Palm sanders are like a guardian for any woodworker. Because they perform a fantastic job of making the woodwork glow. That is why we decided to combine the best palm sanders under one roof(article!)
In this writing, you will not only find the best review, but also you will get an excellent buying guide and maintenance tips. These three important things will help you to choose the right palm sanders in the end.
So, without any further late, let us jump into the top 10 palm sanders comparison table first. Then, we will dive into the review section.
OUR TOP 3 PICKS
SKIL 5 SR211601 Sander
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Bosch GSS20-40 Orbital / Palm Sander
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DEWALT DWE6411K Palm Sander
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Top 10 Best Palm Sanders Reviews
This review section will describe the top ten palm sander’s features and benefits. The primary aim of this study – is to provide thorough knowledge to ensure a smooth buying cycle for woodworkers.
So, without any further wait, let’s dive deep into the review phase.
1. Best Handy Sander For Small Projects: DEWALT DWE6411K Palm Sander
When a woodworker puts his/her palm over a sander, he/she checks three crucial things. So, the essential features are smoothness, dust-clearing options, and flexibility. And DeWalt DWE6411K has ensured the facilities.
With this hand sander, as an artist, you can make a fantastic finish on the wood surface. For that, it uses 14,000 OPM with the help of a 2.5-amp motor. Not only these two features have ensured smoothness, but also the edge of this sander confirms “every inch solution.”
Now, what is an “every inch solution?” Well, this hand sander can reach every corner for overall heights. Plus, it has a vacuum system -that eats up all the dust. Thus, the surface stays fresh.
There is also a reason for being a smooth surface, which is: a rubber bottom to secure the tool from dust ingestion and a vibration absorbent. So, we can prefer this hand sander for rough and sturdy wood.
- Amazing dust cleaning system.
- Vibration control.
- Dust storage system.
- Pad is slightly curved.
2. Best Hand Sander For Refinishing Furniture: Makita Sheet Finishing Sander
The demand for sheet wood is rising high because people prefer this wood for home décor. That is why we have added the Makita sheet finishing sanders at the second. This hand sander is famous for refinishing furniture. How?
Let us talk about the features in detail. At first, we liked the gripping option. This tool has a rubber-made gripping option. As a result, one can put their effort either in one hand or both. It depends on comfort.
By using two hands, as a user, you can refinish the sheet surface better. And this is what the manufacturer says. How? Well, the 11,000-Opm directs this sander machine’s pad like a faithful guardian.
For that reason, the sanding paper reaches every place on the surface. Thus, the sheet surface stays fresh. Not only clean, but it also remains dust-free. To ensure a dust-free surface, this tool has a built-in dust collection bag.
Is that all a woodworker wants? No, they need flexibility. That is why the manufacturer added a vibration-controlling system to this tool. A woodworker won’t face fatigue for that. So, if you are searching for a sheet re-furnisher, then go for it.
- Ease to utilize.
- It is made in China.
- Best for sheet finishing.
- 1.7-amp motor
- It works better on a solid pad.
3. Best Orbital Palm Sander: Bosch GSS20-40

It is one of the most efficient orbital palm sanders we have got so far. Bosch GSS20-40 sander can not only finish the wood surface but also can remove the painting or varnish from the wood. For performing this finishing it takes minutes.
This sort of speedy performance happens because of the 2.0-amp motor. The motor has a 12,000-Opm speed. With this speed, a user can also finish the drywall, cabinet, or countertop edge for smooth fittings.
Besides the speedy motors, bosch supports all types of sand materials. For attaching the sanding paper, this machine has a traditional clamping feature.
We appreciated this clamping option because you can stick the sandpapers here, too. The vicious and tight-sized papers are best for a stable surface. Bosche orbital palm sander can reach every corner without giving your hand any fatigue.
The vibration-absorbing system and dust-cleaning options are the main reason for removing fatigue. Apart from the earlier features, this machine has a rubber pad -this pad eats up the dust when you put the sander on it after work. Yes, we are talking about the punch plate.
In a nutshell, this durable palm sander is perfect for a sawmill.
- Durable.
- A rubber-made punch plate.
- It has a Microfilter canister for absorbing the dust.
- We did not like the platen. It is not flat.
4. Best Sheet Sander: PORTER-CABLE Palm Sander
An efficient sander is an asset for every woodworker. A porter-cable palm sander is a real example of that. This woodworking tool can perform 13,500-OPM with a 2.0-amp motor. During the performance, the machine can clear a sheet surface without keeping any dust.
For clearing the dust, it has a rubber pad -that keeps the machine away from dust ingestion. Besides the dust-cleaning feature, the Porter sander has super hand-gripping technology. We call this technology a rubber-made grip.
This rubber grip ensures efficiency and removes fatigue. As a result, a woodworker won’t get tired of long-term work. It also has traditional clamping technology. This clamping technology helps any sandpaper to stick.
As a result, this sander can reach every inch of the surface -to make the finishing smooth. So, we can prefer this sander for plywood-type sheet woodwork.
- A special technology to control fatigue.
- A full dust filter option.
- It supports all sandpaper.
- We are not satisfied with the vibration control.
5. Best Corded Orbital Sander: Makita BO5041K
Comparatively, this Makita BO5041K orbital sander is better than the porter. Yes, this is our perception. While our teammate used this machine to finish their wooden floor, he experienced less vibration than Porter.
Really? Of course. This Makita tool offers a variety of facilities to its user community. Now, what types of offers are they? Let us explain, then. At first, we were impressed with the speed-controlling system. For example, you can select a speed between 4,000 12,000 OPM.
It depends on the requirement. For that reason, the manufacturer installed a 3.0-rpm motor. This motor does not vibrate; instead, it makes the surface smooth. Apart from the motor capacity, this tool has also a dust-collecting capacity.
Makita BO5041K comes with a rubber bag -that you can install with the hose for collecting dust. As a result, the surface and pad stay fresh. Along with the dust cleaning facilities, this tool also has good gripping power.
As a user, you won’t feel any fatigue from the grip. So, we recommend you buy this orbit sander if you have an option.
- You can adjust the handle.
- One can control the speed.
- Easy to maintain.
- It has a two-fingered trigger for convenient control.
- Comfortable.
- The on/off switch could be better and improved.
6. Best Random Orbital Sander For Woodworking: Bosch ROS20VSC
Why are we calling this tool a “random orbital sander”? Because everyone can handle this sander. And Bosche has built this tool for an entry-level woodworker to a professional woodworker. Bosch ROS20VSC machine has some user-friendly facilities, and they are:
It has a padded dampening technology to remove swirl marks. This feature will keep the sheet or wood surface smooth. The next facility is its hook-and-loop technology. This stacking technology keeps the sandpaper with the sander like Velcro.
The third facility is speed control. As a user, you can control the speed with the 2.5-amp motor. This motor can control up to 17,000-up with a switch -that stays behind the sander. Besides the speed control, the manufacturer has added a unique dust collection filter. The filter can absorb the smallest dust cake.
So, we recommend this sander if you have a low budget. Within this range, this would be the best woodworking tool.
- It comes with all the accessories.
- Powerful dust collection system.
- Small sander.
- This machine creates noise.
7. Best Woodworking Sander: SKIL 5 SR211601
There are six different reasons for saying this SKIL 5 SR211601 sander best. The reasons are fantastic motor speed, amazing dust collection system, easy maintenance; it can reach any tight place, quick on/off, and most minor vibration.
So, the first thing is motor speed. This tool has a 2.8-amp motor -that can run up to 13,000-OPM speed. As a result, it can complete the finishing task better than consuming enough time.
The next amazing feature is dust-controlling technology. Skill 5 uses a self-made cyclone force to clean the dirt from the surface and then store the powder in a transparent container. One can clean the box without hassle. This feature is called easy maintenance.
Finally, come the low vibration and quick cleaning option. This woodworking tool can reach any tight space because of the tiny pad. And this pad does not create a wave, so your hand stays fatigue-free.
- Easy on and off switch.
- Cyclone force for dust control.
- Good motor speed.
- We did not like the dust canister.
8. Best Cordless Sander: Milwaukee M18

In number eight, we have brought a tremendous cordless palm sander. This sander can be run through an 18- or a 12-volt battery. Besides the cordless facility, Milwaukee M-18 offers a lot of options for woodworkers. And they are:
Milwaukee m18 can run up to 12,000 opm speed. This speed is good enough to finish a sheet and log the surface. And you can control the speed through a switch. So, we can say if you want a battery-powered machine, then this one is the right choice.
Is that all? No. We have noticed a lot of features. A feature like “dust collection” is fantastic in this sander. The dust canister filter of Milwaukee can eat up the smallest and the most significant grime during work.
This cleaning is only possible for a fantastic sand disk and pad. Because the sand disk can reach the tightest spot, so, based on the features, we can say that – if you are in a remote area where a cordless sander is essential, then this sanding tool is useful to go.
- It has up to 35 minutes of battery backup.
- Lightweight.
- It has an excellent dust canister.
- It takes a long time to get recharged.
9. Best Detail Sander: SKIL SR232301
Alright, we chose this number nine tool for its versatility. Versatility means this tool can perform several works with its hook and loop strength. For example, as a user, you can make an excellent finish on the surface -by attaching sandpaper.
Or you can adjust the edge of your table, sheets, and log with the other three accessories. For performing the tasks, this machine uses a 1.2-amp motor. And the engine has a 13,500-Omp speed to deliver a smooth finish.
Sounds great? Yes, it has more exciting features. It has the lowest vibration technology to avoid hand fatigue.
Plus, the dust collection system is too good. It is like this motor can eat the least amount to a significant amount of grime.
In a nutshell, this SKIL SR232301 sander is quite suitable for using multifunction.
- Multi-function sander.
- Easy on/off technology.
- Least amount of vibration.
- We expected a sturdy latch.
10. Best Hand Sander For Furniture: BLACK+DECKER 20V
What are you thinking? Why are we calling this cordless sander “best”? Well, you need a definite explanation. Before starting the answer, let us introduce the product name. And it is none other than Black+Decker 20V.
Black+Decker offers some simple and convenient facilities with its products. And the offers are as follows: the first thing about this machine is -it’s a battery-powered tool. So, you can take it outside after charge of finishing the job.
Not only is this machine perfect for finishing a job, but it is also ideal for multipurpose jobs. As a result, one can make a corner finish with this woodworking tool. For performing the earlier job, this tool has a 20V battery-powered motor.
And the motor can perform with 12,000-OPM speed. As a portable machine, this sort of speed is good enough. Besides the speedy performance, the machine manufacturer has added a dust canister. This dust filter can eat up a maximum amount of dust, but we are not satisfied with the dust collection storage.
Except for the dust collection option, this tool has excellent rubber-made gripping. As a result, a woodworker won’t feel any fatigue from vibration. In a word, this machine is perfect for a portable purpose.
- Portable sander.
- Long-time battery.
- Two years of warranty.
- We did not like the dust collection box.
Best Palm Sander Buying Guide
At the time of choosing our reviewed product, we considered some essential factors. And as a new buyer, you need to know the considerations. That is why we have decided to design a buying guideline.
This guideline will guide you to reach your expected product. So, without any further delay, let us explain the instructions below:
Flexibility To Change Sandpapers
Sandpapers basically do the finishing job. Thus, the first thing we recommend is to check the sandpaper-changing options. If the changing option becomes more comfortable, then you have enough chance to work faster.
Performance of Sanders
Secondly, you will check the performance. Performance means how smoothly the machine finishes its job. In this case, you have to focus on the wood finishing purpose. For example, what type of wood do you prefer to work with? It can be dry wood, sheet wood, or plywood. Based on the wood category, you have to choose the sanders.
Now, there is one thing, which is different sanders have different performance capabilities. For: Some of the palm sanders can only finish the surface. On the other hand, some of the sanders can reach the corners.
So, check the motor Amp and speed the time of choosing the sanders.
Dust Collection Facilities
Next, we recommend you cross-check the dust collection store. Because most palm sanders come with a built-in dust collection facility. This facility will save your respiratory from sawdust. Now, what should you check? You should review the storage capacity. If it is small, then there is a high chance of changing the dust canister over and over. So, please ensure a functional role during the time of choosing a palm sander.
Palm Sanders Maintenance Tips
- This section is a bonus for the readers. In this section, we will write some simple tips to keep the palm sanders alive. So, the tips are as follows:
- When you have completed your work with the sanders, clean the machine with a dry cloth.
- Use light oil once a week to keep the sanders working.
- Keep the sanders in a dry and warm place.
- Always use used sandpaper or pad under the machine; this care will save the surface.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Since our buying guide is solely made for newbies, we thought a novice might have some questions. And these questions may be very basic. That is why we decided to answer some basic questions regarding palm sanders.
What are palm sanders used for?
Palm sanders are handheld for sanding wood, plastic, metal, and other materials. They are useful for detail sanding and finishing work, especially in tight spaces that a larger sander can’t fit.
What are the different types of palm sanders?
Common types include oscillating palm sanders, inline palm sanders, triangular palm sanders, and random orbital palm sanders. Oscillating and inline sanders move back and forth, while random orbital and triangular sanders vibrate in small circles.
What features should I look for when choosing a palm sander?
Key features include the grip design, size, weight, dust collection ability, type of sanding motion, speed settings or variable speed, and ease of changing sandpaper. Look for comfort, control, and the ability to reduce hand fatigue.
What grit sandpaper is best for palm sanders?
For smoothing wood, start with 80 or 100-grit paper and work up to 150 and then 220-grit. Use fine grits like 400 or 600 for finishing and polishing. Get a variety pack to have different grits for the full sanding process.
How can I prolong the life of sandpaper on a palm sander?
Don’t press too hard; keep the sander moving at all times, clean clogs in the paper, and change sheets once they become worn. Proper sanding technique will help avoid rapid grit wear or tearing.
What safety tips should I follow when using a palm sander?
Wear eye and hearing protection as well as a dust mask. Keep the sander moving to avoid damaging the workpiece. Unplug it before changing the sandpaper. Ensure your work is secured and your hands are not in the path of the sander.
How much are palm sanders?
A palm sander price starts from $25, and it depends on the quality. The better quality, the price of a palm sander will be.
How do palm sanders work?
Alright, palm sander works as a finisher on wood. In detail, when a woodworker intends to apply varnish or paint on a forest. He/she has to go through a finishing job -to make the wood surface or its edge smooth. To make the wood surface flat, the wood artist needs sandpaper. The sandpaper sticks with the sand machine pad. Then, the owner turns on the machine switch and rolls over the surface. This way, the palm sander works.
What are palm sanders used for?
A palm sander does the finishing job before applying varnish or paints on a plank of wood. And that is why palm sanders are used.
What are the best palm sanders?
In our opinion, we prefer Dewalt, Makita, and Skil as the best sanders.
Conclusion
Now, we are in the final section of our article. In our writing, we tried to portray the best products, a useful buying guide, and some maintenance tips. We hope these different sections will help you to choose the best palm sander at the end.
Still, we have to form an opinion regarding our review. So, our team preferred “Dewalt, Makita, and Skill” as the best hand sanders. Now, it is your choice. Let us know what sanders you like most.