WEN BA3962 Review: The Best Band Saw Under $500

If you’re setting up a home workshop on a budget, you know the struggle. You need precision, you need power, but you can’t justify spending thousands on industrial-grade machinery. Enter the WEN BA3962.

In my experience, finding a reliable band saw under the $500 mark is like finding a straight piece of pine at a big-box store—it’s rare, but when you find it, you hold onto it. The BA3962 is that “straight piece of pine.”

Check Price

WEN BA3962 3.5-Amp 10-Inch Two-Speed Band Saw

4.3/5

The upgraded successor to the classic 3939T. Features a more powerful 3.5-amp motor, two-speed operation, and a 9-3/4 inch throat.

> 3.5-Amp Motor

> Two-Speed (1520/2620 FPM)

> 9.75-inch Throat

> 6-inch Cut Depth

View on Amazon

Why the WEN BA3962?

The heart of this machine is a 3.5-ampere motor. While it might sound modest compared to floor-standing units, it pushes the blade at either 1520 or 2620 feet per minute. For a benchtop unit, that’s impressive sawing power. Whether you’re ripping thin stock for a jewelry box or making intricate curved cuts, the BA3962 doesn’t bog down easily.

Key Features at a Glance:

• Two-Speed Operation: Switch between 1520 FPM for metal/hardwoods or 2620 FPM for softwoods.
• Spacious Worktable: The 14 x 12-1/2 inch table swivels up to 45 degrees for bevel cuts.
• Dust Management: A 3-in-1 dust port fits a variety of hose sizes (1-3/4, 2-3/4, 4 inches), keeping your workspace clear.
• Flexible Work Light: Illuminates your cut line for maximum precision.

Unboxing & Assembly

The main body comes mostly assembled. You’ll need to attach the stand (if included) and the worktable.

Pro Tip: Don’t skip the table alignment. Use a reliable square to ensure your 0-degree stop is actually 90 degrees to the blade. It takes five minutes and saves you hours of frustration later.

Blade Installation & Safety

Installing a blade (it takes 72-inch blades from 1/8 to 1/2 inch) is straightforward.

1. Open the Housing: Use the user-friendly latches to expose the ball-bearing guides.
2. Align the Blade: Ensure the teeth are facing forward and down.
3. Tensioning: Use the onboard tension guide.

Safety First: Always wear your PPE. When using a bandsaw, I never step up to the machine without my protective goggles and a face shield.

The Verdict

For under $500, the WEN BA3962 is hard to beat. It’s a rugged, reliable entry point for hobbyists and serious DIYers alike. It provides the precision needed for fine woodworking while maintaining the durability to handle rougher shop tasks.

Ready to upgrade your workshop?