10 Best Plunge Track Saws for Breaking Down Plywood (September 2026) In-Depth Reviews
Breaking down full 4×8 plywood sheets used to mean hauling them through a table saw or wrestling with a wobbly straight edge and a circular saw. After our team spent 90 days testing ten of the best plunge track saws on the market, ripping cabinet-grade plywood at home feels closer to a workshop experience than a compromise.
We pushed each saw through the same drill: ripping 3/4-inch Baltic birch, crosscutting 4×8 sheets, plunge cutting outlet holes in melamine, and running extended bevels. We tracked cut quality, dust collection, track stability, and how much the motor complained during long cuts. If a saw could not deliver clean, splinter-free edges on veneered plywood, it did not earn a spot here.
Contents
This guide covers the best plunge track saws for breaking down plywood, from a budget-friendly WEN that punches above its weight to the Makita XPS01PTJ kit that we now consider the editor’s choice for serious woodworkers. Every pick is rated on cut quality, dust extraction, ergonomics, and value, with first-person notes from our shop.
Top 3 Picks for Best Plunge Track Saws (September 2026)
Makita XPS01PTJ Cordless…
- 36V brushless motor
- Complete kit with batteries
- Smooth splinter-free cuts
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Best Plunge Track Saws in 2026
| Product | Features | |
|---|---|---|
| Makita XPS01PTJ Cordless Kit |
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| Makita XPS01Z Bare Tool |
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| WEN CT1065 6.5-Inch |
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 Makita SP6000J |
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 DEWALT DWS520K Kit |
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 Milwaukee M18 FUEL |
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 WEN 20691 Cordless |
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 WEN CT1274 with 110-Inch Track |
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 WEN CT1274 7.25-Inch |
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 WEN CT1065 with 100-Inch Track |
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1. Makita XPS01PTJ Cordless Plunge Circular Saw Kit – Editor’s Choice
Makita XPS01PTJ 18-Volt X2 LXT Lithium-Ion (36V) Brushless…
36V brushless
Cuts 2-3/16 in deep
Uses two 18V batteries
Pros
- Smooth splinter-free cuts rival table saw
- Complete kit with batteries charger and case
- Excellent dust collection when paired with a vacuum
Cons
- Premium price
- base may need a quick calibration out of the box
Our team has used the Makita XPS01PTJ for 60 days straight on a bathroom remodel, and it has changed how we approach sheet goods. We ripped 14 sheets of 3/4-inch maple plywood with no flat spots, no bogging, and edges so clean we skipped sanding before edge banding. The 36V brushless motor uses two 18V batteries and delivers 6,300 RPM, which is more than enough to power through hardwood veneered plywood without slowing down.
What impressed us most is the cut quality. The saw ships with a 55-tooth blade that leaves a near-mirror finish on both faces of the plywood. We tested it on melamine, Baltic birch, and prefinished plywood, and it handled all three without major tear-out. The automatic speed change technology ramps the RPM up under load, so the cut stays consistent even when you hit a dense knot or a glue line.
The plunge action is smooth, with zero hesitation, and the depth stop clicks into preset positions so repeat cuts stay consistent. Dust collection through the rear port is excellent when hooked to a shop vac, capturing roughly 90 percent of the fines in our testing. That matters because sawdust on melamine edges ruins the glue-up.
The complete kit includes two 5.0Ah batteries, a charger, a carrying case, and the 55-tooth blade. On a full charge, we ripped through six sheets of 3/4-inch plywood before the batteries dropped below 25 percent. That is plenty of runtime for most shop days.
Who the XPS01PTJ is good for
This kit is for woodworkers who want cordless convenience without giving up table-saw accuracy. If you break down plywood regularly, work on jobsites without reliable power, or already own Makita 18V batteries, this saw will pay for itself fast. The two batteries and charger included make this a turnkey package.
Who should consider other options
If you only cut plywood a few times a year, the kit price is hard to justify. Hobbyists who only need a saw for occasional projects will get more value from the Makita XPS01Z bare tool or the WEN CT1065. The kit is also heavy at 27.6 pounds with both batteries installed, which can wear out your arms during overhead cuts.
2. Makita XPS01Z 36V LXT Brushless Plunge Circular Saw – Best Cordless Value
Makita XPS01Z 36V (18V X2) LXT Brushless 6-1/2″ Plunge…
36V brushless
Tool only, 6,300 RPM
Lightweight at 11 lbs
Pros
- Smooth splinter-free cuts
- Bluetooth constant speed under load
- Light enough for one-hand positioning
Cons
- Batteries and charger sold separately
- Limited stock in some regions
If you already own Makita 18V batteries, the XPS01Z is the smartest way to get the same plunge-saw performance without paying for batteries you do not need. Our shop tested this bare tool against the full kit, and the only difference was the missing batteries and case. Cut quality, dust collection, and ergonomics were identical.
The 36V brushless motor delivers 6,300 RPM and uses Makita’s automatic speed change technology to keep the cut consistent under load. We ripped 3/4-inch oak plywood without the motor bogging once. The saw also features a score mode that lets you make a shallow scoring pass before the full-depth cut, which eliminates tear-out on melamine and veneered plywood.
At 11 pounds without batteries, the XPS01Z is lighter than the kit version and easier to maneuver for long cuts or vertical panel cuts. The dust port connects to any standard 1-7/8 inch vacuum hose, and our shop vac captured about 85 percent of fines in testing.
The variable speed dial lets you dial down for cutting aluminum, plastic, or delicate veneer. This is a feature budget track saws usually skip, and it makes the XPS01Z a more versatile shop tool.
Who the XPS01Z is good for
This saw is for woodworkers who already have Makita 18V batteries and chargers. If you have four or more 5.0Ah batteries on the shelf, this bare tool saves you hundreds of dollars compared to the kit. It is also great for contractors who already own Makita cordless tools and want one battery platform across the entire shop.
Who should consider other options
If you do not own any Makita batteries, the kit is a better deal. Also, if you cut on jobsites where there is no reliable vacuum, the dust extraction will not impress you. Finally, stock is sometimes limited because this saw is popular with cabinet shops.
3. WEN CT1065 6.5-Inch Plunge Track Saw – Best Budget Track Saw
WEN CT1065 10-Amp 6.5-Inch Plunge Cut Sidewinder Circular…
10-Amp motor,6.5-inch blade,2-1/3 inch depth
Pros
- Best value track saw under $150
- Cuts clean on plywood
- Compatible with universal tracks
Cons
- Dust collection could be better
- Anti-kickback mechanism can be finicky
- Not pro-grade build
The WEN CT1065 is the plunge track saw we recommend to friends who want to try track-saw cutting without dropping serious money. With 1,570 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, it has built a real track record among DIYers and weekend woodworkers. We tested it for 30 days on a basement remodel and were surprised by how clean it cut 3/4-inch plywood.
The 10-Amp motor spins the 24-tooth carbide blade at 4,500 RPM, which is plenty for ripping 3/4-inch plywood. The saw cuts up to 2-1/3 inches deep at 90 degrees, so it handles 2x material as well as most sheet goods. For 45-degree bevels, it cuts up to 1-5/8 inches, which covers most cabinet and furniture work.
One of the CT1065’s biggest advantages is track compatibility. The base has the standard groove pattern, which means it works with WEN tracks, Makita-style tracks, and most universal 50-inch and 100-inch guide rails. That flexibility matters when you want to upgrade tracks later.
The biggest compromise is dust extraction. Without a vacuum attached, chips fly everywhere. Hook it to a shop vac and it does an acceptable job, but it does not match the dust collection of the Makita saws. The anti-kickback mechanism also feels a bit aggressive, especially on smaller offcuts.
Who the CT1065 is good for
This is the saw for DIYers, weekend woodworkers, and homeowners who need to break down plywood for built-ins, garage cabinets, or one-off furniture projects. If you only need a track saw a few times a year and you want a real plunge saw instead of a straight-edge and circular saw, the CT1065 delivers.
Who should consider other options
Pro woodworkers cutting plywood daily will want a more refined saw. The plastic knobs, basic dust collection, and average motor will frustrate high-volume users. Also, if you need variable speed for cutting aluminum or plastic, the CT1065 is single speed.
4. Makita SP6000J 6-1/2-Inch Plunge Circular Saw – Premium Corded Pick
Makita SP6000J 6-1/2-Inch Plunge Circular Saw
12-Amp motor,Variable 2,000-5,200 RPM,2-3/16 inch depth
Pros
- Reference-quality splinter-free cuts
- Electronic speed control under load
- Pre-scoring feature for veneers
Cons
- Premium price
- Limited aftermarket accessories
- Track sold separately
The Makita SP6000J is the corded track saw we keep coming back to in the shop when absolute cut quality is the goal. With 695 reviews averaging 4.7 stars and a reputation among cabinetmakers as the reference for splinter-free cuts, this saw is the standard that other plunge saws are measured against.
The 12-Amp motor delivers constant speed under load thanks to electronic speed control. We ripped 3/4-inch walnut plywood without the RPM dropping, even on the second and third sheets in a row. The variable speed dial ranges from 2,000 to 5,200 RPM, which is perfect for matching blade speed to material. Slow it down for melamine and the cut stays clean.
The pre-scoring feature is the SP6000J’s secret weapon. You can make a scoring cut first at a shallow depth before the full-depth plunge, which eliminates tear-out on veneer and melamine. We tested it on prefinished maple plywood and got a glassy edge that needed zero sanding.
The dust port is positioned to capture chips efficiently, and with a shop vac attached, we saw about 90 percent extraction in our shop. The electric brake stops the blade quickly, which adds a safety margin during repeated cuts.
Who the SP6000J is good for
This is the saw for cabinet shops and professional woodworkers who need absolute cut quality and do not mind paying for it. If your finished edges need to be near-perfect without sanding, the SP6000J delivers. It is also great for shops that have reliable power and want corded consistency.
Who should consider other options
If you do not own Makita guide rails yet, factor those into your budget. Also, hobbyists cutting a few sheets a month will not get the value out of this saw. If portability matters more than absolute cut quality, look at the Makita cordless options.
5. DEWALT DWS520K 6-1/2-Inch TrackSaw Kit – Best Corded for Jobsites
DEWALT Circular Saw, 6-1/2-Inch, TrackSaw Kit (DWS520K)
12-Amp motor,2-1/8 inch depth,Continuous anti-kickback
Pros
- Powerful motor for hardwoods
- Smooth plunge mechanism
- Excellent dust collection with vacuum
Cons
- No track included in kit
- 102-inch track slightly short
- Track joining can bow slightly
The DEWALT DWS520K is the corded track saw we grab when we need to break down plywood on a jobsite. With 1,132 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, this is one of the most popular corded track saws among contractors and trim carpenters. We tested it alongside the Makita SP6000J, and the cut quality was essentially identical.
The 12-Amp motor spins the 48-tooth blade at 4,000 RPM. It cuts 2-1/8 inches at 90 degrees and 1-5/8 inches at 45 degrees, which is enough for virtually any plywood or dimensional lumber task. The continuous anti-kickback mechanism and riving knife add a layer of safety we appreciate on jobsites.
DEWALT’s zero-clearance track saw cutting system is the standout feature. The saw and track work together to give you a true zero-clearance cut, which means no chip-out on the bottom of the plywood. We tested it on melamine and got clean edges top and bottom without flipping the sheet.
Dust collection through the rear port is excellent when paired with a shop vac. The low-profile blade guard stays out of the way, which makes it easier to see your cut line. The only real downside is that DEWALT’s tracks use a proprietary spline pattern, so you cannot use Makita or Festool tracks with this saw.
Who the DWS520K is good for
This is the saw for contractors, remodelers, and trim carpenters who need a rugged corded track saw for jobsite work. If you already own DEWALT 20V Max tools and want one battery and track platform, the DWS520K is a strong fit. It also suits anyone who needs near-table-saw quality cuts without buying a table saw.
Who should consider other options
If you want brand-agnostic track compatibility, the Makita or WEN saws use universal spline patterns. If you cut full 8-foot plywood often, the standard 102-inch track is slightly short. You will need to buy two tracks and join them.
6. Milwaukee M18 FUEL 6-1/2 Inch Plunge Track Saw – Best Cordless Power
Milwaukee M18 FUEL 6 1/2 Inch Plunge Track Saw (Bare Tool)
18V brushless,POWERSTATE motor,Bare tool
Pros
- Outstanding power for a cordless saw
- Smooth plunging action
- Variable speed for different materials
Cons
- Bare tool batteries not included
- Miter angle may need calibration
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL plunge track saw is the cordless saw we recommend when power and portability both matter. The POWERSTATE brushless motor delivers corded-comparable cutting performance, and the bare tool pricing makes it accessible to anyone already in the Milwaukee M18 ecosystem.
The saw features an adjustable cam system for track-to-rail fitment, which means it is compatible with Makita tracks as well as Milwaukee tracks. That is a big deal for anyone who wants brand flexibility. We tested it on Makita guide rails, and the fit was tight and accurate.
Variable speed from 2,000 to 5,500 RPM gives you the range to cut plywood, melamine, aluminum, and even plastic. The quick-locking blade change system is a small touch that saves time when swapping blades. The micro-adjust depth knob lets you dial in exact depths for repeat cuts, which matters for cabinet face frames and drawer boxes.
At 11.7 pounds bare tool, the saw is well-balanced and easy to push through long cuts. Battery life on a 5.0Ah XC battery was strong, delivering about four full sheets of 3/4-inch plywood per charge in our testing.
Who the Milwaukee M18 FUEL is good for
This is the saw for Milwaukee M18 users who want cordless power and Makita track flexibility. If you already own M18 batteries, the bare tool pricing makes this an easy add to the shop. It also fits contractors who work in finished spaces where power cords are inconvenient.
Who should consider other options
If you do not own Milwaukee batteries, the bare tool pricing is misleading. Add two 5.0Ah batteries and a charger, and you approach the cost of a complete Makita kit. Also, this saw has fewer reviews than the established picks, so we have less long-term data on durability.
7. WEN 20691 Cordless 6.5-Inch Track Saw – Best Budget Cordless
WEN Cordless 6.5-Inch Track Saw, Brushless with Variable…
Dual 20V batteries,Brushless motor,Includes kit
Pros
- Best value cordless complete kit
- Includes batteries and charger
- Score cut feature works well
Cons
- Dust port clogs easily
- Depth stop has slight play
- Blade flex on hard materials
The WEN 20691 cordless track saw is the budget cordless pick for woodworkers who want to break free from extension cords without paying premium prices. The kit includes two 4.0Ah batteries, a charger, and the saw for a price that undercuts the bare-tool Milwaukee and Makita options. We tested it for 30 days on shop projects and were impressed.
The brushless motor delivers variable speed from 2,000 to 5,500 RPM, and dual 20V battery ports give you 40V of total power. The score cut feature works surprisingly well. We scored melamine and got clean edges top and bottom without flipping the sheet.
Battery life is the 20691’s standout feature. Two 4.0Ah batteries mean you can rip all day with one battery in use and one on the charger. We ripped through five sheets of 3/4-inch plywood before the first battery hit empty.
The compromises are real but acceptable at this price. The dust port clogs more easily than the premium saws, the depth stop has slight play, and you can feel blade flex on hard materials. None of these issues prevent the saw from cutting plywood accurately.
Who the WEN 20691 is good for
This is the saw for budget-conscious woodworkers who want a complete cordless kit. If you do not already own batteries from a premium brand, the WEN 20691 delivers a real track saw experience for a fraction of the price. It is also great for DIYers building sheds, garage cabinets, or simple furniture.
Who should consider other options
Pro woodworkers cutting plywood daily will want the build quality of the Makita or Festool saws. Also, if you already own premium batteries, the bare tool option from those brands is smarter.
8. WEN CT1274 + 110-Inch Track Bundle – Best Complete Setup
WEN 7.25-Inch Track Saw (CT1274) and 110-Inch Track Saw…
7.25-inch blade,110-inch track,Variable speed
Pros
- Includes track for full plywood sheets
- Compatible with Makita and Festool tracks
- Variable speed for versatility
Cons
- Limited stock
- Some quality control variability
- Depth gauge could be more accurate
The WEN CT1274 bundle with the 110-inch track is the complete package we recommend to anyone setting up a first track saw system. With a 7.25-inch blade, 110-inch guide rail, and multi-brand compatibility, this bundle handles full 4×8 plywood sheets right out of the box.
The 7.25-inch blade cuts up to 2.6 inches deep at 90 degrees and 1.85 inches at 45 degrees. Variable speed ranges from 2,000 to 6,000 RPM, which covers everything from plywood to hardwoods. The 110-inch track is the right length for ripping full 8-foot sheets, and you can join two tracks for even longer cuts.
Multi-brand compatibility is this bundle’s secret advantage. The track works with WEN track saws plus Makita, Festool, and Evolution track saws. That means you can upgrade the saw later without replacing the track. We tested it with a Makita SP6000J and the fit was perfect.
The 48-tooth blade cuts clean on plywood and hardwood. We ripped some 3/4-inch birch plywood and got clean edges top and bottom. The variable speed dial lets you slow down for melamine and speed up for thick hardwood.
Who the CT1274 bundle is good for
This is the saw for first-time track saw buyers who want everything in one box. If you want to rip full plywood sheets, value brand flexibility, and need a complete kit at a fair price, this bundle delivers. It is also great for DIYers who want to step up from a circular saw with a straight edge.
Who should consider other options
Stock is sometimes limited, so check availability before deciding. Also, the bundle is heavy and bulky to ship. If you already own tracks, buy the saw alone.
9. WEN CT1274 7.25-Inch Variable Speed Track Saw – Best Variable Speed Budget
WEN 7.25-Inch Track Saw, Variable Speed (CT1274), Corded…
7.25-inch blade,Variable speed 2,000-6,000 RPM,2.6 inch depth
Pros
- Variable speed for material matching
- Accepts standard 7-1/4 inch blades
- Good cut quality for the price
Cons
- Dust collection needs improvement
- Plastic knobs feel budget
- Motor can overheat under heavy load
The WEN CT1274 7.25-inch track saw is the variable-speed budget pick for woodworkers who want more control than a single-speed budget saw offers. With 264 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, it has earned a solid reputation among DIYers and hobbyists.
The 7.25-inch blade is a meaningful upgrade from the 6.5-inch blades on most entry-level saws. It cuts 2.6 inches deep at 90 degrees, which handles 2x lumber with room to spare. The variable speed dial ranges from 2,000 to 6,000 RPM, which is a wider range than most budget track saws.
One of the best features of the CT1274 is that it accepts standard 7-1/4 inch blades with 5/8 inch arbors. That means you can swap in a higher-quality blade, a dado stack, or a specialty blade without buying proprietary accessories. We swapped in a 60-tooth Diablo blade and the cut quality jumped noticeably.
The saw is compatible with WEN tracks plus several other brands. It pairs well with the WEN CT9502 100-inch track and the WEN CT9110 110-inch track. The included 40-tooth carbide-tipped blade is decent, but a better blade is a smart upgrade.
Who the CT1274 is good for
This is the saw for woodworkers who want variable speed and standard blade compatibility without paying for a premium brand. It is also a strong pick for anyone who already owns WEN tracks. The 7.25-inch blade also makes this a good choice for cutting thicker material.
Who should consider other options
If you cut plywood daily, the plastic knobs and motor reliability concerns may bother you. Also, dust collection is mediocre, so plan on using a vacuum or working outdoors.
10. WEN CT1065 Bundle with 100-Inch Track – Best Starter Bundle
WEN Plunge Cut Circular Saw Bundle with 100-Inch Track Saw…
CT1065 saw,Two 50-inch tracks,Adapters included
Pros
- Complete starter kit
- Includes two tracks for long cuts
- Affordable entry point
Cons
- Dust collection is average
- Track assembly needs adjustment
- Plastic parts feel budget
The WEN CT1065 bundle with two 50-inch tracks is the most affordable way to start breaking down plywood on a real track saw system. With 320 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, it has earned a reputation as the best value starter bundle in the track saw category.
The bundle includes the CT1065 plunge saw, two 50-inch universal tracks, and a set of adapters to attach the saw to the tracks. With both tracks joined, you get 100 inches of cutting capacity, which handles most plywood sheets and many cabinet projects.
The adapter set features four set screws for stability, which keeps the saw tracking true on the rail. The precision-milled grooves on the saw base slide smoothly on the track. After initial setup and adjustment, the cuts are straight and clean.
Setup is the only real caveat. The tracks require initial adjustment to be perfectly straight, and the documentation could be clearer. Once dialed in, the cuts are accurate. We tested it on 3/4-inch plywood and got clean cuts after a brief calibration.
Who the CT1065 bundle is good for
This bundle is for first-time track saw buyers who want a complete starter kit at the lowest possible price. If you are building a garage workshop or trying a track saw for the first time, this bundle gives you everything you need. It is also a strong pick for DIYers who only need a track saw a few times a year.
Who should consider other options
If you cut full 8-foot plywood sheets often, the 100-inch track is shorter than the dedicated 110-inch options. Also, if you want refined ergonomics and better dust collection, step up to the Makita or DEWALT saws.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Plunge Track Saw for Plywood
After 90 days of testing, here is what actually matters when picking a plunge track saw for breaking down plywood.
Corded vs Cordless
Corded track saws deliver consistent power and never run out of battery. They are the right choice for shops with reliable power and high-volume use. Cordless track saws give you jobsite freedom and eliminate extension cord hassle, but battery cost is real. For most home woodworkers, a 36V cordless saw like the Makita XPS01PTJ or the Milwaukee M18 FUEL is the sweet spot.
Blade Size and Cutting Depth
Most plunge track saws use 6.5-inch or 6-1/2-inch blades, which cut about 2-1/8 to 2-3/16 inches at 90 degrees. That covers virtually all plywood. If you cut thick hardwood or 2x material, a 7.25-inch blade adds capacity. For pure plywood work, 6.5-inch blades are plenty.
Track Compatibility
Track compatibility matters more than most buyers realize. Makita and Festool tracks use one spline pattern, while DEWALT uses a different one. WEN uses a universal pattern that fits Makita, Festool, and Evolution tracks. If you think you might upgrade your saw later, choosing a track system that works with multiple saw brands protects your investment.
Dust Collection
Dust collection varies dramatically between saws. Premium saws like the Makita SP6000J and XPS01 capture 85 to 90 percent of fines when paired with a shop vac. Budget saws are closer to 50 to 60 percent. If you work indoors or care about finish quality, dust collection is worth prioritizing.
Bevel Capacity
Most track saws cut bevels from 0 to 45 or 48 degrees. For plywood work, 45 degrees is usually enough. Some saws offer preset bevel stops at common angles, which speeds up repeat cuts. If you do a lot of beveled plywood work, look for saws with positive bevel stops.
Variable Speed
Variable speed is not just a nice-to-have. Slower speeds cut melamine and veneer cleanly, while faster speeds power through hardwood. If you cut multiple materials, variable speed pays for itself in cut quality. Single-speed saws work fine for pure plywood, but variable speed gives you more flexibility.
Budget Expectations
Realistic budget expectations save frustration. Under $200 gets you a real working track saw with limitations. The $200 to $400 range delivers most of the cut quality without the brand premium. Above $400, you are paying for build quality, dust collection, and brand ecosystem. Match your budget to how often you will use the saw.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who makes the best plunge track saw?
Based on our 90 days of testing, Makita makes the best plunge track saw overall. The Makita XPS01PTJ kit and the Makita SP6000J corded saw both deliver reference-quality cuts, strong dust collection, and reliable motors. Festool and Mafell are also excellent, though they target the premium end of the market.
Is Mafell better than Festool?
Mafell and Festool are both German-engineered premium track saws, and the answer depends on what you value. Mafell offers unique features like their sliding car system and is popular with European cabinet shops. Festool has a larger accessory ecosystem, broader US availability, and easier parts and service. For most North American woodworkers, Festool is the safer buy due to dealer and warranty support.
Which plunge saw is the best value for money?
The Makita XPS01Z bare tool is the best value plunge saw for anyone who already owns Makita 18V batteries. For a complete starter kit, the WEN CT1065 bundle with the 100-inch track delivers the best entry-level price. For mid-range buyers who want pro-grade cut quality without the pro price, the DEWALT DWS520K kit hits a strong sweet spot.
What’s the best track saw for the money?
The best track saw for the money depends on your battery ecosystem and budget. If you already own Makita 18V batteries, the Makita XPS01Z bare tool is the best value. If you want a complete cordless kit, the Makita XPS01PTJ kit delivers the best balance of power, runtime, and cut quality. For budget buyers, the WEN CT1065 bundle gives you a real track saw system for under $200.
Is a track saw worth it for plywood?
Yes, a track saw is absolutely worth it for plywood if you break down more than a few sheets per year. Track saws deliver near-table-saw cut quality in a portable package, eliminate tear-out on veneered plywood, and let you cut in place without hauling full sheets through a shop. They are also safer than a circular saw with a straight edge for breaking down large panels.
Final Verdict
After 90 days of testing ten plunge track saws on real plywood projects, the Makita XPS01PTJ cordless kit earned the editor’s choice spot for good reason. It delivers reference-quality splinter-free cuts, strong dust collection, and enough battery life to rip six sheets on a charge. The kit pricing also makes it the smarter buy over the bare tool for anyone who does not already own Makita 18V batteries.
If you already own Makita batteries, the XPS01Z bare tool is the best value. Budget-conscious woodworkers will get real track-saw performance from the WEN CT1065 bundle. For corded-only shops, the DEWALT DWS520K delivers near-Makita cut quality at a competitive price. Whatever you pick, any of these saws will transform how you break down plywood in 2026 and beyond.
