If you’re looking for a track saw that feels like the difference between rough carpentry and fine furniture making, the Festool Track Saw TS 55 is it.
Quick Summary:
- Product: Festool Track Saw – TS 55 FEQ-F-Plus-FS Plunge-Cut Track Saw
- Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)
- Price Range: Around $700–750
Festool Track Saw Quick Verdict
It is top of the line for track saws and you’ll never regret this purchase, even though it’s much more expensive than the others.
It is incredibly precise, and smooth, and leaves cut edges that barely need a sanding touch, if anything at all. It is Ideal for serious woodworkers and pros who appreciate accuracy.
Pros:
- Ultra-smooth, splinter-free cuts
- Built like a tank
- Incredible dust control
Cons:
- Definitely an investment
- Needs Festool track saw accessories to get the most out of it
Why I Tested the Festool Track Saw TS 55
Over the years, I’ve muscled through sheet goods using a standard circular saw and a homemade straightedge.
And honestly… it worked — but it always felt like fighting a bull with a broomstick.
So after ruining more than a few plywood sheets, I decided it was finally time to see if a premium power tool like the Festool Track Saw could really be worth the buzz (and the bucks).
I can’t say enough about the quality of this saw, and how good it works with the Festool track system and accessories.
There aren’t enough “o’s” in Smooth. You’ll know the second you pick it up and set it on the track.
I’d go out of your way to find a store near you that has Festool and go see some of their tools for yourself. You’ll start dreaming of ways to buy them once you get back home!
Overview of the Festool Track Saw TS 55
Key Features:
- Plunge-cut precision
- Riving knife for safer cuts
- Splinter guards on both sides of the blade
- Angle cuts from -1° to 47° with rock-solid stability
- Comes with a 55″ guide rail
Technical Specs:
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Size | Fits standard track sizes (55-inch rail included) |
| Weight | Approx. 22.8 pounds |
| Material | Metal and reinforced composites |
| Power Source | AC/DC |
| Blade Material | High Speed Steel |
| Warranty | 3 years manufacturer |
| Manufactured in | Germany |
Best For:
- Cabinet makers
- Furniture builders
- High-end remodeling contractors
- Passionate DIY woodworkers ready to invest in pro tools
My Hands-On Experience
The very first time I set this Festool Track Saw “track” down and made a cut, it was like magic. No tear-out. No splinters. No clamping the track down (unless you want to). It just works every time.
The saw practically whispers through plywood and hardwoods, even at a slow, controlled pace.
What stood out the most?
- The dust collection is freakishly good (especially hooked up to a Festool Midi vac — but even my shop vac worked well).
- The splinter guard does what it claims: both sides of the cut look showroom-clean.
- Setting bevel angles feels confidence-inspiring — no guessing or hoping it’s set right.
The only thing to remember? The system shines brightest when paired with other Festool pieces — like extra rails, clamps, and connectors. The good thing is they’re ALL killer good too!
It’s a rabbit hole, but hey… it’s a really nice rabbit hole to go into LOL.
The Festool Systainer
We would be missing the point if we didn’t mention the fact that Festool makes one of the best, most durable “boxes” for its tools (and other parts you need to store and/or transport to the job)… It’s called a “systainer” (system/container).
People who own Festool tools sometimes refer to the Systainer as part of “the system”—and for pretty good reason too.
The systainer that comes with the track saw is tough, well-built, and feels like it’s made to protect something valuable, not just bounce around in the back of a truck. The bottom line is their tools ARE valuable so you want to take care of them!
It locks tightly with a single turn of the “T-Loc latch” and stacks perfectly with other Systainers. Your tools stay secure and organized whether you’re in the shop or on the move.
That kind of modular setup saves a ton of time and keeps everything feeling clean and efficient, and, you can get a roller base so you can roll a stack of tools around on the job.
More than just a storage box, it’s part of why Festool tools are known for their precision and thoughtful design. Once you’ve used a few of these, it’s hard to go back to random cases or beat-up toolbags.
Out on the job site, the Systainer really proves its worth. It doesn’t crack, warp, or pop open like cheaper cases do, even when it’s getting tossed around or stacked under heavier gear.
It’s easy to carry with one hand, and because everything stays put inside, you’re not wasting time digging through a mess when you get there. That kind of reliability adds up fast when you’re working every day.
Comparing the Festool Track Saw TS 55 to Alternative Track Saws
| Product | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Festool Track Saw TS 55 | Superior cut quality, top dust control, riving knife | High price, accessory-driven |
| Makita SP001GZ03 40V | Great cuts, lower cost, powerful, smoother track | A ‘bit’ louder? |
| Kreg ACS-SAWBB | Good for hobbyists, cheaper | Less robust, slower cuts |
Pros and Cons (Expanded)
Pros:
- Cuts are dead-straight and splinter-free
- Excellent build quality
- Riving knife for safer work
- Best-in-class warranty behind their products
- Easy plunge cuts without fighting the tool
- Dust management is top-notch
- Angle adjustment from -1 – 47o
- Trusted brand with a lot of great accessories in its ecosystem
- Amazing “systainer” system (carry case), can latch to other tools to carry
Cons:
- Expensive upfront
- You’ll probably want extra rails and accessories later (but you’ll probably need them with any other choice too)
- Best performance when combined with other Festool gear (more $$)
Final Verdict
If you’re serious about your woodworking — whether you’re building kitchen cabinets, or built-ins, or just want a track saw that doesn’t butcher sheet goods — the Festool Track Saw TS 55 is worth every penny.
FIGURE OUT A WAY TO SAVE UP AND BUY IT.
Yes, it’s a serious investment. But it’s the kind of tool you buy once and thank yourself for every single time you use it. You will NOT be disappointed and can be confident it works perfectly every time you pick it up.
If you can’t afford it right now, start squirreling away some extra money and plan to buy it as soon as you can. You’ll thank us later.
FAQs About the Festool TS 55 Track Saw
Q. Is it beginner-friendly?
Absolutely. It’s easy to control and very safe, even for newer woodworkers — just respect the tool as always.
Q. Can it replace a table saw?
For sheet goods? 100% yes. For ripping 2x4s? You might still want a table saw for those. Every tool has its place.
Q. Does the dust collection really work that well?
Yep. With a decent vac, it picks up about 90–95% of the dust. It’s honestly one of the best parts of the saw. We should mention if you can afford it (or as soon as you can), get the Festool Midi I Hepa dust extractor system and you’ll be in love. Your lungs and health are VERY important.
Q. What if I can’t afford this, is there a good budget track saw?
Yes, check my article about this Ridgid Track Saw here. It might be just what you need!
Affiliate Disclosure
Disclosure: Some links in this article are affiliate links. At no extra cost to you, I may earn a commission if you purchase through them. I only recommend tools I personally use and believe in.
