Repeat cuts are easier with a table saw, because you just set the fence once.Here are some of the tasks that are more difficult (but not impossible!) to do with a track saw. While I love my track saw, there are plenty of times where the table saw is the better option. It creates a square edge that can then be used against the table saw fence to cut to the final width. You can also use the track saw as a makeshift jointer for milling rough lumber. With a track saw, the track is your straight edge, so you can cut anywhere! This is especially helpful when dealing with live edge lumber like these floating shelves, which require a flat back against the wall. Cutting irregular edgesĪt the table saw, you always have to reference a straight edge against the fence or miter gauge. I have an 8 foot length of track just for this purpose! It stores away on my workshop ceiling with these handy rail clips. With a track saw, this task is simple to do by yourself. Need to rip the factory edge off a 4'x8' sheet of plywood? You'll need more than 16 feet of space to do that with a table saw (and a second person to help!) I don't have that kind of room in my one car garage workshop. But there's no limitation with a track saw! Extra long cuts I can only extend my fence out 28", so I need to get creative to cut a wider piece. One drawback to a jobsite table saw is the limited cutting capacity. Instead of setting up a complicated jig or sled at the table saw, just place the track wherever you want the cut! I would have great difficulty cutting the angle on my kids bookcase at the table saw. This presses against the wood surface on the waste side, so you can use that edge on your next piece! Long angled cuts On my Festool track saw, you can achieve splinter-free cuts on both sides of the blade with the splinter guard that extends down from the side of the saw. It holds those wood fibers in place while you make the cut, resulting in a perfectly smooth edge! The magic happens with that little rubbery bit on the edge of the track. If you're struggling with burning along the cut, you might need to clean your saw blade! ![]() Plywood cut on the cross grain at the table saw can leave jagged, splintered edges that are hard to hide. One of the best features of a track saw is its ability to cut splinter-free. This question gets asked a lot! A track saw can accomplish most of the same tasks as a table saw, sometimes even better! But can it replace a table saw entirely? Here are a few instances where I'll reach for my track saw first. Track saws can make splinter-free cut edges with the track's splinter guard.Table saws allow easy repeatability when making rip cuts.Track saws allow you to cut large sheet goods that may be difficult to handle on a table saw.Table saws are more powerful than track saws.Track saws are much safer than table saws.Track saws are portable, while table saws are typically stationary.Here's a quick list of the main differences between the two tools: What's the difference between a track saw vs table saw? Please visit my disclosures page for more information. Purchases made through these links may earn me a small commission at no additional cost to you. ![]() This post contains affiliate links for your convenience.
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