Todd@RUPES
Just a regular guy

This chart is for general comparison use in terms of how the foam or wool material of the pad should perform against each other.
Keep in mind that there are many variables when selecting a foam pad.
Pad Diameter: The diameter of the pad controls the total contract surface of the area as well as what speed the pad moves across the paint in a given movement. On a rotary polisher a larger pad will act more aggressive because the outer edge of the pad is moving at a faster rate. On an orbital polisher a larger diameter pad will act less aggressive because of the increased deflection in the pad as well as the increase in friction and mass.
Pad Face Design: In general, flat pads, such as our Hi-Gloss Classic Flat style or Meguiar's SoftBuff 2.0 have the largest contact area against the paint. This makes flat pads more aggressive in polishing action when applied with rotary polisher but may cause random orbital polishers to bog, reducing cut. The increase in surface friction will also increase the amount of defection in the pad.
Pad's that have dimples, pockets, a convoluted 'waffle' patter, or are cross cut will be less aggressive on a rotary polisher and more aggressive on a dual-action polisher for the same reasons.
Helpful links.
Choosing a Machine Polisher
CMA Polish Range Comparison Chart
Meguiars M105/M205 Polish and Pad Comparison Chart
Lake Country/Menzerna Polish and Pad Comparison Chart
Understanding Lake Country Polishing Pads and Foams
Removing Paint Defects
Choosing a DA Backing Plate