Drum sanders have a rotating cylinder coated with an abrasive surface, and are used to smooth wooden planks for hardwood floors, or other stock for furniture and cabinets. The fast operating speed allows them to work quicker than manual or even drill-powered options. Our picks considered factors like general build-quality, ease of use, and affordability.
10. Shop Fox D4595
The Shop Fox D4595 (about $102) takes the main cylinder out of its traditional housing and puts it right in your hands. Instead of using an internal motor, this one can be connected to most portable electric, cordless, or pneumatic drills.
- 10. Shop Fox D4595 The Shop Fox D4595 (about $102) takes the main cylinder out of its traditional housing and puts it right in your hands. Instead of using an internal motor, this one can be connected to most portable electric, cordless, or pneumatic drills.
- Good for certain specialized tasks
- Sleeve availability may fluctuate
9. Walter Line-Mate III
The Walter Line-Mate III (around $697) is among the most powerful of the multifunctional, handheld-style units. Rather than simply leveling planks and lumber, it can buff, grind, and polish a huge range of surfaces that can’t be run through a machine.
- Variable speeds up to 3800 rpm
- Accepts several sizes of drum
- Too fast for fine sanding
8. Porter Cable Restorer
The Porter Cable Restorer (appx. $99) would make a versatile addition to the amateur handyman’s arsenal. It works with a wide variety of rollers that tackle light-duty tasks beyond simple sanding, and thanks to its low price tag, it fits into nearly any budget.
- Lightweight and easy to manipulate
- Variable-speed trigger
- Uncomfortable handle placements
7. Clarke EZ-8
Constructed of durable, cast aluminum, the Clarke EZ-8 (around $3911) will stand up to years of heavy use, and does a good job in the hands of a professional. While it’s not practical for hobbyists, experienced flooring technicians will love it
- Partially disassembles for transport
- Dirt-free enclosed motor
- Only useful on floors
6. Jet 649004K
The Jet 649004K (around $1900) boasts a 1-3/4 HP motor rotating above a precision-flattened, reinforced steel conveyor bed, making for smooth feeds, perfect levels, and a high-quality end product. The dust port can be connected to a pump for efficient collection.
- Sand-smart conveyor control
- Very little assembly required
- Does not include feed tables
5. Grizzly G1079R
The Grizzly G1079R (appx. $1420) features an industrial, completely enclosed induction motor that is well protected from dirt and moisture ingress. The leveling and balancing of the two 6-inch rollers is controlled by an onboard computer.
- Non-marring rubber conveyor
- Tough powder-coating
- Dual dust ports
4. Shop Fox W1740
Weighing in at about 150 pounds, the Shop Fox W1740 (appx. $828) is smaller and lighter than many other stationary models. This makes it a suitable choice for anyone who has limited space, yet also requires professional-grade performance.
- Rubber intake and steel output drums
- Precise adjustment crank
- 12-inch-wide roller
3. Delta Woodworking 31-481
Dual dust ports on the Delta Woodworking 31-481 (around $2495) make for a short clean-up time, and a 12-3/4-inch opening means that you can resurface thick stock. The 3-HP, 230-volt motor drives the abrasive wheels at up to 20 feet per minute.
- Simple tensioning adjustments
- Magnetic on-off switch
- Comes with a 5-year warranty
2. Jet 629004K
The Jet 629004K (around $1899) can handle stock up to 32 inches wide and, with its 5-inch-diameter drum, is good for a variety of jobs. Its ball bearings are sealed and permanently lubricated to ensure a long operating life, and its height and pressure adjustments help account for snipe.
- Self-cooling aluminum cylinder
- Comes with a matching stand
- Separate conveyor motor
1. Powermatic PM2244
The Powermatic PM2244 (appx. $2700) is a commercial-grade machine designed for the woodworker who wants to achieve the smoothest possible cabinets and doors. Its 22-inch, open-sided design means it can handle faces measuring up to 44 inches across.
- Extremely well aligned
- Professional fit and finish
- Automatically-adjusting feed control
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