Are you a woodworker or a carpenter? Then you already know the value of a good orbital sander when you need to create a smooth and uniform finish.
However, sanding can get messy with lots of dust on your workspace when you’re using a sander with poor dust management system.
Removing that dust manually makes you less efficient. While most orbital sanders feature a dust bag/collector, they are not as efficient as those with a vacuum attachment. Using an orbital sander with a vacuum attachment is efficient and helpful for large sanding jobs.
Here is a review of the 10 best sanders with vacuum attachments based on the build, performance, and features. You can use any of them with a vacuum system using a suitable adapter.
Best Orbital Sander with Vacuum Attachment Reviews
1. Makita Random Orbit Sander With Vacuum Attachment
This is the best orbital sander for professionals. It’s unique because unlike most other sanders it features two grips for easy handling. One is the main side-mounted rubberized handle with the power button switch while the other auxiliary handle is rotatable and removable, which makes it easier to get into small corners.
The Makita BO5041K combines amazing power with a highly efficient dust collection system. It features a 3Amps motor that delivers a variable speed of 4,000-12,000 RPM. This speed is suitable for both mild and aggressive sanding.
To efficiently control dust emissions, this sander features a through-the-pad dust collection system with an attached dust can to handle dust when sanding small woodwork. It also features an in-built vacuum attachment for improved dust collection when sanding large jobs.
The Makita BO5041K features a 5in. 8-hole hook-and-loop system to easily and quickly change its sanding sheets. It is well-packed in a strong and durable plastic case and comes with sandpaper. You’ll love the overall performance of this orbital sander.
Benefits:
- It features two handles for good control – a short non-slip rubberized grip and a long rotatable and removable back handle
- It delivers a variable speed of 4,000-12,000 RPM suitable for a wide application
- It is compact and portable
- It features a hook-and-loop system to easily and quickly change sanding sheet
- It features an efficient and high-capacity dust management system
Drawbacks:
- It is relatively expensive
- The vacuum attachment is small and short
2. Milwaukee 2648-20 Cordless Random Orbital Sander
The Milwaukee 2648-20 is a cordless orbital sander. It is battery-powered and serves you well when you’re away from an electric power outlet. However, it comes with an extension adapter in case you want to use it without a battery.
It’s quite amazing that this 5in. orbital sander has a powerful motor that delivers a variable speed of 7,000 to 12,000 RPM. The variable speed gives you more control over the motor output as you can adjust the speed to suit the application.
This versatile sander uses a 3Ah battery (not included) to deliver great sanding performance for about 35 minutes when fully charged. This means you can do more sanding per battery charge. Note also that the battery charger is not included in the pack. This orbital sander also comes with a hook-and-loop sanding pad for quick and easy installation or removal of sandpaper.
Another impressive feature is the dust collection system. The Milwaukee 2648-20 comes with a microfilter dust can as well as a vacuum attachment to connect to a vacuum system for a heavy sanding job.
Benefits:
- It is a powerful palm orbital sander
- It can be used cordless with a removable 3Ah battery for 35 minutes
- It features a very high and effective dust control system
- It comes with a microfilter dust canister
- It delivers a variable speed of 7,000 to 12,000 RPM
Drawbacks:
- The dust canister can sometimes come loose
- Poor ergonomic design – the grip is too thick for grabbing
3. DEWALT Random Orbit Sander With Vacuum Attachment
This power tool is specially designed with efficient dust collection in mind. If you need a powerful orbital sander that wouldn’t mess up the workspace, you can’t go wrong with the DEWALT DWE6423K. This lightweight machine comes with three effective ways to collect dust during sanding.
There is a one-handed locking dust bag included in the pack to handle small sanding jobs. This sander has a dust port that fits directly into either the DWV010 or DWV012 dust collector (not included) without using an adapter. You can also connect the dust port to any suitable vacuum system with 1¼-inch hose using the DWV9000 Universal Quick Connector (not included).
The power switch also has a dust seal for protection against dust ingestion. This 5in. DEWALT DWE6423K has a 3Amp motor that operates with a variable speed of 8,000 to 12,000 RPM to handle various sanding needs.
Aside from the ergonomic rubber overmold grip, there is also a counterweight for reducing vibration, all these work together to provide comfortable sanding. The hook-and-loop system makes it easy and quick to change its sanding sheets. You will appreciate the smooth and uniform sanding of this power tool – thanks to its shorter height.
Benefits:
- It features a powerful 3Amp motor that operates at a variable speed of 8,000 to 12,000 RPM
- It has a short height that allows users to get very close to the workpiece
- It has low vibration
- It has an efficient dust collection system – one-handed locking dust bag, dust collector (DWV010 or DWV012), and vacuum attachment.
- It features a hook-and-loop system to easily and quickly change sanding sheet
Drawbacks:
- It requires a vacuum hose adaptor
4. Ingersoll Rand 6in. Pneumatic Random Orbital Sander
This is a unique and amazing orbital sander on our list. The Ingersoll Rand 4151 pneumatic sander features a ¼-inch air inlet and 8 CFM air consumption for operating its power motor at 12,000 RPM.
The interchangeable grip rings make using this sander more comfortable. Though lightweight (just 2lbs.), this power tool is durable with a sturdy design. The 3/16-inch orbit gives you a swirl-free sanding. For smoother sanding, the design of this sander aids low vibration performance.
This palm sander is suitable for both vertical and horizontal sanding applications – thanks to its ergonomic design. In terms of dust management, this sander has an efficient vacuum-ready system to extract dust away. When in use, dust is extracted through and around the pad into a portable central vacuum system.
This helps in reducing clogs by keeping dust and other particles away from the motor. This is the best orbital sander for you if you’re so concerned with dust management.
Benefits:
- It features interchangeable grip rings for comfortable handling
- It has a highly efficient dust collection system
- It is a vacuum-ready system
- It is suitable for both vertical and horizontal sanding applications
- It has low vibration
Drawbacks:
- It lacks variable speed
- It consumes more CFM under load and may not be economical compared to a 3Amp electric orbital sander.
5. WESCO 3A Random Orbital Sander
If you need a random orbital sander that offers strong power and efficient performance, get the WESCO 3Amp Random Orbital Sander. It comes with almost everything you would admire in an orbital sander. This sander comes with a 3Amp motor running at a variable speed of 5000 to 12000 RPM. There is a 6 variable speed control to adjust the speed setting to your requirement.
You can also sand woodwork of any length, thanks to its 6.6ft. power cord. Right out of the box, there are 12 pieces of 5in. hook-and-loop (Velcro) sanding paper that can be easily attached or removed. The compact build and ergonomic design contribute to the sander’s low noise and vibration when sanding. The rubberized palm grip design also offers added comfort and reduces user fatigue.
As expected, this palm orbital sander offers an effective dust collection system and vacuum attachment for a cleaner workspace. There are eight vacuum dust-extraction holes on the pad with a strong sucking power to efficiently extract dust away into a microfilter dust canister. There is also a vacuum attachment to connect the sander to a vacuum system (a vacuum adapter is needed).
Benefits:
- It features an ergonomic plastic grip for comfortable handling
- It features a powerful 3Amp motor that operates at a variable speed of 5,000 to 12,000 RPM
- It has a highly efficient dust collection system – a microfilter dust canister and a vacuum attachment.
- It features a hook-and-loop system to easily and quickly change sanding sheet
- It has a long power cord of 6.6ft.
Drawbacks:
- The dust canister is made of cheap hard plastic, which must be handled with care
6. Bosch Random Orbital Sander With Vacuum Attachment
The Bosch ROS20VSC is a high-quality yet affordable palm sander. One thing we love about sander, which we believe you’ll love too, is the way it manages dust collection.
Sanding is known to create a messy workspace but this sander features a vacuum-like onboard microfilter dust-collecting system that sucks most of the generated dust into a dust canister (included). The dust canister is clear to show dust level and can be easily detached to dispose of dust.
For maximum dust collection, there is a vacuum attachment to connect to any suitable vacuum system, especially for bigger sanding jobs. There is a vacuum adapter in the kit box to connect the vacuum duct.
As for the motor power, this sander comes with a 2.5Amp powerful motor operating at a variable speed of 7,500 to 12,000 RPM. This enables you to adjust the motor speed to suit the task.
The Bosch ROS20VSC is well-built, lightweight, and features a hook-and-loop disc attachment system for easy and quick changing of sanding sheets. In terms of affordability and quality, the Bosch ROS20VSC is one of the best orbital sanders for you.
Benefits:
- It is affordable
- It has low vibration operation
- It features various speed controls
- Disc removal/attachment is easy due to the hook-and-loop disc attachment system
- It comes in a complete package
- It delivers a professional performance
Drawbacks:
- It’s a bit heavy for prolonged vertical use
- The integrated microfilter is not washable
7. CRAFTSMAN CMEW231 Random Orbit Sander
The CRAFTSMAN CMEW231 is another orbital sander with a vacuum attachment on our list. The sander features a high-performance dust-collection system, which includes an onboard dust bag for small woodwork sanding and a vacuum attachment to a 1¾in. vacuum hose for bigger woodwork sanding (a separate vacuum adapter is needed). The power switch is also dust-sealed to provide added durability.
This 5in. sander comes with a 3Amps motor that operates at 12,000 RPM. This is enough power to complete your sanding work with ease.
The ergonomic design, coupled with rubber grip, makes handling the sander more comfortable and effortless by reducing stress and fatigue associated with the prolonged use of power tools. You would get a long-term use of this fantastic, powerful but basic random orbital sander with its 3-year limited warranty.
Benefits:
- It has a portable and compact shape
- It is easy and stress-free to handle
- It comes with an efficient dust management system
- It features an onboard dust bag
- It features a 3Amps motor that operates at 12,000 RPM.
Drawbacks:
- It lacks a variable speed control
- The power switch is not great
- It can only be connected to a 1¾in. vacuum hose and not the common 1¼in. shop vacuum hose
8. PORTER-CABLE 382 Random Orbital Sander
This sander comes with a well-secured dust bag that keeps your workspace neat and clean. There is a rubber ring that holds the dust bag tightly to the sander and prevents it from falling. Although most users don’t know how this rubber ring works.
Another good thing about this sander is that it is lightweight, compact, and delivers enough speed ideal for most sanding applications. It comes with a 1.9Amp motor that runs at 12,000 RPM. It also features a 5in. 8-hole hook-and-loop system to easily and quickly change sanding sheets.
The ergonomic grip and compact design, coupled with an all ball-bearing construction help in reducing fatigue associated with vibration during use. The dual-plane counterbalance fan also helps to reduce fatigue during use. This orbital sander is not only sturdy and durable but also ideal for swirl-free fine sanding.
Benefits:
- It features a powerful 1.9Amp motor that runs at 12,000 RPM suitable for a wide application
- It is compact and portable
- It features a hook-and-loop system to easily and quickly change sanding sheet
- It features an efficient dust management system
- It has low vibration due to the inbuilt counterbalance system
Drawbacks:
- The dust bag is small and may fall off oftentimes during use
- It lacks variable speed
9. SKIL 5in. Random Orbital Sander – SR211601
This orbital sander doesn’t only come with amazing variable-speed power but also with a highly efficient dust management system.
The SKIL SR211601 features an X-flow dust collection system that uses a cyclonic force to suck all the dust into an easy-to-empty clear dust canister. That means you can see it when the dust canister is filled and needs to be emptied. You can also connect a suitable vacuum system using the onboard vacuum attachment, especially when you need to handle a large sanding job.
Aside from this special dust collection system, the SKIL SR211601 also has a powerful performance. This sander has a 2.8Amp motor that operates at a variable speed of 7000 to 13,000 RPM. Something amazing about this sander is that the more you apply pressure during sanding, the more the motor speeds up.
For smoother sanding, this sander has low noise and low vibrations – thanks to its ergonomic design. The compact size also makes it suitable for tight spaces. If you need an excellent sander at a reasonable price, this SKIL SR211601 is worth investing in.
Benefits:
- It is a powerful palm orbital sander
- It features an effective cyclonic dust control system
- It features a powerful 2.8Amp motor and delivers a variable speed of 7,000 to 13,000 RPM
- It has low noise and vibrations
- It is compact and portable and can be used in tight spaces
Drawbacks:
- Dust would be blown out once the dust canister is filled up
- The speed control is placed under the operating hand, which is not a good place.
10. Ryobi 18V Cordless Random Orbital Sander
Here is another cordless orbital sander. It is battery-powered and can work anywhere without a power supply as long as the battery is charged. It uses an 18V battery (sold separately) to deliver a speed of about 10,000 RPM. This speed should handle most sanding and polishing jobs as long as the right pressure is applied.
This orbital sander also comes with a 5in. 8-hole hook-and-loop sanding pad for quick and easy installing or removing of sandpaper. Handling the sander is made comfortable with the rubberized overgrip with notches.
The Ryobi P411 One+ also comes with an impressive dust collection system. There is an onboard dust can to collect any dust from your work and keep your workspace clean. You can also connect the vacuum attachment to a vacuum system for a heavy sanding job. If you want to handle a large sanding job and don’t want the power cord and/or extension to get into your work, then get this cordless random orbital sander.
Benefits:
- It is a cordless sander with a removable 18V battery
- It features an effective dust control system
- It comes with a dust canister
- It delivers a speed of 10,000 RPM
- It features a hook-and-loop system to easily and quickly change sanding sheet
Drawbacks:
- It has intense vibrations
- Battery is not included
- It has no variable speed option
Benefits of Using Orbital Sander with Vacuum Attachment
If you are in the market for a new orbital sander, you may be wondering if it is worth investing in one that has a vacuum attachment. In this section, we will discuss some of the benefits of orbital sanders with vacuum attachments.
Complete Dust Free Workplace
One of the benefits of using an orbital sander with a vacuum attachment is that it can help to reduce dust and debris in your work area. This is especially beneficial if you are working in a confined space or if you have allergies or sensitivities to dust.
While dust bags do help eliminate dust and debris, they are not as efficient as a vacuum attachment. This is because the bags can only hold so much before they need to be emptied, and even then, there is no guarantee that all of the dust will be captured.
With a vacuum attachment, the majority of the dust will be sucked up into the hose and away from your work area. This will help to keep your workspace clean and free of debris, which can help you work more efficiently.
Improved Visibility
Another benefit of using an orbital sander with a vacuum attachment is that it can improve visibility in your work area.
When there is less dust in the air, you will be able to see more clearly what you are working on. This can be beneficial when sanding intricate details or tight corners.
In addition, improved visibility can also help to reduce eye fatigue. When you are not constantly squinting to see through a haze of dust, you will be less likely to experience eye strain.
Improved Sanding Performance
In addition to the benefits discussed above, using an orbital sander with a vacuum attachment can also improve your sanding performance.
The suction created by the vacuum attachment can help to hold the workpiece in place, which can make it easier to achieve a smooth, even finish.
In addition, the vacuum attachment can also help to reduce vibration. This can make it easier to control the sander and produce more consistent results.
Better Sandpaper Efficiency
Another benefit of using an orbital sander with a vacuum attachment is that it can help to increase the lifespan of your sandpaper.
When there is less dust and debris on your sandpaper, it will not clog up as quickly and will last longer.
Additionally, when you are using an orbital sander with a vacuum attachment, you will be able to apply more pressure without worrying about damaging your sandpaper.
Final Verdict
After reading our review on the best orbital sander with vacuum attachment above, we are sure that you’ve found the one that suits your requirement most. All the orbital sanders reviewed above are great but individual requirements differentiate them.
Make sure that you read about your preferred sander carefully to enjoy its maximum use. Random orbital sanders are durable and long-lasting if handled in the proper way.