Guide
What sander do you need for cutting boards?
A random-orbit sander for every board, a drum sander for end grain, and our two random-orbit picks, chosen from independent tests.
Top tools by job
Sand smooth surfaces
Sanders for flat, smooth surfaces on boards and projects.
Where to start
Review
Porter-Cable 7346 random orbit sander
Hands-on owner review of Cody's 6 in. Porter-Cable 7346: barrel grip, side handle, variable speed, honest limits.
Review
Milwaukee M12 FUEL Orbital Detail Sander
Hands-on owner review of Cody's M12 FUEL detail sander: 1.5 mm orbit, four speeds, honest limits; aftermarket battery noted.
Tool picks
Random orbital sanders
Two corded 5 in. random-orbit sanders for smoothing boards and projects before finish, chosen from independent tests and reviews.
Other jobs
- Clamp a glue-up
- Cut plywood and long boards straight
- Rip narrow strips on a table saw
- Engrave and cut with a laser
- Clear laser smoke from the room
- Carve and cut with a CNC
- Design files without paying
- Drill clean, square holes
- Collect dust and chips
- Drive framing nails
- Route edges and profiles
- Join boards with pocket screws
- Cut curves and shapes
- Trim and fit joints by hand
- Crosscut boards square and at angles
- Measure and mark square lines
Or browse all Top tools.
We pick tools from independent tests and reviews, not our own testing.