Best 4.5" angle grinder under $100

[sevensandeights]

Wife has been asking me for a Christmas list for weeks and I keep telling her I don't want anything. She doesn't like that answer and I know she'll buy me something anyways. So, in the past, I've asked for things I wouldn't ordinarily buy myself due to cost or lack of "need".

I would like another angle grinder so I don't have to change between flap discs and cut off wheels. My current grinder is a 20 year old Craftsman Professional model. It was around $70 when I bought it and has been very durable. High RPM and manageable vibrations.

I have only used a conventional switch type grinder but would be willing to try a paddle switch style. Budget is around $100. Not sure of there is much difference between a $20 HF grinder, a $40 Bosch or whatever is out there for $100.

 

[sberry]

BD from Walmart, havnt bought one lately, 30$ and about as good as any 100$ grinder. It's all I use anymore.

 

[superduty1]

I will only but paddle switch grinders.

I have a Milwaukee that has served me well for many years. I recently bought a Craftsman from Lowe's. it has the paddle switch seems to be working fine, but time will tell. I don't expect it to last or work as well as the Milwaukee I have.

I think a general rule of thumb is the higher the amperage of the unit the more heavy duty it is.

I have a friend that does a lot of metal fabrication and he wears out any of the grinders he has bought. He gets the longest use out of DeWalt and Milwaukee. considering how long you have owned yours you are not a heavy fabricator so my guess is any grinder with a paddle switch will serve you well.

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[JRC3]

I have a Hitachi and am impressed with it for the price. Wish I had got the paddle but cheaped out. This thing is night and day compared to any of the HF I have and was close in price. I got it on sale for like 35 bucks.

Here is the paddle version on clearance. https://www.menards.com/main/tools/...13-c-9075.htm?tid=-8671946639345662777&ipos=5


Looks like Hitachi might be switching to Metabo or something

 

[ItsNemo]

Happy with my Dewalt ones myself but bigger than anything, get a cordless grinder for your cordless tool platform for flap discs rather than getting another corded one. 9 times out of 10 I end up grabbing a cordless grinder for a quick clean up with a flap disc before welding or similar stuff. It's just so convenient versus needing a cord and plugging it in...and most of the cordless ones have brakes so they spin down faster, are a bit quieter, and still have decent enough power/runtime for light work. If I'm doing some welding/metal work in the garage, I can usually get a full day out of a single charge of a 5ah battery.

 

[lardy1]

I bought a little Hitachi for light use a few years ago and it has done everything I've asked. I don't regularly do metal work so it hasn't been ridden very hard. As I remember, it was under a hundred.

 

[Bogie1632]

Love my corded Skil grinder. I've had it for quite a few years and it's held up well. Cost under $30 and has outlasted more expensive grinders I've used at work. Bought a second recently so I'd have one set with a cutting disk, other as a grinder.

V/R
Bogie

 

[sevensandeights]

I have the cordless Makita grinder. My batteries are old (maybe I should ask for some of those!) and the grinder doesn't last very long nor does it spin as fast as my corded one.

You must be a better welder than me because there is nothing quick about cleaning up my welds!

How about this one - is it worth the $99 price tag?
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00WJOWTKE/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[dcs13]

I bet I have 8 grinders. My favorite is the Bosch. I hate my Port Cable (no safety switch)
On a whim I bought the $34 Bauer grinder at HF. Thought it was well worth the money. Its a pretty darn good grinder
https://www.harborfreight.com/corde...angle-grinder-with-tool-free-guard-64856.html

 

[Ign]

OP generally you get what you pay for.

If you really have a budget of $100 try to get up there. You'll get nice touches like guards that adjust more easily, longer and more flexible cords, better side handles, less vibration overall and more power.

Presently you're saying someone has offered to buy you a Lexus but people are suggesting Kias. I'm all for frugality and practicality but it sounds like this could be a purchase that could last you the rest of your life, so there's no guilt or impracticality in going top-end.

That said, you can pretty much throw a blanket over the big names at a given price point and it just comes down to blind brand loyalty

I have a Fein I'd reco but it's $130 so exceeds your budget and I'll refrain. Most will reco Metabo as the cream of the crop but the Fein is smoother.

If you DO have money left over invest in quality abrasives like Walter or SAIT/United. Grinding wheels from HF make a 5 minute job take 15

 

[Ign]

Also if you get a unit spec'd at 4.5/5" (and most will be as you near $100), run a 5" wheel !

You'd be amazed what that extra bit of surface speed does for your work times. Your LWS should carry 5" wheels

 

[sberry]

The reason we recommend economy is that there are now a lot of sub 50$ grinders out there that work well and a 100$ one is a 50$ one in a different package and a different cord,,,, a cord which looks good on the shelf but doesn't last like the 50$ one. I have used a lot of grinders, went thru all this and a lot of them before the internet was what it is, we finally got tired of it, kind of found some by accident then when we really looked we found them to work just as good for all practical purposes.
The guy asking this question is not likely the type to lean on one 8 hours in a shipyard. I ran one side by side with a Metabo a while back, wasn't earth shattering difference and to tell the truth liked the cheap one as good or better. As for wheels,,, its most likely to show up in wire wheel but, the HF disks are ok as are lots of others, been getting some 10 pack economy for dollar a piece that work well and really cant tell them apart for general work. They may be a bit slower for hard heavy work but its hardtop tell and make a direct comparison. Had my first job in a while I ran a couple off at once, been a while, trying to even remember what it was but 90% of our grinding is a zing or 2, a wheel can last a long time and I am not inclined to fuss with special order, premium etc when something so good is off the shelf and economy.

 

[Swervyjoe]

I've used Dewalt, Milwaukee, and Bosch. They're all about the same. I avoid the paddle style.

 

[sevensandeights]

All good info, thanks for the replies.

I agree that there seems to be a bunch of made in China grinders with different names on them that all sell in the $50 and under range. If the $99 made in Germany Metabo is "$50 better" then that's the route I'll likely go. If not, I'll choose my favorite color and save a few dollars. I don't use grinders often but when I do, it is usually for several hours over a weekend on a project. Lack of vibration is probably my number one concern with durability a close second.

I usually get my grinding supplies at Roark Supply when they have sales. I only use cut off wheels and flap discs. Not a fan of grinding wheels.

 

[rlitman]

...If the $99 made in Germany Metabo is "$50 better" then that's the route I'll likely go. If not, I'll choose my favorite color and save a few dollars...

If you can get the Metabo for $99, then yes, I'd say it's better. Most Metabo grinders have slip safety clutches (they slip if the wheel binds). Some offer quick change nuts.

My Fein grinders I got on clearance from a deal posted here a few years back for under $50 each. They all have electronic safety clutches that kill power if it senses it binding. That's to to say that either style clutch will totally prevent a kickback, but it can sometimes help.

Many other brands offer these safe safety features, but not in any $30 models that I'm aware of.

 

[strength_and_power]

Fein makes a nice grinder in both paddle and on/off switch styles.
2/$99
Dewalt had a similar promotion as well.
For flap wheel work, I prefer the on/off switch as I can vary my grip to get into tighter spots.
I use paddles for rock wheel and cut off wheels.
Never can have enough grinders


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[anndel]

Metabo - 4.5" Angle Grinder - 10, 500 Rpm - 8.5 Amp W/Non-Lock Paddle (600380420 9-115 Quick) $99 from Amazon.

 

[ItsNemo]

I'm going to re-iterate...look at a cordless grinder if you already have batteries on one of the platforms.

No they aren't (for the most part) as powerful as corded, but for cleaning off mill scale or prepping for welds they are a game changer.

 

[sberry]

I will agree that more than one is a real asset, nice thing about cheaper models, so much less gut wrenching about buying 2 instead of 1. As with any tool its got to beadequate, its not worth it if it isn't. There are varying levels of quality above that but often really more features, not any better as they use the same core parts but cost,,, or lower cost is an asset all its own. I have fixing the tools, hate ordering fussy parts cost as much as a new unit. I even fix little things with cheaper ones on occasion but salvage any nut I want from it and toss it, open a new one. . So much less stressful to toss one you paid 30 for than one cost 100.

 

[jonshonda]

I really WANT to spend good $$ on a Bosch, but the $20 black Friday Porter Cable I got won't die. I don't use it daily, but use it with knotted cups and wheels, cut offs, and flap discs. It has enough power to get the job done, but not enough power to break your wrist or SCARE you when the knotted cup catches an edge.

My vote would be two cheap grinders with a good supply of all the quality discs, flapper, and brushes you can afford. Some good quality gloves, a good quality face shield, a good quality respirator, welding jacket, and hearing protection.

 

[finn]

I have, by my recollection 9 grinders in useable condition, ranging from an orange HF to a Metabo. The two that stand out are the HF and the Dewalt cordless. The HF works, but it’s rough and noisy, and the plastic handle disintegrated sitting in the toolbox when the garage temperature dropped well below freezing.

The cordless Dewalt has become my favorite because of the convenience. It performs well, too.

The others, Milwaukee, Metabo, Bosch, Makita, etc are good, but none of them stand out as being head and shoulders above the rest.

 

[Kenstone1]

U-tube Angle Grinder reviews, some are taken apart to view the inside differences:
https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=4+1/2+angle+grinder+reviews

 

[Joebass]

I own a welding and machine shop, I used to only buy Metabo, we are really rough on them. I bought a dozen Bosch on the recommendation of another shop owner and am more than happy with them. They make a few line. Mine are all german made.

 

[dr_clyde]

I buy Metabo for my good grinders, and Dewalt for the cheapies. The Metabos are strong, well made, and have tons of good features. But they are expensive.

I really like the Dewalt DWE 4012 for a general purpose, light duty grinder. Small enough to comfortably use one handed, cheap, and lightweight. Maybe $70 delivered? (I just ordered 2 yesterday, I should know this...) When it goes bad, toss it and get another one. We keep one at all times set up with a resin fiber disc for deburring and general grinding use, and it gets a ton of use.

For cordless, Metabo blows every other one I've used out of the water. But again, $$$.

 

[Dneel81]

I bet I have 8 grinders. My favorite is the Bosch. I hate my Port Cable (no safety switch)
On a whim I bought the $34 Bauer grinder at HF. Thought it was well worth the money. Its a pretty darn good grinder
https://www.harborfreight.com/corde...angle-grinder-with-tool-free-guard-64856.html

agree with both of these. the bosch is great for heavy stuff because it's super smooth. The Bauer was a steal at 35 bucks at HF in my opinion.

I had a moment of weakness and bought an 18v milwaukee brushless grinder that is cordless. I was bracing my yard hydrants with t post and needed to cut off the excess tpost to not obstruct the hydrant. Awesome grinder that does light to moderate work really well.

 

[Ign]

All good info, thanks for the replies.

I agree that there seems to be a bunch of made in China grinders with different names on them that all sell in the $50 and under range. If the $99 made in Germany Metabo is "$50 better" then that's the route I'll likely go. If not, I'll choose my favorite color and save a few dollars. I don't use grinders often but when I do, it is usually for several hours over a weekend on a project. Lack of vibration is probably my number one concern with durability a close second.

I usually get my grinding supplies at Roark Supply when they have sales. I only use cut off wheels and flap discs. Not a fan of grinding wheels.

Then you're obviously independently wealthy and can afford a better grinder. A rubber backing pad and fiber discs will outperform flap wheels for both deburring, shaping and grinding at a FRACTION of the cost.

 

[platypus20]

Damn!! They make grinders that sell for less than $275 ?? We (I) use the top of the line 6” Metabo grinder, with a 4-1/2” guard, they last forever.

 

[Bottlecapdigger]

Something also to consider is the decibel level. I have a corded Milwaukee and used it the other day and I didn't realize how noisy it is, with the high pitch wineing gear noise. I had to finally put on hearing protection ( probably should all the time anyway). I thinks it's the loudest over the makita's and the battery Milwaukee I have. BCD.

 

[derek_m]

Metabo. I was given a used one around 15 years ago, has been pretty solid with regular use. Just bought another one.

 

[American Locomotive]

I like Makita and Bosch grinders, with Hitachi being a close runner-up.

I absolutely cannot stand the cheap Porter Cable corded ones. When cold, the cord is stiff enough to be used as a tent-pole, they have no vibration isolation, and the gearboxes/motor scream. The Chicago Electric ones are just as bad.

 

[theoldwizard1]

About 20 years ago, I bought a reman Craftsman Industrial 4.5" grinder. It is a beast. I think I pad $30 for it.

 

[PugetDude]

I've got a bunch of 4.5" angle grinders.
3 Bosch 1380 Slims
1 DeWalt
1 Porter Cable
1 Milwaukee (still new in the box)
1 Harbor Freight (old Orange/black model)

The HF is indestructible but LOUD. Gearbox sounds like it's full of gravel. (it might be...)
The PC paddle switch is very inconvenient, and has broken twice.
DeWalt has plenty of power, but is heavy and the only one that consistently requires a wrench to change discs.
The Bosch 1380 Slim Grinders are my go-to- light, plenty of power, and easy to use one-handed.

 

[ItsNemo]

About 20 years ago, I bought a reman Craftsman Industrial 4.5" grinder. It is a beast. I think I pad $30 for it.

Should see the 7" Dewalt DWE4597N that I have remove material...it's scary just how much torque that one has compared to any of the little 4.5" ones I've used.

 

[Farmall450]

The $10 or so HF one has taken a thrashing w/ the wire wheel and keeps kicking. However, for $100 I propose a new Ryobi cordless + charger/battery kit when they run a promo.

You'll wish you went cordless sooner. I am augmenting my DeWalt with (presently one) but ideally, soon, an array of Ryobi grinders for each wheel. Awesome unit for $40 (bare tool at Home Depot any day of the week).

 

[Parrothead]

I’ll second SBerry’s Black and Decker recommendation. I went that route at his suggestion and explanation. Summary: Old DeWalt technology in a now orange body. As he pointed out, you don’t think they came up with a new design for a $20/$30 grinder? I’ve beat mine up pretty good, and am happy so far.

*the Ridgid grinding cup at $43 is a bit expensive but well, well worth it if grinding cement!

 

[Alaniho]

I’ll second SBerry’s Black and Decker recommendation. I went that route at his suggestion and explanation. Summary: Old DeWalt technology in a now orange body. As he pointed out, you don’t think they came up with a new design for a $20/$30 grinder? I’ve beat mine up pretty good, and am happy so far.

*the Ridgid grinding cup at $43 is a bit expensive but well, well worth it if grinding cement!

Thats sounds like a good tip actually, we have them here too in 240V, there is a video online with a guy taking this apart and its seems to be excellent value;

looks like its available across the SBD range too if orange is not your colour;

 

[Rabid Badger]

Under $100 everyone is selling pretty much the same Chinese grinders. The only distinguishing features are switch type and guard adjustment mechanism.

In the $125-150 range is where you start to see brand differentiation, quality and safety increase. Fein, Metabo and Bosch models are made in Germany, Makitas in the USA.

Below are my recommendations in order of personal preference:

Fein WSG17-125 - Top-tier quality, power, safety and vibration isolation.
https://www.amazon.com/Fein-72220760090-WSG17-125-Compact-Grinder/dp/B01LY9FJMB

Makita GA5020 - Makita quality with variable speed.
https://www.amazon.com/Makita-GA4542C-SJSII-Power-Grinder/dp/B00Z5LTO7O

Makita GA5020Y - Just about indestructible.
https://www.amazon.com/Makita-GA5020Y-5-Inch-Grinder-System/dp/B003S3SOUE

Bosch GWS13-50VS - German quality and good bang for the buck. An argument could be made to put this one above the Makitas.
https://www.amazon.com/Bosch-GWS13-50VS-High-Performance-Angle-Grinder/dp/B01CEA1CGY

Metabo W12-125 - Good quality, snobs will approve. Not quite as sweet as the Fein or as bulletproof as the Makitas, less features for the money than the Bosch.(I can hear the fanboys squawking already )
https://www.amazon.com/Metabo-W12-125-Grinder-Sliding-Switch/dp/B00WJOX9W6

 

[Ton ton]

Under $100 everyone is selling pretty much the same Chinese grinders. The only distinguishing features are switch type and guard adjustment mechanism.

In the $125-150 range is where you start to see brand differentiation, quality and safety increase. Fein, Metabo and Bosch models are made in Germany, Makitas in the USA.

Below are my recommendations in order of personal preference:

Fein WSG17-125 - Top-tier quality, power, safety and vibration isolation.
https://www.amazon.com/Fein-72220760090-WSG17-125-Compact-Grinder/dp/B01LY9FJMB

Makita GA5020 - Makita quality with variable speed.
https://www.amazon.com/Makita-GA4542C-SJSII-Power-Grinder/dp/B00Z5LTO7O

Makita GA5020Y - Just about indestructible.
https://www.amazon.com/Makita-GA5020Y-5-Inch-Grinder-System/dp/B003S3SOUE

Bosch GWS13-50VS - German quality and good bang for the buck. An argument could be made to put this one above the Makitas.
https://www.amazon.com/Bosch-GWS13-50VS-High-Performance-Angle-Grinder/dp/B01CEA1CGY

Metabo W12-125 - Good quality, snobs will approve. Not quite as sweet as the Fein or as bulletproof as the Makitas, less features for the money than the Bosch.(I can hear the fanboys squawking already )
https://www.amazon.com/Metabo-W12-125-Grinder-Sliding-Switch/dp/B00WJOX9W6

I didn't know Makita was USA made .

 

[Rabid Badger]

I didn't know Makita was USA made .

Their high-end grinders are made in Georgia.

 

[NUTTSGT]

Here's the Dewalt 2 pack at HD.

https://www.homedepot.com/p/DEWALT-...mall-Angle-Grinder-2-Pack-DWE4012-2/206540953

I have a Cman Pro, probably the same model that you already have. It's been a good grinder. I have since supplemented with with two more Dewalts.

I also bought a $10 HF grinder to cut concrete block with this past summer. It's cut probably 100 block and has paid for itself but is a tad small. I picked up a HF 7" to do a somewhat better job.