Venturing into detailing for the first time, and have no idea of the dual-action polisher to buy?
Why don't you check out our list of 10 best Dual action polishers for beginners to guide your choice?
Over the years, easy polishing and removing scratches & swirls on surfaces without ruining their paints has been a significant concern. The search for a safe, non-complex, but more powerful way to achieve this led to the dual-action polishers.
Being a beginner, choosing the right DA polisher to start with can be overwhelming. We care, that's why we are here to guide you on your venture.
So without further ado, let's take you down our list.
Name | Image | Power | Editor's Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 1000 Watt, 5000 OPM | |||
 | 700 Watt, 4200 OPM | |||
 | 750 Watt, 5500 OPM | |||
 | 900 Watt, 6400 OPM | |||
 | 600 Watt, 6800 OPM |
10 Best Dual Action Polisher for Beginners 2020
Here is our detailed guide on best electric da sanders for autobody work and polishing. Keep reading-
1. Maxshine M15 Pro Series II DA Dual Action Polisher, 1000W
Maxshine has been producing high-quality machines for more than 14 years now. We can see their expertise in the M15 pro series II DA Dual Action Polisher.
This dual-action polisher has a 15mm-orbit disc plate with an awesome power of 1000W to deliver a high level of scratch removal while not ruining the paint. Its no-load speed is from 2200-5000 OPM ensuring detailed paint correction and waxing.
It features an anti-tip brace for a steady balancing on the ground, which reduces vibrations when in use.
There's a variable-speed trigger lock mechanism, with a dial selector of (1-6) to tell the speed settings it's working with. It is ergonomically friendly with its enlarged rubberized hand space and horn grips to deliver smooth, comfortable, and consistent results.
There are vents by the sides to give the brushes airflow when working. These vents are removable for easy change of brushes. It has a 5-inch holed vacuum plate that comes standard with the disc plate for airflow to disperse heat quicker.
You don't have to bother about working distance with this machine. Because they come with a super long 4-meter (13') reinforced power cable to withstand heavy use and provide a long-range service from a power source.
When you buy this machine, it comes in a cool looking carrying bag. Inside the bag is a D handle, a tool pouch for all your tools like Allen key for your backing plate removal, washer mod bolts, a spare set of carbon brushes, and some silicone grease.
They are dependable for unbeatable paint correction with guaranteed superior polishing results. They can also spread sealants and waxes in an even layer for complete protection of your automotive paint.
Pros
Cons
2. Chemical Guys BUF 503X TORQX Random Polisher
Chemical Guys BUF 503X TORQX Random Polisher offers one solution to any paint detailing need you may have. The TORQX works with a 5-inch backing plate that has a no-load speed between 1200-4200 OPM.
Also, it has an 8mm dual action orbital throw. To power this machine for detailed polishing, waxing, scrubbing, and cleaning, you will need a 700W power supply. It can take on aggressive swirls & scratch, clean spills & stains from carpets, and spread a wax coat over sensitive paint finishes.
One of the most notable features of this polisher is its versatility with backing plates. It allows backing plates of 3, 5, and 6 inches sizes without extensive modifications and any voiding of warranties.
This feature makes you able to use your preferred backing plate size to take on any detailing job. Standardly, it comes with a durable 5" backing plate for use with its 5.5-inch buffing and polishing pads.
The pads are 5.5" to give balanced polishing to both flat and curved surfaces.
Around the polisher's fly are variable speed controls to adjust the power output to suit your requirement.
However, the speed control location is awkward because your hand can accidentally move the switch while working. Likewise, the on/off switch. You'd have to steady one hand on the device so that the other can reach for the switch. These little things make the machine working state awkward and stressful.
A built-in Precision Power (P²) controller slowly increases the power as speed setting increases.
This controller ensures the durability of the polisher and protects moving compartments from flinging due to speed fluctuation. It has a forward grip (TFG) ergonomics, which prevents fatigue, sore joints, numb arms, and fingers, boosting excellent polishing results. Thus, they are comfortable to use.
Pros
Cons
3. Adam's Swirl Killer 12mm Mini DA Polisher
Invented by "Adam's polishes," Adam's swirl killer 12mm throw mini dual-action polisher is a fantastic tool for those starting in the polishing niche.
It features a 12mm throw with a 3-inch backing plate that moves at a no-load speed of 2500-5500 OPM to provide strong correcting power to the polisher.
Because of its mini nature, it can go into small and complex places where full-size polisher can't, like fog lights, rear spoilers, headlights, taillights, and rocker panels.
The 3-inch backing plate has a small frame, which allows you to easily attach adam's 4" velcro foam polishing pads to it for a better result. The consuming power supply required for this polisher to operate is 500W, although it has a max of 750W.
The on/off switch is by the side, which is very nice. Like almost all dual-polisher, it has adjustable speed dial settings (1-6) to keep you in charge of the job. The placement of its speed dial is at the back, which is suitable for easy reach.
With this polisher, you must not start at high speed, as it could be damaging to what you want to correct. Start at low speed and gradually increase the speed required for your paint correction and maintenance tasks.
For mild scratches and swirl removal, speed setting 3 or 4 is the recommended setting, while 5 and 6 for heavier scratches. This mini polisher's versatility makes it suitable to clean on almost all surfaces, both flat and curves.
The ergonomic grip it has makes it easy to control when polishing. It comes with a tender rubber 25-foot length power cord for more effortless mobility around the device.
It is high-powered, sturdy, well-built, and offers excellent value for money. It has a year warranty. This polisher was made for paints correction in places full-size polishers can't get to, so because of this, it's not efficient to cover large areas at a time.
Pros
Cons
4. Ginour Polisher: Best Electric DA Sander For Autobody Work
Ginour DA random orbit car buffer polisher is a professional polishing tool perfect for all polishing related jobs on a car.
They are perfect for paint corrections, waxing and removing defects, stains, flaws on painted vehicles, reproducing the luster of cars, and so on.
The efficiency of this polisher makes it suitable for all professional detailing jobs and varieties of home surfaces. However, it has a short cord (3m), which makes mobility limited.
It features a 150mm throw with a 6-inch backing plate that moves between a no-load speed of 2000-6400 OPM and requires a power supply of 900W to operate. It has a speed dial at the tail and a lock button on top. The 6-level variable speed setting can perform all the needed tasks in car detailing.
Speed settings 1&2 move at 2000 & 2800 OPM, which is sufficient for waxing and buffing. Settings 3 &4 move at 3700 & 4600 OPM, which is adequate for polishing and cleaning. While speed setting 5&6 moves at 5500 & 6400 OPM, which is sufficient to remove paint defect and oxidation.
The ergonomically designed motor of this polisher produces low vibrations and lesser noise. Its rear rubber handle makes handling it easy and comfortable.
Built with an all-aluminum head that protects it from corrosion, it has a very long lifespan. Regardless, Ginour gives a lifetime warranty for this polisher and free replacement if there are any defects.
When you buy this polisher, it comes with a bag filled with professional accessories. You get a D-handle, a side handle, one Allen wrench, two carbon brushes, four 6-inch sponge disc, and one 6-inch wool disc. All these add-ons equip you further for a more comfortable operating experience and discs for different needs.
Pros
Cons
5. Avid AEP127 Power Polisher
Avid power is a renowned brand that makes high-quality working tools. They implant high power motors in their devices to get the job each device was designed for done swiftly.
This high power trademark of the brand is vividly seen in this 6-inch DA random orbital car buffer polisher.
It features a powerful motor with a 6-inch backing plate that rotates at 1500-6800 OPM no-load speed.
This speed range is more than efficient to carry out any paint corrections, polishing, swirl & oxidation removal, and rejuvenating your car's appearance or any surface both flat and curved. The required power supply for this polisher is 600W; of course, it may demand more.
Around the polisher's tail is a 6-setting speed control dial to keep you in charge of the speed per the requirement of any job you are doing. Low speed (1&2) for waxing and buffing. Medium speed (3&4) for polishing and cleaning. While high speed (5&6) for removing paint defects and oxidation. However, this machine makes tremendous noise during operation.
Its ergonomic design makes it very easy to use by people new to a DA polisher. This design comprises a rubberized body that keeps it from rolling off tables or slipping off surfaces and an adjustable D-handle that provides you with a comfortable grip.
When you buy this polisher, it comes in a bag containing three 7-inch foam pads (orange; compounding, yellow; polishing, and black; finishing), one foam disc, one detachable D-handle, one spanner, one hex wrench, and a user manual. All these accessories are all you need to achieve any polishing demand.
Pros
Cons
6. Hi-Spec 800W 5.7A DA Random Orbital 6" Polisher
Hi-Spec has been around since 1988 and has earned its place in the engineering world through their innovative machines. One of them being the Hi-spec dual-action random orbital polisher.
This DA polisher features a 6-inch backing plate for all detailing jobs like cleaning, smoothing, buffing, polishing, waxing, compounding on vehicles, bathrooms, tiles, counter-tops, and hard surfaces.
This 6-inch backing plate moves at a 2000-6400 OPM no-load speed, with a required power supply of 800W to give high-end finishing results. A 6 option variable speed dial controls this speed. It is located at the polisher's fly to make the operational process easy.
The on/off thumb switch is by the machine's side, which is excellent for effortless reach. However, this switch requires a firm slide to engage its lock-in, but a small press to disengage.
Its main engine features a durable nylon thermoplastic with an ergonomic rubber top head for a firm grip and comfortability. Inside the head is a unit that comprises heat-treated carbon steels, which assures the engine's durability.
This DA polisher head doesn't only rotate, but also elliptically orbits a 9mm eccentric short-throw around its axis to avoid swirls during polishing.
A fascinating feature of this dual-action polisher is its self-consciousness. When using it, if you apply high pressure, it stops working. The machine does this to protect the surface you are detailing from over-abrasion, heat, and friction. This action ensures you don't cause any paint damage to your detailing surface.
Also, it comes with a full set of essential professional accessories like a D-handle, two hook and loop backing Plates, fastening bolts, four hooks, and Loop Foam pads of different hardness, a hex key, a mini-wrench, and a set of carbon-brushes.
Pros
Cons
7. TACKLIFE 6 Inch/5 Inch Orbital Car Polisher
Take on any detailing job like a professional with the TACKLIFE 6/5 inch orbital polisher.
This dual-action orbital polisher comes with a 5-inch and 6-inch backing plate that can be interchangeable based on the task at hand. With the random motion of the backing plates, a swirl-free and burn-absent polishing result is guaranteed.
They move at a 1500-6400 OPM no-load speed, with an operating power of 6.5Amp to deliver a high-end desired result.
It has a 6-level variable speed dial for speed regulation per job requirement. Low speed (1&2), for waxing and buffing jobs. Medium speed (3&4), for polishing and cleaning jobs. While high speed (5&6), for removing paint defects and oxidation removal jobs.
Also, the long throw orbiting around its axis prevents swirling. The on/off switch is at the front of the machine for easy access and control. When you turn it on, it has a soft start, ensuring there's no paint burn.
One of the best features of this electric da sander machine is its ergonomic design. It has a flexible D-handle, a straight handle that can be fitted either left or right depending on your choice, and a no handle rubberized body for a comfortable, non-slipping grip.
A hand protection pad design and a power indicator that shows green when power is connected, and red remind you to change the carbon brushes. It comes with a year warranty and free replacement if anything defects within that period.
This machine works on all surfaces from cars, boats, tiles, stair handrails, furniture, floor, and any flat & curved surface. With its 10 feet power cord, you can use them at a reasonable distance from the power socket.
When you buy, it comes in a bag containing four different foam pieces; two 5.5-inch/6.5-inch yellow foam discs for smooth polishing and two 5.5-inch/6.5-inch black foam discs for fine sanding and polishing.
Pros
Cons
8. CHANTPOWER 6 Inch Dual Action Polisher
CHANTPOWER 6-Inch DA Polisher is just like any other polisher with similar features. It has a powerful motor that uses a 6-inch backing plate that moves at a 1500-6800 OPM no-load speed.
This speed range is more than efficient to carry out any paint corrections, polishing, swirl & oxidation removal, on cars, boats, high-value furniture, marble surfaces, etc. The required power supply for this polisher is 600W.
Around the polisher's tail is a 6-setting speed control dial to keep you in charge of the speed per the requirement of any job you are doing.
Low speed (1&2) for waxing and buffing. Medium speed (3&4) for polishing and cleaning. While high speed (5&6) for removing paint defects and oxidation. However, this machine makes tremendous noise during operation.
Its ergonomic design makes it very easy to use by people new to a dual-action polisher. This design comprises of auxiliary handles. An adjustable D-handle and interchangeable side handle to suit your preferred handling, thereby ensuring a comfortable user-experience. Its power cord is 3m long, which is quite fair for mobility.
It comes with a two-year limited warranty. It comes in a bag containing three 7-inch sponge pads (orange; compounding, yellow; polishing, and black; finishing).
As well as one towel, one detachable D-handle, a detachable side handle, one microfiber wash mitt, one spanner, one hex wrench, and a user manual.
Pros
Cons
9. SPTA 5-Inch 125mm Dual Action Random Orbital Car Polisher
SPTA makes this DAPSET-US DA random orbital polisher with a 5-inch backing plate that moves at a no-load speed of 1000-3800 OPM, requiring a power supply 700W-1000W to deliver good detailing results.
Compared with other DA polishers in its league, its speed is relatively low, which may not be adequate for stubborn paint corrections. Although with this speed range, the polisher has a smooth start and produces minimal noise. You should only consider this if you do minimal paint corrections.
Its speed is controlled by a 6-variable speed dial located at the polisher's rear. With this speed dial, you can regulate the speed per the requirement of any task.
The on/off switch is by the machine's side, which is excellent for easy reach and safety. It effectively dissipates heat with its cooling system, ensuring the machine's surface temperature is cool when operating.
The ergonomic design of this best electric da sander for auto body work is top-notch. It has a 3-way handling choice; there's a D-handle that rotates 180°, a side handles for flexibility, and a rubberized grip handle for comfortable user-experience.
The complete kit of this polisher comes in a bag containing an apron, four 5-inch polishing pads, four 6-inch foam Pads, a side handle, a D-handle, a wrench, an Allen key, a pair of carbon brushes, a user manual, twelve pcs 5-inch sanding disc, a 250ml rubbing compound, a 250ml supreme polish compound, two pcs 40x40mm microfiber towel, a car wash glove, and foam pads cleaning brush.
Pros
Cons
Read our take on the cordless impact wrenches
10. FULLWATT Car Buffer Polisher
FULLWATT 6" Variable Speed Random Orbit Dual-Action Polisher is a heavy-duty machine made with heat-treated precision-cut gears and high-quality fine cooper motor.
Its casing is made from durable anti-impact polyamides. It features a 6-inch backing plate that moves at a no-load speed of 2000-4800 OPM, with a power requirement of 950W to deliver high-end detailing results. It has a 21mm throw its orbits.
A 6-variable digital speed control regulates the speed with a display screen for precision. This feature allows you to set the speed per the task requirement and material texture.
This dual-action polisher's unique feature is its built-in LED light that comes in handy in a workspace with low visibility. It makes the polisher useable at night if you are working round the clock.
The on/off switch is at its tail for easy reach. Its power cord is 2m, which somewhat ok for mobility.
Ergonomics is relaxed with a grip handle, and a front D-shaped auxiliary handle offers a more comfortable user experience. The flexibility of this design allows you to choose your preferred handling for safe and convenient operation.
It's versatile, works well on all surfaces, curved & flat with excellent results. Also, it comes with essential accessories like a polishing plate, a backing pad, an open-end wrench, an Allen wrench, two carbon brushes, and a 5.7-inch polish pad.
Pros
Cons
Read our guide on best air compressor for sanding!
Best Dual Action Polisher For Beginners Buying Guide
As you have read our top 10 picks for the best-rated da polishers, you may have been curious about the process we have followed to make the list. So, here is what we went through to find the top 10 tools that can serve you-
1. Rotation Speed
The first thing to check in a tool is its motor capacity. How many orbits per minute can it achieve is a question that you find the answer for.
Generally, 4000 to 6000 OPM is standard for almost any kind of dual action polishing job.
With the highest speed, you should also look for the adjustment settings, and how much slower it can run. We recommend going with the products that can run at as low as 2000 OPM and have at least 4-speed adjustment settings.
But again, the more freedom you get in those adjustment functionalities, the better. You'll feel more comfortable working with a machine that has a lot of flexibility in speeds and OPM.
2. Corded vs Cordless Buffer
The next thing is selecting between the corded and cordless models. Generally speaking, corded models come with more power in the motor as they don't need to rely on batteries that have limited power capacity.
However, you exercise less freedom with the corded models as you must connect it to an electric outlet for the machine to run.
On the other hand, cordless models come with less power but give you the freedom to work anywhere you want.
So, think about your purpose. Where will you use the machine, and how likely it is for you to connect the tool with an electric outlet?
3. Weight of the Machine
Next comes the weight of the tool. The heavier the tool, the more it will become uncomfortable for you to work with it. On the other hand, powerful and durable tools are typically for their construction.
So, you need to find a sweet spot between these two. You shouldn't compromise the quality for comfort, nor can sacrifice comfort as it will prevent you from working enough time.
That's why we recommend balanced products with durable build and lightweight.
4. Ergonomics
Ergonomics also fall in the comfort category but we have separated this due to its unique nature. Better ergonomics is achieved by the design. How easy it is for you to hold the tool while working? How easy it is to adjust the speed and change the polishing pads are some of the things that you should consider as well while making the decision.
5. DA Polisher Price
No purchase decision is well made without considering the product price. That's because of some brands that list the products at a lot higher price than it should be.
Luckily, you are here and we have already filtered out all the low quality or overpriced products that you should avoid.
Types of Car Polisher
You will find two types of polishers to buff out your car paint, i.e. Rotary polisher, and the dual-action sander that we are talking about in this article.
1. Rotary Polisher
Rotary tools work simply by rotating the polishing pad like other sanding and power tools. These tools come with massive motor power and are used for polishing the raw surface of the car before applying the paint.
Since these are high-speed polishers and rotates in the same direction, they leave swirl marks on the surface. So, you can't use them for polishing the painted car.
2. Dual Action or Random Orbit Polisher
DA sanders work smartly to eliminate the risk of scratches on the polished surface. The polishing pad doesn't remain on the same spot, rather it changes its place while rotating. The polishing pad randomly changes its rotational angle that results in a scratch and swirl mark free surface.
Benefits of Using a Dual Action Polisher?
There are several benefits of using a da polisher instead of the conventional sanders. Here is what you can do with a quality da polisher-
1. You can sand wood, metal, and any other surface with the da polisher. The only thing you need to have is the right grit sandpaper attached to the tool head.
2. Because the polisher doesn't leave scratches on the surface like other sanders, these are great for auto detailing.
3. What if you need to get rid of scratches out of the painted car body? Dual-action polishers come in handy in such a situation as well. Pick the right grit, attach it, and sand off the outer layer of the surface to get rid of the scratch.
However, you need to buff out the surface with wax to have a shiny finish.
4. But that is not a problem when you have this tool in your hand. Change the sanding pad with a buffing pad and use appropriate wax to buff the surface.
How to Use a Dual Action Polisher?
The easiest way to learn using a dual-action sander is practice. However, using a da sander is not a big deal. You can easily learn to achieve the desired results within moments. Here is what you need to know-
1. Clean the Surface
Before going into the main task, you should clean up the surface thoroughly. Sanding or polishing a dirty surface where dust and debris are stuck will end up in a more scratched surface.
So, make sure you remove all dust particles from the surface by using soft cleaning compounds.
2. Attach Appropriate Polishing Pad
After thorough cleaning up, attach an appropriate polishing or sanding pad. This is an important step as well. Improper use of the pads can cost you hundreds in the repair of the surface.
Check the surface condition and attach the best pad for that kind of job. If you don't know what to use for what job, watch some tutorials before diving into the next step.
3. Adjust the Speed
Now, adjusting the speed of the polisher is another crucial step towards a perfect result. Using low speed in high-speed requirement jobs or vice versa can make you feel that the machine is not good.
If you don't know what speed setting to use, simply start with the slowest and observe the results. Increase the speed slowly until you start getting the desired output.
Watch the video for better understanding-
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should I Polish a Car?
Depends on the environment where you live and drive the car. Generally speaking, you should polish the car every 3 months for keeping the shiny look for long.
Does DA Polisher Remove Scratches?
Yes. DA polishers help you remove scratches from metal, paint, and wooden surfaces when used correctly. While they can eliminate scratches, they can leave new scratches behind as well if used incorrectly.
What Pads are Best For Polishing?
I don't recommend any other pads than the foam pads for the beginners. That's because microfiber and wool pads may end up scratching the surface if you can't control the tool well.
So, stick to the foam pads until you get a good hang of the da polishing tool.
You'll find the exact sizes and shapes of foam pads to use with your tool. If you are lucky enough, the tool may come with some of the initial pads for you to use initially.
Should I Buy a Short Throw or Long Throw Polisher?
The simple rule is- short-throw polishers are more focused than the long throw counterparts. So, if you have a lot of surfaces to cover, go with the long throw models. But for precision, short-throw polishers are the best.
FINAL VERDICT
When deciding on the best dual-action polisher for beginners, there are many factors to consider, such as the backing plate's diameter, the OPM, power supply it uses, power cord length, noise, ergonomics, versatility on surfaces, and its simple operation.
All these factors were considered while compiling this list, and we hope we have been able to make your decision process stress-free.
You may opt for the best air orbital sander for autobody work to polish your car as well. In that case, make sure to get polishing pads and attachments to have perfectly finished car paint.
In conclusion, whichever dual-action polisher for you decide to buy, taking good care of it adds years to its lifespan. Also, before you operate a dual-action polisher, ensure you aren't wearing anything loose enough to wrap around the polisher as it spins. Your safety comes first.
Leave a Reply