Have you ever wondered how you get perfectly sized tiles on your floor? How do you achieve flawlessly smooth edges on your metal objects? And how do you get nicely grooved wood?
It's thanks to cordless grinders that do all the above-mentioned tasks and a lot more. The coolest part about it, with this single piece of tool, you can take on several jobs like chip forming, masonry, and even carpentry; that is why you see this multi-functional tool in almost every shed or workshop you visit.
Our Selection Criteria
Our chosen angle cordless grinders, first and foremost, must pass our safety test. This powered tool is equipped with a sharp blade and can be very dangerous in the event of an unintended incident. We examine the safety systems they have in place to mitigate the human error factor in addition to their mechanical safety measures.
Next on our checklist is a battery. For a wider reach and enhanced portability, you want your angle grinder free from a cord. As a result, your battery becomes essential in allowing you to handle remote off-grid challenges. A weak battery becomes a liability rather than a convenience.
The next step is the motor. A sturdy battery could only do the job if the angle grinder houses a powerful electric motor. The speed of the blade is necessary for clean and smooth grinding, and it depends on the power.
Weights and sizes are also taken into account during the evaluation. You want your grinder to be lightweight and compact, as it becomes easier to carry and fits in small spaces. Then comes the ergonomics of the machine. Ergonomics lets you hold the tool firmly with increased efficiency and provides smooth control during use. Lastly, we check the disc size of the angle grinder, as it tells how versatile you can be with your cordless grinder. Considering all these factors, we have compiled a list of some of the finest angle grinders available.
5 Best Cordless Angle Grinders
1. DEWALT 20V Cordless Angle Grinder
Why We Love It
One of the Best
No list of the best cordless angle grinders is complete without this bare tool. This grinder ticks all the boxes that an electric grinder without a cord should do. It is a powerful angle grinder. Rebar cutting, deburring, grinding, cutting concrete blocks, wood shaping, sanding, and grooving wood, to name a few. It can do all these tasks effortlessly. It is all possible because it is equipped with a powerful brushless motor. This motor generates 9000 rpm while being efficient all the way and gives you bonus run time for your operations. The benefit of brushless is that you don't need brushes.
It incorporates all the safety features that one grinder could offer without making it a hassle to operate. The metal wheel guard keeps space between your fingers and the blade. With a tool-free mechanism, it is one of the easiest metal guards to adjust on the machine.
Additionally, it's also tool-free, and all it takes is pressing a button to attach and detach it. This Dewalt grinder has kickback brakes that stop the motor whenever it feels the blade compressing while grinding. An electric brake feature ensures that the wheel stops rotating when you release the trigger within 2 seconds.
To further reduce accidents, it has a 2-stage trigger start. They made a paddle trigger mechanism that overcomes the ergonomic issue to not compromise on the ergonomics of this machine because of this safety feature. Instead, it provides comfort during operations.
It weighs only around 4 lbs and is small in size. Designed to provide maximum ergonomics for its users. All these factors let you carry out operations without feeling muscle fatigue. Add all of this to the fact that it is a variable speed angle grinder.
What You Should Know
Expensive
It is on the expensive side compared to others on our list, but what you get for your money is impeccable. Very few power tools can match its quality.
2. Craftsman V20 Cordless Angle Grinder
Why We Love It
Cheap but Effective
It is the best angle grinder for people on a budget. This product comes in a striking red and black theme which looks gorgeous. It becomes even more beautiful when it comes to practicality. The 3-position handle option enables you to perform cuts, sanding, or grinding at awkward angles with ease. The contoured over-molded handle provides your hand with a stable grip on the machine, even in slippery circumstances. The manufacturer of this device ensures that it does not become heavy and bulky for its users. Furthermore, the overall design and weight distribution of the grinder help provide results with the minimum possible stress.
This angle-grinder motor produces 8500 RPM. It is suitable for shaping wood, leveling metal surfaces, and even cutting light-metal objects. It is a reliable tool for cutting pipes, be it steel or plastic. It is annoying using a corded angle grinder for these simple house plumbing projects. Being cordless and light-weighted, along with its high motor speed, lets you complete your task in the attic with no issues.
It has a spindle lock feature that helps you change the grinding wheel quickly and effortlessly. This spindle lock button comes in handy, especially when it comes to smoothing rough metal patches. It has tool-free guard adjustment, which makes it convenient.
It has three safety features: a D-shaped handle that keeps space between your hand and the wheel blade. Then the Two-stage start system and a wheel guard. All these factors make this machine safe.
The most exciting part is that you get all these goodies without digging deep into your pocket.
What You Should Know
Lacks Power
This angle grinder is best suited to small household tasks.
3. KIMO 20V Cordless Angle Grinder
Why We Love It
A Well-Rounded Unit
Before discussing how effective this tool is, it is worth mentioning that upon purchasing this brand, you will receive a whole bag of goodies, about 20 to be exact. Among all these accessories, its hook & loop backing plate stood out for us and made a real difference. In many other grinder models, before doing sanding or polishing, you have to dismantle the wheel guard, as it is not large enough to fit within its radius. This hook & loop plate is specifically made to fit on a KIMO angle grinder spindle without detaching the wheel guard.
It houses a brushless motor that gives 9000 RPM, low maintenance, and increased motor efficiency. Because it is brushless, it draws less power and operates longer. It makes this unit the perfect home improvement device. You can perform tasks; like metal cutting, grinding, deburring, wood cutting, wood shaping, and sanding. Being cord-free makes it convenient and allows you to access tight spaces around the house.
It comprises the side handle as well, which, if you wish, can be attached to either side of the grinder. A feature left-handed people appreciate in tools. It has a simple design that fits well in your hands due to its over-molded grip. It weighs just over 5 lbs and has a compact design.
With the trigger locked-on button feature, you get more efficiency by focusing more on gripping rather than pressing the trigger button. It has a slow start mechanism that gradually increases the spin speed, which takes two seconds. It eliminates the instant jerk you feel when you ignite the grinder. This process also saves energy. This tool also features a battery indicator that keeps you informed of how much charge is left.
It has a metal tool-free adjustable guard that covers the wheel blade. To add more safety, it has electronic braking, which stops the revolving within 2 seconds after turning it off.
What You Should Know
Cutting Wheel
The cutting wheel that comes with the Kimo package may be of inferior quality. So it is better to also purchase a premium quality blade for better results.
4. MAKITA 18V Cordless Angle Grinder
Why We Love It
Advance Features
To many, this Makita 18V brushless angle grinder seems to lack power by being lesser volts compared to the 20V grinder. True, there is logic in it. More volts means more power. But regardless of its volts due to the presence of a brushless motor, it comes almost at par with a 20v grinder and gives you 8,500 rpm. With that much power, you could create grooves in wood panels, level the weld edges, cut tiles, scratch the rust off metals, and much more.
Along with the brushless motor, this grinder has Automatic Speed Change technology, which is Makita's in-built speed management system that increases motor efficiency. This speed management adjusts blade speed according to the needs of the operation. Because of this, your grinder lasts for quite a while and gives you optimal performance during operation.
During jam-ups, Active Feedback Sensor Technology (AFT) keeps you and your motor safe. This system, on its own, turns the motor off if it senses any irregularities in blade revolution. By doing so, the wheel blade is less likely to burst. This grinder has a very unique and convenient wheel guard. The clamp-style lock mechanism gives an easy and fast guard-adjusting option. One of the deepest wheel guards in the 18V category almost conceals the wire abrasive.
The size, weight, and design are conducive to working for long periods without feeling a burning sensation in your arms. The solid build of this machine gives you the confidence to use it without the fear of breaking.
What You Should Know
Pricey
It is a bit on the expensive side compared to others on our list.
5. MILWAUKEE 18V Cordless Angle Grinder
Why We Love It
Has Got Speed
It is one of the fastest corded angle grinders on this list. It has a 4-pole brush motor that delivers a whopping 10000 RPM. This is as close to a corded grinder as you can have in the 18V segment. It is a powerful tool that completes your task quickly. It also accommodates the battery and motor protection suit. Redlink-intelligence is the name given to this system. Monitors how much load the motor and battery are carrying and how much capacity is remaining. If Redlink intelligence thinks that; either it is damaging the battery or motor of the grinder, it automatically shuts off the machine.
Due to its small size, it can fit in any workshop. The weight isn't that much, and it lets you hold it for a long time. The 3-handle position adds the cherry on top for ergonomics. With this product in hand, you can enjoy superior maneuverability without extra stress on your body parts.
It has a 2-stage trigger start feature that eliminates accidental runs and ensures safety. For your convenience, this 2-stage start option comes with a paddle switch. Irrespective of what you're wearing, turning this device on is now a hassle-free job. A metal guard that is shaped in a manner to protect you and itself from grinding debris. It also protects your hands.
The overall structure of a tool is solid. It can withstand rough and tough use. Because of these qualities, you can trust its durability. Because this device offers power and speed, try aiming for bigger amp-hour batteries. So you could get optimal results from this machine.
What You Should Know
Motor Maintenance
Being a brushed motor, it requires maintenance to run to prevent any trouble.
Key Points For picking the Best Cordless Angle Grinder
Safety
This machine is a no-joke tool. This device can cut some of the toughest materials on earth. Before changing your blade disc, it is always recommended that you remove the battery. Any mishaps or accidents can result in a fatal injury, as blade discs can run through your bones like a knife through butter.
It is, therefore, necessary to opt for a brand that offers you the safest and most secure operation. To avoid accidents, makers of these tools are incorporating new safety features to make these devices safer to use.
If you use a high-quality cordless angle grinder with kickback brakes, your grinder will automatically shut off if it detects any issues with the wheel. Another is a dead man switch, which is a press-and-release trigger mechanism. This means that it only works when you want and turns off the machine when not in use; this reduces accidental runs.
Battery
What's the point of being cordless when you can't rely on it for off-grid projects? Whenever you shop for a battery-powered tool, always check how much operating time and battery life it has at its disposal before it gets dead and needs charging. Try to go for an angle-grinder that can connect with a bigger powered battery, like 4.0 to 8.0 amp hours. As the cutting or deburring process draws a lot of energy and quickly drains out the charging from your battery, it is of small capacity. The battery has a direct impact on portability. A good battery will enable you to cut hard materials for long periods and without any charging breaks.
Motor
An angle grinder must be equipped with a powerful motor. An unpowered grinder is as good as an iPhone with all the latest tech and features but comes with 4GB RAM. It will accomplish your objective but will require a lot of effort and time. From an energy standpoint, it consumes more battery power, produces less power, and requires a longer charge. In a nutshell, you undermine your productivity. You can achieve more grinding with the same amount of time, effort, and battery by having a higher-voltage motor. So more power means more speed, which means it cuts through material quickly and smoothly. Choose a motor that can generate 8000 to 10000 rpm, as its disc speed makes this product versatile. Keep in mind that motor performance depends on battery output. So you'll need high-voltage batteries.
Weight and Size
Making desired wood carvings or smoothing out rough metal edges with an angle grinder requires time, effort, and focus on mastering. Making it a tad less stressful depends a great deal on the weight and size of the machine. The lighter and smaller it is, the better control and maneuverability you get.
Ergonomic
All the compactness and light-weightiness are thrown down the drain if the ergonomics are not the best. Machine design and weight distribution play an instrumental role in ensuring the grinder's performance and providing the user with the ability to control it comfortably.
Disc Size
There are different sizes and shapes of angle-grinder on the market. To achieve multipurpose characteristics from your grinder, it is advised to go and buy a cordless grinder that can hold a 4.5 to 5-inch diameter disc.
Angle-Grinder Advantages
Angle grinders have a capability that's beyond what other tools have to offer; for example, circular saws require a flat surface to work on. Secondly, circular saws can only perform rip cuts or cross cuts, and you cannot twist and turn the way angle grinders can, and angle grinders do not require flat surfaces.
Drilling machines, on the other hand, are capable of making holes in any surface or material, but holes only. An angle grinder, however, is capable of carving and cutting at any angle, scratching away paint, rust, and cracks, polishing, and sanding wood.
Advantages of Going Cordless
By making it cordless, this machine gets a cherry on top. By being cordless, you get even more mobility. You don't have to change the material positioning just so your grinder cord can reach it. Lastly and more importantly, you get more maneuverability ever by being cordless.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cordless Grinders
Here are the most frequently asked questions about cordless grinders.
Are cordless angle grinders worth it?
There are a few factors to consider when deciding if a cordless angle grinder is worth it. The most important factor is the power of the battery. If you need to do heavy-duty grinding, you'll need a grinder with a powerful battery.
Another thing to consider is the weight of the grinder. A heavier grinder will be more difficult to use for long periods of time. And finally, you'll need to consider the price tag. Cordless angle grinders tend to be more expensive than their corded counterparts.
Are higher Watts better for a grinder?
It depends on what you're using it for. If you're using it to grind metal or other tough materials, then you'll want a grinder with a higher wattage so that it can generate more power. However, if you're just using it for everyday tasks like grinding down screws or bolts, then a lower wattage grinder will be fine. In the end, it all comes down to personal preference and what you feel comfortable using.
What should I look for when buying an angle grinder?
When looking to buy an angle grinder, you should consider the size of the angle grinder, the type of metal it is made for, as well as its power.
Angle grinders typically come in 4-inch, 5-inch, and 7-inch sizes. When choosing an angle grinder, you should consider what types of materials you will be grinding. If you will only be grinding light metals such as aluminum or brass, then a 4-inch angle grinder would be sufficient. However, if you will be grinding tougher materials such as steel or concrete, then you will need a larger angle grinder with more power.
What is the best size of angle grinder for home use?
The best size for small cordless angle grinders for home use is 4.5 inches. This size is perfect for most projects and can handle a variety of tasks. It's also lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it a good choice for smaller spaces.
What is the most popular size angle grinder?
A 4-1/2 inch angle grinder is the most popular size. This size is versatile and easy to handle, making it a popular choice for DIYers and homeowners.
What Option of Best Cordless Grinders Is Best For You?
With all of that being said, the best cordless grinder is ultimately up to you and what you deem as important in your home. All of the options we presented can be great choices. It simply comes down to personal preference in the end, and with so many products on the market these days, clarity is sometimes hard to come by.
We hope this article has helped give some direction on what kind of cordless grinder you might want for your own home.
Remember, each consumer is different, and what works well for one person may not work at all for another. The bottom line is finding what fits your lifestyle and needs perfectly.
Items reviewed:
2. Craftsman V20 Cordless Angle Grinder
3. KIMO 20V Cordless Angle Grinder
4. MAKITA 18V Cordless Angle Grinder
5. MILWAUKEE 18V Cordless Angle Grinder