I’ve been using a crappy random orbit sander from Walmart for the past 5 years. It works well enough, but as I’ve gotten a bit older, had a few more non-woodworking related injuries, etc, the excessive vibration is really starting to get to me. I know Festool is the gold standard in terms of dust control and likely vibration, but are there any other good options that aren’t $500-600?
I’m sitting here after sanding for an hour and a half or so and my hand is still tingling after 20 minutes. Clearly, I need to get a better sander, but I can’t justify spending $575 on a Festool sander right now. $50-150 would be more palatable, as long as it is a clear upgrade from my current setup.
Edit:Ended up getting this Makita sander . Huge upgrade, thanks for the suggestions!
I have a couple inexpensive Bosch and would highly recommend. I have other non-orbital Makita’s and also recommend.
In Festool price range I’d personally recommend a Metabo Turbotec. Although I’ve never used a Festool, and if you are investing in their system might make more sense.