One very versatile and useful woodworking tool is the belt sander, although the tool is seemingly tough. Simply, a belt sander is a workshop tool that is used for shaping, sanding, and wood finishing. Meanwhile, it can be used for other materials aside from woods.
Finding a tool for your workshop, which most people chase, is the perfect tool to handle their requirements. Hence, this is one of the reasons that architects and workshop owners seek the best belt sander.
During operation, belt sanders may exhibit an aggressive effect on wood and are used majorly during the early sanding procedure. However, this tool may vary in size from portable handhelds to large workshop units.
When used on wood, this tool produces wood particles know as sawdust and, therefore, is used with dust collection. Moreover, the stationary type is used for the removal of non-ferrous metals like aluminum. Simply, this electric motor is designed with a continuous loop of what is known as sandpaper.
In this article, the best belt sanders have been compiled and reviewed to assist you in making a decision and getting the best. Therefore, the best sanders may either be handheld and movable or stationary type.
* Check out our expert review on The Best Palm Sander.
* Check out our expert review on The Best Wood Glue.
Top 10 Best Belt Sander for The Money
01. Makita 9403 Belt Sander
Product Features
- Contains a dust collection system
- Allows flush sanding through its extended base
- 4-inch belt and removes materials with a speed of 1640 feet per minute
- Powered by an 11 AMP motor
- Less noise below 84dB
- Has a large front grip for the operator’s convenience
Product Specification
- Brand: Makita
- Model: 9403
- Weight: 13 pounds
- Dimensions: 9 × 16 × 9.76 inches
- Belt Size: 4 × 24 inches
Product Description and Performance
Topping our list of the best belt sanders is this Makita product. Also, this product is equipped with a sound reduction design to reduce the noise during operation. It is a convenient product for carpenters, woodworkers, architects, and other wood contractors.
However, it is equipped with a 4 by 24-inch belt size to improve its effectiveness and wood finishing. Moreover, this model offers speed with convenience. It has one of the best power operators running at 11 AMP. Nevertheless, this model is undoubtedly one of the best belt sanders and fits into workshops perfectly.
Aside from these mentions, it is also double-insulated and well designed to provide balance to the user. It is also a labyrinth construction intended to promote tool durability.
Pros
- Powerful motor
- Quiet
- Quick and efficient
- Double insulation design
- Easy maneuver
Cons
- Clogging may occur
- Expensive
02. TACKLIFE PSFS1A Belt Sander
Product Features
- Electric powered
- 5 AMP motor capacity
- Can be used as a bench sander and movable sander
- Equipped with dual vacuum adapters for quick dust removal.
- Includes a speed knob that allows up to 560RPM
- Equipped with a quick-release feature
Product Specification
- Brand: TACKLIFE
- Model: PSFS1A
- Weight: 7.48 pounds
- Dimensions: 15 × 6.1 × 5.3 inches
- Belt Size: 3 × 18 inches
Product Description and Performance
The PSFS1A is a lightweight and very affordable sander. Despite this price range, it is notable for its outstanding suitability. This tool is also useful for heavy tasks and beats other sanders that cost multiple of its price.
Electric is sold with a power cord with a length of 3 meters to allow movement and flexibility. However, its body is made of plastic and weighs less than 8 pounds. Despite the plastic design, this tool is highly reliable, affordable, and durable. Also, it combines unique features that most products beyond its price point do not have. Hence, earning its place as one of the best belt sanders for you to buy.
Pros
- High performance
- Affordability
- Lightweight
- Convertible (can be used as a bench sander)
- An efficient dust collection system
Cons
- The belt top speed is low
03. Hitachi SB8V2 Belt Sander
Product Features
- Operates on a 9 AMPS motor
- Has a Speed of 820-1476 feet per minute
- Useful for steel, wood, and paint removal
- Includes a dust collection container
- Equipped with soft elastomer grips for easy maneuver
- Parts are upgradeable
- The belt tracking window is transparent
Product Specification
- Brand: Hitachi
- Model: SB8V2
- Weight: 9.5 pounds
- Dimensions: 6 × 6.75 × 4 inches
- Belt Size: 3 × 21 inches
Product Description and Performance
This Hitachi product is one of the most competitive Belt sanders available in the market. Unlike other classes of sanders, it offers the best features at an affordable price point. Although it is not the cheapest of all, it is not the most expensive either.
However, the 9 Amp motor on this product supports its high performance providing users and technical workers with the best wood sanding experience. Compared to models like the Makita 9403, having an 11 Amp motor, this tool is less efficient. Notwithstanding, it is lightweight and more comfortable to use than the Makita.
Pros
- Affordability
- Lightweight
- High performance
- Belt tracking window
- Fantastic design and product quality
- Low noise during operation
Cons
- Belt tracking and adjustment can sometimes be a problem
- Occasional shock
04. Makita 9903 Belt Sander
Product Features
- Operates at a speed of 690 to 1440 ft. / min.
- Equipped with a grip for easy maneuvers
- Electric with a 16ft long power cord
- Has a dust collection system to keep the tool clean
- Includes an automatic belt tracker
- Designed to provide the user with a balance
- Powered by an 8.8 Amp motor
- Includes a noise reduction system
Product Specification
- Brand: Makita
- Model: 9903
- Weight: 9.5 pounds
- Dimensions: 11.63 × 63 × 6.19 inches
- Belt Size: 3 × 21 inches
Product Description and Performance
This is another top Makita product with cutting-edge design and durability unique to the brand. Although this model is lighter compared to the 9403 model, it is an electric sander with an improved power system.
However, its automatic belt tracking provides users with convenience and easy operations. Also, it is powered by an 8.8Amp, which is not the best compared with the 9403 model. Despite this, the 9903 model is still one of the best belt sanders available in 2020.
This tool is also equipped with a top-notch sound reduction feature that makes the tool quiet during operation. Nevertheless, the expected noise intensity during the process is about 85dB.
Pros
- Quiet operation
- Efficient
- Quick
- Easy to use and maneuver
- Sleek design
- Auto belt tracking
Cons
- Not very stable during operation
- A bit heavy
05. Wen 6502 Belt Sander
Product Features
- Designed with a cast iron base to improve durability and stability
- It operates on a 4.3 Amp motor
- The quick-release level is included
- The speed of this tool is up to 3600 RPM
- This product is made of metal material
- It is a Belt/Disc Sander
Product Specification
- Brand: WEN
- Model: 6502T
- Weight: 39 pounds
- Dimensions: 22 × 11 × 5 inches
- Belt Size: 4 × 36 inches
Product Description and Performance
The 6502T is a 2-in-1 type of tool that is designed to operate both as a Belt sander and Disc sander. This tool is designed for handling sanding, splinter removal, and straightening of materials. However, this product’s base is made from cast iron to improve the product’s sturdiness and stability.
Also, it features a high-speed belt to prevent device clogging or slow activity. Moreover, the product is designed with sleek and eye-catching combinations to improve attractiveness and workshop suitability. Therefore, this is a product you will want to add to your workshop equipment collection.
Pros
- Affordability
- Stability and durability
- Effective
Cons
- Very heavy
- Can’t handle heavy tasks
- Loose screws
06. Porter Cable 352VS
Product Features
- Corded and Electric-powered
- Equipped with a quick-release lever
- Includes a dust collector
- Operates on speed between 850 to 1300 SFPM
- Rigid and sturdy design
- Quiet operation
- Runs on an 8Amp motor.
Product Specification
- Brand: PORTER-CABLE
- Model: 352VS
- Weight: 10.75 pounds
- Dimensions: 14.2 × 8 × 10.2
- Belt Size: 3 × 21 inches
Product Description and Performance
The porter cable 352VS is designed for heavy tasks and to execute operations quickly. This tool also runs on an 8 Amp motor. However, it is not the best but it is suitable for heavy and challenging tasks. However, this workshop tool is ideal for woodworking, architecture, remodeling, domestic projects, and more.
It is versatile and durable enough to handle heavy shocks, floor sanding, repairing projects, and fine-tuning. Also, it features a quick-release that makes belt switching or changing easy. In addition, Its design allows sanding flush to occur vertically towards the surface.
Furthermore, tracking the belt in this tool is relatively easy, and the design is optimized for comfort and users’ balance.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Sturdy and durable
- Effective for sanding
Cons
- The dust bag is not effective
- Low design quality
07. BLACK+DECKER DS321
Product Features
- Runs on a 7 Amp motor
- It is a Corded electric device
- It uniquely features a pressure control system.
- Dust collection system
- Auto belt tracking
Product Specification
- Brand: Black & Decker
- Model: DS321
- Weight: 6.5 pounds
- Dimensions: 15.25 x 6.32 x 6.32 inches
Product Description and Performance
This workshop tool is one of the lightweight belt sanders that perform wonderfully in wood sanding and other woodworking projects. For the price you will be paying for this product, it is worth every single of it. Also, it is not an expensive product; neither is it cheap in value. Certainly, the product is suitable for your home workshop belt sander needs.
However, if you search for a product that costs less than $100 and performs amazingly, check out this one. However, this product is a portable belt sander that is most suitable for home use rather than professional service. This is because it is not designed for burdensome tasks. Most importantly, it automatically keeps the belt centered and your project convenient.
Pros
- Portable
- Affordable and quick
- Auto belt tracking
- Quiet operation
Cons
- Not suitable for professional projects
- The dust collector is ineffective
08. Genesis GBS321A Belt Sander
Product Features
- Auto belt tracking
- Adjustable grip control for convenient maneuvers
- The dust collector is included
- Operates on an 8 Amp motor
- Runs at speed between 390-1189 ft. /min.
- Equipped with a low profile design that makes getting into tight spots and corners easy.
Product Specification
- Brand: GENESIS
- Model: GBS321A
- Weight: 8.5 pounds
- Dimensions: 14 × 5.75 × 5.75 inches
- Belt Size: 3 × 21 inches
Product Description and Performance
This product is one that does not disappoint its users. However, it is a product designed to provide users with the best versatility and power needs expected from a belt sander. Also, this is one of the products that provide users with value for their money.
It is electric-powered with adjustable handles and a well-designed dust collector to provide users with convenience. To clarify, it runs on an 8Amp motor that offers enough power for heavy tasks and projects. Furthermore, this tool provides automatic belt tracking relieving the need for consistent belt tracking.
However, this product is one of the best belt sanders and performs amazingly, providing stability during operation and
Pros
- Versatile and powerful
- Quick
- Easy to use and operate
- Auto belt tracking
Cons
- Inefficient dust bag
09. Ryobi P450 Cordless Belt Sander
Product Features
- Battery-powered
- Low-profile design for cornered spaces
- Adjustable handle
- Auto belt tracking
- Lock-on switch
Product Specification
- Brand: RYOBI
- Model: P450
- Weight: 5.79 pounds
- Dimensions: 7 × 5 × 7 inches
- Belt Size: 3 × 18 inches
Product Description and Performance
Have you had that time in your workshop that you hoped you had a belt sander that could be used away from the plug? Then this is that type of product. This Ryobi product is designed to provide users with ease and convenience without plugging in.
This device provides a speed of 850 feet per minute sanding and is equipped with a rubber grip to move the tool conveniently. Also, the design and arrangement of this tool component are to improve balance and durability. However, it runs on 18V and is suitable for all home projects and average sanding.
Pros
- This tool can be used away from the plug
- Lightweight
- It is convenient and easy to operate
- Portable
Cons
- Can’t handle heavy duties
- Drains battery quickly
10. Makita 9032 Belt Sander
Product Features
- Quiet operation
- 11 Amp motor
- Runs at a speed of 1640 ft. /min.
- Double Insulation
- Front grip designed for easy maneuvers
- Corded at the upper section of the tool for convenience
Product Specification
- Brand: MAKITA
- Model: 9403
- Weight: 13 pounds
- Dimensions: 9 × 16.1 × 76 inches
- Belt Size: 4 × 24 inches
Product Description and Performance
This Makita tool is equipped with an impressive 11 Amps motor allowing it to handle heavy tasks smoothly. Giving only noise of 84dB, this tool is ideal for woodworkers, carpenters, architects, home project makers, etc. Also, the 1640 ft./min. Speed allows this tool to perform its tasks quickly and effectively.
It includes a dust collection system to allow smooth operation and a unique design to enable sanding flush to the wall. Moreover, its grip is also located on the front of the tool. Most importantly, it allows easy mobility and maneuvers when sanding edges and corners.
Pros
- Amazing dust collector
- Well-built and sturdy
- Balanced and useful for heavy tasks
Cons
- It is not suitable for long-term projects
- Clogging may occur
Buying Guide for Belt Sanders
Getting the best of a product available in the market is every buyers’ dream. However, this goal is sometimes influenced by certain factors like accessibility and budget. Nevertheless, in getting the best belt sander for your workshop, certain concerns must be checked. The following explained nuggets should be properly checked to ensure that you get the best.
Brand
Considering that there are several manufacturers of this tool, it is plausible to find one with a reputation. You should also be aware that certain products that are new to the market may appear exciting and cheap. However, they have no product quality, and their durability cannot be trusted.
Manufacturers with a good reputation in such products can be trusted since they have more customer reviews and feedback. You probably have other electronic devices that you purchase only a single brand because you know the quality. In the same sense, do not put your money into a brand you cannot trust.
Power
Belt Sander, as a tool, works on the motor and mostly electric power. However, the speed and effectiveness of the cut and finishing that you can get are dependent on the power and speed. Moreover, ensure that if you need the product for average to massive tasks, get at least a belt sander that runs on 6 Amps. But if you require burdensome and professional tasks, going for a product having up to 10-11 Amps will be an idea.
Safety
Belt sanders are used for cutting and making finishing during woodworking. Make no mistake in thinking they cannot cause harm. Ensure that you obtain a product with durability and sturdiness with good grip handles. Moreover, this is to protect yourself against any technical accidents.
Meanwhile, products differ in safety protocols. Ensure that you purchase products with fewer risks, either of being a fired agent or causing accidents. Many woodworkers have complained of buying products that end up exploding or catching fire, be sure not to be one.
Experience
Getting the best belt sander requires experience in specific ways. The first way to consider is the user experience. Can you handle one? Are you a beginner? Make sure that you do not obtain professional equipment if you are just getting started. Get one that is easy to use, has an automatic belt tracking system, and will cost you less.
The other way of considering this factor is in customers’ experience. Certainly, it is wise to check for customer and professional reviews on products before buying them. There is no harm in invalidating your doubts and fears about a product. It is one of the most critical steps to take to ensure that you get the best belt sanders.
Frequently Asked Questions & Answers
Is a Belt Sander Dangerous?
The Belt Sander can be dangerous if the safety procedures are not well maintained. The product must be checked to know its range of working. Most importantly, it should not be overworked. Also, ensure that you use professional gloves during handling or operation. The belt must be properly tracked if the tool is not an auto-tracking tool. Finally, for electric or corded belt sanders, ensure that the outlet is safe and not bare.
What is the Best Belt Sander?
Based on our findings, the best belt sander remains the Makita 9403 Belt sander due to its robust and convenient design. However, the Hitachi SB8V2 and the Makita 9903 are also very important and recommended tools. Follow the guide properly to get the best sander for your workshop.
The choice of product that may be best for you will often vary based on the price limit. Some products provide remarkable features at less than $100, but this will require that the manufacturer chip out some other features. It does not mean all products above $100 are quality products and reliable.
How much does a Belt Sander cost?
Belt Sanders varies in price and may cost as low as $50 and as high as few hundreds of dollars. Sometimes, the brand determines the price of the product. While a new brand may offer their product at extremely low prices, other top brands may inflate their prices.
Conclusion
Buying a belt sander can be confusing based on previous experiences with a product, brand, or online service. However, before purchasing a product, ensure that you compare it properly with the qualities and features you need.
Belt sanders are required to be portable, convenient, and reduce the tension of users. Above all, the product must be safe to use and not overpriced. Some products are simply overpriced and are not worth the amount that they are valued at. Always take note that quality is not the same as price. In addition, some products are expensive and yet have low quality.
To improve safety, some products are equipped with lock switches to protect the users and improve control. The features of a product should be your first consideration when making purchases. Despite this, some manufacturers provide misleading details and over-qualify their products. Hence, checking product reviews by professionals is the best way of clearing your doubts.
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