Random Orbit Sander: Buy One
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If you do any finishing work at all, you will use a random orbit sander constantly. Prepping furniture for paint, smoothing patches on drywall, finishing a deck, blending joint compound. At $40-70 for a corded model, buy one.
The Numbers
Why Borrow
- Hard to think of a reason. It is cheap and you will use it.
- If you have never sanded anything and are not sure you will again, borrow once to test the waters
- If you only own cordless tools on a specific platform and the corded model is $40, buy the corded one instead of spending $120 on the cordless
Why Buy
- You will reach for this tool before every painting project, every finishing project, and every repair
- At $40-60 for a corded model, one rental costs half the purchase price. Just buy it.
- The random orbit pattern leaves no visible swirl marks, making it forgiving for beginners
- Hook-and-loop sandpaper changes take 2 seconds. Discs cost $0.30-0.50 each.
- Works on wood, drywall patches, painted surfaces, and light metal prep
Check Before You Buy
Someone in your neighborhood probably owns a random orbit sander and uses it a few times a year. Borrowing saves money, saves garage space, and keeps tools in use instead of collecting dust.
See How FriendsWithTools WorksCommon Questions
Random orbit sander vs orbital sander: what is the difference?
An orbital (sheet) sander vibrates in tiny circles. Cheap but leaves visible swirl marks on wood. A random orbit sander spins AND orbits in a random pattern, which eliminates swirl marks. For any project where the surface will be visible (furniture, trim, decks), use a random orbit sander. Sheet sanders are fine for rough drywall sanding.
What size sandpaper discs do I need?
Most random orbit sanders use 5-inch discs. A few use 6-inch. Check your model before buying discs. For grit: 80 for rough shaping, 120 for general prep, 150 for pre-paint, 220 for between coats of finish. Buy a variety pack to start.