The Best Angle Grinders for 2022
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Best Angle Grinder
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These versatile tools are a must-have for metalworking professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. To help you select which one is best for you, I have outlined the various features below along with a list of the best angle grinders currently available.
UPDATED: February 7, 2022.
MY TOP PICK:
If you are looking for the best overall, I recommend the DEWALT DCG413B 20-Volt MAX because it features a portable cordless design, variable speed up to 9,000 RPM, and a kickback brake.
What is an angle grinder?
Angle grinders are a multipurpose power tool, essentially a hand-held bench grinder, used for polishing, grinding, and cutting with an abrasive disc (also called a cutting wheel). The discs are interchangeable with either a wrench or a "quick change" setup, depending on the particular tool.
Disc Types
Discs are made from abrasive compounds that use friction to remove material. Most standard angle grinders available today work with discs that are 4.5 inches in diameter. Some models will also offer the flexibility to work with the less common 5” discs.
The type of disc determines the kind of work that can be done. For example, grinding discs use abrasives such as aluminum oxide to remove excess metal from welding.
Cutting wheels are thinner than griding discs and are typically used to cut through various steels and iron. They use compounds such as ceramic alumina held in a glass fiber mesh to create the cutting surface.
Polishing and buffing discs are made from a range of different materials depending on the specific application. These can be made from wire for course metal surfaces, scouring pads for removing rust, and even felt for polishing.
Note that each disc will have a maximum RPM rating that should not be exceeded or it could shatter, potentially causing injury. Check to make sure the maximum RPM of the grinder you are using does not go above the rating for the disc.
Here are some features to look out for when selecting a model:
Motor Power
The disc is driven via an onboard electric motor. The power of these motors is measured in amperes or amps. This is a measure of the strength of an electrical current, meaning how fast it flows. Higher amps translate to a quicker flow of electricity which results in more power. Most standard sanders are equipped with around 6 to 7 amp motors, with some more powerful options up to 11 amps.
Speed
The speed of the grinder is measured in revolutions per minute (RPM). A higher RPM means that you can remove more material in the same period of time. Some models are equipped with a variable speed control dial that provides more flexibility to work on a range of projects. The standard maximum speed of the most commonly available grinders is in the range of 9,000 to 11,000 RPM.
Soft Start System
The Conservation of Angular Momentum principle in physics means that if a wheel is spinning in one direction it wants to continue turning in that direction. As a result, when the grinder is turned on, the spinning motion of the disc tries to rotate the entire tool. This can create a force that wants to push it out of your hand. To reduce this, some models include a soft start system that gradually increases the RPM when it is turned on.
Method of Power
An important thing to consider when selecting a model is the method of power. Standard methods of powering an angle grinder are corded and cordless. Pneumatic grinders are also common and require an air compressor to operate.
Corded offers the advantage of unlimited run times but can make maneuvering it more difficult. Cordless grinders have the benefit of greater working flexibility as they can be taken anywhere. However, the run time will be limited by the battery (and the number of additional batteries). That being said, battery technology has really improved in recent years, increasing run times significantly making it less of a trade-off to go cordless.
Side Handle
Most models will include a removable side handle. This allows you to hold the tool firmly with two hands for better control. It can usually be placed on either side of the tool for both right and left-handed users. Since it is removable it offers the flexibility to reduce the overall size when working in confined areas.
Rotating Guard
All grinders are equipped with a guard (also known as gear housing) that surrounds approximately 180 degrees of the disc. It is designed to provide protection from the cutting edge and the sparks produced. These can typically be rotated to accommodate a range of applications and working positions. Ideally, you want to go with a model that offers tool-free adjustment of the guard so it eliminates the hassle of having to use a wrench to make changes.
Weight
Since you are often holding these tools at awkward positions it is important to note the weight, as working with a heavy tool can quickly cause fatigue. For cordless options, the weight provided by the manufacturer will often exclude the battery weight. So take into consideration the additional weight of the battery you will be using. Keep in mind that typically a higher voltage battery does mean a longer run time but at an increased weight.
Kickback Brake
An important safety feature you should look out for is a kickback brake. This is a simple system that quickly brings the disc to a stop once the trigger is released. If it didn’t do this the wheel would continue to spin, increasing the potential for injury or damage to anything it touches if you are not aware it is still spinning.
Two-Stage Trigger
In addition to the kickback brake, another helpful safety feature is the two-stage trigger. This works by requiring two actions by the user before the motor turns on. As a result, it reduces the chance the tool will unexpectedly turn on when you pick it up.
Safety
Grinders are loud, produce sparks, and the discs can shatter. For these reasons, you should always wear appropriate safety protection including ear plugs, gloves, eye protection (safety goggles and/or face shield), and protective clothing. The project being worked on should also be held securely in place with either a clamp or a vise.
So here is my list of The Best Angle Grinders for 2022.
Enjoy!
Best Overall: DEWALT DCG413B 4.5" Cordless Angle Grinder
The DEWALT DCG413B 20-Volt MAX features a cordless design for maneuverability and getting into confined or remote areas.
Features a variable speed of up to 9,000 RPM.
Equipped with a kickback brake that quickly brings the wheel to a stop in two seconds or less once the trigger is released.
Includes the E-Clutch System which automatically shuts down the motor when a wheel pinch is detected.
Features a one-touch guard, making it fast and easy to change the guard position.
Features a two-stage trigger that requires two actions to activate the tool for safety.
Check out this cutting demonstration video of the DEWALT DCG413B:
Runner-up: Makita 9557PBX1 4.5" Angle Grinder
The Makita 9557PBX1 4.5" angle grinder features a powerful 7.5 amp motor that delivers up to 11,000 RPM.
Equipped with labyrinth seals that protect the motor and bearings from dust and debris.
Includes an extra-large paddle switch for comfortable operation.
Features thicker coil wires that are wound more closely to reduce heat and energy loss.
Equipped with an all-ball bearing design and metal gear housing for durability.
Includes a rotatable gear housing that can be positioned at 90-degree intervals.
Comes with a small barrel grip diameter (only 2-1/2") for added comfort.
Best Compact Design: Bosch 1375A 4.5" Angle Grinder
The Bosch 1375A 4-1/2 In. Angle Grinder features a powerful 6.0-amp motor that produces 11,000 no-load RPM.
Features a lock-on slide switch for easy access.
Includes a two-position side handle for better control when in use.
Features service minder brushes that stop the grinder when preventative maintenance is required.
Equipped with epoxy-coated field windings, for longer tool life.
Weighs 3.75 lbs.
Must-have Accessory
Don't forget the grinding wheel.
Easy to Use: Hitachi G12SR4 4.5" Angle Grinder
The Hitachi 4-1/2-in corded angle grinder is powered by a 6.2-Amp motor that delivers 10,000 RPM.
Features a sliding switch for quick and easy operation.
Equipped with a removable, forward-canted side handle for that also provides a comfortable grip for either right or left-handed users.
Designed with a relatively small grip diameter to reduce hand fatigue and increase comfort.
Equipped with a wheel guard.
Best Premium Option: Milwaukee 2780-20 M18 Fuel 4.5"/5" Angle Grinder
The M18 FUEL 4-1/2 in. / 5 inch grinder is powered by the Redlithium X C5.0 battery pack and produces up to 8,500 RPM.
Equipped with a powerstate brushless motor for a longer tool life.
Constructed with a metal housing for durability.
Features a tool-free system that does not require a wrench for accessory changes.
Features an easy-to-use paddle switch design with no-lock.
Tool-only (no battery or charger included).
Compatible with all M18 batteries.
Best Budget Option: BLACK+DECKER BDEG400 4.5" Angle Grinder
The Black & Decker BDEG400 4-1/2" 6 Amp angle grinder features a metal gear case for durability and longer life.
Equipped with a three-position side handle for comfort and control.
Includes a spindle lock for easy accessory changes.
Features an operational speed of 10,000 RPM.
Includes a one-touch release switch for quickly shutting off.
Designed with a narrow body to produce a comfortable grip.
Best Power: DEWALT DWE402 4.5" Angle Grinder
The DEWALT DWE402 4-1/2" 11-amp Paddle Switch Angle Grinder features is powered by an 11 Amp AC/DC 11,000 RPM motor.
Equipped with a one-touch guard that allows for 360-degree rotation.
Features a quick-change wheel release for tool-free wheel removal.
Includes a top-mounted and protected spindle lock button to maximize the depth of cut.
Features a small gripping surface for added comfort.
Includes a paddle switch with safety lock-off to prevent accidental start up.
Features matching wheel flanges that allow for the use of common accessories.
Equipped with a system that ejects potentially damaging dust that enter the tool.
Best for Durability: PORTER-CABLE PC60TPAG 4.5" Angle Grinder
The PORTER-CABLE PC60TPAG 7 amp motor delivers 11,000 RPM for high-speed material removal.
Equipped with a cast metal gear case for increased durability.
Features a three-position side handle that allows greater control.
Includes a tool-free guard for quick and easy adjustments.
Features a non-locking paddle switch.
Includes a spindle lock for single wrench bit changes.
Best Multi-Position Handle: Ryobi P423 18V One+ Brushless 4.5" Angle Grinder
The RYOBI 18-Volt cordless 4.5” grinder is part of the RYOBI ONE+ system of cordless tools that all work on the same battery platform.
Features the GRIPZONE overmold with microtexture for comfort and grip control.
Equipped with a three-position side handle for optimum hand placement.
Features a spindle lock for quick and easy wheel changes.
Features an ergonomic design with a compact form for maneuverability.
Includes onboard wrench storage.
Battery and charger sold separately.
Best for Small Projects: Makita XAG04Z 18V 4.5" / 5” Cordless Angle Grinder
The Makita XAG04Z 18V LXT Brushless 4-1/2" and 5" cut-off grinder features a soft grip for increased comfort when in use.
Equipped with a slide switch with a lock-on position for increased utility when in use.
Includes a three-stage LED gauge that indicates the charge status of the battery.
Features a soft start system that reduces the incidence of movement when turning on.
Offers a compact design at just 14.24 inches long that is ideal for working in confined areas.
Does not include a battery, works with the LXT system.
I hope this list of the best angle grinders was helpful.
If you think I left out one that is important or have a suggestion for a future article, let me know in the comments below.
Brandon Hubbard, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C
