Choosing the right Festool dust extractor depends on how and where you work, what tools you use, and how much dust you generate. Here’s a practical guide from a woodworker or tradesperson’s perspective to help you decide:

Step 1: Know the Product Line

Festool’s dust extractors are mostly in the CTL and CTM series. The difference?

  • CTL: For general woodworking dust. Great for most shop and jobsite needs.

  • CTM: “M-Class” for hazardous dust compliance (required on some European job sites or when cutting MDF, lead paint, etc.).

  • CTH: H-Class, for the most hazardous dusts (asbestos, mold). Rarely needed in general carpentry.

Step 2: Match Capacity to Your Work

Model Container Volume Best For
CT MINI/MIDI 10–15 L Light mobile work, trim carpentry, small routers/sanders
CT 15 15 L Entry-level, great for sanding or mobile site work
CT 26 26 L All-arounder, good for shop or site
CT 36 36 L Larger shop tools, joinery work, big sanding jobs
CT 48 48 L Continuous use with planers, saws, or large debris jobs

Tip: A CT 26 or CT 36 is the “sweet spot” for most tradespeople. The MINI/MIDI is perfect if you’re always on the move.

Step 3: Tool Compatibility

Festool dust extractors have automatic tool start and anti-static hoses—but the size and suction matter depending on your tool:

  • Sanders (like RTS/ETS/RO): CT MINI, MIDI, or CT 15 are fine.

  • Track saws (TS 55/75), routers, jigsaws: CT 26 or higher is ideal.

  • Planers, Kapex, or large routers: Go with CT 36 or 48.

Pro tip: For max compatibility and convenience, consider getting Bluetooth-enabled models. They allow wireless tool-start, even for battery tools.

Step 4: Workspace and Portability Needs

  • Shop only: CT 26 or CT 36 on a dedicated stand or systainer tower.

  • Jobsite/mobile work: CT MINI/MIDI or CT 15 for compact size and easy transport.

  • Tight spaces or interiors: MIDI is quiet and compact, ideal for renovation work in finished homes.

Step 5: Consider Accessories and Features

  • Bluetooth remote: For starting suction when using battery-powered tools.

  • Hose garage: Helps keep your cord/hose tidy (included on most models).

  • Systainer stacking: All CT models are Systainer-compatible.

  • AutoClean: Available on some M-Class models (e.g., CTM 36 AC) for heavy dust from concrete or drywall sanding.