Best Angle Grinders for Cutting Concrete, Tile, and Metal
Are you a DIY enthusiast or a professional working with different materials? Then you might benefit by having an Angle Grinder in your toolbox.
Angle Grinders are super versatile machines. They can grind, cut, sharpen, clean, and even buff a variety of materials such as metal, tiles, and concrete.
But for you to benefit from an angle grinder, you must choose a good one.
An incompetent grinder will not only be a waste of money, but it will ultimately cause more harm than good.
Want to know how to make the right choice? Then let’s dive in.
What To Look For In An Angle Grinder
With angle grinders, it’s important to consider certain aspects before you buy one. Here are some of them:
Disc Size
The disc is the functional unit of any angle grinder. It’s what comes in contact with the surface of the material you’re working with.
So it’s important to consider the size, since it determines your angle grinders’ capabilities.
Angle grinders come with discs 4 to 9 inches. The size you choose depends on the kind of projects you work on. For instance, a 4.5-inch disc is the most popular size amongst DIY-ers or occasional users.
This makes it portable as well as powerful enough for most jobs.
However, for professionals, a disc that size might not suffice.
Discs size 7 to 9inches are more popular amongst those that need a more robust machine.
These machines are usually heavier and need more expertise to maneuver.
Disc Type
There are 4 main types of discs, each serving a different purpose:
- Cutting disc: These are sharp discs used to cut through different materials. The material a disc can cut through varies. Some are good for metal, while some can cut through concrete and tile as well. Thinner discs might be preferable for a sharper cut.
- Grinding disc: These are thicker discs used to smooth out surfaces. It’s good for a neat finish and can also be used to shape material like tiles.
- Flap disc: For precision and a shiny finish, the flap disc with its sand-paper coated surface might be better. It uses less force and is primarily used to smoothen out a surface. Its functionality is determined by the grit number.
- Wire brush disc: This type of disc rubs away any slag or rust accumulating atop your metal.
Power Source
Angle grinders can be corded or cordless.
Cordless grinders allow more flexibility and are easier to carry. However, they have limited working times given that the battery needs to be charged.
They usually work at a lower power threshold. This makes them unsuitable for large-scale work. Cordless angle grinders are preferable for DIY-ers.
With corded angle grinders, you need to stay within the range of the power outlet. However, it’s less of a problem given that most cords are pretty long.
But these angle grinders give you more power and flexibility. They have more working time since there’s no charged battery involved. The downside, of course, is the heavyweight and the wire getting in the way.
Speed
The speed on an angle grinder is calculated by RPM or rotations per minute.
Small grinders have an RPM of up to 11000, while large grinders have a lower maximum RPM of 8000.
Be sure to never run the angle grinder at a speed higher than the disc’s maximum speed. This can cause the disc to shred and cause damage.
Additional Features
Other useful features on an angle grinder can include:
- Adjustable Guard – This can allow you to change positions easily
- Paddle Switches – These are easier to handle under safety equipment like gloves
What Factors Make A Grinder Suitable for Concrete/Tile/Metal
Angle grinders are versatile tools. Here are some things to consider before making the purchase.
Blade Size
Make sure the blade on your disc is big enough to cut through the thickness of your material. For example, concrete requires blades with a larger diameter to ensure it can cut through its length.
Blade Type
Tougher materials like metals or tiles require shaper blades. Diamond blades can efficiently and smoothly cut through these.
Power
Depending on your work, you might require a more powerful machine for tough materials like metal.
Prerequisites to Using An Angle Grinder
Here are some things to do before you start using an angle grinder:
- Ensure that you’re using an angle grinder the right way to avoid any uncalled-for damage
- Ensure that the power requirement of your angle grinder matches the output of your local electricity supplier
- In case it requires more or less voltage, use an appropriate converter
- Make sure your grinder is turned off when you’re plugging it in
- Mount your material on an appropriate stand, such as a cutting rebar
- Always use appropriate safety equipment such as gloves, face shield, and guard
- Keep unwanted material and people out of the way
Detailed Reviews of the Best Angle Grinders
When working with concrete, make sure that your blade is top-of-the-line. The machine should be ergonomically designed to provide the right torque and stability.
The CS Unitec EBS 180 H is perfect for this job.
It uses a 7-inch disc, works at 20 Amperes, and has an RPM of 6000. It comes with a diamond grinding wheel, which is best to work with concrete.
It also works well to remove epoxy, glue, varnish, and other hard coatings.
The CS Unitec model is also designed with a built-in dust vacuum to collect all the gunk. So there’s less for you to clean up afterward. It also comes with a removable dust guard.
The CS Unitec EBS 180 H is designed with an ergonomic H shape that provides added stability, eliminating vibration to a certain extent. This in turn reduces fatigue and allows you to work for a longer time.
First launched in April 2020, it is priced at $974.99. It comes with a premium diamond disc, an open-ended wrench, a Spanner wrench, and a metal carrying case.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Works well on hard coatings and concrete | Expensive |
| Easy to handle | Might be too heavy for some users |
| Ergonomic design | |
| Built-in Dust extraction system | |
| High grinding power and fast operations |
Our Verdict
The CS Unitec makes a great choice for anyone looking to buy a grinder exclusively to work on concrete or other hard surfaces.
It’s also great to remove epoxy, screed seams, and thermoplastic coatings or to prepare surfaces for renewal or painting.
The built-in dust vacuum with the brush guard protects you from any potential hazard. This reduces workplace contamination from dust or any other residue.
It’s expensive, but if you’re in the market for a concrete grinder; it doesn’t get any better than this!
Whether you’re an at-home DIY-er or a professional worker, if you’re in search of an all-rounder angle grinder, look no further than the Bosch 1375A.
Bosch has been a go-to brand for many since years and for good reason.
Despite being compact, this angle grinder is a powerhouse with a motor rated at 6.0 AMP. It has a speed of 11000 RPM (no load).
It’s perfect for metal workers, plumbers, and other on-the-go professionals.
This angle grinder weighs only 3.75 Lbs, giving you easy portability. It comes with an 8ft cord to allow for better flexibility without compromising on your power output.
The machine has two handles; the auxiliary handle and a handle at the top.
The auxiliary handle is angled at a natural distance to allow for maximum comfort. This provides precise control, while the top handle is ergonomically designed to improve grip.
The body is made using epoxy-coated field windings to withstand all-day usage against any material. It comes with a Burst-Protection Guard, an Auxiliary Handle, a Flange Kit, a Spanner Wrench, and a 4-1/ Inc. Abrasive Grinding Wheel.
Despite being made for metal, it works on a variety of materials like wood, tile, etc. It also has a power switch that goes all the way up for continuous work and can be locked in place.
However, the tool will automatically shut down when a maintenance shutdown is required. This increases the overall durability of the machine.
It was launched in May 2000 and is currently priced at $49. This metal grinder comes with a 1-year warranty.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Relatively affordable | No on-board storage option for the attachments and cord |
| Compact and easy to carry | The guard might not be easy to readjust |
| Double handles provide better grip and control | |
| Automatic maintenance shut off | |
| Lock-in switch for continuous work | |
| Versatile |
Our Verdict
I believe if it’s your first time trying an angle grinder, this Bosch 1375A is your best bet. It’s perfect to keep at hand for little tasks.
It’s small yet powerful and would be suitable for both at-home and professional work.
It’s a remarkably well-priced machine from a well-known brand. The only downside is that you need to figure out your own storage/carrying case. But all in all, this is a great beginner-friendly option.
Despite being similar in size to its previous models, the Bosch GWS13-50VSP-DG features a more powerful, 13 AMP motor.
It can produce a speed of up to 11,500 RPM. It can be switched to lower speeds of around 2800 RPM if needed.
This model also has kickback protection. It features an integrated acceleration sensor, that limits inadvertent recoil.
This model is designed to limit vibration with a two-position side handle. It’s also easy to control with gloves via the multi-grip paddle switch. It might be a little heavy, but nothing you can’t handle.
This machine is made in compliance with the OSHA silica dust regulation. It comes with an 18DC-5E Dust Guard and a large footplate for added stability. It features single-screw depth adjustment.
This model was launched in March 2018 and is priced at $149 currently.
It comes with a Lock Nut, one 18DC-5E Dust Guard, a Backing Flange, a Grinding Guard, a Spanner Wrench, and a Vibration Control Side Handle
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Variable speed function is easy to control with the paddle switch | Might be a little too heavy for routine users |
| Two slide handles provide vibration control | Does not come with a storage case |
| Not very bulky in size | |
| Kickback and restart protection | |
| Dust guard limits health hazard |
Our Verdict
Speed variability is a feature that makes the angle grinder more versatile. It also gives you better results when grinding, buffing, and even cutting with varying speeds.
Added features like the two-position handle for vibration control and the dust guard make it all the better. Other than being heavy, this is honestly one of the best angle grinders you can get for the price.
For a 2-in-1 function, the Meterk 6A 4 Electric Angle Grinder is a great choice.
It comes with a set of 6 interchangeable discs, 3 for grinding and 3 for cutting. You can easily change these discs using the wrench on the spindle lock.
It has a 6AMP motor that provides speeds up to 12,000 RPM. This is perfect for grinding, cutting, and even sanding.
You can use it on a variety of materials including tiles, stone, wood, and metal. This is great if you plan on using an angle grinder for multiple projects.
This machine weighs about 5.8 pounds, which isn’t too heavy for most people.
It has a removable forward-canted slide handle to assist both right-handed and left-handed people. This also provides a firm grip for longer time-periods with less fatigue.
It also has auxiliary handles on either side for added control.
Furthermore, it’s equipped with a protective cover that guards you against sparks and dust. The machine is coated to protect itself from abrasive dust and other residue.
The product was first launched in June 2018, retails for about $50-$60. It also comes with a 24-month warranty.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Convenient usage | Might heat up after a while of usage |
| The discs are easy to change | A bit noisy so you need hearing protection |
| Great for at-home usage | |
| Affordable | |
| Works for a variety of jobs | |
| Works with a variety of materials | |
| Well designed |
Our Verdict
If you’re looking to buy the grinder and discs from the same place, this Mertek 6A 4 Electric Angle Grinder is a really great deal.
It’s affordable and comes with the discs so you save on shipping as well.
In terms of usage, it’s pretty reliable and does a reasonably good job for most materials. The discs might not be as durable, but you can always replace them.
Overall, a great deal for occasional hobbyists!
If you ask me, my top recommendation in terms of quality and reliability is the DEWALT DWE402 Angle Grinder.
This 6.2-pound compact machine packs in a powerful 11 AMP motor, delivering a speed of up to 11,000 RPM. This power comes in handy when using flap-discs to maximize usage.
This well-built machine is reasonably sized. The side handle allows you to control the blade better. It has a one-touch guard control, allowing you to switch guard positions by 360 degrees within a second.
It also has a quick-change wheel release. This lets you change the wheel without needing a wrench.
Also, the included brushes are large, making them last twice as long. This also allows for a better depth of cut.
The dust ejection system rids the machine of any abrasive dust that could be damaging to the body.
It was first available in January 2015, now retails for about $78.85, and comes with a 3-year limited warranty.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Really powerfully motor, gets more work done in a shorter amount of time | The guard might be too thick and bulky for some users |
| Well-made and durable | The spindle might be too long |
| Doesn’t heat up like other grinders | The grip isn’t quite as comfortable |
| Medium-sized for the power, not too bulky | |
| Quick and easy disc change option | |
| Dust elimination provides self-protection |
Our Verdict
As with every other Dewalt product, this too promises excellent built and durability. In terms of power and delivery, this angle grinder is unmatched.
It can handle a variety of materials with ease and efficiency.
The only area in which it lacks is the comfort of use. Some users complain of the grip being unsteady and the switch is difficult to work with.
However, I believe those are issues you can get past with enough practice. It’s definitely worth it given the durability and the power you get with this particular model!
Conclusion
Angle grinders are no doubt a must-have tool for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike.
They’re versatile to use and easy to carry while getting most of your work done. After reviewing some of the best options currently available in the market, here are my top picks.
I’d say my number one recommendation would be the Bosch 1375A Angle Grinder. It’s the lightest of all angle grinders, which is an important factor to consider when you’re choosing a handheld machine you’ll use for a considerably long time.
Despite being compact, it does the job well. So for an affordable, user-friendly yet efficient option, get the Bosch 1375A.
However, for more heavy-duty tasks, I’d recommend the DEWALT DWE402 Angle Grinder.
Not only is it exceptionally powerful, but it’s also designed to handle a lot of power. It’s perfect for professionals that really put their angle grinders to work.
Hopefully, this article will help you make a more informed decision. If you found this article interesting, be sure to check out other similar articles on our site.
Thanks for reading and have a great day!
– Craig
