Buying Guide for the Best Makita Angle Grinders
Choosing an angle grinder, especially from a reputable brand like Makita, is all about matching the tool to the kind of work you do most often. Angle grinders are versatile tools that can cut, grind, polish, and sand a variety of materials—including metal, tile, and stone. To pick the right one for you, consider what materials and tasks you'll tackle, how often you'll use the tool, and your experience level. Always think about safety, comfort, and the types of accessories you may want to use. Let’s look at the key specifications to help you make the best choice.Disc SizeDisc size refers to the diameter of the wheel or disc that the grinder can accept. Typical sizes are 4.5-inch, 5-inch, 7-inch, and 9-inch. Smaller discs are easier to handle, lighter, and suitable for precise jobs and lighter materials. Larger discs, on the other hand, are better for heavy-duty work, such as cutting through thick metal or stone, but the tool may be heavier and harder to control. If you do small jobs or are a beginner, a smaller disc size is a good starting point. For larger, more demanding tasks, a bigger disc offers more cutting depth and speed.
Power SourceAngle grinders come in corded (electric), cordless (battery-powered), and less commonly, pneumatic (air-powered) models. Corded grinders provide constant power for extended use but require an outlet, making them a solid choice for longer sessions or heavy jobs. Cordless grinders offer freedom of movement and are suitable for working in areas without easy access to electricity, perfect for quick jobs or outdoor work, but their run time depends on the battery. Consider how often you will use it far from a power source to choose the right one.
Motor PowerMotor power is measured in watts or amps and tells you how much work the grinder can do. More powerful motors cut or grind faster and handle tougher materials with less strain, but they make the tool heavier. For occasional or light-duty use, lower to mid-range power is sufficient, but if you're planning to tackle tough jobs or work for long periods, a higher-powered model will be more efficient and last longer.
No Load Speed (RPM)This specification tells you how fast the disc spins when the tool isn’t cutting or grinding. Higher RPM means the tool can cut or grind faster, which is useful for harder materials, while lower RPM offers more control and generates less heat. For delicate or precise work, lower speeds are easier to manage, but for fast cutting or grinding, higher speeds are desirable. Consider the balance between control and speed for your main applications.
Weight and ErgonomicsThe weight of the grinder can affect how comfortable it is to use, especially if you'll be working for long periods or holding the tool in awkward positions. Lighter grinders are easy to maneuver and cause less fatigue, making them suitable for detailed or overhead work. Heavier ones might be more powerful but can be tiring to hold. Ergonomics includes handle design and vibration reduction, both important for comfort and control. Try to choose a tool that feels balanced and comfortable in your hand for the types of tasks you expect to do.
Safety FeaturesMany modern angle grinders include safety features like kickback protection, soft start, paddle switches, and tool-less guard adjustment. Kickback protection can help prevent the tool from lurching if it jams, while soft start eases the tool into speed for better control. Paddle switches add a layer of safety by requiring firm grip, and tool-less guards make it easier to adjust for different tasks. The more you'll use the tool or the less experience you have, the more important it is to choose a model with robust safety features.