The Best Angle Grinders In 2023

Top 3 best angle grinders in 2023:

• Top Pick: Makita GA7021 7″ Angle Grinder, with AC/Dc Switch
• Runner-Up: Bosch 4-1/2-Inch Angle Grinder 1375A
• Budget Pick: BLACK+DECKER BDEG400 Angle Grinder

Angle grinders are probably some of the most common grinders on the market today, and for a good reason. They’re incredibly versatile pieces of machinery, and they can be used with a lot of different attachments.

When used right, these babies can easily replace tons of different power tools, freeing up space in your toolkit. That alone is a good enough reason to get an angle grinder but, as you will see, there are many other reasons this tool is so well-regarded among professionals and amateurs alike.

Today I’ll take a look at the best angle grinders on the market today and tell you all you need to know about them so let’s get going!

---

What Is An Angle Grinder?

If you’ve ever seen a construction crew at work or had some work done on your house or yard, you’ve probably seen an angle grinder in action – but you might not even know it. It’s such a ubiquitous tool these days.

Most angle grinders are handheld power tools used for grinding and/or polishing by employing a spinning abrasive disc.

There are a few different designs, but the most common one involves an adjustable guard around the disc (for protection from sparks and debris), a side handle next to the disk and a larger handle at the base of the tool near the cord, sometimes with an additional hand guard.

The body and backing of angle grinders are usually made out of hard plastic combined with rubber for protection.

While most angle-grinders are portable and highly-maneuverable tools, there are also fixed variants which are made to be stronger, for specific uses. This is the way they started out, all the way back at the start of the 20^th century.

Since then, angle grinders have evolved into incredibly versatile tools that can be used with a wide variety of attachments. No construction or home-repair crew work without one, and they’re incredibly useful to handymen and hobbyists as well.

They can be used for a wide variety of tasks, including:

• Grinding – the main purpose of an angle grinder is, of course, grinding down metal and stone into the shape you want to achieve.
• Sanding – this is one of the most common uses of an angle grinder. With the right attachment, you can easily scrape off old paint, smooth out rough spots, remove rust and generally prepare almost any surface for further work. You can use an angle grinder for sanding wood, metal, stone and so on.
• Cutting – with the right disc attached, cutting through metal, concrete, masonry, tiles, wood and even plastic is not a problem for an angle grinder. Just make sure you have the right attachment on to avoid ruining the surface or your grinder.
• Polishing – you don’t have to have a specific polishing tool to get that smooth finish since an angle grinder with the right attachment will do the job just fine.
• Sharpening – if you have the right disc attached, an angle grinder can easily be used to sharpen other tools, though you’ll have to fix it in place to do that properly.

However, they’re not toys – they can be incredibly dangerous for your body, your eyes and your ears. Full protective equipment involving gloves, a helmet, protective glasses, and protective eyewear are strongly recommended when using an angle grinder.

If you’re not properly trained to use one, don’t try to do it straight away. Read a manual, look at some tutorials and try it out on some easy jobs at first, before you move on to some bigger stuff.

Things To Look For When Buying The Best Angle Grinder

Now, with that said, you do want to buy an angle grinder, and you’ve probably never bought one before – what can you do to pick the right one?

Well, I’ll tell you all about that right now by listing all of the most important aspects that you need to look at and explaining them in detail.

I’ll start with…

1. The Type

There are three main types of angle grinders, depending on the power source they use:

• Electric Angle Grinders – This is probably the most common type of angle grinder you’ll see since they’re relatively cheap but still pack a good punch. They use an electric motor and a cord for power. There are stronger, professional variants that connect to a transformer instead of a regular outlet.
• Pneumatic Angle Grinders – These angle grinders use compressed air to power their motors, and you’ll most commonly see them used in auto shops. They are expensive and designed for extremely specific, professional uses, so they’re not the best for DIY work.
• Gas Angle Grinders – These grinders use an internal combustion engine to work their magic. They’re usually larger and stronger than most other types of grinders which is why they’re extremely expensive. Fixed, non-movable angle grinders that you might see on construction sites and in factories are usually powered by gas.
• Battery-powered Angle Grinders – Commonly called cordless angle grinders, these machines use a battery to power their engines. These are usually lithium-ion batteries, and they’re rechargeable. They often don’t have the power that other types of grinders have, but they’re also smaller and more portable.

2. The Size

You probably already have a use in mind for your future angle grinder. One of the most important aspects that will determine if it will be able to do that job adequately is the size of its disc.

Most angle grinders have a disc size between 4-1/2 inches and 9 inches – you can get angle grinders smaller and larger than that, but they’re relatively rare.

Generally, grinders with larger discs are better if you want to make deeper cuts or work on larger surfaces since you’ll easily be able to cover more ground in one go.

However, if you want to get into some tight spots, do some precision work and have more maneuverability, a smaller disc size will be appropriate.

Most angle grinders can only use discs of one specific size though there are models out there which can switch between a few different sizes at will, which is useful if you intend to use it for a wide variety of jobs.

3. The Power

The relative power of an angle grinder can be difficult to determine, but you’ll usually find it expressed through the amperage and the wattage of the motor, in the case of electric grinders. The higher they are, the more powerful the grinder. However, it’s not that simple.

The power is also relative to the size of the disc – the larger the disc, the more power it needs. This means that if two grinders have the same wattage, but one of them has a larger disc, that grinder will be less powerful than the other one.

The power of angle grinders usually ranges from 500 to 2500 watts and from 4 to 15 amps. You don’t need to get something extremely powerful for regular home and DIY use – something on the lower end will do and might even be better.

4. The Speed

One of the reasons why a power grinder is able to do the things it does is because the wheel can spin at ridiculous speeds.

The faster it spins, the easier it is for the wheel to grind away at hard materials. However, too much speed can be a bad thing as well. If you want to work with more delicate materials, for example and use your grinder for things like sanding and polishing, you don’t need it to be extremely fast.

Extremely fast speeds can also cause larger discs to overheat, crack or break, which can be extremely dangerous, so watch out.

5. Adjustability

The ability to adjust the way your angle grinder operates will give it more versatility and allow you to perform a lot of different jobs with it.

A few important things to check out straight off the bat are the types of wheels that can fit onto it and the speed adjustments available. Those two features are the ones that impact the performance of an angle grinder the most.

Other useful adjustments include an adjustable guard and the ability to change the handle position.

6. Extra Features

Angle grinders are incredibly versatile machines, able to adjust to almost any job you want them to do by just changing the attachment you’re using.

However, additional features can make some models even more versatile than others or just make your life a little bit easier. Unfortunately, some are just useless gimmicks which bring the machine down.

How to differentiate between the two? Well, the best way to think about it this – is it something you see yourself using almost every time you use your angle grinder? If the answer to that question is yes, then it’s probably worth having.

For example – a vacuum attachment can vacuum up the dust while you work and make the cleanup afterward almost non-existent and you’ll probably use it every day.

On the other side of the coin is something like a built-in light – sure, it sounds useful, and it can be, but if you’re working in well-lit environments at home, you don’t need it.

Of course, keep in mind that extra features are just a bonus – never choose an angle grinder based on them. First and foremost, make sure that the core performance is good – look at the extras only after you’ve made sure of that.

---

10 Best Angle Grinders In 2023: Detailed Reviews

I’ve looked through the top products on the market and picked ten of the best – which I will showcase to you now, warts and all.

1. DEWALT DWE402 4-1/2-Inch 11-Amp Paddle Switch Angle Grinder

Dewalt has always been known for making quality tools for home us, and this angle grinder is a good example of a tool built to fit a weekend warrior.

It is able to pack in a lot of power into a relatively small frame, and it features an impressively powerful 1400W, 11 amp motor inside it. It can reach impressive speeds as well, up to 11000 RPM at most.

It also has a dust ejection system which stops small debris from getting into the machine and clogging up the motor, so it’s a breeze to work with.

The disc is on the smaller side as well, 4.5 inches in diameter, which makes this grinder ideal for home use and smaller tasks that require a lot of maneuverability.

While the paddle switch is easy to operate on a short-term basis and makes the tool safer if you need this grinder for prolonged use, it will be a bother. There’s no on/off switch for continuous operation.

I’d like to say that, besides that, there’s not a lot wrong with this angle grinder, but there’s still one thing that’s amiss. Some parts of this grinder, particularly the handle and the bolt that keeps the disc in place, are kinda flimsy.

If it wasn’t for that, I’d recommend it in a heartbeat. As it is, it’s still a good grinder, but you should be careful when purchasing it.

2. Meterk Electric Angle Grinder 6A 4-1/2inch

One of the best things about angle grinders is their ability to become almost anything you want them to be with a few minor adjustments. This one is clearly made to emphasize that aspect.

It comes with a few great extras which make it much more versatile. It comes with 3 additional cutting wheels and 3 grinding wheels included in the package, allowing you to easily get started. It’s easy to change them with the spindle lock system.

The handle can also be adjusted and placed on the left or the right side – or removed altogether if you feel more comfortable using your angle grinder one-handed.

It doesn’t have the strongest motor ever – it’s only 750 watts – but it’s more than enough, and it can reach a speed of 12000 RPM with ease.

The price is also a steal for this kind of performance – unfortunately, the performance comes with a different price. This grinder overheats a lot and, since the chassis is not so durable, you might even see some melting at high heat.  

Besides that, it’s a wonderful budget grinder, and I recommend it, as long as you don’t use it for extended periods.

3. DEWALT DC411B 4-1/2-Inch 18-Volt Cordless Cut-Off Tool

Cordless angle grinders have a bit of a bad rap for being weak and toy-like unless they cost hundreds and hundreds of dollars.

Well, this machine from Dewalt all but proves that you can buy a good cordless grinder without breaking the bank. Its power is nothing to scoff at, and it can operate at speeds of up to 6500 RPM.

It has a light frame and a small, 4.5-inch disc size, so it excels at doing smaller tasks which require a lot of maneuverability. Despite that, though, it is more than durable enough, and it won’t break in a matter of a few weeks or months.

Sadly, all the power it has comes at the cost of rather disappointing battery life. You can’t use this angle grinder for prolonged work at all since the batteries run out so fast.

It’s also noisy while working – I know, all angle grinders are, but this one is louder than average, which can be a problem for some.

Overall, it’s still a good quality cordless unit and, at this price, probably the best you can get right now.

4. Makita GA7021 7″ Angle Grinder, with AC/Dc Switch

Here we have an angle grinder that’s a bit larger than the others I’ve talked about so far. It’s got a 7-inch wheel size, and it can easily work on some tougher jobs.

While a speed of 6000 RPM might not sound all that impressive, it’s a lot for a disc this big and, combined with the power of its 15 amp motor; it can cut or grind almost anything you can think of. This is a real heavy-duty tool.

Of course, this also means that it’s a bit heavier than most other angle grinders out there, but that’s the cost of strength like that.

It’s also durably built, which is another reason for its outstanding weight. You won’t see it break as easily as lighter tools might.

You can also adjust it more than a few different ways. The handle can be placed in three different positions, you change between AC and DC modes with the flip of a switch, and the guard can be adjusted without tools.

So, what’s the catch?

Well, besides the weight, the only other major problem is the price point. This bad boy will set you back quite a bit, and you have to be ready to fork over some serious cash to get it. However, I think it will be worth the price.

5. Dewalt DCG412B 20V MAX

Dewalt has definitely proved that cordless angle grinders don’t have to be toys if they come at an affordable price and this grinder continues that trend.

This one uses a 20-volt rechargeable lithium-ion battery with decent battery life – you can definitely use it for some projects that require longer operation.

The motor is strong, and the 4.5-inch disc of this tool can reach speeds of up to 8000 RPM, which is impressive and allows it to easily cut or grind most materials.

Despite its power, it’s still lightweight, and you can easily use it for some projects that require a more maneuverable tool.

All of this at a price this affordable is simply a steal, and it seems like a tool you have to get.

Here’s the catch though – this is a bare tool. This means that the battery and the charger are sold separately. You’re right, the grinder can’t work without them, so you have to buy them, and they’re pricey indeed. It’s a bit of a scummy practice.

The battery itself can also get quite hot while you’re working and it’s too easy to press it against your body while working since it’s located at the bottom of the handle.

Despite all this, I’d still advise getting it if you want a strong, portable angle grinder.

6. Hitachi G12SR4 6.2-Amp 4-1/2-Inch Angle Grinder

This is a small and compact angle grinder from Hitachi that works like a dream. It has a powerful motor for its relatively small size at 6.2 amps and 980 W, and it can reach speeds of up to 10000 RPM. It runs quite cool as well.

With a disc size of only 4.5 inches, it can easily get into smaller spaces, and it’s ideal for small jobs.

Despite what you might think when you first pick it up, it’s more durable than it seems with a cast aluminum housing easily standing up to years and years of use and abuse. The plastic parts are also of good quality.

The on/off switch is a bit awkwardly placed and difficult to press, especially if you have work gloves on (which you should).

The other major problem I can see with this grinder is that long-term, a lot of dust will build up in the motor since there seems to be no dust filtering. It will lead to a premature death for a grinder like this.

You can avoid this by cleaning the dust manually, but it’s a pain to do.

Still, it’s a surprisingly powerful grinder for its size, and I think it’s worth a look at the very least.

7. PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX Angle Grinder Tool, 4-1/2-Inch

Despite the name of the company making it, this angle grinder does not use a cable at all – it’s a highly portable unit with a rechargeable battery attached.

First off, it’s a surprisingly powerful machine for something of this size – the motor can generate speeds of up to 8500 RPM, which impressed me a lot. It gives this tool the ability to grind and cut almost anything.

The durability is also impressive – the cast metal housing lives up to any expectations you might have, and it stays in one piece no matter what.

It also has a few good adjustment options, including a handle with three different positions and a guard which can be adjusted without tools.

While it is affordable, keep in mind that the battery and the charger are sold separately, which incurs an extra cost. However, I still think that the overall price is more than acceptable.

One of the major issues of this angle grinder is the short battery life. You can’t use this for long periods of time at all, and you’ll have to stop work often to recharge the battery.

Another major problem is its lack of torque and real power – cutting through thicker pieces of metal, or even wood can prove to be challenging.

That doesn’t make it a bad angle grinder though / just be aware of its limitations and use it accordingly.

8. SKIL 8 Amp Corded Angle Grinder- AG242001

This grinder is a real small powerhouse that just doesn’t stop no matter what you throw at it, and the 8 amp motor is more than strong enough to handle most stuff.

However, despite all the strength it has, it still manages to remain relatively lightweight for its size and won’t be a burden when you’re using it.

The overall design is comfortable, and both the fixed handle and the adjustable side-handle are made with soft rubber and long operation times in mind. They won’t grind down the palms of your hands like a lot of grinders do.

One of the most comfortable things, though, is the wrench compartment in the side handle – I’ll never have to risk losing it again. It’s always at arm’s reach, which saves me a lot of time when changing wheels on the fly.

The construction here is quite solid overall, and you can’t complain about it too much. It doesn’t seem like it will fail any time soon.

However, there seems to be an issue with the screw for tightening the wheels – no matter how tight I seem to screw it on, the wheels always get loose somehow, and I have to keep readjusting it while working.

It’s also a noisy machine, more so than most other angle grinders and the sound goes through my protective gear.

The strength of it might just be worth it, and it is surprisingly powerful for a 5-inch angle grinder which might be just what you need.

9. BLACK+DECKER Angle Grinder Tool, 4-1/2-Inch, 6.5-Amp (BDEG400)

If you’re a budget-minded person and still want to get an angle grinder which performs well while not paying too much, this tool from BLACK+DECKER should be nearly ideal for you.

Despite what you may think of budget grinders, this one certainly does deliver in the power department. Its 6.5 amp motor gives it more than enough strength to do most types of jobs around the house, and it can even cut some tougher materials.

It’s also extremely lightweight and compact, allowing you to fit it into spots where you might not think an angle grinder can fit into.

The adjustability is also good, and you can place the handle in three different positions, giving it a lot of versatility.

Seem great so far, right? Well, here comes the bad news.

The problem with this grinder is that it’s not durable at all. Most parts are rather flimsy, and some might start to get loose after only a few uses. Even the wrench that comes with it is poor, and it might bend while you’re tightening the screw of the wheel.

The on/off switch can also get stuck sometimes, which is a big safety hazard.

Overall, it is a good budget purchase, and it will perform most smaller jobs adequately but don’t expect to do pro-level stuff with it and don’t expect to have it for years to come.

10. Bosch 4-1/2-Inch Angle Grinder 1375A

This 4.5-inch angle grinder weighs less than 4 pounds, but it’s still able to pack a mean punch despite that. The 6-amp motor allows it to achieve speeds of up to 11000 RPM and you can easily cut most things with it.

While it is incredibly affordable, it’s by no means a toy nor is it flimsy – the construction here is quite solid. It might not be able to last for a decade, but it will certainly last for at least a few years, and that’s more than good enough.

Using it is relatively easy too and despite the two-button system for activating it, holding it is not too rough on your hands, and the handles are definitely designed with prolonged use in mind.

However, this grinder does seem to have some rather archaic design choices. For example, the guard can only be changed with an allen wrench, which is an oddity in a world of tool-free guards.

It also makes a lot of strange, squeaky noises while in use and I haven’t been able to identify why, but it doesn’t sound like a good thing at all.

Still, this is a great pick if you’re looking for a quality product at a price that won’t burn a hole in your wallet.

---

The Final Word

So, that’s about it everyone – I’ve done my duty and went through all the best angle grinders on the market for you.

Of course, I can’t just sign off now – that would be a bit anticlimactic. As usual, I’ll have to give you my choice for the best angle grinder on the market right now.

This was a tough decision to make, but I’ll have to go with Makita GA7021 7″ Angle Grinder, with AC/Dc Switch as my choice for the best angle grinder around. It’s got superior power, durability, and adjustability.

However, I do have to say that Bosch 4-1/2-Inch Angle Grinder 1375A was a close second due to its outstanding performance and cost.

If you’re a bit more budget-minded though, don’t worry – I think that the BLACK+DECKER BDEG400 Angle Grinder is the best option for you. It’s got an incredibly affordable price point while still being a quality tool.

What do you think? Do you agree with me? Post your opinions down in the comments, and I’ll see you next time!