One removes stock fast without swirls. The other gets into corners.
Verdict
A random orbital sander spins and oscillates at once, so it never traces the same path and leaves no consistent scratch pattern. That makes it the default for flat surfaces and the fastest way to remove material without swirls. A sheet sander is square, so it reaches into corners and along edges an orbital cannot. Buy the orbital first; add the sheet sander for corners and detail.
| SKIL 5 in Random Orbital Sander | SKIL 1/4 Sheet Palm Sander | |
|---|---|---|
| Swirl marks | None if used correctly | Possible with pressure |
| Reaches corners | No, round pad | Yes, square pad |
| Stock removal | Faster | Slower |
| Paper cost | Hook and loop discs, pricier | Cut from sheets, cheap |
| Dust collection | Usually good | Usually poor |
| Best for | Flat panels and tabletops | Edges, corners, detail |
You are flattening panels, tabletops or anything broad. Let the tool's weight do the work: pressing down defeats the random orbit and is the main cause of the swirl marks people blame on the sander.
Check SKIL 5 in Random Orbital Sander on Amazon
You are sanding into inside corners, along rebates, or working small pieces. A square pad is the only power sander shape that reaches a corner, and cutting your own paper from sheets makes it very cheap to run.
Check SKIL 1/4 Sheet Palm Sander on Amazon
Do not skip grits by more than one step. A common sequence is 80, 120, 180 and sometimes 220 for bare wood. Skipping straight to fine paper simply polishes the deeper scratches rather than removing them.
Usually pressing too hard, moving too fast, or skipping a grit. Finish makes existing scratches visible rather than creating them, so the fix is in the sanding sequence rather than the finish.
Yes, for your lungs more than for cleanliness. Fine wood dust is the fraction that reaches deep into the lungs, and some species are sensitising or carcinogenic. Connect the sander and wear a rated respirator.
Comparison based on published manufacturer specifications and the general consensus of owner reports. We have not tested these units side by side. Confirm current prices and specifications before buying. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.