$100ish five inch orbital sander recommendation - preferably low dust

[Greenlawnracing]

My almost 20 year old Ryobi has sat most of its life, but @loganb was unkind enough to create a new hobby for me.

It Isn't getting a ton of use, but leads me to believe it has a short. Cuts in and out on occasion in different positions.

I'll wait for a sale, so hit me if you see something good. But if it does out during this weekends project I'm headed right to Home Depot or Lowes.

Reviews say that Dewalt is the best under $100 buy, and it looks like a true dustless system is something awesome like $2K.

1) Any smoking deals out there that I missed?
2) Anything I should consider beyond the Dewalt at that price?
3) Are any of these more dustless than the others? I do intend to use it indoors with the garage door shut a lot, although I'll connect to the shop vac.

 

[steel 35]

I have three Favo is Milwaukee cordless, dust trap & Vac att.

 

[exmaxima1]

You need to decide if you want a orbital finishing sander, or a bigger Random Orbit sander. The latter can replace a belt sander in many instances though it tends to cost closer to $150. I bought a Bosch 5" ROS a few years ago and got rid of my belt sanders.

 

[CJM8515]

i have a dewalt thats adjustable speed and has done everything i wanted so far.

 

[Pen & Wrench]

If you want low dust, a sander with at least a collection bag or better still, a way to hook a vacuum up to it would help. I have a DeWalt 5 inch random orbit that does well for me. I also have a Bosch 6 inch ROS with a "normal" and an "aggressive" setting. If you dislike sanding as much as I do, the 6 inch ROS has 44% more area than a 5 inch, and it will remove material faster, but if a 5 inch has lasted you 20 years, it sounds like another 5 inch should do the trick for you. I've always been going to start using card scrapers, which work very well, but with a lot less dust in the air. With the card scrapers you would probably still want to do a final sanding but you could cut down on the use of the sander.

 

[cgrutt]

Was working on a deck last fall and forgot my sander so picked up a Makita 5" at nearby Home Depot. Think it was about $100 - $125 IIRC. Turns out to be a great sander would recommend. Don't know model number but it's 5" random orbital with hook and loop. Variable speed and has a handle grip. Really low (felt) vibration. Good power. Did everything I needed it to do on new pressure treated lumber.

ETA I think it was this one BO5041

 

[hefnerconstructionlc]

That Makita is great we have a couple. Have had ones from Ryobi, Porter Cable, Milwaukee and Ridgid. The Makita is heads and tails better. I hear the Bosch is very good also. Probably going to need to spend about $150 to get what you are asking for.

 

[The Cobbler]

just an FYI, cutting in & out could be as simple as a bad power cord, or second, worn brushes

 

[loganb]

I'm completely not to blame for this new hobby...that is 100% @Greenlawnracing's fault. And I probably encourage not buying as often as I say spend more!

Now I am guilt of continuing to give him **** on how he complains about not having enough space in a 3 car garage due to an odd desire to park 3 cars in a 3 car garage....weird!

Mine is this...or this equivalent from 7 or so years ago...looks darn close though

Limited-time deal: BOSCH ROS10 120 Volt Random Orbit Sander , Blue , 5" https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0018Z374W/?tag=atomicindus08-20

If you get a 6" one it will be too big for some of what you're doing and then will force a 5" to be added....so in GJ fashion and encouraging cash expenditures on tools

Multi-Mode Sander RO 150 FEQ-Plus ROTEX

www.festoolusa.com

Mirka DEROS 6" Random-Orbit Electric Sander, 5mm Orbit, with Systainer Case - Lee Valley Tools

www.leevalley.com

Wait....sub $100 bucks...oops!

I think any color of 5" Random orbital will work for you...just a question of what color you like best and which hits a sale first

 

[cgrutt]

That Rotex sander is hands-down the best sander I've ever worked with unfortunately sold it a while back when I needed some cash. Combined with Festool HVAC vac it's nearly dustless. Can't wait to pick another one up again still loaded with paper for it lol. But alas not in the $100 budget range lol...

 

[charbar]

Good friend of mine has a cabinet shop and has sanders running for hours on end day after day. He has used about every brand under the sun and says the Dewalts, Makitas, and Boschs keep on running while all the other brands drop like flies

No personal experience though. My cheapy from Menards works for the two times a year I use it

 

[Greenlawnracing]

AHHHHH lots to think about here:

Looks like it is Dewalt, Makita, or Bosch based on recommendations. I do hate sanding more than most, in fact I'm unaware of anyone that enjoys it. Would have loved a six inch while making a bench top today, but rarely need something that big.

Will try to find variable speed, if I'm understanding correctly that would nice with applications like this morning when I pocket holed three 2x6s together and wanted a smooth surface.

 

[Greenlawnracing]

just an FYI, cutting in & out could be as simple as a bad power cord, or second, worn brushes

Yep, was thinking the same thing. Figured I don't have time to mess with it this weekend, so if it craps I'll buy a new one and mess with fixing it later.

BUT, funny you say that. I kinda think if the plug isn't 1000000% tight, perhaps a mm out of the socket it will cut out. Then it seemed like it was cutting out at certain positions, as if it had a short in the cord.

Google says a replacement cord is $10, probably not a bad thing to buy and have a backup when needed.

 

[ZRX61]

Bought a (corded) DA Dewalt last year, no complaints.. & way better than the 30 year old 1/4 sheet Craftsman palm sander that it replaced.

 

[TMcCay]

I bought the Makita last year and it is a great little sander. Definitely worth the price.

 

[mike93lx]

, funny you say that. I kinda think if the plug isn't 1000000% tight, perhaps a mm out of the socket it will cut out. Then it seemed like it was cutting out at certain positions, as if it had a short in the cord.

Replace the receptacle. It's worn out

 

[jar944]

I have a couple suggestions, but none even close to the $ range unfortunately. arguably dustless, though not nearly as much as 2k.

 

[428PI]

I have a Makita bought perhaps 15 years ago or longer and it's seen some pretty heavy use. Had to replace the pad once and now maybe again (discs don't want to stay on) and not sure new discs are going to help (haven't tried it again yet).

 

[hans109h]

I've got one of these: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BD5G9VA/?tag=atomicindus08-20

I think I paid more than what it sells for today when I got it, so not a bad deal at all.

Used it a lot and it gets the job done. Easy on the hands (vibrations) and ears. Dust collection can fill up quick depending on what you're sanding but it also has the vacuum attachment.

Hans

 

[Greenlawnracing]

Replace the receptacle. It's worn out

Receptacle is a brand new cord reel, and I have not had issues with any other tools. Not saying that you are wrong by any stretch of the imagination, just wondering if that changes things at all.

 

[Greenlawnracing]

I have a couple suggestions, but none even close to the $ range unfortunately. arguably dustless, though not nearly as much as 2k.

Oh yes, you were kind enough to only suggest a $200 blade for my $199 saw last time I was looking for recommendations. I suppose I should remember that there is someone who is better than Logan at spending my money!

You are not thinking of buying a new bicycle by chance are you? Because I’m happy to return the favor!

 

[jar944]

Oh yes, you were kind enough to only suggest a $200 blade for my $199 saw last time I was looking for recommendations. I suppose I should remember that there is someone who is better than Logan at spending my money!

You are not thinking of buying a new bicycle by chance are you? Because I’m happy to return the favor!

Nope, the only bicycles I'm interested in have motors.

 

[Greenlawnracing]

Nope, the only bicycles I'm interested in have motors.

That is where I started!

 

[Dan in Pasadena]

Don't know if I've missed it but what are the opinions on Milwaukee cordless sanders?

 

[bdbecker]

Nothing to add regarding which brand of sander to use, but when it comes to dust, I've really enjoyed using the net style sanding discs. Lifespan is okay with the Diablo discs I'm currently using - not noticeably better or worse when compared to a traditional paper disc. Finish is on par with anything else I've run as well. Dust collection is where these really shine. Running my old Porter Cable with the shop vac attached, the dust is substantially less with the net discs vs. traditional paper discs.

These are the Diablo brand discs mentioned above. I'll probably make the switch over to 3M once these are used up (seem to do the best in the side-by-side comparisons I've seen).

DIABLO 5 in. Sand Demon Coated Assorted Disc (50-Pack) DND050ASTH50P - The Home Depot

Sanding wood, metal, plastic and solid surfaces can be done easily with the selection of this DIABLO SandNet Coated Assorted Disc. Offers durability.

www.homedepot.com

 

[Zeke]

Stumpy Nubs on YT has done videos on sanders and more on paper. Project Farm the same. For me it's Festool all the way for a sander but it's no way anywhere near 100. Even at 600 the FT is worth every cent. It's quiet and there's one model that can work as a rotary and then switch over to an RO.

 

[jshillin]

I have 2, a Bosch that I used for many years until I picked up an M18 RO. I almost never break out the Bosch anymore and really liked the Milwaukee.

 

[Greenlawnracing]

Nothing to add regarding which brand of sander to use, but when it comes to dust, I've really enjoyed using the net style sanding discs. Lifespan is okay with the Diablo discs I'm currently using - not noticeably better or worse when compared to a traditional paper disc. Finish is on par with anything else I've run as well. Dust collection is where these really shine. Running my old Porter Cable with the shop vac attached, the dust is substantially less with the net discs vs. traditional paper discs.

These are the Diablo brand discs mentioned above. I'll probably make the switch over to 3M once these are used up (seem to do the best in the side-by-side comparisons I've seen).

DIABLO 5 in. Sand Demon Coated Assorted Disc (50-Pack) DND050ASTH50P - The Home Depot

Sanding wood, metal, plastic and solid surfaces can be done easily with the selection of this DIABLO SandNet Coated Assorted Disc. Offers durability.

www.homedepot.com

Interesting. Had never heard of those. But price isn’t any higher and low dust. I’m in!

 

[chad215]

I use mostly ridgid tools without complaint including their sander, but thats more about batteries on the cordless tools than anything else. I also second checking the brushes on your sander. Those symptoms are very typical of worn brushes not making continuous contact. Although I'm sure you're more interested in an upgrade

 

[Crabman]

I've really enjoyed using the net style sanding discs

bdbecker is right about these. I use the Mirka Abranets, they are great.

Example:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001BL1R2C/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Not sure if the OP is looking for corded or cordless, I have both and pneumatic. I find myself usually grabbing a Bosch cordless 18v I bought when on sale at Lowe's a while back with a free 4.0 battery and charger.

It feels comfy in my hands and takes care of my DIY needs.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09FYN56WF/?tag=atomicindus08-20

I have not used the 12V Bosch, but it is on sale at Lowe's right now with a free 2.0 battery.

https://www.lowes.com/pd/Bosch-12V-Max-Brushless-5-In-Random-Orbit-Sander-Bare-Tool/5002185097

Good luck finding the right fit!

 

[MongoTA]

Cuts in and out on occasion in different positions.

Check the cord. The prongs, are they tight in the outlet and getting good contact, or does the plug move around in the outlet when the tool is moved. Check for cord damage at the stress relief, where it enters the housing.
Then I'd look at the switch. I've had fine dust get packed into the switch housing.
I've had a Dewalt 5" ROS for no idea how long. Maybe 20 year? 20+? I had to open it up a couple of years ago and unpack dust from the rubber membrane enclosed switch housing. Got to the point where I'd have to press it hard to ON, and depending on use the switch would slowly return to OFF. backed out a couple of screws, cleaned it up, reassembled, and done.
The corded DW421 has been a workhorse from me. The only thing I've had to replace was the velcro pad on the bottom.
Bought the same DW sander...could have been a different model, I don't recall...one for my son maybe 4 years ago. Would have been the same or an equivalent model.
Two years ago I bought a 20V battery ROS from Dewalt. I like it. I'm in the DW battery camp from way back when, so I got a few batteries (cha ching, but wait until on sale then they are less painful to purchase), then bought bare tools afterwards.
Corded tools, I have a mix.
For cordless, I'm on the DW battery.

 

[Greenlawnracing]

I use mostly ridgid tools without complaint including their sander, but thats more about batteries on the cordless tools than anything else. I also second checking the brushes on your sander. Those symptoms are very typical of worn brushes not making continuous contact. Although I'm sure you're more interested in an upgrade

I use orange as well, just started that way due to the lifetime warranty on batteries years ago. Not married to it per say, but hard to make a change for cordless. I do have them on my "check when DTO has a sale list" in case that sander goes on sale. I'll check brushes for sure, not super worried about an upgrade as $100 would be better spent on a cheap table saw so I can rip 2X4s into 2X2s which I seem to need a lot lately. Don't know the brush replacement cost, but may not be worth it on a tool this old

 

[Greenlawnracing]

bdbecker is right about these. I use the Mirka Abranets, they are great.

Example:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001BL1R2C/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Not sure if the OP is looking for corded or cordless, I have both and pneumatic. I find myself usually grabbing a Bosch cordless 18v I bought when on sale at Lowe's a while back with a free 4.0 battery and charger.

It feels comfy in my hands and takes care of my DIY needs.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09FYN56WF/?tag=atomicindus08-20

I have not used the 12V Bosch, but it is on sale at Lowe's right now with a free 2.0 battery.

https://www.lowes.com/pd/Bosch-12V-Max-Brushless-5-In-Random-Orbit-Sander-Bare-Tool/5002185097

Good luck finding the right fit!

Had planned on corded because I assumed cordless battery life wasn't good on something like this. Cordless is obviously always easier to use. What kind of battery life do you see on cordless typically?

 

[Greenlawnracing]

Check the cord. The prongs, are they tight in the outlet and getting good contact, or does the plug move around in the outlet when the tool is moved. Check for cord damage at the stress relief, where it enters the housing.
Then I'd look at the switch. I've had fine dust get packed into the switch housing.
I've had a Dewalt 5" ROS for no idea how long. Maybe 20 year? 20+? I had to open it up a couple of years ago and unpack dust from the rubber membrane enclosed switch housing. Got to the point where I'd have to press it hard to ON, and depending on use the switch would slowly return to OFF. backed out a couple of screws, cleaned it up, reassembled, and done.
The corded DW421 has been a workhorse from me. The only thing I've had to replace was the velcro pad on the bottom.
Bought the same DW sander...could have been a different model, I don't recall...one for my son maybe 4 years ago. Would have been the same or an equivalent model.
Two years ago I bought a 20V battery ROS from Dewalt. I like it. I'm in the DW battery camp from way back when, so I got a few batteries (cha ching, but wait until on sale then they are less painful to purchase), then bought bare tools afterwards.
Corded tools, I have a mix.
For cordless, I'm on the DW battery.

Cord did look a little worn. I guessing based on your feedback that cord is likely the culprit, and a $12 cord is worth trying?

 

[vwpieces]

A soft flexible cord is one thing I look for in a handheld power tool. Dewalt always has nice cords but they do deteriorate. Seen some where the outer rubber is just falling off in only 10 years time.

If the cord is in good condition the rest of the way past the stress relief I would just shorten it and save the $12 for a new backer pad. I always try to fix something before throwing it out. If it can be done for no money... even better.

 

[bdbecker]

Had planned on corded because I assumed cordless battery life wasn't good on something like this. Cordless is obviously always easier to use. What kind of battery life do you see on cordless typically?

If you're planning on attaching to a vac for dust collection, I'd go corded. Use a couple velcro straps to keep the cord close to the vac hose and call it good.

 

[driftpin]

I inherited a Bosch 5" 120V/2.2 amps RO sander from my brother the 1295DVS. Not sure if it's still a current model. It works well, 6 speeds and you can bear down on it and still have it cut. https://www.finewoodworking.com/2006/07/01/1295dvs-random-orbit-sander-review It has a dust collection box and you can get a hose adapter, $10. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0009H5L5I/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Fine Woodworking said the dust collection is effective, and I have found that to be the case.

Works well for me. I use the firm hook/loop backing pad w/dust release holes.

 

[Crabman]

Had planned on corded because I assumed cordless battery life wasn't good on something like this. Cordless is obviously always easier to use. What kind of battery life do you see on cordless typically?

Don't know what you are working on but I am not sanding all day. The 4.0 on the Bosch has not given out before I did yet. I have an extra battery if it did, also came on a buy a tool get a free battery and charger deal at Lowe's.

 

[Crabman]

I also have a 6 inch corded Bosch 1250DEVS, the big brother of driftpin's.

It is very stout and great for big jobs. No longer made, I don't know how the new models compare. Mine is well acclaimed on GJ generally.

​

 

[tinmanwpk]