Best Sander For Removing Paint From Wood

That’s the number of people that get excited when they have to strip paint without using chemicals. To simplify the task, you need the best sander for removing paint from wood.

Depending on your project type, location or budget, you are sure to find the right sanding machine for painting from our review and guide below.

Our Top Picks

Best Sander For Removing Paint From Wood

1. Makita BO5041 5″ Random Orbit Sander – (Best electric sander for paint removal)
2. DEWALT 20V MAX Random Orbit Sander – (Best Battery Powered Orbit Sander)
3. Makita 9403 4″ X 24″ Belt Sander – (Best belt sander to remove paint)
4. BLACK+DECKER Random Orbit Sander – (Best for Quick Tasks)
5. BLACK+DECKER Mouse Detail Sander – (Best sander for wood siding)
6. Wagner Spraytech 0513040 PaintEater – (Best sander for exterior paint removal)
7. BOSCH Power Tools – GET75-6N – (Best Duo Mode Orbital Sander)
8. PORTER-CABLE Random Orbit Sander – (Best sander for doors and trim)
9. Mouse Detail Sander, TECCPO 14,000 OPM – (Great for DIY)

Paint Sander Reviews (Updated List)

1. Best electric sander for paint removal – Makita BO5041 5″ Random Orbit Sander

As I look at this 5-inch random orbit sander, I can tell that Makita has thought about everything. One feature that immediately stands out to me is the rotatable front grip, added to improve comfort and control.

I know from experience that spending hours removing old paint from wood can leave me with callouses, so having three different ways to hold this sander for extra comfort is a huge plus.

I also notice the two-finger trigger type switch for short bursts, which is a convenient feature for making quick adjustments.

The lock-on button next to the trigger makes it easy for me to manoeuvre this electric sander with just one hand. The built-in dust-sealed switch is also a welcome addition, as it helps keep the workspace cleaner.

However, I have heard some complaints from other users about the vacuum port adaptor disconnecting every few minutes when using this electric sander to remove paint. It’s a minor inconvenience but the only downside to an otherwise flawless palm sander.

Regarding power, I’m impressed with the variable speed control that allows me to adjust between 4,000 and 12,000 orbits per minute (OPM). This gives me the flexibility to complete my projects quickly and efficiently.

The 125mm hook and loop sanding discs deliver a smooth, swirl-free finish, and the rotatable front handle allows me to get into tighter corners compared to other sanders I’ve used.

Another thing I appreciate is that the Makita BO5041 is double-insulated, making it both powerful and safe for everyday use.

I can see that Makita has put a lot of thought into the design and functionality of this random orbit sander, making it a reliable and user-friendly tool for my woodworking projects.

What I Liked Most

• Rotatable front handle for extra control
• Variable electronic speed control
• Easy to operate with one hand
• The best electric sander for wood
• Swirl-free finish

What Could Be Improved

• The vacuum port adaptor is not very strong
• Best for small projects

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2. Best Battery Powered Orbit Sander – DEWALT 20V MAX Random Orbit Sander

I love Dewalt’s out-of-the-box thinking; this random orbit sander beautifully demonstrates it.

This battery-powered sander is light on power but heavy on output and easy to use. The rubber over-mold grip makes it easy to manoeuvre this 2kg machine when repairing your splintered wood deck.

As I hold this random orbit sander, I feel it’s slightly heavier compared to other models. However, I realize this weight works in my favour, as it means I don’t have to apply extra pressure to get a smooth sanding operation.

The Makita uses an 8-hole hook and loop system pad, making it easy to change sanding discs as needed. It also comes with a vacuum bag, which is convenient for tackling remote areas like the edges of ceilings where dust collection is important.

I’m pleased that this sander has variable speed control, allowing me to adjust it to suit the surface I’m working on. One notable feature is its low profile, which means I’m closer to the action and can achieve more precise results.

Another advantage is the brushless motor, which allows me to work for longer periods of time before the sander needs to cool down.

One downside is that this paint sander is sold without a battery, which might be a drawback for those who don’t already own other Dewalt products.

However, I appreciate the freedom of a battery-powered sander, as I don’t have to worry about a power cord being too short or becoming a hazard during work.

Some may argue that a battery-powered sander is the best option for removing paint due to its portability and convenience.

Despite the slight weight and the need to purchase a battery separately, I can see that this random orbit sander has been designed with practical features that prioritize efficiency and performance, making it a suitable tool for my paint removal tasks.

What I Liked Most

• Ideal for hard-to-reach areas
• Brushless motor has an extended run-time
• The rubber grip makes it easier to hold
• Different speed options

What Could Be Improved

• It is a bit heavy
• Batteries are sold separately

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3. Belt Sander to Remove Paint from Deck – Makita 9403 4″ X 24″ Belt Sander

I can confidently say that you don’t earn a near-perfect rating from almost 2,000 reviews unless you’re truly exceptional. Another Makita product has made it onto our list – their 4″ wide belt sander, which has caught my attention.

One of the first things that stands out about this belt sander is its quietness, registering only 84dB, making it one of the quietest in its class. But don’t let that deceive you – this machine still delivers impressive power.

With a variable speed of 1,640 ft/min, the belt allows me to work quickly and efficiently, making it ideal for a wide range of tasks, including removing paint from decks, general woodwork, floor installation, deck building, and more.

I appreciate the large front grip, which gives me excellent control, while the low profile design helps to keep the sander balanced, reducing the risk of gouging when removing paint from wood surfaces.

The extended base is also a handy feature, allowing me to sand flush to the wall for more precise results.

While this belt sander comes with a dust collection system, given its capacity, connecting it to a tool-actuated vacuum provides better results.

The sander also comes with an 80-grit sandpaper 4″ x 24″ abrasive belt, which can easily be swapped out for finer grits to suit my specific needs.

Overall, I can see why this Makita belt sander has garnered such positive reviews. Its quiet operation, variable speed, and thoughtful design make it a top choice for removing paint and easily tackling various woodworking projects.

What I Liked Most

• Quiet belt sander
• It comes with a dust collector that swivels
• It allows flush sanding
• It comes with an abrasive belt

What Could Be Improved

• It is not ideal for vertical use

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4. Best Sander for Paint Prep– BLACK+DECKER Random Orbit Sander

If I’m searching for a reliable belt sander that can handle tough jobs, I can’t go wrong with the Metabo HPT Belt Sander. It’s designed for heavy-duty sanding tasks like removing paint, smoothing rough surfaces, and more.

With a 9-amp motor, this belt sander can deliver impressive power, and its variable speed control enables me to adjust the speed from 820 to 1,475 feet per minute based on the surface I’m working on.

Another great feature of the Metabo HPT Belt Sander is its dust collection system. It includes a dust bag and a port that connects to a vacuum cleaner to collect the dust as I work. That way, I don’t have to worry about cleaning up the dust mess after finishing my project.

The soft elastomer grip helps me maintain a firm grip, and the machine’s ergonomics is such that it is well-balanced, reducing operator fatigue. The flush surface design allows me to sand up to vertical surfaces and get close to the edges.

It uses a 3″ x 21″ belt, which is standard and easily available. The belt is also very easy to change with the toolless design. Additionally, the machine’s nose is very low, making it easy for me to reach tight spots and angles.

The Metabo HPT Belt Sander is an excellent tool for heavy-duty sanding tasks. It is perfect for professional woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts who need a powerful and reliable belt sander.

What I Liked Most

• Delivers 12,000 OPM
• Quick and easy to use
• It comes with a dust collector
• It gives a swirl-free finish
• One of the best sanders for refinishing furniture 

What Could Be Improved

• It only has one speed

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5. Best sander for wood siding– BLACK+DECKER Mouse Detail Sander

Honestly, I was not surprised to see another impressive power tool from Black+Decker. They are known for their top-quality products, and their detail sander is no exception, as it is one of the bestsellers on Amazon.

What sets this detail sander apart is its lightweight design and features perfect for detailed work. The pointed tip makes it easy to reach corners, and the included finger attachment is a handy addition for even tighter spots.

One feature that I appreciate is the 3-position grip. As someone who values control while sanding, holding the sander in different ways allows me to manoeuvre it easily, resulting in a smoother sanding job.

However, I did come across some reviews that mentioned issues with the dust bag. Some users complained that it fell off, but I believe it could be due to a faulty product.

The more common complaint was that the dust canister didn’t capture a lot of dust, which made wearing personal protective equipment necessary.

Another concern raised by some users was that the detail finger attachment melted or broke easily. I’ll take note of this and be cautious while using it to avoid any mistakes, as I’ll be following the buyer’s guide section for helpful tips.

Despite a few minor issues, the Black+Decker detail sander is a reliable tool for detailed sanding work, and I’m confident it will meet my needs for precision sanding projects.

What I Liked Most

• Lightweight and easy to control
• It comes with a finger detail attachment
• Delivers 14,000 OPM
• It can reach very tight corners

What Could Be Improved

• It can get very dusty
• The finger detail attachment is not very strong

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6. Best Sander for Exterior Paint Removal – Wagner Spraytech 0513040 PaintEater

As someone who often needs to remove paint and nothing else, I found the perfect solution with the Wagner PaintEater from Wagner Spraytech. This palm sander is specifically designed for efficient paint removal from wood, concrete, and metal surfaces.

The 3.2 amp motor delivers 2,600 rpm, providing optimal power without damaging the wood surface. One of my standout features is the 3M spun-fibre disc, which replaces traditional sandpaper and allows me to apply more pressure without causing damage, making the paint removal process quicker and easier.

In terms of comfort and usability, the PaintEater has some convenient features. The main body has a comfortable strap that supports my hand during use, and the retractable handle adds extra comfort, allowing me to work for longer periods without discomfort.

One thing to note is that the PaintEater doesn’t come with a dust bag, but it does have a unique dust collection system with an open-web design that prevents paint and dust from flying into the air and creating a mess. However, I did find that it still leaves some cleanup work after I’m done.

Among the many positive reviews, there were a couple of minor issues. Some users reported that the discs wore out quickly depending on their working surface.

Another concern was that the fuse couldn’t handle high temperatures, so I learned to pace myself during use to avoid overheating the tool.

Despite these minor concerns, I found the Wagner PaintEater to be a powerful and effective palm sander for paint removal, making it a solid choice for anyone who needs to remove paint and wants a reliable tool.

What I Liked Most

• It has a retractable handle
• Very easy to use
• It works on various surfaces

What Could Be Improved

• It comes with a non-resettable fuse
• It does not have a dust collector

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7. Best Duo Mode Orbital Sander – BOSCH Power Tools – GET75-6N

When tackling a large paint removal job, my go-to tool is usually a belt sander. However, I’ve always found it frustrating that belt sanders can’t reach tight spaces like random orbital sanders can. That’s why I was thrilled to discover the Bosch hybrid orbital sander.

Technically a 6″ electric orbital sander, this tool can pack the punch of a belt sander by switching to turbo mode, which operates at 5 times the normal mode for more aggressive stock paint removal.

The random orbit mode is perfect for regular paint removal and finishing work on wood surfaces.

Bosch has included a movable auxiliary handle that can be attached to either side of the sander for added control to ensure that the extra power doesn’t damage the surface.

The counterweight balance also helps reduce hand fatigue from vibrations, allowing me to work for longer periods without discomfort.

One feature I particularly appreciate is the passive dust collection system, which can easily be attached to a vacuum using the hose adapter, helping keep the work area clean.

Additionally, the pad-dampening braking system is designed to reduce swirl marks, ensuring a smoother finish.

The only drawback I’ve encountered is that this tool’s 6″ sanding pads can be a bit harder to find in local hardware stores compared to the more common 5″ pads. However, they are readily available on Amazon, so it hasn’t been a major inconvenience.

Overall, the Bosch hybrid orbital sander has been a game-changer for me in paint removal jobs, as it combines the best of both worlds – the versatility of a random orbital sander and the power of a belt sander.

What I Liked Most

• Very powerful duo mode
• It works easily with a vacuum
• The auxiliary handle is movable
• It minimizes swirl marks

What Could Be Improved

• The disc is not as easy to find

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8. Best Sander for Doors and Trim – PORTER-CABLE Random Orbit Sander

I often feel like I’ve seen them all when I come across an orbital sander. That’s why it takes something truly unique to catch my attention. In this case, the after-sales service sets this product apart.

Porter-Cable is so confident in its orbital sander that it offers a 90-day money-back guarantee and a three-year limited warranty, the longest among its competitors. It’s reassuring to know they stand behind their product, although I hope I won’t need to use it.

This 5-inch orbital sander is designed for quick and simple tasks, making it suitable for both amateurs and professionals. It features a straightforward ergonomic design with a power switch and 100% ball-bearing construction for improved balance.

Porter-Cable has also incorporated smart features like the Controlled Finishing System and speed lock, which allow for better control over the pad speed to minimize gouging. With a top speed of 12,000 OPM, these features come in handy for achieving the desired finish.

In terms of convenience, the orbital sander comes with a decent-sized dust collection bag for on-site jobs, and it can also be plugged directly into a vacuum when used in-store.

While most feedback for this orbital sander is positive, there have been a couple of complaints about poor build quality and the dust collector falling off. It’s worth noting that the dust collector needs to be snapped on tightly to prevent leaks.

As for the build quality, it’s important to remember that this is an affordable product, so it may not compete with higher-end specs.

However, if I’m not satisfied with its performance, I know I can always contact customer service thanks to their generous after-sales service.

What I Liked Most

• 90-day money-back guarantee
• 3-year limited warranty
• Ergonomic design
• Minimizes gouging and swirl marks

What Could Be Improved

• The sanding pad is not very strong

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9. Great for DIY – Mouse Detail Sander, TECCPO 14,000 OPM

I have finally come across another excellent detail sander perfect for my DIY projects. What sets this one apart is its compact size, ideal for my small hands, and impressive performance.

This little sander may be small, but it packs a punch with a maximum speed of 14,000 ppm, making it the fastest among all the sanders I’ve seen.

Its lightweight design, weighing just 2.6 pounds, is easy to handle, and the rubberized head and narrow neck allow me to hold it comfortably in different positions for better control.

Due to its sturdy build, the Teccpo detail sander is highly effective in removing paint from wood and works well on various surfaces.

However, I have noticed that pushing this sander beyond its limits can result in quicker wear and tear, as reported by some users. So, I use it only for small jobs and detail work, as intended, to ensure its durability.

One thing to note is that the dust collector may not capture all particles effectively, which can be frustrating. However, I appreciate that the sander is connected to a shop vacuum, providing an alternative for better dust collection.

The Teccpo detail sander is a reliable tool for my DIY projects. I need to be mindful of its limitations and use it accordingly to get the best results.

What I Liked Most

• It delivers 14,000 OPM
• It can be connected to a shop vac
• It comes with 12 sandpapers
• It works on different surfaces

What Could Be Improved

• It wears out quickly
• Not suitable for big projects

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Best Sander for Wood Comparison Table

Education: What You Need to Know

Types of Sanders for Removing Paint From Wood 

With so many different types of sanders, narrowing down the best one for removing paint from wood can be tough. After all, they all look and work differently.

When you have been in the field for a while, you habitually acquire different types. But if you’re new and don’t have money to burn, you only need one.

But before we declare the best sanders for paint removal, we must understand the different options and how they work.

Belt sander

The belt sander is among the oldest and most reliable sanding power tools. It is strong, powerful, and one of the best cordless sanders for quickly removing paint from wood.

Due to their size and weight, belt sanders are only suitable for flat surfaces. So, if you need paint removal paint, or varnish from floors, cabinets, tables, and other vertical surfaces.

When operating this tool, you must be mindful of the power; too much force can cause gouging. However, this is an easy fix for a machine with variable speed control.

The more severe problem with a belt sander is when working on exterior surfaces or walls. So, while this is powerful, it is not the most conducive for removing paint from wood.

Random orbital sander

If you are looking for a sander for removing paint, you can’t go wrong with a random orbital sander. Also known as the palm sander, a random orbital sander is easy to hold and can be operated with one hand.

They are also light enough to use on horizontal surfaces or even upside down. Like a belt sander, these may come with variable speed control and lock. It also has an efficient dust collection system or vacuum adapter to connect to a shop vac easily.

You may have noticed that some of the products on our list are named orbit sanders or orbital sanders, but this design is nearly obsolete. Nearly every orbital sander is now randomized, as this reduces swirl marks and gives a smoother finish.

From a cost perspective, these are also much cheaper than belt sanders. They may not be as powerful as their larger competitors, but they do a good enough job.

Some people argue that palm sanders are the best sanders for removing paint and stains from wood. Therefore, if you can only afford one sander for paint removal, get a random orbital sander.

Detail sander

A detail sander or a mouse detail sander was mainly designed for one specific purpose – hard-to-reach areas. Therefore, even though some detail sanders can be as powerful as a random orbital sander, they should only be used as intended.

As you can see from our list, mouse detail sanders are much smaller and lighter than orbit sanders. They are also not as strong. Therefore, when you use a detail sander for an extended period, it can start to melt, and the parts may break.

If you work on mainly small-scale projects, a detail sander should be the second item on your list.

The best detail sander comes with nifty features like a dust bag and detail finger attachment, but not much else. Yet, this is a convenient tool especially given the good price point.

Unconventional sanders

This isn’t a type of sander, more like different sanders that could be used to remove paint from wood but are not designed for that.

They include:

• Shaft sander
• Arbitrary circle sander
• Disc sander
• Strip sander
• Power drywall sander

These tools are too big, bolted-down, or aggressive to remove old paint without damaging the wood. It can’t be done if you can’t remove paint with a combination of any of the first three sanders.

Consider other methods of removing paint from wood without sanding.

Factors to Consider When Buying a Paint Removing Sander

Now that you have decided on the type of sander to remove paint, it is time to narrow down your options. These factors will help you find the right paint sanding machine for your current and future projects.

Speed and Power

When looking for the best sander, the first thing to consider is its ability, typically measured by speed and power. All of the sanders tell you how many OPM or RPM the device delivers to give you an idea of how quickly it can remove paint.

After all, that is why you want a sander in the first place, so this should be a priority.

Besides the speed, you also need to evaluate the power – volts, amps, or watts. More watts mean more power.

For example, while the Teccpo mouse detail has the highest OPM at 14,000, it delivers less power than the non-battery-powered orbital sanders, making it less reliable for more arduous paint removal.

Speed control

If you are new to sanding, this is an essential feature. When you start sanding right at the highest speed, chances are you will gouge out some of that wood while trying to remove paint.

This happens both when you are applying the sander and taking it off. Electronic speed control prevents mishaps by allowing you to start gradually and then build up to the required variable speed.

If this feature is absent, a smart system like that used in the Porter-Cable orbital sander will be the next best thing.

Grip

Sanding takes a very long time, making your hand numb, tired, or feel raw. Therefore, comfort is critical when choosing a sander.

There is no point in owning a sander you can barely hold on to after a few minutes because your hand is sore. You should aim for a palm sander with a rubberized head (which is more comfortable to hold and reduces vibrations) and has different holding options.

Options like the Makita orbital sander and the Wagner Spraytech palm grip have an extra handle to give you extra comfort and control. The other sanders have ergonomic designs that allow you to hold onto the neck.

Of course, for belt sanders, having an extra handle is necessary, while it isn’t so for detail sanders.

Ease of use

When you have a long day ahead of you, you need a tool to make your job easier. Palm sanders, in particular, are designed for simple plug-and-play.

They should be easy to switch on and lock in, so you don’t have to leave your finger on the switch. Another important feature is that replacing the sandpaper should also be easy.

You may have noticed that the palm and detail sanders mostly use hook and loop sanding discs, which only takes a second to swap sandpapers. You may also consider the weight and the tools required to use it.

For example, the DeWalt is the heaviest orbit sander on our list and requires a battery. But then, that also makes it easier to use when you don’t have an extension cord.

Dust collection

Sanding throws a lot of fine dust particles into the air, which can be harmful when swallowed. So you need a sander with a dust collection port for working remotely and a vacuum adapter to connect it to different types of shop vacs.

Admittedly, most dust bags are quite porous, so you will still need to use PPE when sanding. However, having the option and not needing it is still better than not having it.

Versatility 

This sets sanders apart and makes a random orbital sander a preferred tool over a belt sander. Due to their lightweight yet powerful performance, random orbit sanders can be used anywhere.

Factors that improve versatility include adjusting variable speed, which allows you to work on different types of wood without fear of sanding too deeply.

If you’re looking for a detail sander, the finger detail attachment improves your ability to sand very tight spaces.

How To Use an Orbital Sander to Remove Paint from Wood

A random orbital sander is one of the easiest tools you can use. You don’t need a long instructional video or a course.

There are just three basic rules you need to follow:

Keep the sander flat

Always keep the entire body of the palm sander in contact with the surface. Tilting it will cause you to sand some areas deeper than others.

That is fine for shaping wood but not for removing paint.

Don’t add pressure

Some negative reviews for products on our list result from not using a sander properly. You don’t need to apply pressure when using a palm sander as it will cause the pad not to spin properly, overheat or break.

Let the sander do all the work.

Always start with a higher grit

Removing old paint is not difficult, but doing so without removing wood can be tricky.

Your first few times using a power sander might lead to some problems with gouging. To reduce that risk, use higher grit sandpaper than necessary or start at a lower speed.

Take your time

I know sanding is boring, but rushing it will ruin your work. Take your time to ensure you don’t leave any swirl marks.

They may not be obvious while you work, but they will be after you apply a stain or a finish.

Get rid of dust immediately

Sanding over dust can cause the sandpaper to get gummed up, which can cause scratches on the wood or worse. As good as dust collectors are, connecting your sander to a shop vac is always better, as this eliminates all the dust immediately.

Related Post: Getting Off Polyurethane from Wood Without Sanding

FAQs on the Best sander for Removing Paint

How much should you sand?

You should always sand until you get a smooth surface. You should also sand the entire surface, not just the areas that look rough to the naked eye. Otherwise, the project will look shoddy when you apply a finish, revealing rough patches.

Why are orbital sanders better than others?

Random orbital sanders move in different directions, leaving fewer swirl marks than other electric sanders. They are also one of the easiest and most versatile, as you can sand flush to the wall and other hard-to-reach areas.

Can I use the paint sander with paint stripping gel?

While you can do this in theory, painting sanders this way is not advisable. When you use paint stripping gel, you are to scrape it off. You would have to wait for it to dry before using a sander.

Make Sanding Look Easy

Finding the best sander for removing paint from wood will not only shave hours off your work time, but it can also get you excited about it.

That said, it is time to announce a winner: the Makita B05041 random orbit sander. Again, the little things that have distinguished this from the competition: are the rotatable front grip, electronic speed control, and unbelievable power.