Here’s a deep dive into Makita’s 18V random orbital sanders — how they work, what to look for, pros/cons, tips — plus some good models you can check out:
Popular Products
Milwaukee M12FROS500 - 12V Brushless150mm Random Orbital Sander 5mm (Tool Only) Designed for the professional Body Technician, our M12 FUEL™ 15mm Random Orbital Sander (5mm) delivers the power to confidently sand body filler, ultimate control when shaping body panels, and delivering maximum runtime.Our POWERSTATE™ Brushless Motor and REDLINK PLUS™ intelligence give users the confidence to remove body filler while maintaining material removal under load. The 150mm Random Orbit has an aggressive…
What Is an 18V Random Orbital Sander?
A random orbital sander (also called a dual-action sander) combines a circular rotation + small orbital (eccentric) movement. The “random” aspect comes from the fact that the pad doesn’t follow the same circular path each time, which helps prevent swirl marks and gives smoother finishes.
When we say “Makita 18V random orbital sander,” we mean a sander that runs on Makita’s 18 V battery system (LXT, etc.). These allow cordless operation, combining portability with the finishing capabilities of orbital sanding.
125 mm “disc” size (123 mm pad) is used in DBO180Z.
Weight & Ergonomics
Lighter tools are easier to use overhead or for long durations
The DBO180Z is ~1.7 kg with battery (1.1 kg skin only).
Dust Extraction / Porting
Helps keep the workspace and the tool cleaner
DBO180Z has 8-hole dust extraction through the pad, and a dust box.
Pad Brake / Start Control
Prevents aggressive spin before the pad contacts the surface
DBO180Z includes a pad brake to manage that.
Controls & Switch
Speed change, on/off, etc.
DBO180Z uses a push-button control with independent stop / speed setting.
Compact / Low Profile Design
Helps in tight spaces or close to surfaces
Makita mentions the “compact design with a short height and a lower centre of gravity” for ease of handling.
Pros & Trade-Offs
Pros
Cordless convenience: No cord to manage, easier mobility
Reduction of swirl & mark risk: Random orbital motion helps produce nicer finishes
Variable speed: You can tailor speed to material and finish
Good balance of aggressive removal vs control
Integration with own dust collection or shop vacuum systems
Makita’s build & parts / spares support
Trade-Offs
Battery dependence: The performance and runtime depend heavily on your battery pack
Not as aggressive as belt grinders or disc grinders — for heavy stock removal, a more aggressive tool might be faster
Dust collection is good but may not keep up under heavy sanding, so some dust escape will occur
Heavier than hand sanding or sheet sanders — for fine, delicate work less is more
Model Options to Consider
Here are some Makita / Makita-compatible 18 V orbital sander models to check. Use these as benchmarks or actual shopping options:
Popular Products
Milwaukee M12FROS500 - 12V Brushless150mm Random Orbital Sander 5mm (Tool Only) Designed for the professional Body Technician, our M12 FUEL™ 15mm Random Orbital Sander (5mm) delivers the power to confidently sand body filler, ultimate control when shaping body panels, and delivering maximum runtime.Our POWERSTATE™ Brushless Motor and REDLINK PLUS™ intelligence give users the confidence to remove body filler while maintaining material removal under load. The 150mm Random Orbit has an aggressive…
Milwaukee M12FSDR750 - 12V Brushless 75mm Random Orbit Sander (Tool Only) Milwaukee M12FSDR750 — 12V Brushless 75 mm Random Orbit Sander (Tool Only) Compact, stain-grade random orbital sander for precise spot sanding and trim work. Delivers up to 10,000 OPM with a 2.5 mm orbit for clean, consistent finishes—ideal for cabinetry, railings, edges and other refinishing applications. Tool only (battery/charger sold separately). Key Highlights POWERSTATE™ Brushless Motor—maintains 10K max OPM under load for fast…
Milwaukee M12FROS250 - 12V Brushless 150mm Random Orbital Sander 2.5mm (Tool Only) Designed for the professional Paint Technician, our M12 FUEL™ 150mm Random Orbital Sander (2.5mm) delivers the power to confidently sand clear coat, ultimate control when removing clear coat, and delivering maximum runtime. The innovative ergonomic shape of the palm grip, speed dial, and variable speed trigger allow users maximum control of the tool and a range of 3,200 – 12,000…
Milwaukee M18BOS125-0 - 18V 125mm Random Orbital Sander (Tool Only) The M18â„¢ 125mm Random Orbital Sander delivers corded power with 12,000 Max OPM output. The 7,000-12,000 variable speed dial allows the user more control over the output of the tool to match the orbit speed for the application. The tool’s powerful motor allows the user to remove more material per battery charge. The M18â„¢ Random Orbital Sander powered by REDLITHIUM-IONâ„¢…
Milwaukee M18FROS1250 - 18V Brushless 125mm Random Orbital Sander w/ VACLINK (Tool Only) The M18 FUEL™ 125 mm Random Orbital Sander is designed for the professional carpenters, remodelers, and painters who rely on high-performing and durable tools. Leveraging the latest in cordless technology, this sander offers class-leading performance, providing the power to complete heavy stock removal and achieve stain-grade finishes with its 2.5mm orbit diameter. The POWERSTATE™ Brushless Motor delivers 6,000 - 12,000…
Metabo POWERMAXXSXA12125BL - 12V Powermaxx Random Orbital Sander (Tool Only) Features Extremely light, compact cordless random orbital sander of the 12 volt class, ideal also for working overhead Comfortable guidance of the sander close to the surface thanks to the low overall height Low-vibration working thanks to smooth running operation Grip area with non-slip soft-grip surface Soft start minimises surface damage when placing the machine on the work surface Unique…
Metabo SXA18LTX125BL - 18V Brushless 125mm Random Orbit Sander (Tool Only) Features Flat cordless random orbital sander with ergonomic design and low weight for low-fatigue working Comfortable guidance of the sander close to the surface thanks to the low overall height Low-vibration working thanks to smooth running operation Grip area with non-slip soft-grip surface Soft start minimises surface damage when placing the machine on the work surface Unique Metabo brushless motor…
Katana 220141 - 18V Random Orbital Sander (Tool Only) The KATANA 18V CHARGE-ALL Random Orbital Sander features a versatile design while remaining compact and lightweight. With variable speed control between 6,000 and 12,000 RPM it has enough power to remove a significant amount of excess material while delivering a smooth finish. A Lightweight design with rubber hand grip makes the tool comfortable for extended periods of use around the…
Milwaukee 48806406 - 75mm (3") Assorted Grit Set POWERGRID H&L Mesh Sanding Discs 36PK + 3 Pad Saver MILWAUKEE's mesh sanding discs are designed with POWERGRID™ tear resistant mesh for maximum durability, delivering up to 12x longer life vs. standard sandpaper. Mesh sanding discs use an open weave design to minimise clogging and reduce material build-up for a smooth and flawless finish. The durable nylon backing increases protection against sharp edges, tight corners and tough material removal applications…
Festool ETSC 125 KIT - 18V Random Orbital Sander Kit (2 x 3.1Ah) The new RTSC 400, DTSC 400, ETSC 125 cordless compact sanders ensure unparalleled mobility and ease of movement when working. The powerful 18 V Bluetooth® Ergo battery pack with 3.1 Ah guarantees power similar to that of a mains-powered tool. And it is the key to an extremely compact design with balanced weight distribution and perfect ergonomics with a weight…
Makita DBO180Z - 18V 125mm Random Orbital Sander (Tool Only) Features Three speed settings (7,000/9,500/11,000 OPM) engineered for faster material removal Large 2.8mm random orbit action engineered for fast sanding and swirl-free finish Ergonomically designed body and grip for increased operator comfort Uses quick-change 125mm hook-and-loop abrasive paper Dust Box provides efficient through-the-pad dust collection for a cleaner work environment Specifications Abrasive paper diameter: 125mm Orbit diameter: 2.8mm Orbits per…
Milwaukee M12FROS250 - 12V Brushless 150mm Random Orbital Sander 2.5mm (Tool Only) Designed for the professional Paint Technician, our M12 FUEL™ 150mm Random Orbital Sander (2.5mm) delivers the power to confidently sand clear coat, ultimate control when removing clear coat, and delivering maximum runtime. The innovative ergonomic shape of the palm grip, speed dial, and variable speed trigger allow users maximum control of the tool and a range of 3,200 – 12,000…
