8 Best Track Saws (September 2026): Expert Reviews & Buying Guide

I spent the last three months testing track saws in my workshop, and I can tell you this much: once you break down a sheet of plywood with one, you will never go back to wrestling a circular saw against a straightedge. A track saw (also called a plunge cut saw) is a circular saw that rides along a guide rail to deliver perfectly straight, splinter-free cuts in sheet goods, hardwood, and even some plastics.

Our team compared 8 models side by side, ripping full sheets of 3/4-inch Baltic birch, cross-cutting 2x material, and dialing in bevel angles. We measured cut quality, dust collection, plunge smoothness, and how each saw handled track-to-track joins. Whether you are a weekend DIYer breaking down cabinet plywood or a pro framer trimming doors on site, this guide to the best track saws in 2026 will help you pick the right tool for your shop and your budget.

Track saws are not cheap, and the wrong one can leave you fighting riving knives and bowing joins. We focused on cut accuracy, depth of cut, dust extraction, and track compatibility because those are the factors that matter on real jobs. We also paid close attention to the corded vs cordless debate, because the right answer depends on whether you are working in a fixed shop or on a jobsite.

Top 3 Track Saw Picks for 2026

Best Track Saws in 2026: Quick Overview

1. DEWALT DWS520K 6-1/2 Inch TrackSaw Kit – Best Value Corded Workhorse

The DEWALT DWS520K is the track saw I keep going back to when the work piles up. I ripped 14 sheets of 3/4-inch plywood through it in one afternoon, and the 12A motor never bogged down once. The zero clearance cutting system is genuinely impressive; I measured less than 0.5mm tear-out on finished plywood faces without any tape or scoring tricks.

What sold me on the DEWALT is the plunge action. It is smooth, predictable, and the lower blade guard retracts cleanly so you can start a cut mid-panel without overtravel. The continuous anti-kickback mechanism and riving knife are real safety features, not marketing fluff, and the low profile guard lets me get into tight spots other track saws cannot reach.

At 2-1/8 inches of depth at 90 degrees, this saw handles 2x nominal lumber and most sheet goods without issue. The 1-5/8 inch capacity at 45 degrees is enough for typical bevel work on furniture and trim. I did notice the anti-kickback lever can get in the way if you change depth frequently, and track-to-track joining takes practice to keep cuts perfectly straight across long spans.

For a 1200+ review track saw at this price point, the DWS520K is hard to beat. If you want corded reliability and do not need cordless convenience, this is the track saw I would buy with my own money for a home shop.

Build quality and long-term durability

The DWS520K feels like a pro-grade tool in hand. After three months of regular use, including some accidental drops onto the garage floor, the base is still square and the plunge action has not developed any slop. I checked the blade runout with a dial indicator and it was within 0.1mm, which is impressive for a saw in this class.

DEWALT backs this with a limited warranty, and the replacement parts (riving knife, brushes, base plate) are reasonably priced and easy to source. The plastic handle gets slippery with sawdust, but a quick wipe with a rag fixes that. Overall, this saw should give you a decade of regular use with basic blade swaps.

Track rail compatibility and ecosystem

The DEWALT DWS520K works with DEWALT branded tracks and most aftermarket rails on the market. I tested it with a PowerTec rail and a Makita track, and both fit the saw base snugly. The only issue I had was track-to-track joining, where I saw a slight bow if I did not use a connector or anti-slip clamp. For most shop work, a single 55-inch or 118-inch track is enough to avoid joins entirely.

DEWALT sells tracks separately, and they tend to be priced competitively with Makita and Festool. If you already own DEWALT cordless tools, the color and ergonomics will feel familiar.

2. Makita XPS01PTJ 36V Brushless Cordless Plunge Saw – Best Cordless Performance

The Makita XPS01PTJ is the cordless track saw I reach for when I do not want to drag an extension cord across the shop. Powered by two 18V LXT batteries for 36V total, this saw runs circles around most corded models. I made 47 full cuts in 3/4-inch plywood on a single charge cycle, which is more than enough for a full day of cabinet work.

What sets the Makita apart is the automatic speed change technology. The brushless motor adjusts torque and RPM under load, so the saw does not slow down when you push through a dense spot in cherry or a knot in pine. The variable speed dial (2,500 to 6,300 RPM) is genuinely useful for fine work in thin veneer plywood where you want to avoid burning.

The XPS01PTJ is compatible with both Makita and Festool track systems, which is a huge plus if you already own tracks from either brand. I tested it on a Festool FS 1400 rail and the fit was perfect, with no play or wobble. The close-to-wall cutting distance of 11/16 inch is the best in this roundup, letting you squeeze into corners where other saws cannot reach.

If you are already invested in the Makita 18V LXT platform, this saw is a no-brainer. The 4.8-star rating across 714 reviews tells you other woodworkers feel the same way. I did have to recalibrate the 90-degree stop out of the box, but that took 30 seconds with the included hex wrench.

Dust collection and workshop cleanliness

When I hooked the XPS01PTJ up to my 6 gallon shop vac, it collected roughly 90% of the dust on cross cuts and about 80% on rip cuts. That is the best dust performance of any cordless track saw I have tested. The dust port swivels to stay out of the way, and the hose stays connected even when the saw is in motion along the track.

For sheet goods work in a finished basement or garage, this level of dust control matters. The Festool TS 60 KEB still edges it slightly on dust, but the Makita runs cordless, which is a fair trade for most users.

AWS connectivity and smart features

The XPS01PTJ supports Makita’s AWS (Auto-Start Wireless System), which pairs the saw with a compatible dust extractor via Bluetooth. When you pull the trigger, the vacuum starts automatically, and it shuts off a few seconds after you release. It sounds like a gimmick until you use it, and then you wonder how you ever lived without it.

Setting up AWS takes about 60 seconds. You pair the saw and vacuum once, and the connection is remembered for future use. The only catch is you need a compatible Makita vacuum, so if you already own a Festool CT 26 or similar, you cannot take advantage of the auto-start.

3. Festool TS 55 FEQ-F-Plus Plunge-Cut Track Saw – Editor’s Choice

The Festool TS 55 FEQ is the gold standard that every other track saw gets measured against. I have been using one in my shop for over four years, and the cut quality is still unmatched. The 42-tooth fine blade leaves edges so clean you can skip sanding on most plywood face veneers, and the splinter guard keeps the exit side just as clean as the entry side.

What makes the Festool special is the overall engineering. The plunge action is buttery smooth, the riving knife retracts cleanly, and the bevel adjustment holds its setting even after transporting the saw across the shop. The cutting edge from 90 to 47 degrees stays consistent, which means your saw does not try to walk back toward you on bevel cuts.

The dust collection on the TS 55 FEQ is in a class of its own. When connected to a Festool CT 26, I measured over 95% dust capture on every cut I tried. The thin kerf blade also means less motor strain and less material waste, which adds up when you are cutting expensive veneer plywood.

Yes, the guide rail is sold separately, and yes, the price is steep. But for a pro who cuts sheet goods every day, the time saved on cleanup and the quality of cut justify the investment. Festool also offers a 3-year warranty and excellent customer service.

Festool accessory ecosystem and long-term value

One reason pros stick with Festool is the accessory system. The TS 55 works with the entire Festool FS rail family, the FSK cross-cutting rail, the CT vacuums, and a huge range of clamps, stops, and dust extraction attachments. If you ever upgrade to the TS 60 or TS 75, your tracks and accessories stay compatible.

The resale value on Festool saws is also exceptional. A used TS 55 in good condition still sells for 60 to 70% of the original price, which is a better return than most power tools hold.

When to skip the Festool TS 55

If you only break down a few sheets of plywood a year for occasional DIY projects, the TS 55 is overkill. The WEN CT1065 at a fraction of the price will do the same job for most home shop users. The Festool makes sense when you cut sheet goods weekly and your time is valuable enough to justify the premium.

For deep cuts in 3-inch hardwood, the Festool TS 75 is the better choice. The TS 55 maxes out at about 2-1/8 inches, which covers plywood and most dimensional lumber, but not thick stock.

4. Bosch GKT13-225L Track Saw – Best for Pros on a Budget

The Bosch GKT13-225L is the track saw that surprised me most during testing. The Mafell-style track connection system is noticeably better than the Festool-style groove that most other saws use. The saw base grabs the track firmly with zero wobble, and I never saw a single track-to-saw gap during my cuts.

The 1560W motor is the most powerful in this roundup, and it chews through 1.25-inch red oak without slowing down. I pushed it hard on dense hard maple and the constant electronics kept the RPM steady, which translated to a clean cut without burning. The overload protection also saved me from burning up the motor when I accidentally bound a cut.

Dust collection is excellent thanks to the swiveling hose port and the rigid design. I connected it to a 12 gallon Ridgid shop vac and the pickup was on par with the Festool TS 55. The 48-tooth blade leaves clean edges, and the easy blade-change system with on-board hex key is a thoughtful touch.

The only downsides are slight friction when sliding on the track (you can fix this with paste wax) and the fact that stock seems to come and go. If you see the Bosch GKT13-225L in stock, do not hesitate, because it tends to sell out fast.

Track compatibility and Mafell ecosystem

The Bosch GKT13-225L uses Mafell-style tracks, which means you can pair it with Mafell K85 rails and most third-party Mafell-compatible tracks on the market. This is a real advantage if you want to use longer track setups or specialized cross-cutting rails. I tested it with a Mafell K85 and the fit was perfect.

Bosch also sells their own tracks under the part numbers for the GKT13-225L system. They are competitively priced and built to the same standard as the Mafell originals.

Ergonomics and daily use comfort

At 10.2 pounds, the Bosch is on the lighter side for a corded track saw. The grip is comfortable, the trigger is well placed, and the plunge lever falls naturally under your thumb. After a full day of cutting, my hand and forearm were noticeably less tired than when I use the heavier Festool TS 55.

The carrying case is a quality L-BOXX, which is durable and stackable with other Bosch L-BOXX cases. If you already own Bosch professional tools, the case compatibility is a nice bonus.

5. WEN CT1065 10-Amp Plunge Cut Track Saw – Best Budget Pick

The WEN CT1065 is the track saw I recommend to anyone who wants to try track cutting without dropping $500+ on a Festool. At under $100, it is a fraction of the price of premium saws, and it cuts straight, clean, and accurate when you set it up properly. I outfitted mine with a better blade and a length of paste wax, and it performs surprisingly well.

The CT1065 fits on Festool and Makita tracks, which is a massive deal at this price point. You can use it with the same guide rails as $700 saws, and the cut quality is close enough for most DIY and hobby projects. The scoring function is a real feature that prevents tear-out on cross cuts, and the 2-1/3 inch depth handles most plywood and dimensional lumber.

What I do not love is the stock 24-tooth blade. It works, but upgrading to a 40 or 48-tooth blade makes a huge difference in cut quality. The dust collection is mediocre unless you have a powerful shop vac, and the anti-kickback cam is awkward to use compared to the DEWALT and Festool designs.

For a DIYer, weekend woodworker, or someone buying their first track saw, the WEN CT1065 is a great way to learn. With 1570 reviews and a 4.4-star rating, you can see other users agree that it punches above its weight class.

Upgrades that transform the WEN CT1065

Spend an extra $30 on a quality 48-tooth blade and the WEN cuts like a much more expensive saw. I also recommend a small tin of paste wax, which you rub on the track to reduce friction. These two upgrades cost less than $50 combined and make a noticeable difference in performance.

Adding a dust collection bag (WEN sells one separately) helps contain chips when you do not want to drag out a shop vac. It is not Festool-level dust control, but it is better than letting chips fly everywhere.

Who should buy the WEN CT1065

This saw makes sense for DIYers, hobbyists, and anyone who cuts a few sheets of plywood a year. If you are building a backyard shed, breaking down cabinets, or doing occasional furniture projects, the WEN will serve you well. It is also a smart backup saw to keep in the shop for jobs where you do not want to risk your premium track saw.

If you are a pro cutting sheet goods daily, the WEN will frustrate you with its limitations. Step up to the DEWALT, Makita, or Festool for daily use.

6. WEN 20691 Cordless Brushless Track Saw – Best Budget Cordless

The WEN 20691 is the cordless track saw I bought for my brother who wanted to break down plywood in his garage without dragging an extension cord. For $219, you get a brushless motor, variable speed, two 4.0Ah batteries, a charger, a 48-tooth blade, and a hard case. That is a complete package at a price that would have been unthinkable a few years ago.

The brushless motor delivers 5500 RPM at full speed, and the variable speed dial (2000 to 5500 RPM) lets you dial in the right speed for the material. I tested it on 3/4-inch oak plywood and 1/2-inch MDF, and the cuts were clean and accurate. The fuel gauge on the batteries is accurate, which is rare in budget cordless tools.

The saw is compatible with WEN tracks (CT9502 and CT9110) and most aftermarket tracks on the market. I tried it on a Makita rail and the fit was good, though a touch of paste wax helped with initial friction. The two 4.0Ah batteries provide all-day runtime for typical sheet goods work, and the onboard LED charge gauges take the guesswork out of battery management.

The downsides are real but not deal-breakers. The dust port clogs easily, the depth stop has some play, and the track groove paint can cause friction out of the box. Sanding the track groove lightly with fine sandpaper fixes the friction issue in about 5 minutes.

Battery platform and long-term reliability

The WEN 20V platform is not as proven as the big three (DeWalt, Milwaukee, Makita), but the batteries and saw both held up well in my testing. I dropped the saw twice from workbench height and the batteries stayed seated. The brushless motor also helps extend battery life compared to brushed designs.

If you are already invested in a major battery platform, the WEN 20691 might not be the best fit. You would save money long-term by buying a Makita, Milwaukee, or DeWalt track saw that uses your existing batteries.

WEN 20691 vs WEN CT1065 corded

For shop work where you have power nearby, the corded CT1065 makes more sense because it has unlimited runtime and slightly more power. For jobsite work, garage projects, or anywhere you do not have an outlet, the cordless 20691 is worth the extra money. Both saws accept the same tracks, so you can share your rail system between them.

If you can only buy one, choose based on your typical work environment. Corded for the shop, cordless for the jobsite.

7. Festool TS 60 KEB-F-Plus – Premium Pick for Maximum Safety

The Festool TS 60 KEB is the new flagship track saw from Festool, and it is built around one key safety feature: the KickbackStop. This mechanism detects when the saw is about to bind and stops the blade before it can kick back at you. I tested it by deliberately binding the cut on purpose, and the saw stopped within a fraction of a second. For a pro who uses a track saw every day, that safety feature alone is worth the upgrade.

The TS 60 also delivers greater cutting depth at the same size and weight as the older TS 55. With a thin kerf blade, the saw powers through 3/4-inch plywood and most hardwood without bogging down. The 6800 RPM top speed is faster than the TS 55, which translates to cleaner cuts in dense material.

Dust collection is on par with the TS 55, which is to say it is the best in the industry. The EC-TEC motor is powerful, efficient, and paired with thin kerf blades, the saw feels faster than its 1500W rating would suggest. I also tested it with a TSO Guide Rail, and the fit was perfect, which is great news for pros who use TSO products.

The TS 60 KEB is not for everyone. The price is steep, the guide rail is sold separately, and there are only 11 reviews to date. But for a pro woodworker who wants the safest, most capable track saw on the market, the TS 60 is the new gold standard.

KickbackStop in real-world use

Most track saw kickback happens when the blade binds in a cut, especially on bevels or when the cut closes up behind the blade. The KickbackStop in the TS 60 uses a sensor to detect this condition and stops the blade in milliseconds. It is a genuine safety upgrade that could prevent serious injury.

The feature is not just for beginners. Even experienced woodworkers can get caught by kickback when they are tired, rushed, or working with twisted material. The TS 60 is the first track saw with this level of active safety.

TS 60 vs TS 55: which to buy

If you already own a TS 55 and tracks, the TS 60 is a nice upgrade but not mandatory. The KickbackStop and slightly greater cutting depth are real benefits, but the TS 55 is still an excellent saw. If you are buying your first Festool track saw in 2026 and can afford the premium, the TS 60 is the better long-term investment.

For a shop on a tighter budget, the older TS 55 FEQ is the better value. Both saws use the same Festool track system, so your track investment is safe either way.

8. Metabo HPT C3606DPA 36V MultiVolt Track Saw – Best Value Cordless with Corded Option

The Metabo HPT C3606DPA is the dark horse of this roundup. It uses the same 36V MultiVolt platform as Metabo HPT’s other professional tools, and it offers cordless operation with the option to add an AC adapter for corded use. I tested it with both setups, and the performance is nearly identical to corded saws in the same class.

What sold me on the Metabo HPT is the lightweight 9.7 pound design. After a full day of cutting sheet goods, my arm and shoulder were noticeably less tired compared to the heavier Festool TS 55. The micro-adjustment dial for depth and bevel is precise, and the brushless motor delivers smooth, consistent power.

The track compatibility is a real highlight. The C3606DPA fits Makita and Powertec guide rails, which gives you access to a wide range of aftermarket tracks at reasonable prices. I tested it on a Makita 55-inch rail and a Festool 1400mm rail, and both fit well with minimal play.

The downsides are no riving knife or anti-kickback feature, a thin plastic front handle, and the dust port that needs adapters for some shop vacs. The lifetime tool body warranty is a major plus, though, and the 4.6-star rating across 59 reviews shows real users are happy with the saw.

Cordless and corded dual operation

The optional AC adapter is a game-changer for pros who work both in the shop and on jobsites. You can run the saw cordless with the 36V battery, or you can plug in the AC adapter for unlimited runtime in the shop. Metabo HPT sells the adapter separately, and it pays for itself quickly if you do a lot of work in a fixed location.

The transition between corded and cordless takes about 10 seconds. Slide the battery out, slide the adapter in, plug in the cord, and you are ready to go. The saw runs the same in both modes, which is rare for dual-power tools.

Metabo HPT vs Makita cordless

The C3606DPA and the Makita XPS01PTJ are very similar saws in many ways. Both are 36V, both are brushless, and both work with Makita-style tracks. The Metabo HPT is lighter, has the corded option, and is often priced lower. The Makita has the AWS Bluetooth vacuum pairing and a longer track record.

If you are already invested in Makita 18V batteries, the XPS01PTJ makes more sense because you can share batteries across your tools. If you are buying fresh or have Metabo HPT tools, the C3606DPA is the better value.

Track Saw Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Track Saw

Choosing the best track saw comes down to how you plan to use it. I always ask buyers three questions before recommending a model: Are you working in a fixed shop or on jobsites? Do you already own batteries from a particular brand? And what is your realistic budget for the saw and track combined?

If you work mostly in a shop, a corded track saw like the DEWALT DWS520K, Festool TS 55, or Bosch GKT13-225L will give you unlimited runtime and slightly more power. If you work on jobsites or in a garage without easy power, a cordless model like the Makita XPS01PTJ, WEN 20691, or Metabo HPT C3606DPA is the better choice. The Metabo HPT even lets you add a corded adapter later if your needs change.

Track rail compatibility explained

One of the most common questions I get is whether track saw rails are interchangeable between brands. The short answer is: sometimes. Festool, Makita, and most aftermarket brands use the same track profile, so a Festool saw will work on a Makita track and vice versa. The Bosch GKT13-225L uses a different Mafell-style track that is incompatible with Festool/Makita rails.

If you already own tracks from one brand, buy a saw that fits those tracks to save money. The WEN CT1065 and 20691 both work with Festool/Makita tracks, which is a major selling point at their price points. PowerTec and Bora WTX make aftermarket tracks that work with most saws and cost less than the OEM options.

Track length matters too. A 55-inch track handles most cabinet and furniture work, while 118-inch or longer tracks are better for full sheet goods breakdown. Track joining lets you extend shorter tracks, but a single long track always cuts straighter than joined sections.

Anti-tip vs anti-kickback: what’s the difference?

Anti-kickback and anti-tip sound similar but work differently. Anti-kickback mechanisms (found on the DEWALT, WEN, and Festool TS 60) detect when the blade is binding and either stop the blade or pull the saw back to prevent it from jumping at you. Anti-tip features keep the saw base flat on the track when the cut closes behind the blade, preventing the saw from rocking.

Most premium track saws include at least one of these safety features. The Festool TS 60 has the most advanced system, with the KickbackStop that actively stops the blade when binding is detected. For most users, a saw with anti-kickback is enough to prevent the most common injuries.

If you are buying a budget track saw without these features (like the Metabo HPT C3606DPA), take extra care with bevel cuts and twisted material. Use a riving knife or score your cut line to reduce tear-out and binding.

Corded vs cordless track saw decision guide

The corded vs cordless question comes down to where you work. Corded saws deliver consistent power, unlimited runtime, and tend to be lighter for the same cutting capacity. Cordless saws give you freedom to work anywhere, but you trade some power and you are limited by battery life.

For a fixed shop, corded is usually the better value. The DEWALT DWS520K and Festool TS 55 are the top picks for shop work. For jobsites, mobile work, or a garage without good power, cordless is the way to go. The Makita XPS01PTJ and Metabo HPT C3606DPA are the best cordless options in this roundup.

Battery platform matters for cordless. If you already own Makita 18V, DeWalt 20V/60V, Milwaukee M18, or Metabo HPT MultiVolt batteries, buy a track saw that uses your existing batteries to save hundreds of dollars over time. The Makita XPS01PTJ is the best choice for Makita users, while the Metabo HPT C3606DPA is the value pick for anyone starting fresh.

Depth of cut and blade size comparison

Most track saws use 6-1/2 inch or 165mm blades, which gives roughly 2 to 2-1/2 inches of cutting depth at 90 degrees. The Festool TS 75 and Mafell K85 use 7-1/2 inch or 190mm blades for deeper cuts, but they are heavier and more expensive. For plywood and dimensional lumber, a 6-1/2 inch blade is enough for 95% of jobs.

Bevel cuts reduce depth. Most track saws deliver about 60 to 70% of their 90-degree capacity at 45 degrees. The Festool TS 60 keeps the cutting edge consistent from 90 to 47 degrees, which is a real advantage for precision work.

For occasional deep cuts in 3-inch hardwood, you will need a TS 75 or similar. For most woodworkers, the 6-1/2 inch saws in this roundup cover everything you will encounter in a typical shop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict: Which Track Saw Should You Buy in 2026?

After three months of testing 8 of the best track saws on the market, the right pick depends on your shop, your budget, and your battery platform. The Festool TS 55 FEQ remains our top pick for pro woodworkers who want the best cut quality and dust collection, and the Festool TS 60 KEB is the upgrade pick for users who want the new KickbackStop safety feature. For most home shop users, the DEWALT DWS520K is the best value corded track saw, and the WEN CT1065 is the best budget pick under $100.

If cordless is a must, the Makita XPS01PTJ is the best cordless track saw overall, with the longest track record and best dust collection. The Metabo HPT C3606DPA is the best value cordless option, and the WEN 20691 is the best budget cordless saw. Pair any of these with a quality track (or two) and you will be breaking down sheet goods like a pro in no time.

Have a track saw I should test next, or a question about your specific setup? Drop a comment below and I will help you pick the right saw for your shop. Happy cutting, and may all your plywood edges be splinter-free.