Metabo HPT 18V 5 Inch Random Orbital Sander Review

Metabo HPT brand is not new to the woodworking power tools arena, having manufactured some of the best ones on the market. Previously known as Hitachi, this brand has been in the industry for over 100 years, so they know what they’re doing. 

Unfortunately, they haven’t had some of the best cordless sanders, that is, until they launched the Metabo HPT 18V 5-Inch random orbital sander. Previously, they had several orbital sanders, but this one put them in the spotlight, and with good reason. 

First, this is the initial brushless random orbital sander in their product line, and it handles all sanding jobs impeccably; on wood and metal. 

That said, here is my comprehensive review of the Metabo HPT 18V 5-inch random orbital sander:

Specifications 

Dimensions: 6.25 by 6.25 by 6 Inches 

Weight: 2.6 pounds

Voltage: 18

Motor: Brushless 

No Load Speed: 11,000 

Warranty: 5 years 

What I Like 

• This sander has a maximum speed of 11,000 OPM and offers six variable speed settings for maximum control over your workpiece. 
• It comes with a powerful brushless motor and a generous 5-year warranty. 
• The package not only includes the random orbital sander but also a dust bag, two vacuum adaptors, and two sanding pads. 
• This is a versatile power tool that you can use to sand wood and metal. 
• The electric brake is a convenient feature that also ensures user safety. 
• It is lightweight and compact, hence ideal for the user without much storage space. 

What I Don’t Like 

• The package does not include batteries. 
• The dust bag clip is archaic, making it difficult to attach. 

Key Features 

Powerful Motor 

This Metabo random orbital sander features a powerful motor that helps attain an 11,000 OPM. This speed is ideal for sanding numerous materials, including metal & wood. The 5-inch hook & loop setup is easy to change; you only need to undo the four screws. 

After using this machine for a few hours, I was convinced it was one of the best on the market. I could effortlessly eliminate mill marks from a workpiece I had designed some time back. To further test this random orbital sander’s capabilities, I made pencil marks on several wood types and metal. 

The changeable speed button worked effectively at reducing or increasing speed when adjusting between metal, paintwork, and hardwood. This unit offers 6-speed settings between 7,000 and 11,000 OPM and a 3mm orbit diameter. The settings give you more control over your work, depending on the material you’re working on. 

Electric Brake 

This is arguably the best feature of the Metabo 5-inch random orbital sander. The electric brake makes it stand out, and understandably so. 

Most of the random orbital sanders I’ve used shut down slowly when I switch them off. Unfortunately, a day might come when you set the random orbital sander down on the material before it shuts down completely and damages your already sanded workpiece. 

Luckily, this will not be an issue with the Metabo sander. This is because the electric brake halts oscillation almost instantly. Honestly, this would be a great inclusion in any sander. 

Dust Collection 

The other main feature I would love to discuss is the dust collection system. This is not your average dust collection setup. It works excellently, and the manufacturer was kind enough to include 1.75- and 1.5-inch dust collection adaptors, as opposed to a single large and bulky adaptor that delivers less-than-average performance. 

This dust collection system ensures that no dust or debris is left behind to interfere with your work. This also ensures a more convenient cleanup after you’re done working. 

Multi-Volt System 

The Metabo 18V random orbital sander can work effectively with the Metabo HPT Multi-volt setup. This means it can utilize Metabo 18V batteries or the 18V/36V multi-Volt batteries. 

When I used the multi-volt battery with this machine, it efficiently doubled the usage period that a typical battery provides, and it is an excellent way of streamlining the batteries available. 

Sanding Discs 

This sander is an expedient tool that you can use to sand metal, wood, and other materials effectively. It comes with two sanding pads which are included in the package, allowing you to sand different materials easily. You can pick either, depending on your needs. 

Weight & Size 

The Metabo random orbital sander is extremely light at 2.6 pounds and has quite a compact construction. This makes it an ideal option for the woodworker who doesn’t have plenty of storage space. You can even keep it in your workbench drawer. 

In addition, it is highly portable, so you can carry it with you to your job site or any other place effortlessly. 

What’s In the Box?

The Metabo 18V 5-inch random orbital sander does not come alone. The package also includes the following:

• 1.5- and 1.75-inch vacuum adaptor
• One dust bag 
• Two sanding pads

Price 

The Metabo HPT 18V 5-inch random orbital sander costs $100 to $200, depending on where you purchase it. 

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Worthy Alternatives 

Bosch PEX 220A Sander 

This random orbital sander is an excellent alternative to the Metabo sander. First, it is the best seller in several online shops, and it delivers above-average performance due to the integrated 220W motor. On top of that, the Bosch PEX 220A has Velcro fastening plates. 

I also love the micro-filter system, which directs all debris and dust to its special filters for a dust-free workspace. When it comes to the dust container, it is easy to connect and empty, while the smooth grip allows for convenient prolonged use. Besides, if you’re strong enough, you can use it with one hand. 

Moreover, the cover is enfolded using rubber to decrease vibration and boost user comfort. Unfortunately, this is an expensive random orbital sander, so if you’re on a budget, I recommend the Metabo 5-inch sander. 

DeWalt 20V Max Sander 

This random orbital sander from DeWalt is one of the best from the market’s best cordless power tools manufacturer. Even though it calls for a more significant investment than corded power tools, it provides professional woodworkers an unrivaled blend of reliability, mobility, and power to handle a wide range of tasks. 

It is equipped with a brushless motor, making it highly efficient, while the variable speeds make it ideal for sanding various surfaces. Plus, the variable speed dial is at the front, hence visible and easy to use. 

The entire upper section is covered using rubber, facilitating a comfy grip at any angle. When it comes to dust collection, the bag included is ideal for small tasks, though you can fit a hose for powered dust extraction. The package includes a charger, bag, and battery pack. 

In Conclusion

The Metabo HPT 5-inch random orbital sander is an excellent companion for both professional and intermediate-skilled woodworkers. It is also affordable, so it is perfect for those on a tight budget. 

Overall, this machine is a powerful, affordable, high-performance, and long-lasting random orbital sander and would be an excellent inclusion in any serious DIYer or professional woodworker’s workshop.