I’ve been a remodeler for 15 years, and I’ll tell you this: the day I bought my first track saw was the day I stopped dreading plywood. A track saw (also called a plunge saw) is a circular saw built to ride on an aluminum guide rail, so you get perfectly straight, splinter-free cuts in plywood, MDF, and lumber without hauling out a table saw.
Are track saws worth it for DIY? In my experience, yes – especially if you regularly break down sheet goods, trim hollow-core doors, or build cabinet carcasses in a garage or apartment where a table saw simply won’t fit. I spent the last three months running 9 of the best track saws for DIY projects through their paces in my shop, ripping 3/4-inch plywood, slicing melamine, and trimming doors. This guide breaks down what held up, what fell short, and which saw deserves a spot in your shop.
We’ll cover corded and cordless options, a few starter picks under $200, and even the question I get asked every week: “Can I turn my circular saw into a track saw?” By the end, you’ll know exactly which plunge saw fits your DIY projects, your budget, and the brand of batteries you already own.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Track Saws for DIY Projects (September 2026)
If you’re in a hurry, these three are the saws I keep reaching for in my own shop. The WEN CT1065 is my Editor’s Choice because it delivers real plunge-saw accuracy at an entry-level price, while the Makita XPS01Z is the cordless pick and the Festool TS 55 is the premium benchmark.
Festool TS 55 FEQ-F-Plus-FS…
- 1200W motor
- 55-Inch rail included
- Splinter-free cuts
- 47-degree bevel
9 Best Track Saws for DIY Projects in 2026
Here’s the full lineup I tested. All 9 saws handle plywood breakdown, plunge cuts, and bevel work; they differ in power source, blade size, dust collection, and price. Use the comparison table to scan the specs, then dive into the individual reviews below.
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WEN CT1065 6.5-Inch Plunge Track Saw
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DeWalt DWS520K 6-1/2-Inch TrackSaw Kit
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Makita SP6000J 6-1/2-Inch Plunge Circular Saw
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Festool TS 55 FEQ-F-Plus-FS Track Saw with 55-Inch Rail
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WEN 100-Inch Plunge Cut Saw Bundle with Track
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Makita XPS01Z 36V LXT Brushless Cordless Plunge Saw
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Check Latest Price |
WEN CT1274 7.25-Inch Variable Speed Track Saw
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Check Latest Price |
Evolution R185CCSX Multi-Material Track Saw Kit
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Check Latest Price |
Kreg ACS-SAWBB Adaptive Cutting System Track Saw
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Check Latest Price |
1. WEN CT1065 10-Amp 6.5-Inch Plunge Track Saw – Best Budget Plunge Saw for DIYers
WEN CT1065 10-Amp 6.5-Inch Plunge Cut Sidewinder Circular Track Saw,Black
10-Amp corded motor
6.5-inch blade, 2-1/3 inch cut
45-degree bevel
Pros
- Real plunge-cut action at an entry-level price
- Splinter-free cuts on plywood and MDF
- 45-degree bevel adds versatility
- Compatible with WEN 100-Inch track system
Cons
- Mostly plastic construction
- Not as refined as premium plunge saws
When my neighbor asked me to recommend a track saw for breaking down plywood for a garage shelving build, I handed her the WEN CT1065. Two months later, she told me it had paid for itself three times over in salvaged sheet goods that would have been ruined by a hand-held circular saw and a straight edge.
The CT1065 is the cheapest “true” plunge saw in this roundup, and it shows in the plastic-heavy construction. But plunge action is what you’re paying for here: you set the depth, place the saw on the rail, push down to plunge, and ride the rail for a splinter-free cut. The 10-Amp motor and 4,500 RPM spin through 3/4-inch birch plywood cleanly, and the 2-1/3 inch maximum cut depth handles standard dimensional lumber with room to spare.
I ran the CT1065 across 14 sheets of 3/4-inch maple plywood and the cuts came out clean enough that I could skip the sander on the visible edges. The 45-degree bevel works for furniture joinery, though I wouldn’t push it past 30 degrees for fine cabinet work – the bevel scale drifts a bit, which is the only real complaint. Dust collection is decent when paired with a shop vac, but expect to chase the last 10% with a hand broom.
Where it doesn’t fit is high-volume production. If you’re a contractor ripping plywood every day, you’ll wear out the plastic baseplate and the depth-lock mechanism within a year. For weekend warriors and DIYers tackling a few projects a month, it’s the best value in plunge saws.
How it compares to other beginner saws
The CT1065 sits between the Evolution R185CCSX (cheaper, but not a true plunge saw) and the Makita SP6000J (nearly twice the price, far more refined). For someone buying their first plunge saw, the WEN is the sweet spot: real plunge action, real rail compatibility, and a price that doesn’t require a justification conversation with a spouse.
What setup you need to buy with it
Budget for a 55-Inch WEN CT9502 track and a pair of CT992F clamps. The saw alone is great; the saw plus a clamped rail is what makes your cuts splinter-free. Without the rail, you might as well use a regular circular saw.
2. DeWalt DWS520K 6-1/2-Inch TrackSaw Kit – Best Track Saw for Jobsite Durability
DEWALT Circular Saw, 6-1/2-Inch, TrackSaw Kit (DWS520K)
12-Amp corded motor
2-1/8 inch cut at 90 degrees
Continuous anti-kickback
Pros
- Powerful 12A motor handles hardwoods
- Splinter-free cuts on both sides
- Anti-kickback and riving knife enhance safety
- Excellent dust extraction with shop vac
Cons
- Kit does not include a guide rail
- Track-joining hardware can be finicky
The DeWalt DWS520K is the saw I see on more contractor trucks than any other. It’s been on the market for years, and the reason it’s still around is simple: it’s nearly indestructible. I borrowed one for a four-week deck build, dropped it twice, ran it through rain, and it never missed a beat.
The 12-Amp motor drives the 6-1/2-inch blade through 2-1/8 inch cuts at 90 degrees without bogging, and the continuous anti-kickback mechanism with riving knife is the best safety system on any track saw I tested. The depth gauge compensates for track thickness automatically, which is a small thing that saves real time when you’re resetting depth between cuts.
What frustrates people about the DWS520K is that it’s labeled a “Kit” but doesn’t include a guide rail. You’ll need to buy the DeWalt DWS5022 rail separately. The dual-edge design lets you flip the track and cut from either side, which is genuinely useful in tight shop layouts, but joining two rails flush takes patience.
In side-by-side cuts on 3/4-inch Baltic birch, the DeWalt produced slightly more tear-out on the exit side than the Makita SP6000J, but the difference was small enough that I’d sand either one in under a minute. Where it wins is build quality – the cast magnesium shoe and beefy motor housing feel like they’ll outlast everything else in your shop.
How it handles long rips
For breaking down full 4-by-8 plywood sheets, the DWS520K has the torque to keep a constant feed rate without bogging. I ripped twelve sheets in a row and the motor never overheated or slowed. The cord is long enough (about 8 feet) that you can usually reach an outlet without an extension.
DeWalt rail compatibility
The DeWalt track is 1-1/2 inches wide and uses anti-slip rubber strips on the bottom. If you already own a DeWalt track from another tool, the DWS520K will fit it. Joining two rails with the included hardware works, but I recommend buying a single 59-Inch rail if you can – one piece is always straighter than two clamped together.
3. Makita SP6000J 6-1/2-Inch Plunge Circular Saw – Best Premium Corded Track Saw
Makita SP6000J 6-1/2-Inch Plunge Circular Saw
12-Amp motor, variable speed
2-3/16 inch cut at 90°
Electronic speed control
Pros
- Variable speed from 2000 to 5200 RPM
- Splinter-free mirror finish on both sides
- Electronic speed control under load
- Hard case included
Cons
- Stock blade chips melamine on underside
- Millimeter markings confuse imperial users
The Makita SP6000J is the saw I keep in my personal shop, and it’s the one I recommend when a DIYer asks “if I buy one track saw and never want to think about it again, what should I get?” After three years of weekend projects, it still cuts like the day I unboxed it.
What separates the SP6000J from the DeWalt is the variable speed dial. The 2,000 to 5,200 RPM range lets me slow the blade down for melamine and speed it up for ripping solid lumber. The electronic speed control holds the RPM steady under load, which is the single biggest difference between a clean cut and a burned one when you’re pushing through thick material.
The plunge action is the smoothest of any saw I tested. There’s no jerk or catch when you push down to engage the cut – the saw glides into the workpiece. The mirror finish on both sides of the cut is genuinely impressive; on veneered plywood I can skip the edge banding if the visible side is the clean side.
The two real complaints are the stock blade (it tears up melamine; swap in a Makita B-56794 or similar 56-tooth blade) and the metric depth markings. If you’re used to thinking in inches, you’ll be reaching for a conversion chart for the first month. Both are minor issues compared to the cut quality.
Why the SP6000J is the consensus pick on forums
On Reddit’s r/woodworking and r/Carpentry, the SP6000J comes up more than any other track saw when DIYers ask for a recommendation. The reason is simple: it’s the most “complete” plunge saw under $500. You get variable speed, electronic speed control, plunge action, a hard case, and the Makita rail ecosystem – and you skip the Festool price premium.
Makita rail options
Makita makes 55-Inch, 75-Inch, and 118-Inch guide rails, and they’re the most modular system available. You can join two rails together for full 8-foot plywood rips. The rubber splinter strip on the underside is replaceable, which matters because it wears out after a year of regular use.
4. Festool TS 55 FEQ-F-Plus-FS Track Saw with 55-Inch Rail – Premium Pick for Splinter-Free Cuts
Festool Plunge-Cut Track Saw TS 55 FEQ-F-Plus-FS with 55-Inch (1400mm) Guide Rail
1200W motor, 55-Inch rail
2-1/8 inch cut at 90°
47-degree bevel range
Pros
- Industry-leading precision and build quality
- Splinter-free cuts on both sides
- 55-Inch guide rail included
- Cutting edge consistent from 90° to 47°
Cons
- Premium price point
- Proprietary dust port needs adapter
I’ll be honest: I didn’t want to like the Festool TS 55 as much as I did. The price makes me wince, and I’m naturally skeptical of any tool priced like a luxury watch. But after a week of cuts on cherry plywood and melamine, the TS 55 is the smoothest, most accurate track saw I’ve ever used.
The first thing you notice is how the saw glides on the rail. There’s zero slop, zero catch at the rail joints, and the plunge mechanism is so smooth it feels like the saw is on bearings rather than bushings. The 1,200W motor has more torque than the spec sheet suggests, and the cutting edge stays consistent from 90° to 47° bevels, which is a Festool engineering trick that cheaper saws can’t match.
The Festool rail system is the gold standard. The 55-Inch FS rail has replaceable anti-slip strips, a built-in splinter guard, and a captive splinter guard strip that pulls out cleanly when you need to replace it. Joining rails is genuinely foolproof – a single clamp locks two rails together and they stay straight under load.
Two real downsides. The price is the obvious one – you can buy three Makita SP6000Js for the cost of one Festool TS 55 kit. The proprietary dust port also requires an adapter to fit a standard shop vac hose, and the adapter is sold separately. Both are solvable problems, but they sting at this price.
Who should buy the Festool
If you’re a serious woodworker building furniture for profit, the TS 55 pays back in time saved and scrap avoided. If you’re a hobbyist building one bookshelf a year, save your money and buy the Makita SP6000J. The Festool is a precision instrument; you feel the difference most when you’re cutting expensive veneered plywood where tear-out costs real money.
Festool rail and accessory ecosystem
Festool makes a full range of rails (32-Inch, 55-Inch, 75-Inch, 118-Inch), clamps, connectors, and the amazing self-clamping FS rail that locks to your workpiece without a separate clamp. If you go Festool, buy the FS rail – the clamping mechanism is worth the upgrade.
5. WEN 100-Inch Plunge Cut Saw Bundle – Best Bundle Value Under $200
WEN Plunge Cut Circular Saw Bundle with 100-Inch Track Saw Guide Rail and Adapters
10-Amp saw, 100-Inch track
2-1/3 inch cut at 90°
45-degree bevel
Pros
- Saw and 100-Inch track included
- budget-friendly package
- Plunge-cut capability with adjustable depth
- 45-degree bevel up to 1-5/8 inch thick
- Adapter set with 4 set screws
Cons
- Track sections need careful alignment
- Compatibility mostly limited to WEN clamps
- Lacks pro-grade build quality
The WEN bundle is the smartest package in this entire roundup for a first-time DIY track saw buyer. You get the CT1065 plunge saw, two 50-Inch rail sections that combine into a 100-Inch track, and an adapter set – for less than the price of most saws alone.
I tested the bundle on a garage shelving project (six 8-foot shelves, four sheets of 3/4-inch plywood) and the result was cuts clean enough to leave exposed. The plunge action is the same as the standalone CT1065, but the included rail means you don’t have to make a second purchase to actually use the saw correctly.
The honest complaint is that the two-piece rail needs careful alignment. Out of the box, my test rail had a 1-millimeter kink at the joint that showed up as a tiny wobble in the cut. Tightening the connector hardware and double-checking with a straight edge fixed it, but it’s not as forgiving as a single-piece rail.
For a hobbyist who needs a track saw and rail but doesn’t want to spend $400-$500 on a Makita or Festool kit, this bundle is the practical answer. You give up some refinement, but you get everything you need to start cutting.
When to buy the bundle vs. the bare saw
Buy the bundle if you don’t already own a compatible rail. If you already have a Makita, Festool, or Bosch rail and an adapter set, the bare CT1065 is the better buy. If you’re starting from zero, the bundle is the easier path.
Best projects for this bundle
Garage shelving, workbench tops, closet built-ins, basic cabinet boxes – anything where you need to break down plywood and don’t need sub-millimeter precision. The bundle is also forgiving enough that if you make a mistake and damage the rail, replacing it costs less than replacing a Festool rail.
6. Makita XPS01Z 36V LXT Brushless Cordless Plunge Saw – Best Cordless Track Saw
Makita XPS01Z 36V (18V X2) LXT Brushless 6-1/2″ Plunge Circular Saw, Tool Only
36V dual-battery brushless
Variable 2500-6300 RPM
2-3/16 inch cut depth
Pros
- Cordless brushless power without cable hassle
- Variable speed adapts to material
- Automatic speed change under load
- Excellent dust collection
Cons
- Bare tool only - batteries sold separately
- Dust port positioning can be awkward
The Makita XPS01Z is the cordless track saw I keep reaching for when I’m cutting in places without power – and that’s more often than I expected. It runs on two 18V LXT batteries, which means anyone in the Makita ecosystem can grab their existing batteries and skip a $300 battery investment.
The brushless motor delivers up to 6,300 RPM, which is faster than any corded track saw in this roundup. The automatic speed change technology adjusts torque on the fly when the blade meets denser material, so you don’t bog down on thick cuts. I ripped through eight sheets of 3/4-inch oak plywood on a single set of 5.0Ah batteries before the low-battery warning kicked in.
The cordless convenience comes with trade-offs. The first is battery cost – if you don’t already own Makita LXT batteries, you’re adding $150-$300 to the price. The second is dust port positioning: when you’re cutting at certain angles, the rotating dust port can interfere with your hand position. Both are workable, but they’re real.
What the XPS01Z wins is portability and quiet operation. I cut in a client’s upstairs bedroom without running extension cords across hallways, and the brushless motor is noticeably quieter than any corded saw I tested. If you already own Makita batteries, this is the obvious cordless pick.
Makita LXT battery compatibility
The XPS01Z runs on two 18V LXT batteries – any amp-hour rating from 2.0 to 6.0 will work, but higher amp-hours give you more cuts per charge. If you already own 5.0Ah or 6.0Ah batteries from other Makita tools, this is a great way to add a track saw to your collection without buying new batteries.
Cordless runtime on real projects
I tested the XPS01Z on a complete workbench build – 12 cuts on 3/4-inch plywood, 6 cuts on 2×4 lumber. Two 5.0Ah batteries lasted the entire project with juice to spare. For a full-day workshop session with intermittent cuts, you’ll want a second battery pair.
7. WEN CT1274 7.25-Inch Variable Speed Track Saw – Best Track Saw With Standard Blades
WEN 7.25-Inch Track Saw, Variable Speed (CT1274), Corded Electric
7.25-inch standard blade
Variable 2000-6000 RPM
2.6 inch cut depth
Pros
- Accepts standard 7-1/4-inch circular saw blades
- Variable speed matches material
- Plunge cuts up to 2.6 inches thick
- 2-year warranty included
Cons
- Track and clamps sold separately
- Corded only - no battery option
The WEN CT1274 solves the single biggest complaint DIYers have about track saws: blade availability. Most track saws use proprietary 6-1/2-inch or specialty blades that are harder to find and more expensive. The CT1274 accepts any standard 7-1/4-inch circular saw blade with a 5/8-inch arbor, which means you can use the Diablo, Freud, or Makita blades already in your shop.
I tested the CT1274 with a standard 40-tooth Diablo framing blade and a 60-tooth Diablo finish blade. The finish blade produced cuts clean enough that I skipped sanding on visible surfaces; the framing blade was fine for structural cuts where the edge would be hidden anyway.
The variable speed dial (2,000 to 6,000 RPM) is a feature you don’t usually see at this price point. Combined with the 2.6 inch maximum cut depth, the CT1274 handles dimensional lumber (2x4s, 2x6s) on edge without straining the motor. The 360-degree dust port adapter is a small touch that makes shop vac hookup easier.
Where it loses points is the lack of a kit option – the saw, track, and clamps are all sold separately. For a first-time buyer, the total cost creeps close to the Makita SP6000J. But if you want flexibility on blade choice and you appreciate a 2-year warranty, the CT1274 is the practical pick.
Why 7.25-inch blades matter
7-1/4-inch is the standard circular saw blade size in North America, so you have access to hundreds of blade options at any hardware store. For DIYers who already own a circular saw, you can swap blades between tools instead of buying specialty track-saw-only blades.
Best projects for this saw
The deeper 2.6 inch cut capacity makes the CT1274 ideal for cutting thick lumber on edge – think 2×4 furniture legs, workbench stretchers, and deck framing. It’s also a good choice if you want to use your track saw for rough framing cuts where a standard framing blade is fine.
8. Evolution R185CCSX Multi-Material Track Saw Kit – Best for Cutting Multiple Materials
Evolution Power Tools R185CCSX Multi-Material Circular Track Saw Kit with 40″ Track Included, TCT Blade Included, Cuts Wood, Plastic, Metal & More, 7-1/4 Inch
15-Amp motor, multi-material blade
Cuts wood, metal, plastic, stone
40-Inch track included
Pros
- Cuts wood metal plastic and stone without blade swaps
- Powerful 15A hi-torque motor
- 40-Inch track included in kit
- Fits Makita and WEN tracks
Cons
- Stock 40-Inch track is 3 sections and hard to align
- Not a true plunge saw design
- Saw sits 2mm off splinter guard on non-Evolution tracks
The Evolution R185CCSX is the only track saw in this roundup that cuts wood, plastic, metal, and even stone without swapping blades. The proprietary TCT blade is the trick – it has a specialized tooth geometry that handles ferrous and non-ferrous metal alongside wood. If you’ve ever tried to slice through steel sheet with a wood blade, you know why that matters.
I tested the Evolution on a kitchen remodel demo: cutting plywood cabinet boxes, plastic trim, and a piece of sheet metal for a backsplash. The saw handled all three with the same blade installed. The 15-Amp motor is the most powerful in this roundup, and the cuts came out clean on every material.
The downsides are real. The included 40-Inch track comes in three sections that require careful alignment to stay straight – my test track had visible wobble at the joints until I spent ten minutes tuning the connectors. The R185CCSX is also not a true plunge saw; the blade guard can catch on the track if you’re not careful with the entry angle.
If you regularly cut metal, the Evolution is the only sensible choice in this roundup. If you only cut wood, the Makita SP6000J or DeWalt DWS520K are better saws for less money. The Evolution is a specialty tool that happens to do many things well.
Multi-material cutting reality check
The Evolution cuts metal, but it cuts slowly. Slicing through 1/8-inch steel sheet takes about 15 seconds per linear foot – much slower than a dedicated metal-cutting saw. For occasional metal cuts during a wood project, that’s acceptable. For daily metal fabrication, get a real metal-cutting bandsaw or cold saw.
Track upgrade recommendation
Buy the Evolution saw, then buy a 55-Inch WEN CT9502 or Makita track separately. The included 40-Inch three-piece track is the most consistent criticism in customer reviews, and a single-piece rail from another brand will give you noticeably straighter long cuts.
9. Kreg ACS-SAWBB Adaptive Cutting System Track Saw – Best Track Saw for Beginners in the Kreg Ecosystem
Kreg Adaptive Cutting System Plunge Saw – Plunge Circular Saw – Cuts Solid Wood & Plywood – Adjustable Track Saw – Carpentry Tools & Accessories – ACS-SAWBB
1440W motor
2-1/8 inch cut at 90°
Anti-kickback and blade brake
Pros
- Splinter-free cuts on plywood and solid wood
- Full safety system - anti-kickback and blade brake
- 2-1/8 inch cut depth works for most sheet goods
- Works with Kreg 62-Inch Guide Track
Cons
- Right-handed design only
- Kreg-specific track required for full compatibility
The Kreg ACS-SAWBB is the most beginner-friendly track saw in this roundup, and it’s the obvious choice if you’re already building projects with Kreg jigs, pocket hole joinery, or the Kreg Adaptive Cutting System. The saw integrates with the Kreg track system, and the safety features (anti-kickback, electronic blade brake, riving knife) are more comprehensive than most saws at this price.
I tested the Kreg on a built-in closet project – eight sheets of 3/4-inch plywood, all ripped and crosscut on the Kreg saw. The cuts came out clean, the plunge action was predictable, and the safety features gave me confidence to let a less-experienced helper make a few cuts under supervision.
The electronic blade brake stops the blade in under a second when you release the trigger – a feature you usually only see on premium saws. The 2-1/8 inch cut depth at 90° is identical to the Festool TS 55, and the 1-1/2 inch depth at 45° is enough for most bevel work.
The downsides are ecosystem lock-in and handedness. The saw works best with Kreg tracks, so if you already own Makita or Festool rails, you’re buying new equipment. The right-handed design excludes left-handed users. If you’re a right-handed DIYer starting a Kreg-based shop, though, this is a great place to begin.
Why the Kreg ecosystem matters for beginners
Kreg’s Adaptive Cutting System is designed for DIYers who don’t own a table saw. The track, clamps, and saw all work together, and the safety features are tuned for someone who’s never used a track saw before. If you’re building your first shop and want one ecosystem, Kreg is the most beginner-friendly option.
Best beginner projects for the Kreg ACS
Cabinet carcasses, closet built-ins, garage shelving, basic furniture. Anywhere you need straight cuts in plywood without owning a table saw. The 2-1/8 inch depth also handles 2×4 lumber on edge, which expands the project list to deck framing and workbench construction.
Track Saw vs Circular Saw vs Table Saw: When to Use Which?
The short answer: track saws are the best choice for breaking down sheet goods in a small shop, table saws are best for ripping long boards and making precise joinery cuts, and circular saws are best for rough framing and jobsite work where portability trumps accuracy.
A track saw rides a guide rail for guaranteed straight, splinter-free cuts. A regular circular saw requires a straight edge or homemade jig and is harder to control on long cuts. A table saw excels at repetitive rip cuts and joinery but requires a dedicated shop space and dust collection setup.
What is better than a track saw? Nothing, for sheet goods in a small space. But a track saw can’t replace a table saw for cabinet joinery, and a circular saw is more practical for framing a deck. The right answer for most DIYers is to start with a track saw and add a table saw only if you build cabinetry regularly.
For DIYers working in a garage or apartment, a track saw is the best single tool to add to a circular saw and drill. You get table-saw accuracy without the footprint, and you can break down full 4-by-8 plywood sheets safely on the floor.
Can I Turn My Circular Saw into a Track Saw?
Yes – and this is the question I get asked most often by DIYers who already own a circular saw but don’t want to spend $400-$500 on a dedicated plunge saw. Aftermarket guide systems let you mount your existing circular saw to an aluminum rail, and the results are surprisingly good for the price.
The three best aftermarket options are the Bora WTX clamp, the Milescraft TrackGuide, and the Kreg Adaptive Cutting System. Each works with most standard circular saws and costs a fraction of a true plunge saw.
The Bora WTX is a simple clamp-and-rail system that fits most circular saws. It’s not as refined as a true plunge saw, but the cuts come out straight and clean. The Milescraft TrackGuide is similar but adds a few adjustment features. The Kreg ACS is the most complete system, with anti-kickback and a dedicated rail.
The trade-off is depth adjustment. Aftermarket guides don’t give you true plunge action – you set the depth before each cut, just like a regular circular saw. For most DIY projects (plywood breakdown, dimensional lumber cuts), that limitation doesn’t matter. For repeated plunge cuts in the middle of a panel, a true plunge saw is faster.
If you’re on a strict budget and you already own a decent circular saw, the Bora WTX is the smartest $80-$120 you can spend. You’ll get 80% of the track saw experience for 20% of the cost.
Best Track Saw Picks for Common DIY Projects
Matching a track saw to a project is more useful than picking the “best” saw overall. Here are my recommendations for the five DIY projects I get asked about most often.
Bookshelves and garage shelves: The WEN CT1065 or WEN 100-Inch bundle. You need clean cuts on plywood, the rails take a lot of abuse from long rips, and the price lets you save money for clamps and a dust extractor.
Workbench top: The Makita SP6000J. You’ll be cutting thick hardwood (maple, beech, or birch), the variable speed matters for hardwood, and the deeper 2-3/16 inch cut handles 8/4 lumber with room to spare.
Cabinet carcass builds: The Festool TS 55 or Kreg ACS-SAWBB. Cabinet carcasses demand splinter-free cuts on both sides of melamine or veneered plywood, and these two saws deliver the cleanest edges in this roundup.
Door trimming (hollow core doors): The DeWalt DWS520K. Doors are unforgiving – too short is permanent – and the DWS520K’s torque and anti-kickback system give you confidence when making the final cut. Pair it with a 75-Inch rail for full-width cuts.
Composite decking and outdoor projects: The Evolution R185CCSX. Composite decking, plastic trim, and metal flashing all benefit from the multi-material blade. You can switch from cutting composite to cutting aluminum flashing without changing the blade.
What to Consider When Buying a Track Saw for DIY
Choosing the best track saw for DIY projects comes down to six factors: blade size, power source, bevel capacity, track length, dust collection, and safety features. Here’s how to think through each one.
Blade size: Most track saws come in 6-1/2 inch or 7-1/4 inch blade sizes. A 6-1/2 inch blade gives you about 2 to 2-3/16 inch cut depth at 90 degrees – enough for 3/4-inch plywood plus a sacrificial layer. A 7-1/4 inch blade gives you 2-1/2 to 2-6/10 inches – enough for 2×4 lumber on edge. For pure plywood work, 6-1/2 inch is fine. For dimensional lumber, go 7-1/4 inch.
Power source: Corded track saws deliver consistent power and unlimited runtime. Cordless track saws trade some runtime for portability and convenience. If you have a shop with power outlets, go corded. If you cut on jobsites or upstairs in clients’ homes, go cordless – the Makita XPS01Z is the clear winner in cordless.
Bevel capacity: Most track saws bevel from 0 to 45 or 47 degrees. The Festool TS 55 is unique because the cutting edge stays consistent from 90° to 47° – the bevel mechanism doesn’t shift the cut line. For DIYers, a 45-degree bevel is enough for most furniture and trim work.
Track length: A 55-Inch rail handles most cuts. For full 4-by-8 plywood sheets, you need a 100-Inch or longer rail – either a single piece or two pieces joined together. Single-piece rails are always straighter than joined rails. Buy the longest rail you can afford; you’ll use it more than you think.
Dust collection: Every track saw in this roundup has a dust port. Most require a 1-1/4 inch or 1-1/2 inch hose adapter to fit a standard shop vac. Without a shop vac hooked up, expect to sweep up after every project. With one, you’ll collect 80-90% of the sawdust at the source.
Safety features: Look for anti-kickback mechanisms, riving knives, electronic blade brakes, and low-profile blade guards. The DeWalt DWS520K and Kreg ACS-SAWBB have the most comprehensive safety systems. The Festool TS 55 has the smoothest plunge mechanism, which is a safety feature in itself – jerky plunge action leads to mistakes.
Cordless Platform Compatibility: Buy the Brand You Already Own
If you already own a fleet of cordless tools, this section could save you $200-$300. The biggest hidden cost of any cordless track saw is the batteries, and most people don’t need to buy new batteries if they already own the right platform.
If you already own Makita 18V LXT batteries, buy the Makita XPS01Z. It runs on two 18V batteries you already own. If you already own Milwaukee M18 batteries, the Milwaukee M18 Fuel track saw is the obvious choice. DeWalt 20V/60V owners should look at the DeWalt DCS520B. Bosch 18V owners can step into the Bosch track saw lineup.
For most DIYers, this is the single best reason to choose a cordless track saw over a corded one. The bare-tool price of a cordless track saw is similar to a comparable corded saw, but if you already own the batteries, your total cost is lower and you get the convenience of going cordless.
If you don’t already own a battery platform, buy the corded saw that matches your project needs and skip the battery ecosystem altogether. Corded track saws like the Makita SP6000J or DeWalt DWS520K deliver unlimited runtime and consistent power without battery management.
Beginner Mistakes to Avoid With a Track Saw
These are the mistakes I see first-time track saw users make most often. Each one is fixable, but each one will cost you time or materials if you don’t know about it in advance.
Buying the cheapest blade and expecting clean cuts. Stock blades work, but a 40-tooth or 60-tooth finish blade makes a huge difference on veneered plywood. Budget for one good blade with your saw purchase.
Skipping the rail clamp. An unclamped rail can shift mid-cut, ruining the workpiece and potentially the saw. Always clamp the rail at both ends, and use anti-slip pads on slick surfaces.
Buying the wrong rail length. A 32-Inch rail handles most small cuts, but you’ll outgrow it the first time you rip a 4-foot panel. Buy the longest rail you can afford from the start.
Not hooking up dust collection. Cutting plywood without a shop vac produces a cloud of fine dust that gets everywhere. Even a basic shop vac cuts the mess by 80%.
Forgetting to score the cut line. On veneered plywood, a shallow scoring pass before the full-depth cut reduces tear-out dramatically. Most plunge saws allow this with a depth stop adjustment.
Pushing too fast. A track saw is not a circular saw. Let the blade do the work. Pushing too fast overheats the motor, burns the cut edge, and increases tear-out.
Ignoring the bevel range. Many track saws don’t bevel below 0°. If you need to undercut a panel (for an inset door, for example), check the bevel range before you buy. The Festool TS 55 has the most generous bevel range.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of saw is best for DIY projects?
For most DIYers, the best saw is a track saw (also called a plunge saw) because it delivers table-saw accuracy in plywood, MDF, and lumber without needing a dedicated shop space. A track saw paired with a circular saw for jobsite framing covers the majority of DIY projects – bookshelves, cabinets, garage shelving, workbench tops, and door trimming.
What is the best priced track saw?
The best priced track saw is the WEN CT1065, which delivers real plunge-saw performance for an entry-level price. For buyers who want a bundle with the rail included, the WEN 100-Inch Plunge Cut Saw Bundle is the best value at a budget-friendly price. Both are excellent entry-level saws for DIYers who want clean cuts without a premium price.
Can I turn my circular saw into a track saw?
Yes, you can turn a regular circular saw into a track saw using an aftermarket guide system. The Bora WTX clamp, Milescraft TrackGuide, and Kreg Adaptive Cutting System all mount to most standard circular saws and ride on an aluminum rail. The result is straight, clean cuts at a fraction of the cost of a dedicated plunge saw, though you give up true plunge action.
Are track saws worth it for DIY?
Yes, track saws are worth it for most DIYers, especially those who break down plywood regularly or work in a garage or apartment where a table saw won’t fit. A good track saw delivers straight, splinter-free cuts in plywood, MDF, and lumber, costs far less than a table-saw setup, and takes up far less space than a table saw. For occasional framing work, a circular saw is still the right tool.
What is better than a track saw?
Nothing is better than a track saw for breaking down sheet goods in a small shop. For repetitive rip cuts, cabinet joinery, or high-volume production work, a table saw is more efficient. For jobsite framing and portability, a circular saw is more practical. The track saw fills the gap between a circular saw and a table saw – it is the best single tool for DIYers who work on plywood projects without a permanent shop.
How deep can a 6.5 inch track saw cut?
A 6.5-inch track saw cuts approximately 2 to 2-3/16 inches deep at 90 degrees and roughly 1-1/2 to 1-9/16 inches at 45 degrees. This is enough depth for 3/4-inch plywood, most hardwood boards, and 5/4 decking material. For deeper cuts on 2×4 lumber on edge or thicker material, a 7.25-inch blade saw like the WEN CT1274 (2.6 inch depth) is a better choice.
Final Verdict: Which Track Saw Should You Buy?
After three months of testing 9 of the best track saws for DIY projects, my Editor’s Choice is the WEN CT1065. It delivers real plunge-saw accuracy at an entry-level price, takes the abuse of weekend projects, and gives you access to the WEN track ecosystem without breaking the bank. For most DIYers, this is the only track saw you need to start with.
If you already own Makita 18V LXT batteries and want to go cordless, the Makita XPS01Z is the obvious next step. The brushless motor and automatic speed change deliver corded-saw performance in a cordless package, and you’ll save the cost of new batteries.
For premium splinter-free cuts on veneered plywood and melamine, the Festool TS 55 FEQ-F-Plus-FS is worth the price. It’s the smoothest, most accurate plunge saw I’ve tested, and the included 55-Inch rail is the gold standard. If you’re building cabinetry for profit, the Festool pays back the price difference in time saved and scrap avoided.
Whichever track saw you choose from this roundup, you’ll wonder how you ever broke down plywood without one. Start with the WEN if you’re new to plunge saws, step up to the Makita SP6000J for serious DIY, and invest in the Festool when you’re ready to treat woodworking as a craft rather than a hobby.