Hand applications can be quite different then applications using a Porter Cable 7424. Hand applications exert pressure primarily through your fingertips while a buffer typically uses a pad 6.5 inches in diameter to distribute pressure. This much larger diameter allows you to apply more evenly distributed pressure over a much larger area. The pressure your arm will exert varies tremendously, especially when you’re applying multiple coats. Using the same number of passes and pressure over the entire vehicle by hand is nearly impossible. The Porter Cable buffer delivers consistent and smooth pressure at 2,500 – 6,000 OPM (oscillations per minute), depending on what speed setting you select. This means that in one hour at speed 6 the Porter Cable 7424 is estimated to produce 360,000 oscillations. The amount of passes you can do in one hour by hand is nowhere near 360,000, so you can clearly see the power of the Porter Cable 7424. The powerful 3.7 amp motor is encased in a dual-shock resistant casing and backed with a one year warranty. The oscillating motion of the PC 7424 is designed to replicate a hand buffing motion. The pad moves in a very tight oscillating motion that generates safe levels of heat while working a polish, glaze, sealant or wax into the clear coat. The ability to consistently generate safe levels of heat and pressure is especially important when using a polish that has abrasive cutting particles! Polishes with abrasives is designed to help permanently remove imperfections (i.e. swirls, fine scratches, water spots) which often provide the most dramatic improvement to your paint’s depth and gloss. Polishes need more passes and time in contact with clear coat to buff out scratches and other imperfections. Additionally polishes work into the surface better with a firmer pad and there are pads specifically designed for use with the Porter Cable polisher that help you achieve maximum results when polishing. The Porter Cable buffer is extremely easy and safe to use even for those who have never detailed before. This durable buffer has revolutionized the capability of weekend detailers so you easily obtain professional like results. In summary, the Porter Cable 7424 will save you lots of time and energy while significantly improving your detailing results.