Festool has just announced their most innovative work table yet: the STM 1800 Folding Work Table. What makes this announcement truly unique is that Festool is accepting pre-orders for a product that hasn’t even entered production yet—a bold move that has generated both excitement and caution in the industry.
The Revolutionary Pre-Order Model
Festool is taking a leap of faith with this product launch:
No Production Yet: This is the first time Festool has allowed pre-orders for a product still in development
Strict Ordering Window: Orders are only being accepted until April 13th, 2020
Long Wait Ahead: The estimated release date is October 1, 2020 (approximately 6 months later)
Uncertain Future Availability: There’s no guarantee the table will be available after the pre-order period ends
This approach is reminiscent of Kickstarter campaigns, where customers commit to a product before it’s built. The question is: is the convenience and innovation worth the wait?
Why This Table Could Be Worth the Wait
The STM 1800 is designed to revolutionize how professionals and serious DIYers work with sheet materials:
Unmatched Functionality
Single-Person Operation: Designed for one-person loading, processing, and transport of sheet goods
Versatile Work Surface: 71″ x 71″ (1800mm x 1800mm) support area with renewable table supports
Adjustable Height: 5 positions from 27-5/8″ (700mm) to 35-7/16″ (900mm) in 2″ (50mm) increments
Full Material Support: Unlike any other system on the market, it provides complete support during fabrication
Superior Portability & Storage
Compact Design: Easily transportable thanks to its robust chassis and low weight (74.95 lbs / 34 kg)
Quick Setup: Intuitive design promotes easy setup and use
Adjustable Footprint: Adapts to different working environments and material sizes
Stable Mobility: Robust locking casters ensure stability during use and easy movement
Performance Specifications
Working Load Capacity: 330.69 lbs (150 kg) – suitable for most sheet materials
Package Dimensions: 46-27/32″ (1190mm) x 10-15/64″ (260mm) x 24-51/64″ (630mm)
Package Weight: 83.78 lbs (38 kg) – includes all components for immediate use upon arrival
Who Should Consider This Pre-Order?
This table is ideal for:
Carpenters and Cabinetmakers: For processing sheet goods with precision
Contractors and Builders: As a mobile assembly station on job sites
DIY Enthusiasts: Serious woodworkers who need a reliable work surface
Production Shops: For efficient material handling and processing
The Risk vs. Reward Analysis
Potential Downsides:
- Long wait time (6 months from order to delivery)
- No guarantee the product will be available after April 13th
- Paying for a product that doesn’t yet exist
Potential Benefits:
- First access to what could be a game-changing work table
- Festool’s reputation for quality and innovation
- A solution that solves specific workflow challenges
- Potential savings if the table lives up to its promises
Conclusion
Festool is known for their high-quality, innovative tools, and the STM 1800 appears to be another winner in their lineup. The pre-order model is unconventional but could pay off for those who need this specific functionality in their workflow.
Related topics:
- The Best Portable Workbenches, Tested and Reviewed – Bob Vila
- The 10 Best Portable Workbenches For 2025
- Amazon.com: Foldable Work Table
