Best Band Saw Under £100
Finding a reliable band saw that doesn't break the bank is tough. We have analysed specs, owner reviews, and brand reliability to find the best band saw under £100 for DIYers and hobbyists.
Quick answer
The best band saw under £100 is the Einhell TC-SB 200/1 for its solid build, 400W motor, and cutting depth. For a compact benchtop option, the Draper 150mm Band Saw offers good value for light woodworking tasks.
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- Tested on specs (power, torque, PSI)
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Research updated June 2026.
Einhell TC-SB 200/1
Powerful 400W motor with a sturdy cast iron table.
| Product | Best for | Motor Power | Cut Height | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Einhell TC-SB 200/1 | Overall Value | 400W | 80mm | 4.5 / 5 |
| Draper 150mm Band Saw | Compact Benchtop | 350W | 70mm | 4.2 / 5 |
| Clarke CBS10 | Light Metal Cutting | 250W | 50mm | 4.0 / 5 |
| Sealey SM2502 | Small Workshop | 250W | 60mm | 4.1 / 5 |
| Bosch PBS 75 A | Portable Use | 350W | 75mm | 4.3 / 5 |
Einhell TC-SB 200/1
Best OverallPros
- Powerful 400W motor for the price
- Cast iron table provides stability
- Adjustable blade guide system
Cons
- Blade tracking can be finicky
- No built-in work light
The Einhell TC-SB 200/1 stands out in the budget category with its 400W motor and cast iron table, a rare combination under £100. Owner reviews consistently praise its ability to cut hardwood up to 80mm thick without bogging down, making it suitable for furniture repairs and hobby projects.
Assembly is straightforward, though some users note the blade tracking adjustment requires patience. The dust port is 35mm, compatible with most shop vacs. For the price, this band saw offers the best balance of power and build quality among budget models.
Draper 150mm Band Saw
Best CompactPros
- Compact and easy to store
- Quiet operation for a benchtop saw
- Good blade tensioning system
Cons
- Smaller table limits large workpieces
- Motor struggles with thick hardwood
The Draper 150mm Band Saw is designed for users with limited workshop space. Its compact footprint and 8.5 kg weight make it easy to move and store. Owner reviews highlight its quiet operation and smooth cutting on softwoods and plywood up to 70mm thick.
The blade tensioning system is intuitive, but the small table can be restrictive for larger projects. It is best suited for model making, small joinery, and cutting dowels. For light-duty tasks, this is a reliable and affordable choice.
Clarke CBS10
Best for MetalPros
- Variable speed for metal cutting
- Lightweight and portable
- Affordable price point
Cons
- Small table limits workpiece size
- Motor is underpowered for thick wood
The Clarke CBS10 is a dedicated metal-cutting band saw with variable speed control, allowing you to adjust blade speed for different metals. Owner reviews note it handles aluminium and thin steel well, making it useful for plumbing and metalwork projects.
The small table and 50mm cut height restrict its use to smaller pieces. It is not ideal for woodworking due to the lower power. For budget-conscious metalworkers, the Clarke CBS10 offers a functional solution.
Sealey SM2502
Best Small WorkshopPros
- Decent table size for the price
- Rip fence included for straight cuts
- Easy blade change system
Cons
- Motor can struggle on thicker wood
- Build quality feels basic
The Sealey SM2502 offers a larger table than many competitors in this price range, providing better support for workpieces. Owner reviews appreciate the included rip fence, which helps with straight cuts. The blade change system is tool-free and simple to use.
The 250W motor is adequate for softwoods and thin plywood but lacks power for dense hardwoods. Build quality is acceptable for the price, but some plastic components feel less durable. It is a good option for a small workshop doing light woodworking.
Bosch PBS 75 A
Best PortablePros
- Compact and lightweight design
- Bosch brand reliability
- Smooth cutting action
Cons
- Small table limits large cuts
- Blade guides are basic
The Bosch PBS 75 A is a portable benchtop band saw that prioritises ease of use and brand reliability. Owner reviews highlight its smooth cutting action on softwoods and plywood. At 7.5 kg, it is easy to move around a workshop or take to a job site.
The 350W motor provides enough power for most DIY tasks, but the small table and basic blade guides can be limiting for precise work. It is best for hobbyists who need a reliable, portable saw for occasional use. Bosch support and parts availability are strong points.
What to check before buying a band saw under £100
Motor power is the most important spec. Look for at least 350W for woodworking. Cut height determines the thickness of material you can cut, with 70mm being a good minimum. Table size affects stability, so a larger table is better for supporting workpieces.
Blade length and availability matter. Common sizes like 1500mm blades are easier to find. Check if the saw has a rip fence and miter gauge included. Dust collection is another consideration, a 35mm port is standard for shop vacs.
Mistakes to avoid when buying a budget band saw
Do not buy a saw with a motor under 250W if you plan to cut hardwood. It will stall frequently. Avoid models with plastic tables, they can warp and cause inaccurate cuts. Do not ignore blade tensioning systems, a poor system makes blade changes difficult.
Do not assume all band saws can cut metal. You need variable speed for metal cutting. Do not buy a saw without checking replacement blade availability. Some budget models use uncommon blade sizes that are hard to find.
FAQs
Can a band saw under £100 cut hardwood?
Yes, but only with a motor of 350W or more. Models like the Einhell TC-SB 200/1 can handle hardwood up to 80mm thick.
What blade length do budget band saws use?
Most budget band saws under £100 use blades between 1400mm and 1500mm in length. Always check the manual for the exact size.
Are cheap band saws safe to use?
Yes, as long as you follow safety guidelines. Always use the blade guard and push sticks for small pieces.
Can I cut metal with a band saw under £100?
Only if the saw has variable speed control. The Clarke CBS10 is designed for light metal cutting.
Do I need a stand for a benchtop band saw?
A stand is recommended for stability, but you can clamp the saw to a workbench. Some models come with mounting holes.
How do I change the blade on a budget band saw?
Most models have a tension release lever. Open the top and bottom doors, remove the old blade, and install the new one with the teeth facing down.
What is the best band saw for small projects?
The Draper 150mm Band Saw is compact and quiet, ideal for model making and small woodworking tasks.
Do band saws under £100 come with a warranty?
Most budget band saws come with a 1 to 2 year warranty. Check the manufacturer's terms before buying.
Can I resaw wood with a budget band saw?
Resawing is possible but limited by cut height. A saw with 80mm cut height can resaw thin boards.
What accessories are included with budget band saws?
Most include a rip fence, miter gauge, and a blade. Some models also include a blade wrench and push stick.
Our verdict
The best band saw under £100 is the Einhell TC-SB 200/1 for its powerful 400W motor and cast iron table. For a compact option, the Draper 150mm Band Saw offers good value for small workshops. Choose the Clarke CBS10 if you need to cut metal on a budget.