A Track Saw is a great addition to any carpenter or woodworkers tools kit. They add precision, mobility and versatility to your workflow. But the top brands, like Festool, Makita, Dewalt and Bosch, can run well over $1000 once tracks, clamps and batteries are factored in. And for a hobbyist, or someone just starting out in the trades, that’s a big investment in a tool you may not need everyday. So let’s take a look at some affordable track saw options that still give you the improved precision an mobility of a track saw, without the steep price tag. Here are 5 budget friendly track saws to consider for you first entry in to the track saw market.
So how does a track saw differ from a circular saw, anyways? A track saw is essentially a purpose-built circular saw that mates to a track. The also also feature a plunge mechanism, vs. the fixed depth settings of a circular saw. They allow you to make long, straight cuts with ease. Track saws are perfect for projects like cabinetry, furniture building, and other complex woodwork. Budget corded track saws offer an affordable option for both hobbyists and professionals, delivering reliable performance without breaking the bank.
Learn More: Read This Article – Track Saw vs. Circular Saw
Budget Friendly Option
Among the wide variety of track saws on the market, corded models like the Kreg ACS-Saw, Evolution Power Tools R185CCSX, WEN 20691BT, Triton TTS1400, and ATO PCTS-66 stand out due to their enhanced functionality over a circular saw and their affordable entry point. These saws are designed for users who want to achieve improved results over the DIY, and commercially available track saw alternatives in their projects but need a more cost-effective solution.
When selecting a budget corded track saw, it’s essential to consider factors such as power, cutting depth, track compatibility, and overall build quality. Ensuring that the saw has adequate power and cutting capacity will guarantee smooth, precise cuts in various materials. A solid, durable construction and compatibility with a range of track systems add versatility and longevity to the tool.
In this article, we’ll explore the features and capabilities of five popular budget corded track saws to help you make the best decision on which one will meet your needs and elevate the quality of your woodworking projects. I chose corded track saws as they deliver an all in solution, without the added cost of batteries and charges.
Let’s dive in and discover these affordable and versatile tools.
Most Affordable Corded Track Saws
Discover my top picks of the most affordable corded track saws on the market.
Kreg ACS-Saw (Adaptive Cutting System)
12 Amp | 2.125″ Depth | 0-47° Bevel
The Kreg ACS-SAW Adaptive Cutting System Plunge Saw is a powerful and versatile saw designed to work with the Adaptive Cutting System 62″ Guide Track to deliver straight, smooth, splinter-free cuts in solid wood, plywood, and other sheet goods. The saw offers integrated safety and ergonomic features that make it easy and safe to use. Customers who have used this saw have given mixed reviews. Some have praised its accuracy and ease of use, while others have noted that it is somewhat difficult to set up and adjust properly. Overall, it seems like a good option for those looking for a quality plunge saw, but it may not be the best choice for woodworking beginners or those who don’t have experience using and setting up these types of tools.
The Kreg Tool Company is a manufacturer of woodworking tools and accessories, founded in 1986 by Craig Sommerfeld. The company is best known for their pocket hole jigs, which are used to join pieces of wood together at an angle. Today, Kreg Tool offers a wide range of tools and accessories for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals, including clamps, saws, and cutting tools. Because of their wide range of tool offerings, the Kreg Plunge Cut Saw may offer additional features and accessories in the future.
Pros:
- Powerful and versatile saw that delivers straight, smooth, splinter-free cuts in solid wood, plywood, and other sheet goods
- Designed to work with the Adaptive Cutting System 62″ Guide Track for optimal cutting accuracy
- Offers integrated safety and ergonomic features that make it easy and safe to use
- Comes with a dust collection port that helps keep the work area clean and safe
- Offers a variable speed motor that allows you to adjust the cutting speed to suit your needs
- Compatible with a wide range of accessories that can help you get the most out of your saw
Cons:
- Somewhat expensive compared to other budget plunge saws on the market
- Some users have reported issues with the saw’s blade guard, which can be difficult to adjust and may interfere with the cutting process
- Depth stop mechanism is flimsy and may slip after being set
- May not be suitable for cutting thicker materials, as the plunge depth is somewhat limited
- Some users have reported issues with the saw’s dust collection system, which can be somewhat ineffective at times
Overall, the Kreg ACS-SAW Adaptive Cutting System Plunge Saw is a powerful and versatile tool that offers a range of useful features and benefits. However, it may not be the best choice for beginners or those who don’t have experience with this type of tool, and it may not be suitable for cutting thicker materials. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the saw’s blade guard and dust collection system, which may be a concern for some buyers.
Evolution R185CCSX 7-1/4″ Multi-Material Circular Track Saw Kit w/ 40″ Track
15 Amp | 2.4″ Depth | 0-45° Bevel
If you’re seeking a versatile and budget-friendly circular track saw, the Evolution R185CCSX is a reliable option for various material cutting needs.
Evolution Power Tools is a UK-based company that specializes in steel dry cutting technology. They are known for pioneering advanced TCT saws that can cut through steel, and have since developed this technology into a range of multipurpose saws that can also cut wood and aluminum. Evolution Power Tools offers a wide range of power tools and accessories for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals, including circular saws, miter saws, and metal cutting saws.
Pros
- Performs cuts on multiple materials without changing blades
- Offers a powerful 15 Amp motor and adjustable cutting depth of 2-1/2 inches
- Comes with a 40-inch track and a premium 7-1/4-inch blade
Cons
- Track hold down clamps are not included with the product
- Not designed for heavy and continuous usage
- Stock blade may not provide the best cutting experience
- Open Blade cover reduces efficacy of dust collection
The Evolution R185CCSX stands out for its ability to cut a wide range of materials, including wood with nails, steel, and plastic, without the need to change blades. The 15 Amp, Hi-Torque motor ensures a fast, smooth, and safe operation, making it an excellent choice for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.
Featuring a 0-45˚ bevel tilt with pivot, the R185CCSX provides compatible and precise cutting capabilities. Additionally, the ergonomic soft grip handles and dust extraction port with an adaptor contribute to a better user experience. However, bear in mind that the saw doesn’t come with clamps and might not be suitable for heavy use in demanding projects.
The Evolution R185CCSX Circular Track Saw Kit offers great value for budget-conscious users looking for versatile cutting options. While it may have some limitations, its performance and included accessories make it a worthy contender in the world of budget corded track saws.
WEN CT1065 10-Amp 6.5-Inch Plunge Cut Sidewinder Circular Track Saw
9 Amp | 2.125″ Depth | 0-45° Bevel
The WEN 6.5-Inch Sidewinder Circular Track Saw is a powerful and versatile cutting tool that is perfect for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals. It features a 10-amp motor and a 6.5-inch blade that can cut through a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and plastic. The saw also has an adjustable bevel and depth settings, making it easy to make precise cuts. It also comes with a 100-inch track, which allows for straight and accurate cuts.
The 10-amp motor and 6.5-inch blade make quick work of any cutting task, and the adjustable bevel and depth settings allow for more precise cuts. The included 100-inch track is a nice touch, as it allows for straight and accurate cuts. The saw is also lightweight and easy to maneuver, which makes it a great addition to any workshop.
Pros
- Powerful 10-amp motor and 6.5-inch blade can cut through a variety of materials
- Adjustable bevel and depth settings allow for more precise cuts
- Comes with a 100-inch track for straight and accurate cuts
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
Cons
- Some users have reported issues with the blade guard
- The saw can be a bit loud when in use
- The dust port blows back at the operator when a dust collection hose is not attached
Overall, the WEN 6.5-Inch Sidewinder Circular Track Saw is a great investment for anyone looking for a powerful and versatile cutting tool that can handle a variety of materials. While there are some minor issues to be aware of, such as the potential for issues with the blade guard and the noise level when in use, these are relatively minor compared to the saw’s overall performance. If you’re in the market for a new circular saw or track saw, this one is definitely worth considering.
Triton TTS1400 6-1/2-Inch Plunge Track Saw 1400W
12.5 Amp | 2.5″ Depth | 0-48° Bevel
The Triton TTS1400 6-1/2-Inch Plunge Track Saw is a powerful cutting tool that is perfect for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals. It features a 12-amp motor and a 6-1/2-inch blade that can cut through a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and plastic. The saw also has an adjustable bevel and depth settings, making it easy to make precise cuts. It also comes with a 59-inch track, which allows for straight and accurate cuts.
Triton Tools is a UK-based company that specializes in the design and manufacture of power tools for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals. The company offers a wide range of tools and accessories, including power saws, routers, sanders, and drills. Triton Tools is known for their innovative designs and high-quality products, and has won numerous awards for their tools. They are committed to providing their customers with the best possible tools and accessories, and are constantly striving to improve their products through research and development.
Pros
- Powerful 12-amp motor and 6-1/2-inch blade can cut through a variety of materials
- Adjustable bevel and depth settings allow for more precise cuts
- Comes with a 59-inch track for straight and accurate cuts
- Plunge mechanism allows for easy and precise plunge cuts
Cons
- Some users have reported issues with the blade guard
- The saw can be a bit heavy and difficult to maneuver
- Several users have complained over the general quality of the tool and a lack of power.
Overall, the Triton TTS1400 6-1/2-Inch Plunge Track Saw is a decent tool, but at the price point it may not stack up to the other options on this list. There are some minor issues to be aware of, such as the potential for issues with the blade guard and the weight of the saw, but these are relatively minor compared to the saw’s overall reported lack of power and quality. If you’re in the market for a new circular saw or track saw, I would consider this saw carefully before purchasing.
ATO Plunge-Cut Track Saw, 1400W Plunge-Cut Track Saw
6.5 Amp | 2.2″ Depth | 0-45° Bevel
The ATO PCTS-66 Track Saw is made by the ATO Tools company out of China. It is essentially a Chinese design and manufactured tool. It features a 12-amp motor and a 6-1/4-inch blade that can cut through a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and plastic. The saw also has an adjustable bevel and depth settings, making it easy to make precise cuts. It also comes with a 55-inch track, which allows for straight and accurate cuts.
The ATO PCTS-66 Track Saw is a powerful cutting tool, but it has some negative aspects to consider. One issue is that some users have reported problems with the blade guard, which can be difficult to adjust and may not provide adequate protection. Additionally, the saw can be quite heavy and difficult to maneuver, which may make it challenging to use for extended periods of time. Finally, while the plunge mechanism is a nice feature, it can be a bit finicky to use and may require some practice to get the hang of.
Pros
- Powerful 12-amp motor and 6-1/4-inch blade can cut through a variety of materials
- Adjustable bevel and depth settings allow for more precise cuts
- Comes with a 55-inch track for straight and accurate cuts
- Plunge mechanism allows for easy and precise plunge cuts
Cons
- Some users have reported issues with the blade guard
- The saw can be a bit heavy and difficult to maneuver
- Little experience reported n this saw in North America
Overall, the ATO PCTS-66 Track Saw is a decent tool, but for the price point it would be hard to chose this relatively unknown brand over some of the other more reputable brands. For this price point, I would recommend the Kreg, the WEN or the Evolution saw. This model also appears to be sold in Canada under the King Canada tool brand.
Buying Guide
As someone who frequently works on home improvement projects, I understand the importance of choosing a good quality and affordable track saw. Finding an affordable track saw can open up a lot of possibilities to improve your accuracy and quality, especially when working with sheet goods. Consider some key features and factors when deciding on the best budget corded track saw for your needs.
Power
The power of the saw is essential for cutting through various materials with ease. Pay attention to the motor’s amperage and the blade’s RPM (rotations per minute) to gauge the saw’s strength.
Depth and Bevel Capacity
Look for a saw with adjustable depth and bevel settings, as they provide added versatility and enable you to tackle a wider range of projects. The ability to bevel beyond 45 degrees can be very useful in built-in cabinetry and trim carpentry. Depth capacity at 90 degrees is important, however if the saw is underpowered this depth can become of little use.
Dust Collection
A built-in dust collection system helps to minimize mess and maintain a clean work area. Make sure the model you choose has an efficient design to keep your workspace tidy. It’s also important to look and the blade housing. Some saws completely enclose the blade to better direct the dust out the dust shoot, which should be connected to a vacuum or dust collector.
Included Accessories
Some affordable track saws come with extras like a carrying case or extra blades. These accessories can add value to your purchase by saving you from having to purchase additional items separately. It also significantly affects the total investment cost if you don’t have to buy a separate track. A track alone can cost up to ~$100.
With these factors in mind, here’s a summary of the saws reviewed:
| Model | Power (Amps) |
Depth Capacity | Bevel Capacity | Tracks included | Price* |
| Evolution R185CCSX | 15 | 2.4″ | 0-45˚ | Yes | $159.99 |
| Kreg ACS-Saw | 12 | 2-1/8″ | 0-47˚ | No | $305.87 |
| WEN 20691BT | 9 | 2-1/8″ | 0-45˚ | Yes | $161.44 |
| Triton TTS1400 | 12.5 | 2.15″ | 0-48˚ | No | $305.98 |
| ATO PCTS-66 | 6.5 | 2.2″ | 0-45˚ | No | $362.99 |
| *At time of review – Buyer to confirm | |||||
By considering these features and comparing various options, you’ll be well on your way to selecting the perfect affordable track saw for your projects.
