Powermatic PWBS-14CS
Score: 88/100
Jet JWBS-18SFX-3
Score: 92/100Rankings
The JET JWBS-18SFX-3 is a heavy-duty 18-inch woodworking band saw featuring a 3 HP 230V single-phase motor and a 16-inch resaw capacity, designed for professional and serious hobbyist use. It distinguishes itself with dual 4-inch dust ports, tool-less roller blade guides, and an optional foot brake with motor disconnect. While it excels in power and precision, its bulky size and weight make it unsuitable for small shops or users requiring variable speed without manual changes.
The Powermatic PWBS-14CS is a compact 14-inch floor-standing bandsaw designed for small professional shops, featuring a 1.5 HP motor and premium cast iron construction. Its fixed blade speed and large footprint are trade-offs for its robust performance and stability. It is best suited for serious hobbyists and professionals requiring precision and durability in a space-conscious design.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
14 in | 18 inbest | |
1.5 HP | 3 HPbest | |
3,000 RPM | 6,400 RPMbest | |
— | 230 Vbest | |
307.5 sq in | 548 sq inbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 250 lbsbest | 406 lbs |
93.5 in | 150 inbest | |
68 in | 79.25 inbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Cutting Capacity(1) | ||
Throat Depth (in) | 14 in | 18 in |
Table & Work Surface(1) | ||
Table Size (sq in) | 307.5 sq in | 548 sq in |
Portability & Build(1) | ||
Weight (lbs) | 250 lbs | 406 lbs |
Power & Performance(4) | ||
Motor Power (HP) | 1.5 HP | 3 HP |
Blade Speed (RPM) | 3000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Nominal Voltage (V) | 115/230 V | 230 V |
Motor Type | N/A | TEFC Induction |
Blade & Guides(2) | ||
Blade Guide Type | Dual Bearing | Roller |
Blade Length (in) | 93.5 in | 150 in |
Support(1) | ||
Warranty Length | 5-year | 5 Years |
Dimensions(3) | ||
Overall Height (in) | 68.0 in | 79.25 in |
Overall Width (in) | 34.0 in | 34.25 in |
Overall Length (in) | 20.0 in | 38 in |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers recognize the Powermatic PWBS-14CS as a compact bandsaw with premium features suitable for professional applications, praised for its solid construction and reliable cutting performance.
Information about common praise or recurring issues based on actual user feedback is not available in the provided sources. No specific user reviews, customer testimonials, or recurring complaints from everyday consumers were found.
Professional reviewers, including Popular Woodworking, praise the JET JWBS-18SFX as a premium machine suitable for home shops, noting that while the 1.75 HP version suffices for most tasks, the 3 HP model excels for professionals. Reviewers highlight the tool-less guides, effective dual dust ports, and foot brake as standout features that differentiate it from competitors, calling it perfect for most home shops due to its smooth power and ergonomic design.
Everyday users commonly praise the saw for its smooth, powerful cuts on thick stock and excellent dust extraction capabilities. Recurring themes include appreciation for the accurate fence and guides which reduce setup time. However, complaints frequently cite the bulky size and weight as complications for garage use, finicky initial blade tensioning, and the requirement for high-CFM dust collection systems to maintain effectiveness.
“1.75 HP plenty, 3 HP overkill for hobbyists”
“Excellent dust extraction keeps shops clean”
“Bulky size/weight complicates garage use”
