By Timothy Dale, Tom Scalisi
Updated on May 21, 2024 6:54 AM EDT 300nm impact wrench
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Angle grinders are versatile power tools that can handle a variety of projects, such as cutting screws and iron pipe to replace a faulty valve, carving wood to craft furniture, cutting tile for a backsplash, and removing grout from between tiles.
After hands-on testing, we selected the Makita 18v LXT Cordless Cut-Off/Angle Grinder as our best overall angle grinder for its easy-to-use automatic speed and torque adjustment, lock-on switch, and a top speed of 8,500 rpms. We included many other viable options on our list of top picks including the heavy-duty DeWalt 20V MAX XR Brushless Cut Off/Grinder for its high 9,000 rpm torque and the Kimo 20V Cordless Angle Grinder for its convenient cordless construction. All of the hands-on tested products/models on this list were thoroughly vetted for effectiveness and reliability.
If you’re ready to add this tool to your collection, read on for more on its capabilities and what to look for in the best angle grinders that Bob Vila staff researched and hands-on tested.
Sometimes, I have the best job in the world. I’ve had a project on my plate for months now (building a welding cart), and it just so happened to be the ideal project to test these top angle grinders. I used the same set of cutting and grinding wheels for each model to make apples-to-apples comparisons.
I used each grinder to cut through angle iron, switching grinders between each cut until I felt comfortable with the strengths and weaknesses of each model. I recorded myself cutting all the pieces for the welding cart in order to determine how long each cut took and how easy it was to use. After cutting all the pieces, I welded the cart together (rather heavy-handedly, I admit, as it’s been a few years since I last welded).
With those big, burly welds to address, I used each grinder to knock them down to flush. Again, I noted ease of use and handling. In the end, I had all I needed for these honest angle grinder reviews—as well as a cart for my new welder.
When researching for a new power tool, there’s really no substitute to the reliability of hands-on testing. Tom, a Bob Vila staff writer, had the pleasure of personally putting all the following angle grinders through their paces during a recent metalworking project.
Each of the models reviewed passed our tests and met our standards, though Tom found some models better for specific tasks than others. Note that all of the following models feature movable guards and screw-in handles.
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5; Performance 5/5; Maneuverability 5/5; Handle Comfort 5/5; Value 5/5
Read our full review: Makita Angle Grinder Review
The Makita XAG04Z is worth checking out by anyone looking for the best cordless angle grinder performance. This top-rated angle grinder features an 8,500 rpm top speed thanks to its brushless motor and the 18-volt lithium-ion battery. It can handle 4.5- and 5-inch discs.
We found the XAG04Z excellent to work with. While it doesn’t boast the highest top speed, the automatic speed adjustment enabled it to maintain speed during tough cuts and grinds. We noticed very little vibration thanks to the rubber over-molded grip and handle, and the lock-on switch proved to be a huge plus. The only downsides I see: Assembling the two-piece handguard was a little awkward, and it would be nice if the tool came with a battery and a charger.
Get the Makita angle grinder at Amazon, Ace Hardware, or The Home Depot.
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 3/5; Performance 3/5; Maneuverability 3/5; Handle Comfort 4/5; Value 3/5
When it comes to DIY projects and budgets, not everyone can afford top-of-the-line tools every time. So those hoping to save cash and still get a quality grinder may want to give this corded model from Metabo HPT a look. This handheld grinder uses 4.5-inch discs, has a 6.2-amp motor, and spins at up to 10,000 rpm. This is one of the best 4.5 inch angle grinder options for the money, and the Metabo HPT’s usefulness was somewhat of a surprise. I enjoyed how compact and lightweight it was in my hand at 10 inches long by 5 inches wide. The location of the power switch is very convenient, especially during cutting. The lock-on feature allowed me to kick it on and leave it on—very helpful in my project. My only complaint is that the Metabo HPT mini angle grinder is that it lacks the power of other corded models, and the 6.2-amp motor seemed like it could overheat during all-day use.
Get the Metabo angle grinder at Amazon or Lowe’s.
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5; Performance 4/5; Maneuverability 4/5; Handle Comfort 5/5; Value 4/5
DeWalt’s 20V Max XR Brushless Cut-Off/Grinder cordless angle grinder could be the ultimate upgrade for pros and DIYers who take their tools seriously. This cordless model utilizes the brand’s 20-volt Max XR lineup, and its brushless motor spins 4.5-inch discs up to 9,000 rpm.
My experience with this DeWalt model was just as I expected: great portability and truly outstanding power. It made short work of cutting and grinding, without a cord to get in the way. The grip and handle both feature thick rubber, keeping vibration and fatigue to a minimum. And the safety features are certainly a plus: The electronic brake stopped the disc within 2 seconds (other models can take up to 10 seconds), and simply knowing that there is a kickback brake instilled confidence.
Get the DeWalt DCG413B angle grinder at Amazon, The Home Depot (tool only), or Walmart (tool only).
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5; Performance 4/5; Maneuverability 4/5; Handle Comfort 4/5; Value 4/5
Kimo’s 20V Cordless Angle Grinder might impress even the most brand-loyal DIYers out there. Between its 20-volt lithium-ion battery, its 9,000 rpm top speed, and the fully stocked kit (which includes grinding, cutting, and sanding 4.5-inch discs), it has just about everything necessary to start grinding.
I didn’t have high expectations for the Kimo, but it truly surprised me. First, it had the best slow-start mechanism of any of the models I tested—and not because it lacks power; in fact, it’s on par with the Makita and the DeWalt cordless models. Between the affordable price and the loaded accessory kit, I was blown away before I even charged the battery. My only concern is that it’s from a lesser-known manufacturer, so there’s a bit of an unknown in terms of the brand and customer service.
Get the Kimo angle grinder at Amazon.
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5; Performance 4/5; Maneuverability 4/5; Handle Comfort 3/5; Value 4/5
This Porter-Cable product is one of the top corded angle grinder options for dependable power. This model features a heavy-duty 7.5-amp motor that spins a 4.5-inch disc at speeds up to 10,000 rpm, providing plenty of speed and power for workshop use.
The Porter-Cable electric grinder felt truly in its element on my metalworking project, handling cuts and grinds nicely. While it doesn’t have the most power compared to others on our list, it’s pretty close. It’s also one of the only grinders to feature a traditional trigger switch, which I felt was easy to use and more intuitive than most. I also really liked the top-mount position for the handle attachment, as it can make cutting much more manageable. The one negative worth mentioning is that vibration control isn’t top-tier, so although it can take all-day use, the user’s hands and wrists might tire.
Get the Porter-Cable angle grinder at Amazon, Lowe’s, Tractor Supply Co., or Acme Tools.
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5; Performance 2/5; Maneuverability 4/5; Handle Comfort 3/5; Value 3/5
If you’re searching for the best angle grinder for wood carving, sanding, grout removal, and other light-duty projects, Black+Decker’s Angle Grinder Tool might be a wise choice. This affordable model features a 6-amp motor that produces up to 10,000 rpm of speed, and it’s compatible with 4.5-inch grinding and cutting wheels.
Black+Decker markets this model at light-duty, DIY-type users, and that’s where it excels. This very affordable model is easy to use, thanks in part to its lock-on trigger. The three-position handle mounting system works for plenty of scenarios, such as cutting and grinding at unusual angles. Just don’t expect the Black+Decker to handle heavy-duty jobs like large metalworking projects for any length of time, as it only has a 6-amp motor.
Get the Black & Decker angle grinder at Amazon, or Acme Tools.
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5; Performance 5/5; Maneuverability 4/5; Handle Comfort 3/5; Value 4/5
Heavy-duty projects like production welding and cutting require a grinder that can keep up, and DeWalt’s DWE402 can handle the job. This burly machine features an 11-amp motor and spins 4.5-inch grinding and cutting wheels at speeds up to 11,000 rpm.
I found the DWE402 to be the ideal cutting and welding grinder for my work, though not everyone will need its power and high-speed capabilities. It cut through angle iron faster than any other grinder, and it made short work of my large, lumpy, amateur-grade welds (though it’s definitely a pro-grade tool, and the speed-boosting button on the handle base helped a lot). While this is one of the best variable speed angle grinders, neither the DWE402’s vibration control nor its grip got much attention on the drawing board.
Get the DeWalt DWE402 angle grinder at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, or Acme Tools.
There are a few things to understand before clicking “add to cart” on just any old angle grinder. The best angle grinders may have unique features, different power sources, and some might simply be better suited to particulars.
Many models come with interchangeable rotating discs—some made for cutting and others with an abrasive edge for grinding—can be swapped out based on the application. For safety, a guard sits between the disc and the handle to protect the operator. The following are more points worth considering when shopping for a good quality grinder.
According to Matthew Consolo, the CEO and owner of Dreamscape Construction in Miami, Florida, “I look at an angle grinder as the ultimate multi tool. You can use it for so many jobs with the right attachments.” Here are a few of his favorites:
Wire disks – “Wire disks make removing paint, rust, and coating from hard surfaces easy. It really saves so much time.”
Diamond discs – “These handle the tough jobs, cutting through granite, marble, and concrete. The great thing about diamond blades is you don’t need to wet the blade first.”
Wire wheel brush – “These are excellent for strong metals. If you’re working on old iron gates or fences and want to get them prepped like new, a wire wheel brush is essential.”
Angle grinders come in sizes, denoted by a number that refers to the maximum diameter of the grinding wheel or disc it will handle. For most DIY projects, a 4-, 4.5-, or 5-inch disc will suffice. In fact, these compact sizes and weights are ideal for DIYers, as larger discs can become unwieldy or tedious to work with.
Larger discs (up to 9 inches) are more commonly used in industrial situations by professionals cutting through thick pieces of material. As the disc gets larger, the grinder itself must be larger to handle the cutting strength. This translates to a heavier tool that’s likely to cause hand fatigue sooner than using a small angle grinder.
Angle grinders are available as corded models (which plug into an electrical outlet) and cordless (which use a battery).
The Bob Vila staff recommends models with brushless motors if available, as this variety allows for more effective, efficient, and long-term operation. Users should also look for models with 3 horsepower motors or more for light- and medium-duty projects and 5 horsepower for heavy-duty use.
Angle grinder speed is measured in revolutions per minute (rpm). Speeds typically range between 5,000 and 10,000 rpm, though some very robust grinders reach up to 12,000 rpm. Keep in mind, however, that the rpm rating is under “no-load” conditions, meaning that the disc isn’t cutting or grinding anything, just spinning in the air. Once the disc is cutting or grinding, that speed will lower considerably.
Obviously, the higher the rpm, the easier and more quickly the tool can cut through the target material. But the disc also becomes hotter at higher speeds and could be vulnerable to rupture—an injury risk. Be sure to use the correct disc for the task, and note the maximum supported speed marked on the disc. For example, a disc rated at 7,500 rpm that is running faster can break under the force, sending shards of the grinder wheel flying.
Angle grinders measure power output potential in volts (V) and amperes (amps). Cordless angle grinders use volts to measure the power available from their battery, with most cordless models using 18-volt or 20-volt batteries and outliers ranging from 7.5 volts to 24 volts. The “magic number” in most cordless grinder power tools is 18 volts to 20 volts, offering the best mix of affordability and functionality.
Voltage readings on corded angle grinders only indicate whether they can be used with 120-volt or 220-volt power outlets. Shoppers can assess the power output potential of corded models by checking amperage, which ranges from 5 amps to 15 amps. Larger discs will require a larger output, so for a 7- or 9-inch grinder, expect it to have a higher power output potential.
Since these are dangerous power tools, the hand guard on an angle grinder is a crucial safety measure that covers half the disc. Its purpose is to protect the user’s hands, by preventing sparks and debris from flying toward the user, and to protect surfaces from damage when using the grinder in tight spaces.
Some angle grinders have a movable guard, and others have a fixed guard. The movable option is more popular as it allows for left-handed or right-handed use and can adjust to better protect the user from flying debris. If left untightened, however, a movable guard can fall off the unit. Fixed guards are more robust, and there’s no risk of them coming off a grinder.
Because angle grinders are fast power tools, they can recoil a bit upon power-up. This is particularly true if the grinding wheel is large and heavy. The recoil from the motor can result in the angle grinder jumping in the user’s hands, potentially causing serious injury.
To combat recoil, soft-start technology reduces the power output to the motor at first, slowly increasing until the angle grinder is fully up to speed. This throttled control over the power output prevents an angle grinder from recoiling during start-up, increasing safety while also reducing the jolt to the user’s arms and wrists.
Keep these tips in mind when choosing and using an angle grinder.
Even with ample background on the best angle grinders, you might have some additional questions. Here, we answer some of the most common queries about angle grinders, so check for the info you need below.
The most common uses for angle grinders are metal grinding and cutting, such as steel for welding or metal piping. However, they’re also useful for wood carving, refinishing, and other projects. Some farriers even use them to trim hooves.
After attaching the correct disc for the job, hold the angle grinder in two hands for safety and security (the tool’s initial torque will cause it to jump). Push the trigger down or hit the power switch, and the disc will start rotating. Move the grinder until the rotating disc contacts the material you want to cut or grind. When finished, release the trigger or switch off the power button and wait for the disc to stop rotating completely before placing it in a safe location, keeping in mind that the disc is still hot due to the friction caused during operation. Unplug the power cord or detach the battery and allow the tool to cool down.
An angle grinder can range in price from just $30 to over $200, though it’s more common for these tools to cost about $80 to $100. Cordless angle grinders may come with additional costs if the battery and/or charger is not included with the purchase of the tool itself.
Use a metal cutting disc on an angle grinder to cut through lead, iron, copper, and other metals without a problem. The rotating blade slices easily through metal, but it’s important to wear safety glasses and gloves because a significant amount of sparks are produced during the grinding process.
Angle grinder equipped with masonry discs can be used to cut through paving stones without much difficulty. Measure and mark where you want to cut the paver, then position it on a workbench like a bench grinder. Turn the grinder on and start to slowly cut into the paving stone. Once you have started the cut it will be easier to accurately finish cutting through the paver.
First, unplug the grinder or remove the battery. Then remove the nut that holds the disc in place, using the factory spanner included with the angle grinder. Replace the disc and tighten the nut bolt using the factory spanner.
Grinder discs are secured with a specialized nut that is usually tightened or removed with an included spanner. However, if you lose the spanner the nut can still be removed with a set of vise grips. Simply tighten the vice on the grinder blade, locking it in position, then use your hand or a screwdriver to turn and remove the locking nut.
Instead of tossing your old angle grinder in the trash, take it to a local electronics recycling location. Typically, the municipality or town will have a program for recycling electronic tools and other devices, though some home improvement stores, like Home Depot, also offer tool recycling programs.
Tom Scalisi is a freelance writer specializing in the home design, construction, tools, and automotive industries. He has been involved in the trades for over 15 years as both a contractor and a commercial building mechanic. His work has been featured on This Old House, Family Handyman, and Forbes as well as his own pest control blog. As a lover of all things tools, construction, and DIY, he’s always looking for new tools and techniques while also sharing his knowledge with the DIY world.
We’re committed to testing and reviewing products so you can make an informed decision. Advertising does not influence our product reviews and it never will. We always focus our coverage on standout products and never hesitate to mention their flaws and quirks. By using our affiliate links, you’re supporting our work and helping us continue to provide expert analysis. Find out more about our product evaluation process.
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