Herbert Miller
Do you spend hours of precious time sanding your woodworking project by hand? If you want to save time and energy, a palm sander is just the tool you are looking for. All you have to do is attach sandpaper to the bottom of the palm sander.
The tool will vibrate to give your project the right finishing. To help you pick the right option, we have curated a list of the 10 best palm sanders and reviewed them. Read ahead to also find a buyer’s guide that will help you make the best purchase.
We have mentioned our top three picks for palm sanders below.
Disclaimer – This article may contain affiliate links, this means that at no cost to you, we may receive a small commission for qualifying purchases.
Best Overall Pick
SKIL SR211601 Palm Sander
- Efficient speed control
- Operates powerfully with a 2.8-Amp motor
- 13,000 OPM
- Low vibration for reduced fatigue
- Effective dust collection
Best Premium Pick
DEWALT DWE6411K Palm Sander
- Versatile size for all
- 2.3-Amp motor
- 13,000 OPM
- Sandpaper is easy to change
Best Budget Pick
BLACK+DECKER BDEQS15C Palm Sander
- 1.5-Amp motor
- Good for large sandpaper
- Operates quietly
- Designed well
In addition to our top picks, other palm sanders in the market may be appropriate for you. Read ahead as we review each.
1. SKIL SR211601 Palm Sander
This Skil palm sander is a very powerful tool that runs at 13,000 orbits per minute. This is enabled by its 2.8-amp motor. It will allow for smooth performance across many sanding operations for various woodworking projects. It is hence our overall palm sander pick.
The power can be controlled well by using the variable speed control feature. For any material being used, this feature will ensure the appropriate control and power. If you often find that your hand is fatigued while sanding, this tool will help you avoid this.
To enable this, the pal sander comes with a soft rubber grip for low vibration. The counterweight balance further enhances this feature to your hand comfortable. Together, they ensure that you can work much longer on your sanding operations.
The palm sander also comes with a transparent container that easily collects dust. It is also very easy to empty and clean. To get into tight spaces, this sander comes in a compact and ergonomic design.
Pros
- Good speed control
- Powerful operation
- Provides low vibration
- Excellent dust collection
- Easy to replace sanding pads
Cons
2. DEWALT DWE6411K Palm Sander
This palm sander is our premium pick, and with good reason. It has a powerful 2.3-Amp motor that runs at 14,000 orbits per minute. The palm sander is also designed to reduce the overall height. This feature allows the user to get even closer to their work.
It, hence, assists with the precision of work. You won’t have to worry about excess vibration and a short duration of work. The sander comes with a separate counterweight that will reduce the vibration as you work.
There is also a rubber dust boot over the switch. It serves to protect against any dust ingestion. This extends the switch life on the palm sander. If you want better paper retention, the paper clamp in the palm sander will enable just this.
When you are sanding, you will also have extensive and comfortable control. It is because of the rubber overmold texture that allows just this. For a flatter sanding plane, the palm sander also has a foam pad.
Pros
- Great for small or large hands
- Can use for an extended period
- Accessible switch
- Easy to change sandpaper
Cons
- Dust bag may fit loose
3. BLACK+DECKER BDEQS15C Palm Sander
This palm sander is our budget pick among the myriad options in the market. The tool operates very well and delivers high performance. A highlight of the product is its dust collector that efficiently collects dust and will keep your work spot tidy.
The dust collector is built into the palm sander to serve this purpose. This is a corded electric tool and comes with a grip handle designed to be comfortable. It also has its power switch dust-sealed for maximum life.
Whether you are sanding doors or building furniture, this palm sander is a great option. It also works very well for any craftwork or even if you want to refinish a tabletop. It can be operated using a 1/4 sheet of sandpaper.
With a paper punch, the operation of this palm sander is made complete. The product also comes with a 1-year limited warranty. It is also a quiet sander and is compact.
Pros
- Works well even on large sandpaper
- Sturdy construction
- Quiet operation
- Good design
Cons
- Difficult to lock dust bag in place
4. SKIL SR232301 Palm Sander
This palm sander has a powerful 1.2-amp motor and runs at 13,500 orbits per minute. You will be able to get a tool that performs smoothly and can be used in various sanding applications. This sander is a 4-in-1 detail tool.
It comes with 3 additional details to enable you to add fine finishing to large surfaces. It is also a great option for corners, edges, and any surface contours in your work. You won’t need any additional tools to switch between operations.
Two ways are used through which you can keep the dust away in this palm sander. Feel free to pick between its dust port for vacuum attachment or micro-filtration system. It is also extremely easy to switch it on and off.
You will also be able to change the sanding sheet easily. With a low vibration body and a counterweight, this palm sander is designed to keep your hands comfortable. Hence, you can go ahead and work comfortably for as long as you require.
Pros
- Versatile function
- Dust-free working
- Low vibration body
- Easy to switch sanding sheet
Cons
- Sandpaper pads slightly larger than the universal size
5. BLACK+DECKER BDCMS20C Palm Sander
This palm sander is a 20V max cordless option. It is compact and hence easy to carry. The design is ergonomic as well and will help you work even in tight spaces and corners. Hence, a key feature of this palm sander is its accessibility.
For those hard to reach and tight corners, you can also use the detail finger attachment that can be interchanged. You can hence operate it just as required. It also has a 2-position grip option. This ensures that the sander is easy to use and control as well.
It also has a good dust collection system. The switch is also dust sealed for durability. It comes with a 2-year limited warranty from the manufacturer. Hence, you can go ahead and use it, knowing that you have a durable tool on your side.
The palm sander also comes with sheets of paper and a sheet-detailed finger paper. You will also have 4 extra sheets of tip paper.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Allows detailed work
- Good battery life
- Small and light
Cons
- Dust port and battery too close
6. PORTER-CABLE 380 Palm Sander
This palm sander is recommended because its usage is known to reduce fatigue. It will provide you with a long switch life as well. Hence, it is a durable option that will let you work for extended periods.
The palm sander has a 2.0-amp motor that works at 13,500 orbits per minute. Hence, all your work projects will have a superior finish. The design on this sander is also dual-plane. Hence, it also has a low-vibration design that is bound to reduce fatigue, as discussed.
The sander comes with a dust-sealed switch. This prevents dust from ingestion as you work. It also comes with less aggressive material removal than your RO sanders, in addition to a sealed 100% ball bearing construction.
The package comes with a paper punch and an operating manual to guide you through the sanding process. This palm sander is also slightly different because it has an elliptical rather than a circular movement.
Pros
- Smooth operation
- No numb hands and fatigue
- Works very fast
- Very durable
Cons
- Difficult to change paper
7. Makita BO3710 Palm Sander
This is a palm sander that is made for functional use. The ergonomic design is backed by the rubberized grip that is designed for a great fit as you work. Hence, you will experience increased comfort each time you conduct any sanding operations.
The pam sander works at 11,000 orbits per minute. It increases the efficiency of the sander to allow for smooth finishing. For reduced vibrations and fatigue, the tool has a counterbalance system. This is engineered to keep sanding comfortable for you.
It comes with a large 2-finger trigger switch in addition to a lock-on button that has been located conveniently. Hence, you will be able to use it conveniently and increases operator comfort as well.
The dust is also collected using a through-the-pad dust collection system for increased efficiency. Hence, your work environment will be kept clean and tidy as you work. This tool comes complete with ball bearings and sandpaper included.
Pros
- Effective lock button
- Less strain on hand
- Great paper retention clips
- Quiet operation
Cons
- Catch bags may leave some dust uncollected
8. SKIL 7292-02 Palm Sander
This palm sander operates at 2.0=Amp with 1/4 sand sheets. The feature that stands out in this tool is its ease of use. In addition to this, its Pressure Control Technology is worth taking note of.
If you apply excessive pressure, this technology will promptly warn you of the same. The micro-filtration design will work to capture fine dust particles. It goes ahead and captures even the finest dust for a clean work table.
Have you found yourself guessing when to empty the dust canister so that maximum dust is absorbed? Exclude any guesswork with this palm sander. It comes with a clear view of dust canister that will let you see just when it is full. Hence, you can empty it on time.
There is also a vacuum adapter that allows for maximum dust collection. This is built into this palm sander to allow for maximum functionality. It also comes at a reasonable price. Hence, you won’t have to break your bank to get a good sanding operation.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Powerful and fast
- Good value for money
- Good dust collection
Cons
- May be difficult to get sandpaper in clips
9. Genesis GPS2303 Palm Sander
This palm sander operates at 1 amp and comes in extremely handy for all the finishing jobs. You can expect 10,000 orbits per minute with this smooth sanding tool. As you work, you will notice that this tool does its job precisely and fast for good finishing.
How your palm sander grips sandpaper is crucial to its operation. With this palm sander, the oversized clamps grip sandpaper well. It is also spring-loaded for good operation. This palm sander has been designed to flush-sand on 3 sides.
You will also find a dust-collection bag with this tool. It has a toggle-style switch that makes for easy access. Don’t be fooled by its low price. With enough power and a solid feeling, it should keep you sanding for extended periods.
It is light and easy to handle and can be used on versatile projects. In addition to woodworking, you can also use it in vehicle restoration projects, among others. With its agility, you will be able to stick to the project for longer periods day after day.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Agile
- Easily accessible switch
- Affordable
Cons
- May prove a little tall
10. Hi-Spec DT40261-US Palm Sander
This is a palm sander that works at 1.6 Amps and is a great option for small and stuffy spaces. You can also use it in awkward spaces and corner areas to get just the finishing you have been looking for.
You can go ahead and remove any varnish, paint, and stains to smoothly finished surfaces. For every DIY woodworking project that you may have, this is an excellent option. With high speed, you will be able to work on your projects quickly.
The long cord will enable you to move it around within a suitable range. You can even prepare the surfaces you are working on for a new coat using this palm sander. Whether you are working on flat or curved surfaces, the large surface area makes it possible.
There is also a pointed tip for getting into stuffy corners and spaces. It is also an exceptional tool for beginners due to its ergonomic handle and accessible thumb switch.
Pros
- Detachable dust collector box
- Small and easy to use
- Good finishing
- Great for beginners
Cons
- Velcro will require regular maintenance
Palm Sanders Buying Guide
We have reviewed some of the best palm sanders in the market above. Before you go ahead and purchase one, there are a few features in a palm sander that you should pay attention to. Read ahead to find out.
Power
You won’t have to look for a very powerful palm sander. Note that a good palm sander is appropriate for detailing work most often. Higher power can prove counterproductive for such work. Look for a motor that is about 2-Amp or below.
A figure around this should be apt for all your woodworking projects.
Vibration
Models that have a higher vibration will make sanding tedious. It will also steal way the detail-oriented nature of a palm sander. To prevent this, look for a palm sander that is low in vibration.
It will allow you better control of all the details crucial to woodworking projects. Pay attention to a counterbalance system as well. It will distribute the sander’s movement evenly for easy and uniform usage.
Material of the Sander
The material of the sander can significantly contribute to its durability. If your palm sander aluminum, it will be more durable than if it is plastic. However, this largely depends on how often you plan on using the palm sander.
If you are not planning on heavy-duty usage, the material won’t matter as much.
Dust Collection
It is a concern whenever you buy a palm sander that is good value for your money. It is difficult to find an effective dust collection system with this palm sander. You can begin by looking for a dust bag that is firm and built-in. Pay attention to the seal and ensure that it is tight.
The dust bag’s capacity can also make a difference. You should pick one that is appropriate for you in this aspect. Finally, a dust-filled switch and micro-filter systems are additional features you should pay attention to.
Summing Up
When you pick the best palm sanders, pay attention to the above-listed features. Pick your priorities and ensure that the palm sander you choose does justice to these. You can use our in-depth reviews of the best options in the market to make your best purchase.
The palm sander you pick will make for a trusty companion to all your woodworking projects. Whether you use it regularly or for occasional DIY projects, a quality tool will last you a long time. Take your pick and begin sanding without waiting any longer.
