Bosch L-BOXX vs Festool Systainer (2026): Which System for UK Trades?

ByTradeStack HQ

L-BOXX and Systainer are the two original stackable case systems, and both have loyal followings on UK sites. L-BOXX vs Systainer usually comes down to two things: which tools you own, and whether your van has racking built for one of them.

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Quick answer

Choose L-BOXX if your van has Sortimo racking or you run Bosch tools, as Bosch lists it as compatible with the Sortimo in-vehicle system. Choose Systainer if you use Festool tools or want your cases to lock onto Festool dust extractors and transport systems. The two do not stack together, so pick one for your main stack.

How we chose: we compared published specifications and features from each manufacturer and its Amazon UK listing. We have not hands-on tested these products side by side, so we only state what the listings confirm. Check the exact model number before you buy, as features vary across each range.

L-BOXX vs Systainer at a Glance

FeatureBosch L-BOXXFestool Systainer3
Footprint (from the listings)About 44 x 36 cm39.6 x 29.6 cm (M size)
Works withL-BOXX variants, inlays, Sortimo van rackingEarlier Systainer generations, Festool transport and dust extractors
Example capacityL-BOXX 136: 14.7 litres, 25 kg max loadSYS3 M 137: 10.4 litres, 20 kg load
Opening when stackedClick mechanism lets stacked boxes openCheck the model
Made byBosch, in the Sortimo systemFestool, with Tanos making Systainer3 cases too

The Key Differences Between L-BOXX and Systainer

Size and compatibility

The two systems are different sizes. The L-BOXX listings give a footprint of about 44 x 36 cm, while Festool’s Systainer3 M size is 39.6 x 29.6 cm. Because the footprints and latches differ, L-BOXX and Systainer cases do not lock together. Within each system the story is better: Bosch lists L-BOXX as compatible across L-BOXX variants and inlays, and Festool says Systainer3 can attach to all previous Systainer generations.

The van

This is often the deciding factor. Bosch lists L-BOXX as compatible with the Sortimo in-vehicle system, so if your van is fitted with Sortimo racking, L-BOXX cases slide straight in. Systainers instead tie into Festool’s own world: Festool lists the Systainer3 as compatible with its transport systems and mobile dust extractors.

Who else makes them

Tanos is the company behind the Systainer design, and it sells its own Systainer3 cases that share the format, which gives you a second source of compatible cases. L-BOXX cases come from Bosch within the Sortimo system.

The L-BOXX and Systainer Cases to Look At

1. Bosch Professional L-BOXX 102

Best slim L-BOXX

Bosch lists a load-bearing capacity of up to 100 kg, a lifting capacity of up to 25 kg, an improved click mechanism for opening stacked boxes and compatibility with the Sortimo in-vehicle system.

Check price on Amazon

2. Bosch Professional L-BOXX 136

Best all-round L-BOXX

A 14.7 litre case with a 25 kg maximum load, securely closing latches, an additional front handle and compatibility with L-BOXX inlays and Sortimo racking.

Check price on Amazon

3. Bosch Professional L-BOXX 238

Best deep L-BOXX

The larger 28.4 litre L-BOXX for bigger power tools, with the same click mechanism, latches and Sortimo compatibility.

Check price on Amazon

4. Festool Systainer3 SYS3 M 187 ENG 18V

Best for Festool battery kit

Festool lists space for four battery packs and two chargers, and says the Systainer3 attaches to all previous Systainer generations.

Check price on Amazon

5. Tanos Systainer3 M 337

Best deep Systainer

A tall 396 x 296 x 330 mm Systainer3 case from Tanos, the company behind the Systainer design, in the same format as Festool’s Systainer3.

Check price on Amazon

Which Should You Buy?

  • Your van has Sortimo racking: L-BOXX.
  • You run Festool tools or extractors: Systainer.
  • You run Bosch Professional tools: L-BOXX, as many Bosch tools are sold in them.
  • You use another brand: see our Systainer alternatives guide, which covers TSTAK, Makpac and MetaBOX too.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are L-BOXX and Systainer compatible?

No. The two systems use different footprints and latches, so L-BOXX and Systainer cases do not lock together. The L-BOXX listings give a footprint of about 44 x 36 cm, while a Systainer3 M is 39.6 x 29.6 cm.

Does L-BOXX fit Sortimo van racking?

Yes. Bosch lists L-BOXX as compatible with the Sortimo in-vehicle system.

Are new Systainer3 cases compatible with old Systainers?

Festool says the Systainer3 can be attached to all previous Systainer generations.

Who makes Systainers?

Festool sells Systainers for its tools, and Tanos, the company behind the Systainer design, sells its own Systainer3 cases in the same format.

Related Guides

As an Amazon Associate, TradeStack HQ earns from qualifying purchases. Some links on this page are affiliate links, we may earn a commission if you buy, at no extra cost to you. Product details are taken from manufacturer and Amazon UK listings as of October 2026.

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