Everything You Need To Know To Find The Best Cordless Angle Grinder Manufacturer

Best 4-1/4&#; to 6&#; Cordless Angle Grinder Evaluation

Angle grinders are an integral tool for many trades including the steel, automotive, masonry, and landscaping trades. Used for cutting and grinding steel, concrete, stone and masonry, angle grinders require significant power to get the job done. Until recently angle grinders were not considered to be a viable cordless tool. With recent advancements in brushless motors and high capacity batteries most tool manufactures now offer solid cordless angle grinders capable of tasks that previously required a corded tool.

If you want to learn more, please visit our website MrPowertools.

With the addition of accessories angle grinders are an incredibly versatile jobsite tool that can perform a wide variety of tasks including: sanding and polishing wood, cutting drywall and plaster (with minimal dust) and leveling old concrete floors.

For this Head-to-Head the focus is on the more popular smaller 4-1/2&#; to 6&#; category which is well suited for the cordless platform.

Cordless Angle Grinder Lineup

In order to keep the tools in this Head-to-Head somewhat similar each manufacturer was given a range from 18-22 volts, 4-1/2&#; to 6&#; diameter, and battery packs ranging from 5.0 to 6.2 Ah. The following cordless angle grinders were included in the test:

Cordless Angle Grinder Specifications and Features

Bosch GWS18V-45

• Disc Diameter: 4-1/2 inches
• Weight: 6 lbs 2 oz
• Voltage: 18V
• Battery Size: 6.3 Ah
• No-load speed: , , RPM (push button selector)
• Unique illuminated user interface
• LED work light
• Watt-Hours (Voltage x Amp-Hours) = 113.4

DEWALT DCG413

• Disc Diameter: 4-1/2 inches
• Weight: 5 lbs 14 oz
• Voltage: 18V (20V MAX No load)
• Battery Size: 6.0 Ah
• No-load speed: RPM
• Tool-less lock nut
• Kickback Brake
• E-Switch Protection&#;
• Watt-Hours (Voltage x Amp-Hours) = 108.0

Hilti AG 4S-A22

• Disc Diameter: 5 inches
• Weight: 6 lbs 4 oz
• Voltage: 22V
• Battery Size: 5.2 Ah
• No-load speed: - RPM (six-step dial)
• Active Torque Control (ATC) stops the tool body from spinning uncontrollably if the disc jams
• Watt-Hours (Voltage x Amp-Hours) = 114.4

Makita XAG21ZU

• Disc Diameter: 4-1/2 or 5 inch
• Weight: 6 lbs 3 oz
• Voltage: 18V
• Battery Size: 6.0 Ah0
• No-load speed: - RPM (variable dial)
• Electric Brake
• Active Feedback-sensing Technology (AFT®)
• Automatic-start Wireless System (AWS&#;)
• Watt-Hours (Voltage x Amp-Hours) = 108.0

Metabo WPB 18 LTX BL 115

• Disc Diameter: 4-1/2 inches
• Weight: 6 lbs 2 oz
• Voltage: 18V
• Battery Size: 5.5 Ah
• No-load speed: RPM
• Unique rotating battery
• Tool-free adjustable guard
• Quick braking system
• Electronic safety shutdown of the motor reduces kickback
• Watt-Hours (Voltage x Amp-Hours) = 99.0

Metabo HPT G18DBAL

• Disc Diameter: 4-1/2 inches
• Weight: 5 lbs 11 oz
• Voltage: 18V
• Battery Size: 6.0 Ah
• No-load speed: RPM
• Kick-back protection
• Auto-mode option automatically adjusts the RPM down when the tool is not in use
• Watt-Hours (Voltage x Amp-Hours) = 108.0

Milwaukee

• Disc Diameter: 4-1/2 to 6 inch discs
• Weight: 7 lbs 12 oz
• Voltage: 18V
• Battery Size: 6.0 Ah
• No-load speed: RPM
• Rapid Stop braking feature stops all accessories in 3 seconds or less
• Tool-free accessory changes using the FIXTEC nut and tool-free guard
• Watt-Hours (Voltage x Amp-Hours) = 108.0

Ridgid R

• Disc Diameter: 4-1/2 inches
• Weight: 6 lbs 3 oz
• Voltage: 18V
• Battery Size: 6.0 Ah
• No-load speed: 10,600 RPM
• Tool-Free Guard Design
• Lock-Off Protection
• Watt-Hours (Voltage x Amp-Hours) = 108.0

Ryobi P423

• Disc Diameter: 4-1/2 inches
• Weight: 6 lbs 1 oz
• Voltage: 18V
• Battery Size: 6.0 Ah
• No-load speed: 10,600 RPM
• Tool-Free Guard Design
• Watt-Hours (Voltage x Amp-Hours) = 108.0

Cordless Angle Grinder Testing & Evaluation

The challenge for any Head-to-Head testing is developing the testing and evaluation criteria in order to create a valuable comparison for users. Obviously there are hundreds of tests that could be performed, however with limited time and resources for this article we chose the following tests as a good baseline comparison.

• Features &#; an overall comparison of features and specifications.
• Run-Time &#; each cordless angle grinder was set up in a jig that allows rebar to be cut with a uniform angle and weight. Each grinder cut rebar until the battery was fully depleted, and the results were normalized to account for different size batteries (amp-hours).
• Performance (cutting speed) &#; again each grinder was set up in the same jig and rebar was cut. Each cut was timed and an average time per cut was calculated from all the cuts.
• Ergonomics &#; our entire testing crew helped evaluate the ergonomics section by ranking the following categories: grip, side handle, blade guard, blade guard mount, disc change, power switch, battery change, vibration, balance, and maneuverability.
• Price &#; as usual we&#;ve compared the pricing for all the grinders at the time of this publication and ranked them accordingly. For this comparison, &#;bare-tool&#; pricing was used.

Each category gets ranked and the results from each are then used to determine and overall winner for the Head-to-Head.

Cordless Angle Grinder Testing Criteria

While some of the categories above are subjective, some tests can be measured to give a relative comparison for each tool. As stated earlier, there are literally hundreds of tests that can be done to compare any tool. For this evaluation two tests were selected to give a good relative, measurable comparison including: run-time and performance (speed cutting). While this is an extremely narrow set of tests, we felt it was a good baseline. Clearly run-time is hugely important with high demand cordless tools like grinders, and productivity is always an important benefit to consider when buying any tool so hence the speed of cutting test.

Cordless Angle Grinder Testing Materials

For this evaluation several types of steel and concrete were used in order to get a good perspective on performance. The following materials were included in the testing:

• 5/8&#; rebar
• 3/8 plate steel
• 1&#; J-Bolts
• ¼&#; thick channel stock
• Thin-set mortar applied to concrete block (CMU)

Angle Grinder Features Comparison

Winners &#; Bosch and Makita

This section of the evaluation considered ten different categories including:

• Tool-less Locking Nut
• LED Light
• Multiple Disc Sizes

• Variable Speed

• Tool-less Guard
• Battery Gauge &#; On tool gauge for better visibility during use
• Bluetooth Connectivity &#; Remote Dust Control, Tool Customization, Tool Crib Features
• Electronic Clutch
• Drop Control
• Re-start Protection

This is a straight-up comparison of features, a tool gets a &#;1&#; if it has the feature, and a &#;0&#; if it does not. The tool with the highest ranking is the best in this category.

Stand Out Features

There are few standout features that affect performance and safety. Not all the grinders had these features, and below we listed these &#;stand-out features&#; and the grinders that have them.

• Tool-less Lock Nuts &#; Only three tools come stock with tool-less lock nuts, the DEWALT, Hilti and Milwaukee. This is a great feature because it saves time. Tool-less lock nuts can be purchased separately for Hilti and Metabo, however they are not standard equipment.
• Variable Speed &#; The Bosch has an illuminated push-button control that sets 3 speeds, while the Hilti has a 6 step dial, and the Makita grinder has a step-less dial. Variable speed control allows these tools to be used for additional tasks such as grinding stainless steel, or polishing stone and ceramic surfaces.

• Battery Gauges (On the Tool for Better Visibility) &#; The Bosch and Makita tools have battery gauges both on the tool and on the battery. The Bosch is unique in that its battery life is shown on the bright green illuminated display. These &#;on-board&#; gauges really help visually know the remaining battery charge while working without having to stop to check the battery.
• Rotating Battery Pack &#; A feature unique to the Metabo grinder is a rotating battery pack, that allows the user to get better grinding angles and into tighter spots than might otherwise be possible with a fixed battery.

• Safety Clutch &#; Many tools come equipped with a safety clutch that shuts the tool down when the wheel binds up during cutting or grinding. The Bosch, DEWALT, Hilti, Makita, Metabo and Metabo HPT all have a safety clutch.
• Drop Control &#; Another unique feature on the Bosch is &#;Drop Control&#; which automatically shuts the tool down when it is dropped.
• Re-Start Protection &#; All of the grinders except one include some type of re-start protection. This ensures that if a battery runs out of charge, and a new pack is installed while the switch is in the on position that the grinder won&#;t turn on as the pack is installed. This is a very good safety feature that all grinders should have.
• Remote Dust Control &#; Makita includes a very nice remote dust control option. Automatic-start Wireless System (AWS&#;) utilizes Bluetooth® technology for wireless power-on/off communication between tool and dust extractor.

Finishing in a tie for first place were the Bosch and Makita grinders. The Bosch illuminated controls were definitely a favorite of our crew and would give it a slight edge over the Makita if we had to choose. Tied for second was DEWALT, Hilti, and Milwaukee. And in third was a tie between Metabo and Metabo HPT.

Cordless Angle Grinder Testing Stations

In an effort to remove as much human user variability in our test results we look to build testing jigs/rigs that provide repeatable and fair test results. This helps eliminate questions about whether or not a tester is pushing harder or holding a tool at a strange angle which might alter the results. However, with limited time and resources it&#;s not possible to build a jig for each of our tests. Below is a list of the testing stations for this Head-to-Head. The first station used a jig, while the remaining two stations used the angle grinders free-hand. The two free hand stations were used to give our testers hands on experience for the subjective rankings in ergonomics.

The three testing stations:

• Performance Rebar Cutting Sled:  The cutting sled removes the human element with regard to the cutting angle, and pressure.  The sled was used for both the run-time calculations and the performance (cutting speed) when cutting 5/8&#; rebar. The sled was designed to hold each cordless grinder with the cutting disc 90 degrees to the rebar. The sled was designed to roll along a linear cutting motion. The force used during cutting was applied with a 7 lb weight hanging from the sled and transferred with pulleys and cable. Thus each cut was done using the same applied force.

Each grinder used a new Metabo, metal abrasive cut-off disc, and each disc was changed out after 17 cuts.

• Removal of Thin Set from CMU Block&#; Testers used the cordless angle grinders to remove thin set mortar from CMU blocks with a grinding wheel. A diamond cup grinding disc with dust shrouds, attached to a Bosch HEPA vacuum was used. This station also allowed the testers more &#;hands on&#; time with the tools to help with the ergonomics evaluation later in the day.

• Steel Grinding  &#; The crew used the cordless angle grinders to remove surface material from a steel angle. Again this gave the crew increased &#;hands on&#; with grinding and polishing for further evaluation. The grinding and cutting station consisted of using the grinders with a variety of discs, including conventional cutting / grinding discs, DEWALT flap discs, Diablo diamond cutting discs and ceramic sanding discs for surface finishing and prep, and beveling steel as though prepping for welding.

Cordless Angle Grinder Run-Time Testing Results

Winner &#; DEWALT DCG413R2

In this test most of the tools have very similar voltages and battery pack sizes (amp-hours). However, to truly compare them as close as possible, using the total watt-hours (Total available energy) and normalizing the results helps level all of the tools. Watt-hours is simply calculated by multiplying the voltage by the amp-hour rating on the battery pack. In the specification section above we&#;ve listed the Watt-hours for each tool based on the voltage and pack size. Six of the tested tools have watt-hour ratings of 108, so the other results will be normalized to that. For example, Metabo has a watt-hour rating of 99. So the results for Metabo will be factored up by 108/99 or approximately 9%. Metabo has a 5.5 Ah pack, if it had a 6 Ah pack like the others it would more than likely do about 9% more work.

As you can see above DEWALT had the most cuts per charge with 50, followed closely by Metabo with 49, and Hilti with 47. 50 cuts through 5/8&#; rebar with a cordless angle grinder is pretty impressive! Clearly these new generation cordless grinders have the ability to do a serious amount of work per charge and keep up with jobsite demands.

Cordless Angle Grinder Performance (Speed) Testing

Winner &#; Metabo WPB18LTXBL115

The next test was the performance or speed test. In this test the time to cut 5/8&#; rebar was measured throughout the run-time testing and averaged for each tool to calculate the average cut time for 5/8&#; rebar. These results provide some insight into not only the cordless angle grinders disc speed, but really the combination of torque and speed which results in the overall time to complete the task.

As you can see below Metabo came in first place followed by Milwaukee and Ryobi. Metabo was nearly twice as fast than the Ridgid.

While measuring run-time and cut speeds, the external temperature of each angle grinder was measured using a thermal imaging tool. For high demand cordless tools like grinders, heat can be a big problem. Below is a chart showing the maximum measured temperature for each tool during the cutting tests. The temperatures were not used in scoring but the information is certainly valuable and worth sharing. As the chart shows, the Metabo ran quite a bit cooler than the other grinders at 92 deg. F, and the Makita topped the chart at 125 deg. F.

Cordless Angle Grinder Ergonomics Evaluation

Winners &#; Hilti and Makita

For the ergonomics evaluation the team evaluated the following: grip, side handle, blade guard, blade guard mount, disc change, power switch, battery change, vibration, balance, maneuverability, and brake speed. For each category, the team ranked them 1, 2 or 3, (1 being the best). For the brake speed we measured the time for the disc to come to a full stop (shown below in the chart), and ranked them 1 for grinders under 1 second, 2 for grinders that stop between 1 and 2 seconds, and 3 for a brake that took longer than 2 seconds.

Much of the ergonomics evaluation came from team members using the grinders at the thin-set and grinding station. Each team member used each grinder grinding thin-set, grinding steel, and cutting steel to get a relative comparison of each tool.

Each category was totaled up (see table below), and the lowest score being the best. As you can see there was a tie for first place between Hilti and Makita. Second place went to Bosch and Milwaukee finished in third.

Cordless Angle Grinder Pricing Evaluation

Winner &#; Ryobi

For this Head-to-Head we&#;re using a different approach with the pricing evaluation. In the past we tried to use kit pricing, and if kit pricing wasn&#;t available, we&#;d use bare tool plus battery pack and charger. That seemed to be a bit inconsistent so this time the pricing is based solely on the bare tool. Every manufacturer offers bare tool pricing so this way the battery pack costs are not a factor.

Below is a chart showing the pricing (at the time of publication) of each of the bare tools. There are three distinct groups, around $100 includes Ryobi, Bosch and Ridgid. Just under $200 is DEWALT, Hilti and Metabo HPT, and the three tools over $200 include Makita, Metabo and Milwaukee. As we always do, these will be ranked on just the cost, as cost is a factor for many users when combined with the other results. Finishing in first place is the Ryobi, followed by Bosch and Ridgid in second, and DEWALT in third.

Best Cordless 4-1/2&#; to 6&#; Angle Grinder Winner

DEWALT DCG413

As usual the Head-to-Head competition was very close but at the end of the Day the Tool Box Buzz Crew must pick a winner and the DEWALT DCG413 is our winner of Best 4-1/2&#; to 6&#; Cordless Angle Grinder.

The DEWALT DCG413 edged out the competition by one point. It finished first in run-time, tied for second in features, third in price, and fourth in ergonomics and speed. Our team felt it was a well balanced, feature filled grinder with plenty of power and run-time to get the job done.

Finishing in a close second was the Bosch GWS18V-45 finishing first in features, second in ergonomics and price, fifth in speed and sixth in run-time. Third place goes to the new Hilti AG 4S-A22 that just hit the market. It finished first in ergonomics, tied for second in features, third in run-time, fourth in price, and seventh in speed.

Below is a summary table of all the final rankings.

Final Thoughts &#; Cordless Angle Grinders

Cordless angle grinders are the real deal now! When it comes to smaller size grinders in this category the run-time is sufficient for lots of tasks and when paired with an extra battery most can keep workers in the game all day. The benefits of not dragging around a cord are numerous and the freedom certainly increases productivity and safety.

We get lots of comments about how we make the final rankings. As we&#;ve stated, there are hundreds of ways to compare tools. The good news is we&#;ve openly shared ALL the data from our tests, and you can rank the tools however you want. Don&#;t care about the price? No problem eliminate that from the matrix above and re-rank them. Hopefully you&#;ll find this Head-To-Head useful in comparing a wide range of small cordless angle grinders.

Best Cordless Angle Grinder &#; Heat-to-Head Video Review

 

Photo: Tom Scalisi for Bob Vila

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn More &#;

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.

Photo: Tom Scalisi for Bob Vila

How We Tested the Best Angle Grinder

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. 

Testing StatsProducts tested 7Time spent testing 8 hoursTests performed2 to 3Price range$30 to $300

Our Top Picks

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.

Additional reading:
The Difference Between Shearing and Pruning

Contact us to discuss your requirements of Cordless Angle Grinder Manufacturer. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.

Best Overall

Makita 18V LXT Cordless Cut-Off/Angle Grinder

Photo: amazon.com

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5; Performance 5/5; Maneuverability 5/5; Handle Comfort 5/5; Value 5/5 

Product Specs 

• Disc Size: 5-inch
• RPMs: 8,500
• Power Source: 18-volt lithium-ion battery

Pros

• User can lock the switch in the &#;on&#; position when grinding; limited tweaks required when using to reduce hand fatigue 
• Automatically adjusts speed and torque settings to maintain speed hands-free during use 
• Slow start keeps the tool from jumping when being started or used for relaxed control 
• Very little noticeable vibration due to the over-molded rubber grip in the handle

Cons

• No angle grinder battery or charger included with purchase; must be bought separately
• Guard is a bit finicky; may require some trial and error for first-timers 

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.

Best Bang For The Buck

Metabo HPT 4.5-Inch 6.2-Amp Angle Grinder Kit

Photo: amazon.com

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 3/5; Performance 3/5; Maneuverability 3/5; Handle Comfort 4/5; Value 3/5

Product Specs 

• Disc Size: 4.5-inch
• RPMs: 10,000
• Power Source: Corded

Pros

• Lock-on switch keeps the power button in the &#;on&#; position for less adjustments while grinding 
• Lightweight angle electric grinder (only 4 pounds) will prevent fatigue during grinding projects 
• The most compact of all the grinders tested at 10 inches long by 5 inches wide 

Cons

• A little lacking in power compared to other corded models
• The 6.2-amp motor isn&#;t ideal for all-day use

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.

Upgrade Pick

DeWalt DCG413B 20V MAX XR Brushless Cut Off/Grinder

Photo: amazon.com

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5; Performance 4/5; Maneuverability 4/5; Handle Comfort 5/5; Value 4/5

Product Specs 

• Disc Size: 4.5-inch
• RPMs: 9,000
• Power Source: 20-volt lithium-ion battery

Pros

• Delivers plenty of power with a 20-volt battery and takes on discs as large as 4.5 inches in diameter 
• Safety includes two-stage trigger, electronic brake, and kickback brake for safety 
• Excellent ergonomics and anti-vibration construction; cordless for maneuverability 
• Gripped handle reduces vibration and fatigue during long-term projects 

Cons

• Pretty pricey compared to other options but it is an upgrade pick

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).

Best Cordless

Kimo 20V Cordless Angle Grinder

Photo: amazon.com

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5; Performance 4/5; Maneuverability 4/5; Handle Comfort 4/5; Value 4/5

Product Specs  

• Disc Size: 4.5-inch
• RPMs: 9,000
• Power Source: 20-volt lithium-ion battery

Pros

• Fully stocked kit comes with five cutting and grinding wheels, 10 sanding wheels, a battery and charger, and a carrying case 
• Delivers plenty of power with a 20-volt battery that provides 9,000 rpms 
• Affordable price point compared to some other models on the market 
• Terrific slow start mechanism provides little kickback for safety 

Cons

• Lesser-known brand and customer service than bigger manufacturers

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.

Best Corded

Porter-Cable 7.5-Amp Small Angle Grinder Tool

Photo: amazon.com

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5; Performance 4/5; Maneuverability 4/5; Handle Comfort 3/5; Value 4/5 

Product Specs  

• Disc Size: 4.5-inch
• RPMs: 10,000
• Power Source: Corded

Pros

• Top-mounted handle position provides control and precision while grinding 
• Comfortable trigger switch can be adjusted easily; oversized design can be controlled by gloved hands 
• The 7.5-amp motor has plenty of power for medium- to heavy-duty projects 

Cons 

• Vibration control is so-so; may cause some hand fatigue with some extended use 

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

Product Specs 

• Disc Size: 4.5-inch
• RPMs: 10,000
• Power Source: Corded

Pros

• Three-position handle, including top-mount, for excellent performance and precision
• Trigger locks into position for limited adjustments when in use; keeps the machine in the &#;on&#; position 
• Versatile construction is a good angle grinder for wood carving, sanding, grout removal, and more
• Plenty of capability for the price; delivers over 10,000 rpms 

Cons

• 6-amp motor is only suitable for light-duty work 

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.

Best Heavy-Duty

DeWalt DWE402 4.5-Inch Small Angle Grinder Tool

Photo: amazon.com

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5; Performance 5/5; Maneuverability 4/5; Handle Comfort 3/5; Value 4/5

Product Specs 

• Disc Size: 4.5-inch
• RPMs: Up to 11,000 rpm
• Power Source: Corded

Pros

• Pro-grade capability is suitable for use on job sites and in commercial spaces
• Very fast and powerful construction delivers 11,000 rpms with an 11-amp motor 
• Speed-boosting button on the handle allows for increased speed and power when making deep or tough grinds 

Cons

• Not much vibration control; may cause some hand fatigue with extended use 

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.

What to Consider When Choosing an Angle Grinder

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.

Attachments

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.&#;

Disc Size

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. 

Motor Type and Power Source

Angle grinders are available as corded models (which plug into an electrical outlet) and cordless (which use a battery). 

• Corded angle grinders typically generate more power at a consistent level due to the direct connection to the outlet. Many of these models provide 10,000 to 11,000 rpms. But corded models restrict the user to a physical location, limiting range without an extension cord. The cords can also be a tripping hazard and, therefore, a nuisance while working on a project. 
• Typically, cordless angle grinders lack the sheer power of their corded counterparts. Functionality depends on battery capacity, so a dead battery could mean downtime in the middle of the project. On the plus side, cordless angle grinders offer hassle-free mobility and are better for use in tight spaces. These models deliver 8,500 to 9,000 rpms, which can work effectively for a wide range of grinding applications. 

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. 

Speed

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.

Voltage/Amperage

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. 

Hand Guard

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. 

Soft Start

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.

Tips for Buying and Using an Angle Grinder

Keep these tips in mind when choosing and using an angle grinder.

• The most common DIY projects where an angle grinder will be of use&#;such as cutting tile or pipe, metalworking, or removing grout and mortar&#;rarely require more than a 4.5-inch grinder.
• The ongoing vibration of an angle grinder can cause what is known as Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS), with symptoms including pain and cold sensations in the user&#;s fingers, loss of grip strength, and a loss of sensation in the fingers and hands. An angle grinder with cushioned or vibration absorbent material on the grip can protect hands from ongoing vibration.
• Always wear personal protective equipment (PPE) including safety glasses/goggles, hearing protection, and respiratory protection when grinding. 
• Check the model before use to ensure the disc and guard are properly attached and tightened. Discs and guards can become loose between angle grinder uses. Tighten them before connecting the power to the angle grinder.

FAQs 

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.

Q. What kind of tasks can I use an angle grinder for?

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.

Q. How does an angle grinder operate?

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. 

Q. How much does an angle grinder cost?

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.

Q. How do you cut metal with an angle grinder?

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.

Q. How do you cut pavers with an angle grinder?

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.

Q. How are the discs on an angle grinder changed?

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.

Q. How can I remove the disc with vise grips?

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.

Q. How do you properly recycle an old angle grinder?

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.

Meet the Tester 

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. 

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