10 Best Orbital Sanders 2025 in the United States

The Festool ETS EC 150/3 EQ-Plus is a powerful corded orbital sander designed for fine sanding tasks, making it suitable for woodworking enthusiasts and professionals who value high-quality finishes. One of its standout features is the 3 mm sanding stroke, which provides excellent surface quality. The constant speed under load ensures consistent performance, and the EC technology along with the carbide-tipped sanding pad brake extends the tool's lifespan.

Weighing just 2.5 lbs (1.2 kg), this sander is compact and ergonomically designed, allowing for comfortable use over extended periods. It also includes advanced vibration and extraction detection technology, enhancing user safety and comfort during operation. The dust collection system, particularly the Multi-Jetstream 2 sanding pad, helps keep the workspace cleaner.

The Bosch ROS20VSK 5-Inch Palm Random Orbit Sander is a corded electric tool known for its strong motor and reliable performance. With a power supply of 120 volts and a variable speed range between 7,500 and 12,000 OPM (orbits per minute), it gives you good control to match different sanding tasks, from rough to fine finishes. The 5-inch pad size is standard and works well for most small to medium projects, making it versatile enough for furniture, cabinetry, or DIY woodworking. Bosch includes features like a microcellular backing pad and an integral pad dampening system, which help reduce swirl marks and deliver a smooth finish — a plus if you care about the quality of your work.

Dust collection is handled efficiently with an on-board filtering system and a vacuum hose adapter, which keeps the workspace cleaner and reduces airborne dust, improving comfort and safety. In terms of ergonomics, the sander is lightweight (about 3.5 pounds) and has a soft-grip design that minimizes vibration, making it comfortable to hold during longer jobs. The tool comes with a carrying case for convenience and uses widely available hook-and-loop sanding discs, so finding replacements is easy.

One minor downside is that being corded limits portability compared to battery-powered models, and the 5-inch pad might be small for very large surfaces, requiring more time to sand. Also, while it’s durable and backed by a one-year manufacturer warranty, the tool’s release date from 2004 means it lacks some of the newer features found in modern sanders. For users seeking a high-quality, affordable sander with good dust control and ergonomic comfort, the Bosch ROS20VSK is a strong contender.

The Milwaukee M12 Fuel 6 Random Orbital Sander is a compact, cordless tool powered by a 12-volt battery, offering good portability and convenience without being tethered to a power outlet. It features a 3/16” random orbit throw, which is quite aggressive and effective for removing body filler, making it suitable for automotive and bodywork tasks. The variable speed dial allows adjustment of orbital speed between 3,200 and 12,000 RPM, providing control for different sanding needs. Users will appreciate the feathering trigger for smooth speed changes and the tool-free backing pad change, making swapping sanding pads quick and hassle-free.

Despite its small size, it can sand approximately three doors of body filler on a single high-output battery charge, demonstrating decent battery efficiency. Weighing only about 1 pound, it offers all-day comfort and easy handling, which benefits ergonomics during extended use. Durability appears solid given Milwaukee’s reputation and the tool’s design, though as a lightweight cordless unit, it might not be as heavy-duty as some corded or larger models for continuous industrial use.

This sander is a great choice for hobbyists or professionals needing a portable, easy-to-use orbital sander for automotive or light bodywork. However, those requiring advanced dust control or industrial-grade power might want to consider other options.