How Do You Cut Tile With an Angle Grinder. Angle grinder for tile

How Do You Cut Tile With an Angle Grinder?

To cut tile with an angle grinder, you will need to use a diamond blade. You can either use a wet saw or a dry saw. If you are using a wet saw, you will need to add water to the blade to help keep it cool and prevent it from overheating.

If you are using a dry saw, you will need to keep the blade lubricated with oil. When cutting tile, it is important to make sure that you are wearing eye protection and gloves.

An angle grinder is a powerful tool that can be used to cut tile. When cutting tile with an angle grinder, it is important to use the correct blade. An angle grinder can easily damage a tile if the wrong blade is used.

The best way to cut tile with an angle grinder is to use a diamond blade. A diamond blade will not damage the tile and will make a clean, straight cut. Always wear safety goggles when using an angle grinder.

What Blade Do I Need to Cut Tile With an Angle Grinder?

Tile can be a difficult material to cut, especially if you need to make intricate cuts or shapes. An angle grinder is a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of applications, including cutting tiles. But what kind of blade do you need to cut tile with an angle grinder?

The answer depends on the type of tile you’re trying to cut. For example, porcelain tile is much harder than ceramic tile, so you’ll need a blade that’s designed for cutting hard materials. There are also blades specifically designed for cutting mosaic tiles.

When choosing a blade for your angle grinder, always check the manufacturer’s recommendations. And make sure the blade is compatible with the model of the angle grinder you’re using. With the right blade, an angle grinder can make quick work of cutting tile.

How Do You Cut Tile With a Grinder Without Chipping It?

If you’re working with ceramic tile, a grinder is the best way to cut it without chipping. Here’s how to do it: 1. Put on your safety gear, including eye protection and gloves.

Mark the tile where you want to make your cut. Use a pencil or marker so you can see the line clearly. 3. Set up your grinder with a diamond blade designed for cutting tile. Make sure the blade is sharp and in good condition.

Place the tile on a stable surface before beginning to cut. A work table or countertop is ideal.

Slowly guide the blade along the marked line, applying gentle pressure as you go. Don’t force it – let the blade do the work. If you’re using an electric grinder, keep it plugged in so you have a consistent power source; if you’re using a battery-operated one, make sure the batteries are fresh and full of juice before starting to cut.

Keep water nearby in case the blades get too hot – if they start smoking, that’s a sign they’re getting too hot and need to be cooled off immediately by dunking them in water (this will also extend their life).

How Do You Use an Angle Grinder on Ceramic Tile?

An angle grinder is a handheld power tool that can be used for a variety of different projects, including grinding metal, cutting tile and polishing surfaces. When using an angle grinder on ceramic tile, it’s important to select the right type of blade for the job. There are two main types of blades that can be used on ceramic tile: diamond blades and carbide-tipped blades.

Diamond blades are the best choice for cutting ceramic tile because they’re designed to cut through hard materials. However, they can be more expensive than carbide-tipped blades. Carbide-tipped blades are a good choice for general-purpose grinding and cutting, but they’re not as effective as diamond blades when it comes to cutting ceramic tile.

When using an angle grinder on ceramic tile, it’s important to wear eye protection and gloves. The dust generated by grinding can be harmful if inhaled, so it’s important to work in a well-ventilated area. Start by attaching the appropriate blade to your angle grinder.

If you’re using a diamond blade, wet the tile before beginning to cut; this will help keep the dust down. Place the blade against the surface of the tile and hold it at a slight angle; then slowly move the blade across the surface of the tile. If you’re using a carbide-tipped blade, you don’t need to wet the surface first; just begin grinding away at the tiles.

Remember to go slowly and apply gentle pressure; if you apply too much pressure or grind too quickly, you run the risk of breaking or chipping the tiles.

Can You Use an Angle Grinder to Cut Porcelain Tile?

When it comes to cutting porcelain tile, you have a few different options. You can use a traditional tile cutter, which is great for straight cuts. However, if you need to make curved or intricate cuts, then an angle grinder is your best bet.

Angle grinders are very versatile tools that can be used for a variety of applications. When it comes to cutting porcelain tile, they are ideal for making precise cuts. Plus, they are much faster than using a traditional tile cutter.

To use an angle grinder to cut porcelain tile, you will need a few things: gloves, goggles, ear protection, and a dust mask. First, mark out the area that you want to cut with a pencil or chalk. Then, position the blade of the angle grinder on the tile and start cutting slowly.

Apply even pressure as you move the blade along your marked line. Once you’ve finished cutting the tile, clean up any debris and admire your handiwork!

Cutting Bathroom Tiles with an Angle Grinder (Quick Tips) — by Home Repair Tutor

Hi, I’m john, I, ve spent my time helping people to successfully do their DIY projects.I’m a professional saw expert for over 10 years. I’m working with every type of saw and always try to find out which is best for my project. See more

How To Cut Ceramic Tile With A Grinder

Every tile installer needs an angle grinder in their toolkit. The tile installer frequently uses a wet saw for straight and L-shaped cuts and an angle grinder for more specialized cuts that arise along the way, like the tile around a floor drain. You may cut ceramic tile with an angle grinder, also known as a side grinder, and its glazed surface is not broken or chipped.

The right diamond blade for angle grinder can make any cut, but that only sometimes means it is the best tool for the job. A wet saw consistently produces cuts with the ideal edge. A manual cutter has straight break cuts. Small chips and slivers are eliminated by a tile setter using portable nippers. Making minor cuts with strange shapes is where an angle grinder shines.

How To Cut Ceramic Tiles With Angle Grinder?

Selecting The Appropriate Angle Grinder Blade

The blade is essential while cutting tiles. A tile-cutting blade grinds and cuts through porcelain and ceramic tile using small diamond chips along its edge. Because they have more diamonds, higher-quality blades typically last longer and cut more quickly.

You can also cut tile with a diamond blade made for brickwork. This diamond blade removes concrete dust using serrated dust channels along its edge. Masonry blades efficiently cut soft tile; however, when using them aggressively or while grinding curves, the dust channels tend to chip the tile’s glazing. Tile cannot be cut, ground, or sanded with discs made of metal or wood. The blade size should correspond to the grinder.

Install The Blade On The Angle Grinder

Install a tile-cutting blade on the side grinder’s arbor, so it points in the same direction as the tool. You can still cut tile with a blade that has been put in reverse. However, when used in this manner, the edge loses diamonds and their durability.

Check that the brass arbor bushing on the blade centers it on the grinder’s arbor. The bushing maintains the arbor’s arbor’s edge in the center. Adjust the arbor nut by hand. Lock the tool’s blade into place before using the grinder’s spanner wrench to finish tightening the nut.

Design The Cut

When planning a job, a craftsman thinks about the end product. Small changes can occasionally eliminate sliver or angle cuts. Unfortunately, bespoke scratches sometimes occur even with the most excellent plan. Make all necessary dimensions and transfer them to a tile when this happens. Make quick cuts on the tile’s glazed surface, like straight or angled ones using a speed square and pencil.

Plan intricate cuts like curves and holes on the completed and unfinished surfaces. Remember that the final cut is mirrored in the reverse layout. Reduce the size of the curved component of the reverse pattern so that the blade’s arc may cut through the tile without enlarging the visible piece of the cut. A rough cut on the back and a finish trim from the glazed surface are frequently necessary for these cuts.

Easy Cut Directions

• Put on a dust mask, ear protection, and safety glasses.
• Please turn on the angle grinder while holding it firmly in one hand. Let the engine run at full throttle. If the blade vibrates erratically, shut off the angle grinder right away. Check that the blade or brass ring is still positioned on the arbor after removing the blade-holding nut.
• Apply light pressure while softly rubbing the blade of the angle grinder against the tile’s line while the machine runs at full speed. It should score the pencil line until it forms a 1/16-inch deep groove. For any further cuts on the same piece, repeat this procedure. Sometimes breaks occur before the score lines.
• Angle the grinder back and forth continuously until the blade cuts through the tile. Make sure the blade stays in one place. The edge becomes overheated when it is kept stationary and becomes dull. Utilize the score mark as a reference to finishing the cut.
• It should grind any sharp edges away from the blade’s side. When using an angle grinder, it is often helpful to hold it at a slight incline so that the blade cuts from the unfinished side toward the glaze.

Complex Cut Directions

Using the angle grinder, mark a 1/16-inch profound outline of the cut on the tile’s glazed surface, as many massive, unnecessary, simple cuts as you can remove. It is frequently simpler to divide difficult cuts into several little, simple cuts and trims. The curves and indents should remain after this.

Turn the tile over to make sure the layout lines roughly align with the score mark’s interior and make any required adjustments. Cut it out. The cutout is consequently somewhat smaller than the final product. Trim the unfinished tile’s edge until it fits the cut. Just before installing, test the cut.

How to Cut Pre-Installed Tile On a Wall or Floor

Are you working on a tile installation that has already been finished? Some renovation jobs require cutting pre-installed tile to make way for new installations without replacing the entire wall or floor.

If how to cut already installed tile is a new concept for you, below is a quick guide on how to do it the proper way. Lets revise all about the tools you will need, the process of cutting tile, and safety tips. Read on and find all the details below!

Expect to read about the tools you’ll need, the process of cutting tile, and safety tips.

Tools and Other Items You Need in Tile Cutting

As with any task on a project or job, the first step is to gather all the necessary tools and materials. In this case, the materials or tiles to cut are already glued to the wall, so you really only need to buy a few replacement tiles in case some of the installed ones break. Then all that’s left is to bring the best tools for tile cutting.

Here are the tools you’ll need:

A diamond disc (designed for cutting the type of ceramic you plan to cut)Set square or triangleMeasuring tapeChinagraph pencil or non-stain penAngle grinderSteel ruleRotary toolSmall pry barPlastic sheet and tapeSafety gear (goggles, gloves, and eye protection)Handheld sprayer and water

It’s also good to have a RUBI manual tile cutter on hand because accidents happen, and if you break a tile on your floor or wall you might need to cut the replacement to make it fit in the original’s location.

If you want to know more about the subject here’s a guide on how to lay tiles.

Safety First: Things to Consider When Cutting Tiles

As a professional tile installer or contractor, always practice safety first, because any DIY project involving tools can result in personal injury.

Wear clothing and shoes appropriate for the task. Remember, wearing gloves, goggles, and ear protection is a necessity. Wearing a mask or respirator is optional. It’s also a good idea to keep your tools out of the reach of children.

Are you going to cut at low spaces? If so, don’t forget to get knee pads to protect your knees. This also applies when you need to set your knees upon a higher surface to reach tiles glued high up a wall.

Another common mistake for tile installers is cutting towards their bodies. Avoid doing this and cut away from your body instead. A good rule of thumb is to push when cutting rather than pull. Stay alert during the process of tile cutting to avoid cutting your hands or fingers.

Safety Tips for Keeping the Room Ventilated and Dust-Free

Cover the doors of the room with a plastic sheet and masking tape. This will keep the dust from spreading into the other parts of the house. Do the same with the vents in the room.

If there are Windows, keep them open for good ventilation. You can also place a fan facing outward by the window to direct the air outside. Doing this will also help improve the airflow while working on a room.

How to Cut Already Installed Tile on a Wall: Measuring Marking the Cut-out

Before cutting any tile glued on a wall, determine the number of tiles to cut. Use the steel rule, triangle and a measuring tape, such as the RUBI Flexometer, to find out how much of each tile you must cut. Mark the cutline with the Chinagraph pencil or non-stain pen.

Next, place masking tape onto the tile running along the edge of the mark. Adding tape over the part you intend to keep intact and attached to the wall will keep it from chipping. Use a handheld sprayer to add water to the tile surface.

This water keeps the dust from going into the air and lubricates the tile for the cutting blade. If you chipped the wrong tiles, consider replacing them. Replicate the cut with a RUBI manual cutter before you replace the broken chipped tile.

Tile Cutting Method Using an Angle Grinder

Once you’ve marked the tiles and covered them with masking tape, you’re ready to learn how to cut already installed tile on a wall with an angle grinder.

Place the angle grinder against one end of the cutline and run the blade along the tile surface. Keep the path of the angle grinder smooth and straight. Add water with the spray to keep the surface wet if needed. If the blade isn’t cutting through the tile, make more passes with the blade alongside the tile.

If the grinder blade is too large to cut the tile part closer to the wall, switch to a rotary tool. This tool also allows you to make curved cuts. However, if you’re going to use it, keep the surface dry.

From there, pry cut the pieces from the surface with a small pry bar. Place the pry bar into the joints while applying pressure to it as you move it behind a cut piece. Once you’re done, clean the surface by vacuuming and washing the dust.

Cutting Tiles on Walls: Will It Work for Ceramic and Porcelain Tiles?

Ceramic tiles are popular picks for bathrooms because they are practical and decorative. They are also durable, resistant to bacteria and moisture, easy to clean, and the most affordable tile option. However, they’re only useful for indoor floors and walls.

The common alternative to ceramic tile is porcelain tile. You can also use the same method mentioned above to cut porcelain tile on a wall. However, remember that porcelain tile is harder and more brittle than ceramic tile.

Learn to Cut Tile the Right Way

With that, you now know how to cut tile on a wall. Use these steps to help with your career. As mentioned, always practice safety when cutting tiles.

If you’re looking for tile cutters, electric mixers, and more, visit the RUBI contact page here.

Rely on a quality angle grinder for cutting, grinding, carving, and a host of other tasks.

By Timothy Dale and Tom Scalisi | Updated May 20, 2022 11:08 AM

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs.

Angle grinders are versatile power tools that can handle a variety of projects, such as cutting iron pipe to replace a faulty valve, carving wood to craft furniture, cutting tile for a backsplash, and removing grout from between tiles.

Interchangeable rotating discs—some made for cutting and others with an abrasive edge for grinding—can be swapped out based on the application. For safety, a guard sits between the disc and the handle to protect the operator.

If you’re ready to add this tool to your collection, read on for more on its capabilities and what to look for in the best angle grinder. Each of the top picks below was selected after an in-depth review of the market and thorough product vetting.

• BEST OVERALL:Makita XAG04Z 18V LXT Cordless Cut-Off/Angle Grinder
• BEST BUDGET:Metabo HPT 4.5-in 6.2-Amp Angle Grinder
• UPGRADE PICK:DeWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Cut Off/Grinder
• BEST CORDED:Porter-Cable Angle Grinder Tool, 4-1/2-Inch (PC750AG)
• BEST LIGHT-DUTY:Black Decker Angle Grinder Tool, 4-1/2-Inch (BDEG400)
• BEST HEAVY-DUTY:DeWALT Angle Grinder Tool, 4-1/2-Inch (DWE402)

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Angle Grinder

There are a few things to understand before clicking “add to cart” on just any old angle grinder. The best angle grinders may have unique features, different power sources, and some might simply be better suited to particulars. The following points are worth considering when shopping for a good quality grinder.

Disc Size

Angle grinders come in sizes, denoted by a number that refers to the maximum diameter of the grinding wheel or disc it will handle. For most DIY projects, a 4-, 4.5-, or 5-inch disc will suffice. In fact, these compact sizes and weights are ideal for DIYers, as larger discs can become unwieldy or tedious to work with.

Larger discs (up to 9 inches) are more commonly used in industrial situations by professionals cutting through thick pieces of material. As the disc gets larger, the grinder itself must be larger to handle the cutting strength. This translates to a heavier tool that’s likely to cause hand fatigue sooner than using a small angle grinder.

Power Source

Angle grinders are available as corded models (which plug into an electrical outlet) and cordless (which use a battery).

• Corded grinders typically generate more power at a consistent level due to the direct connection to the outlet. But corded models restrict the user to a physical location, limiting range without an extension cord. The cords can also be a tripping hazard and, therefore, a nuisance while working on a project.
• Typically, cordless grinders lack the sheer power of their corded counterparts. And functionality depends on battery capacity, so a dead battery could mean downtime in the middle of the project. On the plus side, cordless angle grinders offer hassle-free mobility and are better for use in tight spaces.

Speed

Angle grinder speed is measured in revolutions per minute (rpm). Speeds typically range between 5,000 and 10,000 rpm, though some very robust grinders reach up to 12,000 rpm. Keep in mind, however, that the rpm rating is under “no-load” conditions, meaning that the disc isn’t cutting or grinding anything, just spinning in the air. Once the disc is cutting or grinding, that speed will lower considerably.

Obviously, the higher the rpm, the easier and more quickly the tool can cut through the target material. But the disc also becomes hotter at higher speeds and could be vulnerable to rupture—an injury risk. Be sure to use the correct disc for the task, and note the maximum supported speed marked on the disc. For example, a disc rated at 7,500 rpm that is running faster can break under the force, sending shards of the grinder wheel flying.

Voltage/Amperage

Angle grinders measure power output potential in volts (V) and amperes (amps). Cordless angle grinders use volts to measure the power available from their battery, with most cordless models using 18-volt or 20-volt batteries and outliers ranging from 7.5 volts to 24 volts. The “magic number” in most cordless power tools is 18 volts to 20 volts, offering the best mix of affordability and functionality.

Voltage readings on corded angle grinders only indicate whether they can be used with 120-volt or 220-volt power outlets. Shoppers can assess the power output potential of corded models by checking amperage, which ranges from 5 amps to 15 amps. Larger discs will require a larger output, so for a 7- or 9-inch grinder, expect it to have a higher power output potential.

Hand Guard

The guard on an angle grinder is a crucial safety measure that covers half the disc. Its purpose is to protect the user’s hands, by preventing sparks and debris from flying toward the user, and to protect surfaces from damage when using the grinder in tight spaces.

Some angle grinders have a movable guard, and others have a fixed guard. The movable option is more popular as it allows for left-handed or right-handed use and can adjust to better protect the user from flying debris. If left untightened, however, a movable guard can fall off the unit. Fixed guards are more robust, and there’s no risk of them coming off a grinder.

Soft Start

Because angle grinders are fast, powerful tools, they can recoil a bit upon power-up. This is particularly true if the grinding wheel is large and heavy. The recoil from the motor can result in the angle grinder jumping in the user’s hands, potentially causing serious injury.

To combat recoil, soft-start technology reduces the power output to the motor at first, slowly increasing until the angle grinder is fully up to speed. This throttled control over the power output prevents an angle grinder from recoiling during start-up, increasing safety while also reducing the jolt to the user’s arms and wrists.

Tips for Buying and Using an Angle Grinder

Keep these tips in mind when choosing and using an angle grinder.

• The most common DIY projects where an angle grinder will be of use—such as cutting tile or pipe, metalworking, or removing grout and mortar—rarely require more than a 4.5-inch grinder.
• The ongoing vibration of an angle grinder can cause what is known as Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS), with symptoms including pain and cold sensations in the user’s fingers, loss of grip strength, and a loss of sensation in the fingers and hands. An angle grinder with cushioned or vibration absorbent material on the grip can protect hands from ongoing vibration.
• Always wear personal protective equipment (PPE) including safety glasses/goggles, hearing protection, and respiratory protection when grinding.
• Check the grinder before use to ensure the disc and guard are properly attached and tightened. Discs and guards can become loose between uses. Tighten them before connecting the power to the angle grinder.

Our Top Picks

While all that information on the best angle grinders ought to be helpful when shopping, there’s really no substitute for hands-on testing. Tom had the pleasure of personally putting all the following angle grinders through their paces during a recent metalworking project.

Each of the models reviewed passed our tests and met our standards (see “How We Tested,” below), though Tom found some models better for specific tasks than others. Note that all of the following models feature movable guards and screw-in handles.

Makita XAG04Z 18V LXT Cordless Cut-Off/Angle Grinder

The Makita XAG04Z is worth checking out by anyone looking for the best cordless angle grinder performance. This top-rated angle grinder features an 8,500 rpm top speed thanks to its brushless motor and the 18-volt lithium-ion battery. It can handle 4.5- and 5-inch discs.

We found the XAG04Z excellent to work with. While it doesn’t boast the highest top speed, the automatic speed adjustment enabled it to maintain speed during tough cuts and grinds. We noticed very little vibration thanks to the rubber over-molded grip and handle, and the lock-on switch proved to be a huge plus.

The only downsides I see: Assembling the two-piece handguard was a little awkward, and it would be nice if the tool came with a battery and a charger.

Product Specs

• Automatically adjusts speed and torque settings
• Slow start keeps the tool from jumping
• Lock-on switch
• Very little noticeable vibration

Get the Makita angle grinder at Amazon, Walmart, The Home Depot, and Ace Hardware.

Metabo HPT 4.5-in 6.2-Amp Angle Grinder

When it comes to DIY projects and budgets, not everyone can afford top-of-the-line tools every time. So those hoping to save cash and still get a quality grinder may want to give this corded model from Metabo HPT a look. It uses 4.5-inch discs, has a 6.2-amp motor, and spins at up to 10,000 rpm.

This is one of the best 4.5 inch angle grinder options for the money, and the Metabo HPT’s usefulness was somewhat of a surprise. I enjoyed how compact and lightweight it was in my hand. The location of the power switch is very convenient, especially during cutting.

The lock-on feature allowed me to kick it on and leave it on—very helpful in my project. My only complaint is that the Metabo HPT lacks the power of other corded models, and the 6.2-amp motor seemed like it could overheat during all-day use.

Product Specs

• Lock-on switch for long use
• Lightweight angle grinder (only 4 pounds)
• The most compact of all the grinders tested
• A little lacking in power compared to other corded models
• The 6.2-amp motor isn’t ideal for all-day use

Get the Metabo angle grinder on Amazon and at Lowe’s.

DeWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Cut Off/Grinder

DeWALT’s 20V Max XR Brushless Cut-Off/Grinder cordless angle grinder could be the ultimate upgrade for pros and DIYers who take their tools seriously. This cordless model utilizes the brand’s 20-volt Max XR lineup, and its brushless motor spins 4.5-inch discs up to 9,000 rpm.

My experience with this DeWALT model was just as I expected: great portability and truly outstanding power. It made short work of cutting and grinding, without a cord to get in the way. The grip and handle both feature thick rubber, keeping vibration and fatigue to a minimum.

The safety features are certainly a plus: The electronic brake stopped the disc within 2 seconds (other models can take up to 10 seconds), and simply knowing that there is a kickback brake instilled confidence.

Product Specs

• Safety includes two-stage trigger, electronic brake, and kickback brake
• Excellent ergonomics and anti-vibration
• Plenty of power

Get the DeWALT angle grinder at Amazon, Walmart, and Lowe’s. Check for a refurbished DeWALT on Amazon.

Porter-Cable Angle Grinder Tool, 4-1/2-Inch (PC750AG)

This Porter-Cable product is one of the top corded angle grinder options for dependable power. This model features a heavy-duty 7.5-amp motor that spins a 4.5-inch disc at speeds up to 10,000 rpm, providing plenty of speed and power for workshop use.

The Porter-Cable grinder felt truly in its element on my metalworking project, handling cuts and grinds nicely. While it doesn’t have the most power compared to others on our list, it’s pretty close. It’s also one of the only grinders to feature a traditional trigger switch, which I felt was easy to use and more intuitive than most. I also really liked the top-mount position for the handle attachment, as it can make cutting much more manageable.

The one negative worth mentioning is that vibration control isn’t top-tier, so although it can take all-day use, the user’s hands and wrists might tire.

Product Specs

• Top-mounted handle position
• Comfortable trigger switch
• The 7.5-amp motor has plenty of power

Get the Porter-Cable angle grinder at Amazon, Walmart, and Lowe’s.

Black Decker Angle Grinder Tool, 4-1/2-Inch

If you’re searching for the best angle grinder for wood carving, sanding, grout removal, and other light-duty projects, Black Decker’s Angle Grinder Tool might be a wise choice. This affordable model features a 6-amp motor that produces up to 10,000 rpm of speed, and it’s compatible with 4.5-inch grinding and cutting wheels.

Black Decker markets this model at light-duty, DIY-type users, and that’s where it excels. This very affordable model is easy to use, thanks in part to its lock-on trigger. The three-position handle mounting system works for plenty of scenarios, such as cutting and grinding at unusual angles. Just don’t expect the Black Decker to handle heavy-duty jobs like large metalworking projects for any length of time, as it only has a 6-amp motor.

How to cut a hole in tile with an angle grinder. floor waste / toilet flange

Product Specs

• Plenty of capability for the price
• Three-position handle, including top-mount
• Trigger locks into position

Get the Black Decker angle grinder at Amazon, Walmart, The Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Ace Hardware. Check for a refurbished Black Decker on Amazon.

DeWALT Angle Grinder Tool, 4-1/2-Inch (DWE402)

Heavy-duty projects like production welding and cutting require a grinder that can keep up, and DeWALT’s DWE402 can handle the job. This burly machine features an 11-amp motor and spins 4.5-inch grinding and cutting wheels at speeds up to 11,000 rpm.

I found the DWE402 to be the ideal grinder for my work, though not everyone will need its power and high-speed capabilities. It cut through angle iron faster than any other grinder, and it made short work of my large, lumpy, amateur-grade welds (though it’s definitely a pro-grade tool, and the speed-boosting button on the handle base helped a lot).

While this is one of the best variable speed angle grinders, neither the DWE402’s vibration control nor its grip got much attention on the drawing board.

Product Specs

• Pro-grade capability
• Very fast and powerful
• High amperage motor for heavy-duty work

Get the DeWALT angle grinder at Amazon, Walmart, and Lowe’s.

Our Verdict

With portability and power in mind, the Makita XAG04Z is a great choice for almost any home workshop, though pros may also appreciate this model. And for those who need the best angle grinder for cutting metal and other heavy-duty weld materials, the DeWALT DWE402 has the power and speed to match.

How We Tested the Best Angle Grinders

Sometimes, I have the best job in the world. I’ve had a project on my plate for months now (building a welding cart), and it just so happened to be the ideal project to test these top angle grinders. I used the same set of cutting and grinding wheels for each model to make apples-to-apples comparisons.

I used each grinder to cut through angle iron, switching grinders between each cut until I felt comfortable with the strengths and weaknesses of each model. I recorded myself cutting all the pieces for the welding cart in order to determine how long each cut took and how easy it was to use. After cutting all the pieces, I welded the cart together (rather heavy-handedly, I admit, as it’s been a few years since I last welded).

With those big, burly welds to address, I used each grinder to knock them down to flush. Again, I noted ease of use and handling. In the end, I had all I needed for these honest angle grinder reviews—as well as a cart for my new welder.

Shopping for a Used or Refurbished Angle Grinder

Historically, most people would baulk at the idea of spending good money on a used or second hand tool, but today’s refurbished models are not the dubious equipment found at a neighborhood yard sale. For some time, reputable manufacturers and retailers have been offering refurbished or renewed products like angle grinders alongside new models.

The idea is that when a commercially viable fix is possible, it cuts down on waste—which is always a good thing. It may also offer buyers the opportunity to acquire products that might otherwise be outside their budget.

These should not be tools that have been beaten to death for 364 days and returned on the day the warranty expires. It’s true that often they have been tried by another buyer but will have been returned within a relatively short return window. Other times, they might be tools damaged in transit or in the warehouse.

So are refurbished angle grinders any good? In our opinion, yes. There’s every chance they could represent a real bargain. There are some interesting offers on refurbished or renewed angle grinders at Amazon and Walmart among others. However, care and common sense is needed.

How To Cut Tile With An Angle Grinder

• Specify the type of angle grinder you want first. Look at new models. Then see what you can get on the refurbished market that comes close to those specifications.
• Keep a tight rein on your budget. It’s easy to get carried away. The idea here is to save money, or get better value.
• You should be looking for a substantial cost reduction. If the saving is only saving 10 percent or 15 percent, it might be better to buy new. Make sure you know exactly what is included. Cordless tools often won’t include battery or charger, for example.
• Be sure to check warranty and return periods before you order. Don’t make assumptions, even if you bought from the retailer before.

While refurbished, reconditioned, or renewed tools are often excellent, there’s always a chance it could be a dud. Buy from a reputable source. Check the angle grinder as soon as it arrives so you can get your money back if there’s a problem.

FAQs

Even with ample background on the best angle grinders, you might have some additional questions. Here, we answer some of the most common queries about angle grinders, so check for the info you need below.

Q: What kind of tasks can I use an angle grinder for?

The most common uses for angle grinders are metal grinding and cutting, such as steel for welding or metal piping. However, they’re also useful for wood carving, refinishing, and other projects. Some farriers even use them to trim hooves.

Q: How does an angle grinder operate?

After attaching the correct disc for the job, hold the angle grinder in two hands for safety and security (the tool’s initial torque will cause it to jump). Push the trigger down or hit the power switch, and the disc will start rotating. Move the grinder until the rotating disc contacts the material you want to cut or grind.

When finished, release the trigger or switch off the power button and wait for the disc to stop rotating completely before placing it in a safe location, keeping in mind that the disc is still hot due to the friction caused during operation. Unplug the power cord or detach the battery and allow the tool to cool down.

Q: How much does an angle grinder cost?

An angle grinder can range in price from just 30 to over 200, though it’s more common for these tools to cost about 80 to 100.

Q: How do you cut metal with an angle grinder?

Use a metal cutting disc on an angle grinder to cut through lead, iron, copper, and other metals without a problem. The rotating blade slices easily through metal, but it’s important to wear safety glasses and gloves because a significant amount of sparks are produced during the grinding process.

Q: How do you cut pavers with an angle grinder?

Angle grinder equipped with masonry discs can be used to cut through paving stones without much difficulty. Measure and mark where you want to cut the paver, then position it on a workbench. Turn the grinder on and start to slowly cut into the paving stone. Once you have started the cut it will be easier to accurately finish cutting through the paver.

Q: How are the discs on an angle grinder changed?

First, unplug the grinder or remove the battery. Then remove the nut that holds the disc in place, using the factory spanner included with the angle grinder. Replace the disc and tighten the nut bolt using the factory spanner.

Q: How can I remove the disc with vise grips?

Grinder discs are secured with a specialized nut that is usually tightened or removed with an included spanner. However, if you lose the spanner the nut can still be removed with a set of vise grips. Simply tighten the vice on the grinder blade, locking it in position, then use your hand or a screwdriver to turn and remove the locking nut.

Q: How do you properly recycle an old angle grinder?

Instead of tossing your old angle grinder in the trash, take it to a local electronics recycling location. Typically, the municipality or town will have a program for recycling electronic tools and other devices, though some home improvement stores, like Home Depot, also offer tool recycling programs.