8 Best Palm Sanders

Buying a Palm Sander

If you need to prep furniture or wood projects for finishing, a palm sander could be just what you’re looking for.

Also known as 1/4 sheet sanders or finishing sanders, these compact handheld tools are the smallest members of the power sanding family, and well-suited for light-duty tasks. They’re also much more affordable than larger random-orbital sanders and belt sanders, which are better for heavy-duty projects.

The 1/4-sheet sandpaper used in palm sanders is also much cheaper than the special pads required by other types of sanders. And the square shape makes it easy to access corners and edges.

Although all palm sanders look roughly the same, there are some factors to consider when choosing the best option for you.

• Power source: Palm sanders are powered by corded electricity or a rechargeable battery. While corded models are convenient — no worrying about battery levels or charging a backup — they limit your mobility and introduce a potential tripping hazard in your workspace. Cordless models can be used anywhere as long as you keep their limited running time in mind.
• Dust collection: Though they lack the power of larger sanders, palm sanders still generate substantial dust. Most models include some kind of bag or canister to capture dust. If you prefer a shop vacuum or other separate dust collection system, make sure your sander is compatible with your hookup.
• Grip: Pay close attention to the grip or handle of the sander, especially if you’ll use it frequently. While all palm sanders feature a top-mounted grip, with some you can hold the barrel, i.e. the vertical body between the pad and the grip. To ensure an extra-sturdy hold while you work, look for a textured rubber grip.
• Sandpaper type: Some sanders include sandpaper sheets, which can be a real money-saver as long as they’re the correct grit for your specific project. Generally, the higher the grit number, the smoother it will be and the less material it will remove with each pass.
• Speed control: While some palm sanders have a single speed, other higher-end options feature variable speed control. This allows you to precisely dial in the orbits per minute (OPM). When paired with a variety of sandpaper grits, you can tackle a wide range of sanding tasks.