PROXXON 38700 Foot Switch FS Review: The Hands-Free Secret to Precision Crafting
If you have ever spent a long afternoon hunched over a workbench, meticulously guiding a delicate piece of balsa wood through a hot wire cutter or engraving a complex pattern into glass, you know the “third hand” struggle. We have all been there: your left hand is stabilizing the workpiece, your right hand is guiding the cut, and suddenly you need to kill the power. Reaching for a toggle switch on the machine or fumbling for a dial on a rotary tool handle often results in a slipped cut, a ruined project, or a safety hazard. This is the precise problem the PROXXON 38700 Foot Switch FS was designed to solve. Failing to have a reliable, hands-free method of operation doesn’t just slow down your workflow; it compromises the quality of your craft. In the world of precision modeling and instrument building, even a millisecond of delayed power-off can mean the difference between a masterpiece and a piece of scrap. We decided to put this switch through its paces to see if it truly provides the seamless control required for high-stakes detail work.
- This attachment frees your hands for easy on/off operation. To be used for all machines with a maximum power consumption of 5/8 hp (500 W).
- Ideal for both portable and stationary machines.
What to Consider Before Buying Guitar Amplifier Footswitches & Controllers
A Guitar Amplifier Footswitches & Controllers is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for streamlining your creative process and ensuring that your equipment responds to your physical needs rather than forcing you to adapt to its limitations. Whether you are switching channels on a tube amp or toggling power to a benchtop rotary tool, the goal is the same: tactile, reliable, and instantaneous response. The right controller allows your mind to stay on the artistic task while your feet handle the mechanical logistics.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing high-precision tasks where manual switches are cumbersome, such as luthiers, model builders, or electronics hobbyists. It is a vital upgrade for anyone using stationary tools like the Proxxon Thermocut or portable engraving sets. However, it might not be suitable for those who require variable speed control—this is a binary on/off switch, not a rheostat or a “gas pedal” for speed. If you need to vary the RPMs of a motor with your foot, you should consider a variable speed pedal instead.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: When adding a foot switch to your setup, consider the “real estate” under your desk. A switch that is too small might slide around, while one that is too large might become a tripping hazard. Look for a low-profile design that stays put during intense use.
- Capacity/Performance: You must match the switch to the load. Check the wattage and amperage ratings. A switch designed for a 500W tool will fail if plugged into a heavy-duty table saw. Always ensure the current rating (in this case, 4.2 A) meets your tool’s requirements.
- Materials & Durability: Since this device lives on the floor, it needs to withstand being stepped on thousands of times. Fibreglass-reinforced nylon or heavy-duty steel are the gold standards here. Cheap, brittle plastics will crack under the pressure of a heavy boot.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: The “feel” of the click matters. You want a switch that is responsive enough to engage with light pressure but firm enough that you don’t accidentally trigger it. Maintenance should be minimal, ideally involving just an occasional wipe-down to keep dust out of the hinge.
Understanding these factors will help you determine if the PROXXON 38700 Foot Switch FS fits your specific workshop or studio environment. Before we dive into the deep-dive analysis, you can see its full feature set and user reviews to get a head start on the technicalities.
While the PROXXON 38700 Foot Switch FS is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- Official wireless footswitch for Spark series guitar amps featuring 6 customizable switches, enhanced functionality, and a range of advanced customization features. Spark (40-Watt), Spark MINI, and...
- Dual Momentary/Latching Footswitch
First Impressions: Unboxing the PROXXON 38700 Foot Switch FS
Upon unboxing the PROXXON 38700 Foot Switch FS, the first thing we noticed was its distinctive Proxxon-green color and the surprisingly robust feel of the fibreglass-reinforced NYLON housing. At 12 ounces, it has enough heft to feel substantial without being a literal brick in your toolkit. The 11.81-inch length provides a generous striking area for your foot, which is a major upgrade over the tiny, “button-style” switches that are often hard to find in the dark of a workshop floor. While many competitors opt for thin plastic, the nylon used here feels professional and resilient.
The unit features a two-prong plug and a corresponding socket on the back, making it a “pass-through” device. You plug your tool into the switch, and the switch into the wall. It’s incredibly straightforward. We were pleased to find that the cord is of a decent gauge, suggesting it can handle the 4.2 A rating without breaking a sweat. It feels like a serious tool for serious work, standing in contrast to the flimsy accessories often bundled with entry-level rotary sets. To get a better sense of the build, we suggest you check the latest price and availability as this model often goes out of stock due to its popularity in the modeling community.
Key Benefits
- Invaluable hands-free control for safer, more precise workflow.
- Highly durable fibreglass-reinforced nylon construction.
- Momentary “push-on/release-off” action provides immediate response.
- Compatible with a wide range of tools up to 500W (5/8 hp).
Limitations
- Lightweight design may require mounting to a board for maximum stability.
- Limited to 4 Amps; not suitable for heavy-duty industrial machinery.
Deep Dive: Performance Analysis of the PROXXON 38700 Foot Switch FS
Tactile Response and Workflow Efficiency
In our extensive testing, the primary advantage of the PROXXON 38700 Foot Switch FS is its momentary switch behavior. Unlike a “latching” switch where you click it on and it stays on until you click it again, this is a “dead man’s switch” style. As soon as you lift your foot, the power cuts. We found this to be an absolute game-changer when using the Proxxon Thermocut hot wire table. When cutting foam, the heat from the wire continues to melt the material if the machine stays on even for a second after the cut is finished. By using the foot switch, we could stop the heat precisely as the cut ended, preventing “goo” from forming and keeping the wire clean.
The “click” is audible and tactile, providing enough feedback through a shoe or even a bare foot to let you know exactly when the circuit is engaged. We found that the force required to depress the pedal is perfectly balanced; it’s light enough to prevent leg fatigue during long sessions but resistant enough to prevent accidental activation. One user noted that it feels like “stepping on the gas,” and we have to agree—the responsiveness is immediate. If you’re looking for that level of control, you should see its full feature set and how it might integrate into your own bench setup.
Build Quality and Physical Stability
While the PROXXON 38700 Foot Switch FS is made of nylon, don’t let the “plastic” label fool you. This is fibreglass-reinforced material, which offers a high strength-to-weight ratio. In our experience, it handles the “heavy-footed” moments well. However, because it is relatively lightweight at 12 ounces, it can occasionally slide on smooth surfaces like linoleum or polished concrete if you are pushing it at an angle. We found a simple fix that many experienced users recommend: the housing includes two screw holes for permanent mounting.
We mounted ours to a small scrap piece of 3/4-inch plywood, which added the necessary ballast to keep it firmly in place. This modification transforms it from a “good” accessory to a “professional-grade” workstation component. The internal contacts—made of copper, brass, and silver—ensure a clean electrical connection with minimal arcing, which is crucial for the longevity of the switch. Even after hundreds of cycles, the PROXXON 38700 Foot Switch FS showed no signs of mechanical fatigue or “sticky” engagement, proving its worth for daily use.
Electrical Capacity and Compatibility Limits
It is vital to understand the electrical constraints of the PROXXON 38700 Foot Switch FS. Rated for 4.2 Amps and up to 500 Watts, this is explicitly designed for small power tools. We used it with the Proxxon Micromot rotary tool and the STS/E Jig Saw, and it performed flawlessly. However, we must caution against using it for larger bench grinders or high-amperage shop vacs. Pushing this switch past its 500W limit could lead to overheating.
Another important note for our international readers: this specific model is a 110V-120V device with a North American two-prong plug. We noticed some confusion among users who expected a global voltage range. It is perfectly suited for the US and Canadian markets, but you’ll need a transformer and adapter elsewhere. Within its intended power range, however, it is incredibly versatile. It can turn on almost anything that uses a standard two-prong plug, including desk lamps or small solder fume extractors. This versatility is a feature that really sets it apart from more specialized musical instrument switches that often use 1/4-inch jacks instead of standard AC outlets.
Safety and Precision in Intricate Tasks
Safety is often an afterthought in hobbyist tools, but the PROXXON 38700 Foot Switch FS brings it to the forefront. When engraving glass or working with high-speed bits, things can go wrong quickly. If a bit catches or a workpiece slips, your natural instinct is to pull your hands away. With a standard switch, the tool stays spinning, potentially causing further damage. With this foot switch, your instinctual move—jumping back or lifting your foot—instantly kills the power.
We found this especially useful when sawing intricate patterns. It allowed us to stop the blade mid-stroke with absolute precision to reposition the wood. One user mentioned that it provides a “third hand without the exposure to nuclear radiation,” and while that’s a humorous take, it captures the essence of the experience. It gives you an extra level of autonomy over your tools. For anyone serious about shop safety and fine-detail accuracy, we recommend you check the latest price and consider making it a permanent part of your workshop.
What Other Users Are Saying
The general sentiment among users is overwhelmingly positive, particularly among those who use Proxxon’s specialized cutting and engraving tools. One veteran model builder described it as a “game changer,” noting that controlling the workflow with a foot pedal is significantly safer than reaching for the handle dial. Another user highlighted its utility with the Thermocut foam cutter, mentioning how it prevents “stray pieces of foam from melting into a goo” by allowing for instant shut-off. These experiences mirror our own findings regarding the switch’s responsiveness and impact on work quality.
However, the feedback isn’t without its critiques. A few users mentioned that for the price, they would have preferred a metal housing for even greater durability. There were also mentions of the 2-prong limitation; one user pointed out that it lacks a ground (earth) connection, which made them hesitant to use it with certain bench drills without modification. Despite these minor gripes, the consensus remains that for the Proxxon ecosystem, this is the single best accessory you can buy. It effectively bridges the gap between a standard power tool and a high-precision workstation.
Comparing the PROXXON 38700 Foot Switch FS to its Top Alternatives
While the PROXXON 38700 Foot Switch FS is a powerhouse in the workshop, it’s helpful to see how it compares to footswitches from other industries, such as the musical instrument world, to see if a crossover might work for you.
1. BOSS FS-7 Dual Footswitch for Guitar and Keyboard FX Control
- Dual Footswitch with Switchable Polarity
- Switchable Momentary/Latching Operation
The BOSS FS-7 is a vastly different beast. While the Proxxon is designed to switch AC power (wall current) directly to a tool, the BOSS FS-7 is a low-voltage control switch used for guitar pedals and keyboards. It features two switches in a tiny footprint and can be toggled between momentary and latching modes. If you are looking to control a piece of music gear or a MIDI interface, the FS-7 is superior. However, it cannot be used to power a rotary tool or a foam cutter. It is a specialized tool for musicians who need dual-control in a compact space.
2. BOSS FS-5U Footswitch
- Non-latching Pedal with Polarity Switch
- Unlatching for momentary switching
The BOSS FS-5U is the “tank” of the musical footswitch world. It is a momentary unlatch-type switch. Like the Proxxon, it only works while you press it. The build quality is legendary, featuring a metal chassis and a tongue-and-groove design that allows you to link multiple switches together. However, like the FS-7, it uses a 1/4-inch instrument cable. You cannot plug a power tool into this. It is the better choice for keyboard sustain or drum machine triggering, but for workshop power, the Proxxon remains the only viable option here.
3. Orange Single Function Guitar Footswitch
- LED display for Lead Channel
- suitable for the Use with any guitar cable
The Orange Single Function Footswitch is built like a piece of industrial machinery. It is a simple, rugged latching switch housed in a heavy metal box. It’s designed for amp channel switching. While it feels more durable than the Proxxon nylon housing, it again lacks the ability to handle AC power loads. It is a “contact closure” switch for amplifiers. If you want a switch that can survive being thrown in a gig bag and stepped on by a lead singer in boots, this is it. But for the precision and power requirements of a craft workshop, the Proxxon is the right tool for the job.
The Final Verdict: Is the PROXXON 38700 Foot Switch FS a Workshop Essential?
After putting the PROXXON 38700 Foot Switch FS through a variety of real-world scenarios—from foam cutting to delicate glass engraving—our verdict is clear: this is an essential upgrade for any precision hobbyist. Its strengths lie in its immediate tactile response, its safe momentary-off action, and its ability to handle standard 110V tools up to 500W. While its nylon construction and lightweight feel might lead some to consider it “light duty,” the fibreglass reinforcement and the option to screw-mount it to a base resolve these concerns effectively. It is a specific solution for a specific problem, and it executes its job with German-engineered reliability.
We highly recommend this switch to anyone using Proxxon’s Micromot system or any small power tool where two-handed control is non-negotiable. It improves safety, increases precision, and frankly, makes the crafting process much more enjoyable. If you are tired of fumbling for switches and want to take your workshop efficiency to the next level, you should click here to secure yours and experience the difference of true hands-free operation.
Last update on 2026-06-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API