Festool Track Saw TS-55 Review

When accuracy and clean edges matter, few tools get as much praise as the Festool TS 55 track saw. Built for pros but tempting to serious DIYers, it’s a saw that promises clean cuts, easy handling, and a well-thought-out system. This review takes a close look at what sets it apart, what you can expect from its features, and whether it justifies its price tag compared to other brands.

What Makes the Festool TS 55 Stand Out?

The TS 55 is part of Festool’s broader ecosystem of precision tools. It’s not just a track saw it’s the centerpiece of a cutting system designed around repeatability, control, and build quality. Here’s what defines it:

Accurate, Splinter-Free Cuts

Thanks to its guide rail system, the TS 55 produces sharp, straight cuts on a wide range of materials. You can make rip cuts, cross-cuts, and bevel cuts without the need for a full table saw. Edge splintering is minimized by dual splinter guards on both the rail and the blade side ensuring clean edges on plywood, veneered boards, and melamine panels.

Built-In Safety Measures

Festool’s attention to safety is evident. While KickbackStop is more commonly found on the cordless TSC 55 KEB model, the TS 55 still includes a riving knife that helps prevent blade pinching and reduces kickback. The saw’s smooth plunge action and depth adjustment features add to overall control.

Angle Adjustability with Undercut Option

The angle settings on the TS 55 range from -1° to 47°, which is ideal for creating undercuts or precise miters. Even when tilted, the cutting depth remains consistent this is a big plus when fitting baseboards or flooring at tight angles.

Choosing Between TS 55 and TSC 55 Models

Festool offers both corded and cordless versions of its track saw. Choosing the right one depends on your work setup and how often you need to move around.

Model	Description	Key Features	Starting Price
TS 55 FEQ-F-Plus	Corded version	Smooth plunge, splinter guards, riving knife, dust port	$599.00
TSC 55 KEB-F-Basic	Battery-powered alternative	Portability, brushless motor, KickbackStop, cordless	$549.00

The corded TS 55 is a great choice for a fixed shop setup where consistent power is needed. The TSC 55 cordless model excels in remote work situations where mobility and safety are a priority.

Integrated Dust Collection

Festool’s dust control is among the best in the business. The TS 55 connects seamlessly to Festool’s Cleantec dust extractors. During use, it captures fine sawdust and keeps the workspace far cleaner than other saws. Combined with the clear lowerable viewing window, you get both safety and visibility while working.

This kind of clean cutting is more than a convenience it can be critical when cutting indoors or when dealing with materials like MDF, which release fine dust particles.

Build Quality and Engineering

Right out of the box, the TS 55 gives off a feeling of solid engineering. The casing is made of high-grade plastic and metal, with tight tolerances that minimize blade wobble. The plunge mechanism is smooth, and blade swaps are fast thanks to the FastFix system.

The saw uses 6.25-inch blades (160 mm), and the kerf on newer blades has been reduced to 1.8 mm, which means less material is removed, and the motor works more efficiently. This is particularly helpful when working with sheet goods, where precision and smooth cuts are essential.

Performance in the Field

Across numerous professional reviews and hands-on tests, the TS 55 consistently scores high marks. Users highlight:

• Smooth plunge cuts
• Consistent bevel accuracy
• Quiet motor operation (compared to similar models)
• High performance on dense materials like hardwoods and melamine

The saw doesn’t bog down easily, and when paired with the right blade, it can cut through plywood or trim with minimal resistance and no tear-out.

Downsides: Price and Value Considerations

It’s hard to ignore the fact that the TS 55 costs significantly more than most competitors. For many buyers, especially casual users or hobbyists, the question becomes: “Is it worth the extra few hundred dollars?”

Let’s break it down:

Pros:

• Unmatched accuracy
• Excellent dust extraction
• Part of a broader tool system (rails, clamps, Systainers)
• Smooth performance and cut quality

Cons:

• High price
• Some features (like KickbackStop) are only in the cordless version
• Guide rails are sold separately
• Overkill for light-duty or occasional users

If you’re using a track saw daily and need consistent precision, the TS 55 justifies its cost. But if you’re tackling occasional cuts or rougher framing work, other options may get the job done for less.

Festool vs Makita vs DeWalt

The track saw market has matured, and Festool isn’t alone. Makita and DeWalt both offer quality options with solid performance. Here’s a snapshot comparison:

Feature	Festool TS 55	Makita SP6000J	DeWalt DWS520K
Price	$599.00	$519.00	$506.77
Dust Collection	Excellent	Good	Good
Bevel Range	-1° to 47°	-1° to 48°	0° to 47°
Plunge Action	Smooth & controlled	Smooth	Slightly stiffer
Accessories	Wide ecosystem	Moderate options	Decent variety
Safety Tech	Riving knife, optional KickbackStop	Riving knife	Anti-kickback cams

Makita often wins praise for its value, offering close-to-Festool precision for hundreds less. DeWalt’s model performs well, especially with its own track system, but may not be as polished in finish cuts.

Why I Went with the Festool TS 55 (And When I Wouldn’t)

When I first started looking into track saws, I kept hearing about the Festool TS 55. Everyone talked about how clean the cuts were and how the dust collection made a big difference especially indoors. At first, I thought it might just be hype. Then I tried one.

The first thing I noticed was the feel. The plunge was smooth. The cuts were dead straight, with no tear-out, even on veneered plywood. The guide rail stayed put without clamps, and I didn’t have to tape the cut line like I used to with a circular saw. It just worked and that saved time.

That said, the price hit hard. The TS 55 FEQ-F-Plus-FS ran me about $599 with the rail included. I looked hard at the Makita SP6000J ($519) and the DeWalt DWS520K ($506). Both are good saws. If I was only using this occasionally maybe for weekend projects or a small kitchen install I probably would’ve picked Makita. It’s close in performance, especially for straight cuts in sheet goods. DeWalt’s model is built tough too, just not quite as refined.

What tipped the scales for me was the ecosystem. I already had a Festool vacuum, and being able to plug the saw right into it and control the dust made a real difference. The accessories rails, clamps, angle guides all work together without hassle. For someone who uses these tools every day, that integration matters. It’s not just about the saw it’s about the whole system working efficiently.

But here’s the honest take: if I were working on a tight budget or didn’t need perfect cuts every time, I wouldn’t have stretched for the TS 55. Makita would’ve done the job. DeWalt too. But since I cut cabinetry and furniture pieces regularly, Festool’s consistency pays off in saved time, less rework, and a cleaner shop.

So if you’re deciding between them, ask yourself how often you’ll use it and what kind of work you’re doing. That answer will tell you whether Festool is the right move or just a nice-to-have.

Pricing and Availability

As of mid-2025, the TS 55 FEQ-F-Plus typically starts at $599. Prices may vary depending on the bundle or track length. The cordless TSC 55 model starts closer to $549. Both are sold at authorized Festool dealers, specialty tool shops, and select online retailers.

Keep in mind: accessories like guide rails and clamps are sold separately. If you’re just starting out with track saws, budget for those extras.

Who Should Buy the Festool TS 55?

If your projects demand clean cuts, reliable depth control, and repeatable precision, the Festool TS 55 delivers. It shines in cabinetry, finish carpentry, and any project where presentation and fit matter. The learning curve is minimal, and the results speak for themselves.

However, it’s not the best fit for everyone. If you’re working mostly with rough materials, cutting outside, or just need a track saw occasionally, Makita and DeWalt offer competitive performance at a lower price point.

In the end, choosing the TS 55 is less about brand loyalty and more about how often and how precisely you work. For professionals and detail-focused woodworkers, it’s a solid tool that pays off over time.

FAQ Section

Q: Can the TS 55 replace a table saw?
A: For many tasks, yes. It’s ideal for straight cuts in sheet goods and offers better portability. However, it won’t fully replace a table saw for ripping thick stock or repetitive small parts.

Q: Does Festool include a track with the saw?
A: Not always. Some packages include a 55″ guide rail, but others do not. Be sure to check the bundle before purchasing.

Q: Is the blade easy to change?
A: Yes. The FastFix system makes blade swaps fast and tool-free, locking the arbor for safe changes.