchtop or floor-standing bandsaw is the better choice. For jobsite and field work, a portable saw is the only practical option.
Final Verdict on the Best Metal Cutting Band Saws
The best metal cutting band saws in 2026 come down to three things: capacity, blade speed control, and how you plan to use the saw. For the corded portable category, the DEWALT DWM120K earned our Editor’s Choice for its build quality and consistent cutting performance. For the best value, the WEN 94396 matches the cutting capacity at a noticeably lower price.
If you need a budget saw for occasional use, the VEVOR 5-inch portable or Anbull R2103 are both solid picks, with the Anbull offering a useful 6-speed dial. For station shop work, the WEN BA4664 is the best entry-level benchtop, and the JET HVBS-56M is the premium pick for daily production use. For cordless cutting, the DEWALT DCS374B is our recommendation, with the Milwaukee M12 Fuel as the best compact option for tight spaces.
Whichever metal cutting band saw you pick from this list, focus on matching the cutting capacity to your largest common workpiece, getting a variable speed model if you cut any stainless, and buying extra blades so a broken blade doesn’t end your day. With the right saw and a mid-grade bi-metal blade, you’ll make clean, square cuts in metal that would otherwise take twice as long with a grinder or reciprocating saw.