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Best orbital sander 2018 – [Buyer’s Guide]
Last Updated March 1, 2023
I’m Willow Brayden Diaz. My friends call me “stone” and it just kind of stuck. After 44 hours of research including speaking with consultants and experts, and plenty of parents and 18 hours spent testing 10 orbital sander, I believe that I found the best orbital sander of 2018.
I will go through the main features and what you should consider when deciding which one to pick over the other. In this article, I’ve listed down the Top 3 list. These are the best orbital sander your money can buy.
Best orbital sander of 2018
Now, let’s get to the gist of the matter: which are the best orbital sander for the money? You must have heard that the best orbital sander should allow you to save money, right? Sure, but that’s not the only reason you should consider getting one.
Check them out and decide which one suits you the best to splurge upon. I browse the various orbital sander available on the market and list three of the very best.
Test Results and Ratings
| Rank | №1 | №2 | №3 |
| Product |  |
 |
 |
| Total | 4.8 | 4.5 | 4.3 |
| Ease of use |
5 points
|
5 points
|
4 points
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| Materials |
5 points
|
5 points
|
4 points
|
| Durability |
4 points
|
4 points
|
5 points
|
| Quality |
5 points
|
4 points
|
4 points
|
| Awards |  |
||
 |
|
|
|
 |
|
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How to save up to 86%? Here is little trick.
You must visit the page of sales. Here is the link. If you don’t care about which brand is better, then you can choose the orbital sander by the price and buy from the one who will offer the greatest discount.
№1 – Jitterbug Orbital Air Sander
| Total: |
4.8
|
Why did this orbital sander win the first place?
I am very happy with the purchase. It is definitely worth its money. The product is top-notch! I also liked the delivery service that was fast and quick to react. It was delivered on the third day. The product is very strong. Its material is stable and doesn’t crack. I really enjoy the design. It is compact, comfortable and reliable. And it looks amazing!
5
|
5
|
4
|
5
|
№2 – 6″ DA Polisher & Sander Pad – Hook & Loop Face – Random Orbital Backing Plate
| Total: |
4.5
|
Why did this orbital sander come in second place?
Managers explained me all the details about the product range, price, and delivery. The material is pretty strong and easy to wash if needed. This is a pretty decent product that perfectly fitted the interior of our office. I recommend you to consider buying this model, it definitely worth its money.
5
|
5
|
4
|
4
|
№3 – Black & Decker BDERO100 Random Orbit Sander
| Total: |
4.3
|
Why did this orbital sander take third place?
This price is appropriate since the product is very well built. It doesn’t squeaks nor bents. Looks great in my apartment. I hope that the good reputation of the manufacturer will guarantee a long-term work. I liked the design. We’ve been using it for 2 months and it still looks like brand new.
4
|
4
|
5
|
4
|
orbital sander Buyer’s Guide
Use Different Grades of Abrasive
Coarse abrasives can rip through old varnishes and thin paint layers fast but will leave ugly scratches in wood or stucco. Finish with fine abrasive paper, and the surface will be mirror smooth to the naked eye.
Remember, if you are stripping old, thickly layered paint, you will need to remove the paint with a chemical stripper first. Oil based paints quickly clog abrasive papers.
For most home decoration, three grades of abrasive are all you need. Usually makers give codes like this: P60, P80 and P120. The P stands for ‘particle’ and the number tells you how many particles there are per square centimeter.
P60 is coarse, P80 medium and P120 is fine. P180 can be useful for sanding between coats of paint or varnish.
There are two ways to fix abrasive sheets to a sander
If you have a lot of work to do, using rolls or sheets is much more economical.
You cut the right size and attach it to the sander with clips. These clips are critical in the long term use of a sander, so look for a model with robust features. If the clips break, the sander is useless.
Abrasives with a backing that includes cloth reinforcement is more durable than a purely paper backing. Thin, non-reinforced sheets break easily on rough surfaces or edges.
Makita is the only maker that I could recommend.
Makita sanders are quiet, low-vibration, and powerful. Not only is the motor good, the clips on a Makita sander are durable and hold the paper tightly, even after years of use.
Vibration and noise are especially important if you are working for a long period. Inferior sanders can leave your hands numb and your ears ringing. Excess vibration, common with cheap sanders, also means slow, very tiring work as you force the abrasive to its task.
Pressure indicator lights on a Skill sander
Round sanders are easy to use on big surfaces. They sweep back and forth more smoothly than their square or rectangular cousins and many people find it easier to get a flat finish as a result.
Some sanders of this kind have a brake that automatically cuts in if you apply too much pressure. This prevents you from accidentally damaging the surface and also eases pressure on the motor, giving it a longer life.
Skil is one manufacturer that has a system of indicator lights to tell you how much pressure you are applying. This is very useful for beginners who might otherwise find it hard to get a flat finish. It gives you feedback on the best technique for steady, even sanding.
Some uses of a belt sander.
Belt-sanders are not suitable for fine finishing but they are invaluable for tougher work.
If you are stripping a large wooden floor or deck of its old finish, a large drum sander that you push back and forth is the best option. A smaller, handheld belt sander is needed to reach edges and into corners.
A small floor or deck can be sanded with a handheld belt sander on its own, with a little patience.
Belt sanders can also be used to true up bent boards, flatten warped or buckled table tops or strip tough finishes from furniture.
Belt Sander Versus Orbital sander
One of the most important aspects when using a sander is ensuring your safety even before you fire up the tool. This involves ensuring the suitability of the workplace in the project you will undertake—there should be no fire hazards and there should be an ample amount of space to allow your movement as you use tools like a sander. After inspecting the workplace, you should make sure you are wearing the right attire. It is important to wear safety goggles, especially when sanding. This will prevent any dust and splinter from entering your eyes and causing undesirable damage.
You can handle your device safely after checking out all the safety measures. Since this tool is lightweight, it will be easy to maneuver. The sander can be operated single-handedly. Which means you can adjust the material with your free hand while sanding it down.
Disk coarseness
The random orbital sander uses interchangeable disks. You can easily change the discs to a finer or coarser grit. Depending on the required finish and the type of material. Usually, when starting out a sanding task, you should use the greatest coarseness; level 60.
While progressing with your sanding task you can gradually change the disk to a finer grit. When making the finishing touches the best option is to use the finest grit, which is 240. For example, if you will be sanding wood with a rough surface, a 60 is the best level of coarseness.
However, if you will be prepping a surface such as a wall prior to painting, you need a finer sanding disk at a scale of 100 to 150. You can read more about wall sanding here. Lastly, the finest end of the spectrum. The 240 grit disc is used for refinishing projects such as refinishing cabinets and other furniture.
Operating your tool
Once you’ve chosen and attached the right sanding disk you are ready to go. Lay the base of the tool on top of the working material. Make sure you hold it down firmly and flat but don’t apply too much pressure.
As you maneuver the sander in order to control its abrading force all you have to do is apply or reduce pressure with your hand on the tool while you sand. Keep in mind, however, that the pressure you use will help but the level of coarseness of the sanding disk is the main factor when it comes to sanding results. The best way to sand a surface is by making slow circles movements across the material and back. After you are done sanding a section turn the tool off while you are still holding it flat on the surface. Do not let go of it just yet—wait until its operation comes to a full stop. Remember, you can reuse the same disc multiple times, or change it when it loses the initial coarseness.
When using a random orbital sander, you should also know how to handle the dust. This type of sander often comes with a vacuum bag that will suck up the dust from the wood or metal you are sanding. However, the dust bag will not contain all of the sawdust. You should still lay down sheets under the project you are working on to catch all of the debris. It is best to use a vacuum cleaner to clean up the mess. Make sure to wear a sanding mask to block out the dust from being inhaled. The dust produces while sanding can cause breathing and other health complications. There are different sanding masks that you can choose from such as the half-face model, disposable respirator, and Snap-On filters.
Maintenance
This is a really important factor that I find worth looking into. Low maintenance is always better, as far as sanders are concerned. No one wants to spend too much on maintenance, and we all would buy any low maintenance machine that still provides the best performance and last longer too.
The ease of maintenance is another subfactors under this. Someorbital sanders are hectic to maintain, ad some user would find them impossible to own. Chose what you know would give you an easy time.
The design of an orbital sander matters a lot. Sometimes the designed determines the level of comfort, ease of operation and control, performance, power, among others. I’m always keen on the design of a sander whenever I’m buying a new one.
I want to know whether it has the right weight to make it easy to control and operate. If has just the right size, shape, and with the right features, then it is worth spending your money on.
Dewalt D26453K Amp 5-inch
The D26453k from Dewalt is the best random orbital sander available to buy on the market right now.
It combines an array of excellent features, top notch quality and best in class build quality.
The Dewalt orbital sander has a 3-Amp variable speed motor that can run in a range between 7,000 and 12,000 OPM. It takes a standard 5-inch hole sanding pad using a hook and loop system, meaning switching out different sanding disks is quick and easy.
The higher OPM is generally required for wood types from hardwood species. The variable speed control is perfect for getting the correct power required for either soft or hardwood and allows you to use the sander for both very fine finishing work or removing heavy material depending on your needs.
Specifications
This orbital sander features Dewalt’s proprietary Controlled Finishing System(CFS) that helps to reduce gouging during startup – something that can ruin an almost complete surface as you attempt to add the finishing touches.
What features to look for in a random orbital sander
Weight – Too heavy and it will apply too much pressure to the surface, too light and you will have to apply additional force which adds to fatigue.
Cost/Speci fications: Ultimately you need to balance performance/quality in line with your budget.
Ideally you would base your decision on your usage needs. If you are looking for a no frills sander for a one off job or the occasional project then you don’t need to buy the best.
Clearly any powered sander is going to be a fairly simple tool to operate that requires little training. However, to get the best possible finish from your sander then there are a few key points that need to observed.
A random orbit sander works by oscillating the sanding disk in a fairly random manner. As opposed to a belt sander that just rotates the sand paper as a belt in one direction. They’re main advantage is that you do not have to strictly stick to sanding with the grain.
Because they are not required to stick to sanding with the grain you can cover a large area very quickly and can be a little bit more aggressive in how you use the sander.
Be aware that random orbit sander can suffer from leaving swirl marks on start up. Some of the models listed above have built in features to help reduce this. Care and attention should be taken to not pres too hard on the sander until it is up to full working speed. Always try to sand a sample area of your surface first. Preferably an area that is not easily seen on the finished article. Doing so allows you to gauge the correct speed of the sander and the correct grit of sanding paper to use on it.
As a general rule sand paper grit rated 30 to 100 are more useful for stripping multiple layers of paint or for some slight leveling and shaping of wood.
PSA Abrasive Disc
Random orbital sanders use both PSA abrasive discs and peel- stick for their works, the benefit is that they are not much expensive when compared to the velcro type and the hook-loop disc used in the other orbital sanders.
These sanders are too light in weight so that you can carry it to any place easily.
Non-Vacuum 59020 Random Orbital Sander from Dynabrade
The innovation design and the high-quality power tools involved in the orbital sanders has been the reason for ranking the second place in our best picks, the manufacturer has developed the Sanders in a reliable and efficient way that all of their customers will love it. There are multiple additional specifications and featured indulged in this version when compared to the previous ones.
There are vacuum conversion kits available with the random orbital sanders, and this is considered to be the optional one. With the help of this kit, you can convert any non vacuum to a central vacuum tool or a vacuum tool with self-generation technique.
Extra wrist support and hand support is possible with the superior platform in the orbital sanders. Maximum power is maintained throughout the end of the working with less air. While depression is caused the housing grips get recessed from the throttle level and this is being the reason for getting rid of the pressure point on the worker’s palm and hands.
Speed can be controlled as per the work; this control allows regulation of any tool speed with the help of your thumb. Overhead and sanding applications are achieved with lighter air motor assembly.
Contaminants are kept out with the help of the double row balance bearing. The price of the product is high, but a great value for the money is about 1.pounds in weight and comes with the dimension of 10.7X6.3X4.inches.
Are you in search of orbital sanders for sanding and polishing marine and automotive projects? If yes, this orbital sander would be the right option for you. The sanders that are inches in size has many attractive features to make the product a unique one and this tops third place in our best picks of Orbital Sanders.
The high speed 4.Amp motor is responsible for the random orbit, and superior overload protection, the polishing pad that measured inches is being a great support for performing any DIY, marine and automotive projects.
Electronic variable speed is possible with this Sanders and is capable of operating at a speed of 2500 to 6800 orbits per minute when accompanied with the swirl free polishing and sanding action. The reason for the extended longevity is the roller bearing and the full band construction.
There is a side handle at both sides of the Sanders for the greater support; this can be removed for control and comfort. The price of the product is high but worth the money you spent on this orbital sanders. They are developed in light in weight so that easy portability is achieved.
Weighs about 5.pounds and comes with a dimension of 11.inches in length, 10.inches in width and inches in height. The manufacturer is providing with one-year free service and three-year warranty for the product, therefore get the product without any hesitation.
SKIL 7492-02.Amp 5-Inch Random Orbit Sander
This is without a doubt one of the best sanders included in our reviews. Bosch’s focus on the finished product shows here, and with the ROS20VSC in your collection, it will show on your projects, too.
Dewalt D26453K
One of the most popular sanders in the market, Dewalt variable speed random-orbit sander comes with a cloth dust bag which collects all the fine dust to keep the workspace free of any sanding particles. The dusting bag further prevents any dust particles from settling on metal objects and helps maintain their surface without any extra care. The high-capacity dust bag and the noise-free functioning make this sander one of the most talked-about and home-friendly product.
Orbital Sander
Now the mainstay of power sanders, this tool saw a lot of use in the automotive field before it became common for working wood. Using a circular sanding pad that’s typically in. dia. (6-in. versions are also available), the random-orbit sander spins but doesn’t rotate on a single, consistent axis like a typical disk sander. Instead, the shaft spins and also oscillates off center, creating a random scratch pattern that is never exactly the same.
There are three types of orbital sanders when it comes to the power source, the corded orbital sander, air powered orbital sander and cordless orbital sander. Corded orbital sanders are most common on the market and they are the cheapest version of orbital sanders. Air powered orbit sanders are heavy duty tools which use air from an air compressor to run. They are mostly used in workshops and factories where they have an easy access to compressed air. Cordless orbital sanders combines portability with almost the same capabilities as the corded model. They are the best solution because there is no cord or a hose in the way while working but they also cost much more than the same corded models.
Dust extraction
Accessories which are used for easier stripping of wood and metal or you can buy Polishing bonnet kit for waxing and polishing surfaces with your orbital sander. Some orbital sanders have Vacuum hose adapter in the package but if you have one without it then this is one thing you must have. All other accessories are about various sanding discs for various materials. If you are not certain what grit to choose for each job you can look it up in the table below.
Usual Considerations In Getting A Palm Sander
As palm sanders are one of the more specialized power tools in the bunch, it is imperative to consider a number of important factors in deciding which one to get or to even get one in the first place. Some of the things to be considered in picking up the best palm sander.
Support
Product support is definitely a strong area to look at when choosing which among the many sanders available on the market you will be getting. The warranty of the product, as well as customer support over different channels, will be very useful when it comes to troubleshooting or product replacement due to defects.
Common Work Areas
Palm sanders, by virtue of their size and design, work best with smaller surfaces. They are commonly used in projects which require finer and more accurate sanding as they are able to reach the narrower surfaces which the bigger sanders cannot.
Palm sanders are also best utilized when small bits of material are needed to be removed as this kind of sanders allows pinpoint shaving.
Palm sanders, however, are not optimized for the larger projects. In this regard, it is better to get a sander which can be more efficient and effective to handle such projects.
SLIPPING DISKS
Sander disks are prone to slipping because of the mechanism that holds them in place. Most sanders use Velcro adhesives and while this allows easy replacement of disks, it also causes problems as the disks may slip even when the sander is running. A solution to this problem is to get disks which perfectly fit your sander to lessen the chances of slipping.
SANDPAPER LOADING
Loading the sandpaper may be inconvenient at times as dust and other particles may accumulate in the loading tray of the sander. Switching sandpapers may be a bit taxing at times as you have to clean out the tray for easier loading in between jobs.
Fast Paper Change
This is the best and most useful popular functions of a random orbital sander is how quick and simple it is to change the emery paper. The most traditional technique of relationship for it is known as the loop and hooks method, which is incredibly simple to work and makes emery paper, changes a breeze and quick too.
Sealed Change
With your new saw dust and dirt produced from sanding;due to a sealed switch contributes life to your sander. No doubt, sawdust when get into your switch it can affect the on/off work and cause it not to work effectively. Saw dust can also get in your nose, mouth, eyes and cause pain and even health issues for those with bronchial asthma or allergic reactions. Dressed in a cover up and using the appropriate airflow and dirt guards will decrease this free of dust for all during a lot of time you will work on items.
Main features
The orbital sander that is best suited for complete carpenter, cupboard creators, and carpenters that will give them exactly what they are looking for from great efficiency to outstanding outcomes. You will get no whirls on your work pieces with the necessary pad-dampening system, which is a pad brake that removes those frustrating whirls for good. The smooth micro cellular support pad increases the complete top quality even more on both flat and curved items. The twist-off dirt tube appears up to challenging use and reveals the dust level. It detaches quickly for clearing as well.
The Bosch ROS20VSK Unique Orbit Sander may be regarded the best hand sander by many opinions because of its most precise complete that carpenter, carpenter and cupboard creators appreciate. The perfect mixture of ideal spinning and pad orbit can provide quickest possible elimination of saw dust and excellent contaminants while at the same time giving the outer lining an ultra-smooth and well-blended complete.
Moreover, the Bosch Unique Orbit Sander’s inner dampening system, which is a type of pad brake, is designed to ensure a very precise efficiency. In addition, a smooth microcellular support pad further increases the sleek completed quality. This versatile pad is accountable for guaranteeing a smooth, excellent perfect for any area on which you use the equipment.
Features
The Porter-Cable in. Varying Rate Unique Orbit Sander is ideal for a large number of sanding and improving tasks. This sander functions searching for, variable speed switch that can be changed from 2500 to 6800 OPM for your needs. It features a light and portable, light and compact style for all-day use. The Detachable, 2-position (left or right) part handle is relaxed and provides outstanding control.
Whether it is the Makita Random orbital sander or the
PORTER-CABLE 38that you want to buy for your sanding needs, an essential factor is that you seek advice from an excellent and realistic purchasing information for the reason. Moreover, purchasing your next random orbital sander needs a primary understanding of what a perfect random orbital sander should be or how different the various kinds of sanders are from each other.
You select a random orbital sander that is rugged and resilient, has a 100% ball-bearing framework, has a choice for a number of varying speeds of speed, and is light, convenient, and comfortable. If all else is not able or continues to be complicated, the best aspect to do is to ask a person on what kind of random orbital sander he or she likes for his or her projects. Otherwise, get yourself a unique random orbital sander because it is the most flexible and the one value you are hard-earned cash.
Why a Random Orbital Sander
It is very common for people to confuse between the orbital sanders and their close brothers- the random orbital sanders. The main difference between the two lies on the shape of the base as well as the material removal mechanism.
The round bases of random orbital sanders vibrate as it also spins thus allowing for a more efficient material removal mechanism. When this is combined with the speed variability characterized with most of these tools, the user achieves different smoothing results ranging from smoothing rough planks all the way to finish surface preparation. Some of the Random orbital sanders are also characterized with some advanced mechanisms such as the Turbo mode attributed for an even more efficient sanding performance.
Quite expensive
There are many reasons why we believe PEX 220 A model of Bosch is the best tool for you to choose. Except for obviousness, which is the best-selling product in all online shops, this orbit sander also offers high performance thanks to 220 W powerful motor. In addition to that, Bosch is equipped with Velcro-type fastening plates. We cannot forget about the authorship micro-filter system designed by Bosch Company, which redirects almost all dust into special filters. The dust container itself is very easy to empty. You can do it within a few seconds without any unnecessary troubles. We can’t forget about such essential elements as soft grip with aerodynamics grip, enabling one-handed control. What’s more, specially prepared handle covered with rubber reduces vibrations thanks to which the use of Bosch PEX 220A is more comfortable.
Poorly constructed dust collector
Japanese producer, similarly to the German one from the first recommendation, introduces quite innovative and very functional features that ease the whole process of sanding and make it much more enjoyable and more efficient. Thanks to high power, the motor is capable of sanding variety types of wood. It doesn’t matter what kind of material we are going to sand because thanks to great power as well as electronic speed control, we can adjust the settings and make sure everything is set properly. In addition to the features mentioned above, this model can also boast with ergonomic grip for better control and increased comfort while sanding. Dust collection system that was included in this model is something people often criticize for its poor efficiency.
Sadly, just like the Bosch model, Makita 240V 5-Inch Random Orbit Sander costs a lot, even more than Bosch. That is the reason why it wasn’t our first recommendation.
Base plate falls very easily
The third recommendation goes to Ryobi Company, which occurred to be very legitimate sander provider. Their model ROS300 has got one of the most powerful motors with 300W, giving you the chance to sand even the toughest surfaces. Its disadvantage can be weight, since the product itself weighs 2.kilograms, whereas previously mentioned tools were at least half of Ryobi’s weight. However, due to that weight the producers could introduce much bigger base, making it possible to remove high levels of stock. The same thing goes for random rotational motion. It lets you use sander without leaving any sanding marks. Another interesting fact regarding ROS300 is the introduction of cyclonic action dust box, which significantly improves the efficiency of dust collection. However, there seems to be a problem with more difficult sanding jobs. Therefore, the tool is better off with less demanding areas.
The price itself is a bit lower than in case of Bosch’s product, but it is still quite high for such product.
Poor efficiency of dust collector
Despite the fact this particular tool was created by rather unknown company, it has received a lot of positive reviews and great feedback from the customers all over the world. With 125mm hook & loop base, we can sand large areas without any problems. What’s more, it has special system of random sanding motion, making sure that we are delivered with smooth finish without any marks of sanding. Another advantage people drew their attention to is vacuum dust extraction with dust bag. It effectively collects all the dust the product creates, so we can work in clean environment. Even though it provides us with large sanding disc, it is compact, light, and is equipped with ergonomic grip handle for much more pleasing experience from work.
The only downside is that edges of the pad seem to wear off faster, therefore we will need some spare ones quicker than we expected.
As you can see from the recommendations put above, there are several features that appear to be crucial for sanders destined for all types of work. It doesn’t matter if you want an orbit sander for small DIY work like sanding chairs or tables, or you are looking more powerful machines for more demanding jobs. Down below we will provide you with quick explanation why the following aspects: durability, power, additional functions, additional accessories, size, and comfortable use are so important.
Additional functions
Functionality of random orbital sanders is also essential, especially if we want to use the tool more than once in a while. Look for electronic indicators, where we can notice the power connection. Another interesting option you are not going to find in every sanding tool is the authorship method of dust collection. Thanks to them you can work in clear, free from dust environment. Of course the more expensive tools we look, the more functions we may receive. Functionality also regards the user-friendliness and how easy in use the right tool is. For example, if we look closely, we can find sanding machine that can be prepared for the work within several seconds.
Size and weight
This particular aspect doesn’t divide into pros and cons. You see, heavier orbital sander is of course less comfortable in use and usually it is two-handed job. However, this kind of orbital sander is destined to cover large area. Lighter and smaller tools are usually made for small DIY work and that’s why you can find devices that weight only kilogram. That’s why you need to specify what kind of work you are going to perform with your sander before you decide on which tool you prefer – smaller that covers less area, or larger and heavier that can be used for heavy job.
Opinions of others
How to save up to 86%? Here is little trick.
You must visit the page of sales. Here is the link. If you don’t care about which brand is better, then you can choose the orbital sander by the price and buy from the one who will offer the greatest discount.
Final Word
First of all thanks for reading my article to the end! I hope you find my reviews listed here useful and that it allows you to make a proper comparison of what is best to fit your needs and budget. Don’t be afraid to try more than one product if your first pick doesn’t do the trick.
Most important, have fun and choose your orbital sander wisely! Good luck!
So, TOP3 of orbital sander
- №1 — Jitterbug Orbital Air Sander
- №2 — 6″ DA Polisher & Sander Pad – Hook & Loop Face – Random Orbital Backing Plate
- №3 — Black & Decker BDERO100 Random Orbit Sander
Questions? Leave a comment below!
Chatting about orbital sander is my passion! Leave me a question in the comments, I answer each and every one and would love to get to know you better!
