Car care isn’t just about oil changes and mechanical maintenance. Giving the exterior extra shine is another way to show your vehicle some love and keep it in top-notch condition. Polishing a car by hand results in exhausted arms and hours of lost time and energy, but using a rotating buffing/polishing machine will restore your vehicle’s shine more quickly and effectively.
While detailing your vehicle’s paint by hand gives you “no pain, no gain” bragging rights, buffers will wipe the same spot thousands of times a minute. A good machine paired with the correct polishing compound or wax for your specific application will remove imperfections to reveal a mirror finish. Investing in the right buffing or waxing machine manufactured for your needs will save you money in the long run. Keeping your car’s paint looking fresh and vibrant prevents further wear and helps to preserve your vehicle’s value the DIY way, without taking an expensive trip to a professional detailer.
For our list of the best buffers and polishers, we specifically chose the best tools for any skillset, including types such as variable speed, random orbit and dual-action polishers. Rotary buffers were avoided due to the high-risk of damaging paint.
Best overall: DeWalt Buffer/Polisher Model #DWP849X
Why We Picked It:
The DEWALT DWP849X is built for longevity and durability. The maximum speed of its powerful 12-amp motor can be electronically adjusted from a gentle-start 600 to 3,500 RPM via a conveniently located speed dial, which makes it an excellent choice for both beginners and experts. From there, the speed is easily controlled (up to its maximum speed setting) by a trigger while you’re buffing.
The DEWALT buffer is also designed for efficiency, smooth operation and easy servicing. The purchase includes the polisher, a three-position bale handle and straight side handles. Users have reported that it’s difficult to find differently-sized adapters, so you may be stuck with its 7-inch backing plate and 7-inch pads.
Pros:
- Variable speeds and max speed setting
- Long-lasting durability
- Comes with multiple handles
Cons:
- Larger and heavier than some competitors
- Difficult to switch backing plates
- Pricey
Easiest to use: Black & Decker WP900
Why We Picked It:
If you’re looking for an inexpensive entry-level polisher, the Black & Decker WP900 isn’t just for waxing—it handles light polishing jobs, too. Rated highly for its ease-of-use and quiet operation, this WP900 is half the size of most buffing and polishing machines and weighs just under 5 pounds. The two-handle style grip prevents fatigue and its 10-foot of chord allows for easy maneuverability.
Unlike the variable speed buffers, the Black & Decker runs at a consistent 4,400 orbits per minute. Due to its speed restrictions, this buffer is best used for light polishing. Some users reported that it didn’t entirely remove deeper imperfections.
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Lightweight
- Low price
Cons:
- Speeds not adjustable
- Lacks power for deeper scratches
- Included pads are low quality
Best air powered buffer: Neiko Pneumatic Air Angle Polisher
Why We Picked It:
If you prefer air-power and have already have an air compressor in your garage or shop, the Neiko Pneumatic Air Angle Polisher is an affordable option to consider. Weighing in at just 4 pounds, it is compact, durable and light. The speed of rotation is easily controlled by squeezing or releasing the trigger and the handle fits in hard-to-reach areas.
Though not advertised as such, some buyers report that this device can also be used for light grinding and sanding, but such use may adversely affect its lifespan. The polisher uses a seven-inch pad and a quick release quarter-inch NPT fitting. Pads are not included.
Pros:
- Uses air instead of electricity
- Lightweight and compact
- Variable speed
Cons:
- Air compressor required
- Using the trigger could take practice
- Pads not included
Best cordless buffer: Milwaukee 2738-20 M18
Why We Picked It:
According to Milwaukee, their M18 variable speed polisher is the world’s first cordless full-size rotary polisher. It delivers corded performance without the hassle, restrictions and risks of paint damage caused by an electrical cord trailing around as paint is polished. It’s also lighter than it’s corded competitors.
Obtaining this machine is an extra bonus if you already own Milwaukee products as the batteries and charger are interchangeable. Reviews state that the polisher can complete a full-size vehicle on one charge, but if your paint renewing project requires several steps like cutting, polishing and waxing, it’s recommended to have at least two charged batteries available.
Pros:
- Battery powered
- Easy to use
- Lightweight
Cons:
- May need more than one battery to complete the job
- Battery and charger not included
- Expensive
Best complete kit: Chemical Guys BUF_503X TORQX Random Polisher Kit
Why We Picked It:
The Chemical Guys TORQX Polisher Kit comes with everything you need to revive your vehicle’s paint. The purchase comes with the buffer, three different pads for varying levels of polishing and four levels of compound from a heavier cutting polish to final polish.
The TORQX polisher offers 700-watts of power. It’s powerful enough for a pro, but easy enough for a beginner to use, though beginners may miss having a handle for optimum control. Customers report the motor can get bogged down on heavier applications. The variable speed adjusts from 2,800 to 7,800-rpm, a range that can handle a light polish or wax, or turn up the juice for heavier scratch and swirl removal.
Pros:
- Comes with everything needed
- Variable speeds
- Good for beginners and pros
Cons:
- Doesn’t have a handle
- Motor may get bogged down on heavy applications
- Pricey
Best Overall for Waxing:WEN 6010 Waxer/Polisher
Why We Picked It:
The WEN 6010 waxer is the perfect machine for those of us on a budget who want to speed up the waxing process. It checks all the boxes for an affordable but reliable waxer: it’s easy to use, simple to store and costs just a hair over $20.
Its compact design and 6-inch applicator will reach most hard to wax areas, and the conveniently placed on/off switch is lockable to prevent accidental shifting. The speed is set to 4,000 RPM, which is plenty of power for a good waxing, but the speeds are not variable and reviews report that the 6010 isn’t really up to most polishing tasks.
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Lightweight
- Low price
Cons:
- Speeds not adjustable
- Lacks power for polishing
- Included pads are low quality
- Random-Orbit Action Assures A Uniform Finish - Fast For The Car Polisher
- Comfortable Two-Handle Design Of The Variable Speed Polisher Reduces Fatigue
- 10 Ft. Cord For Great Mobility
- Versatile Applications - With powerful motor, this random orbital polisher is perfect for polishing and removing swirls, scratches, and defects from all painted vehicles, reappearing the shine of your car. You can also use it to sand wood or metal.
- Variable Speed Control - 6-speed control dial allows you to adjust the car polisher speed according to different applications; No load speed: 1,500-6,800 rpm; Low speed for waxing and buffing; Medium speed for polishing and cleaning while high speed for removing paint defects and oxidation.
- Ergonomic Design - The rubberized body and adjustable handle provide you with comfortable grip feeling and non-slip control while in use. Never worry about your machine rolling off the table or falling off your detailing car.
- High performance 120 V, 0.5 amp permanent magnet motor
- 3500 rpm
- Ergonomically contoured palm and body-grip design for comfortable 1 or 2 hand use
- HIGH-POWERED: Works up to 4,800 Orbits Per Minute, perfect for applying wax onto cars
- ERGONOMIC GRIP made of molded, notched rubber allows you to work even when it’s wet outside
- POWER SWITCH is conveniently located on the sides for easy operation
- 🚗【Cordless Car Polisher for Your Lovely Car】Are you annoyed by the messy cord when you are polishing your lovely car? Why not go cordless. KIMO Cordless Polisher allows you to walk around your lovely car without any annoying cord to block your way.Choose KIMO Cordless Polisher,save your time from dealing with the cord.
- 🚗【Proudly Present KIMO Battery】Over 25 years, KIMO has kept updating its batteries to the best of its kind. It’s estimated that the life expectancy of each KIMO 12V battery is at least 1,000 cycles. Stop worrying about dying batteries or batteries that won’t charge after minimal usage. KIMO’s got your back!
- 🚗【Lightweight & Easy to Use - Do It Yourself Effortlessly at Home】Weighs merely 1.7 lbs with battery plus its portable design, this makes it easy for carrying and storage. With its easy operation, you would never scratch your car paint, very friendly for beginners. Anyone can use KIMO Cordless Buffer Polisher efficiently and quickly. Ideal for home DIY and commercial applications like auto care and maintenance.
- The car polisher features powerful, 12 amp, all ball-bearing construction for long life and performance for the most demanding applications
- Electronic module of the variable speed polisher maintains specified speed under load delivering better finish results
- Conveniently located variable speed dial of DEWALT polisher lets user set maximum speed from zero to 600/3500 rpm for different materials and applications
- The car polisher is 4.5 Amp, AC Only
- The variable speed polisher features electronic variable-speed dial 2,500-6,800 OPM
- Random orbit, swirl-free sanding/polishing action
- Variable speed dial and trigger enables user to match the speed to the application
- Constant speed control maintains constant speed under load
- Soft start for smooth start-ups and less fling off of polish, wax or paste
- ABOUT THE PROLUX CORE - This heavy duty commercial buffer is a 15” single pad floor buffer option that contains only the scrub brush. Comes with a 50-foot commercial grade extension cord that saves time because you don’t have to unplug and plug it back in when performing tasks in a large area.
- INDUSTRIAL GRADE TELESCOPE - Comes equipped with an industry first Industrial grade telescopic wand! This wand makes height adjustments easy and ensures the perfect fit for users of any size.
- GREAT FOR ANY SURFACE - The Core can handle it all! It strips, waxes, buffs, sands, polishes, cleans and refinishes any floor surface.
METHODOLOGY
To determine the best buffers and polishers for reviving your vehicle’s paint, we researched a wide range of top-rated buffers and polishers to compile a list that will satisfy a wide range of skill sets and budgets. Each product is rated according to overall performance, durability, ease-of-use and overall value. We considered a broad range of end-user ratings and evaluations by multiple users in our evaluations.
FAQ
Can buffing damage car paint?
Buffing a car is safe as long as you tread lightly and use the correct type of car buffer and compound. The process of buffing a vehicle’s paint cuts away at the clear coat resulting in a smoother, more shiny finish. If the buffing is executed too aggressively or if the buffer is held in one spot for too long, it can potentially damage the paint.
What is the difference between buffing and polishing a car?
Polishing is a lightly abrasive finishing process where a person applies polishing compounds on a soft cloth or sponge to restore the luster in a vehicle’s paint by hand. Buffing is the process that uses machines to apply cutting or polishing compounds to modify a vehicle’s clear coat to repair swirl marks and light scratches.
Should I buff or polish my car?
In general, you should buff your vehicle once per year, followed by a wax or ceramic coating. Using a clay bar your car before polishing will help ensure no contaminants will cause swirl marks as you buff. If your vehicle is parked in a dusty area or under a tree, or if you live in a coastal area where there’s salt in the air, you might want to consider buffing your car two to three times per year with a light polishing compound.
What kind of scratches can be buffed out?
Most small scratches can be polished out of a vehicle’s paint by using a buffing tool and cutting and polishing compounds. Superficial scratches on the clear coat are the most likely to buff out, but if the color coat on the paint is damaged, the repair may require a paint touch up.
What pads should I use to polish a car?
The general rule of thumb is to have two pads per step available. For a full paint restoration procedure, you’ll want two compounding pads, two polishing pads and two finishing pads on hand.
How do you clean polishing pads?
It’s best to individually hand wash polishing pads which have been exposed to different compounds separately to avoid contaminating the pads. Put a once of liquid dish washing detergent in a five-gallon bucket and fill with water. Soak the pads for 30 minutes, then work out the old polishing compound by squeezing and massaging the pads. Rinse and squeeze out the water before letting them dry. There are also specialized cleaners available. In that case, follow the instructions on the product’s label.