Ok, I've gotta say a little more at this point. And this time I'm going to put on my marketing hat.
Some of the benefits of the Festool CT include:
- HEPA filter, but even beyond that... these have been tested to be FULL UNIT HEPA which is more than just marketing BS. It means there's no leakage around the filter. The filter is only as good as the gasket/interface that it's in.
- Variable speed, great for small sanders and it really does make a difference.
- Self cleaning filter bag. Again, not just marketing BS. It allows you to get more in the bag. I have a Shop-Vac too and I have never come even close to filling a bag in the thing. Sure, you can use it without a bag, but that defeats the purpose of collecting the dust/debris.
- Tool-triggered. While it's not a must, it's sure is convenient. If you have to turn the vac on every time you use it, you're less likely to use it. It's that simple.
- Bigger wheels and a lower center of gravity mean that if you move it around, it'll go over cords and thresholds without trouble. With the optional handle, stairs are easy.
- Sysport. The option to use it as a Systainer dolly is smart. Multiple trips to your truck is not smart.
- It's quiet. My Shop-Vac roars. I was young and stupid and didn't realize the importance of hearing protection when I was younger. I will no doubt pay for that mistake as I age.
- Support. It's hard to put a number on it. But when something goes south and you need it, it's invaluable. A three year warranty with free shipping. It's worth a premium.
Is a Shop-Vac a good choice? Yup. What about a Fein or other brand vac? Yes, definitely. How about a Festool CT? Most definitely. A dust pan and broom? Sure. Just let the dust fall where it may? Ok.
All of these are viable solutions. Each person has to decide what's important to them and that translates into value. We buy based on value, not price. Is the price worth the benefits?
We could debate all of the aspects of various solutions but the answer is different for every person. A 30-day money back guarantee is the perfect way to decide if the value is there. That's why I opened with the suggestion to buy it, try it, use the heck out of it for a month and if it doesn't live up to the price tag, return and get your money back. Congrats, you used a very nice dust extractor for free for a month if it doesn't work out.
And, my CT 22 is almost 8 years old and still kicking like it was new. I hope to get many more years out of my newer CT MIDI. And my Shop-Vac.
Edit: Oh yeah... Some really smart guy made a website about all of this. You should check it out...
http://hepa.festoolusa.com. [big grin]
Shane