The 8 Best Track Saws of 2023
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A good track saw makes it easy to cut perfectly straight lines on large boards
The Spruce / Kevin Liang
A good track saw—often called a plunge saw, thanks to its ability to "plunge" into the material being cut without having to start at an edge—lets you make precise cuts down long pieces of lumbar, including plywood boards. These saws are similar to circular saws, but have a track, or guide, to keep the saw moving in a perfectly straight line.
Ben Kuhl, home remodeler and CEO of Shelf Expression, says, "A track saw is a great tool to have for a few different reasons. It is especially useful for breaking down large sheets of plywood or cutting large wood slabs that don't have a straight edge to reference against when using a table saw. It's also great for cutting up large pieces of lumber that won't fit on a table saw. The saw runs along a guide rail, which ensures that the cuts are straight and uniform, making it ideal for precision cuts that traditional circular saws can't replicate. Its portability is also a plus, allowing for easy transport to job sites or different work areas."
We researched and evaluated track saws based on their power, accuracy, features such as variable speed and the ability to cut bevels, the user-friendliness of the tool, and its overall value.
Makita SP6000J1 Plunge Saw With Guide Rail
Best Overall
This highly precise saw has a large depth range, bevels up to 48 degrees, and has variable speed control.
What We Like
Very precise cuts
Variable speed
Bevels up to 48 degrees
Cuts materials up to 2-3/16 inches thick
What We Don't Like
Depth control gauge only in metric measurements
Cord somewhat short
We love the precise, splinter-free cuts you can achieve with this corded track saw from Makita. It has the standard 6-1/2-inch blade and 12-amp motor, but also has variable speed control that you can set from 2,000 rpm to 5,200 rpm; turn it down slow when cutting through hard woods or crank it up high when slicing through softer materials. Either way, you'll appreciate the tool's soft-start function, which eases into the speed setting to make it easier for you to maintain control. Once at the full speed, the saw's electronic speed control keeps it steady even while cutting through boards. And with magnesium components, this track saw only weighs 9.7 pounds, making it easy to carry with you to a job site when desired.
You can cut bevels with the saw from -1 to 48 degrees, and there are positive stops set at 22.5 degrees and 45 degrees, so it's very quick to set these common angles. We also appreciate the saw's bigger-than-average cutting abilities—you can make cuts as shallow as 1/16-inch or as deep as 2-3/16-inch when the saw is at 90 degrees or 1-9/16-inch with the saw at a 45-degree angle. Plus, it can cut as close as 11/16-inch to a wall or other edge, allowing you more versatility when cutting flooring, doors, and other large materials. One potential downside, however, is that the depth-adjustment gauge only shows metric measurements, not imperial, so if you aren't fluent in metric, you'll need to do some minor calculations to set the depth.
There's a swiveling, 1-1/2-inch dust port that can be connected to your shop vac to keep sawdust under control; a welcome feature, as these types of saws can create a lot of dust. A few buyers felt that the 7.9-foot electrical cord was a bit too short—some other brands have cords that are 12 feet long—but that might not be an issue for you, depending on the size of materials you normally cut and the placement of electrical outlets in your workshop. The saw comes with a 55-inch guide rail. If you need longer rails, Makita sells a connector separately that lets you connect multiple rails together. You also get a sturdy plastic carrying case for the saw.
Price at time of publish: $774
Blade Size: 6-1/2 inch | Power: 12 amps | Bevel Degrees: -1 to 48 degrees | Track Size: 55 inches
WEN CT1065 Plunge Cut Sidewinder Circular Track Saw
Best Budget
This reasonably priced plunge saw does a great job of slicing through plywood and similar materials.
What We Like
Very reasonable price, even when the guide rails are added
Cuts up to 2-1/3-inch deep
Bevels to 45 degrees
What We Don't Like
Does not include guide rails
No speed control
Track saws can be undeniably expensive. That's why we like the WEN CT1065. If you are trying to keep your budget under control, and don't need a saw with the utmost in power or extra features, this is a fine plunge saw that does a great job of making accurate cuts across plyboard and similar materials. The saw has a 10-amp engine and a 6.5-inch blade. It does not have variable speed control; the maximum speed of the tool is 5,500 rpm. Nor does it have a soft-start features. Still, customers for the most part felt that this is a fantastic entry-level saw for those who don't want to pay for bell-and-whistles they might not need.
The saw can bevel up to 45 degrees and cut to a depth of 1-5/8-inches thick at that angle. When at a 90-degree angle, you can cut materials up to 2-1/3-inch thick; an impressive depth for such an inexpensive saw. A few buyers said the plastic control knobs felt flimsy, but the design of the tool does keep its weight to a reasonable 12 pounds. Its cord is only 6 feet long, which is definitely on the short side, so you'll want to consider the distance to electrical outlets before getting started on your projects. Note that this saw does not come with any guide rails; those must be purchased separately. However, even when you add the cost of the saw and the additional cost of the rails, it's still far less expensive than most other track saws on the market, and the majority of buyers are very pleased with its performance.
Price at time of publish: $98
Blade Size: 6-1/2 inch | Power: 10 amps | Bevel Degrees: 0 to 45 degrees | Track Size: Not included
Festool TS 55 FEQ-F-Plus-FS Plunge Cut Track Saw With Rails
Best Splurge
This top-of-the-line saw makes extremey clean, precise cuts.
What We Like
Fine-kerf blade
Very clean, precise cuts
Variable speed
What We Don't Like
Expensive
While widely considered to be the top brand when it comes to track saws, Festool's products are not cheap. However, if you want a plunge saw that delivers the ultimate in precise, splinter-free cuts, is easy to adjust, and comes with a 6-1/4-inch, thin-kerf blade. Kerf refers to the width of the groove cut by a blade, and this beauty from Festool has a mere 1.8-mm kerf. That means not only does the blade create a more precise cut with less sawdust; it also means that the strain on the 10-amp motor is reduced, allowing the saw to cut faster and cleaner. And even when the blade is at an angle, its cutting edge remains in full contact with the material being cut, so your control and your results are unaffected.
The variable speed control of the TS 55 sets from 2,000 rpm to 5,800 rpm. It bevels from -1 to 47 degrees, with a maximum depth of 1-11/16-inch when at a 45-degree angle, and up to 2-1/8-inch at a 90-degree angle. The depth of cut adjusts in micro-measurements, so you can be as precise as you need. The design of the rail lets you cut as close as 1/2-inch to a wall or other vertical surfaces. The 9.5-pound saw has a 13-foot power cord, allowing you more freedom to maneuver around your worktable. And it comes with a 55-inch guide rail, a sturdy carrying box, and a dust port that can be connected to your shop vacuum. You can purchase other lengths of guide rail separately.
Price at time of publish: $699
Blade Size: 6-1/4 inch | Power: 10 amps | Bevel Degrees: -1 to 45 degrees | Track Size: 55 inch
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Makita XPS01PTJ 36-Volt Brushless Cordless Track Saw
Best Cordless
Cut the cord with this powerful and precise battery track saw.
What We Like
No need for a nearby electrical outlet
Variable speed and automatic speed change
Wide bevel range
Good range of cutting depth
What We Don't Like
Depth adjustment lever only in metric measurements
Expensive
Doesn't come with a guide rail
This battery-powered plunge saw from Makita runs off two 18-volt batteries for a total of 36 volts of power, meaning that this is no weakling when it comes to slicing through plywood and other materials. While the manufacturer doesn't give an expected runtime for the batteries, many buyers specifically mentioned that even after multiple cuts, the battery charge was still at more than 50 percent. When the batteries do finally run down, it only takes around 45 minutes to recharge them. The saw has a 6-1/2-inch blade and variable speeds of 2,500 rpm to 6,300 rpm with a soft-start that lets you ease into cutting. It also has Makita's Automatic Speed Change Technology, which automatically adjusts the saw's speed and torque to best suit the performance of the tool. You can even use this plunge saw to cut through aluminum, man-made countertop materials such as Corian, and melamine, but you'll need to swap out the blade for an optional, material-specific blade to do so.
The track saw can bevel from -1 to 48 degrees and has positive stops at 22.5 degrees and 45 degrees. When at a 45-degree angle, its maximum depth of cut is 1-9/16-inch, and at 90 degrees it can cut up to 2-3/16-inch deep. However, some buyers were annoyed by the metric-only measurements on the depth lever. You can cut as close as 11/16-inch to the wall or other vertical surfaces, and you'll still get highly clean, precise cuts every time. You can make an initial scoring cut of as little as 2mm; that's precision.
On the downside, this is an expensive saw, considering that it does not come with a guide rail, which you'll have to purchase separately. Still, if you want a plunge saw that can go anywhere, is powerful and precise, and has great features, it's worth the extra expense. It comes with two batteries, a charger, and a case.
Price at time of publish: $539
Blade Size: 6-1/2 inch | Power: 36 volts | Bevel Degrees: -1 to 48 degrees | Track Size: Not included
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Kreg ACS2000 Adaptive Cutting System Track Saw
Best Corded
This powerful and effective plunge saw makes very precise cuts and bevels.
What We Like
Includes a 62-inch guide rail
Anti-kickback and riving knife for safety
Variable speed
Includes dust bg
What We Don't Like
Might be tricky to set up for some
Can be a slightly difficult to adjust settings
Kreg's ACS2000 is a powerful, 12-amp plunge saw that is designed to make supremely precise cuts without splintering, tearing, or chipping the edges of the material you are cutting. The 6-1/2-inch blade can bevel from -1 to 47 degrees, and can cut to a depth of 1-1/2-inch at a 45-degree angle and 2-1/8-inch at a 90-degree angle. The variable speed motor runs from 2,000 rpm to 6,000 rpm and compensates for load so you don't get annoying bog-down or undesired slowing. It has a riving knife and anti-kickback technology, as well, which minimize the chances of the saw "kicking back" towards you should it get stuck on a wood knot or other obstruction.
The plunge saw comes with a 62-inch guide track, which is longer than most other brands supply with their track saws. Plus, you can purchase separate connectors and additional lengths of guide rail to go even longer, if desired. The guide rails have anti-slip strips on the back that keep them in place without the need for clamps. That makes this saw ideal for cutting very large boards, doors, or pieces of plywood down to size. It also includes a carrying bag for toting the 18-pound saw and track to your worksite, and a dust collection bag, which most brands leave out. While a few buyers did complain that the saw was hard to set up or hard to adjust, most praised its power, precision, and performance.
Price at time of publish: $398
Blade Size: 6-1/2 inch | Power: 12 amps | Bevel Degrees: -1 to 47 degrees | Track Size: 62 inch
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DEWALT DWS520CK Track Saw Kit
Best Heavy-Duty
This heavy-duty saw comes with both a 59-inch and a 102-inch guide rail.
What We Like
Includes 59-inch and 102-inch guide rails
Variable speed
Very clean, precise cuts even on hard woods
What We Don't Like
Expensive
Not everyone needs a heavy-duty track saw that can tirelessly slice through even the hardest and largest wood boards, but if you make cabinets or do other professional carpentry, then it can be worth the extra expense to purchase this powerful plunge saw kit. The saw has a 12-amp motor and DEWALT's Zero clearance TrackSaw™ cutting system that delivers precise, straight, splinter-free cuts whether you are cutting straight through the material or working on an angle. The 6-1/2-inch blade can bevel 0 to 47 degrees. At 45 degrees, the maximum cutting depth is 1-5/8-inch, while at 90 degrees, you have up to 2-1/8-inch of cutting depth. And its low-profile blade guard makes it easy to use even in confined spaces.
The saw has variable speed control from 1,750 rpm to 4,000 rpm. There's a riving knife and anti-kickback mechanisms for extra safety, and you can easily connect the large dust port to your shop vacuum. Best of all, this rugged plunge saw comes with not one, but two extra-long guide rails: one 59-inch rail and one 102-inch rail. That makes it easy to cut the longest materials. DEWALT sells an optional connector that even allows you to join the two pieces of track for the longest guide rail possible. The kit comes with a storage box for holding your saw when not in use.
Price at time of publish: $700
Blade Size: 6-1/2 inch | Power: 12 amps | Bevel Degrees: 0 to 47 degrees | Track Size: 59 inch and 102 inch
Evolution R185CCSX Multi-Material Track Saw Kit
Best Multi-Material
With just one blade, you can cut wood, metal, plastic, composites, and laminates.
What We Like
Can cut through multiple materials with the same blade
Very reasonable price
Powerful motor
What We Don't Like
Included track is very short
Not easy to plunge
Not variable speed
Most track saws are designed to only cut wood, and require a change of blades to cut other materials, if that's even advised by the manufacturer. But not the Evolution R185CCSX: This multi-material track saw can muscle through not only wood—even wood studded with nails—but also composite materials, laminates, plastics, and metals both magnetic and nonmagnetic. All without a change of blade, because the included 7-1/4-inch blade can smoothly and cleanly chew through any of those materials without leaving splinters or rough edges. That makes it a very versatile addition to any DIYers workshop. It bevels from 0 to 45 degrees, and has a 1-13/16-inch cutting depth at 45 degrees and a 2-1/2-inch cutting depth at 90 degrees. However, note that this is more of a circular saw that can run on a track; it is not a pure track saw with plunge ability.
The saw has a powerful 15-amp motor with lots of torque, so it won't bog down when cutting through metal or other hard materials. However, it does not have variable speeds, but just a maximum speed of 3,700 rpm. It has comfortable easy-grip handles for better control, and you can hook it to your shop vacuum to keep the dust under control. The saw comes with three short pieces of track, along with connectors, for a maximum guide rail length of 40 inches. You can purchase more tracks separately if desired. Considering the reasonable price of this saw, it's a bargain even after purchasing an extra track.
Price at time of publish: $160
Blade Size: 7-1/4 inch | Power: 15 amps | Bevel Degrees: 0 to 45 degrees | Track Size: 40 inch
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Bosch GKT13-225L Track Saw With Tracks and Carry Bag
Best Complete Kit
You get two lengths of 63-inch track with this powerful plunge saw.
What We Like
Includes two 63-inch guide rails
Powerful and extremely precise
Variable speed
Easy plunge settings
What We Don't Like
Expensive
It's not inexpensive, but this complete kit from Bosch includes not only an excellent track saw, but also two lengths of 63-inch track, a connector so you can hook them together if desired, and a carrying bag. The plunge saw has a 13-amp motor and 6-1/2-inch blade that makes extremely precise cuts in wood, plywood, and similar sheet goods. The tool's track guidance system helps keep it exactly on line for the most accurate results possible. You can cut bevels from -1 to 47 degrees. The maximum depth of cut at 45 degrees is 1-13/20-inch and 2-1/4-inch at 90 degrees.
The tool is variable speed, with settings ranging from 3,600 rpm to 6,250 rpm. It's exceptionally easy to use it to plunge into materials, and unlike some other brands, it has both metric and imperial measurements on the depth-control gauge. The swiveling hose port is easy to hook to your shop vacuum to contain dust, and the 12.5-foot power cord gives you plenty of room to maneuver. The saw weighs only 10.4 pounds and comes with a tote box, so it's easy to take with you to a worksite.
Price at time of publish: $914
Blade Size: 6-1/2 inch | Power: 13 amps | Bevel Degrees: -1 to 47 degrees | Track Size: 63 inch (2 included)
If you want a track saw that’s powerful, extremely accurate, creates splinter-free cuts, has variable speed, cuts materials up to 2-3/16 inches thick, and bevels to 48 degrees, then our top recommendation, the Makita SP6000J1 Plunge Saw, is the pick for you. But if budget is a primary concern, then the WEN CT1065 Track Saw is a great choice, although it does not come with a guide rail, nor does it have variable speed or the kind of power our top choice offers. Still, it’s a good saw for those who only need a track saw occasionally.
What to Look for In a Track Saw
Ben Kuhl, home remodeler and CEO of Shelf Expression, offers some guidance on choosing a track saw, "Putting budget and price aside, as track saws can be quite expensive, there are a few things to consider when purchasing one. First, consider the size and weight of the tool. If you plan to use it for large or heavy materials, a lighter option might be more comfortable to handle. Second, consider the power of the tool and its ability to handle thicker and harder materials. Some models may not be powerful enough for certain types of cuts. Third, consider the length of the track or guide rail. A longer track will allow you to cut larger materials with more precision. Fourth, consider the compatibility of the tool with different guide rail systems, as some may not be compatible with certain guide rails."
He continues, "Another factor to consider when buying a track saw is the brand and its reputation for quality and reliability. Some brands may have a better reputation than others for producing high-quality tools that last longer and require less maintenance. As the saying goes, 'cry once, buy once,' meaning that it's better to spend more upfront on a high-quality tool that will last, rather than purchasing a lower-quality tool that will need to be replaced sooner."
Finally, he recommends you think about what you might need along with your track saw, "In addition to the track saw itself, there are a few accessories that can be useful when making precise cuts, like clamps and right angle gauges. Clamps can be used to secure the guide rail to the material being cut, which can help prevent movement and improve accuracy. Right angle gauges can also be helpful for making precise cuts at specific angles."
Power Source
Like many tools today, there are both corded track saws that plug into an electrical outlet and cordless track saws that run off a battery. Both have their pros and cons. Corded saws generally have more power, but of course tether you to a nearby outlet. Cordless tools can go anywhere, but you’ll need to keep an eye on the battery charge. We recommend the Makita XPS01PTJ 36-Volt Brushless Cordless Track Saw if you prefer a battery-powered saw.
If you mostly use your track saw in your workshop for large projects, a corded tool is your best choice. We especially like the Kreg ACS2000 Adaptive Cutting System for a corded option. But if you like a saw that can travel with you, or you just use it occasionally for quick cuts, then a cordless saw will suit you better.
Power
Corded track saws measure motor power in amps, with a range of 10-amp saws up to beasts with 20-amp motors. Most commonly, though, track saws used by the average DIYer have a 12-amp motor, with up to 15 amps for heavy-duty models. The Evolution R185CCSX Multi-Material Track Saw Kit has a 15-amp motor and can cut through a variety of material types.
Cordless track saws measure power in battery voltage. Most run off 18-volt or 20-volt batteries, although some more powerful tools use two 18-volt batteries for a total of 36 volts. The most powerful of all have 40- to 60-volt batteries, but most DIYers don’t need to spend the extra money for these elite models.
Speed
Lower-priced track saws often have just one speed setting, usually around 5,000 rpm. But many higher-priced models offer you a choice of speed settings, or have variable speed control. Typically, these track saws have speeds that range from a low of around 2,000 rpm to a high speed of 5,000 rpm or more. This is a helpful feature if you cut a lot of different types of wood or cut other materials. You can go more slowly when cutting through hard wood and speed up the saw when slicing through softer woods. The Bosch GKT13-225L Track Saw With Tracks and Carry Bag has a top speed of 6,250 rpm.
Track Length
It might be surprising that many track saws do not include the track, but it’s fairly common to have to purchase the track separately. When it comes to track length, 55 inches is common, but there are tracks that are just a couple of feet long and tracks as long as 8 feet. It’s helpful to have a range of track sizes so you can use the one that best suits your project. Many have adapters that let you connect two pieces of track together to extend the length. The DEWALT DWS520CK Track Saw Kit includes both a 59-inch and 102-inch guide rail.
While some brands of track saw can only be used on their own tracks, many have a universal design that lets you use the saw on a variety of different track brands. If purchasing track separately from your saw, be sure the saw can work on the track.
Blade Size
The standard track saw blade is 6.5 inches in diameter. These can generally slice through materials up to 2 inches or so in thickness. Larger 8.5-inch blades can cut through larger materials, of course. There are also smaller track saw blades that are helpful when working with correspondingly smaller thicknesses of wood. Note that you cannot swap out blade sizes on a track saw, though; you can only use the size of blade that the saw was designed for.
Bevels
Some basic track saws can only make straight, 90-degree cuts. However, most have the ability to cut bevels, which are angled cuts often used to soften the edge of a piece of wood or to create angles that fit together neatly in a finished project. Track saws with adjustable bevels usually let you set an angle up to 45 degrees. The Makita SP6000J1 Plunge Saw With Guide Rail can cut bevels up to 48 degrees.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a track saw and a plunge saw?
Plunge saw is another name for a track saw. With these saws, you don’t have to start your cut from an edge of the board; you can “plunge” your saw into the middle of the board to start your cut if necessary, thus giving the tool its alternate name.
What’s the difference between a circular saw and a track saw?
At its most basic level, a track saw is a circular saw that has a track, or guide, for making very straight cuts on long boards or other materials. But there are a few other differences as well:
The blades are more concealed on track saws than on circular saws, making them a little safer
Track saws normally have built-in dust collectors, making them much neater than circular saws, which tend to get sawdust everywhere
Circular saws give you the freedom to make curved cuts; track saws are for very straight, long cuts
Track saws are usually heavier than circular saws
Circular saws generally cost less than track saws
Circular saws can generally cut much more deeply than track saws
Track saws have anti-kick back safety features that circular saws lack
What is the best track size for a track saw?
While a 55-inch track is a common size, you might need a shorter track or a longer track, depending on your project. That’s why it is helpful to have a few different tracks of varying sizes, or to choose tracks that can be connected together so you can lengthen or shorten them as needed.
Can I use a track saw without the track?
You can use your track saw without the track, if desired, which essentially turns it into a circular saw.
Why Trust The Spruce?
Michelle Ullman is the home improvement/tool expert for The Spruce. She has extensive experience not only in writing about all things related to the home, but also in carrying out various DIY projects, including landscaping, painting, flooring, wallpapering, furniture makeovers, and simple repairs around the house and yard.
For this roundup, she considered dozens of track saws of various types, evaluating each for accuracy, cleanness of cut, power, ability to bevel and adjust speed, ease of use, and overall value. She also considered feedback from customers, both positive and negative, as well as reviews and information on landscaping websites. Ben Kuhl, home remodeler and CEO of Shelf Expression, also provided expert input.
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