The 5 Best Random Orbital Sanders

Probably the most versatile type of sander available, a random orbital sander can tackle surfaces both large and small. When making cabinets, I always reach for the random orbit sander to quickly create a smooth finish with several passes of varying grit sandpaper.

Some of the cheap random orbital sanders create scalloping in your projects but the quality ones can provide a smooth, even sanding with the right technique.

In this post, we vetted many random orbital sanders and came up with what we think are 5 of the best random orbit sanders on the market today.

With that said, here are our top picks for the best random orbital sander:

Black & Decker BDERO100 Random Orbit Sander

If you are looking for an orbital sander, and you are on a budget, then this offering from Black & Decker might grab your attention. A number one bestseller on Amazon, it comes fitted with a Velcro-style hook and loop system.

The power plant is 2 amps, and it comes with a 2 year limited manufacturers warranty. It’s slightly on the loud side, but it fits well in the hand, and will keep running for a long time. The five inch pad works with standard sandpaper sizes, and it’s still small enough for most projects. Decent power at a decent price.

DEWALT DWE6421K Random Orbit Sander Kit, 5″

This sander from DeWALT carries a powerful 3 amp motor vibrating at 12000 OPM. The switch is dust sealed to keep it from jamming up, improving the already long life of the sander.

The dust bag is fitted or one-handed locking, making this little guy easy to use. It even comes with a bag for storage, which makes it easy to transport.

The sander comes with a three year limited warranty. DeWALT is one of those companies that sets the bar for others to follow with their products, and this orbital sander is no different. It does everything you would expect from a portable sander, at a price you would expect.

PORTER-CABLE 382 5-Inch Random Orbit Sander

!00% ball bearing construction. The switch is dust sealed, and the motor is dual-plane counter-balanced to reduce hand fatigue.

It also makes the entire setup more stable, which means a longer life span for cabinet builders who will put it through its paces. The motor is only 1.9 amps, but don’t let that fool you, this little sander is more than capable for any job you ask of it. Accepts 8-hole sandpaper, and comes with a 90-day money back guarantee, one year free service contract, and a normal three year warranty.

The design is intentionally simple, and this sander definitely doesn’t win out in the looks department. The smooth operation makes up for the lack of ergonomics. It’s a solid machine, that luckily goes on sale from time to time.

Bosch ROS20VSC Random Orbit Sander with Carrying Bag

A 2.5 amp sander capable of 7500 to 12000 OPM. The variable speed dial lets you match the speed to the piece you are working on. The attachment design is pretty much the same as other brands, but has a higher density of hooks for a slightly stronger attachment mechanism.

The dust canister is a twist on design with a dust level. The grip is fitted with soft inserts for a comfortable hold in any orientation. The pad-dampening system helps to prevent or eliminate swirl marks. Dust prevention is standard, on the collector as well as the rest of the unit.

The best part about this sander has to be the price. For this kind of machine you would expect to pay considerably more, but Bosch has managed to keep the cost down while the features are up. Probably the best buy on this list.

Makita BO5041K 5-Inch Random Orbit Sander Kit

Super powerful 3 amp motor with variable speed control from 4000 to 12000 OPM gives you complete authority over the job assignment. With multiple ways to grip the unit, you are also in control of your sander in a way that simply isn’t possible with the others.

This sander from Makita might cost a little more, but the functionality and quality of the unit makes it more than worth it, and it even comes with a hard case for organized transport in the contracting truck.

Soft inserts adorn the exterior in a number of places, making for a comfortable grip no matter how you hold it. Outstanding dust protection. The giant two finger switch includes a lock for ease of use.

If you are going to be doing a lot of sanding, and you want to ensure that you buy once, go with this setup. Makita tools are great for light contracting work, or use around the house or farm. This one is quite possibly the best orbital sander on the market.