The wood, metal, and plastic surfaces can be rough and sharp at the edges when cut through joints and left unpolished. Such surfaces can pose risks to you and any other individual who come in contact with them. Smoothing and cleaning the surfaces of wood make them safe to handle and look neat for various job applications.
Sander power tool works miracles when it comes to polishing, smoothing, and cleaning the wood, plastic, or metal surfaces. The models can also roughen the material surfaces when they are getting prepared for finishing.
However, choosing the top models can be challenging, especially with the verse polishing tools available both online and in the markets. In this article, I have done the legwork for you, listed and described the best cordless sander models. I have also provided a list of primary features you need to consider before making a purchase decision. The features facilitate the ease, efficiency, and convenience when using this powerful tool.
Best Cordless Sander Reviews
1.DEWALT 20V MAX XR Oscillating Tool Kit, Brushless, 28 Pieces
Talk of a powerful model for sanding, scraping, or cutting wood or metal materials, Dewalt sander gives you just that. 
The unit is fitted with a brushless motor that is energy efficient and delivers up to 57 percent more run time than the brushed models. The absence of the carbon brushes in this unit ensures energy loss through friction is minimized while also ensuring the model’s longevity due to reduced wear and tear.
The unit allows for modifications. It works with sandpaper pads, blades, and other accessories in the kit that aid in the improvement or application to the materials of any kind. Besides, unlike most models with a speed control dial for speed adjustments, this model has fused a paddle trigger in DCS355D1 for speed control. This has ensured greater efficiency and convenience of speed controls.
The motor unit ensures that this sander achieves the highest speed of 20000OPM at 1.6 degrees that will allow you to work on different materials regardless of their roughness or toughness. The tool comes with a quick change accessory system that allows blades and attachments to be quickly and rapidly changed without additional tools.
The model boasts a compact design with a weight of 3.2 pounds that is just above the average considering its a multi-tasking tool. The lightweight is complimented with its 2.0Ah XR battery that has a slim design. The battery has three LED lights that help show the remaining charge to limit unfortunate work breakdowns when the battery charge is suddenly drained.
Pros
- LED lights to indicate the battery charge and illuminate the dimly lit surfaces
- Tool-free blade changing system
- High oscillations, attaining a maximum speed of 20000 OPM
- Three-year warranty
- Compact and sleek design
Cons
- The paddle trigger cannot be locked
2.Makita XOB01Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 5 inch Random Orbit Sander
Makita Sander is a perfect choice for providing power, convenience, and maximum comfort when executing your smoothing and polishing jobs. With its 18V lithium-ion battery, this unit will provide you with a 20 minutes continuous run time at a maximum speed of 11000 orbits per minute (OPM) with just a single charge and go up to 40 minutes you choose to work with the low speed.
The sander provides 3-speed settings of 7000, 9000, and 11000 ORP. You can easily change the speed depending on the precision at which you need your surface polished or how fast you want it done. The unit completes the speed settings with a pad control system used in the speed after start-up variation.
Makita sander has a smart built ⅛-inch random orbital movement that ensures fast sanding and a swirl-free finishing. Besides, the model is built with a robust, comfortable grip fitted with an efficient dust collection unit. This will ensure you do not strain your wrist or have fears of the unit slipping and that you work on debris-free surfaces for accuracy and precision, respectively.
The lightweight and compact design add to the convenience and ease of use of this model. Weighing only 3 pounds, you can operate the tool with just a single hand while enjoying your preferred drink with the other. The lightweight also permits easy maneuverability while the compact design facilitates secure storage, ensuring it takes up the smallest space in your tool collection possible.
The power and the variable speed button have also been placed strategically in front for ease of access. The speed control button is one-touch and offers fast, medium, and low-speed settings depending on your preference and the type of material you are working on.
The organization has placed a three-year warranty on this unit to establish trust with the users and eliminate any worries of manufacturing defects you may have. However, this model has a slight demerit that it cannot be used continuously on large projects that go for over an hour. This can, however, be corrected by having an extra battery.
Pros
- Lightweight and ergonomic design
- Variable speed
- Smart built a ⅛-inch random orbital movement that for fast sanding and a swirl-free finishing
- Three-year warranty
Cons
- Cannot effectively handle lengthy projects with a single charge
3.Black & Decker BDCRO20C 20V MAX Random Orbit Sander
Few orbit sanders can attain the speed of 11000 OPM. Black & Decker sander attains a high speed of 12000OPM that will enable you to rapidly remove material, stains, and paint on your wood or metal surface you want to use. The tool also complements this speed with the cordless convenience for small to medium applications and quick touches. 
The sander is fitted with a dust canister that collects all the debris upon smoothing and polishing, leaving your work environment clean and kempt. Besides, no model beats this unit in compactness. It is 30% more compact than the leading competitor, Ryobi P411.
The model has an impressive runtime for finishing the household jobs with a 20V battery that provides sufficient power for the polishing and smoothing applications. It is also easy to replace the sandpaper since it has a loop and hook mechanism, complementing its ease of use.
The model is covered with a two-year warranty from the day of purchase. If you note any manufacturing defect, you can contact the company for a replacement or refund. The unit is packed with other accessories, including the one charger, two 5-inch round sandpaper sheets, one BDERO20 Orbit Sander, and a single 20V Max * 1.5Ah battery.
Pros
- Compact design and lightweight for maneuverability and comfortable use
- Boast a high speed for faster removal of stain and paints
- The battery and the charger included
- Two-year warranty
Cons
- The grip may not be comfortable for extended usage.
4. DEWALT 20V MAX Random Orbital Sander
Dewalt Random Orbital sander is a model that will give you the needed runtime and the power to execute your applications to completion. The unit comes with a 20V 5.0Ah rated battery that powers the model for extended use.
Moreover, this unit is fitted with a variable speed dial that you can use to choose your preferred speed between 8000 and 12000 OPM. The variable speed is essential, especially when working on different materials whereby a high speed can destroy the required pattern.
It also features a dust collection bag that is secure and safe to collect the polished particles. The benefit is working in a cleaner environment, and the results are smooth and neat surfaces.
The design of the system has also considered the safety of the users. The unit boasts a compact design with a molded ergonomic grip that gives you the comfort you need in your hands while in operation. It is fitted with a replaceable 8-hook and loop sanding pad that ensures quick and easy paper changes. This system ensures you do not need an extra tool to change sandpaper.
Pros
- It has a variable speed dial for speed variation for use in different materials
- Effective dust collector for a clean working environment
- Fitted with a brushless pad technology that ensures extended use
Cons
- A bit pricey
5.Ridgid R8606B GEN5X 18-Volt 5 in. Cordless Random Orbit Sander
Ridgid R8606B is a cordless sander with a complete dust collection unit, long-lasting battery, and robustly built for longevity.
Unlike most models with 2-3 variable speed units, this unit boasts a 6-speed variable speed dial with between 7000 and 11000 OPM. The high speed is ensured by its powerful lithium-ion battery rated 18V- 4.0Ah. The battery gives a continuous run time of more than 45 minutes with just a single charge.
The unit also features a patented new innovative GEN5X motor technology that delivers sufficient power and helps attain the constant maximum speed for different applications and ensures the tool can work even under heavy load.
This model’s dust collection canister is excellently positioned to gather up to 90 percent of the debris, enabling you to work in a clean environment. Moreover, if you find problems with the dust collector after the warranty period, you can conveniently replace it with a vacuum hose for the same role.
One drawback of this model is that the battery and the charger are bought separately, and this will force you to spend extra pennies on adding them to your tool package. If not, the machine is just excellent for polishing and smoothing activities.
Pros
- Powerful batteries for longer run time
- Variable speed dial
- The innovative motor technology for power and high speed
- Dust collection canister to improve the environment of work
Cons
- The battery and charger bought separately.
6.Ryobi P411 One+ 18 Volt 5 Inch Cordless Battery Operated Random Orbit Power Sander
Ryobi is an ideal choice when you need a sturdy, durable, and easy to use model. The unit comes with sanding pads attached through a hook and loop connecting system for optimal user convenience.
Moreover, the dirt that comes from the polished surfaces can compromise the efficiency of the tool. However, this is no problem with the Ryobi P411 model as it is fitted with a dust bag to gather any shavings from your work, which eliminates your hassle of the post-job cleaning.
The tool also boasts an impressive speed of 10,000 OPM. The speed makes this unit ideal for any sanding and polishing job under the application of appropriate pressure. The demerit with this system, however, is that it lacks a speed control system. It operates under constant speed, but you can vary this through the application of pressure.
Ryobi P411 model is fitted with a rubber overgrip with notches that makes it easy for you to handle and protects you from intense vibrations from its powerful motor. The grip helps keep you comfortable for long hours.
Pros
- Has a comfortable and ergonomic grip
- It is affordable
- Three-year warranty
- Effective dirt collector unit for clean working surfaces
Cons
- It does not have a variable speed control hence operates at a constant speed of 10000OPM.
7. PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX Random Orbital Sander
Porter-cable is another excellent smoothing and polishing tool built with long-lasting materials, has a comfortable design, and provides quality that defines the organization. 
The model comes with a 20V lithium-ion battery that supplies sufficient power that results in an incredible 12000OPM speed that differentiates it from most of its competitors. Though depending on how you use it, the battery gives at least a 40 minutes run time with a single charge.
With this unit, you have absolute control, and the vibrations are eliminated with its low profile design construction. It also features a dust collection canister with 1-¼ inch port. However, when you feel this bag is not useful per your job requirement, you can remove the bag and connect a vacuum hose to the port.
Like Ryobi, this unit lacks a speed control as it operates at a constant 12000 OPM speed. However, you can always attempt to control the speed manually through variation in pressure on your work surface.
Besides, the performance, efficiency, and ease of use of this model are backed up by a three-year warranty to eliminate your worries over possible manufacturing defects.
Pros
- High battery power for enhanced speed
- Comfortable handle grip that eliminates wrist fatigue
- Effective dust collector for a clean working environment
- Three-year warranty to eliminate possible manufacturing defects
Cons
- Lacks speed control system
8.ACDelco ARS2016 BRUSHLESS 20V 3″ Mini Sander
If you are looking for a model that is cheap and the easiest to operate, then look no further than ACDelco ARS2016 sander. The model boasts a high level of efficiency, fitted with a brushless motor that ensures effective transmission of energy to match its torque and speed levels to its applications’ changing requirements, enhancing its versatility. 
This unit is user-friendly. Contrary to its compact design, this model is fitted with the brushless motors to ensure robust power transmission as the energy loss through friction is minimized.
Besides, its 6-⅛ inch long and lightweight two-positioned side handles offer an anti-slip and soft grip that ensures your wrist does not get fatigued. It also features a variable speed control of between 3000RPM and 7300 IPM characterized by reversible control and electric brake switch applied for fastening applications.
With this unit, you also benefit from the longevity of your tool. The fitted brushless motors reduce wear and tear, improving its durability. Also, the brushless motors ensure a longer run time and save energy, hence energy-efficient.
The model has an in-built LED lighting system that helps illuminate your working surface and the battery indicator lights to help determine the charge left before recharging.
Pros
- LED lighting system for enhanced visibility of the working surface
- Enhanced durability due to powerful brushless motor
- Compact and lightweight with comfortable handle
- Variable speed
Cons
- Suitable for small to medium jobs
9. SKIL 7305-01 18-Volt Octo Multi Finishing Sander
Skil 7305-01 model is the most affordable unit you can find among the best cordless sanders today. Its ability to use both the Ni-CD battery and the lithium-ion types makes it an outstanding unit worth your investment.
The model also boasts a quick pad change system. You do not need an extra tool for the change, and this enhances its ease of use. The three-position nose detail ensures maximum use of abrasive, also facilitating its efficiency.
Skil sander features a soft-grip design for enhanced comfort and control. The soft grip ensures you can use this model for long hours without getting fatigued in your arm, and the grip also helps minimize the vibrations.
Pros
- Affordable
- Comfortable grip
- Reduced vibrations
- Quick pad change system
- Both Ni-CD battery and Lithium-ion battery compatible
Cons
- Suitable for small projects
10.Festool 201531 Cordless eccentric sander
Most people have not realized the value of this model due to its price tag, but for the sanding experts, Festool 201531 is one hell of a tool whose efficiency is unquestionable. The model also beats most of the competitor brands with its multiple features and quality design.
Unlike the other models I reviewed, this unit is a hybrid sander that works both with electricity and battery. The feature makes the tool more versatile and capable of being used in different working environments. It is not limited to battery only like other cordless models, which complements its endless run time.
Moreover, this battery for this unit charges after only 25 minutes and can last to over 30 minutes, with the model operating at maximum speed. You are also assured of working on a clean environment as the unit is fitted with a dust collector to help you gather all the debris while polishing.
Festool 201531 has a non-slippery and comfortable handle that ensures balance and limits fatigue on your arms when using the tool. It is constructed from robust and sturdy materials that add to its longevity while the variable speed dial allows you to choose a desirable speed between 6000 and 10000OPM.
Pros
- More versatile tool
- It is comfortable to use
- Robust and sturdy design
- A highly effective dust extractor
Cons
- A bit pricey
11. Makita XOB01T 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 5″ Random Orbit Sander Kit
This Makita XOB10T model is the best when you need a unit with adequate speed for faster material removal, and it is highly ideal for the woodworkers.
This unit features three different speed settings of 7000, 95000, and 11000 OPM that can easily change with an electronic switch. The unit also boasts a longer run time of up to 40 minutes with a single charge. At low speed, however, the model can consistently run for over 65 minutes.
You will also enjoy an easy removal of the stains or paints and smoothen the wood surface easily, thanks to its sturdy ⅛ inch random orbit oscillations that also adds to a swirl-free finish.
You can also limit the free spin that adds to the enhanced finishing of the model. The tool has included a one-touch electronic speed control that offers fast, medium, and low settings. This makes its operation direct and straightforward, just what you need for an efficient tool.
Pros
- Improved performance and longevity due to its star protection technology
- Variable speed dial
- Sturdy ⅛ inch random orbit oscillations that also adds to a swirl-free finish.
- Hook and loop system for secure operations
- Longer run time
Cons
- None to mention
Best cordless sander Buyers’ Guide
There are various sander models and types available in the market today. However, before you settle on a particular unit, you must first know what project or application for the sander and the various features that will improve its performance.
What is a sander?
A sander refers to a power tool that is used in the smoothing and finishing of surfaces. The sanders help you remove material from a surface, and the sander moves a piece of sandpaper or another abrasive to clear and make the surface of the material as smooth as you desire.
Uses of a Sander
You can put your sander to various uses, especially when you are a professional in the woodworking sector and the auto-body repairs. Such applications include but not limited to;
- Preparing the surfaces for finishing
- The units help remove the old paints or varnish from the wood
- Prepping and stripping the floors
- The removal of excess material from surfaces to get the desired shape or levels
- Polishing and smoothing the planks and edges
Types of sanders
Belt Sander
The belt sanders are ideal for the woodworking shops primarily used to polish and smoothen the rough surfaces, hence perfecting the finishing woodwork. This type of sander design permits you to remove large amounts of material over a short period.
Besides, the sander type operates on a continuous loop principle. Instead of the static abrasive sheets like the disc or orbital sanders, belt sanders utilize an entirely looped sanding belt.
The belt is kept in place while in operation by tension controls and the alignment guides. The spinning of the electric motors fused in the sanders helps in the belts’ forward motion, which makes the motor tool ideal for broad applications, hence a heavy-duty tool.
Random Orbital Sander
Perhaps, the most preferred sander types for most of the woodworkers. Random orbital sanders are versatile, and this makes it possible to use them for various applications.
Even though they may not have the power as the belt sanders, random orbital sanders are efficient and convenient for polishing the woodwork piece to almost the same gleam as with the belt sanders.
Besides, the units are more affordable and easy to use. The models I have discussed in this review are mostly the random orbital types, and this helps show how important and convenient they are for smoothing and polishing jobs.
The video below shows how to use a random orbital sander
Disc Sanders
Most woodworkers prefer disc sanders due to their extensive usage. The models are known for their disc-shaped abrasive surface that makes them unique. Not all disc sanders have random orbital motion, but the random orbital sanders all have the disc sanders, explaining the extensive use of the random orbital types.
The disc sanders are perfect for rough surfaces where you need to remove a lot of materials from the surface, and you can say when you have a thicker surface, and you want a more thin and sleek surface before you move on to a more fine surface.
Besides, the sander type is more effective for stripping the paint from the old furniture because the models can get into places where other types like belt sanders cannot reach or access. They are light and compact, making them access the areas other larger and powerful models like belt sanders cannot polish.
Finishing Sander
The type of sanders is designed for finishing work. The model is used in tasks where other models cannot achieve the quality or desired outcomes. It can also get used to the other models together. After polishing rough surfaces with disc or belt sanders, you can use the finishing sander to get the most elegant surfaces. Thus, this sander type helps you get a quality finish.
Where to use sanders
For the professionals or the woodworkers, there is always a time and place where you do not need to do the sanding job by hand and use the power tools.
Hand sanding is ideal when working on intricate or small jobs where the powered sanders or high-speed models can destroy surfaces or obscure sharp edges and fine details.
On the other hand, when you are dealing with large projects where there is work progress from rough surfaces to the fine-finished phases, then without a doubt, you must consider the robust models with high battery ratings to give the power and the efficiency needed for such applications.
So when do you need to use the sanders? The following are the various instances that a sander and especially the cordless models can be of great help;
- When making furniture. Perhaps the most ideal use of the sanders. Whether you do it as a hobby or as a professional, you need a sander. The sanders in the case help smooth finish and removal of any stains or old paints on the furniture surface. This improves the physical appearance of your furniture and enhances its durability as a maintenance practice.
- In the building of the staircases. This is more of an art than carpentry. Building staircases require experience in sanding. It would help if you had a sanding model with both the power and speed to realize the desired smoothness. In such a case, you will require the cordless random orbital types of sanders.
- Manufacturing of the toys. Toy production industries are another individual who massively needs the cordless sanders as they make your work much more comfortable. The children handle the toys and are everywhere with them, thus requiring smooth handling surfaces that may not pierce or injure their hands. For toy manufacturing, you need disc sanders as they are perfect for such works.
Factors to Consider when buying best cordless sander
Speed (OPM)
The rate at which the sanding discs spin is measured in orbits per minute (OPM). The higher the OPM, the faster the sanding. Thus, when buying a sander, you must consider the speed level of the unit.
Most units have variable speed while a few have a constant speed. I recommend that you consider a model with variable speed as this will help you work on different materials. The delicate materials require low-speed operations, while sturdy materials will require high speed. You can only achieve this when you acquire a model with variable speed settings.
Also, some sanders work effectively at high speed. Most of the models I have discussed have a maximum speed of between 10000OPM and 12000OPM. Such speeds are appropriate for any polishing jobs and can help you execute your work within the shortest time possible.
The good thing with the models with variable speed settings is that they are easy to control. Therefore, you must know the type of material surface you intend to work on, and then you can effectively choose the best speed for your application.
Most significantly, if you want to polish different surfaces, you should consider buying a sander with variable speed control.
Hand Grips
Though some people may not consider it essential. The hand grips are fundamentally essential features that you must consider when making your preferred sander’s purchase decision.
There are enhanced vibrations with powerful sanders, while the smaller and more lightweight units require intricate control to help you not damage the surface of your working material.
Thus, before you buy any sander, consider the composition. Buy a unit with a soft grip since this will make it easier for you to hold and control your sander and realize your desired outcome.
Battery
Battery power is one of the essential considerations that you must make before you make a purchase decision. The cordless sanders utilize the rechargeable lithium-ion batteries as their sources of power. Besides, other units, such as SKILL models, can work with both lithium-ion and Ni-CD batteries to your advantage.
You should note that the higher the battery voltage, the faster the unit. A high battery rating results in more power supplied in the unit, high speed, and run time.
For the cordless sanders, the batteries have between 18V and 20V. When you intend to use the tool at home or on small projects, the 18V rated model will be the most ideal. However, it would be best if you considered a model with high voltage as 20V for extended use for professional applications.
Thus, based on your work’s nature and the type of material you want to work on, you can effectively choose the best model and battery voltage.
Dust Collection Unit
Who does not want a clean environment for work? Absolutely none. Working in a clean environment enhances your work efficiency while also enhancing the accuracy and precision with which you do your work.
Before you settle on the best cordless sander, you should look into the dust collection unit. Various elements define the dust collection canisters. The elements include the size, the option of dust collection, and the ease of removal.
When buying a model, select a unit with a large dust canister. This will save you the hassle of having to empty the dust bag in between jobs continually. Secondly, you must consider the dust collection options available with the unit you intend to buy. Some canisters directly collect the dust as you sand while some are connected to the external vacuum hose.
Thirdly, you must consider the ease of removal. Go for a model that you can remove with a single hand while the other sand. It would help if you determined whether the unit is detachable, as this will help connect with the external vacuum.
Warranty
Trusting a brand, you have not used before, especially when you are not a professional can be a hell of work. Not all products you buy are always 100% efficient. Some come with numerous but unnoticeable manufacturing defects.
The warranty periods that the organizations use to cover their products from the time of purchase are essential to establish the trust in using their products. The more extended the warranty, the higher you will put your trust in that particular unit.
For the cordless sanders, the warranty periods are between one year and three years. When an organization gives a more extended warranty, it means they are sure of the quality they are giving you. If you find the model to be defective, you can always contact the organization’s customer care before the expiry date of that warranty cover. Choose a model with a more extended warranty.
Conclusion
Machines or tools are designed to make work easy and save you time. When you want to buy a machine, the ease of use, convenience, comfort, and importantly the efficiency should be primary as influential elements to your purchase decision.
I have made DEWALT 20V MAX XR Oscillating Tool top of my list because of its high efficiency, comfortable handling, and ease of use. The brushless motor technology in this unit ensures high energy transmission, which provides you with a huge run time while also supporting its longevity through reduced wear and tear.
Overall, the units I have reviewed in this article boasts the highest quality and efficiency. You should never have a second thought to acquire any of them as they are efficient and have the top qualities for improved performance.
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