Looking Beyond the Clarke 17-Inch All-Metal Floor Polisher? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look

Key differences in size and power

SUNMAX 14-Inch Corded Floor Scrubber

The SUNMAX 14-Inch Corded Floor Scrubber differs significantly in function and scale. It features a 14-inch cleaning width, which is narrower than the Clarke’s 17-inch deck. This makes it better suited for small commercial spaces or tighter areas where maneuverability matters more than wide coverage. It includes a 4-gallon tank, a feature the Clarke lacks as a dry polisher. At 116 pounds, it is heavier than the Clarke, yet its compact dimensions of 27.6 by 18.2 by 41.4 inches allow for easier storage. Choose this if you need wet scrubbing capabilities and digital diagnostics rather than high-torque dry polishing.

Powr-Flite 20-Inch Electric Floor Burnisher

The Powr-Flite 20-Inch Electric Floor Burnisher offers a wider 20-inch cleaning path, covering 3 more inches than the Clarke’s 17-inch deck. This increased width allows you to clean large commercial floors faster. It is designed specifically for high-speed hard floor burnishing, prioritizing finish quality over general maintenance versatility. The unit measures 19 by 19 by 49 inches, making it taller and slightly narrower in footprint than the Clarke. It lacks the triple planetary gear box mentioned for the Clarke, focusing instead on consistent burnishing power. Pick this model if your primary goal is achieving a high-gloss finish on hard surfaces rather than general polishing.

Koblenz 20-Inch Commercial Floor Burnisher

The Koblenz 20-Inch Commercial Floor Burnisher provides a 20-inch cleaning width, offering 3 inches more coverage than the Clarke’s 17-inch model. This wider path improves efficiency in large commercial spaces. It weighs 102 pounds, which is lighter than the Clarke’s implied bulk, though exact weight is not listed for the Clarke. It includes a 50-foot power cord, matching the Clarke’s cord length, and comes with two wheels and a 20-inch cleaning pad. The gray and yellow color scheme distinguishes it visually. Choose this option if you need a budget-friendly commercial burnisher that sacrifices some of the Clarke’s all-metal construction details for a broader cleaning swath and lower profile.

Powr-Flite 20-Inch Dual-Speed Floor Machine

The Powr-Flite 20-Inch Dual-Speed Floor Machine matches the Clarke in commercial durability but expands the cleaning width to 20 inches. This 3-inch increase over the Clarke’s 17-inch deck helps you cover more area per pass. It is built for both floor polishing and stripping, offering more versatility than the Clarke’s single-purpose polishing design. The dual-speed feature allows you to adjust RPMs for different tasks, a flexibility the Clarke’s single-speed 1.5 hp motor does not explicitly offer. Its blue color and model NM202 identify it as a robust industrial tool. Select this machine if you need a multi-task floor machine with a wider footprint for stripping and polishing cycles.

Global Industrial 20-Inch Dual-Speed Floor Machine

The Global Industrial 20-Inch Dual-Speed Floor Machine features a 20-inch cleaning width, providing 3 inches more coverage than the Clarke’s 17-inch model. It weighs 121 pounds, making it one of the heaviest options listed, which enhances stability during heavy-duty use. Its dimensions of 48 by 20.9 by 47 inches create a larger footprint than the Clarke. It is corded and intended for industrial use, similar to the Clarke’s commercial focus. The dual-speed capability allows for varied RPMs, unlike the Clarke’s fixed 1.5 hp output. Choose this heavy-duty alternative if you require maximum stability and a wider cleaning path for high-traffic commercial environments.

Powr-Flite 20-Inch 1600 RPM Electric Burnisher

The Powr-Flite 20-Inch 1600 RPM Electric Burnisher offers a 20-inch cleaning width, which is 3 inches wider than the Clarke’s 17-inch deck. It operates at 1600 RPM, a specific speed rating that ensures consistent burnishing performance. This model is designed for high-speed burnishing on hard floors, focusing on finish quality rather than the general maintenance versatility of the Clarke. It lacks the explicit 1.5 hp motor specification of the Clarke, relying instead on its dedicated burnishing motor. The blue color and NM1600 model number identify it. Pick this unit if you need a specialized tool for achieving high-gloss finishes on hard surfaces with a wider cleaning path.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Clarke 17-Inch All-Metal Floor Polisher

Best for: commercial floor polishing and maintenance

Cleaning Width

17"

Motor Power

1.5 hp

Dimensions

24 × 49 × 29 inches

View on Amazon: Clarke 17-Inch All-Metal Floor Polisher Affiliate link

The Clarke by Nilfisk CFP Pro 17HD is a commercial floor polisher with a 17-inch cleaning width. It uses a 1.5 hp motor to drive the pad. The unit features an all-metal construction and a triple planetary gear box. You get a 50-foot cord for extended reach. This machine suits users needing durable, high-torque polishing for large hard floors.

Pros

• 17-inch cleaning width covers more area per pass
• 1.5 hp motor provides strong polishing torque
• All-metal construction and triple planetary gear box for durability
• 50-foot safety yellow cord reduces outlet dependency

Cons

• Corded design limits mobility compared to battery options
• No digital display or speed settings listed in specs
• Heavier build may require more effort to maneuver

Good fit if

• You need a heavy-duty polisher for commercial spaces
• You prefer the reliability of a corded power source
• You want a wide 17-inch cleaning path

Skip if

• You require battery-powered portability for tight areas
• You need variable speed controls for different tasks
• You are looking for lightweight equipment for frequent lifting

Verdict: Clarke by Nilfisk CFP Pro 17HD Floor Polisher is a robust choice for facilities that prioritize durability and wide coverage. It fits users who need a reliable, high-torque machine for daily commercial floor maintenance.

2 Best 14-inch

SUNMAX 14-Inch Corded Floor Scrubber

Best for: small commercial spaces with hard floors

Cleaning Width

14-inch

Form Factor

Walk-Behind

Power Source

110V AC Corded

Brush Speed

180 RPM

Squeegee Width

18-Inch

Intended Use

Commercial Use

View on Amazon: SUNMAX 14-Inch Corded Floor Scrubber Affiliate link

The SUNMAX 14-Inch Floor Scrubber Dryer is a corded machine for hard floors. It features a 14-inch cleaning width and a 4-gallon recovery tank. The 3-gallon solution tank and 17.8-inch squeegee support routine maintenance. A digital LCD display shows error codes. This unit suits small commercial spaces like offices or clinics. You get continuous operation via a 110V power cord.

Pros

• 4-gallon recovery tank capacity
• 14-inch cleaning width for tight spaces
• Digital LCD display for error codes
• Corded 110V power for continuous use

Cons

• 116-pound weight requires effort to move
• 14-inch width limits coverage per pass
• 26.25-foot cord restricts range

Good fit if

• You clean small commercial spaces like cafés or boutiques
• You need a 4-gallon recovery tank for frequent emptying
• You prefer corded power for uninterrupted operation

Skip if

• You require a larger 17-inch cleaning width
• You need battery power for cordless mobility
• You want a lighter machine under 100 pounds

Verdict: SUNMAX 14-Inch Floor Scrubber Dryer fits small commercial spaces where a 4-gallon tank and compact 14-inch width are priorities. It suits operators who need corded reliability and digital diagnostics.

3 Best premium

Powr-Flite 20-Inch Electric Floor Burnisher

Best for: high-speed hard floor burnishing

Cleaning Width

20"

Power Source

Power Cord

Brush Speed

2,000 RPM

Color

Blue

Dimensions

19 × 19 × 49 inches

View on Amazon: Powr-Flite 20-Inch Electric Floor Burnisher Affiliate link

The Powr-Flite NM2000 is a corded electric burnisher with a 20-inch cleaning width and 2,000 RPM brush speed. It features a 49-inch handle height and 19-inch body length. The machine includes a flexible pad driver for full floor contact and non-marking bumpers. It suits users needing high-speed floor finishing on hard surfaces.

Pros

• 2,000 RPM brush speed for effective burnishing
• 20-inch cleaning width covers more area per pass
• Flexible pad driver ensures full pad-to-floor contact
• Non-marking bumpers protect walls and furniture
• Thumb-activated safety interlock prevents accidental starts

Cons

• Corded power source limits mobility
• No battery option for cordless operation
• Fixed handle height may not suit all users

Good fit if

• You need high-speed burnishing for hard floors
• You prefer a corded machine for consistent power
• You want a wide cleaning width for efficiency

Skip if

• You require cordless operation for unrestricted movement
• You need a machine with adjustable handle height
• You are looking for a lightweight portable unit

Verdict: Powr-Flite NM2000 20-Inch Electric Burnisher is ideal for facilities needing reliable, high-speed floor finishing. It fits users who prioritize cleaning width and burnishing power over cordless flexibility.

4 Also great

Koblenz 20-Inch Commercial Floor Burnisher

Best for: Large commercial spaces needing fast high-speed polishing

Cleaning Width

20 in

Power Source

Corded Electric

Motor Power

1.5 HP

Form Factor

Commercial

Intended Use

Commercial Use

Dimensions

35 × 20 × 48 inches

View on Amazon: Koblenz 20-Inch Commercial Floor Burnisher Affiliate link

The Koblenz B-1500-P is a 1.5 HP commercial floor burnisher designed for high-speed polishing. Its 20-inch cleaning width covers more ground per pass than standard 12-inch machines. The 50-foot power cord allows extended reach without extension cords. Weighing 102 pounds, it uses a cast aluminum chassis for durability. This unit suits facilities needing rapid shine restoration on hard surfaces.

Pros

• 1.5 HP motor delivers high-speed burnishing performance
• 20-inch pad width covers floor area quickly
• 50-foot 14-gauge cord reduces need for extensions
• Cast aluminum chassis ensures commercial-grade durability
• Four non-marking wheels protect finished surfaces

Cons

• 102-pound weight requires significant effort to maneuver
• Corded design limits mobility in large open spaces
• Lacks variable speed settings for delicate surfaces

Good fit if

• You need to polish large commercial floors quickly
• You require a durable machine for daily use
• You want to avoid frequent cord unplugging

Skip if

• You prefer lightweight equipment for easy handling
• You need battery power for cordless operation
• You require variable speed for sensitive materials

Verdict: Koblenz B-1500-P 20-Inch Commercial Burnisher fits busy facilities that prioritize speed and durability over lightweight portability.

5 Best budget

Powr-Flite 20-Inch Dual-Speed Floor Machine

Best for: Commercial floor polishing and stripping

Cleaning Width

20"

Brush Speed

175 / 320 RPM

Motor Power

1.5 hp

Color

Blue

View on Amazon: Powr-Flite 20-Inch Dual-Speed Floor Machine Affiliate link

The Powr-Flite NM202 is a 20-inch floor machine with a 1.5 hp motor. It offers dual speeds of 175 and 320 RPM for versatile cleaning. The one-piece housing reduces noise and vibration. This unit is assembled and tested by American workers. It suits users needing a durable, high-performance buffer for commercial or heavy residential tasks.

Pros

• Dual 175 and 320 RPM speeds
• 1.5 hp motor for heavy jobs
• 20-inch cleaning width
• Patented one-piece housing reduces vibration

Cons

• Heavier build due to metal construction
• Single speed setting limits fine-tuning
• No variable speed control for delicate surfaces

Good fit if

• You need a durable machine for commercial floors
• You prefer a simpler control interface
• You want reduced vibration during use

Skip if

• You require variable speed settings
• You need a lightweight portable unit
• You prefer electric-only power sources

Verdict: The Powr-Flite NM202 20-Inch Floor Machine fits users needing a robust, high-RPM buffer for tough jobs. Its durable build and dual speeds make it ideal for commercial spaces.

6 Best heavy-duty

Global Industrial 20-Inch Dual-Speed Floor Machine

Best for: Large commercial floor maintenance

Cleaning Width

20"

Power Source

Corded

Brush Speed

180 RPM, 320 RPM

Motor Power

1.5 HP

Special Feature

Heavy-Duty, Corded

Intended Use

Industrial Use

View on Amazon: Global Industrial 20-Inch Dual-Speed Floor Machine Affiliate link

This Global Industrial floor machine features a 20-inch cleaning width and a 1.5 HP motor. It operates at two speeds: 180 RPM and 320 RPM. The unit is built with a stainless steel construction and an all-steel gearbox. It weighs 121 pounds and measures 47 inches in height. This heavy-duty tool suits large facilities needing durable scrubbing, stripping, or buffing capabilities.

Pros

• 20-inch cleaning width covers more area per pass
• 1.5 HP motor with all-steel gearbox for durability
• Dual speeds of 180 RPM and 320 RPM
• Stainless steel construction resists corrosion

Cons

• 121-pound weight makes it difficult to move manually
• Corded power limits range without extension cords
• No included accessories for specific floor types

Good fit if

• You need a wide 20-inch cleaning path
• You require dual speed settings for different tasks
• You want a stainless steel build for longevity

Skip if

• You prefer lightweight machines under 100 pounds
• You need cordless operation for unrestricted movement
• You only require a single speed setting

Verdict: Global Industrial 20-Inch Dual Speed Floor Machine delivers heavy-duty performance for large commercial spaces. Its wide cleaning path and robust motor make it ideal for high-traffic areas requiring frequent maintenance.

7 Also great

Powr-Flite 20-Inch 1600 RPM Electric Burnisher

Best for: high-speed burnishing on hard floors

Cleaning Width

20"

Power Source

Power Cord

Brush Speed

1,600 RPM

Color

Blue

View on Amazon: Powr-Flite 20-Inch 1600 RPM Electric Burnisher Affiliate link

The Powr-Flite NM1600 is a corded floor burnisher with a 20-inch cleaning width and 1,600 RPM brush speed. It includes a flexible pad driver for full floor contact and features non-marking bumpers to protect walls. This machine is assembled and tested by American workers. It suits users who need a durable, high-speed buffer for maintaining floor finishes in commercial or large residential spaces.

Pros

• 1,600 RPM brush speed for effective burnishing
• 20-inch cleaning width covers more area per pass
• Flexible pad driver ensures full pad-to-floor contact
• Thumb-activated safety interlock prevents accidental starts
• Non-marking bumpers protect walls and furniture

Cons

• Corded power limits mobility and requires an outlet
• No dual-speed settings for lower RPM tasks
• Heavier build may be difficult to maneuver for some users

Good fit if

• You need a high-speed burnisher for hard floors
• You prefer a corded machine for continuous power
• You want a 20-inch cleaning width for efficiency

Skip if

• You require a cordless machine for unrestricted movement
• You need dual-speed settings for delicate surfaces
• You are looking for a lightweight, portable unit

Verdict: Powr-Flite NM1600 1600 RPM Burnisher is a solid choice for users who prioritize a wide cleaning path and high RPM for commercial floor maintenance.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions

See also

• arlo pro 5s alternatives
• apple macbook pro apple alternatives