When I first faced the challenge of rough surfaces that wouldn’t smooth out, I knew I needed a top-notch drum sander. Deciding which one to invest in wasn’t easy. But after spending time with my construction team and reviewing the best options available, I’ve gathered some insights that can help you make the right choice with just one shot.
Reviews of the Top Drum Sanders
1. JET JWDS-2244
The JET Tools JWDS-2244 is by far the best drum sander out there with all the features to make operation as smooth and easy as possible. The unit collects up to 97% of all the dust and debris from each job, and pairs even better with cyclone dust collectors from the same brand.
The conveyor system will automatically pull the workpiece in without the need for you to push it into the conveyor belt. The machine will regulate the speed by itself and the dynamically balanced drum is designed for superior heat dissipation.
What I Like
- The sander boasts an automatic speed regulation, ensuring optimal performance without manual tweaking.
- Perfect drum sander for those prioritizing user-friendliness.
- Every sanding task I've undertaken with this has resulted in a professional, quality finish.
- Overheating isn't an issue; its drums are adept at dissipating heat, prolonging the machine's life.
- The ability to make tool-free adjustments streamlines the sanding process, saving time and hassle.
- Its integrated dust port is efficiently designed, capturing the majority of debris and keeping the workspace cleaner.
- Operating at a 2800 FPM surface speed, it's swift and effective in its task.
- The built-in conveyor system ensures smooth movement and handling of workpieces.
- Stability is key in sanding, and this machine's design ensures it doesn't wobble or shake during operation.
What I Don't Like
- While robust and durable, its weight is on the heavier side, which might pose a challenge for frequent repositioning.
- Those in industrial settings might find it lacking in size, as it isn't built to industrial-scale specifications.
2. Grizzly Industrial G8749
The Grizzly G8749 is a compact drum and flap sander that can get the job done in smaller workshops. It has a small 1 HP single-phase motor and is great for finishes. You can choose from the inflatable drums or the flap sanders, which are included with your purchase.
This is the best drum sander for a small space and for contours. Don’t let the size fool you, it has a cast iron construction to make sure it can last and it has a toggle on/off safety switch and a locking tab to keep your fingers safe during use.
What I Like
- I appreciate its small and compact design, making it easy to fit into most workspaces.
- The 2-in-1 design offers versatility that can be invaluable in many projects.
- Benchtop drum sander that ensures it's easily accessible and at a comfortable working height.
- The inclusion of 120 grit sandpaper is a bonus, especially for those just starting out.
- The toggle on/off safety switch adds an extra layer of security during operation.
- Incorporating a safety paddle switch and a removable key further bolsters its safety features.
- With a speed of 1725 RPM, it operates efficiently, helping complete tasks promptly.
- Its cast iron construction ensures robustness and durability, extending the machine’s life span.
What I Don't Like
- One downside is that it tends to generate a considerable amount of dust during operations.
- Another aspect to consider is the noise level; the machine can be a bit louder than preferred.
3. Powermatic DDS-225
The Powermatic DDS-225 drum sander has cabinet doors that hide storage space. You can keep everything you need right under the sander.
It will be a worthy addition to your power tool collection as it guarantees a flat finish with two sanding drums. The highly versatile machine has a two-speed gearbox that allows you to sand different workpieces.
The DDS-225 also has a full-sized cast iron table that can support larger materials and there is even an independent rear sanding drum that allows users to do some final touch-ups on their pieces.
What I Like
- The hard durometer rubber coating is an impressive feature, ensuring durability and smooth operations.
- Having a rear sanding drum is quite beneficial, offering an extra layer of functionality.
- Its heavy-duty conveyor belt is something I genuinely value for long-lasting performance and consistent results.
- The added storage space is a thoughtful touch, proving handy for storing essentials.
- The 2-speed gearbox allows flexibility in operations, catering to different sanding needs.
- Equipped with dual steel drums, this sander promises strength and precision.
- The full-sized cast iron table ensures stability, which is essential for any serious woodworking.
- Powering all these features is a robust 5 HP motor, which never lets me down.
What I Don't Like
- One thing to note is its weight – it's quite heavy, which could be a challenge for some setups.
- Additionally, its large size might not be everyone's cup of tea, especially if space is a concern.
4. SUPERMAX TOOLS SUPMX-72550
Supermax Tools creates excellent drum sanders with high quality components, and the SuperMax Tools SUPMX-72550 also has a closed mobile stand for more stability. This particular model is the largest open-ended drum sander on the market. It comes with 80 grit sandpaper and the unit can sand 25 inches in a single pass and 50 in a double pass.
There is more room available and plenty of storage space for you to keep the necessary accessories on hand. Aside from being closed to bring more stability, the mobile base on the SUPMX-72550 allows it to be more portable in case you need to wheel the heavy machine around.
What I Like
- The closed base with storage is a feature I've always found practical, allowing for easy access to tools and materials.
- It truly excels with large sanding projects, making those expansive tasks more manageable.
- What stands out for me is its design catering to mobility, which is a boon when repositioning is necessary.
- The open-end drum sanders offer added flexibility, broadening the range of projects it can handle.
- Its stability is undeniable, ensuring precision with every pass.
- Coming equipped with 80 grit sandpaper, it's set to deliver right out of the box.
- Aluminum drum is both lightweight and efficient, enhancing the machine's overall performance.
What I Don't Like
- On the downside, it does carry a bit of heft – it's notably heavy.
- Its substantial size may require a good chunk of workshop real estate.
5. Grizzly Industrial G0449
The G0499 from Grizzly Industrial is a large drum sander with two drums that are computer balanced for precision. With a powerful 10 horsepower motor, the G0499 can sand boards up to 4 inches thick. The variable speed feed control makes it easy for users to control the speed of the conveyor belts.
You can’t have an efficient machine without proper dust cleanup, so the Grizzly G0499 features a 4-port dust scoop that will tidy things up for you. The entire unit boasts a solid steel construction and industrial-quality components for maximum durability.
What I like
- The V-belt feed motor offers reliable and smooth operation.
- With its 10 horsepower, this drum sander doesn't shy away from delivering robust performance.
- The variable speed feed control provides adaptability, letting me tailor the pace to different tasks.
- I've been a fan of double drum sanders; they simply enhance the efficiency of the sanding process.
- The inclusion of a dust scoop is a thoughtful touch, making cleanup considerably easier.
- An emergency safety stop is a fundamental feature, underscoring the tool's commitment to user safety.
- Solid steel construction promises longevity and resilience, standing up to the rigors of regular use.
- The ease of sandpaper installation has been a game-changer, simplifying and hastening the prep process.
- With a table lift feature, adjustments become more seamless and user-friendly.
- Its hinged hood design fosters easier access and maintenance, a subtle yet impactful consideration.
- A powder-coated finish not only enhances aesthetics but also fortifies the sander against wear and tear.
What i Don't like
- A caveat is its price, positioning it on the higher end of the spectrum.
- And be ready to allocate space; its considerable size necessitates ample room.
6. JET 649005K
Perhaps one of the most durable and heavy-duty drum sanders, the Jet 649005K is constructed with zinc-plated steel tension rollers with a cast iron height adjustment handwheel that allows for both large and minute height changes easily. The efficient sander will give users absolute control over the sanding thickness.
The Jet drum sander has innovative Sandsmart Technology and automatic speed regulation that will prevent overloading. The sanding drum is self-cooling, which will further protect the machine and your workpiece against friction and burns.
The 1-¾ HP drum motor can handle heavy use over long periods, which makes the 649005K excellent for large jobs.
What i like
- The abundance of motor power really stands out, making it a formidable tool for demanding tasks.
- Incorporating Sandsmart Technology, it's designed for precision and efficiency, ensuring consistent results.
- Automatic speed regulation simplifies operation and enhances versatility.
- Its heavy-duty construction gives it a solid, durable feel, ideal for withstanding the test of time.
- The presence of zinc-plated steel tension rollers is a thoughtful touch, contributing to its overall reliability.
- I appreciate the inclusion of a cast iron handwheel, which facilitates smooth and precise adjustments.
- Adjustable drum height adds another layer of versatility, accommodating various project requirements.
- It's particularly recommended for large jobs, where its power and capabilities truly shine.
what i don't like
- It's worth noting that its weight leans towards the heavier side, which might pose handling challenges.
- Feed tables are not included, which may be a consideration for those seeking a more comprehensive setup.
7. JET JWDS-1632
Lastly, I have the Jet 723520K JWDS 1632 drum sander with an open stand. I’d recommend this over the Jet benchtop drum sander and the Jet mini drum sander. Its reliability stands out. Plus, the Sandsmart control is a game-changer; it adjusts the speed according to the workpiece, which is incredibly helpful.
The feed and drum motors are separate, which gives you independent control over either one. The drum sander is designed for superior heat dissipation so you won’t need to worry about friction or burns.
The drum sander’s dust hood will mirror the shape of the drum to funnel all the dust and debris into the 4-inch dust port.
What I like
- The presence of a dust hood is a definite plus, keeping the workspace cleaner and enhancing user comfort.
- It's equipped with a dust port, which is a must-have for efficient dust collection and improved air quality.
- The separation of feed and drum motors is a smart design choice, optimizing power distribution and performance.
- Sandsmart control ensures precise sanding and consistent results.
- Variable speed control adds versatility, allowing for adjustments based on specific project needs.
- Remarkably compact for a powerful drum sander, it's a space-efficient choice that doesn't compromise on capability.
- The efficient heat dissipation mechanisms employed here contribute to its longevity and reliability.
- It excels in preventing crowning, ensuring flat and even sanding results.
What I Don't Like
- While it's generally user-friendly, attaching sandpaper may take a bit of time for some operators.
- It's worth noting that it might not be the optimal choice for handling large furniture pieces, given its compact design.
8. SUPERMAX TOOLS SUPMX-71938-D
If you need a top-quality and intelligent tool, then the SuperMax Tools SUPMX-71938-D is the best drum sander for you. It comes with an open stand and consistently produces uniform results just like a professional drum sander. The Intellisand Technology automatically adjusts the conveyor belt speed based on the laid it detects to prevent burning and damage to your workpieces.
The alignment feature is simple with indexed settings to align the sanding head and conveyor, and the height adjusts easily as well. The dust extraction is simple as the dust will collect on the surface of the drums. The cast iron construction will also stabilize the unit to prevent uneven sanding.
What I like
- Efficient dust extraction is always a plus, keeping the work area clean and promoting a healthier atmosphere.
- Intellisand Technology ensures that sanding is both precise and efficient.
- Its patented abrasive attachment system simplifies the process of changing sandpaper, saving time and effort.
- Achieving precise alignments is straightforward with this machine, enhancing overall ease of use.
- An extra-wide conveyor belt is a valuable addition, accommodating larger workpieces with ease.
- Including 80 grit sandpaper adds convenience and immediate usability to the sander.
- Automatic speed adjustments contribute to consistent results and optimal performance.
What I Don't Like
- Replacing the feed conveyor belt can be a bit challenging, requiring extra effort and patience.
- It's worth noting that the sander has a top-heavy design, which may necessitate extra caution when maneuvering and positioning.
Drum Sanders Buyer’s Guide
After conducting thorough reviews of various drum sanders, I’ve identified some key characteristics that the best ones tend to have in common. Motor power and speed are certainly crucial factors that one should pay attention to.
However, the type of drum sander chosen also holds significant importance. I’ve compiled essential criteria, drawing from my expertise, to assist you in finding the drum sander that will perfectly meet your needs.
Size and Portability
The size of the drum sander refers to the overall exterior of the machine and its measurements. You also have the size and the thickness of the material it can handle, but we’ll get to that in a bit. Of course, smaller drum sanders will be more portable. You have the small table top options like the G8749 from Grizzly, or benchtop sanders that are half the size of full-sized drum sanders, or ones with stands.
Finding the right drum sander largely depends on your workspace. From my experience, it’s essential to consider the dedicated space you have for the sander to ensure a good fit. For those constantly moving between job sites, portability becomes key.
However, if, like me, you primarily work from a single station, I’d lean towards a larger drum sander. They typically offer more consistent and even sanding results.
Motor
The motor power of a drum sander is what gives your machine all of its power. Not every woodworker requires a powerful conveyor motor, which is why I recommend looking at what type of materials and jobs you work with the most.
A powerful 5 to 10 HP motor [1] is best for thick materials for industrial jobs, but a regular 1 to 5 HP range should be sufficient for most jobs.
Speed
The feed rate, or speed, of a drum sander determines how quickly it takes in your workpiece. Drawing from my woodworking experience, I’d recommend opting for a machine with variable speeds. This enhances its versatility. After all, as you grow in your craft, there’s always the possibility of working with larger or smaller pieces.
The speed impacts how rough or fine the surface of your workpiece will be. A drum sander can either have an automatic feed, which also usually means it has auto detection, which will determine the size of your workpiece and adjust the speed accordingly.
You can also find different drum sanders that are manual, or feature both manual and automatic speed controls so you can adjust both the sanding and conveyor belt speeds. I say a unit that has manual control will give you more options for different finishes.
Drum Sander Type
I also mentioned the type of drum sanders available on the market. You can pick between a closed end sander or an open-end sander. You also have the option of one sanding drum or two, so which one do you pick?
Closed-End or Open-End Drum Sander?
A closed-end sander is one that has its components, which consist of the drum, pressure rollers along with the feed belt sealed inside a metal housing. An open-ended drum sander is the exact opposite and doesn’t have a closed back.
A closed option has its benefits and drawbacks. One of the most obvious advantages is the protection the housing gives to the metal parts. It holds the components securely inside and keeps them away from any damage. The biggest problem for closed sanders is the space you have. The design limits the space allotted for your workpiece, which means closed-end sanders cannot handle big pieces.
While open-ended drum sanders give flexibility to the user and more space for precision sanding, the parts are more compromised in an open cabinet.
Single or Double Drum Sander?
You then have the consideration of buying a drum sander with a single drum or dual drums. Single drum sanders have one drum, which means less maintenance but there is more exhaustion for that one drum. Another benefit of a single-drum sander is the price tag. It is less expensive than dual sanders and they are more common.
I’ve found that single drum sanders suit those who primarily work with one type of grit at a time. They’re more straightforward to use and typically have a smaller footprint.
On the other hand, dual drum sanders are my go-to for precision-heavy tasks. With two drums, each potentially having a different grit, you can bypass the hassle of constantly changing sandpaper, speeding up the process. But it’s worth noting that dual sanders come with a steeper learning curve and a heftier price tag compared to their single drum counterparts.
Should you choose a single or dual drum sander? That depends on whether or not you have the budget to spare and if you need various grits.
Drum Size and Capacity
In order to identify the type and size of the material the drum sanders can handle, you have to look at the drum size and the capacity of the machine.
The widest measurement for the material your machine can operate on will be double the size of the drum. Remember, this is at most, and not every sander can do it. Make sure you read the specifications on the machine very carefully before making a purchase.
You also have to make sure the sander can accommodate the thickness you need, which will depend on what you intend to create. If you make cabinets and furniture, then your sander will typically need to handle wood over an inch thick, but if you’re working on intricate projects such as wooden instruments, then you may need to pay more attention to the thinnest setting on your sander.
Dust Collection
Dust collecting is one of the most crucial features on drum sanders and even belt sanders. Not only does it make cleanup easier, but it also keeps the surface of your workpiece free and clear of any obstructions.
Even if your sander doesn’t come with integrated dust ports, you can connect it to your shop vac or cyclone dust collector for easy collection. Of course, it’s best if you can do both. Many of the options I have presented feature dust ports and dust hoods that funnel the mess to the port.
Material Quality and Durability
From my experience, I’ve observed that many units are crafted from cast iron and have aluminum parts—both of which are durable materials. It’s worth noting that even though metal is typically harder than wood, extensive use can wear down the sander’s components over time. One of my key recommendations for ensuring a drum sander’s longevity is to prioritize its construction quality.
It’s wise to seek out a drum sander with a cast iron drum carriage and a steel body. A powder-coated finish is also a valuable feature, offering protection against rust and oxidation.
You should also clean the machine when possible, and match it to a strong workshop vacuum. Let’s face it, a good drum sander is not a cheap power tool, so you definitely want to make sure your investment will last.
Price and Warranty
As I said, drum sanders don’t come cheap, especially if you go for the industrial-sized options with extra features like the Feed Logic feature and a sturdy steel hood. The materials used for certain components such as a chrome hand wheel and an easy-to-use LED control panel will also add to the price.
While they are all considered pricey, there are some that are under the 1000 mark and others that reach 7K and over! I included a variety of power tools that come in at different prices in order to help you find the best one for your needs.
It doesn’t matter what sander you choose, for the price you are paying, you definitely want your purchase to be protected. This is where the warranty comes in. However, you’re not always fully protected just because your drum sander comes with a warranty. You have to look at what’s covered and for how long.
Typically, the longer the warranty the more reliable the power tool is. If possible, also look for a unit with a satisfaction guarantee as well. It’s a little tougher to find for drum sanders, but it will protect your purchase even further. You will be able to return the unit if it fails or if you are unsatisfied with its performance for a full refund.
Advantages of Having a Drum Sander + Tips How to Use it
Having a drum sander will pick up the pace considerably for your sanding jobs in home decor project ideas. It can accommodate most projects, and handle thickness planers cannot.
But I say it’s important to keep in mind that the planer is still the best choice when you’re looking at leveling glued wood but a drum sander can do it as well. However, for fine finishes and large jobs, you can’t beat the drum sander.
Drum sanders won’t cause tear-outs and they can polish up the job from planers and jointers, such as the snipe marks. One more clear advantage of having a drum sander is the various sizes of materials and the thickness it can handle. The control panel on an automatic machine will carry out all the adjustments for the best feed rate.
One very important thing to keep in mind is that your sander is just half of the battle. You also need to find good sandpaper in order for it to live up to your expectations. Our suggestion is to always go for premium and high-quality options.
A drum sander is meant to be used with patience. Don’t be too eager to strip too much off of your workpiece at a time. Drum sanders differ from planers as they do their best work slowly. I don’t mean the speed needs to be slow, but I mean every pass should only take so much off your wood.
I can’t stress this enough, and though I’ve mentioned it before, it’s worth repeating: don’t overlook the importance of a shop vac or dust collector. Keeping your line of vision clear of dust enhances precision, and a collection device plays a crucial role in maintaining the performance of your tool.
Also check:
FAQ
Is a drum sander worth it?
Yes, a drum sander is worth it. It’s especially good value if you work with large pieces or require a fine and consistent finish. Not only is a drum sander efficient, but it is also versatile and can handle workpieces of multiple sizes and thickness.
What size drum sander should I get?
The size of the drum sander you get will depend on your space and the type of material you work with. You will need a larger open-end drum sander if you consistently work with furniture pieces, but a smaller benchtop closed back sander will do for smaller projects.
My Top Pick For a Drum Sander:
JET JWDS-2244
The Jet JWDS-2244 is by far the most efficient and intuitive sander I have tested. The Sandsmart control allows for speed regulation and automatic adjustments, and the dynamically balanced drums have superior heat dissipation capabilities. To top it all off, the JWDS-2244 has an efficient 4-inch dust collection port.
For related products, you can also check out these pages below:
Robert Johnson is a passionate furniture maker & carpenter, sought after for his knowledge on the craft.
You’ve probably seen his down-to-earth wisdom in USA Today, Bobvila, Family Handyman, and The Spruce, where he has shared commentary and guidance on various woodworking topics.
Robert is the brain behind Sawinery, where he aims to share tips, tricks, and a passion for all things carpentry.
