The Best 4 1 2 Angle Grinder: 2024 List
Brandon Forder May 12, 2024 11:09 PM
To find the best angle grinder wasn't something we expected to be particularly tough when we started out. Our staff rapidly realized, however, that there are a great number of exceptional models available. Angle grinders are indispensable work tools, with numerous types available from most manufacturers.
We've done our best to reduce the field based on past research and testing, but we haven't had access to every available model. So if you have a preferred grinder, please share its unique selling points with us and the rest of the audience below.
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Types of Angle Grinders
Angle grinders come in four primary varieties, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages as well as preferred power source. Angle grinders often come in a variety of power sources, including cordless, corded, gas, and pneumatic.
Cordless Angle Grinders
Because they are not tethered to an outlet by a chord, cordless power tools can be used anywhere, including in the great outdoors. Some cordless devices are now as powerful as their electric counterparts thanks to advances in battery technology. Users should note that most cordless grinders have a run time of no more than 45 minutes on a single charge, and that this decreases to about 30 minutes without a backup battery.
Corded or Electric Angle Grinders
Angle grinders are one of the most common power tools bought, and corded variants are among the most common because of their endless power duration and high output. Although a corded grinder is limited in portability, it eliminates the need for batteries or the extensive upkeep required of gas or pneumatic models when dealing with larger workloads.
Pneumatic Angle Grinders
Pneumatic grinders rely on the pressurized air from an air compressor in order to function. These are second only to gas-powered angle grinders in terms of power, but they can be quite costly to acquire and operate due to the need for frequent air compressor replacements due to their tiny capacity. Pneumatic tools have the advantage of being more powerful than their corded counterparts and of running for longer than their cordless counterparts.
Gas-Powered Angle Grinders
Angle grinders driven by gas engines are the most potent type on the market. They weigh more and cost more than standard grinders. In addition, gas-powered models are high maintenance and not recommended for less significant tasks.
Power Source
Both corded and cordless versions of angle grinders can be found on the market. Angle grinders that run on a corded power source are extremely effective and can be used for extended periods. The usefulness of a corded angle grinder is tempered by the fact that its range is confined by the length of its power or extension cord.
Since they run on high-capacity batteries, cordless angle grinders are free to go wherever they're needed. Despite their portability, battery-operated grinders often cost more and have less grinding power than their corded counterparts.
Disc Size
Disc size is a major differentiator between different kinds of angle grinders; most of them can use 4.5-inch discs. Most home improvement jobs can be completed with a 4.5-inch angle grinder. If you need to cut through heavier materials, though, you should look into purchasing an angle grinder with a bigger disc.
Speed
RPM is how quickly an angle grinder spins (RPM). Models with greater RPMs are more efficient cutters. Most angle grinders have a maximum speed of around 10,000 RPM, although there are powerful versions that can reach over 11,000. In comparison to their corded counterparts, cordless angle grinders often operate at slower rates.
Speed
The RPM of an angle grinder is the unit of measurement for its rotational velocity (rpm). Most grinders operate between 5,000 and 10,000 revolutions per minute (rpm), however the highest-powered models can achieve 12,000 rpm. However, keep in mind that the rpm rate is under "no-load" conditions, which means the disc isn't cutting or grinding anything and is just spinning in the air. Whenever the disc is engaged in a cutting or grinding operation, its speed naturally decreases.
The greater the rpm, the more rapidly and easily the tool can cut through the material. However, there is a danger of harm due to the disc rupturing as it heats up at faster speeds. Use the right disc for the job, and pay attention to the disc's stated top speed limit. A disc designed to spin at 7,500 rpm that's being run at a higher speed risks shattering under the extra stress and sending pieces of the grinder wheel flying.
Voltage/Amperage
Volts (V) and amps (A) are the units of measurement for an angle grinder's potential power output (amps). The power of a cordless angle grinder's battery is measured in volts, with the majority of models utilizing 18- or 20-volt batteries but certain variations employing 7.5-volt or even 24-volt batteries. As a rule of thumb, the "magic number" for cordless power tools is between 18 and 20 volts, which provides an optimal balance between cost and performance.
Most corded angle grinders can only work with either 120-volt or 220-volt outlets, and this is all the voltage information you'll need to know. The amperage spans from 5 amps to 15 amps, giving consumers a good idea of the power output capacity of corded devices. A 7- or 9-inch grinder with the ability to accommodate larger discs should have a higher power output.
Hand Guard
The guard is an essential safety feature of an angle grinder, as it shields the user from flying debris and keeps the user from accidentally touching the disc. Its dual function is to shield the user's hands from sparks and debris while grinding in confined places, and to prevent the latter from scratching or otherwise damaging nearby surfaces.
Depending on the model, an angle grinder's guard may be removable or set. The adjustable model is preferred since it can be used with either hand and provides more security from flying objects. A removable guard, however, poses a threat if not properly secured. Guards that are permanently attached to a grinder are more sturdy and less likely to fall off.
What are angle grinders used for?
Angle grinders are multipurpose power instruments that may be used for everything from cutting tile and grout removal to metal polishing.
Can I cut concrete with my angle grinder?
Yes. A concrete cutting blade for an angle grinder is all that's needed to make quick work of this material. Segmented diamond blades are the standard for cutting concrete.
How does an angle grinder operate?
Hold the angle grinder firmly with two hands after installing the appropriate disc (the tool's first torque will cause it to jump). Simply depressing the trigger or flipping the switch will start the disc spinning. Place the item you want to cut or grind directly in touch with the rotating disc by adjusting the grinder's position.
When finished, wait for the disc to stop spinning entirely before storing it somewhere secure; it will still be hot from the friction that occurred during operation. Simply removing the battery or the power source will allow the tool to cool down.
How do you cut metal with an angle grinder?
Lead, iron, copper, and other metals can be easily cut using an angle grinder and a metal cutting disc. Metal is easily cut by the rotating blade, but sparks from the grinding operation necessitate the use of protective gear.
Angle grinders are among the most versatile power equipment on the market. In this article, we took a look at the top angle grinders available today. You can compare and contrast the two, as well as learn about their most salient features and alternatives.
