Hey everyone! I'm trying to figure out whether I should invest in a Mirka orbital sander—either the 5" or 6" models. I've heard mixed reviews and want to know if they're truly worth the price. I also stumbled upon some knock-offs like Maxxt and Vevor at much lower prices—like $250 and $140 respectively. I deal with arthritis, so my current Milwaukee cordless sander's vibrations really mess with my hands, and I'm happy to spend around $700 if it helps with the pain, but I find myself more inclined toward the cheaper options if they still do a decent job. Does anyone have experience with these sanders or the budget alternatives? I mainly do this as a hobby, not for a living. Thanks!
3 Answers
I've used a Mirka tool for about a week during my shifts, and while the price is definitely on the higher end, I found them to perform really well without issues. Just don't forget about the paddle trigger; some find it annoying when working on flat surfaces. Still, it could be beneficial for vertical sanding tasks like drywall. Mirka does have some neat features like interchangeable pads and good compatibility with existing dust extraction systems.
Honestly, if you're looking for something smoother to help with vibration issues, go for premium like Mirka or Festool. I’ve used both, and the difference is noticeable. Around 30% less vibration! That said, I’ve had good experiences with my Maxxt too. It’s much cheaper at around $200, and although I can't speak to its long-term durability, I can sand for hours without numbness. It also works well with a vacuum for nearly dust-free results.
Premium sanders really take a different approach when sanding. A good random orbital sander like the Mirka features a unique elliptical motion, which allows for various stroke lengths—some are more aggressive than others depending on what you're working on. While inexpensive sanders may all feel similar and tend to vibrate a lot, Mirka and others in that price range offer much better efficiency with less vibration, meaning you'll spend less time sanding. For someone dealing with hand pain, the anti-vibration mechanisms in premium sanders can really help.
Totally agree! Plus, the dust collection system on Mirka sanders is top-notch. If you connect it to a dust extractor, it keeps your workspace clean and prolongs sanding pad life. No need for masks, either!
Have you seen the tests on YouTube comparing different sanders? They showcase the vibration level really well. It's worth checking out to see how the cheaper models stack up against premium ones!