Chicago CP870 Sander Review
Our verdict
The Chicago CP870 is a compressed-air random-orbit sander that spins at 10,000 RPM and weighs a manageable 4.3 pounds, backed by a 4.7-star rating from 268 verified owners at $86.57.
Check price on AmazonBest for
Body shop techs and woodworkers who already run a compressed-air supply and need a reliable lightweight orbital for finish and prep sanding.
Skip if
You do not have an air compressor on hand, or you need a portable corded or battery-powered sander.
- Power Source Compressed Air
- Voltage 2 Volts
- Amps 0.5 Amps
- Speed 10000 RPM
- Weight 4.3 Pounds
- Dimensions 7.6"L
- Priced 55% above the category median ($55.97 across 59 tracked models)
Our scorecard
-
Owner rating4.7/5
4.7 average across 268 owner ratings
-
Popularity2.0/5
268 owner reviews, fewer than most models here
The overall score is owner satisfaction weighted by how many reviews back it, so a high rating from few reviews counts for less. The bars below show where this model stands against the other power tools and workshop machinery we track in this category on price, popularity and size. Context, not marks against it, and our read of the data, not a lab test.
Overview
The Chicago CP870 is a pneumatic random-orbit sander designed for shops equipped with a compressed-air line. Running at 10,000 RPM, it delivers steady speed for finish sanding and surface prep work. The 7.6-inch body length keeps the tool compact enough to handle in tight spaces or along vertical panels.
At $86.57, the CP870 competes squarely in the mid-range of air-powered orbital sanders. Owners rate it 4.7 stars across 268 reviews, a strong result that indicates consistent satisfaction among tradespeople. The listed weight of 4.3 pounds is on the heavier side for a pneumatic orbital, so fatigue may be a factor during all-day sessions.
Because it runs exclusively on compressed air, the CP870 produces no heat from an electric motor during operation and delivers consistent torque as long as air supply is maintained. Buyers without a compressor setup should consider a corded electric model instead.
Pros
- 10,000 RPM speed delivers consistent finish-sanding performance
- Compact 7.6-inch profile fits into tighter workspaces
- 4.7-star rating from 268 owners signals reliable quality for the price
- Pneumatic operation avoids motor heat during extended use
- Mid-range $86.57 price is reasonable for a professional air orbital
Cons
- Requires a compressed-air supply, which limits portability
- 4.3-pound weight is heavier than many competing pneumatic orbitals
- Published specs omit pad size and required CFM, making accessory matching harder
Specifications
| Power Source | Compressed Air |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 2 Volts |
| Amps | 0.5 Amps |
| Speed | 10000 RPM |
| Weight | 4.3 Pounds |
| Dimensions | 7.6"L |
Performance notes
Power source is compressed air. Listed speed is 10,000 RPM. Body length is 7.6 inches. Listed weight is 4.3 pounds. No pad diameter, CFM requirement, or orbit diameter is published in the available spec data.
What buyers say
Owners who rate the Chicago CP870 tend to highlight its durability through repeated shop use and praise the build quality relative to the $86.57 price. Some reviewers note that sourcing replacement pads or parts locally can be difficult, making online ordering the practical route.
More from Chicago
Similar power tools and workshop machinery to consider
Frequently asked questions
Does the Chicago CP870 require a specific air compressor output?
The CP870 is compressed-air powered, but the published spec data does not list a required CFM or PSI. Check the product manual or contact the seller before purchasing to confirm your compressor can supply adequate airflow.
What pad size does the Chicago CP870 accept?
The available spec data does not publish a pad diameter. Given the 7.6-inch body, a 5-inch pad is standard for this class of pneumatic orbital sander, but verify before ordering replacement discs.
Still have questions about the Chicago CP870?
Reach the ToolGalaxy research team at hello@toolgalaxy.com for additional guidance.