5 Best Sanders [2023 version]
Updated 11/30/22 | 5 min read
There is no denying that sanding can be an incredibly tedious task. Fortunately, with the help of an electric sander, you can make this job a little easier to manage.
Of course, when you actually have to pick one out, you may suddenly realize just how challenging it can be to select a make and model.
See, if you want the perfect finish, you are going to require a sander that is right for your project, creates an even surface, and is easy to handle.
To make it easier to find a sander that meets all of these requirements, we decided to compile a list of the best sanders on the market.
What’s more, we also included a buyer’s guide so that you know just what features that you need to be looking for. Find out more, now:
| # | Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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BLACK+DECKER Orbital Sander, 5 Inch, 2.0 Amp, 12000 OPM, Corded, 1 Sandpaper Sheet and Dust Bag... | 14,899 Reviews | $38.13 | CHECK PRICE |
| 2 |
|
DEWALT Orbital Sander Kit, 5 inch, 3 amp, Corded, 12,000 OPM (DWE6421K), Yellow | 4,791 Reviews | $74.00 | CHECK PRICE |
| 3 |
|
WEN 6502 4 x 36-Inch Belt and 6-Inch Disc Sander with Cast Iron Base | 6,156 Reviews | $178.92 | CHECK PRICE |
| 4 |
|
Makita Sheet Finishing Sander, 1/3 In, 1.7 A, Teal (BO3710) | 2,888 Reviews | $87.03 | CHECK PRICE |
| 5 |
|
BOSCH ROS20VSC Palm Sander 2.5 Amp 5 In. Corded Variable Speed Random Orbital Sander/Polisher Kit... | 4,998 Reviews | $59.00 | CHECK PRICE |
Top 5 Best Sanders – 2024
1. BLACK+ DECKER Random Orbit Sander
The first thing you should note about this electric sander is that it is a random orbit sander. As a result, you will find that it is able to get remove the necessary that much more efficiently.
So, not only will you be left with a nice, smooth surface, you can also expect to complete your task that much faster.
The compact size of the sander also affords you an advantage as it allows you to get as close as possible to the surface that you are working on.
This greatly increases the maneuverability of the sander while also ensuring that you get a professional finish as well.
Now, this sander relies on a hook and look system for sandpaper changes. Therefore, you will find that it is incredibly simple to switch it out when needed.
Yet another interesting feature is the dust sealed switch that works to seal off the tool so that dust can’t get into the important components while you are working.
The only aspect of this device that doesn’t work too well is the dust bag. It can fill up rather quickly and needs to be emptied out often if you don’t want dust getting into the rest of the system.
+Pros:
- Works efficiently and quickly
- Compact
- Great maneuverability
- Dust sealed switch
- Quick paper change
-Cons:
- Dust bag not very efficient
2. DEWALT DWE6421K Random Orbit Sander
This random orbit sander is certainly a powerful machine, despite its compact size. This is largely because it boasts a 3 amp motor and 12,000 oscillations per minute.
The sander has a shorter design which is why you will find it so much easier to get as close to your workspace as you need to be.
Not only does this mean that you have greater control over how you are sanding, but you can also keep a better eye on the surface that you are sanding.
One of the perks of this sander is that it is actually quite simple and comfortable for anyone to use. See, the device has a separate counterweight that works to reduce the vibrations produced by the sander.
To add to this, the rubber overmold grip allows you to get a great handle on the machine, greatly improving your overall maneuverability.
There is also a dust-sealed switch that ensures that any dust produced by the sanding is kept away from the internal mechanisms. This improves the lifespan of the tool, making it last for longer.
The only real issue with this random orbit sander is that it can be difficult to get the dust bag fixed to the sander properly. As such, you will often find that it spews quite a bit of debris when working in an unventilated area.
+Pros:
- Powerful and efficient
- Compact
- Easy to maneuver
- Comfortable to use
- Dust-sealed switch
-Cons:
- Dust bag design needs improvement
3. WEN 6502 Belt and Disc Sander
If you are looking for a sander that is somewhat more powerful than the rest and can handle a wide variety of jobs, then this is the make and model for you.
Here, you have a 4.3 amp and 0.5HP motor at your disposal which allows you to handle slightly larger loads than many other sanders.
As such, you will have no trouble at all smoothing down edges and getting rid of jagged parts without any issue at all. Furthermore, thanks to all of this power, you can handle your tasks a lot quicker as well.
The 4 x3.6 inch belt is adjustable which means that you can quickly tilt it from a vertical position to a horizontal one or vice versa. You can also stop at any position in between, making it a lot more comfortable to sand down your surfaces.
Now, there is also a sanding disc accompanying the belt which provides you with even more options for sanding.
While this sander works well, the table and miter saw that is attached to is rather wobbly and therefore, not very reliable.
Fortunately, this is offset a bit by the cast iron base which significantly cuts down on any vibrations or walking while using the sander.
It should also be noted that the dust collection system on this sander is quite good, although it isn’t equipped with a dust collector.
+Pros:
- Belt and disc features
- Adjustable belt sander
- Solid cast iron base
- Powerful
- Good dust collection system
-Cons:
- The table and miter saw aren’t high quality
4. Makita BO3710 Finishing Sander
If you are looking for a sander that is simple to use but still has enough power to handle most small to medium load projects, then this is the model you should settle for.
On the one hand, there is no denying that this finishing sander offers up quite a bit of power with around 11,000 oscillations per minute.
As a result, you will be able to get a clean, smooth finish and will be able to do so within a relatively short period of time as well.
Still, there is a lot about this sander that actually makes it very easy for you – or anyone – else to use.
To start with, there is a built-in counterbalance system that works to reduce the vibrations produced by the machine. Therefore, you will find it a lot easier to hold in place and handle while you are working.
Then, there is a large 2 finger trigger switch that is conveniently located, allowing you to power the machine on and off with the greatest of ease.
Now, this sander also has a through-the-pad dust collection system that allows it to pick up dust more efficiently.
Unfortunately, the attached dust port is rather incompatible with most accessories, requiring you to make adjustments to it.
+Pros:
- User-friendly features
- Powerful
- Great dust collection system
- Compact
- Creates smooth finish
-Cons:
- Dust port is incompatible with many accessories
5. Bosch ROS20VSC Random Orbit Sander
If you need a compact yet versatile random orbit sander, then this is a model that you should certainly consider.
You will find that this sander has just enough power to handle most small to medium loads, thanks to the 2.5 amp motor.
To add to this, the sander is also equipped with variable speed. Therefore, you will find it an absolute breeze to match the speed to the project that you are trying to complete.
The other advantage is that this sander really does provide you with the ultimate smooth finish, regardless of what you are working on.
This is largely due to the microcellular backing pad that cuts down on the swirl marks left behind. You will also be able to see that this pad creates identical results on both flat and contoured surfaces.
Now, the sander relies on a hook and loop system for the sanding disc attachment which has a number of benefits.
For one thing, it means that you will be able to quickly switch out the paper when needed. For another, it also means that the disc attachment is held in place very securely and will remain that way.
While the dust collection system on this sander works well enough, you will find that the bag fills up too quickly and you may find it a bit tiresome to keep cleaning it out.
+Pros:
- Smooth finish for all surfaces
- Good power
- Easy to change paper
- Variable speed
- Compact
-Cons:
- Dust collection bag fills up quickly
Things to Know When Buying a Sander
In this section, we take a look at all the information you need on hand to be able to choose the best sander for yourself:
Different Types of Sanders
As far as power sanders are concerned, there are three types to choose from. These are belt sanders, orbital finishing sanders, and random-orbit sanders. Here are a few more details about each category:
- Belt Sander: as the name suggests, this sander can be identified by its ‘belt’ of reinforced abrasive cloth that moves in a continuous loop over the material. Thanks to this mechanism, you will find that this sander is great for removing old finishes. It also comes in handy when attempting to smooth the narrow edges of wooden boards. Most belt sanders are available in these sizes – 3×18 inch, 3×21 inch, 3×24 inch, and 4×24 inch.
- Orbital Finishing Sander: these sanders are used for slightly lighter load projects. They are often used to deal with sanding off hardened pieces of material, ultra-smooth sanding of wood, and rounding sharp edges. The main benefits of working these sanders are that they are compact, lightweight, and simple to maneuver. As such, they work well as a homeowner-based tool.
- Random-Orbit Sander: this sander is considered to be a combination of the two previous versions. Although the random-orbit sander may appear to be similar to the orbital finishing sander, the main difference is that the former sander has a round pad instead of a square one. While this sander may not be as simple to maneuver or as fast as the other two models, it does significantly cut down on the amount of swirl left behind on surfaces.
The Main Features of a Sander
Below, we will take a look at all of the most important features that you need to check for when choosing a sander.
Power
First and foremost, you will need to look at the power of the motor. As you can imagine, the power is directly related to just how much of a load a particular sander can handle.
So, when looking at various models, you will need to look for one that is most suitable for the project you are working on.
If you are dealing with larger loads, then a more powerful motor is required while most handheld sanders can handle a lighter load.
In any case, you will find that a corded sander will the required power over any cordless version on the market.
Vibration Control
You need to be able to easily maneuver a sander across a surface. Of course, this is only possible if the machine doesn’t provide any resistance.
With sanders, one of the biggest obstacles to smooth control is vibration. This is why you should make it a point to look for tools that negate this problem.
Focus on models that have built-in counterweights as these work to offset the vibrations produced by the sanding motion of the product. As such, you will find them easier to use.
Versatility
Even if you tend to deal strictly with light or medium load projects, you will still find that your requirements vary from task to task.
If you are someone who works on a lot of different projects then you may want to consider a sander with variable speed.
See, this feature allows you to select the proper speed, depending on the type of material and how quickly you want to work. Therefore, it makes these sanders a great deal more versatile.
User Comfort
You need to be able to comfortably use your sander, particularly if you are going to be handling it for a long period of time.
To make the product easier to hold and guide, look for models that boat ergonomic features. These will let you hold them in a position and manner that is more comfortable for you.
It can also be helpful to take a close look at the handles and grips and determine whether they are soft and slip-free.
Dust Collection Features
As you are aware, sanding results in a great deal of dust and fine debris. To reduce how much you inhale, it is important to have a proper dust collection system.
Now, these tend to vary from model to model. Some, have built-in collection and disposal systems while others only collect the dust.
With the built-in versions, make sure that the bag is properly connected to the sander and that the dust flows directly into the bag. This container should also be able to hold all of the dust and not let any out.
For the sanders that simply have a dust collection port, the key here is compatibility. You will need to select one that is compatible with as many different types of collectors and vacuums as possible. This will make it easier for you to find the right fit.
Things to Look For When Choosing a Sander
Here are some features you should keep in mind when selecting a sander:
- Weight: just because a sander is small and compact, that doesn’t mean it is lightweight. You should always check that it is light enough for you to hold, especially for longer periods of time. This way, you will not get tired when sanding.
- Cord Length: you will find that most cords are between 5 and 8 feet long. You should always consider your workspace when determining just how long your cord should be. This is especially important if you tend to work outdoors.
- Simple Changing System: to make your sanding process even easier, choose a model that you can swap out the paper quickly and without any hassle. This way, you will not be inconvenienced if you have to stop mid-way during a project.
Conclusion
So, to wrap things up, keep in mind that the best sanders offer a smooth performance, are simple to handle, and are great for a variety of projects.
If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, you will find that the Black+Decker model is the best choice for you.
On the other hand, for a compact yet powerful option, the DeWalt sander will be a better choice. The WEN model is not as portable or lightweight but still affords a great deal of power.
In case you are looking for user-friendly models, both the Makita and Bosch sanders will serve you well.
These are the details you need to know to select a sander that is just right for your woodworking requirements.