If you do many woodworking projects, then a belt sander is one of the must-have tools. Like any woodworking tool, you need to have the right belt sander for your job. Since there are several types and brands on the market, choosing the best Belt Sander is quite challenging. As a result, we decided to bring you some of the best-selling belt sanders to make your work easy.
Depending on what you want to do with the belt sander, you will find a particular type that will fit your job. This is because belt sanders vary in power, functionality, ease of use, efficiency, and performance. For instance, if you’re a professional, you would love to have a belt sander with 10 amperes or more. But if you’re a DIYer, a belt sander with at least 4 amperes is okay.
What are the Best Belt Sanders to Buy This Year? Check the Belt Sander Reviews
Without wasting more time, let’s check out the top 10 belt sander reviews on the market:
Wen 6502T Belt and Disc Sander with Cast Iron Base
The Wen 6502T belt and disc sander with a cast iron base is ideal for woodworkers looking for a versatile belt sander. The unit performs multiple functions, such as sanding, smoothening, and removing splinters or jagged edges from surfaces. Additionally, it can be used horizontally or vertically, making it suitable for people with lots of sanding tasks.
Technical Features of the WEN 6502T Belt Sander:
| Features | WEN 4 x 36 inch 6502T |
| Belt size: | 4-by-36 inch |
| Belt speed: | 1900 FPM |
| Style: | 6-inch Disc w/ Cast Iron Base |
| Amps: | 4.3 Amps |
| Disc Speed: | 3,600 RPM |
| Weight: | 39 Pounds |
| Dimensions: | 22 x 11 x 12.5 inches |
| Material: | Metal |
The unit comes with two-disc belts measuring 4-inches by 36-inches and 6-inches by 6-inches. Besides, the belt can tilt anywhere from 0 to 90 degrees, which is exceptional. It’s also powerful as it has a 4.3 amp ½ HP motor that delivers 3600 RPM. Apart from the belt disc sander, it also has a miter gauge. Additionally, you will not be distracted by vibrations as it has a heavy cast iron base that minimizes vibrations. With a dust port, you will keep your work area clean for long as long as you attach a dust bag.
What we like:
- Sturdily made to last long
- Ideal for both vertical and horizontal sanding
- Perfect for smoothening and sanding rugged surfaces
- Easy to use
- It has a heavy cast iron that prevents vibrations
- It has a dust port for attaching a dust bag and keeping your environment clean
- Extended safety guard keeps you safe during use
What we don’t like:
- It’s limited as you cannot use it for sanding plywood and floors
- The sander is quite heavy as it weighs around 39 pounds
- It has a poorly designed miter gauge
Makita 9403 Best Belt Sander for Deck
If you’re looking for the best overall belt sander on the market, you can’t go wrong with the Makita 9403 belt sander. Unlike most units on this list, the Makita 9403 belt sander is quiet in operation and comes with a powerful 11 amp motor. It produces 84 decibels, which is okay. Besides, it has an electronic speed control system that allows you to adjust speed according to your project.
Feature specifications of the Makita 9403 Belt Sander:
| Features | Makita 9403 |
| Amps: | 11 AMP |
| Belt speed: | 1,640 ft./min. |
| Power: | 115V |
| Belt size: | 4″ x 24″ |
| Includes: | Dust Bag and Abrasive belt |
| Weight: | 15.75 pounds |
| Dimensions: | 16.1 x 8.9 x 9.8 inches |
| Quiet operation: | 84dB |
The Makita 9403 belt sander is equipped with an abrasive belt measuring 4-inches by 24-inches with 80 grit. The belt is very fast, with a speed of 1,640 ft. per minute, making it ideal for handling massive projects. Therefore, woodworkers, floor installers, carpenters, deck builders, and general contractors will fall in love with this belt sander.
It has a labyrinth construction that makes it versatile and long-lasting. A unique feature of this unit is the dust bag, which can swivel up to 360 degrees. The dust bag ensures that nothing gets in your way as you work on your project, which is outstanding.
Pros:
- Durable construction for longevity
- Sleek and stylish design
- Ideal sander for deck work
- Excellent labyrinth construction
- Quiet operation at 84 decibels
- Keeps your environment clean with the dust port and dust bag
- It has variable speed for varying projects
- Easy and convenient to use
- Powerful motor
- 1-year warranty
Cons:
- It’s slightly heavy
- It’s somehow expensive
Hitachi SB8V2 Belt Sander with Trigger Lock & Soft Grip Handles
Hitachi is one of the oldest belt sander brands on the market. The Hitachi SB8V2 is another exceptional tool for woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts. The unit is relatively lighter than the first two belt sanders that we’ve looked at, as it weighs around 9.5 pounds. Meaning you can utilize it for all kinds of tasks.
What are the Features of the Hitachi SB8V2?
| Features | Hitachi SB8V2 |
| Belt size: | 76 x 533mm |
| Belt speed: | 820 1,475 feet/min |
| Power: | 120 volts |
| Amps: | 9 Amp |
| Included: | bare-tool; attachments |
| Weight: | 9.5 pounds |
| Dimensions: | 14.3 x 9.2 x 8.6 inches |
| Power supply: | 1020W |
It comes with a 9.0 amp motor that has a no-load speed of 820 to 1,475-feet per minute. This is great for both tough and soft jobs. Therefore, you can use it on steel, wood, and paint without any issue. Since the dust bag is located on the left-hand side, corner sanding isn’t a problem at all. It also has a variable speed that allows the user to apply more power on rough surfaces and less power on accurate finishes.
With a soft elastomer grip surface on the main and auxiliary handles, this unit is extremely comfortable to use. And with a 5-year warranty, this is an excellent investment.
What are the advantages:
- Robust construction
- Convenient to use with the dust bag
- Variable speed allows users to undertake various projects
- Comfortable to use as it has a soft elastomer grip surface
- Lightweight and portable unit
- It has a wear-resistant
- 5-year warranty
Disadvantages:
- It is quite challenging to adjust the belt
- The unit develops shocks at times
Ryobi P411 Cordless Random Orbit Power Sander
If you have small woodworking projects to attend to your home, the best belt sander will be the Ryobi P411 cordless orbital power sander. This sleek ad stylish belt sander is lightweight and ideal for small projects. It runs on a one+ battery system and delivers 18 volts.
Technical Features Chart of the Ryobi P411 One+ 18 Volt 5 Inch Cordless Battery Operated:
| Features | Ryobi P411 |
| Material: | Plastic, Steel |
| Delivers: | 10,000 Orbits per minute |
| Power: | 18V |
| Included: | Sanding Pads |
| Power source: | battery-powered |
| Weight: | 3 pounds |
| Dimensions: | 7.6 x 7.3 x 7.4 inches |
| Cordless: | Yes |
At 3 pounds, you can utilize this unit both horizontally and vertically. On top of that, you don’t need to connect it to a socket as it’s a cordless unit. Therefore, you can use it outdoors or even where there is no electricity. The Ryobi P411 delivers 10,000 Orbits per minute, making it great for any polishing and sanding work.
It’s also easy to operate and handle as it comes with a rubber overgrip with notches. However, you may notice some powerful motor vibrations, but this shouldn’t be a problem. Since it has a dust bag, the work area will remain clean as it will collect dust.
Benefits:
- Portable and lightweight belt sander
- Ideal for both horizontal and vertical sanding jobs
- The unit can be utilized anywhere as its cordless
- On-board dust bag keeps your work area clean
- Sleek and stylish design for ease of use
Setbacks:
- Not suitable for commercial use as it has a weak motor
- It doesn’t feature variable speed
RIDGID R2740 Heavy-Duty Belt Sanders
Ridgid R2740 is another quality and a versatile belt sander that woodworkers and mechanics will love. The tool can be utilized to remove paint, and wood, and polish surfaces. It comes with a 6.5 amp motor, which is ideal for most woodworking projects. This unit can also be used for flash sanding, meaning it can be used to sand vertical surfaces.
Technical Features of the RIDGID R2740 Heavy Duty Variable Speed Sander:
| Features | Ridgid R2740 |
| Material: | Metal/Plastic |
| Grit Rating: | 80 |
| Warranty: | 90-Day satisfaction guarantee policy, Limited 3-year warranty, Lifetime Service Agreement |
| Amps: | 6.5 Amp |
| Includes: | Bare-tool; attachments |
| Weight: | 8.22 pounds |
| Dimensions: | 15 x 6 x 7 inches |
| Power Source: | Corded Electric |
The Ridgid R2740 belt sander has a 3″ x 18″ belt with automatic belt tracking, allowing the belt to adjust to the platen’s center during use. Therefore, you can be sure to receive accurate finishes when using this tool. Additionally, it’s fitted with soft grip handles for added comfort and to minimize vibrations.
The unit also has a conveniently positioned dust collection system that keeps your workshop tidy and neat. With 400 – 950 belt speed and a weight of 5.8 pounds, this is a suitable device for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.
Pros:
- Sturdy construction
- Lightweight design
- It has an excellent dust collection system
- The unit has soft grip handles that offer comfort during use
- It has variable speed to handle different projects
- It’s easy to change sanding belts with the tool-free belt release
- 3-year warranty
Cons:
- The belt slides with a lot of ease
- Not suitable for commercial grade work
Craftsman CMEW213 Belt Wood Sander
Craftsman is among the oldest sander brands on the market. The company is known for creating quality woodworking tools. The Craftsman CMEW213 belt sander is among those quality tools offered by this reputable company.
The Craftsman CMEW213 is well-made to withstand daily wear and tear. It has a 7.0 amp motor that provides excellent power for working on different projects. It provides a maximum speed of 800 FPM, which is perfect for its price. The belt sander can easily access tight corners as it comes with an angled belt design.
Features Details of the CRAFTSMAN Belt Sander, 3-Inch x 21-Inch (CMEW213):
| Features | Craftsman CMEW213 |
| Grid Type: | Coarse |
| Belt speed: | 800 fpm |
| Included: | (1) CMEW213 Belt Sander, (1) Sanding Belt, (1) Dust Bag |
| Amps: | 7.0 Amps |
| Power source: | corded electric |
| Weight: | 7.7 pounds |
| Dimensions: | 14.37 x 5.44 x 5.64 inches |
| Warranty: | 3 Year Limited Warranty |
Furthermore, this unit is simple to use as it has a tool-free belt release for fast and straightforward belt changes. Another convenient attribute of this tool is the excellent dust collection system that simplifies the user’s work by collecting all the dust on the dust bag. Thus, the user won’t have to clean up the place after sanding.
Using the Craftsman CMEW213 belt sander is fun as it comes with a 3position over-molded handle that offers comfort during use. Therefore, you won’t be affected by the vibration from the motor. The Craftsman CMEW213 belt sander is an excellent purchase for home or small woodworking projects at such a fantastic price.
Why buy this product:
- Durable construction for long-lastingness
- Easy to use
- Straightforward to change belts
- An outstanding dust collection system keeps your workshop clean
- It has a fantastic speed for fast material removal
- It has an angled belt design to reach challenging corners
- 3-year limited warranty
Why not:
- The belt is not stable as it needs readjusting a lot during use
- It’s slightly loud than most units
Rikon 50-120 10-inch Belt Disc Sander Review
If you desire an affordable and versatile belt sander, the Rikon 50-120 10-inch disc sander is the best choice. This 2-in-1 unit allows you to sand, smoothen, and get rid of jagged edges from wood. Thanks to the 6″ x 48″ belt and 10-inch disc sander, that gives you many options. On top of that, the belt sander has a tilting range of 0 to 90 degrees and a work support table that lets you handle both small and large projects.
Technical Features of the RIKON 50-120 6-by-48-Inch Belt 10-Inch:
| Features | RIKON 50-120 |
| Motor: | 3/4-Horsepower |
| Belt speed: | 2030 SFPM |
| Disc Speed: | 1720 rpm |
| Disc Table: | 4-by-8-Inch |
| Warranty: | 5 Year Warranty |
| Weight: | 102 Pounds |
| Dimensions: | 29 x 16 x 19 inches |
| Construction: | Solid steel and cast iron |
The Rikon 50-120 belt and disc sander is sturdily made to last longer, meaning you won’t have to buy a new belt sander every year. At 104 pounds, this unit is quite heavy, making it unsuitable for vertical sanding. However, the heavy-duty cast iron base provides stable support that reduces vibrations. What’s more, it has convenient carry handles that make this unit portable.
Changing the belt is seamless as the belt sander has a quick-release belt-tension lever. With a powerful 3/4 horsepower motor, the belt sander delivers an excellent speed of 2,030 SFPM for quick and smooth outcomes, while the disc sander provides a speed of 1,720 RPM. All in all, this is an ideal belt sander for all your sanding needs.
Pros:
- Robust construction for longevity
- Versatile belt sander
- It has a dust port for attaching a vacuum or dust bag
- Excellent power and speed to sand rough surfaces
- Easy to change belt with the quick-release belt-tension lever
- Little to no vibration
- Affordable sanding machine
- Best belt sander under 100 dollars
- 5-year limited warranty
Cons:
- It’s quite heavy
- Poor customer support from Rikon
Triton TAS40G 40 Grit Sanding Belt
The Triton TAS40G 40 grit sanding belt is a powerful tool that comes with various exceptional features that will ease your sanding job. Fitted with a 10 ampere motor with 1.6 horsepower, this unit will help you sand rough surfaces and smoothen wood, ready for painting. It also delivers an outstanding no-load speed of 200 to 400 m/min.
It comes with a 3″ x 21″ sanding belt covering a 3″ x 6″ sanding surface. You can also fit an 80 grit, 100 grit, or 180 grit sandpaper for different woodworking projects. With the two inversion clamps, you can turn the tool upside down to utilize for larger projects. Also, it has a variable speed that allows you to control it and get precise outcomes.
Technical specifications of the Triton TAS40G Belt Sander 3-Inch by 21-Inch:
| Features | Triton TAS40G |
| Motor Power: | 1.6 Horsepower |
| Belt Size: | 3″ x 21″ Belt |
| Sanding Surface Area: | 3″ x 6″ |
| Amps: | 10 Amps |
| Power source: | corded electric |
| Weight: | 10.91 lbs. |
| Dimensions: | 20-1/4″ L x 7-9/10″ H x 4-18/25″ W |
| Suitable for Inversion: | Yes |
| Lock-On button for continuous use: | Yes |
| Dust Port Location: | Side |
Whether you’re working on an open surface or a confined area, this tool will still get the job done. Thanks to the smaller front wheel that can easily fit in tight spaces. Other notable features of this tool are rubber grips for comfort, aside from a dust port to keep your work area clean, and a removable bail handle for ease of control.
Pros:
- Sturdy construction
- It has a dust collection bag to keep your area tidy
- Ergonomic design for ease of use and handling
- Powerful and versatile unit to tackle both small and large projects
- It comes with a variable speed for adjusting according to work at hand
- It’s comfortable to handle and control as it has rubber grips
- Safe to use
Cons:
- It’s somehow heavy
- It comes with a defective mounting hole
Shop Fox W1855 Horizontal/Vertical Sander
Shop Fox W1855 may not be a famous brand, but it still offers one of the best belt sanders on the market. The Shop W1855 horizontal/vertical belt sander is versatile as it can be utilized for the angle, miter, and compound miter sanding. Thanks to the 4-inch sanding belt and 6-inch disc sander. It’s also ideal for horizontal and vertical sanding, making it suitable for commercial and basic sanding at home.
The tool is well-built to last longer, and it comes with a tracking control knob for on-the-fly adjustments. Changing the belt is not an issue as it has a quick-release belt lever. And with the convenient on/off switch, you will lock the unit into a safe operating position.
Technical Details of the Shop Fox W1855 Horizontal/Vertical Belt Sander With 6″ Disc:
| Features | Shop Fox W1855 |
| Grid Type: | Medium |
| Motor: | 1/2 HP, 120V, single-phase, 3600 RPM |
| Disc size: | 6″ |
| Belt size: | 4″ x 36″ |
| Table size: | 6-1/4″ x 9″ |
| Weight: | 3.53 pounds |
| Dimensions: | 14.5 x 17.5 x 24 inches |
| Disc speed: | 3600 RPM |
| Power Cord: | 6-foot |
| Base: | Cast-iron base |
The Shop Fox W1855 belt and disc sander come with a 120V, single-phase motor with ½ horsepower that delivers a sanding belt speed of 1900 FPM and disc speed of 3600 RPM. Besides, the sanding belt can be tilted up to 90 degrees, meaning it will sand even the tightest corners of your working surface. Finally, the cast iron base and die-cast aluminum table minimize vibration for a smooth operation.
Unique Features
- It’s well-built to last longer
- Versatile unit
- Cast-iron base minimizes vibrations
- Dust collector keeps your workshop clean
- It is easy to change the belt
- It’s straightforward to set up and use
- 2-year warranty
Drawbacks:
- It’s heavy
- The unit becomes loud after a few uses
Porter-Cable 352VS Variable Speed Sanders
If durability is what you’re looking for, you will love the Porter-cable 352VS variable speed belt sander. This best benchtop belt sander tool is built with all metal, making it one of the most durable belt sanders on the market. Hence, you won’t need a new belt sander after one year of use.
Feature information of the Porter Cable 352VS Belt Sander:
| Features | Porter-cable Belt Sander- 8AMP |
| Included: | Woodworking, Benchtop Sanders, Power Belt Sanders |
| Belt speed: | 850-1,300 SFPM |
| Power supply: | corded |
| Amps: | 8 Amp |
| Belt size: | 3″ X 21″ |
| Weight: | 10.75 pounds |
| Dimensions: | 14.2 x 8 x 10.2 inches |
| Power: | 120VAC,25-60 HZ |
The Porter-Cable 352VS belt sander is not only durable but also powerful and versatile. The unit features an 8-amp motor that delivers an excellent speed of between 850 SFPM and 1300 SFPM. Therefore, the user can adjust the speed according to the job they are tackling. The 3-inch by 21-inch belt can be used for both small and large projects. It’s also great for both horizontal and vertical sanding.
Changing the belt of the 352VS is super easy with the side-mounted lever. The belt sander is also convenient to use as it’s fitted with 360 degrees swiveling dust bag that gathers dust and keeps your work area tidy. However, this unit is quite heavy because of the all-metal construction.
Pros:
- Sturdily built to last longer
- Elegant and stylish design
- Easy to operate
- Offers precise finishes
- Versatile belt sander
- Lightweight and portable design
- Ideal for commercial use
- It comes with a dust collection bag to keep the area clean
- Powerful to tackle all kinds of jobs
- 3-year limited warranty
Cons:
- The tool is heavy
- It’s quite louder
Skil 7510-01 Sandcat Belt Sander with Pressure Control
Skil 7510-01 Sandcat belt sander is the perfect tool for people on a budget. If you want a unit that will help you complete many woodworking projects at home, the Skill belt sander will be the best bet for you. You get a unit with a 6.0-amp motor that can sand wooden floors, cabinets, and even chairs at such an affordable price.
The Skil 7510-01 Sandcat belt sander is also convenient to use as it has an auto belt alignment that ensures the sanding belt remains in place during use. And with the clear view canister connected to the dust port exhaust and micro-filtration system, your workplace will always stay clean.
Technical Features of the SKIL 7510-01:
| Features | SKIL 7510-01 |
| Amps: | 6 Amp |
| Belt speed: | 1050 SFM |
| Power: | 120V |
| Belt size: | 3 x 18 in. |
| Cord length: | 8ft |
| Includes: | 80-Grit Sanding Belt; 3″ x 18″ Belt Sander, model 7510-01; Clear-View Dust Canister |
| Length: | 13.9″ |
| Weight: | 7.5 pounds |
Even though this unit is powerful, it’s quiet in operation, and a light indicator will warn you when you use excess pressure. As a result, it’s safe and secure to use by both DIYers and professional woodworkers. It’s also lightweight, at 6.6 pounds, making it suitable for both horizontal and vertical sanding.
Advantages we found:
- Durable unit
- Straightforward to use
- Lightweight design
- Simple to change the belt
- It has a clear view dust canister
- Pressure control for optimal finishes
- Flush edge sanding leaves nothing to chance
- Versatile unit
- Safe to use with the lock-on button
Disadvantages:
- The dust collection system is less effective
- Not ideal for industrial use
Ryobi ZRBE319 Belt Sander Review
Ryobi is among the top belt sander brands on the market. The Ryobi ZRBE319 belt sander is more suited for small woodworking projects as it has a 6.0-amp motor, which is not very powerful. Nonetheless, the unit comes with a low profile that allows the user to access tight corners and spaces.
Additionally, the Ryobi ZRBE319 belt sander is sturdily built to last long. Nevertheless, it’s lightweight and portable, making it perfect for conducting various woodworking projects. Since it has a new and improved GripZone over mold, handling this unit is fun and comfortable.
Feature chart of the Ryobi ZRBE319 6 Amp 3 in. x 18 in. Belt Sander (Renewed):
| Features | Ryobi ZRBE319 |
| AC Adapter Current: | 6 Amps |
| Belt speed: | 820 FPM |
| Belt Size: | 3 in. x 18 in. |
| Material: | plastic, metal |
| Power source: | Corded Electric |
| Weight: | 6.3 pounds |
| Dimensions: | 13.62 x 7 x 6.61 inches |
| Warranty: | 90-day warranty |
Users will have an easy time changing the sanding belt as it features a tool-less tracking knob and belt tension release lever. Like many top belt sanders, the unit consists of a dust collection bag to keep your work area tidy. With such features, this is a quality tool for completing most of your woodworking jobs.
Pros:
- Sturdily built for long-lastingness
- Excellent performance with the powerful 6-amp motor
- It has a low-profile design that easily accesses tight spots
- Comfortable to use with the improved GripZone over mold
- It has a dust collection bag for a clean workplace
- Simple to change sanding belt
- It’s lightweight and portable
- Delivers exceptional sanding with a no-load speed of 820 FPM
- 90-day warranty
Cons:
- Not ideal for industrial use
Wen 6515T Belt Sander
Wen 6515T belt sander is one of the best 2-in-1 belt and disc sanders on the market. This tool is sturdily built to withstand anything that you throw at it. Thanks to the heavy-duty base that includes mounting holes to avoid wobbling and vibration during use. The device also features a belt table, miter gauge, and bevel lock knob for precise finishes.
Technical Features of the WEN 6515 1 in. x 30 in. Belt Sander with 5 in. Sanding Disc:
| Features | WEN 6515 |
| Belt size: | 1 in. x 30 in. |
| Grit Number: | 100 |
| Belt Speed: | 3160 FPM |
| Amps: | 2.3 Amps |
| Disc Speed: | 3450 RPM |
| Weight: | 16 pounds |
| Dimensions: | 14.5 x 8.75 x 15.75 inches |
| Warranty: | 2-year |
Featuring the 1″ x 3″ sanding belt and 5″ sanding disc, you will tackle many woodworking projects with this tool. Moreover, the dust ports simplify things for you as they keep the environment clean. With a 2.3-amp motor that delivers speeds of up to 3160 ft per minute for the sanding belt and 3450 RPM on the sanding disc, you will love this unit.
You will get a 100 grit sanding belt and an 80 grit sanding disc on top of that. These are perfect for both smoothening rough surfaces and attaining accurate finishes. However, this belt and disc sander are quite cumbersome to set up and don’t feature a variable speed.
Why you should buy this:
- Durable construction
- It has two dust ports to keep your workplace clean
- 2-in-1 tool for versatile use
- Powerful unit
- It has a sturdy base that prevents vibrations
- The miter gauge offers precision
- It’s compact and portable
- 2-year warranty
Why not?
- It’s heavy
- The machine doesn’t feature a variable speed
- It’s quite tricky to assemble
Cordless RIDGID 18-Volt GEN5X with Dust Bag
If you’re looking for a very powerful cordless belt sander, the Ridgid 18-volt Gen5X belt sander is the best option. This cordless unit runs on 18Volt batteries, which last a little longer than other cordless belt sanders. However, it’s not still ideal for use over an extended period.
What are the features of the RIDGID 18-Volt GEN5X Cordless Brushless sander?
| Features | RIDGID 18-Volt |
| Belt size: | 3 in. x 18 in. |
| Voltage: | 18V |
| Cordless: | Yes |
| Amps: | 3.2 Amps |
| Controllable speed: | Yes |
| Weight: | 6.3 pounds |
| Dimensions: | 12.38 x 6.94 x 8.25 inches |
| Warranty: | Lifetime |
The Ridgid GEN5X cordless belt sander is well-built for longevity. It also comes with a controllable speed, which allows users to complete different sanding projects. Thus, you can use it for precise finishes or clear rough surfaces on wood. Changing the sanding belt on this sander is also seamless, and it’s comfortable to handle.
Overall, this 3″ x 18″ cordless belt sander is also convenient to use as it features a dust bag that will keep your work environment clean. At 6.3 pounds, you will quickly move around with this tool as you work on horizontal or vertical surfaces without being limited by the cord.
Benefits we found:
- Robust construction
- Easy to use
- Simple to change sanding belt
- Lightweight and portable unit
- It’s cordless for convenient use
- The unit can handle large woodworking jobs
- It comes with a lifetime warranty
Drawbacks:
- The lifetime warranty only applies when bought from particular dealers
- It does not hold power for long
What to look for before buying the best belt sander?
With hundreds of belt sander brands on the market, choosing the best unit for your craft is not an easy thing. That’s why we’ve included this guide to help you identify the features and things that you need to look at when buying a belt sander. These are as follows:
Power
The first thing that you should consider in a belt sander is its power. The more powerful the belt sander, the better it will perform. Therefore, select a belt sander with more amps, which equates to more power.
Most belt sanders come with an electric cord, while others are cordless. Also, most of them feature an electric motor that runs between four to ten amps. For regular sanding jobs, a belt sander with 4 to 6 amperes is excellent. But for heavy-duty tasks, a belt sander with 10-amps or more is the best.
Durability
Apart from power, you should also consider the durability of the belt sander. Since sanding involves pressure and lots of vibrations, you need a durable unit that can withstand both. Thus, you should pick a powerful belt sander that will last for many years.
Weight
Weight is another vital thing to consider when picking a belt sander. Some tools are heavy, while others are lightweight. If you intend to work on vertical surfaces or sand for the whole day, then a lightweight belt sander is crucial. But if you only intend to work on horizontal surfaces or small projects for a few hours, then the belt sander’s weight shouldn’t be a problem.
Ease of use
One of the most overlooked things concerning a belt sander is the ease of use. Some sanders aren’t ergonomically designed, which affects the user to deliver excellent finishes. Ensure to pick a belt sander that is comfortable in your hands and one you can control easily.
Variable speed
Acquiring a belt sander with a variable speed will allow you to have delicate finishes or apply more power to sand rough surfaces. Hence, you should select belt sand with an adjustable speed to have full control of the unit.
Dust removal
This is a vital thing when you use a belt sander daily. If you’ve ever done sanding, you know how dust can get in the air and find its way into your eyes or even nose. This isn’t a health problem alone, but it can also mess your work area. That’s why acquiring a belt sander with the ability to extract dust is essential. You should also attach a dust bag so that the dust particles don’t find their way into the air.
Warranty
A belt sander doesn’t come cheap. That’s why we recommend choosing a belt sander with at least a 12-month warranty. This will ensure that your investment is secure. In case of a defect, you can have the unit repaired or replaced.
Bottom line
The belt sanders that we’ve listed above are great for smoothening a rough surface or removing paint on a surface. Pick a belt sander that meets your needs and budget. They are all reliable, durable, accurate, and easy to use. They are also powerful, and most of them feature guarantees, making them a perfect investment for both professional and DIY enthusiasts.
We hope you’ve found a belt sander that will help you have the finishes you have been desiring. We wish you the best in your sanding projects.
FAQ
How can I use a belt sander safely?
Like many other power tools on the market, you need to put on protective gear when dealing with a belt sander. A belt sander produces dust particles that can be dangerous to your eyes, and some are extremely loud. Therefore, you should put on protective gear such as goggles and masks. You should also remove sawdust before working on metal or wood and turn off the tool if not in use.
What are the different kinds of belt sanders?
Many people are familiar with the portable belt sander, but there is also a stationary belt sander. A portable belt sander is typically utilized on immovable surfaces, while a stationary belt sander is used on movable surfaces. Also, a mobile belt sander is usually lighter than a stationary belt sander. That’s why it’s utilized on even horizontal surfaces. Most stationary belt sanders are clamped on the workbench.
What are the benefits of using a belt sander?
A belt sander is a vital tool that every woodworker and mechanic should have. This tool can be used to smoothen and level surfaces. Also, it is ideal for shaping a wood surface. Other people use belt sanders to polish a metal surface or trim notched lines. This device is also easy to use and doesn’t need a lot of knowledge to apply it to your surface.
Which brand should I buy my belt sander from?
Although hundreds of belt sander brands are on the market, not all of them are worth investing in. Some brands promote themselves as being reliable, but they are not. However, some belt sander brands stand out from the rest and have an excellent reputation among woodworkers, mechanics, and even DIY enthusiasts. Some of these brands include Makita, Ryobi, WEN, Black & Decker, Rikon, Craftsman, TACKLIFE, Skil, Porter-Cable, Powertec, Hitachi, and Triton. I hope our listed best belt sander list and their in-depth reviews will help you choose the right one that meets all your requirement. But if you still have any questions, you can comment below.