Which Festool Sander Should I Get?

[whansen]

I am slowly converting all my old tools over to Festool, and am new to the FOG.  I have recently purchased the TS 55 track saw, the OF 1400 router, CT 26 dust extractor, a whole lot of accessories, and built my own systainer port.  I also have plans for a Kapex in the future, but first I need to replace my old Dewalt random orbit sander that just gave out on me.  I am looking to get a new Festool model to use primarily in building cabinetry (I'm a hobbyist not a pro) and furniture to a lesser extent.  I am heavily considering the RO 90 DX as I really like the dual mode capabilities but I am worried at 3.5" it's simply too small.  Has this been an issue for anybody?  Is it a good primary sander?  I am guessing it should be augmented with another sander for large flat surfaces?  I am also considering purchasing the RO 125 FEQ along with the DTS 400 EQ detail sander instead.  Budget is an issue but I want to make sure I get the right setup from the beginning.  No Festool dealers nearby so I don't have the opportunity to check them out in person.  Any suggestions?  Thanks!

 

[dltflt]

I have the RO150, ETS 150/3, and RO90DX.  Since I bought the RO90 that is definitely my go to sander.  I use the larger sanders when working on a large surface.  The ETS125 does not have the hard pad available which is recommended by everyone here on FOG, even the Festool trainers recommend the hard pad for the RO90.  Just plan on having several different sanders.  I still want the RS2E and the DTS400.

 

[Guy Ashley]

Hi Whansen

First of all  [welcome] to the FOG!! (Beat you agin Alan M, man you are losing your touch!!)

The RO90 is a great "little" sander which also has the additional function of the delta head to get into corners but my view would be put that back down your list at the moment.

Similarly the DTS 400 is a "small" sander and although very useful I wouldn't put at the top of the list to start with.

My choice would be the RO150, which has the function of Rotary for rapid stock removal, (it can be a bit aggressive if you let it) but then at a flick of the switch to Random Orbit is an acceptable 5mm orbit finish.

Then the next I would go for is the ETS 150/3 which is a brilliant finish sander.

Thereafter the RO90, RTS 400, (u will have the delta capability of the DTS with the RO90) and the cadillac of Festool sanders for big panels would be the RS200.

IMHO thats the way to go, but which ever Festool sander you do get you wont regret the purchase.

 

[ScotF]

For a first sander I would probably opt for one with a bigger pad size.  If you only need to sand smaller areas like cabinet face frames, then the RO90 is a great sander to have.  If you need to sand larger field areas, then a larger pad will ensure a flatter surface and be much more efficient.  My personal favorite for large areas is the RS2E 1/2 sheet sander.  I also like any of the 6 inch sanders with a hard pad -- the Rotex 150  and ETS 150 -- both are great sanders.  The DTS400 is a gem of a sander and my go-to for corners and also sanding narrow edges (although the RO90 can also get into corners).  It also works well on rail and stiles.

Scot

 

[semenza]

Hi whansen,

Welcome to the fOG!  [smile]

The RO90 is an excellent multi use sander , but I would want something larger for cabinets. If budget is an issue and you will be going with one sander for quite a while the ETS150/5 is an excellent general purpose sander while still being a full fledge finish sander. Outfitted with a good range of abrasives and the super soft and hard pads it will do most tasks. Everything from stripping to sanding between finish coats. It was the only sander I had for several years, and I built a wide variety of things in that time period.  While the ROTEX150 (which I also own) is even more all purpose it is also quite a bit more expensive, has a bit of a learning curve to use effectively. And I don't feel it is as  handy or smooth as a finish sander , even though it has tthe same 5mm stroke as the ETS150/5.

Seth

 

[Bob Marino]

This subject is extremely personal; no absolutes here. Festool sanders run the gamut, from small and light, to detail, to aggressive and everything in between.
You are doing mostly cabinetry. As a first sander, I'd opt for the ETS 150/5. It's smooth, light and with a larger pad, ensures a flatter surface and quicker results.
The ETS 150's , IMHO are the go to sanders for most of my work; they are a  pleasure to use.

Bob

 

[live4ever]

I am relatively new to Festool sanders and certainly don't have the experience of other FOGers.  However, I have the same needs as you and recently went through the same decision process.  I got a 150/3 and RO90 and have found those to be a tremendous combination.  The only Festool sander I'd like to add to this combo is the RAS for versatile stripping, scribing, and polishing.

 

[Timtool]

Another vote for the ETS 150's here as a base sander.

By trying to get away cheap when i started with festool sanders, i ended up wasting allot of money because i bought the wrong sanders.
Say if you start with an ETS150, and later feel you need something more aggressive, you can just get the RO150. Getting either the 90 or 125 would actually cost more from the moment you take at least 2 boxes of sandpaper with them.

 

[Kev]

This subject is extremely personal; no absolutes here. Festool sanders run the gamut, from small and light, to detail, to aggressive and everything in between.
You are doing mostly cabinetry. As a first sander, I'd opt for the ETS 150/5. It's smooth, light and with a larger pad, ensures a flatter surface and quicker results.
The ETS 150's , IMHO are the go to sanders for most of my work; they are a  pleasure to use.

Bob

My thoughts exactly. You can do a heck of a lot with the ETS150/5.

My pre Festool arsenal was a Rupes delta and a Rupes 6" orbital as well as a Makita 1/3 sheet orbital (There's also 3" Bosch belt sander in there). Life was like working in a dust cloud with those sanders - even using a vac.

I got a ETS150/5 and a CT Mini ... then basically put everything else away.

Since the ETS150/5, I've added (in this order) a RO 90, RO 150 and DTS400.

Next will be either a ETS150/3 or an ETS125 (I'm really a fence sitter on these two as I like the 125's 2mm orbit and lighter weight, but it's another paper size), then an RS2E ... then ultimately replacing the Bosch with a Festool beltie! (The last two will probably be a year away as I can't see anything I'll be doing to warrant them sooner)

I personally wouldn't consider the RO 125 as it's unnecessary overlap for me, but for some the 5" aggressive option is perfect.

Anyway - long story short ... start with an ETS150/5, then add a RO 90. That'll give you the ability finish just about anything ... anything after that is collecting (I mean anything after that is for specific projects).

I'm a hobbyist too - pro's often think differently on sanders as they tend to be more structured in their assembly processes due to repetitive experience doing similar jobs.

 

[davee]

As said earlier, its personal.  I think the RO150 is the most versatile sander going and one I'd purchase fist.  However, the ETS150/3 is a fantastic addition.  The RO90 is the most fun.  If money isn't an issue, you need a combo rather than just a single sander.

 

[semenza]

This subject is extremely personal; no absolutes here. Festool sanders run the gamut, from small and light, to detail, to aggressive and everything in between.
You are doing mostly cabinetry. As a first sander, I'd opt for the ETS 150/5. It's smooth, light and with a larger pad, ensures a flatter surface and quicker results.
The ETS 150's , IMHO are the go to sanders for most of my work; they are a  pleasure to use.

Bob

My thoughts exactly. You can do a heck of a lot with the ETS150/5.

My pre Festool arsenal was a Rupes delta and a Rupes 6" orbital as well as a Makita 1/3 sheet orbital (There's also 3" Bosch belt sander in there). Life was like working in a dust cloud with those sanders - even using a vac.

I got a ETS150/5 and a CT Mini ... then basically put everything else away.

Since the ETS150/5, I've added (in this order) a RO 90, RO 150 and DTS400.
Next will be either a ETS150/3 or an ETS125 (I'm really a fence sitter on these two as I like the 125's 2mm orbit and lighter weight, but it's another paper size), then an RS2E ... then ultimately replacing the Bosch with a Festool beltie! (The last two will probably be a year away as I can't see anything I'll be doing to warrant them sooner)

I personally wouldn't consider the RO 125 as it's unnecessary overlap for me, but for some the 5" aggressive option is perfect.

Anyway - long story short ... start with an ETS150/5, then add a RO 90. That'll give you the ability finish just about anything ... anything after that is collecting (I mean anything after that is for specific projects).

I'm a hobbyist too - pro's often think differently on sanders as they tend to be more structured in their assembly processes due to repetitive experience doing similar jobs.

Kev,

Considering what you already have I'd be thinking about the LS130 for the next one. Rather than another random orbit. For small size you've already got the RO90 and the DTS (light weight as well).

Seth

 

[jacko9]

Welcome to the FOG whansen, This is a re-occurring tropic on here and other sties as well.  I posed the same question about 6 weeks ago looking to supplement my Bosch 3725 sander.  I went to my local dealer and brought a rough piece of teak that had a tung oil finish on one side.  I spent a few hours using the various sanders and went home with the ETS 125 since I had a large supply of 5" sanding disks and it felt really smooth.

Within two weeks I was back for the RO90 sander to compliment my Fein Multimaster and a week after that I returned my ETS 125 for bought the ETS 150/3.  I'm now a happy camper who happens to have a spare Mikata Palm sander, a Milwaukee 1/2 sheet sander and my trusty Bosch that I use for aggressive (and noisy) work.

For a single sander, I'd recommend the ETS 150 in either the 3mm or 5 mm stroke.

 

[Kev]

This subject is extremely personal; no absolutes here. Festool sanders run the gamut, from small and light, to detail, to aggressive and everything in between.
You are doing mostly cabinetry. As a first sander, I'd opt for the ETS 150/5. It's smooth, light and with a larger pad, ensures a flatter surface and quicker results.
The ETS 150's , IMHO are the go to sanders for most of my work; they are a  pleasure to use.

Bob

My thoughts exactly. You can do a heck of a lot with the ETS150/5.

My pre Festool arsenal was a Rupes delta and a Rupes 6" orbital as well as a Makita 1/3 sheet orbital (There's also 3" Bosch belt sander in there). Life was like working in a dust cloud with those sanders - even using a vac.

I got a ETS150/5 and a CT Mini ... then basically put everything else away.

Since the ETS150/5, I've added (in this order) a RO 90, RO 150 and DTS400.
Next will be either a ETS150/3 or an ETS125 (I'm really a fence sitter on these two as I like the 125's 2mm orbit and lighter weight, but it's another paper size), then an RS2E ... then ultimately replacing the Bosch with a Festool beltie! (The last two will probably be a year away as I can't see anything I'll be doing to warrant them sooner)

I personally wouldn't consider the RO 125 as it's unnecessary overlap for me, but for some the 5" aggressive option is perfect.

Anyway - long story short ... start with an ETS150/5, then add a RO 90. That'll give you the ability finish just about anything ... anything after that is collecting (I mean anything after that is for specific projects).

I'm a hobbyist too - pro's often think differently on sanders as they tend to be more structured in their assembly processes due to repetitive experience doing similar jobs.

Kev,

Considering what you already have I'd be thinking about the LS130 for the next one. Rather than another random orbit. For small size you've already got the RO90 and the DTS (light weight as well).

Seth

Can you believe that hadn't even hit my radar.

OK - desire sequence re-ordered ... The LS130 is next. Now you need to suggest some projects to use it  [smile]

 

[Bob Gerritsen]

Must say all festool sanders I've tried are great. Used an older model Festo rotex for years and years and was sure I'd never use anything else. Now that I have a 150/3 though, the rotex is collecting dust (more passively that is). For me as a pro, the balance is important too. At times I use it hours on end, you just can't beat the ergonomics of the 150/3 and 5. Finish quality is top notch too, I usually use 180 grit and to me the result equals finer grit I've used on the old rotex. Can't speak for the newer models rotex though. Thinking of getting the 150/5 too but waiting for a review from a friend who has both.

Might ad I usually do flat surfaces, try to avoid finishing after assembly as it is far less efficient.

 

[agehall]

Let me jump in a bit here. I currently own a RO150 and a RO90. But after reading a lot of praise for the ETS125, I'm considering getting one for finishing work. However, I'd hate to own one sander of each size (90, 125 and 150).

Should I get rid of my RO150 and get a RO125+ETS125 instead? Or maybe just practice doing finishing work with the RO150? Or should I perhaps consider the ETS150/3 instead of an ETS125?

 

[Kev]

Let me jump in a bit here. I currently own a RO150 and a RO90. But after reading a lot of praise for the ETS125, I'm considering getting one for finishing work. However, I'd hate to own one sander of each size (90, 125 and 150).

Should I get rid of my RO150 and get a RO125+ETS125 instead? Or maybe just practice doing finishing work with the RO150? Or should I perhaps consider the ETS150/3 instead of an ETS125?

Welcome to the ETS125 v's ETS150/3 dilemma.

One thing I have finally decided though ... The Mirka Ceros was in there as a consideration for me in either 125 or 150 form, but the compact form factor plus monster transformer has been eliminated from my shopping list due to its vibration.

 

[Timtool]

Let me jump in a bit here. I currently own a RO150 and a RO90. But after reading a lot of praise for the ETS125, I'm considering getting one for finishing work. However, I'd hate to own one sander of each size (90, 125 and 150).

Should I get rid of my RO150 and get a RO125+ETS125 instead? Or maybe just practice doing finishing work with the RO150? Or should I perhaps consider the ETS150/3 instead of an ETS125?

I started out with an ETS125 and RO125 combo, because they were cheaper than the 150mm versions and all my previous sanders had been 125mm. Bad decision that was, none of these sanders could beat my Bosch GEX125 at normal sanding either in speed, comfort or finish quality. I felt silly for returning both, so i only returned the RO125 and got an ETS150/5 instead, and what a difference! Theres hardly anything to improve about it, and i quickly sold my Bosch.

I am a professional user, and have several festool sanders, the ETS 125 is the only one i can't ever find a good reason to use, for general and finish sanding the '150 blows it away, for finish sanding on assembled furniture or light sanding between finish coats, either the DTS or RTS400 are much better suited.
I suppose it's advantage is it's weight, you could use it upside down or something, but then an ETS 150 will do the same job twice as fast, so even there it fails.

 

[agehall]

But isn't the stroke on the ETS150/5 a bit too much for finishing work? I might be wrong, but I was under the impression that a shorter stroke was better for a finishing sander.

 

[AlexThePalex]

But isn't the stroke on the ETS150/5 a bit too much for finishing work? I might be wrong, but I was under the impression that a shorter stroke was better for a finishing sander.

It is not about the size of the stroke, it's what you do with it.

A skilled person will get a better finish with a 7 mm sander than a beginner with a 2 mm sander. If a skilled person has both, the 2 mm is the easier route to succes, but he will be able to get the exact same result with either one of them.

People on this forum stare themselves blind a bit too much on the stroke of a sander. Stroke size doesn't say what can or can not be done, it says more about how easy and cost effective it is at a certain task. 

If you want to sand a rough or painted 8'' x 4'' board down to bare wood it will go a lot quicker with a 150 mm sander with stroke 5 mm than with a 125 mm sander with stroke 2 mm, but you can get the job done with both sanders. Eventually.

If you want to sand a freshly made wooden chair to a perfect finish it will be easier and quicker with the 2 mm sander but with a bit more effort and time you'll also get there with the 5 mm sander.

 

[agehall]

But isn't the stroke on the ETS150/5 a bit too much for finishing work? I might be wrong, but I was under the impression that a shorter stroke was better for a finishing sander.

It is not about the size of the stroke, it's what you do with it.

I read that and started laughing. It sounded like a bad excuse for something else...

Nevertheless, you make a very interesting point. Perhaps I should stop looking at a new ETSxxx and instead practice more with my Rotex sanders. If what you say is true, I should be able to work up a fine finish using those. I'm just a bit worried that they are way to rough to use when it comes to doing the sanding between layers of paint for example. But I guess that if I slap on 800+ grit paper, it should all be fine..?