10 Best Budget Angle Grinders under $100 of 2024 – Top Picks & Reviews
- Pete Ortiz
- Last updated:
Angle grinders are invaluable tools to many professionals, especially building contractors and motor mechanics. They can also be of benefit to DIY enthusiasts.
Considering that the job description of an angle grinder involves cutting through metal and masonry, it goes without saying that it must be a hardy tool.
Reliable tools with good performance tend to be expensive. However, it doesn’t mean that you cannot find a handy angle grinder on a budget. But you must be willing to look around. Fortunately, we have done the legwork for you. The following are reviews of the best angle grinders you can get for less than $100.
A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites in 2024
Rating | Image | Product | Details | |
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Best Overall
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Bosch 1375A Angle Grinder |
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CHECK PRICE | |
Best Value
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BLACK+DECKER BDEG400 Angle Grinder |
|
CHECK PRICE | |
Premium Choice
|
DEWALT DWE402 Angle Grinder Tool |
|
CHECK PRICE | |
|
Hitachi G12SR4 Angle Grinder |
|
CHECK PRICE | |
|
PORTER-CABLE PCC761B MAX Angle Grinder |
|
CHECK PRICE |
The 10 Best Budget Angle Grinders under $100
1. Bosch 1375A Angle Grinder – Best Overall
Bosch is a brand that is synonymous with quality. The company’s products are a favorite among professionals for many reasons. Reliability and durability top the list.
The Bosch 1375A is one of the best budget angle grinders owing to its sheer power and ease of use. This machine is designed to withstand heavy, cutting through all kinds of metal and concrete. As a result, it appeals to both heavy-duty and casual users.
This unit runs on a powerful 6-amp motor that delivers speeds of up to 11,000 RPM, which allows you to grind and cut through most materials with exceptional ease and efficiency. The motor is designed to be low on vibration to reduce stress on your arms, allowing you to be more accurate.
Another great aspect about this angle grinder is its compact design that enhances ease of use and portability. Weighing in at only 3.75 pounds, it is remarkably light for an angle grinder, thus allowing for easier handling and longer operating hours. Moreover, it comes with a 2-position ergonomic handle to enhance maneuverability and comfort when working at awkward angles. Its compact nature also means that it can fit in most tight spaces.
The only downside to this unit is that it can be quite noisy. Nonetheless, if you are willing to work through it, the Bosch 1375A will give you performance and dependability that you can only get from higher-end models. Overall, we think this is the best budget angle grinder for under $100 on the market this year.
- Compact and lightweight
- Powerful motor that can deliver up to 11,000 RPM
- Excellent performance
- Durable build for reliability
- Ergonomic design for comfort
- Quite noisy
2. BLACK+DECKER BDEG400 Angle Grinder – Best Value
If you are working with a really tight budget, the BDEG400 by Black and Decker is an option worth considering. Despite its low cost, this unit comes with a 6.5-amp motor that delivers up to 10,000 RPM. This means that it is well equipped to handle your grinding, cutting, sharpening, and surface preparation needs with ease.
The BDEG400 also comes with a bevy of features. For starters, it has a 3-position side handle that allows you maximum control over the machine, thereby increasing your accuracy and overall comfort. Its spindle lock allows for effortless accessory changes, while the ergonomic handle allows you to have a secure, comfortable grip.
The BDEG400 features a slim profile to allow you to access tight spaces without a lot of hassle. It is also well protected by a metal casing for maximum durability.
Weighing in at 4.5 pounds, this unit is considerably heavier than the Bosch 1375A. Nonetheless, it should not be too much to handle.
Its biggest flaw, however, is that it is susceptible to overheating. This means that you cannot use this unit for extended periods without having to take breaks, which can affect your productivity.
Nonetheless, at its price, the Black and Decker BDEG400 is among the best budget angle grinders under $100 for the money.
- Powerful motor with speeds of up to 10,000 RPM
- Compact design
- Easy to use
- Comfortable handling
- Great value for money
- Susceptible to overheating
3. DEWALT DWE402 Angle Grinder Tool – Premium Choice
While the DWE402 might be one of the priciest options on this list, its superior quality and performance make up for it. You can’t expect anything less from Dewalt.
The DWE402 is designed for heavy-duty use. It comes with a powerful 11-amp motor that delivers up to 11,000 RPM to allow you to take on virtually any type of material. Perhaps it is worth mentioning that its motor has over-sized brushes. Motors with larger brushes tend to last much longer than other types do since they do not experience constant friction. This also means that you can use this grinder for extended periods since it is not prone to overheating.
Another cool feature on the DWE402 is the paddle switch. This feature makes it incredibly easy to start and stop the machine, in addition to running a safety lock-off to prevent the machine from starting accidentally and causing injuries. It also comes with a hand guard to protect your hands during use.
This unit is designed with ease of use in mind. It comes with a spindle that facilitates smooth tool-less accessory replacements. It has a 2-position handle to give you maximum control over the tool, while the blade guard can rotate a full 360 degrees upon a one-touch command.
This machine has a sturdy construction. In addition, it has a unique dust ejection system that blows dust and grindings away from the motor, as well as the user. This protects the internal components from damage.
Weighing in at slightly above 6.2 pounds, the DWE402 is quite hefty. The good news is that its weight is well-distributed across its body to allow for easier handling.
This angle grinder comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, a 1-year free service plan, and a 3-year warranty.
- Powerful motor for heavy-duty use
- Durable construction
- Numerous features for convenience and comfort
- Premium quality
- Great warranty plan
- Heavy
- Pricey
4. Hitachi G12SR4 Angle Grinder
The Hitachi G12SR4 is a compact unit that delivers exemplary performance. It is especially adept at grinding, removing casting fins, and finishing a wide variety of metal types.
This angle grinder comes with a 6.2-amp motor that delivers up to 10,000 RPM to allow you to take on a wide variety of projects. While the motor does get significantly warm with extended use, it rarely overheats thanks to an anti-overheating feature that shuts down the machine once the temperature soars past a certain level. This reduces the risk of your motor burning out dramatically.
This unit is also quite easy to use. Its design reduces the intensity of the motor’s vibrations, thus allowing you to have better control over the machine, in addition to enhancing your comfort. It also comes with a trigger lock that is conveniently placed at the side to ensure that the grinder cannot be turned on by accident.
This unit comes with five abrasive wheels, as well as a carrying case for your convenience. Additionally, it has a five-year warranty, which is a testament to the confidence that the manufacturer has in the tool.
- Lightweight and compact
- Motor with decent power
- Has an anti-heating feature
- Easy and comfortable to use
- Good warranty plan
- Instructions are not detailed
5. PORTER-CABLE PCC761B MAX Angle Grinder
The PCC761B by Porter Cable is an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable angle grinder for light-duty purposes. This cordless grinder is powered by a 20V lithium-ion battery and comes with a motor that delivers 8,500 RPM. This accurate and efficient grinder will have your back when it comes to grinding, cutting, and preparing surfaces.
The PCC761B sports a cast metal housing that not only assures you durability, but also prevents the unit from overheating. However, this metal casing adds considerable weight to the grinder, as it weighs around 6 pounds. Nonetheless, the machine is well balanced to allow you to bear its weight easily.
This tool comes with a spindle lock to facilitate fast and easy disc changes. To enhance ease of use further, it features a 3-position handle that allows you greater control over the angle grinder, in addition to making sure that you are comfortable during operation. This ergonomic design makes the PCC761B an ideal tool for professionals and DIYers alike.
The downsides of this machine revolve around its motor and battery. Since it only delivers 8,500 RPM, the PCC761B is not ideal for handling heavy-duty projects. Running on a battery also means that you will be limited on how long you can use the tool.
- Great ergonomic design for comfort and usability
- Solid metal casing for enhanced durability
- Spindle lock and 3-position handle for enhanced accuracy and efficiency
- Portable since it uses battery power
- Heavy
- Not ideal for heavy-duty projects
6. Metabo G12SR4 HPT Angle Grinder
The Metabo is a low-cost and easy-to-use angle grinder. It comes with a 6.2-amp motor that produces 10,000 RPM to allow you to take on a wide array of light to medium-duty projects. You also get to have five grinding discs so that you have everything that you require to embark on your project. You will also appreciate the carrying case it comes in.
For enhanced efficiency, this angle grinder features a removable side handle that gives you a better grip, greater control and enhanced comfort during use. Weighing in at only 4 pounds, this lightweight unit is remarkably easy to handle, in addition to being highly portable. It also comes with a spindle lock for effortless disc changes, as well as a quick-off switch for preventing accidents.
The Metabo G12SR4 has a slim profile, which allows it to fit in tight spaces.
Nonetheless, this machine does have some drawbacks. For example, the on/off switch is situated in a hard-to-reach area, and the blade guard does not rotate a full 360 degrees, which can limit your dexterity.
- Highly accurate
- Decent power
- Great price
- Easy to use
- On/off switch is located in a hard-to-reach area and is difficult to operate with gloves on
- Blade guard does not turn a full 360 degrees
7. CRAFTSMAN CMEG100 Angle Grinder
The Craftsman CMEG100 is a 4½-inch angle grinder whose 6-amp motor can deliver up to 12,000 RPM. As a result, this unit is more than capable of meeting most DIY home needs.
It comes with all the necessary accessories that you require to get started right away, including a wrench, a carbon brush, a three-position auxiliary handle, and an abrasive wheel.
This tool is quite user-friendly too. It comes with a spindle lock that facilitates easier and faster disc changes, in addition to allowing you greater control and accuracy during grinding. Its 3-position auxiliary handle allows you more dexterity so that you can work on hard-to-reach areas using a wider range of techniques.
You will also appreciate the tool-free adjustment mechanism on the CMEG100 that allows you to unlock the lever and rotate the guard in a matter of seconds, which results in a tremendous improvement in your efficiency and productivity.
This angle grinder also comes with the proprietary VERSATRACK Wall Organization System that allows you to store the CMEG100 neatly using Craftsman’s tools.
This unit comes with a 3-year warranty.
- Good performance
- Compact and lightweight
- Ergonomic design for comfort
- Not ideal for heavy-duty jobs
- Susceptible to overheating
8. Avid Power MW590 Angle Grinder
The MW590 is another budget offering worth considering if you are looking for an angle grinder for light-duty applications. It features a slim and lightweight profile that makes it easy to handle. It also comes with a safety feature that protects the user from sparks and splinters.
The Avid MW590 has decent power too. It comes with a 7.5-amp motor that generates up to 11,000 RPM, which will allow you to tackle most DIY tasks with ease.
Nonetheless, this grinder has some design flaws. Its motor overheats when used for extended periods. This not only affects your productivity but also means that you cannot use it for heavy-duty applications.
- Compact design with decent power
- Overheats
- Not ideal for heavy-duty use
9. SKIL 9295-01 Angle Grinder
The 9295-01 by Skil is an option worth considering for those looking for an entry-level angle grinder. Nonetheless, while its motor can deliver speeds of up to 11,000 RPM, it is not suited for heavy-duty materials or applications.
It is quite durable, thanks to its metal casing. However, this also makes it considerably heavier than most other options on this list.
- Durable
- Not suitable for heavy-duty use
- Heavy
10. Makita GA4030K Angle Grinder
The Makita GA4030K has all the markings of a great budget angle grinder. It is compact, lightweight, and has a 6-amp motor that can deliver up to 11,000 RPM. This means that it should allow you to cut through most materials with ease while making sure that you are comfortable doing it.
The problem, however, is in quality control. It is hit or miss with this product, so you can’t quite count on its reliability.
- Great design
- Unreliable
- Not durable
Buyer’s Guide – How to Purchase the Best Budget Angle Grinder Under $100
Due to the nature of an angle grinder’s job, reliability is one of the most important factors to look out for when evaluating these tools. Nonetheless, depending on the nature of the tasks that you will be taking on, there are other important elements to consider too. They include the following:
Corded vs Cordless
There are both corded and cordless angle grinders on the market. Your needs should determine what is ideal for you. Cordless grinders come with the benefit of portability; you can use them anywhere and at any time since they run on batteries.
The problem with cordless units is that they are significantly heavier due to the weight of their batteries, in addition to having a lower power output.
While corded angle grinders must be connected to a wall socket to operate, they are typically more powerful, thus allowing you to take on heavy-duty operations.
Power/Amperage
The power of an angle grinder’s motor is measured in amps. Units with higher amperage can take on heavier projects. As such, the nature of your job is what will determine how powerful you want your machine to be.
If you are a beginner, consider trying out grinders with 6-8 amps of power before upgrading to 9-10 amps for regular DIY work. However, if you are involved in heavy-duty projects such as thick pipe welding, you might want to go for a beast whose motor has a power output of at least 15A.
RPM
RPM stands for rotations per minute, which is the disc’s rotation speed. Units with higher RPMs generate a greater amount of force. This is ideal when working on heavy materials. Nonetheless, the disc also has its own maximum RPM. Therefore, ensure that the disc you are using is compatible with your grinder’s maximum RPM to avoid damage to both the wheel and the machine.
Fixed or Variable Speed
Angle grinders with variable speed are more versatile since they allow you to increase or reduce their RPM as you please. This enables you to fine-tune the machine according to a project’s demands, thus making them ideal for working on sensitive materials. You do not get that benefit with fixed-speed tools.
Fuel Type
You can also classify angle grinders according to the type of fuel they run on. These include electric, pneumatic, and gas.
Electric grinders are the most common. They are powerful and can be used for both DIY and professional purposes. Pneumatic grinders use compressed air as fuel. They are incredibly powerful and are arguably more efficient than electric grinders, which allows them to take on a wider array of projects. However, pneumatic angle grinders tend to wear out their discs more quickly and can be costly to fix.
Gas angle grinders are large, heavy, and extremely powerful. These heavy-duty tools, therefore, are typically used for professional projects such as construction. For the average DIYer, a gas-powered unit might be too much.
Comfort
As with any other hand-operated power tool, you want to be comfortable when using an angle grinder. This will allow you to be more accurate, productive, as well as safe. The two main elements to consider when it comes to comfort is the size and weight of an angle grinder.
A compact and lightweight unit is more comfortable since it does not put strain on your hands and arms.
The other factor to consider is the handle. Angle grinders with adjustable side handles tend to be more comfortable to use since they allow you to operate the tool with both hands. Also, check whether a unit has anti-vibration handles, as vibrations cause a great deal of discomfort.
Dust Management System
Angle grinders generate a tremendous amount of dust and debris during use. A dust management system, therefore, is a vital feature that this tool should have to allow you to work in a clean environment.
Interchangeability
You will find yourself having to use different types of discs, depending on your job. As such, your grinder should be versatile enough to be compatible with most types of discs out there. This will allow you to utilize the machine across a broader array of applications.
Safety Features
Angle grinders have a high potential for hazard, especially if you are a beginner. Therefore, it is important to ensure that a tool is equipped with safety features before purchasing it. Some of these features include a cut-off switch and automatic shutdown in case you drop the tool.
Warranty
As mentioned severally, you want your machine to be reliable. A manufacturer’s warranty terms are often indicative of the quality of their tool. If they are confident that it is reliable, there is no reason for them not offering you favorable warranty terms.
Conclusion
Those are some of the best budget grinders on the market today, and it is now up to you to make your choice. All the items discussed in these reviews would make for good choices. However, we highly recommend the Bosch 1375A. With its performance and reliability, it is almost unbelievable that it sells for less than $100.
If you are not looking to spend as much, consider the Black and Decker BDEG400; it is a low-cost option that can handle most DIY tasks effectively.
More buying guides like this:
- A look at my favorite cordless angle grinders
- A close look at some of my favorite angle grinders for welding
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