Ridgid 18V SubCompact 5-inch Random Orbit Sander Review R870651

Ridgid Updates 18V Sander Lineup with a SubCompact Brushless Model

There are two types of people out there: those who love sanding and think it’s satisfying, and those who hate it and wish they could be doing anything else. No matter which camp you fall into, there’s no denying that it’s an essential step in the process. Sanding by hand is often not practical, especially when you have a large surface area to work on, which is where a power sander comes in.

Enter Ridgid’s 18V SubCompact 5-inch Random Orbit Sander, which updates the brand’s material removal lineup with brushless technology. What else does it bring to the table? I got it in my hands to find out.

$139 at Home Depot

Ridgid 18V SubCompact 5-Inch Sander Performance

Model: Ridgid R870651
Speed: 7,000 – 11,000 OPM
Variable speed dial
6 speed modes
Up to 60% vibration reduction
Brushless motor

The Ridgid R870651 sander is the brand’s first orbital sander that features a brushless motor. It has six speeds ranging from 7,000 OPM to 11,000 OPM, with a variable speed dial to adjust your removal rate while you work.

The new model has the same speed specs as Ridgid’s previous iteration, although the new model is much more compact (more on that later). As far as performance improvements, the R870651 subcompact sander sees a whopping 60% reduction in vibration, which helps keep fatigue at bay on large sanding projects.

Ridgid 18V SubCompact 5-Inch Sander Design

Dimensions: 4 x 9.5 x 6.3 inches
Weight: 2.6 pounds
Low-profile subcompact design
Compatible with 1 1/4-inch and 1 7/8-inch vacuum hoses

Compared to the previous Ridgid 5-inch orbital sander, the R870651 boasts a more compact body, standing just 4 inches tall and weighing 2.6 pounds bare. Since the handle is positioned so low, it allows your hand to remain closer to your work surface for added precision and control.

To control dust output, you can either hook up a 1 1/4-inch or 1 7/8-inch vacuum hose, or use the dust collection bag that’s included with your tool. The box also includes two 80-grit hook-and-loop sandpaper sheets to get you started.

Additional Information

Rubberized grip
Compatible with 5-inch hook and loop sandpaper
Compatible with all Ridgid 18V batteries

Ridgid 18V SubCompact 5-Inch Sander Price

This sander retails for $149 as a bare tool and there are no kit options at the time of writing. Like all Ridgid power tools, you can find it exclusively at The Home Depot. Ridgid backs your purchase with a 3-year warranty and a Lifetime Service Agreement upon registration.

Final Thoughts

Ridgid did a nice job here when it comes to design, opting for a low-profile blueprint that allows for more access than the previous iteration. With competitive top speeds, significantly reduced vibration levels, and brushless technology, the R870651 updates Ridgid’s sanding lineup to the modern age. If there’s something missing from your Ridgid 18V woodworking collection, consider this model to help fill the gap.