Makita BO4556K
Score: 75/100
SKIL SR211601
Score: 75/100Rankings
The Makita BO4556K is a lightweight 1/4 sheet finishing sander with a 2-amp motor and fixed 14,000 OPM speed, ideal for smooth finishes on flat surfaces. Its low weight and all-ball-bearing construction reduce fatigue and vibration, though the fixed speed limits its versatility for heavy material removal. It is best suited for finish carpenters and DIY users performing prep work or final smoothing.
The Skil SR211601 is a lightweight corded orbital sander featuring a unique X-Flow cyclonic dust collector and variable speed control. Its main drawback is the strict requirement for precise pad alignment to maintain suction efficiency. It is best suited for DIY homeowners and light professional users tackling household sanding tasks.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
240 Wbest | — | |
14,000 RPMbest | 13,000 RPM | |
— | 2.7 mmbest | |
114.3 mm | 128 mmbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 1.13 kgbest | 1.56 kg |
1 yearsbest | 1 yearsbest | |
2 mbest | — |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Power & Performance(4) | ||
No-Load Speed (RPM) | 14000 RPM | 13000 RPM |
Orbit Diameter (mm) | mm | 2.7 mm |
Variable Speed | false | true |
Sanding Pad Diameter (mm) | 114.3 mm | 128 mm |
Ergonomics & Design(4) | ||
Weight (kg) | 1.13 kg | 1.56 kg |
Switch Type | Rubber-sealed | Dust-sealed |
Handle Type | Palm Grip | Soft rubber |
Cord Length (m) | 2.0 m | m |
Features & Accessories(2) | ||
Dust Collection System | Through-the-Pad | Cyclonic Box |
Pad Attachment Type | Clamp | Hook-and-loop |
Makita positions the BO4556K as a best-in-class sander ideal for woodworkers and finish carpenters. Professional descriptions praise its 2-amp motor for delivering 14,000 OPM, its low weight of 2.5 lbs, and its reduced vibration and noise levels.
Search results lack direct user reviews or quotes, so no common praise or recurring complaints are detailed. However, it is inferred that users likely appreciate the lightweight build, comfort, and speed for everyday finishing tasks.
Pro Tool Reviews notes that it borrows features from premium sanders like the Bosch ROS10, calling it a 'decent machine' at a lower cost, but cautions it may bog down under heavy loads.
Everyday users generally praise the tool for its clean operation, comfort, and ease of use when the dust extraction system is set up correctly. However, some users report frustration regarding the strict requirement for aligning 8-hole pads.
“emphasizes aligning 8-hole pads for dust suction, implying ease of use when done correctly but potential frustration otherwise”
