Best Random Orbital Sanders 2026

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
All claims are strictly my personal opinion.

Best Random Orbital Sanders

best random orbital sander reviews Random orbital sanders are in my top 3 of the absolute best sanding machine types you can get. By now you probably already know their name comes from the incredible orbital movement they produce — the disc-shaped sandpaper not only rotates but also vibrates randomly to ensure one of the cleanest and highest quality finishes you can get. They don’t leave any marks or patterns on surfaces due to this technique, and as such are in my opinion the very best when it comes to high, fine grit sanding (mostly used to give a shiny, polished finish to objects and surfaces). Their circular base size varies from machine to machine, going from small to quite large, which makes them able to adapt to bigger tasks — something that other small machines can’t do.

They are only available in handheld form and even then there are hundreds of orbital sanders for sale in 2026. These machines are indispensable in my book to anyone who wants to start woodworking (or metalworking), from beginners to experienced professionals — they are just too good to pass up and you will not find a better bang for your buck sander when it comes to perfect finishing and polishing. As I’ve mentioned above, random orbital sanders are one of my favorite types of sanding machines, so I’ll review the very best ones I’ve used for your guidance — I have a fairly large selection.

Best Orbital Sanders Comparison

This is a quick overview of the best orbital sanders I’ve tested.

Note: The comparison table below covers the electric random orbital sanders. The Dynabrade 56815 is a pneumatic (air-powered) tool and is reviewed separately in its own section below.

B&D BDERO100 Porter-Cable 382 Bosch ROS20VSC Makita BO5041K Milwaukee 6034-21 DeWalt D26453K Ridgid R2611 Bosch 3725DEVS Bosch ROS65VC-6 Bosch 1250DEVS ⭐ Bosch GET75-6N Festool ETS 150 Festool RO 125 Festool RO 150
Image B&D BDERO100 Porter-Cable 382 Bosch ROS20VSC Makita BO5041K Milwaukee 6034-21 DeWalt D26453K Ridgid R2611 Bosch 3725DEVS Bosch ROS65VC-6 Bosch 1250DEVS
Bosch GET75-6NEditor's Choice
Festool ETS 150 Festool RO 125 Festool RO 150
Pad Size 5″ 5″ 5″ 5″ 5″ 5″ 6″ 5″ 6″ 6″ 6″ 6″ 5″ 6″
Motor 1.9 A 2.5 A 3.0 A 3.0 A 3.0 A 4.0 A 3.3 A 3.3 A 6.5 A 7.5 A 4.2 A 6.0 A
Speed (OPM) 12,000 7,500–12,000 4,000–12,000 7,000–12,000 7,000–12,000 4,000–10,000 4,500–12,000 Var. speed Turbo + RO 3,300–7,300 Var. speed Var. speed Var. speed
Dust Collection Canister Bag Microfilter Built-in vac Bag + vac hose Bag + vac hose Bag + vac Canister Microfilter Vac port Passive + vac Festool extractor Festool extractor Jetstream
Best For Beginners Beginners All levels All levels All levels All levels Budget buyers Intermediate Intermediate+ Advanced Professionals Professionals Professionals Professionals
Price $ $ $$ $$ $$ $$ $$ $$ $$$ $$$ $$$ $$$$ $$$$ $$$$
Shop
💡 Pro Tip: The right random orbital sander depends heavily on your use case. For occasional finishing, any 5″ model from the $$ range will serve you well. If you do serious woodworking and need both aggressive stock removal AND fine polishing, look at the dual-mode machines — the Bosch GET75-6N, Bosch 1250DEVS, or the Festool Rotex line. They’re a different class of tool entirely.

The Best Random Orbital Sander

⭐ Editor’s Choice — Bosch GET75-6N: I’ve never had a random orbital sander that could take on small and bigger tasks as easily and quickly as this one — from removing hard material in seconds to a stunning, flawless finish. A beast of a machine that I wouldn’t trade for any other, the best orbital sander I’ve ever had alongside the Bosch 1250DEVS.

BOSCH Power Tools – GET75-6N – Electric Orbital Sander ⭐ Editor’s Choice

Random orbital sanders are an excellent — and in my opinion crucial — addition to your power tools arsenal and they should be a pillar of your sander selection. While you already know these are some of my favorite tools and it really is hard to pick a winner, I have to go with the Bosch GET75-6N. I’ve never had a random orbital sander that could take on small and bigger tasks as easily and quickly as this one — from removing hard material in seconds to the stunning finishing it leaves. I’ll even say it’s perfect: no scratches, no marks, no visible patterns, just a smooth and shiny end result. I’ve been using it as my main orbital ever since I got it and it certainly feels like it will last just as much as the DEVS, which is still kicking beautifully after more than a decade without breaking down once. A beast of a machine that I wouldn’t trade for any other — the best orbital sander I’ve ever had alongside the Bosch 1250DEVS.

✅ Successor to the legendary Bosch 1250DEVS — continues its legacy perfectly
✅ 7.5 AMP motor — most powerful on this list
✅ Dual sanding modes: random orbit for fine finishing, Turbo for aggressive stock removal
✅ Variable speed (3,300–7,300 OPM) for unmatched flexibility
✅ Low vibration, counterweight balance, ergonomic grip — joy to use for hours
✅ Passive dust collection system with vacuum hose adapters included
✅ Complete accessory package (soft backing pad, hex wrench, sanding disc, front handle, two adapters)
❌ None to speak of

Shop on Amazon

Top 15 Orbital Sander Reviews

Here you can read an in-depth analysis and opinion of each random orbital sander seen above.

Black & Decker BDERO100 Random Orbit Sander, 5-Inch

While I’m used to Black & Decker delivering quality machines, the BDERO100 disappointed me a little. While it is the cheapest random orbital sander I’ve ever seen — which makes it hard to complain — I wish they had put more effort into building it with higher quality even if it’d cost a few bucks more. It has a very simple, lightweight but easily damaged body and features a 5″ pad. It lacks the power to handle any task other than easy ones and the dust canister doesn’t do a great job. Still, for a beginner looking for a random orbital sander to use occasionally for simple tasks, this can be a good and very inexpensive solution. If you’re looking for something more, look elsewhere.

✅ Very affordable — possibly the cheapest random orbit sander on the market
✅ Simple and lightweight design makes it easy to handle
✅ 5″ pad
✅ Good for simple, light-duty sanding tasks
❌ Build quality is lower than other Black & Decker machines — body is easily damaged
❌ Lacks power for more demanding sanding tasks
❌ Subpar dust canister performance

Shop on Amazon

PORTER-CABLE 382 5-Inch Random Orbit Sander

Now this is a good entry-level random orbital sander. The 382 features the great build quality common to Porter-Cable machines and, although it’s very inexpensive and light, it manages to be a quality little sander. It has a ball-bearing construction to ensure a longer tool life, and the small 1.9 AMP motor — while it can’t handle hard tasks — is more than capable of simpler sanding jobs that the beginner woodworker will encounter. It even delivers a smooth, high quality finish at 12,000 OPM. In my opinion, the Porter-Cable 382 is the best choice for beginners.

✅ Best entry-level random orbit sander for beginners
✅ Consistent Porter-Cable build quality
✅ Ball-bearing construction for longer tool life
✅ Lightweight and very affordable
✅ Smooth, high-quality finish at 12,000 OPM
❌ 1.9 AMP motor — not suited for demanding tasks

Shop on Amazon

Bosch ROS20VSC Random Orbit Sander with Carrying Bag, 5-Inch, Blue

Another big brand name that delivers. The ROS20VSC is a good all-around 5″ random orbital sander featuring a decently powerful 2.5 AMP motor with variable speed ranging from 7,500 to 12,000 OPM, making sure it adapts to your sanding needs from material removal to a polished finish. The standout component is the top-quality hard case dust filter — it nearly completely eliminates sanding dust with its microfilter and prevents spillback, which is as good as it gets at this price. At 3.5 lbs and with Bosch’s trademark “No Swirl” technology, it’s comfortable for beginners and has enough power and features for more advanced users as well.

✅ Good all-around 5″ sander
✅ Variable speed 7,500–12,000 OPM
✅ Top-quality hard case microfilter — excellent dust collection, no spillback
✅ Bosch “No Swirl” technology for a clean finish
✅ Lightweight at 3.5 lbs — comfortable to handle
❌ Middle-of-the-road power — begs for a bit more AMP on tougher tasks

Shop on Amazon

Makita BO5041K 5-Inch Random Orbit Sander Kit

Moving on to more powerful machines, the Makita BO5041K is a great all-around 5″ random orbital sander and, in my opinion, the best orbital sander for the money. Along with very well-done, sturdy build quality, it brings a 3.0 AMP motor with a maximum of 12,000 RPM and a variable speed dial that dials it down to 4,000 RPM — a great range of speed control. It features a nice ergonomic design with rubberized grips, a power lock-on button to reduce fatigue, and a very efficient built-in dust vacuum. It’s powerful enough for harder sanding jobs and built to handle them — double insulated to prevent overheating and with oversized ball-bearing construction for longer life. Comes with a carrying case too, which is much appreciated.

✅ Best value for money on this list
✅ 3.0 AMP / 4,000–12,000 RPM with variable speed dial — excellent range
✅ Ergonomic rubberized grips + lock-on power button to reduce fatigue
✅ Efficient built-in dust vacuum
✅ Double insulated construction — prevents overheating
✅ Oversized ball-bearing construction — longer tool life
✅ Carrying case included
❌ Better professional options exist for covering very large surfaces

Shop on Amazon

Milwaukee 6034-21 5″ Random Orbit Palm Sander

The great dust collection, variable speed and attractive price make the Milwaukee 6034-21 a solid entry in the 5″ random orbital list. Its 3 AMP motor with variable speed delivers 7,000 to 12,000 OPM — perfect for matching speed to the application. The body is well assembled with an attractive design, and the 6034-21 earns bonus points for its excellent dust collection: it comes with a sturdy container but also easily accepts a vacuum hose for next-level dust removal, with a universal vac hose adapter included. During testing it was fun and effective to use, with a comfortable grip that didn’t tire my hands or arms. Couple this with a 5-year warranty and a carrying bag and you’ve got a genuinely great deal.

✅ Excellent dust collection — sturdy container plus universal vac hose adapter
✅ 3 AMP / 7,000–12,000 OPM variable speed
✅ Lightweight — comfortable in any position
✅ Well-assembled body with attractive design
✅ 5-year warranty + carrying bag included
❌ If you want max dust collection, you’ll need a separate vacuum

Shop on Amazon

DEWALT D26453K 3 Amp 5-Inch Variable Speed Random Orbit Sander Kit with Cloth Dust Bag

The DeWalt D26453K impressively merges power and performance with DeWalt’s trademark quality. Its 3 AMP motor runs the 5″ disc pad at 7,000 to 12,000 OPM for smooth, high-quality finishes. The durable body, comfortable textured grips and dust-sealed switch all enhance long-term usability. Exceptional dust collection (the cloth dust bag can also be swapped for a vacuum hose), excellent vibration suppression, and a carrying case and 3-year warranty round it all out. It’s a solid, quality-conscious choice for those who value comfort and reliability above all.

✅ DeWalt build quality — durable, dust-sealed switch for long life
✅ 3 AMP / 7,000–12,000 OPM
✅ Excellent dust collection — cloth bag or vacuum hose
✅ Low vibration — reduces fatigue
✅ Carrying case + 3-year warranty
❌ Body description as “1 pound” in the specs seems unusually light — handles easily regardless
❌ Better suited for light-to-medium duty; heavier stock removal is not its strength

Shop on Amazon

Ridgid R2611 Sander, 6-Inch VS Random Orbit Sander

Likely the most affordable 6″ random orbital sander on our list, the Ridgid R2611 provides good performance, solid quality and advanced features at a stunningly budget-friendly price. With a 4 AMP motor running the pad at up to 10,000 OPM and variable speed from 4,000 to 10,000 OPM, it’s versatile enough to handle rough stock removal or achieve a high-quality finish. Dust collection works effectively with a vacuum adapter and preset dust bag. The build quality surprised me — solidly assembled with a decently durable body and three grip positions. Comes with a 3-year warranty. That said, I’ve had some visitors report faulty or lackluster models, so be warned: this is genuinely a budget machine. I haven’t run into problems personally, but I don’t push it through long, tough sanding sessions. You truly do “get what you pay for.”

✅ Most affordable 6″ ROS on the list
✅ 4 AMP / 4,000–10,000 OPM variable speed — good versatility
✅ Effective dust collection — vacuum adapter + bag included
✅ Three grip positions — comfortable build
✅ 3-year warranty
❌ Budget machine — some users have reported reliability issues under heavy use
❌ Didn’t quite make it into the top-tier comparison for a reason

Shop on Amazon

Bosch 3725DEVS 3.3 Amp 5-Inch Random Orbit Variable Speed Sander with Dust Canister

What a welcome addition this beautiful machine was to my collection. My all-time favorite RO sander is its bigger, more powerful brother — the Bosch 1250DEVS — and this one, being of the same line, got my hopes up. For its size and price, the performance is as great as I expected: the potent 3.3 AMP motor powers the pad to a max of 12,000 OPM (variable from 4,500 to 12,000), easily adapting to any task from easy finishing to rough stock removal. The orbit stroke ensures a swirl-free finish, the handles are comfortable, and the dust canister is a step above others in its category. When it comes to construction quality, the 3725DEVS shines — it features the same classically rugged, robust body of its more powerful brother. It’s also available in a 5″ or 6″ version with minimal price difference, though if I want a 6″, I’d go with the 1250DEVS. Vibration is well controlled, and it’s backed by a 1-year warranty. This just might be the very best 5″ random orbital sander for the money. A truly fantastic machine.

✅ Same rugged Bosch construction as the 1250DEVS
✅ 3.3 AMP / 4,500–12,000 OPM variable speed
✅ Swirl-free finish — orbit stroke geometry
✅ Superior dust canister compared to other 5″ models
✅ Vibration control — reduces fatigue
✅ Available in 5″ or 6″ pad with minimal price difference
❌ 1-year warranty
❌ For a 6″ version at this tier, the 1250DEVS is the better pick

Shop on Amazon
⚠️ Note: The Dynabrade 56815 reviewed below is a pneumatic (air-powered) tool that requires an air compressor to operate. It is reviewed here for completeness but belongs to a separate category from the electric sanders above.

Dynabrade 56815 Dynorbital Supreme Non-Vacuum Random Orbital Sander, 5-Inch

In my view, the best 5″ random orbital sander available for those with an air compressor. When it comes to pneumatic random orbital sanders, the Dynabrade Dynorbital Supreme is the Cadillac of them all. Excellent build quality meets incredible power, all while maintaining simplicity. Compact and easy to handle at 2 lbs, it puts out 12,000 RPM via its 0.28 HP rotor. It ships as a non-vacuum tool but can easily be converted to self-generated or central vacuum with available conversion kits — though remember, you need a lot of air for this machine to perform at its peak. It’s built to last, featuring a triple-sealed front double-row balancer bearing, a very solidly built body, and a free lifetime warranty. Since its 1990s release, the Dynorbital Supreme has been a favorite of woodworkers and metalworkers alike for its durability, everything-handling power and great versatility. I’ll have to agree — it’s simply the best pneumatic orbital sander you can get.

✅ The Cadillac of pneumatic random orbital sanders
✅ 12,000 RPM / 0.28 HP — 2 lbs
✅ Triple-sealed front double-row balancer bearing — guarded from dust
✅ Lifetime warranty
✅ Versatile: non-vacuum by default, convertible to self-generated or central vacuum
✅ Decades of proven reliability among woodworkers and metalworkers
❌ Requires significant air supply for maximum performance
❌ Vacuum conversion requires additional purchase

Shop on Amazon

Bosch ROS65VC-6 6-Inch Pad Rear-Handle Random Orbit Sander with Vibration Control

The Bosch ROS65VC is the bigger, better brother of the already great ROS20VSC. While it maintains the same terrific build quality, it steps up to a larger 6″ pad and brings significantly more power and professional-grade features. It has a great design with multiple handle positions — rear, top, or front — all comfortable with excellent grip. The 3.3 AMP motor with variable speed adapts perfectly from fast stock removal to smooth, polished sanding, and Bosch’s exclusive anti-vibration suspension system makes extended sessions comfortable. The extremely effective built-in dust collector uses Bosch’s micro-filter technology, and a vacuum hose can be plugged in if preferred. This is a great professional-level random orbital sander that will make experienced users happy and is solid for beginners too at an incredible price point.

✅ 6″ pad — covers more surface, faster
✅ 3.3 AMP variable speed — rear, top, or front handle positions
✅ Bosch exclusive anti-vibration suspension system
✅ Excellent built-in micro-filter dust collector
✅ Great value for a professional-grade 6″ sander
❌ Larger size may be more than a beginner needs
❌ Not for industrial-level tasks

Shop on Amazon

Bosch 1250DEVS 6-1/2-Amp 6-Inch Random Orbit Sander with Vacuum Port

And here it is — the classic big boss of Bosch orbital sanders, the 1250DEVS. It was one of my father’s favorite power tools and I can see why: it’s a beast. It remains to this day the best random orbital sander for woodworking in my opinion, and the direct predecessor to my current top pick (the GET75-6N). With a ridiculously powerful 6.5 AMP motor it mows down mountains in seconds with its 6″ sanding pad. It’s a big, heavy, durable machine that is surprisingly easy and comfortable to handle thanks to the classic side handle grip — my favorite type of handle for how beautifully you can control the whole machine. It has a variable speed mode selector ranging from random orbit mode for casual material removal or fine finishing to an aggressive “Turbo” drive eccentric orbit mode that makes the machine operate at five times the regular rate to absolutely decimate rougher stock. It also has a soft start mode to protect pieces, constant response circuitry to maintain pad speed under heavy loads, and a vacuum port for dust-free sanding. It was my father’s favorite and now it’s mine. An excellent, powerful random orbital sander I highly recommend.

✅ 6.5 AMP motor — massive power
✅ Side handle grip — exceptional control
✅ Dual-mode selector: random orbit + Turbo drive (5× the regular rate)
✅ Soft start mode — protects workpieces
✅ Constant response circuitry — maintains speed under heavy load
✅ Vacuum port
✅ Built to last a lifetime
❌ None to speak of

Shop on Amazon

BOSCH Power Tools – GET75-6N – Electric Orbital Sander, Polisher – 7.5 Amp, Corded, 6″ Disc ⭐ Editor’s Choice

The Bosch GET75-6N stands out as a true powerhouse, seamlessly blending exceptional power, precision, and Bosch’s renowned quality. Serving as the stellar successor to the world-class Bosch 1250DEVS — my personal favorite of all time — this tool takes sanding to unparalleled heights. Its dual sanding modes, with a turbocharged option, ensure fine finishing and swift stock removal at the flip of a switch, while the impressively powerful 7.5 AMP variable speed motor (3,300–7,300 OPM) offers unmatched flexibility for diverse jobs. Ergonomically designed for comfort and low vibration, it’s a joy to use even during endless hours of work. The top-tier dust collection system, along with a comprehensive accessory package, completes the picture. Building on the legacy of the 1250DEVS, the GET75-6N completely stands out from the competition and proudly wears the badge of honor of its ancestor.

✅ Successor to the legendary Bosch 1250DEVS — equals and exceeds it
✅ 7.5 AMP motor — most powerful electric ROS on this list
✅ Dual modes: random orbit (fine finishing) + Turbo (unstoppable stock removal)
✅ Variable speed 3,300–7,300 OPM — unmatched flexibility
✅ Low vibration, counterweight balance, ergonomic grip
✅ Top-tier passive dust collection — integrates with vacuum hoses
✅ Complete kit: soft backing pad, hex wrench, sanding disc, front handle, two vacuum adapters
❌ None to mention

Shop on Amazon

Festool 575026 ETS 150/3 EQ Random Orbit Sander

Festool is known for elite-level power tools — the very best without compromise for the most demanding professionals. The ETS 150 is no exception, offering versatile power, a detailed high-quality body and some of the most advanced features available in a sander. It’s very well and smartly built, the ergonomic handles allow one or two-handed control, the sanding pad delivers excellent adherence and the balanced body is designed to keep vibrations to a minimum. With a big 6″ sanding pad and a powerful motor, it can take on anything you throw at it quickly while maintaining constant speed even under heavy load. The dust vacuum is, as with any Festool machine, impeccable provided you have their own extractor (which works with any of their power tools). The ETS 150 combines an attractive price tag with a fantastic random orbital sander that every demanding professional will be proud to own.

✅ Elite Festool craftsmanship — built for longevity and performance
✅ Ergonomic handles — one or two-handed use
✅ Balanced body design — minimum vibration, smooth finish
✅ 6″ sanding pad — powerful motor maintains constant speed under load
✅ Impeccable dust extraction when paired with Festool extractor
✅ Attractive price for a professional-grade tool
❌ Dust extraction at its best requires a Festool extractor (additional cost)
❌ Overkill for hobbyists or occasional users

Shop on Amazon

Festool 571782 RO 125 FEQ Rotex Sander

When I mentioned elite level, this is what I was talking about. The Festool Rotex line (125 and 150) is the absolute top tier of orbital sanders on the market. Aimed at professionals who demand the best and can afford it, they offer everything you could ever want without holding anything back. With a 4.2 AMP motor and a 5″ sanding pad, the Rotex 125 is the compact brother of the line — smaller without compromising quality. It’s made with the highest quality parts inside and out, and offers every advanced feature possible: dual-mode sanding from aggressive stock removal to fine polishing, Festool’s “FastFix” tool-free backing pad system, excellent dust extraction technology, and MMC electronic controls delivering soft-start, step-less variable speed, constant speed under load, and thermal and overload protection. In my opinion, the Festool RO 125 is the best 5″ random orbital sander you can get.

✅ Top-tier elite sander for professionals who demand the best
✅ 4.2 AMP / 5″ — compact yet uncompromised
✅ Dual-mode: aggressive stock removal + fine polishing
✅ Festool “FastFix” tool-free backing pad system
✅ MMC electronics: soft-start, step-less variable speed, constant speed under load, thermal protection
✅ Excellent dust extraction
❌ Premium price tag — not for hobbyists or budget buyers
❌ Dust extraction at its best requires Festool’s own extractor

Shop on Amazon

Festool 571810 RO 150 FEQ Rotex Sander

The bigger brother of the Festool elite Rotex line. The RO 150 is not cheap, and if you’re an amateur I’d recommend looking at other options — you can find incredible tools at lower price points. But if you’re a professional who wants the very best, the Rotex 150 is your choice. With a 6 AMP motor and 720W of power, it can take on anything and make the toughest job look like a walk in the park. It features a big 6″ sanding pad and an ergonomic design, and the dust extraction is the best I’ve ever witnessed — their trademark Jetstream technology. Design elements like the edge protector and FastFix pad change button are incredibly convenient and well thought out. It’s built to last, with extraordinary attention to detail and high quality materials inside and out. It’s a luxury to own — if you have the opportunity to acquire this beast, you will not regret it.

✅ The apex of the Festool Rotex line
✅ 6 AMP / 720W — makes the toughest jobs effortless
✅ 6″ sanding pad — ergonomic design for comfort
✅ Best dust extraction I’ve witnessed — Festool Jetstream technology
✅ Edge protector + FastFix pad change button
✅ Extraordinary build quality — attention to detail inside and out
❌ Premium price — not for amateurs or hobbyists
❌ Best dust extraction requires Festool’s own extractor

Shop on Amazon

Conclusion

It was a pleasure to write the best random orbital sander reviews — I love these machines almost as much as my drum sanders, and that’s saying a lot! I sincerely hope I helped you make up your mind and I’m here for you if you have any questions. Simply leave them below and I will answer them as best as I can. Thank you!

40 Comments

  1. Greatly appreciate they write-up. Wondering if you have had a chance to test-drive the new Bosch GET75-6N or GET65-5N replacements for the 1250DEVS? I am looking to purchase a solid tool for my sons wood-finishing toolbox and was already planning on the 1250DEVS until this came along.

    • Hey Kevin, I’ve been eyeing them since August and I finally had the opportunity to give them a quick try earlier this very week. Although I can only make a proper in-depth review when I actually get them for myself and start working with them thoroughly, I can give you a simple overview right now. In my opinion, for the price increase, they’re not worth it as of yet. The design is very similar (although the newer one is slimmer), the power is slightly increased – 7.5 Volts on the newer one instead of 6.5, translating into more OPMs – but surprisingly, I’d give the construction quality edge to the 1250DEVS and it might be because I’m very used to handling the DEVS but it feels better on the hands. It’s still too early to give a definitive answer but if I had to choose between the two right now, I’d go with the 1250DEVS. I’ll get the newer models as soon as possible and update the article with an in-depth analysis soon – thanks for stopping by and have a great one Kevin!

  2. I was having a really hard time picking a ROS but darn if you didn’t make my mind up James, thanks a bunch!

  3. Hi James,
    Porter Cable has a new 6 inch sander out that replaces it’s present 6 inch sander. It seems to have a new Brand name-“Hardin”. Do you think it will rival the Bosch 6 inch that you recommend in your article. I am starting a hardwood floor refinishing project but I want a sander that will also last and be a powerful tool that will do many other things.
    Great article. Great info. Thanks
    Dan

    • Hey Dan,
      I know exactly what you’re talking about – it’s the new version of the P-C 7346SP. I have the previous version and already gave the new Hardin variant a spin but while they’re certainly solid machines, they’re not good enough to recommend over the current selection. Their impressively affordable price makes them attractive but the mixed features, lack of aggressiveness and underwhelming construction quality doesn’t allow them to compete with the monstrous Bosch 1250 DEVS or its other competitor, the Festool RO line. If you want a beast of a sander that’ll last you a lifetime of use, those are a superior choice (in my humble opinion, as always).
      Hope that helped Dan and thanks for stopping by – have a fantastic 2019!

  4. So an orbital sander spins the disc around in a circle and a random orbital sander, on the other hand, spins in a circle and oscillates around, keeping the sanding pattern more random and eliminating any visible scratches which creates a smoother finish right? This was such a helpful tip, can’t believe I didn’t know this. Got the Bosch ROS65VC-6 and after trying it for a few minutes I’ve gotta say, its quality is up there with the Festool ones I’ve got! Beautiful work all around James, thank you!

    • You’re absolutely right Holly, glad you found it helpful. And yup, I agree, Bosch’s machines are outstanding in both quality and price – can’t get enough of them. Thanks for stopping by and enjoy!

  5. Great article James. I am currently in the market and for a 6″ random orbit dual mode for some upcoming projects. I like the Festool Rotex 150 but the price is steep. Hence I am also considering the Bosch and Makita versions. I currently use a Fein for dust extraction which works great. However, hooking up the vacuum hose to the 5″ Festool sander I currently own has proven difficult. When the Fein craps out I will step up to the Festool Vacuum but I’m not in a hurry to drop another $800.00 or so.

    Any advice you have would be greatly appreciated.

    • Hey Jeff, hope you’re doing great! The Rotex 150 is as close to perfect as it gets but the price is indeed quite steep, making the Bosch 1250DEVS your best dual mode 6″ option. You already know how much I love it by now and it’s with good reason, the quality is just unbeatable for the price. I’ve also used Fein dust extractors before with great success but if it’s with the fit that you’re having trouble with then a simple adapter would most likely fix the issue (you can even make one with a pvc pipe if you’re in a hurry). If you need any more help don’t hesitate to reply, I’ll be here!

      • Thanks. The one thing I don’t like about the Bosch is the lack of an edge protector. Or am I wrong about that? Have you tested the Makita?

        • No edge protector on it but I’ve never felt the need for one throughout all the years I’ve been using it. I haven’t tried finding one that fits it although it might be possible. I have tried the Makita BO6050J though and as much as I usually really like Makita products, this one falls short. It’s more expensive than its main competitors (in both base price and replacement pads) and has worse performance, that’s the reason why it didn’t make the cut. Hope I’ve helped!

  6. I’ve had a lot of these beauties but none like the Bosch 1250DEVS, what a machine. Wouldn’t have known about it without your guidance James so thank you very much, it’s certainly a keeper!

    • Good morning Joseph! You’re more than welcome, it’s my pleasure to help. That Bosch will keep on performing for a lifetime, one of the best purchases I’ve ever made. Enjoy!

  7. Excellent analysis James, I got the big bosch for me and the smaller makita for my wife, we’re both starting a few spring projects soon! I’ve had a ton of makita tools before and always loved them, I bet this one won’t be an exception. Thanks again, I’ll be sure to email you a few pics of my deck and restored furniture when it’s done! – J

    • I’m always glad to help Johne, you’ve made a couple of great choices. Same here, Makita tools are a favorite – I catch their tradeshows whenever I can and it’s always an excellent experience. I’ll be waiting for those shots of the finished projects, good luck and have fun!

  8. I am finally going pneumatic. Used the Dynabrade and the finish it leaves behind cannot be compared. I currently have 8 ridgid 5″, 1 Milwaukee 5″, 3 Porter Cable 1 5″ and 2 quarter sheet. The ones I bought of the most were the Ridgid bc of the warranty, I figured for the price they were throwaways. I have 2 ridgid 5″ that actually work bc they are only 6 months old. The other ones I just didn’t bother fixing them because of the quality of finish they leave behind.. The worst one on this list is the Ridgid 2611, I bought 2 of them and the best thing I got out of both of them is the cord. I cut it off the sander and am using it on a saw I have. The thing is heavy, so you think, wow it’s heavy so it’s got some heavy duty parts inside. The thing is that the only thing between the heavy motor and the sanding pad is a small black machine screw about a size 10 or thinner by about 3/8″ long. If that screw goes you’re done, and the screw came loose until it broke inside on both of them. If Ridgid was going to design a “heavy duty” sander they should have made the one crucial part in the whole sander just like the way a grinding wheel attaches to a grinder. Truly a heavy paper weight. I kept it at my shop just in case I get robbed I can throw it at the thief and knock him out with it. stay away from the 2611. The other ones on the list are ok. Some of them start to whistle and stop spinning properly leaving swirls behind. I have a bunch of pneumatics I already work with and just never thought about going pneumatic with my sanders. What I like about the pneumatics is that they don’t overheat and are quieter, just keep the compressor in another room or behind a closed door. EDIT: Just wanted to tweak my comment, When I say the other sanders on the list I mean the sanders that I have used at my shop. I have been sanding wood for too long (more the 25 years). There’s a comment by a Joshua McCarty that had an issue with a ridgid 2611. IF you’re going to use that sander once every couple of weeks for about 10 mins at a time maybe it will work. As far as the problem that Joshua was having with the wobble, it’s that darn screw, you can tighten it but it keeps coming loose and if you tighten it too much you can strip it. Just bad design on Ridgid’s part. Festool are probably the best you can get in electric. I don’t use them because my guys need to use them with one hand under their palms.
    Thanks again James for reviews. You just confirmed my decision to go with Dynabrade. Was looking at Mirka but too many complaints with breakdowns and customer service.

    • Hey Brian, thanks for the insightful comment, always great to have another pro stop by! Pneumatics are truly fantastic machines, even if the electric ones have been getting better and better the simplicity, performance and durability of rotor sanders (and air-tools in general) are one step above. Out of all the pneumatics I’ve had the Dynabrades are the best, you’ll love them. When it comes to electric ones, if you give the Bosch 1250 DEVS a try I’m willing to bet you’ll be blown away in a positive way – the performance you get for the price is outstanding. The Festool models are also excellent but that’s to be expected, you really do get what you pay for with them. The other models are still great tools but not for the use me and you give them, they’re better suited for beginners and the occasional DIY enthusiast. Also, that 2611 paperweight comment made my month and it has just begun! Thanks again for the great write-up Brian.

  9. I’m not that good with fancy words but this article my friend is impeccable and admirable! I already own a few pneumatic orbital sanders but just got the Bosch 1250 you highlighted above and wow, it’s a beauty! From an old man that loves woodworking and recognizes true expertise, you have my blessing Draper. Keep up the fine work, it helps a lot of people!
    – L

    • Thanks a lot for the kind words Lester, I’m glad I could help! Great choice too, I only recommend what I consider the best and the 1250DEVS really hits the mark. Thanks again for stopping by, enjoy your new machine!

  10. Joshua D. McCarty

    Hello James. I just found your blog. I have to say, I’m quite pleased with the content, and insight. I wanted to add something I encountered during a project. I am a contractor. I had a bad run of customers skipping out on final payments, and the next job required a fair bit of sanding. I have 6 random orbit sanders (5″)and thought a 6″ would serve me better for this project. Being inexpensive I bought the Ridgid. I was sanding new cabinet doors, I had just built, and needed them to stay flat (coulnd’t afford a drum sander at the time) within 30 minutes the pad began to wobble. I exchanged it, and it happened again. To many this may not be a big deal, but for me, I want my sanders to help keep my projects flat. If you still have access to the one you tested maybe check that out. Drum sanders are definitely the way to go for that purpose though. thanks for your valuable information.
    JDM

    • Hey Joshua, thanks for the great and informative comment. Although the Ridgid didn’t fail me, I can see how it could happen – it’s those issues that separate budget from higher quality tools. Even then, to have happened twice and with such little use is inexcusable. I’ll be picking mine up to run it again and contacting Ridgid to get further clarification. I’ll reply again soon with the results of my tests and their answer as well. Also, you’re spot on – drum sanders shine when it comes to cabinet doors and similar surfaces. I appreciate your input Joshua, thanks and check back soon!

      • Hello again Joshua, I’m back with my results and an answer from Ridgid. On my side it’s still good, I didn’t run into any issues when handling rough paint on an old bench. Tim at Ridgid’s support said that without physically examining a tool there is not a way to know the exact cause but that it sounds like the bearing cap under the pad may be loose. The pad can be removed and there is a screw in the center of the bearing cap that can be tightened to fix the issue. Hope that helps Joshua!

  11. Thank God I found you Mr.Draper! There are so many of these that it’s very hard to pick, thanks for sharing your expertise, I decided to get the Festool ETS 150 and can’t wait to put it to use!

    • You’re more than welcome Francisco, you’ve made a fantastic choice too – it’s a beautiful machine. Have fun!

  12. Getting myself an early Christmas present, a nice little Festool Rotex all wrapped up is sure to bring my spirits up haha. Merry Christmas James!

    • Hey Jonah, I’m sure it’ll put a big smile on your face as it’s an excellent sander. Thank you and Merry Christmas to you too!

  13. Wonderful help James, I’m forever thankful. Dealing with my renovations will be a breeze with the DeWalt, I always love their tools.

  14. +1 for the Bosch 1250DEVS, it is my old man’s favorite and now I’m getting one for myself!

  15. I enjoy looking at your website and reading your reviews immensely. It was exceptionally interesting to find out about random orbital sanders since I really needed to get one. Much appreciated

  16. Nice variety and good stuff all around. I quite enjoyed your writing style, it made me feel like it was a close friend giving me advice on these machines – I guess you really are haha. Kiss!

  17. Top notch table James, incredibly useful. Got the Bosch 1250DEVS and now after using it I can say that YUP, you were right, it’s amazing. Big thanks.

  18. Was looking for the perfect random orbital to use on a car’s body. Since you mentioned the Dynabrade was the best for removing paint I decided to give it a go. Just got it a few days ago and it’s EXCELLENT. Thank you

  19. Hey! Just remembered to come thank you today as I got my new machine last week (got the great Makita kit you recommended) and after trying it out I really couldn’t have asked for better. Your analysis was spot on!

  20. Can’t thank you enough, just got the Makita kit and I’m very happy with it. Bookmarked your page and I’ll come here whenever I need to buy sanders, keep it up James.

  21. Haha, your picks are eerily similar to my own James, birds of a feather flock together indeed! Nothing can beat the Festool machines though, just got the 150 Rotex that you recommended. Time to have some fun!

    • Hey Logan, great minds think alike! Yeah, the Festool machines are in a different league when it comes to attention to detail and perfection. Enjoy!

  22. Hey James, just want to say thank you very much for making it easy for me to decide which one of these babies to get – the Bosch 1250DEVS. I’ve already had the opportunity to give it a try and boy is it a beast. All the best!

  23. Random orbital sanders are a life saver, even with my unsteady hands I can get scratch-free results (which is saying a lot!). Bless you for the articles James, I’ll be adding you to the WoodWorking “Best Blogs of the Year” competition, you deserve it!

    • You’re absolutely right Lisa, they are the best choice for beginners as they are easy to use and offer great results. Thank you very much for the entry, I’ll make sure to do my best to get a spot at the top!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *