Which Mirka sander should I buy?
It really depends on the primary use. Here's a quick breakdown of the best range to look at according to the type of job:
General flat surface sanding of wood - an electric random orbital sander, such as the Mirka DEROS or DEROS II, offers a smooth and swirl-free finish thanks to its simultaneous circular and oscillating movement. A unique symmetrical design makes it the most comfortable sander on the market - you can use it for hours without getting tired! Its brushless motor also ensures a constant speed, even under heavy loads.
Sanding doors, edges, windows, and frames - you'll need a more compact orbital sander to fit into tight areas, such as the DEOS or DEOS II. Small and lightweight, the DEOS range features a brushless motor, vibration sensor, and speed control using a handy lever. The DEOS Delta has a trangular nose, allowing you to get into the hardest to reach places.
We stock a sanding package, comprising both the DEROS II and DEOS II, to offer a comprehensive sanding solution.
Preparing ceilings, walls, and large areas of plaster - the LEROS is small in stature but big on power, with a lightweight ergonomic design that can cover large areas. Its sanding head is flexible through 180-degrees, so you can work in a comfortable position.
Professional polishing and finishing on hard wood, plastic, composites and metals - the POLAROS electric polisher offers 750W of power in a easy-to-use design that's quiet (58dB) and lightweight (just 1.7kg).
Why are Mirka sanders so expensive?
Mirka sanders are surface finishing specialists. It's all they do - and they've dedicated the past 80 years to achieving the best possible finish on all types of projects, from furniture restoration to automotive and marine finishing.
This highly specific focus has allowed them to develop market leading tools and accessories that are simply best in class. In terms of ergonomic design, quietness, ease-of-use and power, they can't be beaten.
Mirka were pioneers in dust-free sanding. They launched Abranet pads more than 20 years ago. The 'net' construction of the pads allows dust to be drawn through the pad and sucked into an on-tool extractor, meaning the dust doesn't end up on clothes or furniture or in hair or in lungs.
There are cheaper sanders on the market, but if you want dust-free, reliable tools and accessories that give an unrivalled finish, you need a Mirka.
Are Mirka sanders interchangeable with Festool sanders?
Yes they are. You can use Festool abrasives with Mirka sanders and vice versa.
Festool vs Mirka: which is better?
As explained above, Mirka are the sanding experts. 80 years of being fanatical about finish has gone into designing tools that are ergonomic, lightweight and give the best possible results. There's a reason they're trusted by Rolls Royce, Bentley, and Princess Yachts.
Festool's sanders are also quality tools, but they're simply not as comfortable to use and they don't offer the same flawless finish.