Festool PLANEX Drywall Sanders: Which One Is Right for You?
Festool’s PLANEX series of long-reach sanders is the go-to for professionals who demand precision, dust control, and ergonomic design in drywall sanding. But with three standout models in the lineup, it’s important to know what sets each one apart.
Let’s take a deep dive into the details…
1. Festool PLANEX LHS 2 225 EQI-Plus
The flagship model is designed for maximum control, visibility, and comfort.
Key Features:
- 360° LED light ring: Built-in illumination reveals surface imperfections as you sand, eliminating the need for time-consuming reworking.
- Random orbit eccentric sanding motion: Delivers a swirl-free, ultra-smooth, perfect finish.
- Adjustable suction power: Reduces tool weight on ceilings and walls.
- Variable modular length: Extendable with up to two extensions for overall lengths of 1.20 m, 1.65 m, or 2.10 m.
- Brushless EC-TEC II motor: Maintenance-free and long-lasting, whilst consuming extremely low amounts of energy.
- Ergonomic T-handle: For better reach and balance.
- Stay connected: unlock additional functions of the LHS 2 225 EQI-Plus with Bluetooth and the Festool app.
Best for: High-end finishers, plasterers, and contractors who want the best of everything.
2. Festool PLANEX LHS 2-M 225 EQ
The mid-range model with a balance of performance and simplicity.
Key Features:
- Adjustable suction: Like the EQI-Plus, it can “stick” to walls and ceilings to reduce user fatigue.
- Random orbit eccentric sanding motion: Delivers a swirl-free, high-quality finish.
- Brushless EC-TEC II motor: Durable and efficient, whilst consuming extremely low amounts of energy.
- Fixed length: 1.40 m long, simple design with no capacity to extend.
- No LED light ring: Unlike the EQI-Plus, this model doesn’t include built-in lighting.
- Practical T-shaped handle: Like the top-of-the-range EQI-Plus, this model has an ergonomic T-shaped handle.
Best for: Professionals who want excellent performance without the premium price tag of the Planex LHS 2 225 EQI-Plus.
3. Festool PLANEX LHS-E 225 EQ… PLANEX Easy
The entry-level model – lightweight, straightforward, and effective.
Key Features:
- Direct drive brushless EC-TEC motor: Reliable and consistent.
- Fixed length: 1.65 m long with no extensions or modular parts.
- Rotary orbit sanding motion: Delivers a quality finish, but not to the high levels achieved with a random orbit eccentric sanding motion.
- No LED light or suction control: Simplified for ease of use.
- Lightweight: weighing just 3.7 kg, ideal for long sanding sessions.
Best for: Tradespeople or DIYers who want a reliable, easy-to-use sander without extra features.
Quick Comparison Table of the Festool PLANEX drywall sander range:
| Feature | LHS 2 225 EQI-Plus | LHS 2-M 225 EQ | LHS-E 225 EQ |
| Abrasive Diameter | 225mm | 225mm | 225mm |
| LED Light Ring | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Suction Control | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
| Sanding Motion | Random Orbit | Random Orbit | Rotary Orbit |
| Motor Type | Brushless EC-TEC II | Brushless EC-TEC II | Brushless EC-TEC |
| Extendable Length | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Bluetooth | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Dust Extraction Connection | 36/27mm | 36/27mm | 36/27mm |
| Storage & Transportation | Systainer SYS3 XXL 337 | Canvas carry bag | Canvas carry bag |
| Voltage | 110V or 240V | 110V or 240V | 110V or 240V |
| Weight | 5.0 kg | 4.0 kg | 3.7 kg |
| Best For | Premium finishers | Balanced performance | Lightweight simplicity |
Final Thoughts
Choose the Festool PLANEX LHS 2 225 EQI-Plus if you want top-tier performance, lighting, and ergonomics.
Go with the Festool PLANEX LHS 2-M 225 EQ if you want power and suction control without the bells and whistles.
Pick the Festool PLANEX LHS-E 225 EQ if you value simplicity, light weight, and ease of use.
