Whether you’re prepping a rough wood surface or stripping an existing finish, an orbital sander achieves smooth, polished results. I personally tested a batch of orbital sanders and ran them through a comprehensive testing and evaluation process. In addition to recommending the best orbital sanders for specific users and applications, I’ve also outlined the basic considerations to keep in mind when selecting one for yourself and your needs. To determine how well each sander’s random orbital operation fared, I wiped down the wood and used a flashlight to reveal any remaining swirls. Dust Collection: I evaluated how well each sander’s dust bag captured sawdust, its capacity, and whether the attachment mechanism was simple or frustrating to operate.