
DEWALT DWE6421
Score: 85/100
Craftsman CMEW231
Score: 82/100Rankings

The DEWALT DWE6421K is a lightweight, corded 5-inch random orbit sander featuring a 3.0-amp motor and a fixed 12,000 OPM speed. It is designed for general-purpose woodworking and light material sanding, offering a low-profile build and vibration-reduction technology to enhance user comfort during extended use. Best suited for DIYers and hobbyists who value brand reliability and comfort over variable speed control.

The Craftsman CMEW231 is a 5-inch corded random orbital palm sander featuring a 3-amp motor that operates at 12,000 OPM. It offers a low-profile ergonomic design and effective dust collection, though it lacks variable speed control. It is best suited for DIYers and woodworkers needing a budget corded sander for surface prep and finishing.
| Attribute | ![]() | ![]() |
|---|---|---|
360 Wbest | 360 Wbest | |
12,000 RPMbest | 12,000 RPMbest | |
2.38 mmbest | 2.38 mmbest | |
127 mmbest | 127 mmbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 1.31 kgbest | 1.315 kg |
3 yearsbest | 3 yearsbest | |
1.83 mbest | 1.83 mbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | ![]() | ![]() |
|---|---|---|
Ergonomics & Design(3) | ||
Weight (kg) | 1.31 kg | 1.315 kg |
Switch Type | Dust-sealed | Dust-Sealed |
Handle Type | Rubber overmold | Ergonomic |
Features & Accessories(2) | ||
Dust Collection System | Bag | Bag + Vacuum Port |
Pad Attachment Type | Hook-and-loop | Hook-and-Loop |


Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).

Professional reviewers highlight the DWE6421 as a solid choice for a variety of sanding applications due to its balanced speed and accessible design. They praise the 2.9-pound weight and 5.5-inch height for accessibility in tight spaces and emphasize the counterweight vibration-reduction system as a meaningful comfort feature.
Everyday users appreciate the DWE6421K as an affordable entry-level sander that handles typical home workshop tasks effectively. Common praise focuses on the real reduction in hand vibration, the convenience of quick paper changes, and the lightweight nature of the tool for overhead work.

Professional reviewers describe the Craftsman CMEW231 as a versatile random orbital sander that offers a balanced efficiency-quality profile.
Everyday users and video reviewers praise the tool for its comfort during hours-long use, noting significantly less hand numbing than competitors.
“Perfect for DIY projects”

“Low vibration is real”

“Quick paper changes”


