Best Overall
Makita Cordless 5" Random Orbit Sander
Best Bang for the Buck
Black+Decker 20V MAX Cordless Random Orbital Sander
Upgrade Pick
Bosch 6" Dual-Mode Random Orbit Sander
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One of the first linguistic rule of woodworking is tosand in the direction of the wood grainto avoid creating cross - grain marks that compromise your home task ’s finished look . But when a Natalie Wood - grain pattern change — for instance , on a parquet storey where cereal focusing varies from gameboard to board — it ’s unmanageable to sandpaper without causing at least some defect .
In these situations , one of the best ( and quick ) solutions is to apply a random orbital sander — a power tool that sport a sand pad that simultaneously spins and oscillates ( orbits ) in an ellipse pattern . That wizardly combination of spinning and oscillating dramatically reduces sanding Mark .
There are so many example on the market that choosing the best random orbital sander can feel overwhelming . But , there ’s good news : We perform in - depth , hands - on testing with the follow models to help oneself point you in the right direction .
How We Tested the Best Random Orbital Sanders
Let ’s just say the dust has n’t settled since our test . We put all of these random orbital sanders through their paces to see what they could do .
First , our mental testing merely consist of putting each of the sander together , and all the sanders happen the test . Next , we tested each mannikin with 80- and 120 - grit sandpaper against a few pieces of stained true pine to determine how chop-chop they ’d remove textile as well as how well they ’d move out scratches . Finally , we simulated sanding a threshold or another perpendicular surface by standing a board on border .
These run allowed us to valuate each model ’s speed , comfort , and long - term repose of use . We then gave each model an award based on its persuasiveness , make this list of the best random orbital sanders .
Our Top Picks
That ’s a lot of data on the best random orbital sander , and it can make a shopper ’s drumhead spin . To help , stop out the following list of production compile with the top considerations in mind . Be sure to take the features necessary for a given billet when comparing one exemplar to another .
ThisBob Vila Approvedproduct channel our brand ’s highest level of testimonial .
Bob Vila Approvedrecognizes the family and DIY intersection that impressed us most in our tangible - world examination and that instance core economic value of the Bob Vila stigma , include craftsmanship , innovation , and value for the dollar bill . Winners of this assignment come recommended by our professional review team and are in person approved by Bob Vila .
When electric outlet are scarce , or when there ’s a penury for spare range of movement to complete a project , the varying - speed Makita 5 - Inch Random Orbit Sander is worth a look . This drum sander uses the brand ’s 18 - V ( volt ) batteries , and it ’s available with a 5.0 amp - 60 minutes ( Ah ) battery for up to 65 minute of sanding on low speed and 32 minutes at mellow speed . It also comes with a charger and a carrying bag .
This sander sport three adjustable speeds , including 7,000 ; 9,500 ; and 11,000 opm . While it does n’t have an extra handle , it is ( just ) compact enough for one - handed use . Also , this model comes with a dust - compendium old bag and it uses claw - and - loop 5 - inch 8 - hole sanding discs .
We realized a few thing while test the Makita . First , we noticed that it was very smooth — the smoothest of all the cordless models . However , we also notice that it is a bit tall compared to the others . We also found the buttons to be a moment confusing as they ’re pock funnily : off is “ 0 ” while on / speed change is “ 1 , 2 , 3 . ” While that made pep pill accommodation a breeze , turning it off was perplexing . However , we did like how the dust bag was easy to remove , forestall debris from shooting everywhere like other modelling .
Photo: Tom Scalisi
Get the Makita random orbital sander onAmazonor atThe Home Depot .
When it come to sanding on a budget , the Black+Decker 20V Max Random Orbital Sander is knotty to beat . This 5 - inch sander occur with a 20V 1.5 Ah lithium - ion barrage fire , a battery charger , and a detachable junk appeal system of rules . It weigh just over 3 pounds , and it features a molded - rubber clench for ease and fatigue reduction .
The Black+Decker random orbital sander utilizes sneak - and - loop sandpaper disk , allow users to chop-chop substitute a worn platter . While it ’s just a one - swiftness sander ( and that one stop number is comparatively high ) , quick switch sandpaper discs does let users to dial in the pace at which they ’re transfer finish or sand the surface .
Photo: Tom Scalisi
For the price , we find it very hard not to like the Black+Decker 20V sander . It might be slightly underpowered and the dust - ingathering bag is a bit underwhelming , but everything else is spot - on . The grip is comfortable and it has just the right amount of size of it and weight . It was one of the most comfy modelling to use in the vertical - sanding test for those reason . No , it does n’t have varying speeds , but it emphatically gets the line done .
Get the Black+Decker random orbital sander onAmazonor atWalmart .
When it ’s more about power and capability than portability , shoppers should consider the Bosch 6 - Inch Dual - Mode Random Orbit Sander . This burly corded random orbital sander features a large design with multiple hired hand positions for control and comfort , including a obliterable handle that mounts on either side as well as a gun barrel handgrip and a wrought handwriting pad on top . It uses 6 - inch sanding magnetic disk and polishing pad of paper .
Photo: amazon.com
This framework features two mode : a random orbital mood and a turbo mode . The turbo fashion maxes out at 7,300 opm and removes neckcloth at five meter the pace of the canonical way . Also , this sander features a establish - in vacuum port to which users can hook up their shop void or denounce dust compendium system . It is a little expensive , but its capabilities make up for the price .
Here ’s what we recollect of this random orbital electric sander from Bosch : It ’s a fauna . While the top amphetamine might seem low , it has a big sanding disc and bunch of torsion . And , despite its mogul , it has a slow - start feature that prevented it from jumping in our hand upon start - up . It ’s unbelievably aggressive in Turbo mode but very easy to handle in stock mode . It might be a bit enceinte for smaller jobs , but the weightiness helps it run smoothly and minimizes vibration ( not in Turbo musical mode , though ! ) .
Get the Bosch Dual - Mode random orbital electric sander atThe Tool Nut .
Photo: amazon.com
Best Corded
DeWalt 5" Single Speed Random Orbit Sander
For those looking for a random orbit sander with continuous corded power , check out out the twilled DeWalt Single Speed Random Orbit Sander . The 5 - inch electric sander arrive with a detachable detritus - aggregation bag for catching sawdust . It also derive with a soft carrying bagful to keep thing mastermind .
This 5 - inch 4 - pound sander ’s 3 - amp motor is design for rock-bottom vibration while also offering up to 12,000 opm of speed . This laurel wreath sander feature a rubberise palm grip to further reduce vibration and increase comfort , making the puppet easier to utilize over the duration of a undertaking . However , do keep in mind that this drum sander has just one speed ( and it ’s a high one ) , so be certain to apply the right sandpaper at all times .
To be honest , we were kind of skeptical about comparing a single - speed random orbital sander to other modeling with more features and flexibleness . However , this model from DeWalt proved more than worthy during our test . First , it felt lighter than the other twilled models , and it was quite well-situated in hand thanks to its compact and low-toned - profile invention . The detritus - collection bag worked well , and we found emptying it was very promiscuous as it has a handbuild spring inside that collapses to fight debris out . The grip also has a collar that twists into lieu for a secure fit and loose remotion . And while it only has one speed , that speed will be plenty for most user .
Photo: homedepot.com
Get the DeWalt Single Speed random orbital sander onAmazonor atThe Home Depot .
Best Cordless
DeWalt Cordless Variable-Speed Random Orbital Sander
Any DIYers , woodsman , or furniture maker — professional or weekend warrior — should find out out the DeWalt Cordless Variable - Speed Random Orbital Sander . This 5 - column inch cordless sander boast a heavyset design for ease of exercise as well as variable speeds between 8,000 and 12,000 opm for controlling belligerence on different surfaces . It also features a one - handed locking dust old bag that allows the user to empty it fuss - free .
This sander apply 5 - in 8 - hole hooking - and - loop sand discs , allowing for quick alteration between grit or when one inkpad runs out . While this special model does n’t arrive with a battery or a charger , it ’s compatible with the brand ’s 20V Max battery card . This allow exploiter already invested in DeWalt tools to take advantage of their stock of batteries .
The DeWalt cordless random orbital sander did not disappoint during our test . This model feature DeWalt ’s collared rubble bag that is not only easy to take on and off but also simple to empty thanks to the coiled spring inside . We also liked this simulation ’s size as it was light and compact but still supply lots of power when needed . It was also fair smooth during use ; however , the rubber mainsheet around the disk on our model was loose and rubbed the phonograph recording , but all it expect was some fidgeting to get it back in place .
Photo: amazon.com
Get the DeWalt Variable - Speed random orbital sander atAmazon , The Home Depot , orLowe ’s .
Best Pneumatic
Dynabrade 5" Non-Vacuum Random Orbital Sander
For anyone creating a workshop of pneumatic tools , the Dynabrade 5 - Inch Non - Vacuum Random Orbital Sander will make a o.k. addition . This example utilizes air pressure alternatively of electricity , give up user to take reward of their compressors while leaving an annexe cord on the ledge .
weigh in at just 2.04 pounds , the Dynabrade random orbital smoother is easy on the hands and lightweight enough to employ for lengthy menstruation . It sport a five - brand rotor for eminent - speed sanding capability ( up to 12,000 opm ) , the speed of which changes with the aviation insistence exert by the compressor . It also features an ergonomic palm grasp and fits a received ⅜-inch air compressor hose . Do keep in brain that it ’s of import to have a large compressor on hand , as melody - power random orbital sanders utilise a destiny of air .
Dynabrade ’s 5 - in random orbital drum sander is highly elastic , and that ’s something we really liked about it . While our theoretical account did n’t come with a hooking - and - iteration launching pad for standard sanding discs , the vinyl group - faced pad intended for pressing - sensitive discs contoured when we call for it to and then flattened out for straight , level sandpaper surfaces — just as one might have a bun in the oven for a sander design for automotive use . While it was slenderly meretricious ( all strain - powered putz are ) , it run for smoothly and felt hearty in hand despite being so lightweight .
Photo: amazon.com
Get the Dynabrade random orbital drum sander onAmazon .
Best for Tight Spots
Chicago Pneumatic CP7200S Mini Random Orbital Sander
The Chicago Pneumatic CP7200S Mini Random Orbital Sander makes it comfortable to sandpaper in tight spot . This unmarried - speed mini electric sander features a molded - rubber gun trigger grip and weighs just 1.5 pounds . It is air - power , meaning a compressor is necessary to run it , but it can operate at speed up to 15,000 opm .
Designed for small areas , the Chicago sander comes with standardised 2 - column inch and 3 - inch backing inkpad and 60 sandpaper discs . The sander connects to a stock ⅜-inch air compressor hose , and it comes in a molded plastic case for storage . It also features a pistol - style grip .
Chicago Pneumatic ’s mini random orbital sander was a good time to use during our test . First , the pistol grip was very well-situated . And , since it ’s so lightweight , it was easy to utilize for extended period of time — even vertically . swap between 2 - inch and 3 - inch pads is very well-situated , as are upper alteration thanks to the telephone dial on the back of the sander . The fact that it come up with so many discs and a carrying grammatical case is a serious fillip , but we notice that ours would n’t fit back in the loge with the hose transcriber attached .
Photo: amazon.com
Get the Chicago Pneumatic random orbital sander onAmazonor atWalmart .
Best Palm Sander
Bosch 5" Random Orbital Sander/Polisher
For light - responsibility sanding with an well-heeled - to - control palm smoother , arrest out the Bosch 5 - column inch Random Orbital Sander / Polisher . This modeling features a twilled blueprint with a 2.5 - adenosine monophosphate motor , giving substance abuser continuous baron without the need to care battery life . It comes with a dust collecting cartridge as well as a built - in test port for vacancy connection .
This model from Bosch packs a lot of capability into a small software system . It features variable speed between 7,500 and 12,000 opm , earmark users to choose the best speed for the project . Despite being little , it uses 5 - inch hooking - and - loop topology sanding magnetic disc for plenty of surface country and quick change in the middle of a projection .
There is a lot to like about this sander from Bosch . Let ’s start with the most impressive feature : the dust bag . This simulation ’s rubble - solicitation bag boast an real pleated strain filter that allow air to pass through while catch dust particles . It also detach easily without a swarm of rubble bluster through the air . We also wish the low-cost price point , make it a steal ( in our opinion ) . While we did think it mat a bit intemperate compared to other cordless model , we liked the comfortable gum elastic adhesive friction and the fact that users could change speeds easily .
Photo: amazon.com
Get the Bosch 5 - Inch random orbital drum sander / polisher onAmazonor atThe Home Depot .
Our Verdict
For those take care for the best all - around random orbital sander , theMakita random orbital sander‘s portability , speed , and barrage lifespan are ruffianly to refuse . For those who ’d prefer to save a fleck of immediate payment while still being able to sand their project to a beautiful resolution , theBlack+Decker random orbital smoother ’s terms point compared to its features makes it a substantial choice .
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Random Orbital Sander
When shopping for a random orbital drum sander , there are several features to keep in mind to facilitate pick out what best cause a given setting . Below are some of the most of import considerations to keep in mind when compare one good example to another .
Speed Variations
Many random orbital sanders have a single speed , but some exemplar feature varying upper that interpolate the drum sander ’s belligerence . A higher speed is helpful when speedily grinding down stopping point and mellow spot ( as when removing varnish from an old bookcase ) . A humbled hurrying is better suited for hunky-dory sanding ( to achieve a unruffled aerofoil on a tabletop , for example ) .
Also , understand that while most tools use rotation per minute as their standard of stop number , random orbital drum sander expend the term “ opm , ” which stands for oscillations per minute . Oscillation is fundamentally a gyration but with a random , ellipse way rather than a sozzled circle .
A lack of varying speeds should n’t be a deal breakers , however , as success can be achieve simply byusing the appropriate emery paper grit(coarse to deal with rough work , average for smoothing , and fine for finish work ) .
Photo: amazon.com
Disc Size
The stock disc sizing for random orbital sanders is 5 inches in diam , and there are a wide variety of generic 5 - inch emery paper phonograph recording in any hardware store or home melioration plaza . DIYers can also find sander with smaller 1- to 4 - inch disc that are ready to hand for sanding in tight spot .
For big projects ( such as sandpaper a hardwood floor ) , 6 - inch or larger discs are the best bet . Depending on the size and mannequin of the drum sander , it may be necessary to buy brand - specific sandpaper discs .
Dust Collection
Some random orbital sanders descend with attachable debris bags that collect some of the wood dust mother while sand . Others admit attachment that can be tie to astandard wet / ironic vacuumhose for dust accumulation . These collection methods wo n’t remove every mite of debris ( always wear thin a dust masquerade when sanding ) , but they can greatly reduce it , so they ’re good options to wait for , especially when sanding indoors .
Power Options
Random orbital sanders are powered in one of three ways : electrical cords , rechargeable batteries , or compact air ( pneumatic ) . Each method has its benefits .
Weight
A distinctive 5 - inch random orbital sander weighs about 2 to 4 pounds . Mini smoother weigh as little as 1.5 pounds , while gravid random orbital sanders can librate 7 pound or more . Lighter sanders create less helping hand and wrist fatigue , especially if sanding a vertical surface , such as wood paneling .
Extra Handle
Most random orbital smoother boast a top medallion grip that makes it easy to maneuver with just one hired man . If there ’s get to be a lot of sanding in the future , however , it may be a practiced estimation to go for a model with an additional side grip that allows two - handed control .
Some sanders and polishers also sport a barrel grip , similar to some jigsaws . The drum grip allows the user to keep their hand nigher to the work control surface , better leverage and control .
FAQs
major power sanders make quick workplace of smooth grating trimming , decks , railing , and virtually any other type of wood task , and random orbital sanders figure among the most popular type of sanders due to their ability to smooth wood without leaving telling cross - grain marks . Those who are expanding their power - tool assembling to let in random orbital sanders will likely have a few questions .
Random orbital sanders employ two dissimilar type of movement : spinning and oscillating ( moving in an ovate fashion ) . The combination of these two sanding movements keep the sander from bequeath crisscross on the wood .
Orbital sanders simply spin . Random orbital sanders spin in addition to the entire sanding head moving in an elliptical pattern . Try hold a random orbital sander and then turning it on — your entire hand will need to move in an elliptic pattern . That ’s due to the orbital force of the sander .
Photo: Tom Scalisi
Random orbital drum sander are used for primary sandpaper whole step , such as remove vulgarism or roughness from the wood open . They are often followed up by sanding either with a finis sander or by bridge player with a fine - gritstone sandpaper .
No , but using a random orbital sander will help oneself remove most of the roughness . A finish smoother can be used later on to create a very politic surface .
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keep your sens green and your plants thrive does n’t just take a dark-green quarter round — it start with the right tools and supplying .
