Winner And Still Champion
Street price: $200
Table size: 14 in. by 19 in., tilting
Motor rating: 3.5 amps
Spindle/drum sizes: 1/2 in., 3/4 in., 1 in., 1-1/2 in., and 2 in.
Spindle stroke: 3/4 in.
Oscillations per min.: 60
Dust collection: Very good
An earlier Ridgid model won Best Overall the last time we reviewed oscillating spindle sanders. This time was no different. The EB 44242 is the most versatile of the bunch, with a big table and great dust collection. Includes onboard storage for drums with sleeves, inserts, and tools. Workspace in front of spindle is limited to 4 in. wide by 9 in. long.
Fine Woodworking Recommended Products
The clear winner here is Festool’s CT 48 Dust Extractor. It has amazing capacity relative to its size, and unmatched suction power. It packs in a number of subtle but very helpful design touches, like a clever foot brake and easy hose and cord storage.
Ridgid EB4424 Oscillating Spindle/Belt Sander
With five spindles sized from 1/2 in. to 2 in. and a 4 X 24-in. belt, this sander has become a staple in many a shop Fine Woodworking visits.
Festool Rotex FEQ-Plus Random Orbital Sander
The Festool Rotex is a top-of-the-line choice. On its coarse setting, it removed stock nearly twice as quickly as the second-fastest model. But that speed doesn’t mean you’ll have to wrestle with it. It’s no huge task to control it with two hands, and its long body gives you plenty of room to find a sweet spot while holding it.
Editor Test Results:
Overall Rating | Best overall, best value |
Sanding Quality | N/A |
Abrasive Change | N/A |
Controls | N/A |
Dust Collection Effectiveness | Very good |
Noise | N/A |
Vibration Rating | N/A |
Manufacturer Specifications:
Manufacturer | Ridgid |
Manufacturer's Web Site | www.ridgid.com |
Manufacturer's Phone Number | 800-474-3443 |
Weight | N/A |
Dimensions | N/A |
Built-In Dust Collection | N/A |
Amps | 5 amps |
Speed | N/A |
Abrasive Size | Spindle/drum sizes: 1/2 in., 3/4 in., 1 in., 1-1/2 in., and 2 in. |
Abrasive Shape | N/A |
Accessories | N/A |
Log in or create an account to post a comment.
Sign up Log in