TS55, Carvex - Corded vs cordless? New BT Feature batteries & remote

[Oceans05]

Good morning!

Thank you everyone for your help with my questions so far!

Another mental conundrum...

I am within the 30 day return window for the TS55 saw I bought. I am already returning the CT26 as I want the newer model with upgraded hoses. With the release of the Bluetooth accessory button, and new bluetooth batteries, I am debating whether to return the TS55 and the Carvex (have not had a chance to use the carvex yet) and purchase the cordless versions of each. I plan to have the vac hose hooked up the the tool anyway, but the tools also feature brushless motors.

Those of you who have the cordless versions, how are they? Are they heavy and cumbersome / is the corded model better?

I am a home hobbyist, but having the battery option for my older ryobi circular and jigsaw were really nice. I initially purchased the corded versions of the festools because I wanted them hooked up to the vacuum, and loved the auto on feature. but now with the BT batteries and features, this changes everything!!  [eek] [blink]

Thank you !!
Stephan

 

[nclemmons]

I have the cordless Carvex and like it a lot.  I don't use the Carvex with my CT26 as dust collection on a jigsaw is not that great in general.  But personally I really like the battery operation.  One reason I went with battery is I use the Carvex for cutting down materials I bring home from the lumber yard and have to bring down stairs to my shop.  Battery makes it more convenient.

I also find a cordless Carvex is easier to maneuver into different situations.  It's typically a 'short run' tool so I never worry about the battery expiring and wishing I had the corded version.

I have read here on the forum that the battery TSC55 is actually more powerful than the corded TS55.  But I don't have one.  With the new batteries and BT support to a vac, I think they will become even more popular.

 

[MrToolJunkie]

I have the cordless TSC55 and it is awesome. Plenty of power for every cut I need to make and the batteries last quite awhile. I also have the TS75 and prefer the cordless version. I hook it up to a vacuum and so the Bluetooth will be a nice option. The bag works great, but you have to empty it lots when cutting thicker solid wood. I really like the freedom of cordless and not being tethered to a cord or hose if using the dust bag. Highly recommend it. Also, I have used the corded TS55 and I am in the camp that the cordless just seems to have more power - does not bog down, even in thick cuts and it has plenty of torque. It really is a great saw and probably in my top 3-4 Festool tools.

 

[ear3]

There have been a number of threads about the comparison between the TSC55 and corded version:http://festoolownersgroup.com/festool-tool-reviews/ts55-v-tsc55/

For me the corded is not just a better option for its convenience, it's also a better saw, and I sold my corded TS55 after using the TSC for a month or two.

Regarding the Carvex: if I had to do it over I would definitely get the cordless option.  The DC on the jigsaw is not great to begin with compared to other Festool offerings, and so the trade off of going completely cordless (no power cord or Vac hose) is totally worth it in my opinion.  The Carvex is the one tool where I feel like the hose gets in the way of doing certain cuts, and it can make for a weird balance on the machine because the hose adds so much leverage to the back of the unit.

 

[Cheese]

As Edward noted, go with the TSC. I also own a TS 55 and will trade it in at some time for a Mafell MT55.

As far as the jig saw goes, I own both the Trion and the Carvex and will also sell both of them as my Mafell P1 cc is several times better than either one.

 

[ManipulatingWood]

Id also recommend the TSC 55 over the corded version.  The dust collection bag does a surprisingly good job when not hooked up to a CT.  I’d definitely suggest buying a 2nd set of spare batteries to avoid down time for charging.  I broke down 4 sheets of ply last weekend and my 5.2 batteries ran out of juice at the start of the 4th sheet. 

 

[pettyconstruction]

Id also recommend the TSC 55 over the corded version.  The dust collection bag does a surprisingly good job when not hooked up to a CT.  I’d definitely suggest buying a 2nd set of spare batteries to avoid down time for charging.  I broke down 4 sheets of ply last weekend and my 5.2 batteries ran out of juice at the start of the 4th sheet.

Plus 3 or 4 for the TSC saw. I run the 6 A H battery in mine.
I can’t compare with a 55 because I have a TS-75 , but like the saw.
Charlie

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

 

[Oceans05]

Awesome thank you for the responses everyone! Going to go with the cordless!