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As carpenters, cabinet makers, generally people in the furniture business, painters, one way or the other we have sanded a wood, metal, floor, wall, etc. It may be the manual application of the sandpaper or the use of sanders which uses abrasive sandpaper discs or pads for sanding while being powered by electricity, battery, or pressured air which is usually delivered by air compressors.
There are different types of sanders, and they have features that distinguish them from each other. They are belt sanders, finishing sanders, disc sanders, random orbit sanders, etc.
Typically, orbit sanders as the name implies are meant to move in a circular or elliptical pattern when sanding. There is the regular orbit sander and the random orbit sander, however, most of them are designed as random orbit sanders which are by far the better option. Random orbit sanders move in circular or elliptical patterns, and they also can move back and forth. This is what makes them popular and different from other sanders.
A significant advantage of random orbit sanders is the swirl-free finish they leave after application, and some of them can reach tight corners easily, ensuring that all the areas you need to sand are touched.
Also, most random orbit sanders have a dust collection system which helps to keep the work environment clean as well as prevent dust from accumulating inside the sander as this can have long term negative impact on the sander. There are different random orbit sanders on the market with varying power ratings. This helps to determine the type of sanding project they are best suited to.
The speed at which random orbit sanders move is an important thing to consider when you are shopping for them, and it is measured in orbits per minute (OPM). The higher the OPM, the faster the sanding. However, if you are new to the sanding game, it is essential to note that your sander’s OPM should be in sync with the material that is being sander. To solve this problem easily, some sanders come with a variable speed control allowing you to switch between the OPM ranges that are allowed on the sander.
The Eleven Best Orbit Sander Are Reviewed Below
Some of the best orbit sanders on the market are compiled and reviewed below to ease your search and point to you to what to expect from this power tools.
1
BOSCH ROS20VSC Random Orbital Sander Kit
Bosch ROS20VSC random orbital sander is arguably one of the best orbit sanders on the market, and it has a lot of impressive and advanced features that places it on a level of its own when it comes to sanders.
The five-inch orbit sander is designed to help carpenters, DIY woodworkers, etc. achieve a smooth surface and give their work the finishing it deserves without swirl marks. You can use it on both flat and contoured surfaces. It is easy to attach the disc using the Bosch’s special hook and loop disc attachment system which allows the pads and the sander to join together like a Velcro adhesion material.
The sander is also pretty fast, and it comes with a 2.5 Ampere motor which helps the sander to operate at varying speed levels ranging from 7500 OPM to 12,000 OPM.
Normally, dust will find their way into your orbit sander. However, one of the things that separate high-quality sanders from those of lesser quality is how they manage the dust, and the Bosch RO20VSC random orbit sander does not disappoint. It has a microfilter system that ensures that dust does not spillback into the sander when it is in use.
The corded orbit sander is relatively comfortable to use thanks to its soft-grip top and the general body design. This sander kit also includes sanding pad and disc, dust canister vacuum adapter, etc. It also comes with a one-year warranty.
Key Features:
- 2.5A motor
- Soft-grip top
- Microfilter system
- Pad dampening system
- Hook and loop disc attachment system
- Variable speed control
Specification:
- Brand: Bosch
- Model: 5-inch Random Orbit Sander
- Disc size
Pros
- It is easy to use
- Eliminates swirls
- Prevents dust accumulation in the orbit sander
- Adjustable speed levels
- Has a microfilter system and vacuum for dust collection
- It has an ergonomic design
Cons
- The dust collection system has to be cleaned regularly.
2
Makita BO5041 5
The Makita BO5041 5-Inch Random Orbit Sander offers users a convenient, easy to control orbit sander with high performance, making it one of the best on the market. It is designed for finish carpenters, woodworkers, among others.
The orbit sander is powered by 3 AMP motor and has a variable speed control ranging from 4000 to 12,000 OPM. The varying speed helps users to match the sanding speed relative to the material that is being sanded. The pad control system controls the pad speed when the sander starts-up.
The orbit sander is double insulated and has a fast and smooth 1/8-inch random orbit action which leaves a swirl-free finish.
It has an ergonomic rubberized palm grip and handle that makes it easy to operate it for a longer time without getting fatigued. There is also an adjustable handle at the front of the sander, and it enables sanding of confined areas as well as corners.
It uses a five-inch hook and loop abrasive disc which is relatively easy to attach, and it also has an impressive dust collection system. There is a built-in vacuum port adapter that helps to improve the dust collection making this orbit sander one of the best orbit sander with vacuum attachment.
Key Features:
- 3 AMP motor
- Variable speed control
- 1/8-inch random orbit action
- Dust collection system
- Double insulated
- Pad control system
- Pad brake
- Built-in vacuum port adapter
Specification:
- Brand: Makita
- Model: BO5041 5″ Random Orbit Sander
Pros
- It is easy to use
- It has a variable speed control
- It has an efficient dust collection system
- It leaves a swirl-free finish
- It has an ergonomic palm grip and handle
- It has an adjustable front handle
Cons
- The dust port is too large for the vacuum hose.
3
DEWALT 20V MAX Brushless Cordless Orbital Sander
This is one of the fastest random orbit sanders with a variable speed control ranging from 8,000 to 12,000 OPM, making it suitable for different projects. It is also one of the best cordless random orbiters on the market, and this makes it very easy to move around.
It has a brushless motor which efficiently powers, and increases the runtime of the sander. It uses a very easy to replace 5-inch 8-hole hook and loop sanding pad and features a dust-sealed switch which protects the orbit sander from dust ingestion, therefore, prolonging the life span of the sander.
There is a one-handed locking dust bag that is designed to gather the dust for easy disposal. The dust port is also attachable to other vacuum systems using a 1-1/4-inch hose. It can be used for a longer time thanks to its texturized rubber overmold grip.
The cordless random orbit sander runs on battery which is sold separately along with the charger. It is durable, lightweight and very easy to use, making it a delight for DIY carpenters and woodworkers. In addition to this, the orbit sander comes with a three-year warranty which is one of the longest you will find in this category.
Key Features:
- Brushless motor
- Variable speed control
- Replaceable sanding pad
- Dust collection system
- Texturized rubber overmold grip
- Cordless
- Lightweight
Specification:
- Brand: Dewalt
- Model: 20V MAX Brushless Cordless Orbital Sander
Pros
- It is easy to use
- It is portable and lightweight
- Has variable speed control
- It has a dust collection system
- It is cordless
Cons
- The battery gets drained too fast
4
BLACK+DECKER BDERO100 5-Inch Random Orbit Sander
BLACK+DECKER is a renowned brand that has been around for over a century, and have been consistent in putting out quality products. Their Random Orbit Sander is nothing short of this quality, and it is quite affordable making it one of the best random orbit sanders under $100.
The sander which is known for its high removal rate has a 2 AMP motor which makes it best for DIYers when taking on light sanding projects, and it is relatively fast with a spin rate of 12,000 OPM. The sanding pad is easy to attach using the hook and loop system, and replacing them is also relatively easy.
Its head, as well as the handle, is easy to hold for long when the equipment is in use. Its compact size helps to improve its manoeuvrability, ensuring that it leaves clean finishes that are swirl-free. However, this sander does not perform well when applied in enclosed corners.
The corded 5-inch random orbit sander features a dust-sealed switch that is designed to prevent dust from accumulating inside it as this can have adverse effects on the lifespan of the sander.
The BLACK+DECKER random orbit sander comes with an extra sanding sheet, a dust bag. It has a two-year limited warranty.
Key Features:
- 2 AMP motor
- 12,000 OPM
- Hook and loop system
- Dust sealed switch
- Corded electric power source
- Easy-to-hold handle
Specification:
- Brand: BLACK+DECKER
- Model: BDERO100 5-Inch Random Orbit Sander
Pros
- It is easy to use
- It is affordable
- Lightweight
- Ideal for DIYers
- It has a dust-sealed switch
- It has a hook and loop attachment system
Cons
- Not ideal for heavy sanding projects
- It is not the best for sanding enclosed corners.
5
Bosch ROS65VC-6 6-Inch Random Orbital Sander
The ROS65VC-6 6-Inch Random Orbital Sander is another impressive orbit sander from Bosch. It is known for its comfortability, impressive features and its clean finish.
The random orbit sander has a powerful 3.3 AMP motor that is also accompanied with variable speed control that ranges from 5,500 to 12,000 OPM, meaning you have the freedom to use the sander at a speed that matched the type of material that is being sanded.
It also has vibration control thanks to its suspension system, which also improves handling. The sander comes with a major pad dampening system which ensures that it leaves a fine finish with little or no swirl marks.
The dust extraction feature of this sander is top-notch and features a microfilter dust canister which also comes with a filter paper as well as a vacuum hose attachment with airflow control. This helps to increase the lifespan of the orbit sander and does not put the user’s health at risk.
The random orbit sander uses Bosch’s patent HookTight hook and loop disc attachment system which ensures that the disc is held firm on the sander, and it is also easy to replace the disc. The sander can take either a Bosch 6-inch or 5-inch sanding pad.
It has multiple ergonomic grip spots that are designed to prevent hand fatigue, and its front handle is quite easy to remove to allow the sander to reach tighter spots.
Key Features:
- 3.3 AMP motor
- Variable speed control
- Pad-dampening system
- HookTight Hook and loop disc attachment system
- Vibration control
- Trigger with lock-on key
- Dust collection systems
- Ergonomic grip positions
Specification:
- Brand: Bosch
- Model: ROS65VC-6 6″ Random Orbital Sander
Pros
- It is easy to use
- It has vibration control
- Prevents swirls
- Has a powerful motor
- Has an impressive dust collection system
- It has multiple ergonomic grip positions
Cons
- It is a bit heavy.
6
Festool ETS 125 REQ-Plus Random Orbital Sander
The Festool ETS 125 is a 5-inch random orbit sander that leaves fine finishing devoid of swirl marks. It has an exceptional ergonomic handle design that makes it easy to use for a longer time before fatigue begins to set in.
The orbit sander comes with a brushless motor, and it can be used to put the finishing touches to your woodwork, however, is not the best for large scale projects that demand more power. It also has adjustable speed control and an efficient dust extraction system which is also known as the Festool Jetstream dust extraction system, and it does an exceptional job in removing dust from the sander.
The Jetstream dust extraction system also aids in prolonging the lifespan of this sander. It also helps to maintain a clean working environment which is also beneficial to the health of the operator. The pads utilize Festool signature StickFix adhesive system for fast, abrasive replacement.
The corded random orbit sander has an electronic active vibration stop feature that helps to control the tool’s vibration while in use. The Festool ETS 125 random orbit sander is compact and lightweight, making it easy to move to around. It comes with an impressive warranty spanning three years.
Key Features:
- Brushless motor
- Compact and lightweight
- StickFix adhesive system
- Jetstream dust extraction system
- Variable speed control
- Vibration control
- Ergonomic design
Specification:
- Brand: Festool
- Model: ETS 125 REQ-Plus Random Orbital Sander
Pros
- It is easy to use
- Does not leave swirls
- It has an ergonomic design
- It has vibration
- It is easy to fix its pad and abrasives
- It has variable speed control
- It has an efficient jet extraction system
Cons
- Doesn’t come with a dust collection hose
- It is relatively expensive
7
SKIL 5
SKIL 5-Inch random orbit sander is a powerful sander with a 2.8 AMP motor that has an impressive speed toping at 13,000 OPM. The random orbit sander leaves a fine smooth surface without swirls, and it is ideal for light to medium sanding projects.
It has a variable speed control which provides an adequate amount of power and speed with respect to the material that is being sanded. The random orbit sander has a vibration control feature making it very easy to operate. This is also complemented by the ergonomic design and grip of the sander, meaning that users can work for a longer time with little or no fatigue. It can also be used to sand in tight spots.
The sander does not make a mess during work, and it has an effective dust collection system which is the X-flow dust flow collector. The dust is collected into a transparent container which is easy to empty and clean.
SKIL random orbit sander is lightweight and can be moved easily from place to place. It comes with three sanding papers, a dust box and has a one-year limited warranty.
Key Features:
- 2.8 AMP motor
- Variable speed control
- Low vibration
- X-flow dust collector
- Ergonomic design
- Lightweight
Specification:
- Brand: SKIL
- Model: 5″ Random Orbital Sander
Pros
- It has a powerful motor
- It has variable speed control
- It is lightweight
- It has an ergonomic design
- It has a relatively low vibration
Cons
- Its dust collection system is not the best around.
8
CRAFTSMAN 3 AMP 5-Inch Random Orbit Sander
Craftsman 5-Inch Random Orbit Sander is another random orbit sander with good ratings on the market, and it is coming from Craftsman which is renowned for its quality products. This sander has a powerful 3.0 AMP motor, making it well suited for light and medium sanding projects.
Its motor also powers it to 12,000 OPM, which is quite enough to perform your DIY task with ease. The sander is ideal for removing paint, or vanish, smoothing seams, etc. making it a delight for carpenters, painters, etc.
The sander has an ergonomic design that makes users enjoy their work for a longer period. This also contributes to its relatively low vibration. The papers are easy to attach as they use a hook and loop attachment system.
Craftsman random orbit sander has a good dust collection system that features onboard dust bag. There is a dust-sealed switch on the sander, and it improves its durability.
It comes with other accessories such as sample sandpaper and dust bag. The sander has an impressive limited warranty that spans three years.
Key Features:
- 3.0 AMPS motor
- A maximum speed of 12,000 OPM
- Onboard dust bag
- Dust sealed switch
- Ergonomic design
- 5-inch hook and loop paper
Specification:
- Brand: Craftsman
- Model: 3 Amp 5-Inch Random Orbit Sander
Pros
- It is easy to use
- It has a 3.0 amps motor
- It has a good dust collection system
- It has a good warranty
- It is affordable
- Durable
Cons
- Doesn’t connect well to a vacuum hose.
9
Ryobi P411 One+ 18 Volt 5-Inch Cordless Random Orbit Power Sander
The Ryobi P411 is one of the best cordless random orbital sanders on the market and its list of impressive features, and affordability makes it popular among people that make use of this type of tools.
It is battery powered and compatible with the Ryobi One+ battery. This allows users the freedom to work in places without electricity and takes away the limitations that are present when using a corded sander.
Its 10,000 orbits per minute make it ideal for light sanding and polishing projects. The ergonomic design of this random orbit sander makes it ideal for longer usage, and it also reduces the vibrations when it is in use.
It comes with sanding pads that are attached to the sander using its hook and loop attachment system. The Ryobi cordless random orbit sander has a dust bag attached to it for the collection of dust that results due to sanding. This also helps to keep the work area relatively clean.
The charger and the battery of this Ryobi random orbit sander are sold separately.
Key Features:
- 10,000 OPM
- Dust bag for dust collection
- Ergonomic palm grip
- Hook and loop attachment system
- Cordless
- Uses Ryobi One+ battery system
Specification:
- Brand: Ryobi
- Model: P411 One+ 18 Volt 5-Inch Cordless Random Orbit Power Sander
Pros
- It is easy to move
- It is cordless
- It has a dust collection feature
- It is easy to attach the sanding pads
- It is affordable
Cons
- Battery and charger have to be gotten separately
- Does not have variable speed control
- The battery doesn’t last long
10
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The Makita X0B01Z cordless random orbit sander is a high flyer in the cordless random orbit sander category. The sander provides woodworkers increased mobility while working and comes with some interesting features that make it a delight to work with.
The battery-powered random orbit sander offers users comfort and performance that is unique to Makita tools. It has three-speed settings that move from simple, medium to fast at 7,000, 9,500 and 11,000 OPM respectively.
It is best suited for light sanding projects because of its battery life which lasts a maximum of 40 minutes when it is used at low speed and half that time if it is operated at its highest speed.
It has an ergonomic body and grip design, which makes it easy to use, and there is a dust-sealed switch on the sander that prolongs the tool life.
The sander has an impressive pad control system that helps in controlling pad speed upon start-up. Also, there is the pad brake that helps to ensure that your clean finish is not affected by free-spins. Makita cordless random orbit sander uses a 5-inch abrasive paper that is attached using its hook and loop system.
The dust collection system of this sander works efficiently to ensure that your working environment is relatively clean.
Key Features:
- Three-speed settings
- Ergonomic body design
- Pad control system
- Pad brake
- Dust sealed switch
- Hook and loop abrasive system
- Dust bag
Specification:
- Brand: Makita
- Model: XOB01Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 5″” Random Orbit Sander
Pros
- It is easy to use
- Increase user’s mobility
- It has a dust collection system
- Prevents free-spins
- Has an ergonomic body design
- It has three-speed settings
Cons
- The battery has to be bought separately
- Not suited for long sanding projects because of its battery’s life.
11
3M Random Orbital Sander
The 3M random orbital sander is one of the best pneumatic orbit sanders on the market, and it can be used on wood, fibreglass, to prepare cars for painting, composite materials, etc. It is also one of the best professional random orbit sanders you will find around.
An air compressor powers the sander, and it leaves a swirl-free finish. It uses 5-inch adhesive-backed sanding discs which are relatively easy to attach.
It is easy to operate this power tool for a long duration thanks to its ergonomic design. The sander offers users a precision-balanced work with low vibration making it a delight among professionals and in industrial working environments.
A major advantage of this air tool is the fact that it can be used for longer when compared to electrically powered random orbit sanders.
The sander does not have a vacuum system meaning it does not extract dust. The pneumatic professional random orbit sander is compact and durable thanks to its aluminium body and composite cover, making it easy for workers to work easily with them. It comes with a Stikit disc pad, 3M air tool lubricant among other accessories which also includes its instruction manual.
Key Features:
- Air powered
- Low vibration
- High durability
- Ergonomic design
- Aluminium body and composite cover
- Adhesive-backed sanding discs
Specification:
- Brand: 3M
- Model: Random Orbital Sander
Pros
- Ideal for professionals
- It is durable
- It can be used for a longer time
- Ideal for heavy sanding projects
- Has low vibration
Cons
- It does not have a dust removal system.
Buying Guide Questions
There are some important things you have to take into consideration when you are shopping for a random orbit sander. It is normal for questions to arise, and it is best to find the right answers to those questions. Below are answers to the usual questions that arise with respect to orbital sanders.
Is an orbital sander better than a sheet sander or a palm sander?
They all have their distinct features, although their applications tend to overlap sometimes. However, orbital sanders are relatively more powerful than sheet sanders. They remove layers of material better than sheet sanders or palm sanders.
Sheet sanders are also known as palm sanders, and they are both known as finish sanders. They are better finishers than orbital sanders. However, some random orbital sanders can also be used for finishing. Random orbital sanders tend to leave more swirl-free finish than sheet sanders.
Sheet sanders or palm sanders are cheaper than orbital sanders. So, to answer the above question, orbital sanders do have the edge over sheet sanders. Still, when it comes to performing such as finishing and sanding ninety-degree corners, sheet sanders may be the ideal pick. It depends on the task you intend to use the sander to perform.
What is an orbital sander used for?
An orbital sander is used to sand wood, metal, plastic, composite, fibreglass, etc. Generally, it is used for smoothening or polishing materials or removing little materials. The sander vibrates in small ellipses or circles, and it is applied by painters, carpenters, woodworkers, etc.
Do I need variable speed orbital sander?
It depends on your level of expertise. The speed of your orbital may be too much to get the designed finishing you want, and sometimes it may be too slow. However, a variable speed orbital sander offers you these features as you can switch to the speed that best suits the material that is being sanded.
What type of sander is best for wood?
This depends on what you intend to use the wood for. Most woodworks will require most types of sanders if not all. Belt sanders are the best for removing a reasonable amount of wood material, followed by random orbit sanders, before the sheet sanders which are used for finishing.
Is an orbital sander good for wood?
Yes, although they are not as aggressive as belt sanders, they do a good job in removing wood materials to great extents. They are also used to smoothen the wood as well as put the necessary finishing to the wood.
Which type of sander is best?
There is no general best in the sander category. Every type of sander serves a purpose, and they do not outshine when they are used to perform certain tasks. The type of sanding project you intend to embark on will inform the type of sand that is most appropriate for it.
That is why it essential that you do your homework before you start sanding.
What kind of sander is best for cars?
Orbital sanders are ideal for cars with random orbital sanders being the favourite in that department thanks to the way they spin and their swirl-free finishing.
What sander is best for removing paint?
It depends on where the paint is being removed. It can be from a wall, wood, cabinets, car, etc. Belt sanders are generally the ideal pick as well as random orbit sanders.
What is the best sander for refinishing furniture?
The best sander for furniture refinishing are mostly sheet palm sanders. It is the ideal pick for refinishing furniture. Random orbital sanders with variable speed control can also be used for such projects.
What should I look for when buying an orbital sander?
There are a few things to look out for when buying an orbital sander, they are, orbits per minute, power rating, a power source which can be electrical, battery, or pneumatic. Also, you should check if the orbital sander has variable speed control, a dust extraction system. The sander’s disc size is another important thing to take into consideration, the same is a general comfort, ease of use as well as the sander’s durability.
Conclusion
Knowing what you want makes your search easier. Orbital sanders can be used to perform some functions that belt sanders and sheet sanders are designed for. This makes them versatile. However, it is vital to understand how they work, so you don’t end up with a far worse surface. Apart from understanding how this tools work, going for one with good quality will not only bring ease and efficiency to your work, it will save you extra costs because they tend to last for years.
