Cut & Finish Pad on DA vs Rotary: What’s the Difference?
You’ve got the pad. You’ve got the polish. But should you reach for your dual action or your rotary polisher? Let’s break down how the Cut & Finish Pad performs on both machines—and how to dial in the right approach.
What Happens on a Dual Action (DA) Polisher
Behavior: The DA’s oscillating motion spreads heat more evenly and keeps the pad cooler, making it safer for newer detailers or delicate paint.
- ✅ Very low risk of burning paint
- ✅ Excellent for daily drivers and medium correction
- ✅ Works well on curved panels and softer clears
- ❌ Slightly slower correction vs rotary
Recommended DA Settings:
- Speed: 4–5
- Pressure: Light to medium
- Polish: Picture Perfect Polish
What Happens on a Rotary Polisher
Behavior: The rotary spins in a fixed circular motion, building more heat and correction power—but requiring better control to finish clean.
- ✅ Faster cutting ability
- ✅ Great on hard paint and oxidation
- ✅ Impressive finish when pressure and polish are dialed in
- ❌ Easier to create holograms or haze if rushed
Recommended Rotary Settings:
- Speed: 1000–1400 RPM
- Pressure: Light, especially during finishing passes
- Polish: Picture Perfect Polish
Real-World Performance Breakdown
| Feature | DA Polisher | Rotary Polisher |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of Use | Beginner friendly | Requires experience |
| Correction Speed | Moderate | Fast |
| Finishing Quality | Very good with soft clears | Excellent with proper technique |
| Risk Level | Low | Medium–High |
Which Should You Use?
Both machines work extremely well with the Cut & Finish Pad. Choose based on your comfort level and the paint system you’re working on.
- Use a DA: For modern cars, soft clears, or when finishing down on dark paint
- Use a Rotary: For harder paint, deep oxidation, or when cutting speed is a priority
Pro Tip
Pair your pad with Picture Perfect Polish—a polish that adapts to both machines, cutting hard when needed but still finishing clean on soft paint with no dusting.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I switch between DA and rotary on the same job?
Yes, just clean the pad between machines. Each has its strengths—DA for safety and finish, rotary for speed and power.
Will the pad finish down on a rotary?
Yes—with Picture Perfect Polish and low pressure, it can finish on black paint with minimal holograms.
Do I need different pads for each machine?
No. The same Cut & Finish Pad works on both rotary and DA tools.
Which is better for beginners?
Dual Action. Lower risk, smoother learning curve, and more forgiving on all paint types.
