MechMaxx SM-26
For homeowners who want the most engine and log size for the money in a compact mill and accept thin warranty cover.
Amazon $1,999$1,999
The MechMaxx SM-26 rates 3.6 among up to 26 in logs bandsaw sawmills; the Norwood LumberMan MN27 rates 3.0 among over 26 in logs ones. The MechMaxx SM-26 costs $2,996 less ($1,999 vs $4,995).
Norwood LumberMan MN27
#13 in Over 26 in logsFull review
For hobby sawyers who want a little more than a compact mill takes at a compact mill price.
Norwood $4,995$4,995
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.
Scores side by side
These two sit in different log capacity classes (up to 26 in logs and over 26 in logs), and each is scored against the reference points for its own class, so a rating says how well each does among its own log capacity peers. How we rank explains each factor.
| Factor weight | MechMaxx SM-26 | Norwood LumberMan MN27 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.6/5 | 3.0/5 |
| Price 25% | 100 $1,999 | 100 $4,995 |
| Capacity 15% | 100 logs up to 26 in | 10 logs up to 27 in |
| Engine 15% | 100 15 hp engine | 37 14 hp engine |
| Features 20% | 30 track extensions | 30 track extensions |
| Warranty 25% | 0 warranty not published, scored as none | 25 2-year warranty |
Specifications
| MechMaxx SM-26 | Norwood LumberMan MN27 | |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | ||
| Largest log | 26 in | 27 in |
| Widest board | 20 in | 23 in |
| Log length | 10 ft | 12.8 ft |
| Track extensions | Yes | Yes |
| Engine and head | ||
| Power | Gas | Gas |
| Engine | ZONSEN 459cc | Kohler OHV 14hp |
| Displacement | 459 cc | 429 cc |
| Engine power | 15 hp | 14 hp |
| Blade length | - | 144 in |
| Feed | Manual | Manual |
| Setworks | Manual | Manual |
| Build | ||
| Weight | 728 lb | - |
| Warranty | - | 2 years |