Best Angle Grinder Reviews

Angle grinders are versatile power tools for cutting, grinding, sharpening, and polishing, mostly on metal. With the right wheel, they also cut tile, stone, and masonry.

They are not woodworking saws. Makita’s grinder manual warns never to use a grinder with wood cutting blades, because they kick back violently.

If you’re new to angle grinders, read the buying guide and safety section at the end before you choose.

Let’s get to it.

OUR TOP PICK

If you are yearning to discover our top angle grinder, then without any delay, it is the Makita 9557PBX1 4½-inch angle grinder. It has a 7.5-amp motor, a paddle switch with lock-on and lock-off, and the X1 kit adds a tool case and accessories.

Check Current Price

The Best Angle Grinders Are:

Product	Details
1. Makita 9557PBX1	1. Makita 9557PBX1 Our Top Pick	- 4 1/2” disc size - 7.5 amp motor (with zig-zag varnish and labyrinth seals for dust protection) - 11,000 rpm no-load speed - Weighs 4.5 pounds - Kit with tool case, cut-off guard, diamond blade, and grinding wheels - 2-position side handle	Check Current Price
2. Dewalt DWE402	2. Dewalt DWE402	- 4 1/2” disc size - 11 amp motor - 11,000 rpm no-load speed - 2-position side handle	Check Current Price
3. Milwaukee “Fuel” 2780-20 M18	3. Milwaukee “Fuel” 2780-20 M18	- 4 1/2" – 5” disc size - Brushless motor - Weighs 5.8 pounds - 8,500rpm no-load speed - Red Link Plus technology - M18 battery system	Check Current Price
4. Black & Decker BDEG400	4. Black & Decker BDEG400	- 4 1/2" disc size - 6 amp motor - 10,000rpm no-load speed - Weighs 4.8 pounds - Spindle lock - 3-position side handle	Check Current Price
5. Porter-Cable PCEG011 4 1/2” Angle Grinder	5. Porter-Cable PCEG011 4 1/2” Angle Grinder	- 4 1/2” disc size - Weighs 3.77 pounds - 6 amps motor - Tool-free guard change - 12,000 rpm no-load speed - 3-position side handle	Check Current Price
6. Bosch 1375A 4 1/2`" Angle Grinder	6. Bosch 1375A 4 1/2`	- 4 1/2” disc size - 6.0 amps motor with dust prevention mechanisms - 11,000 rpm no-load speed - Weighs 3.75 pounds - Auto-stop feature - 2-position side handle	Check Current Price
7. Makita GA7021 7" Angle Grinder	7. Makita GA7021 7	- 15 amps motor - 6,600 rpm no-load speed - Weighs 12.2 pounds - Spindle lock - 3-position side handle - Rotating rear trigger handle	Check Current Price
8. Metabo WEV 15-125 HT 600562420 5” Angle Grinder	8. Metabo WEV 15-125 HT 600562420 5” Angle Grinder	- 5” disc size - 15 amps motor - 2,800-9,600 rpm variable no-load speed - Weighs 5.5 pounds - Spindle lock - Soft start and overload protection	Check Current Price
9. Metabo 606467420 Angle Grinder	9. Metabo 606467420 Angle Grinder	- 15 amps motor - 6,600 rpm no-load speed - Weighs 12.8 pounds - Integrated vibration tech - Spindle lock - 3-position side handle	Check Current Price
10.Toolman 11500BPM 4 ½ Angle Grinder	10.Toolman 11500BPM 4 ½ Angle Grinder	- 5.6 amps motor - Six-speed variable dial - 2-position side handle	Check Current Price

1. Makita 9557PBX1 – Overall Best Angle Grinder

The Makita 9557PBX1 is a compact, well-sealed 4-1/2-inch grinder with a paddle switch, which shuts the tool off when you let go.

Specs

4 1/2” disc size
7.5 amp motor (with zig-zag varnish and labyrinth seals for dust protection)
11,000 rpm no-load speed
Weighs 4.5 pounds
Free kit (tool case, cutoff and grinding wheel guards, and diamond blade, and grinding wheels)
2-position side handle

What I Like About This Product

Paddle switches are safer because the grinder stops when you release the paddle. Per Makita’s 9557PB specifications, this one has both a lock-off lever and a lock-on feature. For safety, most users should skip the lock-on during cutting, so the tool stops if it slips from your hand.

The kit’s case keeps the grinder and wheels together and protected.

Makita’s labyrinth construction and zig-zag varnish help keep dust out of the motor and bearings, which extends tool life. It is well suited to home projects and light professional use.

At 4.5 pounds with a slim barrel, it is easy to handle.

What I Don’t Like About This Product

The case is basic, and the 7.5-amp motor is less powerful than the 11-amp DeWalt below. It uses the standard 5/8-11 spindle thread found on most 4-1/2-inch grinders.

Pros

Light and easy to handle
Works fine on most surfaces
Good bang for the buck
Paddle switch with lock-off
Kit includes case and wheels

Cons

Basic case
Less powerful than 11-amp grinders

Takeaway

Overall, if you’re a DIYer or pro (looking for a backup), the Makita 9557PBX1 is a great tool that gets a range of jobs done and will last for years if used appropriately.

Overall Rating – 4.6/5

CHECK CURRENT PRICE

2. Dewalt DWE402: Runner-Up

The Dewalt DWE402 is a close competitor with our top pick, and it could be your #1 since its 11-amp motor is more powerful than the Makita’s.

Specs

4 1/2” disc size
11 amp motor
11,000 rpm no-load speed
2-position side handle

What I Like About This Product

According to DeWalt’s DWE402 page, it has an 11-amp, 11,000 RPM motor, near the top of its class for power.

A top-mounted spindle lock makes wheel changes easier. The paddle switch has a safety lock-off that prevents accidental start-up; there is no lock-on, so the grinder stops whenever you let go.

The One-Touch guard rotates 360 degrees without tools, which helps at awkward angles. A dust ejection system clears debris that gets into the tool. The DWE402K version adds a tool case.

What I Don’t Like About This Product

The size of the Dewalt DWE402 is a hit or miss. For one, it’s heavy, and this can help stabilize the grinder while working on rough surfaces. On the other hand, it would cause fatigue pretty fast if you are going to be holding it for long.

Besides, it’s also somewhat large, making it hard to grasp fully or comfortably while depressing the paddle switch for most folks. So, if you don’t have giant hands or something close, it can be difficult to handle.

Pros

Heavy-duty construction will withstand years of abuse
Sheer cutting power for fast and consistent performance
Spindle lock for quick wheel changes
Tool-free 360-degree guard adjustment
Dust ejection system to preserve bearings
Paddle switch with lock-off

Cons

Heavy
Too wide to grip for many users

Takeaway

Go for the Dewalt DWE402 if you want one of the most powerful 4 1/2” angle grinders for heavy use.

Overall Rating – 4.7/5

CHECK CURRENT PRICE

3. Milwaukee “Fuel” 2780-20 M18: Best Cordless Angle Grinder

The Milwaukee 2780-20 is the only cordless grinder in this review. Milwaukee billed it as the first cordless grinder with corded performance. Note that Milwaukee’s 2780-20 page now says the product is no longer available, so you may only find remaining stock or its newer replacements.

Specs

4 1/2″ – 5” disc size
Brushless motor
Weighs 5.8 pounds
8,500rpm no-load speed
Red Link Plus technology
M18 battery system

What I Like About This Product

It has a brushless motor, a slim body, and an anti-vibration side handle. It takes 4-1/2-inch or 5-inch wheels.

Milwaukee’s REDLINK PLUS electronics add an electronic clutch and overload protection, which cut power if the wheel binds and protect the motor. It uses a paddle switch with no lock-on.

What I Don’t Like About This Product

Grinding is hard on batteries, so heavy jobs drain packs quickly; FUEL is Milwaukee’s name for its brushless line. The battery is sold separately with the 2780-20.

Pros

Solid build
Innovative technologies used motor protection
Rubberized grip and slim handle for better handling
Spindle lock for easy accessory change
Tool-free guard adjustment

Cons

Drains batteries quickly on heavy grinding
Battery sold separately
No longer sold new by Milwaukee

Takeaway

If you work where it’s hard to plug in, or already own M18 batteries, consider the Milwaukee 2780-20 M18 cordless angle grinder.

Overall Rating – 4.5/5

CHECK CURRENT PRICE

4. Black & Decker BDEG400: Best Budget Buy

The Black and Decker BDEG400 is an affordable, basic grinder for entry-level hobbyists or anyone on a budget.

Specs

4 1/2″ disc size
6 amp motor
10,000rpm no-load speed
Weighs 4.8 pounds
Spindle lock
3-position side handle

What I Like About This Product

For a cheap grinder, I’m impressed by its 3-position side handle. This simple feature can up productivity by a notch, especially when cutting. The vertical (third position) allows you to put enough pressure on the workpiece.

It handles light jobs around the home and occasional workshop use. With a 6-amp motor, it isn’t meant for heavy, all-day grinding.

What’s more, it’s a good option for folks who have small hands or find it hard to grip other models.

What I Don’t Like About This Product

The slide power switch feels flimsy. A switch you can operate quickly matters for safety, so test it before use.

Pros

Good bang for the buck
Lightweight
Performs well for low and medium-intensity tasks
Great grip and fit for smaller hands
Quick wheel change

Cons

Flimsy power slide switch

Takeaway

Overall, this is a good budget grinder for a backup or occasional use at home.

Overall Rating – 4.4/5

CHECK CURRENT PRICE

5. Porter-Cable PCEG011 4 1/2” Angle Grinder

Another inexpensive option, the Porter-Cable PCEG011, is a lightweight angle grinder that’s packed with user-friendly features.

Specs

4 1/2” disc size
Weighs 3.77 pounds
6 amps motor
Tool-free guard change
12,000 rpm no-load speed
3-position side handle

What I Like About This Product

For a budget grinder, it has a good feature list: a 6-amp, 12,000 RPM motor, a 3-position side handle, and a guard you can adjust without tools.

A spindle lock on top holds the spindle still for wheel changes.

What I Don’t Like About This Product

The housing is plastic, and the small motor heats up under long, heavy use. Give it breaks rather than leaning on it.

The spindle lock button is not as sturdy as on pro grinders.

Pros

Affordable
Feather-lightweight makes it easy to handle
Great power for faster material removal
3-position side handle

Cons

Flimsy plastic build
Heats up fast under intense use
Wobbly spindle lock switch

Takeaway

All in all, it’s a good budget grinder for small tasks. For long, heavy grinding, step up to a more powerful model.

Overall Rating – 4.3/5

CHECK CURRENT PRICE

6. Bosch 1375A 4 1/2`” Angle Grinder: Durable Inexpensive Option

The Bosch 1375A is an inexpensive but solidly built 4-1/2-inch grinder that could easily have been the top budget pick in this review.

Specs

4 1/2” disc size
6.0 amps motor with dust prevention mechanisms
11,000 rpm no-load speed
Weighs 3.75 pounds
Auto-stop feature
2-position side handle

What I Like About This Product

The Bosch 1375A has a solid frame for an inexpensive grinder.

Its 6-amp motor handles most light grinding and cutting, but like other grinders in its price range, it isn’t built for all-day heavy work.

Its auto-stop carbon brushes shut the motor off when the brushes wear down, before they can damage the commutator.

What I Don’t Like About This Product

Adjusting the guard takes a wrench, and the supplied one is basic.

It uses a slide switch with lock-on. Slide switches keep running if you drop the tool, so a paddle-switch grinder is the safer choice for beginners.

Pros

Affordable
Sturdy build for its price
Auto-stop brushes protect the motor
Comes with two grinding wheels

Cons

Slide switch rather than paddle
Guard change needs a wrench

Takeaway

The Bosch 1375A is a light, rugged choice for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts.

Overall Rating – 4.3/5

CHECK CURRENT PRICE

7. Makita GA7021 7″ Angle Grinder: Best 7-inch Angle Grinder

Our 7-inch pick is also a Makita, chosen for its power and its rotating rear handle.

Specs

15 amps motor
6,600 rpm no-load speed
Weighs 12.2 pounds
Spindle lock
3-position side handle
Rotating rear trigger handle

What I Like About This Product

Makita, as usual, does a good job of protecting the motor and inner components of the GA7021 from dust and debris, which can shorten its use cycle. The motor is sealed with their signature zig-zag seal, and the inner components arranged in a labyrinth construction.

Per Makita’s GA7021 specifications, its 15-amp motor runs at 6,600 RPM, and it weighs 12.2 pounds. That power gives fast material removal on large surfaces.

The rear handle, which holds the trigger switch, rotates, and the side handle fits in three positions. That helps you hold this heavy tool comfortably at awkward angles.

What I Don’t Like About This Product

It’s heavy, as all 7-inch grinders are. The trigger switch has a lock-on but no lock-off, so keep your hand clear of the trigger when you set it down.

Pros

Good value
Heavy-duty build
Impressive torque for hassle-free grinding
Rotating rear handle
Rubberized soft grip handle
Tool-less wheel guard
Includes grinding wheel

Cons

Heavy
No lock-off on the trigger

Takeaway

The Makita GA7021 7” angle grinder is powerful and well sealed against dust, a good fit for large grinding jobs.

Overall Rating – 4.7/5

CHECK CURRENT PRICE

8. Metabo WEV 15-125 HT 600562420 5” Angle Grinder — Premium Variable Speed Angle Grinder

This is a premium grinder from Metabo, a German brand. It is the only 5” grinder in this review and the only pro-grade variable speed grinder here.

Specs

5” disc size
High-power motor
2,800-9,600 rpm variable no-load speed
Weighs 5.5 pounds
Spindle lock
Soft start and overload protection

What I Like About This Product

It feels solid and holds its speed under load. Variable speed lets you slow down for polishing, wire brushing, and heat-sensitive materials like stainless steel.

It also has a clutch that reduces kickback if the disc jams, plus soft start and overload protection.

What I Don’t Like About This Product

Our main complaint is the slide switch. A paddle switch stops the grinder when you let go, which is safer.

Pros

Built to last
Variable speed
Clutch to limit kickback
Soft start and overload protection

Cons

Noisy
Uses slide switch
Tough to use in tight spaces

Takeaway

Overall, this is a powerful, durable variable speed grinder, a great choice for metal fabrication and finishing work.

Overall Rating – 4.6/5

CHECK CURRENT PRICE

9. Metabo 606467420 Angle Grinder: Best 9” Angle Grinder

Another top-notch grinder from Metabo. This time, it’s a massive 9” angle grinder that’s suitable for heavy work, large grinding applications, or marathon use.

Specs

15 amps motor
6,600 rpm no-load speed
Weighs 12.8 pounds
Integrated vibration tech
Spindle lock
3-position side handle

What I Like About This Product

A 9-inch grinder spins slower (6,600 RPM here) but has far more reach and torque than a small grinder, for heavy grinding and cutting on large work.

It has Metabo’s dust protection and auto-stop carbon brushes to protect the motor.

A vibration-damping system makes it more comfortable to hold, and both the main handle and the 3-position side handle adjust.

What I Don’t Like About This Product

It’s a big tool for large, tough jobs like heavy steel or concrete. Expect over 12 pounds in your hands, and a strong reaction if the wheel binds. A 9-inch grinder is not a beginner’s tool. When cutting concrete or masonry, use water or dust extraction and a respirator, since the dust contains crystalline silica.

Pros

Solid construction for rugged use
High torque
Comfortable paddle switch with safety throttle
Spindle lock for fast and tool-free accessory change
Rotatable main handle and 3 directional side handle aids better handling

Cons

Expensive
Heavy

Takeaway

If you need a 9” grinder, the Metabo 606467420 pairs a 15-amp motor with vibration-damped handles and a paddle switch.

Overall Rating – 4.8/5

CHECK CURRENT PRICE

10. Toolman 11500BPM 4 ½ Angle Grinder: Cheapest Variable Speed Angle Grinder

The Toolman 11500BPM is a budget option if you want variable speed. It has a six-position speed dial and comes with a pack of wheels.

Specs

5.6 amps motor
Six-speed variable dial
2-position side handle

What I Like About This Product

Variable speed is handy for low-speed tasks like polishing and sanding. It is less suited to heavy cutting and grinding.

The included wheels let you get to work right away. Check that every wheel is rated for at least the grinder’s maximum speed.

The spindle lock lets you swap wheels with one wrench instead of two.

What I Don’t Like About This Product

It’s cheaply made, and the housing gets hot during long use. Give it breaks, and wear gloves.

Pros

Great value for the money
6-level variable speed
Easy wheel change
Lightweight

Cons

Runs hot
Basic build quality

Takeaway

The variable speed setting makes it a useful budget pick for sanding and polishing.

Overall Rating – 4.2/5

CHECK CURRENT PRICE

How To Buy The Best Angle Grinder

Here are the functions, safety precautions, and features you should know before buying an angle grinder.

What Can An Angle Grinder Do?

An angle grinder’s job depends on the wheel you mount: cutoff wheels, grinding wheels, flap discs, wire wheels, diamond blades, and polishing pads. The 4-1/2-inch size has the widest choice of accessories.

Cutting

This is the most popular use of an angle grinder. With a cutoff wheel, it cuts metal bar, tube, and bolts much faster than a hacksaw. With a diamond blade, it cuts tile, stone, and concrete.

A manual tile cutter is better for straight tile cuts, but a grinder handles notches and curves a cutter can’t.

Sharpening

An angle grinder can sharpen rough tools like hoes, axes, and lawnmower blades. Use a grinding wheel or flap disc, never a cutoff wheel on its side, and keep the steel from overheating. For finer edges, such as a knife, the best bench grinder or a belt grinder gives more control.

Cleaning Rusty and Rough Surfaces

Fitted with a wire wheel or brush, an angle grinder strips rust and caked-on cement from metal. Wire wheels throw loose bristles, so wear a face shield over safety glasses.

Repointing or Mortar Cutting

Repointing the old-school way with a chisel and hammer is a whole lot of work and takes time.

An angle grinder fitted with a diamond tuckpoint blade makes short work of cutting out old mortar. Cutting mortar and concrete makes silica dust, so use a grinder shroud with a vacuum or water and wear a respirator.

Necessary Safety Precautions While Using an Angle Grinder

Angle grinder wheels run at very high speed and can kick back or burst, causing severe injuries.

Here are safety tips you should abide by when using an angle grinder:

1. Always Wear PPE

Wear personal protective equipment (PPE) every time you use a grinder:

Safety glasses or goggles, with a face shield over them
Hearing protection
Work gloves
A respirator when cutting masonry or concrete
Clothes that protect your skin from sparks and debris
Boots

2. Clear Your Workspace

An easy and totally free way to prevent accidents with the grinder is to keep your work environment safe. Clear away scrap, cords, and other trip hazards, and work in good light.

Sparks travel far, so move flammable items and solvents well away from the work area.

3. Scrutinize All Attachments and Discs

Before mounting a wheel, check it for cracks, chips, or damage, and throw away any that look faulty. OSHA’s abrasive wheel standard requires that the tool’s speed never exceed the maximum speed marked on the wheel.

After mounting a new wheel, run the grinder at no load for about a minute, held away from you and others, as Makita’s manual advises. A flawed wheel will usually break during this test.

Never use a cutoff wheel for side grinding. Its thin body isn’t built for side pressure and can shatter.

4. Use the Guard Always

Never remove the guard to reach a tight spot. Position it between you and the wheel, and use the guard type the manual specifies; cutoff wheels need a cut-off guard that covers both sides.

5. Inspect the Inspectable

Unplug the grinder or remove the battery before changing wheels. Check that the side handle is tight, clamp the workpiece, and hold the grinder with both hands.

Features To Consider Before Buying an Angle Grinder

If you can’t make heads or tails of an angle grinder, it’ll be difficult to pick a model that fits your usage without overspending, underpaying, or worse, choosing a tool that won’t work at all.

Here are features you should consider when buying an angle grinder:

Power and Speed

When choosing angle grinders, power and speed are co-dependent metrics that determine how efficient and fast an angle grinder can work.

Small 4-1/2-inch grinders usually run around 10,000 to 12,000 RPM with 6- to 11-amp motors. Larger 7- and 9-inch grinders run slower, around 6,000 to 8,500 RPM, with motors up to 15 amps.

More amps let the grinder hold its speed under load. Good dust sealing and overload protection help any motor last longer.

Power Source

Angle grinders can be powered in three different ways:

Electric
Pneumatic or air-powered
Battery

Pneumatic grinders need a large air compressor, so they mostly show up in auto and fabrication shops. They are light for their output and run cool.

A cordless grinder’s big edge is mobility: you can use it where there’s no outlet and no cord to trip over.

Cordless grinders and their batteries cost more, and heavy grinding drains packs quickly.

Corded electric grinders are the most popular and affordable. They deliver steady power all day, but you are limited by the outlet and cord length.

Disc Size

Larger grinders usually have bigger motors and cut deeper, but they are heavier and harder to control.

The most popular grinders use a 4 1/2” disc. They are cheaper, easier to handle, and take the widest variety of readily available wheels.

On the other hand, if you want to use the grinder for only heavy grinding jobs, a 9” grinder is the most suitable, with 7” grinders in second place.

Ergonomics

Small design details affect comfort and safety. Look for:

Multi-directional side handle. The 3-way adjustable handle works the best, as you can position it vertically to cut more efficiently.
Spindle lock
Flexible guard locks to ensure safety and versatility while grinding
A paddle switch with a lock-off, which stops the grinder when you let go. Lock-on switches are convenient but less safe.
Flat or recessed locking nut to fit thin cutting wheels

In the end, picking the ergonomic features will be based on your personal preference.

Dust Management

Grinding makes abrasive dust that wears out motors and bearings, so look for dust protection such as sealed bearings or a dust ejection system.

Blowing the vents clear with compressed air after use, while wearing eye protection, also helps the tool last.

Ignition Mode

When a basic angle grinder starts, the motor’s torque can jerk the tool in your hands. A “soft start” feature brings it up to speed gradually.

This feature is usually found in larger-sized or professional-grade angle grinders. So, it’s a plus if it’s sported on a smaller angle grinder.

Final Thoughts

Angle grinders are handy for professionals and DIYers alike. They grind, polish, sharpen rough tools, and cut metal, tile, and masonry with the right wheel. Don’t use them to cut wood.

Choose a model that suits your work and experience, and treat it with respect.

Still in doubt?

Our top pick is the Makita 9557PBX1. It is easy to handle, well sealed against dust, and has a paddle switch with a lock-off. The kit also comes with a case and some grinder wheels.

Sources

9557PB 4-1/2 in. Paddle Switch Angle Grinder, Makita
DWE402 4-1/2 in. 11 Amp Paddle Switch Small Angle Grinder, DeWalt
1910.215: Abrasive Wheel Machinery, OSHA
BGA452 Cordless Angle Grinder Instruction Manual, Makita