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Belt disc sanders are a must-have product when it comes to shaping and finishing wood. They will also work well with other materials.
This type of work sometimes demands the use of many tools, which is why you should look for effective combination tools like belt disc sanders, to ultimately save you space, time, and money.
The best belt disc sanders are great for getting two jobs done in one. The disc sander performs clear-cut edge work while the belt sander allows you to smooth out surfaces and shape contours quickly.
This convenient combination tool comes in varied sizes along with different ranges of strength and power, depending on what you need to get the job done.
Confused on what belt disc sander you should purchase?
I have researched and shortlisted the top ten best belt disc sanders (in my opinion) to help with your buying decision. I’ll discuss the details and perks of each type of sander giving you the knowledge you need to purchase a belt disc sander that will work for you and your specific needs.
While conducting research on the best belt disc sander on the market, I chose a variety of products that cover many different price ranges.
Belt Disc Sander Quick Comparison
My #1 Choice
The WEN 6502 offers great value for many features.
2nd Best Choice
WEN’s 6500T is a close second for a reliable, good value machine.
3rd Best Choice
This Grizzly is ideal if you need constant use.
Top Belt Disc Sander Review
My #1 Choice – WEN 6502T 4 x 36-Inch Belt and 6-Inch Disc Sander with Cast Iron Base – Best Pick
This sander by WEN is the perfect choice for anyone looking to purchase a belt disc sander without spending too much money.
You will find that the Wen is a very reliable and efficient product found at a lower price than many other sanders on the market.
Quick Facts
The WEN 6502T belt disc sander makes sanding, smoothing, and removing jagged edges quick and easy. This sander has plenty of power for its smaller size and is perfect for those who mainly work with smaller pieces. The WEN 6502T measures 4” x 36” with a ½ HP motor and has a 6-inch sanding disc.
This motor provides enough power to maintain a large load without getting bogged down. This solid belt disc sander weighs about 40 pounds and includes a cast iron base to help prevent wobbling and large vibrations while the machine is in use. This product also has an adjustable belt that tilts depending on specific needs.
You can also attach a dust collector to help lessen the clean-up process. For most hobbyists or DIY woodworkers, you will have more than enough here to get the job done without spending a fortune.
The WEN 6502T is one of the best belt disc sanders for anyone wanting a good, dependable sander at an affordable price.
Take a closer look:
- 4” x 36” Belt Size
- 6” Disc Size
- 1900 SPFM Belt Speed
- 3,600 RPM Disc Speed
- ½ HP
- 0-90 Degree Belt Angle
PROS
- Excellent value
- 100% quality at a low price
- Adjustable belt that is easy to change
- Heavy cast iron prevents vibrations
- Disc sander includes cast aluminum table
- Miter gage
- Stop bar
- Extended blade guard for safety
CONS
- Cannot handle heavy loads
- Belt stops when too much pressure is applied
- Manufacturer recommends using this machine for wood only, not recommended for metal
My #2 Choice – WEN 6500T 4 x 36-Inch Belt and 6-Inch Disc Sander with Steel Base
If you are looking to get yourself a belt disc sander where you don’t have to spend a fortune, then WEN has another really good tool.
The 6500T is built to the same high spec and offers multiple features for those wanting a decent combo sander.
Quick Facts
This belt and disc sander by WEN sands and makes smooth cuts through lumber and wood-like carving a cake. This sander is probably smaller in size compared to other products in the market, which makes it good if you’re short on space.
However, it still provides a substantial amount of power. Measurements of the belt disc size are about 4 X 36 – inch and a regular disc size is 6 X 6 – inch.
The motor system of this model is robust at 3.2 A. That’s a noteworthy ton of power to maintain hefty load, no matter what you’re working on.
This machine also reaches a variable speed of 1150 feet per minute, which will allow you to make flawless edges and corners swiftly.
The overall structure of this belt disc sander is formulated in a steel frame. This means you are getting an anti-vibration workspace due to the heavy-duty construction. It also means you get a durable design that is built to last for a very long period.
For ease of use, you’ll be able to tilt this WEN anywhere within a 90-degree angle. Since it weighs approximately 32.2 pounds, you’ll easily be able to work at your preferred angle for the job.
Take a Closer Look:
- Includes 6 x 6-inch size disc and 4 x 36-inch size belt disc
- 3.2A Motor than ensures a maximum speed of 1150 FPM
- Steel frame design
- Tilts from 0 to 90-degree angle
- 32.2 Pounds
PROS
- Highly affordable
- Comes along with a miter gauge
- Steel base
- Can be adjusted to your desired position
- Tremendous value at a very good range
- Easy set-up
CONS
- Won’t be able to work properly when too much pressure applied
- Heavy loads can be an issue
My #3 Choice – Grizzly Industrial Belt and 8-Inch Disc Sander, 1 x 42-Inch
Even though it’s my third choice (as it’s more expensive), I still think that this is one of the best belt and disc sanders and is one of my top choices for its affordability and dependability.
This high-performing sander is made to fit a workbench for a surprisingly reasonable price. From sanding to dry sharpening, this sander can do it all.
Quick Facts
This combination disc sander measures 1” x 42” along with a 8” disc sander, all in one portable movement. This mid-sized machine has a good powered motor allowing it to easily move this belt and disc at a reasonable speed, giving you all the power that you need to get the job done.
The Grizzly has a removable belt plate and idle roller guard helping the sanding process which comes in handy with work involving contour sanding. We believe that this product is ideal for anyone looking for a lightweight, compact sander.
This product is efficient and gives you just as much work effort that you may find in the larger belt disc sander options on the market.
Take a Closer Look:
- 1” x 45” Belt Size
- 8” Disc Size
- LArge RPM Disc Speed
- Sander work table tilts to 45 degrees
- Disc sander work table tilts to 45
PROS
- Ideal for smaller projects
- Can be used with both wood and metal
- Easy set-up
CONS
- Narrow belt with limited surface area
4. Rikon Power Tools 50-151 Belt with 5″ Disc Sander, 1″ x 30″
We wanted to include this product in our review for its attractive price and impressive features. The RIKON Power Tools 50-151 Belt is a great purchase for those looking for an inexpensive combination belt disc sander for light-duty work.
This machine is made up of a 1” x 30” sanding belt along with a 5” sanding disc, so it’s capable of most jobs thrown at it. This combination alongside with an ample 1/3 HP makes using it a straightforward process. This machine is well put together, and each component is built to withstand casual workloads.
The RIKON Power Tools 50-151 Belt is lightweight and small, making it convenient to move around and store. Several impressive features of this product include a brushless motor, dust-protected switches, as well as sealed ball bearings.
I also like that this product has two dust ports; one for each sander that can be easily connected to a dust collector to make removing dust particles an efficient task.
This machine is constructed of cast iron and steel, and its heavy-duty base makes for a vibration-free workspace. If you are looking for one of the best belt and disc sanders that won’t break the bank, this may be what you’re looking for.
Take a Closer Look:
- 1” x 30” Belt Size
- 5” Disc Size
- 3,450 RPM Disc Speed
- 1/3 HP
- 2 dust ports
Pros
- Brushless induction motor in a metal casing
- Separate dust ports for belt and disc
- Very lightweight
- Plenty of power
Cons
- The power switch can be difficult to use
- Time-consuming to change belts
5. Jet J-41002 2-Inch by 42-Inch 3/4-Horsepower Bench Belt and 8-Inch Disc Sander
The Jet J-41002 is the best benchtop belt disc sander if you have a bit more to spend, because this is a machine built to last. With a deluxe miter gauge that turns and locks for common angles turning 45 degrees both left and right, this does it all.
The only reason it’s not in my top 3 is the higher than average price. I like how this product includes a hinged idler wheel cover along with a tilting table – plus the abrasive belt performs the work of a jig or coping saw as well as a hand file to make removing material and finishing a smooth process.
This allows you to get into the small openings while efficiently handling odd-ended shapes and various angles. With this machine, you can easily grind, sand, and finish larger projects at a fast pace.
The table is slotted so that the miter gauge fits perfectly. This machine is built strongly and has a heavy-duty steel base and rubber feet design.
I also liked the fact that the Jet J-41002 has a removable platen as well as a dust deflector and chute to make disposing of debris a painless process.
All shops need a dependent combination sander that can deliver a perfect finish every single time. If you have a workshop or are semi-pro, this is a great choice.
Take a Closer Look:
- 2” x 42” Belt Size
- 8” Disc Size
- 3,450 RPM Disc Speed
- 3,100 SFPM Belt Speed
- ¾ HP
- Sander work table tilts to 45 degrees
- Disc sander work table tilts to 45
Pros
- Premium finishes
- Allows operator to get into small openings
- Can handle odd angles and shapes
- Finish, grind, and sand larger pieces
- Good sized work area
Cons
- The motor may have a slow start
- The motor may spark when turned on
6. WEN 6509 6 x 48″ Belt and 9″ Disc Sander with Stand
I chose this combination sander on our review list because it’s perfect if you don’t have a table because this product comes with a stand. Even though this product on our review of sanders is on the heavier side, weighing 112 pounds, it can be easily moved around.
This is because you don’t need to mount the WEN 6509, which is an added plus. This is a pretty large sander that includes a 6” x 48” belt with a 9” disc. You won’t have to worry about vibrations with this sander for the body is made of sturdy cast iron. The steel stand also keeps your sanding surface elevated at a height of over 3 feet.
This product is easily adjustable by simply using the tension release lever making it a breeze to change belts on this machine. We also love the fact that this product comes with a miter gage and two dust ports to help keep your working space free of debris.
At a belt speed of over 2,700 feet per minute and a spinning disc of 3,450 rotations per minute, this product can endure very large workloads and is a must-have in an experienced craftsman’s shop.
Take a closer look:
- 9” Disc Size
- 6” x 48” Belt Size
- 3,450 RPM Disc Speed
- 2,700 SFPM Belt Speed
- 1/3 HP
- 0-90 Degree Belt Angle
Pros
- Comes with stand
- Easily movable
- Don’t need to mount to a table
- Little to no vibrations
Cons
- Heavy
- Can be very loud
- The table may not stay in place
7. Powermatic 1791291K Model 31A
The Powermatic 31A is perfect for a professional in search of a quality machine that is built to last.
While it is one of the more expensive belt disc sanders we have reviewed, its durability and power make it stand out among its competitors for it delivers amazing results and can withstand almost any job.
Its 1-1/2 HP motor along with a 12” inch disc makes sanding even the largest of your pieces an effortless process. The Powermatic 31A also makes clean-up simple as it comes with a highly adequate dust port.
This product is made of heavy cast iron, making it a viable option for both metal and woodwork saving you space and money. This product also has a fully welded cabinet giving this sander a sturdy platform all while protecting the motor. The build of this machine also helps diminish vibration while at work.
This machine is so versatile that the belt can be used in both horizontal and vertical positions providing you with a more flexible workspace. The top guard can be removed as well if working on a contour sanding job.
This machine weighs 275 pounds making it extremely durable and even comes with a five-year warranty. If you want an excellent working machine that delivers fantastic results time after time, the Powermatic 31A could be the next addition to your workspace.
Take a closer look:
- 1-1/2 HP
- 6” x 48” Belt Size
- 12” Disc Size
- 2,410 SFPM Belt Speed
- 2,375 Disc Speed
- 0-90 Degree Belt Angle
Pros
- Top guard of sanding belt is removable
- No vibrations
- Extremely Durable
- 5-year warranty
Cons
- Very heavy, 275 lbs
8. Shop Fox W1676 6-Inch by 10-Inch Combination Sander
We chose this Shop Fox because it is a great budget compromise that can deliver powerful results. This medium-sized belt disc sander is the perfect halfway between a benchtop sander model and the more expensive models.
If you aren’t too worried about the look and don’t mind a few nicks and rough finish on the paint, then the Shop Fox may spark your interest.
It includes a 6” x 48” belt that can easily be moved horizontally or vertically up to 90 degrees in either direction. There’s also a large 10” disc constructed of cast iron making this a decent size machine.
The Shop Fox runs off a 1 HP motor that can run at 3,450 RPM, giving off enough power to tackle large tasks. This machine weighs around 60 pounds with a sturdy body, including a built-in cabinet making storage easy and convenient.
The dust collector that is also built into this machine helps with diminishing the amount of clean-up. All in all, this product is perfect if you are on a budget and want a powerful machine simply lacking the finish and high-end quality you may get when compared to other sanders like this on the market.
Take a closer look:
- 6” x 48” Belt Size
- 10” Disc Size
- 1 HP
- 3,450 RPM Motor Speed
- 1,900 FPM Disc Speed
- Dust Ports: 2 ½-in for disc and 2-in for belt
Pros
- Plenty of power
- Cabinet included adds storage
- Vertical or horizontal sanding
- Affordable
Cons
- Rough paint finish
9. Jet J-4002 1-Inch by 42-Inch Bench Belt and Disc Sander
This well-made machine will impress you with its power, allowing an option to mount a flex shaft for carving and other jobs.
This belt disc sander makes it easy to work with smaller pieces on the belt while managing bigger projects using the disc.
I’m pretty impressed by the abrasive belt unit on this Jet because it can perform the work of a jig or coping saw as well as a hand file. The Jet J-4002 is built narrow and long, not like your typical belt disc sander. This unique size makes this a perfect option when working on smaller pieces of work.
The machine also removes material whilst finishing simultaneously – making it easy for you to creep into smaller openings and withstand odd angles.
The deluxe miter gauge also turns and locks when dealing with common angles. Unlike the other best belt disc sanders on the market, the Jet J-4002 has a faster belt and slower disc.
The disc measures 8” and moves at a speed of 1,725 RPM while the belt moves at a speed of 3,000 SFPM. This product also includes a removable platen, which is an added plus. This is a solid choice for anyone who works on projects involving odd-end shapes and pieces.
Take a closer look:
- 8” Disc Size
- 1” x 42” Belt Size
- 1,725 RPM Disc Speed
- 3,000 SFPM Belt Speed
- 1/3 HP
- 0-90 Degree Belt Angle
Pros
- Very well built
- Power take off
- Deluxe miter gauge turns and locks for common angles
- Removable platen
- Optional flex shaft
- Abrasive belt
Cons
- Weak belt tension
10. Powertec BD4600 Woodworking Belt Disc Sander, 4 x 6-Inch
If you are in search of a compact design belt disc sander that doesn’t take up a lot of space, check out this Powertec BC4600. The cast iron base ensures reliable operation and the quick-release belt tension lever makes changing the sanding belt quick and easy.
The belt can bend anywhere from 0 to 90 degrees, allowing vertical or horizontal sanding. Whether you’re sanding wood or metal, the Powertec can withstand it all and is surprisingly affordable. Aside from its price and convenient size, this machine is made with quality and durability.
The cast iron base alleviates vibrations when sanding while the ½ HP motor gives the belt and disc sander plenty of speed and accuracy. The work table includes a miter gage for precise angle sanding.
The 6” disc sander turns at a speed of 3,600 RPM while the belt measures 4” x 46”, moving at 1,950 SFPM. Whether you’ve been woodworking for a while or if you are just beginning your woodworking hobby, you want a reliable machine that can deliver, just as this product does.
The only reason it’s not in my top 3 is because it’s sometimes hard to find replacement parts easily.
Take a closer look:
- 4” x 36” Belt Size
- 6” Disc Size
- 3,600 RPM Disc Speed
- 1,900 SFPM Belt Speed
- 0-90 Degree Belt Angle
- Cast Iron Base
- Work Table
- ½ HP
Pros
- Powerful
- Compact
- Well-built
- No belt slippage
- Can use with metal and wood
- Easy to replace belt
Cons
- Can be noisy
- Stationary work table
- When too much pressure is applied, can get bogged down
11. Rikon 50-112 4-Inch x 36-Inch Belt 6-Inch Disc Sander
Last but not least, the Rikon 50-112 provides precision, quality and durability and is one of the best belt and disc sanders you can purchase. Made of cast iron and steel, this product is heavy duty and administers a vibration-free work zone.
The 6” disc is positioned in a way that does not protrude above the belt, ensuring you get a full range to sand your pieces. The adjustable belt ranges from 0 to 90 degrees and is easy to change when needed.
The disc has a speed of 3,450 RPM, increasing its reliability while the belt has a speed up to 1900 SFPM, helping finish workpieces fast, smooth, and efficiently. The ½ HP driven motor is ideal for light shop duty and includes a dust collection port.
The cast iron and steel body of this machine provides stability. An added plus is that this belt disc sander is lightweight, weighing around 39 pounds. This makes the belt disc sander easy to move around, making it an efficient tool that will not take up a ton of your workspace.
Even though this one of the more inexpensive belt and disc sanders, you will still get a quality product that can withstand lighter workloads and deliver precise results.
Take a closer look:
- 4” x 36” Belt Size
- 6” Disc Size
- 3,450 RPM Disc Speed
- 1,900 SFPM Belt Speed
- 0-90 Degree Belt Angle
- ½ HP
Pros
- Made of cast iron and steel
- Terrific value and quality
- The disc does not stick above the belt
- Changing belt is easy
- Little to no vibration
Cons
- Instructions may be difficult
- With heavier jobs machine may get bogged down
Belt Disc Sander Buyers Guide
When looking to purchase a belt disc sander, keep in mind that it is essentially two machines combined into one.
These machines can save your workspace and money and provides you with the opportunity to work on an array of different projects on one machine.
There are several key features to look for when purchasing the best belt disc sander for you:
- Make sure you are purchasing a model that has enough power to perform the types of jobs you are looking to do. If you do a lot of heavy sanding, you should be cautious of working a motor too hard and wearing it out before you can even complete your project.
- Remember that the more power your motor puts out to the belt and disc sander, the less work it will have to do.
- When looking to purchase the best belt disc sander to fit your needs, be aware of the wide range of machines – some are only for simple jobs, whereas others can withstand big pieces. Make sure you pay attention to features such as table size or belt angle, as you may prefer a belt with adjustable angles to give you more range.
- A big complaint you will see on many belt disc sander reviews is the ease and functionality of the product. Make sure you can easily change parts of the machine when needed as well as ensuring you can easily change the belt or disc as necessary.
- After reviewing different belt disc sanders, you may notice that many of them include some sort of dust collector. This is an important feature to look for when purchasing a belt disc sander because it minimizes clean up, but not all dust collectors are created equal. Make sure you take the time to research how you set your dust collector up – I’ve highlighted the better ones in the reviews above.
- Remember to look at the size and speed of the sander discs and belts. Because the disc and belt are separate pieces, you want to be sure to consider the size of each as they perform different tasks such as how much surface area you can work with or how much wood can be removed.
Overall, with belt disc sanders (as with most things in life!), the more you pay, the better the quality.
Buying a basic machine to save money may not work out in the long run if it fails or if you have to replace parts all the time. Hopefully, the shortlist above will help you choose the best belt disc sander for your home or workshop.