Top 10 Best Cordless Orbital Sander Tools for Smooth Finishes

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The Makita and DeWalt orbital sanders are contrasted.
In this post, we will compare the Makita 18-volt (XOB01) and the DeWalt 20-volt (DCW210), two well-known orbital sanders. Both are 5-inch random orbit sanders, and we will contrast their functionality, comfort, and overall use based on actual field usage.

Performance: Effective Dust Collection and Sanding

The results of our tests showed that the Makita sander has better dust collection than the DeWalt. The DeWalt‘s bag was only a quarter filled after operating for the same period of time, however the Makita’s bag required more frequent emptying. Additionally, less sawdust was generated by the Makita surrounding the work area.

In terms of sanding effectiveness, we discovered that after sanding for 30 seconds, the smoothness produced by both sanders was comparable. We did not discover any solid proof that one sander was considerably faster than the other, though.

Ergonomics and Usability

When comparing the ergonomics of these two sanders, certain users who prefer a lower-profile palm sander may have a problem with the Makita’s height. However, without the battery attached, the DeWalt‘s small size feels great in the hand. The sander becomes very back-heavy when the battery is connected, which could wear out the user. Thus, some users might prefer the shape and balance of the Makita.

Both sanders provide several ways to grasp and grip them, but the Makita provides more versatility because to its front grip design, which enables users to handle it like a conventional palm sander. In comparison to the electronic button on the Makita, the DeWalt‘s switch can be more challenging to toggle, which might reduce its long-term dependability.

The DeWalt sander’s integrated brake, which stops the sander virtually instantaneously, is a special feature. The Makita sander does not have this feature, which is a useful convenience.

Comparison of Speed Modifications

In comparison to the Makita’s button system, the DeWalt sander has a convenient speed adjustment dial that some users may find easier to use. However, due to the location of the dial on the DeWalt sander, left-handed users could mistakenly change the speed setting.

Convenience and storage overall

The Makita has a distinct edge in terms of storage and the sanders‘ footprint. Due to its size, it can be stored in small spaces—like a tool bag or a van—much better. When compared to two Makita sanders placed next to one another, the DeWalt’s size and protruding dust bag may make storage more difficult.

When compared to the DeWalt’s design, which necessitates bending over and putting additional effort to remove the battery, the Makita’s battery and dustbag arrangement are both more practical. Furthermore, the Makita’s rubber dust port is flexible and less prone to break than the hard dust port on the DeWalt, which might potentially be harmed if unintentionally walked on.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the sanding efficiency of the Makita and DeWalt orbital sanders is good. In terms of convenience, ergonomics, and dust collection, the Makita defeats the DeWalt. The built-in brake and easily accessible speed adjustment dial of the DeWalt are positives, but they might not offset the Makita’s overall comfort and use advantages.

The decision between the two sanders ultimately boils down to taste and certain use situations. The Makita might be a better choice for consumers that prefer a small storage footprint and a flexible design. The DeWalt, on the other hand, may appeal to individuals who choose a reduced profile and the useful brake feature.

You can’t go wrong with either of the two sanders because they are both from reliable manufacturers, which is a vital point to remember. Each has a distinct mix of benefits and drawbacks, and the best sander for you will depend on your particular requirements and preferences.

This post may contain affiliate links which means I may receive a commission for purchases made through links.  Learn more on my Private Policy page.

37 Comments
  1. We tried to purchase the Milwaukee sander prior to the test. We were told that it was a month out from a couple retailers. Take it for what it’s worth, it could be a great tool and everyone is buying them or there’s a problem with the tool. The reviews are all over the board on it. Hopefully we can check one out in the future. Thanks for watching.

  2. Both sanders are rubbish unless you connect them to good dust extraction. Brand to me means nothing except convenience for the battery system.
    What does matter far more is if there is an air feed hole in the center of the sanding plate. This allows sandpaper cooling and forcing air towards the holes in the paper and the suction. If your paper doesn't have a center hole to allow you to use this feature – make one.
    It more than doubles the total material removed per sheet, reduces sandpaper changes, stops you sanding waste material again and again.
    The cheapest I found this feature on was a wired Metabo – but I'm sure there are others.
    Incidentally, I used a single Mirka Abranet ace HD 40 grit disk to smooth 100m2 of grout and the sandpaper is still usable.
    Dust extraction and paper ventilation are your 2 main criteria for improving your sanding.

  3. Try using it flat your not using it right.

  4. The makita is brushed too. They definitely need to drop a brushless orbital in my opinion

  5. looked like they were even in sanding but the Makita had better dust collection.

  6. He wasn't fair with the sanding. I don't think he likes the Dewalt sander… SMH

  7. The way Harley silently stares into the camera makes me uncomfortable.

  8. Works really MyBest.Tools well, and fits hand perfectly.

  9. the makita sander is obviously better.. but then the dewalt nail gun is the best… they both make great tools… swings and roundabouts…

  10. Thanks for sharing this great video, and your experience with us. This was very helpful and informative(& even on your lunch you're working) I enjoyed and appreciated this guys👍🏿

  11. I have the corded Dewalt and bought my son a cordless Hart orbital sander. I tried my sons Hart sander, and I haven’t touched my Dewalt corded in a year for smaller tasks, because I keep using his. Sometimes it takes longer to plug the cord in than the project you need to sand, and it’s so much easier grabbing the cordless Hart sander. I will upgrade to the cordless Dewalt sander, just for longer battery life. If I can use cordless I will, because I can’t stand cords anymore.
    It’s to bad that Dewalt didn’t make it with the battery on top like their cordless router. They could make a palm adapter that goes over the battery and stays in place.
    Thank you for the video!

  12. The dewalt sander is way better than the Makita also the porter cable is better too

  13. This two model are really good, but I prefer the Bosch Pro, like this: https://youtu.be/hmFjm5hkg7g

  14. I have the makita it’s awkward to use. Should be a flatter shape like the Bosch blue one.

  15. How long does a 5 ah with battery last?

  16. Thx guys 4 your honest impressions, that was a great help for me.
    You guys are A Dream Team,
    keep up the good work ✌🏼

  17. I don't can give a crap about dewalt but! Maquita hands down

  18. If you hold the sander on it’s edge which you do! Don’t expect it to work correctly if you don’t hold it correctly. I’m guilty of the same thing but only when my sanding disc is almost worn out not immediately because your really not supposed to be holding it like that you are gouging the wood and that’s the opposite of what the sander is for which is flattening and smoothing. Thx for the review

  19. The makita is freaking loud!

  20. Thanks for a great video!
    Im about to buy a cordless sander, did you try the Milwaukee already?
    I wonder how is it next to the blue and the yellow..?

  21. The speed control and auto brake are two big reasons to choose the Dewalt. The height of the Makita does not give the control of any lower unit.

  22. These 2 buttons of makita soon will broke,that is main difference between dewalt and makita and it seems that makita have this problems in almost every single cordless tool,so if you are looking for longevity and reliability take dewalt.

  23. Applying more force on the dewalt, i notice that from the sound of the dewalt motor

  24. Dewalt brushless is more reliable than makita brushed sander,i rather go with dewalt.

  25. keep it flat when you sanding FGS

  26. I'd like to know if you notice any advantage in a variable speed orbital sander vs. a fix speed sander?

  27. Makita for life. I have 35 yr makitas still working and I have 2-20 yr deAd dewalts. But The old cases are handy. Footprint was the most important I don’t want all that baggage all around the sides. Thnx I’ll keep building my lifelong makitas

  28. I have had the Makita 18v stuff since it came out 2005 or 2006. I had the 12v Makita, but all my 12v tools were stolen. Makita was first with the 18v/20v class tools, and more important the lithium ion batteries. I still have one of my original batteries with the makita blue writing on it. It's finally short cycling after 15 years. All the original tools still work. That said , I own several DeWalt corded saws (a contractor table saw, framing saw, jig saw and tile saw) All work great. I alway try to buy the best tools within reason. That's why I own Makita, DeWalt, Bosch, Milwaukee, Hitachi tools and maybe a the odd SkillSaw Mag 77 or old school Delta/Porter Cable kicking around. That eliminates some nice but high priced tool brands like Hilti and Festool. But, with cordless tools you kinda have to pick a family. I primarily see Makita and DeWalt cordless tool on jobsites, with Milwaukee 3rd. DeWalt has really been coming on strong, and may be #1 now.

  29. The Dewolt Sander feels VERY handy and balanced with a2.0Ah 18V/20V battery. That is why i bought 3 of them just for the sander. With the 3.0Amp is just OK, with the 4.0 and the 5.0Ams is way off-balance. Have it for a year and a half already – very handy tool so far, the only issue is that the batteries wobble and rattle and that rattling makes more noise than the tool itself. This is an issue with all the Dewalt 18V/20V battery operated tools, but in some more vibrating ones like an orbital sander – is a noticeable one.

  30. It is not a correct performance comparison to estimate performance by the amount of sand dust left outside.

    In this performance comparison, the amount of sand dust from the dust collector was not measured and ignored. If the dust collection system is not working properly, sand dust will remain outside.

  31. I'm painter and NEED to buy one. How well does it work WITHOUT dust bag? Is it blowing crap in your face? Which burns battery faster? How well does it compare to the DeWalt square sander? Have you tried the Milwaukee?

  32. Great video, really appreciate the honesty. I love both brands, but mostly invested in dewalt batteries… Still using the corded sander so not rushing out to get one.

  33. i like the makita, too the center of gravity is more to the center of the tool

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