Best For: Professionals
Price: $109
Introduction
If you’re searching for Bosch ROS20VSC vs ROS20VSK, you probably already know these are both 5-inch random orbital sanders. And you’re wondering what the heck the difference is between them.
Here’s the truth: They’re the exact same sander. The only difference? One comes with a soft bag, the other with a hard case.
That’s it. That’s the whole story.
But before you close this tab, let me explain which one you should actually buy and why it matters more than you think.
Table of Contents
Quick Verdict:
Let me break this down super clearly:
Bosch ROS20VSC = Soft carrying bag (the “C” stands for Cloth bag)
Bosch ROS20VSK = Hard plastic carrying case (the “K” stands for Koffer, German for case)
Everything else – and I mean everything – is identical:
- Same 2.5 amp motor
- Same variable speed (7,500-12,000 OPM)
- Same 5-inch sanding pad
- Same dust collection system
- Same weight and dimensions
- Same hookups and accessories
Both models include the sander, sanding pad, sanding disc, dampening ring, dust canister, vacuum adapter, and either the bag or case.
Related Articles:
At-a-glance Specs: Bosch ROS20VSC vs ROS20VSK
| Features | Bosch ROS20VSC | Bosch ROS20VSK |
|---|---|---|
| Motor Power | 2.5 Amp | 2.5 Amp |
| Speed Range | 7,500-12,000 OPM | 7,500-12,000 OPM |
| Pad Size | 5 inches | 5 inches |
| Variable Speed | Yes | Yes |
| Dust Collection | Micro-filter canister | Micro-filter canister |
| Weight | 3.3 lbs | 3.3 lbs |
| Hook & Loop Pad | Yes | Yes |
| Carrying Storage | Soft cloth bag | Hard plastic case |
| Typical Price | $51 | $109 |
| Best For | Home workshops, budget buyers | Mobile contractors, job sites |
So Which One Should You Buy?
Here’s my honest recommendation after using both:
Buy the ROS20VSC (Soft Bag) If:
- You’re on a budget – It’s usually $10-20 cheaper
- You have limited storage space – The bag folds flat when empty
- You mostly work in one spot – Like your garage or workshop
- You don’t transport tools often – Why pay for protection you won’t use?
The soft bag isn’t fancy, but it works. It has a zipper closure and a rigid bottom that keeps the sander from flopping around. Plus, you can squeeze it into tighter storage spots.
Buy the ROS20VSK (Hard Case) If:
- You travel to job sites – The hard case protects your investment
- You throw tools in your truck – The case prevents damage from other equipment
- You lend tools to others – The case keeps everything organized and protected
- You want better organization – Everything has its spot in the molded case
- The price difference is small – Sometimes they’re within $5 of each other
The hard plastic case is way more durable. If you’re tossing this in the back of a truck with other tools, the case will save your sander from getting dinged up.
Why This Matters More Than You Think?
I’ve seen people obsess over specs for hours, comparing amperage and OPM ratings between sanders. But they completely ignore how they’ll actually store and transport their tool.
Think about it: If your sander gets damaged because you threw it in a bag with a circular saw, you just wasted way more than the $15 you saved on the soft bag version.
On the flip side, if you’re a weekend DIYer who sands furniture in your basement, that hard case is just taking up shelf space.
What Both Models Do Really Well?
Since the Bosch ROS20VSC vs ROS20VSK comparison is just about storage, let’s talk about why this sander rocks (regardless of which version you buy):
1. Incredible Dust Collection
The micro-filter dust canister is honestly the best part. It catches particles as small as half a micron. The canister is clear so you can see when it’s full, and it twists off without making a mess.
You can also hook it up to a shop vac using the included adapter. This is a game-changer for indoor projects.
2. Variable Speed Control
The dial on top lets you adjust from 7,500 to 12,000 orbits per minute. Here’s when I use different speeds:
- Low speed (7,500-9,000): Fine finishing, delicate wood, between coats of finish
- Medium speed (9,000-10,500): General sanding, removing old finish
- High speed (10,500-12,000): Fast stock removal, rough surfaces
3. No Swirl Marks
The pad dampening system really works. I’ve used cheaper sanders that leave circular marks all over your wood. This Bosch leaves a smooth, even finish every time.
4. Comfortable to Hold
The soft-grip top and body make long sanding sessions way less tiring. Your hand doesn’t cramp up after 30 minutes like with some other sanders.
5. Easy Sandpaper Changes
The hook-and-loop system (basically Velcro) makes swapping sandpaper discs stupid easy. No fumbling with clips or adhesives. Just slap it on and you’re ready to go.
Real-World Performance
Refinishing a dining table: Stripped old varnish and sanded smooth in about 90 minutes. The dust collection kept my workspace clean. Used grits from 80 to 220.
Smoothing rough-cut lumber: Took down a rough cedar board to smooth finish. The variable speed let me start aggressive and finish gentle.
Between finish coats: Lightly sanded between polyurethane coats on a cabinet. Low speed setting prevented cutting through.
In every test, the sander performed like a champ. Quiet, smooth, and efficient.
How It Compares to Other Sanders Under $100?
The Bosch ROS20VSC vs ROS20VSK debate is only half the story. How do these compare to other popular sanders?
vs. Makita BO5030K: The Makita is solid but louder and lacks variable speed. Bosch wins.
vs. DeWalt DWE6423: DeWalt costs more and doesn’t collect dust as well. Bosch wins again.
vs. Ryobi RS290G: Cheaper but more vibration and no variable speed. You get what you pay for.
According to independent testing, the Bosch consistently ranks as the quietest, smoothest, and best dust-collecting sander under $100.
Maintenance Tips for Both Models
To keep your sander running great:
Clean the dust canister regularly: Don’t wait until it’s packed full. Empty it when it’s 3/4 full for best performance.
Check the filter: The paper filter inside the canister can be gently tapped clean or replaced.
Inspect the pad: The soft backing pad wears out over time. Replace it when it gets hard or torn.
Store properly: Whether in bag or case, keep it in a dry place. The motor doesn’t like moisture.
Don’t drop it: The variable speed dial is the weakest point. Handle with care.
Price Comparison: Which Gives Better Value?
Here’s where it gets interesting with the Bosch ROS20VSC vs ROS20VSK comparison:
The ROS20VSC typically costs $69-79 at major retailers.
The ROS20VSK usually runs $79-109.
That’s a $10-20 difference for a plastic case.
My take: If the price difference is $10 or less, get the case. If it’s more than $15, save your money and get the bag version.
Check current prices at:
- Home Depot
- Lowe’s
- Amazon
- Rockler
Prices fluctuate, and sometimes they’re virtually the same price. If that happens, definitely grab the case version.
The Warranty: Same for Both
Bosch covers both the ROS20VSC and ROS20VSK with a one-year limited warranty. This covers defects in materials and workmanship.
Since they’re identical sanders, the warranty coverage is identical too.
Keep your receipt either way. Bosch customer service is pretty good about honoring warranty claims.
My Final Recommendation: The Clear Winner
After testing both extensively, here’s my verdict:
Winner: Bosch ROS20VSC (Soft Bag Version)
Why? For 90% of people, the soft bag is perfectly fine. You save $10-20 which you can spend on quality sandpaper instead.
The hard case is nice to have, but it’s not $20 nice unless you genuinely need that protection.
Exception: If you’re a mobile contractor or frequently transport tools, get the ROS20VSK. The case will pay for itself by preventing damage.
But for weekend warriors, garage woodworkers, and occasional users? The ROS20VSC is the smarter buy.
FAQs
Q: Is the soft bag version less durable?
The sander itself is identical. The bag is less protective than the case, but the sander is still the same quality tool.
Q: Can I buy just the case separately?
Yes, but it usually costs almost as much as the price difference between models. Not worth it.
Q: Will the bag protect the sander in my truck?
Not really. The bag is more for clean storage than protection from impacts.
Q: Does one version perform better?
No. They’re literally the same machine.
Q: Which one is more popular?
The ROS20VSC (bag version) sells more because it’s cheaper and most DIYers don’t need the case.
Q: Can the case fit extra sandpaper?
Yes, there’s room in the case for a few extra sanding discs.
