Random orbital sanders are power tools that are widely popular. They have become widespread due to their ease of use and high quality grinding. People who want to purchase such a device should find out in advance what an eccentric sander is, the rating of budget ones and their main differences.
EShM - tools used for grinding various surfaces
What is an eccentric sander
ESM is a tool that appeared in the second half of the last century. The German company Festool was the first to produce such devices. They are used for grinding metal, wood and even plastic.
The quality of processing of these power tools is in no way inferior to models that are equipped with a conventional grinding disc. EShMs also process materials evenly without damaging their surface.
Additional Information! Today, a huge number of such devices are produced and therefore people often do not know how to choose an eccentric sander for wood and metal.
What types of grinders are there?
Delta grinder Interskol PShM-32/130
Surface grinding machine BISON ZPShM-300E-02
Belt sander Hammer LSM 810
| Eccentric (orbital) | They are considered one of the most effective for grinding and polishing various surfaces. They are also called orbital, because the base of the tool rotates in orbit while simultaneously scrolling along its axis. |
| Surface grinding (vibrating) | This type has a rectangular base and a clamping mechanism at the edges. The advantages include low cost and availability of consumables. |
| Tape | Belt sanders are used for grinding metal, wood, and plastic. Mainly for rough use, removing old paint and varnish. The downside is the loud noise. |
| Delta vibratory sanders | This instrument has a delta-shaped sole, reminiscent of the shape of an iron. Used for grinding and polishing edges, corners and hard-to-reach places. |
You can, of course, use a grinder (angle grinder) for grinding work, but it is better suited for rough surfaces using roughing brushes; for finishing, special eccentric attachments are suitable.
Also, some angle grinders do not have speed control. It is very difficult for her to work in hard-to-reach places and over long distances.
For walls and ceilings, you can choose the ASPRO-C8® ESM (GIRAFFE) - technical characteristics:
Designed for sanding dry walls and ceilings. Due to the smooth adjustment of the electric motor and the rigid sole, the surface quality is suitable for applying the finishing layer, followed by painting and wallpapering.
- Voltage 220V;
- Power frequency 50 Hz;
- Engine power 710 W;
- Grinding wheel diameter 225 mm;
- Grinding wheel speed 600-1500 rpm;
- Weight 4.2 kg;
- Includes hose for connection to a construction vacuum cleaner
- Average price - 30,000 rubles.
How to choose an eccentric sander
Some people think that choosing an EShM is quite simple. However, this is far from being the case. To purchase a good and inexpensive tool, it is not enough to simply study the rating of eccentric grinders. You also need to familiarize yourself with the parameters that you need to pay attention to when choosing.
Power
When purchasing an EShM for your home, you need to consider the power of the device. To choose the best option, you need to decide on the scope of use of the tool. For example, for home use you should not buy overly powerful models. The most suitable choice would be a device with a power of about 300-400 W.
If you need to frequently sand hard and rough surfaces, you will have to look for a more powerful model. ESMs that will produce from 700-800 W are ideal.
Frequency and amplitude of oscillations
This is one of the most important indicators that must be taken into account when choosing a new grinder. The fact is that the productivity of the device and the quality of surface treatment depend on the frequency and amplitude of vibrations.
For fine grinding, models with a minimum amplitude of about 2-3 mm are suitable. If you need to do rough grinding, then you will have to look for a power tool with higher performance.
Platform diameter
Picture 2 The diameter of the working platform determines which attachments can be used for grinding
All grinders are equipped with special platforms with which attachments for surface treatment are attached. The top eccentric grinders include models with a plate diameter of 125-150 mm. This is the optimal size, suitable for working with metal surfaces and wood.
Additional Information! There are models on sale whose diameter is not so large. They are used for fine grinding of small products.
terms of Use
When choosing a grinding machine, it is necessary to take into account its operating conditions. For example, if it will rarely be used at home for wood processing, there is no need to buy too expensive ESMs. Any budget model is suitable for this.
If this device is purchased for everyday use and processing of hard surfaces, you will have to familiarize yourself with the rating of the most powerful eccentric sanders. Budget models are not suitable for such tasks.
Ergonomics
It is recommended to purchase ergonomic and mobile models that can be used away from outlets. They are equipped with special batteries that allow you to use ESM anywhere, regardless of whether they are connected to a power source.
The ergonomics of the tool are also affected by its dimensions. You should not buy sanders that are too large, as they are not very convenient to use. It is recommended to buy compact models. They fit well in the hands and are more comfortable to work with.
№2 – MIRKA CEROS 650CV
Price: 36234 rubles.
Mirka CEROS 650CV is an eccentric grinder with very modest dimensions, and it weighs less than a kilogram. At the same time, its power ratings of 350 W and rotation speed up to 10,000 rpm with the possibility of their adjustment ensure high quality work. The maximum disc diameter is 150 mm.
Low vibrations, low weight and ergonomics allow you to operate the model with literally one hand without unnecessary strain. Mirka CEROS 650CV was awarded second place in the rating for the optimal combination of power and extreme compactness. If you have to work in limited space, then this model will simply become an indispensable tool.
MIRKA CEROS 650CV
Types of Grinding Tools
Wheels are a grinding tool responsible for surface treatment.
There are several types of grinding tools that are often used in ESM. The most common varieties include the following:
- circles made on an organic or ceramic basis;
- CBN wheels made of ceramics for processing metal products;
- diamond tools for sharpening knives and other cutting products;
- synthetic diamond stones intended for honing parts.
Important! When choosing an ESM, you need to familiarize yourself with what types of grinding tools the model supports.
Criterias of choice
Comparison of eccentric sanders
Popular manufacturers of orbital sanders (eccentric type)
- Makita;
- Metabo;
- DeWALT;
- BLACK+DECKER;
- BOSCH;
- Hyundai;
- Hammer;
- Einhell;
- PATRIOT;
Power consumption is considered one of the main selection characteristics that affects process performance. It is also necessary to take this indicator into account so as not to overload the power grid. A tool with more power is chosen mainly for rough work, such as grinding concrete and metal. The range varies from 50 to 1200 W.
You need to understand that the more power the EShM model has, the heavier it will be.
The size of the platform stroke, mm - can vary from 1 to 20 mm. The greater the amplitude, the faster the processing process moves.
Disk diameter, mm - can be divided into three types: small 100 - 125 mm, medium 150 -180, large 200-230 mm. Each of them is selected depending on the work being performed. The higher the number in the table, the finer the grain size.
| Type of grinding | Grain |
| Finishing | 180 — 320 |
| Blade finishing | 170 — 220 |
| Round finishing | 60 — 100 |
| Round roughing | 24 — 36 |
| Flat | 16 — 36 |
The equipment is classified:
- P40 – P120 - intended for rough work, for example, initial surface cleaning before sanding wood, metal, etc.
- P140 – P180 – removal of minor flaws.
- P400 – P1000 – polishes products.
Maximum disk rotation speed (revolutions per minute) - this parameter depends on the maximum disk size for a particular model; the larger it is, the lower the number of revolutions becomes.
It is set mainly for a specific material and attachment. The finer the grain size of the skin, the higher the processing speed (from 5,000 to 13,000 rpm).
| Additional functions | |
| Speed adjustment | Allows you to perform work more efficiently. |
| Starting current limitation | Gently accelerates the engine, reducing tool wear and making work safer. |
| Speed stabilization system | Fixes the desired value by dialing the speed and maintaining it. |
| Overload protection | Turns off the motor during overload or jamming, which prevents tool damage. |
| Anti-vibration system | Works as a dynamic counterweight, reducing strong vibration. |
| Rubberized body | The grip becomes more comfortable and there is less vibration. |
| Button lock ON | Prevents the grinder from being accidentally pressed, and also keeps the button ON during prolonged operation. |
| Case | Convenient for carrying tools and storing equipment. |
| Weight | The lighter weight prevents your hand from getting too tired, which improves performance. |
Rating of eccentric sanders
Before purchasing an ESM, you need to familiarize yourself with the rating of the best eccentric grinders.
Corded random orbital sanders
DeWALT DWE6423 is one of the most popular models of corded grinders.
If the ESM will only be used at home, you can look for corded models. Among the most popular network-powered devices are the following:
- DeWALT DWE6423. This is an American orbital sander that is equipped with a motor with a power of about 300 W. The maximum rotation speed reaches 12000 rpm. Suitable for processing wood and metal.
- Wert EES 125DE. The model is equipped with a 350 W motor. This is enough for sanding even the hardest surfaces.
- Makita BO5031. This model is very similar to the previous one. Its power is also 300 W. However, the amplitude of the BO5031 is greater than that of its competitors. It reaches 3 mm.
Important! Each of the listed models is equipped with a power regulator. This allows you to reduce and increase speed.
Cordless random orbital sanders
Greenworks G24ROS - the best universal cordless grinder
If you have to work outdoors far from an outlet, it is better to purchase cordless grinders. The most popular models include:
- Bosch Advancedorbit 18 10. This is an ideal model for home use. It is used for polishing metal surfaces and wood. The amplitude of movement reaches 3.3 mm.
- Ryobi R18ros-0. High-performance model with a rotation speed of approximately 20,000 rpm. The vibration amplitude is 2.5 mm.
- Greenworks G24ROS. This is a universal tool that is suitable for intermediate, coarse and fine grinding. Power is 350 W.
Additional Information! When choosing a new sander, you need to pay attention to the equipment. The kit should include a set with working disks.
Review of the best models
This section presents our selection of the best entry-level eccentric sanders, included in the price category up to 6–8 thousand rubles. Various ratings were partially used as sources, but the main information was obtained from user reviews left on forums and various Internet sites. Not a single pneumatic grinder is presented in the review, since to work with such a tool it is necessary to have a compressor with the appropriate characteristics.
Makita BO5031
Makita BO5031 belongs to the class of advanced household eccentric orbital sanders. For the Russian market, this model of the famous Japanese brand Makita is unique in its own way: it was assembled not in China, but in the USA. The BO5031 drive power is 300 W, the working surface has a diameter of 125 mm and eight holes for dust removal. The grinder is equipped with an engine speed controller in the range of 4÷12 thousand rpm. at an oscillation frequency of 8 to 24 thousand per minute with an amplitude of 2.8 mm. Among the advantages of this eccentric sander, users note its reliability, low noise level, comfortable rubberized lining on the body and switch. And among the shortcomings, the first mentioned are an unsuccessful dust collector, a short cord and rapid wear of the sole lining (a new one costs about 1,000 rubles).
Makita BO5030
The Makita BO5030 eccentric sander is the BO5031, but without a soft start system and an electronic speed controller. All other characteristics of the models are identical. In online stores, the price difference between them ranges from 700 to 900 rubles. Due to the lack of a speed controller, the BO5030 can only be used for preliminary (“carpenter’s”) sanding. The manufacturer's instructions (which are common to both models) provide a graph of the correspondence between modes and types of processing. According to it, preliminary grinding is carried out at 10–12 thousand rpm, and polishing at 4–6 thousand rpm. There are two delivery options for this eccentric sander: boxed and in a plastic case. In the latter case, the letter “K” is added to its designation.
"Interskol" EShM-125/270E
Grinding machines of the famous Russian brand “Interskol” are manufactured in China. The eccentric sander of this brand EShM-125/270E belongs to the class of household devices and has a very affordable price: from 2500 to 2900 rubles. Its drive power is 270 W, the platform diameter is standard 125 mm. EShM-125/270E is equipped with an electronic system with a five-position engine speed switch with an adjustment interval of 5÷12 thousand rpm, while the oscillation frequency is 10÷24 thousand per minute, and the sole stroke is 2.2 mm. User reviews of this random orbital sander are overwhelmingly positive, especially praising the wear-resistant soleplate. The most common disadvantages include the inconvenient location of the switch, a short cord, and vibration at high speeds.
DeWALT DWE 6423
DWE6423 is manufactured in Mexico, at one of the factories of the famous international brand DeWALT. This random orbital sander has a 280 W motor with electronic speed control ranging from 8 to 12 thousand rpm. The platform diameter is 125 mm, and the stroke amplitude is 2.4 mm. In addition, it has a speed stabilizer and a power button lock. Almost all reviews about the DeWALT DWE6423 grinder are positive, while users unanimously note the combination of its positive qualities with a low price (a little over 5,000 rubles). Most often they mention the almost complete absence of vibration, a good dust extraction system, a long cord, as well as the high quality of materials and assembly of this eccentric sander. Among the shortcomings, usually only the lack of a case appears.
"Bison" ZOSHM-450-125
The Zubr eccentric orbital sander ZOShM-450-125 belongs to the lower price segment and costs 2600÷2700 rubles. At the same time, it has a motor power of 450 W and an electronic rotation speed control system. The sole diameter is 125 mm, the rpm range is 5÷13 thousand, the stroke amplitude is 2 mm. A design feature of ZOShM-450-125 is the outlet of the dust removal system through the base. Despite such a low price, this eccentric sander has mostly positive reviews. The main disadvantages that all its users highlight are the lack of damping pads to protect against vibration, poor fixation of the dust collector and the poor quality of the Velcro base of the platform, as a result of which abrasive wheels often come off at high speeds.
Bosch PEX 300 AE
Bosch PEX 300 AE is produced by the famous German concern in Hungary and is intended for dry grinding of metals, wood, putty and paint coatings in domestic conditions. The power of this random orbital sander is 270 W, while it has an impressive speed control range: from 2 to 12 thousand. The diameter of the working surface of PEX 300 AE is 125 mm, and the vibration amplitude of its sole is 4 mm. In online stores, this grinder costs from 5,200 to 5,400 rubles and comes in a plastic case. Reviews about it are mixed, which is probably due to high expectations due to its considerable price. The main problem that all users note is the rapid failure of the “plate” (the sticky base of the round platform), which costs about 1,800 rubles. Another disadvantage of this eccentric sander, many users consider the design of the dust collector to be unsuccessful for such a brand.
Metabo SXE 3150
This eccentric sander is positioned by Metabo as a professional power tool in the lower price range. Metabo SXE 3150 is equipped with a 310 W motor and a platform with a diameter of 150 mm. The speed control range is from 4 to 12 thousand, the amplitude of the sole stroke is 3 mm. This eccentric sander has a support body made of aluminum casting, which is clearly visible in the photographs, and its average price when supplied in a box is 7,800 rubles (in a case - about a thousand rubles more). SXE 3150 is equipped with a 4 m long power cable and has a standard connection pipe for connecting a vacuum cleaner. There are practically no negative reviews about it; the only problem that a number of users note is the scarcity of the sticky pad (“plate”) of the sole.
RYOBI ROS300
The manufacturer classifies its ROS300 eccentric sander as a professional one, pointing out the particularly durable types of plastic used for the manufacture of the body and supporting structure. The power of the RYOBI ROS300 is 300 W, the diameter of the working surface is 125 mm, the stroke amplitude is 2.4 mm. The grinder has an electronic rotation speed control system with a range of 7÷12 thousand rpm. One of its features is a bagless cyclonic dust collector. This random orbital sander comes with five abrasive sheets of different grits. Reviews about it are overwhelmingly positive. Particularly often mentioned is a successful dust removal system, a long cord, as well as the quality of materials and workmanship. Some users write about the poor location of the speed control wheel (it gets under your finger during operation).
Wert EES 125DE
With the same technical characteristics as its “classmates”, the Wert EES 125DE eccentric sander has a surprisingly low price: from 1600 to 1800 rubles. Moreover, the power of its electric drive is 350 W with an adjustable rotation speed from 6 to 13 thousand revolutions per minute. The diameter of the grinder platform is 125 mm, the amplitude of the working stroke is 2 mm. There are few user reviews about it, while the advantages are written according to the principle “at this price it can’t be bad,” and among the disadvantages, the imperfect design of the dust collector is most often noted.
Black&Decker KA198
Black&Decker KA198 is an easy-to-use, lightweight (weight 1.4 kg) and inexpensive (2200÷2500 rub.) eccentric sander from the world famous American manufacturer of power tools. KA198 has low power - only 260 W. The diameter of the sole is 125 mm, the rotation speed without the possibility of regulation is 13 thousand rpm. with fluctuations of 3 mm. Users note the simplicity and reliability of this eccentric grinder as advantages, but consider the main disadvantage to be low power, since the machine, while coping well with metal grinding, “gets stuck” in wood and soft materials.
Some professional eccentric sanders (for example, Makita BO6040) have a function of forced rotation of the sanding platform. In this case, the number of revolutions is indicated almost ten times less than that of the main eccentric rotation. Why is this option needed and what benefits does it provide? If you know the answer to this question, please share the information in the comments to this article.
Which eccentric sander is better?
The additional handle greatly simplifies the use of the electric machine.
It is impossible to answer this question unequivocally, since there are a huge number of different models. However, you can determine a good multi-tool by the number of additional features it offers. A good grinder should be equipped with various accessories and functions;
- possibility of limiting starting current;
- adapter for connecting a vacuum cleaner during auto-grinding;
- power regulator;
- additional handle.
There are situations when people are faced with the need to purchase an ESM. Before you do this, you need to familiarize yourself with what an eccentric wood sander is, which model to choose for home use, and what factors to pay attention to when purchasing a tool.
Rating of the best manufacturers of eccentric wood sanders
Sanding machines from well-known brands are distinguished by increased reliability and functionality. The best units are supplied to the market by several manufacturers.
Makita
The Japanese brand produces a variety of tools for construction and repair; the products are represented on the market by hundreds of items. Factories are located in several European countries, China, Japan and the USA. The manufacturer guarantees high quality sanders and components and offers reliable service.
Makita eccentric sanders are available in budget and professional models
Metabo
The famous brand dates back to 1923 and has factories in Germany and Shanghai. It produces electric and pneumatic tools and supplies not only corded, but also battery-powered eccentric sanders.
Metabo is considered one of the best brands in the mid-price segment
Bosch
The German company has been on the market since the end of the 19th century, has a good reputation and produces exceptionally high-quality sanders. Bosch units are distinguished by well-thought-out ergonomics and are equipped with safety options that extend the service life of the tool.
Bosch grinders are popular among professionals
