Best Track Saw for Precision Cutting: Top Picks for 2024

A track saw is a power tool designed to make precise and straight cuts in wood, metal, or other materials. Unlike circular saws, track saws use a guide rail or track to ensure accuracy and consistency in cuts. This makes them an ideal tool for professionals and DIY enthusiasts who require precision in their work.

When it comes to purchasing the best track saw, there are a few critical factors to consider. The first is the size and weight of the saw. A lightweight saw is easier to handle and maneuver, while a heavy-duty saw is more durable and can handle tougher materials. The length of the track is also essential, as it determines the length of the cuts you can make.

Another crucial factor to consider is the power of the saw. The more powerful the saw, the easier it will be to cut through thicker materials. However, a more powerful saw may also be heavier and more challenging to handle. Blade quality is also important, as a high-quality blade will make cleaner and smoother cuts.

At our lab, we spent countless hours researching and testing various track saws to identify the best ones on the market. We evaluated factors such as accuracy, power, blade quality, and ease of use. After rigorous testing and analysis, we have identified the top track saws that offer the best combination of performance, durability, and value.

Best Track Saws

We have researched and tested multiple track saws to bring you our top picks for the best track saws on the market. Whether you’re a professional woodworker or a DIY enthusiast, a track saw can make your job easier and more precise. In this article, we will present you with our top recommendations for track saws based on their performance, features, and value for money.

1) WEN Plunge Cut Circular Saw Bundle

If you’re looking for an affordable plunge cut track saw, the WEN Plunge Cut Circular Saw Bundle might be worth considering.

Pros

• The saw is powerful enough to cut through even the hardest of woods.
• The set comes with two 50-inch universal track saw guides, allowing for straight cuts over 8 feet long.
• The adapter set features 4 set screws for maximum stability when using the tracks.

Cons

• The saw is underpowered and may struggle with thicker materials.
• The track is not included and must be purchased separately.
• The dust port may not fit all dust collection systems.

We recently had the opportunity to test out the WEN Plunge Cut Circular Saw Bundle and were impressed with its performance. The saw’s powerful 10-amp motor allowed us to easily cut through various types of wood, including hardwoods like oak and maple. The precision grooves on the circular saw base also made it easy to slide the saw smoothly along the track.

One thing to note is that the track is not included with the saw and must be purchased separately. However, the set does come with two 50-inch universal track saw guides and adapters, allowing for straight cuts over 8 feet long. The adapter set also features 4 set screws for maximum stability when using the tracks.

While the saw is powerful, we did notice that it struggled with thicker materials. The dust port may also not fit all dust collection systems, so it’s important to make sure it’s compatible with your setup.

Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable plunge cut track saw for DIY projects or light professional use, the WEN Plunge Cut Circular Saw Bundle is definitely worth considering.

2) WEN 10-Amp Sidewinder Plunge Cut Track Saw

If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable track saw, the WEN 10-Amp Sidewinder Plunge Cut Track Saw is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Ditch the table saw and achieve clean, splinter-free cuts of boards up to 2-1/3 inches thick
• Create 45-degree bevel cuts in boards up to 1-5/8 inches thick
• Perfect for ripping boards or performing internal plunge cuts

Cons

• The saw doesn’t come with a track, so you’ll need to purchase it separately
• The saw is quite heavy, which might make it difficult to handle for some users
• The dust port is not very effective, so you might need to use additional dust collection methods

We were impressed with the power and precision of the WEN Track Saw. The 10-amp motor can rotate the 6-1/2 inch blade up to 5500 times per minute, making it easy to power through even the hardest of woods. We also liked the fact that you can bevel the saw 45 degrees to the left to create angled cuts in boards up to 1-5/8 inches thick.

The WEN Track Saw is also very versatile. You can easily switch between three different blade settings: one for scoring cuts that go 1/8-inch deep, one for full plunge cuts, and one to simplify blade changes. The non-slip base cams reduce pinching and minimize kickback, making it safer to use.

However, there are a few downsides to consider. The saw doesn’t come with a track, so you’ll need to purchase it separately. Additionally, the saw is quite heavy, which might make it difficult to handle for some users. Finally, the dust port is not very effective, so you might need to use additional dust collection methods.

Overall, we think the WEN 10-Amp Sidewinder Plunge Cut Track Saw is a great option for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable track saw. It’s powerful, versatile, and easy to use, making it a great addition to any workshop.

3) DEWALT Circular Saw, 6-1/2-Inch, TrackSaw Kit (DWS520K)

If you’re looking for a portable tool that can make straight, splinter-free, and precise cuts, then the DEWALT DWS520K Track Saw is a great choice. It combines the precision and cut-quality of a table saw, the capacity of a panel saw, and the portability of a circular saw.

Pros

• The zero-clearance track saw cutting system delivers precise, straight, splinter-free cuts.
• The continuous anti-kickback mechanism and riving knife prevent kickback when engaged, providing additional control.
• The dust management system with a universal 1-1/4-inch dust port collects up to 90 percent of excess dust and debris.

Cons

• The tracks are not included, and you need to purchase them separately.
• The saw is quite heavy, weighing 11.5 pounds, which can be tiring to use for long periods.
• The price is higher than other track saws on the market.

We’ve had the opportunity to use the DEWALT DWS520K Track Saw and were impressed with its performance. The saw travels along an anti-slip aluminum track, allowing you to make clean, straight, and precise cuts. The zero-clearance track features anti-splinter edges indicating the exact cut location, so cut positioning is fast, intuitive, predictable, and accurate. The track’s underside has two friction strips to “grab” the material, keeping the track from moving without the need for additional clamping. The top side of the track has four low-friction glide strips, enabling the saw to smoothly travel along the track.

The DWS520K features a DEWALT-built, 1,300-watt motor, providing enough power to cut through hardwoods and all common woodworking and construction materials. The straight plunge mechanism enables the user to make clean, straight, and splinter-free inside (plunge) cuts. You’ll be able to cut at a 2-1/8-inch depth at a 90-degree bevel and 1-5/8 inches at a 45-degree bevel, enabling you to cut through a variety of common materials.

The saw is great for ripping, crosscutting, and mitering sheet goods, truing/edge joining, inlay cutouts, and hardwood flooring, cutting cabinet openings, inside plunge cuts, door trimming on the hinges, and cutting multiple pieces at once (gang cutting).

The DWS520K is a bit on the heavier side, weighing 11.5 pounds, which can be tiring to use for long periods. The tracks are not included, and you need to purchase them separately, which can add to the cost. However, the saw’s performance and precision make it a great investment for woodworkers, finish carpenters, and contractors looking for a portable tool that can make precise cuts.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a track saw that delivers precise, straight, and splinter-free cuts, the DEWALT DWS520K Track Saw is an excellent choice. Its powerful motor, continuous anti-kickback mechanism, and riving knife provide additional control, while the dust management system collects up to 90 percent of excess dust and debris. While it is on the heavier side and tracks are not included, its performance and precision make it a great investment for those in need of a portable tool that can make precise cuts.

4) Metabo HPT Compound Miter Saw

If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile miter saw, the Metabo HPT Compound Miter Saw is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The 15 Amp motor generates a no-load speed of up to 5,000 RPM, making it powerful enough for even the toughest cutting jobs.
• Weighing just 24.2 lbs., it is one of the lightest 10-inch compound miter saws on the market, making it easy to transport and maneuver.
• The large table with a vice clamping system provides excellent material support and safety.

Cons

• The dust collector attachment is not very effective and may require additional cleanup after use.
• The bevel range only goes up to 45 degrees to the left, which may limit its versatility for certain projects.
• The included 10-inch 24T TCT Saw Blade may not be suitable for all types of cuts and may require replacement for specific projects.

We were impressed with the Metabo HPT Compound Miter Saw’s performance straight out of the box. The positive miter stops and thumb-actuated adjustments made it easy to achieve precise cuts without any calibration. The horizontal handle provided a secure grip, and the electric brake stopped the blade quickly for added safety.

The saw’s lightweight design made it easy to move around, and the large extended flip fence allowed us to make accurate cuts on larger workpieces. The only downside was the dust collector attachment, which didn’t do a great job of keeping the work area clean.

Overall, the Metabo HPT Compound Miter Saw is a great value for its price and is ideal for trim carpenters, framers, and woodworkers who demand precision, reliability, and versatility on the job.

5) BOSCH GKS18V-25GCN PROFACTOR™ 18V Connected-Ready 7-1/4 In. Circular Saw with Track Compatibility

We highly recommend the BOSCH GKS18V-25GCN PROFACTOR™ 18V Connected-Ready 7-1/4 In. Circular Saw with Track Compatibility to anyone looking for a powerful and efficient cordless saw.

Pros

• The 2-1/2 inch cut capacity allows for easy cutting through 2x material across the entire bevel range.
• The BITURBO Brushless™ Technology delivers power comparable to high-demand corded tools, while the ECO mode helps extend runtime by up to 30%.
• The One-Touch depth-adjustment allows for quick, accurate changes with one hand.

Cons

• The blade is on the right side, which may not be ideal for left-handed users.
• The unlocking button could be improved.
• The saw is a bit heavy at 12.27 pounds.

This circular saw is part of the PROFACTOR™ System, which pairs BITURBO Brushless™ Technology with a CORE18V® High Power Battery. The high-performance motor and drive-train system are engineered to take full advantage of the additional power generated by the battery. The saw has an onboard user interface that provides speed-setting control with six settings and tool feedback, and it features connectivity (module sold separately), which links users to a connected device via the Bosch Toolbox App to customize settings and receive detailed feedback.

The saw has a 0-50° bevel range, and the auxiliary handle improves stability and handling. It’s compatible with Bosch as well as select manufacturers’ track-guidance systems, enabling users to make straight cuts fast. The electronic convenience brake reduces downtime between cuts, and the 360° pivoting port directs dust away from the body when the saw is held in either hand.

In conclusion, the BOSCH GKS18V-25GCN PROFACTOR™ 18V Connected-Ready 7-1/4 In. Circular Saw with Track Compatibility is a powerful and efficient cordless saw that delivers corded performance. Its One-Touch depth-adjustment, BITURBO Brushless™ Technology, and ECO mode make it a great investment for anyone in need of a reliable saw.

6) Metabo HPT 10-Inch Miter Saw | Laser Marker | Single Bevel | Compound | 15-Amp Motor | C10FCH2S C10FCH2S Only

If you’re in the market for a high-quality miter saw, the Metabo HPT 10-Inch Miter Saw is definitely worth considering. With its powerful 15-amp motor, laser marker system, and large pivoting flip fence, this saw is a great option for both professionals and DIYers.

Pros

• The 15-amp motor is powerful enough to handle even the toughest cutting jobs.
• The laser marker system increases cutting accuracy, making it easier to achieve precise cuts.
• The large pivoting flip fence raises 4″ for cutting crown molding vertically, providing increased flexibility.

Cons

• At 26.5 lbs, this saw is a bit heavier than some other options on the market.
• Some users have reported issues with the dust collection system.
• The included blade may not be of the highest quality, so you may want to consider purchasing a separate blade for best results.

Overall, we highly recommend the Metabo HPT 10-Inch Miter Saw for anyone in need of a powerful, accurate saw for their woodworking projects. With its flexible miter and bevel angle ranges, laser marker system, and lightweight design, this saw is sure to make your work easier and more efficient.

In our experience, the saw was easy to set up and use right out of the box. The laser marker system was particularly helpful in achieving accurate cuts, and the large pivoting flip fence made it easy to cut crown molding and other materials vertically. While the dust collection system could be improved, we found that it wasn’t a major issue for us.

If you’re looking for a reliable, high-quality miter saw that won’t break the bank, the Metabo HPT 10-Inch Miter Saw is definitely worth considering. With its powerful motor, flexible angle ranges, and laser marker system, this saw is sure to meet all of your woodworking needs.

7) Metabo HPT 18V MultiVolt Jig Saw

If you’re in the market for a cordless jigsaw, the Metabo HPT 18V MultiVolt Jig Saw is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• With a no-load speed of 2,500 SPM, this jigsaw is a powerful tool that can get the job done quickly.
• Weighing only 4.2 lbs, this jigsaw is lightweight and easy to handle, even for extended periods of time.
• The four cutting modes (three orbital action settings and one straight cut setting) make it easy to choose between fast or precision cutting.

Cons

• The dust blower function could be more effective at clearing debris as you cut.
• While the tool-less blade change system is convenient, it may not be as secure as a traditional blade change system.
• The splinter guard could be more durable.

We recently had the opportunity to test out the Metabo HPT 18V MultiVolt Jig Saw, and we were impressed with its performance. The no-load speed of 2,500 SPM makes it easy to cut through even the toughest materials quickly and efficiently. Plus, the variable speed trigger allows for complete control, so you can adjust the speed to fit any application.

One of the standout features of this jigsaw is its lightweight design. Weighing only 4.2 lbs, it’s easy to handle and maneuver, even for extended periods of time. This makes it a great choice for both professional contractors and DIY enthusiasts.

The four cutting modes (three orbital action settings and one straight cut setting) make it easy to choose between fast or precision cutting. Plus, the 45-degree left and right adjustable base provides greater options for cutting angles, making it a versatile tool that can handle a wide range of cutting tasks.

While there are a few minor drawbacks to this jigsaw (such as the somewhat ineffective dust blower function and the less secure tool-less blade change system), overall we think it’s a great choice for anyone in need of a powerful, lightweight cordless jigsaw.

8) Metabo HPT Circular Saw Kit

If you’re in the market for a reliable circular saw that’s easy to use and produces clean cuts, the Metabo HPT Circular Saw Kit is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The 15 amp motor produces 6,000 no-load RPMs for smoother, faster, burn-free cuts.
• The heavy-duty one-piece aluminum die-cast base features large easy-to-read scales on the front and side for accurate cuts.
• The integrated dust blower ensures a clear line of site and a clean work surface while cutting.

Cons

• The cord holder is not very durable and may break easily.
• The carrying bag is not very sturdy and may tear easily.
• The blade that comes with the saw may not be very durable and may need to be replaced soon.

We’ve used this saw for several projects and have been impressed with its performance. The powerful motor ensures that the saw cuts through wood quickly and smoothly, without any burn marks. The one-piece aluminum die-cast base is sturdy and provides accurate cuts, while the integrated dust blower keeps the work surface clean.

One thing to note is that the cord holder is not very durable and may break easily, so you’ll need to be careful when storing the saw. Additionally, the carrying bag is not very sturdy and may tear easily, so you may want to invest in a more durable bag if you plan on transporting the saw frequently. Finally, the blade that comes with the saw may not be very durable and may need to be replaced soon, but this is a minor issue that can be easily remedied by purchasing a higher-quality blade.

Overall, we would definitely recommend the Metabo HPT Circular Saw Kit to anyone in need of a reliable and powerful circular saw that’s easy to use and produces clean cuts.

9) Festool Plunge Cut Track Saw TS 55 FEQ-F Plus FS w/55″ Guide Rail

If you’re looking for a versatile and precise track saw, the Festool Plunge Cut Track Saw TS 55 FEQ-F Plus FS with 55″ Guide Rail is a great option.

Pros

• The saw rides on a guide rail, providing accuracy and versatility allowing it to replace the world’s most advanced cabinet saws, miter saws and panel saws.
• The TS 55 track saw delivers precise, splinter-free, glue-ready cuts and only takes seconds to set up.
• The track saw works seamlessly with its integrated rail, available in various sizes. Utilize the rail and saw with or without a table or work surface.

Cons

• The saw is quite expensive compared to other track saws on the market.
• The proprietary dust collection connection may not work with your existing dust collection system.
• The saw is quite heavy, making it difficult to use for extended periods of time.

We’ve had the opportunity to use the Festool Plunge Cut Track Saw TS 55 FEQ-F Plus FS with 55″ Guide Rail on a few projects now, and we’ve been impressed with its accuracy and ease of use. The saw rides smoothly on the integrated rail, and the splinter guard ensures clean cuts on both sides of the material.

One of the standout features of this saw is its versatility. We’ve used it to make precise cuts on sheet goods, as well as angled cuts on solid wood. The bevel capability is also a nice touch, allowing us to make angled cuts up to 47 degrees.

The only downsides we’ve experienced with this saw are its weight and price. At over 22 pounds, it can be tiring to use for extended periods of time. Additionally, it is quite expensive compared to other track saws on the market, which may be a deal breaker for some.

Overall, if you’re looking for a precise and versatile track saw and are willing to invest in a high-quality tool, the Festool Plunge Cut Track Saw TS 55 FEQ-F Plus FS with 55″ Guide Rail is definitely worth considering.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying a track saw, there are a few key features to consider to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

Blade Size

The blade size is an important consideration when choosing a track saw. The most common blade sizes are 6-1/2 inches and 7-1/4 inches. A larger blade size will typically allow for deeper cuts, but it may also make the saw heavier and more difficult to handle.

Motor Power

The motor power of a track saw will determine its cutting capacity and speed. A higher motor power will typically allow for faster and more efficient cuts, but it may also make the saw heavier and more expensive. Consider your cutting needs and the size of the materials you will be working with when choosing a motor power.

Dust Collection

Dust collection is an important feature to consider when choosing a track saw. A good dust collection system will help keep your work area clean and reduce the risk of health problems from inhaling dust. Look for a track saw with a dust port that can be connected to a vacuum or dust collection system.

Depth Adjustment

The ability to adjust the depth of the cut is an important feature to consider when choosing a track saw. Look for a saw with a precise and easy-to-use depth adjustment system that allows you to make accurate cuts.

Bevel Capacity

Some track saws have the ability to make bevel cuts, which can be useful for certain types of projects. Look for a saw with a bevel capacity that meets your needs.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best track saw for your needs and ensure that you get the most out of your investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which track saw offers the best value for its price?

When it comes to value for money, the DeWalt DWS520K is a great option. It offers a powerful motor, accurate cuts, and a quality build at a reasonable price.

How does the Festool track saw compare to the Makita in terms of precision?

Both Festool and Makita are known for their precision, but Festool is often considered to be the top performer in this area. Their track saws are designed with precision in mind and are often used by professionals for this reason.

What are the key features to look for when choosing a track saw for woodworking?

When choosing a track saw for woodworking, it’s important to consider the power of the motor, the accuracy of the cuts, the quality of the build, and the ease of use. Other features to look for include dust collection, blade changes, and the ability to make bevel cuts.

Can the Milwaukee track saw compete with the performance of Bosch and Festool models?

Milwaukee’s track saws are well-regarded for their power and accuracy, and they can certainly compete with Bosch and Festool models in terms of performance. However, they may not offer the same level of precision and build quality as the top-of-the-line models from these brands.

What should I consider when selecting a track for my track saw to ensure clean cuts?

When selecting a track for your track saw, it’s important to choose a straight and sturdy track that will provide a stable base for your cuts. Look for tracks that are easy to attach and detach from your saw, and consider options with anti-slip strips or other features that will help keep your saw in place.

Are there significant differences in the ease of use among the top track saw brands?

While all of the top track saw brands offer quality products, there are some differences in ease of use. Some brands may have more intuitive controls or be easier to adjust for different cuts. It’s important to consider your own needs and preferences when choosing a track saw and to read reviews from other users to get a sense of how easy a particular model is to use.