An orbital sander (technically a random orbital sander) is the best all-around tool for most woodworkers and DIYers. It removes material quickly and leaves a virtually swirl-free finish. A palm sander (or 1/4-sheet sander) is lighter, uses cheaper paper, and has a square pad for reaching into tight corners.
Now, orbital sanders, step up for the larger jobs. They are the power players for larger, more expansive areas where time is of the essence, and you want to avoid those annoying swirls. Decking, drywall, or even metal – an orbital sander covers more territory and gets you that smooth finish, fast.
Hand sanding provides superior control and precision, making it best for delicate detailing and preventing deep scratches by sanding directly with the wood grain. An orbital sander is an aggressive power tool that removes material quickly and evenly, perfect for tackling large, flat surfaces and stripping away old paint or varnish.
Want Quality Results? Avoid These 6 Common Orbital Sander Mistakes
For most beginners, the absolute best choice is a 5-inch corded random orbital sander. It is highly versatile, easy to control, and won't leave unsightly swirl marks on your wood. The best options offer a great balance of comfort, aggressive sanding, and smooth finishes.
An orbital sander is an option for a large drywall project. This tool is lightweight and can perform the task in less time, but as a power tool it must be used carefully to avoid damaging the drywall surface. Use fine grit sandpaper, between 150 and 180 grit, to achieve the desired results.
The 5-inch Random Orbit Sander is universally considered the best all-around sander. It is versatile enough for heavy material removal (like stripping paint) and fine enough for finish sanding. Because the pad spins and vibrates in a random pattern, it prevents swirl marks and is highly forgiving, even for beginners.
The Golden Rule of Sanding means not skipping more than one grit through each step of sanding a surface. This is a basic rule anyone should follow whether they are working with metal, wood, or any other surface. Every scratch you make must be removed by the next finer grit.
Orbital sanders are better for covering wide, flat surfaces quickly and evenly. Detail sanders are better for precise work in corners, curves, and carvings. Many woodworking or furniture projects benefit from using both.
A light touch and patience are the key to avoiding those swirls. Just rest your hand on the sander; don't press. The weight of your arm provides enough pressure. Move at a snail's pace; no more than 1 in.
Disadvantages of Using an Orbital Sander
They can be more expensive than other sanders, and the round sanding pad may not reach into tight corners or edges. Additionally, the high speed of the sander can result in dust being kicked up, making it important to wear protective gear and work in a well-ventilated area.
For most woodworking and furniture projects, the random orbit sander is the best all-around choice. It spins the sanding disc while simultaneously moving it in a random, elliptical pattern, which prevents swirl marks and delivers a smooth, even finish on both flat surfaces and curves.
Use Any Sandpaper on an Orbital Sander.
The best orbital sander for most woodworkers and DIYers is the DeWalt DWE6423. Priced around $80 to $100, it offers the best balance of price, low vibration, and dust collection. For professionals, the Festool ETS 125 REQ or Mirka DEROS are the top-tier, low-vibration favorites, though they cost significantly more.
A random orbital sander is a handheld power tool used to sand wood, plastic, or metal. Its sanding pad spins in a circle and moves in small, random orbits. This dual-action motion prevents the tool from leaving noticeable scratch or swirl patterns, making it ideal for smooth finishing work and general DIY.
The best sander for sanding skirting boards is the Bosch GSS 18V-10 Professional - Cordless Orbital Sander with Accessory Set. This cordless sander enables easy manoeuvrability, meaning you don't have to worry about stray wires, and you can use it in areas that don't have a socket.
Neither is strictly "better," as they serve different purposes. An orbital sander is better for general wood removal and achieving a swirl-free, fine finish. A palm sander is lighter and better for getting into tight corners, sanding right up against edges, or doing light finish work.
LotFancy 5 Inch Wool Polishing Pads, Pack of 2 - Car Auto Buffing Pads, Used with Rotary and Random Orbit Sander/Polisher.
Use an orbital (or random-orbit) sander for general smoothing, surface preparation, and removing old paint or varnish. It is the ideal go-to tool for large, flat surfaces like tabletops, cabinet doors, and dressers. Because its pad moves in an overlapping circular and random motion, it prevents harsh swirl marks.
When sanding, you always start with a lower grit (coarser paper) to quickly remove material or major imperfections, and then progress to a higher grit (finer paper) to smooth the surface.
Collecting dust while sanding is best achieved by connecting a shop vacuum with a high-quality filter (or bag) directly to your sander's exhaust port, using specialized dust-extraction sanders, or utilizing sandpaper with vacuum-compatible holes. For best results, use a hose attachment, a down-draft table, or a DIY air cleaner to capture airborne particles.
When you start sanding, it's important to move the tool in the same direction as the grain. If you sand against it – especially with coarse sandpaper – you may cause splinters or chips. Even if you don't cause larger cross-grain tears, sanding against the grain can still create scratches.
Painters use sanders to remove old coatings, feather edges, and smooth surfaces like drywall, wood trim, and doors. The right sander depends on your project:
Yes, orbital and random orbital sanders can leave faint, circular swirl marks (often called "pigtails"). These appear when abrasive grit becomes clogged, when applying too much downward pressure, or by moving the sander too quickly across the wood.
1. Belt Sander: This sander uses a continuous loop of sandpaper wrapped around two drums. It is ideal for heavy material removal and large surface areas, such as sanding floors or removing paint from wooden surfaces.