What do you like most about Festool routers?

[Kev]

I haven't had a lot of different routers.

To compare with Festool, I can only offer up small Makitas and large Toshibas for long term experience, otherwise it's just tyre kicking or minor testing ... but I have kicked so many tyres  [smile]

To me the difference comes down to (in no particular order):

Refinement / accuracy
Dust collection
Festool accessories and system integration
Ergonomics
Systainer storage
Service & support
Community of knowledge and support

I would venture to say that a Festool router can do what any other router can do - but no other router can do EVERYTHING a Festool router can do. (not trying for a slogan - it's just how I look at it with Festool routers).

 

[Stone Message]

Hi Everyone

I love my OF2200...It is a very powerful machine yet it is the smoothest on startup and whilst running of every router that I have ever used. Do not be put off by its size - I have arthritis in my hands and wrists yet the OF2200 is the first router that I will search for when I have a job to do. Dust collection is brilliant (of course - its made by Festool), the ratchet cutter change is so easy and really does save time. It integrates with so many other Festool bits and pieces- particularly guide rails and so one is not locked into buying 3rd party extras which serve no other purpose. Oh, and it has the smoothest of plunge mechanisms.

The OF2200 is so well engineered and it is a joy to use.

Peter

 

[Timtool]

i like the system approach, and the DC.
That is an advantage big enough for me "do with" some other aspects about Festool routers that i find below standards.
Like the expensive copy rings you need to buy for each router, and the fact that they require screwing and centering on the OF1010, none of that on my Bosch routers, they all accept the same rings who can be just clipped on underneath without centering, virtually takes 1 second. And there is the micro depth adjustment which i find a big step backward from my Bosch routers. On the Bosch routers you directly adjust the router depth in real time with the turn knob, with the festool 1010 and 1400 routers the knob adjusts the depth stop only, requiring you to unlock the whole router. Far more annoying and time consuming.