Best Cordless Sanders (Reviews & Guide)

Today’s cordless sanders feature a rechargeable battery and boast a powerful mechanism, allowing you to complete your DIY projects efficiently. For most woodworkers, sanding is a major part of their everyday tasks, creating the need for a durable and reliable sander.

With various products saturating the market, picking the best cordless sanders for your projects is no child’s play. Lucky for you, I have tested various products, which we’ll recommend in this post. 

This article also provides you with a buyer’s guide to help you make informed purchases. Read on to learn more.

Our Top Picks

Best Cordless Sanders

1. Dewalt DCW210D1 Orbital Sander–Best Cordless Orbital Sander
2. BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX–Best Affordable Cordless Sander
3. DEWALT 20V MAX* XR Oscillating Tool–Best Cordless Sander For Large Areas
4. Ryobi One+ 18v 5″ Random Orbit Sander–Best Lightweight Cordless Sander
5. Milwaukee 2648-20 Orbital Sander–Best Cordless Sander For Corners
6. Makita XOB01Z–Best Cordless Palm Sander
7. RIDGID 18-Volt GEN5X–Best Cordless Belt Sander

7 Best Cordless Sanders Reviews

1. Best Cordless Orbital Sander – Dewalt DCW210D1 Orbital Sander

I tested the DeWalt DCW210D1 Orbital Sander and found it one of the most aggressive and fastest products in my in-house tests. This tool has a motor that runs well.

You can change how fast it works from 8000 to 12000 times per minute. This way, you can use it for different jobs. Plus, a removable 8-hole hook and loop sanding pad make for seamless changing of the sandpaper.

This power sander has a rubber grip which helps my hand not get tired. This is useful when I need to sand a plasterboard wall. Furthermore, the dust-sealed switch prevents dust ingestion and ensures a long switch life.

The dust port can be connected to the DWV012 or DWV010 dust collectors or with a DWV9000 universal quick connector to attach to a vacuum system. This product works with an 18 Volt battery and charger.

It comes with a 3-year warranty and you can get help from the company anytime. Overall, I’m quite satisfied with its performance and durability, making it a reliable choice for any sanding job.

Pros

Has minimum vibration
Comfortable grip reduces fatigue
Shorter profile suits operations in tight spaces
It comes with a 3-year warranty

Cons

Requires an additional adaptor to connect to a vac system
It doesn’t include a battery and charger

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2. Best Affordable Cordless Sander– BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX

I’m a big fan of this Black+ Decker cordless random orbital sander. Despite its affordability, it offers great value for money and can deliver an even finish regardless of the surface I’m working on.

It is lightweight and has an ergonomic design that reduces fatigue. With up to 12000 Oscillations Per Minute (OPM), I can quickly clear away materials like stains, paint, and varnish.

I love the tool’s patented hook-and-loop system that lets me easily switch sandpaper disks. Plus, its onboard dust collection system – featuring an easy-to-empty dust bag – helps maintain a clean work area and enhances visibility.

The only downside is its short runtime on a single charge, so it’s not suited for large and demanding projects. Its efficiency depends on the material I’m sanding – it does a great job on subtle surfaces like white pine.

Lastly, I always wear a mask and work in well-ventilated areas. Safety first.

Pros

It’s affordable
It’s comfortable for the grip
It’s small and compact
It delivers fast material removal

Cons

Features a low-runtime battery
It doesn’t suit demanding surfaces

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3. Best Cordless Sander For Large Areas- DEWALT 20V MAX* XR Oscillating Tool

I’m in the market for a sander that can handle large sanding projects, and this DeWalt model is my choice. It helps me achieve a smooth and even finish no matter what type of surface I’m working on.

It has an effective dust-collection system and an ergonomic handle to make sanding easier. The machine has 3 different speeds. You can choose the speed that is best for the job.

This is perfect for getting walls ready to be painted. It also has a brushless motor that offers up to 57% more run time than a brushed motor.

And its dual-grip variable speed trigger gives me ultimate control over the application and speed. Plus, this tool has a universal accessory adaptor so that I can attach it to most oscillating tools regardless of brand.

Its accessory system makes changing blades and attachments easy – wrenches are unnecessary. And its bright LED illuminates help me work accurately on dark surfaces.

The only downside is that it has a bit of lag in power compared to other similarly-priced products and tends to vibrate more.

However, this DeWalt sander stands out as one of the top drywall sanders on the market and lives up to its reputation as one of the best tools out there.

Pros

Suitable for large surfaces
Includes variable speed settings depending on the application
Its brushless motor offers more runtime
Its blades and attachments are easy to change
Features Led illuminates for dark work surfaces

Cons

Less powerful than competitor products
It tends to vibrate more
Blades become hot after extended use, posing a hazard

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4. Best Lightweight Cordless Sander- Ryobi One+ 18v 5″ Random Orbit Sander

I recently purchased the Ryobi One+ random orbit sander, and it has been a great addition to my woodworking arsenal. It has an intriguing design and reliable battery life of up to 35 minutes; this cordless sander is an affordable and steadfast tool.

It includes an 18V battery which delivers up to 10000 OPM on the 5-inch pad, allowing me to achieve a smooth and high-quality finish on any surface.

The tool also has a dust collector and a button that locks it in place. This makes it easier to use for longer periods without getting tired. The sander also includes an assortment of sanding pads, so I don’t have to buy extra sandpaper discs.

Thanks to the hook-and-loop connecting system, I can easily attach the sanding pads. This tool has a 3-year limited warranty and excellent customer support.

All in all, I’m pleased with my purchase of the Ryobi One+ random orbit sander. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable, high-quality cordless sander.

Pros

It’s compact and lightweight
It’s affordable
It delivers a smooth and high-quality finish
Ergonomic grip reduces hand fatigue
It comes with sanding pads included

Cons

It includes a single-speed setting
It lags in power
Battery and charger are sold separately

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5. Best Cordless Sander For Corners- Milwaukee 2648-20 Orbital Sander

I use the Milwaukee random orbit sander for my DIY projects. It’s a reliable tool with an 18V battery and 3 Amp per hour of power, enough to get through most jobs.

It is lightweight at 4 pounds, so I don’t get hand fatigue even after long uses. The hook-and-loop design helps me attach sanding pads quickly, and the universal hose adaptor ensures it fits most shop vacs.

The controls are easy to use, even for a beginner woodworker like me. Plus, depending on my application, I can adjust the orbits speed from 70000 to 12000 OPM.

The REDLITHIUM battery technology provides up to 35 minutes of runtime so that I can sand away more material per battery charge. The only downside is that the dust canister sticks out over the back of the sander, making it hard to access tight spaces.

Fortunately, I can attach a duct to my vac system instead. All in all, this tool has been an invaluable help for my DIY projects.

Pros

Includes a universal hose adaptor for seamless ducting
It’s compact and easy to maneuver
Includes easy-to-use controls

Cons

 The hand placement angle is awkward
The dust canister gets in the way, especially in tight spaces.

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6. Best Cordless Palm Sander- Makita XOB01Z

I recently enjoyed trying out the Makita XOB01z cordless palm sander. I’m impressed with its big battery capacity and three-speed settings.

This tool can be used for both professional and home improvement jobs. It has three settings – 7000, 9500, and 11000 oscillations per minute.

It is a high-quality tool that will work great. This tool comes with a large 1/8-inch random orbit action for rapid sanding. It also has a one-touch electronic speed control switch to easily adjust the velocity from low, medium or fast settings.

Though it retails at $99, this cordless palm sander offers excellent dust collection and hand control with minimum vibration.

The only downside is its powerful gyroscopic action, meaning I must lean it slightly forward to enable it to sand on the track. But once I got used to that, I could work seamlessly. All in all, this is an excellent tool for anyone looking for a good cordless palm sander.

Pros

Sands quite fast
Suitable for pros and beginners
Delivers a swirl-free finish
Offers excellent dust collection

Cons

Dust bag sticks from the body, limiting efficiency
It doesn’t come with an included battery
It has a powerful gyroscopic action

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7. Best Cordless Belt Sander–  RIDGID 18-Volt GEN5X

I bought the Ridgid Gen5x cordless belt sander and was impressed with its performance. The brushless motor offers improved resistance detection, longer runtime, and enhanced motor life.

It is light enough to maneuver easily in tight spaces and has a long-lasting battery. These qualities make it a great choice in the belt sanders category.

I found the 3″ by 18″ belt handy when milling bulk wood in varying conditions. It quickly removed all the unwanted material, allowing me to finish my work more efficiently.

The front handle knob was particularly useful as I had to use two hands to operate the sander.

My only issue was that it didn’t deliver a finished surface. After sanding, I had to refine the surface for a smoother finish. I’m glad about my purchase and recommend this product to anyone looking for a reliable sander.

Happy sanding!

Pros

Suitable for rough surfaces
It’s a user-friendly model
Delivers constant performance
Offers minimal friction

Cons

 It doesn’t deliver a finished surface
Like most belt sanders, it’s harder to control

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Types Of Cordless Sanders

There are four types of cordless sanders you’re likely to come across. They are also among the best sanders to refinish furniture you can use in your project.

Orbital Sanders

Orbital sanders include a pad that assumes a circular motion. It is on the pad where you attach a rectangular or square sanding sheet. This type of cordless sander is suitable for smoothing out large surfaces.

Similarly, they are lightweight and boast a compact design. As a result, you can take them anywhere without encountering mobility issues. Moreover, they feature rubberized handles that are easy to grip.

Random Orbital Sanders

In addition to the circular motion of orbital sanders, random orbital sanders also move back and forth when used. This additional movement delivers a smoother finish without the swirl patterns you’re prone to encounter with regular orbital power sanders. 

This well-rounded sander works great for most sanding needs except on corners or where you need detailed sanding. They also deliver a clean and smooth finish, removing stains from an orbital finishing sander. It’s also easy to use and suits beginner woodworkers.

Belt Sanders

Belt sanders are a perfect option for woodworkers seeking to cover large areas. In addition, belt sanders are suitable for doors and tabletops, among other flat surfaces. 

Similarly, belt sanders are a favorite for amateur and professional painters who use them to remove existing finishes, including paint, stain, and varnish.

However, while they remove even layers of wood, belt sanders hardly deliver a finished polish. They also come in different sizes, with the largest belt covering more surface area. Unfortunately, larger-sized belts aren’t suitable for detailed designs and corners.

If you’re interested in a detailed comparison of orbital sander vs belt sander, be sure to check out our article to learn more.

Palm Sanders

Also known as finish sanders, palm sanders consist of a smaller square pad that generates a smooth finish. As a result, they’re much easier to maneuver than a cordless sheet sander and cost far less. Moreover, they’re smaller and thus suitable for intricate designs.

Detail Sanders

These sanders include a triangular pad that functions similarly to other sanders. So, with the pointed shape, you can use detail sanders to access hard-to-reach areas, including corners and edges. 

This could be impractical with other tools, such as sheet sanders. The best detail sander for furniture comes with other attachments for chair legs or spindles.

Best Cordless Sander Comparison Table

Buyer’s Guide; Picking The Best Cordless Sander

Choosing the best cordless sander for your needs isn’t a walk in the park. More often, you’ll come across products that promise what they can’t deliver. Here’s what to consider when purchasing a cordless sander:

Volts

A tool’s voltage rating is the maximum energy potential of its battery. So, a sander with higher voltage ratings delivers more power at any moment. 

Amperage

Amperage is the amount of electrical current a motor carries over some time instead of indicating the tool’s power. The amperage rating states how long you can operate the tool without overheating. 

So, when picking a cordless sander, choose one with a higher amp/hour rating. This allows you to operate the sander for a long while without the frequent need for recharging.

Weight

I prefer lighter cordless sanders since they’re easier to control. Similarly, with reduced weight, you can work for extended periods without experiencing hand fatigue, enabling you to complete your projects.

Sanding Paper

How the sandpaper attaches to the tool can affect your user experience. Go for tools with a hook-and-loop attachment system. Sandpapers utilizing adhesive tend to be dirty and harder to work with.

Battery Location

The position of the battery can affect balance. Subsequently, this may arise in hand fatigue issues. Similarly, the battery’s location determines how easy it is to unload or load it.

Ergonomics

The handle, grip, and padding design, among other design features, can make it more comfortable to operate the device without experiencing fatigue. A poorly designed sander makes sanding cumbersome. For the best user experience, consider investing in the best oscillating spindle sander.

Why Choose A Battery Hand Sander? 

While corded sanders offer more power, their cordless counterpart is also worth considering. Here are the top reasons why you should settle for a cordless sander instead.

Greater Mobility

Cordless sanders, which consist of a battery, offer greater mobility for the user. With these hand-held tools, you can carry them anywhere instead of bringing the wood to the device.

Similarly, with a cordless sander, you can work limitlessly without requiring an extension cord or power outlet. This allows you to access hard-to-reach areas that would’ve otherwise proved futile with a corded device.

 Ease of Use

Cordless sanders are often easier to use than their traditional corded counterparts. You needn’t carry an extension cord; hence you won’t have to set it up before commencing your sanding project. 

Similarly, you don’t risk having power cords get in your way while working. This also makes it easier to maintain the tool since you don’t have to take precautions to prevent the cord from breaking.

Battery Platforms

Lastly, most brands produce cordless power tools incorporating battery systems that you can swap between various tools the company manufactures. This feature allows you to use batteries with multiple cordless tools, provided they operate on the same battery platform.

 Battery-Powered Versus Corded Sander

We assessed both cordless (battery-powered) sanders and their corded counterparts. Before the comparison, a major concern was the battery’s weight, which would make the cordless sander too heavy. 

However, once we weighed both tools, we established they had almost similar weights. However, we had to factor in the cord’s heft for this to be true.

Choose a battery-powered sander if you spend most of your time on job sites and have numerous projects demanding cordless tools. 

Besides being handy, cordless tools are more mobile, especially when climbing a scaffold or ladder. Typically, you won’t have to deal with the weight of the hanging cord.

On the other hand, we recommend corded sanders if you’re most likely to spend your sanding sessions on a bench. 

Similarly, use this model if you can access the power outlet without an extension cord. In such scenarios, you won’t experience cord drag, and mobility is less needed.

Both the battery-powered and corded sander are safe for users since wood is a poor conductor of electricity.

Cordless Sander Limitations To Consider

Potential Downtime

Like all tools utilizing batteries, you’ll need to recharge your cordless sander once it drains. This might cause a potential downtime, especially if you only have one battery. 

To counter this effect, I suggest having more than a single battery. This eliminates downtime since you’ll use the sander with one battery while the other charges.

 Limits to Power

Most battery-powered tools, including sanders, have significantly improved power output compared to earlier generations of cordless power tools. Nevertheless, the cordless designs can hardly match corded devices’ power output levels. 

Cordless sanders that generate the same power output can do so for a limited time. But, typically, the power reduces as the battery drains. This is why manufacturers indicate Amp/hour ratings on their cordless products to denote the approximate run time.

 More Expensive

Generally, top cordless sanders cost more than corded devices of the same type and size. Price being a major factor when making any purchase, you’ll want to consider your budget before settling for such devices. 

This variance in price is huge because of the battery and other designs incorporated into a cordless unit. This includes the electronic interface between the drill and the battery. 

 Maintaining Your Cordless Sander 

While sanders have minimal maintenance needs, you’ll want to care for them. First, you’ll have to clean them by blowing off the dust using compressed air. Alternatively, you can use a shop vacuum to clean its air vents and exterior.

Also, sanders generate wood dust that can be hazardous to your health. Subsequently, you’ll want to wear a dust mask when operating a sander. 

Use a mask with a foam strip that allows it to seal effectively to your face. Similarly, opt for masks with a vent that reduces moisture build-up.

Using a cordless sander is quite simple. Here are some key rules to keep in mind when operating the device;

1. Work slowly, moving the sander steadily over the wood surface. Racing back and forth isn’t worth it for your tool and the surface you’re working on.

2. As you move from a coarse sander to a smooth one, skip one grit grade. For instance, you can move from 100-grit sandpaper to 150, skipping the 120-grit grade. 

But you can’t go from using 100-grit sandpaper to 220-grit. So, while you could move through each grit size, from coarse to smoothest, it is only necessary if you’re aiming for the finest of works.

3. Before proceeding to the next grit level, clean the surface using a shop vacuum and a brush attachment. Vacuuming gets rid of trapped particles on the surface. 

Next, use a tack cloth to wipe the surface before moving to the next grit for furniture-grade finishing. A tack cloth is a damp rag used to pick up dust.

4.  Avoid tipping the cordless sander near the edges lest you want to round them off. Rounding off the corners could help the paint stick better than painting a sharp corner.

See Also: Top Benchtop Belt Sander

FAQs

What Are The Best Battery Sanders?

1. Effective and aggressive: Makita XOB01T Random Orbital Sander
2. All-Around Cordless Sander: Ridgid R8606B Random Orbital.
3. Best sander for Large Surfaces: Milwaukee 2648-20 Orbital Sander.
4. Best Lightweight Sander: Ryobi One+ 18v 5″ Random Orbit Sander
5. Best for using on a Ladder: Porter-Cable Random Orbital.

Which Is The Best Cordless Orbital Sander?

1. The Best Cordless Orbital Sanders include;
2. Best overall: DeWalt DWE6421K Orbital Sander
3. Best for pros: Festool 574993 Orbital Sander
4. Best for hard-to-reach areas: Porter Cable 382 Orbital Sander
5. Best all-round sander: Bosch ROS20VSC Orbital Sander
6. Best orbital sanders for corners: Milwaukee 6034-21 Orbital Sander

What Should I Look For When Purchasing An Orbital Sander?

When picking an orbital sander, consider its body configuration, motor, and pad size. Pick a 5″ to 6″ pad size depending on your workload. A reliable palm-size orbital sander costs between 50 USD to 100 USD. On the other hand, a heavy-duty in-line or right-angle tool will cost between 150 USD to 200 USD.

What Is The Best Sander On The Market?

1. DEWALT DWZ4424 Random Orbit Sander.
2. DeWalt DWE6423 Random Orbit Sander
3. Erbauer EXT ERO18-Li Cordless Orbital Sander
4. Bosch PSS 250 AE Orbital Sander
5. BLACK+DECKER Mouse Detail Sander

Which Sander Is Best For DIY Projects?

1. Makita DBO180 cordless 125mm random orbit sander
2. Makita BO5041 240v Random Orbit Sander
3. Bosch ROS20VSC Palm Sander
4. WEN Belt and Disc Sander
5. TACKLIFE Random Orbit Sander
6. Ryobi ONE+ Cordless Random Orbit sander

Conclusion

Cordless sanders continue to enjoy immense popularity among hobbyists and DIYers alike. This is largely due to their unique power and lack of busy cords. Without the cords, you can move about without worrying about portability issues, electrical outlets, or wires entangling in a mess.

Unfortunately, even the best cordless sanders come with their setbacks. First, they are less powerful than corded tools. Also, the battery runtime, capped at around 30 to 40 minutes, isn’t sufficient for professional projects.