For most buyers, I’d start with the Makita XPS01PTJ kit: its 36V brushless platform suits demanding cuts, and the kit format gives you a ready-to-work setup. The Milwaukee M18 FUEL is a strong alternative for buyers already invested in M18, while the WEN 20691 kit pairs the saw with batteries and a charger for a simpler entry into cordless track-saw work. The main tradeoffs are battery-platform commitment, kit versus bare-tool value, and how much cutting capacity and refinement your projects require. This lineup also includes two Kreg bare-tool and kit versions, so it pays to check what comes in the box before choosing. Read on for the full breakdown and the right fit for your workshop or jobsite.
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Key Takeaways
- Makita’s 36V XPS01PTJ kit is the strongest all-around direction for buyers who want a cordless system with batteries included; the XPS01Z offers the same platform in a tool-only format.
- Battery platform can decide the shortlist: Milwaukee M18, Makita 18V X2, and 20V options from WEN and Kreg suit different existing tool collections.
- Kit contents create a meaningful split: WEN and Kreg each appear as bare-tool and battery-included options, so compare the complete package rather than the saw name alone.
- WEN focuses on accessible 20V ownership, while Makita’s paired-battery 36V approach is better aligned with buyers prioritizing a higher-demand cordless setup.
- A track saw’s value depends on the full cutting system: compatible rails, blade choice, dust collection, and repeatable setup matter alongside the saw itself.
| cordless track saw | Power source | Voltage | Blade diameter | Bevel range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WEN 20V Max Cordless Brushless | Battery powered | 20 volts | 6.5 inches | -1 to 47 degrees |
| Kreg 20V Ionic Drive 6 1/2-Inc | DC | 20 volts | 6 1/2 inches | -1 to 47 degrees |
| Kreg 20V Ionic Drive 6 1/2-Inc | DC | 20 V | 6 1/2 inches | — |
| Makita XPS01PTJ 36V Brushless | Battery powered | 36V using two 18V LXT batteries | — | — |
| Milwaukee M18 FUEL 6-1/2-Inch | Lithium-ion battery | 18 V | 6-1/2 inches | — |
| WEN 20V Max Cordless 6.5-Inch | Battery powered | 20V | — | -1 to 47 degrees |
| Makita XPS01Z 36V | Two 18V LXT lithium-ion batteries | 36V (18V X2) | — | -1 to 48 degrees |
More Details on Our Top Picks
WEN 20V Max Cordless Brushless Track Saw, 6.5-Inch, Tool Only (20691BT)
The WEN 20691BT is a flexible pick for buyers who want one saw for track-guided work and plunge cuts away from a rail. Its brushless motor has a 2,000–5,500 RPM variable-speed range, while the 2.25-inch maximum rip depth and bevel capacity extending to 47 degrees cover a useful mix of sheet goods and angled cuts. Unlike the Kreg 20V Ionic Drive kit, this WEN is sold without a battery or charger, and it needs two WEN 20V Max batteries to run. That makes it a better fit for owners already equipped with compatible batteries than for someone building a cordless setup from scratch. The track is also separate, so the lower commitment of a bare tool comes with setup costs. Its broad speed and bevel range make it more adaptable than the Kreg bare tool, but the two-battery requirement is a real limitation.
Pros:- Brushless motor with variable speed from 2,000 to 5,500 RPM
- Supports track-guided cuts and use as a plunge saw
- Bevel range reaches from -1 to 47 degrees
- Includes a dust port adapter and a two-year warranty
Cons:- Requires two WEN 20V Max batteries, which are sold separately
- Compatible track is not included
Best for: WEN 20V Max battery owners who want a brushless saw for both guided sheet cuts and occasional plunge cuts.
Not ideal for: Buyers seeking a ready-to-cut kit or a simple one-battery setup; this saw requires two separately sold batteries, and its track is also sold separately.
- Power source:Battery powered
- Voltage:20 volts
- Motor:Brushless
- Speed:2,000–5,500 RPM
- Blade diameter:6.5 inches
- Maximum rip cut depth:2.25 inches
- Bevel range:-1 to 47 degrees
- Battery requirement:Two WEN 20V Max batteries; batteries and charger sold separately
- Weight:5.1 kg
Our verdict“Choose the WEN 20691BT if you already own two compatible batteries and value variable-speed flexibility more than an all-in-one kit.”
Kreg 20V Ionic Drive 6 1/2-Inch Plunge Cut Track Saw, Bare Tool (KPTPS100A)
The Kreg KPTPS100A puts control and cut visibility ahead of kit convenience. Its anti-kickback protection and electronic blade brake give cautious users practical safeguards, while the blade-left layout improves the view of the cut for right-handed operators. Compared with the Kreg 20V Ionic Drive kit, this bare-tool version makes sense only if you already have a compatible battery and charger; it also leaves the 62-inch guide track to buy separately. That missing rail matters more here than it might on a general-purpose circular saw, since accurate track work depends on having a compatible guide. Its -1-to-47-degree bevel range matches the kit’s, but the listed product details provide no cutting-depth figures, making direct capacity comparisons harder. I’d choose it for an existing Kreg setup, not as a complete first track-saw purchase.
Pros:- Anti-kickback protection adds a useful control feature
- Electronic blade brake stops the blade after the cut
- Blade-left layout helps right-handed users see the cut line
- Compatible with Kreg’s 62-inch guide track
Cons:- Battery and charger are sold separately
- The compatible guide track is sold separately
- Product data does not specify cutting depth
Best for: Right-handed woodworkers already equipped with compatible Kreg 20V batteries who want a plunge saw with added kickback and braking safeguards.
Not ideal for: First-time track-saw buyers who need a battery, charger, and guide rail in the box or want published cutting-depth specifications before choosing.
- Model:KPTPS100A
- Power source:DC
- Voltage:20 volts
- Blade diameter:6 1/2 inches
- Bevel range:-1 to 47 degrees
- Safety features:Anti-kickback protection and electronic blade brake
- Battery:One lithium-ion battery required; sold separately
- Compatible guide track:Kreg 62-inch Guide Track; sold separately
Our verdict“Pick this Kreg bare tool if you already own its battery platform and prioritize safety features over a complete kit.”
Kreg 20V Ionic Drive 6 1/2-Inch Plunge-Cut Track Saw Kit
The Kreg 20V Ionic Drive kit is the easiest entry here for buyers who need the cordless power system as well as the saw: it includes a 4Ah battery, charger, 40-tooth blade, and dust bag. That makes it a more complete starting point than the Kreg KPTPS100A bare tool, though neither version includes the 62-inch guide track that gives a track saw its defining straight-cut advantage. Cutting capacity is clearly stated at 2 1/8 inches at 90 degrees and 1 1/2 inches at 45 degrees, useful figures for planning sheet and bevel cuts. Its blade-left layout favors visibility for right-handed users, and the bevel range extends to 47 degrees. The tradeoff is that the included battery and accessories do not remove the separate-rail purchase, so this is a cordless kit rather than a complete track-cutting package.
Pros:- Includes a 4Ah Blue Ion battery and charger
- Supplied with a 40-tooth blade and dust bag
- Cuts up to 2 1/8 inches deep at 90 degrees
- Bevel range reaches -1 to 47 degrees
Cons:- 62-inch guide track is sold separately
- Blade-left layout may be less convenient for users who prefer another sightline
Best for: Woodworkers who need a Kreg 20V saw, battery, and charger together and are prepared to buy the matching guide track separately.
Not ideal for: Buyers who already have a compatible Kreg battery and charger, or anyone expecting the kit to include its 62-inch guide track.
- Model:KPTBPS100A
- Power source:DC
- Voltage:20 V
- Blade diameter:6 1/2 inches
- Cutting depth at 90 degrees:2 1/8 inches
- Cutting depth at 45 degrees:1 1/2 inches
- Bevel capacity:-1 to 47 degrees
- Battery:4Ah Blue Ion lithium-ion battery included
- Guide track compatibility:Kreg 62-inch guide track; sold separately
Our verdict“Choose this Kreg kit if you need the battery and charger included, while budgeting separately for the guide track.”
Makita XPS01PTJ 36V Brushless Cordless 6-1/2-Inch Plunge Circular Saw Kit
The Makita XPS01PTJ is the strongest fit for buyers who want a cordless plunge saw with its power system included. It runs on two 18V LXT batteries, and the kit supplies two 5.0Ah packs plus a rapid charger, unlike the bare-tool Milwaukee M18 FUEL or the Kreg kit with its single 4Ah battery. Its brushless motor varies from 2,500 to 6,300 RPM, while the 2-3/16-inch capacity at 90 degrees handles substantial stock. Positive stops at 22.5 and 45 degrees make common bevel settings easier to repeat. The compromise is the dual-battery format: it adds charge planning and ties operation to two packs, while the guide rail remains a separate purchase. For Makita LXT users, the included batteries are a meaningful advantage; for others, the platform commitment may favor a different pick.
Pros:- Includes two 5.0Ah 18V LXT batteries and a rapid charger
- Brushless motor offers variable speeds from 2,500 to 6,300 RPM
- Cuts up to 2-3/16 inches at 90 degrees
- Positive bevel stops at 22.5 and 45 degrees support repeatable settings
Cons:- Requires two batteries for operation
- Guide rail is sold separately
- Listed weight is 27.6 pounds
Best for: Makita LXT users who want a plunge saw kit with two high-capacity batteries and a rapid charger for extended cordless cutting.
Not ideal for: Buyers seeking a lightweight single-battery saw or a complete track-saw setup with the guide rail included.
- Power source:Battery powered
- Voltage:36V using 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 degrees
- Positive bevel stops:22.5 and 45 degrees
- Batteries included:Two 5.0Ah batteries
- Guide rail:Sold separately
Our verdict“Choose the Makita kit if you want batteries and a charger included and are comfortable with its two-battery platform.”
Milwaukee M18 FUEL 6-1/2-Inch Plunge Track Saw (Bare Tool)
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2831-20 stands out for buyers who put dust management and plunge-cut control high on their list. Its listed dust collection efficiency is over 90%, and a riving knife helps reduce kickback as the blade moves through a cut. The brushless motor reaches 6,300 RPM, matching the Makita XPS01PTJ’s listed maximum speed, while variable-speed control gives the operator more say over cutting pace. Milwaukee lists bevel stops at 22.5, 45, and 48 degrees, giving it a slightly wider maximum bevel than the Kreg options. This is a bare tool, though: batteries are not included, and neither the track rail nor vacuum hose is listed as included. That makes it a compelling choice for existing M18 owners, but a less complete starting point than the battery-included Makita or Kreg kits.
Pros:- Dust collection system is listed at over 90% efficiency
- Riving knife helps reduce kickback
- Brushless motor reaches up to 6,300 RPM with variable speed control
- Bevel stops include 22.5, 45, and 48 degrees
Cons:- Bare tool listing does not include a battery
- Track rail and vacuum hose are not listed as included
- At 11.7 pounds, it is heavier than the listed WEN saw
Best for: Milwaukee M18 owners making frequent indoor plunge cuts who want strong stated dust collection and a riving knife.
Not ideal for: Buyers without M18 batteries or those who need a guide rail and vacuum hose included with the saw.
- Model:2831-20
- Power source:Lithium-ion battery
- Voltage:18 V
- Motor:Brushless
- No-load speed:6,300 RPM
- Blade diameter:6-1/2 inches
- Bevel stops:22.5, 45, and 48 degrees
- Dust collection:Over 90% efficiency
- Included components:Bare tool
Our verdict“Pick the Milwaukee if you already own M18 batteries and want dust-focused features, but not if you need a ready-to-use kit.”
WEN 20V Max Cordless 6.5-Inch Brushless Track Saw with Two 4.0Ah Batteries and Charger (20691)
The WEN 20691 is the clearest pick here for buyers who want batteries and a charger included, rather than building a cordless setup piece by piece. Its two 4.0Ah batteries make it more job-ready than the tool-only WEN 20691BT and Makita XPS01Z, though you still need to buy a track separately. The variable-speed brushless motor spans 2,000–5,500 RPM, giving you room to adapt cutting speed, while the 2.25-inch maximum depth covers common sheet goods and thicker stock within its capacity. It handles straight, plunge, and bevel cuts, and the dust adapter can connect to collection equipment. The tradeoff is a narrower bevel range and lower listed maximum speed than the Makita XPS01Z; the WEN also recommends having at least two 4Ah batteries available.
Pros:- Includes two 4.0Ah batteries and a charger, unlike the tool-only WEN 20691BT.
- Brushless motor with variable speed from 2,000 to 5,500 RPM.
- Supports straight, plunge, and bevel cuts, with a maximum 2.25-inch cutting depth.
- Dust port adapter supports connection to a dust collection system.
Cons:- Guide track is sold separately, adding a separate purchase before track-guided cuts.
- The product recommends at least two 4Ah batteries, so extended work may call for spare packs.
- Its maximum bevel angle and speed range are below the listed figures for the Makita XPS01Z.
Best for: Woodworkers starting a 20V cordless setup who want two batteries and a charger included for track-guided sheet-good and bevel cuts.
Not ideal for: Buyers who already own Makita 18V LXT batteries, need the guide track included, or want the wider bevel range and higher maximum speed listed for the Makita XPS01Z.
- Power source:Battery powered
- Voltage:20V
- Motor and speed:Brushless, variable speed; 2,000–5,500 RPM
- Blade:6.5 inches; 48 teeth; 20 mm arbor
- Maximum cutting depth:2.25 inches
- Maximum bevel cutting thickness:1.65 inches
- Bevel range:-1 to 47 degrees
- Batteries included:Two 4.0Ah lithium-ion batteries
- Included accessories and warranty:Charger, carbide-tipped blade, track-alignment cam, dust port adapter; two years
Our verdict“Choose the WEN 20691 if you want a brushless cordless saw with two batteries and a charger in the box, and are comfortable sourcing the track separately.”
Makita XPS01Z 36V (18V X2) Brushless 6-1/2-Inch Plunge Circular Saw, Tool Only
For buyers already invested in Makita’s 18V LXT platform, the XPS01Z offers a high-speed plunge saw without requiring a separate battery system. Its 36V design uses two 18V batteries, and its brushless motor adjusts from 2,500 to 6,300 RPM—more maximum speed than the WEN 20691. The 2-3/16-inch cutting capacity and bevel range up to 48 degrees suit a broad mix of panel and angled cuts. Soft start and an electric brake add control at startup and after a cut, while positive stops at 22.5 and 45 degrees help with repeatable bevel settings. Unlike the Makita XPS01PTJ kit, this Z version is tool-only: batteries, charger, and guide rail are separate. That makes it a less convenient entry point than the battery-included WEN.
Pros:- Uses two 18V LXT batteries for a 36V platform setup.
- Brushless motor offers adjustable speed from 2,500 to 6,300 RPM.
- Soft start and electric brake support controlled starts and stops.
- Bevel range reaches -1 to 48 degrees, with positive stops at 22.5 and 45 degrees.
Cons:- Batteries and charger are not included.
- Guide rail is sold separately, so the tool alone is not a complete track-saw setup.
- Requires two compatible 18V batteries, unlike the single-platform 20V WEN 20691.
Best for: Makita 18V LXT users who need a cordless plunge saw and already have two compatible batteries, a charger, and access to a guide rail.
Not ideal for: First-time cordless track-saw buyers who need batteries, a charger, and a guide rail in the box, or users unwilling to supply two 18V packs.
- Model:XPS01Z
- Power source:Two 18V LXT lithium-ion batteries
- Voltage:36V (18V X2)
- Motor and speed:Brushless; 2,500–6,300 RPM
- Blade:6-1/2 inches; 55 teeth
- Cutting capacity at 90 degrees:2-3/16 inches
- Bevel range:-1 to 48 degrees
- Included components:55-tooth saw blade and hex wrench
- Batteries, charger, and guide rail:Not included; sold separately
Our verdict“The XPS01Z is a strong fit for Makita LXT owners who can supply two batteries and a rail, but the WEN 20691 is more ready to cut for buyers starting from scratch.”
How We Picked
I ranked these cordless track saws by how well each option fits real buying situations: cutting capability, battery-platform usefulness, handling, kit completeness, and the potential cost and effort of building a working setup. I also separated near-duplicate listings where the main distinction is whether batteries and a charger are included. That difference affects readiness and total system value, even when the saw family is similar.
The ranking favors options that balance capability with a clear buyer fit, rather than treating voltage or brand alone as proof of performance. Makita’s kit leads for a capable, ready-to-use package; Milwaukee makes most sense for M18 owners; and WEN earns attention for buyers seeking a more accessible battery-included route. Bare tools rank lower for new cordless users because they require more purchases, but can be the smarter choice for owners who already have compatible batteries. The two Kreg listings are judged separately for their package differences and platform fit.
| cordless track saw | Power source | Bevel range |
|---|---|---|
| WEN 20V Max Cordless Brushless | Battery powered | -1 to 47 degrees |
| Kreg 20V Ionic Drive 6 1/2-Inc | DC | -1 to 47 degrees |
| Kreg 20V Ionic Drive 6 1/2-Inc | DC | — |
| Makita XPS01PTJ 36V Brushless | Battery powered | — |
| Milwaukee M18 FUEL 6-1/2-Inch | Lithium-ion battery | — |
| WEN 20V Max Cordless 6.5-Inch | Battery powered | -1 to 47 degrees |
| Makita XPS01Z 36V | Two 18V LXT lithium-ion batteries | -1 to 48 degrees |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Cordless Track Saws
Before choosing a saw, I’d work backward from the cuts you make and the cordless tools you already own. A bare tool can be the sensible purchase for a platform owner and an incomplete setup for everyone else. These factors help separate a saw that fits your work from one that only looks attractive on a feature list.
Start With Your Battery Platform
Battery compatibility can matter more than a small difference in saw features. If your shop already runs M18, Makita 18V, or another listed platform, staying with it can reduce the number of chargers and battery types you manage. The Makita XPS01 models use two 18V batteries to supply a 36V system, so check that you have a suitable matched pair rather than assuming one pack will do. WEN and Kreg offer 20V options, but those batteries do not interchange with the major systems in this lineup. A common mistake is comparing bare-tool listings without counting the batteries and charger needed to make them usable. Choose the platform that supports your broader tool collection, not just this one purchase.
Compare the Complete Setup, Not Just the Saw
A track saw’s usefulness depends on more than the motor: the rail, clamps, connectors, blade, dust extractor, and storage all affect how quickly you can make accurate cuts. Verify what accessories are supplied with the exact listing, since the product names here distinguish bare tools from kits but do not make every accessory assumption safe. A kit with batteries and a charger may still require a separate rail or other cutting-system parts. If you already own compatible equipment, a bare tool can avoid paying for duplicates. If this is your first track-saw purchase, list the missing parts before comparing packages. That simple inventory can prevent a low-friction purchase from becoming a series of extra buys.
Match Power to the Work You Actually Do
Frequent, demanding cuts through sheet goods or thicker stock place different demands on a cordless saw than occasional cabinet-panel trimming. The Makita 36V paired-battery design is aimed at buyers who want a higher-demand cordless setup, while the 20V WEN and Kreg choices may better suit lighter workflows or buyers prioritizing platform accessibility. Do not treat voltage as a complete performance measurement: blade condition, material, feed rate, and battery state also shape the cut. If most of your work is intermittent, a more powerful platform may add battery expense and weight without improving your day-to-day results. For regular production work, prioritize a setup that can keep pace without forcing slow feeds or frequent interruptions. Match the tool to your usual material, not your rarest heavy cut.
Check Rail Compatibility Before You Commit
Rails and saws need to work together as a system, and assumptions about cross-brand compatibility can lead to poor fit or inaccurate cuts. Confirm the rail type, connector availability, and whether the saw has the adjustments needed to tune its fit to the guide. If you plan to cut long panels, think about rail length and how securely sections join; a small alignment error can carry across the cut. Buyers switching from another brand should verify compatibility instead of expecting existing rails to transfer cleanly. For occasional short cuts, a modest rail setup may be enough, while repeated full-sheet work benefits from a more deliberate support plan. Include rail storage and transport in the decision if the saw will travel between jobsites.
Balance Cut Quality, Dust, and Workflow
A track saw is often chosen for controlled, clean panel cuts, so think about the whole work area rather than the cut alone. Dust collection depends on the saw’s port, the extractor or vacuum, hose fit, and how the material is supported. A premium saw cannot compensate for a dull or unsuitable blade, poor rail placement, or a panel that shifts during the cut. If you work indoors or near finished surfaces, budget for dust control and a stable cutting surface. Beginners may benefit more from a straightforward setup and repeatable practice than from extra power they cannot yet use consistently. Plan a test cut on scrap whenever you change blades, rails, or material.
Decide When a Kit Is Worth It
Kit versions make sense when batteries and a charger are genuinely missing from your setup; they can also reduce the hassle of sourcing compatible components separately. The WEN and Kreg listings each offer a bare-tool and kit choice, while Makita’s lineup includes a kit and a tool-only version. Compare what each package actually contains, including battery count and capacity, before treating two listings as equivalent. A kit is less compelling if you already own compatible batteries, especially when those packs are in regular use on other tools. Conversely, buying a bare tool as a first platform purchase can leave you without enough battery capacity for a full work session. Choose the package based on your current inventory and expected workload, not the word “kit” alone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I choose the Makita kit or the tool-only XPS01Z?
I’d choose the XPS01PTJ kit if you need the batteries and charger for Makita’s 18V X2 system. The XPS01Z is a better fit if you already own compatible Makita batteries and want to add the saw without duplicating equipment. Check that you have two suitable batteries available for the paired-battery setup. Also compare the exact package contents, since rails and other accessories may not be included just because the listing is a kit. If you are new to the platform, account for the complete system before deciding.
Is a bare-tool cordless track saw a good first purchase?
It can be, but only if you already own the right batteries and charger or have budgeted for them separately. Bare-tool versions of the Kreg, Milwaukee, and Makita options can suit platform owners who want to avoid buying duplicate packs. A first-time cordless buyer should also check whether the package includes a compatible rail and the accessories needed for their planned cuts. The WEN and Kreg kit listings may offer a more complete battery start, though you still need to verify all included components. I’d compare the full working setup rather than the saw-only package.
Do I need a 36V saw, or is a 20V model enough?
That depends on how often you cut, what materials you use, and whether you value a higher-demand setup over a simpler battery system. The Makita XPS01 models use two 18V batteries to run as a 36V tool, while WEN and Kreg offer 20V options. Voltage alone does not tell you how clean or fast a cut will be; blade choice, feed rate, and battery condition also matter. For occasional panel work, a 20V option may fit your needs without requiring a paired-battery system. For frequent demanding work, compare the full platform and workflow rather than relying on the voltage label alone.
Can I use a track rail I already own with one of these saws?
Do not assume that rails from another brand will fit or track accurately with a new saw. Check the saw’s rail interface, adjustment range, and any compatibility guidance for your specific rail model. If a fit is possible, confirm that the saw can be tuned without play or binding before making a finished cut. Rail connectors also matter for long panels, since poor alignment can affect the cut across a joined track. When compatibility is unclear, factor a matching rail system into the purchase plan.
Which option makes the most sense for a beginner?
I’d focus on a package that leaves you with a usable system and a battery platform you can support, rather than buying the most powerful bare tool. The WEN kit is a practical starting point for buyers seeking a 20V saw with batteries and a charger included, while the Kreg kit is another battery-included path. Before choosing either, confirm whether the rail and cutting accessories you need are part of the package. Beginners should also budget time for setup, rail alignment, and practice cuts on scrap. If you already own Milwaukee or Makita batteries, a bare tool from that platform may still be the simpler choice.
Conclusion
For the best overall fit, I’d choose the Makita XPS01PTJ kit if you want a capable 36V setup with batteries and a charger in the package. The best value for a new 20V owner is the WEN kit, while the WEN bare tool suits existing owners who already have compatible batteries. For a premium platform pick, the Milwaukee M18 FUEL makes the most sense for buyers already invested in M18; I’d also shortlist Makita for demanding cordless work. Beginners should favor a battery-included package and verify rail and accessory contents before ordering, with the Kreg kit as another option to compare. For specific needs, choose the Kreg or WEN bare tool when matching an existing platform, or the Makita XPS01Z when you already have two suitable Makita 18V batteries. The right choice is the one that fits your battery inventory, rail setup, and typical workload—not simply the one with the longest feature list.
