DEWALT 20V MAX Band Saw or DEWALT 9" Band Saw? Which DEWALT Model to Buy
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
The dewalt 20v max band saw vs 9 band saw comparison highlights two distinct tools for different workflows. Both models feature integrated LED worklights to illuminate your cutting path for better precision. They also share DEWALT’s reputation for durable construction. The main difference lies in their power source and size. One is a portable, cordless unit with a smaller cutting capacity. The other is a heavier, corded benchtop saw with a larger throat size for more versatile projects.
Key differences
| Aspect | DEWALT 20V MAX 5-Inch Cordless Band Saw | DEWALT 9-Inch Two-Speed Band Saw |
|---|---|---|
| Power Source | 20V MAX Cordless | 3.5 Amp Corded |
| Cutting Capacity | 5-Inch | 9-Inch |
| Speed Settings | Variable Speed | Two-Speed (1700 & 2500 SPM) |
| Weight | 12.4 pounds | 40 pounds |
| Dust Management | Not listed | Dual Dust Port Adapters |
Which one should you choose?
Choose DEWALT 20V MAX 5-Inch Cordless Band Saw if
- You need a portable tool for jobsite use or tight spaces.
- You prefer working without cords and want quick setup.
- You primarily make smaller cuts and value lightweight handling.
Choose DEWALT 9-Inch Two-Speed Band Saw if
- You require a larger 9-inch throat for wider materials.
- You need consistent power for heavier woodworking tasks.
- You want dual dust port options for a cleaner workspace.
Verdict: The 20V MAX model suits those needing portability and cordless convenience. The 9-inch corded saw is better for stationary shop work requiring greater capacity and steady power. Choose based on whether mobility or cutting size matters more to you.
Cordless Portability vs Bench Power
Cutting capacity
The DEWALT 20V MAX 5-Inch Cordless Band Saw offers a 5-inch cutting capacity. This limits the width of material you can cut in a single pass. The DEWALT 9-Inch Two-Speed Band Saw provides a 9-inch throat size. This larger capacity allows you to handle wider boards and bigger projects without making multiple cuts. The 9-inch model gives you significantly more room for wider stock. If you frequently work with wide lumber, the benchtop model is the better choice. The cordless option is strictly for narrower materials.
Portability
The DEWALT 20V MAX 5-Inch Cordless Band Saw weighs 12.4 pounds. It is designed for portability and includes integrated hang hooks for storage without damaging the handle or base. The DEWALT 9-Inch Two-Speed Band Saw weighs 40 pounds. Its substantial weight makes it a stationary tool that stays put on your workbench. The cordless saw is much lighter and easier to move around a job site or between workshops. You can take it anywhere you need power. The benchtop saw is fixed and requires a dedicated space.
Speed settings
The DEWALT 20V MAX 5-Inch Cordless Band Saw features variable speed control. This allows you to adjust the blade speed continuously for different materials. The DEWALT 9-Inch Two-Speed Band Saw offers two specific speeds: 1700 and 2500 SPM. You can switch between these fixed speeds to match your cutting needs. The variable speed on the cordless model offers more granular control. The two-speed setup on the benchtop model is simple and effective for standard tasks. Both provide control, but the method of adjustment differs significantly between the two designs.
Power source
The DEWALT 20V MAX 5-Inch Cordless Band Saw runs on a 20V MAX battery system. It is sold as a bare tool, meaning you need a compatible battery and charger. This offers freedom from cords and outlets. The DEWALT 9-Inch Two-Speed Band Saw uses a 3.5 AMP motor. It requires a standard electrical outlet to operate. The cordless option provides mobility and works in areas without power. The corded model delivers consistent power without worrying about battery charge levels. You must choose between wireless convenience and unlimited runtime from the wall.
Size and footprint
The DEWALT 20V MAX 5-Inch Cordless Band Saw measures 14.4 inches in width and 22.3 inches in length. It is compact and fits easily in small spaces or a tool bag. The DEWALT 9-Inch Two-Speed Band Saw measures 13 inches in width but stands 30 inches tall. It requires a stable surface and more vertical clearance. The cordless saw is smaller in overall dimensions and easier to store. The benchtop saw has a larger footprint and height, demanding more workshop space. Consider your available room when deciding which form factor suits your shop.
Which DEWALT Band Saw Fits You
Carpenters needing portable deep cuts
This 5-inch cordless model weighs just 12.4 pounds. Its portable design lets you hang the saw without damaging the handle. The 20V MAX battery and brushless motor provide durability. You get variable speed control for versatility. The tool-less blade changing lever simplifies setup. This makes it ideal for job sites where space is tight and mobility matters.
Shop owners doing detailed woodworking
The 9-inch throat size accommodates wider boards and curved cuts. You can switch between 1700 and 2500 SPM to match your material. The 3.5-amp motor delivers steady power for smooth results. Integrated dual dust port adapters keep your workspace clean. This benchtop unit fits comfortably in smaller shops while offering precision for intricate projects.
DIyers wanting corded reliability
You get consistent power without worrying about battery charge. The two-speed operation offers control for different cuts. The integrated LED worklight illuminates the cutting line clearly. This 40-pound unit provides a stable base for accurate work. The included dust adapters help maintain visibility. It is a solid choice for home workshops where you prefer plug-in performance.
The products compared
DEWALT 20V MAX 5-Inch Cordless Band Saw
Best for: portable deep-cutting tasks
- Cutting Capacity
- 5''
- Power Source
- 20V MAX
- Design
- Portable
- Dimensions
- 22.3 × 14.4 × 8.7 inches
- Weight
- 12.4 pounds
View on Amazon: DEWALT 20V MAX 5-Inch Cordless Band Saw Affiliate link
This DEWALT 20V MAX model is a portable band saw designed for deep cuts and on-site work. It features a 5-inch cutting capacity and a brushless motor for durability. The tool-less blade changing lever and variable speed settings offer versatility. Integrated hang hooks and an LED work light add practicality. It is ideal for users who need a lightweight, battery-powered saw for jobs away from a workshop.
Pros
- 5-inch cutting capacity for deep cuts
- Brushless motor for performance and durability
- Tool-less blade changing lever
- Variable speed control
- Integrated hang hooks
Cons
- Bare tool only, no battery included
- Smaller 5-inch capacity compared to benchtop models
- Limited to portable use, not a stationary workbench unit
Good fit if
- You need a portable saw for job site work
- You want a tool-less blade change system
- You prefer battery-powered operation
Skip if
- You need a stationary benchtop saw
- You require a larger cutting capacity than 5 inches
- You want a complete kit with battery and charger
Verdict: DEWALT 20V MAX Portable Band Saw fits users who prioritize portability and deep cutting capacity in a battery-powered tool.
DEWALT 9-Inch Two-Speed Band Saw
Best for: detailed curved cuts in small spaces
- Throat Size
- 9 in
- Motor Power
- 3.5 A
- Blade Speed
- 1700 & 2500 SPM
- Speed Settings
- 2-Speed
- Amperage
- 5 A
- Features
- Work Light
View on Amazon: DEWALT 9-Inch Two-Speed Band Saw Affiliate link
The DEWALT DXBS2301 is a 9-inch benchtop band saw designed for home workshops. It features a 3.5-amp motor with two-speed operation at 1700 and 2500 SPM. The unit includes an integrated LED worklight and dual dust port adapters. Weighing 40 pounds, it offers a compact footprint for curved cuts and small resawing tasks. This model suits hobbyists needing precise control in limited spaces.
Pros
- Two-speed motor offers 1700 and 2500 SPM for material flexibility
- Integrated LED worklight illuminates the cutting line for precision
- Includes dual dust port adapters for 2-1/2" and 1-1/4" vacuums
Cons
- 9-inch throat limits cutting width for larger projects
- 3.5-amp motor provides less power than professional-grade models
- 40-pound weight offers less stability during heavy resawing
Good fit if
- You need a compact saw for detailed curved cuts
- You require adjustable blade speeds for different materials
- You want integrated lighting for better visibility
Skip if
- You frequently resaw thick lumber beyond 9 inches
- You need high-power motor performance for industrial use
- You require a larger throat capacity for wide boards
Verdict: DEWALT 9" DXBS2301 Band Saw fits hobbyists who prioritize precision and compact design over raw power. It delivers reliable performance for intricate woodworking projects in small shops.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | DEWALT 20V MAX 5-Inch Cordless Band Saw | DEWALT 9-Inch Two-Speed Band Saw |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting Capacity | 5'' | not stated |
| Throat Size | not stated | 9 in |
| Motor Power | not stated | 3.5 A |
| Blade Speed | not stated | 1700 & 2500 SPM |
| Power Source | 20V MAX | not stated |
| Speed Settings | not stated | 2-Speed |
| Amperage | not stated | 5 A |
| Features | not stated | Work Light |
| Size | One Size | 9-Inch |
| Design | Portable | not stated |
| Dimensions | 22.3 × 14.4 × 8.7 inches | 19 × 13 × 30 inches |
| Weight | 12.4 pounds | 40 pounds |
| Color | Multi | Yellow |
| Model | DCS374B | DXBS2301 |
Frequently asked questions
Is the DEWALT 20V MAX band saw powerful enough for thick wood?
It handles moderate thickness well but has limits. This cordless model offers a 5-inch cutting capacity. That is the maximum width of material you can cut in one pass. It is not designed for heavy industrial stock. Use it for portable tasks where a 5-inch depth is sufficient for your project needs.
Which DEWALT band saw is better for small workshops?
The 9-inch benchtop model is better for tight spaces. It measures 13 inches in width and 19 inches in length. This compact footprint fits easily on smaller workbenches. The portable 20V MAX version is lighter but requires battery management. Choose the benchtop unit if you need a stable, stationary tool that stays in one place.
Does the DEWALT 9-inch band saw have variable speed?
It features two fixed speed settings rather than infinite variable control. The model DXBS2301 allows you to switch between two distinct RPM ranges. This helps you match the blade speed to the material type. You cannot adjust the speed continuously. Select this tool if you need reliable performance for intricate curved cuts in a small shop.
How heavy is the DEWALT 20V MAX portable band saw?
It weighs 12.4 pounds without the battery. This makes it significantly lighter than the benchtop alternative. The benchtop 9-inch model weighs 40 pounds. The lighter weight of the cordless version aids in portability and ease of handling. You can carry it to different job sites or move it around your workspace with less effort.
Can I use the DEWALT 20V MAX band saw for detailed work?
It is designed for portable deep-cutting tasks rather than fine detail. The 5-inch cutting capacity supports deeper cuts than many competitors. However, its primary strength is mobility and power in a handheld form. For detailed curved cuts, the 9-inch benchtop model is more suitable. It offers better stability and precision for intricate woodworking projects in small shops.
What is the throat size of the DEWALT 9-inch band saw?
The throat size is 9 inches. This measurement determines the distance from the blade to the column. A 9-inch throat allows you to cut wider pieces of wood than smaller models. It provides ample space for crosscuts and resawing operations. This capacity makes it a versatile choice for hobbyists who need precision in a compact design.