Best Angle Grinder Reviews

A grinder is one of the most basic and simple power tools you’ll ever come across. Get a removable side handle, wrap inside a wheel guard a spinning arbor and a barrel handle, and you’ve got yourself a grinder. For all its simplicity, the grinder is quite a versatile tool.

Meanwhile, the best angle grinder is a grinder that’s a combination of finesse and raw power. It’s controlled aggression, almost. Your best bet when it comes to using grinders is in the metalworking industry.

Then again, grinding wheels can also work on stone and wood aside from metal. That’s what makes the grinder the all-purpose abrasive machine that it is. As for the angle grinder, it’s a kind of a grinder that’s a handheld power tool used for polishing, cutting, and (of course) grinding.

In regards to angle grinder reviews, the thing to keep in mind more than price versus value is overall effectiveness. Always look at the big picture. Watch out for the new four-and-a-half-inch models and how they fare with the bulkier traditional models.

Best Angle Grinder Reviews

1. Makita 9557PB Angle Grinder with Paddle Switch

This is one of those four-and-a-half-inch models that have changed the dynamic and created a paradigm shift of sorts in the angle grinder world. If you have an eye for intuitiveness, ergonomics, and handling, then the Makita 9557PB is for you. In a sense, it’s the best hand grinder because it has a paddle switch that protects bearings and seals the motor from contamination. Its motor also has a no-load speed of 10,000 RPM, which is expected for a powerful 7.5 amp motor.

Its fresh take on the traditional body design can be seen by its barrel grip with a small circumference (about two-and-a-half inches) so that it’s an easier fit for your hand. What’s more, wheel changes have never been easier since features like the Makita spindle lock.

The package includes a wheel guard, flange, side handle, wrench, and grinding wheel. The company has even thrown in a one-year warranty for the device for good measure. What more can you want from this awesome Makita 9557PB? See our full review of the Makita 9557B.

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READ: DEWALT DWE402 4½-Inch 11-Amp Paddle Switch Angle Grinder Review

2. Hitachi G12SR3 Angle Grinde

As for the Hitachi G12SR3, it delivers a 400-watt output power from a 6-amp motor that smoothens out the surfaces of the tough grinding jobs. Yes, it’s 1.5 amps short of the Makita 9557PB, but it more than makes up for it with durability. The best angle grinders should always have some edge to them. The edge for Hitachi is that with less amperage, you get less wear and tear, plus you don’t need the extra 1.5 amps for home improvement.

Hitachi also has a spindle lock that makes accessory and disc changes a breeze. It’s lightweight and compact as well, with a seven-and-seven-eighths grip perimeter to boot. Again, the main selling point for the 9557PB is its lifespan, which can be maintained with proper care, no abusiveness in usage, and the included auto-stop carbon brushes that make the 6-amp motor durable than most. You’ll also love the accessible carbon brushes that allow instantaneous on-site maintenance. Finally, the

You’ll also love the accessible carbon brushes that allow instantaneous on-site maintenance. Finally, the Hitachi G12SR3 comes with a one-year warranty and a 30-day satisfaction guarantee. See our full review of the Hitachi G12SR3.

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3. DEWALT D28402K Small-Angle Grinder Kit

DeWalt is a trusted name in power tools for good reason. They’re the gold standard that everyone else attempts to live up to. The D28402K, in particular, delivers high overload protection and faster material removal overall.

The DeWalt D28402K is arguably the best metal grinder of this collection of angle grinders thanks to its 10-amp AC/DC 11,000 RPM motor. It even addresses longevity fears from people who buy high-amperage power tools. It’s also unique in that it has its dust ejection system.

Its longevity is partly ensured because it cleans itself up when grinding materials down. The possibly tool-damaging debris that’s a given when it comes to grinding anything to dust is eliminated through its propriety dust ejection system that you won’t see in many other angle grinders (they instead have brushes and manually debris removal involved).

It’s the air intake vents where the dirt usually enters, but Dewalt D28402K is one of the few tools with a means to remove debris without taking it apart. See our full review of the Dewalt D28402k.

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4. Makita 9564CV Angle Grinder

Although it’s yet another four-and-a-half-incher, the 9564CV can differentiate itself from the 9557PB thanks to its unique specs. For example, it features gear-protecting SJS (Super Joint System) technology that prevents accidental wheel binding and whatnot.

Again, Makita proves itself a winner by having two of its tools featured in this angle grinder review With that said, the 9564CV stakes its claim in the market with features like a powerful 12-amp motor, making it the most powerful grinder by default.

READ: DEWALT D28115 Heavy-Duty High Performance Grinder with Trigger Grip Review

What’s more, the Makita 9564CV further solidifies its legacy with a variable speed control dial that allows you more flexibility in grinding. It’s unlike other grinders that can only go on one speed. It’s also a relatively compact tool for something so impactful, weighing in at 5.3 pounds.

If you’ve had startup problems in the past with other grinders, you won’t experience it with the 9564CV through its soft start feature. Instead of having a dust ejection system, the tool is completely sealed from debris. Check our

If you’ve had startup problems in the past with other grinders, you won’t experience it with the 9564CV through its soft start feature. Instead of having a dust ejection system, the tool is completely sealed from debris. Check our full review of the Makita 9564CV.

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5. PORTER-CABLE PC60TAG Angle Grinder

This best-selling PORTER-CABLE PC60TAG Angle Grinder is a must-have because it’s a grinder capable of 11,000 rotations per minute for the sake of top notch, speedy material removal every time. It also has a 6-amp motor that powers through all sorts of jobs with ease. It’s even durable enough to take on all sorts of environments and rough job sites as well thanks to its cast metal gear case.

It’s one of the most durable tools you could ever get, giving you tool longevity assurance you can’t just find in any other grinder at the same price range. It also guarantees your safety when changing the guard thanks to its tool-free guard change and removal system that won’t result in injuries of any kind.

As for the spindle lock feature of the PORTER-CABLE PC60TAG, it uses the single wrench bit tool as a cut-off tool. With the PC60TAG, you will get in one package undeniable and dependable power and speed. Some grinders have all the speed but compromise on power, while others do things vice-versa.

With the PC60TAG, you will get the best of both worlds. It takes care of all your sharpening, smoothening, and cutting needs without concession or settling for anything less.

The one making the bargains isn’t you but the product itself, which is definitely a bargain and a half of an angle grinder. It has all the right specs from its rotating housing that circumvolves for optimal positioning to its three position. Check our detailed review of the Porter Cable PC60TAG.

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6. Ingersoll Rand 301B Air Angle Die Grinder

The Ingersoll Rand 301B Air Angle Die Grinder is a grinder and a cut-off tool that has a significant bite in its grinding and cutting capabilities thanks to its amazing 21,000 RPM. Nothing can stand in its way because of its powerful 0.25 or ¼ HP motor that runs at 0.19 kilowatts. Some grinders claim to have a balance of power and speed, but the Rand 301B talks the talk and walks the walk by being a tank of a tool that’s heavy-duty but speedy for its size.

READ: Hitachi G12SR3 4-1/2-Inch Angle Grinder Review

You’re also ensured of a durable power tool with a long life span thanks to its vibration-reducing, balance-improving ball-bearing construction. To further ensure that the angle grinder can take a lot of punishment and still come out swinging, it also has strong aluminum housing in one compact package.

Even when faced with the toughest operating conditions, this SUV of the angle grinder world is here to face it with mechanical efficiency and brute strength. Of course, by the way it’s described, you’re probably imagining a monster of a grinder. However, it features a lightweight design.

Built like a tank but handles like a sports utility vehicle; that’s the unofficial motto of the Ingersoll Rand 301B.You’ll get greater grinding access to tight spots because it’s an easy-to-use power tool that also prevents accidental startup with its safety lock throttle lever. You’re safe and secure in every way possible with the

You’ll get greater grinding access to tight spots because it’s an easy-to-use power tool that also prevents accidental startup with its safety lock throttle lever. You’re safe and secure in every way possible with the Ingersoll Rand 301B. It’s an economical, durable kind of instrument that you can use for all sorts of general-purpose grinding applications. Read our full detailed review of the Ingersoll Rand 301B.

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7. DEWALT DWE402 Paddle Switch Angle Grinder

DeWalt or DEWALT is always a trusted name, but what does its angle grinder offering specifically bring to the table? For one thing, its DeWalt DWE402 has an 11-amp AC/DC 11,000 RPM motor that’s fitting for a grinder of its size and compactness. While it’s not as powerful as the 21,000 RPM variants out there, it allows you more control and less fatigue when grinding without over-grinding the material (to the point of damaging it).

The power is just enough to get the job done at a speed and pace that you can control. It’s not as heavy duty as other models out there, but for the vast majority of grinding requirements, it fits the job quite nicely. Remember in the fairy tale, “This feels just right,” was what Goldilocks said.

To be more specific, the DEWALT DWE402 also has other features that make it stand out from the rest like its dust ejection system that ejects damaging debris and dust from its moving parts. This ensures a longer shelf life for your grinder despite the numerous amounts of material it has to grind away into dust.

There’s also the one-touch guard that allows you to get a 360-degree full turn rotation in a single action of sorts.You can also remove the wheel without tools thanks to its Quick Change Wheel Release system, which simplifies changing parts for extended usage of the tool

READ: Dewalt D28402K Review

You can also remove the wheel without tools thanks to its Quick Change Wheel Release system, which simplifies changing parts for extended usage of the DEWALT DWE402. It even has a paddle switch complete with safety lock-off so that your startups are always intended and never accidental. Simply put, this tool is a gift that keeps on giving. Read our detailed review of the Dewalt DWE402.

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8. DEWALT Angle Grinder Tool, 7-Inch, 13-Amp (DW840)

In regards to the DEWALT Angle Grinder Tool (DW840), you should already have a rough idea on what it can deliver by its Amazon.com title alone. Let’s dissect why exactly it’s a premier power tool and angle grinder by taking a look at its extensive line of quality specs. The DeWalt DW840 is an 8,500 RPM and 13-amp motor grinder made for quick removal of material while protecting itself from overload and debris.

As per usual of DeWalt, you’ll get excellent specs and a balanced design all around, although in certain aspects other brands or even fellow models can outdo the D28115. It has a lower RPM than the DEWALT DW840. However, it more than makes up for it with its other specs.

For example, the DEWALT DW840 Grinder with Trigger Grip is quite compact and has an efficient dust ejection system that ensures its continued durable operation for the foreseeable future (or your money back). It has air intake vents that keep the debris out and ejects all dust to keep its insides clean and clog-free. It also features the quick-change release system that enables the tool to remove the wheel for replacement without the assistance of special tools.

It’s further protected by dual abrasion protection, which ensures zero dust or ingestion debris damage on top of its dust ejection system. In other words, the DeWalt DW840 can achieve heavy-duty work, not because of a faster RPM but a tougher-built grinder that can deal with marathon grinding. It’s a marathon instead of a race when it comes to grinding something to a shiny finish. Read a detailed review of the Dewalt DW840 Angle Grinder.

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9. BOSCH 4-1/2 Inch Angle Grinder GWS8-45

Simply put, the Bosch GWS8-45 Grinder is a sleek and contoured grinder that has a reinforced wheel guard, removable brush covers, directed airflow, an ergonomic grip, and a powerful 7.5 amp motor for all your grinding needs. With the help of the Bosch GWS8-45 Slim, you can finish, grind, and cut quite a lot of materials in short notice.

It’s one of the best grinders around in terms of combining a smooth and slim design with powerful cutting and grinding capabilities; it’s like the samurai sword or katana of angle grinders thanks to its portable utility. It’s a corded tool that professionals like plumbers, vehicle makers, and metal workers will definitely appreciate. It’s something you can depend on for your daily grind, metaphorically and literally speaking.

READ: Makita 9564CV 4-1/2-Inch Angle Grinder Review

To wit, the Bosch GWS8-45 Angle Grinder is capable of daily grinding from the roughest of applications. It’s also assured continuous operation thanks to its lock-on side switch, which means you don’t have to press your fingers on any buttons for a prolonged period of time in order to make it continuously grind if you so desire.

Aside from that, the Bosch GWS8-45 also keeps the dust from ruining your grinding operation thanks to its directed airflow capabilities that make the material you’re grinding fully visible and dust-free. This unique airflow mechanism also ensures that the tool has a long and healthy lifespan.

The kit also includes a reinforced wheel guard and an auxiliary handle for maximum control and the cleanest of grinding strokes. Read our detailed review of the Bosch 1380 Angle Grinder.

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Why an Angle Grinder Should Matter to You?

If a workpiece has excess material on it that you can’t simply sand off with sandpaper (and it’d probably take too long to do anyway), then you can depend on the angle grinder to deal with it for you. It can also cut into a piece altogether, so it kind of doubles as a buzz saw or cutter in some cases. As many grinder reviews would take note, there are countless applications for grinders around the house and especially regarding industrial work.

They work either through the use of compressed air, petrol engine, or an electric motor, with the last item being the most common type. Invented in 1954 in Steinheiman der Murr by Ackermann + Schmitt, a German company, the angle grinder is one of the most dependable tools you’ll ever get.

Remember, the best die grinder is the one you need the most. Therefore, you should get angle grinders which ooze utility, like the ones with side handles for two-handed operation or adjustable guards.

How to Search for the Perfect Angle Grinder?

This is an excellent video to capture all of the basic stuff that you need to know about Angle Grinder. It’s 13 minutes, but it’s worth it!

Price versus Budget Value

The value in this context refers to how much you can get out of your grinder regarding successful operation. This depends on what you want to use it for. Regarding home improvement, usually, something like the Hitachi G12SR3 is enough. However, the best 4.5-inch angle grinder in this review is arguably the Makita 9564CV thanks to its multiple specs. Usually (although it doesn’t always follow), the more specs your tool has, the more value you’ll get out of it.

Then again, if you don’t necessarily need all 12-amps of power from a motor, it’s like buying a sports car in an area where traffic jams are rampant; you’re never going to use the full capabilities of your purchase. Don’t just go with the number of features, but also the quality of the features themselves. Do you need a dust ejection system or are you only using the power tool as an electronic substitute for the standard usage of sandpaper?

READ:Bosch 1380 Slim 7.5 Amp 4½-Inch Slim Grinder Review

Safety

Consider the safety features of your grinder. That’s where dust ejection systems, spindle locks, paddle switches, high overload protection, and other similar specs come in. This is safety in the context of protecting your investment by making it last longer and protecting you from harm.

The best 4.5 angle grinder is the safest one of the bunch. Your angle grinder should have special control features that help prevent you from being exposed to potential injuries. It should have things like an adjustable guard or methods of removal for dangerous byproducts.

It should also have a “dead man switch” handy that you can press during use in case you believe it’s become a danger to you or to itself. This way, you won’t end up accidentally starting the grinder and expose yourself to possibly life-threatening situations. Precautions must be taken when using these power tools regardless, which involve wearing protective clothing like helmets, goggles, and gloves. The safeness of the grinder regarding specs can only go so far in safeguarding you.

Make and Model

Trustworthy brands in the realm of angle grinding include DeWalt, Makita, and Hitachi. DeWalt is the brand that everyone is familiar of in the West, but Makita is already making a big name for itself, particularly in the angle grinder front. As for Hitachi, like the Nintendo Wii-U to powerhouses like Microsoft X-Box One and Sony PlayStation 4, it sits on the sidelines and has an ample share of the market with its respective niche. These are all good companies.

However, even the best companies don’t necessarily produce the best tool ever. It might go from the second-best company or the third-best company since the first-rate company has to concentrate on making quality power tools across the board.

Other considerations include power requirements, size, and model. Certain makes and models supply equipment for certain demands. With DeWalt, you’re always assured of an excellent product. However, sometimes, Makita has the better deal, and Hitachi has enough of good value for its offering since you don’t necessarily need industrial-strength angle grinding.

Disc Sizes and Specs

To compare models against each other, you should know their specs. What do they bring to the table? Makita 9564CV has the most powerful motor at 12-amps, followed by the 10-amp DeWalt D28402K, then the 7.5-amp Makita 9557PB, and finally the 6-amp Hitachi G12SR3. But that doesn’t necessarily mean the Makita 9564CV is the best, and the Hitachi G12SR3 is the worst angle grinder. You’re only looking at one spec and one aspect shared by all four models.

READ: Ingersoll Rand 301B Air Angle Die Grinder Review

You need to look deeper, like the fact that the Makita offerings are all of the 4.5-inch variety regarding disc size, and the rest are more “traditional” grinders. Bigger discs might mean faster RPM and larger amps for motors might mean faster burnout from certain equipment.

The less abrasive the disc, the better it is for polishing. The more abrasive it is, the better it is for cutting and grinding the most abrasive of materials. Your choice should be made on a case-by-case basis, ultimately.

Specific Applications

Choosing an angle grinder is best approached individually and in accordance to your needs. If you don’t need a truck, don’t buy a truck and buy a car instead. If you want to save more electricity, look at the wattage of the grinders, which can vary from 500 to 2,500 watts. Some models run on 230 volts and another run on 110 volts A/C. Angle grinders do have universal aspects to them, like the fact that they’re called angle drivers because the motor drives a geared head at a right angle.

The disc can be a thinner cut-off disc or an abrasive disc depending on your needs. All discs require replacement sometimes because as they get used more often, they will get worn. Certain models have safeguards against wear-and-tear, like the aforementioned anti-debris ejection system or other specs that avoid common mishaps associated with grinder usage.

Just how “abused” your grinder will be should depend on whether you want to use it for factory-type work with metal pieces or home improvement exercises and workshop-type activities.

Conclusion

The DeWalt D28402K gives the most value for your money with its powerful motor and longevity of usage that justifies its price point. Meanwhile, Makita’s offerings—the okay 9557PB and the incredible 9564CV—are both great angle grinders regarding making a good case for the four-and-a-half-inch grinders that are taking the market by storm.

Finally, the Hitachi G12SR3 is an enduring budget offering for most home improvement needs, although it falls short on specs when it comes to heavy-duty metalworking, for example. At any rate, it’s a tie between the self-maintaining DeWalt D28402K and the powerful 12-amp metal grinder Makita 9564CV with its anti-damage features.