
Porter-Cable PCCW205B
Score: 78/100
Craftsman CMEW231
Score: 82/100Rankings

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.

The Porter-Cable PCCW205B is a 20V MAX cordless random orbital sander designed for professional material removal, delivering up to 12,000 OPM. It features a low-profile design with low vibration output and a versatile dust management system including a detachable bag and vacuum port. This bare tool is compatible with all Porter-Cable 20V MAX batteries for platform flexibility.
| Attribute | ![]() | ![]() |
|---|---|---|
— | 360 Wbest | |
12,000 RPMbest | 12,000 RPMbest | |
5.5 mmbest | 2.38 mm | |
127 mmbest | 127 mmbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 0.907 kgbest | 1.315 kg |
3 yearsbest | 3 yearsbest | |
0 m | 1.83 mbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | ![]() | ![]() |
|---|---|---|
Power & Performance(3) | ||
Power Source | Cordless | Corded |
Motor Power (W) | N/A W | 360 W |
Orbit Diameter (mm) | 5.5 mm | 2.38 mm |
Ergonomics & Design(4) | ||
Weight (kg) | 0.907 kg | 1.315 kg |
Switch Type | Dust-proof | Dust-Sealed |
Handle Type | Rubberized Grip | Ergonomic |
Cord Length (m) | 0 m | 1.83 m |
Features & Accessories(3) | ||
Dust Collection System | Bag and Vacuum Port | Bag + Vacuum Port |
Includes Sandpaper | true | false |
Pad Attachment Type | Hook-and-loop | Hook-and-Loop |

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

Professional reviewers praise the Porter-Cable PCCW205B for its high 12,000 OPM speed, low-profile design, and low vibration, which together offer excellent control and efficiency for professional material removal.
Everyday users give the product high ratings, commonly praising its fast sanding capabilities, comfortable rubber grip, and the convenience of cordless operation for home projects.

“collects quite a bit”

“effective but basic performance”

“a lot less hand numbing”




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.