Best Angle Grinders for Cutting Metal, Tiles, Masonry & More

An angle grinder is the right power tool for cutting and grinding metal, brick, concrete, stone & tile. It’s an essential kit for trade professionals & DIYers alike.

There are numerous specific jobs that can be done with an angle grinder, such as removing mortar before repointing brickwork, cutting tiles, or sharpening tools (e.g., lawnmower blades).

Choosing the right model, without the latest advice, is time-consuming & can be expensive. And while the best angle grinder makes light work of numerous tasks, the wrong model only frustrates.

What is an Angle Grinder?

An angle grinder turns an interchangeable disk at a speed of up to 12,000 rpm to cut or grind. There are different sizes, defined by the disk diameter.

The smaller models (115mm or 125mm) are easy to handle, precise, lightweight & cost less.

The 230mm models offer a deeper cutting depth but are heavier and more expensive.

The Best Angle Grinder

Both corded & cordless angle grinders are a match for most jobs. The top choices are effective, powerful & easy to use.

For site work and most jobs around the home & garden, a cordless model is the right choice. Good battery-powered tools are both powerful and convenient. There are, however, a couple of negatives: runtime & price.

Limited runtime can be easily addressed with a second battery. And while the initial outlay is higher for cordless tools, once you own a couple of batteries, everything gets cheaper.

Along with a decision on size and whether to cut the cord, there are several details to consider, including power, control, vibration, noise, and key features such as an electric brake & brushless design.

To save you time & money, we have compared 49 models to shortlist & detail the best angle grinders you can buy in the UK right now.

Budget DIY corded Black & Decker BEG010A5-GB Angle Grinder — Affordable DIY Angle Grinder – Black & Decker BEG010A5

Best Budget Angle Grinder (115mm)
Black & Decker BEG010A5-GB

For DIY, this Black & Decker angle grinder is hard to beat. Ideal for smaller jobs and occasional use, this model is a great choice and exceptional value.

The 710w motor delivers a no-load speed of 12,000rpm to slice through steel & stone with ease. For all your DIY jobs, including grinding out the old mortar between bricks, cutting metal pipes or removing rust from metalwork, this model is the top budget option.

The compact & lightweight design makes it easy to handle and safe to use. As with all angle grinders, PPE is a must – goggles, ear protection, dust mask & gloves are a minimum.

Whatever job you’re planning is essential to use the right disk. Use the link below for the best deal that includes four disks for metal cutting & one for stone/concrete.

Don’t be put off by the rock-bottom price. This is a decent power tool that just so happens to cost under fifty quid.

Black & Decker | Not currently available

Corded Makita GA5030R Angle Grinder with disk and handle — Budget Trade Angle Grinder – Makita GA5030R

Best Budget Angle Grinder for Trade (125mm)
Makita GA5030R

Effective & affordable, the Makita GA5030R is our top budget pick for trade professionals.

Based on quality & reliability, Makita power tools are a top choice for numerous trades. While spending more will deliver improved power and performance, this model is a great match for most tasks.

The 125mm disk diameter gives a cutting depth of 38mm. This provides a step up over the smaller 115mm (depth 30mm) disks without compromising handling.

Internally, there are two labyrinth ring seals to protect the bearings, motor and gears from dust. This design effectively prevents internal dust, resulting in longer service life. To support this, Makita offers a 3-year warranty.

Small design details can make a big difference. A slim motor casing, coupled with a 20-degree angled handle, makes control more comfortable and helps reduce user fatigue.

This Makita is exceptional value for money and our top budget choice for trade.

Makita (corded) | See Best Price on Amazon

Cordless Makita DGA513Z Angle Grinder with disk, handle and brushless motor — Best Makita Angle Grinder for Trade

Cordless Angle Grinder (125mm)
Makita DGA513Z 18V

The advanced technology powering this Makita angle grinder makes it a strong choice compared to standard models.

Cordless design & brushless technology have driven power tool design forward in recent years. While the standout advantages of a brushless motor (longevity and efficiency) are critical, numerous control details also make a big difference.

Safety features on this model, such as soft start and electronic brake, are enabled by the brushless motor.

Variable speed & torque control means you get more power when required, coupled with battery-saving control for lesser tasks.

Also worth noting on this model is the slim soft grip. It’s easy to hold, and with a lockable switch and battery fuel gauge, you have every detail covered.

The range of power tools that use Makita LXT batteries is extensive, from lawn mowers to SDS drills. If you already own these batteries, choosing this angle grinder is straightforward. Or if this is your first Makita cordless power tool, it’s going to cost a few quid but you can only be impressed.

Makita (cordless) | See Best Price on Amazon

best buy cordless Dewalt DCG405 Angle Grinder with disk, battery, handle and brushless motor — Best Buy Dewalt Cordless Angle Grinder

Best Cordless Angle Grinder for Trade
Dewalt

Powerful, effective and easy to use, the Dewalt is the top choice for all trades.

Designed & built for all-day use, the power is controlled by a clever electronic clutch that delivers the right speed & torque for all tasks.

The main reason to choose a cordless model is its ‘use anywhere’ convenience. However, it’s the clever technology built into this Dewalt that makes a significant difference for the user.

The quality brushless motor means this tool can be used all day without overheating or straining the motor – it’s built to last longer.

Then come all the safety enhancements. Perhaps the most significant feature to avoid accidents is the kickback brake. This will stop the wheel from pinching or stalling. This is further supported by a soft start and protection against false starts during battery swaps.

Fatigue and vibration are reduced by the rubber over-mould and anti-vibration side handle. These features, along with the slim body, significantly enhance comfort & control.

This model from Dewalt costs a few quid more than some, but it’s safer, will last longer and will help you get the job done right – quickly & without fuss.

Dewalt (cordless) | See Best Price on Amazon

What Can I Use an Angle Grinder For?

An angle grinder can be used to cut & grind Metal, tiles, masonry & more. It makes numerous tasks doable. Here are the top 8 jobs where we reach for an angle grinder…

1. Cutting ceramic tiles, stone & concrete

Use a cutting disk that’s recommended for the material you’re cutting. While a general masonry disk is ok for concrete, make sure you use a specialist blade for porcelain, ceramics, granite, marble, etc.

Diamond-tipped disks cut faster & last longer, though they cost more.

2. Remove old mortar prior to re-pointing

A masonry mortar raking blade makes light work of removing old mortar. The superior alternative is to use a mortar rake (similar to a drill bit) in an angle grinder. This avoids damaging brick edges and produces less dust.

3. Wall channelling for cables & pipes

Easily cut channels in plaster, cement and brick to run cables & pipes.

4. Strip paint back to bare metal

Rather than spending hours sanding paintwork, a good-quality stripping disk will remove paint without damaging the metal. Perfect for car restoration.

5. Cut bars, rods & bolts

Secure one end of the material you’re cutting, then slice down with a metal cutoff disk/blade. So much easier than a hacksaw!

6. Grind, shape and blend metal

An angle grinder is the right tool for cleaning up edges before welding and for blending a welded joint. Plus, it’s good for shaping almost any metal.

7. Remove rust, clean & restore metal

A wire brush attachment quickly removes rust, dirt & even mortar from any metal surface.

8. Sharpen blades

Clamp the blade firmly & use a metal grinding wheel to quickly sharpen tools such as lawn mower blades, axes, scrapers, and spades. Concentrate on holding the grinder at a consistent angle with even strokes.

Can I use an Angle Grinder for Polishing?

No. Although some review sites recommend polishing with an angle grinder, the speed is too high & it will strip paint. Adding to the confusion, several third-party accessories are advertised as angle grinder polishing kits. While these may be okay for polishing concrete, don’t use them on paintwork.

Your best option (aside from a dedicated polisher) is to use a random orbital sander with speed control & the right attachment.

What Else Do I Need to Know?

Choosing the Right Angle Grinder

There are numerous details to consider when choosing the right model. Here’s a quick summary of what’s important.

How deep can an angle grinder cut?

A 115mm (4.5”) angle grinder will cut to a maximum depth of 30mm, while a 125mm (5”) angle grinder will give you 38mm. The larger 230mm (9”) will cut to a depth of 64mm.

The 230mm option is the right choice for deep cuts through stone & concrete, but they’re heavy & expensive. For most jobs, a 125mm angle grinder is the best option – Easy to handle, precise, lightweight, safe and much cheaper!

Soft Start

This safety feature is standard on more expensive models. The slow start prevents recoil and ensures an accurate, safe cut. It’s good to have on 125mm models, and we consider it essential on large-angle grinders, where the kick-back can be significant.

Vibrations & Noise

Especially if you plan to use your angle grinder for long periods, choosing a model with a low vibration score can make a meaningful difference in user fatigue. Noise is also important in this regard, although good ear protection is a must regardless of which model you choose.

Cable Length

For corded models, a decent cable length and therefore reach are very important.

Dust Extraction Hood

Depending on what you’re cutting, there will be a significant quantity of fine dust generated. In some cases, this cannot be avoided, but there are occasions when attaching a vacuum makes for a quick, clear-up and a healthier working environment.

Brushless Motor

A brushless motor is more efficient, more controllable, and, best of all, lasts much longer than a conventional electric motor. Power tools with a brushless motor do cost more. However, their longevity makes them a better investment – saving you money in the long run.

How to Use an Angle Grinder Safely

When used correctly, an angle grinder is safe and easy to operate. However, it’s worth reviewing the instructions to fully understand your model’s specifics.

Each disk you buy will have a maximum speed, which should be clearly marked. Make sure the top speed of your angle grinder does not exceed this. Disks used above their recommended speed are liable to shatter.

PPE is a must. Goggles, ear protection, dust mask, gloves and no loose clothing may sound obvious, but they’re super important here. Taking sensible precautions will make for a quick & safe job!