Orbital sanders are one of the most important tools in any workshop. The problem is, there are so many sanders on the market that even professionals are confused sometimes, not knowing what and where to buy.
Therefore, we have compiled a complete guide on choosing the best orbital sander with vacuum attachment for you.
Here are the best orbital sanders with vacuum attachment you can buy in 2024:
- Best For Medium-Sized Projects (Corded Electric Orbital Sander): Bosch ROS20VSC
- Quiet - Corded Electric Orbital Sander (Corded Electric Orbital Sander): Meterk Random Orbit Sander
- Best For Car Body (Air Orbital Sander): FIXKIT 6” Air Random Orbital Sander
- Best For Paint Removal (Air Orbital Sander): Ingersoll-Rand 4151
- Consistent Performance (Battery-Powered Orbital Sander): Milwaukee Electric Tools 2648-20 M18
- Most Durable (Battery-Powered Orbital Sander): PORTER-CABLE PCCW205B
| 6 Best Orbital Sanders With Vacuum Attachment | ||
|---|---|---|
Best For Medium-Sized Projects | Bosch ROS20VSC
| |
Quiet - Corded Electric Orbital Sander | Meterk Random Orbit Sander
| |
Best For Car Body | FIXKIT 6” Air Random Orbital Sander
| |
Best For Paint Removal | Ingersoll-Rand 4151
| |
Consistent Performance | Milwaukee Electric Tools 2648-20 M18
| |
Most Durable | PORTER-CABLE PCCW205B
| |
Corded Electric Orbital Sander
Best For Medium-Sized Projects (Corded Electric Orbital Sander): Bosch ROS20VSC
- The sanding disc slows down noticeably at low speeds
This orbital sander is always our favorite go-to for medium-sized projects because it delivers the perfect combination of effective rotary speeds and appropriate sandpaper grits.
It makes complicated work a lot easier, from the initial rough sanding to the polyurethane polish.
During extended jobs, it doesn’t cause fatigue on our hands, thanks to the grippy but not tacky handle. So when you want to change hands, the sander won’t be tilted away so it’s no risk of nicking a surface.
We also appreciate the functional vacuum. If you use it outdoors, you don’t have to wear a face mask.
| Bosch ROS20VSC Specifications | |
|---|---|
Tool Weight | 3.5 Pounds |
Motor | 2.5 AMP |
Disc Size | 5 inches |
Orbit Diameter | 1/2 micron |
Speed | 7,500 and 12,000 opm |
Highlight Features | a microfilter system Variable Speed Control A 2.5 AMP motor Pad dampening system |
Though we keep testing the latest and greatest on the market, we’ve still not found a candidate that can beat the power of Bosch ROS20VSC for medium-size projects.
Quiet - Corded Electric Orbital Sander (Corded Electric Orbital Sander): Meterk Random Orbit Sander
- Absorb vibration efficiently - rubberized palm grip and great vibration system features
- Easy to replace the disc - self-adhesive disc design
- Multifunctional and ultra-convenient – include a cotton disc, wool disc, and sponge disc
- No complaint
We’re pleased with the performance of this orbital sander from Meterk.
Aside from its powerful motor with different speed options, it is built with a rubberized palm grip and great vibration system features.
That’s why during the work, it doesn’t make as much noise as other similar counterparts. So if you usually find yourself seriously stressed because of loudness, this is a great choice to help you focus more on what you’re doing.
There are some other notable features, like the self-adhesive disc for easier replacement, the added cotton disc, wool disc, and sponge disc for extra applications. And, the dust collection box is designed to be easily disassembled, which comes in handy at work.
| Meterk Random Orbit Sander Specifications | |
|---|---|
Tool Weight | 4.64 pounds |
Motor | 2.5A |
Speed | 2.5A 6000- 13000 OPM |
Highlight Features | rubberized palm grip and great vibration system features self-adhesive disc design include a cotton disc, wool disc, and sponge disc |
The Meterk Random Orbit Sander is currently one of the quietest yet still a powerful option that you can find at this price point.
Air Orbital Sander
Best For Car Body (Air Orbital Sander): FIXKIT 6” Air Random Orbital Sander
- Ideal for various applications, including car body - dual-action construction
- Deliver consistent performance - integrated regulator & 10,000 RPM/minute in speed control
- Durable and long-lasting - wear-resistant components
- The sanding discs could be a bit higher quality
- Wish the dirtbag was more functional
This dual-action construction of this orbital sander is key for our pick for the car body. It’s also versatile enough to handle various tasks, like cutting, grooving, grinding, semi-fine grinding, and rough grinding.
The integrated regulator features up to 10,000 RPM/minute in speed control, which is another noteworthy feature for the machine’s consistent performance.
Furthermore, all of its components are wear-resistant so no matter your operation area, it is sure to last.
Another thing that we like is its well-padded design with the maximum vibration absorption to save your hands from pain after long projects. Overall, we love it!
| FIXKIT 6” Air Random Orbital Sander Specifications | |
|---|---|
Tool Weight | 2.6 Pounds |
Disc Size | 6” |
Speed | 10000RPM |
Air Consumption | 350L / MIN |
Highlight Features | dual-action construction integrated regulator & 10,000 RPM/minute in speed control wear-resistant components |
The FIXKIT 6
Best For Paint Removal (Air Orbital Sander): Ingersoll-Rand 4151
- Make for a fine finish to prepare for painting - small orbiting action and low vibration design
- Powerful and give just right speed for multiple tasks - 12,000 RPM free speed with various speed adjustments
- Easy to hold and comfortable – the weight of 1.92 pounds & Interchangeable grip rings
- Expensive
- Hard to take off the pad once installing it
- The plastic vacuum adapter is slightly flimsy
If you plan on re-painting, then the Ingersoll-Rand 4151 is a nice choice for paint and stain removal on a wood deck or a vehicle.
Its small orbiting action and low vibration design make for a fine finish to prepare for paint. Besides, it works quietly, at least compared to other counterparts at the same pricing.
The 12,000 RPM free speed with various speed adjustments delivers just the right speed for different tasks.
But what impressed us the most is its lightness, despite the durable construction so you don’t feel like your hands are broken at the end of the day if using this sander.
| Ingersoll-Rand 4151 Specifications | |
|---|---|
Tool Weight | 1.92 Pounds |
Disc Size | 6” |
Orbit Diameter | 3/16-inch |
Speed | 12,000 RPM |
Air Consumption | 8 CFM |
Highlight Features | small orbiting action and low vibration design 12,000 RPM free speed with various speed adjustments The weight of 1.92 pounds & Interchangeable grip rings |
Though you can find a cheaper one than the Ingersoll-Rand 4151 for paint removal. We assure you there’s nothing out there could perform as excellently as this.
Battery-Powered Orbital Sander
Consistent Performance (Battery-Powered Orbital Sander): Milwaukee Electric Tools 2648-20 M18
- Able to afford longer projects – runtime of 35 minutes
- Powerful, speed controllable, and versatile - 12,000 OPM with different speed adjustments
- The price doesn’t include batteries
- A bit costly
This is one of those battery-powered orbital sanders delivering the longest runtime. In this case, it is up to 35 minutes, thanks to the redlithium™ battery technology.
The maximum speed of this tool is up to 12,000 OPM with different speed adjustments, allowing you to control the power output to snugly meet the requirements of each project. Its consistent performance is also praised a lot.
The style of its handle is another thing impressing me because it is very easy and comfortable to hold.
When hooked to a shop vacuum, its dust collection port works well.
| Milwaukee Electric Tools 2648-20 M18 Specifications | |
|---|---|
Tool Weight | 2.7 Pounds |
Disc Size | 5” |
Orbit Diameter | 3/32" |
Speed | 7, 000-12, 000 OPM |
Highlight Features | the runtime of 35 minutes 12,000 OPM with different speed adjustments |
Finding a battery-powered orbital sander with vacuum attachment that can last up to 35 minutes like the Milwaukee Electric Tools 2648-20 M18 is a rare thing. Really rare!
Most Durable (Battery-Powered Orbital Sander): PORTER-CABLE PCCW205B
- Durable and long-lasting - dust-proof switch
- Deliver extra controllability - low-profile construction
- Reliable – backed by the manufacturer’s 3-year limited warranty
- Versatile and powerful - 12,000 OPM free speed
- Quick to drain out of juice
This battery-powered orbital sander is a steal. Despite its incredibly low price point, the whole machine is built to last and feels durable. Its dust-proof switch is what surprised us the most for professional durability.
While it is comfortable enough to hold consistently during work, its low-profile construction delivers extra controllability at 12,000 OPM free speed.
Its power is also versatile enough to sand different materials as well.
To help with dust collection, the tool is built with a removable dust bag. Plus, your purchase will be under the manufacturer’s 3-year limited warranty so, feel free to try it.
| PORTER-CABLE PCCW205B Specifications | |
|---|---|
Tool Weight | 2.69 pounds |
Disc Size | 5” |
Speed | 12, 000 OPM |
Highlight Features | dust-proof switch low-profile construction backed by the manufacturer’s 3-year limited warranty 12,000 OPM free speed |
If durability is your thing when considering the best orbital sander with vacuum attachment, don’t hesitate to pick the PORTER-CABLE PCCW205B.
How To Choose The Best Orbital Sander With Vacuum Attachment?
Power
First of all, you need to look at the power of the sander. As a rule of thumb, the more power, the higher efficiency when you use the tool.
If you want fine finishing, you should opt for a power that can generate high speed to achieve a seamless finish. A less powerful motor can get the job done as well, but it won’t be able to work continuously for an extended time.
Speed options
A good orbital sander should have variable speeds, maybe five or six, but you shouldn’t go with a machine that has only one speed. Variable speeds will let you maneuver and manipulate the work between projects.
The variable speeds vary among different models as well. While some tools offer speeds from 4000 OPM, others start at 7000 OPM, you should pick one that fits your needs.
Dust collection
Before deciding on a certain model, you must consider the dust collection feature. A sander can have a hose with a dust bag attachment, or a dust collection box, both of which are handy. This will help you clean up easily and avoid inhaling tiny particles.
However, you need to check how effective a sander is when sucking in fine dust. In addition, check the compatibility of the dust collection system as well as if it has an adapter.
Noise & Vibration
Noise and vibration may not be related to the effectiveness of the machine, but it surely affects your overall experience when using a sander.
The noise problem may worsen when you buy powerful sanders of up to 14,000 OPM. No one wants a loud tool, which is why you need to pay attention to this factor when shopping for an orbital sander.
With that in mind, we suggest that you look for a sander with a vibration control feature that keeps the tool stable when in use.
Which Brands Make The Best Orbital Sander With Vacuum Attachment?
Bosch
Since 1886, this brand has become one of the biggest names in the electrical engineering industry, offering various products with high precision. Its strength is in the innovating power and capability.
Meterk
This brand focuses on making the best tools to help you work faster and more safely. It offers high-quality products that have received a lot of positive feedback from users.
Ingersoll-Rand
Over the past 160 years, this brand has been working continuously to make life easier for home builders. It keeps innovating tools to offer the most efficiency and best performance for you.
FAQs
What is the difference between an orbital sander and a random orbital sander?
The difference is that orbital sanders move in a circle when operating. Meanwhile, random orbital sanders move back and forth, meaning they leave less swirl pattern.
Can I use an orbital sander on the car?
Yes, you can. An orbital sander can help polish cars with polishing pads, but you need to ensure that it offers variable speeds.
Is an orbital sander better?
Not necessarily, but orbital sanders have their own advantages. One of the biggest advantages is the square shape that lets them get in corners as well as against edges.
Can I use my orbital sander as a buffer?
Yes, you can, you just need to attach a polishing pad to your sander and use hook-and-loop paper.
What is an orbital sander good for?
Orbital sanders are good for handling edges and corners due to their square shape. They are also good to work on large furniture.
Conclusion
Hopefully, this guide has helped you get an idea of what to look for in the best orbital sander with vacuum attachment. Keep in mind that you need a sander to work with the vacuum, so pay close attention to the compatibility.
