When it comes to cars, there are many areas where people can get mixed up. Car buffers or polishers are the most frequently misunderstood part of car maintenance, mainly because the topic seems simple at first glance. However, that’s far from true. Everyone who tried to learn about car buffers and get into this trade found themselves sitting down and scratching their head at some point.
Understanding the differences between each machine, brands, and models can be an extremely challenging task. Don’t blame yourself if you are having a tough time understanding things. It happens to everyone once they realize how many options there are out there.
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This is why we’ve decided to share some important information that will help you understand what car buffers are all about. Our goal was to give you clear and understandable facts in an easily digestible way. We hope this post helps you make sense of these tools and choose the best one for you.
What Are Buffers and What Are Polishers?
One of the first barriers everyone encounters are the two terms – “buffers” and “polishers”. Simply put, these two terms refer to the same thing – the process of working a product into some surface to change its appearance.
There is no real difference between the two. People often find information online using either word to describe these tools so, in this post, we’ll use both of them interchangeably.
Car Buffer Benefits
Many people don’t own car buffers because they don’t know what they are used for or that they even exist. If you are on the fence about buying this tool for yourself, here are some of the benefits you can expect when using one. Hopefully, you’ll see how valuable these tools can be.
Your Car Will Look Brand New
The biggest reason why so many invest in a premium quality car buffer is that this tool is excellent at restoring the shine and luster of any car. It can make the car look brand new, clean, and even hide imperfections like scratches and dents.
They Save Money
How many times a year do you got to a car shop to buffer your car or get it waxed? Now think about how much this costs you on a yearly basis. Why spend so much money on this when you can do it yourself.
By making this one-time investment, you will get a powerful tool that will allow you to polish your car with the same quality, if not better. The whole process doesn’t take a lot of time, and with the right buffer, anyone can do this on their own.
You Will Save Time and Effort
A lot of people use the traditional approach of applying wax with a cloth. Doing this manually requires a lot of time and effort. You will have to go through the same surface multiple times to get that shine, and this can be really tiring. If you’re one of those people who like to cover every detail, then doing this manually simply makes no sense.
On the other hand, a car buffer can do this more quickly. You will just have to go over a surface once to get the best results. Not only do these tools save time, but also a lot of effort. So with this in mind, let’s get to our reviews.
1. DeWalt DWP849X
The DeWalt DWP849X is a great, versatile speed polisher that can be used for buffering cars, but also finishing other metal and concrete surfaces. It’s packed with many features, making it great for metal painting, car detailing, boat detailing, and overall metal fabrication.
This model is great for both homeowners and professionals. DeWalt is a reliable brand when it comes to machining tools, and you can buy their products with confidence. It has a 12 amp motor with great power.
The buffer has an all-metal bearing construction, which guarantees durability and great performance.
Specifications:
| Motor | 12 amp motor |
| Weights | 6.7 lbs (3 kg) |
| Features | Backing pad (loop and hook) Variable speeds Electronic modules Bale handle Classic handle |
The Pros:
- Versatility: DWP849X is great for all types of detailing projects.
- Durability: Durability is one of the issues car buffers have. With DWP849X, however, this is not a problem.
- Easy operation: Its rubber gear case cover gives a better gripping surface overall. Its horizontal handle on the side and bail side handle give more options during use
The Cons:
- Soft start is not ideal: The soft start has a bit of a jolt when turning on the tool, and this can be a bit strange for inexperienced users.
- Has a humming sound: When the polisher is turned on, you will notice a humming sound that might be distracting.
2. Flex XC 3401 VRG
This Porter Cable polisher is long-lasting and built with quality in mind. It’s very popular with homeowners and professionals, as its buffing pads and backer heads can be changed endlessly to get the exact finish you desire. It’s suitable for all kinds of vehicles, no matter if we are talking about cars, RVs, or boats.
It has variable speed controls that are easy to use, and you can set the head spin precisely. Porter Cable is a respected tool company, and this model shows it. This random orbital polisher will help you get that mirror finish without a scratch.
Specifications:
| Motor | 7.8 amp motor |
| Weights | 5.73 lbs (2.6 kg) |
| Features | Rate selection Acceleration trigger Speed control microprocessor Restart protection Dual-action movement |
The Pros:
- Great control: the combination of dual-action and forced rotation give great control during operation.
- Difficult to overheat: can work for a long time before getting warmed up.
- Great for both cutting and refining
The Cons:
- It’s very loud: this car buffer is as loud as it gets, but if this doesn’t present a problem, you will love it.
- Intense vibrations: at higher speeds, it can vibrate more intensely, which means you will need to take breaks.
3. Porter Cable 7424XP
This Porter Cable polisher is long-lasting and built with quality in mind. It’s very popular with homeowners and professionals, as its buffing pads and backer heads can be changed endlessly to get the exact finish you desire. It’s suitable for all kinds of vehicles, no matter if we are talking about cars, RVs, or boats.
It has variable speed controls that are easy to use, and you can set the head spin precisely. Porter Cable is a respected tool company, and this model shows it. This random orbital polisher will help you get that mirror finish without a scratch.
Specifications:
| Diameter | 6 inches |
| Variable Speed | 2500 up to 6800 RPM |
| Weight | 6 lbs |
| Amp | 4.5 |
| Power | 425 Watt |
| Features | Removable side handle with two positions 6-setting speed adjustments Counterweight build |
The Pros:
- Small and easy to use: This car buffer is more compact than the competition, which makes its use easier.
- Extremely durable: built to last forever.
- Versatile: works equally well with all vehicles.
- It comes with a variety of pads and backers: they are sold separately but give more options.
- Affordable
The Cons:
- The standard polishing pad needs to be changed instantly
- Accessories require additional payment
- Comes without a backing plate
4. Makita 9227C
If you need serious cutting power, the Makita 9227C circular polisher is the right thing for you. It can easily smooth any edges and penetrate clear coating while also being a sander. This buffer isn’t designed for beginners because it has the power to level down to the lowest point really quickly.
An inexperienced user could easily destroy the surface and damage their vehicle. It’s very effective and easier to use than other circular car buffers. Professionals who know what they are doing will love this multipurpose tool, as it saves an enormous amount of time.
Specifications:
| Motor | 10 amps motor |
| Weight | 7 lbs (3.2 kg) |
| Features | Electronic speed control Variable speed Comes with wire mesh intake covers Gear housing with rubber Hook and loop Speed from 0 to 3,000 rpm 7-inch pads Can be converted into a sander |
The Pros:
- Affordable: Even though this is a tool for professional use, it isn’t expensive.
- Great control: The speed adjustability and constant speed controls give the user a lot of options.
- Dual-use: can be used for buffering a vehicle but also a floor sander.
The Cons:
- Poor user manual: The manual doesn’t come with detailed instructions.
- It is fairly heavy: It’s not the heaviest tool, but over a longer period of use can cause strain.
- Not recommended for beginners: Can be complicated to use by beginners.
5. Silverstorm 129659
The Silverstorm 129659 is a very powerful buffer, polisher, and sander for a low price. It can be used for all types of vehicles and sanding applications. It’s fairly straightforward and simple to use. It’s sturdy and offers a balanced structure.
This is noticeable when used, and even though it’s fairly heavy and large, it’s not uncomfortable. The handle offers a good grip, which leads to good stability during use. It has variable speed control, and soft trigger start action with a safety switch for preventing accidents.
This tool is great for DIY projects and people who don’t have some great requirements. If you are looking for a tool that will get the job done well while being affordable, this is the right option for you.
Specifications:
| Max speed | 3000 rpm |
| Weight | 7.7 lbs (3.6 kg) |
| Features | Variable speed adjustments Soft start trigger Safety switch7 inch pad Hook and loop Speed lock feature 1500 watts power 240v battery power 2m cable |
The Pros:
- It has a lot of features: Even though it’s fairly cheap, this tool comes with a lot of features and different types of equipment you can use for both sanding and buffing projects.
- Affordable: It’s impossible to get a buffer with this kind of power for a lower price.
- Well-balanced: Even though it’s fairly large, the Silverstorm 129659 is comfortable to use.
The Cons:
- Difficulties maintain speed: its speed control feature can sometimes have issues maintaining speeds.
- Fairly heavy: It can be difficult to operate for long periods of time.
6. Ryobi P435
The Ryobi P435 orbital buffer is yet another of the company’s 18-volt tools. This is a 10-inch portable orbital buffer without a cord.
It has a crescent-shaped handle, which allows a lot of room and multiple gripping options, making it super comfortable. It has two types of bonnets, which are separable.
One of them is used for polishing, and the other can be used to apply compound or polish. It’s very lightweight, and the fact that it can always be held comfortably with both hands makes operating it a breeze.
Even if you are using it on large vehicles like vans or SUVs, it’s very comfortable, and you can reach all the surfaces you need.
Even though most cordless buffers are more toys than real tools, the P435 is really useful for those who like DIY projects. Its portability really comes in handy, and you can even take the tool with you just in case you need to make small fixes.
Specifications:
| Max Speed | 2500 rpm |
| Weight | 4.3 lbs (2 kg) |
| Features | 2 types of bonnets Powerful and consistent motor Swirl-free finish random orbital action GRIPZONE overmold for improved comfort and grip Lithium-Ion 18 v battery 10-inch applicator and bonnet |
The Pros:
- Lightweight: With its weight at just 4.3 lbs, the P435 is really light, and anyone can use it.
- Transportable: Cordless car buffers open up many options, especially if you don’t have an outlet nearby.
- Comfortable: Its grip is wide, comfortable, and sturdy, making it easy to operate even for a long time.
- Reusable bonnets: Both of the bonnets are reusable and can last for a long time if washed, and this can save you some money.
- Cheap: At its price roughly around $40, this tool is really inexpensive.
The Cons:
- Battery and charger are purchased separately: When getting this model, you will have to purchase a battery and a charger as well.
- Limited continuous operation: its operation is limited to 1.5 hours with a brand new battery. After that, it needs to be recharged.
- Not suited for professionals: If you need a tool for professional use, cordless buffers are simply a nuisance.
7. Makita SA5040C
Makita is such an established brand in the world of power tools that we simply had to put another one of their buffering models on our list – the SA5040C. The company proved its reputation once again with this model, as it really stands out from the pack. Makita SA5040C has an amazing amount of features and has simply amazing capabilities.
Apart from being a prolific buffering tool, it’s also a professional sander. If you need both of these devices, getting the Makita is your best bet. It’s very comfortable to use and dummy-friendly, meaning that anyone can use it.
However, don’t be fooled by the fact that anyone can use it. This is a full-blown professional tool with great capabilities and lightweight. It will make your long workday much easier, and you will simply fall in love with it.
It has a small housing with a lot of power and a great joint system, which makes it suitable for long hours of work.
Specifications:
| Max speed | 7,800 rpm |
| Weight | 5.2 lbs (2.2 kg) |
| Features | Double insulation Variable speed control Comes with a vibration absorption system “Super Joint System II” Current limiter Anti-restart feature Ergonomic barrel grip Constant speed control Wheel diameter: 5 inches Input power: 1,400 watts |
The Pros:
- Extremely comfortable: I’s small with amazing grip, design, and low vibration.
- Lightweight: Its 5.2 lbs (2.2 kg) weight makes using it a breeze.
- Great for both simple and complex projects: What’s unique about this buffer/sander is that anyone can use it. It’s both simple to use for some home projects, but can also be used for comprehensive car shop work.
The Cons:
- Lacks power sometimes: There are stronger models with similar pricing, but they are larger.
8. Bosch 1250DEVS
The Bosch1250DEVS model reminds everyone why Bosch is a well-known name in the power tools world. Bosch 1250DEVS is equally popular with professional car body shop employees, as well as people who like to do quality woodwork.
This is a random orbital buffer/sander which can be both used by professionals and hobbyists if they are willing to pay a bit extra.
This is a well-built heavy-duty workhorse any shop could make great use of. Everyone is praising this buffer, both people who use it for car jobs and woodwork. We couldn’t find any negative reviews online, and we also agree that it’s a great tool.
Specifications:
| Max speed | 6,500 rmp |
| Weight | 5.3 lbs (2.4 kg) |
| Features | Variable speed settings on speed dial Constant response circuitry for constant speed under heavy load Two buffering/sanding modes (one for regular work and another for more aggressive performance) Hook and loop Aluminum gear housing with a dual-bearing pad mount Pad dampening system 6-inch pad Power: 715 watts Voltage: 110 volts |
The Pros:
- Dual-mode: lets you do gentle finishing work and near-bottom surface work.
- Ergonomic: Easy to use for all kinds of work.
The Cons:
- Turbo mode causes substantial vibration: The turbo mode reaches great speed and power, but it causes vibration.
- It doesn’t have a case: No case included with the tool.
- Expensive: It’s on the expensive side, but if you need a quality tool that will last a long time, this is the one.
Things To Consider When Choosing A Car Buffer
Before making a final decision and making a purchase, here are some additional factors to consider:
Price
Even though you might be tempted to go with the cheapest option, it’s usually not the best decision. This is why it’s best to look at all the other factors and consider the price in the end.
Usability
Usability is an important factor, especially if you are a professional who does this full-time. On the other hand, if you plan on using the tool for your own needs, you can tolerate this factor.
Customer Feedback
Apart from reading our review, we suggest reading customer feedback before making a final decision. People are different, and everyone notices something different that might be relevant to them.
Maintenance
Like with any other tool, maintenance is important. Find a tool that doesn’t require a lot of maintenance and can be used for a long time.
Conclusion
We hope this guide helps you find the right tool for your car buffering needs. Take your time and be thorough. It’s important to consider your specific needs when looking at the pros and cons of each tool.
Sources
- How to Buff a Car – WikiHow
- Buffing tips – Buff and Shine
