Best Sanders in the UK (2024 Reviews & Buying Guide)

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To help you pick from the best sanders in the UK, we’ve compiled this comprehensive guide, focusing on the five power sander types:

1. Multi Sander
2. Random Orbit Sander
3. Belt Sander
4. Power File Sander
5. Detail Sander

Your final choice of sander from the list above will depend heavily on how you’ll be using it. For example, if sanding wooden floors, you should go for a belt sander because of its wide coverage. However, detail sanders are your best option if you’re restoring furniture and must reach tight spots.

This buying guide reviews the best sanders for the above five types and provides everything you need to know when shopping for the best sanders in the UK.

Read on to find the best sander for you and your projects.

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1. Best Multi Sander in the UK — 2024 Reviews

Multi sanders are designed to deliver the best of all worlds and fulfil multiple roles. Bosch is the leader in this market, and we’re reviewing two of our favourite models below.

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Best Overall Sander

• If you’re looking for a higher-end multi-sander, look at the Bosch PSM 200 AES.
• Whether a beginner or an experienced DIYer, this multi-sander is ideal for weekend projects. Its compact size, low weight, and ease of use make it an excellent choice for sanding furniture such as tables and chairs.
• The iron-shaped design allows you to closely sand edges, corners and other hard-to-access areas. The velcro fixation system makes sanding sheets attach easily and securely, while the two-piece sanding plate improves your sanding paper’s durability.
• It comes with two types of sanding plates — iron-shaped and rectangular
• The Bosch ergonomic soft-grip handle keeps your hand comfortable even during lengthy projects.
• The dust container can be tricky to remove and suffers the same issues as many sanders in this list.

Technical Specifications

Power (W)	Orbital Stroke Rate (OPM)	Orbital Diameter (mm)	Sanding Surface Iron Shaped (cm²)	Sanding Surface, Rectangular (cm²)	Tool Dimensions (mm)	Weight (kg)
200	6,000–26,000	1.8	104	164	311x102x158	1.4

Summary: As an all-rounder, complete with sanding sheets and a carry case, the Bosch PSM 200 AES Multi Sander offers fantastic value.

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Best Performance Multi-Sander

• This Bosch multi-sander is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a cordless multi-sander and already own other Bosch 18V Power4All range tools.
• This compact sander features LED battery level indicators, so you know at a glance how much power you have remaining and when it’s time to charge up.
• Bosch’s Syneon Intelligent Power Chip intelligently manages power output, ensuring maximum power and endurance no matter your project.
• This multi-sander is sold without a battery or charger but is compatible with the Bosch 18V Power4All range (hence why it’s a good choice if you own other tools in this range).
• The iron-shaped sanding plate lets you easily get into corners, and the velcro fastening system is quick and straightforward. The only drawback to this versatile sander is its dust collection.

Technical Specifications

Battery Voltage (V)	Battery Capacity (Ah)	Orbital Stroke Rate (OPM)	Orbital Diameter (mm)	Sanding Surface (cm²)	Sanding Sheet/Disc Attachment	Weight (kg)
18	2.5	22.000	1.6	104	A micro hook-and-loop fastening system	1.3

Summary: If you need an excellent all-purpose cordless sander capable of getting into corners and over rounded edges, we highly recommend the Bosch PSM 18 Cordless Multi Sander.

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2. Best Random Orbit Sander in the UK — 2024 Reviews

Whether you’re looking for versatility or value in a random orbit sander, we’ve chosen robust and reliable products. Our recommended products have variable speed settings and are easy to set up and use.

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Best Performance Random Orbit Sander

• This random orbit sander by Makita is a robust, well-designed model that makes a great choice if you’re looking for a high-performance cordless sander. 
• Its comfortable grip, compact size and low centre of gravity make it easy to manoeuvre.
• This sander is easy to set up and use with simple touch buttons and velcro paper fastenings.
• The pad control system features a controlled spin start and a brake for better control.
• This Makita model has three separate speed settings at 14,000, 19,000 and 22,000 strokes per minute (SPM), allowing you to reduce the speed if you need to conserve battery power.
• This particular model does not come with a battery. However, this makes it an ideal choice if you own other compatible Makita 18V power tools.
• There is no storage case with this model, which would be nice if you frequently transport your tools.

Technical Specifications

Power (W)	Battery Voltage (V)	Orbital Stroke Rate (OPM)	Orbital Diameter (mm)	Sanding Stroke Rate (SPM)	Paper Fastening	Paper Size (mm)	Vibration: Sanding (m/sec²)	Weight (kg)
190	18	7,000/9,500/11,000	2.8	14,000/19,000/22,000	Hook & Loop	125	2.5	1.4–1.7

Summary: Compatible with Makita dust extractors, this cordless random orbit sander is our top choice for cable-free performance.

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Best Value Random Orbit Sander

• If you’re in the market for a corded random orbit sander, then the Bosch PEX 300 AE is the one to buy.
• Its powerful 270W motor makes it suitable for large tasks, while its compact design and low weight mean that it won’t tire you out when doing extensive work.
• Its ergonomic, soft-grip handle and low-vibration design ensure maximum comfort. 
• The adjustment thumbwheel located on the handle makes speed control simple and accessible mid-job.
• You can use this model on delicate and rough projects with speeds between 4,000 and 24,000 sanding movements per minute (SPM).
• The main drawback to this sander is its dust box. Unfortunately, it’s not very effective, with some dust escaping during tests. 
• Unfortunately, the velcro on the backing plate (where the pads attach) can be damaged easily.
• It includes a solid stackable case to keep it in optimum condition. 
• A Bosch paper assistant guide makes changing papers a quick & easy job.

Technical Specifications

Power (W)	Orbital Stroke Rate (OPM)	Orbital Diameter (mm)	Sanding Pad Diameter (mm)	Tool Dimensions (mm)	Weight (kg)
270	4,000–24,000	4	125	281x111x152	1.5

Summary: For the price, this is an excellent model with a wide range of uses

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3. Best Belt Sander in the UK — 2024 Reviews

It’s all about the wattage on our best belt sanders, with our top-performing Makita product generating over a thousand watts (W) from its motor. We’ve also prioritised practicality, from cord length to the ease of belt changes.

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Best Performance Belt Sander

• The Makita 9404 Belt Sander is our top pick for large, extensive projects due to its superior performance and power.
• Equipped with a 1,010W motor, this model has the endurance and capacity you need for big jobs. You can comfortably work with this sander for hours on end with minimal vibration.
• The long power cord enables you to cover large areas, making it ideal for stripping back wooden floors. 
• You can quickly and easily adjust the speed from 210 to 440 metres per minute (m/min) for fast-paced sanding to suit your needs. 
• The design makes it easy to get the nose and side of the sander flush with the walls for an unbeatable wall-to-wall finish.
• The 9404 features a flat top, so you can use it upside down while fixed to your workbench. 
• There’s a dust bag to help keep your work environment clean and dust-free.
• Changing belts is simple, thanks to the auto-tracking belt system, meaning you’ll be able to spend more time on your project rather than messing about trying to fit belts manually.
• This high-performance sander is durable and well-constructed; however, all this comes at a hefty price. So, if you’re a beginner and only looking to take on smaller projects, you may be better off with a less powerful and cheaper model.
• Despite the high price tag, this sander does NOT come with a carry bag or storage container.

Technical Specifications

Power (W)	Belt Speed (m/min)	Belt Size (mm)	Vibration: Sanding (m/sec²)	Noise Sound Power dB(A)	Noise Sound Pressure dB(A)	Weight (kg)
1,010	210–440	100×610	2.5	96	85	4.8

Summary: if you need a heavy-duty belt sander that you will use often, this is the one to purchase.

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Best Value Belt Sander

• The Bosch PBS 75A Belt Sander is ideal for coarse sanding wood, plastic or metal.
• This versatile belt sander has a powerful 710W motor and offers outstanding performance on big projects, including floors, tabletops and other large furniture items.
• Thanks to its soft-grip main handle, your hands will remain comfortable, while the secondary handle helps to optimise grip and control. 
• The integrated Bosch dust collection system helps clean your work area, and the low vibrations improve your comfort levels.
• Changing the belt is extremely easy on this model. The automatic belt tensioning system means you’ll waste little time fitting your belt in the middle of a big job.
• Remember that it tends to go through belts relatively rapidly, given its power. 
• Unfortunately, this model is single-speed only.

Technical Specifications

Power (W)	Sanding Surface (mm)	Belt Speed (m/min)	Belt Size (mm)	Vibration: Sanding (m/sec²)	Tool Dimensions (mm)	Weight (kg)
710	76×165	350	75×533	3.5	554x174x154	3.4

Summary: This robust sander is an absolute powerhouse with durable aluminium parts and an excellent design for maximum user comfort.

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4. Best Power File Sander in the UK — 2024 Reviews

Small and lightweight, power file sanders are designed for intricate or detailed sanding.

Their compact bodies don’t support vacuum attachments, but there’s no excuse for lacking adjustable power or easy belt-changing mechanisms.

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Best Performance Power File Sander

• The body-only R18PF-0 is part of Ryobi’s ONE+ range of cordless tools, meaning other Ryobi batteries will clip neatly onto its canary-yellow chassis. However, if this is your first exposure to the Ryobi ecosystem, there’ll be an additional battery expense on top of this body-only power file sander.
• An 18V motor supports belt rotation up to 630 m/min, with variable speed control ensuring it doesn’t have to run full speed for smaller or delicate work.
• Ryobi includes several sanding belts, a toolless tension lever supporting rapid belt changes and a tracking dial enabling fine adjustments.
• It works well as a plunge sander, enabling you to access the inside of tubing or inner corners on awkwardly shaped furnishings.
• The main drawback to this product is its lack of dust extraction. You’ll need goggles and a dust mask to use this sander indoors.

Technical Specifications

Battery Voltage (V)	Belt Size (mm)	Belt Speed (m/min)	Vibration: Sanding (m/sec²)	Noise Sound Power dB(A)	Noise Sound Pressure dB(A)	Weight (kg)
18	457×13	260–630	1.6	79.0	68.0	1.4

Summary: If you already own Ryobi tools, this ONE+ model will slot neatly into your toolbox for detailed sanding jobs. It’s powerful and flexible but has no dust extraction mechanism.

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Best Value Power File Sander

• There’s a pleasing simplicity to this mains-powered power file sander from BLACK+DECKER, which is also highly affordable.
• It has a 350W motor with variable speeds, delivering a consistent finish in different environments.
• A dust canister does a fair job of capturing dust generated by the sander belt, though it fills quickly and doesn’t capture as much as a vacuum system would.
• The belt has a screw-operated tracking system to prevent slipping off its rollers during extensive use.
• BLACK+DECKER provides three sanding belts, so you can use this sander immediately after unboxing.
• A weight of 1.2 kg makes this a relatively heavy object and requires a moderate amount of upper-body strength for prolonged use.

Technical Specifications

Power (W)	Belt Size (mm)	No Load Speed (rpm)	Vibration: Sanding (m/sec²)	Noise Sound Power dB(A)	Noise Sound Pressure dB(A)	Cable Length (m)
350	451×13	900–1,600	1.7	95	84	3

Summary: This sander does a great job of blending power with affordability, and it’s ready to use out of the box. However, for a mains-powered device, it’s surprisingly heavy to hold.

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5. Best Detail Sander in the UK — 2024 Reviews

The ideal tool for reaching corners and edges. A detail sander is essential if you’re looking for the perfect finish on floors and inside cupboards where recessed right angles might defeat a random orbit or belt sander.

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Best Performance Detail Sander

• DeWalt’s mains-powered D26430 is our go-to detail sander when you have a large workload.
• Despite weighing almost 1.8kg, this corded electric device has a high-performance motor.
• A variable speed control setting enables you to adjust performance between 14,000 and 22,000 orbits per minute, while a large orbit size ensures a large coverage area.
• You can choose between integrated cartridge extraction or an external vacuum, which minimises the amount of dust in the ambient environment.
• Any 90mm hook and loop sanding pads will fit, so you’re not locked into buying DeWalt products.
• Some people have pointed out that the cooling motor’s position means dust is blown back into the user’s face, so protective goggles and masks are advisable.
• The relatively high price may put off more casual DIYers who could buy our other recommended product for less than half as much.

Technical Specifications

Power (W)	Orbital Stroke Rate (OPM)	Orbital Diameter (mm)	Paper Fastening	Sanding Surface (mm)	Product Length (mm)	Cable Length (m)	Weight (kg)
300	28,000–44,000	1.8	Hook & Loop Fixing	93×93	305	3	1.3

Summary: Capable of 22,000 orbits per minute and with a choice of extraction techniques, the DeWalt offers all the detail you’re ever likely to need.

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Best Value Detail Sander

• Our second detail sander recommendation is also mains-powered, helping it weigh less than 1kg.
• Its compact design makes it easy to use one-handed, while three separate rubber gripping areas provide an ergonomic hold.
• It’s compatible with BLACK+DECKER’s range of mesh sanding sheets, which the manufacturer claims can last up to four times as long as traditional sandpaper.
• A rocker switch enables continuous operation without the user manually keeping it activated, which benefits larger jobs and ones in awkward corners.
• A microfiltration dust canister is standard.
• The KA2500K comes with a kit box and nine accessories, making it excellent value for money.
• However, the dust extractor is relatively small, while the no-load speed of 11,000 RPM is low for a product of this type.

Technical Specifications

Power (W)	Orbital Diameter (mm)	Sanding Surface (mm)	No Load Speed (rpm)	Vibration: Sanding (m/sec²)	Noise Sound Power dB(A)	Noise Sound Pressure (dB(A)
120	2	110	14,000	7	84	73

Summary: A kit box and nine accessories make the KA2500K an attractive option. Its main problem is the limited power and dust extraction capacity.

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Sanders Comparison Table

Image	Product	Rating	Price
Best Overall Sander	Bosch PSM 200 AES Multi Sander	9.5	Check Price on AmazonCheck Price on Wickes
Best Performance Belt Sander	Makita 9404 Belt Sander	9	Check Price on AmazonCheck Price on Tooled-Up
Best Value Belt Sander	Bosch PBS 75 Belt Sander	9	Check Price on AmazonCheck Price on Wickes
Best Value Detail Sander	BLACK+DECKER KA2500K Mouse Detail Sander	8	Check Price on AmazonCheck Price on Tooled-Up
Best Performance Random Orbit Sander	Makita DBO180Z Random Orbit Sander	8	Check Price on AmazonCheck Price on Wickes
Best Value Random Orbit Sander	Bosch PEX 300 AE Random Orbit Sander	8	Check Price on AmazonCheck Price on Wickes
Best Performance Multi Sander	Bosch PSM 18 Multi Sander	8	Check Price on AmazonCheck Price on Wickes
Best Performance Power File Sander	Ryobi R18PF-0 Power File Sander	7.5	Check Price on AmazonCheck Price on Tooled-Up
Best Value Power File Sander	BLACK+DECKER KA900E Power File Sander	7.5	Check Price on AmazonCheck Price on Tooled-Up
Best Performance Detail Sander	DeWalt D26430 Detail Sander	7	Check Price on AmazonCheck Price on Wickes

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Sanders Buying Guide

We’ve detailed each type of sander below to help you find the best sander for your needs. We’ve also included the top features and things to avoid.

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1. Multi Sander

As their name suggests, carpenters use multi-sanders for sanding intricate areas or hard-to-access parts.

Compact and lightweight, they’re designed for maximum manoeuvrability, giving added freedom of movement. 

How To Choose A Multi-Sander

Consider the following features when buying a new multi-sander:

Corded vs Cordless

Multi-sanders don’t need as much power as other sanders, but they must be highly manoeuvrable, so cordless models are preferable. 

Time spent on intricate sections may add up, but the slower speed draws less power from the battery. Moreover, power cords are an extra hindrance over tricky areas such as finials or balustrades, so consider whether a cordless model will make your task easier.

The main advantage of opting for a corded multi-sander is the price, as corded models tend to be cheaper. This is especially true if you don’t own any power tools with interchangeable batteries from the same product range. 

While a cord may get in your way, if you don’t have a charged-up battery ready to go, it’s often more convenient to plug in a corded model and get the job done.

Handle

Multi sanders are designed for one-handed use and generally feature straight handles that allow you to angle your sanding blade precisely. 

Some models have handles that sit over and above the sanding plate, making them better suited to tasks such as sanding small flat furniture items.

Weight

Ideally, your multi-sander should be lightweight, so it’s easier to move around and get into tight spaces. 

Corded versions weigh around 1kg, preventing your hand from fatiguing and making it easier to angle your sander when accessing hard-to-reach areas.

Fastening System

Like random orbit sanders, multi-sanders use adhesive or velcro fastening pads. Opting for velcro fastening is preferable as it tends to stay in place for longer and is more durable over time. 

Pro Tip: Aside from the fastening type, consider the availability and cost of extra sandpaper pads when choosing a multi-sander.

Sanding Plate Shape

Multi sanders come with triangular-shaped sanding plates, making them look like ironing plates. This shape allows them easy access to tight corners and along edges. 

Before purchasing, consider the size and width of the sanding plate and whether it’s narrow enough to produce the level of detail you’re trying to achieve.

Dust Bag/Box

Your model should come with a dust bag or box to collect sawdust. Multi sanders don’t produce as much sawdust as belt sanders, so multi sanders dust bags tend to be on the small side.

If you’re using your multi-sander for long periods, check if you can attach a dust extractor or vacuum cleaner. This feature allows you to get on with your project without frequently stopping to empty your sander.

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2. Random Orbit Sander

Random orbital sanders are highly versatile and produce a better finish with few visible scratches. 

How To Choose A Random Orbit Sander

While all random orbit sanders work similarly, there can be many differences in power type, weight and design.

Corded vs Cordless

Before looking at individual models, take a few moments to decide whether a corded or a cordless model best suits your needs.

Cordless

• Cordless models offer greater freedom as you don’t need to use your sander near a plug socket. You can also take advantage of good weather and work outside — cutting down on interior dust and mess.
• Without a power cord, you can enjoy greater freedom of movement, especially when taking on larger projects with a greater surface area.
• Many cordless models require you to purchase a battery and charger separately unless you own batteries from the same product range.
• You should also purchase a spare battery for longer jobs, inflating the price considerably compared to a corded model offering similar performance levels.

Corded

• Corded models tend to be more powerful and won’t run out of battery. So, corded models are better if sanding at high power for long periods. 
• They’re often less expensive, as they don’t require additional batteries or chargers.

Speed Settings

Variable speed control is convenient for quickly switching tasks or taking care of more delicate items. 

When you use a cordless model with variable speeds, you may find it helpful to work slower when conserving battery power. This feature is handy when waiting for a spare battery to charge up.

Weight

Lighter random orbit sanders are much more comfortable for extended periods. However, if your sander has some extra weight, you’ll find it easier to sand more effectively, as this additional weight prevents you from continually pushing down over large areas.

Pro Tip: When choosing a random orbit sander, consider the model’s weight while considering your strength and the type of projects you’ll be undertaking.

Sandpaper Attachment Type

Sandpaper pads attach with an adhesive back or a velcro-style attachment. For better longevity and improved adhesion, velcro fastenings are preferable.

Grip

Sanding for any time can leave you with aching hands and wrists, so it’s essential to check the quality of the handle before purchasing. 

Ergonomically shaped handles with an easy-to-grip coating are an excellent choice for improving your comfort and safety.

Controls

Check the controls for ease of use. They should be located within easy reach but not so close; you risk hitting them inadvertently. Rotary dials or thumbwheels offer great ways to adjust speed on the go.

Dust Bag/Extractor Compatibility

While most models include dust bags or boxes, they’re not always highly effective, and you may have to stop to empty them frequently. 

You should attach a dust extractor if you take on coarse sanding projects or large surface areas. 

Pro Tip: Consider the availability and cost of compatible extractors for any particular model before purchasing.

Carry Bag

It’s not essential, but a carry bag or storage box is a great way to keep your random orbit sander safe when you’re not using it. 

While an included carry bag isn’t a deal-breaker, it’s a nice extra that helps organise your workshop and improves portability.

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3. Belt Sander

Carpenters generally use Belt sanders to strip back finishes over large areas. They tend to be pretty heavy-duty and provide coarse sanding. 

So, a belt sander is best if you want to sand back a floor or tabletop. 

How To Choose A Belt Sander

While most manufacturers build their belt sanders to a standard design, there are particular features you should look out for when buying the best belt sander for your needs.

Wattage

You could benefit from a lower-wattage model if you lack experience or do smaller jobs, as powerful models sand aggressively, leaving you with lines to sand out. 

A higher-wattage model is best for large tasks like stripping paint off a wooden floor or a large table. The increased power allows you to get the job done faster without the need to keep passing over the same area.

Power Cord

Ensuring that the power cord is long enough for your projects is crucial. A longer cable gives you more flexibility, especially when working outside.

Handles

Check the handle’s grip and positioning to ensure your hands are comfortable using your belt sander over a large area. 

Also, check the controls are within easy reach of the handles so you can safely stop and start your belt sander.

Automatic Belt Tensioning System

Pay close attention to any systems that make changing the sandpaper belt easier and faster. This feature saves you time adjusting each new sandpaper belt manually. 

Automatic belt tensioning systems are generally safer and great for hassle-free belt changes.

Variable Speed

If possible, look for a belt sander with variable speed, allowing you to adjust the speed to suit your needs. You’ll find that different wood densities require different speeds. 

You may also want to adjust the speed to quickly get through the coarser sanding stage, then reduce the pace for a smoother finish when using finer sandpaper.

Flat Top

If you plan on using your belt sander on its back to sand the edges of boards or as a sharpener, ensure your chosen model has a flat top with no protrusions. 

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using your belt sander invertedly. Some models may require a special fixing kit.

Dust Bag/Extractor Compatibility

Most models come with an attached dust box or bag as standard. This handy accessory helps keep your work area dust-free and reduces clean-up time.

As coarse sanding over large areas produces a lot of sawdust, you may have to stop frequently to empty your dust bag. 

Check if your model is compatible with a dust extractor or vacuum cleaner. This feature removes sawdust without having to stop as frequently.

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4. Power File Sander

This specialist sanding tool is the perfect companion for intricate or detailed sanding jobs, such as bannister spindles.

Power file sanders are also great for filing, sanding, sculpting, and smoothing out protruding metalwork or sharpening knife blades. You shouldn’t have to apply pressure when sanding — simply ensure the belt is in contact with the material.

Each power file sander has an adjustable arm extending from its main motor housing, which can extend into places larger devices (and even your arm) might struggle to reach. This sander contains a belt that spins at a speed calculated in metres per minute (m/min).

How To Choose A Power File

In truth, there isn’t a massive disparity between one power file sander and the next. Any device should make light work of timber, though motor power and wattage come into play if you’re working with more abrasive materials like metal.

Wattage

There are varying ways manufacturers promote the power of their sanders. For example, our chosen BLACK+DECKER product is listed as having a 350W motor, whereas Ryobi markets its offering as having a belt rotation of up to 630m/min. While these are incompatible measurement methods, both devices are more than capable of any task you’re likely to undertake.

Power Cord

Expanding on the last point, Ryobi quotes voltage instead of wattage — specifically, 18V DC on this battery-powered device, unlike the mains-powered BLACK+DECKER. The latter’s cord is almost three metres long, ensuring excellent range.

Handles

Because of the vibration caused by the spinning belt passing through the chassis, comfortable hand grips are vitally important. 

We recommend rubberised handles with dimples since plastic may become slippery as your hands experience ongoing heat and vibration.

The best power file sanders have protruding side handles for two-handed use, though it’s worth noting these are always on the left side of the device. If you’re left-handed, you might find it inconvenient having to use the trigger with your weaker hand.  

Variable Speed

Our shortlisted products both have variable speed controls, allowing you to determine what finish you want. More challenging jobs require more power, whereas light decorative sanding shouldn’t require much elbow grease.

Dust Bag/Extractor Compatibility

Vacuum extraction is too bulky for these relatively lightweight objects, so if your chosen device has a dust capture mechanism, it’ll be a bag or container.

The BLACK+DECKER comes attached to a cyclonic action dust canister, which helps to keep working areas and surrounding surfaces relatively dust-free. However, the Ryobi has no such capture mechanism — worth remembering, depending on the nature of your work.

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5. Detail Sander

Also known as a delta or mouse sander, a detail sander is a small triangular device that sands hard edges and recessed corners. It’s smaller and lighter than a standard belt or disc machine, making sanding thin timbers like picture frames easier. They also fit neatly into tight corners and hard-to-reach spots.

As well as their core role of sanding, detail sanders can file down exposed nail heads, remove varnish and paint, or polish metallic/plastic surfaces. Bear in mind that different projects require varying coarseness of sandpaper.

How To Choose A Detail Sander

As with the other sanders, detail sanders have varying features and specifications. Here’s what you need to know.

Corded vs Cordless

• Most detail sanders are corded.
• As with orbit sanders, manufacturers generally list their power in watts. 
• Smaller batteries mean less power, influencing the sander’s ability to tackle hard surfaces quickly.
• Battery-powered devices also have the battery pack’s extra weight, reducing their effectiveness while potentially tiring you out quicker.
• Choosing a cordless design allows you to work anywhere, including outdoors — handy if you suffer from dust allergies or conditions like rhinitis.
• Cordless is excellent for whole-room detailing where a mains lead might not stretch.

Sanding is physical work, so ensuring your detail sander isn’t too heavy is crucial. This concern might steer you towards a corded machine that doesn’t need a battery pack. 

Our chosen BLACK+DECKER detail sander weighs less than 1kg, so it shouldn’t cause too much arm ache on longer jobs. Severe arm ache is a common problem, especially when sanding higher-up areas like doors or window frames.

Fastening System

Our preferred method of attaching sandpaper is the hook and loop system. These velcro strips provide substantial adhesion while being relatively straightforward to change.

We’d recommend avoiding any sander where you have to tuck sandpaper into place or cut it to shape manually. This extra step is unnecessary in the age of stick-on replacement strips.

Sanding Plate Shape

The beauty of a detail sander is that it tapers to a point rather than being rectangular or circular. While you could attempt to sand a recessed corner using a belt sander, having a triangular edge is perfect for getting into nooks and crannies.

Ensure your chosen detail sander has a plentiful supply of sanding sheets before investing in it. A discontinued model might be on sale, but it could represent a false economy if you have to pay a premium for increasingly hard-to-get sheets.

Our recommended DeWalt detail sander has a rotating base. This feature ensures uniform wear on each sandpaper strip, rather than filing down one edge and having the rest of the sheet pristine.

Dust Bag/Box

Since sanding generates large quantities of dust, an extraction port is vital. Sawdust is drawn up into the sander through base plate holes before being expelled via the extraction port.

The port might clip onto a proprietary box or bag through a microfilter or simply allow you to attach a vacuum cleaner pipe. 

With corded devices, the practicalities of having a mains cable and a vacuum pipe extending away from the machine while in use are worth considering.

A capture box is a passive method of dust capture, and a vacuum is more powerful and far better at hovering up dust from the surrounding atmosphere.

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Final Thoughts

Your choice of sander depends heavily on your intended use. However, if you’re looking for a versatile sander for various home DIY projects, we highly recommend the Bosch PSM 200 AES.

It has enough power for your weekend projects while remaining compact and light. Its two-piece sanding plate helps your sanding pads last longer and represents excellent value for money. 

Whether a novice or an experienced user, this handy and inexpensive sander will be helpful for most household sanding tasks.

Its triangular-shaped plate gets into tight spaces and up against walls, great for sanding down medium-sized furniture, including a chest of drawers and tables. 

And as if that wasn’t enough, the sanding pads attach quickly and easily with velcro fastenings, making this sander a convenient option for any home.