Hozo NeoSander review: Palm-size precision detail sanding for miniature makers

The NeoSander is a compact, high-speed reciprocating sander that delivers precision and fun to resin model post-processing that traditional sanding sticks cannot match.

Palm-sized and lightweight, the NeoSander is designed specifically for intricate detail work. Picture: Hozo

I have a serious weakness for well-made tools, and there’s a real satisfaction in having the right tool for a task. While standard sanding sticks and files will certainly do the job when prepping 3D printed models, they’re nowhere near as much fun as using the Hozo NeoSander.

Design

The NeoSander is a high-performance sander that makes model preparation a little less of a chore. Picture: Hozo

The NeoSander features an aluminium alloy shell that is smooth and cold to the touch, sharing the same design language as the Hozo NeoBlade. It’s tiny, weighing less than 150g, and fits easily into the palm of your hand.

The power button is a satisfyingly clicky button, and the integrated LED provides clear battery updates: blue for full, orange for medium, and red when you drop below 20%. Once powered on, you use the vibration slider to start and adjust the power.

Features

Using progressively finer grits to transition from support removal to a high-shine polish. Picture: Hozo

Unlike traditional rotary tools that spin and slip, the NeoSander uses a reciprocating linear motor hitting 13,000 RPM. This high-speed back-and-forth motion is much more controlled. The kit I tested includes an eight-head starter set with various shapes, such as pointed, arc, and flat profiles. There’s also a mini-saw functionality if you use the optional interchangeable blades for more complex cuts. The saw blades come with a pack of eight and vary in size and shape. I didn't use them often, but they make it easy to cut through materials like resin or light wood without needing much force.

Performance

The internal counterweight keeps vibration to a minimum even at top speeds, though the tool can be quite noisy. Even at its lowest setting, the vibration feels aggressive at first and takes getting used to. However, with time and finesse, I managed to get the hang of it. I have even used it to manually sand intricate parts with the motor off. The NeoSander is splashproof, which is perfect for my wet-sanding preference, because I find it more efficient and it keeps the dust down.

The battery life is stellar, with a 30-minute charge providing about 40 minutes of high-power use, which is more than enough for any modelling session. I have never had it run out on me mid-project.

Real-world use

The intuitive grid of quick-swap heads makes it easy to select the right shape for any contour. Picture: Hozo

My workflow usually starts with the NeoBlade to trim 3D resin supports flush. I then move to the NeoSander, starting with coarse grit to remove marks and progressing up to 1500 grit for a polished finish. I haven't had much opportunity to test it on FMD 3D-printed parts, though I expect it would handle them just as well. The process is precise and, honestly, quite addictive. It makes the chore of preparation feel much more like a part of the creative process.

Verdict

For a casual user, the price point might be high, especially since replacement heads and paper are proprietary. However, if you regularly work with tiny, high-precision models, the NeoSander is well worth the investment. It turns a tedious task into something more enjoyable.

From €55 NeoSander