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Detail sanders are the ideal tool for fine finishing of corners and edges.
But with so many options on the market, it can be tough choosing the right one.
So we put together this shortlist of some of the top models available as well as a buyer’s guide at the end…
Quick Picks
Here's 3 products we picked out that thought you would be interested in depending on your budget...
The Best Detail Sanders with Reviews 2020
Here's a list of the best detail sanders we found on the market:
1. PORTER-CABLE PCCW201B Cordless Detail Sander
- Variable speed dial to match speed to application
- Detachable dust bag for efficient dust collection
- Vacuum port hooks up to a 1 1/4" hose for more efficient dust removal
- Low profile for control when sanding
- Dust proof switch for professional durability
The Good
- One of few detail sanders that is cordless.
- Easy to hook up to a shop vac.
- Great for fine detail as well as larger jobs.
Not so Good
- Battery is not included
- Where it is a newer model
- Some users reported finding parts to be difficult
Overview
The PORTER-CABLE PCCW201B is one of latest detail sanders on the market and is gain traction quickly with users.
There’s not a great selection of powerful cordless detail sanders on the market and this model fills that gap perfectly.
Perfect for fine detailing jobs as well as larger ones thanks to variable power speed dial making easy to switch between the two.
The only downside to this is that it does not come with a battery or charger. However, if you own other Porter & Cable tools, the 20V Max battery pack fits right in.
2. BLACK+DECKER BDEMS600 Mouse Detail Sander
- Compact size
- Easily fits in tight spaces
- 14,000 orbits per minute
- High-performance dust collection
- Finger attachment and sanding pad included
- 3-position grip for control
The Good
- Amazing value for money.
- Great quality from a trusted brand.
- No. 1 seller.
- Trusted by many users.
Not so Good
- Some users mentioned the dust collection system is not the best.
- Some users also found it hard to find ultra-fine sand paper designed for this model.
Overview
The BDEMS600 Mouse Detail Sander is a palm sander which usually sells in the range of $ 35 – $ 45. Like all palm sanders, it helps you get a very smooth and high-quality finish. You will be removing tool marks, burrs, splinters and all types of rough edges.
It is compact in size and places no storing problems. Also, it allows you to reach tighter, hard-to-reach spaces when doing your finishing work due to its low profile legs and the additional finger attachment. It has excellent maneuverability and 3-position grip – palm grip, precision grip and handle grip. You can use it for many types of projects. It comes with a detail finger attachment, a finger attachment holder and sanding pad.
The BDEMS600 Sander also has a 1.2 amp motor for material removal. It can perform 14,000 orbits per minute. Another obvious plus is the dust collector with micro-filtration designed for keeping your workspace clean.
The Mouse weighs 2.8 lbs and it comes with a warranty of 2 years. It is a versatile product experienced, as well as beginners in DIY, love using.
When it comes to user reviews, it seems that the dust collector at the back of the device is getting some heat. While some people mention that there is no “click” to be heard when attaching it, others have said that even if it is well attached, it still does not collect all the dust and is also leaking in the back. This makes moving the Mouse around more challenging. Apart from this, the people whose dust collector fits well claim that it is rather small and that it fills up quickly.
Other reviewers have experienced problems with the finger attachment having broken off or with the sandpaper moving out of place while working. Also, there are clear recommendations to purchase more sanding pads along with the initial product order, as the generic ones available in most stores do not fit the product’s holes pattern.
Otherwise, the product has great reviews and is the no.1 seller on Amazon. The users who have bought it feel that they have made a good deal and a good investment.
3. WEN 6301 Palm Detail Sander
- Dust collection port
- Lightweight design
- 13,500 OPM
- Hook & Loop Base
- 1-year warranty
- Ergonomic Grip
The Good
- Great price.
- Very popular amongst the home DIYers.
- Perfect if you only require to detail sand.
Not so Good
- Does not come with a dust collection bag/tray.
- Limited use compared to multi-tools.
Overview
The WEN 6301 Electric Detailing Palm Sander is another model which provides excellent value at a price range of $25 – $35. This sander has excellent maneuverability and control for the most detailed of projects.
This is a two-pound lightweight device intended for easy usage for smoothing, finishing and overall precision work due to its angled tip. It can reach tight places but it can also do big projects without your hand tiring on the handle. It performs 13,500 oscillations per minute with a one-amp motor, making it both lightweight and powerful at the same time.
We recommend this model due to its dust collector. This is a nice addition to any sanding tool. Another thing we loved about it was the easy sandpaper removal and installation with the help of the Velcro base pad. What is more, we found out that you can even use regular sandpaper on this model, making it even more accessible and easy to use.
Reviewers recommend ordering some extra sanding pads along with the product because it only comes with one. Some have mentioned isolated problems such as a malfunctioning switch while others claimed that the sander is rather tall for reaching in some spaces.
Overall, the reviews were great and we noticed that a vast majority of users were pleased with the product’s performance and price. The fact that it is easy to use has also come up and is considered a definite plus.
4. Black & Decker MS2000 Detail Multi Sander
- 4-in-1 sander
- SmartSelect technology
- Tool-free base change
- 2-year warranty
- Lightweight
- Easy to control
- Dust collection
The Good
- Build to last.
- Can be used as a 1/4-sheet, detail, and finish sander.
- Comes with a dust collection for a tidier workplace.
- Makes excellent value for money.
Not so Good
- Many users mentioned the orbital sander function is poor.
- Not recommended for heavy/large projects.
Overview
The Black & Decker MS2000 4-in-1 SmartSelect is a multi sander tool which is in the price range of $55 – $65. The original package includes the sander along with two interchangeable sanding bases, one finger detail attachment, sheets of sandpaper and storage bag for the accessories and bases.
The product is a great help for the people who always have problems matching the right type of device with the proper sanding piece of equipment. This is why it comes with 4 interchangeable bases to fit any type of job. A push button will help you change bases fast and easy. This is the SmartSelect technology which chooses its own base after you indicate the type of material.
Another easy on – easy off option is the one that secures the sandpaper with a hook and loop mechanism.
The Smart Select option is a dial to help identify the right sanding bases. It automatically sets the ideal speed for the task. You can do random orbit for fast material removals, detail sanding in tight places, edge sanding and finish sanding for smooth surfaces.
You can also enjoy a clean work environment thanks to the fact that the product has a dust canister you can easily put on, take off and clean. Speaking of dust, the device has a sealed On/Off Switch to protect the internal components of the tool from the debris.
The tool weighs only 2.5 pounds, making it very easy to carry around and to handle any type of project, be that a major or a detailed one. It comes with a 2 years warranty from the manufacturer.
Reviewers seem pleased with the tool and claim that is was a good investment for the money spent. There were some who had problems with the orbital base and others who claimed that finding the type of sanding paper used was not as easy and intuitive as the manufacturer had them believe.
5. Genesis GPS080 Small Corner Sander
- Compact size
- Easily fits in tight spaces
- 14,000 orbits per minute
- Dust Protected ON/OFF Switch
- Detail or Corner Sanding
- Lightweight
The Good
- One of the cheapest detail sanders on the market.
- Perfect for sanding smaller areas.
Not so Good
- Smaller than the average detail sander.
- Questions over quality from some users.
- Not recommended for heavier users.
Overview
The Genesis GPS080 Corner Palm Sander makes it into our list because of the great value it offers. It is on the market with a price range of $20 – $30. The original package includes the device and 3 Fits all Standard Mouse Replacement Sandpaper, 8, 120 and 240 grits.
You may be pleased to discover that this tool was engineered for detailed work. Its shape makes it qualify for difficult, hard to reach corner projects, while still allowing you to use it on ample projects without any problems. It performs 12,000 OPM and guarantees a fast and smooth sanding task.
It only weighs 2.2 pounds, which means you will find it easy to handle. To add to your comfort of use, it also has a rubber palm grip.
The Genesis GPS080 Corner Palm Sander has a dust-proof built to guarantee an extended product life. The reviews of users are very favorable for this mouse. It seems to get the job done and the users are pleased with the price they pay for it.
The manufacturer puts 2 years of warranty to back up the product, which is not bad considering the fact that it is the most affordable item on the list.
The only things mentioned in more critical reviews were that the Velcro pad on the bottom of the sanding pad attach fell off and had to be glued back on. Another issue mentioned was the fact that the tool is not necessarily as small as most people expected. However, even in these cases, people were able to complete their projects with great results.
6. BLACK+DECKER BDCMS20C Cordless Detail Sander
- Cordless design
- Compact and ergonomic design helps with accessibility in tight corners and spaces
- The 2-position grip allows for control and ease of use during many applications
- Detail finger attachment can be interchanged to help sand hard to reach spaces
- Backed by 2 year limited warranty
The Good
- Battery & charger comes included.
- Excellent value for a cordless detail sander.
- Quality design from a respected brand.
- Great for more frequent use and on larger projects.
Not so Good
- Some users mentioned the battery is awkward to replace.
7. SKIL 7302-02 Octo Detail Sander
- Pressure Control Technology - Monitors sanding pad pressure applied for optimal finish
- 8 Detail Sanding Attachments - Finish hard-to-reach surfaces with various contours
- Tool-less Attachment Change - Quick and easy attachment changing system
- Micro-Filtration - Captures and contains fine dust particles
- Clear View Dust Canister - Removes guess work of when to empty container
The Good
- The pressure technology warns you if you are pressing too hard to get help get an even finish.
- Perfect for reaching small crevices.
- Great for small jobs.
Not so Good
- Not recommended if you plan on heavier use.
- No way of connecting to a shop vac.
- Some users felt the product is built cheaply.
8. Genesis GMT15A Detail Sander & Muli-Tool
- Multifunctional tool
- Made from sturdy die-cast aluminum
- 21,000 orbits per minute
- Can be used for cutting, scraping, and sanding
- 2-year warranty
The Good
- Cheapest multi-tool on the list
- Very popular with home DIYers and well received
Not so Good
- No dust collection for sanding
- Some concerns about durability
- Not recommended for professional/industrial use
Overview
The Genesis GMT 15A Multi-Purpose Oscillating Tool is a very popular model, as it is one of the most affordable Multi-Purpose Oscillating Tools selling for around $40 – $ 55. For this price you will be getting a 3-inch Delta sanding pad, sandpaper, HSS segment saw blade, 30-mm E-cut saw blade, scraping blade and an Allen Wrench. They all come in an accessory storage box.
This product is great for remodeling and repair projects. It is incredibly versatile and it is good for grinding, fast sanding, cutting and scraping. The accessories for all of these types of projects are kept in place with the help of a 4-Pin flange design.
In terms of power and performance, the Genesis GMT 15A Multi-Purpose Oscillating Tool does about 21,000 oscillations per minute with the help of a 1.5 amp motor. The tool has a die-cast aluminum gear housing.
This multi-purpose tool weighs 2.8 lbs, making it lightweight as well as powerful, a great mix for the price suggested. Also, there is a 2 years warranty offered by the manufacturer.
Many first time users have discovered that this type of tool is indispensable for home repair and remodeling projects. Judging from its many uses, most people considered the price to be a steal. The Genesis GMT does its job as it is supposed to.
Some people complained that some of the cutting blades broke and that they replaced them with accessories from another brand because the device itself operates great and they wanted to keep using it.
9. Trademark Tools 75-50128 Small Sander
The Good
- Great for small jobs.
- Easily reaches those small areas.
- Very affordable.
Not so Good
- Not recommended for heavier / larger jobs.
Buying Guide
Sanders are an essential tool to have in your woodworking arsenal, but picking the right one can often be tricky with all the variations available on the market. Hopefully, we can give you some clarity in what detail sander you should pick for your workshop.
Price
The price range for such a product is of $15 – $250, meaning that you can find a product for any budget you may allocate. However, keep in mind the fact that if your project gets more complicated or more demanding, if you want to start more DIY projects, a cheaper product may not do the job.
The same goes for the more expensive products. Unless you plan on using it a lot, make sure you do not tie the money up. The average prices are always the best way to go, especially when you are not sure how far you want to take this DIY hobby.
Type
The next step is understanding what type of sander you need. A finishing task for woodwork with a lot of rough edges and tight corners may require a smaller finish sander, while a more ample project might need a palm sander with a grip that will not have your hand tire after the first hour of use.
Imagine it this way: if you have made a chair and you need to smooth it out and if you want to work on a fence. The difference is always made by the block of material you are using.
Power
When it comes to power, the multi-purpose tools have more of it because they have to perform tasks which require a more powerful motor, such as cutting. While these tools might help you speed up your job when they work flawlessly, they might also have problems with one specific task. Make sure sanding is not one of them.
If you are a beginner in the DIY segment, go for control rather than power. This will help you get more skilled and you can work your way up to more powerful tools once you have mastered the use of detailed ones.
Mouse sanders may perform better in this respect. However, more ample projects might still need some cutting and scraping, apart from sanding, which would explain why multi-purpose tools are so popular.
Weight
Weight can also be considered an issue. Some such tools are easier handled than others. On the other hand, there are also heavier tools designed for one-hand use, which implies great maneuverability. Although it may not seem like one of the most important aspects, having a product that should perform great and not sit well in your hand is just as useless.
Time is also of the essence. Keeping this in mind, we remind you that orbital sanders work faster than vibratory ones. Even better in some respects, providing a smoother finish. Finish sanders also come with a large pad size, allowing you to cover more territory at once. However, these sanders are heavier and require more force when used.
Another time-saving option comes with the models with fast-changing accessories. Adhesive, hook & look or magnetic attachments can come in handy.
There is no one great sander for all of the projects and for all users, no matter what manufacturers may say. User experience is important and it only depends on the specifics of the task at hand. Do you want it done quickly, perfectly, easily or with little costs? Then you will have to do your research because these tools do not come with a “one size fits all” type of specifications.
Conclusion
Knowing all product specifications is important, but knowing what you want comes first. There is a product out there for every specific type of project, and you need to make the right match. You do not necessarily have to make compromises, or at least it does not have to feel like it.
Maybe you will not go for the lowest price, but the average of the market should be a good option as well. Sanders come in all shapes, sizes, for all prices. They can perform one task amazingly or several tasks at the same time. You can choose a specialized tool or go for a multi-purpose one.
Don’t be surprised to see people owning multiple types of sanders for various projects, when there are products with so many specifications. This usually happens when you are either too specific with your project or not specific enough with your hobby in general.
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