Angle Grinder
Is the material you are working with at your job or when you are involved with DIY projects at home metal? Then the abrasive wheel featured by the all so popular tool known as the side grinder is what you need as it will allow you to shear through the material. Perfect for tasks like de-burring, cutting, and brushing metal pieces, these versatile tools are important for handymen.
Woefully, it can seem daunting that there is an absurd collection of products out there to choose from, this high competitiveness and variety making your life harder when trying to settle for a certain option. For this reason, we have rounded up the top products, narrowing down your search and maybe even helping you find the right tool.
Top 5 Angle Grinders Comparison
| 1. Bosch GWS18V-50 | 2. Makita GA7021 | 3. Metabo W9-115 | 4. DeWalt DWE402 | 5. Makita 9557PBX1 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
| BEST MODEL | OUR CHOICE | BEST SELLER | |||
|
|||||
| General Info | |||||
| Manufacturer | Bosch | Makita | Metabo | DeWalt | Makita |
| Dimensions | 11″ L x 5″ W x 3.6″ H | 18.6″ L x 7.8″ W x 5.5″ H | N/A | 15.6″ L x 5.9″ W x 4.8″ H | 10.75″ L |
| Weight | 3.2 Lbs | 10.4 Lbs | 4.6 Lbs | 6.2 Lbs | 4.5 Lbs |
| Technical Specifications | |||||
| Power Type | Cordless | Corded | Corded | Corded | Corded |
| Motor | Four-Brush Motor | 15 Amps | 8.5 Amps | 11 Amps | 7.5 Amps |
| Output Power | N/A | 2750W | 510W | 1400W | N/A |
| Cable Length | 8′ | 8′ | 6′ | 8′ | |
| Grinding Wheel Diameter | 5″ | 7″ | 4.5″ | 4.5″ | 4.5″ |
| No Load Speed | 10000 RPM | 6000 RPM | 10500 RPM | 11000 RPM | 11000 RPM |
| Spindle Thread Size | 5/8″ – 11 | 5/8″ – 11 UNC | 5/8″ – 11 UNC | 5/8″ – 11 | 5/8″ – 11 UNC |
|
|||||
| Variable Speed Control | |||||
| Overload Protection | |||||
| Adjustable Handle Position | N/A | ||||
| Tool-Free Guard Adjustment | |||||
| Other Features | Vibration Control Side Handle | Rear Trigger Handle Switch | 7 Locking Positions | One-Touch Guard | Rotatable Gear Housing |
| Restart Protection | AC/DC Switch | S-Automatic Safety Slip Clutch | Top Mounted Spindle Lock Button | AC/DC Switch | |
| Burst-Resistant Wheel Guard | Rubberized Back Handle | Rotatable Gear Housing | Safety Lock-Off Paddle Switch | Lock-On/Off | |
| Electronic Cell and Motor Protection | Spiral Bevel Gears | Dust Ejection System | Paddle Switch | ||
| Spindle Lock | Dust-Proof Bearing | Vibration Control Side Handle | Thick Coil Wires | ||
| Powered by 18V Lithium-Ion Battery | Rotatable Gear Housing | ||||
|
|||||
| Product Warranty | 3-Year Tool Protection, 2-Year Battery Replacement | 1 Year | 3 Years | 3 Years | 1 Year |
| User Manual | |||||
| Customer Support | |||||
| Telephone Support | 49-711-400-40990 | 1-800-462-5482 | 1-800-638-2264 | 1-800-462-5482 | |
| Online Chat Support | |||||
Side Grinders Reviews
1. Bosch GWS18V-50
For professional cutting and grinding applications, you need a powerful tool, and Bosch delivers just that. As it is designed to not only ensure a safe operation but last throughout the years impressively even if it is used on a daily basis, it is an investment that you will have a lot to gain from. It measures 11 inches in length, 5 inches in width, and 3.6 inches in height so that you will be able to conveniently work with it, while the 3.2-pound weight ensures you won’t feel your hands sore as a result of using it. But what really makes it convenient is the fact that it boasts a cordless design, meaning that you have complete freedom of movement with it.
Performance
The outstanding performance it provides is all due to the four-brush motor design it boasts. Thus, even if it boasts a cordless design, you can be sure that it won’t sacrifice quality in favor of portability. It offers a high 0 to 10000 no-load RPM cutting speed, and the 18V system ensures it is able to professionally handle even the most demanding jobs you could subject it to.
Safety
A secure operation is needed with power tools of all kinds, and Bosch delivers as it provides a useful restart protection with this tool, meaning that an unwanted startup that could injure you won’t occur as the power switch will be locked. It features a large spindle lock that allows you make quick and safe changes between wheels discs whenever it is needed, a change that doesn’t require the use of any special tools. Another great safety-enhancing feature it comes with is the burst-resistant wheel guard, ensuring your hands are completely safe and that no accidents can happen when you are working with it.
Mention Worthy Features and Specs
- Adjustable handle position ensures you can maneuver it as it feels most comfortable to you.
- Features electronic cell and motor protection that helps prolong its lifespan as a whole.
- A 3-year protection plan is offered for the tool, while the battery can be replaced free of charge during the first 2 years since you purchase it.
Control and Comfort in Use
The two-position vibration control it features on the side handle ensures you will have a higher degree of control over the tool when using it, customizing the vibration output according to the pace that you feel most comfortable with. This also helps reduce user fatigue as you can opt for smooth grinding to resist through longer work hours. The ergonomic design it boasts is intended to enhance comfort in use as well.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Cordless design allows freedom of movement when using it | Can run out of power in the middle of the operation because of its portable cordless design |
| Accidental startup is prevented by the restart protection feature, ensuring a safe operation | |
| Vibration control feature allows you to better handle the tool and avoid quick fatigue | |
| Powerful 4-brush motor provides a great no-load speed of 10000 RPM | |
| VERDICT | |
|
Offering a powerful no-load speed of 10000 RPM, this is, by far, the best option you could go for. Undoubtedly, one of the best features of the power tool is the two-position vibration control side handle that reduces fatigue when operating it. Considering you will probably spend a lot of time using it, this is a feature you cannot afford to underappreciate. As you have probably concluded on your own by now, it is indeed an investment worth making as it exceeds expectations, confirming it is worth your hard earned money. |
|
Makita GA7021
2. Makita GA7021
If you are interested in durability and reliability as much as you are in a quality performance, then this Makita entry is the perfect choice for you to go with. It does not allow dust and debris to enter its chambers and affect parts, thus ensuring a prolonged lifespan. Featuring a powerful 15 amp motor, it does not fail when it comes to fast stock removal as it provides up to 6000 RPM.
Unlike a lot of other products on this market, it delivers a superior energy transfer and smoother rotations as due to the spiral bevel gears it features. Among the many design and performance advantages it boasts, we noticed a quite interesting feature in the 90-degree rotatable switch handle. What it does is allow a convenient use for left-handed as well as right-handed people, adding to the versatility of the tool.
Featuring externally accessible brushes, you will have an easy time doing maintenance work on this powerful tool. The list of beneficial features and functions is long with this tool, so we will end the mini-review here by recommending it to anyone looking for a reliable grinding tool. It is a recommendation we back as we have tested the tool and seen with our own eyes how well it performs, so we are confident you will like it as well.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| External contamination is prevented by the labyrinth construction seals it features | Does not allow you to control grinding speed |
| Features a large shaft lock, allowing easy changes to the wheel | |
| Rubber tool rest conveys protection from damage during use | |
| Use with alternative power source is made possible by the AC/DC switch | |
| VERDICT | |
|
Although it might lack some features that do accompany other products, this Makita power tool is one of the best choices you could make nonetheless. Simple in its design and user-friendly, it ensures safety in use as well as speed in performing the tasks at hand. While the list of positive features it offers is indeed very long and we could not cover them all in the review section, a simple glance at our comparison table will provide you with all the tool’s capabilities for you to better appreciate its quality. |
|
Metabo W9-115
3. Metabo W9-115
Seeing how the Metabo is full of features and specs that make it a highly desirable option for handy people out there, it is hard to resume to talking about a single beneficial element it brings to the table. Featuring a long-life motor that is hard to parallel in terms of performance, it provides 50% more torque than what other power tools on this market boast.
For convenience in use, an aspect you should not overlook especially if you know you will spend a lot of time using the tool, know it features minimal kick-back as it comes with the S-Automatic torque limiting clutch. Your progress when working as well as the protection delivered is hard to match, so it is easy to understand why we are making this recommendation and insisting you give the product a chance.
It comes at a fair and affordable price as well, an aspect we feel compelled to talk about as generally, these tools tend to be quite expensive. However, this is not the case with the W9-115, a product that you can surely afford. Lightweight and easy to maneuver, it is a tool you must insert into your personal collection if you want to have an easier time when working.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Motor provides more torque and a higher overload capacity | Grinding wheel diameter is smaller in comparison to what other tools offer |
| Small handle circumference allows a convenient use | |
| Motor protection is ensured by the automatic stop carbon brushes it features | |
| Design allows left-handed operation as well | |
| VERDICT | |
|
The affordable price of this product alongside the numerous features it comes with compels us to recommend it to all handymen. It might not be perfect as it does have a few flaws, it is as close to perfection as these tools get. What stands out when reviewing it, by far, is the superior toque and overload capacity boasted by the motor, two aspects that add to the tool’s desirability in use greatly. |
|
DeWalt DWE402
4. DeWalt DWE402
The numerous features this DeWalt power tool comes with alongside its cheap price tag make it one of the best products in terms of quality-value ratio. Easy and convenient to work with, tasks you once used to dread will become a lot more delightful with it by your side. One of the many features it comes with that add to its appeal is the One-Touch Guard as it allows a unique 360-degree guard rotation as a result of a single, simple action.
When it comes to versatility in use, it is hard to exceed this tool as it features matching wheel flanges that permit the use of multiple common accessories. Thus, you are not actually restricted when it comes to the manner in which you use it. Besides being highly versatile, it is comfortable to work with due to its small gripping surface.
Another feature it comes with and adds to convenience and comfort in use is the side handle as it offers excellent ergonomics. In its entirety, this is a tool you will not mind using for hours each day at your workplace or when you are doing various projects at home as it is specially designed to ensure user comfort.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Dust ejection system keeps the tool protected from damaging exterior factors like dust and debris | You cannot control or change its speed |
| Versatility in use is dramatically increased by its matching wheel flanges that allow compatibility with numerous accessories | |
| Oversized brushes prolong brush life and you’re your work when using the tool | |
| It features an oversized threading that boosts durability | |
| VERDICT | |
|
Highly convenient to work with and coming at a rather cheap price, it is a tool you are going to love using. There are no real flaws to underline with it as it does not actually lack any features that might have affected its performance, so while there are indeed some minor downsides, they are not to be taken into consideration. We all want to work with quality tools that come at reasonable prices, so this is the main reason why we recommend the DeWalt as it fits all possible criteria. |
|
Makita 9557PBX1
5. Makita 9557PBX1
We must start off the mini-review by praising the power tool’s incredibly cheap asking price. Considering the multitude of performance and convenience features it comes with, the price tag attached to it is quite unexpected. The numerous ease of use features it includes are an extra-large paddle switch that enhances comfort, a side handle you can install on either side, a lock-on and off feature that allows continuous operation, and so on.
Although it does not come with the most impressive motor out there, it still delivers an impressive performance and speed when using it. Additionally, the motor-protection features the tool boasts ensure long-lasting performance even if it succumbs to heavy-duty tasks on a regular basis.
Engineered for numerous applications, including polishing, grinding, and cutting metal and other types of applications, you will find it useful in all kinds of situations. What is important is for you to have the tool at your disposal as it is inevitable that you will eventually end up needing it, and seeing how it is one of the cheapest options to go with, it will not be a great effort to invest in it.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Easy clamping ensured by the tool-less adjustment process of the wheel guard | Handle position cannot be adjusted |
| Convenient operation provided by the large paddle switch | |
| Labyrinth construction protects the motor from debris and dust infiltration | |
| Energy loss is prevented by the closeness between the thick coil wires it features | |
| VERDICT | |
|
Our most advantageous selection in terms of pricing, the Makita 9557PBX1 is the product we advise you to go with if your budget is limited yet you do not want to invest in a power tool that lacks too many features. Manufactured by one of the best-selling companies on this market, it is an option we recommend you seriously take into consideration as durability is ensured with it, and reliability in performance is guaranteed. |
|
Hitachi G12SR4
6. Hitachi G12SR4
With a grinding tool, the element you are definitely most interested in is its power and ability to handle tough applications. As the G12SR4 delivers an impressive 980 watts output power due to the 6.2 amp motor it utilizes, you need not worry as it will effortlessly handle the toughest grinding jobs you can think of. For versatility in use, it features the removable forward-canted side handle that allows left as well as right-handed users to operate it.
It features the useful trigger lock-on which provides a convenient manner to opt for continuous operation, thus focusing on your project instead of keeping the tool on. Another great feature of this power tool is the spindle lock that enables a quick and easy change of discs and accessories. As it weighs only 4 pounds, you will find it easy and safe to use even for overhead applications, which further adds to its versatility.
The grip it provides has a small diameter, thus not only ensuring a tight and comfortable hold, but reducing fatigue so that you may finish your project fast. It comes with a handy carrying case where you can store it when it isn’t in use, and 5 grinding wheels that have you covered for basically any job you might take up. In addition, Hitachi offers a 5-year warranty against defects for this power tool.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Ideal for tough grinding jobs as it provides a 980-watt maximum power output | |
| You can use the trigger lock-on to conveniently choose a continuous operation of the tool | |
| Comes with a convenient storage and transportation case, as well as 5 abrasive wheels | |
| 4-pound weight makes it perfect for overhead applications | |
| VERDICT | |
|
Ideal for left as well as right-handed users due to its removable forward-canted side handle, and perfect even for the toughest grinding jobs due to the impressive 980-watt power output it delivers, this tool is a definite must-have for professionals and DIYers alike. |
|
Porter-Cable PC60TAG
7. Porter-Cable PC60TAG
Porter-Cable is a name you are most likely already familiar with, the brand delivering some of the most successful and appreciated tools out there. The PC60TAG sets itself apart from other power tools as it not only comes at a cheap price which makes it an affordable option but because, despite its compact design, is a real force to be reckoned with, the 11,000RPM rating ensuring rapid material removal.
The tool-free change guard ensures you will have an easy time removing the guard when it is needed. Due to the 3-position side handle it features, it allows a great amount of control in multiple positions so that you won’t get fatigued easily at the job site. Of course, we cannot overlook the sturdy cast metal gear case it is wrapped around in as it ensures an increased lifespan of the tool by keeping it safe from unfriendly elements in the work area.
One of its most convenient features is the spindle lock which allows single wrench bit changes. As a safety measure, it features a sliding-style switch with lock-on. It uses a strong and durable 6 amp motor that helps the grinding tool effortlessly face any task. In addition, the manufacturer offers quite a lengthy 3-year warranty for it.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| 3-position side handles ensures complete control when grinding in different positions | |
| 11,000 RPM rating shows that this is a high-speed tool with which you will be able to finish the task at hand quick | |
| Comes at a surprisingly cheap price which makes it accessible to the masses | |
| Accompanied by a 3-year warranty | |
| VERDICT | |
|
One of the cheapest tools in this niche, the Porter-Cable is a tool you will surely fall in love with using as it helps you finish off your tasks quick due to its 11,000RPM rating. Furthermore, it ensures comfort in use so that you may work for hours on end without feeling fatigued due to the 3-position side handle it comes with. |
|
Grinder Operation and Wheel Uses According to Type
A handheld power tool that is easy to use and works due to an electricity-powered spinning disc, the angle grinder is a common finding in the tool collection of handymen, construction workers, those who work in auto garages, and so on. To use it, all you need to do is depress a switch, grip it firmly to avoid any incidents from happening, and perform the task at hand. To turn the power tool off, simply let go of the switch.
Designed for cutting a variety of materials, including stone, metal, pavers, stucco, and so on, it is a tool you will quickly become reliant on in your day-to-day activities. As you will notice when more thoroughly researching this market, there is a wide variety in terms of wheel material as each type is best suited for certain tasks.
Aluminum oxide wheels are ideal for cut-offs, buffing, woodworking, polishing, and cutting rods, bolts, and bars. Fiber wheels should be used when removing burrs or rust from metal pieces. Silicon carbide wheels are best used for rounding and sharpening metal, as well as removing mortar. Flapper wheels are intended for use when sharpening tools, restoring edges, prepping surfaces, and sanding. Diamond wheels should be used when cutting tough materials like stone, concrete, and tile. Last but not least, wire wheels are ideal for removing rust and paint, and for cleaning metal pieces.
Noteworthy Features and Specs for an Informed Purchase
Even if you are a handy person and you know your way around power tool, your natural knack does not guarantee you will always make the best choices when you go shopping. To completely eliminate the possibility of making any mistakes when purchasing a side grinder, it is essential that you look into a few specs and features boasted by these tools. In the following, we will present you with a useful buying guide under the form of a table, a guide we recommend you closely pay attention to if perfection is what you strive for.
| Spec/Feature | Importance |
|---|---|
| Grinding Wheel Size | The first element we advise you look into when making the purchase is the diameter of the grinding wheel featured by the tool as it shows what is the power offered by the motor and for what type of jobs it is intended. Commonly found grinding wheel sizes range from 4.5 inches to 9 inches, the smaller diameter wheels being best suited for small jobs, while bigger diameter wheels are intended for larger jobs. Thus, to make the right purchase, take into consideration the type of projects you need to use it for. |
| Motor – Amperage and Power | Each of these power tools features a different type of motor, thus offering certain amp and power ratings. What you will most likely come across in terms of amperage is a range from 4 to 15, while when it comes to motor output power rating, it generally ranges from 500 to 2500 watts. Lower ratings indicate the tool should be used for small projects around the house, while higher ratings show it can be used in big projects at auto garages, construction sites, and so on. |
| Revolutions per Minute Rating | The revolutions per minute or RPM rating indicates how powerful the tool is, and obviously, for what type of projects you can use it. Higher RPM ratings indicate you are dealing with a powerful and reliable grinder for heavy-duty use on large projects, while lower ratings show the power tool is better suited for household use. Just be aware of the fact that higher revolutions per minute increase the risk of injury when the tool is not used correctly as well, so extra caution is recommended. We advise you to make your choice in terms of RPM rating depending on the use you intend for it. |
| Compact Design | Obviously, the design this power tool boasts directly affects how convenient it is to use and how comfortable you will handle it. Considering you will most likely use it often, it is important to take comfort in use into consideration. A smaller and more compact tool translates to ease of use for long periods of time, a desirable trait especially for those who work in construction or auto garages as they are reliant on the tool most of the day. |
| Vibration Output | Just like the design of the power tool, the vibration output it delivers is important as it shows how comfortable it feels during use. Also, it is a good indicator of how long you will be able to use it without feeling your hands get tired. The lower the vibration output the better, so we recommend you take this aspect seriously into consideration if you know you need to use the power tool for long periods on a regular basis. |
Situations Where It Is Needed
Although the name is quite deceiving as it leads you to think there is only one purpose the tool serves, in reality, it does a lot more than you could imagine. Used for a variety of tasks, it is a tool you will become dependent on using. In the following, we will show you a few of the important purposes this tool can fulfill, so stick with us if you want to learn more about it.
- The most common use of the tool is sanding or grinding away excess or unwanted metal or stone. An often encounter in construction sites, workers need the tool to make notches or cuts. You most likely need the power tool to perform these tasks, but there are other uses for it as well, as you will find out immediately.
- Aside from the common and obvious tasks you will use it for, it can be used to sharpen gardening tools and other tools you use around the house. Secure the blades to the work table by tightly clamping them for no unpleasant incidents to occur, and you can proceed to sharpen tools like axes, shovels, hatches, the blades of the lawnmower, and so on.
- Another surprising use is removing mortar. If you attach a diamond tuck-pointing wheel to the tool, you can remove old, loose mortar with it, all without risking damage being done to the brick. Strenuous labor is avoided this way as you will not be dependent on using the hammer or chisel anymore.
How We Rated Our Top Picks – In-Depth Analysis
To clarify what determined us to rate and rank the products in the manner we did, thus helping you better appreciate each and every single one of these power tools, we will present you with an in-depth analysis of the rating process. Thus, stick with us until the end of this article section to learn interesting info.
-
Type – Corded or Cordless? There are two types of side grinders you will come across in terms of power type – corded and cordless models. Both boast their own set of advantages, cordless models being a lot more portable and convenient to work with as they allow freedom of movement, while corded models providing continuous operation as long as there is no power outage. We gave the Bosch GWS18V-50 a higher score when it came down to this rating element as its cordless design makes it more convenient to use when performing grinding or polishing tasks on workpieces, thus making your life a bit easier as you are working.
-
Motor – Amperage and Power The motor amperage and power ratings show how powerful it is and for what type of projects it is intended. When it came down to this part of our ranking process, the model we gave the most points to was the Makita GA7021. It boasts a high amperage of 15 amps and a power rating of 2750 watts, featuring what is undeniably the most powerful motor.
-
Length of the Power Cable Four of our selections are corded, so we had to take into consideration the length of their power cables as this spec shows how convenient to use the power tools are. The longer the cable the better as you are able to roam around the shop freely from one workpiece to another with the tool in your hands, without having to change the power outlets you plug them in. The Makita GA7021, Metabo W9-115, and Makita 9557PBX1 are the winners when it comes to cable length as all three disc grinders feature 8-foot long power cords.
-
Disc Diameter The diameter of the disc shows what size projects it is appropriate to use for. Smaller diameters are better suited for small projects, while bigger diameters show the tool can be confidently used for large projects. We gave the Makita GA7021 a better rating when it came to grinding wheel size as the 7-inch diameter of the disc allow you to use it on large workpieces.
-
No Load Revolutions per Minute Speed Another great indicator of the power of the tool is the no-load speed RPM rating. The two models we gave extra points to as they deliver more revolutions per minute, thus being more powerful, are the DeWalt DWE402 and the Makita 9557PBX1, both featuring an exceptional no-load speed of 11000 revolutions per minute.
-
Overload Protection The presence of the overload protection feature indicates it is not in danger of over soliciting its motor and damaging it beyond repair as it will automatically stop operating when the situation heats up. All of the products featured in our top come with this feature as we had to take your best interest into consideration and make sure we recommend only products you will actually use for a long period of time, not power tools that would have ended up unusable after a few months.
-
Vibration Control Having control over the vibration output of the power tool is essential as it shows you will be able to work with the power tool for hours on end without feeling fatigue. The Bosch GWS18V-50 and the DeWalt DWE402 are the two models we had to give extra points to as they both come with this convenient feature, enabling prolonged use without any consequences when it comes to the way you feel at the end of the day.
-
Warranty Length Of course, we had to take into account the length of the warranty for each angle product as it shows for how long the tools will be fixed or replaced free of charge by the manufacturing company in case defects or malfunctions appear. Three of the models took the whole glory when it came to this rating element as they all come accompanied by a 3-year warranty, more precisely the number one placed Bosch GWS18V-50, the Metabo W9-115, and the DeWalt DWE402.
