Random Orbital vs. Dual Action Polisher: Which Is For You?

You might be wondering the difference between a random orbital polisher and a dual action polisher. Right?

Both of these types of machines use spinning pads to polish your car’s paint, but they work in different ways.

A random orbital polisher has an off-center spindle that causes the pad to orbit around the center as it spins. This motion creates a random pattern that helps to avoid swirl marks.

A dual-action polisher has a spindle in the center of the pad. This machine oscillates as it spins, meaning that the pad moves side to side in addition to spinning around. The goal of this motion is also to help reduce swirl marks.

Another differences between random orbital polisher and dual action polisher are speed. Random orbital polisher works between 1800RPM and 7000RPM while dual polisher works between 1500-6800 RPM.

Random Orbital vs. Dual Action Polisher (Quick Comparison Chart)

Random Orbital vs. Dual Action: Detailed Comparison

1. Features and Functions

The random orbital polisher has a dual-mode feature that makes it perfect for a couple of polishing tasks. Its major functions include polishing, buffing, and waxing applications. Provided you can handle and use it appropriately, it often produces the best results. 

Commonly known as the DA, the Dual Action Polisher is a machine that combines two functions, specifically when it comes to motion. It is a user-friendly polisher and cannot cut or damage the paint. If you want to improve the appearance of scratches, then this might be the polisher you need to use. 

2. Motion/Speed

Random orbital polishers rotate at a speed of between 1800RPM and 7000RPM. Unlike the dual polisher, the random orbital polisher rotates due to the momentum that the speed creates. You should also note that the pattern of motion is purely random hence the name. 

Dual polisher moves in a circular motion on the head. It spins on its central spindle just like the earth on its axis. The spinning produces irregular jigging motions that will help reduce the chances of damage and heat as a result of excess friction. When it comes to speed, the dual action polisher operates at a speed of about 1500-6800 RPM. Also, while it is strong, it might not be a perfect one if your vehicle has deep scratches. It is, however, a perfect option if you want to improve the appearance of scratches. 

3. Price

You will find a wide array of random orbital polishers. Each of them is priced differently. You might have to make a comparison to find one that best fits your budget. You will find some going for as low as $69 to as high as $180. 

Prices vary from time to time and also depending on the brand you want. Please, note that there are different types of dual-action polishers. With that said, the approximate price of a dual polisher on Amazon is $69.99. You might get a slightly higher or less figure, but it should be around that amount for a good polisher. 

4. Pros & Cons

There are pros and cons to both of these types of machines. Random orbital polishers can be a bit more forgiving if you mistake while polishing because the random orbit helps hide any swirls. Dual-action polishers are more aggressive, so they can quickly remove scratches and swirls. However, if you’re not careful, you can easily create more swirls with a dual-action polisher.

Best Random Orbital Polisher

Best Dual Action Polisher

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Random Orbital vs. Dual Action: Which Is for You?

A random orbital polisher is the best car polisher for beginners. You should also use this polisher if you’d like to sand off any old paint in your vehicle, so you apply a new coating. It will help you achieve a smooth and perfect finish.

For an experienced detailer or DIY, a dual-action polisher is more suitable. It will do the job perfectly and more quickly. 

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Frequently Asked Question(FAQs)

Is There a Difference Between a Buffer and a Polisher?

Yes, a buffer modifies or improves the look or natural car paint/clear coat. It is normally used together with car waxing compounds. On the other hand, a polisher helps in the evening our car scratches or imperfections. 

What Speed Should You Buff a Car at?

If you want to get a perfect finish, make sure that your RPMs are within moderate levels that are neither too high nor low. More precisely, speeds ranging between 2000RPM to 2500RPM are okay, but as you finish, you should slow down to about 1100RPM. 

Note that even if you have the best polisher and other requirements, buffing at the wrong speed will spoil everything. At the very least, you will end up with an uneven finish or miss to achieve a perfect look. 

Are Dual Action Polishers Safe?

Provided you are using appropriate chemicals and pads, a dual-action polisher will always be safe. It won’t create any swirl marks or burn the paint even if you are doing the work yourself for the first time. But bear in mind that as usual, it takes practice to perfect the art of buffing and polishing. 

How Do You Wax A Car With an Orbital Polisher?

There are different ways you can wax your car with an orbital polisher. If you, however, want to get the best results, then the best method to wax your car is to put a few drops (about four) on the polishing pad and applying it in a sweeping motion, preferably at low pressure. Do so throughout the parts you want to polish each time to make sure that it is even and cover fully. 

Can You Burn Paint with a Dual Action Polisher?

No, since most dual action polishers are safe and have a low likelihood of causing damage. Why is that the case? Well, dual-action polishers do not produce high amounts of heat that can burn the paint as is the case with other polishers such as rotary polishers. Simply put, dual-action polishers will only remove swirls and scratches to improve the appearance. 

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