8 Best Random Orbital Sanders: woodworking & Vacuum Attachment

by Joost Nusselder | Updated on:  March 13, 2022
I love creating free content full of tips for my readers, you. I don't accept paid sponsorships, my opinion is my own, but if you find my recommendations helpful and you end up buying something you like through one of my links, I could earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more

Where there is woodwork, there’s sanding to be done. And where there are sanding tasks, there are heaps of dust and residual material ready to get all over the workplace. That’s right; it’s an inevitable reality for us carpentry enthusiasts. But that doesn’t mean we can’t do anything about it!

Thanks to the latest technology, you can manage dust (here’s why) while doing orbital sanding without trouble. All you’ll need is the best orbital sander with vacuum attachment to get the job done.

Best-Orbital-Sander-with-Vacuum-Attachment

From removing years of dirt build-up from old furniture to adding that shiny polish to the cabinet to woo your client, it’s all possible without making a mess.

Read through to find out more.

Overall best

DEWALTDWE6421

This bumblebee-colored sanding tool is one that you can get with total confidence. Its amperage capacity is also 3 Amp, but since the grit type is coarse, you can do more strenuous tasks with it.

Product image

Best cordless orbital sander:

MakitaDBO180Z

As small and cute as this tool might look, it packs a punch with the 3 Amp motor and 120 voltage capacity. If you’re looking to get your very first orbital sander, this should be perfect.

Product image

Best dust extraction system

CRAFTSMANCMEW231

What makes this so comfortable to use is its shape and portable build. And since this has a nice weight to it, handling it with proper control is relatively easy, even for the newbies.

Product image

Best random orbital sander for drywall

Ginour6A

By now, you’re probably scanning your eyes through this list, looking for a sander with variable speed. Well, here it is- the Ginour 6A is the perfect pick if you want speed variation and don’t mind the size of the tool.

Product image

Best Random Orbital Sander with variable speed

WESCOWS4269U

In my personal opinion, this is the best all-rounder product on this entire list. I’ve found others with two or three of the same features but none that has all of them.

Product image

Best random orbital sander for woodworking

BLACK+DECKERBDERO100

The 3.2 lbs lightweight and compact size makes it easier and flexible to maneuver giving you more control for woodworking.

Product image

Best random orbital sander for metal

PORTER-CABLE 5″ 382

It features a 1.9ampere motor capable of doing 12000 orbits per minute which allows it to pull through almost any tasks with a fine, ultra-smooth and well-blended finish.

Product image

Best budget random orbital sander

SKIL5” SR211601

For ultra-smooth and enhanced performance over a set of sanding applications, the SR211601 features a strong 2.8amp motor and 13000 orbits per minute.

Product image

Buying Guide for the Best Random Orbital Sanders

Choosing the perfect random orbit sanders among the best ones is intimidating as well as exciting. The number of brands with orbital sanders is huge and the abundant collection is confusing especially when you are looking to buy one.

That’s why we have come up with a collection that consists of the best deals available in the market. Our crew members have spent adequate time with the carpenters to have informative and detailed reviews on the sanders. And they have arrived on some particular sets which will be an ideal choice for you according to your preference. Let’s see!

Handling Grip

Models that offer palm-fist like handling grips are great. Good grip lets you maneuver the tool more easily and with stability and control. A non-slip grip should be what you should be looking for. Because without control, you can’t have a good time operating. Rubberized handle grips are a better choice for sheer control.

Variable Speed

Random orbit sanders offer variable speed that counts in orbits per minute. As a versatile device, being stuck at one speed is not quite it’s forte. The smoother the variable speed is the smoother it will be to tune things perfectly for materials and grit sizing. This lets you use this with any kind of things you have the paper for.

Motor

The motors are usually rated from 2-6 amp. This is the number of power that is required for the sander to operate. The important thing is the translation of the motor to performance depends on the sander. Quality depends on the effectiveness of the use of power even if two rates the same amount of power.

Pads

How to strip wire fast
How to strip wire fast

The disk has a cover which is called a pad. The pad burns out after heavy use. The pad doesn’t let the disk and wood collide with one another. One pad does not last for a lifetime. So, quick-changing pads are better.

Dust collector

Almost every model we have reviewed here has a dust collector system. Many have a hybrid canister filter that catches the dirt and puts it into the bag. There is a dust-sealed switch that operates the dust preventing actuation.

This feature takes away the dust, collects it and puts it into a bag that is attached with. On some models, the dust system works through a vacuum that sucks away the discharged dust through the holes in the paper and pad, pulling through a bag.

Baseplate

The base plate is where the sandpaper is attached. There are a few options with this. The base plate determines the size of the sanding area. Random orbit sanders have two sizes 5 and 6 inches. Smaller than 5inches is called a finishing sander and larger ones are the professional tool with the air compressor.

The other option is how the sanding disk will be attached. There are some sanders that use sticky disks that sticks tight onto the plate rapidly. But the thing with these is that they have a high possibility of coming out of the disk while operating. The base plate can have holes.

The ones with the holes are better. This is where the dust removal system works by removing dust away through a dust bag or vacuum or canister filter. The base plate is covered with foam that needs replacing from time to time.

Disk

If you leave the pad, the thing that will have direct contact with the wood surface is the disk. The disk circles around and spins at different speeds depending on the model you are using. The disk gouges and grinds through the board or wood.

The disks are attached using pressure-sensitive adhesive or a hook and loop system. Mostly they use sandpaper disk. The bigger the disk is larger the area will be for you to sand. Small disks are useful for less extensive projects and also weigh little.

OPM

OPM stands for orbits per minute. It indicates the rate at which the sanding disk spins. The higher the OPM rating is the better it will be. Some sanders are single speed and perform at the maximum range, more often at 12000 OPM. There are sanders that have a variable range of OPM that allows fine works. Because disks or motor at low speed are easy to control.

Best Orbital Sander with Vacuum Attachment reviewed

When it comes to sanding, of course, your skills have a significant role to play, but so does the quality of the tool used. So, it’s best to check these reviews first.

Overall best

DEWALT DWE6421

Product image
9.1
Doctor score
Motor
4.8
Handling
4.7
Dust extraction
4.2
Best for
  • Excellent dust collection system with a one-hand locking bag
  • It can be connected to different vacuums besides the same brand
  • Designed to reduce wobbling and vibrations
Falls short
  • The grit type being coarse, requires susceptible hand operations
  • Its price is a bit high for an orbital sanding tool

The following product is also from a well-recognized brand, the Dewalt DWE6421. This bumblebee-colored sanding tool is one that you can get with total confidence. Its amperage capacity is also 3 Amp, but since the grit type is coarse, you can do more strenuous tasks with it.

Weight4 pounds
Dimensions10.38 x 7.25 x 6.18
ColorYellow
MaterialStainless Steel
Warranty 3 year

Treats

By the looks of features, it is evident that DEWALT compromised neither with design nor manufacturing of the DWE6421K random orbit sander. It packs a 3.0-ampere motor that spins the pad at 12,000 OPM. The motor does pretty good and smooth finishing and is capable of preventing itself from being weary.

Where people struggle to find a good dust collecting system, DEWALT included an impressive dust collecting system that keeps grime out of its internal body. It interfaces with the vacuum locking system. The dust-sealed switch protects against grime repast for extended longevity by simply hooking it with a dust collector and turning on the planner.

The construction is solid and the compact size makes it flexible enough for easy maneuverability. It puts off a light-weight instead of a solid body allowing the user to hold it easily while operating. It comes with a creative one-hand locking systemized dust bag.

It provides textured grips for easy control while operating. The sander works at optimal speed as long as you want it to. The center of gravity is perfect, just over the main body relieving you of extra pushing. All these features come in a very friendly budget is what kept it on our list. Dewalt also provided 3years limited warranty with the tool.

Downsides

According to some users, the sander does not spin properly. And the tool gets pretty shaky while operating makes it difficult to hold flat on a surface. After a certain time, the Velcro pad stops holding the sanding disk. It sometimes leaves sanding marks on your wood piece.

My only pet peeve with the Makita tool was that it vibrated a bit while working. That’s why I tend to gravitate towards this one when working on more significant projects or removing sensitive stains.

The last thing you need is a fully finished workpiece getting damaged or marked up. With this tool, you can rest assured of a vibration-free experience due to its separate counterweight design. 

Another great thing about this product is the dust collection system with a one-hand locking dust bag. The switches are also dust-sealed to prolong their lifespan.

If you’ve already got a dust collector like the DWV012 or DWV9000, getting this will be an absolute win. You can also use it with other vacuum systems and connect the port via a Universal Quick Connector of the same brand.

Pros 

  • All the critical areas of the tool have a rubber over the mold, making it durable
  • Excellent dust collection system with a one-hand locking bag
  • It can be connected to different vacuums besides the same brand
  • Shorter height allows closer proximity of your hand to the workpiece
  • Designed to reduce wobbling and vibrations

Cons 

  • The grit type being coarse, requires susceptible hand operations
  • Its price is a bit high for an orbital sanding tool

Verdict

I’d recommend getting this if you’re already somewhat experienced in sanding different types of materials. Otherwise, the grit may end up causing swirls or chipping the wood. However, a little practice can help you make the best of this spectacular work tool.

Best cordless orbital sander

Makita DBO180Z

Product image
8.2
Doctor score
Motor
3.9
Handling
4.2
Dust extraction
4.2
Best for
  • Longer tool life due to precision-engineered ball bearing construction
  • The rubber grip makes it easy to hold
  • One of the few affordable cordless random orbital sanders
Falls short
  • You won’t get variable speed features
  • It has a slight wobble when working

Since we’re talking about the best products out there, I’d like to start by discussing this product from the renowned brand Makita.

The DBO180Z is one of my favorite tools to get any sanding job done.

As small and cute as this tool might look, it packs a punch with the 3 Amp motor and 120 voltage capacity. If you’re looking to get your very first orbital sander, this should be perfect.

The thing I love the most about this sanding tool is the ergonomically designed dust collection system.

Due to the collection vacuum placement being through the pad, it’s super-efficient. After working on a project using this handy little machine, I have little to no mess.

It is a cordless electric tool, yet the price is very affordable. Furthermore, it has a medium grit type and a rubberized grip to help you hold firmly.

The package includes an abrasive disc, a dust bag, and a plastic case.

For woodworkers who need to hold onto the workpiece with one hand, the single-hand functional design of this tool will be excellent.

Pros 

  • Longer tool life due to precision-engineered ball bearing construction
  • An efficient and ergonomic dust collection system
  • The rubber grip makes it easy to hold
  • One hand on/off feature allows multitasking
  • Has a pad control system to prevent swirl marks
  • One of the few affordable cordless random orbital sanders

Cons 

  • You won’t get variable speed features
  • It has a slight wobble when working

Verdict

It is an excellent tool for beginners or people who don’t do large sanding projects. Also, it’s excellent for medium-duty work and lasts a long time.

I like using this for small projects and sanding down house floors to a smooth finish.

Best dust extraction system

CRAFTSMAN CMEW231

Product image
8.3
Doctor score
Motor
3.7
Handling
3.9
Dust extraction
4.9
Best for
  • Very smooth and powerful
  • It can be used on both wood and metal materials
  • Excellent dust collection mechanism and comes with a bag
Falls short
  • You need to buy a separate connector to hook it up with a shop vacuum
  • It doesn’t have variable speed control

Now let’s talk about the CMEW231 power tool from the brand Craftsman. This equipment is the best in terms of portability and work comfort. It has a low profile and dimensions of 10.13 x 5.5 x 5.75 inches. The red and black classic combo adds a nice touch to the boring stash of power tools in my workspace, and I love that.

What makes this so comfortable to use is its shape and portable build. The tool can be hung on the wall when not in use. And since this has a nice weight to it, handling it with proper control is relatively easy, even for the newbies.

Made in Mexico, this is one of those products that serve you for as long as you can remember once purchased.

Although this has a coarse grit, thanks to the design, it’s easier to do lighter sanding with this than others. It also works on metals, so that’s a bonus!

I was surprised to find how quiet this device was when working with the same power (3 Amp) and roughly similar design. It’s honestly softer and smoother than any of my detail sanders.

Pros

  • Very smooth and powerful
  • Easy to control
  • It can be used on both wood and metal materials
  • When in use, it is pretty quiet
  • Excellent dust collection mechanism and comes with a bag

Cons

  • You need to buy a separate connector to hook it up with a shop vacuum
  • It doesn’t have variable speed control

Verdict

If you want something comparatively simple in function but effective, getting this will be a good choice. Despite not having a variable speed option, I found the set speed perfect for almost all types of sanding tasks. It just goes to show you that fancy features don’t always mean the best product, right?

Best random orbital sander for drywall

Ginour 6A

Product image
8.4
Doctor score
Motor
4.9
Handling
3.2
Dust extraction
4.6
Best for
  • Very durable and high-quality construction
  • Speed can be changed with 7 different settings
  • More dust holding capacity
Falls short
  • It’s a bit heavy to handle
  • Due to the large size, storing this requires more space in the workshop

By now, you’re probably scanning your eyes through this list, looking for a sander with variable speed. Well, here it is- the Ginour 6A is the perfect pick if you want speed variation and don’t mind the size of the tool.

Unlike the small and graspable items I talked about prior, this craft tool looks more like a vacuum cleaner. But hey, if it works wonders, then why complain?

When it comes to this sander, I guess the phrase “the bigger, the better” can be ideally used. With a dimension of 46 x 11.4 x 9.7 inches, this does not compromise quality or performance. It has a 13 feet dust hose making it very effective in cleaning. The power source for this is AC, and it has more amperage than usual- 6 Amps.

As for the speed variations, you’ll get 7 different options and the scope to ramp it all the way up to 1800 RPM. The head can be rotated at 360° in any direction required. You can also extend its handle up to 5.5 feet. Having an aluminum alloy construction makes this product very sturdy and durable.

Pros 

  • Very durable and high-quality construction
  • It has more amperage (6 Amps), and the head can be rotated 360 degrees
  • Speed can be changed with 7 different settings
  • More dust holding capacity
  • There’s an LED light at the base pad for better visibility

Cons

  • It’s a bit heavy to handle
  • Due to the large size, storing this requires more space in the workshop

Verdict

If you’re like me and not the most macho kind of person, then I’d recommend using this at intervals. Since the entire machine weighs 4.8 kg, working with it for a long time without resting is a bad idea. Other than that, it’s a fan favorite and sure to woo anyone regarding add-ons, functions, and design.

Best Random Orbital Sander with variable speed

WESCO WS4269U

Product image
8.3
Doctor score
Motor
4.3
Handling
4.1
Dust extraction
4.1
Best for
  • It has a low vibration design
  • The dust collection system has a micro-filter canister
  • Has 6 adjustable speed options
Falls short
  • Not ideal for polishing hard metal
  • It is pretty loud when in use

Another product that’s worthy of acknowledgment is the WESCO WS4269U. In my personal opinion, this is the best all-rounder product on this entire list. I’ve found others with two or three of the same features but none that has all of them.

In terms of size, dust management, and vacuuming, the overall function and power – this takes the cake no doubt.

First of all, the product comes in a lovely blue and black color combination which I found eye-soothing. It has the dimensions of 10 x 5 x 7 inches which are not at all too big or too small.

The grit type is medium, and its voltage is 120 V which is just enough. And depending on the piece of material you’re working on; you can set the speed to the required mode.

Moreover, the dust collection technology in this features a micro-filter canister. There are 8 vacuum holes ready to collect the dust, which highly optimizes its function in keeping clean.

You also get the option to connect it to a vacuum through an adapter if you want. And best of all, it has low vibration due to the rubberized palm grip and compact body design.

Pros

  • Includes many add-ons like a dust box, adapter, 12 pieces of sanding paper of varying grits, a charger, and a manual
  • It has a low vibration design
  • The dust collection system has a micro-filter canister
  • Powerful with the capacity to perform at 1300 OPM
  • Has 6 adjustable speed options

Cons 

  • Not ideal for polishing hard metal
  • It is pretty loud when in use

Verdict

I’d suggest getting this product for anyone who wants to upgrade their collection with a jack-of-all-trades kind of tool. It’s versatile and very ergonomic in design. I usually use ear protection (like these muffs) while operating with the device.

Best random orbital sander for woodworking

BLACK+DECKER BDERO100

Product image
8.7
Doctor score
Motor
3.9
Handling
5
Dust extraction
4.2
Best for
  • Hybrid dust vacuum canister
  • Rubberized grip for control
  • Light and easy to manouver
Falls short
  • It can vibrate a lot
  • The 2.4amp motor is weak compared to its competitors
Weight3.16 pounds
Dimensions7 x 5 x 6
ColorBlack
MaterialPlastic
Warranty 2 year

Treats

If you are tight on a budget for a random orbit sander, you can definitely have a try at the BLACK-DECKER’s BDERO100 coming with a 2years warranty. The 3.2 lbs lightweight and compact size makes it easier and flexible to maneuver giving you more control. What makes it greater than it already is, is the upgrade from using sandpaper and hands.

The 2.4 amp motor runs at a single speed of 14 thousand orbits per minute. The disk is about 5 inches. It allows the user to have closer contact with the wood surface allowing the user to control the pressure being applied while operating. The device is cordless, a feature not so common among other random sanders.

For a one-time infrequent job and simpler household works, this friendly budget sander pretty much does a detailed sanding. The paddle switch feature makes it easy to operate. It comes with a dust-sealed switch to remove dirt, grime, and debris for extended service.

The device also features a hybrid canister that does an excellent job of collecting dust from variable jobs. The rubberized handle provides an easy grip for the easy and ergonomic experience. The random orbital action for a high removal rate and quality touch makes it equally great. The hook and loop system allows rapid paper changes.

Downsides

It vibrates a lot. The jiggle while operating might cause corrosion issues. The 2.4amp motor is weak compared to its competitors. According to some users, it didn’t last long. Some have faced situations where the turns stop at close contacts with the wood surface.

Best random orbital sander for metal

PORTER-CABLE 5″ 382

Product image
8.5
Doctor score
Motor
4.9
Handling
3.8
Dust extraction
4.1
Best for
  • Powerful motor for metalworking
  • Adjustable speed
Falls short
  • Plastic build quality leaves a cheap impression
  • Dust collector can come loose
Weight3.6 pounds
Dimensions8 x 9 x 7
Power SourceAC/DC
MaterialSteel, Plastic, Rubber
Warranty 3 Year

Treats

With controllable pad speeds, the Portable random orbital sander made its place on our list. If you are looking for basic tools and digging into small wood jobs and smoothing, you can bet on this Porter-Cable. It is an ideal choice for DIY and professional standard applications.

It features a 1.9ampere motor capable of doing 12000 orbits per minute which allows it to pull through almost any tasks with a fine, ultra-smooth and well-blended finish. This device comes with a 5inch disk. It accepts a 5inch 8 holes hook and looping system sandpaper.

The 382 5inch sander takes advantage of the Porter-Cable’s controlled finishing system to balance adjustable pad speed and reduce gouging. The sealed 100% ball-bearing construction accounts for the solidity and extended durability. Not to forget about the 3pounds weight and dual-plane counterpoised fan reduces user frazzle and makes it flexible.

The dust-sealed switch helps to prevent dust ingestion and increase actuation longevity. It is an ideal choice for surface preparation before smoothing or removing old coats. The random sanding pattern does a pretty good job of not leaving any dents or grimes on the material as well as the wood surface. The orbit sander puts off maximum sanding speed for fine finishes. 

Downsides

The plastic build quality leaves a cheap impression as other models are serving pretty much sturdy construction. The device shakes a lot and feels like jumping around the wood surface. The dust collector keeps coming off.

Best budget random orbital sander

SKIL 5” SR211601

Product image
6.8
Doctor score
Motor
3.2
Handling
3.8
Dust extraction
3.2
Best for
  • Solid motor for the price
  • Basic variable speed
  • Well balanced
Falls short
  • Dust extraction can come loose
  • Bottom pad is known to break
Weight3.44 pounds
Dimensions7.87 x 4.8 x 5.51
Capacity2.8 Amps
Grit TypeMedium
Warranty 1 year 

Treats

Whether you are dealing with a home improvement project or finishing touch with a wood piece, SKILL definitely will have your back. The SKILL SR211601 is one of their finest products with carpentry. For ultra-smooth and enhanced performance over a set of sanding applications, the SR211601 features a strong 2.8amp motor and 13000 orbits per minute.

Many of you hate to struggle with dust dealing. But you will be glad to know that this one just made it spot on our list with the dust collection system. The X flow dust collector uses cyclone force to pull the dust through its transparent container. The container is easy to empty. Gouging and grinding across various materials require speed control.

The variable speed control in this tool does the job pretty much better. The tool allows long hours with comfort. The design includes a soft rubber grip that feels like your fist in gloves. The counterpoised balance decreases hand tiredness from vibration. The dust-sealed on and off switch makes a nice and easy flip off the switch during operation.

The compact and small structure makes it fit into narrow spaces releasing maximum user control and also can get in your closet.

Downsides

The dust collector either breaks off after a certain use. Or it keeps coming off during operation. The bottom pad breaks after two or three-time use according to some user experience. And unfortunately, it can’t be fixed.

Benefits of Orbital Sander

It’s a given that you need to know the pros of using orbital sanders to invest in one. So, first thing’s first- let me point out some of the most significant advantages of owning one of these tools for any craftsman.

1. Removing Residue

When working on any project, you’re bound to mess up sometimes and get paint spots on the material. Other than that, there’s the case of polish residue and dirt build-up over the years. Removing these is a piece of cake with an orbital sander.

2. Quick on the Task

In typical cases, you either do sanding with sandpaper or a sand block, and it takes hours. Not to mention, your hand gets fatigued. Using orbital sanders can reduce this time by more than half.

3. Versatile and Easy to Use

Don’t be fooled by what it’s called because these sanders are so much more versatile in practicality. Their small size and practical function mean you can use them to smooth floors, sand walls, clean counters, and much more.

4. Great Value

Despite having so many uses, these tools come at budget-friendly prices. You don’t have to worry about spending lots of cash on an electric sander if you have one of these. To sum it up, it’s a great value tool that will come in handy on multiple occasions.

Difference Between the Orbital Sander and Random Orbital Sander

Whatever the job is, when it comes to tampering with wooden structures then there isn’t a way around to sanding. Sanding can be pretty much difficult if not done by the perfect equipment. After all those carving, the finishing touch, if not done great, ruins kind of almost the whole effort. That’s where orbital sanders come in handy.

Shape and process

One of the prime differences to note about orbital sanders is the external rectangular form and aren’t difficult to get fit into narrow and tight spaces and in opposition to horizontal surfaces. These sanders are made to be trembling in not so big rings and can be moved in whichever side you want. They can work with almost anything you have and grit you want.

Random orbital sanders are different from orbital sanders. Even though they are similar in size, random orbital sanders have round sanding pads. It makes a huge difference. The round sanding pad allows it to move in a different way than orbital sanders. The disc spins in tiny spiraling circles just like orbital sanders. But they can also turn at the same time.

Sandpaper

Orbital sanders don’t use any special kind of sandpapers. The most ordinary formed orbital sander is known as a quarter sheet sander as it uses a section of the sand brush. Also, they have larger sheet options. The sand brush effortlessly attaches to the pad which is filled with spring clips. Thus it’s not a problem to alter it out whenever it’s deemed so.

Random orbitals use a special kind of sandpapers. The one that attaches the sanding surface with either adhesive or a simple hook and loop system. Random orbitals, unlike orbital sanders, don’t leave any sanding pattern.

Power

Orbital sanders are not powerful enough to remove a lot of material. Not a tool for aggressive use. Most of them leave behind fewer marks than sanding by hand. And are usually smaller and more compact, a great choice for prepping before painting.

On the other hand, random orbitals are comparatively more powerful. Random orbitals have a dual motion which doesn’t allow them to go into one space more than one. They can deal with heavier jobs especially when removal of materials seems necessary.

FAQ’S

Q; Are random orbital sanders a great choice for every work?

Ans: Random orbital sanders are useful for not so heavy grinding. But at least you don’t have to worry about getting a special kind of sandpaper. So it totally depends on your work purpose.

Q: How does the dust collector work?

Ans: The dust collector carries the dust that has been carried away by the canister or the vacuum system. Needs to be emptied from time to time.

Q: Are the 3 amp motors better?

Ans: Even a 2amp motor pretty much does the grinding and gouging job. So, in that case, a 3amp motor will definitely do a better job. No need to worry!

  1. Can you attach a vacuum to a sander?

Yes, you definitely can. I usually attach a shop vacuum to my portable sanders since they clog up faster than others. It’s also a good choice with orbital ones.

  1. How do you hook up an orbital sander vacuum?

Since some orbital sanders have tiny ports, connecting them to any shop vac is difficult. In that case, you can do it by using an adapter. I suggest using a 3D-printed custom adapter for the perfect fit.

  1. Which is better: orbital sander or random orbital sander?

This question is subjective and depends on your working piece. For instance, orbital sanders work way better on curves and finishing touches. But random orbital sanders are best for large chunks of wood since they take off more material easily.

  1. How do you reduce dust in the orbital sander?

You can reduce dust by taking a portable box fan and taping an air filter to the intake side. Then place the filter close by facing your sander. As the filter traps more dust while you sand, post-work cleanup will be easier.

  1. Do you need a variable speed orbital sander?

It’s better if you have it, but you can still use it without the variable speed feature. As orbital sanders are used for sanding wood, metal, or plastic, you’ll find it necessary to polish them afterward. The variable speed feature will allow you to do so with the sander itself.

Final Words

At the end of the day, we all deserve to have nice things that make our jobs easier. So, if you’re thinking of getting something to make your workshop more efficient, feel free to grab one of the best orbital sanders with vacuum attachments from this list. You won’t regret it- I promise.

I'm Joost Nusselder, the founder of Tools Doctor, content marketer, and dad. I love trying out new equipment, and together with my team I've been creating in-depth blog articles since 2016 to help loyal readers with tools & crafting tips.