The 10 Best Sheet Sanders

At its top speed, the compact VonHaus Detail (appx. $26) runs smoothly and affords you plenty of control, though it’s rather sluggish on its lower settings. The clamp mechanism is quick and intuitive, so you don’t have to waste time swapping in a new sheet.

A 240-watt motor enables the Hico Handheld (about $28) to deliver both power and efficiency, a combination that comes in handy when you’re removing old paint or stains from wood before you apply a new coat. It’s shaped to fit naturally in your palm.

Despite an awkwardly-placed paddle switch, the Black+Decker BDEQS300 (appx. $30) offers plenty of control and little trouble once it’s up and running. It operates with impressive speed for a budget-friendly model, and it’s quiet enough to keep spouses and children undisturbed.

Toggle between six different speeds with the Tacklife PSS02A (around $40) to accomplish anything from forceful grinding to delicate finishing work during the same job. A convenient hook-and-loop system makes for painless sheet changes, too.

The tried-and-true Porter-Cable 380 (about $34) is a nice value, especially when you consider its ability to access tight, hard-to-reach corners nimbly without compromising on power. Its fluid operation, devoid of excess shaking and rattling, is easy on your muscles and joints.

Precision is almost always important to a carpenter or cabinet maker, but for some jobs, consistency is of even greater consequence. To that end, the Bosch GSS20-40 (appx. $55) delivers a uniform, frictionless finish without swirl marks to just about any surface.

Unlike many models, the dust bag attached to the Makita BO3710 (around $55) actually sucks up the vast majority of the debris generated while you work, so you’ll be able to enjoy clear visibility and a tidy job site. You can also lock the trigger on, if need be.

The counter-balanced design of the DeWalt DWE6411K (appx. $72) helps keep vibrations to a minimum, which, in turn, reduces the noise level and makes for a more comfortable experience. A strong clamp secures the sheet firmly in place as you work.

Even seasoned veterans with weathered, arthritic hands should be able to add and remove sheets nearly effortlessly with the Bosch OS50VC (around $275). You'll have the freedom to use almost any type of sandpaper you desire, and its formidable construction will ensure a long life.

A useful variable speed dial allows you to operate the Makita BO4900V (appx. $179) at any setting between 4,000 and 10,000 orbits per minute, enabling you to achieve precision and efficiency on different types of project. It’s a super smooth, half-sheet model.