DeWalt vs Makita Random Orbital Sanders: Which one for a furniture newb?

Hey all, I'm building my first piece of furniture (a nightstand) and need a random orbital sander. I'm torn between the DeWalt DWE6423 and the Makita BO5041K. The DeWalt has a lower price point and seems to have decent dust collection, but the Makita has variable speed and a more powerful motor from what I've read. I'll mostly be sanding pine and maybe some plywood. Any advice from you pros?

I've used both in my restoration projects. Honestly, for furniture you can't beat the Makita. The variable speed is key when you're working on different woods or need to feather edges. The dust collection on the DeWalt is okay but the Makita with a vac hookup is way better. Spend the extra $30, you won't regret it.

If you're just starting out, get the DeWalt. It's cheaper and will do everything you need for now. You can always upgrade later. I've had mine for 3 years and it's still going strong. The dust box is a bit small, but for small jobs it's fine. Save your cash for good sandpaper.

Make sure you get a sander with a dust port that fits your shop vac. Lung health matters! I see a lot of guys with the DeWalt using it without a vac and that's just dust city. Also, wear a respirator. Both are good tools but the Makita's gear-driven is more reliable in my inspection experience. Check the spindle lock too - Makita's is more robust.

Thanks for the input everyone! I'm leaning towards the Makita now. Wendy, good point about the vac hookup - I'll make sure to get the adapter. And Paul128, I think the variable speed will come in handy. Appreciate the help!