Review of Festool ETS 150/3 Random Orbit Sander (Product No. 571726)

ScotF

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This is arguably one of the smoothest random orbital sanders on the market.  This results in ultra-smooth finishes with no swirl marks and minimal dust, a necessity before applying a finish to your completed project.

Let’s take a look at what is included with the machine:

• ETS 15/3 Sander
• Plug-it power cord
• StickFix sanding pad (soft) – this is the black one.  Some photos show the hard StickFix sanding pad that is blue and this is an optional accessory that I highly recommend.  The sanding pad now comes with the Multi-Jetstream technology
• Filter bag and holder
• Abrasive sample pack
• Allen key for removing the sanding pad – as integrated storage underneath the dust port
• Packaged nicely in a Systainer 3

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The sander is designed around effective dust control; smooth, vibration free operation; MMC electronics to deliver constant speed under load with thermal overload protection; ergonomic handles including a rubberized top grip that is comfortable to use over prolonged sanding.  All in all this adds up to a sander that is a dream to use and that leaves a very smooth finish.

Here are the specifications of this sander:

• 310 watts or 2.6 amps of power
• 6 inch pad diameter
• 1/8 inch sanding stroke (yields a super fine finish)
• Variable speed range from 6,000 – 10,500 orbits per minute
• Utilizes the standard 27 mm dust extraction port
• Weighs in at only 4 pounds

This sander is a joy to use.  I have used other makes and models and none compare to the smoothness of this sander.  I used to have tingling fingers and hands after using my other sanders for extended periods.  With the ETS 150/3, I can sand for hours and I do not experience any tingling.  All of the controls are within easy reach.  There is a speed dial control on the front and a trigger switch with a lock-on button on the main handle.  It has a soft-start mechanism and the MMC eletronics keeps the pad moving at a constant speed.  While it has thermal overload protection, I cannot see pushing a sander hard enough to cause any problems but it does give piece of mind.  It incorporates the standard Plug-it power cord and a standard D27 hose.  

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I generally use the hard pad when sanding as I find I can get a flatter surface than with a soft pad.  I also do not need to worry when I approach an edge that I will round it over.  Changing the pad is very easy – simply use the allen key that is stored on the sander right under the dust port to loosen the screw.  Remove it and change the pad.  The sander is light weight and is very easy to maneuver around the work piece.  I really like the new Multi-Jetstream pads and paper too.  The Festool papers last a very, very long time and the extra holes aid in better dust collection and helping the abrasive last longer as it runs cooler (since there is more airflow).

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The 1/8 inch stroke is the smallest stroke that is available on any of Festool’s random orbital sanders.  It leaves a very fine finish.  While it can remove material quickly with the coarser grit papers, it excels as a fine finishing sander and I prefer to use my Rotex for the coarser work.  I would consider this sander to be one of my primary finishing tools and one of three key sanders I have in my arsenal (the Rotex and DTS 400 being my other two go-to machines).
 
Hi Scott

Thanks for the excellent review. Just one question- I believe the ets 125 has the smallest sanding stroke at 5/64 or 2mm.

Somebody tell me if I am wrong.
 
Why does reading this site make me want to sell my 150/5 and replace it with a 150/3, even though I have no logical or compelling reason to do so?  I really feel I am missing out on something.
 
Kodi Crescent said:
Why does reading this site make me want to sell my 150/5 and replace it with a 150/3, even though I have no logical or compelling reason to do so?  I really feel I am missing out on something.

I think you're nuts. [big grin]  I'm just having fun, no offense is intended.  I've commented on this topic I don't know ho many times now, so here it is again.  You aren't going to see any improvements in finish quality between these two sanders in almost every normal wood working applications.  You'll start to see a difference in specialty finishes requiring very fine sanding.  You'll be much farther ahead with the /5 for everyday wood working.   
 
Richard Leon said:
Hi Scott

Thanks for the excellent review. Just one question- I believe the ets 125 has the smallest sanding stroke at 5/64 or 2mm.

Somebody tell me if I am wrong.

Thanks for pointing that out -- I should have said of the 6 inch sanders Festool offers  [big grin].

Scot
 
Brice Burrell said:
Kodi Crescent said:
Why does reading this site make me want to sell my 150/5 and replace it with a 150/3, even though I have no logical or compelling reason to do so?  I really feel I am missing out on something.

I think you're nuts. [big grin]  I'm just having fun, no offense is intended.  I've commented on this topic I don't know ho many times now, so here it is again.  You aren't going to see any improvements in finish quality between these two sanders in almost every normal wood working applications.  You'll start to see a difference in specialty finishes requiring very fine sanding.  You'll be much farther ahead with the /5 for everyday wood working.   

I would agree -- if you do not have a Rotex and want a great random orbit sander, then the 150/5 would be a great option.  However, the 150/3 expands the capabilities of the Rotex with a finer stroke and increases options and flexibility.

Scot
 
Thanks guys!  I'm just commenting on how when I read this stuff I somehow feel that I cheated myself by not choosing one over the other.  It doesn't make any sense to feel that way, and I'm glad you've more or less said its irrational to trade.

Reading this forum makes you long for tools that you probably don't need.  I'll probably buy a RAS in the near future.  Do I NEED it?  No.  I could use it here or there every now and then.  But for some compelling reason I HAVE to have it.  I don't know why.

The RO90 is the same sort of thing.  For some odd reason I'm compelled to acquire it.  I don't know why.  I probably wouldn't use it.  I'd have this large collection of sanders, and no time to use them.  This board has a powerful draw.  Must resist.
 
I know why I'm drawn.  I'm buying tools for my son to inherit.  They'll have minimal use.

Then he'll sell them to buy beer in college.
 
Kodi Crescent said:
Thanks guys!  I'm just commenting on how when I read this stuff I somehow feel that I cheated myself by not choosing one over the other.  It doesn't make any sense to feel that way, and I'm glad you've more or less said its irrational to trade.

Festool makes two different sanders for a reason and each has a place in the sanding arsenal.  There is overlap to be sure, but if there was not a need for a larger stroke over a smaller one I doubt Festool would waste the time and resources making two different machines.

I agree with the draw to acquire everything...it is easy to get caught up in all the excitement of these tools and of course the folks on this forum are all eager to help you spend the money!  [laughing] 

Scot
 
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