This is a very effective commercial. I trust and respect your opinion, and if I was in the market for this kind of tool, this video would have great weight. Festool got their money's worth with you. Great work, better than any million dollar ad I've seen on tv
Ben (I think I have your name correct)...this heartfelt review absolutely provided value to me. I ordered the Festool PLANEX LHS 2 225 EQI-Plus several days ago and it just arrived today. I'm not taking it out of the box yet, though, because I'm having trouble finding the 577101 hose it requires. No one seems to have it in stock at the moment. That hose comes with the CT36 dust collector, but I already have the CT26 that I bought several years ago. Frankly, I didn't realize the hose did not come with the sander when I ordered it, and I think it should be included, since it's made for that particular sander. In the meantime, I enjoyed your comments and your review. I now have a better idea of what to expect if I ever get to use my sander!
Great review Ben. I love the part about the “Going broke rate”! Absolutely so true and a good affirmation to younger contractors to set their rates on their cost of doing business. There will always be someone doing it for less; let them go broke! 👍
In NH and MASS thats all they do is cut each other’s prices it’s so bad the price of drywall is the same as 1996 $65 a 12’ sheet materials hang tape sand and prime lol Keep it !!!!
Harness is a game-changer. All of sudden I started to like sanding ceilings. With the harness you can do 90 sqm in one go. And it doesn't leave your arms near-death exhausted.
@@mikecanada2020 I've written quite a long answer, but I included a link to some shop and youtube deleted it. So the harness is Festool TG-LHS 225. It's worth buying a sleeved hose (or making it yourself), cos that of Festool (part number: 201761) is around 450 CAD. Cos harness installation and de-installation takes some time, you must adjust your work-flow to it. So after "harnessing" you sand all the ceilings. Ten "unharness" and walls.
I absolutely love mine, I save time sanding out jobs and on clean up at the end of the jobs. Also I do a fair amount of insurance jobs where the clients are living in the job and they always appreciate how dust free it is on sanding day
I bought a Wen drywall pole sander from Amazon 3 years ago when I started my reno. It's heavy. but gets the job done quickly. Great for sanding skim coat when filling sand swirled plaster. Must have tool for big jobs.
Many years ago, I learned: as a pro, a festool tool is worth the money, hands down. And I'm not even a pro. The price is high, but the value is even way higher. (I'm a modest DIY woodworker)
Festool stuff is very good quality, and should be expensive. But what they charge is insultingly ludicrous! Their drills are the most absurd; all they do is turn a thing, but they're $400?! If Festool dropped their prices by 30%, I would buy more of their tools (I have a sander and the bigger Domino machine), but with what they charge, I avoid them because I don't like being ripped off, nor do I want to support a company that rips people off.
I believe the festools are German made and not manufactured in China so that's why the cost is probably higher. They're the Porsche of tools lol. I pretty much buy Milwaukee tools but wish more were made here in the USA.
@@DJ_Driven Yes, they're German, though I'm not positive that everything is made there. Their prices are insane even if they're made in Germany. Their tools should be expensive, as they're very good quality, but they're extra ripoff expensive on top of that and they know it. It's like with Apple products; they're good quality but they know they can rip off their customers because they're Apple and people worship them.
Skilled professional tradesmen buy the best tools they can afford. Buy quality, cry once. If you have steady work the tools will pay for themselves in time savings and quality of finish and longevity of the tools themselves. The pleasure of holding and working with superior quality tools has an intrinsic value that may be difficult to quantify for some. I try not to be penny wise and pound foolish but I understand that budgetary concerns and cash flow are real. That said, I take pride in my work and I mostly enjoy my work. Working with top quality tools enhances that enjoyment. Stay safe and keep up the good work.😁
Replaced our planex with a planex 2, first run with it yesterday and I immediately noticed the digging issue on the outer edge. Found the retail interface pad (replacement backing pad really) and while better it is still dished a bit with the outside edge having a flair. Still leaving some marks, kind of a silly issue, the sanding pad should be a little domed in the center so that wall pressure flattens it out.
Just wanna say the stop on the vacuum is supposed to be kicked with the foot. Also use the sealed bags it's so much easier than cleaning the filter, plus it's nice when you change the bag.
I think most people would feel like they can't justify the price for this drywall sander (and the vac, if you don't already have one) if you don't make money with it. However, I think one also has to consider how much sanding your jobs around the house require and how much it would cost to hire a professional to do that work for you. I felt it was worth buying for my home projects, because it would cost me more to hire pros to do the jobs I want to do, and I'm most likely going to be more conscientious about doing a good job than anyone I hire would. And what played a big part in clinching it for me is the fact that it's electric, is random orbit, and it connects to a dust collector. I've already done quite a bit of sanding in my house with one of those small, hand-held sanders with the vacuum hose. It worked and did a decent job, but it was a lot of wear on the hand and arm, and it took quite some time to finish. I want to get my drywall sanding jobs done fast, and this seems like the perfect tool to use.
Ben, Thank You for your thoughts on the tool..I watched the whole 17min video & probably never buy one since I only do minor drywall repairs. I still enjoyed your rambling threw the video. Keep up the good work & see you in your next video!!
For popcorn ceiling removal I rented the Porter Cable vacuum/ sander setup from Home Depot when they carried them- it worked great! Similar car based large pre-filter like the festool filter and large collection bin. Virtually zero dust with that setup. Sadly, Home Depot dropped them and rental places don't carry them - I expect the abrasive dust eventually damages when in rental use. My alternative was to buy the "King Canada" sander only (approx $300 CAD)which has a radial light, but mediocre dust collection- it sucks the dust from the surface, but some remains in the sanding head. In my setup, I used a dust deputy to intercept the heavier dust, but still managed to damage a central vac motor (it was expected) with drywall dust debris. I gather a dedicated cheapo shop vac using filter bags would work as well.
True, but if you can't see any at all, the invisible stuff will likely be reduced by similar levels. It's not like a HEPA system will only capture the visible stuff and pass the rest unimpeded.
I'm using the festool harness and I can sand an entire 2500sq house popcorn ceilings in a day with it. 36grit paper for painted popcorn and 80grit for unpainted. Also use 240grit for sanding final coat. It takes time and practice to get your flow, but it saves my back and my neck and my lungs.
@@Nobody-tt8cw I use the tear-resistant fleece filter bag that comes in a pack of 5, #497539 I modified each bag with and opening on the bottom to make it easier to empty.
Ben, great review. Love all your videos and content. I just bought the planex 2 (11/2022) and it's an absolute game changer. You and I both experienced a lot of the same points and benefits of it. Def a worthwhile investment. One thing I noticed was with the vac, you can put the loose end of the cord in the top where the hose goes. When you install a sustainer on top- it'll lock the cord in but I agree I wish it had a better cord management system. Cheers
If the light helps as much as you say, then that would make an huge difference! I do not mind sanding with my non-motorized, vacuum attachments that are made by Full Circle International. But, having a light at the correct angle that moves with me, that would be fantastic!
I've seen the videos of you cleaning the dust collector filter and emptying the full bag. I think I have a good tip for you that will put an abrupt end to that routine. Purchase an Oneida Dust Deputy and insert it between your sander and your dust collector with vacuum hoses. The Dust Deputy is one of those vacuum cyclone attachments, and this model is not only very practical for home use and on the job site, but it’s extremely effective. Approximately 90% (or more!) of the drywall dust (or dust from wood sanding) accumulates inside the Dust Deputy container (which can be emptied in a matter of minutes). The added benefits of using the Dust Deputy are: the dust is contained and doesn’t fly around in the room, the dust collector filter and bag will experience only a very light dusting (say good-bye to emptying bags and cleaning filters!), your vacuum will always operate at full suction (since the filter doesn’t get clogged), and it extends the life of your dust collector’s expensive HEPA filter and bag. I also use the Dust Deputy for dust-free vacuuming of the ash that accumulates in my pellet stove during the winter months. If you do any sanding in areas where you want to easily contain the dust so it doesn’t fly throughout the room or house, and you want your dust collector to operate at maximum capacity all the time, then the Dust Deputy is the answer to your prayers! Here’s the link for the metal version I purchased a number of years ago. They also offer plastic versions that are a little cheaper in price: www.oneida-air.com/dust-deputy/heavy-duty-dust-deputy-2-cyclone-10-gal-kit
Hey Ben. I have done lots of muddying and sanding by hand and covered in dust. I recently bought the festool vacuum 48 and the sander and it’s by far the best tool out there the key about the sander is that it also orbital which make a difference. Great review Ben.
Your reviews are what pushed me to pull the trigger on getting a Festool for painting and it's a game changer. Thank you so much! The Planex box does hook up to the CT 36, try the T-Lock at the front, it doesn't hook up from the middle but its perfectly balanced even though it looks like it'll tip over. PS. thanks for getting me back into skateboarding too!
Great review, we just picked one up with the 48L auto clean vac. Where can you buy the interface pad. We can see the little “swirlies” and would rather finish the job with one tool.
I wonder if Home Depot would have this tool to rent for a couple of days. Would save the DIYer from shelling out big bucks for the odd job now & then. Maybe you could put a bug in their ear or ask Planex to talk to them.
We have a big Ace hardware that caters to contractors. They sell all the festools and have a tool rental department. It's mainly used by the contractors that bring in their equipment for warranty repairs and need another tool to keep the business going and avoid downtime. You may have to do a search for contractor equipment to find it in your area.
Have you tried the hilti one? Trying to decide between a hilti and a festool sander and dust extractor combo. Not a lot of reviews on the hilti but there is a couple. They say it's lighter and the head has more range with flexibility than the festool. But I want to make sure I buy the right one the first time
Thank you for your informative and honest review of the Planex 2. I have been considering the purchase for over 6 months. You may have just clinched it.
Hey Ben, The Planex Systainer³ XXL will fasten to the CT, but only with another T-Loc or Systainer³ between the XXL and CT, and the XXL cantilevered to the front or back. Festool demonstrates the connection in one of their videos, I’m pretty sure It’s a video with Sedge. Thanks for the review, I was on the fence about upgrading from the Planex 1 to Planex 2, but you’ve convinced me.
in the market for a new vacuum. Would you say the dust extractor would be a good choice as an all around vacuum for a carpenter who does a lot of finish work but a fair amount of everything else also?
Nice review...and all the other Festool vids you posted. After watching many other brand reviews, this is the one for me. What was the outcome of the prototype pad that corrects the ridge problem?
I think you're saying that the closed bags filter dust better but hold less dust accumulation. They collect dust better but fill more quickly and need to be changed more frequently and therefore cost more. More bags $ used. Thanks.
So we've just ordered it. We are looking forward to doing the entire house. Most of the house has this oarnge peel texture QUESTION: Would you do a light skim coat on it or just sand it to make it smooth???
Nice honest review! You have certainly learned a lot about the tool since your first video. FYI make sure to tuck the plastic liner behind the three metal tabs in the front of the vacuum for anti-static.
I'm in market for the makita version. No projects planned. So I wait. But bought a cheep pole sander with vacuum attachment for now. Works well. Little dust
I had porter cable for years with the dewalt vacuum, best vacuum to me, also sell clean up, and I use bags to colect dust, than i bought the easy planex and took me time to get used to due the rpm which is lots of difference from 2000 arp to 800 max that festool has, but the torque is much stronger, now i got the new festool and haven't tried yet, waiting on 4 thousand sq ft house that we are hanging now to give it a try, but same as the easy planex i order the ultra soft pad for smooth finish and still wondering if i should buy the c36 vacuum since my dewalt work perfect plus is an other thousand to spend, and I dont know if is worth it
Nice review, thx for this. Question: would you recommend the planex 2 tool to someone who has never before done plaster sanding? (Not drywall plates, but the 1 cm thick applied plaster on brickwalls: ie Platres Lambert is the brand)
I did look into this product after having to sand texture off a ceiling, my God was that a mess, with a pole sander my arms would be weak and sore in 20 minutes. With an electric sander the room would be a white cloud and you have to stop and let it air out every 5 minutes. It took several days to sand the texture down to where it was ready for painting. But unfortunately since this isn't my job, just the occasional project, I could not justify the price. Not even the 3rd rate knockoffs where cheap enough to consider for just the occasional use. So I had to suffer the cloud of dust. But if I were doing this professionally being able to get the job done quickly without choking to death would definitely be worth the expense. Oh and something not related to this video, I HATE THE STUPID GOOGLE FI ADS! When I hear that ad start singing those stupid lyrics I can't find the mouse quick enough to mute the video. I start yelling my own lyrics to cover up the sound until it stops. And my lyrics are definitely not PG rated. :)
I just looked online and there's several different drywall sanders very similar to that one that have the light like it does, and they're $150 US without the vacuum base, like how that one sells for $600 US without the big vacuum base, I believe those other ones are supposed to be hooked up to a shop vac, they have some sort of in-line filter though, probably so the shop vac doesn't get overwhelmed.
@@bobseguin2195 That's around MSRP but I'm seeing them online for $600 to $750 US. Of course that's without the base thing (whatever it's called), one way or the other I'm buying something like that, I can't afford the Festool unit just to get myself started out on my own but whatever I buy hopefully by the time it breaks I'll be able to buy the Festool one, I gotta get something though because I'm sick of homeowners cry babying about the drywall dust, I do everything to minimalize it but some people just can't come to terms with the fact that it is what it is, they just aren't happy with you doing things for half the price of everyone else and you saving them all that money, they'll still find something to whine about because they have to spend money in the first place, you can just see the look of panic in their face when it comes time to pay up, even though it's half of what they were going to.
@@dukecraig2402 I used the wen sander for a year, not bad, worked OK, finally bought the mirka when it was available here in canada, for me it's the best, I know festool fans will say, no way. But I've used the planex 2, and I stand on that thought, and it's a little cheaper.......
The factories that create powdery products, generate a lot of paper dust, sawdust, grain dust etc... ALL use cyclone separators to to keep their collected dust out of the vacuum filters. WHY don't any of these (high end, high cost) tool companies make a vacuum with a cyclone separator built in? That's all a Dyson is, and he miniaturized them. Yes, there are Dustoppers and the Oneida, but to use them regularly you need to make an integration cart if you want to keep your vacuum mobile. If anyone were to build a cyclone separator into a shop vac, I was counting on Festool to win that race... so far, the marketing people just want to keep us buying filters and bags. This product in this video is a perfect example of a tool that needs a cyclone separator with an easy to dump collection bin.
Dyson may have a patent on it already but that would be awesome 🌪️ would still need a HEPA filter that would catch any residual dust like on the Dyson that could be washed and reused.
I use a regular festool bag (3 ply paper) that you can buy and modify it at the bottom for faster cleanup and reuse. It saves the filter as well since it doesnt get dirty. I usually dispose of the bag after 10-15 uses and put another bag and modify it.
Great review Ben.👍🏻 I have been so tempted to try Festool just for the sander because my arms go dead in 2 seconds! The light, the vacuum, the harness.. sounds like working in a dream.
So, does this sander have the ability to sand floors? I see there is a very aggressive Saphir sanding abrasive. Just curious. Great video, keep them coming! Thanks!
No, it would not be suitable for sanding floors. It could probably be done but would take forever if you were trying to take the floor down to bare wood. It just does not have the weight or aggressiveness needed, even with the courser grits. I have a planex and I also own professional wood floor sanding equipment. If I only had one tool for sanding a floor and just one room at a time in my own house dust free, I would use the RO 150 by festool. Can be extremely aggressive at 36 grit to polishing at 1000 grit. Otherwise I would rent the proper floor sanding equipment.
I wish they would come out with a cheaper line. Or adjust their prices for the everyday worker that doesn't have get a small loan out just to buy a tool ..
Love ur video, about to move to B.C end of this year, do u have any suggestion for tools shopping, did some research, Toronto has couple professional tool shop, can't find it in Vancouver
Sounds silly but the light is important. I use a Planex-1 in conjunction with a tripod-mounted inspection light. It works but is a pain in the butt to work around. I suppose I could add some batteries and an LED strip but it probably wouldn’t be as robust as the OEM solution.
@@user-zz8ln3uh5x you just order led strip. It comes with a USB connection and 3m tape on the back. Stick that on. Then a power bank off amazon. Or run that corded. And boom. Planex light. Go see CS drywall on RUclips they have done it.
Looks like ct36 sander is the one “designed for use with the Kapex.” Is that the one you have? (It’s about 1/3 of the kit price with the Kapex.). Sounds like it’s a standard vacuum, can be used with any tool.
i know it's crazy, but i'm not a contractor. just DIY. but I've done so many drywall projects around the house I'm actually looking at the planex 2 and 36 ac extractor. do you think I should go cheaper with like a dewalt drywall sander and ct midi? either way I would use the dust extractor in my garage with powertools (table saw, miter saw, track saw, sander).
So on Planex 2 the interface pad sticks out? On 1 and EX they had a different shallower under-pad... Not sure to which extent it's cleaner - haven't noticed gauging with the EZ - but definitely swirlys. But I think they do go away with the finish (priming, actually)
Ben, you never explained how you do inside corners. That has been my biggest question with this tool. Do you still have to use a sponge? Or do you use one of their palm sanders?
Glad it all worked out for you, wish someone gave me my sander for free, I added a light to my mirka, love it, and I gotta say, sanding ceilings seems easier then walls......if that's possible, even with the extention......lol
You need to buy a smaller systainer box to connect that bigger one to They are going broke in NH and MASS $65 a sheet materials hang tape sand and prime 😂
Too funny! Yup, now I dread when I've got a tiny little job to do that really doesn't justify bringing it the whole shebang, just because I'll have to pole sand again....😂
Either a CT36-AC or CT48-AC. You need to get AC version of either the 36 or 48. AC stands for auto clean. The AC versions are more expensive but necessary.
This is a very effective commercial. I trust and respect your opinion, and if I was in the market for this kind of tool, this video would have great weight. Festool got their money's worth with you. Great work, better than any million dollar ad I've seen on tv
15:55 to 16:12 was the most important piece of advice I’ve heard. Thank you.
Ben (I think I have your name correct)...this heartfelt review absolutely provided value to me. I ordered the Festool PLANEX LHS 2 225 EQI-Plus several days ago and it just arrived today. I'm not taking it out of the box yet, though, because I'm having trouble finding the 577101 hose it requires. No one seems to have it in stock at the moment. That hose comes with the CT36 dust collector, but I already have the CT26 that I bought several years ago. Frankly, I didn't realize the hose did not come with the sander when I ordered it, and I think it should be included, since it's made for that particular sander. In the meantime, I enjoyed your comments and your review. I now have a better idea of what to expect if I ever get to use my sander!
I sent this right to my dad. He sold his Festool after about 1 year of use with similar complaints. Thanks!
Great review Ben. I love the part about the “Going broke rate”! Absolutely so true and a good affirmation to younger contractors to set their rates on their cost of doing business. There will always be someone doing it for less; let them go broke! 👍
In NH and MASS thats all they do is cut each other’s prices it’s so bad the price of drywall is the same as 1996
$65 a 12’ sheet materials hang tape sand and prime lol
Keep it !!!!
Harness is a game-changer. All of sudden I started to like sanding ceilings. With the harness you can do 90 sqm in one go. And it doesn't leave your arms near-death exhausted.
Hi Stefan, what do you mean by sanding with a harness? I don't get it.
what kind of harness is that ?
@@mikecanada2020 I've written quite a long answer, but I included a link to some shop and youtube deleted it.
So the harness is Festool TG-LHS 225.
It's worth buying a sleeved hose (or making it yourself), cos that of Festool (part number: 201761) is around 450 CAD.
Cos harness installation and de-installation takes some time, you must adjust your work-flow to it. So after "harnessing" you sand all the ceilings. Ten "unharness" and walls.
Thanks for your explanation, wish you the best.
I absolutely love mine, I save time sanding out jobs and on clean up at the end of the jobs. Also I do a fair amount of insurance jobs where the clients are living in the job and they always appreciate how dust free it is on sanding day
I bought a Wen drywall pole sander from Amazon 3 years ago when I started my reno. It's heavy. but gets the job done quickly. Great for sanding skim coat when filling sand swirled plaster. Must have tool for big jobs.
Many years ago, I learned: as a pro, a festool tool is worth the money, hands down. And I'm not even a pro. The price is high, but the value is even way higher. (I'm a modest DIY woodworker)
Festool stuff is very good quality, and should be expensive. But what they charge is insultingly ludicrous! Their drills are the most absurd; all they do is turn a thing, but they're $400?! If Festool dropped their prices by 30%, I would buy more of their tools (I have a sander and the bigger Domino machine), but with what they charge, I avoid them because I don't like being ripped off, nor do I want to support a company that rips people off.
I believe the festools are German made and not manufactured in China so that's why the cost is probably higher. They're the Porsche of tools lol. I pretty much buy Milwaukee tools but wish more were made here in the USA.
@@DJ_Driven Yes, they're German, though I'm not positive that everything is made there. Their prices are insane even if they're made in Germany. Their tools should be expensive, as they're very good quality, but they're extra ripoff expensive on top of that and they know it. It's like with Apple products; they're good quality but they know they can rip off their customers because they're Apple and people worship them.
Skilled professional tradesmen buy the best tools they can afford. Buy quality, cry once. If you have steady work the tools will pay for themselves in time savings and quality of finish and longevity of the tools themselves. The pleasure of holding and working with superior quality tools has an intrinsic value that may be difficult to quantify for some. I try not to be penny wise and pound foolish but I understand that budgetary concerns and cash flow are real. That said, I take pride in my work and I mostly enjoy my work. Working with top quality tools enhances that enjoyment. Stay safe and keep up the good work.😁
Replaced our planex with a planex 2, first run with it yesterday and I immediately noticed the digging issue on the outer edge. Found the retail interface pad (replacement backing pad really) and while better it is still dished a bit with the outside edge having a flair. Still leaving some marks, kind of a silly issue, the sanding pad should be a little domed in the center so that wall pressure flattens it out.
Hey. How did you replace your original Planex? It seems the Planex 2 is way better?
Just wanna say the stop on the vacuum is supposed to be kicked with the foot. Also use the sealed bags it's so much easier than cleaning the filter, plus it's nice when you change the bag.
I use my foot now. Once was all it took😂
I think most people would feel like they can't justify the price for this drywall sander (and the vac, if you don't already have one) if you don't make money with it. However, I think one also has to consider how much sanding your jobs around the house require and how much it would cost to hire a professional to do that work for you. I felt it was worth buying for my home projects, because it would cost me more to hire pros to do the jobs I want to do, and I'm most likely going to be more conscientious about doing a good job than anyone I hire would. And what played a big part in clinching it for me is the fact that it's electric, is random orbit, and it connects to a dust collector. I've already done quite a bit of sanding in my house with one of those small, hand-held sanders with the vacuum hose. It worked and did a decent job, but it was a lot of wear on the hand and arm, and it took quite some time to finish. I want to get my drywall sanding jobs done fast, and this seems like the perfect tool to use.
“It’s a grueling experience, and I hate it” pure facts!
Ben, Thank You for your thoughts on the tool..I watched the whole 17min video & probably never buy one since I only do minor drywall repairs. I still enjoyed your rambling threw the video. Keep up the good work & see you in your next video!!
For popcorn ceiling removal I rented the Porter Cable vacuum/ sander setup from Home Depot when they carried them- it worked great! Similar car based large pre-filter like the festool filter and large collection bin. Virtually zero dust with that setup.
Sadly, Home Depot dropped them and rental places don't carry them - I expect the abrasive dust eventually damages when in rental use. My alternative was to buy the "King Canada" sander only (approx $300 CAD)which has a radial light, but mediocre dust collection- it sucks the dust from the surface, but some remains in the sanding head. In my setup, I used a dust deputy to intercept the heavier dust, but still managed to damage a central vac motor (it was expected) with drywall dust debris. I gather a dedicated cheapo shop vac using filter bags would work as well.
i have the same king sander and same problems. Looking for best dust extraction . Looking at dewalt but hard to get.
@@jasoncashin9015 I see Makita has some options as well, likely better made, but I don't know how well they work.
Please remember, it’s the dust you don’t see that does the damage. Good job on the video.
True, but if you can't see any at all, the invisible stuff will likely be reduced by similar levels. It's not like a HEPA system will only capture the visible stuff and pass the rest unimpeded.
I'm using the festool harness and I can sand an entire 2500sq house popcorn ceilings in a day with it. 36grit paper for painted popcorn and 80grit for unpainted. Also use 240grit for sanding final coat. It takes time and practice to get your flow, but it saves my back and my neck and my lungs.
do you used open or closed bags ?
@@Nobody-tt8cw I use the tear-resistant fleece filter bag that comes in a pack of 5, #497539 I modified each bag with and opening on the bottom to make it easier to empty.
Ben, great review. Love all your videos and content.
I just bought the planex 2 (11/2022) and it's an absolute game changer. You and I both experienced a lot of the same points and benefits of it. Def a worthwhile investment.
One thing I noticed was with the vac, you can put the loose end of the cord in the top where the hose goes. When you install a sustainer on top- it'll lock the cord in but I agree I wish it had a better cord management system.
Cheers
If the light helps as much as you say, then that would make an huge difference!
I do not mind sanding with my non-motorized, vacuum attachments that are made by Full Circle International. But, having a light at the correct angle that moves with me, that would be fantastic!
You could custom fit an LED strip to your sanding tool. Cheers!
I've seen the videos of you cleaning the dust collector filter and emptying the full bag. I think I have a good tip for you that will put an abrupt end to that routine. Purchase an Oneida Dust Deputy and insert it between your sander and your dust collector with vacuum hoses. The Dust Deputy is one of those vacuum cyclone attachments, and this model is not only very practical for home use and on the job site, but it’s extremely effective. Approximately 90% (or more!) of the drywall dust (or dust from wood sanding) accumulates inside the Dust Deputy container (which can be emptied in a matter of minutes). The added benefits of using the Dust Deputy are: the dust is contained and doesn’t fly around in the room, the dust collector filter and bag will experience only a very light dusting (say good-bye to emptying bags and cleaning filters!), your vacuum will always operate at full suction (since the filter doesn’t get clogged), and it extends the life of your dust collector’s expensive HEPA filter and bag. I also use the Dust Deputy for dust-free vacuuming of the ash that accumulates in my pellet stove during the winter months. If you do any sanding in areas where you want to easily contain the dust so it doesn’t fly throughout the room or house, and you want your dust collector to operate at maximum capacity all the time, then the Dust Deputy is the answer to your prayers! Here’s the link for the metal version I purchased a number of years ago. They also offer plastic versions that are a little cheaper in price: www.oneida-air.com/dust-deputy/heavy-duty-dust-deputy-2-cyclone-10-gal-kit
Hey Ben. I have done lots of muddying and sanding by hand and covered in dust. I recently bought the festool vacuum 48 and the sander and it’s by far the best tool out there the key about the sander is that it also orbital which make a difference. Great review Ben.
Mirka Leros is a much better sander.
Your reviews are what pushed me to pull the trigger on getting a Festool for painting and it's a game changer. Thank you so much! The Planex box does hook up to the CT 36, try the T-Lock at the front, it doesn't hook up from the middle but its perfectly balanced even though it looks like it'll tip over. PS. thanks for getting me back into skateboarding too!
You are so welcome!
Great review, we just picked one up with the 48L auto clean vac. Where can you buy the interface pad. We can see the little “swirlies” and would rather finish the job with one tool.
I wonder if Home Depot would have this tool to rent for a couple of days. Would save the DIYer from shelling out big bucks for the odd job now & then. Maybe you could put a bug in their ear or ask Planex to talk to them.
We have a big Ace hardware that caters to contractors. They sell all the festools and have a tool rental department. It's mainly used by the contractors that bring in their equipment for warranty repairs and need another tool to keep the business going and avoid downtime. You may have to do a search for contractor equipment to find it in your area.
Home Depot has a porter cable sander . But it’s not a orbital sander.
Have you tried the hilti one? Trying to decide between a hilti and a festool sander and dust extractor combo. Not a lot of reviews on the hilti but there is a couple.
They say it's lighter and the head has more range with flexibility than the festool. But I want to make sure I buy the right one the first time
Thank you for your informative and honest review of the Planex 2. I have been considering the purchase for over 6 months. You may have just clinched it.
Mirka and Hilti have good sanders and Hilti has the arm support (exoskeleton)
The festool ct midi 1 the vacuum has a slot that the end of the cord goes under the lid with the hose
Hey Ben,
The Planex Systainer³ XXL will fasten to the CT, but only with another T-Loc or Systainer³ between the XXL and CT, and the XXL cantilevered to the front or back. Festool demonstrates the connection in one of their videos, I’m pretty sure It’s a video with Sedge.
Thanks for the review, I was on the fence about upgrading from the Planex 1 to Planex 2, but you’ve convinced me.
You are correct Sedge showed how to connect the sustainer when they did the Friday live episode on the Planex 2.
@@pahflyboy
They’re having a good time with their Friday Live thing, but sharing some good stuff too!
I love your words “working for the going broke rate.” Thank you.
in the market for a new vacuum. Would you say the dust extractor would be a good choice as an all around vacuum for a carpenter who does a lot of finish work but a fair amount of everything else also?
Nice review...and all the other Festool vids you posted.
After watching many other brand reviews, this is the one for me.
What was the outcome of the prototype pad that corrects the ridge problem?
I think you're saying that the closed bags filter dust better but hold less dust accumulation. They collect dust better but fill more quickly and need to be changed more frequently and therefore cost more. More bags $ used. Thanks.
So we've just ordered it. We are looking forward to doing the entire house. Most of the house has this oarnge peel texture QUESTION: Would you do a light skim coat on it or just sand it to make it smooth???
Sand it.
Nice honest review! You have certainly learned a lot about the tool since your first video. FYI make sure to tuck the plastic liner behind the three metal tabs in the front of the vacuum for anti-static.
I'm in market for the makita version. No projects planned. So I wait. But bought a cheep pole sander with vacuum attachment for now. Works well. Little dust
If you ever get the chance, look up the Mirka and see the differences.
I had porter cable for years with the dewalt vacuum, best vacuum to me, also sell clean up, and I use bags to colect dust, than i bought the easy planex and took me time to get used to due the rpm which is lots of difference from 2000 arp to 800 max that festool has, but the torque is much stronger, now i got the new festool and haven't tried yet, waiting on 4 thousand sq ft house that we are hanging now to give it a try, but same as the easy planex i order the ultra soft pad for smooth finish and still wondering if i should buy the c36 vacuum since my dewalt work perfect plus is an other thousand to spend, and I dont know if is worth it
Nice review, thx for this.
Question: would you recommend the planex 2 tool to someone who has never before done plaster sanding? (Not drywall plates, but the 1 cm thick applied plaster on brickwalls: ie Platres Lambert is the brand)
I love the hilti drywall sander, finish sand with the 220 grit, i love it!!
Ben produces nothing but bangers! 💯
I did look into this product after having to sand texture off a ceiling, my God was that a mess, with a pole sander my arms would be weak and sore in 20 minutes. With an electric sander the room would be a white cloud and you have to stop and let it air out every 5 minutes. It took several days to sand the texture down to where it was ready for painting. But unfortunately since this isn't my job, just the occasional project, I could not justify the price. Not even the 3rd rate knockoffs where cheap enough to consider for just the occasional use. So I had to suffer the cloud of dust. But if I were doing this professionally being able to get the job done quickly without choking to death would definitely be worth the expense. Oh and something not related to this video, I HATE THE STUPID GOOGLE FI ADS! When I hear that ad start singing those stupid lyrics I can't find the mouse quick enough to mute the video. I start yelling my own lyrics to cover up the sound until it stops. And my lyrics are definitely not PG rated. :)
You should try using an adblocker.
Whenever I have been sanding drywall in my own home I put a fan in the nearest window blowing out.
I just looked online and there's several different drywall sanders very similar to that one that have the light like it does, and they're $150 US without the vacuum base, like how that one sells for $600 US without the big vacuum base, I believe those other ones are supposed to be hooked up to a shop vac, they have some sort of in-line filter though, probably so the shop vac doesn't get overwhelmed.
I think $1200.00 us, is closer to the price, in canada it $1765.00.......sander alone.......
@@bobseguin2195
That's around MSRP but I'm seeing them online for $600 to $750 US.
Of course that's without the base thing (whatever it's called), one way or the other I'm buying something like that, I can't afford the Festool unit just to get myself started out on my own but whatever I buy hopefully by the time it breaks I'll be able to buy the Festool one, I gotta get something though because I'm sick of homeowners cry babying about the drywall dust, I do everything to minimalize it but some people just can't come to terms with the fact that it is what it is, they just aren't happy with you doing things for half the price of everyone else and you saving them all that money, they'll still find something to whine about because they have to spend money in the first place, you can just see the look of panic in their face when it comes time to pay up, even though it's half of what they were going to.
@@dukecraig2402 I used the wen sander for a year, not bad, worked OK, finally bought the mirka when it was available here in canada, for me it's the best, I know festool fans will say, no way. But I've used the planex 2, and I stand on that thought, and it's a little cheaper.......
The factories that create powdery products, generate a lot of paper dust, sawdust, grain dust etc... ALL use cyclone separators to to keep their collected dust out of the vacuum filters. WHY don't any of these (high end, high cost) tool companies make a vacuum with a cyclone separator built in? That's all a Dyson is, and he miniaturized them. Yes, there are Dustoppers and the Oneida, but to use them regularly you need to make an integration cart if you want to keep your vacuum mobile.
If anyone were to build a cyclone separator into a shop vac, I was counting on Festool to win that race... so far, the marketing people just want to keep us buying filters and bags.
This product in this video is a perfect example of a tool that needs a cyclone separator with an easy to dump collection bin.
Dyson may have a patent on it already but that would be awesome 🌪️ would still need a HEPA filter that would catch any residual dust like on the Dyson that could be washed and reused.
I use a regular festool bag (3 ply paper) that you can buy and modify it at the bottom for faster cleanup and reuse. It saves the filter as well since it doesnt get dirty. I usually dispose of the bag after 10-15 uses and put another bag and modify it.
Great review Ben.👍🏻 I have been so tempted to try Festool just for the sander because my arms go dead in 2 seconds! The light, the vacuum, the harness.. sounds like working in a dream.
Awesome. Thanks for taking time to produce and post this. It's a big help to Stand on the Shoulders of Giants. (So that we can see further)
It sounds like that tool pays for itself for a pro. All that time saved adds up. Thanks for a great review!
So, does this sander have the ability to sand floors? I see there is a very aggressive Saphir sanding abrasive. Just curious. Great video, keep them coming! Thanks!
No, it would not be suitable for sanding floors. It could probably be done but would take forever if you were trying to take the floor down to bare wood. It just does not have the weight or aggressiveness needed, even with the courser grits. I have a planex and I also own professional wood floor sanding equipment. If I only had one tool for sanding a floor and just one room at a time in my own house dust free, I would use the RO 150 by festool. Can be extremely aggressive at 36 grit to polishing at 1000 grit. Otherwise I would rent the proper floor sanding equipment.
Awesome brand, just wish I could afford their tools!
I wish they would come out with a cheaper line. Or adjust their prices for the everyday worker that doesn't have get a small loan out just to buy a tool ..
Love ur video, about to move to B.C end of this year, do u have any suggestion for tools shopping, did some research, Toronto has couple professional tool shop, can't find it in Vancouver
Fabulous. Thank you for showing me a better way
The mirka leros is the best finish sander on the market right now. Maybe try that one out :)
it doesn't have a light. seems to be a big feature. (i'm not a dry waller)
Sounds silly but the light is important. I use a Planex-1 in conjunction with a tripod-mounted inspection light. It works but is a pain in the butt to work around. I suppose I could add some batteries and an LED strip but it probably wouldn’t be as robust as the OEM solution.
@@user-zz8ln3uh5x yes you are right. There is a light mod you can do for the mirka. Its identical to the planex light. I have one on my mirka
@@GrantJeffrey94 Is it something you built? I haven't seen a complete aftermarket setup.
@@user-zz8ln3uh5x you just order led strip. It comes with a USB connection and 3m tape on the back. Stick that on. Then a power bank off amazon. Or run that corded. And boom. Planex light. Go see CS drywall on RUclips they have done it.
Great comment about not using the "going broke" rate!!
How pricey are the pads and how long do they last compared to regular pole sander?
Looks like ct36 sander is the one “designed for use with the Kapex.” Is that the one you have? (It’s about 1/3 of the kit price with the Kapex.). Sounds like it’s a standard vacuum, can be used with any tool.
i know it's crazy, but i'm not a contractor. just DIY. but I've done so many drywall projects around the house I'm actually looking at the planex 2 and 36 ac extractor. do you think I should go cheaper with like a dewalt drywall sander and ct midi? either way I would use the dust extractor in my garage with powertools (table saw, miter saw, track saw, sander).
I bought it, you sold me on it. I LOVE IT thank you 🙏
Do you have a part number for the interface pad?
Or do you know if I could even get my hands on one?
The groove is frustrating!
In canada, Felder imports...
Are we supposed to be stacking 2 interface pads, or just one? I'm confused...
Great explanation of the festool! Thanks for the video 👌🤙
So on Planex 2 the interface pad sticks out? On 1 and EX they had a different shallower under-pad... Not sure to which extent it's cleaner - haven't noticed gauging with the EZ - but definitely swirlys. But I think they do go away with the finish (priming, actually)
Go mirka it's much lighter and better for ceilings, plus the head movement is more flexible than festool
Excellent review as always - thanks for the input .
Where can i buy the Planex 2 prototype interface pad in Vancouver? I am using the older version with only 9 holes.
I wish I could afford this just for the one bedroom I’m doing! Not a contractor but I want it anyway. Great video thanks
Hey Ben, I enjoy your videos so much I just had to tell you so. Work safely and keep up the good work!
The harness makes this machine a BREEZE! it’s a MUST
Hi, what do you mean by sanding with a harness? please explain. Thanks
what kind of harness is that? is it a special one for this kind of job?
I've heard some ppl saying it leaves swirls / grooves. what is the best set up / settings?
Ben, you never explained how you do inside corners. That has been my biggest question with this tool. Do you still have to use a sponge? Or do you use one of their palm sanders?
You still need to use a sponge. It's only a replacement for the pole sander. You can't get the very inside of the corner with it.
@@vancouvercarpenter thanks for the quick response. I'll be purchasing this tool in June when it's available again here in the states.
great review, in depth, intelligent, and effective. Guess I m spending $1300 this week FML
Wow! Great info. Thx buddy!
Have used Makita’s but not Festool’s yet, thx for this vid…..really helps👍🏻
No problem 👍
explained very well-continue the great information-well done
How balanced is it? I have a WEN and it's top heavy as the motor is right up top with the sanding pad.
Game changer - thanks for sharing!
What do you reckon about a lightweight pole sander with some lights?
Glad it all worked out for you, wish someone gave me my sander for free, I added a light to my mirka, love it, and I gotta say, sanding ceilings seems easier then walls......if that's possible, even with the extention......lol
Is it really loud and noisy
Which vacuum is it 26 or 36
An adopter is available to clamp the box to the vac
You need to buy a smaller systainer box to connect that bigger one to
They are going broke in NH and MASS
$65 a sheet materials hang tape sand and prime 😂
What type of tradesmen do I call to remove a textured ceiling?
Any one who does drywall should know
I like the vac it's pretty good but 800$its hard to work it into my career I think they should make different models maybe for carpenters
I know it’s a big leap ,but the dust control is amazing,reducing clean up time will pay back.👍🇨🇦📐
Nuts! I was hoping you would say, "Save your money, don't buy one!"
I just got one and it's the best 👌 👍 I love it 😀
Too funny! Yup, now I dread when I've got a tiny little job to do that really doesn't justify bringing it the whole shebang, just because I'll have to pole sand again....😂
Thanks ❤
At 3:03 - indescrepency?
Great review, great channel 👍 👏
Thank you! 👍
Thanks
Whats the model of the festool vaccum ?
Either a CT36-AC or CT48-AC. You need to get AC version of either the 36 or 48. AC stands for auto clean. The AC versions are more expensive but necessary.
Why are sanding so much though
How does it do on corners?
Not bad but I usually stay out about an inch to not bang up the other side.
haha i totally feel the part about how much he hated sanding before
Harness is no good. Yea it takes the work load off you back but it puts extreme strain on you hips. You can feel your bones rubbing instantly
I'll cheer you in Korea
I am crying lol I want one of these so bad, pole sanders are my enemy right now
👍👍👍👍
Common Ben….it’s Velcroish!
well side i got mine 2500 us and it saves time and time is $$$$
Always use a vacuum bag.