Best Tumbling Media of 2025

Brian Howie Avatar
Brian Howie
Last Updated: Jan 4, 2025

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Tumbling media is a versatile and efficient tool used in various industries for polishing and finishing applications. It is commonly used in the jewelry, automotive, and metalworking industries to achieve a smooth and shiny surface on different materials. Tumbling media comes in different shapes, sizes, and compositions, such as ceramic, plastic, and abrasive stones. These media are designed to remove burrs, scratches, and other imperfections from the surface of the workpiece, resulting in a high-quality finish. Whether it's for small-scale jewelry making or large-scale industrial production, tumbling media is an essential component in achieving a professional and polished look.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

SACKORANGE 8 LBS Rock Tumbler Grit Kit Cover #TOP 1
SACKORANGE 8 LBS Rock Tumbler Grit Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Polly Plastics Rock Tumbler Grit and Polish Refill & Ceramic Tumbling Filler Media Cover #TOP 2
Polly Plastics Rock Tumbler Grit and Polish Refill & Ceramic Tumbling Filler Media
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Blue Marble Rock Tumbler Media Kit Cover #TOP 3
Blue Marble Rock Tumbler Media Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Tumbling Media

#TOP 1

SACKORANGE 8 LBS Rock Tumbler Grit Kit

Large
SACKORANGE 8 LBS Rock Tumbler Grit Kit Cover
8 LBS Large Weight Rock Tumbler Grit Kit and Ceramic Tumbling Filler Media -Coarse/Medium Grit/Pre-Polished/Final Polish, Works with Any Rock Tumbler, Rock Polisher, Stone Polisher

The SACKORANGE Grit Kit offers a comprehensive solution for rock tumbling enthusiasts. It includes 6 lbs of various grits, making it compatible with any rock tumbler you may own. You’ll find ample amounts of coarse, medium, and fine grits, allowing you to process up to 20 lbs of rocks efficiently. The secure plastic jars keep the grits contained and mess-free, while an included scoop ensures you use the right amount every time. Plus, the aluminum oxide polish provides a professional-grade finish, giving your stones that coveted shine.

What We Like
Large grit quantities
Secure packaging
Easy measurement scoop
Professional-grade polish
#TOP 2

Polly Plastics Rock Tumbler Grit and Polish Refill & Ceramic Tumbling Filler Media

683405246985
white
1 Count (Pack of 1)
Polly Plastics Rock Tumbler Grit and Polish Refill & Ceramic Tumbling Filler Media Cover
Polly Plastics Rock Tumbler Grit and Polish Refill & Ceramic Tumbling Filler Media - Silicone Carbide Polisher Grit - Rock Polish Supplies & Accessories

Polly Plastics Tumbler Refill is a comprehensive kit designed to give your rocks a dazzling polish. With four different kinds of grits included, you can shape, smoothen, pre-polish, and finally polish your rocks for a professional finish. This kit is ideal for both kids and adults who enjoy rock tumbling. The package includes coarse and medium silicon carbide grits, fine silicon carbide, aluminum oxide polish, non-abrasive ceramic filler cylinders, and an easy-to-follow instructions manual. The grits are sold by weight, ensuring you have the right amount for each step of the tumbling process. Compatible with all rock tumblers, this kit offers convenience and ease of use. The ceramic filler media cushions delicate rocks, protecting them during tumbling, and can be washed and reused. Made in the USA, Polly Plastics Tumbler Refill is a premium rock polishing grit kit.

What We Like
Dazzling polish for rocks
Includes four different grits
Works with all rock tumblers
#TOP 3

Blue Marble Rock Tumbler Media Kit

Blue Marble
NGFOMCERGRIT
Black
Medium
Blue Marble Rock Tumbler Media Kit Cover
Blue Marble National Geographic Rock Tumbler Media – The Ultimate Rock Polishing Supplies Kit, 4 Stage Bulk Grit, 1.5 Pounds of Ceramic Pellets, GemFoam Polishing Tumbling Media

The Blue Marble Tumbling Media is designed to enhance your rock polishing experience. Its high-quality silicon carbide grit allows you to polish 8-10 pounds of rocks, ensuring a brilliant finish. You’ll appreciate the included measuring scoop and secure storage containers, making it easy to manage your supplies. The ceramic pellets improve the tumbling process by reducing noise and preventing rock breakage, which means smoother operation for you. Plus, the innovative GemFoam polishing media delivers an exceptional shine to your rocks after the final grit cycle, allowing you to achieve professional results at home.

What We Like
High-quality silicon carbide grit
Reduces noise and breakage
Innovative GemFoam for shine
Compatible with any tumbler
#TOP 4

Hiceeden Rock Tumbling Filler Media

Hiceeden
Hi-RockTumblingFiller-5lbs
White
Hiceeden Rock Tumbling Filler Media Cover
Hiceeden 8 Pounds Rock Tumbling Filler Media, 1/5" x 2/5" Reusable Cylinder Ceramic Pellets Non-Abrasive for Rock Tumbler, Stone Polisher

Hiceeden Ceramic Pellets are the perfect rock tumbling filler media for your rock tumbler or stone polisher. Made of non-abrasive alumina ceramics, these cylindrical pellets are non-toxic, non-static, and non-residue. They are easy to dry and reuse, ensuring that they will never stale or spoil. With their 1/5" diameter and 2/5" length, these ceramic tumbling media act as a filler, protecting stones and reducing rock breakage. They also cushion the tumbler noise and improve tumbling action. You can use the same batch of ceramic pellets for every rock polishing grit cycle, making them more effective than plastic tumbling media. Suitable for polishing rocks, gems, glass, and more, Hiceeden Ceramic Pellets are a safe and convenient choice for rock tumbling enthusiasts.

What We Like
Non-abrasive
Reusable
Protects stones
#TOP 5

GANGOU 4lb Rock Tumbling Ceramic Filler Media

cut-cylinders-5MM-4lb
White
Ceramic Filler 4LB
GANGOU 4lb Rock Tumbling Ceramic Filler Media Cover
4lb Rock Tumbling Ceramic Filler Medi Rock Tumbling Ceramic Filler Media Non- Abrasive Ceramic Pellets for All Type Tumblers 3/16" X 3/8"

GANGOU Ceramic Filler Media is a 4lb non-abrasive ceramic small tumbling media that is designed to improve your rock tumbling results. With its 3/16” diameter and 3/8” long cut cylinders, it is perfect for protecting stones or filling while rock tumbling. The ceramic pellets can be reused during every rock polishing grit cycle, making them a cost-effective choice. Not only do they improve the delivery of rock tumbling grit, but they also help in quieting tumbler noise and reducing rock breakage. Compatible with any brand tumbler or grit, these ceramic pellets can be used with liquid compounds or water in tumbling and vibrating machines. Upgrade your rock tumbling experience with GANGOU Ceramic Filler Media.

What We Like
Improves rock tumbling results
Reduces tumbler noise
Reusable and cost-effective
#TOP 6

SACKORANGE 5 lbs Tumbling Media

SACKORANGE 5 lbs Tumbling Media Cover
5 LBS Large Weight 1/8" (3 mm) Round Tumbling Ceramic Filler Media Non-Abrasive Ceramic Pellets for All Type Tumblers (5 Pounds)

The SACKORANGE Tumbling Media offers 5 pounds of non-abrasive ceramic pellets designed for use with all types of tumblers. These 3mm pellets are perfect for protecting your stones and enhancing the tumbling process. You can conveniently use the same batch throughout all stages of tumbling without the need for rinsing between uses. Additionally, the re-closable seal bags help prevent spills and allow you to store any remaining pellets safely for future projects. This versatile media not only cushions your stones but also quiets the tumbling action, ensuring a smooth and effective experience.

What We Like
Non-abrasive ceramic pellets
Reusable through all stages
Convenient re-closable bags
Enhances tumbling action
#TOP 7

YHAspace Ceramic Filler Media

8LB Ceramic Filler Media
YHAspace Ceramic Filler Media Cover
8 LBS 3/16" X 3/8" Rock Tumbling Ceramic Filler Media Non-Abrasive Ceramic Pellets for All Type Tumblers

The YHAspace Tumbling Pellets are designed to enhance your rock tumbling experience. These non-abrasive ceramic pellets, sized 3/16" x 3/8", help improve the delivery of tumbling grit, ensuring better results. They also significantly reduce the noise produced by your tumbler, making the process more enjoyable. Additionally, these pellets minimize the risk of rock breakage, allowing you to work with your materials confidently. Best of all, they are reusable and compatible with any tumbler brand or grit, making them a versatile choice for all your rock polishing needs.

What We Like
Improves tumbling results
Reduces tumbler noise
Minimizes rock breakage
Reusable and versatile
#TOP 8

GANGOU 1/8" Ceramic Tumbling Media

Gray
1/8"-Gray
GANGOU 1/8" Ceramic Tumbling Media Cover
1/8" Ceramic Tumbling Tumbler Tumble Media Fast Cut Deburr Tumbling Media - 2 LBS (Clean, Dry and Store) for use in Vibrating Tumbler or Rotating Tumblers

The GANGOU Ceramic Tumbling Media is a versatile solution for your tumbling needs. With 2 pounds of 1/8" ceramic media, you can achieve fast cutting and effective deburring in your vibrating or rotating tumblers. This media works well with liquid compounds or water, enhancing the tumbling process for better results. Additionally, it comes clean, dry, and securely packaged in a bottle, making it easy to store and keep ready for use. The various shapes, including balls, triangles, and cut cylinders, provide flexibility for different applications, ensuring you get the best performance for your projects.

What We Like
Effective deburring
Variety of shapes
Easy storage
Compatible with liquid compounds
#TOP 9

Tonmp Rock Tumbling Ceramic Pellets

46456
White
Tonmp Rock Tumbling Ceramic Pellets Cover
5 LBS 3/16" X 3/8" Rock Tumbling Ceramic Pellets Filler Media for All Type Tumblers -Use with Rock Polishing Grit, Protects Rocks, Improves Tumbling, Reusable, Rock Tumbling Supplies

Tonmp Tumbling Pellets are 5-pound non-abrasive ceramic pellets designed for all types of tumblers. With a size of 3/16" x 3/8", these pellets can be used throughout all the tumbling stages, eliminating the need to keep separate batches for each stage. They are perfect for protecting stones and filling while rock tumbling, as they cushion the rocks, improve tumbling action, and reduce noise. The re-closable seal bags ensure easy storage and prevent messy spills. Tonmp Tumbling Pellets are an essential addition to your rock tumbling supplies, offering convenience and efficiency for your tumbling projects.

What We Like
Non-abrasive ceramic pellets
Protects stones
Improves tumbling action
#TOP 10

GANGOU 2 Pound Ceramic Tumbling Media

1/8" X 1/4"
GANGOU 2 Pound Ceramic Tumbling Media Cover
2 Pound Rock Tumbling Ceramic Filler Media 1/8" X 1/4" Small Cylinder Ceramic Tumbling Tumbler Media - 2 LBS for use in Rotating Tumblers

The GANGOU Ceramic Tumbling Media is a 2-pound pack of non-abrasive ceramic pellets designed to enhance your rock tumbling experience. These small cylinder-shaped media pieces help improve the effectiveness of tumbling grit, leading to better results in polishing your stones. They also minimize noise from the tumbler, creating a quieter working environment. Additionally, using these pellets reduces the risk of rock breakage, ensuring your precious stones remain intact. Best of all, they can be reused throughout multiple grit cycles, making them a practical choice for any rock tumbling enthusiast.

What We Like
Non-abrasive material
Reduces tumbler noise
Minimizes rock breakage
Reusable for multiple cycles
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What media do you use to tumble rocks?

Ceramic tumbling media is commonly used in rock tumbling. It is added to the barrel to provide several benefits, including filling up empty space, cushioning the stones, improving tumbling action, and carrying grit to hard-to-reach places. Using ceramic tumbling media can help achieve better results in rock tumbling.

2. How many times can you reuse tumbler media?

The lifespan of tumbler media depends on the type of media used. Organic tumbling media like corn cob or walnut shell can usually be reused for about 10-20 runs before needing replacement. However, stainless steel media can last for a long time without degrading. It is important to monitor the condition of the media and replace it when necessary for optimal results.

3. How often do you change tumbler media?

The frequency of changing tumbler media depends on the specific media used and the condition of the media. As a general guideline, corn cob media typically lasts for about 10-15 runs before needing replacement. It is recommended to replace the media when the cleaning and polishing process takes about twice as long as the initial run with that media.

4. What liquid do you use to tumble rocks?

For rock tumbling, a common practice is to fill the barrel with tumbling rough, add two level tablespoons of coarse grit (such as 60/90 grit silicon carbide) for each pound of rock, and then add water until the water line is just below the top of the rocks. This mixture of water and grit helps in the tumbling process and achieves desired results.

5. What is a substitute for rock tumbler grit?

If rock tumbler grit is not available, silica sand can be used as a substitute. However, it is important to note that using silica sand as a substitute will lengthen the tumbling process compared to using commercial rock tumbling grit. Silica sand can typically be found at local sandblasting companies.

6. What grit sandpaper for stainless steel tumblers?

To buff stainless steel tumblers, it is recommended to start with sandpaper between 150 and 240 grit. Some professionals suggest progressing to higher grits like 400, 600, and even 1200 for a smoother finish. For a mirror finish, a 2000 grit sandpaper may be used. The specific grits used may vary depending on personal preference and desired results.

Editor's Notes

During our tumbling medium research, we found 24 tumbling medium products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 108,675 customer reviews through our big data system to write the tumbling media list. We found that most customers choose tumbling media with an average price of $20.88.

The tumbling media are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of tumbling media, including SACKORANGE, Polly Plastics, Blue Marble, Hiceeden, GANGOU. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 715 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Brian Howie Avatar

Brian Howie is a content writer and senior industrial designer. After graduation from Westminster College, he has been engaged in product design and manufacturing for 18 years. Brian Howie has always found great pleasure in designing industrial products and sharing his ideas and experience online.