Wood-Mizer LX50START
For hobby sawyers who want a 26 in mill from a known brand at a low price and can live with a small engine.
Amazon $4,195 Wood-Mizer $3,195$3,195
The Wood-Mizer LX50START is the better bandsaw sawmill overall, rated 3.2 to 3.0. The Wood-Mizer LX50START leads on capacity and engine. The MechMaxx SM-22 wins on price. The MechMaxx SM-22 costs $1,596 less ($1,599 vs $3,195).
MechMaxx SM-22
For a homeowner who wants to try milling small logs for the least money. Expect slow cuts and little warranty cover.
Amazon $1,599$1,599
Prices were last checked November 2, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Wood-Mizer LX50START for capacity (logs up to 26 in vs logs up to 22 in) and engine (9.5 hp engine vs 8.1 hp engine).
- Choose the MechMaxx SM-22 for price ($1,599 vs $3,195).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every up to 26 in logs bandsaw sawmill; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Wood-Mizer LX50START | MechMaxx SM-22 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.2/5 | 3.0/5 |
| Price 25% | 57 $3,195 | 100 $1,599 |
| Capacity 15% | 100 logs up to 26 in | 50 logs up to 22 in |
| Engine 15% | 54 9.5 hp engine | 35 8.1 hp engine |
| Features 20% | 30 track extensions | 30 track extensions |
| Warranty 25% | 25 2-year warranty | 0 warranty not published, scored as none |
Specifications
| Wood-Mizer LX50START | MechMaxx SM-22 | |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | ||
| Largest log | 26 in | 22 in |
| Widest board | 23.5 in | 18 in |
| Log length | 10.2 ft | 10.4 ft |
| Track extensions | Yes | Yes |
| Engine and head | ||
| Power | Gas | Gas |
| Engine | Kohler 9.5HP | DUCAR 274cc |
| Displacement | - | 274 cc |
| Engine power | 9.5 hp | 8.1 hp |
| Blade length | 132 in | - |
| Feed | Manual | Manual |
| Setworks | Manual | Manual |
| Build | ||
| Weight | 798 lb | 509 lb |
| Warranty | 2 years | - |