Why I don’t recommend FESTOOL drills anymore.

[@daversj]

Professional carpenter for 30 years. I have tools from most brands for different tasks. If you are only on one platform you are missing out. Festool track saws, domino and dust collection were revolutionary. Before that we used plywood tracks and Japanese market hitachi saws for precision cuts. Porter cable door plane and D handle routers were a must. Hitachi slide miters, and SDS drills…. and who didn’t have the Bosch jigsaw? Nobody. You have to pick the best from each manufacturer and ignore the color. That said, I run mostly 18v Makita for cordless tools with very few problems.

[@11211lcb]

Exactly one should NOT be brand loyal. Buy the best tool for the job. I used to like PC sanders and wore them out, they would no longer run every 5~6 years. Some of my Festool sanders are 12 years old and still work great.

[@steinbierz]

I am like a lot of other people in that I am brand loyal when we talk about cordless because it is so easy to get a lot of money invested into the battery/charger system which is why all but one or two of my cordless tools are Milwaukee. Otherwise, my corded equipment, big and small, includes Festool, Felder, Hammer, Robust Lathe, a Nova and a 40 yr. old Delta drill press, Laguna, Makita steel cutting chop saw, and even a Harbor Freight cherry picker (non-corded of course ;) ). Long story short, if I am buying corded I try to buy the best that the majority of reviews point to but if I am looking for another cordless tool, 19 out of 20 times I buy Milwaukee and will only pass on that tool if it gets subpar reviews.

[@simoncroker2577]

they kind of fuck you , with the "oh you already have the battries , might as well buy the same brand" wankers !

[@dienowplease3565]

I completely agree with you sir

[@LykeArgy]

Yeah if you're talking about a shop, if you're working on terrain having 3-4 different battery brands doesn't work out well

[@kuecheaufbauen]

I use the CXS with a PDC 18/4 for kitchen installation in Germany. PDC is a good choice for me. I drill into brick walls with it.

[@martinlebreton6235]

They are probly at a more competitive price in Germany given its a local product too. I wish...

[@AaronGeller]

@@martinlebreton6235you’d think but it might be more expensive after taxes

[@11211lcb]

The beep on my Festool drill also stops the driver. No clatter of the clutch. I appreciate power being cut to off when the torque setting on the Festool drill is reached. Something I also noticed on my T15 drill is it torque application. I had Panasonic, DeWalt, and Makita in that order. None performed like the Festool. As an example with all other drills if I stopped driving a 3" deck screw into a 2x6, on edge, at about 2" deep I could see the difference of the different drills. With all others I had to pull the trigger quite a bit to get the screw started again and then it would spin quickly. With the Festool I could just pull the trgger a samll amount and it would begin driving the screw again and it would spin at the expected speed. Basically the Festool drill appilies enough power to get the screw going again but only at the speed indicated by the trigger. Mine is 10 years old. Maybe the other brands have caught up with these type features. FWIW I am not a hobbiest.

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻

[@christarmey6398]

Hi Brian. I absolutely agree with you. Dead on. I love my Festool sander and dust extractor but never could warm up to my super expensive Festool drill. This summer I bought a Makita drill set to make something outside for my wife because I felt badly about using my Festool stuff in the dirt. I bought it as my "beater" drill.... and just as you said I found myself using it more and more and the Festool les and less. Good stuff man, thank you!

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

Awesome! Thanks Chris!

[@waterlinercproducts6054]

I can't give up my Makita cordless tools for Festool. If you're amazed by the Makita impact you have there, you should try the Soft Impact or ( Oil-Impulse ). It will blow you away. I buy tools based on their abilities, not by their color.

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻

[@carlb401]

I love the Festool drills and the Centrotec system. My drills i own are the Ti / C15 set, DRC, CXS and the SDS. While not designed for it i have put 6 inch screws in with the CXS. Since getting the DRC i have not used an impact. The CXS system came into it's own a few weeks ago while i was fitting ironmongery on site (uk) I had 4 jacobs chucks set up with different drill bits and 2 centrotec chucks set up with different screwdriver bits. Swapping chucks between 2 drills used - CXS/ DRC was quicker than using one drill and swapping bits all the time.

[@jefflemay66]

I really respect your openness and honesty! I sold all my Dewalt tools for Festool. Personally, I don't have any regrets, but I could also make an arrangement against my purchases. Like you said, their sanders, Domino, track saw, routers, dust collection... all game changers. A good drill is a good drill. I definitely tend to favor Festool... but maybe that's because I spent so much money on them and time convincing my wife I NEEDED them. I guess it all comes down to personal preference. Again, I really respect your honesty.

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

Thanks Jeff, I appreciate it.

[@11211lcb]

After using the Festool drill long enough so that it shows signs of actually being used, the others seem to be not well thought.

[@bigboundsy]

I’m literally just doing that!!! I’ve just got the 36v plunge saw, kapex and midi extractor, 18v hammer drill and now I’m looking at swapping my dewalt impact and combi for this and maybe a festool impact. Also my 165mm dewalt brushless skill saw needs swapping but not sure I like the look of the hkc55 do u have any advice?? Tha ks

[@James-dv1df]

​@@11211lcbguessing for the price you can replace a dewalt, makota etc for thr price of one festool drill.

[@draghiai]

I own both the impact and the C18, I got the mainly because I was using the 18v batteries from the track saw and didn't wanted to invest into a new platform. What I noticed from the C18 is that it is not that powerful for carpentry. But it is perfect for installing furniture, specially if you work with some very expensive materials where you need precision. The electronic brake and the interchangeable heads are very good. They aren't so good to be used on a construction site, the rubber is very sensitive, and you definitelly need more power. But I think they are perfect for use in the shop and in the client's house for putting together furniture.

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

Totally agree. These feel to be more intended for finish work instead of heavy duty construction. Thanks!

[@alanbaxter5897]

I like my Makita drill but the real benefit to Festool is the different chucks. Really no comparison. The right angle chuck has come in so handy so many times. The Centrotec bit holding system is amazing. Now you can buy an attachment that allows non centrotec bits to be locked in. The time saving for bits falling out or getting stuck in screw heads and being pulled out makes the Festool drills so much more enjoyable to use. All the magnetic bit storage in the C 18. I could go on.

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻👍🏻

[@DaileyWoodworks]

Oh boy do I have some thoughts… I sold my TID impact and my CXS and replaced them with the Makita sub compact (black) 18v impact and drill. They are ok. I love the size and weight but I just repurchased the TID18 and went with a C18 instead of the CXS. Here’s my issue: control. The Makita subcompact impact is either too fast/hits to hard, or is too slow. I broke screws I would never have broken with the TID. As for the drill, it just doesn’t have the control the CXS had. But it does have the power I need. I’m hoping the c18 gives me that. I also know that the Makita premium brushless impact drive is definitely better, but is also the same price as the TID18. Ultimately you’re right there’s nothing that Festool drills do that the others don’t do as well or better, but there’s something subjective about them that made me regret selling them. I wish YT still allowed response videos because I’d definitely mention you in mine (when they get here) 😁

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

You will like the C18 - it’s a refined drill for sure, but I bet you’ll still be buying another CXS😉😉

[@DaileyWoodworks]

@@BrianWatersOutdoors probably, I work with the guy I sold it too so I can probably swipe it when he’s not looking

[@MadLadsAnonymous]

This makes me wonder if the Metabo SSD LTX can compete on control: it has 12 adjustable torque settings and allegedly great trigger control. There's a Polish (?) guy-FOR WORK AND FUN, is his channel-shows the Metabo impact driving small screws with great control. Just FYI.

[@jronmanbuilds]

There aren't too many companies who make a c style drill in 18v with multiple chucks. While that may not be a big deal for some it could be for others. I currently own the m12 installation driver and I go for that thing more than I go for my 20v max DeWALT impact driver or hammerdrill/driver. The C18 has some appeal to me for the form factor. One of the things that draws me toward the m12 is the c style grip. Also the PDC 18 and Europe only TPC 18 have appeal to me as well due to the extra high rpm. I already have Festool batteries. Buying a Festool is more appealing than something from a battery platform I do not own. I have no desire to get the t18 or t18 easy. Festool really needs to bring out a new generation of the c18. The current model could use more torque and more rpm.

[@chrisschmitt3860]

I will also agree with everything you have said here. I’m a big Festool fan, and I use a lot of their tools in my cabinet shop, and they are definitely worth the cost. I only own one drill, the Festool hammer drill, and I have all of the accessory chucks for it. I bought it all almost brand new at a yard sale for 200 bucks, with one 5 AH battery. It’s way to heavy for everyday use, but it’s a beast that I use once in a while, mainly for setting anchors to hang my cabs on masonry. That brings me to the point I’d like to make. When I decided to add an additional battery to the mix, I was pleasantly surprised to find out that they were quite reasonable in cost, and very robust. I can see some value in a professional setting for using the platform in that case. All that said, I tried out a CXS at a tool show a few weeks ago, the new brushless one, and I think I’m going to add one to my shop. My go to drills and impacts for my work are all Dewalt 12v platform tools that have really held up very well, and I highly recommend them.

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻👍🏻

[@peterrhodin8779]

But I think the centrotec is worth the extra price tag. I really love the centrotec and also the angled chuck…

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

Centrotec is nice..if you have a lot of Centrotec bits (which I do), but really adds to the cost of using the Festool drills (in my opinion). I have a whole drawer of Centrotec bits I use with my CXS.

[@pierrecharles1317]

Hello Brian, I have to disagree with you on almost everything in your review and offer a different perspective. The TID drill in my opinion is a complete waste of money because you do pay a premium price and receive almost none of the benefit of the Festool system. I swear by the c18 and bought another to have one just for the shop. The control, torque and weight are perfect for almost every task. The right angle attachment is by far the best ever made and more than useful in the tightest of spaces for construction, remodeling, electrical, plumbing or cabinet and fine finish work. The centrotec system is like having 2-3 drills in one. You can keep a drill bit in the chuck, a fastener bit in the centrotec chuck another bit in the right angle chuck if necessary and swap them out as needed. Keeping all of them in one pocket of your tool belt or close by with the ability to change them quick back and forth. And then there’s the eccentric chuck for cabinets, drawer slides and other uses requiring screws near the corners of cabinets, closets and boxes. The centrotec chuck and small bits also make it shorter than other drills to again get into tight spaces. It’s an amazing tool with great battery life and no other drill on the market compares. I own the Makita XGT 40v drill and impact, dewalt and Milwaukee drills. The makita I would chose over the Festool PDC which I own also and love. The right angle attachment on the PDC is the only reason I would hesitate. I use it far more than I would have ever thought. Dewalt and Milwaukee have a lot of power but aren’t great for control which matters more to me. The Festool impact is actually at a comparable price to the other brands considering Festool gives you 2 batteries and the rest only give you one and charge $150-$200 for another. The CXS is amazing but it really is a cabinet drill and I hate that the batteries only work for that drill. Again I love it for what it does but if you’re looking just for a small drill Bosch make great ones for around $200 for the set I have one I keep in my electrical bag. Most of my Festool tools have been relegated to cabinet and furniture building, precision and fine finish working. Except the c18 which is the best all around drill I’ve ever owned and worth every penny and more. Hope this helps!

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

Thank you Pierre for the comment!

[@garymelrose9727]

Pierre - Fully agree. I'm still running my original 'c12' (the BPS 12) from around 2008/2009 with the original batteries still going strong. I now charge them with my TCL6 charger as they're forwards compatible with the 18V system (for giggles, I can run my TSC55 and HKC55, Quadrive etc. on them. Not for very long, but at least they don't keep changing connection types every couple of years like, ahem, some other brands...) I can still buy replacement batteries direct from Festool too, though I'd just buy the T 18+3 at £149 instead, or replace the cells, the T instead of the C because the newer C18 trigger seems to be set lower than the original C12 and is more front heavy. Still, while the C12 continues to soldier on, what can I do? For wise heads, there are some real deals too, with £200 of chucks with this refurbished set: www.toolexchange.co.uk/product/festool-c12-cordless-drill-with-4-interchangeable-heads/ Great kit - I also use Milwaukee M18 and M12 for 'rough, garden and car' type DIY. Their M18 double charger lasted 8 cycles then blew. My Festool LC 45 is still faultlessly charging 15/16 years on. At the moment in the UK I can buy a TID for £129 (inc. VAT) with a free 5.2ah Bluetooth battery and a systainer. Just bought the new TPC 18/4 c/w one 5.2ah battery with a free second 5.2ah battery for £225. That free battery has a £105 value, so effective cost was £124 for the drill, plus accessories and battery in the new gen 3 systainer. For comparison, the last generation (new gen not available in the UK yet) Milwaukee One-Key M18 Fuel combi is £149, tool only in a cardboard box! £205 with a single M18 5ah battery!

[@johngroom7270]

Thanks for the advice Brian. I have a Makita brushless set which I’m really happy with, but they are not so good for cabinet work. Glad the CXS is still your recommendation. Will start saving!

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

Thanks! You won’t be disappointed

[@Andrius2005]

CXS really super drill.! Perfect ergonomic

[@MrD3000]

I love my 18v Makita drill and impact driver. Bought a house that needed everything done last year and those things have gotten many hours of use. Never let me down and always solid in every way.

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻👍🏻

[@kirrarn2084]

I like Festool drills and impact because they are so smooth and feel good in the hands help the body not take as much pain or damage over time

[@CrookedSkew]

What you're saying makes sense to me. Festool excel at cutting wood whether it be a saw, sander or planer, system integration and dust extraction (though they still don't do a H class vacuum with self cleaning filters). While the CXS drill-driver is an outlier, I don't see anything particularly compelling when it comes to their other drill-drivers. They recently updated the cordless drill and from what I see, it very disappointing in the torque department - 75nm when the competition has had 120nm for years now. I'd look at either Makita 18/40V or Hilti's new Nuron system coming soon.

[@reginaldwhite7944]

I got the makita 40 v very nice impact and drill , also have the hilti neron impact and hammer drill

[@CrookedSkew]

@@reginaldwhite7944 And how are they?

[@reginaldwhite7944]

@@CrookedSkew really like the makita impact , the hilti is a bit bottom heavy , i am a tool junkie i have dewalt 20 volt and 12 volt , makita 40 volt , hilti impact and hammer drill , festool impact and hammer drill , just ordered the new hammer drill from festool , festool vac and sanders and also a milwaukee 12 v pin nailer , blower , 4 in 1 for home use , i need help is there a support group for tool addiction? lol

[@MadLadsAnonymous]

@@reginaldwhite7944 How does the Makita 40v stuff compare to the Festool in terms of trigger feel/sensitivity? I hear the Makita 40v electronic clutch (Impact driver) is amazing. But the new Festool TPC 18/4 looks sweet with that manual torque control...and I think it has the highest RPM in its class. Even the Bosch 18v Flexiclick runs at like 1900 RPM vs the Festool's 3600 RPM.

[@reginaldwhite7944]

@@MadLadsAnonymous Hard to beat the festool , but i like the makita as well .

[@jpp37229]

FOR ME, have started working at a carpenter workshop in the Netherlands (my colleagues where very precise like a 10th of mm work), they had almost everything for their tools from Festool. After getting a job at a building material and machines selling shop, I tried some Dewalt and Makita, but men, they are not as comfortable and handy as Festool! The gears, the fixation mechanism, all loose and wobly, and very heavy. Me being more a hobbyist, had not tought very long before buying the T18 +3 set and the TS55. So that being said, everybody must make their own decisions, and please stop hating Festool when you cannot afford it or don't want to buy it.

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻👍🏻

[@mrjellow]

Succes met je nieuwe baan!

[@charlesthomas1142]

I Like my C12 and T12. The only complaint is Festool has discontinued batteries for the 12v drills. Love my CXS, it a daily user. Best part is the chucks and centrotec. Now days the heavy work is done by Ryobi impact drill.

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻

[@sekritskworl-sekrit_studios]

THANK YOU!!! How do you feel about the Festool Carvex?

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

Not a fan. Probably my least liked tool from them. I prefer my Bosch jigsaw

[@stevenowilson]

I'm looking to buy the CXS. I have a TDD-12FX (the old NiCad 12volt) and finally found decent replacement NiCad batteries so it will live for a few more years. For me, the one reason to have a T-18 or similar is for the eccentric chuck. It and the right angle allow you to get into any place with power, all in a compact platform

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻👍🏻

[@luckylogan11]

Acme Tools has the CXS in stock with the new Systainer3. Got mine just after Christmas and love it. Your videos helped persuade me to it over the Milwaukee.

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

Awesome! Thanks

[@11211lcb]

If those are drills you actually own and use, I don’t see any signs of extended use, and or wear. In other words, buy what you like but I don’t find any signs of much use at all. So I am not convinced that there has been enough use of either brand to be presenting a valid opinion of either brand. I have been using cordless drills since the 80’s. And I have not owned as many as you have in your collection. I use my drills until they need to be replaced. With years of use you get a better feel of quality. I’ll likely be buying Festool again if I live long enough.

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

I have to disagree. Not sure why some folks can’t understand that it is possible to take care of your tools and have them for years and they still look good. I take pride in what I buy and don’t throw around my equipment, clean them routinely and maintain them.

[@11211lcb]

@@BrianWatersOutdoors I try not to waste time papmering my tools so that they continue to look unused. I understand some wood workers are mostly tool collectors. I have never seen a reason to have 6 drills/impacts. FWIW I previousely owned a Makita drill/driver and impact. I all but stopped using the impact when I got my first t15 Festool drill about 9 years ago.

[@roofermarc1]

Metal roofer here with a Bosch driver. I've installed dozens of metal roofs using 1 3/4'' pole barn screws( that's what they call them) Used Makita for 26 years till I went with Bosch. Has More rpm's than Makita, both can last for years on a roof. I wouldn't dream of using my new tid 18/ T 18 on a roof. Thanks for posting.

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

Thanks👍🏻

[@happyhappynuts]

Have used my Festool drill on rooftop for nearly 10 years. Have swapped some batteries, a few switches (we had more than one drill). Has been great

[@roofermarc1]

@@happyhappynuts I will use my Festool driver on a roof when it gets older but for now it's not leaving the comfort of my shop, it likes its lite use and comfy box. I wonder if most tend to pamper there Festool tools, I'd bet most do!

[@ashleyirenner]

Thanks for the vid. I buy into the Festool drills for centrotec, wherever possible I avoid a Jacobs chuck. I have 3 Makita drills, 2 Bosch 12 volt and a C18 and CXS. The Makita stuff feels clunky compared to the Festool and I really like the Bosch 12V range. Whilst we are shooting the breeze, if I had to pick 2 drills is would be the CXS and someones Impact. Thank again, was helpful to hear your opinion.

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

Thanks!

[@CrewsMachine]

I’m a few months late to the discussion but what are your thoughts on the decision between the Makita 40v and Festool? With these two the cost difference is not as great. Makita 40 drill driver combo is about 459 Festool combo is 599 With the Festool you get three chucks and a sustainer and a three year warranty With the Makita you get a soft side bag I ask as I have no cordless power tools at all and want to decide which platform to invest in.

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

If you’re not invested in any platform, I honestly think Makita would be better. You can easily find them and are a little easier on the wallet. Save the Festool for sanders, dust collectors and more specialized tools like the domino.

[@robhackett3]

Thanks for the review. This just happens to be the exact position I’m in right now. I have all dewalt and they serve me well but I am looking for something a little more refined. I’ve looked at the CXS in part because of the compact design. After using it in store I really like the feel, smooth operation and versatility of it. Keeping everything else.

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻

[@goodguy3416]

​@@BrianWatersOutdoorsdid you saw the new cxs 12. After 6 years I Sold my old one for 170n Euro. ❤ and I will order the new one. 250 Euro for a full Set

[@LesTutosdUneMinute]

@@goodguy3416 Did you buy it? What are your thoughts on it?

[@goodguy3416]

@@LesTutosdUneMinute cxs 12. Yes last month. 229 Euro without the angle Chuck. Great Quality. I Don't need a second drill for most oft the Things. Permanent light function is great. Only disadvantage ist the Sound.

[@LesTutosdUneMinute]

@@goodguy3416 Allright, thanks. I'm also on the verge of buying one, but the sound is my only concert. I've read in video comments that many people have returned their drills just because of the noise.

[@JustTony72]

I bought the C18 because I liked the CSX so much. But I'm not as happy with it as I thought I would be. I just don't reach for it at all. I'm reaching for every other drill before I go for the C18. Because it's just not as comfortable as I thought it would be

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

I completely agree with that.

[@darktech4015]

We use a festool hkc and tracksaw with dust extractors. When it comes to everything else like drills and durable toss around circular saws we use dewalt. For nailers we use paslode. Ya 3 different batteries suck but get the right tool for the job

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻👍🏻

[@tommycarter5668]

test out the festool TPC im sure u will change your mind

[@mikebari3225]

Got my makita drill/hammer drill and impact driver set 16 years ago still got the same battery and they still run like the day I got em after lots of use and abuse…. Love them

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻👍🏻

[@peli71]

Same story here. Multiple CSX drills but for serious impact and drilling I use Makita!

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻👍🏻

[@andymok7945]

I own various brands of power tools. I own Makita, Bosch and Festool drill drivers. Best tool for the job. My first Festool drill/driver was the CXS and is a great little unit. It is lightweight, the speed control and power for a 10.8V is amazing. I later bought the T18E and the design is very nice, separate clutch dial is well thought out so you only to switch between drill and driver mode.. I can't justify their price for the 18V drill/drivers. I have the Bosch 12V Flexfit which has the handy right-angle and offset attachment. I own 3 of the new brush-less Makita, 2 of the drill/drivers and 1 impact driver and they are great tools as well.

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

Thanks!

[@dublinf4477]

Timely. I have quite a few Mikita 18 V impact drills drivers etc. Was thinking about changing them to the Festool platform. I own the CXS as well and I absolutely love it. That’s why I was leaning to changing out my heavier drills. But to be honest I don’t need new drills. My Makitas serve me well

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

I was in same boat, but made the “mistake” of buying the Festool drills. Did I need new drills?? Nope. But I wanted them. In the end though, my Makitas are my favorite I have in the shop, and of course my CXS.

[@rolandskumawitz5621]

How do you compare the Festool CXS with the Festool TXS? What are the advantages of each?

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

They are exactly the same internally. Just depends on if you prefer the “traditional” style drill of the TXS or the CXS with the front grip. I prefer the CXS

[@yanduspandus]

better to have both. festool are more forgiving on the wrist. I wouldn’t call them heavy duty because I am always cleaning them haha. but they are very precise and centrotec is a plus. makita for impact for sure.

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻👍🏻✌️

[@eyeofamon]

Was considering Festool drills, went with Flex. Similar aesthetic, slightly less pricey, more power and a deeper bench of tools.

[@rolandskumawitz5621]

Thanks Brian. Sounds like they both provide the same performance, i.e. power, versatility etc. I have been very happy with my Makita XGT drill and driver but am looking for a drill for lighter work. Cheers, Roland

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

Can’t go wrong with either. I love these for light duty projects

[@TheSanzca]

The only festool gear I have for now are their systainers. Purchased a couple of the kit/installer sets for a great deal and got some Tanos ones as well for dirt cheap. I think they are the second gen ones. The good news is the Makita systainers fit the festool and tanos ones. I have a bunch of 18v makita tools, a bit mad at the 40v that is not compatible with the 18v and vice versa unlike DeWalt and the 20/60v flex system. For my “smaller” power tools I use the Milwaukee m12 system. Small and powerful, especially the 3/4 impact wrench. Just awesome. The only dewalt “tool” I have is the cordless pressure washer. I am not a professional tradesmen, so the cost of the festool equipment has always been a big mental hurdle that I still cannot justify.

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

Thanks!

[@MrJruta]

My ONLY Festool is my CXS and I love it. I use it in conjunction with my Milwaukee installation driver as well all my Milwaukees. Keeping my CXS, everything else stays M12/18 red 👍

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻

[@carbb5760]

Ya for me love the CXS and TID. I got rid of my milwaukee installation driver, I have the most recent version of Milwaukee impact but I use the tid 9/10 times. As for the PDC I do not like that drill, it’s big and I find it a bit awkward it’s also outrageously underpowered. I’ve wanted to sell it but every time I think about it I wind up needing the right angel chuck.

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻

[@lucasmancini7415]

The new Makita 40v drills have electronic clutch’s. Other then that and festool idk any other drills that do that yet.

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

Thanks. Guess I just don’t quite get the benefit of that yet. Mech clutches have worked forever, so why fix what isn’t broke? And, I didn’t even realize Makita has come out with a 40v lineup. I’ll check them out.

[@lucasmancini7415]

@@BrianWatersOutdoors yea it’s pretty cool platform has some bigger tools on the line up and most of the 18v tools.

[@andreinowikow2525]

Hi-end Metabos do, and Mafells. Electric clutches aren’t as accurate as well-made mech ones, nor do the tools last longer. Only real advantage is a bit better energy efficiency.

[@fancraft1266]

I'm in Switzerland and the Festool T18 is about the same price as the Makita or the other less premium brands. But every tools are in general much more expensive than in the US

[@amarshall621]

Yep; totally agree. CXS was definitely worth it, but other two weren’t necessarily

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻👍🏻

[@lucasmancini7415]

I bought the pdc and tid 18 combo already owned Milwaukee and Makita. I used the drills for a week and took them back to wood craft. They were nice but just didn’t have the power or precision I was looking for. I also had the t 18 easy it was my first festool drill I used it for a month then sold on Facebook just didn’t have the power. I exclusively only use Makita impacts and drills. And I now have the new Dewalt 12v 4 in 1. And that thing is sweet if you like the regular t style drills. It has plenty of power and all the good attachments.

[@U142093]

You compare oranges vs apples, the corresponding festool is the TDC 18/4 from 500 rpm to 3600 rpm and torque up to 75 nm the Festool you show are mid range 18v, each tool has its purpose, and you get it for a specific job, yes Festools are expensive but they have longer life span superior build quality and parts support for many years, one of the many Festools I have is a circular saw TS 55 it is close to 18 years old it has cut a lot of miles on it if you look at it is like new yes it was expensive when I got it but it has his money plus the above.

[@troykelly639]

I love my cxs as well and only like my impact. Are they worth the price... cxs yes, impact no. And I have all kinds of yellow and red, but no makita... I'm not quite why that is. I may have to try the makita impact. I find the festool a nice break from the aggressive dewalt and Milwaukee... especially if it's in my hand most of the day.

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

I think you’ll like the Makita. Pre Festool I was all DeWalt and a few Milwaukees. Makita has risen in my shop to my favorite drill and driver system.

[@robmullender-ross2667]

I've had a C12 for 15 years and during that time it's seen a lot of hard use. The batteries are only now needing to be replaced. The motor has as fine a degree of control as when it was new, the trigger has no discernable wear. There's no play in any bearings whatsoever - it looks worn but feels like new. I've used other peoples' Makitas half as old with wear and tear problems. I would have had to buy 2 Makitas for the lifespan that my Festool has given me - probably years more when my new batteries arrive - so a false economy in my opinion.

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻

[@M-S-K-]

I use many stuff of makita because it is good quality and price is good also I make cabinets hanging doors and so on No problems at all Some stuff i have from festool like the domino tool

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻👍🏻

[@markbongers9641]

Each is entitled to own opinion, but disagree with you. Love the versatility of my Festool drills. Had Bosch before and glad got rid of that. But luckily we can all choose the brand we like. For me that is Festool with Makita as secundary brand. Have a nice day and looking forward to your next video,

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

Cheers Mark!

[@bazyluuu]

Makita makes really good drills, particularly impacts. Try DTD172! :)

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻👍🏻

[@teac117]

I have makita drills but I was also eyeing the CXS to be honest. Can I ask how do you juggle centrotec and standard bits? Does it get annoying having two sets?

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

The CXS is amazing. I have quite a few Centrotec bits I’ve collected over the years. You can buy the Festool Centrotec bits or save some money and buy the Snappy brand. Also, I will often use the Festool Centrotec bit adapter that converts to the “standard” 1/4” bit.

[@TheTranq]

I agree. If anything, the Festool drills should have practically no runout given the price

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻👍🏻

[@philipb867]

I use the Festool CXS 10.8v drivers, and Makita for drills seemed a no brainer for me to be honest, don't get me wrong I lov the CXS drills I have for driving but could not justify the festool pice for drills as at the end of the day they both do the same thing.

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻

[@goodguy3416]

I have the t18+3 The new 4 gear and i will order new cxs 12. Here in Germany the basic festools are not so expensive. I bought the new t18 incl. 1 battery and systainer for 150 euro

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻👍🏻

[@ravipankhania5528]

I own all the festool drills. I love them….especially the cxs.

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻

[@tracklizard4018]

Festool are very niche woodworking tools when you want to look professional, meaning you don't leave a mess behind.

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻

[@goodguy3416]

Did you the centrotec System?

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

Yes

[@danielpatterson864]

Appreciate the advice and I'll take it! I'm a cabinet maker and bought 2 of the CXS based on reviews (yours being the best). I use makita on site as I need the extra power and wont feel as bad if they get stolen or bashed around....not to mention they're great drills. I have been umming and ahhhing about getting the festool drills so thankyou! Question....do you love your carvex?? Great channel!

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

Thanks! Carvex…….not so much. It’s pretty much known around the world their jigsaws are terrible. I’ve been using a Bosch jigsaw for 10 years and love it.

[@danielpatterson864]

@@BrianWatersOutdoors thanks for they reply!

[@mikelytwyn3578]

Which version of the CXS is this one?

[@gjhancock664]

I think your comparison of the drills is wrong if your going compare a festool drill with that particular Makita it should be the PDC that is the equivalent surley

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻

[@A_Ck9]

I like your courage to admit what you think it wasn't the best decision.

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻

[@Rubiodiamante]

The Festool drills xarry a premium price tag but the quality is not on par vs the competion. I had a problem with the CXS chuck. It had vibrated like a crazy since the day I bought the drill. The Festool service center replaced the chuck but the new one is equally bad. They said the vibration is within the Festool tolerances. Otherwise the CXS is a great drill. The chuck is inferior quality.

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

Which chuck was giving you issues? I mainly use the Centrotec quick chuck and hardly ever use the Jacobs chuck. My 3 CXS ‘s have all worked perfect, but they are all over 2 years old. Not sure if the newer batches are having this issue?

[@guachochi1970]

I know a even better tool, Ryobi

[@Rubiodiamante]

@@BrianWatersOutdoors Sorry, I should have been more precise. I had and still have a problem with the Jacobs chuck.

[@kayvaanshr1ke]

As far as the torque situation, the Chinese manufacturers use best case scenario. Festool uses average working torque. You need to compare apples to apples when comparing the brands

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻

[@JCCarpentry]

I owned a Festool drill for 1 month, spent more time in its box than it did being used.

[@bowerscustomwoodworkingllc]

Good on you for making this. I’d rather watch a review from someone like you than a person with 300k subscribers who gets paid to do this. To be clear I don’t begrudge them, I’m damn jealous in fact! That doesn’t change the fact it makes pressure to accentuate the positives that is not on you.

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

Thank you! I appreciate that comment. I’m not on KZbin to make a living, I just love this hobby and being able to share my personal experience with these tools.

[@bowerscustomwoodworkingllc]

@@BrianWatersOutdoors me as well, I think all 13 of my subs know it lol

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

All 14 of your subscribers now👍🏻

[@bowerscustomwoodworkingllc]

@@BrianWatersOutdoors thank you!

[@goodguy3416]

Did you saw the new cxs?

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

I have seen it. Trying to convince myself I don’t need it

[@goodguy3416]

@@BrianWatersOutdoors here 200 Euro. What is the us pricw

[@josephmccoy2129]

Get either of the Bosch 6” Sanders. Connect them to the CT extractor. As good or better than Festool. Half the pice.

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻

[@OstEryk]

Thank you for this video :) What Makita models do you use?

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

I’m using XDT13 right now

[@SKYLIMI]

First of all, we buy in Europe and support the local market, which is important to us, Festool produces everything in Europe, that is, it gives jobs to people in Europe. Quality costs money and depending on where it is produced. How much would this screwdriver cost when it was developed designed and producedin the USA I am thinking of the same quality and the same materials. It is not better to support your own producers who produce locally and not in China like Apple how many people would have a job, yes, but there would be no such profit who do you think you are doing business now??? For us, Festool and Mafell are tools for carpenters who love accuracy, not for the butcher. Many of my colleagues avoid everything that comes from China!!! we even avoid self-service in the supermarket I think it is clear what I mean. but if you are selfish and only think about your wallet, then soon our companies will flood us with products from China, but who will get rich? The Makita you praise where it was made???

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

Uh, ok. I’m sure a lot of “pro’s” would argue that they are not “butchers” because they use Makita, Milwaukee, DeWalt….or whatever. But to each his own, and we all get to have an opinion. Cheers

[@SKYLIMI]

@@BrianWatersOutdoors I have not written that if someone uses these companies, he is a butcher do not twist what i wrote. Why don't you answer the rest? Or maybe you are not interested in where it is produced, only the price

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

@@SKYLIMI have you taken the 2 minutes to even see my shop? It is 90% Festool…so I’m not knocking it. It appears you are the person who cannot fathom people may have an opinion other than yours. It’s an opinion video on my opinion. Move on

[@mdlawrenceusa]

Good review. I like the drywall drill as well.

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻👍🏻

[@JM-uo5vp]

Did you know that all Festool drill/impact and multi cutter tools are made by Fein

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻

[@nujaofficial6401]

That opening statement takes alot of guts to say, seeing the endless shelves of light grey and green boxes behind him..

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻

[@oviedogreenfields9101]

is this for real or Makita pays more money for the sponsor?

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

I can assure you Makita did not pay me for anything. I wish…….

[@saiiiiiii1]

Since you love the CXS so much, why no love for the C18?

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

I guess because I can’t find anything comparable to the CXS from any other brand. And for the price Festool charges for their 18v drills, I don’t think the price is worth it when you look at the value that Makita, Dewalt, Metabo, Bosch, Milwaukee…..etc offer.

[@sandsmarc]

Oh my god stop it. Buy both, they both have a place. Stop whining, buy both, and just enjoy.

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻

[@andrepoon]

Centrotec … it’s the centrotec chuck that you can swap on and off.

[@dempsey3]

Im a Festool fanatic, the drill batteries are a bit better and I like the very small drill with the right angle attachment, you are so right , when it comes to bigger drills Ill take a Mikita or Dewalt all day long

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

Thanks John👍🏻

[@SadalDay]

impressive amount of festool systainers

[@robertcasey3528]

The Festool Kool aid is good but pricey$$$

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻

[@Tierone1337]

C18 is the best drill until it got stolen from my truck along with my other tools in Cali

[@rickyperkins232]

I always thought Festool makes inferior drill and impact drivers.

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻

[@daenz8334]

You not comparing eggs with eggs, you should have Festool PDC and a newer model now. My PDC wipes floor with Makita

[@ramunasvalancius5455]

I would say you write and wrong. Wrong because you got lots of festool tools or you all ready on festool platform for you it makes sense to have a same drill yes maybe isn’t the best in the world but it is opinion like or don’t 😅 When comes down to makita drill specifically brushless it’s one of the best on the market and they are cheap. personally I think Makita little bit playing here. They selling his drill so cheap to get you on a platform specially for DIY people once you are on the platform, you’re not going to go elsewhere.😢 that’s the trick?😅 Festool isgood tools if you can afford it go for it. You’re not gonna be disappointed.

[@AirArtStudiosOfficial]

Thank you,

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻

[@markmall7142]

Brian i think a FT cabinet drill might be worth it.But as for the rest go buy something else as youll be wasting money.

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@markmall7142]

@@BrianWatersOutdoors I did forget to add as a festool user is 1) You will buy into a second platform if your work is more general. 2)As a T18 owner and having had a PDC , the option of a 90 deg head and eccentric is something I use quite often so that could be a game changer for some.

[@aRndBelgianGuy]

I can’t agree more : makita and CXS ftw !

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

Thanks!

[@aRndBelgianGuy]

@@BrianWatersOutdoors You can actually sell them and buy 3 extra CXS drivers :D

[@josephmccoy2129]

Festool. The only company with “stool” in their name.

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻

[@richardmckrell4899]

Nice video

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻👍🏻

[@kiwdwks]

Can't disagree...

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻👍🏻

[@kayvaanshr1ke]

That’s due to being made in China and festool not being made in China. Honestly I’d rather support the Czech manufacturer with the festool drills than the Chinese manufacturing with makita, Dewalt, Milwaukee etc

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻👍🏻

[@johnhughes3963]

Hey..you might not be wrong about everything..lol..

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻

[@bartman58]

You used am impact drill on a camper build!!! Clueless

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

Really? Hard to tell if you’re serious or not. You don’t use impacts with 3” wood screws, 6” lags, 8” lags, etc…..??? Please educate me what you consider to not be clueless then.

[@michaelmancini5773]

I bought the Bosch Axial glide 10” mitre saw, my partner has the Festool Kapex ($1568.00) my Bosch ($560.00), money not withstanding, my Bosch is the better saw, the Kapex has better dust collection, that’s the only advantage, can’t reconcile Festool’s prices, they’re obscene.

[@BrianWatersOutdoors]

👍🏻👍🏻