The 8 Best Angle Grinders of 2021

What to Look for in an Angle Grinder

Power Source

As with many power tools, you’ll have two basic choices when it comes to angle grinders: corded and cordless. There are also pneumatic angle grinders, but they are mostly used in professional auto shops, not by the average DIYer.

Corded angle grinders require you to remain within reach of an electrical outlet, but in return, you gain more power and no fears of running out of power before you finish your task. Cordless angle grinders are very versatile, particularly when working in tight quarters, but there’s a chance the battery will run down before you are finished. You can solve that problem, however, by having two batteries so one can be in use while the other is charging.

Disc Size

The angle grinders most favored by the DIY set are smaller tools that take 4-1/2-inch or occasionally 5-inch discs. These angle grinders aren’t exceptionally heavy and are small enough—most are around 12 inches long—to get into small spaces, and yet large enough to have the power to tackle most typical grinding, sanding, or sharpening tasks around the home, yard, or garage. You’ll find a wide range of both corded and cordless angle grinders in this size range.

Angle grinders that take 7-inch or 9-inch discs are more powerful, but also heavier and not as easy to maneuver in tight spaces. Almost all of these tools are corded. While some DIYers might have need of these large angle grinders, particularly if they do a lot of auto repair or major remodeling projects, more commonly professionals who need the maximum in size and power choose these tools for use in cutting through concrete, steel, or similar very hard materials.

Speed

The speed of an angle grinder’s spinning disc is measure in rotations per minute (rpm). Note that the speeds stated by manufacturers are normally the maximum speed achieved by the tool when it’s not “loaded,” i.e., actively in use grinding or sanding. Remember also that the faster the speed, the hotter the disc becomes. Never run a disc at a higher speed than that disc’s stated maximum, as the disc could shatter, potentially causing severe injury.

Smaller angle grinders generally have maximum rotations in the 5,000- to 11,000-rpm range, and many have variable speed controls so you can tailor the speed to your needs. Larger angle grinders usually have lower maximum speeds, often in the 5,000- to 8,000-rpm range.

FAQs

What is an angle grinder used for?

Angle grinders are versatile tools that can perform a variety of tasks for both DIY and commercial projects. They are particularly useful if you do a lot of work with metal or masonry, including concrete, brick, or stone. You just need the right blade or attachment. 

As the name suggests, this is the perfect tool for grinding away burrs, imperfections, and rough edges on metal. You can also use your angle grinder to buff or polish metal, remove paint and rust, and cut straight or curved lines. 

When it comes to masonry, use your angle grinder to cut through concrete, brick, or stone. It’s a great tool for removing mortar from between bricks or underneath tile, and also works well to cut tiles when laying a new floor, countertop, or tub surround.

How do you cut pavers with an angle grinder?

Your angle grinder can easily cut brick, stone, or concrete pavers, just as long as you choose the right blade for the job; in this case, you’ll need a diamond blade. Just about any diamond blade for an angle grinder will easily handle brick, concrete, and tile. If you are going to cut stone, such as marble or granite, be sure the blade is specifically labeled for that purpose.

1. Use a pencil to mark the desired cutline on the top of your paver. Flip the paver over, and mark the cutline underneath, as well. 
2. Don protective gear, including safety goggles and a dust mask. Cutting pavers creates a lot of dust, and you don’t want to damage your eyes or respiratory system. 
3. Set the paver on a flat, sturdy surface that isn’t slippery. If necessary, lay a rubber mat underneath the paver to prevent slipping or sliding as you work.
4. Start with a shallow cut along the marked cutline. Continue to make shallow passes with the angle grinder until the cut is around ½-inch deep. 
5. Flip the paver over, and trace the bottom cutline with your angle grinder, making shallow cuts until you’ve reached around ½-inch to 1-inch deep into the paver.
6. Set the paver on a flat, raised surface so the unneeded portion of the paver hangs over the edge. 
7. Tap the unneeded portion of the paver with a hammer or mallet. The paver should break along your cutline. 
8. Repeat the process with the rest of your pavers. 

How do you cut metal with an angle grinder?

Whether it’s rebar, a frozen bolt, a piece of sheet metal, or even steel, you can use your angle grinder to cut through metal with ease. You’ll need the appropriate metal-cutting blade for this task; do not use a grinding wheel to cut metal. 

1. First, gather up your safety equipment. Cutting metal with an angle grinder produces a lot of sparks, tiny shards of metal, and noise, so you’ll need sturdy work gloves, protective goggles, ear protection, and closed shoes. Be sure your clothing is not loose or dangling, and that you are not standing on slippery or wet flooring. 
2. Using chalk or a marker, sketch your desired cutline on the metal. You can also use an awl to scratch the line, if desired.
3. Clamp the metal piece securely to a workbench or other flat surface. 
4. Turn on your angle grinder, and let it reach full speed before gently setting the blade against the metal. Hold the tool firmly with both hands. 
5. Slowly work your way along the cutline. Do not force the angle grinder or abruptly change directions. Let the tool lead the way forward while you hold it securely. 
6. Once you’ve finished cutting, let the tool come to a complete stop before setting it down.
7. If necessary, switch to a grinding blade and grind away rough edges or flash along the edges of the cut metal.

Why Trust The Spruce?

This article is edited and updated by Michelle Ullman, the tool expert for The Spruce. She has extensive experience not only in writing about all things related to the home, but also in carrying out various DIY projects, including landscaping, painting, flooring, wallpapering, furniture makeovers, and simple repairs. For this roundup, she considered dozens of angle grinders, taking into account features, power, price, and brand reputation, as well as reviews from both professional and DIY buyers.