April 17, 2021

Festool ETS 125 vs 150 | Which Sander is Better?

I have been using Festool models for a while now. There is a lot I can contribute to this topic. Features worth mentioning include weight, cost, speed, accessories, safety features, design and the dust extraction system. I recommend you match these features with your needs. If you are looking for a Festool sander, consider the Festool ETS 125 vs 150. A more detailed comparison of these sanders is what this article is about.

Overview of the Festool ETS 125ย 

ETS EC 125/3 EQ-Plus Sander in systainer?

The Festool ETS 125 is a compact-sized one-handed sander. Less effort is needed when operating the sanding tool. The sander has an ergonomic design that makes it comfortable and fits multiple hands. The compact size makes it portable and allows extended vertical and overhead use. The speed variance allows adjusting speed depending on the material you are working on.ย 

The needs of different applications differ. The sander tool has a smooth operation and is efficient. The vibration is well-balanced, and it gives you a smooth finish. The dust collection system effectively gives you clean air and improves finishes. The sander comes with a 5/64 inch sanding stroke that makes the high performance of the ETS 125 impressive.ย 

The 250 Watt motor is powerful and fast in producing spins. The speed ranges from 6,000 to 12,000ft/minute. The tool comes with a 5inch sanding pad, 2mm sanding stroke, weighing up to 1.2kg. The dust extraction system that comes with the machine is 1-1/16inch in diameter. The smooth start-up feature frees up the sander machine from jolting.ย 

Pros

  • Effortless
  • Fast material removal
  • Ergonomic design
  • Speed variance
  • Balanced vibration

Cons

  • The housing tends to heatย 
  • The pads need constant changing

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Key Features of the Festool ETS 125

Sanding padย 

Different types of sanding pads are used by the Festool ETS 125. The type of application determines the type of sanding pad. What difference lies in the hardness? The soft sanding pad is for coarse and fine sanding on flat and convex surfaces, and the extra-soft is for fine sanding on molded parts and arches. Replacing the sanding pad is easy. You need the perfect tools to unscrew the four screws, pull the sanding pad downwards, attach the new sanding pad, and tighten the four screws using your hand.ย 

Dust extraction system

The Jetstream design on the sander tool has an efficient dust removal feature. You have clean air that surrounds you. The sander does not clog. That makes it durable. You are saved from constant cleaning when operating the machine. Installing the dust bag is easy. You slide the bag into the connection piece until it makes a clicking sound. The dust bag needs emptying when the suction power decreases.ย 

Sanding stroke

The tight sanding stroke is 5/64inches big. It gives you improved sanding and smooth and super fine finishes.ย 

Speed

The speed variance allows you to control and adjust the speed. You have constant speed when operating the machine. The pre-selected speed will enable you to have electronic control. The speed limit is from 1 to 3. That determines your desired speed limit, between 6,000 to 12,000 ft/min. You adjust the speed using the adjusting wheel. It allows you to match your speed with the application you are working on.ย 

Overview of the Festool ETS 150

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The Festool ETS 150 is a lightweight sander tool ideal for extra-fine sanding. It comes with a 3mm sanding stroke with surface quality. The high power is made possible by the MMC electronics that characterize the sander tool. It produces a speed range of 6,000 to 10,500 OPM. A soft grip and ergonomic handle allow the sander to move in a horizontal, vertical, or overhead movement.ย 

The tool runs smoothly and is safe due to the sanding pad brake. The machine is faultless, and you have no time to waste re-doing your materials. It weighs up to 3.9lbs, meaning you do not have to put more effort into the machine. You have a speed pre-selection feature and constant speed under load. The sander has a Multi-Jetstream system that allows the sanding tool to operate with air intake and exhaustion.ย 

That gives a smooth airflow to the sander. The process concerns dust extraction, as dust particles are transported to the extraction channel. The system is as good as 100%. It is constant and effective. You maintain constant speed due to the MMC electronics control. The ball bearings withstand different impacts from different applications. The sanding stroke is 1/8inch, and the dust extraction is 1-1/16inch in diameter. The power connector is 310 Watt, and the sanding pad is 6inches.

Pros

  • Constant speed
  • Excellent surface finish
  • MMC electronics
  • Smooth operation
  • Safe

Cons

  • The maximum speed could be higher
  • Little vibration

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Key features of the Festool ETS 150

Soft grip

The Festool ETS 150 has an ergonomic rod handle that allows you to use little effort. You use one or two hands, depending on what you are comfortable with. You have more control over the sander. You handle it comfortably, which increases your working hours if you have more work. The chances of having fatigue are low.ย 

Dust collection system

The dust extraction system is so powerful that it allows you to have a clean environment whilst operating the machine. The leak-tight horse ensures an effective dust collection. That gives you a good health system as you work on different materials. The chances are high that you have excellent work, free of errors.ย 

Sanding pad brake

The sanding pad brake is a safety feature with the sanding tool. The brake is there to prevent the pad from turning upwards. Not only is it a safety feature, but it prevents errors on the surface. The surface is scratch-free. That leaves it with a smooth and flawless finish. You do not have to re-applications to attain perfection.ย 

Plug-it systemย 

There is the use of one electric cable for all the devices. That allows a quick device changeover. The cable is easy to replace if it breaks. You change it quickly via the cable, unlike the traditional way of changing it via the socket or extractor.ย 

Similarities

  • They are both lightweight.
  • They both come with an ergonomic design.
  • They both come with a dust extraction that is 1-1/16inch in diameter.
  • They both have speed variance.

Differences between Festool Rotex 125 vs 150

  • The ETS 125 sander comes with a 5/64inch sanding stroke, whereas the 150 has a 6inch sanding stroke.
  • The ETS 125 model has a 250 Watt motor, whereas the 150 model has a 310 Watt motor.
  • The speed variance of the ETS 125 sander ranges from 6,000 to 12,000 ft/min, whereas the 150 ranges from 6,000 to 10,500 OPM.

Cost

The Festool ETS 125 ranges from 200 to 300, whereas the 150 is under 400. That makes the Festool ETS 125 more affordable than the 150.ย 

Verdict on the Festool ETS 125 vs 150

If you choose the Festool ETS 125, it may be because of its lightweight, powerful motor or fine grinding. It allows you to select the type of pad you want to use. I recommend the hard sanding pad for sharp edges; it stays consistent when working on flat surfaces. If you are on a tight budget, I recommend it. The Festool ETS 150 is ideal for extra-fine sanding. It is comfortable to use and safe thanks to the sanding brake pad. I am sure you have found your best model among the two by now.

David D. Hughes

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