A metal angle grinder can be used for cutting materials ranging from metal to masonry or just for adding details and final touches to your weld.
This is why you should look for a grinder of high quality, performance, and enough safety measures.
In this article, we’ll help you find the best angle grinder that has the perfect combinations for you.
Comparison Chart
DEWALT Angle Grinder Tool, 4-1/2-Inch, 11-Amp (DWE402K)
Makita 9564CV 4-1/2-Inch Angle Grinder
Makita 9557PB 4-1/2-Inch Angle Grinder with Paddle Switch
Milwaukee 2780-20 M18 Fuel 4-1/2″/5″ Pad, Bare
BLACK+DECKER Angle Grinder Tool, 4-1/2-Inch, 6.5-Amp (BDEG400)
Makita XAG04Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 4-1/2” / 5″ Cut-Off/Angle Grinder, Tool Only
PORTER-CABLE Angle Grinder Tool, 4-1/2-Inch, 6-Amp (PCEG011)
Metabo WEP15-150 Quick 13.5 Amp 9,600 rpm Angle Grinder with Electronics and Non-locking Paddle Switch, 6″
Best Angle Grinders Reviews
1. Dewalt DWE402K – Best Overall Angle Grinder
If you’re going to use your angle grinder for adding finishing touches to your weld or to work on low-profile metals, the Dewalt DWE402K would serve you well.
The Dewalt DWE402K rotates at 11,000 RPM depending on its 11 A motor which is good enough power to finish light to medium intensity jobs.
The trademark Dust Ejection system that the Dewalt DWE402K is provided with works on redirecting debris so that it doesn’t pose a threat to your grinder’s motor.
Furthermore, has a high-quality bevel gear system to channel more of the power to the grinding blade than to the motor.
The paddle switch is a bit inferior to the slide switch alternative, but it still has a lock-off system that prevents the grinder from starting intentionally and a lock-on system that you can turn on during longer-term operation.
Finally, the Dewalt DWE402K has a very reassuring 3-year limited warranty as well as a year of free service and a 90-day money back guarantee.
If you want to get a high-performing angle grinder without breaking the bank, the Dewalt DWE402K is definitely the tool for you.
However, if you’re looking to use your grinder for more than just finishing up your piece of work, you should get one with variable speeds like the Makita.
PROS
- Highly powerful
- Durable
- Reassuring warranty
CONS
- Paddle switch
- Only has one speed
CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON.COM
2. Makita 9564CV Variable Speed Angle Grinder
The Makita 9564CV achieves the optimum combination of performance, durability, and safety, which are always looked for when it comes to angle grinders.
It comes with 5 different speed settings that work with an excellent torque thanks to the 13-ampere current it draws.
The variable speeds allow you to balance your torque and speed according to your needs.
This helps makes the Makita 9564CV pretty versatile as you can use it for welding irregular surfaces on a high-torque or low-torque to finish up your masterpiece.
The trademark SJS technology that the Makita 9564CV integrates protects the motor and gear from damage, thereby making it more durable.
Moreover, it has a labyrinth construction and zig-zag armature varnish to keep the gears insulated and protected from any dust and debris. The coils on the armature are quite thick which extends the longevity of the tool.
When it comes to safety, you’re all covered as the Makita 9564CV is one of the safest angle grinders you’ll find out there. It’s provided with a slide switch on top that you can lock into position as you work.
You can also change the position of the guard easily thanks to the tool-less wheel guard system. This means you’ll always feel safe as you’ll never have to remove the guard.
Finally, you can attach the side handle on the Makita 9564CV either on the left or right according to your needs.
The Makita 9564CV could easily be considered the best 4.5-inch angle grinder on the market. It’s very powerful and integrates everything you’d look for in an angle grinder.
Even though it’s not the cheapest option, it’s totally worth the money if you want something that will last longer and perform well.
PROS
- Variable speeds
- High power
- Durability
CONS
- Not the most affordable
CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON.COM
3. Makita 9557PBX1 4 1/2 Angle Grinder
The Makita 9557PBX1 is one of the best grinders you can get if you’re going to do a lot of cutting operations.
It runs on a 7.5 A motor, which means that it may not be as powerful as other grinders on the list, but it still rotates at speeds as high as theirs. Its torque can be considered halfway between a cordless grinder and a high-end corded one.
Even though the torque is good enough for cutting, it won’t be as helpful if you’re going to do some heavy-duty work.
By all means, the zig-zag varnish, thick coils, and labyrinth construction that the Makita 9557PBX1 employs make it durable and sustainable.
The standard blade you get with the Makita 9557PBX1 is a diamond one, so it’s perfect for working with concrete right out of the box.
Furthermore, it has a dual mode operation that gives you the freedom to use it on AC or DC power.
The sturdy case where you can store your accessories and tools is a nice addition and makes the Makita 9557PBX1 cover all your cutting needs.
If you’re going to be working a lot with concrete, the Makita 9557PBX1 is definitely the best choice you can make. It’s a great middle ground between the performance and price as well as the durability of high-end models and portability of cordless grinders.
PROS
- Affordable
- Durable
- Portable
- Lock-on and lock-off features
CONS
- Not the most powerful
- Has only one single speed
CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON.COM
4. Milwaukee 2780-20 M18 – An Excellent Durable Angle Grinder
The Milwaukee 2780-20 M18 was designed to fit all your grinding requirements. It’s durable, easy to operate, and reliable.
From the moment you start using it, you’re going to have total control that facilitates your grinding work. The portability of the grinder is a major contributing factor to that as it only weighs 5.38 pounds.
It’s another cordless option that is a highly convenient tool to add to your grinding arsenal.
The Milwaukee 2780-20 M18 comes with a PowerState brushless motor that gives you 10 times longer motor life while the M18 Redlithium XC4.0 battery pack (sold separately) gives you 4 times more run time and 20% more power.
Furthermore, the RedLink Plus intelligence which is the most advanced system on a cordless power tool and which enhances its performance.
You can rest your hand easily thanks to its grinder’s thin body design. It’s also provided with the same tool body, gearing system, and anti-vibration side handle as Milwaukee’s higher-end corded grinders, which is quite impressive. The grinder wheel isn’t included, so you have to purchase it separately.
The Milwaukee 2780-20 M18 is not as powerful as corded rivals, but it’s made of high-quality components, so it’s durable and gives a solid performance. However, you might need to make a couple of side purchases to make the best of it as a grinding tool.
PROS
- High-end performance
- Mid-point price
- Great ergonomics
CONS
- Paddle switch instead of a slide one
- Not a fully-integrated package
CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON.COM
5. Black+Decker BDEG400 – The Best Angle Grinder for The Money
Firstly, the Black+Decker BDEG400 is a power grinder suitable for cutting, sharpening, grinding, removing ruts, and making the surface even, so there’s nothing you’d want that you wouldn’t get.
Secondly, its design is quite sleek and slender, which makes it easy to use and comfortable to hold.
Even though its size is pretty small at 5.19 x 12.5 x 4.63 inches, it’s still capable of delivering a speed up to 10,000 RPM.
The Black+Decker BDEG400 has a 3-position side handle that maximizes your convenience while using the grinder.
The Black+Decker BDEG400 will definitely help you with many DIY projects. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, you’re going to enjoy the torque and performance this grinder has to offer.
PROS
- Can work through rusted and stubborn pieces
- Great performance for a compact size
- Reasonably priced
CONS
- Comes with only 1 metal grinding wheel and no cutting wheel
- May overheat with long use
CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON.COM
6. Makita XAG04Z 18V LXT – An Excellent 5 inch Angle Grinder
The Makita XAG04Z spares you the need to choose between long battery life and high performance as it delivers both, beating most of the other cordless grinders.
While the fact that it can last for about 15 minutes at its full power is impressive for a cordless grinder, it’s in no place to compete with corded ones.
So you should only opt for the Makita XAG04Z if you’re willing to sacrifice some of the uptime in order to get more portability.
The LXT system has a unique performance and charging time combination. And the Makita XAG04Z belongs to the elite category of LXT cordless grinders.
The Star Protection Computer Controls on this grinder display to you and allow you to keep track of the status of your battery in real time. It also provides overload-protection, over-discharge protection, and over-heat protection.
Moreover, the automatic speed change system on the Makita XAG04Z switches operation from high-torque to high-speed according to the load you’re working on. This feature is very helpful as you won’t have to keep switching between the two manually.
It also has a soft start that suppresses the start-up reaction which means you’ll get smoother start-ups and an extended gear life.
Add to that the XPT (Extreme Protection Technology) and you have a cordless metal grinder that is smart, strong, and powerful.
Even though the Makita XAG04Z performs very powerfully when compared to cordless grinders, it’s still not capable of giving you the strength of a corded grinder. This means that it would be a great choice if you’re not going to use it for heavy-duty jobs but rather finishing up your weld.
PROS
- Operates cordlessly
- Very powerful
- High uptime
- Charges very quickly
- Automatic speed change
CONS
- Less powerful than corded grinders
- Quite pricey
CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON.COM
7. Porter Cable PCEG011 – An Angle Grinder for Beginners
The Porter Cable PCEG011 is a great grinder for beginners and entry-level users.
With a 6 A motor and a 4.5-inch wheel size, it features 3 handle positions, an integrated spindle lock to facilitate your grinding wheel changes, a soft-start to extend the gears’ longevity, a tool-free adjustable guard, and a 12,000 RPM (rotations per minute) speed.
The no-volt switch is a great safety addition to an entry-level grinder as it prevents unintentional restarts that happen after distortion in power.
If you don’t like changing accessories as you work and would prefer swapping grinders instead, this cheap choice is perfect for you. It’s also great if you’d like working with a smaller tool as an entry-level user.
PROS
- Comfortable during long grinding sessions
- Suitable for beginners
- Cheap
CONS
- Lacks a deadman switch
CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON.COM
8. Metabo WEP15-150
The Metabo WEP15-150 has a Long-life motor that provides you with 50% more torque for quicker material removal as well as 20% higher overload capacity.
Moreover, the Metabo WEP15-150 has electronic speed stabilization that maintains the speed of your grinder for maximum productivity even if you’re using it in heavy operating conditions.
It keeps your safety in mind by adding a dead-man paddle switch function that immediately shuts down the motor when the paddle switch is released.
The 13.5 A motor offers you a speed up to 9,600 RPM.
Furthermore, there’s also a Metabo S-Automatic safety clip that helps you stay in control if the accessory jams. This reduces the chances of kickback.
You can change your disc in the blink of an eye, without a tool, and with a touch of a button thanks to the Metabo Quick System.
Although it’s not the most affordable choice on the list, the Metabo WEP15-150 is a great choice as it offers you an amazingly solid and smooth performance. It’s also very durable.
PROS
- Safe to use
- Gives you the power of a larger grinder while remaining compact
CONS
- Limited to 6-inch accessories or under
- Works with AC only
CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON.COM
How to Choose an Angle Grinder:
Size of the disc
The size of the disc on your angler will vary from small to large. The most common sizes are 4.5-inch, 5-inch, 6-inch, 7-inch, and 9-inch disc. If you’re looking for small jobs, welding, and finishing up your work, you should go for a 6-inch or less disc. If you want to cut your metals, a larger disc size would be better.
Speed
You should check the speed of the disc before your purchase because the higher the number, the more effective it will be. The rotations can vary between 5,000 to 10,000 revolutions per minute. The no-load speed of the device matters as well. This one ranges between 700 to 1,200 RPM. Some even extend up to 12,000 RPM.
Wattage
Higher wattage means more power to cut through thicker materials, so you should pay attention to the number as the density of your material increases. If you plan on using your grinder for long periods of time, a higher wattage is recommended as well.
Soft start
Look for slow-start, anti-kickback, and deadman paddle switches. All of this help keep you safe and reduce the chances of injury.
Slow start means, the motor starts slow and gradually speeds up to its highest speed. Anti-kickback means your grinder will cut out if the wheel is bound up. Finally, the paddle switch makes sure the motor shuts down if your hand releases the switch.
Adjustability
The adjustability of the side handle will make it easier for you to use your grinder from whatever position makes you feel most comfortable.
The more positions available, the freer you will be to work from whatever angle and thereby the greater your efficiency.
