An orbital buffer, also referred to as a DA or Dual Action polisher is specially designed to run in an eccentric circular motion. This safe, random pattern doesn’t apply torque to the surface, and assures that the buffer never concentrates its energy in one spot. A rotary buffer, as the name implies, spins in a perfect circular motion. This means it is more effective at removing paint defects but with that comes certain challenges. If you use a rotary buffer and are not skilled in its use, you can easily apply too much pressure to the paint and burn it (damage) even cut right through it requiring a new paint job. It is also easy to instil hologram swirls into the paint finish. These appear as ‘smudges’ that float in the paint but are actually very fine scratches caused by improper rotary buffer technique.

An orbital can produce great results, even in untrained hands and is far better suited to the DIY enthusiast and detailers.