Hi all, I have the original RO1E Rotex I bought new I think in the early 1980's from memory, and while it's been a great sander, I recently picked up the RO90 which has completely blown me away with just how good it is. I think it's my new favourite sander!

So it's now got me thinking, is the new model 150 Rotex significantly better than the RO1E making it worth buying, or is it more like an incremental upgrade in which case I'm better just sticking with the old RO1E?

I do have the ETS EC models, so finishing I'm well covered for, more looking for the fast aggressive action for where the abrasive planer isn't suitable.

Very interested in others thoughts, especially those who may have been exposed to both models.

Yeah it is pretty old, so old in fact it came in a quite large grey metal case as was standard for the early Festo tools!

I can imagine at the very least the ergonomics would be far better, while pretty sensational when it came out, it's akin to using an angle grinder at times and can be awkward to hold for long sanding sessions. Not much in the way of ergonomics, or even anything approaching a semi comfortable grip with the RO1E!

If the new RO 150 is anywhere near as good as the RO 90, then I may have made up my mind!

One of the best Festool purchases I made was the RO150. I haven't used the older model but the Ro150 I have had a year or so now and have refinished floors, finished cabinets, and engraved projects with it. I love it. I also have the RO90 which I bought first because of some toe kick areas I needed to get at. The RO90 had a significantly steeper learning curve than the RO150 and is still more of a challenge to control compared to the RO150, for me. I have small hands and the RO150 doesn't seem too big as with anything rotary control is determined more by the control of holding it level to the surface and the angle the vacuum hose might add some attention, control those and it is smooth sailing! After a couple of hours with the RO150, I can use it with one hand but it is easier with two. Virtually no dust, the ct 26 catches almost all. I am using granat paper.

I've never seen or even heard of that particular sander. It does indeed look more like an angle grinder than the newer models.

After watching this video and seeing online reviews, I'll definitely be updating to the new Rotex the next time a specials on!

Was a bit funny the oldest Rotex they had in the video is still 20 years younger than mine!