Head to head
Festool CTL 26 EI vs Festool DF 500 RQ-Set
The Festool CTL 26 EI is a mobile dust extractor for connected power tool extraction. The Festool DF 500 RQ-Set is a domino jointing machine for loose-tenon joinery.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Specifications side by side
| Festool CTL 26 EI | Festool DF 500 RQ-Set | |
|---|---|---|
| Power consumption | 350-1200 W | 420 W |
| Weight | 13.90 kg | 3.60 kg (without accessories) |
| Max airflow | 3900 l/min | - |
| Max vacuum | 24,000 Pa | - |
| Container/filter bag capacity | 26 / 24 litres | - |
| No-load speed | - | 25,500 rpm |
| Domino cutter diameters | - | 4, 5, 6, 8, 10 mm |
| Max routing depth | - | 28 mm |
Sources: Festool CTL 26 EI, Festool DF 500 RQ-Set. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the CTL 26 EI if...
The CTL 26 is the workhorse dust extractor that Festool track saw and sander owners buy to complete their system, with Bluetooth auto-start when a connected tool is switched on. It is chosen over generic site vacuums for dust class L filtration and integration with Festool's Systainer storage.
Full CTL 26 EI specifications →Buy or hire the DF 500 RQ-Set if...
The DOMINO DF 500 replaced traditional dowelling and biscuit jointing for many furniture makers and joiners, letting them cut precise mortises for loose tenons quickly. It has no direct equivalent from the other brands in this catalogue, which is part of its appeal to Festool users.
Full DF 500 RQ-Set specifications →Common questions
What is the difference between the Festool CTL 26 EI and the Festool DF 500 RQ-Set?
The Festool CTL 26 EI is a mobile dust extractor for connected power tool extraction; the Festool DF 500 RQ-Set is a dOMINO jointing machine for loose-tenon joinery.
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