Which Festool Track Saw to Buy? TSC 55 vs TS 55 vs TS 60 vs TS 75

So you're finally ready to take the plunge (get it?) into the wonderful world of Festool track saws. 

Pretty simple right? Just pick one up at Rockler or on Amazon.

But wait, it's Festool so there are countless versions that look virtually the same and have nearly identical names.

How to tell them apart and figure out what's right for you?

The major differences are:

Maximum Cut Depth

The numbers in the model names correspond roughly with the maximum cut depth of the saw at a 90 degree angle. So the smallest TS55 can cut 55mm or roughly 2-1/8" while the largest TS75 can cut just under 3".

This is useful to think about if you work with thick stock like slabs but it's also helpful to know the maximum cut depth at 45 degrees if you're doing mitered or waterfall edges. At 45 degrees, the TS55 can cut 1-11/16th while the TS75 can go all the way to 2-1/8". This means that if you're using 3/4" plywood, you can cut 2 sheets at once with any of these saws to achieve a perfect fitting miter joint. 

Cordless vs Corded (Plug-It & Fixed)

If you've been paying attention to Festool lately, you'll notice that they've been adding battery powered options to most of their tools over the last few years and the track saw is no exception. The TSC55 is their cordless version of the TS55 and uses 2 18v batteries. While it can run on just one, cutting power will be reduced.

While the battery powered tools are an obvious choice for mobile tradespeople who are working in clients homes, many people prefer the battery powered tools for their increased power. Compared to the TS55, most people agree that the cordless TSC55 delivers better power and battery life is not an issue.

That said, one of the major selling points of Festool's track saws is the dust collection when paired with one of their dust extractors. Whether you're working in your shop or on a job site, you want to keep it clean so you'll want to have a vacuum hose hooked up at all times. Does this negate the benefit of being cordless? Potentially, but one less cord is always nice (unless you're using our hose clips).

Another factor to consider is the difference between the removable Plug-It cord that is found on most Festool tools vs a permanently attached cord. The TS55 and TS75 both have Plug-It cords while the newer TS60 (the US version at least) has a fixed cord that cannot be removed.

Traditional vs Virtual Riving Knife

While the older TS 55 and TS 75 saws have traditional riving knives, the newer TSC 55 and TS 60 saws now have what Festool calls Kickback Stop technology. IT's a sensor built into the saw that detects the saw lifting off the wood and instantly shuts down the blade. Whether your like that or prefer the traditional riving knife is essentially personal preference and may depend on what type of wood you plan to cut with your saw. FWIW, most people report no issues with the newer saws that have the Kickback Stop tech.

All Festool Track Saw Models Compared

Which Festool Track Saw To Buy?

Best All Around

In our opinion, the Festool TS 60 is the best all around track saw for most people. It has the newer brushless motor, more cutting power vs the TS 55, and is a good size for most projects.

Best If You Work With Slabs

If you work with thick slabs often, go with the TS 75 for the improved cut capacity or check out some of the Mafell saws that feature huge cut capacity and great power. Just remember that the TS 75 is a beefy saw and you might also want a 55 or 60 for general sheet goods work.

Best Budget Pick

The TS 55 has been the standard for track saws for over 20 years and there's a reason for that. For cutting down sheet goods and general cabinetry work, the TS 55 is a fantastic saw at $729 with a 55" track included.

Best If You Hate Cords

The TSC 55 cordless saw holds its own and has the benefit of no cords. If you work in areas where dust collection isn't a big deal, there's no denying the freedom of not having cords attached and this is a great pick for you.