Did Milwaukee Deliver??? | Full Review of the NEW Milwaukee M18 Track Saw

It's finally here! Milwaukee has just released their new M18 Track Saw (2831-20 for bare tool & 2831-21 for the kit). I take you through all the key features on this saw. We look at the pros and cons, design improvements, and talk about how this new M18 track saw compares to other saw on the market. This is you one stop review to see if this saw is going to be right for you. Hope you enjoy!
Milwaukee M18 Track Saw (2831-20) - homedepot.sjv.io/Zdo6rg (Home Depot)
00:00 - It’s Finally Released!!!
00:38 - Power & Battery Usage
04:46 - Track System
10:35 - Blade Size & Cut Capacity
15:39 - Size, Weight, & Storage
18:19 - Refined Features
22:28 - Dust Collection and Hose Port
23:43 - Price and Value Ration
25:00 - Overall Rating
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[@Michael-kf6bc]

As a interior trim carpenter myself. This has easily become the only channel I watch. I highly value all all the woodworking information that you pass along. It’s always interesting to see how other professionals solve and build projects. Your tool reviews are top notch. Thank you for your contributions.

[@ChristIsLord229]

Oshae?

[@heystarfish100]

I’ve literally grown tired of watching many KZbin woodworking channels doing constant tool reviews on products they have little experience or knowledge of or the ability to put them through their functions that a real user would need to know. This is one of very few that I was amazed by. Thanks for your time and work that went into the production and how this tool addressed your needs in a track saw. Very informative and kudos to Milwaukee for manufacturing a quality tool designed for professionals all within their battery platform. I hope their distributors carry a wide variety of blades, tracks and accessories as the Festool dealers do. The additional cut capacity and power over the Festool saw will make this a killer deal.

[@InsiderCarpentry]

Thanks, I share the same sentiments on the typical content. I hope to offer real value than than just click hunting.

[@benjaminhunt283]

Festool head engineer told me if you turn the speed down from 6 to 5 you will get 25% longer run time out the battery with virtually no discernible difference in quality of cut.

[@a-carpenter9229]

I have the 36v Makita track saw and run it mostly on speed setting 3 out of the 5 settings. The blade runs fast enough that there's no blade chatter and slow enough to still have good dust collection all while getting good runtime out of the batteries

[@edcrego8487]

How about the fuel you have to buy what do they du us pressure to help power the tool

[@Mike-dn4ju]

TSC55 runs so long if set between 4-5.

[@keith7630]

I have watched several reviews on this saw and this one is the best. Very detailed and comprehensive. Nice job!

[@chrisjansen3232]

Thanks for taking the time to do this review. I appreciated it and you did a good job!

[@parkers5150]

thank you Spencer! as a lifetime builder myself, I really appreciate your channel and what you bring to the table! Your review was perfect and more than that its comforting to know that its coming from qualified hands! Best of luck on your future endeavors

[@danielmcdermott5161]

Excellent review. Very thorough. Thank you for taking the time to do this video. Can't wait to purchase this saw.

[@cyrilnorrie8450]

Thanks so much for your highly informative and extensive review. It's good to hear a review done by a professional because if you are impressed with the tool, then everyone will be. I'm glad that you were so thorough and that you are demanding of good quality because even though I'm not a professional, I get frustrated with sub-standard tools. Keep up the great work!

[@SugarCreekWoodwright]

Great review! Like most I am wondering about other tracks. Thank you for taking the time to make the Video!

[@garretthicks5939]

Thanks for giving us a great professional review. Your skill and opinion is valuable and much appreciated. Hope you 2023 year is going great! Cheers 🍻

[@jefferyholland]

Nice review Spencer, I have been on the fence about which track saw I would go with, and this was very helpful.

[@troybush5899]

Thanks for communicating clearly and giving us very useful information for making decisions. Much appreciated. Great job!

[@BuiltByN8]

Very good overview and review. Great delivery, very easy to listen to and understand. Thanks Spenser

[@woodbutcherjc]

Great review. Really appreciate the effort and the information that you put out. I was looking for a track saw, and I think I'll get this one..

[@mak4374]

Good, to the point review, hit all the points I wanted - even if I might be on an another battery platform, no matter, your review was concise and excellent for those who still need to decide. Thank you!

[@dsop66]

Love the honest review. I used to be a dewalt guy but have changed all my tools over to red and black. Looking forward to getting this saw.

[@worksphotography]

Nice review! Just ordered mine. Looking forward to putting it in use.

[@DONdayce]

Finally! Great review. Glad you were able to get your hands on one of these bad boys and give us your personal thoughts.

[@packoutjunkie5813]

Very nice review. Like how you did reasonable expectations and honest opinions. Love your videos keep them coming.

[@toolman101476]

Nice review Spencer! Very detailed and thorough as usual.

[@donwilliams3626]

Very valuable review. Your points are all valid and well presented. Thanks

[@melissagraham6180]

Great review! Thanks for going into so much detail. It really is appreciated!

[@InsiderCarpentry]

My pleasure!

[@jamesmocharski4803]

Spencer, you’re killing it, dude! Fantastic review! Super thoughtful and thorough, informative and educational. Just as you give props to Milwaukee for nailing their demographic with this tool, I think you do the same with your content, especially and specifically with this particular review. I feel like you too have nailed your demographic. As a remodeler with a handful of years of experience who happens to be on the M18 platform, I have wanted a track saw for some time, but was wistfully waiting for Milwaukee to come out with one, and like you, hoping it would measure up and be worth the wait. I think you did a fantastic job of threading the needle of going over the features and benefits and comparing and contrasting with some of the most notable competitors that have dominated the market for years, while making your information approachable to both the pro’s who’ve been using these for years and those like myself that have maybe seen one in action once or twice, but don’t have enough experience with them to know what all to even look for. It’s great to hear from a person with as much experience and familiarity as you have with the existing tools that this stacks up well when comparing features and functionality. Really outstanding job!

[@stevenmckay4492]

Thanks man! you've proven that you actually do something with these tools to be able to report on them.. your the man!!!!

[@mariodegrazia7497]

Ty for review. I have been putting off buying one for a while . This will be my new track saw

[@codyreid952]

Best detailed video by far! Thank you!

[@EveryDayCivilianBlog]

Fantastic and best video run down. My first track saw and have to say everything was intimidating until I watched this. Thank you so much!

[@InsiderCarpentry]

Glad it helped!

[@joshuareed3999]

Spencer Lewis is my spirit carpenter. So glad you did this review! I have the ts55, but I do a lot of new home work and have been debating the Makita or tsc55 battery saws just for the convenience. You answered every one of my questions. Thanks so much for this, and all of your other solid content.

[@ligngood3787]

Great video! It DOES FIT in that smaller packout box you have at 17:25 if you turn it on its side. Milwaukee even sells pre-fitted foam that fits that box so you can cut it to hold the saw on its side and fit the charger and multiple batteries!

[@c.harris7823]

Awesome review! Very useful for me. Thank you!

[@DubYaJsWorld]

I'm a general wood cutting guy, this video means a lot coming from a carpenter such as yourself. Even though I don't have a bunch a cutting with a track saw in getting this next month for sure!

[@dennisshumake143]

Great extensive review. I just received my track saw kit and really like what I see. As a DIYER I believe this saw will appeal to all trades whether you are a contractor or DIYER. I love the pack out box as it keeps all the essential components together. I can see how it might be a little large for a contractor that has to load and unload on a daily basis, but as a DIYER it is a big advantage. Great review and keep up the good work. You have a new subscriber.

[@garybarchas4984]

That was a terrific review! If I weren't losing my eyesight I'd start a side hustle to get myself one. At almost 70 I still love anything requiring wood in its construction. From the smells to the way it responds to the touch. Keep up the great work and keep 'em coming!

[@dollyhadbraces9361]

i read a prestigious Egyptian artist from the pyramid era , wrote diaries, and we found them ... he laments the encroaching loss of his eyesight . he was in his 40ties.

[@deejayduy]

Awesome review!!.. i've been waiting for this track saw! didn't want to go with other brands since I'm on the M18 platform already. Can't wait to add it. I like the pack out case.. they should of at least added a tray on top of the battery area for better usage! Over all, GREAT REVIEW!!! THANKS

[@EnGammalAmazon]

Very well done. I am a big user of Milwaukee 18v Fuel equipment. This is making it easy for me since I am moving to Sweden and I can take everything with me.

[@BretClements]

Thanks so much for such a thorough review!

[@johnklein4558]

Thanks for the good review Spencer.

[@onlymyrooles]

I borrowed a friends Makita corded for a week recently and could not believe I never thought of purchasing one before now. I just ordered a Milwaukee kit because I already have a few milwaukee m18 tools. (I did order Makita tracks that were on sale and was told they are compatible) I’m really looking forward to trying it out when it arrives next week. Thanks so much for this video, great job!

[@thomasgilbert9347]

Thank you for the in depth video on the new track saw.

[@leonardjohnson7864]

Brother you did an excellent job on this review. Thank you!!!

[@InsiderCarpentry]

Glad it was helpful!

[@petenelson8136]

Awesome review. I'm moving from Ryobi to Milwaukee and was looking for a track saw. Had my eye on the festool, but really didn't want to have to festool up with batteries etc. I'm just a hobby woodworker, and your opinion on tools sets very high on my list of who to trust. Thanks for doing this review and comparing this to your festool saws.

[@InsiderCarpentry]

Glad I could help

[@goodtobehandy]

Great review. Would enjoy a shop tour on how you've set it up for your work flow.

[@billmillar7234]

Very good, concise review....appears to be great saw

[@shigthehandyman]

Damn Spenser…that was a thorough review…thanks for that!! For me, it’s a no brainer purchase as I’m balls deep in Milwaukee…this will be my next purchase! Thanks again…very much appreciate the deep dive on this tool!!!

[@ijzervreter2010]

Super review, I have a construction company in the Netherlands. We always look your reviews for we buying new tools. 👍

[@spycedezynuk]

Purchase decision made I’m getting one asap Great review Spencer all the things as a Festool owner wanted to know covered, just like with the m18 nailer which I purchased from your review and couldn’t be happier. This will make my life so much easier as I’m Milwaukee on site and Festool in the work shop. Now I won’t need to keep taking one backwards and forwards 👍🏻

[@skolsaw1080]

Great review, you really put a lot of detail in it. NICE 👍 Definitely more excited about this saw now after watching. I do wonder if there would be any minute differences at all with the Milwaukee tracks.

[@InsiderCarpentry]

I think the milwaukee tracks are probably slightly thicker or thinner and that is what is throwing off the bevel cuts.

[@ThisDoeb]

@@InsiderCarpentry the Milwaukee tracks allow you to lock your saw into the track so it won't tip during bevel cuts.

[@dougupah8778]

@@ThisDoeb Makita has that same feature, only problem is that the Festool track does not allow for that, Makita track obviously does.

[@z06doc86]

Just got my new Milwaukee track saw yesterday. Anxious to try it out. Going to rip and crosscut some birch today. Doing some video research now and I thank you!

[@AfflictionAce]

Great review! I'm glad they made this one distinctly for professionals. Ryobi is their DIY line and they have a track saw for those folks.

[@cornelisgoedegebuur1162]

I love it when a toolcase or systainer has some extra space. You can use that extra space for your set of guide rail clamps and rail connectors. Make 2 removable boxes, one for the clamps and connectors and maybe some other items like the FS-rapid Clamp and a limit stop, and one box for your spare zawblades...That keeps you from carrying an extra box or systainer for your guide rail accessories.

[@2chipped]

Well prepared review Spencer! I couldn't wait the 5 years, and went with Makita including the rails. Primary use is cutting/scribing faceframed prefinished cabinetry, for installs. I tend to cut lots of nails and staples,so I reversed the arbor flange and use standard 40t 5/8 blades. Flipping flange off sets the blade,so splinter guard is matched for this on all 3 dedicated tracks. Thin blades will walk sideways,so slow feed rates or multiple passes. So speed is roughly the same as full kerf blades,am just using more cheaper blades. I like ,and am changing to the Bosch/Mafel/Metabo rail system . Clamping area is closer the cut-linw,and rails are stiffer.

[@chevyimp5857]

Really value your opinion... Good quality review .. thank you.

[@edwardreid2598]

Thank you very much from uk…… based on your review I will now purchase…..👍🏻

[@ShawnHoffman-xs4mv]

Thanks for the info on the Milwaukee trac saw looking at needing one. Thanks for your time ❤ 11:37

[@farmhousehandyman5798]

I’m impressed with that stars graphic haha! Awesome to see you keep learning in all aspects👍🏽!

[@InsiderCarpentry]

We have to thank my editor, Aaron, for that. I gave him a general idea of what I wanted and he delivered above and beyond.

[@novaneo]

Fantastic review if I hadn't already bought the latest cordless festool on August because I couldn't wait any longer I would have jumped on it

[@homecraftsolutions3506]

Well done Spencer. Glad Milwaukee is not compromising quality. It looks like they are going after the pro market to compete with Festool and other foreign brands that have been associated with the pro market for years. I recently bought the M12 pin nailer and am very happy with it.

[@fmtnic]

Excellent review!

[@tc9148]

Fabulous review!!!

[@dubjspecialk]

Awesome review, thank you

[@joshuam.6404]

I've been waiting for this saw for four score and seven years.

[@-themercyseat]

🤣FR

[@InsiderCarpentry]

You're not alone. LOL

[@justinj8149]

Abe?? That you??

[@jl9362]

🤣🤣

[@CraigularjJoeWoodworks]

I couldn’t wait and went makita xgt, will be making the switch. Already ditched the major tools. Nuts to Milwaukee, makita miter saw and track saw are better

[@ronh9384]

Excellent review as always Spencer. You definitely did a thorough review. It seems you will be using your Festool tracks with the Milwaukee track saw… I noticed that the Milwaukee track has an anti tilt lip on their track to help prevent the saw from tipping when you have the Milwaukee tracksaw set for a beveled cut. It may not make a difference for most people…

[@OUTILSCLIPSQC]

Very nice thorough review 💯💯👍

[@terryraygould9346]

Great review. Thorough from a user’s viewpoint. Thanks for noting that my Festool dust vac will attach easily. I have been using M18 and M12 circulars on the KREG track system while I waited for Milwaukee to release their track saw. Works OK. Much better than nothing. I wish you had compared a Milwaukee track section to the Festool track for any notable differences.

[@afranze92]

Great review! 👍

[@MrHowiebb]

Really good video. Can't wait to till 2024 when we get them in the UK 👍

[@williamjohnson1395]

Hi Spencer, I appreciate your videos a lot and the knowledge you possess and the humility you have as well. I'd like to inform you, and other viewers: Do not make adjustments to the opposite slide spacers of the rail adjustment. 1.) Moving the blade to the right (when looking from the top while cutting) doesn't reposition the 45° cut correctly, bc if you did, it would then move the blade away from the 0° cut too. Same problem, different position. If you wanted to fix the 45° cut position, you have to move it DOWN. Which means it's a design flaw. Minor but still. The splinter strip just needs to be thinner by 1/32" or so. Maybe 3/64" Draw it out on paper. 2. I tried doing that and it snapped the threads on the aluminum shoe. The screws have a collar that prevent it from being tightened too much. You should remove the part of the video regarding adjustment of the left side guide adjustments.

[@James-ob4dd]

Just Bought the tool through affiliate link to support your work. Really appreciate the channel! I'm starting my own trim company and i value all your information. I'm learning a lot of tricks that i look forward to using. I'll be buying lots more through your links to support your work. once again, i appreciate it.

[@InsiderCarpentry]

Thanks!

[@michaelbehrndt8319]

Hi, I am German and Festoolfan. I have the Festool TSC55 KEB. I think Milwaukee has done a good Job with this Saw. I like the possibility using the rails from Festool and Makita as well. Think I shall buy such a saw. Michael Behrndt, Neubrandenburg, Germany

[@m.a.r.services5720]

Great review. Thanks

[@mw0i0]

Great review, top drawer commentary

[@michaelnichols7669]

Thank you for the in depth review Spencer, I was hoping you'd review this saw when it came out. I have the corded Makita and have no complaints other than it being corded, which is a pro sometimes and a con others, obviously mobility on the job site being the biggest. One thing I didn't see mentioned in the review, I thought I remember seeing that the Milwaukee has the anti tip feature for bevels and scoring feature like the Makita does, can you confirm? Those are two features I find very useful and efficient on my Makita.

[@michaelnichols7669]

Never mind, just saw another review and the Milwaukee does have the anti tip and scoring feature. Thanks again for the thorough review, I appreciate the detail you go into in all of your tool review videos.

[@Realism91]

The anti tip is a slightly different size than Makita it's the only reason you'd want to get Milwaukee's tracks if you purchased it. Milwaukee's track has thicker aluminum I think that might be why the 90 and 45 didn't align on his Festool track.

[@kenrishel6435]

Great review.. I'm 30 years in the high end trades and you sir are impressive. I dont say that often. I actually learn a lot from this young man. Definitely respect the quality and professionalism. A role model for all. Ok great review. I am kinda disappointed in festool over there Kapex. For the price there should be a clear difference in every way including service .. the tools In my opinion and I've been using festool for 20 years ,they are twice the price and still just barley lead the pack. Good to see the a reasonable cost. Thanks.

[@aarongreenlee7867]

Spencer, I have been waiting to see this saw in the "wild." Your review of it sealed the deal for me. I am already on the M18 platform, but will not buy something just because it's red. Great review. Thank you very much.

[@Joethetoolguy]

Damn this was in depth! Thanks for the info

[@stevenpodolsky5164]

Great video. I’ve been waiting for this saw. Now I can sell my Festool cordless saw and pickup the Milwaukee since I have the Milwaukee platform.

[@larrymunninghoff6746]

Great review. Wondering though, what is the base of the saw made of material wise?

[@double-bass]

Thanks for the content and sharing your knowledge! I remember when Festo (that was the name in Germany then) came out in the beginning of the 90' with the first track saw with plunging capability. It was a game changer! I went through a apprenticeship in Germany and worked about 16 years in the trade there in Germany, had a small business in KS for a few years also. After moving between overseas and stateside, I wasn't able to continue in the trade. Watching your videos brings back memories. How much would I give to join you on your job side to learn from you! Let me know if you need a helper, I won't charge. 😉

[@brianhall9019]

Great presentation. I enjoyed your thorough review. A few questions. If using smaller blades (Festool) does the roving knife present s problem if you are doing a scoring cut? And will one of the trays that come with the large tool packout or rolling packout fit in the wasted space beside the track saw?

[@user-ed5jh3ff6u]

Nice saw and review, have makita cordless, deep in that platform, it has excellent performance but depth adjustment is marginal and no zero splinter guard, young carpenters are lucky the cordless revaluation is incredible. Thanks buddy

[@dewaltman4582]

Watching you videos its like watching the PHD of carpentry.

[@dougcjohn]

Great informative video! You mentioned it felt equal to Festool TS 55… noticed your’s is TSC55 REB. The newer model is TSC55 KEB that states much more power & faster cuts with thinner blades and their anti-kickback electronics. Results in 40% longer battery life. Curious how the Milwaukee would perform if it performs similar to older… New Festool may have the edge over M18

[@ronallen6578]

This was a great video. Good, useful info. I never got around to having or using one of these. I never worked on the high end market you do and the shop I had had been put into mothballs years ago after my wife passed away. I thought about buying 1 a few years ago, but I wasn't going to pay for a Festool for what little I would use it. This I would probably have bought. Years ago 20-25, I would have bought it just to have it. I had the shop I could use it in. Those days are long gone😟😟. Anyway, great review. Thank you, Ron

[@thunderboltpenetrator8498]

Great review 👊 Respect

[@AngelMartinez-zx6mk]

Great job brother!

[@davesch1512]

I got to say I have been waiting for this saw a long time!! I’m on all Milwaukee batteries and corded delwalt miter saw/ table saw If this saw can take the place of a festool track saw that would be amazing Copy festool and make it better!!!!

[@chrisendebrock8109]

Thanks for the review Can you micro adjust the 90 degree cut ?

[@Roy-ij1wq]

Great review. I'm curious as to whether there is room in the box to store another M18 tool such as a jigsaw. Also, one feature you didn't mention is the scoring cut.

[@ricks900rr]

Page 4 of manual in box gives depths of cuts-at 0 degrees it is 2 1/4" and 45 degrees it is 1 5/8"-I too had to find too in manual and felt exactly as you described! Nice video!

[@wessheavner4294]

You cost me so much money😂. I started watching you on door hanging as a perfectly hung door is a thing of beauty.. Now I have a jamb master and a track saw on the way😂

[@dangoras9152]

I think that saw is cheaper than anyone else.. And ur work and ur review im gonna get one im not a wood worker like u but i want a track saw thanks for the video.... Keep it up brother

[@HATSCHI4xHD]

Thank you, very detailed video 👍. I thought it has a pre cut function, it will do it with a deapth stop block like my TSC 55.

[@packibletool]

Awesome video Spencer! 🤌🏻

[@InsiderCarpentry]

Appreciate it!

[@jeffchandler5520]

Concise review!

[@joshwertz9965]

I just bought the dewalt flexvolt and I absolutely love it. I'd really be interested in how well this stacks up against it

[@jeffdavis7872]

Spencer, thank you for your excellent videos. I've been building cabinets for new home construction for 40+ years. When Festool introduced their track saw many years ago, I immediately bought one and got very good service from the tool. I had been using my homemade version before this and knew the advantages of a dead straight cut. Well, when Makita came out with their cordless version, I got one of those. I can honestly say that the Makita has performed for me better than the Festool saw, and no cord is a "no brainer". As far as batteries lasting, I am most impressed with the Makita. It just goes and goes and I use 5.0 batteries. You should give it a try. Just my humble opinion. Thanks again for all of your schooling!

[@InsiderCarpentry]

The only reason I haven't had that tool in my hands is simply because I don't use any other makita cordless tools. I have heard good things about it though.

[@SterlinNelsonFitness]

I have the makita out of a great saw, mostly have dewalt tools but since expanding into multiple lines. I'm able to get the best deal at time of purchase or the best option out of the three big brands. Best decision I've made not being married to one brand.

[@surfinchemist1]

Looking forward to a future update after you've run it through the paces. Found your previous track saw video comparing the corded TS75, battery 55, and mafell super helpful. Nice to hear I wasn't the one who thought the TS75 was a bit underpowered. I recently got the milwaukee table saw and was ridiculously surprised at how smooth it was. I had to rip some tilt fillets on it recently... full depth at a 15 degree bevel and it was better than any job site saw I've ever used. If the brushless motor on the track saw is anything like their table saw I'll be purchasing one shortly.

[@derekrobertson1548]

Good indepth review, just got the one question. Does the milwaukee track saw have an anti kickback feature. Where the blade will stop if the saw lifts up from the track. I am sure I have seen this feature on one of the other brands. I am in the market for a track saw and will certainly be considering this one. I have just purchased the dewalt dws 780 mytre saw, the reviews you did on that model certainly help me out when choosing what mytre saw to go for. So far I love it just need to upgrade to the blade that ot came with. A big thanks for the indepth info you have given on the dws 780.

[@jeremycooper4275]

Great review. They could have added extra blade storage in that big packout.

[@clintprice2123]

Nice, it’s about time!