Choosing a CT Vac

[pghmyn]

I have been eyeing a CT mini, midi, or 26 for quite some time. Now that I have my own space, I will inevitably be purchasing one - but which is best for me?

For my main tools I will eventually have a large dust extraction set up, so the only thing I really need the CT for is sanding with my future ETS150/5 and my cutting with my current TS55. Also, the occasional cleanup around the shop, or otherwise. Do you think it would be best if I went with the mini, midi, or 26? I would like to be able to get the midi, but if I can get by with the mini with little to no issues, I would like to save the $50.

Thank you!

 

[skids]

I have been eyeing a CT mini, midi, or 26 for quite some time. Now that I have my own space, I will inevitably be purchasing one - but which is best for me?

For my main tools I will eventually have a large dust extraction set up, so the only thing I really need the CT for is sanding with my future ETS150/5 and my cutting with my current TS55. Also, the occasional cleanup around the shop, or otherwise. Do you think it would be best if I went with the mini, midi, or 26? I would like to be able to get the midi, but if I can get by with the mini with little to no issues, I would like to save the $50.

Thank you!

I would say Midi since you will have dedicated DC in your space. I find the size and portability to be very convenient. But...If the Boom arm and/or the Workcenter appeal to you then go with the 26.

I will probably be eventually be buying a larger CT vac for that reason at some point as my shop gets more equipment. I am already growing tired of changing hoses and like alot of the features of the larger vacs, 26 and up. But the portability of the midi can not be beat and it holds alot more than you think it can. Espcially for sanding, it can go for weeks.

I will say this again since I have said it before, and I am not sure it applies to all FT vacs. But I notice a considerable difference in my Kapex dust collection when first change the bag in my midi. Havent as much noticed it for sanding, seems pretty consistent.

 

[Bob Marino]

I would agree with Skids and also add that since all the CT Vacs (except for the CT 36 AC) have the same filtration and suction specs, it makes the case for the smaller MINI/MIDI a bit stronger.

Bob

 

[pghmyn]

I have been eyeing a CT mini, midi, or 26 for quite some time. Now that I have my own space, I will inevitably be purchasing one - but which is best for me?

For my main tools I will eventually have a large dust extraction set up, so the only thing I really need the CT for is sanding with my future ETS150/5 and my cutting with my current TS55. Also, the occasional cleanup around the shop, or otherwise. Do you think it would be best if I went with the mini, midi, or 26? I would like to be able to get the midi, but if I can get by with the mini with little to no issues, I would like to save the $50.

Thank you!

I would say Midi since you will have dedicated DC in your space. I find the size and portability to be very convenient. But...If the Boom arm and/or the Workcenter appeal to you then go with the 26.

I will probably be eventually be buying a larger CT vac for that reason at some point as my shop gets more equipment. I am already growing tired of changing hoses and like alot of the features of the larger vacs, 26 and up. But the portability of the midi can not be beat and it holds alot more than you think it can. Espcially for sanding, it can go for weeks.

I will say this again since I have said it before, and I am not sure it applies to all FT vacs. But I notice a considerable difference in my Kapex dust collection when first change the bag in my midi. Havent as much noticed it for sanding, seems pretty consistent.

I think I will probably end up going with the midi. Seems like it would be a good fit for my space. Thank you.

However, I will have to buy one at a time. I will probably buy the ETS150/5 first, and use it with a normal vacuum until I save the money and buy the CT midi.

 

[3PedalMINI]

I have been eyeing a CT mini, midi, or 26 for quite some time. Now that I have my own space, I will inevitably be purchasing one - but which is best for me?

For my main tools I will eventually have a large dust extraction set up, so the only thing I really need the CT for is sanding with my future ETS150/5 and my cutting with my current TS55. Also, the occasional cleanup around the shop, or otherwise. Do you think it would be best if I went with the mini, midi, or 26? I would like to be able to get the midi, but if I can get by with the mini with little to no issues, I would like to save the $50.

Thank you!

I would say Midi since you will have dedicated DC in your space. I find the size and portability to be very convenient. But...If the Boom arm and/or the Workcenter appeal to you then go with the 26.

I will probably be eventually be buying a larger CT vac for that reason at some point as my shop gets more equipment. I am already growing tired of changing hoses and like alot of the features of the larger vacs, 26 and up. But the portability of the midi can not be beat and it holds alot more than you think it can. Espcially for sanding, it can go for weeks.

I will say this again since I have said it before, and I am not sure it applies to all FT vacs. But I notice a considerable difference in my Kapex dust collection when first change the bag in my midi. Havent as much noticed it for sanding, seems pretty consistent.

I think I will probably end up going with the midi. Seems like it would be a good fit for my space. Thank you.

However, I will have to buy one at a time. I will probably buy the ETS150/5 first, and use it with a normal vacuum until I save the money and buy the CT midi.

I have both, if your vacuum is going to live in your shop i would spend the extra $60 for the CT26. Even though they have the identical motor and specs its worth not having to buy bags all the time (or by the dust deputy) Im a DIYer and a part time cabinet guy so by no means am i a production shop and the bag for the CT26 filled up pretty quick! My CT-Midi lives on the work van to clean up after ourselves on a jobsite and i dont expect that bag needing to be changed for some time. The boom is a really nice addition, especially if your using a TSt55, you cannot add the boom arm to the Midi.

Either way, the CT-Midi & 26 are phenomenal vacuums. You will be happy with both! If you purchase your sander and vacuum together as a package i believe you get 5-7% off so that is something to keep in mind when saving up for your new tools  [smile]

 

[panelchat]

Usually the issue with using a vac and sanding is the ability to turn down the suction- most vac pressures will be too strong and suck the sanding tool to the workpiece, making the work very difficult and possibly(?) reducing the quality of the abrasion. You might look into this if you are planning to use a different vac, like a shop vac. For sawing, I leave my mini turned all the way up, but for sanding w/ any random orbit sander I have to turn the knob 1/3 or 1/2 the way down.

 

[pghmyn]

I have been eyeing a CT mini, midi, or 26 for quite some time. Now that I have my own space, I will inevitably be purchasing one - but which is best for me?

For my main tools I will eventually have a large dust extraction set up, so the only thing I really need the CT for is sanding with my future ETS150/5 and my cutting with my current TS55. Also, the occasional cleanup around the shop, or otherwise. Do you think it would be best if I went with the mini, midi, or 26? I would like to be able to get the midi, but if I can get by with the mini with little to no issues, I would like to save the $50.

Thank you!

I would say Midi since you will have dedicated DC in your space. I find the size and portability to be very convenient. But...If the Boom arm and/or the Workcenter appeal to you then go with the 26.

I will probably be eventually be buying a larger CT vac for that reason at some point as my shop gets more equipment. I am already growing tired of changing hoses and like alot of the features of the larger vacs, 26 and up. But the portability of the midi can not be beat and it holds alot more than you think it can. Espcially for sanding, it can go for weeks.

I will say this again since I have said it before, and I am not sure it applies to all FT vacs. But I notice a considerable difference in my Kapex dust collection when first change the bag in my midi. Havent as much noticed it for sanding, seems pretty consistent.

I think I will probably end up going with the midi. Seems like it would be a good fit for my space. Thank you.

However, I will have to buy one at a time. I will probably buy the ETS150/5 first, and use it with a normal vacuum until I save the money and buy the CT midi.

I have both, if your vacuum is going to live in your shop i would spend the extra $60 for the CT26. Even though they have the identical motor and specs its worth not having to buy bags all the time (or by the dust deputy) Im a DIYer and a part time cabinet guy so by no means am i a production shop and the bag for the CT26 filled up pretty quick! My CT-Midi lives on the work van to clean up after ourselves on a jobsite and i dont expect that bag needing to be changed for some time. The boom is a really nice addition, especially if your using a TSt55, you cannot add the boom arm to the Midi.

Either way, the CT-Midi & 26 are phenomenal vacuums. You will be happy with both! If you purchase your sander and vacuum together as a package i believe you get 5-7% off so that is something to keep in mind when saving up for your new tools  [smile]

There is a $110 difference between the midi and 26

I don't plan on getting the boom arm system, to be honest. I just want a quality vacuum to keep as much sanding dust as possible out of my lungs. The use of the TS55 with this vacuum will probably be rare, as a normal shop vac attached to it does a tremendous job, and I don't have to worry about filing up the bag. I will be getting a central dust collection unit eventually which will take care of all the big clean ups. I will also probably hook create my own dust deputy type contraption just for fun to attach to my midi.

Now I just have to pay off my credit card for the table saw and jointer, and then back to saving money for a new tool

 

[skids]

I have been eyeing a CT mini, midi, or 26 for quite some time. Now that I have my own space, I will inevitably be purchasing one - but which is best for me?

For my main tools I will eventually have a large dust extraction set up, so the only thing I really need the CT for is sanding with my future ETS150/5 and my cutting with my current TS55. Also, the occasional cleanup around the shop, or otherwise. Do you think it would be best if I went with the mini, midi, or 26? I would like to be able to get the midi, but if I can get by with the mini with little to no issues, I would like to save the $50.

Thank you!

I would say Midi since you will have dedicated DC in your space. I find the size and portability to be very convenient. But...If the Boom arm and/or the Workcenter appeal to you then go with the 26.

I will probably be eventually be buying a larger CT vac for that reason at some point as my shop gets more equipment. I am already growing tired of changing hoses and like alot of the features of the larger vacs, 26 and up. But the portability of the midi can not be beat and it holds alot more than you think it can. Espcially for sanding, it can go for weeks.

I will say this again since I have said it before, and I am not sure it applies to all FT vacs. But I notice a considerable difference in my Kapex dust collection when first change the bag in my midi. Havent as much noticed it for sanding, seems pretty consistent.

I think I will probably end up going with the midi. Seems like it would be a good fit for my space. Thank you.

However, I will have to buy one at a time. I will probably buy the ETS150/5 first, and use it with a normal vacuum until I save the money and buy the CT midi.

I have both, if your vacuum is going to live in your shop i would spend the extra $60 for the CT26. Even though they have the identical motor and specs its worth not having to buy bags all the time (or by the dust deputy) Im a DIYer and a part time cabinet guy so by no means am i a production shop and the bag for the CT26 filled up pretty quick! My CT-Midi lives on the work van to clean up after ourselves on a jobsite and i dont expect that bag needing to be changed for some time. The boom is a really nice addition, especially if your using a TSt55, you cannot add the boom arm to the Midi.

Either way, the CT-Midi & 26 are phenomenal vacuums. You will be happy with both! If you purchase your sander and vacuum together as a package i believe you get 5-7% off so that is something to keep in mind when saving up for your new tools  [smile]

There is a $110 difference between the midi and 26

I don't plan on getting the boom arm system, to be honest. I just want a quality vacuum to keep as much sanding dust as possible out of my lungs. The use of the TS55 with this vacuum will probably be rare, as a normal shop vac attached to it does a tremendous job, and I don't have to worry about filing up the bag. I will be getting a central dust collection unit eventually which will take care of all the big clean ups. I will also probably hook create my own dust deputy type contraption just for fun to attach to my midi.

Now I just have to pay off my credit card for the table saw and jointer, and then back to saving money for a new tool

Festool will not be friendly to your efforts here.  [wink]

For your needs your making the right decision I think. You can sand for weeks with a midi before filling it.

 

[pghmyn]

Festool will not be friendly to your efforts here.  [wink]

For your needs your making the right decision I think. You can sand for weeks with a midi before filling it.

The only tools on my "need" list right now are a sander and a vacuum. After I get those, I can start making some projects in my shop. Eventually I will add all the perks.

 

[Jmaichel]

I went with the 26, I thought about the midi but knew I would have regretted not getting the 26. I also have a domino and a TS75, so I wanted a bigger CT. The truth is as I add a couple more tools and maybe even the Kapex, there could be a justified need for a second CT. You could always just get and ETS125 and CT Mini, I think that package runs about $570.

 

[pghmyn]

I went with the 26, I thought about the midi but knew I would have regretted not getting the 26. I also have a domino and a TS75, so I wanted a bigger CT. The truth is as I add a couple more tools and maybe even the Kapex, there could be a justified need for a second CT. You could always just get and ETS125 and CT Mini, I think that package runs about $570.

I was thinking about the ETS 125. Seeing as its my first sander, it could hold me over for awhile until I can get something for more coarse work.

 

[pghmyn]

I think I have a keeper. I was talking to my fiancé about buying more tools, and she said, verbatim, "I think you should have all the same brand of a tool. Like that green and gray one you have." Referring to my TS55.

I said, "You know those are the expensive ones, right?"

She says, "So what. They look good, and I like the boxes they come in."

Keeper, right?

 

[skids]

I think I have a keeper. I was talking to my fiancé about buying more tools, and she said, verbatim, "I think you should have all the same brand of a tool. Like that green and gray one you have." Referring to my TS55.

I said, "You know those are the expensive ones, right?"

She says, "So what. They look good, and I like the boxes they come in."

Keeper, right?

TOOOOOOTally! In fact I think you should rush to the altar immediately and lock her down.

 

[pghmyn]

I think I have a keeper. I was talking to my fiancé about buying more tools, and she said, verbatim, "I think you should have all the same brand of a tool. Like that green and gray one you have." Referring to my TS55.

I said, "You know those are the expensive ones, right?"

She says, "So what. They look good, and I like the boxes they come in."

Keeper, right?

TOOOOOOTally! In fact I think you should rush to the altar immediately and lock her down.

I have $225 to Rockler in gift cards. I think I might go buy the ETS 125 tonight. Also, a new saw blade for my
Table saw. The stock one is down right awful.

Unless there are any standout objections to the ETS 125? Can it hold me over for prett basic sanding and prepping for finish? Nothing drastic, and I'm not looking for a "time-saver" right now. Just something that has festools dust collection and can hold me over for 8-10 months

 

[Jmaichel]

I think I have a keeper. I was talking to my fiancé about buying more tools, and she said, verbatim, "I think you should have all the same brand of a tool. Like that green and gray one you have." Referring to my TS55.

I said, "You know those are the expensive ones, right?"

She says, "So what. They look good, and I like the boxes they come in."

Keeper, right?

TOOOOOOTally! In fact I think you should rush to the altar immediately and lock her down.

I have $225 to Rockler in gift cards. I think I might go buy the ETS 125 tonight. Also, a new saw blade for my
Table saw. The stock one is down right awful.

Unless there are any standout objections to the ETS 125? Can it hold me over for prett basic sanding and prepping for finish? Nothing drastic, and I'm not looking for a "time-saver" right now. Just something that has festools dust collection and can hold me over for 8-10 months

It sounds like you have a keeper for sure. I can't complain myself either. My wife just let me drop a few thousand on new tools.

Well...if you have the gift card it might be worth throwing in the extra $85 to get the ETS 150. I was just suggesting that if you wanted to bet both the DC and a sander that the combination of the ETS 125 and the CT Mini is the most economical way to get both a sander and a vac. If I was limited to getting just a sander, then I was pony up the extra $$ for the ETS 150.

You can get a nice Diablo combo blade from HD for around $40, that does a very good job, especially if you are using your TS55 for cutting plywood.

James

 

[pghmyn]

I think I have a keeper. I was talking to my fiancé about buying more tools, and she said, verbatim, "I think you should have all the same brand of a tool. Like that green and gray one you have." Referring to my TS55.

I said, "You know those are the expensive ones, right?"

She says, "So what. They look good, and I like the boxes they come in."

Keeper, right?

TOOOOOOTally! In fact I think you should rush to the altar immediately and lock her down.

I have $225 to Rockler in gift cards. I think I might go buy the ETS 125 tonight. Also, a new saw blade for my
Table saw. The stock one is down right awful.

Unless there are any standout objections to the ETS 125? Can it hold me over for prett basic sanding and prepping for finish? Nothing drastic, and I'm not looking for a "time-saver" right now. Just something that has festools dust collection and can hold me over for 8-10 months

It sounds like you have a keeper for sure. I can't complain myself either. My wife just let me drop a few thousand on new tools.

Well...if you have the gift card it might be worth throwing in the extra $85 to get the ETS 150. I was just suggesting that if you wanted to bet both the DC and a sander that the combination of the ETS 125 and the CT Mini is the most economical way to get both a sander and a vac. If I was limited to getting just a sander, then I was pony up the extra $$ for the ETS 150.

You can get a nice Diablo combo blade from HD for around $40, that does a very good job, especially if you are using your TS55 for cutting plywood.

James

Its an extra $100 though

Would there really be a big difference between the ETS 150 and 125?

 

[panelchat]

I always found 5" random orbital sanders, of whatever brand, to be the best for cabinetmaking type work- sanding veneer panel.
is this what you will use it for?
you can use it one handed very easily and manage the wood parts with the other hand.
esp. if you use a rubberized sanding mat to work on (like a shelf liner mat)
very easy, quick, controlled way to work, and a huge advantage if you are sanding dozens of pieces.

 

[Timtool]

Its an extra $100 though

Would there really be a big difference between the ETS 150 and 125?

Day and night, the 150 is a proper random orbital sander, the 125 is a finish sander. But if you don't mind spending 3-4 times longer then you could get away with the 125.
In that case i would even suggest the DTS400 prior to the ETS 125, same power, same stroke but with a more practical delta pad. I even have the feeling it is more aggressive because it doesn't stall like the ETS likes to do.

 

[GregBradley]

OK, let me put it this way.

In a shop we have:

3 ETS150/5
1 ETS150/3
1 ETS125
1 DTS400
1 RTS400

The ETS125 sits the most.

For home, I bought the ETS150/5 followed by the DTS400.

 

[tbellemare]

I'm not sure it helps, pghmyn, but I have a CT 26 that I mostly leave in the shop and a CT MINI that I use for mobility and also as the home vacuum.

If I go on sight, I typically bring the MINI. The CT 26 is largely used in the shop because it's so much easier to grab the MINI if I want to go somewhere.

The Festool stable of Dust Extractors all provide the same results, other than the volume of loading.

We clean the house using the MINI, Universal Cleaning Set, and Turbo Suction Brush (for carpets). I use the Universal Cleaning Set to go on site with the MINI. I use the 26 and a combination of Workshop Cleaning tools for really nice clean up in my shop. Depending on the progress of a job, I may want the steel tubes or the black tubes, (because of their forgiveness if dropped).

Tom