Milwaukee M12 FUEL 6 in. Random Orbital Sander vs Makita 40V XGT 6" Random Orbit Sander

The Makita 40V XGT GOB01 is the stronger sander: more power, lower vibration, a lock-on trigger and constant speed control, and it runs on the 40V XGT battery platform. The Milwaukee M12 FUEL is smaller and lighter in the hand and runs on the widely owned M12 batteries, but its 12V motor and 3,000-12,000 OPM range suit lighter work. Buy the Makita for sustained sanding on large panels and body filler; buy the Milwaukee if you already own M12 batteries and want a compact sander for smaller jobs.

• Choose the Milwaukee M12 FUEL if you already own M12 batteries and want a compact 6 in. sander for spot work and small panels.
• Choose the Makita 40V XGT if you sand large surfaces often and want more power, less vibration and a lock-on trigger.