Working with a sander is an integral part of a woodworker’s profession. Even if you are someone who only does DIY projects with wood, you must be familiar with sanders.
Out of all types of sanders, cordless ones definitely are very popular due to their ease of use. However, getting the perfect cordless sander might often be a very difficult task.
To help you choose such a product, we have written an article about the best cordless sanders. This article will explore some of our top picks, provide you with a buying guide, and also answer some questions.
So what are you waiting for? Keep reading!
Cordless Sander Quick Comparison
6 Best Cordless Sanders Reviews
First of all, let’s dive right into the Top 6 sanders we have chosen for you. These products were chosen based on their speed, durability, comfort, and ease of use. Each model has something unique, and all of their pros and cons are listed here.
1. Makita XOB01Z Random Orbit Sander
Our first pick today is the Makita Random Orbit Sander. As you can deduct from its name, this device works in a random orbital action, never crossing a similar path more than once. This helps to ensure that no swirl marks are left on the surface you are working on, giving your project a clean finish.
Variable speed settings are a great feature while working with sanders. This device has 3 different speed settings, (7000, 9000, and 11000 OPM), which you can use on different projects according to your needs. The speed is very easily adjustable; you just need to press a button each time to go from highest to lowest.
Working with a dust bag seems like a good thing unless it gets in the way of your work. However, this machine’s dust bag can be adjusted to 12 different positions, which helps to get all the dirt directly to the bag without interfering with your work.
Working with a sander for a long time can often be really strenuous on your hands. However, this device has an ergonomic body with a comfortable grip, which will ensure that you do not experience any discomfort during your sanding time.
Pros
- Has 3 different speed settings for different usages
- Moves in random orbital motion which ensures it does not leave any swirl marks
- Position of the dust bag can be adjusted easily for comfort
- Ergonomic design maximizes efficiency without putting extra strain on your hands
- Speed settings can be changed very easily by just one press of a button
Cons
- Does not include the required batteries or charger
2. Ryobi P411 Random Orbit Power Sander
Our next top pick is the Ryobi P411 sander. With its distinguishable features, this is one of the best cordless sanders there is. Operating at 10,000 orbits per minute, this tool works fast and hard to give a smooth finish without leaving any swirl mark on your project.
The rubber grip is a wonderful feature of this product. Since this model has a high-speed setting, you might think that the vibrations will often make it difficult to work with. However, that is not the case, as the rubber grip certainly works to keep the vibrations under control.
Equipped with a hook-and-loop system, this model helps to attach any existing or included sand pads to the machine. Removing the pads is also a very easy process with this tool. The dust collection bag that comes with it is also a great help, as it makes sure no unwanted debris gets inside the machine and jams it.
A noteworthy feature of this model is its switch lock. This basically helps to lock the switch of the machine into an on position while you are using it, so you do not have to keep your finger on the switch the whole time while you are operating it.
Pros
- 10,000 OPM ensures a smooth and mark-free finish
- Rubber grip provides comfort and minimizes vibrations
- A hook-and-loop connecting system helps to attach included sanding pads
- Dust collection system helps get debris out of the way
- Equipped with switch lock to keep your fingers free
Cons
- No variable speed control setting
3. Ryobi P450 Brushless Belt Sander
Are you tired of working with sanding tools that can only run a few minutes before needing a recharge? Well, then we have the perfect product for you. The Ryobi P450 belt sander is equipped with a brushless motor that provides an extended life, using less battery life than other sanders.
A great thing about this model is its pommel, which you can adjust to 5 different positions based on your needs. The grip on the product is also very comfortable, and it definitely makes the sanding process a lot more comfortable and hassle-free.
Also, a dust bag is a must with almost all sanders. On top of this, you also need to buy sanding belts for belt sanders to do their job. This product, to our delight, comes equipped with both of these things, so you can get started right away!
Pressing down a belt sander continuously can be quite strenuous. You will not need to do that with this model, as its 7.2 lbs of weight are distributed evenly; it just needs to be guided to the areas that need sanding.
The trigger lock is also a wonderful feature, which will definitely prevent your fingers from getting tired while sanding.
Pros
- Brushless motor provides extended lifetime
- Equipped with a pommel that can be adjusted to 5 different positions as per your needs
- Comes included with a dust bag and a sanding belt
- Comfortable grip ensures there is no extra pressure on the hands
- Evenly distributed weight makes the sanding process more efficient
- Trigger lock system helps prevent finger strain
Cons
- No variable speed control setting
4. BLACK+DECKER Sheet Sander
One of the biggest problems you might face while operating a sanding machine is that it does not reach all the nooks and corners you need to sand. Well, not with this product!
This model features a very compact design, and also includes detailed finger attachments which help it to reach even the toughest corners of your project.
Having a good and comfortable grip on the sander is a must while doing any sanding work. This model features such a grip, which will allow you to keep your hand in 2 different positions according to your needs while making sure they do not face any pressure.
A clean work surface is very important while sanding, especially since you need to carefully observe which parts have been sanded already to avoid any swirl marks. To help you with this, this model has a dust canister that quickly pulls all the debris and dust, helping you do your work properly.
The best part of this model is that it has a lot of extra accessories included, which will help you in your sanding operations. The tools include batteries, chargers, sheets of sandpaper, and detailed finger attachments.
Pros
- Can reach tight corners easily
- Two-position grip makes the model very easy to use
- Vacuum adapter sucks in all the dust
- A lot of accessories included, making the model an economical choice
Cons
- Might face problems while turning on
5. PORTER-CABLE Random Orbital Sander
The Porter-Cable sander is a battery-operated sander which moves at 12000 orbits per minute. This high speed helps the product to finish the sanding process quickly and smoothly, ensuring maximum efficiency. Its lightweight design also aids in this area.
One of the features we love about this model is its effective dust collection system. You can opt for the dust canister it comes with, which takes in all the debris from the work surface, leaving you with a clear canvas to work on.
Otherwise, you can also opt for using its vacuum ports, which can be connected to a hose to remove dust on a large scale. This is great for sanding projects where you will accumulate a lot of dust or when it is not feasible to empty the dust canister at regular intervals.
Equipped with a rubberized grip system, this model aims to provide comfort during use. The rubber also helps a great deal in minimizing any large vibrations, so that you can continue sanding for a long period of time.
Pros
- High speed helps to get work done efficiently
- Effective dust collection system with the help of dust canisters and vacuum ports
- Minimized vibration through a rubberized grip system
- Lightweight and compact design
Cons
- No variable speed control setting
6. Ryobi P440 Sheet Palm Sander
Last but not least, we have a cordless palm sander to review. This model is one of the best sheet palm sanders out there, with its small, lightweight (under-3 pounds) design that can operate at an impressive 120000 orbits per minute.
You can definitely get a lot done with this tool without putting extra strain on your hands. The best thing about this model is its grip.
The textured rubberized grip helps a lot in minimizing vibrations while you are working, and also makes sure that you can operate the sander properly even in the most slippery conditions. The non-slip tool on top of the grip also helps with this.
Moreover, the sand sheets that come with the model are also a valuable feature. Another great thing about this model is how efficiently it removes dust. Having a clean workspace is vital to producing a perfectly sanded project. Getting debris in the sander might end up damaging your tool.
Therefore, this model comes along with a dust canister to collect all the dust, and it can be removed easily to be emptied.
Sometimes, dust canisters just are not enough for a huge sanding project. This is where the model’s vacuum ports come in. These ports can be attached to hoses to make sure that you have gotten every bit of dust away from your work without having to remove and attach the canister from time to time.
Pros
- Equipped with a textured rubberized grip for ease of use
- Lightweight body helps with portability
- Comes with a removal dust canister
- Vacuum ports help to collect dust at a mass volume
- Includes 4 sheets of sandpaper
- Operates at an impressive 12000 orbits per minute
Cons
- Batteries and charger not included
What to Look for in Cordless Sanders
It is very important to make sure that the sander you buy does its job perfectly, while also being easy to use and not exceeding your budget. In order to help you choose such a model for yourself, we have prepared a list of factors you should consider to guide you in the buying process.
Usage
The first thing you should consider while buying a sander is what you are going to use it for. If this is for a short-term project, you only need the device to fulfill your current requirements of power, design, etc. However, if you plan to keep using it for a long time, other things like durability will come into play.
And the surface you will be working on also makes a lot of difference in the way the sander will be used. So make sure you get one that best matches the surface you will work with.
Speed
Speed is a very important factor while choosing your sander. You can generally determine the speed by looking at the OPM (orbits per minute) of a sander.
Now, you might need different amounts of speed for different projects in order to get them done in the most efficient way possible. Therefore, it is always best to choose a sander that has a variable speed control setting, so you can maximize its use.
Design
Often, working on any project with a sander requires a long time. So it is always better to choose a model with a design that does not put any extra pressure on your hands. Look for a firm yet comfortable grip, and make sure the dust collection system does not get in your way while working.
Portability
Depending on the kind of projects you are working on, you might need to take your sander with you to different places. Hence, you should choose one that is not so heavy that it can’t be carried around while making sure that it has the other features that you need, too.
Safety
Safety is a very important aspect while choosing any device. Make sure that the sander you buy is known to be safe generally, and preferably has sealed switches and pad brakes.
Dust Collection System
Dust collection systems are an integral part of a sander. While considering this aspect, you should look for a few things. For instance, determine whether the collection bag is big enough that you do not have to keep leaving your project mid-way to empty it, or whether the removal of the system is easy.
Budget
Another one of the most important factors while choosing a sander is your budget. Now, make sure to always define a budget before you start looking at your options, and stick to it.
The goal is to find a sander that matches all your needs while not varying too much from the budget. By doing this, you will be less tempted to go after expensive ones that you do not need.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here we have the most commonly asked queries regarding the best cordless sanders:
What is the benefit of a cordless sander?
A cordless sander has a lot of benefits compared to a corded one. These sanders are usually lightweight and easily portable. They are of great help in places where no power outlets are available, and also ensure that the cord does not get in your way while you are working, giving you great accessibility.
Why should I use a random orbital sander?
A random orbital sander usually does not cross the same path twice while operating. This helps to ensure that there are no swirl marks left on your project, giving it a clean finish.
Which speed setting is good for a sander?
This totally depends on the kind of project you are working on. Some require high speeds, up to 12000 orbits per minute, while others are good at low speeds. It is best to choose a sander that has a variable speed controlling setting, as it will help you to operate at different speeds according to your needs.
Is using sanders dangerous?
If you take the proper safety measurements, using a sander is not dangerous at all. For this, you will have to make sure that you are wearing a face mask and protective eyewear to prevent any debris or shards from getting into your eyes. Be careful about where you are putting your fingers, too.
How to prevent my hand from hurting after using a sander?
You should always choose a sander that has a comfortable grip. This will help prevent any pain. Also, a trigger lock system means that you do not have to keep your hand on the trigger the whole time, which will eliminate finger fatigue.
Conclusion
Getting the perfect cordless sander is not an easy task. One sander can work in different ways for different people. However, we hope that by reading our article about the best cordless sanders, you will now have a better idea about the kind of sander that would be best for you!