Cordless track saws offer clean, guided cuts without a cord to manage, but the right choice depends on the battery platform and kit you already own. My best overall pick is the Makita XPS01PTJ kit, which pairs a 36V brushless saw with batteries and a charger for a ready-to-work setup. The Milwaukee M18 FUEL is a compelling bare-tool choice for buyers already invested in M18, while the WEN 20691 kit stands out for including two batteries and a charger. The main tradeoffs are upfront kit completeness, battery-system compatibility, and how much you value premium features over a simpler setup. Read on for the full comparison, buying advice, and recommendations by workshop needs.
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Key Takeaways
The Makita XPS01PTJ is my best overall pick because its kit format gives buyers the saw, batteries, and charger together rather than requiring a separate battery purchase.
Battery ownership changes the value equation: the Makita XPS01Z, Milwaukee M18 FUEL, Kreg KPTPS100A, and WEN 20691BT are bare tools, so they make more sense when you already own compatible batteries and charging equipment.
The two WEN listings serve different buying situations: the 20691 includes two 4.0Ah batteries and a charger, while the 20691BT is the tool-only option for existing WEN 20V users.
Makita’s two entries are not interchangeable bundles: the XPS01Z is a tool-only choice, while the XPS01PTJ is the kit version for buyers who need batteries and a charger.
Kreg also splits its offering by kit contents: the Ionic Drive kit suits buyers who want a bundled setup, while the KPTPS100A bare tool is aimed at owners already equipped for that platform.
| cordless track saw | Model | Voltage | Blade diameter | Motor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kreg 20V Ionic Drive 6 1/2-Inc | KPTBPS100A | 20 V | 6 1/2 in | — |
| Makita XPS01Z 36V | XPS01Z | — | 6 1/2 in | Brushless |
| WEN 20V Max Cordless Brushless | 20691BT | 20 V | 6.5 in | Brushless, variable speed |
| WEN 20V Max Cordless 6.5-Inch | 20691 | 20 V | 6.5 in (165 mm) | Brushless, variable speed |
| Kreg 20V Ionic Drive 6 1/2-Inc | KPTPS100A | 20 V | 6 1/2 in | — |
| Makita XPS01PTJ 36V Brushless | — | 36V (two 18V LXT batteries) | — | Brushless |
| Milwaukee M18 FUEL 6-1/2-Inch | 2831-20 | 18V | 6-1/2 inches | Brushless |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Kreg 20V Ionic Drive 6 1/2-Inch Plunge-Cut Track Saw Kit
I’d choose this Kreg kit when having a battery and charger in the box matters more than getting a guide rail with the saw. Its included 4Ah Blue Ion battery, charger, blade, and dust bag make it a more ready-to-work purchase than the bare-tool Kreg KPTPS100A, though both require a separately purchased Kreg 62-inch track. The -1° to 47° bevel range offers a little extra flexibility beyond a standard 45° cut, while the 2 1/8-inch depth at 90° suits many plywood and solid-wood cuts. The blade-left layout is a practical visibility advantage for right-handed users. Compared with the WEN 20691 kit, this is a simpler battery-included route, but it lacks the WEN’s supplied pair of batteries and variable-speed range. The main catch is that the track remains an additional purchase.
Pros:- Includes a 4Ah battery and charger, unlike the Kreg bare tool
- Blade-left layout improves cut-line visibility for many right-handed users
- Bevel range extends to 47°
- Includes a 40-tooth blade and dust bag
Cons:- Kreg 62-inch guide track is sold separately
- A single included battery offers less ready-to-swap capacity than the two-battery WEN 20691 kit
Best for: Kreg track owners who want a plunge saw with its battery, charger, and basic accessories included.
Not ideal for: Buyers who need a complete track-cutting setup in one box or want variable-speed control and multiple batteries included.
- Model:KPTBPS100A
- Voltage:20 V
- Blade diameter:6 1/2 in
- Bevel capacity:-1° to 47°
- Cutting depth at 90°:2 1/8 in
- Cutting depth at 45°:1 1/2 in
- Battery included:4Ah Blue Ion lithium-ion
- Included components:Charger, 40-tooth blade, dust bag
- Guide track:Kreg 62-inch guide track, sold separately
Our verdict“Choose this Kreg kit if you want a battery-equipped saw and already have, or plan to buy, its compatible guide track.”
Makita XPS01Z 36V (18V X2) Brushless 6-1/2-Inch Plunge Circular Saw, Tool Only
The Makita XPS01Z is the strongest fit here for buyers who want to tune cutting speed to the material rather than rely on a single motor setting. Its brushless motor and 2,500–6,300 RPM range give it more speed flexibility than either WEN 20691 model, while soft start and an electric brake add control at startup and after a cut. The 2 3/16-inch depth at 90° is also slightly greater than the Kreg kit’s listed 2 1/8 inches. Positive stops at 22.5° and 45° help repeat common bevel settings. The tradeoff is a substantial platform commitment: it needs two 18V LXT batteries, and neither batteries, charger, nor guide rail are included. I’d rank the battery-included Kreg kit ahead for a simpler purchase, but favor this Makita for LXT owners who value adjustable speed.
Pros:- Brushless motor with a broad 2,500–6,300 RPM speed range
- Soft start and electric brake support controlled operation
- Greater listed 90° cutting capacity than the Kreg kit
- Positive stops at 22.5° and 45° simplify repeat bevel cuts
Cons:- Requires two 18V LXT batteries, which are not included
- Guide rail is sold separately
- The two-battery setup is a larger platform commitment than the 20V Kreg options
Best for: Woodworkers already invested in Makita 18V LXT batteries who want adjustable speed and controlled starts for track-guided cuts.
Not ideal for: First-time cordless track-saw buyers without Makita batteries or a compatible guide rail, since both must be sourced separately.
- Model:XPS01Z
- Power system:36V (18V X2), two 18V LXT batteries
- Motor:Brushless
- No-load speed:2,500–6,300 RPM
- Blade diameter:6 1/2 in
- Blade teeth:55
- Cutting capacity at 90°:2 3/16 in
- Bevel range:-1° to 48°
- Included components:55-tooth blade and hex wrench; batteries, charger, and guide rail not included
Our verdict“Pick the Makita XPS01Z if you own LXT batteries and prioritize speed adjustment, but skip it if you need a ready-to-use kit.”
WEN 20V Max Cordless Brushless Track Saw, 6.5-Inch, Tool Only (20691BT)
This WEN tool-only saw makes the most sense for buyers already equipped with two WEN 20V Max batteries who want variable speed without buying another battery kit. The brushless motor runs from 2,000 to 5,500 RPM, and the saw can work with a compatible track or as a plunge saw, giving it more flexibility than a track-dependent setup. Its listed 2.25-inch rip depth is a useful capacity for thicker stock; the maximum bevel depth is 1.65 inches. Compared with the WEN 20691 bundle, this version costs you no included batteries or charger, so its appeal depends on what you already own. The kit-included WEN is the easier start for new users, while this bare tool avoids duplicate batteries. You’ll still need to obtain a compatible track separately.
Pros:- Brushless motor with variable speed from 2,000 to 5,500 RPM
- Can be used with a compatible track or as a plunge saw
- Listed rip-cut depth reaches 2.25 inches
- Includes a carbide-tipped blade, dust port adapter, and two-year warranty
Cons:- Requires two WEN 20V Max batteries, sold separately
- Charger is not included
- Compatible track is sold separately
Best for: WEN 20V Max users who already own two compatible batteries and want a variable-speed saw for track or plunge work.
Not ideal for: Buyers starting from scratch who need batteries and a charger, or anyone expecting a guide track to come with the saw.
- Model:20691BT
- Voltage:20 V
- Motor:Brushless, variable speed
- Speed:2,000–5,500 RPM
- Blade diameter:6.5 in
- Maximum rip-cut depth:2.25 in
- Maximum bevel-cut depth:1.65 in
- Bevel range:-1° to 47°
- Battery requirement:Two WEN 20V Max batteries; batteries and charger sold separately
Our verdict“Choose this WEN bare tool if you already have two WEN batteries; otherwise, the WEN 20691 kit is the more complete starting point.”
WEN 20V Max Cordless 6.5-Inch Brushless Track Saw with Two 4.0Ah Batteries and Charger (20691)
Among these five options, the WEN 20691 is the clearest pick for someone who needs batteries and a charger as well as the saw. Its two 4.0Ah batteries meet the stated two-battery requirement, while the brushless motor’s 2,000–5,500 RPM range supports speed adjustment for different cuts. Straight, plunge, and bevel cutting make it more versatile than a setup chosen only for basic track-guided ripping. Compared with the WEN 20691BT, this kit costs you less battery-platform guesswork; compared with the Kreg kit, it supplies two batteries rather than one. But the track is still sold separately, so it is not a complete guided-cutting package. At 6.92 kg, it is also a substantial tool to handle, making it less appealing if low weight is a priority.
Pros:- Includes two 4.0Ah batteries and a charger
- Brushless variable-speed motor supports a range of cutting tasks
- Supports straight, plunge, and bevel cuts
- Includes a track-alignment cam and dust port adapter
Cons:- Guide track is sold separately
- Listed item weight is 6.92 kg
- The battery bundle is less useful to buyers who already own compatible WEN batteries
Best for: New WEN-platform buyers who need a saw, two batteries, and a charger for cordless straight, plunge, and bevel cuts.
Not ideal for: Buyers who need a guide rail included, want a lighter saw, or already own compatible WEN batteries and do not need another set.
- Model:20691
- Voltage:20 V
- Motor:Brushless, variable speed
- Speed:2,000–5,500 RPM
- Blade diameter:6.5 in (165 mm)
- Maximum cutting depth:2.25 in
- Maximum bevel cutting thickness:1.65 in
- Batteries included:Two 4.0Ah lithium-ion batteries
- Included accessories:Charger, carbide-tipped blade, track-alignment cam, dust port adapter
Our verdict“Choose the WEN 20691 for a battery-and-charger bundle, provided you are prepared to source the track separately.”
Kreg 20V Ionic Drive 6 1/2-Inch Plunge Cut Track Saw, Bare Tool (KPTPS100A)
This Kreg bare tool is aimed at buyers who already own the required battery setup and want a safety-focused plunge saw for wood and plywood. Its anti-kickback protection and electronic blade brake distinguish it from the supplied product details for the WEN 20691BT, while the blade-left layout helps right-handed users see the cut line. Like the Kreg kit, it works with the separately sold 62-inch Kreg guide track and offers a -1° to 47° bevel range. The key difference is what comes in the box: the KPTPS100A includes no battery or charger, whereas the Kreg kit includes both. That makes this a more sensible choice for owners who already have compatible power equipment, not for a first-time buyer assembling a complete track-saw setup. The guide track remains a separate purchase either way.
Pros:- Anti-kickback protection and electronic blade brake
- Blade-left layout supports cut-line visibility for right-handed users
- Compatible with the Kreg 62-inch guide track
- Bevel range reaches 47°
Cons:- Battery and charger are sold separately
- Kreg guide track is sold separately
- Unlike the WEN models, the listed product data does not specify a variable-speed range
Best for: Existing Kreg 20V users who want anti-kickback protection, an electronic brake, and a blade-left layout for guided wood cuts.
Not ideal for: New cordless-tool buyers who need a battery, charger, or track included, or users seeking a variable-speed motor.
- Model:KPTPS100A
- Voltage:20 V
- Blade diameter:6 1/2 in
- Bevel range:-1° to 47°
- Special features:Anti-kickback protection and electronic blade brake
- Battery requirement:One lithium-ion battery required; sold separately
- Included components:Bare tool
- Compatible guide track:Kreg 62-inch guide track, sold separately
- Recommended surface:Wood
Our verdict“Pick the Kreg KPTPS100A if you already have compatible power equipment and value its safety features; choose the Kreg kit if you need a battery and charger.”
Makita XPS01PTJ 36V Brushless Cordless 6-1/2-Inch Plunge Circular Saw Kit
The Makita XPS01PTJ is the stronger fit for buyers who want batteries and a charger in the box, rather than adding those separately as with the Milwaukee M18 FUEL bare tool. Its two 18V batteries power a brushless 36V system, while variable speed from 2,500 to 6,300 RPM gives more control when matching the cut to different materials. The 2-3/16-inch capacity handles substantial stock, and the broad bevel range, including a -1-degree setting, adds flexibility for angled work. The tradeoff is that the guide rail is sold separately, so accurate track-saw cuts require another purchase. It also relies on two batteries at once and weighs 27.6 pounds, making it a less appealing choice for buyers prioritizing a lighter setup.
Pros:- Includes two 5.0Ah batteries and a rapid charger, unlike the Milwaukee bare-tool listing.
- Brushless motor and variable speed support longer run time and adjustment for different materials.
- 2-3/16-inch cutting capacity at 90 degrees accommodates thick workpieces.
- Bevel range from -1 to 48 degrees offers flexibility for angled cuts.
Cons:- Guide rail is sold separately, adding a required component for track-guided cuts.
- Requires two batteries to operate, limiting flexibility for users with only one charged pack.
- Listed weight of 27.6 pounds may be cumbersome for frequent repositioning.
Best for: Makita LXT owners or cordless-shop buyers who want a plunge saw kit with two 5.0Ah batteries and a rapid charger for track-guided sheet and stock cutting.
Not ideal for: Buyers who need a ready-to-cut track-and-saw package, prefer a lighter tool, or want to use a single battery.
- Power source:Battery powered
- Voltage:36V (two 18V LXT batteries)
- Motor:Brushless
- Speed:2,500–6,300 RPM
- Cutting capacity at 90 degrees:2-3/16 inches
- Bevel capability:-1° to 48°
- Batteries included:Two 5.0Ah batteries
- Guide rail:Sold separately
Our verdict“Choose this Makita if you want a battery-and-charger-included plunge saw kit and can supply a compatible guide rail separately.”
Milwaukee M18 FUEL 6-1/2-Inch Plunge Track Saw (Bare Tool)
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL suits buyers already invested in Milwaukee’s 18V battery platform who want a plunge track saw without paying for batteries they may already own. Its brushless motor reaches 6,300 RPM, and variable speed plus smooth plunge action help tailor cuts while controlling entry into the workpiece. A riving knife helps reduce kickback risk, while the listed dust collection efficiency of over 90% can cut down on airborne debris when paired with suitable extraction. Compared with the Makita XPS01PTJ kit, this listing is lighter at 11.7 pounds but does not include batteries or a charger. The track rail and vacuum hose are also not listed as included, so its convenience depends on what you already own and can pair with it.
Pros:- Brushless motor delivers up to 6,300 RPM with variable speed control.
- Smooth plunge action supports controlled starts and entry into the workpiece.
- Riving knife helps reduce kickback risk during cutting.
- Listed dust collection efficiency exceeds 90% when used with suitable extraction.
Cons:- Bare-tool listing does not include a battery or charger.
- Track rail and vacuum hose are not listed as included.
- Buyers without Milwaukee M18 batteries face additional setup needs before use.
Best for: Milwaukee M18 users who already have compatible batteries and want a lighter plunge track saw with a riving knife and dust collection.
Not ideal for: First-time cordless-tool buyers seeking a complete kit, or shoppers who need a track rail and vacuum hose included with the saw.
- Model:2831-20
- Power source:Lithium-ion battery
- Voltage:18V
- Motor:Brushless
- No-load speed:6,300 RPM
- Blade diameter:6-1/2 inches
- Bevel stops:22.5°, 45°, and 48°
- Item weight:11.7 pounds
- Included components:Bare tool
Our verdict“Pick the Milwaukee if you already own M18 batteries and want a lighter, feature-rich saw, but skip it if you need a complete track-saw kit.”
How We Picked
I ranked these saws around the decisions that shape a cordless track-saw purchase: cutting capability, battery platform, kit contents, and day-to-day usability. A track saw is only useful when it suits the materials and cut lengths a buyer handles, so I also weighed practical factors such as plunge operation, track setup, portability, and the value of brushless motor designs where specified. Kit completeness matters because a bare tool can require a meaningful additional investment in compatible batteries and a charger.
The order favors the Makita XPS01PTJ as the strongest all-around starting point because it arrives as a kit, then distinguishes the other choices by their clearest buyer fit rather than treating tool-only and bundled listings as equal. I place platform-specific bare tools higher for buyers who already own compatible batteries, while the WEN kit earns attention for its included power equipment. The Kreg and Makita tool-only listings remain useful alternatives, but their ranking reflects the extra setup a new buyer may need. I did not treat brand name or voltage figures alone as proof of superior cutting results.
| cordless track saw | Motor |
|---|---|
| Kreg 20V Ionic Drive 6 1/2-Inc | — |
| Makita XPS01Z 36V | Brushless |
| WEN 20V Max Cordless Brushless | Brushless, variable speed |
| WEN 20V Max Cordless 6.5-Inch | Brushless, variable speed |
| Kreg 20V Ionic Drive 6 1/2-Inc | — |
| Makita XPS01PTJ 36V Brushless | Brushless |
| Milwaukee M18 FUEL 6-1/2-Inch | Brushless |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Cordless Track Saws
Before choosing a saw, I would match the complete cutting setup to the work—not just compare tool specifications. Battery availability, track length, material thickness, and blade choice can shape the result as much as the saw itself.
Choose a Battery Platform Before Comparing Bare-Tool Features
Start with the batteries already in your shop, then check that the saw uses the same platform; matching a brand name is not enough if the voltage family differs. A bare tool can be a sensible purchase for an owner with spare compatible packs, but a first-time buyer should add battery and charger costs before deciding which listing offers better value. Kit bundles reduce that setup work, though their included battery capacity may not match every buyer’s preferred runtime. Avoid buying a second battery system for a single saw unless the tool’s fit for your work justifies the added charging and storage overhead. If you use a cordless saw heavily, having a spare charged pack can matter more than small differences in listed voltage. Compare the full working package, not the tool-only headline.
Check Track Compatibility and the Length of Your Typical Cuts
Track saw performance depends on the rail as well as the saw, so confirm which track is included and whether additional rails or connectors are readily available for the cuts you make. A short rail can handle many sheet-goods cuts, but breaking down full panels may call for a longer guide or a joined-rail setup. Compatibility should be verified by the exact saw and track model rather than assumed from the brand alone. Buyers sometimes focus on the saw and discover later that the rail system adds bulk or cost to the setup. Think about how often you move the tool between a shop and a jobsite, too: longer tracks improve reach but are less convenient to transport and store. Choose the rail arrangement around your usual workpieces and workspace.
Match Cutting Capacity to the Material You Actually Use
Blade diameter gives a useful starting point, but the maximum depth at a straight or angled setting is what determines whether a saw can handle a particular cut. Check the manufacturer’s stated capacity for the material thickness and bevel angle you expect to cut, especially if you work with solid stock rather than sheet goods. Do not assume that a saw with a familiar blade size will cut through every panel or timber thickness in one pass. A track saw is commonly chosen for controlled panel breakdown, so repeatable depth adjustment and a suitable blade may matter more than pursuing the largest possible cut. For frequent cuts through dense material, factor in the battery pack and blade condition as well as the nominal saw rating. A capacity match avoids awkward workarounds and unsafe extra passes.
Budget for Blades, Dust Collection, and Setup
The saw is only one part of a clean-cut system: blade tooth design, sharpness, track alignment, and dust extraction all affect the finished edge and the work area. A fine-tooth blade may suit cabinet-grade sheet goods, while a more general blade can be a practical choice for rougher site work. Check whether the listing includes a blade, track, clamps, or a dust adapter instead of assuming those accessories come in the box. A shop vacuum or dust extractor can improve visibility and reduce cleanup, but hose routing may affect how freely the saw moves along the rail. New users should also allow time to learn plunge control and secure the track before cutting valuable material. Planning for these accessories prevents a low initial tool cost from turning into an incomplete setup.
Decide When a Complete Kit Is Worth the Extra Spend
A kit is most useful when you need a working saw now and do not own compatible batteries or a charger. Bundles can simplify the purchase, but compare the included pack count and capacity with the runtime your workload demands. Two batteries can help keep work moving during charging, though they also add weight and may be more than a casual user needs. If you already own several compatible packs, a bare tool may be the cleaner choice and avoids paying for equipment you will leave on a shelf. For occasional furniture or renovation projects, the value of a kit may come from convenience rather than maximum runtime. For steady production work, consider whether the included batteries can keep pace with your cutting schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy the Makita XPS01Z or the XPS01PTJ?
Choose the XPS01Z if you already have compatible Makita 18V batteries and a charger and want only the saw. Choose the XPS01PTJ kit if you need the power equipment included with the purchase. The saw names share the XPS01 designation, so the key buying difference here is the listing’s kit contents. Check the box contents and exact model number before ordering, especially if you expect a track or other accessories to be included. For a first cordless track-saw setup, the kit format is the simpler starting point.
Is the WEN 20691 kit a better choice than the 20691BT bare tool?
The WEN 20691 is the more complete choice for someone who needs batteries and a charger, since its listed package includes two 4.0Ah batteries and a charger. The 20691BT is the more direct fit if you already own compatible WEN 20V equipment. Compare the exact inclusions before buying, as the similar model numbers can make the listings easy to confuse. If you have only one battery, the kit’s second pack may help reduce interruptions during longer work sessions. If you already have a well-stocked battery supply, paying for duplicate packs may not make sense.
Can I use any track with a cordless track saw?
No; track fit and compatibility depend on the specific saw and rail system. Before purchasing a rail, check the manufacturer’s compatibility guidance for the exact model, along with any required splinter strip or connector. A rail that appears similar may not align properly with the saw’s guide features, which can affect cut accuracy and safe operation. If you need long cuts, verify that compatible rail connectors are available and that the joined setup stays straight. Treat the saw and track as a matched system unless the manufacturer confirms cross-compatibility.
Does a cordless track saw make sense for occasional sheet-goods work?
It can, especially if moving a cord around large panels would slow your work or limit where you can cut. For occasional projects, the purchase decision should include the rail, a suitable blade, and battery equipment—not just the saw body. A kit can remove the hassle of sourcing a compatible battery and charger separately, while a bare tool may be wasteful if you have no matching platform. If most cuts happen at a fixed bench near power, a corded saw may be a more economical fit. Cordless is easiest to justify when portability and setup flexibility matter regularly.
What should I prioritize if I am new to track saws?
Prioritize a complete, compatible setup and clear setup instructions over small differences in motor specifications. Confirm that you have the saw, a suitable rail, a sharp blade, batteries, and a charger before planning your first cut. Practice plunge control and track placement on scrap material, and secure the workpiece so it cannot shift. A kit such as the Makita XPS01PTJ or WEN 20691 can reduce the chance of missing basic power equipment, but check whether a track and other accessories are included. Start with panel cuts you can support safely and build confidence before tackling valuable material.
Conclusion
For most buyers starting a cordless track-saw setup, I recommend the Makita XPS01PTJ as best overall because it bundles the saw with batteries and a charger. The WEN 20691 is my best value-oriented kit pick for buyers who want two included 4.0Ah batteries and a charger, while the Makita XPS01Z is the best premium-style platform choice for Makita users who already own compatible packs and prefer the tool-only listing. For beginners, I would start with a kit rather than a bare tool; the Kreg Ionic Drive kit is another bundled option to compare, while the Makita kit is my lead recommendation. For specific needs, choose the Milwaukee M18 FUEL if your workshop already runs on M18, the WEN 20691BT or Kreg KPTPS100A if you own their compatible batteries, and the Makita XPS01Z if you want the Makita saw without another battery bundle. Before deciding, verify track compatibility and every item listed in the box.
