Polystar 13 Inch vs Polystar 15 Inch Orbital Floor Scrubber – What’s the Real Difference?

When it comes to commercial floor cleaning, small details can make a big difference. And in the case of Polystar orbital floor scrubbers, that difference is just two inches.

At first glance, the Polystar 13 inch and Polystar 15 inch orbital machines look almost identical. Same brand. Same orbital technology. Same reputation for deep, controlled cleaning. But that extra two inches of cleaning path can change how fast you work, how tight a space you can access, and how productive your team is on the job.

In this in-depth Australian comparison guide, we’ll break down the real-world differences between the Polystar 13” and 15” orbital scrubbers — not just size, but cleaning performance, productivity, comfort, floor types, best environments, and long-term ownership value.

Does 2 Inches in a Polystar Floor Scrubber Really Matter?

Short answer: yes — and more than most buyers realise.

• Productivity per hour
• Operator fatigue
• Space accessibility
• Job turnaround time
• Storage and transport
• Where the machine fits best

Let’s unpack it properly.

What Is an Orbital Floor Scrubber and Why It Matters

Orbital floor scrubbers use a high-frequency, low-amplitude oscillating motion instead of a traditional spinning disc. This delivers:

• More consistent agitation across the whole pad
• Better soil and grease removal
• Less swirl marking
• Improved control on delicate or textured surfaces

Both Polystar models use this same orbital technology. The difference lies in how much floor they cover per pass and how they behave in different layouts.

Meet the Polystar 13 Inch Orbital Floor Scrubber

The Polystar 13 inch orbital scrubber is built for precision cleaning in tighter commercial spaces. It’s compact, controlled, and easy to manoeuvre — making it ideal where access matters more than raw speed.

• 330mm cleaning path
• Lightweight and highly manoeuvrable
• Excellent edge and corner control
• Ideal for kitchens, toilets, and offices

This model shines where space is limited and detailed cleaning is critical.

Meet the Polystar 15 Inch Orbital Floor Scrubber

The Polystar 15 inch orbital scrubber is designed for higher productivity in open commercial environments. With a wider cleaning path, it reduces the number of passes needed and increases overall efficiency.

• 380mm cleaning path
• Faster coverage in open areas
• More stable and “planted” feel
• Ideal for gyms, retail floors, classrooms

This model is all about speed, consistency, and productivity.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Cleaning Path Width: 13″ vs 15″ in Real Terms

Two inches might not sound like much, but over hundreds or thousands of square metres, it can save serious time.

• 13″ = More turns, more precision
• 15″ = Fewer passes, more coverage

If your sites have lots of obstacles, furniture, and tight walkways, the 13″ is easier to control. If you’re cleaning wide, open floors, the 15″ gets the job done faster.

Productivity & Labour Cost

Labour is your biggest cleaning cost. Faster cleaning with the right-sized machine directly improves profitability.

• 13″ = Best for detail-focused cleaning
• 15″ = Best for volume and speed

Operator Comfort & Fatigue

Both machines are robust, but they feel different in daily use:

• 13″ = Lighter feel, easier on the arms
• 15″ = Heavier, more stable on long runs

Choose based on how long your staff clean each shift and how often they move between rooms.

Floor Types and Applications

Both machines perform exceptionally well on:

• Vinyl & safety flooring
• Tiles & grout
• Sealed concrete
• Polished surfaces

The difference is not capability — it’s layout and efficiency.

Where the Polystar 13 Inch Makes Sense

• Commercial kitchens
• Hospitality back-of-house
• Medical consulting rooms
• Aged care rooms
• Small offices

Where the Polystar 15 Inch Dominates

• Retail stores
• Schools and classrooms
• Gyms and studios
• Community centres
• Medium commercial facilities

Maintenance & Long-Term Ownership

Both units are designed for commercial duty. With proper pad care and routine maintenance, they offer excellent longevity.

• Simple pad replacement
• Robust drive systems
• Easy transport and storage

Final Thoughts

The Polystar 13 inch and 15 inch orbital floor scrubbers are both outstanding machines — just built for different environments.

It’s not about which one is better overall. It’s about which one is better for your floors, your staff, and your workflow.

If your jobs demand precision and access, the 13″ will serve you well. If your jobs demand speed and productivity, the 15″ will pay for itself in saved time and labour.

Related articles and links: 

• Polystar 13" Floor Scrubber
• Polystar 15" Floor Scrubber 
• Compact Floor Scrubbers
• Best floor scrubber guide