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Looking for the best orbital sander with vacuum attachment? This guide will point you in the right direction
Because random orbital (rotating) sanders do their job remarkably well, they produce insane amounts of dust and debris during the sanding process.
We all know that continued exposure to wood dust and other debris particles can potentially cause harm to your health- you may experience a variety of negative health effects including eye and/or skin irritation, reduced lung function, allergy, asthma, and even nasal cancer.
For this reason, the National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health (NIOSH) recommends limiting dust exposures to avoid these health problems.
Unfortunately, measures such as wearing a respirator or a dust mask to prevent you from inhaling harmful dust and debris are at best, inconvenient and at worst, impracticable.
But all is not lost: an orbital sander with vacuum attachment alleviates this problem in a much better way- very little dust escapes and it ensures a near dust free operation.
If you are looking for the best orbital sander with vacuum attachment, we have reviewed the 3 most impressive orbital sanders that come with a built-in vacuum attachment to point you in the right direction.
Read on.
Best orbital sander with vacuum attachment – reviews of 3 best dust-free sanders to buy including the pros and cons of each model
These sanders are your best bet if you’re shopping for the best orbital sander with vacuum attachment – they pick all of the dust created as you work keeping your lungs safe during operation and making cleanup easy.
Bosch ROS20VSC Random Orbital Sander/Polisher – 2.5 Amp 5in.
The Bosch ROS20VSC 5 in. Random Orbital Sander/Polisher comes with a fantastic vacuum-like on-board dust collecting system (with a filter) that catches majority of the emitted dust.
The fan does an amazing job of keeping your working area clear of excessive amounts of dust too.
Note that the built-in dust collection can be connected to your shop vac for bigger jobs- there is an adapter to use with your shop vacuum for maximum dust collection.
We must add that its variable speed works like a charm and can be reached with your little finger for necessary adjustments so you don’t need to lift the pad from work surfaces.
The on/off switch has been positioned nicely as well so no fumbling around.
It also feels great in the hand- it is not the type that leaves hands numb and vibrating after every use.
Turning to its best applications, the sander works wonderfully for everything from getting rid of massive amounts of material to polishing surfaces prior to finishing and cleaning.
Overall, looking at comparable orbital sanders, this offers awesome value- the price is nowhere near what you would pay for a Festool orbital sander with vacuum.
Summary of Specs/features
- Integral pad-dampening brake system (prevent swirl marks)
- Hook-and-loop disc attachment (guarantees a secure fit)
- Microcellular backing pad (smooth, fine finishes)
- Variable-speed control
- On-board fine dust filtration system
- Soft-grip top & body
Summary of Technical details
| Amperage | 2.5 |
| Dimensions | 5″ x 6″ x 9″ |
| Disc Size | 5″ |
| Eccentric Offset | 3/64” (1.2 mm) |
| Height | 6.0″ |
| Length | 9.0″ |
| No Load OPM | 7500-12000 |
| Orbit Diameter | 3/32″ (2.5 mm) |
| Orbit Radius | 3/64″ (1.25 mm) |
| Pad Size | 5″ |
| Rating | 120V AC |
| Separate On/Off Speed Control | Yes |
| Speed Range | 7500 – 12000 OPM |
| Voltage | 120V |
| Weight | 3.5lb |
| Width | 5.0″ |
What is Included?
- Soft-Sanding Pad
- Dampening Ring
- Microfilter Dust Canister
- Sanding Disc
- Vacuum Hose Adapter
- Carrying Bag
Pros
- Low vibration operation – you can run it for hours without causing the hand to start vibrating.
- Excellent design and craftsmanship.
- Easy to use.
Con
- The integrated filter is not washable.
TACKLIFE 3.0A 5 Inch. Random Orbit Sander for woodworking (with 12Pcs Sandpapers)- best electric sander with vacuum attachment
This comes with a compact vacuum box that collects almost all the dust.
Plus, there is a built in micro-filter system that captures particles as small as just 1/2 micron (in diameter) so you won’t breathe dangerous ultrafine dust particles
We also love the design of the dust collector- not only does the design optimize its dust collecting abilities but also allows you to easily detach the accessory when you want to empty it.
Just to be clear, simply twist and pull the catcher away from the sander when it is time to empty the sawdust.
The sander provides magnificent results with its 3.0amps of power generating about 13000 orbits per minute.
In truth, it performs extraordinarily well for nearly all types of DIY woodworking projects and there are lots of speed adjustments (6) to make your life easier.
With regard to other details, the handheld orbital sander is one of the easiest to start (the paddle switch is located at the top for easy access) and maneuver even into tight spaces.
And oh, the sand paper is incredibly easy to attach- it comes with assorted hook-and-loop sandpaper for your numerous sanding jobs.
In addition, it is not too loud while operating, it’s quite lightweight, and feels very sturdy.
Bear in mind that this is not ideal for wall sanding- wall dust is too thin and cannot block the dust collecting system so it is easily diffused.
Summary of Specs/features
- 6 Adjustable speed dial
- 12Pcs Sandpapers
- High suction dust collection
- Rubberized palm grip
- All-ball bearing construction (precision engineered)
- Self-cleaning function
Summary of Technical details
| Wattage | 350 watts |
| Chord | 9.84 feet |
| Speed | 13000 Rpm |
| Dimensions | 10.1 x 6.6 x 4.9 in. |
| Power source | Corded Electric |
| Amperage capacity | 3 Amps |
| Disc Size | 5″ |
| Bulb Voltage | 120 volts |
| Speed Range | 6000~13000 OPM |
| Voltage | 120V |
| Weight | 3.4lbs |
What is included?
- 6Pcs X 80 and 6Pcs x 180 Grits
- Dust Collection Container (1 set)
Pros
- Cost effective.
- Comes with sandpaper.
- Ergonomic design.
Cons
- Dust collector may fill up quickly (depending on the job).
TACKLIFE 3.0A 5 Inch. Random Orbit Sander – frequently asked questions
Can the sander be hooked up to a vacuum using standard attachments?
Yes, it can for vacuums with 35mm interface. You, however, need an adapter if the interface on your vacuum cleaner is not 35mm.
Makita BO5041 Random Orbit Sander 5-Inch (3-Amp, 4000-12000 OPM) – great for pros
The through-the-pad dust collection system in this Makita BO5041 is extremely efficient and helps to control dust emissions.
It’s actually a high-capacity dust collection system not to mention that a vacuum port adapter is built-in should the need for improved dust collection arise.
As with its rivals, it’s outstanding on the job and has everything you’d expect in a good sander- plenty of power, handy variable speeds, an adjustable handle that makes getting into hard-to-reach corners a breeze, and more.
In short, this corded sander is versatile enough to handle literally everything in your woodworking and remodeling projects.
More importantly, it’s super comfortable in the hand and the conveniently located locking on/off button comes in handy when you’d rather set it to continuous use instead of holding the button the entire time.
Other highlights include the pad control system (helps you control pad speed upon start up), pad brake (for maximum productivity and reduced gouging), and the over-sized sealed-ball bearing construction (enhances its durability).
Summary of Specs/features
- 0 AMP motor
- Variable speed control (4,000-12000 OPM)
- Ergonomic rubberized palm grip&handle
- Adjustable front handle
- Large 2-finger trigger switch (with lock-on button)
- Large 1/8” random orbit action
- Pad brake
- Uses quick-change 5in (8-hole) hook and loop abrasive disc (paper sold separately)
- Double insulated
Summary of Technical details
| Pad Size (round) | 4-13/16″ |
| Abrasive Disc Size | 5″ |
| Orbits Per Minute(variable speed) | 4,000 – 12,000 OPM |
| Orbit Diameter | 1/8″ |
| AMPS | 3 |
| Wattage | 300 watts |
| Bulb voltage | 120 volts |
| Vibration (m/s²) | 3.5 |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 10-7/8″ x 4-7/8″ x 6″ |
| Net Weight | 3.5 lbs. |
| Variable speed dial | Yes |
| Power Type | Corded |
What is included?
- 1 ea.Abrasive Disc
- Dust Bag
- Tool Case
Pros
- Highly sensitive and reliable variable speed setting.
- Well thought out locking on/off button.
- Unbeatable control and leverage (thanks to the extra handle)
Cons
- A bit expensive.
Wrap up
Not only can the dust and debris produced by random orbital sanders be a risk to your health but it can also cause the tool’s electronic and mechanical parts to be damaged over time.
But by going for the best orbital sander with vacuum attachment, you get the most practical solution to all the issues associated with dust emission during sanding processes.
Hopefully, the above reviews will help you make an informed choice.
Happy, dust-free sanding buddy!
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