Let me ask – what do you think about having two quality power tools for the price of one? Wouldn’t you consider this a woodworker’s dream? Absolutely, yes! So if these are the types of deals you’re looking for, you might want to take a closer look at what a belt disc sander could potentially offer.
The versatility that comes with owning a belt disc sander combo is another reason for its immense popularity. Though not as essential as a table saw or wood planer, this machine still plays a vital role in crafting wood. Its ability to perform different responsibilities – and do them incredibly well – has offered many conveniences to users, making their lives so much easier.
All these statements may seem quite flowery – and understandably so – which is why we’d like to share more in-depth insights. From enumerating its features to identifying what the top six models currently are, we believe this information will help simplify the process of selecting what the best belt disc sander is. Please continue reading to learn more.
Belt Disc Sander Comparison Table
belt disc sander | features | editor's rating | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | - Yields up to 3,600-RPM of sanding speed to thoroughly smoothen out workpieces in an efficient manner - Both the belt and disc are adjustable to cater to materials of varying shapes and sizes | 4.3/5.0 | |
 | - A 0.75-horsepower motor is really strong and increases sanding efficiency by almost 25% - The belt folds complete to one side, giving you more space when working on larger objects | 4.0/5.0 | |
 | - At 19.5-lbs, this tool is very easy to carry around, perfectly suiting users who are always on the move - It 2-inch dust port is compatible with most vacuums on the market and ejects more types of debris | 3.0/5.0 | |
 | - The whole machine remains stable, thanks to a solid cast-iron base; it reduces shaking - Affordably priced so those on a tight budget won’t need to sacrifice quality for something cheaper | 4.2/5.0 | |
 | - Compactly-sized so it takes up minimal space in your area, while also being very convenient to mobilize - Works well on smaller but thicker materials, thanks to a 0.33-horsepower motor that is really formidable | 4.5/5.0 | |
 | - An all-white exterior is simply eye-catching and will surely stand out on any work station - Equipped with several safety features like a belt backstop, visible power switch, and a fast-tracking control knob to prevent any accidents | 5.0/5.0 |
Belt Disc Sander Reviews
Armed with over 65-years of industry experience, WEN has been a constant source of quality power tools for consumers. One of which is the 6502T Belt and Disc Sander with Cast Iron Base. Its impact on woodworkers goes far beyond the visual as it offers a unique set of different qualities.
A 0.5-horsepower motor may only deliver 3,600-RPM of sanding speed, but we’ve found it to be apt for different tasks. This includes evening out wood, polishing rough edges, and removing paint. If you’re a beginner looking to do DIY projects or simple repairs at home, this should be an appropriate choice to target.
We’ve also noticed how suited the WEN6502T Belt and Disc Sander is for workpieces of varying sizes, shapes, and thicknesses. Its belt can tilt anywhere from 0 to 90-degrees to accommodate every need imaginable. The 6x6 disc sander is likewise adjustable up to 45-degrees and even with a work table for added support.
And to top everything off, this unit’s base is made from pure cast iron to improve stability. As a result, it eliminates shaking greatly and serves as a strong foundation for the entire machine. Best of all, the WEN 6502T Belt and Disc Sander with Cast Iron Base is quite affordable and won’t be too strenuous on your wallet. New users will surely find these characteristics to their advantage.
Pros
Cons
If you’re seeing it for the first time, the Bucktool Belt Disc Sander is engineered very differently. Much like other models, its belt also shifts up to 90 degrees; but it can be moved thoroughly to one side. This design presents greater spaciousness and makes up for the absence of a large work table. As such, you’ll also be able to twist or turn the workpiece to fit your needs.
Besides the structure, this unit yields sufficient power too. The 0.75-horsepower induction motor is slightly stronger than those in its sub-category, making it fairly suitable for small to mid-sized responsibilities. Ultimately, it increases sanding efficiency by almost 25%, which not only conserves energy but also maximizes your time and resources.
However, one important thing to note is the two dust collection ports are on opposite ends. Although the added vent is much appreciated, we believe it does more harm than good. Users will need to constantly move the vacuum from side to side when switching between the belt or disc sander. It would have been better to have a single port for both tools.
Nevertheless, the Bucktool Belt Disc Sander is still a model we would endorse. Its blend of practicality and potency is tailor-fit for the modern-day woodworker. Moreover, the ability to adapt to different situations is sure to help users out greatly. You can literally take this piece of equipment anywhere knowing it will find a way to get the job done.
Pros
Cons
A potential choice for those thinking of working on craft projects is the Rikon Power Tools 50-151 Belt Disc Sander. It weighs approximately 19.5-lbs and is very easy to carry around. If you’re dealing with limited space in your work area or are regularly moving from one place to another, its ergonomic design would be a perfect fit.
Its smaller-than-usual size, however, has not stopped this tool from producing ample sanding strength. The Rikon Power Tools 50-151 Belt Disc Sander comes with a 0.33-AMP brush-less induction motor that’s kept inside a metal case for added protection. Some users might find this too weak, but we think it works seamlessly for small tasks at home. Just don’t take it to a jobsite since the harsh environment might be too much.
The dust collection system on it is another aspect worth mentioning. Since buffing wood obviously expels a lot of residues. A 2-inch port is wider than most belt disc sanders its size and helps to remove debris efficiently, not to mention most types of fragments. It also isn’t very difficult to find a vacuum that fits this size.
The Rikon Power Tools 50-151 Belt Disc Sander, though, is far from perfect and has its own set of shortcomings. For one, it runs on only one speed and can be limited in terms of workpiece size. But for the first-time user who’s only about to get their feet wet, this could be an appropriate selection.
Pros
Cons
Affordability is the main benefit received when buying the POWERTEC BD4600 Woodworking Belt Disc Sander. It offers similar functions to higher-end models, but at a fraction of the cost. You probably won’t find a better deal currently on the open market.
For starters, the POWERTEC BD4600 is assembled to beat the test of time. Its cast-iron is nearly indestructible and will definitely last you several years without issue. We’ve found that this tool eliminates almost any level of shaking and is built for larger workpieces. One downside, though, is the amount of noise it produces. At first, the sounds are bearable; but these can get really annoying after hearing them for several hours straight.
Additionally, its 0.5-horsepower motor delivers speed of up to 1,900-FPM for the belt and 3,600-RPM for the disc. This unit’s power-per-size ratio is off the charts, which further solidifies its status as a true value-for-money find. Beginners or hobbyists are the perfect target audience for the POWERTEC BD4600 Woodworking Belt Disc Sander. Although specialists might need to find something more robust.
All in all, the jury is out on this power tool, and we find it worth the risk. Of course, it offers its fair share of weaknesses – as with other options – but the positives still clearly outweigh the negatives. Its budget-friendliness alone has put it in contention as one of the best belt disc sanders for the money.
Pros
Cons
It isn’t uncommon for users to prefer smaller models. After all, not everyone is fortunate enough to have a spacious work area or possess one, for that matter. In these instances, having a tool like the Grizzly Industrial H6070 Belt Disc Combo Sander would be a big boost.
Besides its compactness, we also love how user-friendly this unit is. It takes very little time to set up once taken out of the box. The controls are likewise self-explanatory and won’t take too long to learn. Even users without a shred of experience should get acclimated very quickly, making the Grizzly Industrial H6070 Belt Disc Combo Sander an ideal starter tool.
On the other hand, this model isn’t suited for larger or wider workpieces. Its frame may be lightweight, but also very restricting in terms of space. Both the belt and disc are positioned close to one another, which has to the potential to cause problems. Still, the thickness of materials shouldn’t be an issue, thanks to its dominant 0.33-horsepower motor. It can effectively smoothen out smaller areas and do detailing works with relative ease.
Manufacturers have positioned the Grizzly Industrial H6070 Belt Disc Combo Sander impeccably as a tool for beginners. Its ergonomic design and handiness – without sacrificing any of its major functions – has made it impressionable to anyone who comes across it.
Pros
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The final contender on our best belt disc sander is the Shop Fox W1855 Belt Sander with Disc. Its modern-looking frame has enticed interested consumers to give it a second a look; but is it really anything more than a pretty face? We believe so, and here are a few reasons why.
Well, in terms of power produced and functionality, this unit is right up there with the best. A 0.5-horsepower motor is formidable against all types of wood, while a cast-iron base provides stability while working. These may not exactly be eye-popping numbers, but we are believers with how well it performs in all types of situations.
What sets the Shop Fox W1855 Belt Sander with Disc apart, though, is the safety and convenience it provides users. This unit is equipped with a backstop on its belt to prevent the workpiece from suddenly flying off. The controls are likewise built for on-the-fly adjustments, thanks to a fast-tracking knob, while its power button easily locks into place. We absolutely love these additions since you're able to focus solely on working. Better yet, they help you maximize every woodworking session to the fullest of its potential.
You might think that a tool so complete would cost you a fortune, right? But it doesn’t. Shop Fox W1855 Belt Sander with Disc is very reasonably priced and won’t fetch more than a few hundred dollars. If you’re enticed by these attributes, then why not experience the magic yourself?
Pros
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Things to Consider When Buying a Belt Disc Sander
We would never recommend entering into a transaction blindly, no matter how appealing its selling points are. This should serve as a reminder to consider these important factors first before finalizing anything.
1. Dust Collection Features
Something we’ve realized is that buffering wood usually leads to a big mess after. Dust and other residue are often seen on your worktable, floor, and even the air. Therefore, having an effective dust collection system should help clean the area within a limited amount of time. Most importantly, it will allow you to rest quickly after a long day’s work.
Though this port won’t exactly banish the waste itself, having one that’s the right size and shape will make things a lot simpler. Therefore, you’ll need to target something that’s between 1.5 or 1.75-inches in size. It should help facilitate the removal of larger material too.
2. Noise
Another issue that most woodworkers face is a deafening tool. It may seem tolerable at first, but it can slowly affect your concentration and focus as time progresses. So even while you’re still canvassing through models, it would be best to get ahead of this problem.
There isn’t any sure-fire way to distinguish a noisy tool from a quiet one, except by reading up on reviews. However, you can learn from other user’s experiences and ensure you don’t make the same mistakes they did. One of them is the presence of distractions while you work.
3. Durability
Have you ever bought something only to realize it's gotten damaged barely two months after? This usually happens when the stability of an item is overlooked. Of course, it isn’t that it’s poorly-made; but that a tool isn’t strong enough to combat the natural wear-or-tear process of most objects. As a result, you end up wasting time, money, and resources when re-doing this process all over again.
From the get-go, it’s probably best to invest in something durable. Particularly for the sanders, it needs to have a solid base, well-made connectors, and a frame that prevents unnecessary shaking. At the same time, the screws and corners need to be reinforced to ensure nothing gets misaligned. So when choosing what the best belt disc sander is, make sure it is capable of taking on anything and everything you decide to throw its way.
4. Compactness
Belt disc sanders are arguably the most versatile power tools on the planet. And one reason for this is their ability to work on different tasks or workpieces, no matter the size, shape, or position. The duality of what it can do is just the cherry on top.
Therefore, when presented with a vast range of options, we've found it best to go for more compact models. Besides faster mobility, their ability to fine-tine corners and perfect detailing work are some tasks larger sanders just can't do. Although it comes with its own set of restrictions, smaller prototypes present more potential and, in our experience, are much easier to maintain.
5. Value for Money
The final element on our list is something every consumer considers – and that is value for money. But this doesn’t just mean inexpensive. For us to determine if something is really worth its price, you’ll need to look at things on a more comprehensive level.
Probably the best way to decipher this is by looking at your own needs first. Is this particular product necessary for what you are trying to do? Does it fit your lifestyle? Will it help take your talents to the next level? Most importantly, does it meet your budget?
Value for money is basically a combination of all those questions. Yet ultimately, if a particular belt disc sander elevates you as a person, then in our option, it will be a good choice.
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
Not that its anything life-changing, but we’d like to take time and answer some questions that have kept you up at night. Hopefully, we’re able to shed light on these inquiries.
1. Should the dust port be nearer or closer to one another?
We would prefer the exhausts to be closer, just because it's easier to move. Yes, having them apart is a hassle and even though it opens up more space to work, trust us -- it will eventually lead to more issues than you'd like.
2. What is the average price of a belt disc sander?
Between $120 to $250 would be a safe budget to have. But then again, the price will greatly depend on the function you need. If you want to invest in something more high-end, we suggest preparing about $300. However, beginners can make do with the initial range we provided.
3. How do I properly clean out this tool?
Be sure to take the dust bug and clean it out regularly. You wouldn’t want any micro-particles to get into the motor. Also, take breaks in the middle. No matter how sturdy your belt disc sander us, using it non-stop for several hours will take a toll on its performance. So you’re not operating it, take out the plug and let it rest. This simple act will go a long way in extending its life.
Conclusion
Clearly and without a doubt, there is a multitude of choices currently on the market. This says a lot about how difficult it is to choose the perfect belt disc sander. Yet after careful deliberation and reflection, we’ve come to the conclusion that the Shop Fox W1855 Belt Sander with Disc is our recommended tool.
Its stylish exterior, above-average sanding ability, and sturdy frame are just too good to pass up. Add in an affordable price tag for good measure, and you instantly have something for keeps. You won’t go wrong with something as complete as this.
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