If you do a lot of household refurbishing, a sander is a versatile tool to have. From woodworking to sanding plaster walls and kitchen floors, a sander can handle it all.
Random orbital sanders, also known as D.A. or Dual-Action sanders are power hand-held sanders where both the disk and the head rotate in a random orbit. It was back in the early 1990s when these sanders were first introduced, they combine the aggressiveness and speed of a belt sander with the ability to produce a finish that is finer than that produced a slow speed, standard orbital finishing sander. If you’re looking for the best random orbital sander for the home, then you may want to consider the following top choices:
DeWalt D26451
In comparison to the DW421 from DeWalt, the D26451 is a heavier-duty and more powerful version, yet it is surprisingly cheaper. This one will definitely hold up well. It feels solid and whenever you need to cut down thick epoxy, you will find the extra amp draw useful.
DEWALT D26451K Corded 3 Amp 5-Inch Random Orbit Sander
A built-in vacuum adapter ensures maximum dust collection with its high capacity dust bag. With its dust port adapter, you can use various vacuum hose diameters. This particular model is one of the more ergonomic consumer types for one-handed use. The actual weight of a random-orbit sander should never be discounted. Having some weight, just like the D26451, means that it is built strong enough that it can survive even if it is dropped. The vibration will also get cut down by the additional mass, so your hands will not get tired. Ultimate comfort and control is provided during use by the anti-slip textured top and body grip.
Makita BO5041K
The BO5041K from Makita is perhaps the most ergonomic sander you will ever hold in your hands. It is lightweight and quiet with little vibration.
Makita BO5041K 5-Inch Random Orbit Sander Kit
Performance, power and speed are combined in this variable speed hand-held power sander with improved grip and adjustable front handle.
It is excellent for finish carpenters, general contractors and woodworkers. A Makita-built 3-amp motor is included in this random-orbital with over-sized sealed ball bearing construction, which makes it long lasting. Using the variable speed control dial, the sanding speed can be matched to the material, with a two-finger trigger switch that is large enough to have a conveniently placed lock-on button for constant use and greater operator comfort. The random orbit action of this sander is 1/8 inch large resulting in quick and smooth sanding and a swirl-free finish, while the pad speed can be controlled upon start-up using the pad control system.
Porter-Cable 382
The Porter Cable 382 is a 5 inch random-orbit sander; an excellent choice for surface preparation for coating, removing old coatings, paints and varnish, and smoothing seams.
PORTER-CABLE 382 5-Inch Random Orbit Sander
This model possesses 1.9 amps of power which provides 12,000 OPM for maximum sanding speed and smooth finishes. Controllable pad speed is maintained by the Controlled Finishing System which minimizes gouging during start-up. A dust sealed switch is also included that protects this sander from dust ingestion, increasing the switch life. Moreover, user fatigue is reduced during long usage by the counter-balanced dual plane fan.
Other Advantages Of Using Random Orbital Sanders
Sandpaper disks are used by random-orbit sanders, and integrated dust collectors may also be included in them, as in the case of the DeWalt D26451. Either a hook-and-loop system or pressure-sensitive adhesives are used to attach the disks. On models like the DeWalt D26451 that have a dust collection feature, sanding dust is sucked up by a vacuum effect through holes in the pad and paper, and the dust is collected in a bag or canister.
The sanding disk spins simultaneously and moves in an ellipse, producing the random orbit pattern. This way it is ensured every part of the abrasive materials travels different paths. No swirl marks are left by the tool due to this unique random sanding action, and it is not sensitive to the wood grain’s direction.
So if you are looking for the best random orbit sander, then one of the above choices is definitely for you.