It’s difficult to choose the proper polisher because of the words and functions included into modern machines. There are several models, but the three most common are rotary, random orbital, and dual action.
Choosing the best type relies on your goals and the advantages and disadvantages of each option.
Random orbital is better for waxing, whereas forced rotation dual action is excellent for polishing.
The Differences Between Random Orbital and Dual Action Polisher
When it comes to polisher types and terminology, let’s take a closer look:
To understand how different polishers work, we need to put these terms together.
Simply said, the rotating polisher spins like an angle grinder, always moving in the same direction and with the same pattern.
An elliptical-shaped pad is spun by the random orbital polisher, which spins it in different directions. In theory, the polisher’s pad still revolves around the lug, but because it has to complete so many orbits, the RPM is extremely low. Random orbital polishers are often referred to as non-rotating because of this.
When using a dual action polisher, the pad moves in a predetermined manner rather than moving randomly. Rotational movement allows it to cut clearcoat and adequately polish the paint while the orbital rotation evens out the surface coverage.
Rotational Polisher
The dual action polisher has mostly supplanted the rotational polisher, but the rotational polisher’s reduced price makes it a viable alternative.
If you’re good enough, you can get around the problem of buffer marks left behind by the circular movement. Unless pressure is applied, it doesn’t have to cut a lot of clear coat because it is the lightest of all polisher models
Rotating polishers are good for both waxing and polishing, but they aren’t very good at either of them.
Random Orbital Polisher
Many people confuse random orbital polishers with other types of polishers because they don’t understand what they actually are. As a side effect of incomplete ellipsis, the random orbital polisher spins in circles rather than aiming to do so.
Because of this, random orbital polishing should be less successful than the dual action method. The wax and light polishing it provides is amazing. Random orbital polishers are also dual action polishers, thus some manufacturers will refer to them as such even if they really aren’t.
Dual Action Polisher
There are a number of random orbital dual action polishers since manufacturers are combining the two words. However, the term “forced rotation” still makes a difference. It means that no matter how much force is applied to the pad, it will continue to polish in the same pattern.
Dual action polishers with a forced rotation are the most powerful, but they are also the most expensive. Both amateur and expert mechanics agree that they’re the greatest solution.
The Best Rotational, Random Orbit & Dual Action Polishers
The greatest polishers in each category may now be examined to give you a sense of how much they cost and how they differ from one another.
Top 3 Rotational Polishers
Prices and availability of products are correct as of the time/date mentioned and may be changed without notice. The purchase of this item is subject to the price and availability information published on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase.
However, the Dewalt polisher is one of the best rotating polishers available on the market. At its peak, it has a 12 amp motor that can generate speeds between 600 and 3,500 RPM on a single charge. It weighs just 6.7 pounds, which makes it easier to operate and decreases the risk of buffer marks.
A more affordable option is the SPTA and ENEARCO. Both come with a 1,200W motor and a number of replacement pads in a feature-rich package.
The SPTA has more speed possibilities than ENEARCO, which gives it an advantage. Unlike ENEARCO, which has a range of 1, 500 to 3, 500 RPM, the six settings distribute the rotating speed between 500 and 3500 RPM.
Top 3 Random Orbital Polishers
Prices and availability of products are correct as of the time/date mentioned and may be changed without notice. The purchase of this item is subject to the price and availability information published on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase.
It almost feels like Chemical Guys TORQX is an off-brand polisher when compared to DeWalt and especially Rupes. The power settings on an orbital polisher can explain why going high end isn’t as advantageous.
Applying wax and conducting modest touch-ups on the exterior of the vehicle is a fantastic use for the TORQX polishing tool. Chemical Guys polisher is a preferable alternative for DIY use because this procedure doesn’t require a lot of power or unique characteristics.
You can’t go wrong with Rupes Big Foot if you’ve got the money to spare and don’t mind spending it. As a bonus, the DeWalt polisher is priced right in the middle of the Rupes and Chemical Guys options.
Top 3 Dual Action Polishers
Prices and availability of products are correct as of the time/date mentioned and may be changed without notice. The purchase of this item is subject to the price and availability information published on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase.
Dual action and random orbiting polishers have vague distinctions that make it difficult to determine the best instances. Both names can be used to describe other products, but these are the best money can buy.
These professional-grade polishers are widely utilized in automotive repair shops around the United States. For decades, Rupes has been recognized as the top detailer’s tool manufacturer in the US, but Makita’s reputation is unmatched in Europe. Your choice is guaranteed to be the best dual action polisher currently on the market!
FAQs
Is dual-action better than random orbital?
A dual action polisher is a better choice since it can cut better and provide and remove clear coat layers more effectively and uniformly.
Which is better dual action polisher or rotary polisher?
It isn’t that the rotary polisher cuts paint faster that makes the dual action polisher superior. Using less force on the paint and hence less heat and cutting power, the rotary polisher has a reduced weight.
For the most part, the dual action polisher removes material more evenly and doesn’t leave any buffer marks.
Summary
In order to find out if a polisher is truly dual action orbital, look at the manufacturer’s specifications and power output. Random orbital and dual action polishers are vastly different, with the latter being far more effective in polishing.
The Rupes LK900E dual action polisher is one of the best in the industry and receives our full endorsement. Rupes products have been put to the test by many skilled detailers, and they’ve come out on top every time.
