Hey everyone! I'm fairly new to woodworking, but I'm diving in headfirst with some cabinet-making projects, including building a few sealed subwoofer cabinets. I'm trying to finalize my choice for a track saw and have narrowed it down to three options: the Festool TS 60, the Mafell MT55cc, and the Makita 6000J2—keeping it simple with corded models. The Festool and Mafell are priced similarly when I include the tracks, with the Mafell coming in around 100€ cheaper due to its two 160cm tracks, whereas the Festool features a more versatile setup with a 140cm and a 300cm track to avoid any connection issues.
Here are my thoughts: I love the robust power of the Mafell, which is a noticeable step up from the TS 55. But the TS 60 has more power, a brushless motor, and is a newer design compared to the MT55cc, which has been around for about 15 years and uses a brushed motor with less cutting depth. I'm curious about how these models stack up in terms of power and usability for tougher cuts. Is the Festool TS 60's wattage really comparable to the Mafell's Cuprex motor, or does it fall short?
I'm attracted to the TS 60 not only for its higher power and depth capacity but also for its kickback protection, which is more advanced than what the Mafell offers. However, I can't ignore the Mafell's proven reliability, strong motor, and exceptional dust collection, although I've heard there may be issues with bevel cuts. What I don't like about the Mafell is that while its tracks are supposed to be easy to join, I'm concerned about potential inaccuracies versus the solid 300cm Festool track. Plus, the Mafell's kickback protection doesn't seem as reliable given the lack of an engine brake.
Right now, I'm using a Hikoki circular saw that has really impressed me with its anti-kickback features, especially since it combines the best elements from both the Mafell and Festool. Any thoughts or advice?
2 Answers
You might want to consider what your future projects will be like. All three saws can handle plywood with ease, but if you plan on cutting thick hardwood slabs, the extra power from the Festool might be crucial. The Festool offers a max cut depth that's about 3/16" deeper than the Mafell, which could make a difference.
As for the track issue, don’t stress too much about that—most joints will be designed to minimize any mismatch. If I had to choose, I’d lean towards the Mafell unless that extra power from the Festool really catches your eye.
Have you considered using an MFT-style workbench? Just a heads-up: the Mafell track doesn’t fit well with it, as it’s narrower, meaning you'd risk damaging things running the saw into the dogs. However, the Mafell should work fine with standard tracks if that’s a route you’re thinking about.
Not right now, but that's super helpful info! Thanks a lot!
Yeah, but I worry that the TS 60 might still lag in torque compared to the Mafell's Cuprex motor. What exactly makes you prefer the Mafell?