TS55 or Makita sp6000 Track Saw

[mino]

TSC 55 > TS55 >> Makita >> Cheapo tracks saws.

The SP600J has no right-side anti-splinter and the sliding on the rails is sub-optimal /does not hold reliably and needs replacing when worn/.

What you want to stick to though are the Festool FS/2 rails - if you need precision that is.
The Makita and Triton ones are cheaper because they are made less precise (i.e. less straight cuts) and have way worse anti-slip pads so require use of clamps much more often. Just not worth it and you can always sell the saw for an upgrade much easier than the rails ..

 

[slavi.yordanov]

I had the cordless Makita and now have the TSC55 (old version). Both produce excellent cuts. Makita cuts way faster due to thinner blade. It also has a score function which is really useful if your blade is a bit worn. The TS55 would retain higher value if you decide to sell.

Only reason I upgraded was the bluetooth.

You can also look into the HK55

 

[pixelated]

Another alternative saw that may be worth considering is the Bosch GKS18V-25GCN. It’s not specifically a track saw, but can be used on Festool or Bosch tracks. It has decent dust collection, runs a 7 1/4 in. blade. It’s sort of equivalent to a Festool HK saw.
They are under $500 USD in a kit with battery and charger, and available “tool only” if you already have batteries.

 

[Crazyraceguy]

For me, the plunge function of actual track saws is a very important feature. I have always hated the stupid roll up from behind blade guards on circular saws. Plus the accuracy/repeatability of the depth of cut adjustment is far better too.
Those shop-built workarounds don't really address these things.

 

[ChuckM]

For me, the plunge function of actual track saws is a very important feature. I have always hated the stupid roll up from behind blade guards on circular saws. Plus the accuracy/repeatability of the depth of cut adjustment is far better too.
Those shop-built workarounds don't really address these things.

What you stated about the plunge feature and others is correct, but the OP's need is "I have found that occasionally I need to cut plywood but only occasionally." (italics mine) That kind of occasional need can be met very nicely by a circular saw/ripping jig at a cost that no other track saw systems can match. If someone handles sheet goods on a regular basis, I agree that the track saw system is the proper way to go.

Having said that, since the OP does have the tracks around, the additional cost of a track saw won't bite that much.