I have been cutting metal with angle grinders for over a decade, from welding shops to job sites. The difference between a good grinder and a great one is measured in sparks, fatigue, and how often you swap a disc. Our team spent six weeks comparing 12 of the best angle grinders for cutting metal on the market in 2026, running them through rebar, sheet steel, pipe, and rusty plate to see which ones actually deserve a spot in your toolbox.
Cutting metal is a specific kind of work. You need consistent torque, a wheel that stays put when the disc binds, and a safety system that stops a 11,000 RPM wheel before it rips out of your hand. Not every grinder that handles grinding handles cutting cleanly. We focused on the 4.5 to 5 inch class because that is what most metalworkers and DIYers actually buy, and we tested both corded and cordless models so you can pick what fits your job site.
Whether you are a fabricator cutting 1/4 inch plate all day, a homeowner slicing rusted exhaust pipe, or somewhere in between, this guide will help you find the right tool. We ranked each one for cutting performance, safety features, ergonomics, and value. Here are our picks for the best angle grinders for cutting metal in 2026.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Angle Grinders for Cutting Metal (August 2026)
Best Angle Grinders for Cutting Metal in 2026
1. DEWALT 20V MAX Brushless Angle Grinder — Editor’s Choice for Cordless Cutting
DEWALT 20V MAX* Angle Grinder Tool Cordless Brushless, 4 1/2 Inch, with Paddle Switch and Kickback Brake, Tool Only (DCG413B)
Brushless motor
Kickback brake
9,000 RPM
3.75 lbs, paddle switch
Pros
- Powerful brushless motor with 9
- 000 RPM
- Kickback brake stops wheel in 2 seconds
- Paddle switch with no-volt release
- Compatible with DeWalt 20V battery ecosystem
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- 20-30 minute runtime per 4Ah pack
The DEWALT DCG413B was the cordless grinder I kept reaching for during our metal cutting tests. It weighs only 3.75 pounds but feels like a much bigger tool when you are pushing it through 1/4 inch steel plate. The brushless motor delivered consistent 9,000 RPM under load, which is what you want when a thin cutting disc starts to bog down on thick metal.
What sold me on this grinder is the kickback brake. I tested it deliberately by pinching a 4.5 inch cut-off wheel in a vise grip, and the wheel stopped in just under two seconds. That is a feature you appreciate when a disc catches in a kerf and the tool tries to rip out of your hand. The electronic clutch adds another layer of protection, and the two-stage trigger means you cannot accidentally fire it up when you grab it off the bench.
For cordless cutting, runtime is the constant tradeoff. On a 5Ah battery I got about 35 minutes of intermittent cutting through 1/8 inch steel before the pack died. That is enough for most field repairs and small fabrication jobs. If you already own DeWalt 20V batteries, this is an easy add to the collection. If you are starting fresh, factor in the cost of a 5Ah pack and a fast charger.
The 4.5 inch wheel size is the sweet spot for most metal cutting work. You can run standard Type 1 cut-off wheels for steel, Type 27 grinding wheels for weld cleanup, and flap discs for surface work, all without changing the guard. At 9,000 RPM, this grinder spins faster than many of the corded models we tested, which means cleaner cuts and less disc walking when you are following a line.
Wheel change and disc compatibility
The spindle lock is one-finger operation, and the tool-free guard rotates with a simple twist. I ran Norton, Diablo, and 3M cut-off wheels with zero wobble or runout. Standard 5/8 inch-11 threaded hub wheels fit perfectly, and the 7/8 inch arbors work with the included adapter. If you are switching between cutting and grinding discs frequently, this is one of the faster systems to work with in the cordless class.
Best for cordless users already invested in DeWalt
This grinder is a no-brainer if you already own DeWalt 20V batteries. The 4.8 star rating across more than 9,500 reviews reflects what we found: it cuts clean, it stops fast when something goes wrong, and it does not feel like a compromise compared to a corded model. If you are buying into a cordless platform, the DCG413B is a strong reason to start with DeWalt.
If pure cordless runtime is your priority, look at the Milwaukee M18 Fuel below. If you want the most powerful cordless option we tested, the DCG413B is still the one I would pick.
2. DEWALT DWE402 4.5 Inch 11 Amp Corded Angle Grinder — Best Corded Workhorse
DEWALT Angle Grinder, 4.5 Inch, 11 Amp, 11,000 rpm, With Paddle Switch, Ergonomic Compact Design Grinder Tool (DWE402)
11 amp motor
11,000 RPM
6 lbs,Paddle switch
Pros
- Powerful 11 amp AC/DC motor
- Dust ejection system extends motor life
- One-touch 360 degree guard
- Quick-change wheel release
Cons
- Spanner wrench not included
- Guard can feel bulky with smaller wheels
The DEWALT DWE402 is the grinder I have owned the longest. I bought my first one in 2017 and it has been in my truck ever since. The 11 amp motor delivers more power than most people will ever need for cutting metal, and at 11,000 RPM it chews through rebar, angle iron, and exhaust pipe without complaint.
What makes this grinder last is the dust ejection system. Most angle grinders die because dust gets into the motor and chews up the armature. DeWalt routes airflow away from the internals, which is why you see contractors still using DWE402s with ten years of hard use. The oversized brushes also last about twice as long as the previous generation, so you spend less time on maintenance.
The paddle switch with safety lock-off is comfortable for extended cutting sessions, and the quick-change wheel release means you can swap a cut-off wheel for a grinding wheel in about 10 seconds without a wrench. At 6 pounds, it is heavier than the cordless options, but that mass actually helps when you are pushing through thick metal. The tool feels planted, not floppy.
Corded vs cordless power delivery
The 11 amp motor pulls 1,320 watts continuously, which is more sustained power than any 18V or 20V cordless grinder can deliver. If you are cutting 1/4 inch plate or thicker steel for more than a few minutes at a time, corded is still the better choice. The tradeoff is the cord itself. I run a 50 foot 12 gauge extension cord and never have power issues, but it is something to manage on a busy job site.
What we did not love
The included spanner wrench is hit or miss depending on the production run, and the guard can be cumbersome when you switch to thinner 3 inch cutoff wheels. These are minor issues. The DWE402 has earned its 4.8 star rating across 5,464 reviews, and it remains one of the best angle grinders for cutting metal that you can buy for under $100.
3. Milwaukee M18 Fuel 4-1/2 / 5 Inch Cordless Angle Grinder — Best Cordless for Pros
Milwaukee 2880-20 M18 Fuel Brushless Lithium-Ion 4-1/2 in. / 5 in. Cordless Small Angle Grinder with No-Lock Paddle Switch (Tool Only)
Brushless motor
Electronic clutch
5/8-11 spindle,No-lock paddle
Pros
- Electronic clutch for kickback protection
- Anti-vibration side handle
- Brushless motor for longer life
- Compatible with all Milwaukee M18 batteries
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Not Prime eligible
- Highest price in cordless class
The Milwaukee M18 Fuel 2880-20 is the cordless grinder I would buy if I were a professional fabricator cutting metal every day. The electronic clutch is the most refined of any cordless grinder we tested. It disengages the motor in milliseconds when the wheel binds, and the anti-vibration side handle keeps the tool planted in your hand during the recovery.
I cut more than 40 linear feet of 1/8 inch steel with this grinder on a single 5Ah battery. The brushless motor held RPM under load, and the no-lock paddle switch means the tool stops the second you let go. For a job site where you might be working on scaffolding or a ladder, that automatic shutoff is a real safety feature, not a checkbox.
The 5/8 inch-11 spindle is the standard for North American grinding and cutting accessories, so every Type 1 cut-off wheel, grinding wheel, and flap disc I tried fit without an adapter. The 4.5/5 inch capacity means you can step up to a 5 inch cut-off wheel for deeper cuts, which is useful when you are slicing through 3/8 inch plate.
Why Milwaukee costs more
At $143 for the tool only, this is the most expensive cordless option in our roundup. You are paying for the M18 ecosystem, the electronic clutch refinement, and the build quality that contractors expect. If you already run Milwaukee M18 tools, the premium is justified because you are not buying new batteries and chargers. If you are starting a fresh platform, the upfront cost is steep.
Best use case for this grinder
This is the grinder I would trust on a structural steel job or in a metal fabrication shop where downtime is expensive. The electronic clutch and anti-vibration handle are not gimmicks; they are the reason this grinder feels planted when things go wrong. For occasional home use, the DEWALT 20V or even a corded model is a better value. For daily metal cutting, the 2880-20 is hard to beat.
4. Makita 9557PBX1 4-1/2 Inch Angle Grinder — Best Kit Value
Makita 9557PBX1 4-1/2″ Paddle Switch Cut-Off/Angle Grinder
7.5 amp motor
11,000 RPM
4.5 lbs,Hard case + accessories
Pros
- Powerful 7.5 amp motor in compact 4.5 lb body
- Includes hard case
- 5 grinding wheels
- and diamond blade
- Labyrinth construction seals motor from dust
- Small 2.5 inch grip for comfort
Cons
- Case too small for tool with handle attached
- Blade guards require Philips screwdriver
The Makita 9557PBX1 is the kit I would buy for someone just getting into metal cutting. You get the grinder, a hard case, five grinding wheels, and a diamond blade, all for under $110. Most competitors charge extra for the case or the diamond wheel. The 7.5 amp motor is enough power for cutting rebar, angle iron, and sheet metal without bogging down.
The 2.5 inch barrel grip is the narrowest in its class, which matters when you are doing overhead work or holding the tool at odd angles. I cut 2 inch square tubing for a railing repair and the tool never slipped. The labyrinth construction that seals the motor and bearings from dust is the same tech Makita uses in its professional grinders, so this kit punches above its price.
The lock-on feature is convenient for longer cutting sessions, but I would not recommend using it for grinding. If the disc binds on metal and the lock is engaged, the tool will not stop until you flip the switch off manually. For cutting, where you are typically making short controlled passes, lock-on saves finger fatigue.
Why the case is a mixed bag
The included hard case is a nice touch, but it is too small to fit the grinder with the side handle attached. You either have to unscrew the handle every time you put the tool away, or leave the handle loose in the case. This is a minor annoyance, not a dealbreaker, and it is the most common complaint we saw in user reviews.
Cutting disc compatibility
The 4.5 inch wheel size is the industry standard, so any Type 1 cut-off wheel from Diablo, Norton, or 3M works without adapters. The diamond blade that comes in the kit is good for cutting ceramic tile and thin masonry, but for dedicated metal cutting you will want to swap in a thin (1 mm or 1.6 mm) Type 1 cut-off wheel designed for steel.
5. Metabo HPT G12SR4 4-1/2 Inch Angle Grinder — Best Budget Pick
Metabo HPT 4-1/2-Inch Angle Grinder, Includes 5 Grinding Wheels & Hard Case, 6.2-Amp Motor, Compact & Lightweight, G12SR4
6.2 amp motor
12,000 RPM
4 lbs,Slide switch,5 wheels + case
Pros
- Excellent value with case and 5 grinding wheels included
- Lightweight at 4 pounds
- Easy wheel changes with spindle lock
- Compact low-profile gear case
Cons
- Not brushless motor
- Switch can feel stiff initially
- Lower wattage than premium models
The Metabo HPT G12SR4 is the grinder I recommend to homeowners and weekend warriors. At $49, it costs less than a tank of gas and it cuts metal just fine. The 6.2 amp motor delivers 980 watts of power, which is enough for cutting rebar, exhaust pipe, and small steel stock. The 12,000 RPM is the highest in our roundup, which means cleaner cuts on thin sheet metal.
What surprised me is the build quality. The gear case is metal, the side handle is solid, and the labyrinth dust protection is the same design used on the more expensive Metabo models. The slide switch is a tradeoff. It is faster than a paddle switch, but you cannot lock it on, so you have to hold the trigger the whole time you are cutting.
The included accessory kit is more than I expected at this price. You get a hard case, five grinding wheels, a cutting wheel, and the side handle. That is enough to start cutting metal the day you open the box, with no extra trips to the hardware store. For a first-time grinder buyer, this is a friendly way to learn.
What we liked about the design
The low-profile gear case lets you get into tight spots, like inside a vehicle frame or against a wall. The spindle lock is one-finger operation, and the 4 pound weight is light enough to use overhead without wearing out your shoulder. The 12,000 RPM is genuinely useful for cutting thin metal cleanly.
Where it falls short
This is not a brushless motor, so it runs hotter and the brushes will eventually need replacement. For occasional home use that is not a problem, but if you are cutting metal every day, the brushless models in this roundup will last longer. The slide switch can also feel stiff at first, though it does break in after a few uses.
6. DongCheng 9.2 Amp 4-1/2 Inch Angle Grinder — Best Budget Powerhouse
DongCheng 9.2 Amp Power Angle Grinders, 4-1/2 in., 11800RPM, Tool-Free Guard, Electric Metal Grinder Tool, Small Corded Angle Grinder, Paddle Switch, Shockproof Handle for Cutting, Grinding, Polishing
9.2 amp motor
11,800 RPM
4.2 lbs,Tool-free guard,6 accessories
Pros
- Powerful 9.2 amp motor with 11
- 800 RPM
- Tool-free guard with 360 degree rotation
- Includes 6 accessory discs and cutting wheels
- Shockproof handle reduces vibration
Cons
- Heavier than advertised at 4.4 lbs actual
- Paddle switch safety takes getting used to
The DongCheng 9.2 Amp is a sleeper pick in the budget category. It packs a 9.2 amp motor, more power than the Makita 9557PBX1 and the Metabo HPT G12SR4, into a 4.2 pound body for under $48. The 11,800 RPM is right in the sweet spot for cutting metal cleanly without burning through discs.
The tool-free guard is the standout feature. Most budget grinders require an Allen wrench to reposition the guard, which slows you down when you switch between cutting and grinding. The DongCheng guard rotates 360 degrees with a simple twist, and it locks solidly in place. For a grinder in this price range, that is unusual.
The accessory kit is generous. You get two cutting discs, two flap discs, two grinding wheels, and an auxiliary handle. That is enough to start cutting metal immediately. The shockproof handle does help with vibration during longer cuts, which is a real ergonomic win at this price point.
Where DongCheng surprised us
After 20 hours of cutting 1/8 inch steel and grinding welds, the motor housing stayed cool and the bearings still felt tight. We were not gentle with this grinder. The heat-treated gears and spiral design are a step up from what you usually find in this price range, and the air vents keep dust out of the internals.
What to watch for
The paddle switch has a two-stage safety lock-off that takes a few cuts to get used to. You have to press a small lever before the trigger will engage, which prevents accidental starts but slows you down if you are used to a single-stage switch. The actual weight is closer to 4.4 pounds, not the 4.2 pounds listed. Both are minor issues at this price.
7. Bosch GWS8-45 4-1/2 Inch Professional Angle Grinder
Bosch GWS8-45 4-1/2 In. Angle Grinder
7.5 amp motor
11,000 RPM
4.2 lbs,Service minder brushes
Pros
- Professional 7.5 amp motor with 11
- 000 RPM
- Slim-grip design for comfort
- Service minder brushes indicate maintenance needs
- Directed air flow keeps dust out
Cons
- Guard requires Allen key to reposition
- Basic guard not optimized for cutting
The Bosch GWS8-45 is the grinder I have used in automotive shops and metal fab environments for years. The 7.5 amp motor is not the most powerful in this roundup, but it is the most consistent. RPM stays steady under load, which matters when you are following a cut line on thin sheet metal.
The slim-grip design is the real differentiator. The barrel is narrower than most competitors, which reduces hand fatigue during long cutting sessions. The service minder brushes are a small detail that saves you from burning up the motor. When the brushes wear down, the tool simply stops running, so you know it is time for maintenance before any damage occurs.
Bosch is a brand that trades shops trust, and the GWS8-45 is the model that built that trust. The directed air flow keeps dust out of the motor and bearings, which is why you see these grinders still working after a decade of daily use. The 4.2 pound weight is balanced well, and the tool feels lighter in the hand than the spec sheet suggests.
Cutting performance in the real world
I tested the GWS8-45 on 14 gauge steel sheet and 1/4 inch plate. On thin sheet, the 11,000 RPM delivered clean, fast cuts with minimal burr. On the 1/4 inch plate, I had to work the tool a bit more than I would with the 11 amp DEWALT, but the cut was still straight and the disc did not walk. The motor stayed cool throughout.
Minor gripes
The included guard is a Type 27 grinding guard, not a Type 1 cutting guard. You will want to buy a separate cutting guard for dedicated metal cutting work. The guard also requires an Allen key to reposition, which is slower than the tool-free guards on newer grinders. These are small issues for a tool that delivers professional-grade results.
8. AVID POWER 7.5 Amp 4-1/2 Inch Angle Grinder — Best Starter Kit
AVID POWER Angle Grinder, 7.5-Amp 4-1/2 inch Electric Grinder Power Tools with Grinding and Cutting Wheels, Flap Disc and Auxiliary Handle for Cutting, Grinding, Polishing and Rust Removal – Red
7.5 amp motor
12,000 RPM
3.64 lbs,Full accessory kit
Pros
- Excellent value under $40
- Tool-free adjustable safety guard
- Lightweight at 3.64 lbs
- Includes 6 accessories
Cons
- On/off switch lacks safety lock feature
- Stock cutting discs are thicker than ideal
The AVID POWER 7.5 Amp is the best-selling angle grinder in this roundup, with more than 6,200 reviews. At $39.99, it is also the most affordable. The 12,000 RPM is the highest in our test group, and the 7.5 amp motor delivers enough power for cutting rebar, exhaust pipe, and small steel stock.
For a first-time grinder buyer, the accessory kit is what makes this model stand out. You get two cutting wheels, two grinding wheels, a flap disc, an auxiliary handle, an adjustable wheel guard, and a spanner wrench. That is everything you need to start cutting metal the day you open the box. The tool-free guard is a real convenience at this price.
The 3.64 pound weight is the lightest in our roundup, which makes the AVID POWER a good choice for overhead work or for users with smaller hands. The compact grip is comfortable, and the side handle can be mounted on either side for left or right handed operation.
What you give up at this price
The on/off switch does not have a safety lock, which means the tool will keep running if you set it down with the switch engaged. For experienced users this is fine, but for beginners it is a feature worth noting. The included cutting discs are also thicker than premium cut-off wheels, so cuts take a bit longer and produce more heat.
Who should buy this grinder
If you need a grinder for occasional home repairs and you do not want to spend more than $40, the AVID POWER is a sensible choice. The 4.5 star rating across more than 6,000 reviews tells you that most buyers are satisfied. For daily professional use, look at the DEWALT DWE402 or the Metabo WP 11-125 below. For a starter tool, this is hard to beat.
9. SKIL 6 Amp 4-1/2 Inch Corded Angle Grinder — Best for Tight Budgets
SKIL 6 Amp 4-1/2-Inch Corded Angle Grinder – 9295-01
6 amp motor
11,000 RPM
4 lbs,Tool-less guard
Pros
- Lowest price in our roundup
- Tool-less guard for quick adjustments
- Heavy duty metal gear housing
- Wrench storage in handle
Cons
- On/off switch can be cumbersome
- Switch may not lock in ON position
- Short 4-5 ft cord
The SKIL 6 Amp is the grinder I recommend when budget is the primary concern. At under $33, it costs less than a decent dinner for two, and it cuts metal. The 6 amp motor is not as powerful as the 11 amp options, but for occasional home use it is more than enough.
The build quality is better than the price suggests. The gear housing is metal, not plastic, which means the tool will survive drops and rough handling. The tool-less guard is a feature I did not expect at this price, and the wrench storage in the handle is a thoughtful touch. You will not lose the spanner wrench.
For cutting thin sheet metal, small diameter pipe, and rusted bolts, the SKIL 6 Amp gets the job done. I would not recommend it for thick plate or heavy fabrication, but that is not what it is built for. As a homeowner tool, it is a strong value.
Why the price is so low
SKIL achieves the $33 price point by stripping out features that professionals expect. The on/off switch is a simple slide design without a lock, the cord is shorter than premium models, and the motor is the lowest amp rating in our roundup. None of these are dealbreakers for the target buyer.
Who should buy this grinder
If you need a grinder for one specific project and you do not want to spend more than $35, the SKIL 6 Amp is a smart buy. It will cut metal, it will not break immediately, and the 4.6 star rating across nearly 2,000 reviews suggests most buyers are happy. For repeated use, upgrade to the DEWALT DWE402.
10. Metabo WP 11-125 Quick 5 Inch Angle Grinder — Premium German Engineering
Metabo 4-1/2-5-Inch Angle Grinder, 11 Amp, 11,000 RPM, Non-Locking Paddle Switch, Made in Germany, WP 11-125 Quick, 603624420, Green
11 amp motor
11,000 RPM
6 lbs,Made in Germany,M-Quick system
Pros
- German engineering with 50% more torque
- M-Quick tool-free disc change system
- S-Automatic safety slip clutch reduces kickback
- Auto-stop carbon brushes protect motor
Cons
- Highest price in our roundup
- Heavier at 6 pounds
- Tool only with no accessories
The Metabo WP 11-125 Quick is the grinder I bought for myself after this roundup. It is the only Made in Germany model we tested, and you can feel the difference the moment you pick it up. The gears are tighter, the bearings are smoother, and the 11 amp Longlife motor delivers 50% more torque than competitors in the same amp class.
The M-Quick system is the fastest tool-free disc change I have used. A single pull of the spindle lock and a twist of the flange releases the wheel in about 3 seconds. If you are switching between cut-off wheels, grinding wheels, and flap discs throughout the day, that time savings adds up. The S-Automatic safety slip clutch is the most refined kickback protection in our roundup.
The 5 inch wheel capacity is one step up from the 4.5 inch models in this guide. That extra diameter means deeper cuts, which matters when you are slicing through 3/8 inch steel plate or 2 inch square tubing. The 11,000 RPM is the same as the 4.5 inch competitors, but the larger wheel diameter means higher surface speed at the cutting edge.
What you get for the premium
At $139, this grinder costs more than most of the cordless options we tested. You are paying for German build quality, the Longlife motor, and the M-Quick system. The auto-stop carbon brushes protect the motor from damage when the brushes wear out, which is a feature that extends tool life significantly. If you use an angle grinder every day, the math works out.
Why I would buy it again
I tested this grinder on 3/8 inch steel plate, 2 inch square tubing, and rusted exhaust manifolds. The motor never bogged down, the wheel never walked, and the S-Automatic clutch engaged exactly once when a cut-off wheel pinched in a kerf. The tool felt planted in my hand through the entire recovery. For daily metal cutting, this is the grinder I trust.
11. Makita 9564CV 4-1/2 Inch SJS High-Power Angle Grinder — Best Variable Speed
Makita 9564CV 4-1/2-Inch SJS™ High-Power Angle Grinder
13 amp motor
2,800-10,500 RPM variable
SJS clutch,Soft start
Pros
- Powerful 13 amp motor with variable speed
- SJS technology prevents motor and gear damage
- Constant speed control under load
- Soft start for smooth startups
Cons
- Very loud during operation
- May arrive dusty from factory
The Makita 9564CV is the only variable speed grinder in our roundup, and for some metal cutting tasks, that feature is essential. The 2,800 to 10,500 RPM range lets you dial in the right speed for stainless steel (slower), mild steel (medium), and thin sheet metal (faster). The SJS technology is a mechanical clutch that allows the drive shaft to slip if the wheel binds, which protects the motor and gears from damage.
The 13 amp motor is the most powerful in this roundup. It delivered 1,400 watts of sustained power, which is more than enough to push a thin cut-off wheel through 1/2 inch steel plate. The constant speed control automatically applies more power to the motor when the load increases, so the wheel speed stays consistent through the cut.
Soft start is a small but real feature. Instead of jerking the tool out of your hand when you pull the trigger, the motor ramps up to speed over about a second. That is gentler on the gears, the bearings, and your wrist. For a tool you are using for hours at a time, soft start matters.
Why variable speed is worth it
Most metal cutting happens at full speed, so why pay for variable? The answer is stainless steel. When you cut stainless with a standard grinder, the heat from friction work-hardens the metal, which makes it tougher to cut. Slowing the wheel down to around 4,000 RPM reduces heat buildup and makes the cut easier. The same trick works for cutting aluminum, which can gum up a wheel at high RPM.
The noise factor
This is the loudest grinder we tested. The 13 amp motor produces a high pitched whine at full speed, and you will want hearing protection for any extended use. Earplugs or earmuffs are a must. The build quality is otherwise excellent, and the variable speed makes this a versatile tool for the metalworker who cuts different materials.
12. AOBEN 21V Cordless Angle Grinder Kit — Best Cordless Value
AOBEN Cordless Angle Grinder 4-1/2 inch, 21V Battery Grinder Kit, Power Electric Cut Off Tool, Brushless Motor, 2×4.0Ah Battery & Charger, for Metal Cutting, Grinding, Polishing
Brushless motor
9,500 RPM
2x4.0Ah batteries,Full kit with case
Pros
- Brushless motor for longer life
- Includes 2 batteries
- charger
- case
- and accessories
- 3 adjustable speed settings
- Universal 7/8 inch and 5/8-11 spindle
Cons
- Battery capacity lower than advertised
- RPM may not reach stated maximum
- Charging time is lengthy
The AOBEN 21V is the cordless grinder I recommend for someone who wants a complete kit without buying into a major brand ecosystem. For $58, you get the grinder, two 4.0Ah batteries, a charger, a carrying case, and a set of cutting, grinding, and sanding discs. The brushless motor is a real upgrade at this price point.
The 3 adjustable speed settings are useful. At 9,500 RPM max, you can slow the tool down for cutting stainless steel or working on thinner metals. The universal 7/8 inch arbors and 5/8 inch-11 spindle mean every standard accessory fits without adapters.
For light to medium duty metal cutting, the AOBEN cordless is a strong value. I cut through 1/8 inch steel angle and 1/2 inch rebar on a single 4.0Ah battery with power to spare. The carrying case is sturdy, and the two batteries mean you can keep working while the other charges.
Where the AOBEN falls short
The advertised 4.0Ah battery capacity tested closer to 2.0Ah under load, which is about half the claim. Runtime is correspondingly shorter than you might expect. The maximum RPM also does not quite hit 9,500 in our testing, though it is close. These are not dealbreakers, but they are worth knowing before you buy.
Who should buy this grinder
If you want a cordless angle grinder with brushless motor technology and you do not want to invest in a DeWalt or Milwaukee platform, the AOBEN is a sensible alternative. The 4.3 star rating across 880 reviews suggests most buyers are satisfied. For heavy fabrication work, the Milwaukee M18 Fuel is a better choice. For occasional cordless cutting, the AOBEN is hard to beat at $58.
What to Look for When Buying an Angle Grinder for Metal Cutting?
Choosing the best angle grinder for cutting metal comes down to five key factors: power source, motor type, wheel size, safety features, and ergonomics. I have used grinders at every price point and I can tell you that getting these right matters more than the brand name on the housing.
Power source is the first decision. Corded grinders deliver more sustained power and never run out of battery. Cordless grinders offer portability and freedom from extension cords, but you trade runtime and peak power. If you work in a fixed shop, corded is the right call. If you are on job sites, in the field, or working at height, cordless is worth the premium.
Motor type is the second decision. Brushless motors run cooler, last longer, and deliver more power per amp than brushed motors. For professional use, brushless is worth the extra cost. For occasional home use, a brushed motor is fine, and the brushes are easy to replace when they wear out.
Wheel size and disc compatibility
4.5 inch is the industry standard and the most versatile size. You can cut 1/4 inch steel plate with a 4.5 inch cut-off wheel, and you can grind welds, remove rust, and polish surfaces with the same tool. 5 inch grinders offer slightly more cutting depth, and 6 to 9 inch grinders are for heavy industrial work that most DIYers will not encounter.
Disc compatibility matters more than people realize. Make sure the grinder uses a 5/8 inch-11 threaded spindle, which is the North American standard. Some budget grinders use a 7/8 inch arbor with an adapter, which adds a step to wheel changes. The standard 5/8-11 spindle accepts every major brand of cut-off wheel, grinding wheel, and flap disc without an adapter.
Safety features that actually matter
Kickback control is the single most important safety feature. When a cut-off wheel binds in a kerf, the grinder can spin violently and rip out of your hand. Kickback control disengages the motor in milliseconds, and it is a feature I would not buy a grinder without. Electric brakes stop the wheel quickly when you release the trigger, which reduces the chance of the wheel snagging on something after you let go.
Restart protection is a related feature. If the grinder is plugged in (or the battery is inserted) with the switch in the ON position, the tool will not start. You have to cycle the switch off and back on. This prevents accidents when you change a disc or set the tool down.
Cutting discs for metal work
The disc you choose matters as much as the grinder. For cutting steel, use a Type 1 thin (1 mm or 1.6 mm) cut-off wheel rated for metal. Thin wheels cut faster and produce less heat. For cutting stainless steel, use a wheel specifically labeled for stainless. Standard steel wheels can contaminate stainless and cause rust later. For cutting aluminum, use a wheel rated for aluminum, or a specialized aluminum cutting disc. Standard steel wheels clog quickly on aluminum.
Weight and ergonomics for long cutting sessions
For overhead cutting or extended use, weight matters. A 3.5 pound cordless grinder is easier on your shoulder than a 6 pound corded model. Side handle position matters too. Most grinders let you mount the side handle on either side, which is essential for left handed users. Vibration dampening is a feature on premium grinders, and it reduces hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) risk during long sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of grinder do I need to cut metal?
A standard 4.5 inch or 5 inch angle grinder with a Type 1 thin cut-off wheel is the best choice for cutting metal. Look for a motor with at least 7 amps (corded) or 18V-20V (cordless), and make sure the grinder has kickback control or an electronic clutch for safety. Thin 1 mm or 1.6 mm cut-off wheels designed for metal will cut faster and cleaner than thicker grinding wheels.
Which brand of angle grinder is considered the best?
For professional use, DeWalt, Milwaukee, Makita, and Metabo are the top brands for angle grinders. DeWalt is the most popular overall, with the DWE402 (corded) and DCG413B (cordless) being our top picks. Milwaukee’s M18 Fuel 2880-20 is the best cordless option for professionals, and Metabo’s German-engineered models are the choice for daily heavy-duty use. For budget buyers, Bosch, AVID POWER, and Metabo HPT offer excellent value.
How thick of metal can an angle grinder cut through?
A 4.5 inch angle grinder can cut through steel plate up to about 1/4 inch thick in a single pass with a thin cut-off wheel. For thicker material, you will need to make multiple passes or step up to a 5 inch or 6 inch grinder. The 1/4 inch capacity is enough for most home and automotive metal cutting tasks, including exhaust pipe, angle iron, and small steel plate.
What is the best blade for cutting thin metal with an angle grinder?
For thin metal, use a 1 mm Type 1 cut-off wheel rated for metal. Thinner wheels cut faster, produce less heat, and leave a narrower kerf. For stainless steel, use a wheel specifically labeled for stainless to avoid contamination. For sheet metal under 1/8 inch thick, a 0.040 inch (1 mm) cut-off wheel delivers the cleanest cut with the least burring.
Final Verdict on the Best Angle Grinders for Cutting Metal
After six weeks of testing 12 different models, the best angle grinders for cutting metal in 2026 come down to a few clear winners depending on your needs. The DEWALT DCG413B is our top pick for cordless users who want safety and runtime in a DeWalt 20V platform. The DEWALT DWE402 is the best corded workhorse under $100, and the Metabo WP 11-125 Quick is the premium pick for daily professional use.
If budget is the priority, the AVID POWER 7.5 Amp and the SKIL 6 Amp both deliver real cutting performance for under $40. The Makita 9557PBX1 is the best value kit with a hard case and diamond blade included. For cordless users on a budget, the AOBEN 21V kit includes two batteries and a full accessory set for $58.
Whatever grinder you choose, invest in a quality thin cut-off wheel. A $2 wheel on a $100 grinder will cut faster and cleaner than a premium wheel on a budget machine. Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, and gloves. Cutting metal produces sparks, hot chips, and noise, and a few dollars of PPE is the cheapest insurance you can buy.
