The Festool CT Mini and CT Midi are the two most popular dust extractors in Festool's CT lineup. Both are excellent. Both use the same 27mm Plug-it hose system. The difference is size, capacity, and price.
Here is the full comparison.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | CT Mini | CT Midi |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 3.3 gallons (12.5 liters) | 3.7 gallons (14 liters) |
| Hose diameter | 27mm Plug-it | 27mm Plug-it |
| Filtration | HEPA M-class (0.3 micron) | HEPA M-class (0.3 micron) |
| Auto-start | Yes | Yes |
| Self-cleaning filter | No | No (CT Midi AC has it) |
| Noise level | ~67 dB | ~67 dB |
| Weight | 10.8 lbs | 12.6 lbs |
| Dimensions | 13.5 x 12.5 x 16.5 in. | 14 x 13 x 19 in. |
| Price (approx) | $350 | $450 |
What Is the CT Mini Best For?
The CT Mini is the right choice if you work in tight spaces or move your setup frequently. It is lighter and more compact than the CT Midi. For trim carpenters, finish woodworkers who work on-site, or home shops with limited floor space, the CT Mini fits better.
The CT Mini handles sanders, jigsaws, and routers well. For a Festool ETS 125 or ETS 150 orbital sander, the CT Mini provides more than enough suction. For a Festool track saw (TS 55 or TSC 55), the CT Mini is sufficient but the CT Midi provides better chip transport at higher feed speeds.
What Is the CT Midi Best For?
The CT Midi is the better choice if you spend more time at a stationary bench or workshop. The slightly larger capacity means fewer bag changes during long sanding or routing sessions.
For track saw work on large panels (4x8 sheets of plywood or MDF), the CT Midi handles the chip volume better. The higher air volume keeps the chips moving through the hose at full speed even on long cuts.
If you work with the Festool OF 1400 router or other high-chip-volume tools, the CT Midi is the better fit.
The CT Midi AC: Auto-Clean Version
The CT Midi AC adds a self-cleaning filter function. Every time the tool stops, the extractor gives the filter a shake to dislodge collected dust back into the bag. This keeps the filter resistance low and suction strong throughout a session.
For extended sanding sessions (more than 1 to 2 hours of continuous use), the AC version maintains more consistent suction. For shorter sessions or light use, the standard CT Midi is fine.
Can I Use Either with Non-Festool Tools?
Yes. Both the CT Mini and CT Midi use a 27mm Plug-it hose connection at the extractor. With the right adapter, you can connect any brand's tool to either extractor.
- Milwaukee M18 FUEL tool (32mm port): use a 32mm to 27mm adapter
- DeWalt 20V MAX tool (32mm port): use a 32mm to 27mm adapter
- Makita LXT/XGT tool (36mm port): use a 36mm to 27mm adapter
- Bosch tool (35mm port): use a 35mm to 27mm adapter
This lets you use Festool HEPA extraction with any brand tool. Many woodworkers run Milwaukee or Makita tools with a Festool CT for the filtration quality.
Which One Should You Buy?
If portability and price matter: CT Mini. It does 90 percent of what the CT Midi does at a lower price and in a smaller package.
If you do long sessions, work with track saws on large panels, or use a router frequently: CT Midi. The extra capacity and airflow capacity pay off.
If you sand for hours and want zero filter maintenance: CT Midi AC. The auto-clean feature is worth it for dedicated finish sanders.