Random-Orbit Sander vs. Orbital Finishing Sanders

Orbital finishing sanders use either a quarter, third, or half of a full 9x11" sandpaper sheet, and random-orbit sanders take either 5"- or 6"-diameter discs. For this article, we'll focus on the most popular classes of both types: 5" random-orbit and quarter-sheet orbital finishing sanders. Both styles of sander smooth, and occasionally flatten, wood in preparation for a stain or other finish, and you can easily control these smaller, affordable tools with just one hand.