Milwaukee 6021-21 Random Orbit Palm Sander

When my old sander’s switch started acting up one day, I figured it was time to start looking for another ROS, something a little more heavy duty. I had looked at several models a Bosch, Dewalt and Porter Cable, but while searching online I came across the Milwaukee, I was intrigued, it was on sale for considerably less then the aforementioned sanders. Having been happy with Milwaukee products in the past, I pulled the trigger on the order,only after I saw that it’s features met my needs. The most important features for me when making the purchase was that it had a Hook & Loop PSA pad, had the option of variable speed , easy dust collection (no adapters needed )and lastly that it had a rubberized switch to prevent dust from getting in (the primary reason for the failure of my last sander).

The Sander came in a nice red molded plastic carry case which included several sanding discs of different grits, 2 PSA pads ,1 hook and loop the other for the stick on variety, and a dust bag.
The tool itself is solid yet lightweight. The top handle has comfortable rubber molded cushioning, the neck/stem of the tool I noticed is a bit longer then other sanders, which allows the user to cup the tool’s stem, rather then palming the top. This is very helpful for those with big hands and allows for better control if you are sanding something like a wall. Overall very good ergonomics, some thought went into the design.
One of the great things about this sander is the soft start and the quick stop, the pad still spins, it’s not a brake, but the stop time is greatly reduced.
The Sander comes with the Variable speed feature, which I consider a must for a VOS sander. Paired up with hook and loop sandpaper discs, a user can quickly remove stock, paint, grime,etc on a high setting, turn off, easily swap on a higher grit and put the sander on a lower speed for more detailed, less aggressive sanding. During operation, the sander is very easy to control, and does seem to have less vibration then some other models I have used.

Dust collection always seems iffy with sanders without a Vac attached, I’ve never been please with any dust bag, this sander is not really different in that regard but is still better then many I’ve used. The dust bag included does a satisfactory job keeping stuff out of your face while sanding outside, and somewhat reduces dust inside, really depends on what material your sanding.
A big plus with the dust collection system is that the Milwaukee can connect to any standard shop vac hose, without a special adapter, which is extremely useful.
The only drawback to the Milwaukee’s dust collection is the exhaust port is not middle, instead it is off center towards the right side, this was something I couldn’t tell by the online photos and why I like to feel tools for myself before buying. I did find the placement somewhat awkward when sanding in a tight spot with the hose connected and depending on positioning it can obscure the sight lines a bit. Not a huge problem, I just don’t understand why it was placed there, I noticed a Ridgid sander has a similar placement in it’s design.
Overall I am very pleased with this Sander and the kit all together, it’s a nice package. The sander is comfortable, lightweight, well balanced, the dial and rubberized switch are placed in easy to access areas, and it has a powerful motor, with good dust collection that accepts the 2 standard hose sizes.
Only drawback is the awkward off centered dust port.
I would easily recommend this tool to anyone who is in the market for a ROS, the bonus is that it comes with 5 year warranty.