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Sanding drywall has got to be one of the messiest tasks you will encounter when you are renovating a house. It’s hard work, and dust gets EVERYWHERE. Thankfully the days are gone when you had to laboriously sand down everything by hand, which came with the invention of the electric drywall sander. Since then sanding drywall has become a lot easier.
A drywall sander is designed specifically for the task of smoothing the plaster compound that joins the drywall to create a smooth wall. A good drywall sander will save you hours of time, and give you endless satisfaction when you see your perfectly smooth walls. It’s definitely an essential item if you are renovating your home.
We are going to review 6 of the best drywall sanders to see which one is the best. We will be looking at the price, weight, size, and features of each model, as well as the pros and cons, to help you decide which one to choose for your home renovation project. There are other types of sanders available, and each type has its own uses depending on the task at hand, so let’s take a look.
The Three Types of Drywall Sanders Available
- Manual Sanding Block. A manual sanding block is a small block either made of plastic or wood, with a layer of sandpaper around it. These small blocks are perfect for small jobs such as repairing cracks in walls. You wouldn’t want to use these for bigger jobs as it would be very hard work! Sanding blocks come in various shapes and sizes, and some have handles to make them easier to grip.
- Pole Sander. This is another manual version of a drywall sander. Pole sanders have a wide head to cover as much surface area as possible and they are mounted onto a pole to sand walls and ceilings. Again, this can be hard on your arms when doing everything manually, but it is definitely a cheaper way to get the job done.
- Electric Drywall Sander. An electric drywall sander is the quickest and easiest way to sand drywall. They are usually fairly lightweight and easy to hold with handles to grip, almost all models are ‘Dustless’ and attach to a shop vacuum to the dust before it goes into the air. This type of sander is much more expensive than the first two options, but it is well worth the extra money.
There is no doubt that this is one of the best drywall sanders in the game. The Festool 575219 Planex is a reliable, robust machine designed for heavy-duty use and comes with two-speed gears for ultimate efficiency and a three-year warranty, which is more than you can ask for.
How to Find the Right Drywall Sander For You
Each renovation project has its own challenges, so when you are choosing a drywall sander you should consider the following:
What job are you working on?
Before you purchase a drywall sander, you should consider what job you are working on and if you will need it for future projects as well. Even if what you are working on now seems like a relatively small task, if you have more projects coming up in the future that will involve sanding then it would definitely be worth investing in an electric drywall sander.
Reviews
As with all power tools, you should always look at the reviews of previous customers. This will give you an insight into what it’s really like to use the product, as well as all the pros and cons, which is something you won’t see on the manufacturer’s website. Amazon is the best place you can go to look at product reviews, as they have such a large customer base, so you are more likely to get a well-rounded view of each product.
Power source
Do you have access to electricity or a generator where you are working? If not then you would need to look at either a manual sander or a cordless battery powered model.
Dust Extraction
The dust extraction ability of the sander you choose is very important. Some types of plaster can contain harmful chemicals, and older finishes and even contain asbestos. A good dust extraction system will remove up to 90% of dust, which is a huge difference compared to using a regular sander with no extraction system. You should always wear a dust mask and goggles when you are working with a drywall sander, even if it does have a dust extractor.
The Best Drywall Sanders – Our Top 7 Picks
We are going to take a look at some of the best drywall sanders available to see which one is the best. We will look at the features, as well as the pros and cons of each model to help you decide which one is best for the project you are working on.
POWER-PRO 2100 Electric Drywall Sander
General Specifications
|
Weight |
15lbs |
|
Power Source |
Corded-electric |
|
Material |
Aluminum |
|
Extended Length |
5.5 feet |
|
Hose Length |
13 feet |
|
Voltage |
120 |
|
Customer Rating |
3.6 stars out of 5 |
Review
The POWER-PRO 2100 Electric Drywall Sander is a powerful drywall sander that is perfect for renovation work in the home. It sands walls and ceilings with ease, and extends to 6 feet to get into those hard to reach places. The 710 watt motor powers the circular sanding discs, and the variable speed can range from 1000 to 2100 RPM, depending on what you need.
A powerful dust extraction system works by connecting the sander to your industrial vacuum (not included) and circular brushes near the head sweep the dust away before it can get into the air.
The Power-Pro 2100 features an integrated auxiliary handle for ease of use and maximum control, and the sanding head can swivel in all directions while keeping the sanding disc flat against the wall for a perfectly smooth finish.
710W motor provides reliable, dynamic power to the sanding pad, and is mid-stem mounted to balance the 14lb light-weight body. The variable speed motor operates from 1000 to 2100rpm.
Pros and Cons
|
Pros |
Cons |
|
High RPM |
High RPMs not suitable for softer materials |
|
Extendable to 5.5 feet |
Top heavy |
|
Dust extraction system |
|
|
Includes Sandpaper |
|
|
Comes with a Carrying Bag |
|
|
Head pivots in all directions |
PORTER-CABLE 7800 4.7 Amp Drywall Sander
General Specifications
|
Weight |
8.5lbs |
|
Power Source |
Corded-electric |
|
Material |
Various |
|
Hose Length |
13 feet |
|
Voltage |
120v |
|
Customer Rating |
4.5 stars out of 5 |
One of the best things about the PORTER-CABLE 7800 Drywall Sander, is how lightweight it is, at just 8.5lbs it is very easy to lift and use, so it’s perfect for doing overhead jobs like high walls and ceilings. The machine itself is very well balanced, with the motor sitting at the opposite end to the sanding head, which makes it a dream to use and reduces fatigue when working.
A 13-foot hose connects the sander to a vacuum (not included) to extract any dust created while working, and there is a brush skirt around the sanding pad to ensure no dust escapes and prevent any gouging of wall joints. The only real downside we can see with this model is that it doesn’t come with a case for transportation, which could be annoying if you need to pack it up and move it around a lot.
Lightweight drywall sander with variable speeds ranging from 1400 to 2000 RPM.
Pros and Cons
|
Pros |
Cons |
|
High RPM of 1400-2000 |
Doesn’t come with a bag or case |
|
Very lightweight at 8.5lbs |
Tricky to get into corners |
|
Dust extraction system |
Expensive |
|
Includes Sandpaper |
|
|
Head pivots in all directions |
|
|
Well balanced and easy to control |
WEN 6369 Variable Speed 5 Amp Drywall Sander
General Specifications
|
Weight |
9lbs |
|
Power Source |
Corded-electric |
|
Extended Length |
5 feet |
|
Hose Length |
15 feet |
|
Motor |
5 amp motor |
|
Warranty |
2 years |
|
Customer Rating |
4 stars out of 5 |
Review
The WEN 6369 is a very well constructed model, which will make the task of sanding drywall much easier. The sanding pad uses a unique hook and loop base pad, which makes it super quick and easy to change the sandpaper. This model comes with some sandpaper in 60, 80, 120,150, 180, and 240 grit to get you started, but more can easily be purchased on Amazon or in store.
The 5 amp motor is located near the sanding disc for maximum torque, but unfortunately, this throws off the balance slightly, which can cause arm fatigue after long periods of use, particularly when working overhead.
An efficient dust extraction system removes any potentially harmful dust particles while you are working. The body is telescopic, reaching lengths of up to 5 feet, and the pivoting head swivels in all directions, making it easy to reach all parts of the wall from wherever you are standing.
Variable speed adjustment operates anywhere from 600 to 1500 RPM. Hook-and-loop base pad makes changing sandpaper easier than ever.
Pros and Cons
|
Pros |
Cons |
|
High RPM of 1400-2000 |
Doesn’t come with a bag or case |
|
Lightweight at 9lbs |
Top Heavy |
|
Dust extraction system |
|
|
Includes Sandpaper disks |
|
|
Head pivots in all directions |
|
|
Hook and loop base pad |
|
|
Extra long dust hose |
ZENY 800W Drywall Sander
General Specifications
|
Weight |
10.89lbs |
|
Power Source |
Corded-electric |
|
Material |
Aluminum |
|
Extended Length |
4.8 feet |
|
Hose Length |
13 feet |
|
Voltage |
110 |
|
Customer Rating |
3.2 stars out of 5 |
Review
This sander is definitely on the low budget end of the scale, however, if your budget is tight then this could be a great option for you. While it’s probably not suitable for professional use, it would be great for smaller jobs around the house. It is powerful and easy to use, with lots of customers saying it’s just as good as the high end brands, for a fraction of the price
The Zeny 800w Sander has received some bad reviews on Amazon, saying it is heavy, and also a few reports that it can break easily. It’s not all bad though, there are a lot of great reviews for this model as well, and for the price, we think this is a great value option for anyone on a budget.
6 variable speed between 1,000 to 2,000rpm easily adjust speeds according to different application; supplied with 6pcs different grit hook and loop sanding discs for various needs of your project. 
Pros and Cons
|
Pros |
Cons |
|
Very reasonable price |
Doesn’t come with a bag or case |
|
Powerful |
Heavier than other models |
|
Good dust extraction system |
|
|
Includes Sandpaper disks |
|
|
Head pivots in all directions |
ALEKO 690E Electric Variable Speed Drywall Sander
General Specifications
|
Weight |
10.5lbs |
|
Power Source |
Corded-electric |
|
Material |
Aluminum |
|
Extended Length |
5.4 feet |
|
Hose Length |
13.4 feet |
|
Voltage |
110 |
|
Warranty |
1 year |
|
Customer Rating |
3.7 stars out of 5 |
Review
The ALEKO 690E is a powerful, heavy duty commercial electric sander featuring a telescopic handle that extends to 5.4 feet. It features a long hose which can be attached to a shop vacuum for powerful dust extraction, removing up to 90% of the dust and an easily accessible dial to change the speed, which ranges from 1000 to 2000 RPM.
Like some of the other models, the motor is located near the head of the sander, which makes it top heavy. This can result in hand and arm fatigue when you are spending a lot of time working on high walls or ceilings.
There are a few bad reviews on Amazon for this product, however, they are mostly about products arriving damaged and having to be returned. All other reviews are very positive, stating that this sander is excellent quality and good value for money.
Aleko’s drywall sander is strong and reliable; made to sand and polish walls, ceiling, and floors; remove residue and adhesive; etc. 600 watts, 110V, 60Hz, ETL approved; adjustable speed: 1000-2000 RPM.
Pros and Cons
|
Pros |
Cons |
|
Very reasonable price |
Doesn’t come with a bag or case |
|
Extends to 5.4 feet |
Heavier than other models |
|
Good dust extraction system |
Reports of products arriving damaged |
|
Includes Sandpaper disks |
|
|
Head pivots in all directions |
|
|
Powerful |
Festool Planex LHS 225 Dustless Drywall Sander
General Specifications
|
Weight |
8.4lbs-11.9lbs (with/without extension) |
|
Power Source |
Corded-electric |
|
Material |
Various |
|
Extended Length |
6.92 feet |
|
Power consumption |
500 Watts |
|
Warranty |
3 year |
|
Customer Rating |
3.9 stars out of 5 |
Review
The Festool Planex LHS 225 Dustless Drywall Sander is a powerful, industrial grade sander, which is suitable for doing very heavy work on a daily basis. At over $1200 the price is very high for this product, but you get your moneys worth with the longevity of the machine, and the fact that it can handle almost any job.
This sander features a quick release shroud to allow you to sand close to edges, and it extends to just under 7 feet, with the addition of two extension poles. Without the extension poles, the sander is relatively lightweight at 8.4lbs, but it goes up to 11.9lbs with the addition of the extensions. The efficient dust extraction system removes almost all of the dust, it just needs to be connected to a vacuum with the hose.
When you need to pack the sander away, it can be broken down into pieces and stored in a Festool Systainer carrying case. This protects the sander, and also has the added benefit of being compact for storage and transportation.
There is no doubt that this is one of the best drywall sanders in the game. The Festool 575219 Planex is a reliable, robust machine designed for heavy-duty use and comes with two-speed gears for ultimate efficiency and a three-year warranty, which is more than you can ask for.
Pros and Cons
|
Pros |
Cons |
|
Industrial grade |
Expensive |
|
Extends to 6.92 feet |
Heavy |
|
Very efficient dust extraction system |
|
|
Comes with a hard carrying case |
|
|
Very Robust |
|
|
3-year warranty with service included |
VIVOHOME Foldable 750W Electric Drywall Sander with Auto-Vacuum
General Specifications
|
Weight |
12lbs |
|
Power Source |
Corded-electric |
|
Material |
Aluminum |
|
Extended Length |
5 feet |
|
Power consumption |
750 Watts |
|
Warranty |
2 year |
|
Customer Rating |
3.5 stars out of 5 |
Review
The thing that sets the VIVOHOME Foldable 750W Electric Drywall Sander apart from the other sanders featured here is that is has and Auto-Vacuum system, which removed the need to have an industrial vacuum to hook your Drywall Sander up to. This could prove really useful if you cant afford, or don’t want to buy the additional vacuum.
The price is good too, at under $140 this machine gives you a lot of bang for your buck, and its packed full of useful features such as LED lights for when you are working in poor light, and the speed can easily be adjusted from 1000 up to 1850 RPM.
Some reviews say that the machine is cheaply made, but for this price with the vacuum included it’s never going to be perfect. The only downside we can see is that it only removes around 80% of the dust, whereas the other models remove up to 90%.
We would say that this model is ideal for smaller home renovations rather than industrial jobs, but it’s a great option for DIY novices who don’t want to shell out for an industrial vacuum. It also comes with a convenient hard carrying case for storage and protection.
750W motor provides efficient and dynamic power for sanding work. Ideal for grinding drywall, ceilings, interior walls, exterior walls, clearing floor residue, paint coatings, adhesives and loose plaster. 
Pros and Cons
|
Pros |
Cons |
|
Not Expensive |
A little heavy |
|
Integrated dust extraction system with no need for an additional vacuum |
Difficult to use on ceilings |
|
Ergonomic Grip |
Only removes 80% of dust |
|
Comes with a hard carrying case |
Cheaply Made |
The Verdict
And the winner is… Well, actually we have decided to pick two winners today, as the prices and quality of drywall sanders vary so much. So we have decided to choose the overall best winner, as well as a winner for the best budget option.
Best Drywall Sander
The overall winner for best drywall sander is the Festool Planex LHS 225 Dustless Drywall Sander. There is no arguing with the quality of this product, which is reflected in the high price, but you get what you pay for, and with this sander, you are getting a lot of quality and efficiency.
It’s a great investment to make if you are taking on a big project, or are planning on doing renovations again the future. The storage box will protect your investment for years to come, so you know you will get your money’s worth.
There is no doubt that this is one of the best drywall sanders in the game. The Festool 575219 Planex is a reliable, robust machine designed for heavy-duty use and comes with two-speed gears for ultimate efficiency and a three-year warranty, which is more than you can ask for.
Best Budget Drywall Sander
The winner for the best budget drywall sander goes to the WEN 6369 Variable Speed 5 Amp Drywall Sander. We chose this product because it is lightweight and easy to use, with a pivoting head that makes it easy to get into corners, and it can also be hooked up to a shop vacuum for powerful dust extraction. This is a fantastic model for a very reasonable price, and it’s perfect for home renovations.
Although we haven’t picked it as a winner, we would also like to give a special mention to the VIVOHOME foldable drywall sander, as it was the only one that had an integrated vacuum and LED lights, this could be a really good option for anyone looking for a budget sander who is unable to use it with a separate vacuum.
We hope this guide to the best drywall sanders has been useful to you. Hopefully, now you should be able to decide which drywall sander is best for you depending on your needs. If you have any questions about drywall sanders or home renovations get in touch, we would love to hear from you.
