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Track Saw vs Circular Saw – What’s The Difference?

By: David S. Miles | Last Updated: January 15, 2024

Makita SP6000J1 Plunge Circular Saw Whether you are a hobbyist or a professional woodworker, having a saw is a must for you. Nonetheless, out of the many types of saws, two saws almost immediately stand out when it comes to accuracy and convenience at work- track saw and circular saw.

At a superficial glance, both look almost identical. Both the circular saw and track saw comes with a circular blade and can perform straight and angled cuts. These similarities being said, the two saws have subtle differences that make them specialized for some particular works.

In today’s write-up, we are going to have a comparative discussion on track saw vs circular saw to figure out their differences and see who is worth for what work.

Track Saw vs Circular Saw: An in-depth Discussion

Before we move on to identify the differences between the circular saw and track saw, it would be a good idea to see what these two saws actually are and also their specific workability.

So, let’s get to it.

Circular Saw

Track Saw Vs Circular Saw

A circular saw is a powerful tool that comes with a toothed circular blade. The blade will spin around the saw arbor. Additionally, it also has a protective guard for user safety.

Circular saws are available both in corded and cordless models. The cordless models provide batteries to generate power.  Some of the critical characteristics of a circular saw are-

  • A circular saw comes with seriously extreme varieties of blades. Hence, the blade variations will let you perform an array of jobs with the saw. It can perform both rip and crosscuts without any hassle.
  • The circular saw is ideal for large projects and if you need to cut something quickly. It is because the saw is extremely quick and fast working.
  • Circular saw comes with many types. Some of the conventional circular saw classification are hypoid circular saw, worm driven circular saw, and sidewinder circular saw. Each of these circular saw types is specialized in different cuts.

Track Saw

Track Saw Vs Circular Saw

First off, I must mention that a track saw is an updated version of a circular saw. It is handheld and has a long rectangular track, and this is where the saw gets its name. While operating a track saw moves on the rail (path), it comes with and handles long and accurate cuts.

As there are no rail guards with the saw, your visibility won’t be hindered as you work with the wood piece. It allows you to work with more freedom. Also, there is a rubber strip at the rail bottom to hold the material firm for accurate and convenient cuts.

Now, let’s see some of the main characteristics of the track saw.

  • A track saw is lightweight and easy to work with. So, it’s no wonder as to why these are gaining steady popularity among professionals and hobbyists alike.
  • The dust collection and disposal with a track saw is incredibly easy. So, you can expect a neat and clean workplace with this saw.
  • A track saw is lightweight and compact for handheld purposes. Also, the track s positioned upright. So, it saves space, and the storage is secure subsequently.

Key Differences Between Circular Saw vs Track Saw

Now that we know what circular and track saw are and their key characteristics, you might be interested to know their differences as well. Am I right?

So, here I present to you the main differences between these two popular saw types:

  • Structure: The main difference between the two saw lies in their formation. Track sawm comes with a rail on which the blade works, whereas the circular saw doesn’t have such kinds of tracks.
  • Portability and flexibility: A track saw is lightweight since this is designed to carry on hand with ease. On the other hand, the circular saw is often weightier than the track saws, and hence, you can’t carry them in hand. Therefore, the track saw is more portable than the circular saw. Also, track saw enjoys more flexibility at work.
  • Cut types: The most significant difference between the two kinds of saw lies in their performance at different cutting facilities. A circular saw can perform two cuts, crosscuts and rips cuts. On the other hand, a track saw can perform cross cuts, rip cuts as well as intricate angled cuts.

As we see the key differences between the two most prevalent saw, it’s time to focus on their specific workload. The bottom line is that a circular saw will best fit your needs if you want long cuts in a relatively short time and also something at an inexpensive rate. On the contrary, the track saw will serve you better for accurate and intricate cuts but at the cost of more expenses.

Conclusion

Track saw vs circular saw, both saw are unique and extremely use for woodworkers. With some little differences, both facilitate artisans excellently.

It is up to you which one you prefer. Nonetheless, which one you pick, regular maintenance is necessary if you want to get the best output from the device.

New from the blog:

Track Saw vs Table Saw – Which is Better for You?

Worm Drive vs Circular Saw – Which is Best for Your Needs?

Corded vs Cordless Circular Saw – Which One’s Perfect for You?

Worm Drive Vs Sidewinder Circular Saw: What’s The Difference?

 

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