I'm considering two dust extractors: the Hercules HEPA model and a used Festool CT 26 E. The Hercules is priced at $349 and offers features like a 12-gallon capacity and self-cleaning, which is great for budget-conscious buyers like me. On the other hand, I found the Festool on Facebook Marketplace for $400, and while it has a smaller 6.9-gallon capacity, it comes with quality attachments and a lower profile design. I'm just a hobbyist working on projects in my garage, and I'm curious if the new Hercules is actually better than the used Festool. What do you think?
3 Answers
I have the Festool, and I wouldn't trade it for anything. For just an extra $50 compared to the Hercules, it's totally worth it. The build quality is just superior, and it handles dust collection incredibly well. Honestly, if you're going to use a dust extractor a lot, go with the Festool.
I went with the Hercules myself. My main issues are the slow shutdown and the cost of replacement HEPA filters, which can add up. But, in my opinion, for around $300, it was a decent compromise. Just be sure to check if the Festool is in good working condition; it's a good deal if it is!
The Festool CT 26 E's capacity is about 6.9 gallons, which is smaller than the Hercules but still a fair price at $400 for a used one. Plus, the remote start feature is super handy if you’re using cordless tools. Just make sure it's clean and functioning well before buying!
Good tip! I didn’t realize how much space the filters in the Hercules took up. The usable capacity isn’t as high as it sounds.
I totally agree! The Festool is definitely a solid investment, especially considering how long it'll last compared to the Hercules.