Best Angle Grinder 4.5" Size | Top 5 Corded & Cordless Models
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Updated: 17-September-2023
Are you wondering what is the best angle grinder in the market? Have you checked different options available and have tried comparing their specifications and features but can’t make the final decision? With so many options and competing brands available in the market, it becomes hard to choose the best model for your requirement.
In this post, we present our top 05 recommendations for each of the corded and cordless types and guide you about their pros, cons and specialties to help you make the right decision. At the end of the post, we have also discussed some common buyer's questions about angle grinders to clarify ambiguities and confusions about the tool.
Best Angle Grinder for each application
Overall Best Cordless Angle Grinder: DEWALT 4.5" Cordless Angle Grinder Model DCG413B
Overall Best Corded Angle Grinder: Makita 4.5" Angle Grinder Model 9557PBX1
Best Corded Angle Grinder for the money: BLACK+DECKER 4.5" Angle Grinder Model BDEG400
Best Cordless Angle Grinder for the money: PORTER-CABLE 4.5" Cordless Angle Grinder Model PCC761B
The 5 Best Corded Angle Grinders
Corded angle grinders are the conventional angle grinders used by professionals as well as DIYers for grinding and cutting iron, steel and masonry.
In general, corded models carry more power and torque than cordless models due to which they are preferred by professionals and contractors for carrying out heavy duty grinding and cutting of metal and masonry. So without further due let’s begin.
1. Makita 4.5" Angle Grinder Model 9557PBX1
Our Rating: 9.6 / 10
This Makita angle grinder works with 4.5” cutting and grinding wheels powered by a 7.5 amp. motor running up to an impressive 11000 RPM that allows to cut through metal and masonry without stalling.
It has returned excellent user feedback for cutting and grinding applications involving iron, steel, rebar, concrete pavers, tiles and surface finishing of welded joints. Moreover, vibration and noise is also minimal.
It is pricier than other models on our list, however, the extra cost is justified because it includes 5 grinding wheels, a metal tool case, cut-off and grinding wheel guards as well as a Makita Diamond Blade.
Its fitness for heavy duty applications make it the best angle grinder in 4.5” size category for professionals and contractors.
Pros
Cons
2. DEWALT 4.5" Angle Grinder Model DWE402
Our Rating: 9.5 / 10
The Dewalt angle grinder DWE402 is powered by an 11 amp motor running the tool at an impressive 11000 RPM. It features a paddle switch with safety lock for protection against unintentional start up.
It delivers powerful performance in cutting and grinding of metal and masonry. One of the main specialties of this tool is Dewalt’s Dust Ejection System that channels airflow to eject damaging dust and debris particles that enter the tool.
As compared to the Makita at number 1 on our list, it lacks in compactness at a tool length of 12” and weight of over 6 lbs. and also doesn’t include any grinding disc or tool case but gains back on a better price point and manufacturer support in the form of not only 3 Year warranty but also 1 year free service and 90 day money back guarantee.
Pros
Cons
3. Bosch 4.5" Angle Grinder Model 1375A
Our Rating: 8.8 / 10
This Bosch angle grinder packs a big punch in its 6 amp motor powering the tool at up to 11000 RPM – same as the Makita and Dewalt on our list.
It beats all other models in compactness at a tool length of 10.5” and weight of merely 3.75 lbs. However, its manual explicitly says that the tool is not designed for concrete/masonry cutting; type 1 & 11 metal grinding and type 41A/1A metal cutting discs.
It is not the best option for heavy duty applications, however, it is the best corded angle grinder for DIY and home use applications. A 4.5" abrasive grinding wheel is also included in package.
Pros
Cons
4. CRAFTSMAN 4.5" Angle Grinder Model CMEG100
Our Rating: 8.6 / 10
12000 RPM is the speed that no other tool is offering in competition and it is not the only big plus of this Craftsman angle grinder. At a tool length of 11” and weight little over 3.5 lbs. it is second only to the Bosch on our list.
Powered by a 6 amp motor, it gives decent cutting and grinding performance with very good ergonomics including tool free 360 deg. guard adjustment, spindle lock and 3 installation positions for side handle vs. 2 in competition.
Backed by 3 years warranty against defects, it is a recommendable tool at cost effective price point that also includes a grinding disc in the package.
Pros
Cons
5. BLACK+DECKER 4.5" Angle Grinder Model BDEG400
Our Rating: 8.3 / 10
The defining feature of this Black & Decker angle grinder is its value for money. Powered by a 6 amp motor running the tool at 10000 RPM, it is not the most ergonomically optimized tool, however, it perfectly fulfills all needs of DIYers and home based use.
It has returned some complaints of noise and vibration, however, they are compensated by positive feedback in wood carving, paint stripping and welding applications.
Black and Decker backs this tool with a 2 year warranty with the condition that tool is used in ‘home environment’. Overall, its all rounded performance at a low price makes it the best budget angle grinder for DIYers and homeowners.
Pros
Cons
The 5 Best Cordless Angle Grinders
Like all cordless tools, cordless angle grinders offer portability and flexibility that corded models can never offer. Cordless models are best for you if you travel from one job site to another frequently as corded models with eliminate the need for mobile generators or power sockets.
There is some skepticism about the power of corded angle grinders but it would not be wrong to state that cordless models of today are able to compete with corded models even in heavy duty applications. So without further due, we give you our top 5 recommendations for best cordless angle grinders.
1. DEWALT 4.5" Cordless Angle Grinder Model DCG413B
Our Rating: 9.7 / 10
This Dewalt angle grinder is powered by 20V MAX system (maximum voltage of 20V but nominal 18V) running at 9000 RPM. It features a brushless motor to reduce maintenance and improve efficiency for giving longer battery life.
It is very well optimized in ergonomics as well as safety and gives solid performance in professional grinding, sanding, wire brush, and cut-off applications.
It cuts tiles, cement boards, nails, iron pipes and steel as well as giving superb performance in grinding and sanding making it the best cordless angle grinder in competition.
Dewalt backs it up with its standard 3 year warranty, however, battery and charger are sold separately.
Pros
Cons
2. Makita 4.5"-5" Cordless Angle Grinder Model XAG04Z
Our Rating: 9.5 / 10
The defining advantage of Makita angle grinder is its capacity to also support a larger 5” wheel. It is also powered by a brushless motor to reduce maintenance and improve efficiency and runs at 8500 RPM.
Another important feature that is not common in competition is its wire mesh intake covers that are engineered to prevent debris from entering the motor and affecting tool’s longevity.
Backed by Makita’s 3 Year warranty against defects, it gives very good performance in cutting and grinding metal and masonry. A cut off wheel is also included in package.
Pros
Cons
3. Ryobi 4.5" Cordless Angle Grinder Model P423
Our Rating: 9.4 / 10
This Ryobi angle grinder operates on an 18 Volt system that drives a brushless motor at an impressive 10400 RPM - a speed not common in cordless models.
Its tools free guard adjustment and spindle lock allow you to make quick adjustments and wheel replacements and on-board allen wrench storage is a feature unavailable in competition. It gives decent performance in grinding and cutting of iron, steel and rebar.
It is backed by 3 Years warranty against defects by Ryobi and also includes a cut off wheel and a grinding wheel in the package as bonus.
Pros
Cons
4. Milwaukee 4.5"-5" Cordless Angle Grinder Model 2780-20 M18 Fuel
Our Rating: 8.7 / 10
Like Makita above, this Milwaukee angle grinder also works with larger 5” wheels. Powered by Milwaukee’s trademark POWERSTATE brushless motor, the tool runs at 8500 RPM to give very good cutting and grinding performance.
The tool is a little large as compared to competitor models at a length of 15” and weight of nearly 6 lbs. Overall, it is a solid performer very well suited for varied applications and backed by the longest warranty period of 5 years in competition.
Pros
Cons
5. PORTER-CABLE 4.5" Cordless Angle Grinder Model PCC761B
Our Rating: 8.4 / 10
This PORTER-CABLE angle grinder is powered by a conventional brushed motor to a maximum speed of 8500 RPM. It features tool free 360 deg. adjustment of guard; 3 positions for side handle and spindle lock for convenient wheel replacement.
It has received positive user feedback in iron, steel and rebar cutting and grinding as well as welding applications while its performance on masonry is also not lacking.
With one grinding wheel and two cutting wheels included in the package and 3 Years warranty, the best part about it is budget price that makes it the best cordless angle grinder for the money.
Pros
Cons
H2 Buyer's Guide Questions
What should I look for when buying an angle grinder?
Take the following steps in selecting the best hammer drill for your requirement,
Look for the right wheel size
First of all, you should decide the size of angle grinder in terms of wheel size. We have reviewed 4.5” angle grinders in this post that is categorized as small angle grinder and covers majority of everyday applications of both professional and DIY nature.
However, some industrial applications may require larger wheel sizes such as 7” and 8” but any larger are generally not recommended due to safety reasons. Some countries have gone as far as banning 9” and above angle grinders at job sites.
Where does portability rank in your priorities?
Look at your portability requirement. If portability is a must for you, go for a battery operated angle grinder. Don’t be skeptical about a cordless angle grinder’s power because leading manufacturers are making cordless models comparable in power to corded models for majority practical applications, however, always carry extra battery packs for tough applications.
However, if you need to buy an angle grinder for your workshop where everything you grind or cut is out in a bench vise, you don’t need a cordless model.
Look for safety features
Safety is of paramount importance when dealing with angle grinders because they are notorious for causing serious accidents and injuries. First of all, trigger safety is most important in angle grinders. There must be some provision to prevent unintentional start up of the tool for example a safety lock that needs to be pushed before paddle switch could be depressed.
Secondly, some tools also feature additional kickback safety through specialized mechanisms. For example, Makita XAG04Z features an active feedback sensing technology that turns the motor off if rotation of the wheel is suddenly forced to stop (a kickback or wheel bind up situation).
Similarly, Dewalt DCG413B features a kickback brake that engages maximum force to stop the wheel when there is a pinch, stall, or bind-up to reduce kickback. The grinder will also shut off in those events to further protect the user.
Both of the above models also feature an anti-restart system that prevents the tool from starting automatically when power is restored after sudden outage (for example a fresh battery replaced).
Look for features that reduce maintenance
The nature of utility of angle grinders is such that you cannot save them from dust and debris therefore you must look for design features that would minimize maintenance and improve tool’s longevity.
One of the main features in this regard is a dedicated dust protection system that protects its motor from dust and debris. For example, Milwaukee 2780-20 features a dust filter screen that snaps into place over air vents and block debris from entering the tool. Screen itself can be cleaned periodically.
Similarly, Makita 9557PBX1 angle grinder features labyrinth construction seals and protects the motor and bearings as well as protective varnish that seals the motor armature from dust.
Makita XAG04Z features a wire mesh air intake cover designed to prevent debris from entering motor while Dewalt DWE402 has a special dust ejection system through airflow optimized for carrying dust and debris away from the tool.
Another great feature given by some manufacturers is the auto shutoff in case of brush wear out that prevents tool damage by preventing the motor to run when replacement of brushes is required. Dewalt DWE402 and Bosch 1375A have this feature.
On the other hand, brushless motors offer a great advantage in maintenance as they eliminate the brush replacement part of maintenance.
A good warranty is a good insurance policy
Since angle grinders are used in rough and tough environments, always look at the warranty terms offered by the manufacturer.
Milwaukee offers 5 year warranty while DEWALT and PORTER-CABLE offer 3 year warranty with 1 year free replacement of worn out parts (through normal use) and 90 day money back guarantee if user is not satisfied with experience.
It is not only about the duration of warranty but also about the terms for example Black+Decker offers a 2 year warranty with the condition that tool is used in ‘home environment’.
Look for compactness
Compactness can be a major factor in deciding your user experience especially if you are using the tool on a regular basis for extended periods of time. A light weight and dimensionally short tool will be much easier to handle causing less fatigue.
The most compact corded angle grinders we found are Bosch 1375A and Craftsman CMEG100 while Dewalt DCG413B is the most compact design in cordless configuration.
Look for ergonomics
When it comes to warranty, you must read the warranty terms clearly before making the purchase. You must go for at least 2 years warranty because that is easily available with majority manufacturers of reciprocating saws.
H4 A Good Warranty is a Good Insurance Policy
When it comes to warranty, you must read the warranty terms clearly before making the purchase. You must go for at least 2 years warranty because that is easily available with majority manufacturers of reciprocating saws.
Can I use an angle grinder to cut pavers?
Yes. Angle grinders can be used for cutting masonry including pavers. The best option we found for this purpose is Makita 9557PBX1 angle grinder. You can check the video below for a how-to illustration,
(Video Credit: YouTube Channel “Unabashed Geek”)
What size angle grinder is best? How big of a grinder do I need?
A 4.5” angle grinder is the most common size that covers majority of professional and DIY applications. However, some industrial applications may require larger wheel sizes such as 7” and 8” but any larger are generally not recommended due to safety reasons. 9” and above angle grinder sizes have been banned in many countries due to higher risk of injury.
Who makes the best angle grinder?
There is a lot of competition in angle grinders as it is one of the most common workshop and industrial tools. Dewalt, Milwaukee, Bosch, Makita and many other manufacturers are making competing angle grinders in both corded and cordless configurations. The real question is which is the best angle grinder for your application.
Overall we found Dewalt DCG413B as the best cordless model while Makita 9557PBX1 angle grinder as the best corded one.
If you are a DIYer or occasional user looking for a budget option, we’d recommend Black+Decker BDEG400 in corded model and Porter-Cable PCC761B in cordless configuration.
Are angle grinder discs interchangeable?
Angle grinder discs are interchangeable in the sense that you don’t need to buy discs from the same manufacturer you purchased the angle grinder from. Discs are universal that means a 4.5” disc will work on any angle grinder that supports the 4.5” disc size.
Can you use a 4 inch blade on a 4.5 inch angle grinder?
It is not possible because of the arbor size difference i.e. difference in size of the central hole of grinding disc. 4” grinding wheels have standard arbor size of 5/8” that cannot fit the 7/8” standard arbor of 4.5” angle grinders due to being too small.
Are angle grinder discs interchangeable?
Angle grinder discs are interchangeable in the sense that you don’t need to buy discs from the same manufacturer you purchased the angle grinder from. Discs are universal that means a 4.5” disc will work on any angle grinder that supports the 4.5” disc size.
What size angle grinders are there?
The most common size is the 4.5” however other sizes include 4”, 5”, 6”, 7”, 9” and 12”.
Are cordless angle grinders any good?
Yes they are more than just good. Cordless angle grinders in 4.5” size range made by leading manufacturers offer the same power and performance as corded angle grinders with far greater flexibility and portability.
If your use f angle grinders is limited to a workshop where the job is always fixed to a bench vise then cordless angle grinders won’t offer any advantage, however, if your application ranks portability to different job sites as a priority, cordless angle grinders are made for you.
Apart from above, it is becoming more and more advantageous to make a cordless family of power tools where leading brands offer interchangeable battery packs between different tools allowing even greater flexibility (for example Milwaukee M18 Fuel series and Dewalt Flexvolt series).
Under such a scenario where you do have a bunch of other cordless power tools, a cordless angle grinder will fit even more easily in your arsenal.
In short, if portability is a big factor in your work, cordless angle grinder will improve your efficiency and flexibility and reduce your concerns.
The best cordless angle grinder we found in our survey is Dewalt DCG413B Cordless Angle Grinder that handles both cutting and grinding of metal and masonry without any problem.
Are angle grinder discs interchangeable?
Angle grinder discs are interchangeable in the sense that you don’t need to buy discs from the same manufacturer you purchased the angle grinder from. Discs are universal that means a 4.5” disc will work on any angle grinder that supports the 4.5” disc size.
How many amps should my angle grinder be?
Ampere rating must not be taken as sole indicator of power and performance of an angle grinder. That being said, if your application is of daily heavy duty professional type, 10 amp or greater may be better. Medium duty work may be covered by 7-10 amp range where as lower ratings may be best suited for occasional and DIY applications.
What is the smallest angle grinder?
4” is generally the smallest size in angle grinders and it is not manufactured by many brands. Most brands start from the 4.5” size and it is generally called small angle grinder, however, it covers majority of everyday professional and DIY applications.
Do I need a variable speed angle grinder?
In grinding and cutting applications, variable speed is not of much practical importance and manufacturers don’t make variable speed models as commonly. You may use a variable speed angle grinder if you also need it for buffing and polishing applications because buffing and polishing discs don’t operate at as much high RPMs as cutting and grinding discs.
How many watts does a grinder need?
Small angle grinders (4.5”) can range from a few hundred watts to over 2000 watts depending upon the motor, however, wattage is not given by most manufacturers. Majority brands give ampere ratings for their angle grinders where a higher rating is indicative of higher wattage.
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