Milwaukee M12 FUEL Compact Band Saw 2529-20
#14 in Cordless portableFull review
For electricians and plumbers who cut small stock overhead and want the lightest option on 12 V batteries.
Amazon $229$229
The Milwaukee M12 FUEL Compact Band Saw 2529-20 is the better band saw overall, rated 3.2 to 3.0. The Milwaukee M12 FUEL Compact Band Saw 2529-20 leads on price. The Makita 18V LXT Compact Band Saw XBP03Z wins on power. The Milwaukee M12 FUEL Compact Band Saw 2529-20 costs $70.90 less ($229 vs $299.90).
Prices were last checked November 4, 2026. Product prices and availability are accurate as of that date and are subject to change; the price and availability shown on Amazon or the retailer's site at the time of purchase apply. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Makita 18V LXT Compact Band Saw XBP03Z
#16 in Cordless portableFull review
A compact Makita for one-handed cuts in conduit, strut and small pipe.
Amazon $299.90$299.90
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Milwaukee M12 FUEL Compact Band Saw 2529-20 for price ($229 vs $299.90).
- Choose the Makita 18V LXT Compact Band Saw XBP03Z for power (up to 630 sfpm vs up to 570 sfpm).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every cordless portable band saw; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Milwaukee M12 FUEL Compact Band Saw 2529-20 | Makita 18V LXT Compact Band Saw XBP03Z |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.2/5 | 3.0/5 |
| Price 25% | 57 $229 | 44 $299.90 |
| Capacity 20% | 17 2.5 in cutting capacity | 17 2.5 in cutting capacity |
| Power 15% | 77 up to 570 sfpm | 94 up to 630 sfpm |
| Features 30% | 30 work light | 50 features not published (neutral score used) |
| Warranty 10% | 100 5-year warranty | 0 warranty not published, scored as none |
Specifications
| Milwaukee M12 FUEL Compact Band Saw 2529-20 | Makita 18V LXT Compact Band Saw XBP03Z | |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting | ||
| Cutting capacity | 2.5 in | 2.5 in |
| Blade speed | Up to 570 sfpm | Up to 630 sfpm |
| Motor and power | ||
| Motor | 12 V battery | 18 V battery |
| Features | ||
| Work light | Yes | - |
| Weight | 6 lb | 9 lb |
| Warranty | 5 years | - |