The Best Disc Sanders
Disc sanders are an important part of any woodworker's toolkit. This hardware specializes in smoothing the surface of materials such as wood or metal, allowing for splinter-free surfaces that are easier to handle. But not all disc sanders are up to the task, which is why we've put together this list of the best ones on the market.
What to Look For
We kept a few things in mind when considering which disc sanders we would end up recommending: Does it sand surfaces smoothly and efficiently? Can it work on a wide variety of surfaces? And is it simple to set up and operate? We found a few disc sanders that ran circles around the rest. Wen ended up making our favorite model, thanks to their iron-based model’s balanced blend of power and flexibility. We also couldn’t count out Makita’s handheld sander, which offers high-quality sanding capabilities at an appealingly low price point. Keep reading to find out which other disc sanders earned a spot in our tool kits.
Wen Cast Iron Base Disc Sander
Sanding has never been smoother
Of all the disc sanders we looked at, Wen created the model we would most easily recommend. Its cast-iron base keeps the sander stable during operation, even as it reaches speeds of up to 36,000 RPM. It can also be adjusted up to 90 degrees, giving you great flexibility in how you approach your projects. Great disc sanders that check all the boxes are rare, but this heavyweight choice makes the cut.
Pros
- It comes with a durable splined belt that can be used for long periods without issue.
- This sander is very open to modification, letting you tune it to your exact needs if you’re a serious hobbyist.
- It’s very affordable compared to disc sanders of equal quality.
Cons
- It can be difficult to find replacement belts.
Wen Belt Sander With Disc Sander
Clean as a whistle
Disc sanders need to run with total efficiency, and this one is designed to make sure everything goes to plan. Two dust ports ensure that the motor stays free of debris and can operate smoothly for long periods. Combine those with a heavy base for stability and a miter gauge, and you have one of the most reliable disc sanders around. This tool is ideal for builders who never want to second guess their own work.
Pros
- It’s small and quiet, making it as discreet as it is powerful.
- For such a superb build it is one of the more affordable disc sanders available.
- The belts are easy to change out when replacements are needed.
Cons
- The instructions are needlessly difficult to follow.
Makita GV5010 Disc Sander
Shave down the cost
Makita combines portability with affordability to make one of the best disc sanders you can buy. This insanely fast sander can hit 5,000 RPM and stay steady the entire time, thanks to its spiral bevel gears and rubberized shell that covers the motor. Amazingly, all this power and keen design come in the form of a completely handheld tool. As this option proves, you don’t have to pay a fortune for a quality power tool that does the job well.
Pros
- Being handheld allows for greater precision over sanding jobs than typical disc sanders do.
- This sander is extremely durable, so you can use it regularly for years without needing to replace or repair it.
Cons
- The replacement blades can get pretty expensive.
Ingersoll Rand Orbital Air Disc Sander
Get a grip
If you’ve ever lost your grip on any of your disc sanders, this one should put your mind at ease. Even as it reaches up to 10,000 RPM, its low vibration design means it will always run smoothly and quietly. Plus, its handheld size makes it perfectly suited for tackling jobs that require precision and dexterity. This is one of the only disc sanders that provides the power of heavy-duty hardware in a package that can fit in your palms.
Pros
- You can set the sander to run slower without having to adjust air pressure, which is an appreciated feature.
- Its smooth, quiet operation makes it ideal for hobbyists with motor-skill issues.
Cons
- It comes with safety instructions, but it has no instructions on setup or operation.
Eastwood Heavy Duty Disc Sander
Big jobs need big power
“Elegant” isn’t a word that comes to mind when thinking of disc sanders, except this option from Eastwood may just change that. Quick-release clamps for angle adjustment combine with a rubber base to ensure stability, letting you fine-tune your sanding to perfection. Its robust cast-iron base and complimentary miter gauge only increase its versatility. This is many craftsmans’ choice when it comes to disc sanders that offer a delicate touch.
Pros
- It’s aesthetically pleasing, with a sleekness that many disc sanders lack.
- This sander comes with a built-in sawdust collector to increase operation efficiency and decrease cleanup time.
- It’s easy to put together, with an assembly time that can be as little as 10 minutes.
Cons
- The default setting has it running counterclockwise, which takes some getting used to.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I look into disc sanders even if I’ve never used one before?
While using any power tool is going to have a learning curve, disc sanders are relatively safe and easy to operate. Online tutorials and experienced friends can always help get you up to speed on things like changing the belt or proper positioning.
What types of materials can disc sanders be used on?
Disc sanders are most commonly used for smoothing down wood, metal, and even sometimes glass. Glass and mirrors frequently require specialty discs, however, so always make sure you’re using the correct components.
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