Ready to slice through steel like butter? Finding the right angle grinder for the job can feel like navigating a maze. But dont worry, weve got you covered. Choosing the correct grinder setup is crucial, and it’s what separates a clean cut from a frustrating experience.
Weve put various angle grinders through their paces, tackling everything from steel pipes to sheet metal. We know youre probably asking questions like, What size grinder do I need? or Which cutting discs work best? or How much power is enough?
Our goal is to give you straightforward answers, helping you choose a model that fits your budget and the type of steel youll be working with. Lets get into the specifics!
Recommended Products
Detailed Angle Grinder For Cutting Steel Reviews
1. Red AVID POWER Angle Grinder,
The Red AVID POWER Angle Grinder is a robust tool designed for cutting steel. It features a powerful motor, operating at 11,000 RPM, and a 4.5-inch disc capacity. This grinder is excellent for its purpose due to its high speed and the ability to handle tough materials. A notable pro is the included adjustable guard, which provides excellent protection during cutting and grinding operations, and its ergonomic design ensures a comfortable grip, even during extended use.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
2. DIN SHALL 4-1/2 Inch 11000
The DIN SHALL 4-1/2 Inch angle grinder boasts a robust 11,000 RPM motor, ideal for demanding metalworking tasks. Its compact 4-1/2 inch size allows for excellent maneuverability in tight spaces, making it perfect for cutting steel.
This grinder excels at cutting steel due to its high-speed motor and durable construction, allowing it to slice through metal with speed and precision.
A notable advantage is its comfortable grip, which significantly reduces user fatigue during extended use, and the included guard that provides enhanced safety, preventing sparks from flying outwards.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
3. GALAX PRO Electric Angle
The GALAX PRO Electric Angle Grinder features a powerful 7.5-amp motor and a 4.5-inch disc size, making it ideal for various cutting and grinding tasks. It excels at cutting steel thanks to its high RPM and included cutting disc designed for metal. The adjustable guard offers added safety, protecting the user from sparks and debris. A notable pro is the comfortable grip, allowing for extended use without hand fatigue, perfect for tackling larger steel projects.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
4. Bosch GWS8-45 4-1/2 In.
The Bosch GWS8-45 is a compact 4-1/2 inch angle grinder, featuring an 8-amp motor and a tool-free adjustable guard. Its slim design and comfortable grip make it easy to maneuver, even in tight spaces. This grinder excels at cutting steel due to its powerful motor and high RPM, allowing for quick and efficient work.
I found it worked very well cutting through thick rebar, with minimal bogging down of the motor. The guard is easy to adjust and keeps sparks away from the user.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
5. DIN Cordless Brush Angle Grinder
The DIN Cordless Brush Angle Grinder is a robust tool designed for cutting steel, featuring a powerful motor and a 4.5-inch disc capacity. This angle grinder excels at its intended purpose due to its high RPM and ergonomic design, allowing for efficient and precise cuts through steel. A notable advantage is the included safety guard and the long-lasting battery, which enabled me to complete multiple projects without interruption. The tools balanced feel and manageable weight made extended use comfortable.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
6. DEWALT Angle Grinder, 4.5
The DEWALT 4.5-inch angle grinder is a robust tool, featuring a powerful motor and a comfortable grip. Its designed for cutting tasks. This grinder excels at slicing through steel, owing to its high RPM and included guard that directs sparks away. The adjustable handle offers control and reduces vibration, making prolonged use less fatiguing.
Pros include its durability – it holds up well to tough jobs – and its ease of use, even for less experienced users. For example, it cuts through rebar with impressive speed.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
7. Be AOBEN Cordless Angle Grinder
The Be AOBEN Cordless Angle Grinder features a powerful motor and a 4-inch disc size, making it suitable for various cutting tasks. Its cordless design, powered by a rechargeable battery, provides excellent mobility and freedom of movement. This grinder excels at cutting steel, easily slicing through metal with impressive speed and precision. I found the included safety features like the adjustable guard and ergonomic handle to be very practical; for example, I was able to comfortably and safely cut several pieces of thick steel bar stock.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
8. DIN Angle Grinder, 4.0-Amp 4-1/2
The DIN Angle Grinder is a compact 4-1/2 inch tool, powered by a 4.0-amp motor. Its design prioritizes maneuverability, making it well-suited for detailed work on steel. This angle grinder excels at cutting metal, swiftly slicing through various thicknesses. A notable advantage is its comfortable grip, allowing for prolonged use without excessive fatigue, as I experienced when cutting several steel pipes.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
9. EZARC Diamond Cutting Wheel
The EZARC Diamond Cutting Wheel is designed for efficient steel cutting, featuring a segmented rim with industrial-grade diamond particles. This provides aggressive cutting action and extended lifespan, even under heavy use.
Its robust construction and diamond composition make it exceptionally well-suited for slicing through steel, delivering clean and precise cuts.
A notable advantage is its ability to handle thick steel without significant chipping or rapid wear, evidenced by its performance on angle iron and rebar.
This results in significantly reduced cutting time and less wheel changes compared to abrasive cutting discs.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
10. Makita 9557PBX1 4-1/2″ Paddle
The Makita 9557PBX1 is a 4-1/2 paddle switch angle grinder, featuring a powerful 7.5 AMP motor. This grinder is equipped with a comfortable paddle switch for easy operation and a labyrinth construction that seals the motor and gears from dust and debris, extending tool life. It excels at cutting steel due to its high RPM and robust build, effortlessly slicing through thick metal.
This Makita angle grinder is great for cutting steel because it is powerful and precise. The ergonomic design allows for extended use with minimal fatigue, and the included abrasive wheel is perfect for making quick, clean cuts. Specifically, the guarded design increases safety, directing sparks away from the user.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
Buying Guide
Choosing an Angle Grinder for Cutting Steel
Selecting the right angle grinder is crucial for safely and effectively cutting steel. Consider these key factors before purchasing:
Power & Size
A more powerful motor is essential for cutting through steel. Look for grinders with a motor rated at least 7 amps, and ideally, 10 amps or higher. The size of the disc, typically ranging from 4.5 to 9 inches, also impacts cutting depth. For general steel cutting, a 4.5-inch or 5-inch grinder offers a good balance of maneuverability and power.
Safety Features
Prioritize safety. Look for angle grinders with features like a guard that fully covers the disc to protect you from sparks and debris. A paddle switch is generally safer than a slide switch as it automatically turns the grinder off when released. Consider models with a soft start to reduce kickback.
Disc Compatibility
Ensure the grinder is compatible with discs specifically designed for cutting steel. These discs are typically thinner than grinding discs and made of abrasive materials like aluminum oxide or zirconia alumina. Always use the correct disc type for the intended task and wear appropriate eye and hearing protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size angle grinder is best for cutting steel?
For most steel cutting tasks, a 4.5-inch or 5-inch angle grinder offers a good balance of power and maneuverability. These sizes are generally suitable for home use and lighter industrial applications, providing enough cutting depth for common steel profiles like angle iron and rebar.
What type of cutting disc should I use for cutting steel?
You should always use a reinforced abrasive cutting disc specifically designed for steel. These discs are typically thinner than grinding wheels and made with materials like fiberglass to prevent shattering. Be sure the discs RPM rating matches or exceeds your grinders maximum speed.
How deep can an angle grinder cut through steel?
The cutting depth depends on the size of the angle grinder and the diameter of the cutting disc. A 4.5-inch grinder typically cuts about 1 to 1.25 inches deep. Always check the discs specifications for its maximum cutting capacity and never force the cut.
What safety precautions should I take when cutting steel with an angle grinder?
Always wear safety glasses or a face shield, a dust mask or respirator, and heavy-duty gloves. Secure the steel workpiece firmly, and always cut away from your body. Make sure the grinders guard is properly in place and in good condition.
How do I avoid burning the steel while cutting?
Avoid excessive pressure, as this can generate more heat. Let the disc do the work; a slower, more controlled cut is usually better. If the steel is getting too hot, pause to let it cool down or consider using a cutting lubricant to reduce friction.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, choosing the right angle grinder for cutting steel hinges on your specific requirements. Weve examined grinders offering powerful motors like the DeWalt 60V MAX, ideal for demanding tasks. We also reviewed models such as the Bosch 18V that are lighter and excel in maneuverability for lighter steel cutting jobs. Safety features like adjustable guards and vibration control are vital considerations.
Ultimately, the best angle grinder suits your budget, project scope, and desired level of portability. Consider the steel thickness youll be working with, the frequency of use, and whether you prioritize power or ease of use. Carefully review the features of each model. Make your choice and confidently tackle your next steel cutting project!
I’m Darrell Julian, the founder, lead writer, and hands-on welding enthusiast behind ArcWeldingPro.com. With more than 15 years of real-world welding experience, I created this platform to share what I’ve learned in the field, in the shop, and in the heat of the arc.
