The 10 Best Angle Grinders of 2023

Photo: Skilsaw

Angle grinders are versatile power tools that can perform many tasks, including cutting, grinding, polishing, and cleaning multiple materials.

You can use an angle grinder to cut through metals, tiles, concrete, stone, and many other materials. A high-speed electric motor in the angle grinder rotates different disc/wheel varieties that support such heavy-duty tasks.

Small, hand-held grinders are especially great for home projects because they pack so much power in compact bodies. They are also flexible and inexpensive.

Dive into our angle grinder review to discover the top models and the features they offer for all your related home projects.

10 Best Angle Grinders – Review

IMAGE	​PRODUCT	​FEATURES
	1. Metabo HPT G12SR4 (Best Overall)	Powerful 10,000-RPM motor Efficient forward-canted handle  Simplified accessory changes 5 heavy-duty grinding wheels
	2. Skilsaw 9295-01 (Best Budget)	Reasonable budget price High-speed 11,000-RPM motor Durable/rugged metal housing Firm grip for superior control
	3. DeWalt DWE402 (Best Professional)	Powerful 11-amp/11,000-RPM motor Protective dust ejection system Optimized for overhead drilling Sudden high-torque reduction
	4. DeWalt DW840 (Best 7-inch Angle Grinder)	Ideal for 7-inch grinding tasks Adjustable spark safety guard Rear handle enhances control Sealed bearings for durability
	5. Porter-Cable PCC761B (Best Battery-powered)	Powerful 20-volt battery A rugged metal gear housing Effective heat dissipation 3-position enhanced-control handle
	6. Milwaukee 2780-20 (Best for Remote Jobs)	Powerful brushless motor High-performance battery pack Comfortable paddle-switch design Tool-free accessory changes
	7. Bosch 1375A (Power-efficient)	Power-efficient 6-amp motor Lightweight at 3.75 pounds Comfortable 2-position handle Efficient preemptive maintenance
	8. Makita 9557PBX1 (Versatile Angle/Cut-off Grinder)	Powerful 11,000-RPM motor AC/DC alternative power switch Protective zig-zag varnish A cost-saving grinding kit
	9. Black & Decker BDEG400 (With Superior Handling & Control)	Comfortable 3-position handle A durable metal gear housing Bonus productivity accessories Pocket-friendly price
	10. Metabo HPT WP9115 (For Finishing Metals)	Reliable multi-metal finisher Kickback torque minimization Small, ergonomic handle Easy tool-less disc changes

1. Metabo HPT G12SR4 – Best Overall Angle Grinder

Photo: Metabo

• Power Source: Corded-electric
• Power: 6.2 Amp, 980 Watts, 120 Volts
• Disc Size: 4-1/2 inches
• Speed: 10,000 RPM

Coming in first is Metabo HPT G12SR4, our best overall angle grinder. It is a powerful hand-held angle grinder that offers the complete package, including the main tool and 5 grinding wheels at a reasonable price.

This tool is technically a Hitachi model, which recently rebranded to Metabo HPT. This means it carries the same heavy-duty and reliable qualities of Hitachi, including a powerful 6.2-amp 980-watt motor, which delivers 10,000 RPM of raw grinding power.

Ease of handling is another feature we loved in this grinder. It comes with a removable, forward-canted side handle, which improves user control and comfort for both left and right-handed users.

It comes fitted with a spindle lock, which helps with fast and easy disc and other accessory changes so that you can get back to work with minimal interruptions.

Also, you get 5 high-performance grinding wheels and a carry case, accessories that most of the other models don’t offer even with their high process.

We did notice that the On/Off switch of Metabo HPT G12SR4 is awkwardly placed and may take some getting used to, but one eventually gets the hang of.

Pros:

• Powerful grinder
• Easy to handle
• Fast accessory changes
• Handy cost-saving accessories

Cons:

• On/Off button position could be better

2. Skilsaw 9295-01 – Best Budget Angle Grinder

Photo: Skilsaw

• Power Source: Corded-electric
• Power: 6 Amp, 720 Watts, 120 Volts
• Disc Size: 4-1/2 inches
• Speed: 11,000 RPM

Tight budgets should not compromise the quality of tools we acquire. For instance, Skilsaw 9295-01, our best budget angle grinder, rivals many premium models with its powerful and high-speed motor.

Speaking of performance, this grinder channels 6 amps of power to its motor, which spins grinding wheels at a speed of 11,000 RPM, the highest we have recorded, and one it shares with other grinder models.

You can use all this raw power to cut through different materials, especially metallic ones, and even for additional tasks such as rust removal and polishing.

We also like the fact that this grinder is encased in a heavy-duty metal housing, which enhances the tool’s ruggedness and durability.

A compact grip design will enhance handling comfort and tool control, especially at maximum power.

You do, however, miss out on accessories such as grinding wheels, and a carry case, with your purchase of Skilsaw 9295-01. Also, the ‘On/Off’ button is unusually close to the blade so if you have large hands, is cautious when working it. 

Pros:

• Pocket-friendly price
• High-speed motor
• Heavy-duty metallic housing
• Comfortable handling and firm grip

Cons:

• No wheels/accessories included
• Not the bets ‘On/Off’ button placement

3. DeWalt DWE402 – Best Professional Angle Grinder

Photo: DeWalt

• Power Source: Corded-electric
• Power: 11 Amp, 1400 Watts, 120 Volts
• Disc Size: 4-1/2 inches
• Speed: 11,000 RPM

The raw power produced by DeWalt DWE402 is an industrial grade, at 11 amps and 11,000 RPM. Its next-generation motor offers the best weight-to-size ratio so that you won’t strain when handling the tool.

This tool is not just powerful but also guarantees durability and long-lasting service with its reliable dust ejection system. The system extends the tool’s durability by ejecting the dust and debris particles that can damage the tool once they come into contact with delicate internal components.

For even more extended durability, DeWalt DWE402 comes with a brushless motor. When using drill bits, the grinder’s factory-configured clutch jumps into action to reduce the sudden high-torque reactions that may be triggered by bit jams.

It has adopted an optimized ergonomic design, which will provide you with an exceptional handling experience when performing overhead drilling. And when you’re done using the tool, you can use its retractable utility hook for convenient hanging in storage.

You do, however, pay a premium price for the DeWalt DWE402 tool only, as it does not come with a grinding wheel or tools. Also, if you use a cutting wheel, you’ll need to get a different guard for it.

Pros:

• Powerful and fast motor
• Reliable dust ejection system
• Supports overhead drilling/cutting
• High-torque reduction mechanism

Cons:

• Steep price for grinder only
• Cutting wheel requires a different guard

4. DeWalt DW840 – Best 7-inch Angle Grinder

Photo: DeWalt

• Power Source: Corded-electric
• Power: 13 Amp, 2250 Watts, 120 Volts
• Disc Size: 7 inches
• Speed: 8,000 RPM

Not all angle-grinders are designed for the standard 4-1/2-inch grinding wheel. Meet DeWalt DW840, a unique, high-performance tool that also our best 7-inch angle grinder.

The grinder pumps out 8,000 RPM from its 13-amp motor, which is enough power and speed to support 7-inch general-purpose grinding applications such as shaping, deburring, metal removal, and sharpening.

For your safety during the tool’s operation, and especially because it supports a larger-than-normal disc, it has an adjustable guard you can shift to redirect sparks away from the user. Also, its rear handle design enhanced comfort and control.

This tool is designed to extend motor life by sealing off its ball and roller bearings to minimize mechanical damage.

At 8 pounds in weight, we do feel that the DeWalt DW840 can quickly shift from comfortable to bulky especially if you are doing some intensive cutting/grinding. But you can always pause the process if it gets to that. Also, its maximum power draw of 2250 watts is high.

Pros:

• Supports 7-inch grinding tasks
• Adjustable guard for user safety
• Enhanced user comfort and control
• Protected bearings for durability

Cons:

• Could be lighter
• Draws a lot of power

5. Porter-Cable PCC761B – Best Battery-powered Angle Grinder

Photo: Porter-Cable

• Power Source: Battery-powered
• Power: 20 Volts
• Disc Size: 4-1/2 inches
• Speed: 8,500 RPM

The most powerful and reliable angle grinders are not exclusively powered by plug-in corded electricity. You can get just as much power from the battery-powered Porter-Cable PCC761B.

This grinder uses a powerful 20-volt cordless battery system to deliver 8,500 RPM of raw motor speed to its grinding wheel. It achieves aggressive cutting, metal removal, and finishing, just as good as electric-corded tools.

Durability is another area where this tool excels. It is enclosed in a metal gear housing that not only makes the grinder rugged but also helps in heat dissipation during extended usage.

Superior comfort and handling in this grinder are top-of-the-range. It has a contoured over-molded handle for enhanced comfort. The tool also a 3-position side handle for multi-position control.

To the dismay of many potential owners, the required battery, Porter-Cable 20V Max Lithium, for powering Porter-Cable PCC761B, is sold separately.

Pros:

• Powerful battery-powered motor
• Durable metal housing
• Effective heat dissipation
• Superior handling and control

Cons:

• Required battery sold separately

6. Milwaukee 2780-20 – Best Angle Grinder for Remote Jobs

Photo: Milwaukee

• Power Source: Battery-powered
• Power: 18 Volts
• Disc Size: 4-1/2 inches/5 inches
• Speed: 8,500 RPM

Sometimes, we may undertake construction or related projects off-site where reliable mains power is a challenge. Milwaukee 2780-20 is perfectly-positioned for such tasks with its reliable battery-powered performance.

The top-rated angle grinder on a brushless motor that promises twice as much run time, and 10 times longer motor life, compared to regular models. The tool is driven by Milwaukee’s M18 RedLithium XC5.0 Battery Pack that will deliver 8,500-RPM speeds.

For increased comfort and ease of operation, the grinder features a paddle-switch design, which boosts productivity even with constant changes in position.

You’ll enjoy the tool-free operation offered by this tool. It has simplified accessory changes and guard adjustment by eliminating the need for tools.

Unfortunately, the M18 RedLithium XC5.0 Battery Pack required to power Milwaukee 2780-20 is sold separately, and that translated to additional costs. Also, when the battery runs out, recharging it will take some time, requiring you to pause your current task.

Pros:

• Powerful battery performance
• Long-lasting motor
• Paddle-switch for comfortable operation
• Tool-free adjustments

Cons:

• The required battery is sold separately
• Takes time to recharge the battery

7. Bosch 1375A – Power-efficient Angle Grinder

Photo: Bosch

• Power Source: Corded-electric
• Power: 6 Amp, 680 Watts, 120 Volts
• Disc Size: 4-1/2 inches
• Speed: 11,000 RPM

Angle grinders are power tools, but they need not cause spikes in your energy consumption and bills. Bosch 1375A is a power-efficient grinder that offers the same performance as other power-hungry tools.

This 6-amp grinder draws only 680 watts of power, which is notably lower than most of the other models on our list. Even then, it still manages to produce 11,000 RPM of speed, which is the highest in our list.

We loved that this grinder is very lightweight and compact, at only 3.75 pounds, which makes it great for intensive and regular grinding tasks such as vehicle fabrications, plumbing, metal works, and many others.

It is comfortable to operate because of the 2-position side auxiliary handle, which is designed to angle towards your hand’s natural position for maximum operating comfort.

This grinder takes ease of maintenance to another level. It features Bosch’s Service Minder Brush System to eliminate guesswork and stop the tool when preventative maintenance is required.

We did find, however, that adjusting the spark guard of Bosch 1375A is notably hard.

Pros:

• Power-efficient motor
• Lightweight and compact
• Easy to handle
• Efficient maintenance system

Cons:

• Difficult to adjust spark guard

8. Makita 9557PBX1 – Versatile Angle/Cut-off Grinder

Photo: Makita

• Power Source: Corded-electric
• Power: 7.5 Amp, 120 Volts
• Disc Size: 4-1/2 inches
• Speed: 11,000 RPM

Makita 9557PBX1 offers a blend of versatility and power to rise above most of its rival models in reliability and performance.

The 7.5-amp grinder offers a reliable industrial performance by delivering 11,000-RPM speeds aided by smooth start-ups from soft starts. It is fitted with an extra-large paddle switch that aids in comfortable tool operation.

A unique that puts the tool’s versatility above that of its peers is its AC/DC switch, which you will find very useful for switching between alternative power sources, such as AC main power, and DC battery power.

The grinder offers you a myriad of protective features such as the zigzag varnish that seals the tool off from dust and debris, prolonging its life. Also, the motor packs thicker coils wound closely together for reducing heat and energy loss.

We liked that the grinder kit you’ll get will also include 5 4-1/2-inch grinding wheel, a metals tool case, grinding and cut-off wheels, and a Makita Diamond Blade.

We do feel, however, that the carry case for Makita 9557PBX1 is not the most rugged, so expect it to wear fast, especially with regular usage.

Pros:

• Powerful and fast motor
• AC/DC switching for versatility
• Robust protective features
• Extra cost-saving accessories

Cons:

• The metal case could be stronger

9. Black & Decker BDEG400 – Angle Grinder with Superior Handling and Control

Photo: Black & Decker

• Power Source: Corded-electric
• Power: 6.5 Amp, 120 Volts
• Disc Size: 4-1/2 inches
• Speed: 10,000 RPM

Most angle grinders come with fixed-position handles, which means you have to turn your hand constantly when shifting positions. However, you can eliminate this challenge with Black & Decker BDEG400 and its multi-position side handle.

The grinder is fitted with a 3-position handle, which optimizes control and handling for all the applications you will undertake with the tool, including grinding, dust removal, cutting, and surface preparation.

It is enclosed in a metal gear case that prolongs the tool’s life and durability. Besides durability, a spindle lock has been fitted to facilitate easy accessory changes.

You get a metal grinding wheel, a spanner wrench, and a wheel guard to protect you against sparks. Still, on protection, the tool utilizes a reliable one-touch release switch, which shuts off the grinder rapidly when required.

Also, the grinder is very reasonably-priced and falls in the budget category.

We did notice, however, that the disc wrench that comes with Black & Decker BDEG400 is very weak and will often bend during accessory change. You may need to get a stronger one.

Pros:

• Multi-position handle
• Durable metal casing
• Handy productivity accessories
• Reasonable pricing

Cons:

• Weak disc wrench

10. Metabo HPT WP9115 – Angle Grinder for Finishing Metals

Photo: Metabo

• Power Source: Corded-electric
• Power: 8.5 Amp, 900 Watts, 120 Volts
• Disc Size: 4-1/2 inches
• Speed: 10,500 RPM

Angle grinders are excellent metal finishers, alongside their primary role as cutters. Metabo HPT WP9115 is your go-to angle grinder for finishing different metals.

It will effectively finish different types of steel, aluminum, bronze, aluminum castings, and many more. Grinding is another area the tool excels in. It will grind welded sections, acetylene-torch-cut areas, brick, slate, and marble.

To ensure continuous grinding from the 8.5-amp, 10,500-RPM motor, this grinder is fitted with Metabo HPT’s S-automatic Torque Limiting Clutch that reduces kickback torque during sudden disc jams, for your protection also.

A small handle circumference provides the perfect ergonomics for reducing hand and shoulder fatigue when operating the tool.

Also, convenience is further enhanced by the quick tool-less disc change, at the touch of a button. The spark guard supports tool-free adjustment.

You won’t, however, be getting any wheels of accessories with your purchase of the pricey Metabo HPT WP9115.

Pros:

• Excellent metal finisher
• Kickback torque reduction
• Ergonomic handle design
• Tool-less disc change

Cons:

• No accessories included

How to Buy the Best Angle Grinder

Photo: Black & Decker

1. Disc Size

Angle grinders are designed to primarily drive grinding discs (or wheels) made of different materials to achieve tasks such as polishing, cutting, finishing and many more.

The standard disc size or angle grinders is 4-1/2 inches, which 90% of the models on our list drive. They can execute complex cutting and grinding jobs.

You can, however, get grinders that accommodate different disc sizes, such as the DeWalt DW840, which fits a 7-inch disc, for general-purpose grinding.

2. Power Source

Angle grinders are power tools fitted with electric motors, which generate the power needed to spin the grinding discs.

The two main sources of power for these tools are corded-electric (120V) mains power, and battery power. While corded-electric tools are the most common for their stability and interrupted run time, battery-powered ones are equally powerful during their run time.

Do note, however, that most battery-powered angle grinders do not come with the required batteries. You need to buy those separately.

3. Speed

The speed generated by an angle grinder’s motor is what drives the disc that cuts, grinds, or polishes different material. This speed is measured in RPM.

High-speed angle grinders exceeding 10,000 RPM are generally preferred because of their rapid and precision cutting ability.

However, even lower-speed models such as 8,500-RPM ones are considered fast but are especially ideal for cutting softer materials such as tiles and concrete. 

Beware of disc jams, which cause grinder kickback, and at high speeds, such tool behavior can be hazardous.

4. Start Feature

Almost all angle grinders in the market are started/stopped using ‘On/Off’ buttons. However, these buttons have some enhancements built into them to make the process efficient and safe.

A common start feature is a paddle-switch design, which is the standard in most angle grinders. It is designed such that turning the tool on or off is an effortless and seamless task.

Features such as safety lock-on/off can be added to switches to prevent accidental starts or facilitate continuous tool operation.

5. Handle Position

Angle grinders are hand tools, and given that’s the primary mode of operation, handle positioning is critical to the efficient handling of the tool.

On the front, side handles are the most common, in addition to the rear handle, which is part of the tool’s body. To facilitate both left and right-handed operation, most side handles can be installed on either side of the tool.

Some models such as the Black & Decker BDEG400 come with 3-position handles for enhanced comfort and tool control.

6. Disc Guard

Angle grinders are fitted at the disc guard, which rises slightly above the disc edges to trap or redirect sparks generated especially when cutting or grinding metals.

Without the guards, the risk of the tool harming you is incredibly high, hence the essence of the accessory.

Choose a grinder with an adjustable spark guard so that you can always adjust to your comfort levels depending on the angle of tool usage.

7. Ergonomics

Ergonomics is closely tied to handle design. The more comfortable the handle is, the more control you’ll have over the tool and grinding process.

Most angle grinders are fitted with small-diameter handles, which enhance grip and handling comfort.

Forward-canted handles, such as that of Metabo HPT G12SR4, are also highly ergonomic and improve your control over the tool.

How to Use an Angle Grinder

To maximize on the immense potential of an angle grinder, follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Choose the right tools for the job. A 5-9-amp angle grinder is powerful enough for all the grinder-related tasks you’ll execute.

Also, a 4.5-inch disc is fine for many of the home projects you’ll undertake. You can get other accessories as your grinder-related tasks evolve, over time.

Step 2: Ensure all the safety precautions. Before starting the high-speed grinder, you should wear protective equipment such as ear protectors, a hard hat, a face shield, safety glasses, and heavy-duty gloves, all for your protection.

Undertaking basic power tool safety training is recommended before using the grinder. Also ensure there are no bystanders, especially children, near your working area. Also, in the case of electric grinders, always unplug them when not in use.

Step 3: Operate the angle grinder. But before you start, read the user manual that comes with your tool and preferably, do some practice runs on small jobs before embarking on the actual intended tasks.

You should secure all your workpieces securely before grinding or cutting them. After powering your tool, ensure the disc is spinning before applying it on the intended surface.

Also, ensure your grasp on the tool is firm, preferably on both handles. When done, gently lift the grinder, turn it off, and unplug before storing it securely.

Conclusion

Angle grinders are reliable power tools every person who loves DIY home projects should own. Professionals too can benefit from the tool.

If you want the best angle grinder today, grab Metabo HPT G12SR4, which is our best overall. It is a complete inexpensive kit containing a power grinder, 5 grinding wheels, and a carry case.

For those on a budget, but desire a high-quality angle grinder, go for Skilsaw 9295-01. It is a pocket-friendly and powerful tool.

We didn’t leave the professionals out. If you’re a professional angle grinder user, DeWalt DWE402 is the perfect fit for you.