Are you in need of a sander, but aren’t sure which one to buy? Try checking out either an orbital or a palm sander. Both their compactness and easy maneuverability have made them popular options in the world of woodworking.
In this article, we’ll be featuring one model of each kind to highlight their distinct differences, as well as similarities. Those consumers who find themselves confused and in the middle of a shopping spree will want to check out the insight we have to share.
Orbital Sander vs Palm Sander Comparison Table
FEATURES | Bosch OS50VC Electric Orbital Sander  | Bosch ROS20VSC Variable-Speed Palm Sander  |
|---|---|---|
Motor Strength | Equipped with a 3.4-AMP motor and variable-speed dial that produces speeds of 8,000 up to 11,000-OPM | Powered by an efficient 2.4-AMP motor with enough muscle to do simple tasks; users can likewise select a speed setting they are most comfortable with |
Sanding Sheets | A SheetLoc Supreme Paper Clamping System allows for easy installation and removal of the sanding sheets | Bosch’s signature Hook-and-Loop disc attachment system links the sand paper likeVelcro so it won’t easily come off |
Ergonomics | Produces the least amount of vibrations in its class, keeping you from making any unnecessary errors while working | The soft-grip handle induces minimal pressure on your arms, allowing you to work longer hours with minimal breaks in between |
Dust Collection | Comes with a see-through dust collection canister so you’ll know exactly when to empty this container | Its dust-collection system can eliminate particles as small as 0.5-microns in diameter, leaving your work place clean and disinfected |
Practicality | Ergonomically designed to effectively sand flat or otherwise vertical surfaces | This hand-tool comes with a soft carrying case for easy mobilization from one jobsite to another |
Price | $$$ | $ |
Breaking It Down
To the untrained eye, both an orbital and a palm sander may seem identical – except for the price, of course. But a closer look will show how different these tools really are. In this section, we’ll be comparing both the Bosch OS50VC Electric Orbital Sander and the Bosch ROS20VSC Variable-Speed Palm Sander according to characteristics that consumers tend to find most useful. In the end, we hope to give you a better idea of which one best fits your needs.
1. Ergonomics
Sanding is certainly not an easy job. The task of moving this tool over and over across a plane can sometimes cause severe pain and discomfort to certain parts of your body. Therefore, how a particular sander is constructed can greatly affect the overall work experience it offers.
Bosch OS50VC Electric Orbital Sander
This model is one of the most versatile options around. The Bosch OS50VC Electric Orbital Sander is constructed with a wider base of approximately 9-inches to help you cover more space. The broader stand also offers better balance, resulting in more leveled sanding, especially on vertical spaces.
Furthermore, the Bosch OS50VC boasts of arguably the lowest vibration of any electrical orbital sander. Its lack of uncontrolled movements allows users to focus better and reduce errors drastically. In effect, this tool – through its build – can help improve overall convenience when working.
Bosch ROS20VSC Variable-Speed Palm Sander
Small and portable aren’t the only descriptions used for this diminutive power tool. The Bosch ROS20VSC, weighing in at just slightly below 4-lbs, is one of the lightest alternatives around. As such, it stimulates very little stress on one’s body when being used.
The Bosch ROS20VSC Variable-Speed Palm Sander is furnished with soft-grip handle, too, to enhance maneuverability greatly. Woodworkers who are constantly on the move or often work with tight spaces should find its practical design very advantageous.
Winner: Bosch OS50VC Electric Orbital Sander
2. Sanding Sheets
Have you ever experienced the sanding sheet suddenly detaches from the instrument while you are working? The system with which these accessories are attached can certainly help you distinguish a good model from a bad one.
Bosch OS50VC Electric Orbital Sander
The Bosch OS50VC Electric Orbital Sander utilizes a patented SheetLoc Supreme Paper Clamping System, keeping the sanding pads secure, even on more intense work sessions. These sheets can be easily peeled off or attached to the tool’s base so replacing them won’t be such a hassle.
Bosch ROS20VSC Variable-Speed Palm Sander
Circular sanding pads can sometimes be difficult to fasten, but not with the Bosch ROS20VSC. It employs a Hook-and-Loop disc attachment system that works a lot like Velcro. This setup, too, keeps the pads firmly in place so you shouldn’t worry about it getting loose. However, once downside we notice is that sawdust occasionally gets stuck in between the sheets so you’ll need to check on it often to prevent build-up.
Winner: Bosch OS50VC Electric Orbital Sander
3. Dust Collection
Smoothing and scraping wood certainly isn’t the neatest job in the world. Often times, you’ll find dirt, filth, and other sediments all over your workstation. Of course, having a tool with a reliable dust collection system can simply clean up, not to mention keep your body free from allergies.
Bosch OS50VC Electric Orbital Sander
Armed with a large see-through canister, the Bosch OS50VC Electric Orbital Sander should very easily get rid your workplace of any unwanted residue. Once the dirt is sucked into its container, an integrated paper filter helps strain even the tiniest of particles so they won’t get out or stick to the sides. Then, just twist off the cap and pour into a garbage bin for easy disposal. It’s as easy as that.
Bosch ROS20VSC Variable-Speed Palm Sander
Although not as large as its cousin’s, the Bosch ROS20VSC still has one of the most effective dust collection systems around. It features a micro-filter characteristic that traps smidgens as small as 0.5-microns in diameter. Best of all, this tool displays the dust level so you won’t worry about overflowing.
Winner: Bosch ROS20VSC Variable-Speed Palm Sander
4. Motor Strength
At the end of the day, we all want something powerful and reliable, right? Not only does it help speed things up, but also gets us the results that we’ve craving for. So, naturally, how robust a particular device is will always come into play.
Bosch OS50VC Electric Orbital Sander
This sander comes with a 3.4-AMP motor for easy removal of wood. It even comes with a dial giving users the freedom to select any speed from 8,000 to 11,000-OPM. We absolutely love how dynamic this tool is, able to sand all sorts of different materials.
Bosch ROS20VSC Variable-Speed Palm Sander
Despite its size and low price, the Bosch ROS20VSC is no slouch either. A 2.5-AMP motor with variable-speed control allows you to select the setting that perfectly matches your task’s requirements. Beginners who’ll be usually working on simple or DIY projects at home should find this a perfect companion.
Winner: Bosch OS50VC Electric Orbital Sander
Pros and Cons
Sanders | pros | cons |
|---|---|---|
| - Minimal vibrations makes it perfect for delicate sanding jobs - Ergonomically designed for work on vertical surfaces - Great for professionals | - Quite expensive; not priced for beginners or those still learning this craft |
| - Offers impeccable value for money, even to newbies - Can easily fit in most bags, pouches, or carrying cases - Capable of eradicating tiny dust particles that could potentially become a threat later on | - It isn’t strong enough to be used on complex projects or those on a jobsite |
Conclusion
Now that we’ve pitted an orbital sander versus a palm sander, the winner now seems much clearer. If you’re a professional looking for a sturdy tool to invest in, then a device like the Bosch OS50VC Electric Orbital Sander should fit your needs better.
A hardwearing motor and larger dust port will both certainly prove useful for many years to come. Despite having a steeper price tag, our team, after carefully evaluating both options, firmly believes it has the slight edge over the competition.
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