Published on: January 28, 2022
Written by Eric Devin / Fact-checked by David Rowan
Finishing is an essential part of any woodworking. Some mistakes with it by giving a polish at the end of the project, but, start at the beginning. Refurbishing furniture requires material removal without harming the valuable piece. This is when sanding becomes crucial. If it is done improperly, it can cause irreversible damage to the workpiece.
On the other hand, when working on a fresh workpiece, super-fine polishing is needed to prep the surface for paint and remove all the scratches and uneven textures at the end of all procedures. If sanding is not done properly, then the paint will pop up all the flaws instead of concealing them.
So, sanding plays the most vital role from the first to the last step of any woodwork or carpentry. We understand its importance, so we took our time to review and research widely used sanders. We develop our list of best sanders depending on different issues like dust collection, performance, power, ease of use and budget, etc. So that anyone can choose one for them without spending hours researching online about sanders.
What to See for During Random Orbital Sander
This is the thing you want to think about while picking the random orbital sander.
Power Source
A few gadgets should be connected to a plug, meaning you might require an additional rope assuming you’re wanting to work outside. Different units are cordless and run battery-powered. While battery-controlled sanders are vastly more convenient, they have a restricted run time.
Variable Speed Control
These sanders are usually not as strong as most belt sanders, however, they can quickly remove a ton of material in any case. Make sure your arbitrary sander incorporates variable speed control. This component is especially valuable assuming you work on sanding and fine specifying one-ton weight. A variable speed switch allows you to move from strong to fragile sanding without any problems.
Ergonomic Design
Generally, search for an orbital sander plan that is ideal for you actually. Sanding takes a ton of time and actual exertion. See which model overburdens your back, shoulders, palms, arms, and fingers.
When designing, these points should be considered.
| Name | Details |
| Height | A lower profile orbital sander will permit you to get into the little hiding spots of a venture that is now wrapped up Such as racks, and examples. Similarly, you can observe in the same way that it is easier to control the position of the safety sanders and keep them on the outer layer of wood. |
| Weight | Sanding an even surface is a certain something. Envision sanding an upward piece of an all-around completed cabinet with a cumbersome orbital sander. This will make you reconsider your side interest genuine quickly. |
| General Comfort | See which configuration is ideal for you and permits a really long time missing a lot of burden on your body. |
Quick Solutions
Why Invest in an Electric Sander for Woodworking?
A sanding block and sandpapers can accomplish occasional small jobs around the house, so why do we need an orbital sander in the first place? This is the question I am most asked when I recommend everyone to invest in one, even if they have no interest in carpentry.
Well, I answer it by saying, you get done only small jobs around the house because you don’t own the right machine to do the rest by yourself. And this is the truth. An orbital sander is handy in removing stains, paint, and varnish from the floor, furniture, door, and windows. If you own one, you can literally refurnish all the furniture, floor, doors, and windows every year to give a new vibe to the home. It takes a little time when you have an orbital sander handy. It is cheap, easy to use, and comes with a dust collection system. Even a kid can use it, so why not you?
What is the Difference Between an Orbital Sander and a Random Orbital Sander?
The orbital sander moves in a round motion and the random orbital sander moves around and back and forth motion. To get a swirl-free finish, this dual movement works better on wood material.
Tips for Using Random Orbital Sander
Gloves for Vibrations Control
Vibrations are a common issue for the random orbital sander. Most of the time new users face problems with this fact. Sometimes experts also face difficulties. But a pair of gloves is a good solution to this issue. Use gloves when you work with a random orbital sander. Gloves give the capacity of vibrations control hands will not jerk like before.
Glass for Your Eye
When you work with random orbital sander wood dust is created by this job. But sometimes wood dust can harm your eyes. So the tip is to use glass when you work with the random orbital sander. Most of the experts suggest using eyeglasses for this work.
Press Slowly
Pressing is an important part of sanding. When you stand with a random orbital sander press gently. Do not press your sander hard because it can damage the wooden surface area.
Mark Area
It is a good trip to mark the sanding area. It is a good process to work without problems. When you mark your standing area your work will be more professional no matter if you are new on this site. You can use a marker pen or cos tape for marking.
View Top 10 Random Orbital Sanders, Below-
1. SKIL 5” Random Orbital Sander with Dust Box – SR211601
- 7000-13, 000 OPM speed;
- Weighs 3.44 pounds.
Professional carpenters know how necessary it is to have a compact sander to get into the right corners while refurbishing or cabinet making. Meet this 5-inch random orbital sander from SKIL. It is small and compact to sneak into the corners of any workpiece. Besides, it only weighs 3 pounds, which is perfect for overhead or vertical sanding on wooden doors and windows.
The ergonomics of this orbital sander are well-planned. It merely makes any vibration or noise even while operating at the highest speed. You will get variable speed functionality for versatile applications like removing varnish from old furniture to prepping the surface for a fresh coat. To be honest, all the sanders we have enlisted here have variable speeds, but this one has a wider range.
You may find this a little bit more pricey than other models, but I would say it is priced right. In fact, this product is backed by an extended warranty to make it more reliable. For professional woodworking or carpentry, you can never go wrong with this sander from SKIL.
Why It’s Good
- Impressive dust collection;
- Creates fewer vibrations that’s why it’s easy to handle;
- Fits in tight and problematic places;
- Vibrations control feature;
- One-year warranty offered.
Things to Improve
- No negative issues are found by users.
2. DEWALT Random 5-Inch Orbit Sander for Carpentry (DWE6423K)
- 8,000 – 12,000 OPM speed;
- 4 pounds weight;
- The package includes the sander, dust bag, owner’s card, carrying case, etc.
Are you an owner of DWV010 or DWV012 dust collectors? Most professionals use these models of dust collectors to suck up all the produced dust during sanding. If you do that too, then there is good news for you. This DWE6423K sander from DEWALT attaches to those two vacuums without any adaptor.
It is okay if you don’t use those in your shop, the included dust bag itself works just fine. Or you can always purchase an adapter to link this machine with a regular shop vac. This machine is equipped with a powerful motor to take all the abuse and long-term use daily in a professional woodshop. Not only that, but it also delivers a wide range of speeds to match your requirements. It has a low profile design and is slightly heavy to press down as you feel comfortable and get closer to the surface you are working with.
Rubber over-mold is added with this to ensure its working ability in all of the critical areas. Though this sander is more pricey than other models, it is still the best one for professionals for its durability.
Why It’s good
- Superior motor suitable for heavy-duty ;
- Low profile design;
- Durable for its quality and materials;
- Rubber over-mold is added with;
- Comes with a carrying bag;
- Effective dust management.
Things to Improve
- Heavier than most sanders so sometimes users can not carry this device.
3. BLACK+DECKER Random Orbit Sander for Woodworking (BDERO100)
- Weighs 3.16 pounds;
- 5-inch random orbit sander.
I don’t believe woodworking has to be expensive. If you are a professional woodworker then you can try all kinds of prices. But suppose you are new to this area then it’s a good idea to choose an affordable one.
For DIY projects around the house like removing stains from furniture before Christmas or home decoration, or revarnishing the doors and windows need not be a deal to make you bankrupt. This super-affordable 5-inch orbital sander can do all these small jobs just the way the professional-grade sanders do at half the price.
Moreover, it is quiet, just the right feature all homeowners look for to use power tools in a neighborhood. It is light, so it won’t cause fatigue to the hands that are not used to operating regularly. It works great to remove material from wood materials fast and at the same time, collect all the fine dust, leaving the air and the workpiece clean.
In a word, you get everything you want in this little sander without spending a fortune on it.
Why It’s Good
- Very reasonable price;
- Suitable for material removal;
- The comfort grip handle;
- Suitable for DIY and homeowners;
- A two-year warranty was added.
Things to Improve
- Nothing to mention.
4. Bosch ROS20VSC Variable Speed Random Orbital Sander/Polisher Kit
- 2.5 Amp motor creates 7,500 and 12,000 OPM speeds;
- Includes a dust collector sanding pad, sanding disc, dampening ring, vacuum adapter, and carrying bag.
There is a win-win chance with this orbital sander. There is a high chance that you can get a defective sander and claim for replacement as soon as you get this. But if it is not defective, then you will never want to go back to any other orbital sander you ever used before. For sanding curves and contoured surfaces, this one is a master. The pad dampening system makes it possible and it lets you sand the contours as you sand the plains.
The motor they installed in this model is powerful, and it makes the sander run up to 12,000 OPM. the finishing result it delivers is awestruck-worthy. People use this sander to use on various materials ranging from wood, engineered lumber, fiberglass, plastic, metal, and almost any hard surface. I strongly recommend this one for carpenters and contractors who use engineered lumber and hand wood. Even on the toughest surfaces, this machine does not back out or leave a low finish.
Why It’s Good
- Suitable to use on a contoured surface;
- Impressive dust collection;
- Vibrations control advantages;
- Leaves a super smooth swirl-free finish.
Things to Improve
- Some users said that sometimes this device defects work areas;
- Price little higher for budget people.
5. Makita BO5041K 5-Inch Random Orbit Sander Kit with Case
- 3.0 AMP motor;
- 4,000 to 12,000 OPM;
- 3.09 pounds.
Sanding on a large board becomes more manageable when the machine is held with both hands. But unfortunately, not all orbital sanders offer this feature. For this reason, we decided to list this Makita orbital sander for people who are comfortable holding the sander with both hands.
There is a removable auxiliary handle with this machine to use when necessary and remove it while working, in tight spaces, or in smaller pieces. This small addition makes this machine easy to maneuver. Even if the highest speed is 12000 OPM, just like other models, the speed starts from 4000 OPM. Now you can use the lowest setting while working on delicate workpieces. Remove just the right amount of material without harming the workpiece.
The sander also has an efficient dust collection system, but it creates noise if you don’t attach it to the vacuum. It is also priced very high for its added benefits and the included hard plastic case. For professional use in an abusive environment, this kit is useful.
Why It’s Good
- Lightweight drive easy to manage and carry;
- Adjustable handles need not be panic for this fact;
- Comfortable to use;
- Easy to maneuver;
- Fast sanding process with heavy motor power;
- Vibration control features are available.
Things to Improve
- Create noise, solve this issue it needs improvement;
- Very expensive device.
6. BOSCH ROS20VSC 5-Inch Pad Rear-Handle Random Orbit Sander
- 2.5 amp;
- 5 inches sanding pad;
- 7,500 to 12,000 OPM;
- Variable speed dial allows;
- 8-hole pattern for efficient dust extraction.
The Bosch sander is my favorite among all these I have reviewed. Its two modes make sanding easier for carpenters who are new in the business. For example, the low settings ‘random orbital’ mode is for fine finishing and ‘turbo’ is for aggressive material removal. This machine offers variable speed. It only takes a little time and practice to get used to it. One thing is for sure, both the modes work great in sanding down a workpiece in half the time compared to other models. Thanks to its 2.5 amp motor.
This bosch sander comes with a 5-inch soft backing pad, sanding disc, 5 mm pad wrench, and tubular dust canister.
All other accessories you will need to operate are included in the packaging. In my opinion, the durability and functionality overpay the cost you have to pay to collect it.
Why It’s Good
- Versatile use too;
- Time-saving with a powerful motor;
- Included with vibration control advantages;
- Superior finish;
- Removable handle;
- Easy to maneuver.
Things to Improve
- High price devices not suitable for all level users;
- Heavy weight creates issues during work periods.
7. PORTER-CABLE 6-Inch Orbit Sander for Polishing Wood (7346SP)
- 4.5 Amp
- 2,500-6,800 OPM;
- You get a polishing pad, PSA pad, sanding disc, side handle, wrench, etc.
Please note, this sander is only for finishing, as the title describes. If you are looking for an aggressive sander to remove paint or varnish from hardwood, then there are other options for you on my list. The speed is limited to 6,800 OPM so that you can fine-finish any wood and engineered lumber.
Despite the low speed, this sander is equipped with a powerful motor to not overheat for prolonged use. Moreover, the motor is overload protected to give it unmatched durability. The side handle is a must-have for polishing large materials, but you can remove it while polishing small furniture or decorative pieces.
The package includes everything you need to operate it. Some prefer not to recommend it to professionals, but I feel that it will survive a long time if you use it solely for polishing wood. It is backed by a long warranty after all.
Why It’s Good
- Removable side handle;
- Overload protected;
- Easy to manage with advantage features;
- Work fast and save time for powerful motor power.
Things to Improve
- Heavyweight is one of the negative sides;
- Price higher than a similar device.
8. WESCO Random Orbit Sander
- Rotational Speed: 5000-12000 /min
- Power: 3.0A
- 4*80 grit, 4*100 grit, and 4*120 grit sanding papers make it ideal for wood, porcelain, and metal sanding;
- 3 pounds.
To get the same performance of high brand orbital sanders at a low price, choosing this WESCO sander can save you from spending bucks. This is a popular brand and many users use this brand sander for their wood sanding work. It is equipped with the same powerful motor and delivers the same variable speed. This orbital sander comes with a total of 6 variable speeds.
The good thing is, it weighs merely 3 pounds. The occasional DIY woodworker won’t need to stress out about holding a heavy, bulky sander for long.
Do not worry about the dust collection process. The dust collection system is an important part of the WESCO random-orbit sander. Professional engineering work for efficient dust collection. This sander works with a clear dust collection box and it has a vacuum connector to link with the dust port. So you can easily remove heavy-duty dust collection.
The canister is attached and removed with a simple twist. Overall, dust collection is time-saving.
Why It’s Good
- Lightweight tool easy to carry and use;
- The high-speed tool works fast;
- High-performance dust collection;
- Affordable price with all smart facilities.
Things to Improve
- Nothing to mention.
9. SKIL PWRCore Random Orbital Sander(SR660302)
- Speed: 11, 000 RPM;
- 100 mins run time on low speed;
- Weight: 5.25 pounds;
- Longer run time and battery life;
- Includes 2.0Ah lithium battery and PWRJump charger.
This list would be incomplete without a cordless sander. So we picked one that fits everyone’s budget and requirements. This 5.25 pounds cordless sander includes the battery and charger at an affordable price. Once it is fully charged, it can run for up to an hour, depending on the use. This is enough to subtly finish a small to medium project.
There are three-speed settings on this battery-operated sander which lets you use it for various materials and different purposes. Use it on metal, wood, or wall to remove paint or give a touch-up, everything is fine. For people living off-grid or contractors who work in remote job sites, this cordless sander should be in the collection to save them unwanted hassles.
Why It’s Good
- Portable cordless design;
- Replaceable pad;
- Rong run time;
- High-quality materials;
- Easy to manage and carrying capacity for all places;
- Leaves a flawless finish.
Things to Improve
- Overall, most users are happy with this tool.
10. Galax Pro 6 Variable Speeds Orbital Sander with 15Pcs Sanding Discs
- Speed: 13,000 opm;
- 13,000 rotations per minute;
Includes random orbit sander; 5Pcs sanding discs of 80 grits, 5Pcs sanding discs of 100 grits, 5Pcs sanding discs of 120 grits; dust collection bag; user manual.
For a high-performance orbital sander, Galax Pro 280W including a powerful fine copper motor is the most suitable option. A team focuses on the assembly of power tools, like a random orbital sander, buzz saw, mini buzz saw, saber saw, etc. If you’re a DIY lover, it’s your right choice.
This random orbit sander is provided with a 125-millimeter diameter sanding pad. This ensures that the user can sand even large surfaces and hard materials quickly. This sander’s orbital stroke rate is up to 13,000 OPM, while the orbit diameter is 1.25 millimeters.
An ergonomically designed handle with a soft rubberized grip fits your hand ideally to supply maximum control and luxury. Dust-sealed switch minimizes contamination with a conveniently located lock-on button for continuous use and increases operator comfort.
Why it’s good
- The motor is strong enough;
- Reasonable price;
- A lightweight device with comfortable use;
- Very easy to use.
Things to Improve
- Not good for a final clear coat.
Conclusions
Any kind of woodworking is not possible without sanding. Get the orbital sander you think you need for your woodworking project whether it is professional or occasional. The finish you give the workpiece will make you forget all the labor you have invested in it. So choose the sander carefully and treat it right. In return, it will serve you just the way you want!
If you want an overall good quality orbital sander Makita BO5041K is one of the best orbital sanders. Most of the users said the positive side of this device. Without issue just pick them and enjoy a good experience of sanding.
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About This Writer
Hi, I am Eric Devin and I am a professional interior architect. Since childhood, I've always enjoyed DIY projects! And, I have loved to solve simple household problems using essential tools and equipment. I have also acquired a lot of information about basic household tools settings by working with contractors.
