Best cordless angle grinder 2020

What is the best cordless angle grinder? An angle grinder is an essential tool for various applications including regular residential, professional and even industrial grade. The most advanced models are designed to perform multiple operations from grinding to cutting, and many other finishing jobs. The cordless angle grinders grant an opportunity to operate the tool with no limitations in terms of power source and mobility. They can be used in the middle of nowhere efficiently and safely, at any ambient conditions.

Recently cordless tools have been considered less powerful than their corded counterparts. However, due to the current advancements in brushless motors and high capacity batteries, the cordless angle grinders could even outpace the corded models in some ways.

Besides, the battery technology is under a continuous development, thus there is a chance that we will have no need in corded tools in the future. To my mind, the MILWAUKEE 2781-21 proves the above mentioned trend.

Why have I chosen this model? This battery-powered angle grinder from the rugged brand has been declared as the cordless tool with the corded performance. Its brushless motor designed by the manufacturer enhances the power and consequently the tool efficiency. Besides, it extends the service life of the grinder. Its brushless motor technology is supported and protected by Milwaukee Redlink Plus intelligence system which also serves as a communication link between the tool and the battery.

This model features the metal gearing system and housing to improve performance and durability. Besides, the tool comes with an ergonomic design which contributes to its easy and effortless handling.

The RedLithium XC batteries delivered with the kit provide up to twice the runtime of the standard lithium-ion batteries. I guess, the high price of this super advanced angle grinder, with its accessories included, is fairly justified.

Introduction

Previously, the best angle grinders were selected from the electric corded models only, as they could deliver a required power for the most heavy-duty jobs. When the first battery-powered models appeared on the market, they were not so popular among the customers as most of them demonstrated less power which narrowed the sphere of its application to DIY use only. Besides, the batteries in the recent past were heavy thus making the tool considerably bulky in comparison with its corded counterpart. The situation has changed in the course of time and now the advanced cordless angle grinders sometimes even outperform the best corded tools in terms of power, performance, and design.

It is a cordless angle grinder to be chosen when it comes to mobility and versatility when dealing with grinding, cutting, sanding or polishing. It will be in stand-by and ready for activation wherever and whenever you need it. More than that, it will be the only option to work with at any remote location with no power supply. Hence, you will definitely want to add a cordless angle grinder to your tool bag.

Features to be considered when looking for a cordless angle grinder | Buyer's Guide

Motor power

The power of a motor of electric corded and cordless angle grinders is usually measured in watts. The higher the value, the more powerful motor is. Besides, the power depends on a wheel size to be used. That is, the models with bigger wheels require more power. In particular, if you can’t decide between two similar alternatives with the same wattage, you should bear in mind that if one of them features a larger wheel, than it will be less powerful.

The output power of angle grinders usually ranges from 650 to 2700 W. Overall, the power of the motor determines the efficiency of an angle grinder for specific applications. So, you should know the purposes of use before buying your angle grinder.

Rotation speed

The rotation speed of an angle grinder determines the efficiency of the tool. Higher speed rates will contribute to faster ending of the work. However, you should remember that using the high rates up to 11000 - 20000 RPM will definitely result to overgrinding or other damages of a workpiece, especially in the unskilled or inexperienced hands. For that very reason, the advanced angle grinders feature variable speed control. For instance, the models with electronic adjustment will contribute to the correct setting of an operating mode to obtain the desired result.

Safety features

Restart protection. This function eliminates any risk of unintended activation of a tool, thus preventing injuries. It is also useful when the angle grinder is overheated or has been left behind. In such a case, this safety function will be activated to prevent the angle from starting again.

Slow Start. This feature is designed for a gradual speed increase to the optimal rates, thus preventing the motor from overloading during start-up. Besides, the slow start function reduces vibration and increases the service life of a tool in general.

Kickback protection. This feature will stop your tool in case of going out of control, protecting you from injuries.

Although the above-mentioned safety features increase the cost of angle grinders, they are indispensable in terms of safety at any job site.

Battery capacity

Battery capacity is determined by the amount of energy in a power unit, used for operation of a tool. This parameter influences the time it can be operated without recharging. Batteries with the higher capacity are capable to ensure longer operation time without recharging. The most common battery capacity used for power tools varies from 1.2 Ah up to 3 Ah. Professional-grade tools can be powered by a battery with up to 5.2 Ah capacity. However, such tools are designed for the most heavy-duty jobs. Besides they are considerably more expensive and have a heavy weight.

The battery will be discharged faster in case of performance of challenging tasks requiring more power, like cutting of a thick-wall bar, for instance. That is why, it is better to have two batteries in a pack, to be on the safe side and always have one in stand-by.

Trusted Brands

Milwaukee is the US based company which is owned by Techtronic Industries. The Milwaukee offers an expansive range of cordless tools featuring the power and performance satisfying the demands of professionals and DIYers. They offer various patented technologies, innovative motors, and state-of-the-art electronics to ensure unrivaled runtime and power.

Dewaltis the US company which is recognized as the most reliable manufacturer of power tools. Purchasing tools from this supplier assures you of a good quality product that will serve a long time and ensure high performance. In particular, many angle grinding models from this company also provide sufficient power for even the most heavy-duty projects.

Boschis the famous German brand manufacturing equipment and tools for numerous industries and fields of application. Their tool division produces a wide range of professional and residential-grade options. In particular, their cordless angle grinders come with a particular set of features which are applicable for specific asks. Thus, it facilitates the life of a potential customer when choosing the right option.

Ryobiis an Asian brand which offers affordable tools with proven quality and durability. Their cordless tools are highly demanded worldwide. They introduced the Ryobi One + line with shareable battery suitable for all tools from this range.

Makita is Japanese based company which manufactures a wide range of power tools considered to be among the best professional grade tools worldwide. Their angle grinders are not an exception. They offer a wide range of models including corded and cordless angle grinders which proved to be reliable, user-friendly and powerful for multiple applications.

Best Cordless Angle Grinders | Product Descriptions

1. MILWAUKEE 2781-21 | Best overall

Milwaukee Tool was established in 1924 in the US. Since then the company has been offering its innovative solutions which satisfy the needs of the professionals in different industries. The company is well-known worldwide for its high-performance products, handy accessories, and innovative power and hand tools.

The Milwaukee 2781-21 cordless angle grinder features a brushless motor which enhances the performance of the tool and considerably increases its durability. This cordless grinder features the REDLINK PLUS ™ intelligent technology which represents an overload protection of the tool. Besides, this technology provides a smart communication between the tool, battery and charger informing you about required recharging. So, you are aware in advance.

The REDLITHIUM ™ batteries provide enough power for a significantly longer uninterrupted runtime.

The tool comes with a metal housing and a slide switch for an easy access, making it a reliable and user-friendly option.

Besides this angle grinder is delivered with a carrying case, battery and useful accessories which become another pleasant bonus to the above-mentioned features of this advanced tool.

Features

• Wheel diameter (in): 4-1 / 2
• Blade speed (RPM): 8500
• Weight (lbs): 5.8
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 5.7 x 17.4 x 14

This model demonstrates the corded performance in the cordless tool, as it has been declared by the manufacturer. The Milwaukee 2781-21 offers numerous opportunities for its users and can be unmatched in tackling the most challenging projects even at remote construction sites.

MILWAUKEE: Check the current price

2. BOSCH GWS18V-45 | Best performance

Bosch is a highly-recognizable German based engineering company with its headquarters in Gerlingen, Germany. The company was established back in 1886. Nowadays the company owns more than 350 offices and productions facilities in more than 60 countries. The Bosch products are very popular among customers from more than 150 countries.

The Bosch GWS18V-45 cordless angle grinder is a perfect choice for various professional-grade applications. It features a four-brush motor with an improved gear structure. It is capable to deliver 0-10,000 no-load RPM, thus enhancing its versatility in use. Its designed innovative electronic cell and motor protection contributes to longer service life of the tool.

This battery-powered angle grinder is designed with a number of safety features like tool-free quick-change and burst-resistant wheel guard, and a restart protection to prevent any unintended startup.

Features

• Wheel diameter (in): 4-1 / 2
• Blade speed max (RPM): 10000
• Weight (lbs): 5
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 12.5 x 2.8 x 3.7

I recommend Bosch GWS18V-45 as one of the best cordless angle grinders on the market which will become a real gain to any workshop.

BOSCH: Check the current price

3. RYOBI P421 | Best cheap

Ryobi Limited was founded in 1943 in Japan. Ryobi Power Tools and Ryobi Outdoor Power Equipment are brands of Techtronic Industries. These brands offer their products at affordable prices maintaining the quality and performance for residential and professional applications.

The RYOBI P42118V is designed for high-power applications. It is capable to deliver 6500 RPM which is enough to ensure high efficiency and precision of work.

This model works with all 18 V One + batteries and chargers. The advanced lithium-ion batteries are lighter and powerful in comparison with other counterparts on the current market.

Besides, this tool offers a range of user-friendly features like tool-free guard positioning, ergonomic trigger switch and on-board spanner wrench storage.

Features

• Wheel diameter (in): 4-1 / 2
• Blade speed (RPM): 6500
• Weight (lbs): 5.4
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 8 x 12 x 8

I would name the Ryobi P421 as one of the best budget cordless angle grinders with a number of exceptional features. It grants you enough power to deal with light and medium-duty construction jobs and comes with a set of useful accessories in the package.

RYOBI: Check the current price

Benefits of cordless angle grinders

Primarily, the cordless angle grinders are unmatched in the versatility they grant. They are not limited by just grinding operations, as the name says. The number of applications this tool can be used for is really awesome. They are suitable for cutting, sanding and for various finishing jobs, as well.

In addition, cordless models can boast about a number of benefits over their corded counterparts. Firstly, they are free from any cord getting in your way. So, there is no risk of its damage during cutting, or of an operator’s injuries, like electric shock. The power outlet is not a must anymore with the battery-powered angle grinders. This gives you a great opportunity to work at any locations, indoor or outdoor, even under unfavorable climate conditions like an excessive humidity.

Thus, the major selling point of the cordless models is their portability, as you can easily carry it around and use it at any remote location and that will not be an issue at all!

FAQ

What can I do with an angle grinder?
The wide range of angle grinder accessories make them suitable for many construction and repair jobs. The tool can be successfully used for grinding, cutting, sanding and polishing.

It may be designed for performing four basic tasks, but the angle grinder is the only tool which helps to tackle them so well. Thus it becomes an indispensable tool when dealing with the above-mentioned jobs. The angle grinder can be successfully used professionally, but also for household purposes. As for the professional fields, the tool is obligatory used in the machine building industry, metalworking, construction and carpentry for a vast variety of the appropriate projects.

What is the best angle grinder wheel for cutting metal & for concrete?
An angle grinder can be fitted with various attachments designed for different jobs like grinding or cutting, etc.

As for metal cutting the grit disks will be the best option. They are designed to cut the metal workpieces efficiently and quickly. However, there are different types of grit disks, application of which depends on hardness and thickness of the metal. Thus, thicker discs should be used for hard when to ensure better stability and safety.

Diamond disks would be the best option for cutting concrete, natural stone, tile and bricks, including ferrous and non-ferrous metals. Unlike the grit cutting discs and grinding wheels for metal, a diamond blade is made of metal, containing synthetic diamond particles. In general, such discs are the more advanced option ensuring high-performance and safety. However, you should bear in mind, that this would be the pricier option.

How to remove an angle grinder disk?
Always use the right disc, to avoid injuries, and replace it when it is worn out. The removal procedure to be fulfilled in the following stages:

1. Disconnect your grinder or remove the battery. It is a crucial step in terms of safety to avoid an accidental activation of the tool during replacement.
2. Remove a wheel guard. The advanced models come with a tool-free adjustment of a guard, otherwise use a screwdriver to loosen wheel guard screw.
3. Press a lock-on button to fix the disc in place, preventing any turning.
4. Use the provided spanner wrench to unscrew a nut. Some grinders have a wrench with prongs. In this case, you should insert the prongs in the holes and turn the nut, thus loosen it.
5. Remove the old disc and set a new one in the working position, tightening it with the same wrench.

How to use an angle grinder safely?

Before working with an angle grinder you should follow the above-mentioned safety instructions, which considerably reduce the risk of any injuries or damages:

1. Use the protective gear like goggles or face shield, ear plugs and well-fitted gloves.
2. Use a correct diameter and type of a disc depending on the application.
3. During operation of the tool, a workpiece should be held firmly or fixed.
4. Hold the grinder with two hands when operating it. Position yourself from the side of the tool thus minimizing the risk of injuries in case of a kickback.
5. Disconnect the power and place the grinder on a stable surface with the disc facing up when you don’t use it.