10 Best Random Orbital Sanders of 2023

Photo: DeWalt

While there are many power sanders that can do a good sanding job, most often have one huge shortcoming which is leaving swirl marks on the workpiece. But, with the best random orbital sander, swirl marks will never be an issue.

As the name suggests, random orbital sanders sand by moving in random motions to prevent swirling and besides giving you a sleeker and smoother finish, these sanders also make the job easier.

What sets the random orbital sander from the older orbital sander is that unlike the latter it has a round base pad which moves in random orbits and also spins in circles to ensure it does not leave visible marks on the workpiece.

To help ensure you get the many benefits that come with these sanders, here we show you how to pick the right models with our top 10 random orbital sander reviews and a buying guide.

10 Best Random Orbital Sanders – Review

IMAGE	PRODUCT	FEATURES
	1. Makita BO5041 (Best Overall)	3 Amp motor Ergonomic rubberized grip Easy sanding in corners and confined spaces Higher capacity dust collection system
	2. DeWalt DWE6423K (Best Brand)	3 Amp motor User-fatigue and vibration-reducing design Dust sealed switch for longer service life One-hand locking dust bag
	3. Black & Decker BDERO100 (Best Budget)	2 Amp motor Relatively more affordable Fast and easy paper change Dust-sealed switch
	4. Bosch ROS65VC-5 (Best for Professional Woodworkers)	3.3 Amp  motor Powerful enough and feature-rich for professional use More versatile sanding Comfortable and easy handling
	5. Makita XOB01Z (Best Cordless)	5.0 Ah battery power Powerful and reliable cordless sander Dust-sealed bearing and switch Precise electronic speed control
	6. Bosch ROS20VSC (Best for Multipurpose Use)	2.5 Amp motor Versatile for wide variety of applications Simple disc attachment Easy and precise speed control
	7. Skil 7492-02 (Best Fixed Speed)	2.8 Amp motor Reliable fixed speed operation Handy pressure control technology Simple paper change
	8. Porter-Cable 382 (Best for DIYers & Hobbyists)	1.9 Amp motor Cheap and easy to use for DIYers/hobbyists Longer switch life Durable ball bearing construction
	9. VonHaus USA (Best High Power)	3.5 Amp motor More powerful motor Ergonomic soft grip handle Large sanding area
	10. DeWalt D26453K (Best Corded)	3 Amp motor Reliable and consistent corded design Long-lasting sealed ball-bearing construction Efficient dust collection system

1. Makita BO5041 – Best Overall

Photo: Makita

• Power: 3.0 Amp
• Power Source: Corded-electric
• Speed: 4,000-12,000 OPM

For an under $100 random orbital sander, it is hard to get anything that beats the Makita BO5041 in either features or construction quality.

This top-rated random orbital sander runs on a 3 Amp motor and with variable speed control that allows you to choose a speed between 4,000 and 12,000 to suit your sanding needs. The speed range is the widest on our list which makes this our most versatile sander.

Operating it is also a simple and comfortable affair as it comes with an ergonomic and rubberized palm grip for maximum comfort and a large and conveniently located on/off switch.

Sanding in corners and all those hard to reach areas is made easier by the adjustable front handle, and users will also love the hook and loop system as it makes paper change easy and quick. Other things like the pad brake and oversized ball-bearing construction also make this an amazing sander.

While the smaller dust port can come with issues for some shop vacs, this random orbital sander still has one of the most efficient and largest capacity dust collection systems. Furthermore, you can still solve the dust port issue with an adapter.

More Detailed: Click here

Pros:

• Fast and smooth sanding
• Comfortable rubberized grip
• Large and conveniently located on/off switch
• Quick paper change
• Wider speed range for increased versatility

Cons:

• Smaller dust port
• Poorly positioned speed adjustment

2. DeWalt DWE6423K – Best Random Orbital Sander Brand

Photo: DeWalt

• Power: 3.0 Amp
• Power Source: Corded-electric
• Speed: 8,000-12,000 OPM

DeWalt is a globally trusted tools manufacturer, and this is not by chance because they are known for makings some of the most high-performing woodworking tools like their DWE6423K random orbital sander.

Besides being a product from a highly reputable company, this is a well-built and feature-rich sander than runs on a 3 Amp motor that will deliver a variable speed of between 8,000 and 12,000 OPM for a variety of applications.

This top-notch random orbital sander features a separate counterweight designed to minimize vibration when sanding and a rubber overmold grip for user comfort.

With its shorter design, this sander will allow the users to get closer to their workpiece, and it also includes a dust-sealed switch for longer tool life and a one-handed locking dust bag for efficient dust collection.

The cord seems a little shorter than what some woodworkers prefer, but it should still be long enough for use in most workshops, and you can always use an extension to get a longer reach.

Pros:

• Reduced sanding vibration
• Improved dust collection
• Minimum distance between user and workpiece
• Dust-sealed switch
• Rubber over-molded for reduced fatigue

Cons:

• Relatively shorter cord
• Standard shop vac attachments not included

3. Black & Decker BDERO100 – Best Budget Random Orbital Sander

Photo: Black & Decker

• Power: 2 Amp
• Power Source: Corded-electric
• Speed: 12,000 OPM

Being the cheapest item on our random orbital sander review, the Black & Decker BDERO100 is meant to cater for woodworkers and DIYers looking for something more affordable but still high-performing.

This random orbital sander runs on a 2 Amp motor that delivers a speed of 12,000 OPM which will be ideal for most woodworking tasks that DIYers and woodworkers do often.

It is designed with a hook and loop system that makes paper change quick and easy and with a dust-sealed switch for longer tool life. Also, it comes with a comfortable palm grip and in a compact design to make it more easily maneuverable.

While the 2 Amp motor might not be as powerful as most others on our list, for a budget random orbital sander, it is still quite good, and you will hardly get anything more powerful without spending more cash.

More Detailed: Click here

Pros:

• Highly affordable sander
• Dust-sealed switch
• Compact and easily maneuverable
• Fast and simple paper change

Cons:

• Relatively less powerful motor
• Lots of cheap plastic parts

4. Bosch ROS65VC-5 – Best Random Orbital Sander for Professional Woodworkers

Photo: Bosch

• Power: 3.3 Amp
• Power Source: Corded-electric
• Speed: 5,500-12,000 OPM

With a more powerful 3.3 Amp motor and a wide speed range of 5,500 to 12,000 OPM, the Bosch ROS65VC-5 can handle almost any sanding task in a typical woodworking workshop, which makes it perfect for a professional woodworker.

The wide speed range makes it a more versatile tool, but it is not the only thing that makes it great for pro woodworkers as it also features solid construction for many years of service.

Also, this random orbital sander has an efficient dust collection system that allows you to use a microfilter dust canister or attach a vacuum hose.

This Bosch random orbital sander includes a removable front handle that will be useful when sanding hard to reach areas and an exclusive vibration reducing mechanism.

When compared to other models on our list, this Bosch sander seems a little on the expensive side. But you always get what you pay for as it is top-notch quality and high-performing sander worth every buck you pay for it.

Pros:

• Highly powerful motor for professional use
• Wide speed range
• Minimal sanding vibrations
• Dual dust collection system

Cons:

• Relatively more expensive
• A bit on the heavy side

5. Makita XOB01Z – Best Cordless Random Orbital Sander

Photo: Makita

• Power: 5.0 Ah
• Power Source: Battery-powered
• Speed: 7,000, 9,500 and 11,000 OPM

The Makita XOB01Z offers power and convenience in a small portable cordless orbital sander that is designed for use from almost anywhere.

This amazing random orbital sander has a large 1/8-inch random orbit action that delivers fast and swirl-free sanding action, and it can run for up to 40 minutes when on the low-speed setting.

Also, with the ergonomic body and grip on this Makita random orbital sander, it will be super comfortable to operate and easy to control even when using it for extended periods.

It has been built for durability as it has a dust-sealed switch and bearing that ensure a long tool life. And choosing one of the 3-speed options (7,000, 9,500 and 11,000 OPM) is fast and easy thanks to the one-touch electronic speed control switch.

Given that there are only three speed options, some users might find this sander a little limiting. But the good news is that the three are what many woodworkers will use as they cater for fast, medium and low-speed sanding.

Pros:

• Reliable and portable cordless sander
• Fast and swirl-free sanding
• Comfortable body design and grip
• Dust sealed switch and bearing
• Simple one-touch speed control

Cons:

• Relatively limited speed options

6. Bosch ROS20VSC – Best Random Orbital for Multipurpose Use 

Photo: Bosch

• Power: 2.5 Amp
• Power Source: Corded-electric
• Speed: 7,500-12,000 OPM

Highly versatile and reliable is the best way to describe the Bosch ROS20VSC. Its versatility stems from its relatively powerful 2.5 Amp motor that delivers a variable speed of between 7,500 and 12,000 OPM to make the sander ideal for a variety of applications.

When it comes to the reliability, you can be confident that this sander will serve you for many years thanks to the durable overall construction and hook and loop sanding attachment that keeps the paper firmly in place and designed to last a long time.

The dust collection system is highly efficient as it features a microfilter system that traps even the finest particles and a clear dust canister that lets you see the dust level and also detaches easily.

Another thing that makes this a more affordable random orbital sander one of the best for the money is the soft-grip top that makes it more comfortable to operate.

While there is almost no significant shortcoming with this random orbital sander, the dust trap seems a little hard to open, but this should not be a dealbreaker as this sander manages the wood dust efficiently.

Pros:

• Relatively more affordable
• Low vibration operation
• More reliable hook and loop paper attachment
• Convenient and effective dust collection
• Comfortable soft-grip top

Cons:

• Dust trap can be a pain to open
• Still quite noisy

7. Skil 7492-02 – Best Fixed Speed Random Orbital Sander

Photo: Skil

• Power: 2.8 Amp
• Power Source: Corded-electric
• Speed: 12,500 OPM

If you prefer something with a fixed speed for your projects, the Skil 7492-02 will be a good buy, and despite having a fixed speed, it is still ideal for a variety of applications.

This random orbital sander runs on a 2.8 Amp and with a speed of 12,500, and there are many factors that make it a handy tool to have in the workshop.

They include the pad brake that has been designed to enhance efficiency and prevent gouging and the efficient dust collection system that consists of a clear dust canister with microfiltration and a vacuum dust port.

Also, there is a dust-sealed switch that will ensure a long tool life and a hook and loop disc attachment that keeps the paper in place firmly and makes the paper change quick and easy.

Included dust canister is not very large, and this means it will fill up relatively faster, but the good news is that it is super easy to detach for emptying and for small sanding tasks it is still large enough.

Pros:

• Handy pressure control technology
• Efficient fixed speed performance
• Pad brake included for enhanced performance
• Dust sealed switch
• Easy paper installation and removal

Cons:

• Dust canister fills up fast

8. Porter-Cable 382 – Best Random Orbital Sander for DIYers and Hobbyists

Photo: Porter-Cable

• Power: 1.9 Amp
• Power Source: Corded-electric
• Speed: 12,000 OPM

For the DIYers and hobbyists that do a lot of light sanding, the relatively affordable Porter-Cable 382 will be the perfect random orbital sander as it has the necessary power and speed.

What makes it one of the best random orbital sanders for woodworking is that it is designed to not only do the job faster but also with minimal user fatigue as it has a dual-plane counterbalanced fan.

And with its controlled finishing system, you get consistent speed and with no gouging up during start-ups. Also, this sander has a dust-sealed switch and 100% ball bearing construction for a longer switch and tool life.

This compact and lightweight sander will include a hook and loop system for easy paper change and will accept the larger 5-inch papers with 8 holes.

The 1.9 Amp motor is probably the only notable shortcoming with this sander as it is not very powerful, but for light DIY sanding tasks, it will still be great.

Pros:

• Great for DIYers and Hobbyists
• Durable ball bearing construction
• Highly useful controlled finishing system
• Dust-sealed switch
• Reduced user fatigue

Cons:

• Not  a very powerful motor
• Dust collector does not stay in place

9. VonHaus USA – Best High Power Random Orbital Sander

Photo: VonHaus

• Power: 3.5 Amp
• Power Source: Corded-electric
• Speed: 6,000-13,000 RPM

Being the most powerful option among our random orbital sander review, this VonHaus sander will be perfect for woodworkers that can handle heavy-duty tasks.

It runs on a 3.5 Amp motor and with 6,000 to 13,000 OPM speed for versatile applications. Although it is a 5-inch sander, it still offers a larger sanding area than many larger models.

This random orbital sander also includes a convenient lock-on switch to allow for continuous operation and an ergonomically soft grip that allows for more comfortable operation and a fully adjustable front handle for extra comfort.

With the 8-hole hook and loop base pad, the paper will always be held in place firmly, and it also makes the paper change quick and easy.

When compared to other more compact random orbital sanders on our list, this machine seems a little bulkier but for its price, it is still quite compact and lightweight and easy to operate.

Pros:

• Relatively more powerful motor
• Larger sanding area
• Convenient lock-on switch
• Comfortable one-handed operation

Cons:

• A little bulkier
• Still struggles a little at maximum speed

10. DeWalt D26453K – Best Corded Random Orbital Sander

Photo: DeWalt

• Power: 3.0 Amp
• Power Source: Corded-electric
• Speed: 7,000-12,000 OPM

DeWalt D26453k is another top-notch quality DeWalt sander that has been designed to make sanding both faster and more effortless.

This top-notch random orbital sander takes little effort to set up and using it is also straightforward. And it runs on a powerful 3 Amp motor and with variable speed of 7,000 to 12,000 OPM for sanding versatility.

With the textured anti-slip top, it will be more comfortable to operate and easy to control, and it also features a durable 100% ball-bearing construction, anti-vibration design and a highly efficient dust management system that includes a built-in vacuum port.

The rubber-covered on/off rocker switch can be a little hard to press which might not be very assuring, but this is only so when using the sander for the first few times as the switch becomes a lot easier to press as you get used to the machine.

Pros:

• Reliable and consistent corded sander
• Durable sealed ball-bearing construction
• Highly effective dust management system
• Textured anti-slip grip
• Sands with minimal vibrations

Cons:

• Rubber-covered rocker switch can be a little hard to press
• Dust bag fills up quickly

How to Buy the Best Random Orbital Sanders

Photo: Bosch

Like with all other types of woodwork sanders, there are some key elements that define a good random orbital sander and they include the following.

1. Power

The motor power determines everything from the sanding efficiency to speed, and so it should always be one of the key factors to consider when choosing a random orbital sander.

A typical random orbital sander will have a motor that is between 2 and 6 Amp. The more powerful it is the better as it will make sanding faster and easier for you. But even a 1.9 amp model like the Porter-Cable 382 will still be very useful for some projects.

However, it is important to note that the performance of the sander still varies from one sander because what matters is how a particular model utilizes power. Also, the more powerful the sander is the pricier it will be, and so you should not expect a budget model to be very powerful.

2. Speed

The random orbital sander speed also matters a lot, and it will be typically measured in orbits per minute. And while many woodworkers seem to prefer something with a high speed, it is not always the best option.

When it comes to picking random orbital sanders, you should be more concerned with getting a model that offers variable speed settings as it will offer versatility and be more ideal for a variety of projects.

Variable speed sanders are great because small workpieces and detail sanding projects will require slower speeds while heavy material calls for faster orbit speed.

3. Power Source

When it comes to a random orbital sander power source, you will typically need to choose from three main options which are corded, pneumatic and battery operated or cordless sanders.

Pneumatic random orbital sanders are the most powerful of the three power source options, and they will be a perfect choice for professional woodworkers. However, these will require an air compressor to run and can be a little pricier.

The corded random orbital sanders like DeWalt D26453K might not be as powerful as the pneumatic types but they offer more power than the cordless models and are also generally more convenient. But the cord is often cumbersome and annoying to deal with as it can come in your way when working.

Cordless random orbital sanders like Makita XOB01Z are the perfect choice for those looking for something portable they can use from almost anywhere. Also, they do not have annoying cords to deal with, but they are not as powerful or reliable as the corded and pneumatic types.

4. Base Plate

The base plate is what holds the sandpaper in place, and it will hence determine the sanding area that you get. Typically, the random orbital sanders will come in either 5 or 6-inch base plates, but there are still some that are under 5 inches for finishing tasks and others larger than 6 inches for professional woodworkers.

While still at the base plate, you still need to consider how the sandpapers will be attached. And here the two common options are the sanders that use adhesives discs which tend to wear quite fast and the relatively more reliable hook and loop system.

Another thing to also consider on the base plate is the holes that the dust collection system will use to remove wood dust. A base plate with these holes will help keep the workspace clean and also prevent the dust from scratching delicate wood pieces.

5. Dust Collection

Sanding will always generate a lot of dust regardless of the method you are using, and so the best random orbital sander for woodworking is one that has an efficient dust collection system.

Most of these sanders will include a dust collection system that uses either a dust bag or canister to trap the dust which you then need to empty once it fills up.

But, some will also allow you to connect a shop vac hose for added suction to make the dust management even more efficient.

Besides making sure that the random orbital sander has a good dust port, you should also check the size of the dust port to ensure it will be compatible with your shop vac.

6. Comfortable Grip

Given that it is a handheld tool, a random orbital sander needs to have a good grip to ensure comfortable use.

If you plan to be using the sander for extended periods, a comfortable grip will even be more important as it will ensure less fatigue.

When choosing your sander, you should look for something that is ergonomically-shaped and rubberized as it will be more comfortable on the hand. A rubber grip is not only comfortable but also allows the user to hold the sander more firmly.

How to Use a Random Orbital Sander

Photo: Black & Decker

Buying a random orbital sander is just the first step as you still need to know how to use it effectively for a sleek and smooth finish. 

But whether you are a beginner DIYer or pro woodworker, these sanders are not complicated to use as you only need to follow the easy steps below.

Step 1: Prepare Your Material

Material preparation might not sound like an important part of the process but it actually is because you might do everything else right and still not get the finish you want only because you ignored this step. Hence, before you start sanding you should clamp down the workpiece to keep it in place and prevent kickback.

Step 2: Connect Dust Collector

You do not want to end up with a messy and dirty workshop or have tiny wood dust pieces ruin your stock. And so before you start sanding you should connect a dust management system to collect any sawdust that will accumulate.

Step 3: Attach the Sandpaper

Choose the sandpaper grit you prefer or is ideal for your sanding task and attach it to your sander. Coarse grits like 50 and 60 will be appropriate for heavy material removal and finer ones like 180 will be more ideal when you need a smooth finish, but they typically take longer to give you the desired finish as they only remove a little material at a go.

Step 4: Now Start Sanding

Wear your safety goggles and a dust mask for safety and then start sanding. And here you should start by switching on the machine and allow it to get to the desired speed before placing it on your workpiece gently. Guide the sander along the grain of the wood when sanding to achieve a nice and smooth finish, and also ensure you do not apply too much pressure as you can ruin the workpiece.

Step 5: Finishing Up the Workpiece

Once your stock achieves the desired smoothness, it is time to make the finishing touches, and they will entail sanding around the edges by hanging a small portion of the sanding surface over the edge. After sanding all the edges, you can now switch off the sander and finish the job by brushing off any leftover sawdust.

Conclusion

As you shop for the best random orbital sander for your workshop, there are several factors you will need to consider which include power, speed, base plate, and the dust collection.

Taking time to compare top models from leading brands also increases your likelihood of ending up with something top-notch. And with our detailed top 10 reviews, things should be a lot easy.

With all that said, the Makita BO5041  is our top recommendation as it is both powerful and super easy to use while the Black & Decker BDERO100 is what we would recommend for those shopping on a small budget.