Reference
Polisher types compared: dual-action, long-throw, rotary and more
Pick a polisher type to see how it moves, which pad sizes and throws it uses, and the jobs it suits or should avoid.
- Free-spinning dual-action (random orbital) polishers
- Forced-rotation (gear-driven) dual-action polishers
- Rotary polishers
- Short-throw dual-action polishers (5-12 mm)
- 15 mm long-throw polishers (5-inch class)
- 21 mm long-throw polishers (6-inch class)
- Mini polishers (3-inch class)
- Multi-mode micro polishers
- Corded polishers
- Cordless polishers
Choose your polisher type to see the key facts and what fits. Each fact links to its source on the full page.
All polisher types
- Free-spinning dual-action (random orbital) polishers On a free-spinning random orbital polisher the plate orbits and rotates freely, so rotation can slow or stop under friction. Throws, plates and limits.
- Forced-rotation (gear-driven) dual-action polishers A forced-rotation polisher's plate orbits and is geared to rotate, which RUPES calls more aggressive with more vibration. Throws, speeds and models.
- Rotary polishers A rotary polisher spins on one axis with no orbit. Auto Care HQ says heat and friction build faster and that rotaries are mostly for experienced users.
- Short-throw dual-action polishers (5-12 mm) Short-throw machines use a 5-12 mm orbit: RUPES LK900E 5 mm, Makita XOP02Z 7/32 in, SPTA CP501 9 or 12 mm and RUPES HLR75 12 mm.
- 15 mm long-throw polishers (5-inch class) 15 mm random orbital polishers usually run a 125 mm (5 in) plate: RUPES LHR15ES, Milwaukee 2684-20, FLEX XFE 15. Speeds, plates and limits.
- 21 mm long-throw polishers (6-inch class) 21 mm random orbital polishers pair with 150 mm (6 in) plates, like Milwaukee's 2685-20. What the bigger orbit is said to suit and what to check.
- Mini polishers (3-inch class) Mini polishers like the RUPES HLR75 use a 75 mm (3 in) plate and 12 mm orbit for curves and compact areas. Battery, runtime and charger notes.
- Multi-mode micro polishers FLEX's 12V PXE 80 set swaps between a rotary head and 3 mm or 12 mm orbital heads, with 30 mm and 75 mm plates. What the US kit includes.
- Corded polishers Corded polishers need a supply voltage that matches your outlet and a certification mark on the tool. What makers state, and the GFCI rule.
- Cordless polishers Cordless polishers run on closed battery platforms: Milwaukee M18, Makita 18V LXT, FLEX and RUPES iBrid. Why the same voltage is not the same pack.