When it comes to power tools, Bosch & Festool are one of the major companies. They make different kinds of tools which includes miter saws, circular saws, track saws & more. Every model is unique, so it’s very important to do the proper research before you buy the tool. If you are a beginner then you can go for an affordable option while if you are an advanced user, there are some high end tools as well.
Below are some of the important factors that you have to keep in mind before buying a track saw.
Motor Power
This is one of the most important factor that you have to look into when you are going for a plunge saw. The saw should be capable of cutting different kinds of woods. You should also keep in mind that there is not much vibration while using them. If you feel the vibration while using the saw it means that motor is not that powerful. So, check the vibration rating before you buy it.
Accuracy
Also check, how accurate saw is. Is it capable of making the straight cuts? When you are using a plunge saw, you have to keep in mind that its precision also depends upon the guide rail system. The guide rail system helps you to place the saw exactly on the cut line which ultimately helps you to make the accurate cuts. Guide rail for plunge saws should be durable and lightweight at the same time. It would be better if it comes with anti slip bottom because it will provide the better stability.
Splinter-Free Cut
Most of the time, people face this problem if they go for some cheap model. Make sure that you read the reviews, get to know what other users are saying. If it’s not splinter free then you have to do a lot of work that would be a pain for you. Also variable speed option would be a plus; it will help you to control the saw as per the requirement
In the below section, we’ll talk about the differences between both the models. Make sure that you go through all the points thoroughly, so that at the end of this article, you have proper idea about which saw to go for.
These track saws cost hundreds of dollars, so it would be quite foolish to invest your money without doing proper research.
Bosch Gkt 55 Review
Bosch gkt 55 gce Specs
| Bosch Gkt 55 | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Weight | 4.7 kg |
| Blade Diameter | 165 mm |
| Bore Size | 20 mm |
| Motor Power | 1,400 W |
| Sound Power Level | 103 dB(A) [3.0 dB] |
| Sound Pressure Level | 92 dB(A) [3.0 dB] |
| Voltage | 230 V |
| Blade Speed | 3,600 - 6,250 rpm |
| Max Depth of Cut @ 45º | 42 mm |
| Max Depth of Cut @ 90º | 57 mm |
Build Quality
Bosch GKT 55 GCE is a professional track saw and it comes with really advanced features. With the help of this saw, you can make very precise clean cuts. It comes with 1400w motor and variable speed which allows you to make the cut at your convenience. The depth adjustments is very straight forward and you can make the cuts accordingly. Blade change mechanism is also very simple and you can easily change it with in seconds. According to the company it has great dust extraction system but users commented that it’s not matching with the expectations. Its ergonomic build quality allows you to use it for longer duration and you don’t feel fatigued even after continuous use.
Accuracy
Bosch is also known for making very accurate products. Their models deliver accuracy and precision. It comes with 48 teeth saw blade which helps you to cut different kinds of wood whether it’s board material, plywood or composites. According to the company, it comes with right power to weight ratio which gives perfect ergonomic condition to operate.
Easy to use
Also, if you are a beginner, this track saw is very simple to use. Its user manual is very straight forward. Make sure that you go through the user manual properly before you start using the track saw. Follow all the safety features. Bevel adjustments can be done from -1 to 47 degrees. It has transparent guard window close to cutting area that provides better dust extraction.
Bosch Track Saw Pros & Cons
- This tool will take some time to master. Things won’t work if you plunge too late or too early.
- You get very precise cut and depth adjustment is in metric scale that gives you better clarity.
- The gliding action is very smooth. You can also adjust the depth with or without guide. (very minimal deflection with guide rail)
- The only problem with this track saw that it is not available in North America.
Festool ts 55 Review
Festool ts 55 Specs
| Festool ts 55 | Specs |
|---|---|
| Weight | 9.92 lbs |
| Power source | 115V AC |
| Motor | 10 Amp |
| Voltage | 120V |
| Dimensions | 12.2 x 11.5 x 15.5 inches |
| Build Quality | Great |
| Splitter Free | Yes |
| Wood | Plywood, Hardwood, Composite |
| RPM | 2,000 to 5,200 rpm |
Build Quality
Festool is a brand which are known for making durable high end products and this model is one of them. When you use this tool with guide rail, you can get splinter free perfectly straight cuts. It also comes with the splitter which is very helpful and doesn’t let material pinch on the blade and chances of kickback get reduced.
You can also change the blades very easily as it comes with Fastfix system which quickly locks the switch. The tool is also very easy to operate and you can make the very precise cuts at your disposal. In the storage box, you get the picture about how to pack the tool. Though, user manual is not very straight forward. You have to watch some youtube videos before you start working on it.
Power and Control
It comes with a large motor which provides decent power and you can work on any kind of material. With this 10 Amp motor, you can work on plywood, composite and hardwood. The saw speed is adjusted from 2000 RPM to 5200 RPM depending upon the load. The tool makes sure that it maintains the constant speed to give you the smoother cuts.
Accessories
With this model, you get all the important accessories. But, if you want to ante up your game, you can buy them separately. You can buy various clamps, mite gauge, extension kit and more.
Festool Ts 55 Pros & Cons
- The output of this machine is remarkable. You get splinter free, laser straight cut.
- It is a very easy to use tool and also compact in size considering its features. You can store it in a small place.
- You can adjust the depth at micro levels as it comes with two cursor lines. It gives you better control over cutting.
- There are two available sizes for this model and there are total 9 blade types that you can choose from.
- This track saw is also very safe to use. It comes with a riving knife that reduces the possibility of kickback.
Conclusion
We have discussed all important features of both the models. We’ll say that Festool Model is better than Bosch one. Though both the models are accurate and precise but you’ll have micro level depth adjustment with Festool Model that gives you better control over saw and you can work on the project at your disposal.
When it comes to joining the rails, Bosch could be the right option while in case of Festool, you don’t have any option for joining. So, the choice is completely upto you. So, choose the one which matches your requirement.
