Power sanders are a valuable time-saver on home improvement ventures. I’ve used them extensively in my career and in personal tasks, and they’ve allowed me to accomplish much more than I would’ve without them. This guide covers the most common options to help you select the right sander for your DIY woodworking project.



    Types of Power Sanders

    Power sanders contain an electric motor that moves a sanding head, which holds a sanding pad, belt, sleeve, or sheet of sandpaper. The motor spins or vibrates the abrasives against the workpiece, removing material faster than hand sanding.

    There are a few different types of sanders, each suited for different applications. Some are best for flat surfaces, others for contoured surfaces, and beyond. Read on to find out which one is ideal for your next project.

    Orbital (or oscillating) sanders are affordable handheld sanders that sand by vibrating in tiny circular orbits. These are often (though not exclusively) small, handheld sanders — they’re sometimes called palm sanders. Their small size makes them particularly suitable for small projects. 

    Orbital sanders remove material less rapidly than other types of sanders, which makes them great for beginners and for more delicate sanding projects. A potential drawback is that if you use improper technique, swirl marks may be visible in the final finish. You can reduce this risk by always moving parallel with the wood grain and avoiding moving across it or in a circular motion. 

    As for the sandpaper, some orbital sanders use standard sheets of sandpaper. Others need special self-adhesive/hook-and-loop sanding pads. Personally, I prefer pads to sheets, but it’s worth trying both if you’re able.

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    Orbital sanders that use sandpaper sheets take less than a full sheet. A good rule of thumb is that the average sander needs roughly a quarter-sheet.

    Random orbit sanders vibrate while also spinning the pad in a circular motion. This dual-action allows aggressive stock removal while leaving minimal marks, even going against the wood grain. These mostly look like and operate like orbital sanders. 

    Great for both fast material removal and fine finishing, a random orbit is a highly versatile electric sander. Use round self-adhesive/hook-and-loop sanding pads with this particular type of sander.

    Disk sanders work by spinning a disk of sandpaper rapidly in a circle. They’re available as either handheld or table-mounted models. Disk sanders remove a lot of material quickly, making them mainly suitable for rough work, such as shaping edges and removing paint. A handheld, heavy-duty disk sander — called a floor edger — is used for sanding floors next to walls and doorways.

    Belt sanders have a continuous loop of sanding belt stretched on drums that rotate to remove stock. Because of their larger, more powerful design, they can remove a lot of material quickly, which makes them especially apt for flattening large surfaces and removing old finishes and build-up. Their belt design makes them especially useful when working on large areas like tabletops. With belt sanders, it’s important to watch the wood grain closely to avoid gouging or scratching. Their powerful design and large sanding surface mean problems can develop quickly. 

    Belt sanding belts come in a variety of widths and circumferences, so just refer to the user manual to find out what yours requires.

    Bench sanders combine multiple sanding methods into one stable workstation that can be mounted next to a benchtop in your home workshop. They’re best suited for smaller workpieces, furniture parts, trim, and other detailed items.

    Bench sanders often consist of a few different sanders in one sanding station. These can include:

    • Belt sanders
    • Disc sanders
    • Spindle sanders
    • Drum sanders

    Their best quality is the versatility they offer in a single, compact unit. However, that compact design can be negative in some situations where it reduces the available space to articulate the workpiece. 

    For the right kind of work, however, they greatly increase speed and efficiency. For that reason, I wouldn’t suggest this type of sander for beginners. It’s better to use other types of sanders until you know what kind of work you’ll primarily be doing. 


    Key Features of Power Sanders

    Sanders come with a variety of features (some more useful than others). Here are some of the most important:

    • Variable speed control for transitioning between slow and rapid removal of material.
    • Dust collection through built-in ports and bags to reduce airborne particles. This can help reduce dust in the work area and protect your respiratory health.
    • Ergonomic designs with lighter weights and padded grips that minimize fatigue during extended use.
    • Cordless and battery-powered for untethered mobility or corded electric for unlimited runtime.
    • Choice of attachment systems, like sheets or pads (for some sanders). 

    How To Use Power Sanders Effectively

    Good sanding techniques aren’t hard to master as they’re aren’t many rules. But there are a few things to know to obtain a professional-quality sanding job:

    • Move the sander evenly with light pressure.
    • Go with the wood grain, not across it.
    • Avoid lingering or working in certain places longer than others. If you have a stubborn spot, keep going over the entire surface until it sands out. 
    • Allow the sander to slightly overhang edges as you sand to ensure you’re sanding all the way and not shorting it.

    How To Use a Power Sander Safely

    Sanding creates fine particles that float and linger in the air. Even organic particles like wood can cause respiratory damage, so it’s important to wear proper safety equipment. If you don’t sand a lot, a dust mask is fine. For those who do a lot of sanding, like me, a more protective solution is a filtered respirator. Both solutions are cheap and available at hardware and home improvement stores, so you should have no problem finding them. 

    Remember, pets have to breathe the air, too. Plan to send them outside while you get that bit of sanding done. 


    So, Should I Use a Power Sander?

    Power sanders are a huge time saver, and they save the most time when you have the right sander for the job. When used properly, power sanders can spare you hours of tedious hand sanding. Sand in the wood grain direction, maintain steady and even movement, and promptly change worn sandpaper for best results.

    In some instances, you may need to hire a professional for floor sanding, but sanding and finishing projects are great DIY woodworking projects for beginners and pros alike. Most power sanders are affordable and widely available, so for the hands-on homeowner, they’re a solid investment. 


    FAQs About Power Sanders

    Is it safe to use a power sander on wood that is still wet?

    Never sand lumber with a moisture content over 15%. Rapid abrasion will tear up wet wood, so always allow the wood to fully dry before sanding.


    How do I determine the right sandpaper grit to start with?

    Start with a medium grit (150 to 200) to gauge how the wood responds, then adjust up or down according to your needs.


    How much pressure should I apply when using a power sander?

    Use light, consistent pressure — just enough for the sander to remain flush against the surface. The sander does all the work; you’re just there to control it.


    Can I go against the wood grain direction when power sanding?

    Yes, I would just be watchful when doing heavy-duty, coarse sanding, as it’s simpler to go with the wood grain. It shouldn’t cause any tear-out, but it’s always worth being cautious.


    Editorial Contributors
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    Doug Sluga

    Doug Sluga is a professional roofer and carpenter with ten years of experience in residential and commercial construction. His expertise spans the breadth of the roofing trade from minor repairs to laying shingles to framing trusses. These days he spends most of his time writing about roofing and the roofing industry.

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    Lori Zaino

    Lori Zaino is a freelance writer and editor based in Madrid, Spain. With nearly two decades of editorial experience, she’s written and edited for publications like Forbes, CNN, Insider, NBC, Newsweek, The Points Guy, The Infatuation, and many others. Having just completed her first home renovation, she’s more interested in home improvements than ever, dedicated to bringing you fresh and accurate content to help you update your living spaces.

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