Sanding is an activity that makes your efforts to be recognized from a distance. Sometimes, it may give you a headache when all goes wrong. But with the highest rated belt sanders on the market, expect your woodworking or flooring practices to be smooth with nice finishes like never before. If you’ve been searching for a quality belt sander without finding one, you’re at the right site as we’ve all the information that you need to make this process easy and quicker for you. The best belt sander plays several vital roles when it comes to sanding.
These tools are precise and offer great finishes when properly applied. With lots of them being provided by various manufacturers, selecting the best belt sanders on the market may be a problem. Here is where we come in to assist people like you to make informed decisions on what to purchase.
Sanding is one of the most challenging tasks you will come across. But since it is a must to sand your wood for an amazing finish, why not get the job done with the best belt sander that you can lay your hands on?
In this review, we’re going to look at the 10 best belt sanders of 2021. Choosing the best belt sander isn’t an easy thing and that’s why we’ve included a buyer’s guide to help you make an informed decision. At the moment, here are the best belt sanders:
Our Recommend 5 Best Belt Sander Comparison Table:
| Images | Machete Model | Listed Features |
|---|---|---|
Overall Best Choice Check Price | KA-BAR 2-1249-9 Kukri Read Review | |
 Check Price | Condor Tool & Knife, Golok Machete, 14in Blade, Walnut Handle with Sheath Read Review | |
 Check Price | Schrade SCHKM1 19.7in Kukri Machete with Stainless Steel Blade Read Review |
Summary of Contents
SAVE TIME: Directly Go Our Recommend Top 5 Belt Sander list
What is the best belt sander?
It doesn’t matter if you’re a pro in sanding, a novice or hobbyist. For you to get quality finishes during sanding, you need to use the best tools on the market. These vary in features and performance. Some are very powerful and ideal for heavy duty jobs while others are good for DIY duties. Get to know which features are of great magnitude and the ones you need to efficiently conduct your tasks. Pick from the best belt sander and top brand with renowned products instead of risking with a brand you know nothing about. Features to look at include; size, weight, power, corded or cordless, speed, handle and level of noise.
Related: Do you want to know about random orbital sander? Here is a buying guide!
These and other features should be keenly looked at in order for you to pick a versatile and high performing belt sander. Read this review further to be well informed on belt sanders before deciding which one to acquire.
Importance of a quality belt sander
A belt sander is a very powerful tool with various roles that can be unmatched by other types of sanding. We’ve highlighted some of these roles below;
- Most of the best belt sanders are compactly designed and lightweight which means that they are highly portable.
- They are made with an easy to maneuver design that reaches tight places during sanding and covers tiny areas accurately.
- Unlike other forms of sanding, belt sanders are built to perform at a high speed thus carrying out the sanding job faster and better.
- These tools are created in a unique way making them perform excellently and thus very suitable for getting rid of unwanted residue on any surface be it on floor or woodworking.
Related: Get a perfect wood router table for your woodwork job.
Factors to consider when looking for a belt sander
Turning rough surfaces into smooth ones isn’t an easy job as it sounds. But with the most advanced belt sanders on the market, your work will be made easier and you will have your floor or wood properly sanded within no minutes. As you set out on this tricky path of picking the best belt sander, you’ve to know which features are ideal in getting the job done excellently and professionally. Below are some of the things to look at as you search for a sander.
Power belt sander?
Power – one of the first things to look at is the power of the sander. Every sander comes with its own level of power. Some are very powerful while others are of average or low power. Pick a powerful belt sander if your job involves heavy duty work. But if it’s just for the DIY home tasks, you can go for a lower or average power option.
Lightweight best portable belt sander?
Weight – this is not a very vital feature of a sander. But for those with big tasks and who may require moving the belt sander up and down, they should consider getting a light tool for convenience while operating.
But for the perfect sanding, one needs a tool that is a bit heavy and doesn’t need to be pressed hard to acquire the finest sanding.
Related: The best wood router buying guide.
Best small belt sander?
Size – belt sanders vary in size with regard to the application. Those needed to run small or simple operations are a bit smaller in size and not too heavy. In addition, they offer great balance, speed, and power. In the situation of heavy duty or complex applications, a heavy and larger belt sander is the most ideal. Though, this needs to be applied by pros as it may be a bit challenging to a beginner.
Belt sander with dust collection?
Dust collector – sanding is a job that involves a lot of dust that occurs as a result of the sanding activities. Most of the latest belt sanders come with at least one dust collector to keep the dust from spreading around the work area and causing illness to you. Dust collectors have proven to be of great significance and you should have more than one bag when doing a lot of sanding tasks.
Length of the cord – the length of the electrical cord also matters a lot when carrying out sanding. Choose a device with a long electrical cord so that it doesn’t become a nuisance having to adjust from time to time.
Best cordless belt sander or corded belt sander?
Corded or cordless – depending on the use of the belt sander, there are both corded and cordless types. The cordless kind is powered by batteries and is light in most cases. While the corded type uses electricity to run and have to be connected to a plug in order to function. In addition, the cordless belt sanders are very portable and ideal to work with outdoors.
Best variable speed belt sander?
Speed – belt sanders come with varying speeds. Some have adjustable speeds where you can control the machine as you and. High speed is suitable for finishing the job quickly while low speed is best suited if you want precise finishes but it takes a bit longer. Thus, consider picking a tool with adjustable speed levels for great results.
Belt sander noise levels?
Level of noise – since these machines work with a motor, expect them to produce some noise which may be very loud or low. When picking the belt sander, ensure it’s not loud enough to emit a lot of noise in your work environment or be a nuisance to the neighbors. Look for one with lower decibels or else you will have to purchase safety accessories to protect your ears.
Related: Here is the best wood glue for your next project.
Best handheld belt sander handle?
Handle – another important feature to look at in the best belt sander is its handle. Ensure you search for a nice and comfortable handle that will enable you to work without having any problem. Normally, a sander comes with two handles which are the front grip for controlling the tool and the usual handling for holding it. Ensure that they are well built and offer you a level of control that you need to carry out the job efficiently.
Brand
Brand – for quality outcomes, ensure that you pick a sander made from some of the best brands. Not all brands are worth spending your cash on as they won’t offer the same results. Some pose as having the best belt sander machines only to offer half. Go through customer reviews and get to know which belt sanders perform exceptionally.
Know each pro and con of the brand you intend to pick from so that you don’t end up making a mistake or wasting your cash. These are some of the notable brands; Makita, Hitachi, PORTER-CABLE, Genesis, Black & Decker, and Generic, among others.
How long does a belt sander last?
Warranty – it is important to buy from a supportive manufacturer who trusts in their product so that when the product has any defect can be replaced or helped otherwise. Purchase a sander with at least one year plus warranty which will act as a security or surety measure. If the product has no warranty, cease from buying it as you may be risking a lot.
Best budget belt sander?
Budget – what budget have you set aside for a belt sander? Before you set out to look for an outstanding sander, get to know how much cash you’ve set aside so that you don’t end up buying a very expensive tool with features that you don’t need. There are various quality best belt sanders at favorable rates.
But if you perform heavy works, you will have to go for the powerful and high-end devices for quality results.
Our Recommend Top 15 Best Belt Sander Reviews
With a wide range of belt sanders in the market, choosing the best is somehow challenging for many individuals. First, you’ve to know how to differentiate between the belt sander and the inferior ones. Sanding is an activity that requires precision and having the most suitable belt sander makes things to be easy. The information we’ve offered you from above should aid you in finding out the best tool for your sanding activities quick and fast.
After months of research on different types of sanders, our panel managed to identify these five belt sanders as the top class on the market. They have excellent features and perform well.
The best Makita belt sander review (Our Top Pick)
Makita is a notable brand with some of the best belt sander tools. The Makita 9403 belt sander has a powerful 11AMP motor that enables the user to quickly sand the wood or floor. The innovative design makes the machine to fit in different places without much problem.
Also, it has a large front grip for easy control and operating of the device. The dust bag collects all the dust acquired from the polished surface leaving the workplace clean and tidy. With a one year limited warranty and other excellent features, this Makita 9403 is worth every penny you spend on it.
Technical Features of the Makita 9403 Belt Sander:
| Features | Makita 9403 |
| Belt size: | 100 x 610mm |
| Belt speed: | 500m/min |
| Quiet Operation: | 84 decibels |
| Amps: | (115V) 11.0 |
| Continuous rating input: | 1,200W |
| Weight: | 5.7kg |
| Dimensions: | 16.1 x 8.9 x 9.8 inches |
| Power supply cord: | 2.0m |
Check PriceKey features:
- Large front grip.
- 4 inch wide belt.
- Labyrinth construction seals.
- Innovative design.
- 11AMP motor.
- Dust bag.
- 84 decibels.
- One year warranty.
Pros:
- It has a very powerful motor that makes it remove materials fast.
- It is very convenient to use with a huge front grip and minimal noise.
- It has a great design to excellently fit in tight places.
Best hand sander – Porter cable belt sander review
The variable speed dial of the Porter-cable belt sander offers the user a chance to adjust speed in order to get finer or quick work. The dust bag ensures that your work environment is kept clean always and you are not endangered to contract diseases.
It has a powerful 12 AMP motor that performs heavy duty works and a perfect design for the flush. Whether it’s flooring or woodworking, acquire this best belt sander and get a 3 year warranty from the manufacturer.
Technical Features of the Porter-Cable 362 Belt Sander:
| Features | Porter-cable Belt Sander- 12AMP |
| Belt size: | 3 x 24 inch |
| Belt speed: | 1,500 SFPM |
| Power: | 120 volts |
| Amps: | 12Amp |
| Included: | bare-tool; attachments |
| Weight: | 17 pounds |
| Dimensions: | 14 x 11.2 x 8 inches |
| Power supply: | corded |
Check PriceKey features:
- Perfect design for the flush.
- Powerful 12 AMP motor.
- Variable speed dial.
- Quick-release belt change lever.
- Dust bag.
- 3 year warranty.
Pros:
- It has a variable speed to change the device for quicker or finer finishes.
- Has ergonomic design for convenient working.
- It is very powerful to handle heavy tasks.
Best belt sander for the money – Hitachi belt sanders review
Hitachi is one of the most sought after best belt sander brands. The Hitachi SB8V2 belt sander has great features that make using this tool to be fun and highly professional. Some of the notable features include; variable speed, tracking windows, dust collection, soft elastomer grip, and others. When you buy this quality belt sander, you get a 5 year warranty from the manufacturer.
Technical Features of the Hitachi SB8V2 Belt Sander:
| 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 |
Check PriceKey features:
- Wear resistant V-belt.
- Variable speed dial.
- Tracking windows.
- Dust collection bag.
- Soft elastomer grip surface.
- Trigger lock.
- 5 years warranty.
Pros:
- It has a powerful motor that makes it ideal for use on both light and heavy duty works.
- Variable speed dial allows a change of operating speed.
- The dust collection bag ensures tidiness is maintained.
Best sander for furniture – Genesis belt sander review
As simple as it appears, the Genesis belt sander is one hell of a machine. It comes with a nice and comfortable handle for easy operation. In addition, it has a variable dial speed to enable the user to change the speed with regard to preference. The long cord that this tool comes with ensures easy operation and movement during sanding.
Technical Features of the Genesis Belt Sander:
| Features | Genesis GBS321A |
| Belt size: | 3″ x 21″ |
| Belt speed: | 390-1180 ft./min. |
| Power: | 120V~/ 60Hz, 8.0 Amp |
| Amps: | 8 Amp |
| Cord length: | 6.5-foot power cord |
| Weight: | 8.5 pounds |
| Dimensions: | 14 x 5.8 x 5.8 inches |
| Includes: | Dust Bag and Sanding Belt |
When you use this machine to complete your sanding tasks, there won’t be any dust left behind as it collects it in the cloth dust bag. Whether you’re a pro or novice in sanding, get this tool for quick and precise finishes.
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Key features:
- Adjustable front handle.
- Single lever quick belt change belt change.
- Flat side.
- Dust bag.
- Long 6.5 power cord.
- Low profile design.
- Variable speed.
Pros:
- Has a comfortable handle for easy operation.
- It comes with a long cord to avoid distractions during sanding.
- It has a variable speed to adjust for finer or quicker finishes.
- The cloth dust bag stores all the dust or residue from the surfaces being worked on.
Best sander for wood – Makita 9903 belt sander review
If you’re looking for a simple and sleek sander with great performance, the Makita 9903 belt sander is a great alternative. This machine has a very powerful motor that can handle a wide range of tasks. In addition, it has a variable speed that ensures you finish quickly or get a polish of your choice. The front grip is very comfortable for easy control and handling of the device.
Technical Features of the Makita Belt Sander:
| Features | Makita 9903 |
| Belt size: | 3″ x 21″ |
| Belt speed: | 690 -1,440 ft./min. |
| Quiet Operation: | 84dB |
| Amps: | 8.8 AMP |
| Cord length: | 16.4 ft. power cord |
| Weight: | 9.5 pounds |
| Dimensions: | 11.6 x 5.6 x 6.2 inches |
| Includes: | Abrasive belt and dust bag |
Get to use this machine without worrying about dust scattering all over your working area. With a one year warranty and 30 day money back guarantee, expect this tool to offer you the best.
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Key features:
- Auto-tracking belt system.
- Powerful 8.8 AMP motor.
- Front grip design.
- Variable speed control dial.
- Cloth dust bag.
- 30 days money back guarantee and one year warranty.
Pros:
- Excellent design to fit in tight places.
- It has a dust bag to keep the working area clean.
- Has variable speed to adjust according to use and finishes.
- Makita has a powerful motor to execute heavy duty tasks.
Makita 9403 Belt Sander
The Makita 9403 belt sander is a 4-inch by 24-inch sander that provides amazing power and speed. It is also one of the quietest belt sanders on the market as it produces a low 84dB. Additionally, the belt sander comes with a cloth dust bag that makes it efficient in stock removal. The device features an 11-amp motor with electronic speed control to maintain constant speed under load.
Technical Features of the Makita 9403 Belt Sander:
| Features | Makita 9403 |
| Belt size: | 100 x 610mm |
| Belt speed: | 500m/min |
| Power: | (115V) |
| Amps: | 11 Amp |
| Cord length: | 2m |
| Weight: | 15.75 pounds |
| Dimensions: | 16.1 x 8.9 x 9.8 inches |
| Includes: | Dust Bag and Abrasive Belt |
The large front grip provides comfort to the user, while the easy lever control makes changing the belts to be easy. Maintaining the belt sander is also easy as it comes with a replaceable ceramic wear plate.
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Pros:
- It is very powerful and efficient
- It is the quietest belt sander in its class
- Has a large front grip to provide comfort
- 360-degree swiveling dust bag
Cons:
- It is quite expensive
WEN 6500 4 x 36-inch Belt Sander
The Wen 6500 belt sander is a versatile and reliable best belt sander for carpenters, deck builders, and general contractors. It features a lightweight steel frame that allows for easy transportation and an adjustable belt that can be set to the vertical position, horizontal position, or anywhere in-between. In addition, it has a 6-inch disc with a beveling table and a miter gauge for maximum accuracy. If you want to change the sanding belts, this is very easy by just releasing the tension adjustment lever located on the side of the belt sander. If you have any doubts about the product, the manufacturer offers a 2-year warranty.
Technical Features of the WEN 6500 Belt Sander:
| Features | WEN 4 x 36 inch 6500 |
| Belt size: | 4-by-36 inch |
| Belt speed: | 1150 feet per minute |
| Style: | 6-inch Disc w/ Steel Base |
| Amps: | 3.2 Amps |
| Disc Speed: | 1780 RPM |
| Weight: | 15.75 pounds |
| Dimensions: | 14 x 5.8 x 5.8 inches |
| Includes: | Dust Bag and Abrasive Belt |
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Pros:
- Two-in-one sanding machine
- Easy to change sandpaper grit with the tension release lever
- Removable meter gauge
- Has an adjustable belt
- Lightweight steel frame
- 2-year warranty
Cons:
- The disc table is almost impossible to get to 90 degrees
Hitachi SB8V2 Variable Speed Belt Sander
The Hitachi SB8V2 belt sander is one of the most comfortable best belt sanders on the market. Thanks to its comfortable elastomer grip handle. In addition, the belt sander has a long lasting V-belt that is wear-resistant. The variable speed allows you to adjust the speed of the machine to suit different uses. You can adjust the speed from 820-1,475 ft/min for improved control during use. Furthermore, it has a tracking window that improves the visibility of the sanding surface and sanding belt at the time of use. With the dust collection bag, your work environment will remain clean as all the dust will be collected in it.
Technical Features of the Hitachi SB8V2 Belt Sander:
| Features | Hitachi SB8V2 |
| Belt size: | 3 x 21 inches |
| Belt speed: | 820 1,475 feet/min |
| Power: | 120 volts |
| Amps: | 9-Amp |
| Power source: | corded electric |
| Weight: | 9.5 pounds |
| Dimensions: | 14.3 x 9.2 x 8.6 inches |
| Includes: | bare-tool; attachments |
Pros:
- It has variable speed
- It has better visibility with the tracking window
- Comfortable and secure grip with the soft elastomer grip
- It comes with a dust collection bag which keeps your work area clean
- Excellent 5-year warranty
Cons:
- It is not possible to clamp the sander upside down in order to sand small pieces
Makita 9403 4 x 24-inch Belt Sander
The Makita 9403 is a versatile and sturdy belt sander that will get the job done quickly and very efficiently. It is one of the quietest belt sanders in its class and features a powerful motor. Additionally, it has a 4-inch-wide belt with a speed of 1,640 ft per minute for quick material removal. Also, the machine will keep your work area clean as it has a cloth dust bag where dust is kept. Using this belt sander is comfortable as it comes with a large front handle.
Technical Features of the Makita 9403 Belt Sander:
| Features | Makita 9403 |
| Belt size: | 4″ x 24″ |
| Belt speed: | 1,640 ft./min. |
| Power: | 115V |
| Amps: | 11 AMP |
| Quiet operation | 84dB |
| Weight: | 15.75 pounds |
| Dimensions: | 16.1 x 8.9 x 9.8 inches |
| Includes: | Dust Bag and Abrasive belt |
For those who’re looking for a high-quality belt sander for home or commercial use, this is the machine for you.
Pros:
- Very quiet belt sander
- Keeps the work environment clean with the cloth dust bag
- Sturdy construction
- Comfortable to use
- Wide and longer belt size
- 1-year warranty
Cons:
- Quite expensive when compared to other belt sanders on the list
Porter-cable 352VS Belt Sander
If you’re looking for the best mid-range belt sander, then the Porter-cable 352VS belt sander is a great option. It comes with an 8-amp motor that will provide you with enough power. Moreover, it has a variable-speed, which allows you to select between 850 and 1,300 SFPM. Porter-cable also comes with an all-metal housing that provides the tool its sturdy feel. In addition, it does a great job of keeping the belt centered, so you don’t need to constantly re-center the belt. Another amazing feature of this tool is the 360-degree adjustable top dust nozzle that allows you to sand in corners without any issue.
Technical Features of the Porter Cable 352VS Belt Sander:
| Features | Porter-cable Belt Sander- 8AMP |
| Belt size: | 3″ X 21″ |
| Belt speed: | 850-1,300 SFPM |
| Power: | 120VAC,25-60 HZ |
| Amps: | 8 Amp |
| Included: | Woodworking, Benchtop Sanders, Power Belt Sanders |
| Weight: | 10.75 pounds |
| Dimensions: | 14.2 x 8 x 10.2 inches |
| Power supply: | corded |
Pros:
- Has a powerful 8-amp motor
- Variable speed
- Cloth dust bag keeps the work area clean
- Comfortable grip
- Has a quick release belt –change lever
- 3-year limited warranty
Cons:
- It is quite heavy
SKIL 7510-01 Belt Sander
If you can’t afford a high-quality belt sander, then the SKIL 7510-01 belt sander will be a great alternative. The belt sander features a 3-inch by 18-inch belt with pressure control technology that warns the user when excessive pressure is used. Additionally, it has an auto-track system that keeps the belt centered on the track. Unlike other belt sanders, this one comes with a clear view dust canister that makes emptying it to be easy.
Technical Features of the SKIL 7510-01 belt sander-3 x 18 in.:
| Features | SKIL 7510-01 |
| Belt size: | 3 x 18 in. |
| Belt speed: | 1050 SFM |
| Power: | 120V |
| Amps: | 6 Amp |
| Cord length: | 8ft |
| Weight: | 7.5 pounds |
| Length: | 13.9″ |
| Includes: | 80-Grit Sanding Belt; 3″ x 18″ Belt Sander, model 7510-01; Clear-View Dust Canister |
Pros:
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Pros:
- Very affordable
- Fast and easy to replace the belt
- Compact and lightweight
- Clear view dust canister makes emptying the canister to be easy
Cons:
- Nit very durable
- Has relatively low power
Ryobi One Plus Cordless Belt Sander
The Ryobi one plus cordless belt sander is a great machine for heavy tasks. It can remove up to 325 g of material per charge. It also features tool-free belt tracking that maximizes user control and convenience. The cordless belt sander performs outstandingly with up to 850 FPM. The Pommel handle is extremely versatile as it can be adjusted to 5 different positions for better comfort. With its compact design and versatility, this is a great machine for both DIYers and professionals.
Technical Features of the Ryobi Belt Sander – 18V ONE:
| Features | Ryobi P450 |
| Belt size: | 3 in x 18 in |
| Belt speed: | 850 FPM |
| Power: | 18V |
| Material: | plastic, metal |
| Power source: | battery-powered |
| Weight: | 5.8 pounds |
| Dimensions: | 7 x 5 x 7 inches |
| Includes: | dust bag and 80-grit sanding belt |
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Pros:
- Sturdy construction
- Easy to control
- Tool-free belt tracking
- Comfortable grip
- Versatile with its pommel handle that adjusts to 5 different positions
Cons:
- Doesn’t last long making it only suitable for short jobs and not heavy tasks
Ridgid ZRR2740 Belt Sander
The Ridgid ZRR2740 3-inch x 18-inch belt sander is powered by a strong 6.5-amp motor to handle different jobs. In addition, it has a variable speed dial with electronic feedback that allows you to match with the task at hand. It also comes with a twin fan high-efficiency dust collection. One fan cools the motor and the other collects dust leading to a maximum dust pickup efficiency. You will be comfortable using this belt sander as it has soft grip handles. And in case you want to change the belt, this can be done with much ease and very fast as it has a tool-free belt release. With a 1-year warranty, this is a wonderful belt sander to have.
Technical Features of the Ridgid ZRR2740 Belt Sander-6.5-amp:
| Features | Ridgid ZRR2740 |
| Belt size: | 100 x 610mm |
| Belt speed: | 400-950 SFPM |
| Power: | 120 Volt |
| Amps: | 6.5 Amp |
| Cord length: | 1-1/4 in. |
| Weight: | 7.02 pounds |
| Dimensions: | 12.7 x 6.7 x 6 inches |
| Includes: | R2740 Sander, dust bag, 80G sanding belt, and operator’s manual |
Check Price
Pros:
- Twin fan high-efficiency dust collection
- Automatic belt tracking tool
- Comfortable soft grip handles
- Sturdy construction
- Easy and quick to change belts
- Variable-speed dial
Cons:
- Works well for a short time then starts making loud groaning noises under load
Makita 9032 Belt Sander
Makita is one of the best brands and this is evident by the number of best belt sanders that we have discussed on this list. The Makita 9032 comes with a 4.4 AMP motor with electronic speed control to keep constant speed under load. It has a variable speed control dial that allows the user to match the speed of the work at hand. The belt can be adjusted easily with a turn of a knob. Additionally, the adjustable sanding arm pivots 100 degrees for hard to access areas. With its compact and lightweight design, this tool can perform different tasks such as furniture making and carpentry.
Technical Features of the Makita 9032 Power Sanders:
| Features | Makita 9032 |
| Belt size: | 6/9/13 x 533mm |
| Belt speed: | 300-1,700 m/min |
| Power: | 500W |
| Amps: | 4.4 AMP |
| Cord length: | 2.5m |
| Weight: | 3.53 pounds |
| Dimensions: | 3.7 x 19.1 x 7.7 inches |
| Includes: | 9mm sanding arm, Abrasive belt |
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight
- Easily adjustable belt
- Variable speed control
- Versatile design
- 1-year warranty
Cons:
- It is expensive
Black + Decker DS321 Belt Sander
The Black and Decker DS321 belt sander is an ideal belt sander for DIYers as well as startup carpenters. It features a 7-amp motor that is great for small jobs such as sanding a cabinet door or cupboard edge. The adjustable handle on the device makes it easy to reach tight areas. It is also easy to control and its compact size is perfect for sanding in vertical and corner areas. Like most belt sanders on the list, it comes complete with a dust bag for collecting dust for a cleaner working area. Changing the belt is also easy with the quick-release button. With such excellent features at a great price, this is a good tool for homeowners and DIYers to have.
AMPAMPTechnical Features of the Black and Decker DS321 Belt Sander-7AMP:
| Features | Black and Decker DS321 |
| Belt size: | 3″x21″ |
| Belt speed: | 800 fpm |
| Power: | 120 volts |
| Amps: | 7.0 Amps |
| Power source: | corded electric |
| Weight: | 6.5 pounds |
| Dimensions: | 15.2 x 6.3 x 6.3 inches |
| Includes: | Woodworking, Benchtop Sanders, Power Belt Sanders |
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Pros:
- Fast and easy sandpaper change
- Efficient dust collector
- Compact and lightweight design
- Very affordable
- Retractable 3-position handle
Cons:
- It is not very powerful
- Doesn’t come with variable speed control
Belt Sander Buying Guide – what to consider before buying a belt sander
With so many options out there, choosing the right belt sander for the job is crucial. First and foremost, you need to select the right type of belt sander and then look for one with the right features. In this guide, we’ll take you through the various types of belt sanders offered and some of the features to look at. Read on…
What do you plan on using the belt sander for?
A belt sander has a number of practical uses such as sanding, trimming, shaping, and smoothing wood. In some situations, it is applied to remove stains or old paint. You can also use a belt sander to remove rust from metal. Depending on what you intend to use the belt sander for, you may find that a simple handheld sander is great or for large projects, an industrial-grade belt sander is the most ideal.
What to look for in the best belt sanders?
There are lots of features that determine how a particular belt sander will perform. You need to pay attention to these features as they will determine how fast, easy, and outstandingly the device functions.
Size
Most of the belt sanders on the market fall into two sizes. The sizes are 3 x 21-inches and 4 x 24-inches. The 3 x 21-inch size is the most common. It is smaller and compact in size than the 4 x 24-inch belt sanders. The later is usually utilized for regular woodworking projects, while the former is applied for large panels or industrial use. Also, the smaller size is ideal for different work sites due to its size.
Power
Sanding doesn’t need a lot of power, but still, you need a powerful motor for outstanding results. Most belt sanders come with motors that have an amperage of as low as 6-amp and others have as much as 10-amp or even more. A powerful motor is better.
Weight
Weight is another vital factor to consider when buying a belt sander. The right belt sander will be easy to use and t will be convenient or you. For instance, when working on horizontal surfaces, it is ideal to use a heavy belt sander. But if you are working on a vertical surface or overhead, a lightweight belt sander will be easy to control.
Take a look at the track centering system
No matter how powerful the motor of your belt sander is, you want the machine to remain in position and as well the belt to stay centered. Get a belt sander with dedicated systems for track centering as this will save you a lot.
Speed
A belt sander may have a single speed or variable speed. Old models usually have a single speed, while the latest models have variable speed. With a single speed, you cannot change the device’s speed. For variable speed, you will be able to adjust the speed of the device to suit your type of work. Some come with high and low speeds to choose from.
Comfort and grip
When it comes to comfort, you shouldn’t just look at the weight of the belt sander. Ensure that you get a belt sander that has a nice grip and feels good in the hand. If it has a knob, the better.
Dust collection
A belt sander produces a lot of dust and as a result, it can leave you with a lot of cleaning to do. Therefore, you need to select a belt sander with an efficient dust collection system. It should be big enough in order to avoid emptying it from time to time.
Types of belt sanders
- Handheld belt sanders – as the name suggests, a handheld belt sander is a small and compact tool that can be held in the hand. They are the most common types of belt sanders and the ones that you will use for most of your sanding jobs. The belt on the handheld belt sander is located at the bottom of the machine.
- Stationary belt sanders – these are designed to remain in position. So, if you want to sand wood, you will have to bring it to the machine for sanding. The belt in this model is located on the top of the machine and it is heavier and larger than the belt found on handheld belt sanders.
Belt Sander
Belt sanders have become widely used over the last number of years as the selling price has decreased. A lot more corporations seem to be producing belt sanders these days than during the past and that contributes to greater competition among companies to attempt to get an individual to choose their specific belt sander.
There are many different shapes and sizes of belt sanders, and choosing the proper one for the job is important. There are large belt sanders for big sanding jobs and small belt sanders for fine sanding. You can purchase a portable belt sander that can be taken to any area to perform a sanding job, or if you are doing woodworking in a shop or garage, you may prefer a stationary model that can sit on a bench top or on its own stand.
Examples of the great things about a belt sander include things like the ease of use. Most of them now are provided equipped to use all you need to do is usually open your box and add the sand paper, and start sanding. The actual craftsmanship associated with belt sanders also has improved over time, thus now the belt sander you opt to acquire can last longer and provide you with greater benefits for the investment.
A belt sander can typically be found at area stores which include Target, Sears, Walmart, and various other specialty stores. Researching online for a belt sander might be a far better choice though, as you could find a more affordable price tag, and you don’t need to leave your house and travel around town hunting for a belt sander. The internet also permits you to make a price comparison and read testimonials on products you are planning on purchasing like a belt sander.
A few of the leading brands of belt sander include Dewalt, Jet, Grizzly, and Bosch. They each give you a top-quality product for a fair price, and they stand behind their product. Any time you want to get a belt sander, It is suggested to choose one of the makes shown. Before carrying out your selection, don’t forget to check out testimonials from various people who have purchased the product you are looking at to check out exactly what those individuals think of the item. You can scan reviews of the best rated belt sanders by clicking on one of the photos in the right column. These reviews are from Amazon.com, the biggest web store. You can purchase just about anything you will need there, and the prices are usually the cheapest available.
When you choose the perfect belt sander for your requirements, whether you buy in your area or online, you should look at the organization’s exchange guidelines. Most retailers, both online and offline, have a minimum of a 30-day return or exchange procedure. Thus when testing out your new belt sander if you are not satisfied, you need to return it to the store you got it from for a refund. While shopping online, you should check the returns procedure to understand if you’re responsible for paying shipping and delivery charges to return the merchandise. A few retailers can even charge a restocking charge on returned merchandise. The belt sander that you assumed you were receiving a great deal on, might turn out costing you money.
Also when making your belt sander purchase don’t forget to buy enough extra belts to finish the job you have planned. The worst thing that could happen is to be working on a job that you want to get complete, and you end up needing a new belt to finish. That’s why you should always keep at least a couple extra belts handy for your belt sander.
Conclusion
The top five belt sanders that we’ve discussed above are some of the best with outstanding features. If you want a high-performing and efficient belt sander you can pick from one of them. Likewise, you can use our detailed information above to choose the best belt sander that you feel is suitable for you. Remember to identify the most crucial features you need in a sander when comparing different types. Also, ensure its within your range and performs all the tasks you want.
With a wide range of brands and types being offered, isolate the best from the rest so that you can perfectly and precisely conduct your sanding activities safely. Hopefully, our review has been of great importance and affected how you will make your next decision in buying a quality belt sander.
FAQ
Question: What is a belt sander?
Answer: A belt sander is a powerful and aggressive sander, created to strip wood as quickly as possible. It is normally made up of an electric motor that turns a pair of drums that turn a loop of sandpaper that has been fitted around them. Belt sanders come in different size motors and they have different features. In addition, there are different types of belt sanders to select from. The two common types of belt sanders are handheld and stationary belt sanders.
Question: How do I change sandpaper on the belt sander?
Answer: Changing sandpaper in your belt sander isn’t a difficult thing. Here are the steps to follow:
- Start by releasing the belt tension level as all belts on these tools are tensioned to be held in place.
- Get rid of the old sandpaper
- Align the new sandpaper with the sander. Ensure that it is placed in the right position.
- Slide the belt onto the sanding tool and then align it with the wheels making sure that it fits well.
- Finally, re-tension your belt. This can be done by engaging the tension lever on your sander.
Question: Can I use a belt sander for hardwood floors?
Answer: Yes, you can. Nevertheless, you have to keep in mind that it will be a challenging task as this is not the best tool for the job. A belt sander will not be as fast as the usual floor sanding machines, but it will still get the job done.
