Whether you are a hobbyist or a woodworker, a drum sander is a must-have to finish all the projects. But, you need the best drum sander to do the job perfectly.
So, here I have reviewed the 10 best drum sanders. In my opinion, Supermax 19-38 does the best job with both narrow and wide workpieces, we have 9 more reviews of different drum sanders.
By dissecting every feature and benefit of those power tools we are presenting you with great in-depth reviews.
And that is not all. There is also a buying guide to help you select the best drum sander to do the work effortlessly.
So, let’s start reading.
Best Overall: Supermax 19-38
The SuperMax 19-38 is the best drum sander with a variable feed rate that will take care of all your sanding needs. The tool addresses typical issues such as alignment issues. Alignment is as simple as adjusting one nut with this sander.
Features:
- Drum Size (in): 5” diameter x 19” length (Extruded Aluminum)
- Motor Power: 1-½ HP
- Drum Motor Type: Direct drive D.C. motor
- Drum Speed: 1740 rpm
- Type: Benchtop
- Sanding Capacity:
- Max Width (in): 38 (Double passes)
- Min Length (in): 2-1/4
- Max Thickness (in): 4
- Min Thickness (in): 1/32
What I liked about it?
The INTELLISAND technology is what makes this drum sander different from other tools. It automatically adjusts the conveyor speed based on load. The technology prevents gouging, burning, or damaging the stock. The drum carriage is strong and quiet.
The SuperMax sander also has an indexed alignment mode. This can accommodate both wide and narrow workpieces. The conveyor table is 47-1/2 inches in length and 22 inches wide. It has an easy-to-use height adjustment mechanism. I liked its easiest operating and smoothest rolling mechanisms.
The factory setting of the drum alignment is super perfect. And the best part is its load-sensing feature. So, if you have a great depth of cut, the machine slows the conveyor. The regulation mechanism of the conveyor speed prevents unwanted consequences. For example, it avoids burning or damage to other objects. It is also relatively cheaper than other available sanders.
What I didn’t like about Supermax 19-38?
While the build of the tool is strong, the unit is big to occupy a lot of space. Also, I have found that papers with 80 or more grits are unable to stay tight.
Pros:
- Value for money
- Easy height and alignment adjustments
- Never goes “out of alignment”
- Extra-wide conveyor
Cons:
- The wide stand occupies more space
- Heavier grits paper may not stand tight
Who Can Use It?
The Supermax 19-38 drum sander has industrial and heavy-duty capabilities. These features make it the best drum sander for professional workshops.
Best Automatic Speed Control: JET JWDS-1632
The Sandsmart control on the JET JWDS-1632 drum sander checks the load on the drum motor. It automatically regulates the conveyor speed. With separate feed and drum motors, the equipment allows superior optimization. You will love the independent control it offers. And hence this is on my list of the best drum sander
Features:
- Drum Size (in): 5” diameter x 16” length (Extruded Aluminum)
- Motor Power: 1-¾ HP
- Drum Motor Type: D.C. motor
- Drum Speed: 1725 rpm
- Type: Benchtop
- Sanding Capacity:
- Max Width (in): 32 (Double passes)
- Min Length (in): 2-3/8
- Max Thickness (in): 3
- Min Thickness (in): 1/32
What I liked about it?
The conveyor belt mechanism pulls the workpiece through the sander instead of pushing it. This results in a consistent even finish. The intuitive tool-less design of the JET JWDS drum sander prevents the risk of crowning. It is easy to assemble. It can even take small amounts of thickness smoothly, just like a planer.
The precisely machined aluminum drum dissipates heat effectively. The 20″ x 37″ dimension of the stand promotes stability. It also has a storage shelf and pre-drilled holes for casters. Except for the weight problem, this machine works like a beast. It is more like plug and play. The 5-year warranty shows us that the brand is confident about the long time lifespan of the product.
What I didn’t like about JET JWDS-1632?
The only negative is that the complete process is a bit noisy, and the 1.5 hp is a little low motor power.
Pros:
- Separate conveyor and drum motors
- Variable speed control modes
- Dust hood and 4″ dust ports
- For each project, re-set and measure the sanding depth.
- Easy changing sandpaper grits
Cons:
- Very heavy
- Difficult to change the abrasive
- Flimsy dust collector attachment with the plastic cover and latch
Who Can Use It?
Lightweight sander, suitable for worksites that require frequent movements. The Drum Sander is appropriate for flattening small parts, cutting boards, and small batched components. You can remodel your kitchen beautifully.
Best Power Motor: Shop Fox W1678
Shop Fox W1678 is a reliable drum sander with a powerful motor of 5 HP. It has a 2300 rpm maximum speed and a variable speed of the conveyor motor, a maximum limit of 20 fpm.
Features:
- Drum Size (in): 6” diameter x 27-¾” length (Two Drums)
- Motor Power: 5 HP
- Drum Motor Type: Single-phase Induction Motor
- Drum Speed: 3450 rpm
- Type: Benchtop
- Sanding Capacity:
- Max Width (in): 26
- Min Length (in): 9
- Max Thickness (in): 4-1⁄2
- Min Thickness (in): 1/8
What I liked about it?
The W1678 excels in even the most demanding tasks. This may include sanding huge amounts of panel assemblies or creating tear-out-free finishes on figured wood. Internal baffles in the hood capture wood dust efficiently. Thus, it is on the list of the best drum sander.
This sander incorporates a urethane drive belt powered by a separate sprocket and chain-driven motor. This results in optimal power transfer. The W1678 Double Drum Sander can handle stock that is up to 42 inches thick and 26 inches wide. The rear drum is micro-adjustable, and it also has an excellent feature, a hook and loop attachment which makes changing sandpapers quick.
This dual drum sander has a multi-colored design that makes differentiating agile. It also has a hinged hood, some 4-inch dust ports, variable speed control, and a durable rubber conveyor belt.
What I didn’t like about Shop Fox W1678?
It is very heavy. So, I don’t think it would be a good idea to use for a DIY project.
Pros:
- Dual drum sander with coarse-grit sandpaper on the front drum and finer grit sandpaper on the rear drums.
- Variable feed rate
- Large stop button for quick power-downs and safety
Cons:
- Heavy
Who Can Use It?
The Shop Fox W1678 powerful motor makes this the best drum sander choice for heavy-duty industrial purposes.
Best Compact: Jet JWDS 1020
Sand boards up to 3″ thick and 20″ broad with the strong 1 HP motor. The self-cooling aluminum drums protect the work surface from heat damage. Dust is directed to the dust collector thanks to the unique dust hood.
Features:
- Drum Size (in): 5” diameter x 10” length
- Motor Power: 1 HP
- Drum Motor Type: Single-phase Induction Motor
- Drum Speed: 1720 rpm
- Type: Benchtop
- Sanding Capacity:
- Max Width (in): 20
- Min Length (in): 2-⅜
- Max Thickness (in): 3
- Min Thickness (in): 1/32
What I liked about it?
The extruded aluminum sanding drum and die-cast aluminum drum carriage of this drum sander ensure high precision. The workman can choose the best feed rates with infinitely variable speed control. The reinforced steel conveyor bed supports the boards going through the sanding drum. These reasons rank it fourth place on my list of the best drum sander.
What I didn’t like about Jet JWDS 1020?
It is difficult to calibrate. Sometimes, you may find the calibration acceptable but not right.
Pros:
- Efficient dust collection system
- 3 years warranty
- A circuit breaker
- Affordable
- Easy sandpaper change
Cons:
- Not so powerful motor
Who Can Use It?
The compact drum sander is suitable for a hobbyist or craftsman who is just tight on shop space.
Best Design: Powermatic PM2244
The world-class design of this drum sander oozes sophistication with performance. The 1.75 HP power machine has an extremely durable exterior. It comes with a steel hood and four dust ports for better dust collection.
Features:
- Drum Size (in): 5” diameter x 22” length
- Motor Power: 1-3/4 HP
- Drum Motor Type: Single-phase Induction Motor
- Drum Speed: 1720 rpm
- Type: Benchtop
- Sanding Capacity:
- Max Width (in): 22
- Min Length (in): 2-⅜
- Max Thickness (in): 4
- Min Thickness (in): 1/32
What I liked about it?
The integrated LED control panel is the highlight of the Powermatic PM224 Drum Sander. This displays the power, DRO, and belt speed for better monitoring and control. It comes with a huge chrome handwheel that makes altering the drum height a breeze.
This best drum sander features a 22-inch drum to accommodate wide stock and a variable feed rate of 0 to 10 fpm. The built-in feed logic ensures that the machine does not overload while providing an excellent finish. I liked this dust collection port. There is no dust at all after use.
What I didn’t like about Powermatic PM2244?
It is not very fast and seems very heavy to handle.
Pros:
- 5-year warranty
- Sturdy body
- Simple to use and adjust, with control mechanisms
- Powerful
Cons:
- Heavy machine
- For amateurs, may take long to understand how to use
Who Can Use It?
This machine works best for DIYers, expert carpenters, and woodworking professionals.
Best Portable: JET 628900 Mini Benchtop
JET 628900 Mini is the best drum sander for someone who is looking for a lightweight sander. The 1 HP motor ensures fast stock removal with the finest quality. The machine enables quick sandpaper replacement.
Features:
- Drum Size (in): 5” diameter x 10” length
- Motor Power: 1 HP
- Drum Motor Type: Single-phase Induction Motor
- Drum Speed: 1700 rpm
- Type: Benchtop
- Sanding Capacity:
- Max Width (in): 20
- Min Length (in): 2-¼
- Max Thickness (in): 3
- Min Thickness (in): 1/32
What I liked about it?
The JET 628900 has an infinitely variable speed control with speeds ranging from 0 to 12 feet per minute. Lubricated and sealed ball bearings, along with the reliable design, increase the overall machine life. Also, the motor never gets hot.
Conveyor belt “trackers” reduce the need for manual belt adjustments. The precision-flattened steel conveyor bed and power feed belt ensure a smooth sanding operation. If you are having a problem with the tracking adjustment, simply loosen the two locking nuts. You will find them at the back of the belt tracking wheel bar. Leave them loose.
What I didn’t like about JET 628900 Mini Benchtop?
You may have to bypass the overload protection switch because it constantly turns off.
Pros:
- Portable drum sander with a stand
- Continuous duty motor
- 5-year warranty
Cons:
- More snipe-prone than other models
Who Can Use It?
This machine is capable of undertaking all kinds of woodworking jobs. It is suitable for an amateur or a professional woodworker with a small home workshop.
Best Stability: Jet JWDS-2244
The machine comes with a stand having a footprint of 23-1/4″ x 41-3/4″. This adds stability, as well as has a storage shelf and pre-drilled castor holes. And makes it the best drum sander for stability.
Features:
- Drum Size (in): 5” diameter x 22-¼” length
- Motor Power: 1-¾ HP
- Drum Motor Type: Single-phase Induction Motor
- Drum Speed: 1725 rpm
- Type: Benchtop
- Sanding Capacity:
- Max Width (in): 22 (Single Pass)
- Min Length (in): 3-2/8
- Max Thickness (in): 4
- Min Thickness (in): 1/32
What I liked about it?
The parallelism of the conveyor bed may be readily modified by rotating the dial on the outside of the bed. The extruded metal drum is dynamically balanced to disperse heat. The dust hood incorporates a duct to guide the debris to the 4″ dust collection port.
What I didn’t like about Jet JWDS-2244?
While it does not take much space in the workshop, it is relatively heavier than the rest of the ones on the list.
Pros:
- Ultimate speed control
- Ease of use with the dust hose hanger
- 5-year warranty
- Integrated on/off switch
Cons:
- Expensive
Who Can Use It?
Sanding of all types of materials in professional setups.
Most Affordable: Grizzly Industrial G8749
The Grizzly G8749 drum sander has a cast iron body. Due to that it is an excellent addition in any small shop that requires shaping and finishing of curves.
Features:
- Drum Size (in): 4-3/4″ x 7-7/8″ and 3-1/4″ x 7-7/8″ (Inflatable drum)
- Motor Power: 1 HP
- Drum Motor Type: Single-phase Induction Motor
- Drum Speed: 1725 rpm
- Type: Benchtop
- Sanding Capacity: NA
What I liked about it?
Its cast-iron frame guarantees that the component remains steady while in use. The drum can spin at speeds up to 1725 rpm, despite the fact that it is powered by a modest 1HP engine. The flap side sander is very strong.
The machine has a drum sanding as well as a flap sanding mechanism for sanding. The flap drum is 7-3/4 inches long and has twelve abrasive flaps that are all easily replaceable.
What I didn’t like about Grizzly Industrial G8749?
The only annoying thing in this tool is that it puts a lot of dust outside from the front vents. So, the dust flows on you. I would recommend using it outside.
Pros:
- Dual drums
- Safety switches
- Best drum sander at pocket-friendly price
Cons:
- It throws a lot of air forward. That makes the dust flow right into your face.
- A little noisy
Who Can Use It?
This best drum sander is for home shops and DIYers. It works the best for odd-shaped sanding.
Close/Open-end Drum Sander: Grizzly Industrial G0716
A huge 1.5 HP single-phase aluminum motor provides the power for this close/open-end machine. This huge motor drives a lightweight aluminum drum with a 5-1/8-inch width and can spin at speeds of 2300 FPM.
Features:
- Drum Size (in): 5-⅛” diameter x 10” length
- Motor Power: 1 HP
- Drum Motor Type: Single-phase Induction Motor
- Drum Speed: 1700 rpm
- Type: Benchtop
- Sanding Capacity:
- Max Width (in): 9-½
- Min Length (in): 4-¾
- Max Thickness (in): 3
- Min Thickness (in): 1/4
What I liked about it?
The adjustable springs and pressure loaders provide a better hold on the thickest workpieces. The variable speed controller and advanced motor overload protection system protect the machine. The machine’s rubber belt assures that the stock adheres to the surface better for the best sanding results.
What I didn’t like about Grizzly Industrial G0716?
It does not have a good dust collection system. Also, for even sanding, you may have to shim the drum assembly.
Pros:
- Motor overload protection
- Robust and light aluminum sanding drum
- Dust collection ports
Cons:
- Drum flexing may occur due to the open-end position
Who Can Use It?
By using it in its close-end format, you may get precision sanding done with this sander. You may also remove the machine’s end piece and build the best drum sander that can handle larger stock.
Most Versatile: Powermatic DDS-225
The machine incorporates a two-speed gearbox for versatile tasks. It has a rear drum that may be adjusted individually. It’s a dual drum sander with a motor driving two poly v-belts.
Features:
- Drum Size (in): 6” diameter x 25” length (Dual Drum)
- Motor Power: 5 HP
- Drum Motor Type: Single-phase Induction Motor
- Drum Speed: 1700 rpm
- Type: Benchtop
- Sanding Capacity:
- Max Width (in): 25
- Min Length (in): 9
- Max Thickness (in): 5-¼
- Min Thickness (in): 1/32
What I liked about it?
The steel drums feature a durometer rubber coating that keeps the finish flat and free of marring. The Powermatic DDS-225 includes a cast iron table and a heavy-duty poly conveyor belt. The feed motor has a 14 horsepower engine with a forward and reverse gearbox making it one of the best drum sanders.
What I didn’t like about Powermatic DDS-225?
There is no manual guide to explain how to wrap the paper roll. Usually, other sanders have premarked rolls. But this won’t help you here as the paper wraps in the opposite direction.
Pros:
- Fewer vibrations
- Sand surfaces of 8 to 12 feet for each minute.
- Efficient dust collection ports
Cons:
- Expensive model
Who Can Use It?
Because it is costly, it is best suited for huge production lines and those which require constant access to a drum sander throughout the day.
My Verdict
The SuperMax 19-38 is my top pick and the best drum sander among the others. You can adjust the machine’s different controls for best results, regardless of the project and load. It uses technology that automatically alters the conveyor speed. Easy assembly and dismantling make this machine even more useful. Since its dust hood matches the drum’s shape, dust extraction is excellent.
Buying Guide
A lot of us need a sander, but for different uses. It could be scraping off some unwanted paint stains, or removing plaster abrasion. It could also include doing huge tasks such as sanding the wooden floor to perfection. So, to tackle your needs, follow this comprehensive guide before making a final decision to buy the best drum sander.
Power
This is one of the most crucial aspects to look into before purchasing a sander. Various tasks require a different power range. For instance, sanding large boards or areas might need a sander with higher efficiency and power. Contrarily, smaller projects need low-powered motors. However, a powerful sander might have an unsteady or inconsistent usage. On the other hand, a low-powered motor is steady and glides through objects easily. Therefore, see that you select one most appropriate to your work.
Speed
It is evident that a sander with higher speed can sand rough or smooth surface conveniently. Buying the speediest one isn’t necessarily a practical option. It is if your regular work involves sanding softer or delicate objects. If you’re an experienced or professional mason or woodworker, it is best to get a speedy sander. Although, if you are a hobbyist or an entry-level carpenter that deals with small-scale tasks, it is advised to go for a mediocre speed sander.
Quality
The build quality has to be top-notch. The body or frame of the sander must be of excellent quality. Usually, good quality plastic and lightweight metal like aluminum is the best choice. Metals like steel can easily corrode and cause damage or slow the sanding process. Plastic, on the other hand, has a very long life. So, you do not have to worry about longevity.
Budget
All of us look for some cheap product that saves us some bucks, but that might not be the correct way. If you choose a low-quality product at an inexpensive price, it will cost you more money in the long run. Choosing a good quality product with a slightly higher or reasonable price would be smarter and a total value for your money.
Dust Collection
Cleaning up the entire work area after a sanding session seems like a bit of a task. That is why we need a full-proof dust collection system. The ideal dust collection mechanism would be in-built with a microfilter to trap the tiniest of debris particles. It should also have a large dust canister, preferably transparent, to collect the sanding waste. Additionally, it would be great if the sander has dust-sealed or protected switches to avoid any dust collection in the machine.
Compact Nature
When selecting the best drum sander, it is important to buy one that is small in size and can be stored anywhere. So, if you have a smaller workspace or home, you’ll have nothing to worry about. Again, sometimes less known brands tend to degrade the quality of the product in order to keep up with the size; avoid that. Only spend your money on a product that meets all the other needs while being compact.
Type of Sander
Buying a drum sander to sand furniture wouldn’t be an apt scene. Different tasks need specific features that not all sanders can possess. There are four main types of sanders, including belt sander, random orbital sander, disc sander, and finishing sander. Surely, some features might overlap another. But, it is still the most beneficial to ensure you buy the one that best suits your tasks.
Comfortable Design
Finally, the last yet equally crucial part is to ensure that the sander has an ergonomic main handle as well as front handles. Usually, it comprises a rubberized over-mold that restricts any vibration from reaching your palms. This mechanism ensures no or less muscle tension, therefore avoiding cramps or spasms. Plus, the handle is soft and comfy, ensuring that work-time isn’t as tiring or exasperating as it normally would be.
Takeaway
Above mentioned are some aspects that you need to look into. The research is thoroughly done after a lot of research. The best drum sander reviews are completely based upon its features, pros, cons, reviews, and uses. Mostly, all of these categories depend on what you work for or how long you work for. If you ask my choice, it would always be the Supermax Tools 19-38, the best drum sander for me. So, pick the one that best suits you and let me know how the journey was.
