Best Track Saw for the Money: Finding the Best Value for Your Workshop
- March 12, 2024
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Delving into the intricate realm of power tools as a dedicated woodworking enthusiast, I’ve meticulously explored various options to identify the indispensable tools that significantly enhance workshop efficiency.
This journey has highlighted the transformative impact of track saws, which have set new benchmarks in precision and versatility, outshining traditional circular saws. My ambition is to share a comprehensive guide on the most cost-effective track saws, a culmination of hands-on experiences and in-depth research.
Aimed at both seasoned professionals seeking to refine their toolkit and budget-conscious hobbyists desiring informed purchase decisions, this guide endeavors to merge professional-grade quality with affordability, ensuring that superior woodworking is accessible to all skill levels.
Through this guide, I’m excited to illuminate the path to elevated craftsmanship by navigating the nuances of choosing the right track saws that promise to elevate your woodworking projects to new heights of precision and efficiency.
Best Track Saw For The Money List:
- DeWalt DWS520K Track Saw
- Makita SP6000J1 Track Saw
- Festool TS 55 REQ Track Saw
- Bosch GKT13-225L Track Saw
- WEN CT1065 Track Saw
- Shop Fox W1835 Track Saw
- Triton TTS1400 Track Saw
- Kreg ACS2000 Track Saw
Comparison Table By Each Model
Here’s a concise comparison table for the track saws mentioned:
| Saw Model | Power | Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| DeWalt DWS520K Track Saw | High | Anti-kickback, constant speed | Professionals needing precision |
| Makita SP6000J1 Track Saw | Moderate | Soft start, variable speed | Balanced quality and price |
| Festool TS 55 REQ Track Saw | High | Splinter guard, close edge cuts | High-end users, unmatched quality |
| Bosch GKT13-225L Track Saw | Moderate | Constant Response circuitry | Reliable mid-range option |
| WEN CT1065 Track Saw | Low | Affordable, bevel cuts | Hobbyists, light-duty work |
| Shop Fox W1835 Track Saw | Moderate | Plunge cuts, dust port | Intermediate woodworkers |
| Triton TTS1400 Track Saw | Moderate | Safety features, ergonomic | Safety-conscious users |
| Kreg ACS2000 Track Saw | High | Comprehensive cutting system | Serious woodworkers, versatility |
This table offers a snapshot of each saw’s power level, key features, and who it’s best suited for, making it easier to compare and decide which saw meets your specific needs.
1. DeWalt DWS520K Track Saw
Technical Specifications
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Wattage: 1300 watts
- Current Rating: 12 Amps
- Speed: 4000 RPM
- Blade Material: High Speed Steel
- Blade Length: 8 Inches
- Number of Teeth: 48
- Cutting Angle: 90 Degrees
- Surface Recommendation: Wood, Metal
- Special Features: Bevel Capability
- Product Dimensions: 18.06″L x 12.38″W x 12.13″H
- Item Weight: 18.3 Pounds
- Size: 6-1/2-Inch
The DeWalt DWS520K track saw blends visual appeal with robust power performance in a design that’s both sleek and practical. With its high-speed steel blade and a capable 1300-watt motor, it offers a cutting speed of 4000 RPM, ideal for tackling both wood and metal surfaces.
Its aesthetic is enhanced by the thoughtful inclusion of features like bevel capability, allowing for precision cuts at up to 90 degrees. The saw’s ergonomic design is not just about looks; it ensures ease of use and efficiency in operation. Weighing in at 18.3 pounds, this tool is constructed for balance and control, facilitating accurate and clean cuts with minimal effort.
The kit comes complete with a 48-tooth ultra-fine finishing blade, blade wrench, and kit box, making it a powerful companion for both professional and DIY projects. This combination of visual sophistication and high-performance makes the DWS520K a standout option for users prioritizing functionality and aesthetic in their tool selection.
Pros
- Precise cuts with bevel capability.
- Powerful 1300W motor at 4000 RPM.
- Ergonomic and includes key accessories.
Cons
- Heavy at 18.3 lbs.
- Middle price point.
- Corded, limiting mobility.
Best For: Professional woodworkers looking for top-tier performance and reliability.
2. Makita SP6000J1 Track Saw
Technical Specifications
- Brand: Makita
- Blade Material: High Speed Steel
- Surface Recommendation: Wood
- Power Source: Corded
- Voltage: 110 Volts
- Wattage: 1800 watts
- Speed: 5200 RPM
- Blade Length: 2 Inches
- Number of Teeth: 50
- Cutting Angle: 90 Degrees
- Current Rating: 12 Amps
- Item Weight: 16.5 Pounds
- Product Dimensions: 59″L x 12″W x 14″H
- Special Features: Bevel Capability
- Style: Saw w/ Guide rail
The Makita SP6000J1 Track Saw combines sleek design and robust performance in a package that’s both visually appealing and powerfully efficient. Clad in Makita’s signature teal, this saw not only catches the eye but also promises unmatched precision and strength.
Its high-speed steel blade, optimized for wood cutting, operates at a remarkable 5200 RPM, thanks to the powerful 1800-watt motor. The saw’s bevel capability allows for versatile angle cuts, enhancing its utility across various projects. Weighing in at a manageable 16.5 pounds, it strikes a balance between portability and the stability needed for accurate, clean cuts.
The inclusion of a 55″ guide rail, along with other essential components, underscores its readiness for immediate, high-quality performance right out of the box. The Makita SP6000J1 is not just a tool but a statement of quality and reliability, catering to professionals and enthusiasts who refuse to compromise on power and aesthetics.
Pros
- Fast, precise cuts at 5200 RPM.
- Lightweight for easy handling.
- Bevel cutting versatility.
Cons
- Corded, less mobile.
- Higher price.
- Requires Lithium Ion battery.
Best For: Woodworking professionals and enthusiasts seeking a high-quality saw without breaking the bank.
3. Festool TS 55 REQ Track Saw
Technical Specifications
- Brand: Festool
- Part Number: 576012
- Power Source: AC/DC
- Wattage: 1200 watts
- Blade Material: High Speed Steel
- Number of Teeth: 48
- Blade Length: 55 Inches
- Cutting Angle: 90 Degrees
- Special Features: Bevel Capability
- Included Components: Saw, Blade, Cord, Systainer, 55″ Track
- Product Dimensions: 59.84″L x 14.21″W x 13.27″H
- Item Weight: 22.84 Pounds
The Festool TS 55 REQ Track Saw elegantly combines form and function, showcasing a sophisticated design in shades of silver, white, light green, and black that reflects its premium status. This saw’s visual appeal is matched by its formidable power performance, driven by a 1200-watt motor that ensures smooth and precise cuts through a variety of materials.
Its high-speed steel blade, with 48 teeth, is engineered for precision, offering a cutting angle of 90 degrees and enhanced with bevel capability for versatile cutting tasks. Weighing 22.84 pounds, it’s designed for stability and accuracy, yet remains manageable for transport and setup.
The inclusion of a 55-inch track further underscores its commitment to precision, making it a preferred choice for professionals who demand both aesthetic appeal and exceptional cutting performance. The Festool TS 55 REQ is not just a tool but an investment in quality, designed to elevate the craftsmanship of its users.
Pros
- Precise, clean cuts.
- Variable speed for versatility.
- Efficient dust extraction.
Cons
- High cost.
- Initial learning curve.
- Slightly heavy.
Best For: Those willing to invest in a top-of-the-line saw for unmatched quality and precision.
4. Bosch GKT13-225L Track Saw
Technical Specifications
- Brand: BOSCH
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Blade Material: High Speed Steel
- Number of Teeth: 48
- Blade Length: 2 Inches
- Cutting Angle: 47 Degrees
- Special Features: Spindle Lock
- Surface Recommendation: Wood
- Product Dimensions: 14.4″L x 9.5″W x 9.45″H
- Item Weight: 10.2 Pounds
The Bosch GKT13-225L Track Saw strikes a harmonious balance between aesthetic allure and formidable power performance. Encased in a vibrant multicolor design, it stands out not just for its looks but for its high-speed steel blade that ensures precision in every cut.
Designed primarily for wood, this saw operates on a 120-volt system, emphasizing its robustness in handling a variety of cutting tasks. The compact and lightweight frame, weighing just over 10 pounds, makes it exceptionally user-friendly, offering ease of maneuverability without compromising on strength. With a unique spindle lock feature for quick blade changes and an efficient 48-tooth blade, it delivers clean cuts at angles up to 47 degrees.
The inclusion of a professional-grade carrying case and vacuum hose adapter further showcases Bosch’s commitment to combining power, precision, and portability. Ideal for both professional and DIY enthusiasts, the GKT13-225L is a testament to Bosch’s engineering excellence, offering a blend of visual appeal and peak performance that sets a new standard in the track saw category.
Pros
- Precise and clean cuts.
- Lightweight and portable.
- Quick blade changes with spindle lock.
Cons
- Limited to wood cutting.
- Price may be high for some budgets.
- Corded design limits mobility.
Best For: DIY enthusiasts and professionals looking for a reliable saw at a mid-range price.
5. WEN CT1065 Track Saw
Technical Specifications
- Brand: WEN
- Power Source: AC
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Current Rating: 10 Amps
- Blade Material: High Speed Steel
- Number of Teeth: 24
- Blade Length: 6.5 Inches
- Cutting Angle: 45 Degrees
- Special Features: Bevel Capability
- Surface Recommendation: Wood
- Speed: 4500 RPM
- Product Dimensions: 12″L x 9.5″W x 9.5″H
- Item Weight: 12 lb
The WEN CT1065 Track Saw offers a compelling combination of sleek design and powerful functionality, making it a standout choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals. Sporting a classic black finish, this saw commands attention while promising durability and reliability.
Equipped with a high-speed steel blade, it efficiently cuts through wood with precision, courtesy of its 4500 RPM motor powered by a 10 Amp current. Its lightness, contrasted with the ability to perform bevel cuts at up to 45 degrees, adds a layer of versatility that’s often sought after in woodworking projects.
Despite its seemingly modest appearance, the CT1065 is designed to deliver high performance, embodying the ideal blend of aesthetics and operational excellence. This track saw is a testament to WEN’s commitment to providing affordable, high-quality tools that don’t compromise on functionality or visual appeal.
Pros
- Accurate, clean cuts.
- Lightweight and easy to use.
- Quick, easy blade changes.
Cons
- Best for wood only.
- Higher price point.
- Limited by cord.
Best For: Hobbyists or beginners looking for an affordable entry into the world of track saws.
6. Shop Fox W1835 Track Saw
Technical Specifications
- Motor: 120V, 1100W (1.5HP), 5500 RPM, 9A
- Blade Rim Speed: 9070 ft. per minute
- Max. Cutting Depth At 90°: without rail 2-5/32″, with rail 1-31/32″
- Max. cutting Depth At 45°: without rail 1-5/8″, with rail 1-7/16″
- Included Saw Blade: 160mm x 20mm x 48T
- Dust Port Diameter: 1-1/2″
- Saw Weight: 12.79 pounds
- Cord Length: 6 Feet
- Product Dimensions: 10.63 x 13.38 x 9.5 inches
- Amperage Capacity: 9 Amps
The Shop Fox W1835 Track Saw impresses with a pragmatic design aimed at delivering power and precision in a compact package. This tool does not prioritize flash over function; instead, it offers a straightforward, utilitarian aesthetic that appeals to professionals and serious hobbyists alike.
Under its hood lies a capable motor that drives the high-speed steel blade through wood with remarkable ease, achieving cuts at speeds that ensure efficiency without sacrificing quality. The W1835’s ability to perform bevel cuts adds to its versatility, making it a reliable choice for a wide range of projects.
Weighing in at a balance of durability and portability, this saw proves that looks can be deceiving, packing a substantial power performance in its modest frame. Its design and capabilities demonstrate Shop Fox’s commitment to providing tools that meet the demands of precision woodworking, making the W1835 a valuable addition to any workshop seeking a blend of performance and practicality.
Pros
- Versatile for different materials.
- Safety features like anti-kickback.
- Good value for the price.
Cons
- Less powerful than top models.
- Precision could be better.
- Requires separate purchase of guide rail.
Best For: Intermediate woodworkers who want a reliable saw without the premium price tag.
7. Triton TTS1400 Track Saw
Technical Specifications
- Brand: Triton
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Voltage: 110 Volts
- Amperage Capacity: 12 Amps
- Wattage: 1400
- Blade Material: Carbide
- Number of Teeth: 60
- Blade Length: 6.5 Inches
- Cutting Angle: 360 Degrees
- Surface Recommendation: Wood
- Speed: 5300 RPM
- Sound Level: 95 dB
- Product Dimensions: 1″L x 1″W x 1″H
- Item Weight: 6.5 Pounds
- Size: 6-1/2-Inch Plunge Track Saw
The Triton TTS1400 Track Saw marries sleek aesthetics with formidable power, presenting a tool that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is effective on materials. Sporting a classic black finish, this saw is designed for the discerning craftsman who values both style and substance.
Its carbide blade, spinning at a robust 5300 RPM powered by a 1400-watt motor, slices through wood with precision and ease. Despite its powerful performance, the TTS1400 maintains a relatively lightweight profile at 6.5 pounds, ensuring ease of maneuverability and prolonged use without fatigue.
The inclusion of a 60-tooth blade optimizes the cutting process, offering cleaner, smoother cuts with minimal effort. This track saw’s cutting angle capability and the promise of frustration-free certification speak to its user-friendly design and reliability, making it an attractive choice for professionals and hobbyists alike who refuse to compromise on power, precision, or appearance.
Pros
- Fast cutting at 5300 RPM.
- Lightweight and easy to use.
- Clean, precise cuts with carbide blade.
Cons
- Sold as a bare tool; extra accessories needed.
- Loud operation at 95 dB.
- Limited to 110V use.
Best For: DIY enthusiasts and semi-professionals looking for a safe, reliable, and reasonably priced saw.
8. Kreg ACS2000 Track Saw
Technical Specifications
- Brand: KREG
- Part Number: ACS-SAW
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Current Rating: 12 Amps
- Blade Material: High Speed Steel
- Number of Teeth: 48
- Blade Length: 8 Inches
- Cutting Angle: 47 Degrees
- Special Features: Brake
- Surface Recommendation: Wood
- Product Dimensions: 16.25″L x 12″W x 12.75″H
- Item Weight: 17 pounds
The Kreg ACS2000 Track Saw stands out with its striking multicolor design, combining aesthetics with cutting-edge functionality for a tool that’s as visually appealing as it is powerful. Equipped with a high-speed steel blade featuring 48 teeth, it promises precision and efficiency in cutting through wood.
The saw operates on a 120-volt corded electric power source, delivering a robust 12 amps of current for reliable, consistent performance. Notably, it boasts a special braking feature that enhances safety and control, ensuring that each cut is both precise and safe. With an 8-inch blade capable of a 47-degree cutting angle, the ACS2000 excels in versatility, allowing for a wide range of cutting applications.
This saw is designed to cater to professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike, offering a high degree of accuracy and power wrapped in an attractive package. The inclusion of practical components like a dust-collection bag and carrying bag further underscores Kreg’s commitment to convenience and cleanliness, making the ACS2000 a comprehensive cutting solution for any workshop.
Pros
- Precise cuts.
- Safety brake included.
- Portable with carrying bag.
Cons
- Higher price.
- Learning curve for new users.
- Corded, less mobility.
Best For: Ideal for dedicated DIYers and professionals needing precise, safe, and portable cutting solutions for detailed woodworking.
Additional Tips for Making Decision Variables of User’s for Best Track Saw for the Money
- Consider Your Projects: Reflect on the materials and types of cuts you frequently make. Some saws excel with wood, while others can handle a variety of materials.
- Assess Power Needs: Look at the motor’s wattage and speed (RPM). Higher specs typically mean smoother and faster cuts but assess what your projects require.
- Evaluate Portability: If you often move around or work on-site, consider the weight and whether a cordless option might serve you better.
- Check Compatibility: Ensure the track saw is compatible with guide rails and accessories you may already own or plan to purchase.
- Read Reviews: Leverage user reviews and expert opinions to understand the real-world pros and cons of each model.
Final Concluding Thoughts
Selecting the best track saw for your money requires a balance between quality, functionality, and affordability. It’s about finding a tool that not only fits your immediate needs but also offers reliability and versatility for a wide range of projects. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a committed hobbyist, the right track saw can significantly elevate the precision and efficiency of your work.
By considering your specific project requirements, power needs, portability, compatibility with accessories, and insights from user reviews, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision. Remember, investing in the right track saw is not just about the cost; it’s about enhancing your craftsmanship and enjoying the satisfaction that comes with flawless execution.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What makes a track saw different from a circular saw?
Track saws are designed for precision cuts along a track or guide, ensuring straight, clean cuts, which is particularly useful for sheet goods and fine woodworking. - Can I use a track saw for materials other than wood?
Yes, with the right blade, track saws can cut through a variety of materials including plywood, MDF, laminates, and even some metals, depending on the saw’s capabilities. - Are cordless track saws as powerful as corded ones?
Modern cordless track saws can rival the power of corded models, though their performance might vary based on battery life and the type of material being cut. - Do all track saws come with a track/guide?
Not all models include a track in the initial purchase. It’s important to check what’s included and consider the cost of buying a track separately if needed. - Can I use tracks or accessories from different brands interchangeably?
Some tracks and accessories might be compatible across different brands, but it’s best to check the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure proper fit and function. - How important is the number of teeth on a track saw blade?
The number of teeth affects the type of cut; more teeth generally mean finer, cleaner cuts, while fewer teeth are better for faster, rougher cuts. - What safety features should I look for in a track saw?
Key safety features include anti-kickback mechanisms, blade guards, and electronic brakes to enhance user safety during operation. - How do I maintain a track saw?
Regular maintenance includes cleaning the saw, checking the condition of the blade and replacing it when necessary, and ensuring the track is straight and undamaged. - What is the average lifespan of a track saw?
With proper care and maintenance, a track saw can last many years, though the lifespan will vary depending on the frequency of use and the quality of the tool. - How do I decide on the best track saw for my budget?
Consider the features that are most important for your work, such as power, precision, portability, and included accessories. Balancing these with the cost will help you find the best saw for your money.
We’d love to hear from you! Share your personal experiences and thoughts about your choice for the Best Track Saw for the Money in the comments section below. Your insights could help fellow woodworkers and enthusiasts make informed decisions!
Edward Smith
Forestry AuthorWoodworking is about more than crafting; it's a harmonious connection with nature, mastering tools, and preserving our environment. I'm here to share my knowledge and experiences with you, forging a future where we can embrace wood's beauty and utility while safeguarding our forests' health and diversity.
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