Editorial StaffSanding can get messy, especially if you use a sander with a poor dust management mechanism; cleaning dirt, varnishing, removing old paint or anything else. Though most orbital sanders have a dust bag/collector, they’re not as effective as ones that include a vacuum attachment. Therefore, using an orbital sander with a vacuum attachment is easy and effective. Here’s a list of the best orbital sander with a vacuum attachment to buy for your next sanding project.
What’s an Orbital Sander?
An orbital sander is a sanding tool held in one’s hand. This power tool sands a surface using a random-orbit action for a finer finish. Besides, orbital sanders come in various sizes and styles, depending on the sanding task at hand.
An orbital sander usually creates swirl traces on the surface after smoothing. Therefore, you may expect finer and cleaner finishes using a random orbital sander and a lower possibility of swirl finishes. Besides, these power sanders are lightweight and easy to use. The two spring-loaded clamps usually secure the sanding paper to the flat square surface. This tool, also known as a perfect sanding machine, is meant for fine work such as eliminating snags, sharp round edges and making ultra-smooth surfaces for woodworking goods.
Now that we’ve established the purpose of a sander let’s look at the best orbital sander with vacuum attachment.
1. BLACK+DECKER (BDERO100) 5″ Random Orbit Sander
For the best orbital sander with a vacuum attachment that comes at a budget-friendly price, count on the Black+Decker BDERO100 model. Most people only require a sander on rare occasions. And that’s where this model comes in. Though it may not be the most powerful, it performs the job well with a motor power of only 2 amps. And although it lacks variable speed control and is fixed at 12000 OPM, it will easily complete easy tasks.
The orbital sander vacuum attachment contains a dust-sealed switch for durability. The unit features a comfortable, rubberized grip for convenient handling. It also includes a velcro system for holding the sanding discs. The small design offers a swirl-free finish, even on curved surfaces.
Pros
- A compact and lightweight sander for minor tasks
- Features dust-sealed switch, which increases durability
- It offers a swirl-free surface
- The compact design ensures you achieve a smooth finish
- Includes a built-in dust collecting bag
Cons
- The speed is set and not changeable
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2. DEWALT DWE6423K 5” Random Orbit Sander
Dewalt DWE6423K Sander is designed with effective dust collecting in mind. You can’t go wrong with the unit if you need a strong orbital sander that won’t leave a mess in your workspace. Besides, this lightweight machine comes with three excellent dust collection methods. The package includes a one-handed locking dust bag. Also, the random orbit sander features a dust port that fits into either the DWV010 or DWV012 dust collector without using an adapter.
Using the DWV9000 Universal Quick Connector, you may connect the dust port to any appropriate vacuum system with a 114-inch hose. Additionally, the power switch features a dust seal to prevent dust intake. Finally, the sander includes a 3Amp motor with a variable speed range of 8,000 to 12,000 RPM to tackle different sanding tasks.
Besides the ergonomic rubber overmold grip, a counterweight for vibration reduction gives pleasant sanding. The hook-and-loop technology makes changing sanding papers simple and quick. Because of its reduced height, you will appreciate this power tool’s smooth and consistent sanding.
Pros
- It operates on low vibration
- Features a sturdy 3Amp motor that runs at a variable speed of 8,000 to 12,000 RPM.
- It includes an effective dust collecting system
- Features a hook-and-loop system for rapidly and simply changing sanding sheets.
- It comes with a short height to get extremely close to the workpiece.
Cons
- You have to buy a vacuum hose adaptor
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3. Bosch 5” Palm Sander, ROS20VSC
Check out the Bosch 5″ ROS20VSC model for the best palm sander with a vacuum attachment. This sander is capable of 12,000 oscillations per minute (OPM). Moreover, its ergonomic design incorporates rubber protection that ensures comfort and reduces your hassle. Besides, Bosch’s innovative disc attachment mechanism is at the heart of this artistry on flat and curved surfaces.
Bosch ROS20VSC sander features flexible cushioning, meaning that sanding in tricky places is no longer an issue. You also receive a highly good dust collection receptacle. This will improve your dust-cleaning efficiency and save you a lot of time. Additionally, you don’t need an adapter to connect vacuum shop-vacs to this one.
Pros
- Features convenient disc attachment system
- It comes with a variable speed controlling option, which ensures a smooth finish
- Great sander in removing swirl marks from the surface
- The dual dust canister is solid and durable
Cons
- Usually takes a long time to clean up the filter
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4. PORTER-CABLE PCCW205B 5″ Random Orbital Sander
For casual woodworking sessions, check out the Porter-Cable PCCW205B Orbital Sander. This unit is handy for little tasks such as sanding a drawer or refinishing wooden furniture. It was most likely designed with them in mind. Besides, it is incredibly simple to use, lightweight and features a handy dust bag. It also has a dust-proof switch, so durability will not be an issue.
Furthermore, it has Velcro fasteners for sanding discs. And though it is designed for small projects, it’s as powerful as other electric sanders. The unit is versatile since it comes with three different grit pads. Another key characteristic of sanders is comfort, which this random sander delivers with a sturdy rubber grip. To remove dust more efficiently, you can connect the vacuum port to 1¼” hoses.
Pros
- Features comfortable rubber handle for convenient sanding
- It has a dust-proof switch, so durability will not be an issue
- Lightweight and easy to use
- It comes with a removable and efficient dust bag
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
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5. Makita 5-Inch Random Orbit Sander, BO5041K
If you’re a professional looking for the best orbital sander with vacuum attachment, count on the Makita BO5041K 5-inch Sander. The sander combines incredible power with an extremely effective dust collecting system. Also, it has a 3Amp motor with a variable speed range of 4,000-12,000 RPM. This speed is appropriate for both gentle and aggressive sanding. Besides, it’s distinct in that it has two handles for convenient holding, unlike most other orbit sanders. One is the primary side-mounted rubberized handle that comes with a power button switch, while the other is rotatable and retractable, making it simpler to reach into tight spaces.
This Makita BO5041K sander has a through-the-pad dust collecting mechanism with an attached dust container to reduce dust emissions when sanding small woodwork efficiently. Also, it comes with a built-in vacuum attachment for better dust collection while sanding large tasks.
Furthermore, the sander has a 5″ 8-hole hook-and-loop mechanism for changing sanding sheets fast and conveniently. It comes with sandpaper and is well-packaged in a robust and durable plastic casing. Besides, the orbital sander’s general performance will surprise you.
Pros
- Compact and portable sander
- Features an efficient and high-capacity dust management system
- It has a variable speed range of 4,000-12,000 RPM, suited for various applications.
- It comes with two handles for optimal control
- Features a hook-and-loop system for fast-changing sanding sheets
Cons
- It comes with a high price tag
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What Are the Common Types of Sanders?
1. Orbital sander
An orbital sanding tool is quite versatile and polishes pieces of wood to obtain the appropriate brightness and smoothness. The best part about this tool is that you can confidently use it one-handed, unlike belt sanders, which require both hands.
2. Belt sanders
Belt sanders are popular for being rough in the woodworking industry. It is designed to enable enormous volumes of material to be processed in a short period. They are also designed to operate on a continuous loop concept. Furthermore, belt sanders are very effective tools for removing roughness and preparing woodwork for less aggressive tools like as random orbit sanders and circle sanders in the work process.
3. Air sander
Air sanders are usually lightweight since they don’t use motors. That is why they’re quieter, more durable, and less expensive. However, the disadvantage of this tool is that it gathers dust, which is why it is frequently clogged.
Factors to Consider Before Buying the Best Orbital Sander with Vacuum Attachment
1. RPM vs. OPM (sanding pad speed)
Before buying the best orbital sander with a vacuum attachment, we recommend considering the sanding speed first. The smoothening pad, in particular, is the one that rotates, and various manufacturers usually use different speeds units. Sanding pad speed can be expressed in RPMs, which reflect the number of revolutions a pad makes each minute. RPM speed measurement, however, can be deceptive since a smoothening pad oscillates and spins randomly rather than on a stable axis.
Conversely, OPM denotes the number of orbits made by a pad per minute. Fundamentally, the usage of OPM is ideal since it properly measures speed. As a result, OPM speed measurement is appropriate for sanders that rotate at random and work on a variable speed instead of a fixed axis. Nonetheless, set orbital sanders are adapted to RPM measurement because of their fixed speeds.
It’s tricky to compare random orbit sanders’ RPM and OPM measurements before purchasing. However, you should assess the speed depending on the power of the single best random orbital sander. Furthermore, the indicated speeds are measured while a sander is spinning freely instead of when it’s in operation. As a result, you should expect the speed to decrease owing to friction when it comes into contact with a surface.
2. Power source
- Power Cord
This solution is well-known for being simple and affordable. Insert the power cable into an outlet, and the tool is ready to use. It’s a great option, but it’s not for everyone. If you don’t have an outlet near your workplace, look at the alternative possibilities listed below.
- Cordless
A cordless orbital sander is lightweight and easy to operate. Cordless tools are powered by rechargeable or replaceable batteries. Having this cordless means, you won’t have to bother about a cable or find an outlet. It does, however, have certain downsides, such as a limited operating period before the batteries run out. Therefore, if your sanding project needs many hours of continuous effort, you may want to consider another solution. Furthermore, the cordless orbital sanders require a long time to recharge.
- Pneumatic
If you want all of the power corded equipment plus some of the portability that cordless sanders give, the pneumatic sander is an ideal alternative. In addition, you may operate your pneumatic sanders orbital sander easily if your compressor generates 40 cubic feet of air per minute.
3. Ergonomic design
Since smoothing takes time and physical effort, you should buy a comfortable unit before buying the best orbital sander with a vacuum attachment. Essentially, the ergonomic design of a sander is determined by handle location, which can be on the side or in the front. Furthermore, the location of a sander handle means that you may work on broad surfaces with less fatigue.
In addition, ergonomic considerations for confined places should have easy-to-remove handles to ease if you face obstructions. Also, versatile handle adjustments help to guarantee that you can operate from any angle with ease. Significantly, smoothing may be difficult if a tool’s handle is prone to a higher vibration.
4. Disc size
Consider the disc size before buying the best orbital sander with a vacuum attachment. A sander requires the attachment of a disc with a smoothing pad. Traditional orbit sanders are usually designed to work with a square disc, whereas random orbit sanders work with circular discs. Conversely, most typical random sanders have a sander disc diameter of 5 to 6 inches, whereas heavy-duty sanders have a diameter of 8 inches. However, you cannot switch the disc sizes, such as putting a 6-inch disc onto a 5-inch random orbital sander.
5. Vibration
A sander that produces a lot of vibration creates strain faster than one that generates little vibration. Nonetheless, it’s not easy to know the intensity of vibrations from the features and functionalities manufacturers indicate. The only way to determine is to look for other users’ reviews or try out the tool in a physical shop, even if you decide to buy the tool online at a fair price.
6. Dust collection
Dust collection is another crucial factor to consider before buying the best orbital sander with a vacuum attachment. Essentially, dust accumulation strongly follows sanding performance. Today’s orbital sanders are designed with a dust collecting kit, though they also have a wide variety of dirt gathering capabilities. Some aspects to consider include:
- The dust collector’s size.
- Effectiveness of dirt collection. The best random orbital sanders should be able to filter dust particles as tiny as 1.5 microns in diameter.
- It the easy to remove and empty the dust collection system.
In terms of dirt collection, a random orbit sander is designed with a feature that pulls sawdust into a bag that you must empty regularly. Other premium orbit sanders come with a shop vac attachment. Even if you have an improved dirt-gathering system, you should use proper eye protection and a mask when smoothing to avoid hurting your respiratory system and eyes.
Generally, the best orbital sander with vacuum attachment should have a sawdust collector built-in. It should also allow considerable smoothing without the disturbances that a full sawdust bag would cause.
Frequently Asked Questions on the Best Orbital Sander with Vacuum Attachment
1. Is it possible to vacuum sanding dust?
After sanding, vacuuming and cleaning the floor can remove the bulk of the sander dust. Also, you can sweep the compounds to remove dust from the floors. These are available with or without a sand base. To avoid scratching, use the sand-based sweeping compound exclusively on unfinished floors.
2. How can you sand without making a mess indoors?
Wet sanding is the best and most convenient method of sanding safely indoors. Nonetheless, wet sanding is only useful if you’re towards the end of a job and need to sand the finish. Also, since it is less abrasive than dry sanding, it removes less wood.
3. Which is better: fixed or multiple speed settings?
It largely depends on your budget. Sanders with variable speeds is a better option since they’re more adaptable, but they are also more costly. Therefore, if you need the sander for one job, you may forego the ones with variable speed settings and go with the one with a fixed speed.
4. What safety measures should I take before sanding?
Fortunately, sanding is not a dangerous task, but you will need to protect your lungs from the wood dust. A decent orbital sander with dust extraction should take care of it, though you still need to be cautious. Wear a dust mask and avoid getting too near the machine when sanding.
5. Do I need a vibration control in my sander?
It all depends on the type of work you wish to undertake. If your task demands less speed and power, your machine will produce less noise and vibrate less. You may get a less expensive sander with a decent grip. However, vibration control is essential if your business needs the sander to run at 14,000 OPM speeds.
