Festool CXS vs. Bosch PS31-2A

I have both and like both of them.

I just bought three more PS31-2A kits at a Bosch event for about the same price as a CXS kit without the angle drive. I really like the variety of tools that work with the Bosch 12v batteries and have multiple impact drivers, the I-driver, even find the little PS20 driver great for single function use. The FL11 LED flashlight is our standard field flashlight at this point. I tend to buy several at each Bosch event when they are available for less than $20. The FL10 that came in some kits was a joke so don't confuse the two. The Bosch 12v Reciprocating saw is great for light use. The original PS31 has been in daily use in a shop and still works well.

There is no question that the CXS is a nicer drill but it is lots more money. It also is the only tool to use that battery instead of being part of a system of tools that use the same batteries. If you need to haul your drill kit to a job, there is really a huge range of job functions that can be accomplished with a Festool drill and the centrotec installers kit.

The CXS is too small to be your only drill. The Bosch PS31-2A is a bit more powerful and has a slightly bigger chuck but is still a bit small if you try to use it for everything. The CXS is a nice drill but don't you need other small 12v tools?

Now if they really wanted to make something wonderful, how about all the Bosch, Makita, Milwaukee, and the CXS using the same battery?

 
Jon Hilgenberg said:
Regarding the Bosch, I've had them.  Ergonomics stink, and try standing one up without it falling over.  ..

Jon 

One of the reasons I switched over to the 12V stuff was so that my guys wouldn't try and stand up a drill on its battery! [poke]
I don't care if a tool gets knocked over and gets dinged up, but I can't afford to have a tool get knocked over and damage any of the finishes.

I went from Bosch 14.4 NiCd to 12v Li-on about three years ago.  There's some runout, sure, but it doesn't make a difference in the ways we use them (cabinet installation/fabrication.)
I had a couple of batteries fizzle out on me while using their 12V oscillating tool, and service dept was great, but I wasn't happy with the fact it happened.
Next time I have to buy new drills I am going to go with the Milwaukee "Fuel" (brushless) 12V series.
 
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