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Compact design and impressive performance for the compact class – these are the ingredients that make up Festool’s two new cordless drill/drivers – the CXS 18 and TXS 18. Thanks to the powerful brushless EC-TEC motor, these new aces in the compact class can master any assembly task with gusto, no matter how demanding.

As the name suggests, the two compact drill screwdrivers are available in both the C and T design. The unique C-shape, which is typical to Festool, allows for precise work in the drilling and screwdriving axis, while the classic T-shape ensures easy handling and a short distance from the workpiece. Both designs are technically identical, regardless of difference in shape.

When it comes to ergonomics, both all-rounders are impressive. Fast tool change is secured by the FastFix interface and the CENTROTEC system, and a wide range of attachments can be used with the CXS/TXS 18, thus extending the action radius enormously.

Full battery power – full equipment

The CXS/TXS 18 is optimally equipped with bit garage, LED light control, belt clip and powerful 18V battery, and the motto here is flexible screwdriving and drilling, because all attachments for the current Festool 18V cordless drill/drivers are also compatible with these new models. The CXS/TXS 18 also impresses with its performance during power-intensive work with Forstner drill bits up to 35mm and screws up to 6 × 240mm in softwood – countersunk screw with partial thread. Aside from the Ergotype, all other 18V battery packs fit the CXS/TXS 18.

The integrated LED light allows for precise work even in dark corners, and continuous lighting, afterglow or LED off can be controlled via the easy-to-reach adjusting wheel. Adjusting the torque using this method is also very easy. Afterglow brightness and duration can also be personalised with the Festool Work App – Bluetooth® battery pack required. The App can also be used to easily configure the right-/left-hand selector.

For left-handed users, the Work App – in conjunction with the Bluetooth® battery pack – can be used to reverse the right-/left-hand selector switch such that it no longer causes disruption by protruding into the handle area during the main application – in clockwise rotation.

Not only is the power tool always at your fingertips, but it also keeps your hands free at the right moment. The belt clip can be positioned for right- and left-handed users and the integrated bit garage offers space for holding several bits, which are magnetically secured to prevent them falling out.

For instantly changing between drilling, countersinking and screwdriving, the tried-and-tested CENTROTEC tool chuck is a chuck and bit holder in one. Suitable for use with numerous Festool CENTROTEC accessories, the advantage being that it’s half the size and 80% lighter than a standard drill chuck. With a length of 14cm – (TXS)/15.6 (CXS) – and height of 22.4cm – (TXS)/20.6 (CXS) – including 3.0Ah battery, the CXS/TXS 18 isn’t only impressively strong, but also extremely compact.

Festool’s battery-powered universe: There’s more to it than ‘just’ power

“Battery technology and battery-powered devices are a significant trend on the tools market,” says Sascha Menges, CEO of Festool GmbH. “We’ve tailored our strategy to reflect this and are continuously expanding our portfolio. We’re not just blindly pursuing a strategy of using battery technology just for the sake of it – we want to take a more purposeful approach to ascertain how this might best serve the application in question. We want to optimise the results so that the products are perfect for their applications, and we want to make work easier, safer and better for tradespeople.”

This commitment is embodied in exemplary fashion by the latest additions to the Festool 18V system – in particular, the new CSC SYS 50 cordless bench-mounted circular saw; TSC 55 KEB plunge-cut saw; QUADRIVE TPC 18 cordless impact screwdriver; and the ExoActive exoskeleton, all of which will be released during the course of 2023.

For more information, see www.festool.co.uk.