Makita vs Festool Cordless Track Saw [Pros and Cons]

A decent track saw can provide a degree of accuracy and power that you won’t simply get with other similar tools out there like circular and table saws.

But keep in mind that you would buy track saws with careful considerations so you can get the best deal for your hard-earned money especially that they don’t come quite inexpensive.

You see, acquiring a decent track saw will set you back a few bucks. However, that doesn’t imply that there aren’t track saws out there that come with reasonable prices. It’s just that they’re quite hard to find if you don’t do the right research.

But worry not because we did the hard-work for you. We’ve thoroughly researched countless track saws and came with the top track saws that you can get with your hard-earned money.

Well, without further ado, let’s evaluate these units from Makita and Festool.

Quick Summary

If you’re looking for a good yet inexpensive track saw, then the Makita XPS01PTJ is probably what you’re looking for. This track saw can give accurate cutting if you combined it with a guide rail system. This unit features variable speed control dial for better performance.

Moreover, it is powered by two LXT batteries in order to achieve extra power and speed. Also, it can last long during operation because it is incorporated with Makita-built electronically controlled BL brushless motor.

On the flip side, the Festool 575389 is perfect for you if you want high-quality and precise cuts. In particular, it can produce perfectly straight and splinter-free cuts, but that is if you use it with Festool guide rails.

It comes with 9 blade types and micro-adjustable depth controls. Also, its blades are easy to change. Certainly, it is quite pricey. However, considering that it can give you seamless and accurate cuts, it is simply worth the price.

Who Should Get This?

Track saws are amazing tool for many workshops out there. Track saws are affordable, intuitive, and simple while applicable to a huge range of tasks.

Track saws’ low weight and certain straight edge provide an advantage against the more popular table saw. Moreover, track saws can also be utilized to cut edges of varying thicknesses and longer miters.

Nowadays, a lot of consumers actually wonder if track saws are worth the money. At first look, a track saw seems like a traditional circular saw – which is priced pretty low compared to a basic plunge cut track saw.

Why Track Saws Cost A Little More

Now, one of the primary reasons why track saws cost a little more is because they can be utilized to create long and accurate cuts in wood materials more efficiently and much faster compared to any table or circular saw out there. Aside from that, track saws are portable.

Also, because there is rubber strips incorporated at the bottom of these tools, they preclude slips and they don’t need clamping just to operate it.

Overall, track saws are for you if you want to save a lot of time, make excellent cuts, and looking for something more convenient than a table or circular saw. 

What to Consider?

Length of Track

The length of track differs from brand to brand. But essentially, you can get a shorter track and just simply utilize some extensions if you want to lengthen the track if you want.

Nonetheless, you must keep in mind that the extensions are connected accurately to avoid inaccurate cuts. That’s why we always recommend acquiring a long single track. On the flip side, the long track can be an obstruction if you always tend to work on tight spaces.

Bevel Capacity

Bevel capacity is another crucial factor to consider. As the name implies, it refers to the tool’s ability to do bevel cuts. If you don’t know what a bevel cut is, it is simply a cut at any angle aside from 90 degrees that is done along the thickness of the material to be cut.

This factor is important because it enables you to perform a wide number of carpentry and woodworking tasks especially in furniture making.

Speed (RPM)

One more crucial consideration when it comes to acquiring a powerful track saw is how much speed it is capable of. And speaking of speed, the unit used to measure it is by revolutions per minute or simply RPM.

If you’re a beginner, what you want to get is a track saw that has at least 2,000 RPM. It will be an advantage if you get one that is capable of changing speeds because there are a variety of woods out there – which are sometimes soft to cut and sometimes hard.

Motor Power

Similar with many saws out there, the first factor you must consider is the motor power of a track saw. You see, a track saw with a powerful motor implies that the tool can cut through the wood at a much faster speed.

For sure, you might save some amount of money with track saw with low-power motor. However, the cutting performance might not be that great. It’s a smart decision to get a track saw that has a motor power of at least 9 Amps.

Makita vs. Festool Track Saw Review: Our Best Picks

1. Makita XPS01PTJ 5.0Ah 18V

Cutting Capacity

This particular unit can provide precise cutting if amalgamated with an optional guide rail system – which is sold separately. The saw and rail operate together in order to generate precise cuts with minimal tear-out.

Brushless Motor

Moreover, the saw amalgamates a powerful Makita-built brushless motor which is powered by two 18 volts LXT batteries that come with automatic speed change technology.  It also adjusts cutting speed as well as the torque during the operation for optimal output.

Variable Speed

Furthermore, the saw comes with a variable speed dial along with soft start as well as an electric brake for extra convenience. It features a large 2 to 3/16 inch cutting capacity at 90 degrees, with a bevel cut of -1 degree to 48 degree when utilized along with a rail system.

What We Like:

• Features variable speed control dial for optimal performance in different materials
• Powered by two LXT batteries for additional power, speed, and operation time
• Incorporated with Makita-built electronically controlled BL Brushless motor
• Produces accurate cuts with less tear-out
• Great cutting performance

What We Don’t Like: 

• Quite expensive especially when compared to a circular saw
• Its case does not seem it will hold up for very long

2. Festool 575389 Plunge Cut Track Saw

A Prominent Brand

Festool is a prominent brand when it comes to track saws. In fact, if it weren’t for the price factor, it would be placed in the number one spot. So, speaking of the price factor, is it worth the price? Certainly, yes!

One obvious factor you’ll observe about the Festool 575389 is its incredibly clean cuts. Its guide rail system is engineered to be laser straight. On the other hand, the rubber lip on its rail is engineered to get rid of the dreaded edge splintering that plagues the results of decent saws.

Efficient Design

Actually, the company is famous for implementing a design on its track saws that significantly minimizes the risk of tearing and splintering. Thus, if you’re seeking a tool with optimal clean cutting capacity, then the Festool 575389 is most likely for you.

Safety Features

Furthermore, it also comes with some crucial safety features such as a dust port and blade guards. This track saw is simply a tool that leaves very little when it comes to complaints.

On a side note, you’ll most likely notice that it has shorter code. However, that’s not really a problem because you can simply get an extension cord and you’re good to go!

What We Like:

• Can produce perfectly straight and splinter-free cuts if used with Festool guide rails
• Comes with two available sizes, cordless option, as well as 9 blade types
• Its slip clutch aids to lessen the risk of a kickback and minimizes wear and tear
• Comes with micro-adjustable depth controls
• Easy to change blades and much safer with the use of fast fix system

What We Don’t Like: 

• It’s quite expensive. Not to mention that you must purchase the tracks as well separately
• Not considering the price, this would be perfect if its cord is a little bit longer 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a track saw pricier compared to similar tools?

It actually depends on the unit you pick. You see, track saws come with cheap and expensive units. Obviously, the pricier units tend to come with extra features and advantages so they can be worthy of your hard-earned money. 

Is changing track saw’s blades easy?

The steps of changing the track saw’s blades will most likely depend on the unit itself. This is the reason why you must thoroughly read the instructions that come along with the package and follow them. On the other hand, the replacement process is pretty easy and doesn’t cost that much time.

Are track saws worth the money?

For the most part, these tools are incredibly versatile, especially when in it comes to the wood-cutting unit.  In short, track saws’ versatility makes them worthy of your hard-earned money.

Closing Words

Track saws come with too many advantages and it is perfectly suited for various kinds of woodworking. Not to mention that a track saw features excellent versatility which make it an amazing investment. Of course, if you’re looking to get the most out of your woodworking job, then acquiring the best track saw is necessary.

We shared with you the top two track saws you can ever get. What you want to do now is evaluate your needs and your budget and you’re good to go. Take your time and don’t rush so you can make a smart decision.

We hope that this review was able to help your buying process. If you found it helpful, then please leave a comment down below!