Rotary or Dual Action?
When choosing a polisher the first question to answer is “Rotary or Dual Action?” Below we’ll explain the key differences between a Rotary and a DA (Dual Action) and help determine which is right for you.

Rotary Polishers
What makes a rotary polisher a rotary is that its head spins on a single axis in a an even, circular motion.


Heat and Friction
Heat and friction build up fast with a rotary polisher, making quick work of paint cutting. Adversely this creates a higher risk of paint damage if not performed correctly. If you press down onto the paint with a rotary polisher it will keep spinning, so continuous movement is necessary to not “burn” through the paint.

Aggresive Nature
With the aggressive nature of a rotary, it can be more difficult to create a refined paint surface due to an increased risk of hazing. Often a dual action polisher is brought in for polishing after a rotary cut.
Get the Power of Rotary

MaxShine M1000 5”/1000W Elite Rotary Polisher
- 5-inch backing plate quickly covers large areas
- Powerful rotary mechanism cuts quicker than dual action polishers
- Compatible with 1 to 5-inch rotary backing plates to reach intricate details
The 5in, 1000W machine has a range of 800-3300RPM. It can utilize backing plates all the way down to 1in, though ideally with an extension shaft for any below 5in in diameter.
Our Rotary Polishers & Accessories
MaxShine M0312 V2 Hybrid Mini Cordless Polisher
In stock
- Experience full mobility with the handy cordless design
- Extensive customization with rotary and dual action capabilities
- A full kit of accessories gets you started with everything you need
MaxShine M1000 5”/1000W Elite Rotary Polisher
In stock
- 5-inch backing plate quickly covers large areas
- Powerful rotary mechanism cuts quicker than dual action polishers
- Compatible with 1 to 5-inch rotary backing plates to reach intricate details
MaxShine M550 3”/550W Versatile Rotary Polisher
In stock
- 3-inch backing plate easily refines small areas
- Robust rotary mechanism cuts quicker than dual action polishers
- Compatible with 1-inch and 2-inch rotary backing plates to reach finer details
Dual Action Polishers
Dual action, or DA, polishers rotate in two different ways. It spins in a circular motion like the rotary but additionally moves in an orbit, similarly to how the earth spins on its own axis as well as orbits the sun.


Safer Option
With that, the paint won’t cut as fast and more severe damage is more difficult to remove. However, this lends to DAs being considered a safer option, especially for beginners. If you press down onto the paint with a dual action polisher it will stop spinning, utilizing a built-in safety feature to help prevent “burning” through paint.

NO HAZING Method
Because DA polishers aren’t as aggressive, they can leave a more refined finish with a decreased possibility of hazing, compared to the rotary.
MaxShine’s Flagship Dual Action Polisher

MaxShine M15 Pro 15mm/1000W Premium Dual Action Polisher
- 1000W motor and 15mm-orbit allows the machine to do the hard work
- Locking capable variable speed trigger and ergonomic handle provides maximum comfort
- Made to last with high-quality steel CNC counterweight and NSK bearing
The 5in, 1000W machine has a 15mm throw and a range of 2200-5000RPM. This ideal mid-sized polisher is perfect for any beginner getting into detailing as well as the seasoned professional.
Our Dual Action (DA) Polishers
MaxShine M8S V2 8mm/1000W Optimal Dual Action Polisher
In stock
- 8mm throw ideal for beginners and professional arsenals
- Lightweight, sleek design perfect for cars and boats
- Achieve a professional-grade finish without professional prices
MaxShine M312 12mm/550W Essential Dual Action Polisher
In stock
- 12mm-orbit and 3-in backing plate is ideal for mastering curves and small details
- Tremendous flexibility with the wide 2,000 to 5,500 RPM speed range
- Can be paired with MaxShine’s Headlight Restoration Kit for quick corrections
MaxShine M8SV2 Bundle
Out of stock
- 8mm throw ideal for beginners and professional arsenals
- Full set of quality foam pads for any correction need
- All in One Polish with sealant incorporated and microfiber towels for convenient cleanup
MaxShine M15 Pro 15mm/1000W Premium Dual Action Polisher
In stock
- 1000W motor and 15mm-orbit allows the machine to do the hard work
- Locking capable variable speed trigger and ergonomic handle provides maximum comfort
- Made to last with high-quality steel CNC counterweight and NSK bearing
COMPARISON CHART
Power Polishers

ROTARY POLISHERS
Cut Speed | Faster |
---|---|
Remove Severe Defects | Faster Removal |
Burning Paint | Increased Risk of "Burning" |
Experience | PRO |
Finish Results | Often Leaves Hazing |

DUAL ACTION POLISHERS
Cut Speed | Slower |
---|---|
Remove Severe Defects | Slower Removal |
Burning Paint | Low Risk of "Burning" |
Experience | DIY, Beginners, Refinement for Professionals |
Finish Results | Easiest Mirror Finish |
Both, Rotary and Dual Action?
Combine the Best of Rotary and Dual Action Polisher to achieve the perfect result

Mini Cordless Polisher
Has the option for both rotary and dual action to best fit your polishing needs. Whichever polisher head you choose (rotary, or 3mm or 12mm DA), combined with the included 1.5in and 2in backing plates and pads, will aid you in achieving a perfect polish of those tiny, hard to reach details.


Check Up
WHICH IS BEST FOR YOU!
In this Youtube video we talk about MaxShine's 5" Polishers. We are going to see each one, from the unboxing to the comparison between them. Dual Action or Rotary, which one do you prefer?