G? P?

There are several Differences Between the Two Models. The important difference is bit sizes. Think of the G model as smaller and the P model as larger.

G model Bit sizes: 3-12 mm
Drilling Depth: 0-37 mm
G model Watts: 700
Included bit sizes: 6, 8, 10 mm

P model Bit sizes: 5-16 mm
Drilling Depth: 0-40 mm
P model Watts: 1000
Included Bit sizes: 8, 10, 12 mm

Naturally the P model will require a higher watt motor for larger bits.

Several important similarities is the spacing between the bits which is 32 mm and both models can use 5 mm bits. This allows for shelf pin standards for the 32 mm euro system for cabinets. Standard shelf pin size is 5 mm(NOT 1/4 inch!). Both machines do NOT come with 5 mm bits so that will have to be added separately if you plan to do shelf pin drilling. Although both models come with 8 mm bits which is the most common size for cabinet box construction.

Since were on the Subject of drilling bits for the Doweller. The Drilling bit arbor size is not standard to line bore machines. The Mafell bits are smaller at 8 mm which drastically limits availability in the United States.

Another point to consider is that the G model(smaller) allows 3 mm bits. One can get 3 mm shelf pins and thus allow for nearly invisible shelf adjustment. I plan on adding a set for this purpose.

A little history on the Duo Doweller. Mafell manufactured and badged a model G for Hoffman for a short time in the USA. This unit is known as the Hoffman PDS 32 (Personal Dowelling System 32 mm). Its the exact same machine as the Mafell G model but re-badged. All the parts and accessories are compatible so if you own a PDS-32 spare parts or service can be done through Mafell.

In fact the model I own is the Hoffman PDS 32. It came in a systainer that has the Hoffman sticker but then has red latches and the Mafell logo embossed in the lid....same machine as the Duo-Dowel G model! I also have the Hoffman Drilling Template which I added the Clamping Device Retro kit(#203690) and it fits as expected....Perfect!

I'm still learning about this amazing machine and plan to post more details and videos in the future. Good luck!

Have you done any research or contacted Mafell about the Voltage Converter? I have been looking into the Erika 85 which would require a converter(240-120) for job sites in the USA. Timberwolf didnt have any recommendations other then which one they sold would be best. I'm interested as it would be a shame to cause damage to a high quality tool like Mafell.

I think one will have to Contact headquarters in Germany for recommendation on which specific brand and model of converter to use.

For Future Reference the following thread on the FOG might be of some assistance:

festoolownersgroup.com/ask-festool/using-240v-110v-converters/

I've never felt the need for the Larger P model. Although I use a Domino if I need something larger.

Personally I think the best combination would be a Mafell DD40G and the Festool 700 Domino. That would cover everything from Cabinets to Gate or Entry Door construction.

I did the same as Jonathan and went for the p so I had the power to do 16mm dowels which I done. If you are doing mainly cabinets then G will be fine but if you want to do heavy joinery then the P would be the better choice unless you have large dommino

Unless you have a list of specific applications, I think it becomes more a matter of subjective variables like personal preferences, price, looks, brand loyalty, etc...

In my case I only have the DD40P because I think it's the most versatile machine of that list. I always like some extra power as well. I'd rather have power to spare than struggle.
I use it for just about all my joinery and I find myself using 12mm & 16mm dowels from time to time. I don't know why many dislikes dowels. They've proven to plenty strong to me! So personally, I don't see the need for the Domino's XL large floating tenons, but that might just be because my projects aren't big enough.

The other big application it sees is for my 32mm spacing cabinet drilling. It's hard to convey how easy and fast 32mm spacings are with a DD40.

Of course others may have completely different opinions
Each machine has strengths and weaknesses, the ideal scenario is one of both, but that can really stretch a budget   Regardless, I'm convinced both the Domino and DD40 are excellent additions to any workshop and neither will disappoint. I just find the DD40 the most versatile.

I currently do the shelf pins with the festool LR32 system using the OF1010 router. Do you guys prefer the DD40 over the LR32? If yes then that makes the DD40 quite affordable using it for both tasks. I guess the buzzword for the DD40 seems to be versatile.

Thanks for the input.