Your guide to buying a sander

Belt sander

Ideal for removing a lot of material quickly, this is probably the best tool for sanding large areas such as tabletops, doors and edge sections of timber flooring. It is also good for squaring or shaping wood (for example, sanding doors to fit). It uses a belt of abrasive paper stretched over rollers. Some models can be secured to the workbench for stationary use. A sanding frame is another useful feature, for limiting the depth of sanding.

Orbital sander

An orbital (or 'finishing') sander is the best tool for achieving a smooth finish on large flat areas. It can also be used for smoothing plaster, paint or varnish between coats. The base plate, available in different sizes, moves with a tight, rapid orbital action which minimises scratching.

Random orbital sander

Also described as 'eccentric', a random orbital sander can be the most useful first choice, combining the smoothness of an orbital sander with the speed of a belt sander. It uses circular sanding discs which 'orbit' and rotate simultaneously, leaving the surface virtually scratch-free and distributing wear on the sanding sheets more evenly, so they last longer. A flexible backing pad enables the sander to cope with gently curved surfaces.

Detail or delta sander

Also described as 'eccentric', a random orbital sander can be the most useful first choice, combining the smoothness of an orbital sander with the speed of a belt sander. It uses circular sanding discs which 'orbit' and rotate simultaneously, leaving the surface virtually scratch-free and distributing wear on the sanding sheets more evenly, so they last longer. A flexible backing pad enables the sander to cope with gently curved surfaces.

Multi-sander

Combining features from both delta and orbital models, this can be used for sanding both flat and contoured surfaces, with special attachments for working on 'profile' sections such as skirting boards and architraves.