Verdict
Head-to-head · Best Random Orbital Sanders

Dewalt 5-inch Electric Orbit Sander vs Festool 576070 Random Orbital Sander ETS 125 REQ-Plus

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

Festool 576070 Random Orbital Sander ETS 125 REQ-Plus comes out ahead by a clear margin (5.0 vs 4.5). Festool 576070 Random Orbital Sander ETS 125 REQ-Plus is best for: Professional woodworkers who prioritize flawless finishes and ergonomic comfort. Read the strengths below before deciding.

Dewalt 5-inch Electric Orbit Sander
Ranked #1 in Best Random Orbital Sanders
Dewalt 5-inch Electric Orbit Sander
2 sourcesall derived$79as of Oct 20

Pro Tool Reviews found that the brushless motor delivers nearly an hour of runtime on a single 5Ah battery, while Beginnerhomeprojects noted this larger capacity makes the tool feel back-heavy and unbalanced compared to slim batteries. The dust-sealed power switch protects internal components from abrasive particles for extended longevity, but Pro Tool Reviews criticized the proprietary dust extraction port for requiring expensive adapters to connect with non-DeWalt shop vacuums. Toolsinaction highlighted low vibration levels that contribute to comfort during aggressive stock removal or fine finish work on various wood types. This model fits users who prioritize cordless mobility and ergonomic control, while those needing universal vacuum compatibility or sustained power without battery swaps should look elsewhere.

Strengths
  • — Brushless motor delivers high efficiency and extended runtime, achieving nearly an hour of operation on a single 5Ah battery according to Pro Tool Reviews.
  • — Dust-sealed power switch protects internal components from abrasive particles, ensuring longer tool longevity.
  • — Ergonomic rubber overmold grip provides a comfortable hold that reduces hand fatigue during extended sanding sessions.
Watch-outs
  • — The proprietary dust extraction port requires an expensive adapter to connect with non-DeWalt shop vacuums, limiting universal compatibility.
  • — Using larger capacity batteries (such as the 5Ah model) makes the tool feel back-heavy and unbalanced compared to using a slim battery.
Festool 576070 Random Orbital Sander ETS 125 REQ-Plus
Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Random Orbital Sanders
Festool 576070 Random Orbital Sander ETS 125 REQ-Plus
1 sourceall derived$299as of Oct 20

Tylerbrownwoodworking found that connecting this sander to a compatible dust extractor produces nearly zero visible dust, which is essential for preventing swirl marks and achieving clean finishes. The tool’s tight 2.0mm (5/64”) sanding stroke works with minimal vibration to eliminate surface imperfections like pigtails, while the well-balanced handle prevents hand fatigue during extended use on large projects. However, the high cost of entry is a significant drawback, and the built-in dust bag serves only as a secondary option that yields inferior results compared to using a dedicated extractor. This model fits professional woodworkers who prioritize finish quality and ergonomic comfort over raw speed or budget constraints.

Strengths
  • — Excellent dust collection that captures nearly all particles when connected to a compatible extractor
  • — Minimal vibrations reduce hand fatigue and prevent tingling or numbness during extended use
  • — Tight 2.0mm (5/64”) sanding stroke produces an even finish with virtually zero swirls or pigtails
Watch-outs
  • — High cost of entry compared to standard random orbital sanders from other brands
  • — Requires connection to a dust extractor for optimal performance, as the built-in bag is secondary

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

Dewalt 5-inch Electric Orbit Sander

The Dewalt 5-inch Electric Orbit Sander features a dust-sealed power switch that protects internal components from abrasive particles. While it shares similar vibration control with the Festool model, its proprietary dust port limits compatibility compared to standard setups, whereas the Festool is designed specifically for high-end extractor integration.

Festool 576070 Random Orbital Sander ETS 125 REQ-Plus

The Festool ETS 125 REQ-Plus delivers a tight 2.0mm sanding stroke that produces virtually zero swirl marks, outperforming the Bosch ROS20VSC’s integral dampening system in finish quality for professional results.

Specs side-by-side

SpecDewalt 5-inch Electric Orbit SanderFestool 576070 Random Orbital Sander ETS 125 REQ-Plus
Max Speed8,000-12,000 OPM—
Pad Size5-inch5 in (125mm)
Motor TypeBrushless—
Power SourceCordedCorded
Dimensions10.25 x 5.44 x 6.38 inches15.59"L x 11.65"W x 7.36"H
Voltage20 volts—
Weight—2.4 lb
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