The main difference between the Kreg vs. Makita track saw is their bevel capacity, track length, speed settings, and safety features.
Kreg and Makita track saws are the most popular name for the best track saw. Despite their design, they’re similar in most specifications and the way they work. They only differ in a few aspects.
However, you might be confused between the two track saws and looking for the better one for your project.
So in this article, you’ll get through a head-to-head comparison between the two saws that will help you choose between them.
Kreg track saw adopts an Adaptive cutting system. It’s a versatile, portable cutting system that improves your project-building skill to the next level. The specialty of the adaptive cutting system is to eliminate your worry about cuts rather than let you concentrate on your crafts. It also ensures optimum performance for ripping and crosscutting the solid wood, plywood, and other sheet goods
Key Features
Fully shrouded blade
Electronic blade brake
Retractable riving knife
Integrated dust collection
Comes with a carrying bag
Pros
Provides smooth and quiet operation
Anti-kickback feature like a fully shrouded blade ensures work safety
A Riving knife prevents material from binding to the blade
The Makita track saw is a proven performer in the field. It features outstanding stock blades, and a direct drive motor sets them apart from the other track saws in the field. It offers you a smooth and convenient plunge release lever for comfortable use. You can easily hold the saw to use it for a longer time without less chances of hand fatigue due to its rubberized handle.
Key Features
1-1/2″ OD dust port
Built-in current limiter keeps safe the motor from burnout
Locking lever to hold the blade in position
On-board hex wrench for quick and easy blade changes
Pros
Ideal for cutting large wood panels and other wood materials
The soft start feature offers smooth starts-up
Great plunge action
Nice kit box
Cons
The electronic brake is a little soft
Detail Comparison Between Kreg Vs. Makita Track Saw
Though both have almost similar features and functions, some factors differentiate the two tracks from one another. Let’s get to know about them.
Speed Settings
Speed settings are one of the best features for any track saw as it allows you to regulate the pace. If you can control the speed, you can avoid dulling saw blades, burning wood, and creating extra splinters than you require.
Kreg
Kreg track saw has a speed adjustment range from 2000 to 6000 RPM (Revolutions Per Minute). The high-speed setting will be best if you cut soft material like framing lumber or pine plywood. It will do best for working with thick materials.
Also, this appliance has an anti-kickback feature built in, which will prevent kickback when slowing down blade rotation.
Makita
Makita track saw has a variable speed control dial to allow the user to change the speed between 2000-5200 RPM.
Winner: Kreg Track Saw
Bevel Capacity
Adjustable bevel capacity allows the track saw to be flexible and versatile. Bevel capacity indicates the maximum bevel cut the saw can make.
Most track saws have the responsibility to make 90° square cuts. However, the bevel cut-making capacity can save your valuable time while bringing you one step ahead in the project.
Though there is no huge difference in bevel capacity, who might know you won’t fall in trouble for missing bevel capacity?
Kreg
The Kreg track saw has a bevel capacity of -1° to 47°. Undoubtedly, it has an impressive bevel capacity that one track saw should have.
Makita
Conversely, the Makita track saw has a bevel capacity of -1° to 48°. That means it has a bit more bevel capacity. Also, you’ll get positive stops at 22.5° and 45°.
Cutting 45° bevels on boards or sheet goods helps to build bookshelves or furniture. The users also get precise cuts when the blade’s position enters the lumber.
Winner: Makita Track Saw
Track Length
Track length is an important consideration when choosing a track saw. Because the longer the track will be, the more useful it becomes to cut longer wooden planks without issues.
Kreg
Kreg track saw comes with 62″ track length. Thus it’s larger than Makita and allows you to cut longer and more precisely than Makita.
Makita Track Saw
On the other hand, Makita comes with 55 inches track length, which is not bad at all. On top, it’s a standard track length to make your projects easier.
Winner: Kreg Track Saw
Safety Features
Though track saws are much safer than table saws, having some safety features in your saw helps you concentrate more on your craft instead of worrying about safety issues.
Kreg
Kreg track saw comes with a bunch of safety features, including a fully-shrouded retracting blade which is completely retracted when the blade is not used. There is also an electric blade brake.
The anti-kickback control prevents the saw from moving backward on the track when engaged. A riving knife also retracts completely.
Makita Track Saw
Makita track saws also have quality safety features. Though it lacks a riving knife, and anti-kickback features. But It offers a built-in current limiter and electronic safety control to ensure your safety.
Kreg vs. Makita Track Saw || Which One Is Better For You?
After comparing Kreg and Makita, you can see there is not much to differentiate. Their specifications and design are much closer.
Makita makes the best plunge-action and collects dust and cravings to keep free from clogging. While Kreg performs best for cutting oak, pine, plywood, and decking.
Yes, you can use a Wen track saw on a Makita track. The Universal Design of Wen is compatible with most of the saws available in the market, including Evolution, Festool, and Makita.
Which Track Saw Cuts Deepest?
Any track saw comes with an 8 ¼” blade size that can cut deepest.
Are Makita Track Saw Worth It?
Yes, the Makita track saw is powerful, easy to use, high-quality, and accurate. So if you’re looking for a track saw, the Makita track saw is worth it.
Final Thought
So that’s all about the differences between Kreg and Makita track saw. Despite many similarities, the two saw differences in their cutting capacity, bevel capacity, and safety features. So consider all these factors while choosing a track saw.
I'm a woodwork enthusiast and have loved to do DIY projects since my teenage. Till then, I have learned the 'Art of Wood' to rejuvenate my home interior, plumbing, and fixing. My blog woodpander.com leads information, for woodworking interested guys or just curious to know about woodworks.
