The best angle grinders for different work environments and projects are the ones that can withstand a variety of heavy-duty tasks. There is no one-size-fits-all, but by reading this post, you will be able to find an angle grinder that suits your needs.
We will cover the best corded and cordless models for DIY enthusiasts, construction professionals, metalworkers, and more!
The key features we’ll discuss include power output range, the RPMs or speed, dust removal function/systems, and whether or not it has a safety clutch system.
The Best Angle Grinders for Different Projects Compared
Table could not be displayed.What can you do with an angle grinder?
Before discussing the best angle grinders available, let’s list out some of the things you can do with an angle grinder.
Among them:
- Cutting and grinding metal
- Sharpen and restore edges on tools like axes, lawn mower blades, and more
- Cut tile, stone, and other masonry materials
- Corner polishing metal and wood
- Polish ceramic tile floors
- Remove rust from surfaces
- Shape wood with a wood shaving blade
What is an Angle Grinder?
As the name suggests, an angle grinder is a grinding tool that utilizes an adjustable rotating head on its own base. It mainly uses sanding discs and/or cut-off wheels in which a spindle adapter supports the cutting and grinding wheel.
What Kinds of Angle Grinders Are There?
There are basically two kinds of angle grinders: corded and cordless models. Cordless angle grinders are very popular due to their mobility and ease of use, but you are restricted by how long the battery will run, and they usually have less power than corded models. Many prefer the power and performance of corded models even though they need to be by a power source at all times.
Top 6 Angle Grinders
1. Best Angle Grinder Cordless: DEWALT DCG413B 20V MAX Brushless Cut Off Tool/Grinder
The Dewalt DCG413B is a small, compact, and lightweight brushless motor angle grinder. This grinder requires no time for changing brushes and offers a longer motor life with its dust-ejection system. The brake stops the wheel in 2 seconds or less once the paddle switch is released.
A kickback brake also engages maximum force if there is a pinch, stall, or bind-up. With any of these events, the grinder will also shut off to protect the user. The trigger switch requires two actions to activate the tool. The 20V battery allows for speeds up to 9000 RPMs. This grinder is only 3.75 lbs and is perfect for any job, big or small.
The battery and charger are sold separately. 3-year limited warranty, 1-year FREE service, and 90-day money-back guarantee.
2. Best Corded Angle Grinder: DEWALT Angle Grinder, One-Touch Guard, 4-1/2 -Inch (DWE4011)
The Dewalt DWE4011 is the best overall corded angle grinder. It is a 4 ½” angle grinder that is ideal for a variety of projects. The lightweight and low-profile design make it the perfect angle grinder for tight spaces. Users can turn the guard and adjust its position with just one touch. The quick-change wheel release allows you to remove the wheel without a wrench.
The side handle gives you comfort and control; you can move it to 2 different positions. The 7 amp AC/DC, 12,000 rpm motor allows faster material removal and higher overload protection. You can get your projects done with ease with this versatile angle grinder. The ⅝” to 11” spindle thread will accept a wide range of 4 ½” accessories for all of your project needs.
3-year limited warranty, 1-year FREE service, and 90-day money-back guarantee.
3. Best Budget Friendly Angle Grinder: Metabo HPT Angle Grinder, Includes 5 Grinding Wheels & Hard Case
This Metabo HPT Angle Grinder is compact, lightweight, and budget-friendly. Despite the lower price, this powerful 6.2 amp motor will deliver on even the tougher jobs. The updated motor design has a better cooling efficiency and higher motor durability than the previous model.
The spindle lock allows for easy wheel changes. At only 4 lbs, you’ll have great control and maneuverability no matter the task, and you won’t get fatigued. Included are five grinding wheels and a hard shell carrying case—a 5-year limited warranty.
4. Best Angle Grinder to Cut Steel: KIMO 20V Cordless Angle Grinder, w/ 4.0Ah Lithium-Ion Battery & Charger
Going cordless is a great idea when you are close to a wall cutting pipes or in a tightly confined area like a car. The Kimo 20V Cordless Angle Grinder will get those tough jobs done. The 9000 RPM motor gives you that higher power, perfect for cutting rebar, pipes, or grinding metal. The 2 position handle gives you a comfortable grip whether you are in a workshop or at home as a DIYer.
You get a longer and more efficient running time with the brushless motor. The optimized ventilation system provides continuous fresh air while keeping it at a comfortable temperature. The engine also comes with overcurrent protection to help extend the life of the tool.
Included Accessories: 20V 4.0Ah Battery, Fast Charger, Carrying bag, wrench, wood cutting wheel, hook and loop backing plate, (2) grinding wheels, (2) metal cutting wheels, and sandpapers. Limited 24-month warranty.
5. Best Heavy Duty Angle Grinder for Concrete: DEWALT Angle Grinder Tool, Paddle Switch (DWE402)
The Dewalt DWE402 Angle Grinder provides the best power to weight/size ratio. The 11 amp AC/DC, 11,000 RPM motor can get tough jobs done with ease. This is one of the heavy-angle grinders in this list, weighing just over 6 lbs. But with 1.8 horsepower and a powerful dust ejection system, you can see why.
The Dust Ejection system ensures a long life by ejecting dust and debris particles that enter the metal grinder. The brushes are oversized, providing double the life over the previous models. A one-touch guard allows for a 360-degree rotation of the guard with just a single action.
3-year limited manufacturer’s warranty, 1-year FREE service, and 90-day money back guarantee.
6. Best Angle Grinder for Woodworking: Bosch 4-1/2-Inch Angle Grinder 1375A
The Bosch 1375A 4-1/2″ Angle Grinder features a powerful 6.0 amp motor that produces 11,000 no-load rpm perfect for professional cutting and grinding applications that require precision. This grinder uses Service Minder brushes that stop the grinder when preventative maintenance is required.
It also has epoxy-coated field windings to help prolong the tool’s life by preventing abrasive debris from entering the switch mechanism. The lock-on slide switch, two-position side handle, and lightweight 3.75 lbs. make this a compact and durable tool.
Unconditional 1-year warranty, 1-year service protection plan, and 30-day money-back guarantee.
Buying Guide for an Angle Grinder
What to consider when buying an Angle Grinder
The best angle grinder for the workshop is a tool that will help you complete several different types of projects with ease and efficiency. Angle grinders can be used to cut through iron pipes, smooth out wooden handrails, carve wood into furniture, or sand ceramic tiles for floors and walls, but they are not just one-trick ponies. Here are some things to consider when choosing an angle grinder:
- Disc Size and wheel type
- Power Source
- Speed
- Voltage or Amps
- Dust Protection
- Hand Guard
- Soft Start Feature
- Disc Guard
- Working Environment or User intent
Disc Size and Wheel Type
Angle grinders are often categorized by the wheel’s size—for example, 3-inch or 4 ½-inch wheels. The size of a wheel is not related to the diameter of the grinder’s housing or its overall power, as some may assume; rather, it relates to the thickness of material that you can grind with that wheel. It is also important to note that the higher the number of teeth on a disc, the smoother and more finished the surface will be after grinding.
However, the disc’s diameter does affect how much material you can grind in a single pass. For example, large-diameter discs allow for longer cuts along their arc; discs with smaller diameters offer greater control over the cut.
Generally, 3-inch discs with fewer than 50 teeth are designed for metal cutting; higher numbers of teeth and larger diameter wheels can handle cement or stone grinding tasks.
While many angle grinders have wheels that are made from metal, you can swap out some models’ discs for abrasive wheels for tough-to-cut materials like concrete. Most metal grinding wheels are available in various diameters and will require additional safety precautions to prevent injury while working.
Power Source
Electric-powered models are ideal for light grinding or cutting jobs around the workshop; corded units do not require batteries. However, they can be dependent on a nearby electrical outlet. Cordless angle grinders provide freedom and mobility in the shop but will need to be recharged between uses.
Power sources may also indicate whether an angle grinder is designed for stationary use or has a cordless design; however, some models can be adapted to run either way.
Speed
The rotations per minute (RPM) of an angle grinder will also help you determine which discs can be used with the tool. The tools range from 12000 RPM down to 500 RPM, with the higher RPM measurements used for heavier grinding and cutting tasks.
Voltage or Amps
While voltage will not affect the performance of an angle grinder, it is one of the major indicators of performance between portable and corded power tools. Corded units are typically rated at 120-voltages; however, smaller models may be as low as 100-volts to prevent the tool from drawing too much power at once and risk overheating. In most cases, corded units will be slower than their cordless counterparts, typically 120V or less but can go up to 20 volts.
Dust Protection and Collection
Angle grinders create ample dust and debris while working, so it is important to select a model with an adjustable handguard that can be adjusted down to the disc’s surface for increased visibility and safety. Some models even feature transparent shields made from acrylic, polycarbonate, or glass that can protect the user from harmful dust particles without obstructing the vision of the work area.
Angle grinders are high-powered tools that can create a lot of debris in their wake. While most dust ports can be easily accessed and cleaned, some models will require additional disassembly to reach the port, making it easier for debris to become lodged inside the tool.
If you anticipate using your angle grinder in a dirty, dusty environment, you may want to consider models with sealed ball bearings that resist dust and debris from entering the tool. Some models also come with replaceable filters that can be washed off and reused for increased longevity.
Hand Guard
A sturdy handguard will protect both user’s hands and clothing from the spinning disc while working. Handguards may also come with a rubber grip to prevent slipping and ensure maximum control when operating the tool.
Soft Start Feature
Angle grinder features vary between models; for example, some are equipped with electronic brushes designed to enhance overall lifespan by reducing wear and tear on other parts of the tool. High-Performance models may also feature a soft start that gradually increases the tool’s speed while others will turn on immediately in full power.
Disc Guard
While many angle grinders will require users to wear a respirator while operating the tool, we have included this feature on our list because it is an additional safety measure to help prevent accidents. Disc guards can be adjusted with one hand and are ideal for extra protection—even though they may appear small or flimsy at first glance.
Working Environments and User Intentions
Choose the best angle grinder for your needs based on how and where you plan to use the tool. Do you intend on using it at home or in a hobbyist workshop setting? How about professional construction or manufacturing sites, or are you planning to use the tool outdoors?
Additional Features
Other key features to look for include adjustable handles, spindle lock, and a variety of nozzles for different applications or settings. For example, some angle grinders have a special nozzle that allows the tool to be used as a hammer, which is beneficial for breaking concrete or stone.
FAQ’s About Angle Grinders
1. Why are angle grinders so dangerous?
The most common accident while operating an angle grinder occurs when the user loses control of the tool and accidentally injures themselves. The risk of injury increases with larger cutting wheels, as they may cause injury if a slip causes them to contact skin or clothing.
2. How can I prevent accidents?
Always wear proper safety goggles when operating your angle grinder, and avoid using the tool if you are tired or intoxicated. Pay close attention to what your hands and clothing are doing at all times, as this will help prevent accidents when working with power tools.
Safety Accessories:
Angle Grinder Safety:
Users must take extra precautions to protect themselves from the dangerous disc and flying debris when using an angle grinder. While it is true that their safety features, such as a guard or cover, are there to help prevent injury – users can still be severely injured while using these tools. In this article, we will go over some ways to prevent injury while operating an angle grinder.
Safety Guard:
One of the first safety precautions that should be taken when using an angle grinder to avoid accidents is to use the safety guard that comes with most models. While the safety guard does not provide 100% protection, it is still beneficial.
Prevent Unintentional Starting:
While the angle grinder has a spindle lock to prevent the disc from turning on—there are times when you may inadvertently turn the tool on. Before putting your hands near an active tool, make sure that it is powered off and unplugged.
3. How can I store my angle grinder?
When not in use, place your angle grinder in a safe area and use the locking feature provided if possible. Also, storing your angle grinder on a flat surface will prevent sliding and help to eliminate any possibility of personal injury.
The lifespan of your angle grinder will depend on how well you maintain it. Proper care and cleaning include regular replacement of worn brushes andy greasing moving parts such as the spindle assembly. Cleaning should also include disconnecting the motor and removing carbon dust inside the grinder, or you will risk causing damage to other components.
4. What is the best brand of angle grinder?
Dewalt is a great brand for corded and cordless angle grinders. They have a lot of different models so you can find one that best fits your needs. Each tool comes with a 3-year limited warranty, 1-year free service, and a 90-day money-back guarantee.
Conclusion
Angle grinders are powerful and versatile power tools that you can use for various projects, such as cutting iron pipes to replacing a faulty valve, cutting tile or concrete, carving wood, or crafting furniture, and more. They come with interchangeable rotating discs—some made for cutting and others with an abrasive edge for grinding—that can be swapped out based on the application needed for your current project.
Our choice for the best overall corded angle grinder is the Dewalt DWE4011. It is tough enough for all applications but still easy to use for the DIYer.
Our choice for the best overall cordless angle grinder is the Dewalt DCG413B. It requires a 20V battery which is sold separately. This grinder is lightweight and easy to maneuver. It has enough power for those tough jobs but can do precision too.
The type of angle grinder you should buy depends on whether you plan on using it professionally every day or for projects around the house. There is an angle grinder perfect for any situation.
