Wood sander: which one to choose, top 10 best of 2022

Which grinder is better to buy?

For a full cycle of processing wooden surfaces, several grinding machines may be needed:

• For roughing - to remove large irregularities, burrs after sawing or remnants of old paintwork on a large surface - a belt sander with adjustable speed and a belt width of 75-100 mm.
• If the dimensions of the workpiece are small and the surface does not have serious flaws, it will be more convenient to use a surface grinding model with an oscillation amplitude of about 2 mm.
• For finishing grinding and polishing, and working with curved surfaces, you only need an eccentric machine of medium power, capable of producing at least 5000 vibrations per minute.

There are also more narrowly focused tools, such as brush or delta grinders. But only professional craftsmen and carpenters will need them.

The best wood sanders

A good sander can facilitate and speed up many jobs with wood and wood-based materials, metal and plastic surfaces. Those who do serious repairs or finishing entirely with their own hands should take a closer look at the models presented in our rating.

1

Bosch PBS 75 AE

Large grinding area

The “green” PBS series belt sander from Bosch is intended for household use, but its characteristics are very close to those of a professional tool.

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• Power 750 W
• 200-350 m/min
• Tape 533x75 mm

A household tool with additional functionality could easily be classified as a professional tool. The design includes a soft start mechanism, electronic speed control, and an automatic centering device for the abrasive belt.

A reliable and powerful electric motor allows you to process large areas of wooden or metal surfaces. Optimal weight and good balance make this task easier. An additional handle is provided for convenient control of the powerful tool.

The similarity with professional models is added by the large complete case in which you can store the machine, equipment and even some small tools. The only complaint I have is the power cord - it is a bit harsh, but reliable.

2

Makita 9910

Perfectly balanced

The professional series tool with excellent balancing of all components is distinguished by good ergonomics of the body and handles.

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• Power 650 W
• 270 m/min
• Tape 457x76 mm

The compact and fairly lightweight sander is suitable even for working with one hand - its design is so well thought out. The model is equipped with a large bag for collecting chips and dust. The “Start” button is installed on the main handle and is locked in the on position.

Makita has received a special mechanism for quickly changing the sanding belt. And the automatic centering system ensures the accuracy of the movement of the equipment, preventing it from sliding to the side during operation.

Speed ​​adjustment is not provided in this model, but most craftsmen will not need it. But you will have to periodically replace the front roller, since it is not metal and wears out a lot over time.

3

Einhell TE-OS 2520 E

Vibratory sander with complete set

The Expert series vibration machine is distinguished by universal attachment of equipment. It can be secured with either clips or Velcro.

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• Power 250 W
• 24,000 kol./min
• Amplitude 2 mm

The high power of the tool, coupled with the speed support, on the one hand, allows the machine to cope with difficult areas, and on the other hand, not to remove too much where precision is required. The size of the soleplate has been increased for efficient and fast sanding of large surfaces.

Thoughtful ergonomics and built-in vibration isolators allow you to work comfortably on weight for a long time without fatigue or discomfort in your hands. The model copes well with wood and metal, but it is not advisable to use it on puttied surfaces - it can become clogged with fine dust and refuse to work.

Sanding sheet, storage case and dust bag are already included. If long-term work is required, the machine can be connected directly to a construction vacuum cleaner.

4

Worx WX820

Multifunctional model

This battery-powered vibrator impresses with its functionality. Replaceable soles of different shapes and sizes allow you to work with almost any surface.

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• Voltage 20 V
• 10,000 kol./min
• Weight 2 kg

A very unusual surface grinder can replace 5 similar tools. It comes complete with rectangular and triangular platforms, wide and narrow - for working with parts of any shape. There is a round plate for working in eccentric machine mode. Each attachment comes with 3 replacement skins.

The tool runs on a fairly powerful 20 V battery. Its characteristics are not redundant, since the battery also powers the built-in vacuum cleaner. The battery itself is protected against deep discharge. In addition to the battery and charger, the kit includes a case. But you can buy the “carcass” separately.

5

Bort BS-155

Budget machine for everything

This model has already become popular. Firstly, due to its low price with decent quality and characteristics, and secondly, due to its versatility of use.

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• Power 150 W
• Equipment 90x240 mm
• 10,000 kol./min

BS-155 is one of the most reliable and high-quality vibration machines in the budget segment. It is suitable both for working with wooden surfaces and for sanding walls after finishing, felting, bodywork and other similar work. It’s nice that at such an unrealistically low price, the manufacturer provides a 5-year warranty on this model.

The tool turned out to be light with good performance and not too noisy. It does not have its own dust collector, but there is an adapter through which Bort connects to the vacuum cleaner.

The machine comes with one sanding sheet. The equipment is attached to the sole only with a clamp - no Velcro is provided.

6

Metabo SXE 150-5.0 BL

Disc sander with long platform stroke

This professional model has a somewhat non-standard layout with an elongated handle. But it turned out to be very ergonomic, light and obedient.

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• Power 350 W
• 10,000 rpm
• Amplitude 5 mm
• Disc 150 mm

An expensive professional machine that fully justifies its price, it is built very well - there are no complaints about its quality. Inside there is a relatively quiet and reliable brushless motor, which contributes to the longevity of the tool.

The model has a large platform travel. Together with wide equipment, this will allow you to sand the wood faster, and at the same time eliminate intermediate leveling after roughing. Metabo will eliminate all flaws. If necessary, you can install a multi-hole sole with a diameter of 125 mm here.

The functionality of the machine matches its level. There is a smooth start and stepless speed control within the range of 4000-10000, a double braking system is provided (for the plate itself and the engine). The speed is stably maintained at the set level, regardless of load changes.

7

DeWalt DWE6423

The best random orbital sander

DeWalt grinders are generally loved by craftsmen, despite their high cost. The equipment is reliable, powerful, well made. And this model is chosen because of its smooth running and convenient dust collector.

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• Power 280 W
• 12,000 rpm
• Amplitude 2.6 mm
• Disc 125 mm

The machine is designed for industrial use down to the last detail. It is quite light and well balanced. The non-slip plastic of the case lies securely in the hand, vibrations during operation are minimal (as far as possible for such a tool). Velcro holds the abrasive perfectly and does not lose its tenacity over time.

The model is equipped with a dust collector for clean work. It is powered by the network and has a soft and long 5-meter cable. Adjusting the speeds and stabilizing the speed under load allows you to carefully work with wood of any density and regardless of the pressure. For prolonged grinding, the power button lock will be convenient.

The only thing that has not been thought through here is the storage system for the machine and its components - DeWalt does not offer a case for this model.

8

Aspro-C8

"Giraffe" for walls and ceilings

An eccentric machine is designed for fine grinding of surfaces before finishing. The long handle allows you to process the ceiling and walls over the entire height (up to 3 m).

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• Power 710 W
• 600-1500 rpm
• Disc 225 mm

The sander is equipped with a medium-hard pad and leaves behind a perfectly smooth surface suitable for painting. Smooth speed control will allow you to select the desired mode for any material: wooden frame, plaster, putty, drywall. In addition, the kit already includes 6 abrasive wheels with grits from 80 to 240. To work in corners and narrow niches, the casing can be removed.

The “giraffe” design is complemented by a long and very flexible corrugated hose (4 m) for removing dust. A special adapter at the end easily connects to the branch pipe of a construction vacuum cleaner. There is a valve on the body of the machine that regulates the suction force.

However, it should be borne in mind that an eccentric machine will inevitably produce vibration. Taking into account the arm of the telescopic handle and the fairly high power of the motor, it becomes quite noticeable.

9

Metabo FMS 200 Intec

Compact but powerful delta sander

The tool is distinguished by quite high power for such equipment. But this was achieved solely through a network connection.

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• Power 200 W
• 26,000 kol./min
• Amplitude 1.4 mm

Metabo's Delta is one of the few compact sanders on the market that is corded. The cable here is moderately long (2.8 m) and thin, but still it can interfere with operation. However, the inconvenience is compensated by the good balance of the instrument and the almost complete absence of vibration transmission. This way you can work with one hand.

The machine is equipped with its own dust collector in a hard case with its own filter. Dust removal is fast and clean. The power button on the body is hidden under a plastic cap - not very convenient, but safe for both the master and the instrument itself.

10

Einhell TE-OS 18/1 Li

Battery delta

Working with a cordless delta sander is quite convenient, since nothing prevents you from turning it in corners and narrow areas.

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• Voltage 18 V
• 24,000 kol./min
• Amplitude 1.6 mm

The machine, powered by an 18 V battery, offers a good power reserve and the ability to be used autonomously without being tied to sockets or an extension cord. However, the manufacturer has a similar network model (TE-OS 1320) - it is cheaper, but has an increased amplitude of 2 mm.

The cordless version of the Einhell delta is sold as a separate “carcass”, but is supplied with 6 sanding sheets of the required size. This will allow you to not worry about finding suitable consumables for some time, although you can find something better to replace them. The only thing the tool lacks is speed control.

11

Makita 9741

The best brush sander

The grinder for continuous work in the workshop performs rough and fine grinding, roughing and stripping operations on wood, metal, composites and plastic.

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• Power 860 W
• 3500 rpm
• Brush width 120 mm

This is probably the only model on our market that works with wide brushes and is suitable for professional processing of very large surfaces. The included nylon brush brings out the natural grain of the wood.

To confidently hold the powerful tool during operation, two handles are provided. The longitudinal one is equipped with a lockable start button. The size of the removed layer is regulated by the preliminary setting of the grinding depth.

12

Sturm AG1014P

Classic brush machine

A powerful and reliable model is used for stripping, cleaning surfaces from efflorescence and rust, creating a decorative smooth or embossed structure on wood.

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• Power 1400 W
• 3000 rpm
• Brush width 100-120 mm

A powerful and at the same time reliable machine comes with a full range of options: soft start, speed control, maintaining a constant speed during processing, locking the start button.

The equipment is changed simply and quickly, and you can use brushes from different manufacturers (including domestic ones). Efficient engine cooling is provided to protect against overheating. The machine itself is assembled conscientiously, despite the relatively low price.

TOP-4 surface grinding machines (PSHM)

Surface grinding (vibrating) devices are intended for cleaning planes of different sizes; they are suitable for grinding and cleaning wood, plastic and metal, and even plastered surfaces. PMSH can have different shapes of soles, which are used not only for free areas, but also for hard-to-reach areas.

#4. Makita BO3

Makita BO3 surface grinder
PShM Makita BO3 is equipped with an effective system for removing dust from the surface being sanded and adjusting the oscillation frequency, so it is often chosen by professionals. However, this model is not suitable for sanding internal corners, narrow areas, or raised surfaces. Makita BO3 is designed for cleaning wide surfaces made of different materials, while the machine is not limited in time and volume of work.

Characteristics of Interskol Makita BO3:

• type - vibration;
• power - 190 W;
• sanding sheet width - 93 mm;
• abrasive sheet length - 228 mm;
• Max. oscillation speed - 11000 kol/min;
• method of fixing the nozzle - clamps;
• operation of the device - from the network;
• machine weight - 1.6 kg;
• equipment - dust collector;
• warranty - 1 year.

pros

• convenient attachment of attachments;
• quiet operation of the machine;
• good vibration range;
• collects dust well;
• affordable price;
• grinding quality;
• availability of connection to a vacuum cleaner;
• adjustment of oscillation speed.

Minuses

• low productivity;
• The device is more suitable for finishing sanding rather than rough cleaning of surfaces.

Makita BO3

#3. BOSCH PSM 200 AES

Surface grinder BOSCH PSM 200 AES
PShM BOSCH PSM 200 AES is a universal device, the set of which includes soles of different shapes and sizes (rectangular and deltoid). Therefore, the machine can be used for large surfaces, as well as hard-to-reach areas. Replacement of soles is carried out without the use of tools. The rear part of the sole is fixed, and the delta-shaped part of the sole has the ability to rotate.

Characteristics of BOSCH PSM 200 AES:

• type of tool - vibrating;
• power - 200 W;
• abrasive sheet width - 92 mm;
• abrasive sheet length - 182 mm;
• Max. oscillation frequency - 26,000 kol/min;
• the method of fixing the nozzle is Velcro;
• operation of the device - from the network;
• machine weight - 1.4 kg;
• The kit includes a dust collector;
• warranty - 1 year.

pros

• power;
• possibility of grinding smooth and embossed surfaces;
• convenient attachment of attachments;
• grinding quality;
• comfortable handle;
• availability of connection to a vacuum cleaner;
• adjustment of oscillation speed.

Minuses

• inflated cost of the device and consumables;
• short cord.

Reviews and prices for the BOSCH PSM 200 AES grinding machine

#2. Interskol PShM-32/130

Delta sander Interskol PShM-32/130
Interskol PShM-32/130 is a compact device equipped with a delta-shaped sole, which allows for fine grinding work in hard-to-reach areas and embossed surfaces, for example, paneled doors. High results of work are ensured due to low vibration frequencies of the sole. To achieve professional quality, it is necessary to use various abrasive consumable attachments with grain of different fractions. For example, if it is necessary to remove one layer of coating, then a consumable with a coarse grain is installed.

To process relief surfaces, you will need fine-grained sandpaper, and for sanding varnished products, a soft nozzle is suitable. The consumables are fixed to the sole using Velcro, which holds them securely during the work. If a nozzle of the desired shape is not found, it can be easily cut out from a sheet of sandpaper equipped with a felt layer. To ensure high-quality dust removal during grinding, holes should be made in the cut out attachments. It is very important not to overload the tool with heavy loads and clean the holes with compressed air upon completion of work.

Characteristics of Interskol PShM-32/130:

• type - vibration (delta);
• power - 130 W;
• abrasive sheet width - 80 mm;
• abrasive sheet length - 140 mm;
• Max. oscillation speed - 11000 kol/min;
• the method of fixing the nozzle is Velcro;
• operation of the device - from the network;
• machine weight - 0.95 kg;
• The kit includes a dust bag and sanding belt (2 pcs.);
• warranty - 2 years.

pros

• collects dust well;
• reliability;
• light weight;
• affordable price;
• the ability to grind relief and hard-to-reach areas of surfaces;
• grinding quality;
• long periods of work without interruption.

Minuses

• you have to cut out the nozzles yourself;
• low-quality dust collection bag.

Interskol PShM-32/130

#1. Hammer PSM 220 C

Surface grinder Hammer PSM 220 C
PShM Hammer PSM 220 C is equipped with a reliable metal platform for attaching attachments, which has holes for dust removal. The vibration frequency of the metal sole is adjusted depending on the type of material being processed. The manufacturer included a special hole punch with the device for making holes in abrasive nozzles. The machine is equipped with a plastic dust collector, which is convenient to clean from dirt. The comfortable handle allows you to perform long-term work without straining your hand.

Characteristics of Hammer PSM 220 C:

• type of tool - vibrating;
• power - 220 W;
• sanding sheet width - 90 mm;
• abrasive sheet length - 187 mm;
• Max. oscillation speed - 11000 kol/min;
• method of fixing the nozzle - clamps;
• operation of the device - from the network;
• machine weight - 1.5 kg;
• The kit includes a dust collector, hole punch and abrasive attachments;
• warranty - period not specified.

pros

• light weight;
• good power;
• convenient attachment of attachments;
• grinding quality;
• comfortable handle;
• does not overheat during operation;
• The plastic dust container is easy to clean;
• adjustment of oscillation speed.

Minuses

• There is no information about the disadvantages.

Hammer PSM 220 C

How to choose a wood sander

Wood processing requires a special approach, which is why so many different tools are produced for these tasks. The choice will depend on the shape of the wooden parts and what type of work is to be done.

How to choose a belt sander

The productivity of the tool is determined by the size of the platform along which the belt runs and the speed of its movement .

The optimal sole width for household work is 75-76 mm. Those who do woodworking professionally will need equipment with a 100 mm sole and a more powerful engine. For highly specialized work (grinding grooves, thin slats, edges), you may need a machine up to 50 mm wide.

Choose a machine for a standard length ribbon. Otherwise, it will be difficult to find consumables later. The most common size for endless sandpaper is 533 mm.

Not only the speed, but also the quality of sanding depends on the speed of rotation of the sanding belt. Therefore, it is desirable that the tool has the ability to adjust the speed for different tasks:

• 400-500 m/min - rough cleaning to a great depth to remove bumps and protrusions, large burrs after sawing.
• 250-400 m/min - standard grinding, suitable for most types of rough work.
• 70-250 m/min - conditionally fine grinding with removal of minimum thickness.

Pay attention to the material used to make the main mechanisms. Budget machines may have plastic rollers and tensioners - this will reduce the weight of the tool, but such equipment will not last long. It will only be enough for occasional household work. In all other cases, you need a model with metal components.

How to choose a vibrating sander

Orbital sanders also work on flat surfaces - but more subtly. In terms of the quality of surface preparation, they can be called an intermediate link between tape and eccentric tools. They are similar to the former by the presence of a flat sole, and to the latter by the presence of an eccentric in the mechanism, which causes the platform to vibrate.

For a surface grinder, engine power . Firstly, higher power will allow you to process really dense materials. Secondly, the amplitude of vibration of the sole , and therefore the quality of the surface after treatment, largely depends on it:

• 100-250 W - low-power vibrating machines provide an amplitude of approximately 1-2 mm, suitable for the cleanest possible finishing grinding. They are the most widely represented on the market.
• 250-400 W - “medium” option with a platform stroke of about 2-2.5 mm.
• 400-600 W - the most powerful devices with fluctuations from 3 to 5 mm provide rough surface cleaning. Rarely found on sale.

The power and amplitude of the vibrating platform is related to the number of vibrations: the greater the stroke of the sole, the fewer movements it manages to make in a certain period of time. But the low grinding speed is only a plus when working with soft wood or surfaces that are not resistant to heat (for example, plastic or varnish).

It is very important for a vibrating machine to have a good dust removal system. Random debris under the platform will instantly leave round scratches on the surface - “lambs”.

How to choose an eccentric sander

Finish grinding over a large area is usually performed with an eccentric machine. It uses both circular and reciprocating movements, sanding away any traces of previous treatments.

Here the engine power comes to the fore: the greater it is, the wider the scope of application of the tool, since it becomes possible to work with coarse-grained sandpaper and dense materials. For the needs of a private master, a 250-750 W . Although there are both weaker and very powerful orbital machines on sale.

The frequency of oscillation and rotation in an electric motor are directly related - all due to the peculiarities of the eccentric mechanism. For each revolution there are 2 reciprocating movements.

But their required frequency will depend on the material being processed and the characteristics of the abrasive. In any case, these parameters should be as high as possible for fine polishing ( 5-13 thousand vibrations per minute ). At low speeds and with fluctuations up to 4000 per minute, the grinding will be rougher.

At these speeds, it is important that the machine button is protected from accidental activation. The safety requirements are logical and specified in GOST R IEC 60745-2-3-2011, but are implemented in different ways.

The most reliable option is to protect the button with a special cap, but it is not very convenient. It is better that the button is simply located in the recess, and it can only be pressed intentionally.

The amplitude , as in a surface grinding tool, will determine the final quality of the surface after grinding:

• 4-7 mm - will allow you to quickly rough-grind a large area. If you have to do this kind of work, take a tool with a powerful engine and a large diameter sole (150 mm and above).
• 2-3 mm - needed for small jobs and maximum precision polishing. In principle, this is what EShMs are designed for, so we recommend choosing this option. Plus - there will be less vibration. The diameter of the sole here is in the range of 100-125 mm.

The ability to adjust the vibration amplitude of the disc platform makes the machine more versatile. Also pay attention to the presence of a good anti-vibration system in the ESM and the ability to fix or hold the button in the “on” position without tension.

Criterias of choice

When purchasing a specific model of grinding equipment, you should take into account the tasks that the power tool must perform in the future. The choice of professional or household equipment depends on this.

Professional wood sanders are ideal for long, active and continuous work. They will cost much more than household tools. For use without significant loads and long-term work, you should give preference to simpler grinders. If the choice is between a professional device and a regular one, then it is better to purchase the first option, despite its high cost. If the second one was chosen, then when working with it it is recommended to subject the device to less heavy loads. You need to pause every 3 hours. Only following simple operating rules will extend the life of the tool.

It is also important to consider the type of work for which the grinder is selected. For processing smooth surfaces, the optimal solution would be to purchase a belt sander. If there is a need for sanding or polishing decorative wooden products, it is recommended to purchase eccentric models. The ratio of the cost of consumables and upcoming costs during operation of the device also needs to be taken into account.

If you intend to use the grinding machine indoors, then you should pay attention to equipment with a built-in dust collector or the ability to connect a vacuum cleaner. Considering that the process of sanding surfaces will generate a lot of dust, you need to prepare for it to appear everywhere. Cleaning a room manually takes a lot of effort and time.

The length of the cord plays a significant role when choosing a sander model. Since it is inconvenient to work with a device on a short cord, and it is not always possible to use an extension cord.

We sell battery-powered tools that are useful for work in the country and in houses where electricity has not yet been installed. The cost of such models is high.

When choosing a device, you should test the location of the handles, check whether it is convenient to switch modes, and how difficult it is to hold the machine in your hands.

FAQ

Which brand of grinder is best to buy?

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Among power tool manufacturers, Bosch, Makita and DeWalt remain leaders in this area. We would also add Metabo, Einhell, and some Black+Decker models to them, although we rarely see the latter.

Many craftsmen take Interskol models for rare jobs and first acquaintance with the tool, especially since consumables for them are easier to find and they cost less. But if you are serious about wood processing, it is better to give preference to the manufacturers mentioned above.

What sandpaper is best to use?

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It all depends on the type of work. For example, for rough primary grinding with a belt machine, coarse-grained sandpapers with a grain size of 200 microns and higher are used (according to new standards, they can be marked with indices from P22 to P60).

For further processing of wooden surfaces, the same belt or vibration sander can be used with medium-grain sandpaper of 100-150 microns (P100 or P120).

Sanding for painting (for example, with an eccentric machine) will require a smaller grain size: 40-70 microns for hard wood and 58-100 microns for soft wood.

Recommendations for choosing a quality product

Below we will look at the main design features of all modifications, and here we will list several general criteria that all options without exception must meet:

Important! Almost all manufacturers make professional and household lines easily distinguishable from each other, for example, the Bosch Corporation produces professional tools in a blue case, and for home use in a green case.

Green color indicates that the tool is not intended for professional use