The Best Spindle Sanders and How to Find Them – Our Top Tips & Picks!

If you need to create a smooth, flat finish to wood pieces then a spindle sander is a must in your toolkit. Finding the best spindle sanders can be a tricky task, but not if you know what you’re looking for.

If you’re unfamiliar with the concept of a spindle sander then let us explain. It’s essentially a cylindrical drum covered in sandpaper that rotates to make any marks or rough edges smooth. An oscillating spindle sander also moves up and down as it rotates, which prevents friction and is less likely to cause burn marks on the wood. This is great for two things as it ensures that the wood is kept in the best condition, but also helps to extend the life of the sanding sleeve.

Spindle sanders can be a handy tool if you’re currently doing up your house or are working on some woodwork that requires smoothing out so the end product can be used and enjoyed for years to come. You also never know when you might need one, so they’re a great piece of kit to have in your arsenal if you think you might like to be working with wood later on down the line.

If you’ve never bought one before or need to upgrade, then this guide is dedicated to helping you find the best spindle sanders on the market. Like everything, there are plenty of things to consider when it comes to choosing the right one for you and your DIY needs, so it’s important that you read up to find out more before committing. This is how we can help.

Our guide is designed to help you on your way to finding the right spindle sander for you. From looking at the main features to the pros and cons, we can present to you what we think are some of the best right now to give you a good starting point. We’ve picked some of our favorites out there right now so you can see in more detail what is on the market to help you make your choice.

Why Might You Need a Spindle Sander?

A spindle sander is great if you build furniture or have a keenness for intricate woodworking. Sanding by hand alone is incredibly time-consuming, and you’re not always guaranteed the perfect finish. It can be really tough on the hands and fingers, too – especially if you work with wood regularly. A spindle sander is great at fine-tuning the wood, giving it a smooth, solid finish that you simply wouldn’t get from sanding by hand alone.

The most common and popular type of spindle sander is an oscillating spindle sander. This is the kind that moves up and down, helping to perfect curves or difficult-to-reach areas that sanding alone can’t do.

There are so many different sizes on offer too. Some are floor machines, others sit on a benchtop. You can even find hand-held, portable spindle sanders that you can easily take elsewhere. This is especially hand if working with wood is your full-time profession, or if you need to move to different areas of your own house.

 

Things to Think About Before Choosing a Spindle Sander

To get the right spindle sander for you, it’s important to weigh up every single factor to get the best end results. It’s not always easy to know where to start with purchasing a spindle sander, especially if you’ve never purchased one before, and you certainly don’t want to waste any money by choosing the wrong machine. Because of this, we’ve got some handy hints and tips to give you a headstart on what to look for.

Do You Need a Regular Spindle Sander or The Oscillating Kind?

Something you may not have even considered yet is whether you need a spindle sander that moves up and down. An oscillating spindle sander is far quicker than your average model, so if you’re in and out of jobs or have a deadline to hit, this kind of machine may benefit you.

An oscillating spindle sander is better for sanding areas with more detail, and it works quickly without damaging the wood. Your best bet is to weigh up what kind of project or projects you are looking at doing and then deciding from there.

What Kind of Spindle Sander Are You Looking For?

If you’re working on a large project, choosing a spindle sander that stands alone on the floor might work best for you. They tend to be larger, harder to carry and more expensive, but if you’re working on a commercial project then it’s the perfect option for getting the job done.

If you’re looking at doing some DIY around your own house, then choosing a benchtop spindle sander might be ample enough to suit your needs. They’re typically smaller than floor models, weigh less and take up less room, so they’re easier to store at the end of the day. They’re better for beginners too, as they’re sturdy and don’t require too much figuring out to get started.

If you’re only doing tiny jobs and touch-ups, then opt for a hand-help spindle sander. It’ll help you get into all the nooks and crannies of your wood without being too costly or taking up too much room. Sometimes this is all you need if you’re dabbling in a few jobs here and there.

Are Other Sanders More Suitable?

The more you look into which spindle sander you should go for, the more you might realize that it’s not quite the right machine for you. For example, if you’re working on a project that involves sanding wood with lots of odd shapes and tight areas, a detail sander might be better placed to help you achieve the best results.

Similarly, if you’re at the start of a project and need to get lots of wood off quickly, a belt sander may be a more successful pick. Make sure you weigh up the objectives of the task first so you can choose the best type of sander for it.

The Best Spindle Sanders on The Market: Tried and Tested

Now we’ve made it very clear that spindle sanders aren’t the easiest tool to buy (mostly due to the fact that there are so many options available), we’ve gone ahead and done some research to bring you some that we think are well worth a second look at. They each have their pros and cons, but by showing you a wide range you can start to think about which might work for you. You should also be armed with a lot more information by the end of our review.

Best budget spindle sander

If you’re trying to keep costs down, this is our chosen spindle sander that won’t break the bank.

WEN 6510T 3.5 Amp Oscillating Spindle Sander

 

General Specifications:

Product weight	30.2 pounds
Product dimensions	20.3 x 15.5 x 24 inches
Model no.	6510T
Style	Stationery table
Material	Stainless steel
Grit rating	80
Rating	4.6

Key Features

• Powerful 1/2 HP 3.5 amp motor provides 58 OPM and 2000 RPM.
• Includes six 80-grit sanding sleeve sizes for a variety of curvatures: 1/2 in., 3/4, in., 1 in., 1-1/2 in., 2 in., 3 in.
• Features onboard storage for all accessories along with a dust collection port for hooking in a dust extractor.
• Attach the dust collector of your choice to the onboard dust port to minimize clean-up.
• Backed by a two-year warranty.
• Comes with 6 easy to change sanding sleeves, 5 rubber drum spindles, a dust port, and onboard storage.
• Also comes with a 15 x 11.5 in. worktable.

The WEN 6510T 3.5 Amp Oscillating Spindle Sander is packed with tons of features to simplify the daunting task of sanding down curves, arcs, contours, and other odd shapes. The motor is incredibly powerful, delivering 3.5 amps of sanding power, generating 2000 RPM and 58 OPM. This helps you get the job done quickly and efficiently, but also to the highest quality.

It comes with a 15 by 11.5-inch worktable, which is designed to provide more than enough space for larger projects during operation. It also keeps you and the wood sturdy and stable so that your project runs smoothly and without a hitch. The worktable is made from cast iron, so will last you years and years – a worthy investment.

Another great benefit is how much the WEN 6510T spindle sander comes with, including six 80-grit sanding sleeves to achieve different levels of curvature. There’s also a dust collector that you can attach to the onboard dust port, helping to minimize dust and keep things clean and tidy. You’ll be thankful for this once you’ve finished sanding!

The machine is also super quiet, meaning you can work away longer without harming your ears or disturbing anyone else around the house if you’re doing some DIY.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Durable metal construction	Some reviewers have reported the motor burning out after a few uses
Tabletop design
Runs at 2000 RPM – a powerful machine
Comes with 6 different sanding sleeves
The dust collector keeps things tidy

Best mid-range spindle sanders

If you’ve got a bit more money to spare and are on the look-out for a great mid-range spindle sander, we’ve got a few machines that will fit your budget and DIY needs.

Grizzly Industrial G0739 – Benchtop 1/2 HP Oscillating Spindle Sander

 

General Specifications

Product weight	33 pounds
Product dimensions	16 x 17 x 8 inches
Model no.	G0739
Style	Benchtop
Material	Plastic base, cast iron table
Grit rating	80
Rating	4.5

Key Features

• Powerful 1/2 HP motor provides 58 OPM and 2000 RPM.
• 120V pre-wired voltage.
• CSA certified meeting CSA C22.2
• Onboard storage to keep sanding spindles, sleeves, table inserts and spindle washers organized and handy.
• Comes with cast iron table.
• Cord and plug connection – included.
• Paddle safety switches with a removable key
• Includes:
• 5 rubber sanding drums: 3/4″, 1″, 1-1/2″, 2″, 3″
• 6 sanding sleeves: 1/2″, 3/4″, 1″, 1-1/2″, 2″, 3″
• 6 table inserts: 1/2″, 3/4″, 1″, 1-1/2″, 2″, 3″
• 3 spindle washers: 5/8″, 7/8″, 1-3/4″

Grizzly is one of the best-named brands on our list. They make a whole range of spindle sanders that are some of the best on the market. However, today we’re going to be looking at the Industrial G0739. This one’s a benchtop model that comes completely compact to save you space.

Don’t be fooled by the size – it’s a powerful 2000 RPM motor to make easy work of sanding down the wood and completing your woodwork project. This also gives you smoother, better quality edges.

The Grizzly G0739 comes with additional drums, sleeves, and inserts, keeping things fully versatile and able to be tailored to whatever project you’re working on at the time. There’s also onboard storage to keep everything organized and tidy. Again, the table is made from cast iron, which is strong, durable and hard-wearing. This will ensure it’ll last for years and years.

It’s also not too heavy either, meaning you can move it around if you need to. The G0739 is also great for beginners as it’s so easy to use. Changing spindles takes no time at all and it works on even the smallest wood pieces to create intricate designs.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Compact benchtop size	The dust port is a bit small
Comes with loads of extra attachments	Slightly limited surface space
Durable cast-iron construction
Powerful ½ HP motor

Triton TSPS450 450W / 3.5 Amp Oscillating Spindle Sander

 

General Specifications

Product weight	28.5 pounds
Product dimensions	18.5 x 16 x 20.5 inches
Model no.	TSPS450
Style	Benchtop
Material	Cast iron table
Grit rating	80
Rating	4.8

Key Features

• Powerful 3.5A (450W) motor with no load speed – 2000 RPM Oscillation Speed – 58 OPM.
• Large 370 x 295mm cast iron table for stability and enhanced material support.
• Ideal for sanding contours, arcs, curves & other irregular shapes.
• Rotating and oscillating action for increased speed and efficiency and precise finishing of intricate work.
• Includes 6 x 80-grit sanding sleeves 13-76mm dia, with matching rubber drums and table inserts.
• Onboard storage for all accessories.
• Dust port for connection to the extraction system.
• Locating holes for secure bench mounting.
• Power switch with a dust cover for ease of use and long, trouble-free performance.

While the Triton TSPS450 Spindle Sander spins up to 2000 RPM and oscillates at 58 times per minute, it’s far quieter than you may think. Triton is all about top quality, with its impressive specifications and features making it a solid, reliable machine. Like its competitors, it’s made with cast iron, so you can rest assured that it’ll last a long time without letting you down.

As well as coming with six various spindle sizes, they each come with their own unique washers so you don’t have to worry about swapping them over each time you need to change. This is a plus point on its competitors, who don’t offer quite as many washers with their spindles.

There’s also onboard storage to keep all the extras neatly stored away, with a further dust port that connects to an extractor system. This means you don’t have to worry about tidying up the dust and wood shavings, as the Triton will do that for you.

If your woodwork project is small, the Triton TSPS450 is small enough to get into the gaps of smaller wood pieces, and if used by an expert can create some beautiful designs and shapes, including irregular curves.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Comes with unique washers for each spindle	The inserts don’t always go all the way to the top of the table, leaving a lip
Runs quietly
Durable cast iron construction
Works well with smaller woodwork projects

Shop Fox W1831 1/2 HP Single Phase Oscillating Spindle Sander

 

General Specifications

Product weight	34 pounds
Product dimensions	14 x 15 x 17 inches
Model no.	W1831
Style	Benchtop
Material	Cast iron
Rating	4.1

Key Features

• 1/2 horsepower permanent magnet motor, 120-volt, single-phase, CSA certified.
• Table size: 11-1/2-Inch W x 15-Inch L x 1-5/16 H.
• Sanding drum diameter: 3/4″, 1″, 1-1/2″, 2″ and 3″; Length 4-1/2-inch.
• Sanding sleeves: 1/2″, 3/4″, 1″, 1-1/2″, 2″ and 3″ (1/2″ sleeve fits directly on the spindle).
• Adjustable worktable.
• Solid cast iron construction.
• It comes with a 5-year warranty.

Quiet and powerful, the Shop Fox W1831 is a great spindle sander that’s powered by a 1/2 HP, 3.5 amp motor. It’s mostly ideal for hobbyists or DIY enthusiasts rather than complete professionals. You can take it straight out of the box and use it straight away, so if you’re new to sanding then life is already made easy for you.

The tabletop is made from super strong cast iron and sits on a lightweight base to make it easy to move around. This is ideal if you need to take your work with you, or need to work in different rooms. There’s plenty of onboard storage to help organize your workspace, too.

It allows space for all your spindles, inserts, sleeves, and washers so prevent you from losing them. However, space is a little tight so it’s not designed to be overloaded. And if you’re worried about unauthorized usage, there’s a locking power switch with a removable key.

One of the biggest downsides that are complained about by other reviewers is that the motor can’t always cope with too much pressure, and can run a bit lumpy. This is normally fine when used by novice woodworkers, but the more you begin to perfect your craft, you may find that you’ll need to upgrade to a larger, more powerful machine.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Great for novices	The dust port is a little bit small
You can prevent unauthorized usage with the locking power switch with removable key	The motor isn’t always the most reliable
Lightweight and portable
Incredibly easy to set up
Doesn’t take up a lot of room
Comes with a 2-year warranty

Best high-end spindle sander

While much more expensive than our other reviewed products, this spindle sander is considered an investment.

Delta Woodworking 31-483 Heavy-Duty Oscillating Bench Spindle Sander

 

General Specifications

Product weight	8.75 pounds
Product dimensions	14.8 x 18 x 14.8 inches
Model no.	31-483
Style	Benchtop
Material	Cast iron
Rating	3.8

Key Features

• Powerful 1/2 HP, 115V motor with 1,725 RPM spindle speed and 29 oscillations per minute.
• Fully enclosed, heavy-duty steel frame construction for minimum vibration.
• 5 interchangeable threaded spindle.
• 1/4-inch, 1/2-inch, 5/8-inch, 1 1/2-inch, and 2-inch.
• 4 table inserts.
• Dust port and onboard storage.
• 14-3/4-in x 14-3/4-in precision-ground cast-iron table.
• 15/16-in oscillating action uses more of the sleeve, prolonging the life of the sleeve.
• Positive stops at 90 degrees and large bevel scale for accuracy and convenience.
• Heavy-duty, steel table support, and bevel system provide increased stability and long-lasting durability.
• Twin locking handles for stability in bevel position.
• Smooth precision ball bearings support the main spindle, and heavy-duty worm and gear mechanism drive the oscillations.

One of the heavier spindle sanders in our range, the Delta 31-483 is a heavy-duty, seriously sturdy machine. It’s made with a steel frame for complete stability while you’re working on your project. The motor runs on a ½ HP at 1723 RPMS at 29 oscillations per minute. This is slightly lower than the other spindle sanders we’ve reviewed, but the sleeves will wear better. It also means that the Delta is better for softer woods and smaller woodwork projects.

The Delta spindle sander also comes with an array of additional parts, including 5 interchangeable spindles in a variety of sizes to help you get the perfect finish on your work. There’s also a twin locking feature with the handles, keeping the sander in place so you can tackle the trickiest woodwork tasks.

Like the other spindle sanders reviewed, the Delta comes with a dust port, helping to keep your workstation clean and tidy. However, the major downside to this sander is that it’s too heavy to make it portable, so realistically you need to use it if you have a permanent working station.

There’s also no 3” spindle available, which is a key factor that many professions need with their spindle sander.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
A top quality machine	Very heavy compared to other models
Durable cast iron construction	It’s not portable
Stable non-skid rubber	Limited storage space
Removable safety switch

The Verdict: Which Spindle Sander is The Better Option

Hopefully, by providing you with five detailed reviews, there is at least one spindle sander that might work for you. Your woodwork project is completely unique, whether it’s your job or hobby, or you’ve been doing it for a long time or are just starting out. It really doesn’t matter, as there are plenty of spindle sanders that will help support your objectives and goals. Take some time reading over the details before you make your choice, as that will seriously help.

Overall, our top spindle sander has to be the Triton TSPS450 450W / 3.5 Amp Oscillating Spindle Sander. It’s very reasonably priced but it comes with loads of features to make it well worth your money. If you’re looking at sanding contours, arcs, curves & other irregular shapes, then it’s a great tool for giving your work the perfect finish.

While it may seem like a small detail, the machine comes with six various spindle sizes, each with their own unique washers. This saves you loads of time as it means you don’t have to worry about swapping them over each time you need to change sizes.

If you’re looking to begin your woodwork journey then the Shop Fox W1831 1/2 HP Single Phase Oscillating Spindle Sander will perfectly fit your needs. It’s ready to use straight out of the box, and it’s completely tough and durable to help you get started. Not only that but it’s portable, so if you develop your skills and wish to take them elsewhere, it’s perfectly possible to do so.

However, we picked every one of these five spindle sanders for a reason – they all have some great features, and realistically the cons are fairly small and can be easily dealt with if you decide on the right one for you.

Top FAQS about spindle sanders

The Bottom Line

The truth is, with so many trusted spindle sanders on the market, there are so many for you to choose from. Whatever your budget and whatever your DIY needs, our top spindle sanders cater for everything so even if you need a tool for small jobs, there’s something available to get the job done while making life that much easier.

We really hope this article helped you make a decision and we would love to know if we have helped you. Please get in touch with any feedback or further questions you may have. If you liked this article, why not discover more on how to find the best wood planer, or read our handy guide on the drill press.

Further read:

• Guide to Best Bench Sanders: The Best Options Available!
• Best Belt Sanders: How to Find the Right One
• Best Palm Sanders and How to Find Them
• Best Sanders for Deck Refinishing: How To Find The Right One
• The Best Power Sanders: How to Find Them and Which to Buy
• The Best Sanders for Furniture On The Market!
• Belt Sander vs Orbital Sander: Which is the Best Tool for You?