Rotary or Orbital Car Polisher?

If you want to start polishing a car, it's important to choose between a rotary or orbital polisher. Both techniques have their own advantages and disadvantages and are suitable for different situations. In this blog article, we explain exactly what the difference is between rotary and orbital polishing, when to use which polisher, and what to pay attention to.

What is a rotary polisher?

A rotary polisher only makes a rotational movement. This means the pad continuously spins in one direction without oscillation. This generates a lot of heat during polishing, allowing for deep paint correction. This type of machine is mainly used by experienced polishers, such as professional detailers and body shops.

When to use a rotary polisher?

Use a rotary polisher if you are dealing with deep scratches, paint defects, very dull areas, or if you want to professionally and intensively correct a car's paint. Note: a rotary polisher requires knowledge and experience!

Advantages of rotary polishing:

• Removal of deep scratches thanks to powerful, direct friction.
• Restoration of dull or weathered paint, even with serious paint defects.
• Restoring heavily faded paint to high gloss.
• Suitable for intensive paint corrections.

Disadvantages of rotary polishing:

• High risk of paint burning due to strong heat development.
• Not suitable for beginners without experience.
• Risk of holograms or swirls after polishing.
• Requires follow-up with an orbital polisher for a perfect result.

What is an orbital polisher?

An orbital polisher, also called a Dual Action polisher (DA), combines a rotational movement with an eccentric oscillation. The pad not only spins but also moves around its own axis. This dual movement makes orbital polishing safer and more user-friendly.

When to use a Dual Action polisher?

Use a Dual Action polisher if you want to polish a car’s paint in a safe and controlled way. Thanks to the Dual Action movement, you can remove light swirls and scratches, restore dull paint, and achieve a beautiful shine without risks.

Advantages of orbital polishing:

• Very easy to use and safe for beginners.
• Minimal heat development, so almost no risk of paint burning.
• Does not leave swirls or holograms.
• Stable and vibration-free operation.
• Efficient polishing of large surfaces.
• Available in various models for different applications.

Disadvantages of orbital polishing:

• Less effective on very deep scratches.
• Not suitable for heavily damaged paint.
• Lower correction power than rotary machines.

Overview: the differences between rotary and orbital polishing

Which polisher suits you?

The choice between a rotary or orbital polisher depends entirely on the application and your experience.

For beginners or those who want to maintain their paint safely and easily, an orbital (Dual Action) polisher is the best choice.

Professional users or experienced detailers working on heavily damaged paint or performing intensive corrections will benefit more from a rotary polisher.

Want the best of both worlds? Then the combination of both machines is ideal: use a rotary machine first for correction, followed by a DA machine for the ultimate showroom finish.

Advice on buying a polisher?

As specialists, CROP is here for you with expert advice. Our product experts are ready to answer your questions. Besides polishers, you can also order all polishing products like polishing compounds and polishing pads directly from us. Discover Europe’s largest range of polishers on NonPaints.com or contact our customer service directly for personalized advice.