Daftar isi:
- 1 The best angle grinders on the market: our selection
- 2 Shopping Guide: Everything you should know about the angle grinder
- 2.1 What is an angle grinder?
- 2.2 What is the angle grinder used for?
- 2.3 What types of angle grinders can you find on the market?
- 2.4 What is the power I need in my angle grinder?
- 2.5 Can I use the angle grinder to sharpen kitchen knives?
- 2.6 Is an angle grinder better or a straight one?
- 2.7 What safety rules should I follow when working with an angle grinder?
- 3 Purchase criteria
For many years, the angle grinder has been a tool reserved for professionals. However, its versatility and the vast possibilities of use it offers, from the cutting function to the ability to grind stone and concrete, have increasingly fascinated even DIY enthusiasts. Currently, these tools can also be used at home.
Angle grinders are very powerful tools that are usually used in mechanical workshops and for construction work. With them, it is possible to cut metal, porcelain and stone materials, sand or polish large surfaces. In this article, we explain everything you need to know about these tools so you can choose the best model.
- In the past, when you wanted to buy an angle grinder for the home, there were two options: good quality models at exorbitant prices, or models at cheap prices, but without any guarantee of quality. Fortunately, today it is possible to buy good tools at affordable prices.
- Angle grinders allow you to perform a wide variety of tasks: for example, you can break, cut, polish, plan, remove rust, sand, finish metal, concrete or ceramic.
- Power and weight are key aspects to analyze before buying, to avoid making mistakes in your choice. We will see it more clearly in the last section of this guide, dedicated to the purchase criteria.
The best angle grinders on the market: our selection
Angle grinders are devices with very high power. They are capable of cutting thick metals and even concrete. These machines allow you to get professional results at home. To help you choose the best on the market, we have selected the favorite grinders on the market:
Baca Juga :
- The best-selling angle grinder
- The lightest and most handy angle grinder
- The best angle grinder for professionals
- Users’ favorite cordless angle grinder
The best-selling angle grinder
The Einhell TC-AG is an angle grinder for 125 mm discs, and is available with or without the included disc. It is a very economical proposal but which guarantees a good level of reliability and build quality, which is why it is the option at the top of the sales ranking. It weighs just over 2 kg and is equipped with an 850 W motor, capable of making the disc reach an idle speed of 11,000 rpm.
The handle can be positioned on the right or left side of the instrument.
The lightest and most handy angle grinder
The Maikta model GA4530 grinder works with 115 mm discs and is a compact and handy solution, perfect for beginners, with a total weight of just 1.8 kg. The 720 W motor, slightly smaller than competing products, helps to reduce its weight and increase its ease of use, but is still capable of reaching 11,000 rpm (empty).
Baca Juga:
The best angle grinder for professionals
The Bosch GWS 20-230JH is a professional angle grinder for 230 mm discs, equipped with a powerful 2000 W motor and 6600 rpm. A weight of about 5.1 kg makes it unsuitable for inexperienced users, but still retains good maneuverability. It also supports soft start technology, which allows the instrument to start with a reduced starting point, and is equipped with protection for automatic restart following the absence of electricity.
Users’ favorite cordless angle grinder
The Black & Decker BCG720M1-QW is the best-selling and best-reviewed battery option by buyers, and boasts great value for money. It mounts 125 and 115 mm M14 discs, reaches 8000 rpm, and the handle can be mounted in three positions. The package includes a practical carrying bag, an 18 V and 4 Ah battery, and a fast charger (about 4 hours for a full charge).
It is also possible to buy it without battery and charger, as these can be shared with other instruments from the same manufacturer.
Shopping Guide: Everything you should know about the angle grinder
Whether it is cutting, honing or sharpening, the uses of an angle grinder are varied, as long as you choose the right model. To do this, you need to understand what these machines are and how they work. Below, here is a complete buying guide at your disposal in which we will answer the most frequently asked questions.
What is an angle grinder?
Angle grinders usually have an adjustable guard that allows you to work with both hands. Some models also have speed regulators and disc change systems without special tools.
What is the angle grinder used for?
Angle grinders can be used both for removing excess material from various parts (deburring and finishing), and for splitting (cutting). The type of work you can do will depend on the disc. You can find diamond discs, for cutting stone and porcelain materials, abrasive discs, polishing discs, grinding discs or brushes.
These tools can be used both for metallurgical and construction works and for emergency and rescue operations, to free people trapped inside vehicles or under landslides. Usually, they are found in all types of workshops and, above all, in those where cars are repaired or metals are worked.
What types of angle grinders can you find on the market?
The first angle grinders were very heavy, as they were made of cast iron and did not have an ergonomic shape. While they facilitated the toughest jobs, their use posed a real challenge. Current models have evolved considerably, becoming even lighter and easier to handle. You can analyze them thanks to the following table:
| Type of angle grinder | Features |
|---|---|
| Mini angle grinder | Uses cutting discs up to 115 mm in diameter. Suitable for cutting metal. It is not suitable for concrete, stone or porcelain materials. |
| Single hand angle grinder | Compact and ergonomic. Designed for one-handed use. Flexible discs up to 125 mm in diameter. It can cut concrete slabs. |
| Two-hand angle grinder | Larger and heavier, designed to be used with both hands. Very expensive and professional tool. 230 mm cutting and grinding discs. Cut concrete floors and thick concrete slabs. |
| Compressed air angle grinder | Also known as a pneumatic angle grinder. It does not have a built-in motor. Connects to an air compressor or diesel engine. It is quite rare and expensive. |
| Long neck angle grinder | Cordless angle grinder. Easy to use. Very handy and light. It is recommended for cutting metals. It is silent. |
What is the power I need in my angle grinder?
Like every time we talk about electric tools, the power will depend on the activity you will have to perform. Keep in mind that, in order to work properly with an angle grinder, it must be equipped with sufficient power.
To give some examples, if you are a beginner, have never used an angle grinder and you have to do some housework, a 1200 watt (W) machine will be more than enough. If, on the other hand, you are a professional who has to deal with complex and delicate jobs, you will have to choose a 2000 or more watt machine.
To get an idea of the power needed for your angle grinder, we have prepared the following table:
| Activities | Power required |
|---|---|
| Polish | 500 W |
| Grind | 1000 W |
| Cut simple materials | 1500 W |
| Cut heavy or sturdy materials | 2500 W |
Can I use the angle grinder to sharpen kitchen knives?
Not just kitchen knives, but the blades of any of your tools. It is normal for cutting pliers or scissors to lose their thread due to use. A cordless tool is of little use. Fortunately, you can use angle grinders to sharpen all your tools and even kitchen knives.
Doing so is very simple. First of all, place the knife or tool on a press or vise to secure it securely. Then, all you have to do is place a sharpening wheel in your grinder and turn it on. After that, carefully pass the disc by gently rubbing the edge of the knife following an angle between 25 and 35 degrees.
Is an angle grinder better or a straight one?
Although essentially one might think that they are the same tool, in reality angle grinders and straight or normal grinders are very different machines. As is usual in these cases, each type will be more suitable for a particular job, as they have different characteristics.
To understand how they differ and which is the most suitable at each moment, we have prepared the following table with some examples:
| Works for angle grinders | Works for straight grinders |
|---|---|
| Use of abrasive discs between 100 and 150 mm. | When you need more power. The motors of the vertical grinders can reach 3400 W. |
| Work where maneuverability prevails. Angle grinders allow you to work in tight places and support the tool head. | When working with large pieces. For example, in the manufacture of large structures. |
| When visibility is needed. Thanks to their structure, working with angle grinders allows for good visibility. | When working over a bench. The heavier weight helps the operator as it reduces the required feed force, making the job easier. |
What safety rules should I follow when working with an angle grinder?
Angle grinders are heavy and powerful devices. Their main function is to make cuts on very hard surfaces, such as concrete or metals, so they are dangerous tools to handle with care. Here are some safety recommendations for working with angle grinders:
-
- Before using the angle grinder, you need to carefully read the manufacturer’s instructions, to familiarize yourself with the tool and its parts.
- Be very careful in handling the disc, both when you remove it and when you place it. Follow the instructions printed on the disc and make no mistake in mounting it.
- Each disc is manufactured to withstand a certain power. Do not place a disc in an overly powerful grinder, as it may blow up and throw sharp pieces around.
- Only fumble with the machine when it is turned off.
- Before connecting the angle grinder to the power, make sure the switch is turned off.
- When you change the cutting disc, lock the spindle with the appropriate button.
- Always check the condition of the disc. Do not work with badly worn or imperfect discs.
- Before turning on the machine, check that the disk is properly installed.
- If you are working with a large angle grinder, use both hands.
- Make sure that the piece you are working on is properly fixed and that it cannot move.
- Do not use the angle grinder without the protective cover.
- Always use safety clothing, safety glasses and shoes with reinforced toes.
- Make the cuts in a front-to-back motion.
- Don’t exert too much downward force, as this could break the record.
- Lift the disc every 15 to 20 seconds to cool it down.
- If you plan not to use the angle grinder for a while, unplug it.
- If you are doing a long job, let the machine rest every 3 to 4 minutes.
Purchase criteria
Now that you know everything you need to know about angle grinders, it’s time to buy. Before choosing the most suitable model for you, however, you should be clear about the most important purchase criteria that will make the difference between a good grinder and the best of all:
- Power
- Carcass
- Weight
- Supply
- Ventilation system
Power
When choosing an angle grinder, engine power is one of the main things you need to focus on. As we have already explained, you will have to choose according to the needs of the work you have to do. We recommend that you always choose a higher power than what you actually need.
Smaller angle grinders, with 115 mm discs, usually have a power between 300 and 700 W. With them, you will be able to tackle housework without problems, but they will not be enough for heavier jobs. If you want to cut concrete or porcelain materials, the ideal is a machine above 2000 W.
Carcass
If you want your angle grinder to last a long time, you will need to look for a model that has a strong and solid housing. Our advice is to look for a model that, among other things, is equipped with a protection system against dust and water, as this will protect the engine and the ventilation system.
Angle grinders usually also feature an ergonomic design that will allow you to work with one hand. This factor is important, especially if you will be working in awkward or difficult to access places. Also check the disc safety device and the power cord entry.
Weight
Weight is another factor that you will need to consider when choosing your tool. As is usual, the greater the weight, the greater the power. The most powerful angle grinders are large and heavy tools, which you will have to handle with both hands. These machines will be able to do any job, even cutting thick concrete segments.
If you are looking for a tool for your home or to complete your DIY project, our advice is to opt for a light and compact model. Single hand or long neck angle grinders are usually very light and will allow you to work with one hand and without getting tired.
Supply
Although all angle grinders are equipped with a powerful electric motor, there are cable-powered and battery-powered models. As always, cable-powered machines are more powerful. In this case, these are grinders with powers above 1800 W, capable of carrying out professional and demanding jobs.
Cordless grinders are usually above 24 or 32 volts (V). These tools are more compact and offer more freedom of movement, but sacrifice much of their power. If you choose a battery-powered angle grinder, check that it has a charger and that the battery is lithium-ion, therefore no memory effect.
Ventilation system
Angle grinders must have a good ventilation system so that the motor does not overheat when it has been running for too long. The new angle grinder models are equipped, for example, with electronic cooling systems. If you plan to use the tool frequently, this factor will be very important to your purchase.
The air stream must be directed forward, so as to keep dust and sparks away from the user. In addition, it is equally important that the ventilation system has protection against dust, as if this accumulates in the motor or in the grills, it will eventually cause overheating.