WEN or CRAFTSMAN? Table Saws Compared in 2026
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
This WEN vs CRAFTSMAN table saw comparison highlights two very different tools. Both are power tools designed for cutting wood. However, they serve distinct purposes in a workshop. The WEN model is a benchtop band saw with a 2.8-amp motor. The CRAFTSMAN unit is a cordless circular saw powered by a 20V MAX battery. You need to look at their specific specs to see which fits your project needs.
Key differences
| Aspect | WEN 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw | CRAFTSMAN V20 4-1/2-Inch Cordless Circular Saw |
|---|---|---|
| Power Source | 2.8-Amp Corded | 20V MAX Cordless |
| Motor Speed | 2500 feet per minute | 4500 rpm |
| Blade Type | 9-Inch Band Saw | 4-1/2-Inch Circular |
| Weight | 40 pounds | 6.81 pounds |
Which one should you choose?
Choose WEN 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw if
- You need a stationary tool for intricate curved cuts.
- You prefer a corded connection for consistent power.
- You require a heavy base for stability during detailed work.
Choose CRAFTSMAN V20 4-1/2-Inch Cordless Circular Saw if
- You want a portable tool for on-site cuts.
- You already own 20V MAX batteries.
- You need to move the saw frequently between jobs.
Verdict: The WEN band saw is better for workshop-based detailed work. The CRAFTSMAN circular saw is better for portable, rough cutting tasks. Choose based on whether you need precision or mobility.
WEN Versus CRAFTSMAN Specs
Motor Power
The WEN 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw uses a 2.8-amp motor. This motor rotates the blade up to 2500 feet per minute. It provides steady power for cutting curves and shapes in wood. The CRAFTSMAN V20 4-1/2-Inch Cordless Circular Saw relies on a brushless motor. It delivers up to 4500 no-load rpm. This high speed helps with fast, straight cuts in dimensional lumber. You get different power types here. One is a wired amp rating. The other is a cordless brushless system. Each suits different cutting tasks.
Cutting Capacity
The WEN band saw offers a generous cutting area. It creates cuts up to 3-1/2 inches deep and 9 inches wide. This allows you to handle wider boards and thicker stock with ease. The CRAFTSMAN circular saw has a 4-1/2-inch blade diameter. It bevels at 45 degrees to cut 1x dimensional lumber. The WEN wins here for depth and width. You can cut larger pieces with the band saw. The circular saw is better for standard framing lumber. Choose based on the size of your project.
Weight
Portability matters when you move tools around the shop. The WEN 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw weighs 40 pounds. It is a sturdy benchtop unit that stays in place. The CRAFTSMAN V20 4-1/2-Inch Cordless Circular Saw is much lighter. It weighs only 6.81 pounds. This makes it easy to carry to job sites or move around the workshop. The CRAFTSMAN is clearly the portable option. You can hold it with one hand. The WEN requires a stable bench. Lightness is the clear advantage for the circular saw.
Blade Size
The blade size defines the type of cuts you can make. The WEN band saw uses 59-1/2-inch blades. These blades range from 1/8 to 3/8 inches in width. This allows for versatile cutting widths and curves. The CRAFTSMAN circular saw uses a 4-1/2-inch blade. This is a standard size for circular saws. It is designed for straight, rip cuts. The WEN offers a different blade format. You get a continuous loop blade. The CRAFTSMAN uses a standard toothed disc. Each serves a specific cutting purpose.
Safety Features
Safety features protect you during operation. The WEN band saw includes an adjustable blade guard with ball-bearing supports. This helps keep your fingers away from the blade. It also comes with a rip fence and miter gauge for control. The CRAFTSMAN circular saw features an electronic blade brake. This stops the blade quickly if needed. It also has an on-board front dust port for debris control. Both tools have safety in mind. The WEN focuses on physical guarding. The CRAFTSMAN adds an electronic brake. Both are solid choices for safety.
Which tool fits your workflow best
You need precise curved cuts in wood
The WEN 9-Inch Band Saw rotates its blade up to 2500 feet per minute. This speed allows for detailed work. It creates cuts up to 3-1/2 inches deep and 9 inches wide. The spacious 12-1/4 x 11-7/8-inch work table bevels up to 45 degrees. You get a 1/4-inch blade and a rip fence included.
You want cordless portability for framing
The CRAFTSMAN V20 is a cordless circular saw. It weighs just 6.81 pounds. This makes it easy to carry to job sites. The brushless motor reaches 4500 no-load rpm. You can cut 1x dimensional lumber at a 45-degree bevel. The electronic blade brake stops the blade quickly for safety.
You prefer stationary benchtop precision work
This WEN model sits on your bench. It weighs 40 pounds, providing stability during operation. The 2.8-amp motor drives the blade steadily. You can use blades from 1/8 to 3/8 inches wide. The included adjustable blade guard has ball-bearing supports. This setup helps you maintain accuracy on complex shapes.
You need quick cuts on lumber
The CRAFTSMAN circular saw features a sliding rip fence. This improves accuracy for straight cuts. An auxiliary handle allows for ease of use. The on-board front dust port helps keep your workspace cleaner. You also get on-board blade key storage. This allows for quick blade changes without hunting for tools.
The products compared
WEN 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw
Best for: precision curve cutting and small shop setups
- Amperage
- 2.8-Amp
- Dimensions
- 11 × 7 × 4 inches
- Weight
- 40 pounds
View on Amazon: WEN 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw Affiliate link
The WEN BA3959 is a 2.8-amp benchtop band saw designed for precise cutting tasks. It handles blades up to 59-1/2 inches long, allowing for cuts up to 9 inches wide and 3-1/2 inches deep. The spacious 12-1/4 by 11-7/8-inch work table bevels up to 45 degrees for angled cuts. This 40-pound unit includes a rip fence and miter gauge, making it suitable for hobbyists who need versatility in a compact footprint.
Pros
- 2.8-amp motor rotates blades up to 2500 feet per minute
- Cuts up to 9 inches wide and 3-1/2 inches deep
- Work table bevels up to 45 degrees
- Includes rip fence and miter gauge for accuracy
Cons
- Benchtop design requires mounting to a stable surface
- 40-pound weight limits portability between workspaces
- Limited to 9-inch cutting width for wider stock
Good fit if
- You need to cut curves or complex shapes in wood
- You have limited floor space for a stationary tool
- You want a beveling table for angled cuts
Skip if
- You primarily cut wide lumber exceeding 9 inches
- You require a large, integrated cabinet for heavy dust collection
- You need to cut materials thicker than 3-1/2 inches
Verdict: WEN 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw offers solid cutting capacity for its size, fitting users who prioritize maneuverability and angled cuts over massive stock handling.
CRAFTSMAN V20 4-1/2-Inch Cordless Circular Saw
Best for: portable cuts with existing V20 batteries
- Blade Diameter
- 4-1/2 Inch
- No-Load Speed
- 4500 rpm
- Power Source
- Cordless
- Voltage
- 20V MAX
- Dimensions
- 18.5 × 5.51 × 6.73 inches
- Weight
- 6.81 pounds
View on Amazon: CRAFTSMAN V20 4-1/2-Inch Cordless Circular Saw Affiliate link
This is a CRAFTSMAN cordless circular saw designed for portability. It features a 4-1/2 inch blade and a brushless motor reaching 4500 rpm. The tool weighs 6.81 pounds and measures 18.5 inches in length. It includes a sliding rip fence for accuracy and an electronic blade brake for safety. You will need to purchase the battery separately as this is a bare tool.
Pros
- Brushless motor delivers up to 4500 rpm
- Electronic blade brake stops the blade quickly
- Sliding rip fence improves cut accuracy
- On-board front dust port for debris control
Cons
- Bare tool only; battery and charger not included
- 4-1/2 inch blade limits cutting depth and capacity
- Requires separate 20V MAX battery for operation
Good fit if
- You need a lightweight saw for overhead cuts
- You already own CRAFTSMAN V20 batteries
- You prioritize safety features like a blade brake
Skip if
- You want a table saw for stationary work
- You do not own compatible 20V batteries
- You need to cut thick lumber in one pass
Verdict: CRAFTSMAN V20 4-1/2 Inch Cordless Circular Saw is a portable option for users who already have the battery system. It suits those who value quick blade stopping and accuracy over deep cutting capacity.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | WEN 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw | CRAFTSMAN V20 4-1/2-Inch Cordless Circular Saw |
|---|---|---|
| Blade Diameter | not stated | 4-1/2 Inch |
| Amperage | 2.8-Amp | not stated |
| No-Load Speed | not stated | 4500 rpm |
| Power Source | not stated | Cordless |
| Voltage | not stated | 20V MAX |
| Dimensions | 11 × 7 × 4 inches | 18.5 × 5.51 × 6.73 inches |
| Weight | 40 pounds | 6.81 pounds |
| Size | 59-1/2-inch blades | not stated |
| Color | Black, Silver | Black, Red |
| Model | BA3959 | CMCS405B |
Frequently asked questions
Is the WEN 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw suitable for small workshops?
Yes, it is designed for precision curve cutting and small shop setups. Its compact dimensions allow it to fit into limited spaces. The unit weighs 40 pounds, making it manageable for benchtop placement. It prioritizes maneuverability over handling massive stock, which suits tighter work environments.
Does the CRAFTSMAN saw require a power outlet?
No, the CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Circular Saw operates without a cord. It uses a 20V MAX battery system. This design supports portable cuts for users who already own compatible V20 batteries. You can take the tool to different job sites without worrying about extension cords or nearby outlets.
Which tool is better for making curved cuts?
The WEN 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw is the better choice for curved cuts. It rotates its blade up to 2500 feet per minute to create detailed shapes. The CRAFTSMAN circular saw is optimized for straight, portable cuts. It focuses on quick blade stopping and accuracy rather than complex geometry.
How heavy is the WEN band saw?
The WEN 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw weighs 40 pounds. This weight provides stability during operation while remaining light enough for benchtop use. The CRAFTSMAN circular saw is significantly lighter at 6.81 pounds, emphasizing portability over the heavy-duty stability found in the larger WEN band saw model.
Can I use the CRAFTSMAN saw with my existing batteries?
Yes, if you already have the V20 battery system. The CRAFTSMAN V20 4-1/2-Inch Cordless Circular Saw is built for this ecosystem. It is a portable option for users who value quick blade stopping and accuracy. This compatibility allows you to use the tool immediately without purchasing a new power source.
What is the blade size for the WEN band saw?
The WEN 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw uses 59-1/2-inch blades. This size supports its cutting capacity for its specific form factor. The CRAFTSMAN circular saw features a 4-1/2-inch blade. These distinct blade sizes reflect their different roles: one for detailed band work and the other for circular cuts.