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Head-to-head · Best Random Orbital Sanders

Festool 576070 Random Orbital Sander ETS 125 REQ-Plus vs Skil 5-Inch Random Orbital Sander

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 2.8). 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.

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
$299 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →
Skil 5-Inch Random Orbital Sander
Ranked #4 in Best Random Orbital Sanders
Skil 5-Inch Random Orbital Sander
1 source$37as of Oct 20

The Skil 5-Inch Random Orbital Sander features a 2.8-amp motor that delivers sufficient power for furniture and cabinet sanding, though it lacks variable speed control. Pro Tool Reviews found the integrated pressure sensor functions as an extended motor wear indicator rather than providing real-time feedback on downward force. The tool includes an ergonomic rubber overmold grip and a clear dust canister with microfiltration that captures fine particles effectively. However, the microfiltration filter is permanently attached to the canister, meaning the entire assembly must be purchased if it degrades. This model fits DIYers who value comfortable handling in tight spaces, while professional finishers requiring immediate pressure feedback or vacuum integration should look elsewhere.

Strengths
  • — 2.8-amp motor delivers sufficient power for furniture and cabinet sanding projects
  • — Ergonomic rubber overmold grip provides comfortable handling in tight spaces
  • — Integrated microfiltration dust collector captures fine particles effectively
Watch-outs
  • — Pressure sensor functions as an extended motor wear indicator rather than real-time feedback
  • — Microfiltration filter is permanently attached to the canister and cannot be replaced separately
$37 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →

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

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.

Skil 5-Inch Random Orbital Sander

Its 2.8-amp motor provides sufficient power for furniture sanding, offering more raw output than the Bosch’s 2.5 amp unit.

Specs side-by-side

SpecFestool 576070 Random Orbital Sander ETS 125 REQ-PlusSkil 5-Inch Random Orbital Sander
Pad Size5 in (125mm)5 inches
Weight2.4 lb3.44 lb
Power SourceCordedCorded
Dimensions15.59"L x 11.65"W x 7.36"H7.87"L x 4.8"W x 5.51"H
Voltage—120 volts
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