In the world of sanding, belt sanders are considered to be one of the best power tool inventions of all time. What would otherwise be a long and tedious task, is made quick and easy with a belt sander. Imagine having to sand down floorboards with your hands, it would take weeks complete, not to mention weeks at the chiro getting your back fixed!
There is a large array of belt sanders on the market, so without the knowledge of their proper use, or when you choose the wrong sander altogether, they have the potential to destroy your wooden masterpiece. Choosing the best belt sander is an important task, so to make your job easier, we have tested over 50 belt sanders to create a shortlist of the ones that ticked the boxes with regards to performance, quality, price, and noise.
| Product | Durability | Ease of Use | Noise | Overall | Price |
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 Makita 9903 Belt Sander with Cloth Dust Bag |
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4.8/5 |  |
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4.6/5 | |
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4.2/5 | |
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4.1/5 | |
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4.3/5 | |
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4.85/5 | |
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4.3/5 | |
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4.7/5 | |
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4.5/5 | |
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4.5/5 | |
#1: Makita 9903 Belt Sander with Cloth Dust Bag
The Makita 9903 Belt Sander sports an 8.8 AMP motor with the ability to maintain a constant electronic speed under load. The 8.8 AMP flat topside designed motor provides a massive power boost which is perfect for heavy duty projects but needs to be contained for smaller and lighter applications. The unit comes with a variable speed control from 690 ft./min – 1,440 ft./min, that allows adjustment of the speeds to the unit’s application. The sander produces 84dB when in use. The sander has also been optimized for easy use with its auto-tracking belt system that keeps the belt in check without needing adjustments in between sanding projects. Makita 9903 is operated by a right-hand trigger grip which combines comfort and ease of use. The grip at the front is added for improved comfort. Overall, the unit features a low profile design complete with perfect balance and an extended base for flush sanding. The unit comes with a long double insulated power cord measuring 16.4 feet to allow extensive coverage and a dust collector to clean after itself while at work. This dust collector/bag is large enough to hold several ounces of sawdust. Makita weighs 9.5 lbs and sports a #80 abrasive belt measuring 3 x 21 inches. Also, the product is designed to be compact and measures 11.6 x 5.6 x 6.2 inches providing for superior hand control.
Review
The Makita 9903 is claimed to be the quietest belt sander in its class at a cool 84 decibels. This noise level is comparable to a hair dryer, which is quite unusual for such a powerful tool. Power tools are rarely designed for quiet operation and for this reason, many users prefer this unit as it cant be issues in the home without noice complaints. With belt sanders, it is critical that they be heavy. The weight of a belt sander directly affects the effectiveness of the sanding and just how much effort a user has to apply to the unit to get a quality finish. The Makita 9903 weighs in at 9.5 pounds. With this weight, it is not exactly the heaviest on the market, but it is definitely heavy enough to be effective in both the horizontal and vertical positions. In addition, the tool features a 16-foot cord which provides convenience by covering a wide floor space without the need for an extension- this feature is absent in most belt sanders which makes the unit unique. Speaking of convenience, it is also important to note that the unit features a boxy design and is operated by a right-hand trigger grip. This grip features an ergonomic placing that makes it comfortable to operate the unit for extended periods of time without tiring. However, the forward grip on this unit, though a neat addition, tapers at the end. But nonetheless, the grip provides just enough room for the user to rest thier hand, reducing the extent of fatigue. The motor is a powerful 8.8 amp flat topside motor, which helps to run the belt at high speeds of 1,440 sqft/min. The performance with this power is excellent, so much so that it is used for large commercial projects too. Not all jobs require high performance, so the manufacturer added a variable speed control that comes in quite handy when working on softer surfaces like balsa wood or a drywall joint compound. Working on such materials, the slow speeds will prevent you from setting them ablaze or accidentally sanding through them. The belt on the Makita 9903 measures 3” x 21”. The 21 feet long length adds sanding surface to the belt, but the 3 inches in width enables you to get into tiny spaces. While sanding, belts tend to go off track and burn up fast, you constantly need to keep them aligned. The Makita features an auto tracking system that does all the adjusting for you. Last but not least, the unit features a dust collection bag. The downside, however, is that when sanding very fine materials, the particles will often fly right through the pores of the bag, however the most of the mess is contained properly.
Ratings
Summary: 4.8
Durability: 5
Ease of Use: 4.5
Noise: 4.8
Price: 4.9
#2: Makita 9403 Belt Sander
The Makita 9403 Belt Sander requires 115V to run effectively. This is within the 120V rating of most electrical circuits in most homes. The belt on the sander measures 4 inches wide and 24 inches long, allowing you to cover a larger area in shorter time. Complementing the large belt is an auto tracking system that keeps the belt on its track throughout the sanding process. The belt provided with every purchase of the Makita 9403 has 80 grit coarseness. The grit level on the belt will vary depending on the trim you purchase. The belt on the Makita 9403 is powered by an 11 amp motor, rotating the belt at 1,640 square feet per minute. With this power rating, the company categorizes the unit as a heavy duty sander. Along with the power is a variable speed control which is designed to make the sander usable on different types of surfaces from soft to hard. But even with the powerful motor, the unit produces little noise at 85 decibels (a little louder than a dishwasher). This makes the unit usable in residential job sites and in areas with strict noise pollution laws. At the front of the unit is a grip handle that has been designed to provide for comfortable use. The handle is slightly tilted which means that the user can rest their body weight on the tool slightly to reduce fatigue. Speaking of weight, you will be pleased to note that the unit weighs 13 pounds, which makes the unit handy in sanding hardwood floors or grinding at angles. The unit is designed with a dust collection bag, sucking up all the sawdust particles and helping you to maintain a clean site, and preventing potential health hazards.
Review
The Makita 9403 is not the biggest or the meanest unit available on the handheld sanding products market. Nonetheless, the unit sports just enough features to land itself the title of a heavy duty handheld sander. First off, the unit comes with a highly powerful 11 amp motor, which is as powerful as most handheld belt sanders get. At 11 amps, the unit provides a speed of 1,640 square feet per minute. With such power and speed, the sander can work through hardwood surfaces with great ease and efficiency. As a matter of fact, this is the kind of power that is reserved for metal surfaces. This is not a belt sander for sanding small and delicate carvings, however it is not impossible to use on softer surfaces. Makita 9403 features a speed control that allows you to reduce the power generated by the electric motor. This allows you to reduce the amount of material you sand off from your working surface by reducing the pressure exerted on the sander. This variable speed control makes the unit perfect for soft surfaces like the plaster, balsa, and pine, it also helps to prevent gouging at the start of the sanding process. The speed control knob is engaged by simply turning the knob back and forth. With such great power cooped up in a small boxy design, one might think that the unit is noisy. On the contrary, the unit is relatively quiet. Most users are impressed by the 85-decibel rating which enables its use in residential areas without disturbing the neighbours. With regards to the weight, the unit is 13 pounds. So not only is the unit powerful, but it also is heavy which makes it sturdy for those hardwood surfaces. You will only need to apply minimal pressure to the unit to sand hardwood surfaces. Horizontal use will be a breeze with this weight. On the vertical orientation, however, due to its weight, it will be difficult to use.
The sanding belt measures 4” x 24” which is huge and perfect in removing 0.75 square feet of coarse surface at a time. It is also important to note that the unit sports an exposed nose design, which provides you with the ability to flush sand. The nose is however not exactly perfect to perform contour sanding. An auto-tracking system built into the unit helps to keep the belt on the track at all times which helps prevent the unit from wearing out fast. Lastly, the belt sander comes with a dust collection bag, capturing the large saw dust particles as well as other fine airborne particles- this helps to have the project site clean at all times. Speaking of which, to help direct all saw dust particles into the collection bag, the sander features a small exhaust fan which provides directional wind through to the collection bag.
Ratings
Summary: 4.6
Durability: 4.8
Ease of Use: 4.5
Noise: 4.6
Price: 4.5
#3: Porter-Cable 352VS
The Porter-Cable 352VS is considered to be an elite belt sanding machine in the industry. The machine has an 8 amp motor which is powerful enough to handle sanding of hardwood surfaces. The power makes the unit ideal for cabinet making, woodworking, home improvement and remodeling projects. The motor generates a maximum 1,300 SFPM. Complementing this power is an elaborate, precise and quality belt and gear drive system, engineered to transfer power from the motor to the sanding belt with minimal loss. In addition to this, the unit features a variable speed dial which helps in adjusting the speeds between 850 and 1,300 SFPM depending on the type of surface material worked on. The belt on the Porter-Cable 352VS measures 3” x 21”, which is big enough to handle large projects efficiently. With the speed of rotation, the belt has a high chance of veering off its rollers. So to have the belt remain centered, the unit sports an automatic tracking system constantly re-centering the belt. The design is compact and boxy with a width of 5.75 inches, a length of 12.5 inches and height of 10.38 inches. The unit weighs 10.75 pounds, which is not the heaviest from Porter-Cable, but it is definitely heavy enough to provide quality sanding on hardwood surfaces without the application of much force. The housing of the Porter-Cable is all metal which gives the unit a solid feel. This metal housing contributes to the significantly heavy nature of the unit and provides a tough exterior for added protection for the more delicate parts of the machine. The metal housing also works in helping dissipate excess heat generated within the unit. As for the sound, the New Technology gear system the Porter Cable 352V belt sander features helps to keep the noise at a minimum. This system is far more accurate and has lesser moving parts thus reducing the noise levels. Included with the unit is a dust collection bag which nicely collects all sawdust produced.
Review
This is a unique belt sander – one that stands out for its sturdy nature and all metal design. While most belt sanders sport plastic housing, the Porter Cable 352V is reinforced with a metallic exterior. This metallic housing works to not only protect the delicate components making up the unit but also dissipate excess heat enabling you to use the unit for longer periods without needing to take breaks for the unit to cool down. Another reason many people have fallen in love with this unit is its versatility. The unit features an 8 amp motor that generates a maximum of 1,300 Square feet per minute. This power makes it suitable for heavy duty projects and courtesy of its variable speed control knob, the unit can also be used on softer surfaces. Complementing the power of this unit is a well-designed belt and gear drive system. This system ensures that no power is lost during transmission thereby protecting the integrity of the powerful motor. The motor drives a belt measuring 3 inches by 24 inches. The 3-inch width of the belt makes it possible for users to sand in tiny spaces while the 24-inch length helps increase the area of the belt. In addition to tiny spaces, you can use the machine to perform a flush sanding. This flush sanding is made possible by the nose extension of the belt at the front of the machine. The automatic tracking system is great in aligning the belt, therefore manual adjustments and breaks in between sanding are not required. The unit weighs 10.75 pounds, which is perfect in working on hardwood surfaces and in the horizontal position. However, while on a vertical or upside down position, your wrist will not last very long supporting the weight of this belt sander. When the unit is switched on, the dust collection system starts automatically and stops when the unit is switched off. The dust collection bag helps to keep the project space clean. As for the noise, the Porter Cable is quite loud and noisy compared to other belt sanders on the market.
Ratings:
Summary: 4.2
Durability: 5
Ease of Use: 4.0
Noise: 3.8
Price: 4.0
#4: Power Combo Disc Sander
This heavy duty combo sander is designed to be a benchtop machine, is durable and of high quality. The overall design of the Power Combo makes it clear that it is not a handheld machine. As for durability, the unit is created by parts constructed from different materials. The motor housing is constructed from steel while the work table is created from aluminum. These two materials combine their individual strengths to create a well rounded Combo sander. The steel housing protects a 0.75 HP motor. The motor is located close to the base of the unit to increase unit stability as well as an increase in its protection. The motor drives a belt and disc sander at varying high speeds. The belt revolves at 1,150 RPM while the disc revolves at 1,780 RPM. With the high speeds and to improve safety, the unit sports a safety switch. Being a versatile unit, the Power Combo table tilts to 60 degrees and allows for the disc and belt sander repositioning with every tilting for optimal results. Adding to this versatility is the adjustable belt sander. The unit features rubberized stands at its bottom. These rubber stands provide a firm grip on the bench surface ensuring high stability and safety in the working area.
Review
With the power and efficiency that comes with the Power Combo Disc Sander, there is a sacrifice on portability, this is a table top sander. The unit has been designed to be heavy and solid, made from both steel and aluminum parts. The motor casing is made from steel, while the work table has been carved from aluminum. These two materials provide for a durable, sturdy and high quality machine. It comes complete with a stand and the design does not support operation by one hand. The weight of the unit is 28.2 pounds!
The unit features both a belt sander and a disc sander that measures 6 inches in diameter. In this versatile machine, the sanding belt and disc can be repositioned and the table tilted to 60 degrees. The 80 grit sanding belt is also adjustable. A lever located on the side of the belt construction makes it easy to adjust the belt outside and inside. The two belts are run by a powerful 0.75 HP motor, which prevents stalling and has the ability to rotate the two sanders fast. The disc revolves at a speed of 1780 RPM while the belt rotates at the speed of 1150 RPM. These high speeds are perfect for sanding but also provide for potential safety hazards. As such, the manufacturing company saw it fit to add a safety switch complete with a miter gauge.
Ratings:
Summary: 4.1
Durability: 4.6
Ease of Use: 4.0
Noise: 3.8
Price: 4.0
#5: Porter Cable 362V
The Porter Cable 362V belt sander is a variable speed belt sander sporting a powerful 12 amp motor and a metallic design for improved power and durability respectively. This unit is made perfect for both professionals and home improvement DIYers. This belt sander packs a mighty and beastly punch courtesy of its 12 amp motor, which generates more power than most Power Cable Sanders available. The motor on this unit is located right above the platen for improved balance and control while tackling complex woodworking projects. To ensure a steady flow and no loss in power, the unit has an elaborate and efficient belt and gear system which smoothly transfers power to the sanding belt. The 100 grit belt measuring 4” x 24” is rotated by the motor at 1,500 square feet per minute. This speed helps to reduce sanding time and efficiency on hardwood surfaces.
The unit is designed with a variable speed dial to accommodate precise and controlled sanding on softer and more delicate surfaces. The dial is located at the rear end of the front supporting handle and it’s placement helps to reduce the downtime between the speed changes. The speed adjustments made are between 1,000 and 1,500 square feet per minute. Adding to its high-end features is an ergonomic design making the tool user-friendly. The unit is constructed with two handles for perfect control and added comfort even in long sanding projects. For added convenience, the unit features a large dust collection bag, which collects all residual saw dusts from the sanding. The dust collection bag kicks into action automatically when the unit is turned on and stops when the unit is turned off. Adding to this, the bag features a swivel 360 degrees which ensures it doesn’t block the user’s vision. Overall, the unit weighs 15.5 pounds and is 14 inches high. The weight contributes to the unit’s ease of use while working on hardwood surfaces.
Review
The Porter Cable 362V sander comes with lots of high-end features which make it one of the best to be used by professional contractors and woodworkers. It has a heavy duty design and the entire unit has been made to last long even with frequent use. The unit is make from thick steel and parts like the front handle, are designed from strong solid plastic. The tough exterior does a great job in protecting the delicate parts on the inside. Reinforcing this protection is a labyrinth design that helps keep dust away from the moving parts thus contributing to the longevity of the unit. The reason why most people refer to this belt sander as the ‘beast’ is because of its powerful 12 amp motor. This motor generates intense power enough to chew through hardwood surfaces without slipping or bogging. The motor runs the 100 grit belt measuring 4” by 24” up to a maximum of 1500 square feet a minute. To ensure that the weight of the belt sander is exerted on the workpiece, the motor is located at the top center of the unit. Speaking of weight, the unit weighs 15.5 pounds. But while the maximum speed setting is perfect for hardwood surfaces, the unit also features a variable speed dial that is suitable for other surfaces too. The belt speed can be adjusted between 1000 and 1500 square feet per minute.
The Porter Cable 362V is designed perfectly down to the tiniest of details which enables it to not only deliver in performance but also design. The unit features a dual handle system, a handle on the rear end and a support handle at the front. The handle at the front is slanted slightly allowing you to shift some of your weight onto the machine to help reduce fatigue while working for long hours. For improved convenience, the unit also features a dust collection bag which can swivel a complete 360 degrees ensuring that it never blocks your view of the sanding process. With the intense power, the unit can prove to be quite noisy and as such, wearing ear protectors is encouraged.
Ratings
Summary: 4.3
Durability: 5
Ease of Use: 4.9
Noise: 3.3
Price: 4.0
#6: Genesis GBS321A Belt Sander
This Genesis GBS321A belt sander combines versatility and power with ease of use and significantly low noise production. The unit is designed to be perfect for use by woodworkers, carpenters, floor installers, furniture makers and deck builders. The Genesis GBS321A sports a powerful 8 amp motor complete with an electronic speed control that provides for constant speed regardless of the load used. This variable control dial allows users to adjust to speeds between 390 and 1,180 square feet per minute according to the surfaces. Features that make the unit easy to use include the auto-tracking belt system that constantly adjusts the belt and an adjustable front handle for comfortable control and operation especially during lengthy projects. Adding to this, the compact and low profile balance allows you to get into tight corners and spots and provide consistent sanding on the surfaces. The Genesis GBS321A sports a 6.5-foot power cord that allows coverage of vast floor spaces. The dust collection bag helps in reducing the sawdust particles in your place of work. The unit is perfect for both cabinetry and woodworking- sanding closets, furniture, wood panels and many other surfaces.
Review
For an all in one belt sander, the Genesis GBS321A is highly recommended. Lots of user reviews are available online which can attest to the functionality of the product. The unit comes with high-tech features and is made from high-quality materials which work to safeguard the durability of the unit. Perusing through the features this unit has to offer, one would think it is expensive, on the contrary, it is amazingly affordable.
The unit comes with a belt that measures 3” x 21” and measures 14 x 5.8 x 5.8 inches. This is incredibly compact for one hand usage and the unit is small enough to sand difficult to reach corners. With one of the smallest frames available in the market, the weight is also significantly lower than most units. The Genesis GBS321A measures a meager 8.5 pounds. Given its light nature and the adjustable grip handle at the front, it makes the sander easy to use and control. But the small and petite nature is not all that this unit has to offer, the sander also comes with a host of attractive features. One of the most useful, and that causes it to stand out from the crowd is the belt change system. To put in a new belt on the sander, all you will need to do is press a button and you will be good to go. Despite the machines small and compact construction, it sports an 8 amp motor which features an electronic speed control that ensures the speed is constant under the load. Speed control is varied and adjusted between 390 and 1,180 square feet per minute, providing for versatility of application. The sander also as an auto-tracking belt system that re-centers the belt when it veers off track, his saves you the hassle of having to do it manually every so often. The unit also comes with a long 6.5 feet power cord, which eliminates the need for an extension cord and also features a dust collection bag that helps to reduce the mess created during the project. Overall, the unit is compact, light, fast and less noisy.
Ratings
Summary: 4.85
Durability: 5
Ease of Use: 5
Noise: 4.6
Price: 4.8
#7: Rockwell RK7866 Belt Disc Sander
The Rockwell RK7866 is a benchtop disc sander designed for heavy duty sanding projects. The unit has been made for the professionals and home improvement DIYers who take their wood and metal working projects seriously. The disc sander has a compact design measuring 12.6 x 10.6 x 21.7 inches and weighs 45.1 pounds. The metallic construction contributes to the weight of the unit and it provides the unit with longevity. The compact unit features a motor with a power rating of 4.3 amps. This power rating provides for dependable performance and working on heavy duty projects. The belt fitted on the platform measures 4” x 36” and changing the belts when they wear out is made easy courtesy of the quick release belt tension lever. This platform has a meter gauge for precise control and measurements. The meter gauge is also on the disc sanding platform. The belt platform is constructed to adjust in degrees between 0 and 90 for both vertical and horizontal sanding. The disc sanding table can only adjust to a maximum of 45 degrees to sand beveled edges. The unit comes with a 2-year warranty.
Review
This sander has a well thought-out design and is considered to be an elite sander. The unit is created for high workplace performance and dependability, whether it is a simple task such as finishing furniture or harder tasks of sanding tough surfaces, the Rockwell RK7866 creates perfect finishes. This unit is a benchtop sander built to work on wood and metallic surfaces alike. At a glance, it is easy to tell that the unit is solid and sturdy in construction. Unlike many products in the same category, this sander features a 4.3 amp induction motor that generates a whopping 1700 square foot per minute belt speed and a 3450 RPM disc speed. This power is more than enough to handle medium projects and as a matter of fact, the unit can handle 95% of all finishing and sanding projects. The belt measures 4” x 36” which is significantly large compared to other belts on the market. Complementing the large belt is an auto tracking technology that helps to keep the belt from gouging as it rotates at high speeds. Another neat technology is the quick release belt tension, which makes it easy when changing the belts. The belt table has been designed with a 90-degree tilting ability. On the other hand, the disc table (made from aluminum), can only tilt by 45 degrees. As though that is not enough, the unit also features a meter gauge (45 degrees) to promote precision. The belt can also be tilted in several angles providing versatility of contouring various surfaces and workpieces. The soft grip on the unit is ergonomically designed and the overall design provides for pad changing requiring no use of tools. The unit measures 45.1 pounds, which obviously does not allow handling and control of the unit by hand. It is advisable that you have ear protectors on when the unit is running as it is quite noisy.
Ratings:
Summary: 4.3
Durability: 5
Ease of Use: 4.0
Noise: 3.3
Price: 4.8
#8: Black & Decker DS321 Dragster
The Black & Decker DS321 Dragster is a small and compact tool with a 6 amp motor. The motor generates high power for maximum belt speed and performance. The unit design is angled-bend, the front wheel is small which enables for 90-degree angle close sanding and it is protected by a retractable hood. When working on tight and small corners, the hood is flipped exposing the tapered belt end. The belt measures 3” x 21” and works with all forms of grit. When changing the belt, a belt release lever as well as an adjustment knob is used. The unit features two ergonomic handles – one at the rear end and one at the front. The handles add to the control and comfort of the unit. The front handle is designed with three adjustable positions for perfect comfort depending on the inclination of the surface. The machine has a dust collector that is designed to automatically turn on and off with the belt sander. The sander is perfect for keeping your working area clean and improving visibility of the results on your surface.
Review
The problem with most traditional handheld sanders is that they do not get close to the 90- degree corners because the radius of the front roller is too large. As such, sanding anything aside from a flat board is a tedious process with these belt sanders. This is not the case with the Black & Decker DS321 Dragster and most called it ‘Dragster’ owing to the angled belt effect created by the tiny front wheel and the large back wheel. The small wheel allows you to sand tight right-angled corners closely. This helps to cut the sanding time by a significant margin. This sander comes with a retractable hood at its front. This hood covers the sanding belt and provides it with protection in storage. The hood is designed to flip upwards. You should, however, be very careful when you are using this belt sander in this state. There is a possibility of ripping off the hood if you are careless in your handling.
The sanding belt measures 3” x 21” and performs well with all grits. Like the modern belt sanders, the unit comes complete with a dust collection bag designed to collect the saw dust produced while sanding, helping to keep your work area clean. The unit weighs 6.5 pounds which is by far one of the lightest available on the market. The lightweight nature comes with two effects. First, being light, it means that when working on hardwood surfaces, you will have to use more force to press against the surface. On the other hand, it means that the unit is easy to control and handle. To press hard on the hard surface for optimum results, you will use the handle on the front of the unit. This handle has a firm grip and features an ergonomic design. In addition to this, the handle is adjustable to three different positions for optimal control.
Ratings
Summary: 4.7
Durability: 5
Ease of Use: 4.6
Noise: 4.5
Price: 4.8
#9: Hitachi SB8V2 Belt Sander
The Hitachi SB8V2 features a powerful motor with a 9 amp rating. The motor is ideal for tough materials. The motor generates a maximum speed of 1,475 square feet per minute. In addition to being perfect for tough surfaces, the unit is also ideal for removing paint. Courtesy of the V-belt technology, the Hitachi SB8V2 lasts twice as long as other standard belt sanders. With the dust bag located on the left side of the tool, corner sanding is improved. The main body is designed to flush with the pulley on the right side of the unit. The belt size measures 3” in width and the unit weighs 9.5 pounds. Other features of the machine are a clear front cover, a variable speed dial that adjusts the sanding belt speed between 820 and 1,475 square feet per minute and a soft elastomer grip on both rear and front handles. A dust collection bag works to reduce dust and mess in the working area. The Hitachi SB8V2 comes with a 5-year warranty.
Review
One of the best things that this unit is loved for is its 9 amp motor. While this is not one of the most powerful motors in the belt sander industry, it definitely is among the list of the most powerful. The motor generates a decent level of performance. Speaking of which, the price to performance ratio screams of value for money. The motor produces a maximum of 1,475 square feet per minute which is ideal for paint removal, steel, and woodworking. However, with a variable speed adjuster this sander can accommodate a wide range of sanding purposes from soft to hard surfaces. In addition to its functionality, the versatility of this unit is amazing. The unit allows for the fine tuning of surfaces to your preference. You can fit the unit with a belt featuring low or high grit sanding pad to achieve either a rough or smooth finish. The belt, however, has to measure 3” in width. As for its ease of use, the belt sander has numerous features working in its favor. First and foremost, the unit features a handle covered with a soft elastomer surface for improved comfort and working for long hours. Adding to this, the unit features a ball bearing technology on the rollers to help in reducing the vibrations. The lesser vibrations the more comfortable the unit feels and the accuracy of the sanding also increases.
The unit weighs about 9.5 pounds and although it may not be the heaviest in the market, it still works well on hard surfaces. With this weight, its portability is reduced but not impossible. To top it off, the unit features a dust collection bag that does a great job of filtering the sawdust and debris that accumulate when sanding. Additional features include a transparent tracking window that allows you to keep track of the condition of the belt and a V-belt that is more efficient and durable than the normal belts. This contributes to the longevity of the unit.
Ratings
Summary: 4.5
Durability: 5
Ease of Use: 4.6
Noise: 4.5
Price: 4.0
#10: Porter Cable 371 Belt Sander
This is a compact unit with a unique design. The unit features a non-slip surface along its top, created using a rubber textured body grip. The sander is made from metallic materials, which provide the unit with a durable and sturdy feel. Under the compact metallic housing is a 120 Volt, 5 amp motor that delivers high power to the belt. This is great power contained in a lightweight and portable frame that is comfortable to hold in one hand. Combined with the rubber grip, the sander provides for perfect control. With its compact nature, is perfect for tight spaces and handy to maneuver in 90 degrees angles. The flush side also makes working on the perpendicular sides a breeze. The belt measures 2.5 x 14 inches and is 80 grit. Other conveniences on the unit include the removable dust port and recessed dust sealed switches which protect against accidental switch-ons and switch-offs. In addition to this, the unit comes with a durable carrying case.
Review
The Porter-Cable 371 has a huge textured rubber grip that provides for a comfortable non-slip surface, and this allows for precise control. Unlike most units, this product is designed to provide the very best comfort and ease of use. This is a great sander for beginners and it is super easy and straight forward to use. The product comes with a flush side that helps the unit to sand up perpendicular surfaces. If you intend to work on tight spaces, this sander will be able to maneuver up 90-degree angles courtesy of the 2.5 inch and 14-inch compact belt and the flush side. This sander comes with metal components that increase durability and reduces the likely of needing to replace parts. Adding to the longevity of the unit is the dust sealed and recessed switches, which increase the durability of the switches and also keeps the user safe, preventing accidental turn-ons and turn-offs. The unit features a 5 amp motor which makes it a powerful unit for its size. This belt sander weighs 8.9 pounds which ensures that working on fairly hard surfaces will be a breeze not requiring much effort to get desired results.
Ratings:
Summary: 4.5
Durability: 4.5
Ease of Use: 5
Noise: 4.5
Price: 4.0
Conclusion
Choosing the best belt sander can be a confusing process especially if you don’t know what kind to look for and where to purchase one. It’s not rocket science and doesn’t have to be hard, you just need to be clued up on the features you are looking for and match it up to suit your project needs. This guide is perfect in empowering you with some knowledge on belt sanders for you to make an educated purchase.
Firstly, you will need to consider the power and the weight. Contrary to popular belief, you will not need to buy a unit with ground shattering power to carry out most of the sanding jobs that you have. That said, power is not the very first thing that you will need to consider. Of course, if two products of the same price have different amperage, go with the unit with extra power for the same cost. You also need to bear in mind that weight of the unit will affect the quality of the result while working horizontally on a hard surface. Heavier units are great in this case since they help to reduce the force applied to get the best sanding result. On the other hand, the weight will affect the pressure on your wrist while using the unit in a vertical position.
Second, the size of the belt sander is an important consideration. If you intend to bring the surfaces to your belt sander, the size will not matter and a stationery sander would be the best option. To choose the right size, you will need to consider the size of the project and the purpose of the unit. A small sander will be fine while working on narrow corners, while larger units are perfect for jobs that require more power such as finishing and sanding a deck.
Speed is the defining element of all best belt sanders in the market. They are aggressive in getting rid of materials on both light and hard surfaces. However, great speed is not ideal for small or thin surfaces. For this reason you will need to choose a unit that sports variable speed control dials and that also come with the added mechanism of keeping the belt from gouging and bumping apart, to ensure more efficiency and control. Ideal speed ranges are between 500 to 1500 feet per minute. Getting a unit with this range will provide you with convenience and versatility, accomodating a variety of projects.
Sanding belt size and grit is also an important element to consider. Different belt sizes are perfect for varying jobs. Wide belts are best for working on large surface areas. You will, however, sacrifice control. Triangular belts are narrower at the front and wider at the rear ends, which are perfect for sanding angles on fixtures and reaching into corners. Each unit is designed for a specific belt size, therefore you need to choose a model with a belt size that can cater to most of your sanding project needs.
There you have it, a 101 on Belt Sanders. Hopefully this guide has provided you with some knowledge and confidence to choose a belt sander that is perfect for your DIY home improvement projects!