The palm sander is used to smoothening wood. It operates at a very incredible speed to ensure the perfect and desired smoothened surface in no time. Though sanding is not much technical and cumbersome task, it might exhaust your time if you are not using the right tool.
With a durable and compact palm sander, you will get peace of mind. The right tool can help you reach the spaces which are otherwise hard to reach. The best palm sander ensures compatibility and durability together. Most people tend to refrain from buying a palm sander and stick to the conventional method but remember this is indeed going to be a valuable addition to your tool collection.
A palm sander or sheet sander tool is very useful and handy for minor sanding works required to work against square corners. At the same time, you should also be careful not to end up buying a sander, which does not relate to the job efficiently. However, to enjoy the benefits and goodness of sander flawlessly, you need to choose the right model. In this guide, we will help you explore the eight best palm sander available in the market. This buying guide, along with relevant FAQs, will help you choose the best suited for you.
You can also check out our other expert reviews on the best circular saw, best miter saw stand.
Top 08 Best Palm Sander for Wood
01. DEWALT 20V MAX XR Palm Sander
Product Description and Performance
This ¼ inch brushless motor tool offers an unmatchable runtime with high-efficiency output to get the task done. If you are looking for a tool that gives precise finishing to your sanding job, then this is the best palm sander in the segment. It possesses a variable speed regulator ranging from 8000 to 14000 OPM to deliver the desired speed. For high-precision and seamless sanding, this tool consists of a low-profile design. Apart from this, the height of the device has been crafted to enable the user to reach closer to the work surface.
The most highlighting part of this tool is that you can install it very easily. Also, the embedding of the paper clamp provides a more secure grip to hold the paper. Besides this, the tool’s switch is dust-sealed to protect it from the damages arising from dust ingestion for prolonged switch life.
Product features
- Variable speed mechanism with an OPM of 8000 to 14000
- Texturized over-mold made of rubber for comfortable application
- Brushless motor functionality for sturdy tool life
- Comes along with a dust bag, short dust chute, and a hole punch
- Robust buildup with top-notch design
- Low-profile height for detailed sanding
Product specifications
- Brand: Dewalt
- Model: DCW200B
- Weight: 2.9 pounds
- Specifications: 9.34 x 5.96 x 6.21 inches
Pros
- Reliable and durable for long-term use
- Provides a comfortable grip for easy application
- Comes with speed controller for seamless sanding
- A lightweight tool with integrations for adjustability
Cons
- It does not come with a charger and battery
- Works slightly sluggish if only one battery is used
Recommendation
To make the tool work faster with higher efficiency, it is advisable to use more than one battery.
02. Makita BO4556K Finishing Sander with 2.0 Amp
Product Description and Performance
This 4 ½ inch sander with a 2.0-amp motor comes with a stylish case for convenience of storage. If you want a lightweight tool for sanding projects, this one is the best palm sander due to its compact design. With a speed of 1400 OPM, this sander tool delivers seamlessly fast performance with smooth finishing. Certainly, the high-precision engineering with an all-ball bearing construction reduces the noise and vibration while using the device. This tool’s design consists of a rubberized palm grip that provides optimum control and comfort to the user during sanding.
It also features a through-the-dust assortment system that is efficient enough to keep the work environment neat and clean. Further, there are also on/off switches that are conveniently positioned to make the single-handed application easier. Also, for extended tool life, the switch is rubber-sealed to withstand the damages taking place due to dust.
Product Features
- Dual counterbalance system to reduce the vibrations
- Embedding of large paper clamps for convenient paper installation
- Comes along with a firm aluminum foot and a dust-resistant sponge
- Dust-resistant switch for the longevity of performance
- Double insulation system for reliable and study application
- A lightweight tool with a rubberized contoured grip
Product Specifications
- Brand: Makita
- Model: BO4556K
- Weight: 2.5 pounds
- Dimensions: 5.16 x 4.41 x 5.55 inches
Pros
- Delivers fast speed for seamless application
- Eliminates the noise disturbance while using the tool
- Comes along with a case for ease of storage
- Assists in keeping the work area cleaner
Cons
- The dust collection system of this tool is not up to the mark
- The plate for paper punching is not much efficient to punch clean the holes
Recommendation
For preventing any sort of injuries while sanding, it is best preferable to wear eye-protection gear and leather gloves as well.
03. BLACK+DECKER Random Orbit Sander
Product Description and Performance
This tool comes with a sanding sheet and a dust bag to provide you a hygienic work atmosphere. This tool is touted as the best palm sander in terms of robustness and efficiency. This 5 inches electrically corded tool has an impressive amperage capacity of 2 Amps with a striking power of 120 volts. This tool features an orbital action system that offers a high rate of removal and finishing of top-notch quality. Additionally, It consists of a hook and loop integration that assists in changing the paper quickly and easily.
The switch is dust-sealed which helps to keep all the dirt, dust, and debris at bay for extended tool life. Also, the tool’s size is quite compact that allows the user to reach nearer to the work surface for enhanced meticulousness. This tool is crafted using the highest quality plastic complemented by the stylish black-colored finish.
Product Features
- Power-packed performance with 120 volts
- An exceptionally efficient amperage capacity of 2 Amps
- No batteries are required to use this tool
- Dust-resistant switch for resilient application
- An orbital action system for high-precision and neat performance
- Compactly robust size for sanding perfection
Product Specifications
- Brand: Black & Decker
- Model: BDERO100
- Weight: 3.16 pounds
- Dimensions: 7 x 5 x 6 inches
Pros
- Quick and easy paper installation
- The high rate of removal for the impeccable application
- Ergonomic design for steadfastness in long-term
- Comes with a sanding sheet and a dust bag
Cons
- The functionality of the power button is not seamless
- Needs to be entirely unplugged to power-off the tool
Recommendation
For ensuring the safety and efficiency of the tool performance, unplug the tool instead of relying upon the power-off function.
04. DEWALT Palm Sander
Product Description and Performance
This tool comes loaded with useful supplementary accessories such as a paper punch along with carrying and a dust bag. With a highly satisfactory 14000 OPM and 2.3 Amp, this is the best palm sander in terms of speed and efficiency. Apart from this, it also features a latching system of dust-port that lets the user lock the vacuum hose up with the sander. This tool’s design is kept low-profile with an abridged elevation so that the user can work meticulously on the work surface. It also consists of a counterweight integration dedicated exclusively to reduce the vibration during the sanding application.
Moreover, with a notable voltage power of 120V, this tool delivers unmatchable and best-in-class performance. There is also a rubber dust boot that is positioned over the switch to protect the device from dust ingestion. To clarify, the ergonomically robust design of this tool offers a comfortable grip to the user.
Product Features
- A highly efficient motor of 2.4 Amps for smooth application
- The switch is dust-sealed for protracted tool life
- Anti-slip top along with texturized body grip for better control
- Dust bag with high capacity for dust accumulation
- Comes with an efficiently securing dust-port integration
- High-precision performance for a perfect finish
Product Specifications
- Brand: Dewalt
- Model: DWE6411K
- Weight: 4.2 pounds
- Dimensions: 7 x 6 x 10 inches
Pros
- Eliminated the hand fatigue by reducing the vibrations
- Lightweight, compact, and sturdy build-up
- Enhanced meticulousness in performance
- Ergonomic design for a comfortable grip
Cons
- The dust bag is not efficient in accumulating the dust thoroughly
- The sheet of ¼ inch is quite smaller for this unit
Recommendation
For top-notch quality output, always use high-quality sandpaper as it also saves a lot of your time.
05. SKIL 7292-02 2.0 Amp 1/4 Sheet Palm Sander
Product Description and Performance
This sander is generally known for its dust cleaning technique. The inbuilt vacuum is very efficient in dust collection and keeping the surface clean. SKIL sander has a soft grip, which gives better control to the user and makes it handy while using.
This sheet palm sander is very easy to use, and it comes with pressure control. Further, it gives you an indication whenever you are applying extra or unwanted pressure. This product has an inbuilt feature of dust controlling, which controls maximum dirt, making it the best palm sander in terms of clean application. It is specially designed by advanced technology, which makes it a boon for the users.
Product Features
- Comes with a pressure control warning
- Crafted with a very soft grip which makes it very handy to use
- This product has an inbuilt feature for dust absorption
- This model has an integrated vacuum system
- Designed with advanced technology to deliver professional output
Product Specifications
- Brand: SKIL
- Model: 7292-02
- Weight: 3 pounds
- Dimensions: 9 x 7 x 5 inches
Pros
- Light-weighted
- Very handy to use and gives a smooth finish
- The vacuum works amazingly to collect dirt particles
Cons
- Sometimes the clip system may not work
- The base is not much wide
Recommendation
This product is usually recommended for cleaning the thinnest of the particles.
06. Makita BO5041K 5-Inch Random Orbit Sander Kit
Product Description and Performance
Makita is well known for sanders, and BO5041K is their best palm sander to date. This orbit sander machine comes with a 3.0 AMP motor. Is has a smooth control dial, which makes it useful. The palm grip has a rubber, which gives you better control over the machine. You have to use your two fingers to trigger the switch, which makes the operation easier and comfortable.
This light-weighted sander is very durable and long-lasting. It is very light weighted, which makes it very handy for the users. It is perfect as it gives you a soundless and dirt-free experience. Further, this orbit sander has excellent durability.
The dust pad control feature absorbs all the extra dirt from the surface. In addition, you can use it in both ways, which means it is double insulated. It gives a smooth and perfect finish to your work.
Product features
- Comes with a big motor of 3.0 AMP
- It has a speed controlling dial
- It has a two-finger trigger switch
- The machine is convenient and easy to use
- It has a dust absorbing feature which removes maximum dirt
- It is double insulated
- Its specialty is that it gives a swirl-free finish without putting extra effort
Product specifications
- Brand: Makita
- Model: BO5041K
- Weight: 3.09 pounds
- Dimensions: 7.5 x 16.3 x 10.3 inches
Pros
- It gives you a dirt-free experience
- The two-finger trigger switch makes it very handy to hold and use
- It is pocket friendly
Cons
- Not compatible with all plug types
- Sometimes it is small for a shop vac fitting
Recommendation
This product is highly recommended for the customer looking for an excellent quality sander, and it is very dependable too.
07. Bosch GSS20-40 Orbital Finishing Sander
Product description and Performance
This model gives your work a professional finish because of the technology used to design it. This Bosch GSS20-40 orbital sander is based on German technology, which provides it with a top-ranking amongst the world’s best palm sander variants. It has a 2.0 AMP motor, which consists of a variety of sanding applications.
It gives you a reliable grip, which makes it easy to use. This Bosch sander holds the capacity of 12,000 oscillations per minute. The dust collection system provides a microfilter dust canister, which gives a clean finish on the surface. Moreover, the soft grip gives a functional focus and low vibration sound, making it stable for the user. Certainly, this works perfectly for the inside drawers and the cabinets as it gives you a soundless experience.
Product features
- Gives a very comfortable grip
- Designed with the latest German technology
- Holds the capacity of 12,000 oscillations per minute
- It has a shallow vibration sound
- Comes with a microfilter for removing even the smallest dust particle
- It comes with a voltage of 120 volts
Product specifications
- Brand: Bosch
- Model: GSS20-40
- Weight: 2.7 pounds
- Dimensions: 8.66 x 5.69 x 6.68 inches
Pros
- It gives you hearing protection without creating much noise
- The grip is much secured
- The best product in the given price range
Cons
- In some cases, the dirt collection feature may not work properly
Recommendation
It is a small-sized sander that gives complete dust extraction and is highly recommended for customers who are looking for a compact sander.
08. BLACK+DECKER Electric Sander
Product description and Performance
This orbital sander gives a fantastic feature of the paddle switch, making it very convenient for the users. It provides an immediate on and off switch feature and delivers 1,600 orbits per minute, making it very fast. This product has a motor of 2.0 AMP, which makes it efficient in dust removal.
The vacuum works so perfectly that it gives a sound and vibration-free experience. The dust cleanser works like wonders in this sander, thereby making it the best palm sander. In addition, it catches even the smallest particle of dust, which makes it useful and handy to use. Its performance is outstanding in dust removal and for use in detailing work. However, this powerful sander will add value to your toolbox and help you accomplish the task professionally.
Product features
- This has a paddle activation which gives it an easy on and off feature
- Comes with a 2.0 AMP motor
- Delivers 1,600 orbits per minute
- Perfect for sanding and detailed work
Product specifications
- Brand: Black and Decker
- Model: BDEQS300
- Weight: 3 pounds
- Dimensions: 8.81 x 5.13 x 6.31 inches
Pros
- It is effortless to use
- The paddle activation makes it very handy
Cons
- The lock switch is not placed properly
- Less longevity
Recommendation
This electric vacuum sander gives extra power to your task. It can get into tight spaces and maximizes your control.
Buying Guide
With the vast availability of palm sanders in the segment, it is tough to choose the one that precisely suits your requirements. Before you shortlist any one of them, you need to look for certain things. It will help you not end up buying something which will make you regret it later. Here in this buying guide, we will try to share a few things to look out for in the best palm sander.
Things to consider when buying the best palm sander
Power and Performance
The more powerful the motor, the better be the performance. Ensure that the engine of the tool is highly efficient in delivering a power-packed performance with a smooth finish. It is preferable to get a sander with fewer vibrations and smooth integrations for the best results.
The simplicity of paper installation
To save your precious time in changing the sandpapers, make sure that the tool is well-equipped with a secure installation system. It is always advisable to choose a sander that comes with easy functionality to replace the sandpapers conveniently.
Dust Collection System
Having an efficient dust collection system eases your task while you are sanding. It provides a neater and cleaner work environment by collecting the dust and dirt during the application. An inefficient dust collecting system can even ruin the work surface. It can be health deteriorating as well due to dust ingestion.
Design and grip
An ergonomically designed non-slip grip provides a better hold and control of the tool to the user. Besides this, make sure that the grip is texturized. It would offer a more convenient application and long-term reliability.
Rubber-sealed switch
If the tool’s switch is rubber-sealed, it would be able to resist the damages that take place due to dust and other factors. On the other hand, in the absence of rubber-sealing, the tool’s durability and steadfastness would be compromised.
Pressure Detection Function
The modern sanders come with the feature of pressure detection. It helps you regulate the pressure to avoid any damage taking place on the work surface. Due to this functionality, if you press the tool too hard, it would notify you with the help of a light, sensor, or vibration.
Type of Sander
Two types of sanders that are vastly available in the segment are battery and corded sanders. The sanders that are battery-powered are more workable and flexible as well. The only drawback is that you need to change the battery after prolonged use. On the other hand, the corded sanders would longer work without the battery until the cord is in good shape. However, the corded sanders can only be used within a limited range, especially if you are working outdoors.
FAQs
What does a palm sander do?
Palm sanders, also known as sheet sanders, are mainly used for finishing work. You can use it before applying the paint or varnish on the wooden work surface. These sanders are less potent as compared to the random orbit ones. The central aim of the palm sander is to deliver a clean and smooth finishing on the surface.
What are the advantages of using a palm sander?
As a high precision tool for finishing work, palm sanders are considered to be preferable ones among the segment due to the following reasons.
- Assists in reaching to the edge of an angle of 90-degrees
- Delivers seamless and detailed finishing
- The sandpaper used in the tool is readily available
- It protects the work surface from the inevitable damages
- Less powerful application for better control and security
What are the different types of palm sanders available in the segment?
Two different types of sanders that are easily accessible in the market are Electric and Air Palm Sander.
- Electric Palm Sander: These types of sander are specifically designed to ease the job for you. You can accomplish the sanding work without utilizing the elbow grease. However, while using an electric palm sander, you need to keep the tool moving. Resting the tool in one place for a long can result in over sanding of that particular surface.
- Air Palm Sander: These sanders come along with self-vacuuming technology. It is mainly done to ease the job of the user, thereby delivering exceptionally seamless performance. Also, it stimulates the movement of your hand to give a swirl-less and scratch-free finishing. Besides this, it offers a better grip for enhanced control and convenient application.
How to place sandpaper into the palm sander?
If you have a corded sander, then make sure that it is not connected to the power plug while placing the paper. Now, open one end and then insert the sheet uniformly between the clamp and the sander’s surface. The next step is to clamp it closed and then bend the paper to add the fed end beneath the arm at the sander’s other side.
Are palm sanders useful for sanding rough surfaces?
The palm sanders are less potent as compared to the random orbital sanders. This makes them somewhat unfit to sand on a rough surface as it requires more power and strength to do the task. However, palm sanders are suitable only for lightweight sanding, and high precision finishing works.
Conclusion
Getting the best palm sander is simple if you assess your requirements and the kind of work you are planning to DIY. Sanding might not sound like a glamourous job. Still, you cannot deviate from the outcome, the best finishing to your woodwork project. However, you should carefully analyze the compactness, ease of use, speed, and power of your new palm sander.
Using a tool that does not let you finish the job efficiently and comfortably is only going to mess up your life. Moreover, you should also clearly assess whether you are buying the sander for your home use or professional work. Expert carpenters should explore features more carefully before owning one. It is going to be for the versatile nature of work that they will undertake.
In this buying guide, we have tried to list a few of the best palm sander. To sum up, you just need to go through the specifications and details carefully to choose one which will suffice your requirements.
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