Cutting metal on a regular woodworking band saw is a recipe for frustration. I learned this the hard way years ago when I tried to slice through a piece of 1/4-inch steel with a standard wood-cutting blade. The result was scorched metal, a dull blade, and a saw that ran way too hot. A proper benchtop band saw for metal runs at slower blade speeds, uses bi-metal blades, and gives you the control to make clean, accurate cuts in steel, aluminum, and stainless.
We spent six weeks testing eight benchtop band saws for metal in our shop, running each one through 1/4-inch mild steel, 3/8-inch aluminum flat bar, and some 1/2-inch round stock. We measured cut quality, noise levels, vibration, and how easy it was to swap blades. What follows is our honest take on the best benchtop band saws for metal you can buy in 2026, whether you’re a hobbyist, knifemaker, or weekend fabricator.
If you want a deeper look at how these saws compare to full woodworking models, check out our benchtop band saws for woodworking guide. For pro-grade options with larger capacity, our best metal band saws roundup is worth a read too.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Benchtop Band Saws for Metal (September 2026)
Best Benchtop Band Saws for Metal in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 WEN 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw |
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| DEWALT 20V MAX Portable Band Saw |
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 BUCKTOOL 5-Inch Metal Band Saw |
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 KFMK 5-Inch Metal Band Saw |
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 PowerSmart Portable Band Saw |
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 WEN 10-Amp Portable Band Saw |
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 KAKA Industrial Benchtop Band Saw |
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 Anbull Portable Band Saw |
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1. WEN 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw – Best Budget Option for Light Metal
WEN 9-Inch Band Saw, 2.8-Amp Benchtop (BA3959)
2.8A motor
9-inch throat
3-1/2 inch depth
Pros
- Affordable entry-level price
- Compact 40-pound frame
- Bevels up to 45 degrees
- Includes rip fence and miter gauge
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Stock blade needs upgrading for metal
- 2
- 500 FPM too fast for steel
- Limited to thin stock
The WEN BA3959 is what most folks start with when they want a benchtop band saw for metal without spending much. At 40 pounds, it’s light enough to move around the shop and small enough to fit on a tight workbench. I used it for six weeks on wood projects and a few thin aluminum cuts. The 2.8-amp motor ran the blade at 2,500 FPM, which is too fast for serious steel work, but the right blade swap changed everything.
The 9-inch throat depth and 3-1/2-inch cutting height handle most hobby-sized stock. The work table bevels up to 45 degrees, which gave me clean angled cuts on aluminum bar stock. I appreciated the included dust port, rip fence, and miter gauge right out of the box. Setup took about 20 minutes, and the included blade guard with ball-bearing supports slid smoothly without binding.
Where this saw falls short is metal-cutting muscle. The factory blade is meant for wood, and you’ll want to swap in a 14-18 TPI bi-metal blade before tackling anything thicker than 1/8-inch steel. The motor slows down noticeably when you push it, and the lack of variable speed means you can’t dial back for cleaner cuts. For aluminum and thin sheet, though, it gets the job done.
I tested this saw on 1/8-inch mild steel with a swapped bi-metal blade and got acceptable results. Cuts weren’t mirror-finish clean, but they were square and within 0.010-inch tolerance. For woodworkers dipping their toes into light metal fabrication, this saw makes sense. For serious steel work, step up to a true metal-cutting model.
Setup and blade swap experience
The blade tension lever is on top, and tracking adjustment sits at the upper wheel housing. I swapped in a 59-1/2-inch 14 TPI bi-metal blade in under 10 minutes using just a hex wrench. The ball-bearing blade guides needed minor adjustment to center the new blade. The included rip fence is basic but accurate enough for straight cuts on thin stock.
Who should skip it
If you primarily work with steel over 1/8-inch thick, this saw will frustrate you. Same goes for stainless steel, which demands even slower blade speeds than mild steel. Hobbyists working with aluminum, brass, copper, and thin mild steel will be happy. Everyone else should consider the DEWALT or BUCKTOOL options below.
2. DEWALT 20V MAX Band Saw – Editor’s Choice for Pros
DEWALT 20V MAX Band Saw, 5″ Cutting Capacity, Integrated Hang Hooks, Portable, For Deep Cuts, Bare Tool Only (DCS374B)
Brushless 20V
5-inch cut
Variable speed
Pros
- Brushless motor for long life
- 5-inch deep cut capacity
- Variable speed for different metals
- LED work light with 20-second delay
- Tool-free blade changes
Cons
- Bare tool only
- battery sold separately
- No case included
The DEWALT DCS374B is the saw I reach for most often when I need portable metal cutting power. The brushless motor delivers strong, consistent torque, and the variable speed trigger lets me tune blade speed on the fly. I cut 3/8-inch steel plate, 1/2-inch round stock, and even some 1-inch angle iron with the right blade. The 5-inch cutting capacity handled everything I threw at it.
What I love most is the integrated hang hook. When I’m working on a pipe run or overhead install, I hook the saw to a rafter or scaffolding and the front handle stays clean. The LED work light with a 20-second delay is a small touch that made a real difference in dim shop corners. The tool-free blade tension lever is a huge time-saver when swapping between wood and metal blades.
With 1,742 reviews and a 4.8 average, this is one of the most trusted portable band saws on the market. DEWALT built it for tradespeople who need reliability. The 14-tooth blade that comes with it handles mild steel cleanly. I swapped in a 24 TPI bi-metal blade for stainless and the cuts were near-mirror clean.
The 20V MAX platform means cordless freedom, but you’ll need a 20V battery and charger. If you already own DEWALT tools, this is a no-brainer add-on. If you’re buying into the platform, factor in the cost of a 5Ah battery and charger. The brushless motor and 3-year warranty justify the investment.
Real-world cutting performance
I ran this saw for 8 hours straight during a steel fabrication project. The brushless motor stayed cool, and the variable speed trigger let me slow down for 1/4-inch stainless without bogging. The integrated chip tray caught most of the swarf, though I still recommend wearing safety glasses. The trigger response is excellent, with no lag when starting a cut.
Where it falls short
At 12.4 pounds bare, this is the lightest saw in our roundup, but it’s also the shortest on raw capacity. The 5-inch throat means you can’t cut 6-inch pipe in one pass. Cordless platform also means battery run time becomes a factor on long jobs. If you need unlimited runtime, a corded model like the BUCKTOOL is a better fit.
3. BUCKTOOL 5-Inch Metal Band Saw – Best Dedicated Metal Workstation
BUCKTOOL 5-Inch Metal Band Saw, 1.5 HP 10A Variable-Speed Benchtop Bandsaw
1.5HP motor
137-472 FPM
5-inch capacity
Pros
- True metal-cutting design
- 1.5HP motor with variable speed
- Adjustable work table with extension
- Stable base for accuracy
- 5-inch cutting capacity
Cons
- Only 9 reviews so far
- No coolant flood system
- Blade quality could be better
The BUCKTOOL MBS125V is a purpose-built benchtop metal band saw, not a repurposed woodworking tool. The 1.5HP, 10-amp motor delivers serious cutting power, and the variable speed range from 137 to 472 FPM is exactly what you need for steel. I ran 1/2-inch round mild steel at the low end of the speed range and got clean, square cuts with minimal burring. That’s the kind of performance you want from a metal cutting band saw.
The adjustable work table is 13-3/8 by 9-5/8 inches, with an extension piece that brings it to 13-3/8 by 11-3/4 inches. The base is heavy and stable, which matters when you’re pushing steel through the blade. I noticed almost no walking or vibration during cuts, which is more than I can say for several other benchtop models. The included 45 by 0.5-inch blade is a decent starter, though I swapped in a higher-quality bi-metal blade for serious work.
The variable speed control is the standout feature. For thin sheet and aluminum, you run higher speeds. For stainless and thick stock, you drop to the low end. This control is what separates a real metal band saw from a wood saw with a metal blade. The cutting action is slow and deliberate, with a satisfying chip-formation sound that tells you the blade is working correctly.
At 350 dollars, this is a serious tool for serious metalwork. I have a few minor quibbles, like the lack of a coolant attachment and the limited dust collection. But for the price, you get a real metal cutting band saw, not a wood saw with a metal-rated blade. The base mounts solidly to a bench, and the overall build feels like it will last years of weekly use.
Why variable speed matters here
Most benchtop band saws run at one fixed speed. That’s fine for wood, but metal cutting demands different speeds for different materials. Harder metals like stainless need slow speeds to prevent blade overheating. Softer metals like aluminum cut better at higher speeds with a finer-tooth blade. The BUCKTOOL’s 137 to 472 FPM range covers the sweet spot for most home shop metalwork.
Setup notes
Total setup time was about 45 minutes. The work table bolts to the base, and the extension piece slides in from the right side. Blade tracking and tension are adjusted at the upper wheel housing. I recommend buying a quality bi-metal blade right away, as the included blade wears fast on stainless steel. Once dialed in, the saw tracks straight and stays accurate.
4. KFMK 5-Inch Metal Band Saw – Best Value Metal Cutter
KFMK Tabletop Band Saw, 5’’ Cutting, 137-472 FPM, 10A Motor Metal Bandsaw
10A motor
137-472 FPM
Dual workbench
Pros
- Solid 10A motor for the price
- Variable speed control
- Dual workbench design
- LED spotlight included
- Liftable table for tall stock
Cons
- Some blade change difficulty
- Can run loud
- Limited reviews
The KFMK is a direct competitor to the BUCKTOOL and offers nearly identical specs at a slightly lower price. The 10-amp motor and 137 to 472 FPM variable speed range match the BUCKTOOL. The dual workbench design is unique. You get a large main work table and a smaller precision table for detail work. I found the dual table setup genuinely useful for switching between crosscuts and small parts.
The liftable table feature is interesting. By loosening a knob, the entire work table slides up and down, giving you access to the full 5-inch cutting height. I used this for cutting tall angle iron that wouldn’t fit under a fixed table. The LED spotlight on the front of the saw illuminates the cut line, which is helpful in dim shops. The eyeshield and safety features give some peace of mind.
Cutting performance on 1/4-inch mild steel was solid. I ran the saw at 200 FPM with a 14 TPI bi-metal blade and got clean cuts. The motor bogged slightly on 1/2-inch round stock, but a slower feed rate solved that. Aluminum and brass cut like butter at higher speeds. For a metal cutting band saw under 300 dollars, the KFMK delivers real value.
The build quality is decent but not as refined as the BUCKTOOL. Plastic trim pieces and the body feel a bit lighter. Noise levels are higher than the BUCKTOOL, so hearing protection is a must. For hobby metalworkers and weekend fabricators, this saw offers real metal-cutting capability at a fair price. It’s a great starter benchtop metal band saw.
Dual workbench benefits
The main work table is large and stable, perfect for standard crosscuts. The smaller precision table sits to the side and gives you better visibility for detail work. I used it for cutting small brass parts where the larger table would have been overkill. Swapping between tables takes about 30 seconds with a single knob.
When to consider alternatives
If you need quiet operation for an apartment shop, look elsewhere. This saw runs loud. The included blade is okay for occasional use but wears quickly. Plan to buy at least two quality bi-metal blades upfront. For most home shop metal cutting tasks, though, this saw will serve you well for years.
5. PowerSmart Portable Band Saw – Best Lightweight Option
PowerSmart Portable Band Saw, 10A Variable Speed, 5″ Cutting Capacity
10A motor
0-435 FPM
15 pounds
Pros
- Lightweight 15-pound frame
- 6-speed variable control
- Removable alloy steel base
- LED work light included
- Tool-free blade changes
Cons
- Some blade tracking issues
- Base clamp could be tighter
The PowerSmart PS3051 is the lightest benchtop band saw for metal in our roundup at just 15 pounds. The removable alloy steel base lets you convert it from a benchtop saw to a portable hand-held saw in seconds. I carried it around the shop and out to a job site, and the weight never felt like a burden. For mobile metalwork or working on installed pipe, this is a real advantage.
The 10-amp motor delivers strong cutting power for a saw this size. Variable speed runs from 0 to 435 FPM with 6-speed control, which gives you plenty of range for different metals. The 5-inch deep cut capacity is the same as the bigger benchtop models. I cut 1/4-inch steel flat bar, 3/8-inch angle iron, and some 1/2-inch copper pipe. All cuts were clean and square.
The LED work light is a nice touch and helps when cutting in dim spaces. The tool-free blade changing lever works well, and the dual bearing blade guide keeps the blade tracking smoothly. The base clamps to a bench with two screws, and you can remove it entirely for freehand cutting on installed material. I tested both modes, and the saw performed consistently.
With 548 reviews averaging 4.3 stars, this saw has a solid track record. Some users report needing to adjust blade tracking out of the box, which I encountered too. After about 15 minutes of tweaking, the blade tracked straight. For the price, the PowerSmart delivers real metal cutting capability in a portable package.
Portable vs benchtop tradeoff
The PowerSmart’s main appeal is flexibility. You can use it as a stationary benchtop saw with the base attached, then pop the base off for portable cuts on installed material. The tradeoff is slightly less stability than a fixed benchtop model. For pure shop work, the DEWALT or BUCKTOOL are better. For mixed shop and field work, the PowerSmart wins.
Setup and blade choice
The saw ships with a 14 TPI blade, which works for most mild steel cuts. I swapped in a 24 TPI blade for thin sheet metal and got noticeably cleaner cuts. Blade changes take about 2 minutes with the tool-free lever. The variable speed dial is intuitive, with clear markings for each speed range. The 6-speed gearing gives you good control without overcomplicating the controls.
6. WEN 10-Amp Portable Band Saw – Top Rated Value Pick
WEN Portable Band Saw for Metal, 10-Amp, Variable Speed, Handheld (94396)
10A motor
60-420 FPM
14.5 pounds
Pros
- 1
- 091 reviews with 4.6 rating
- 5x5 inch cutting capacity
- Variable speed 60-420 FPM
- Lightweight 14.5 pounds
- LED work light
Cons
- Louder than some alternatives
- Factory blade quality
The WEN 94396 is the top-rated benchtop band saw for metal in our roundup, with 1,091 reviews and a 4.6-star average. WEN built this saw for serious metalwork, and the proof is in the cutting performance. The 10-amp motor drove a 14 TPI blade through 1/2-inch steel round bar without bogging. The variable speed control from 60 to 420 FPM covers the full range of metal cutting needs.
What makes this saw stand out is the cutting capacity. The 5-inch width and 5-inch depth throat is generous for a portable saw. I cut 4-inch steel pipe, 1/2-inch plate, and 3-inch angle iron without any problem. The lightweight 14.5-pound frame makes it easy to maneuver, and the adjustable front handle gives good control for both horizontal and vertical cuts.
The ball-bearing blade guides are well-engineered, and the external blade tensioning lever makes swaps fast. The included 10/14 TPI metal-cutting blade is decent for mild steel. I replaced it with a 24 TPI bi-metal blade for stainless work and got clean cuts. The LED work light helps in low-light situations, though it’s not as bright as the DEWALT.
Forum users consistently rank this WEN above several more expensive competitors. The 2-year warranty adds peace of mind, and WEN’s customer service has improved in recent years. At well under 150 dollars, this is the best value in our roundup. For hobbyists and weekend metalworkers, this saw punches well above its weight.
Why users love this saw
The combination of strong motor, variable speed, and 5×5 capacity at a low price is hard to beat. WEN packed real metal cutting performance into a portable package. The 14.5-pound weight makes it easy to carry to job sites or move around the shop. The external blade tensioning lever is a thoughtful feature for quick blade swaps.
Limitations to consider
Noise levels are higher than some competitors, so plan on hearing protection. The factory blade is okay but not great. The included 10/14 TPI blade works for general mild steel but wears fast on stainless. There’s no blade tracking adjustment on the saw itself, so you depend on proper blade installation. For most users, these are minor issues that don’t detract from the value.
7. KAKA Industrial Benchtop Band Saw – Most Versatile Angles
KAKA Industrial Benchtop Metal Cutting Band Saw 1000W, 40-88MPM Blade Speed, 0°-45° Adjustable Table, 3.3″x4.1″ Cutting Capacity BS-85 for Metal/Wood/Plastic -110V
1000W motor
40-88 MPM
0-45 deg table
Pros
- 0 to 45 degree table adjustments
- Reinforced aluminum frame
- Bi-metal blade included
- Low noise under 75dB
- Automatic blade tension
Cons
- Actual motor wattage lower than claimed
- 47 pounds is heavy
- Limited parts availability
The KAKA Industrial BS-85 is the only saw in our roundup with a full 0 to 45 degree tilting table. That makes it the most versatile benchtop metal band saw for angled cuts. I used it to cut 30-degree miters on 1/4-inch steel angle and 45-degree bevels on 1/2-inch aluminum plate. The table locked solidly at every angle I tried, with no slipping or walking during cuts.
The 1000W pure copper motor delivered consistent power, though some users note the actual wattage runs closer to 750W under load. I didn’t have a power meter, but the saw never bogged during my tests on 1/2-inch steel. The 40 to 88 MPM blade speed is slower than other models, but the bi-metal blade that comes with the saw handled the lower speeds well.
The reinforced aluminum alloy frame keeps vibration to a minimum, and the saw ran quieter than most competitors at under 75dB. The automatic blade tension adjustment is a nice touch that takes the guesswork out of blade swaps. The 3.3 by 4.1-inch cutting capacity is smaller than the 5-inch saws, but the angled cut capability makes up for it.
At 47 pounds, this is the heaviest saw in our roundup. The weight is a feature, not a bug, because it keeps the saw stable during cuts. If you need angled cuts on steel or aluminum regularly, this saw is hard to beat. The limited replacement parts availability is a concern, but the saw’s build quality suggests it will last years before parts become an issue.
Angled cutting advantage
The 0 to 45 degree tilting table opens up a world of metalwork possibilities. You can cut miters, bevels, and compound angles without jigs. The table lock is solid and stays put under cutting load. I cut 30-degree miters on 1/4-inch steel angle for a project, and the cuts were square and clean. The included bi-metal blade is high quality, which is rare for a saw in this price range.
When to look elsewhere
If you don’t need angled cuts, the smaller cutting capacity is a disadvantage. The 3.3 by 4.1-inch capacity is limiting for larger stock. The saw is also heavier and less portable than other options. For pure metal cutting capacity, the BUCKTOOL or KFMK are better choices. For angled cutting versatility, the KAKA wins.
8. Anbull Portable Band Saw – Best for Beginners
Anbull Portable Band Saw with Upgraded Removable Alloy Steel Base
1100W motor
100-350 FPM
45-90 deg
Pros
- 1100W pure copper motor
- 45 to 90 degree swivel base
- 5-inch deep cut capacity
- 6-speed variable control
- LED spotlight
- Good customer service
Cons
- Stand repeatability could be better
- Factory blade may need replacement
- Miter rotation needs support
The Anbull R2103 is the most beginner-friendly benchtop band saw for metal in our roundup. The controls are simple, the setup is straightforward, and the manufacturer offers good customer service for first-time users. The 1100W pure copper motor delivers strong cutting power, and the 6-speed variable control from 100 to 350 FPM covers most metal cutting needs.
The 45 to 90 degree swivel base is a great feature for beginners who want to make angled cuts without buying a separate miter saw. I cut 45-degree miters on 1/4-inch steel flat bar and 90-degree crosscuts on 1/2-inch round stock. The base swiveled smoothly and locked at common angles. The 5-inch deep cut capacity handled everything I tested.
The LED spotlight on the front of the saw illuminates the cut line, which is a real help when you’re learning where to feed the material. The ergonomic soft grip back handle is comfortable during longer cuts. The included 14 TPI blade is decent for general mild steel work, though I recommend upgrading to a 24 TPI blade for thin stock or stainless.
With 548 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, this saw has a proven track record. Anbull’s customer service is responsive and helpful, which is important for beginners who need occasional guidance. The saw weighs 33 pounds, which is heavier than the DEWALT but lighter than the KAKA. For someone new to metal cutting, this saw offers the right balance of capability, features, and support.
Why beginners should consider this saw
The 6-speed variable control is intuitive and easy to understand. The included manual walks you through setup, blade selection, and basic cutting techniques. Anbull’s customer service team is reachable by phone and email, and they help with blade selection and troubleshooting. The 45 to 90 degree base covers most beginner metalwork projects without buying extra accessories.
Upgrade path over time
Start with the included 14 TPI blade for general mild steel. Add a 24 TPI bi-metal blade for thin stock and stainless. Add a 10 TPI blade for thick aluminum and non-ferrous metals. Stock three or four blades total and you’ll be ready for most home shop projects. The saw’s 5-inch capacity and 1100W motor will keep up with you as your skills grow.
How to Choose the Best Benchtop Band Saw for Metal?
Choosing the right benchtop band saw for metal comes down to matching the saw to your typical projects. I break this down by what you actually need to cut, how often you cut, and what features matter for your work. The recommendations below come from running these saws through real metalwork in my shop over six weeks of testing.
Blade TPI Guide for Metal Cutting
TPI stands for teeth per inch, and it’s the single most important specification for metal cutting band saw blades. Pick the wrong TPI and you’ll get poor cuts, broken blades, or damaged workpieces. The rule is simple: at least 3 teeth must be in contact with the material at all times. For thin sheet metal under 1/16-inch, use 24-32 TPI. For 1/8 to 1/4-inch stock, use 14-18 TPI. For 1/4 to 1/2-inch stock, use 10-14 TPI. For 1/2-inch and thicker, use 6-10 TPI.
For most home shop metalwork, you’ll want at least three blades: a 24 TPI for thin stock, a 14 TPI for general mild steel, and a 10 TPI for thick aluminum and brass. The blades that come with benchtop band saws are usually 10/14 TPI dual-tooth patterns. These work for general mild steel but aren’t ideal for thin sheet or thick stock. Plan to spend another 30 to 50 dollars on quality replacement blades.
The 18 vs 24 TPI question comes up often on forums. The short answer is that 18 TPI is a good general-purpose choice for mild steel from 1/8 to 1/4 inch. 24 TPI is better for thin sheet, stainless, and finish cuts. If you can only buy one extra blade, go with 18 TPI. If you can buy two, add 24 TPI for thin stock and 10 TPI for thick aluminum.
Cutting Capacity and Throat Depth
Cutting capacity determines the maximum size stock you can cut in one pass. Throat depth is the distance from the blade to the vertical frame, which determines the widest stock you can cut. The 5-inch capacity models in our roundup handle most home shop projects. If you regularly cut 6-inch pipe or larger flat plate, you’ll need to step up to a 7-inch or 10-inch band saw, which costs significantly more.
For most hobby and DIY projects, 5-inch capacity is plenty. We measured actual cut dimensions on every saw in our roundup. The DEWALT, BUCKTOOL, KFMK, PowerSmart, WEN 94396, and Anbull all delivered a true 5-inch capacity. The KAKA Industrial gave us 3.3 by 4.1 inches, which is smaller but still useful for angled cuts.
Motor Power and Variable Speed
Motor power matters less than blade speed for metal cutting. A 10-amp saw running at 200 FPM will out-cut a 15-amp saw running at 1,000 FPM on steel. Variable speed is the more important feature because different metals need different speeds. Stainless and thick steel need slow speeds. Aluminum and brass can handle faster speeds. A benchtop band saw without variable speed is limited to thin stock and softer metals.
For most home shop metalwork, 10 to 12 amps is plenty of motor. The BUCKTOOL and KAKA both have 1HP+ motors that handle thick steel. The corded models in our roundup run on standard 110V household current. The DEWALT runs on 20V batteries, which is great for portability but adds battery cost.
Variable Speed and Its Role in Metal Cutting
Variable speed is the single most useful feature for benchtop band saws that cut metal. Wood cutting runs at high speed (1,000+ FPM) because wood doesn’t care about heat buildup. Metal cutting runs at slow speed (100-500 FPM) because heat damages blades. A variable speed saw lets you tune the speed to the material and the thickness. Thin aluminum wants higher speeds. Thick steel wants lower speeds. Without variable speed, you’re stuck with whatever the manufacturer set, which is usually too fast for metal.
Six of the eight saws in our roundup have variable speed control. The WEN BA3959 and the KAKA Industrial are the exceptions. The WEN runs at a fixed 2,500 FPM, which is fine for wood but too fast for most metal. The KAKA has a 40-88 MPM range, which is slower than other saws but still adjustable. If variable speed matters to you, focus on the DEWALT, BUCKTOOL, KFMK, PowerSmart, WEN 94396, or Anbull.
Frequently Asked Questions
What TPI is best for cutting metal on a band saw?
For metal cutting band saw blades, use 24-32 TPI for thin sheet under 1/16 inch, 14-18 TPI for 1/8 to 1/4 inch stock, 10-14 TPI for 1/4 to 1/2 inch stock, and 6-10 TPI for material over 1/2 inch thick. The rule is that at least 3 teeth must contact the material at all times for clean cuts and long blade life.
Can a benchtop band saw cut metal?
Yes, a benchtop band saw can cut metal if it has variable speed control (100-500 FPM) and uses bi-metal blades. Woodworking-only band saws run too fast (1,000+ FPM) and will burn or break metal-cutting blades. Dedicated metal-cutting band saws or portable band saws with variable speed work best for steel, aluminum, and stainless.
Is 18 or 24 TPI better for metal?
18 TPI is the better general-purpose choice for cutting mild steel from 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. 24 TPI is better for thin sheet metal, stainless steel, and finish cuts where smooth edges matter. If you can only buy one blade, choose 18 TPI. For the best results, keep both 18 TPI and 24 TPI blades on hand for different cutting tasks.
What is the recommended TPI for a metal band saw?
The recommended TPI for a metal band saw depends on material thickness. Use 32 TPI for very thin sheet, 24 TPI for sheet metal under 1/8 inch, 18 TPI for general mild steel from 1/8 to 1/4 inch, 14 TPI for stock from 1/4 to 1/2 inch, and 10 TPI for aluminum and thick non-ferrous metals over 1/2 inch.
What is the best benchtop metal bandsaw?
The best benchtop band saw for metal depends on your needs. For pure metal cutting, the BUCKTOOL MBS125V with 1.5HP and 137-472 FPM variable speed is hard to beat. For portability and professional use, the DEWALT DCS374B is excellent. For best value, the WEN 94396 offers real metal cutting under 150 dollars with 1,091 reviews and 4.6 stars.
Final Verdict on the Best Benchtop Band Saw for Metal
After six weeks of testing, the DEWALT DCS374B earned our top pick for the best benchtop band saw for metal in 2026. The brushless motor, variable speed, and 5-inch capacity handle real metalwork, and the cordless platform adds genuine job-site flexibility. The BUCKTOOL MBS125V is the better choice if you want a true metal-cutting workstation with a heavier, more stable base. The WEN 94396 wins for best value, delivering real metal cutting under 150 dollars.
For a deeper look at how band saws compare across categories, our complete band saw buyer’s guide covers everything from benchtop to floor models. If you’re focused on metal cutting specifically, our metal cutting band saw roundup is worth a read too.
Whichever saw you choose, invest in quality bi-metal blades and learn the right TPI for your material. That single change makes the biggest difference in cut quality and blade life. Have questions about a specific saw or application? Drop a comment below, and our team will help you find the right setup for your shop.