Comparison Stanley STBS720 vs Bort BBS-801N

The power consumed by the grinder during operation. Usually more than the output (useful) power (see above) due to losses during the conversion of energy from electrical to mechanical. However, the general patterns in this case are the same: a more powerful tool, on the one hand, is usually more performant, on the other hand, it is heavier, larger and more expensive. In addition, the total electricity consumption depends on this indicator; however, grinders, even the most powerful ones, consume relatively little energy, and difficulties can arise only when connecting a high-performance professional tool to weak electrical wiring.

Note that it is much easier to determine the consumed power than the useful one; therefore, only this parameter is often indicated in the characteristics, without specifying the useful power. In general, it is quite possible to compare grinders of the same type using it (see above): a modern tool has approximately the same efficiency, and in most cases the useful power values bare related in the same way as the consumed values.

Belt speed provided by the grinder. For more information about belt units, see "Type". In this paragraph, both one value and a range can be given — if the device has a speed control (see "Additionally — Speed regulator").

Other things being equal (primarily the same belt width), a higher speed has a positive effect on productivity. On the other hand, to ensure such a speed, a more powerful engine is needed, which accordingly affects the weight, price and energy consumption of the entire tool. In addition, the low belt speed contributes to accuracy: the chance of removing excess material is reduced. So it’s definitely worth looking specifically for a “fast” grinder only if it is to be used often and for large volumes of work. In other cases, a slower model may well be the best option. More detailed recommendations on this matter (including for different materials and types of work) can be found in special sources.

The length of the belt or sheet for which the grinder is designed.

Working nozzles in the form of sheets are used in units with a vibrational principle of operation, in the form of tapes — respectively, in tape ones (for more details on both, see "Type"). Anyway, this paragraph does not indicate the working length of the tape / sheet (that is, the length of the surface adjacent to the material being processed), but the total — that is, the size of the nozzle itself. This size in itself determines only the compatibility of the grinder with certain sheets / tapes. At the same time, clamp-like fastenings (see "Sheet fastening"), used in most classic vibrating instruments, often allow you to install sheets of slightly longer lengths than indicated in the specifications. Hook-and-loop models (mostly delta sanders) technically accept both longer and shorter sheets, although in fact this is not recommended at best. But in tape tools, the length of the tape must exactly match the parameter specified in this paragraph — even a slight deviation can lead to incompatibility.

As for the working length of the tape / sheet, it inevitably turns out to be less than the total (for sheets — not much, for tapes — quite significantly). However a longer tape/sheet often has a greater working length; however, with the same general dimensions of the nozzle, its working size in different tools may be different; it is indicated in the item "Sole Size" (see below).

The width of the belt or sheet for which the grinder is designed.

Working nozzles in the form of sheets are used in units with a vibrational principle of operation, in the form of tapes — respectively, in tape ones (for more details on both, see "Type"). Anyway, this paragraph does not indicate the working width of the tape / sheet (that is, the width of the surface adjacent to the material being processed), but the total — that is, the size of the nozzle itself. This size in itself determines only the compatibility of the grinder with certain sheets / tapes. At the same time, clamp-like fasteners (see “Sheet fastening”), used in most classic vibrating instruments, usually fix the sheet only in front and behind, so that in such instruments the restrictions on width are not as strict as, for example, on length: the sheet may be somewhat wider, and somewhat narrower than the nominal size. However, such possibilities should be clarified separately, and for a full guarantee it is better to clarify whether a particular machine allows deviations in width. The situation is similar with delta sanders, where Hook-and-loop is traditionally used: a discrepancy in width technically does not prevent the installation of a nozzle, but not all models allow this. As for the band tools, they may allow the installation of a narrower band — but not a wider one.

As for the working width, it, usually, corresponds to the general one, or (in some vibration models) differs slightl...y from it. Anyway, the working width is given under Sole Size (see below).

The size of the sole provided in the tool.

This parameter is indicated for two types of grinders — most models with a vibrational principle of operation (namely, for vibration and delta grinders, as well as multifunctional ones), as well as belt units. For more information about both, see "Type", here we note that the sole as such is only available in vibrating tools — in tape tools, we are talking about the size of the section of the tape that is in direct contact with the material. Simply put, the size of the sole is the size of the working surface of the machine.

The larger the size of this surface, the more performant the machine, the better it is suitable for large volumes of work. And tape models, we recall, are used mainly for processing oblong parts and during operation they are usually located across such a part; so that for such machines it is highly desirable that the length of the tape be not less than the width of the surface to be treated — otherwise, accurate processing can be quite difficult. On the other hand, a large sole inevitably affects the dimensions, weight, and most often the cost of the tool, besides, it can make it difficult to use in cramped conditions. Yes, and consumables for such soles (sheets, tapes) require larger ones — and, accordingly, more expensive. So when choosing according to this indicator, it is worth considering the features of the intended application; if you wish, you can refer to special sources for detailed r...ecommendations on this matter.

Also note that for multifunctional models (see "Type") in this paragraph, several options are most often given — for each specific sole. However, there are models where only one set of sizes is indicated. This can either mean that both main vibration nozzles (rectangular and triangular) have the same dimensions in length and width — or that the data is indicated for a non-removable triangular sole, on which a larger rectangular one is put on if necessary. Such details can often be clarified directly from the photographs of the goods, in extreme cases — from the manufacturer's documentation.

— Speed Controller. The ability to limit the engine's maximum speed. Essentially, this function is a smooth speed adjustment; it's convenient when full speed isn't required — for example, in delicate tasks where precision is more important than performance. Note that this feature is found in all types of sanders — including those with a vibrational or belt operation (see "Type"): even in these machines, the vibration frequency or belt speed is determined by the engine's rotations.

— Speed Maintenance. The ability to maintain a set number of rotations regardless of the load on the working attachment. This function is implemented through automation, which adjusts the engine's power accordingly — increasing it under more load and decreasing it under lighter load. Constant rotation speed positively affects both the quality of processing and the lifespan of the working attachments and the tool itself.

— Brushless Motor. The presence of a brushless motor in an electric sander (see "Power Source"). These motors are considered more advanced than traditional brushed motors: they are more energy-efficient, quieter, and do not spark, which can be crucial in fire-hazardous environments. The main downside of brushless motors is their high cost.

— Lighting. This feature is undoubtedly desirable when working in lo...w-light conditions. However, it can also be useful in bright external light: the work area often ends up in shadow (e.g., from the tool itself), making it difficult to work without special lighting.

— Display. A built-in display that can show various information about the device's operation and status. Such a screen provides additional convenience and clarity, but overall, it is quite a specific feature that is rarely found in modern power tools.

— Smartphone Synchronization. The ability to connect the tool to a smartphone or other gadget (like a tablet) via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Such a connection is usually used for adjusting work parameters; it's often more convenient to do this through a mobile app than through the controls on the tool itself.

— Rotating Main Handle. The ability to rotate the main handle of the sander around the longitudinal axis. This feature is mainly found in angle models (see "Type") — it provides extra convenience, allowing you to adjust the handle's position according to the situation. This is important for working in unusual positions and hard-to-reach areas.

— Keyless Disc Replacement. The ability to change discs in a sander (usually angle, see "Type") without using keys and other additional tools. The convenience of this feature is clear: you don't need to constantly have a key on hand, keep track of it not getting lost, etc. However, keyless mounting is considered somewhat less reliable than keyed mounting, so it's rarely found in heavy-duty professional models.

— X-LOCK Mounting System. An advanced mounting system for the working attachment, used in some angle machines (see "Type") — predominantly made by Bosch and Makita. This system is somewhat more expensive than traditional 22-millimeter mounting using a nut or washer, but it has several advantages. Firstly, X-LOCK provides the simplest and quickest installation: no need to fuss with additional parts or tools, just place the disc on the spindle and press until it clicks; for removing the attachment, just press a button that disables the lock. Secondly, you can only install the attachment in one correct way relative to the tool — the design of the mounting disallows any other way. The main disadvantage of machines with this system is their incompatibility with cheaper and more common 22 mm standard discs; fittings under X-LOCK are not yet available in every hardware store.

— Collet Chuck. A specially designed chuck used in straight grinders (see "Type"). The grip of such a chuck consists of several elastic petals (usually 2-3) that compress when tightened, securing the working attachment. The main advantages of collets are the speed and convenience in changing attachments, simplicity of design, and low cost.

— Coolant Supply (Coolant). The ability to supply coolant to the work area. This function is mainly found in machines for stone and concrete (see "Type"), as water cooling is most relevant for these materials: it not only prevents overheating but also reduces dust formation. The machine provides a nozzle directed at the working attachment and a fitting for connecting to a water hose.

— Dust Collector Connection. The ability to connect a dust collection container to the tool for collecting dust and other debris generated during operation. Such a container may come with the machine, but this is not guaranteed, and this point should be clarified separately. In any case, a dust collector, while not providing 100% protection against debris, significantly reduces it and simplifies cleanup afterward. Dust collectors can be either reusable or disposable.

Approximate noise level generated by the grinder during operation. Note that this indicator is quite approximate, because. actual "loudness" can vary markedly depending on the type and shape of the material being processed, the surface it is placed on, and other circumstances. In addition, different manufacturers may use different measurement methods. Nevertheless, this indicator makes it possible to assess how comfortable this or that model is in operation and whether special hearing protection is required.

The most “quiet” modern grinders give out about 65 dB — this is comparable to loud speech at a distance of 1 m; in the loudest, the noise level reaches 107 dB — this is the volume of an industrial workshop.

The total weight of the grinder; for battery models (see "Power Source"), usually, it is indicated without taking into account the battery.

This indicator has two meanings. On the one hand, light weight has a positive effect on manoeuvrability and reduces fatigue during work — especially when processing vertical surfaces and ceilings, as well as in other situations where the tool has to be held on weight. On the other hand, for grinders with a vibrational principle of operation (see "Type"), used for processing horizontal surfaces, a significant weight is considered optimal: it allows the tool to fit closer to the material being processed, and also contributes to stability and retention. So when choosing such a model by weight, it is worth considering the features of its intended application.