5 Best Makita Angle Grinders to Buy in 2024

An angle grinder is one of the handheld power must-have machines. Angle grinders made by Makita offer ease of use, power, and durability. I’ve made a review of several top instruments and shared a few tips to help you find the best Makita angle grinder for your needs.

It can be used for a range of jobs depending on the blade you attach to it, just purchase the disc that is suitable for the job. You can use an angle grinder for cutting, sanding, polishing, and sharpening a wide variety of materials.

Product
Top Pick
Makita XAG04Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion...
Runner Up
Makita 9557PBX1 4-1/2" Paddle Switch...
Premium Pick
Makita GA9040S 9" Angle Grinder
Title
Makita XAG04Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion...
Makita 9557PBX1 4-1/2" Paddle Switch...
Makita GA9040S 9" Angle Grinder
Prime
-
-
Pros
Automatic speed change feature
AC and DC power input
Protective zig-zag varnish seals armature for longer tool life
Top Pick
Product
Makita XAG04Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion...
Title
Makita XAG04Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion...
Prime
-
Pros
Automatic speed change feature
My review
Runner Up
Product
Makita 9557PBX1 4-1/2" Paddle Switch...
Title
Makita 9557PBX1 4-1/2" Paddle Switch...
Prime
Pros
AC and DC power input
My review
Premium Pick
Product
Makita GA9040S 9" Angle Grinder
Title
Makita GA9040S 9" Angle Grinder
Prime
-
Pros
Protective zig-zag varnish seals armature for longer tool life
My review

Top 5 Best Makita Angle Grinders Reviewed

  1. Makita XAG04Z – Great Performance for a Cordless Angle Grinder
  2. Makita 9557PBX1 – Heavy-Duty Angle Grinder Kit
  3. Makita GA9040S – Perfect Angle Grinder for Heavy-Duty Tasks
  4. Makita 9565CV – Angle Grinder With Variable Speed
  5. Makita GA6010Z – Nice Budget Option

Below, you can familiarize yourself with detailed Makita angle grinder reviews of these five products. My professional experience and a list of pros and cons are included.

Makita XAG04Z – Great Performance for a Cordless Angle Grinder

Due to its performance and ergonomic design, I find it the top-of-the-line cordless angle grinder from Makita. It’s designed to reduce stress and fatigue with its lightweight construction and rubberized grip. The lightweight and portable device is powered by a brushless motor and features a comfortable rubberized grip and lock-on sliding switch.
Aside from that, it features a lock-on switch that you can easily access from the side, without accidentally triggering it. You can check the battery life with the indicator so that you know exactly whether to charge the tool or continue using it.

Using this Makita angle grinder 18V was smooth and pleasant for me. It’s an excellent choice with a great run time for locations where it is hard to reach with power. Weld removal is one of the toughest jobs for an angle grinder, but it does the work excellently.

Positives:
  • Great value for money;
  • Decent RPM;
  • Long battery life;
  • Great safety features;
  • Automatic speed change feature;
  • Active feedback-sensing technology;
  • Automatic shut-down if the rotating wheel stops.
Could be better:
  • A battery and a charger are not included, so you have to purchase them separately.

Makita 9557PBX1 – Heavy-Duty Angle Grinder Kit

The Makita 9557PBX1 angle grinder is a great pick if you need an angle grinder for DIY jobs around the house. It has a short barrel handle and a 7.5-Amp motor, but don’t let those facts deter you from using it for a wide range of household tasks.

You can use the tool on its own, but it also comes with five different grinding wheels and a metal tool bag, making it ideal for a garage workshop. The availability of additional wheels is pretty impressive, which makes it a good deal to purchase. I appreciate its compact size and mobility. The tool is versatile and suitable for a wide range of tasks such as cutting tile and removing rust from automobiles to grinding down concrete and even more. I’ve noticed the ease of use without compromising on its effective grinding. Despite its high speed of 11,000 RPM, the tool isn’t designed for more sensitive tasks due to the lack of variable-speed capability.

Positives:
  • Lightweight and compact;
  • AC and DC power input;
  • Additional wheels included;
  • Simple in operation and handling;
  • Barrel grip of narrow diameter;
  • Versatile power use;
  • High-power output.
Could be better:
  • Few users had issues with the motor getting too hot;
  • It’s a one-speed device.

Makita GA9040S – Perfect Angle Grinder for Heavy-Duty Tasks

From my experience, this model is easy to use and precise in its cutting. It is frequently used in the rough-and-tumble construction industry, and it is powerful enough to cut through stone blocks. I admire its soft start feature and extremely fast speeds with hardly any vibration, which streamlines the process of accomplishing projects on your own.

After having used it for about two months, I can confidently declare that this angle grinder works up to par. I recommend it for anybody who uses a grinding wheel grinder for long periods. Power and torque are abundant at any pace. The tool comes with a grinding wheel, and you need to purchase other wheels on your own.

Positives:
  • Soft start feature;
  • You can adjust wheel guards without using tools;
  • The rotatable rear handle can be positioned for multiple applications;
  • Rugged metal gear housing for added safety;
  • Labyrinth construction protects the motor and bearings from dust and debris;
  • Protective zig-zag varnish seals armature for longer tool life.
Could be better:
  • You need to pick up some flanges for your cut-off/diamond wheel to make sure the blade stays put.

Makita 9565CV – Angle Grinder With a Variable Speed

It’s a pretty potent and excellent tool from my perspective. Using it was a breeze, and it fitted well in my hand. The impressive feature is the possibility to slow down or increase the RPM with a switch. This Makita angle grinder is one of the most adaptable options due to its five changeable speeds.

The tool is supplied only with a grinding wheel made of metal. Changing the grinding wheel allowed me to cut a wide variety of materials, from granite to metal. This multitasking tool with the right blade for the job might be the best fit for you if you need sustained operation with a variable speed option. I recommend wearing gloves while using this grinder since it can become quite hot when cutting tougher materials.

Positives:
  • Super Joint System (SJS) technology helps prevent gear damage caused by accidental wheel binding;
  • Variable speed control dial;
  • Soft-start feature;
  • Electronic speed control maintains constant speed under load;
  • Larger and improved carbon brush material;
  • Powerful 13 AMP motor design.
Could be better:
  • Several customers have complained that it doesn’t last long.

Makita GA6010Z – Nice Budget Option

The strength of this Angle Grinder is just what is needed for home projects. It’s very straightforward to mount, and it also makes clean cuts. I tested the tool on cutting masonry, and it performed an excellent job. I found it easy to change the trigger and the cord. The device functions without any problems; it is easy to handle and well-balanced. It’s a fantastic bargain for such a device for the price, but keep in mind that it doesn’t have a trigger lock. As with all of the reviewed devices, you can adjust your Makita right-angle grinder switch to the left angle by mounting the handle at any time.

Positives:
  • AC/DC switch for use with an alternative power source;
  • The motor and bearings are shielded from dust and other debris thanks to the labyrinthine design;
  • Externally accessible brushes for greater serviceability;
  • Ergonomically designed, the soft grip enhances user comfort;
  • Powerful 10.5 AMP motor;
  • Gear housing rotates 90° for operator convenience.
Could be better:
  • Not durable, according to the reviews of some buyers.

Buyer’s Guide on Makita Angle Grinder

Makita’s angle grinders stand out from the competition because of their exceptionally high power output. In addition to their use for cutting, they are also good for grinding and polishing. Before you go out and buy a cordless angle grinder, it’s vital to think about a few things.

Power

When picking on the top-angle grinder, power is a major factor to consider. RPM is the unit of measurement for the speed of a rotating blade or wheel. Makita angle grinders typically operate between 8,500 and 12,000 RPM, but many of them are single-speed.

Angle grinders come in two main varieties: corded and cordless. Pneumatic angle grinders also exist, albeit these are often reserved for usage in car body shops by experts rather than average DIYers. Makita cordless angle grinder is the best option for operating in confined spaces that don’t require high levels of power but do require mobility. However, if you don’t mind being tethered to an outlet, and really need the extra power, a corded model is a way to go. What matters the most is the goal you set for yourself.

Size and weight

Makita Angle Grinder lies on the table

The most versatile tool is a 4-inch angle grinder. However, a 5-inch device is considered to be superior to its 4-inch alternative due to the capability to swiftly saw through the tubing. For tougher materials like steel and concrete, I recommend using a 7-9-inch angle grinder.

Over time, your arms, shoulders, and back can hurt from holding a hefty angle grinder for too long. As a result, it will be harder to handle than a lighter version. Most Makita tools are on the heavy side, but they are extremely powerful and long-lasting thanks to their metal gear housing and ball-bearing construction.

Switch types

There are four different types of switches to consider when looking for an angle grinder. Keep in mind that some of these switches include the lock-on feature, allowing a grinder to remain on without the need to be constantly activated.

  • Toggle switch: basic on/off switch, usually located behind a grinder;
  • Slide switch: basic on/off switch, generally found on the side of a grinder;
  • Paddle switch: usually a variable switch placed underneath a grinder;
  • Trigger switch: usually a variable switch that you can find underneath a grinder.

Blade

The angle grinder’s blade needs to be specifically designed for the task at hand. Here are the types:

  • Grinding blade. The grinding blade is designed to cut through particularly thick materials. It’s common practice in the metalworking industry to employ this technique after welding to polish off any sharp corners.
  • Flap blade. It is strikingly identical to the grinding blade. The only noticeable difference is the addition of sandpaper on the underside of the flange.
  • Cutting blade. As a result of the blade’s exceptional sharpness and ultra-thin layer, you need to apply very little effort to cut dense materials like metal. The thin blade not only cuts but also grinds them.
  • Diamond blade. The edges of the diamond blade are carved with intricate grooves. You need a diamond blade if you’re working with extremely thick materials like stone, concrete, or marble tile.
  • Wire wheel. Lastly, there’s the wire wheel, which can be constructed of either stainless or carbon steel. It is used to get the work area clean before you start welding. This blade’s construction of fine wires makes short work of metal.

Safety

Lacerations are a typical result of working with an angle grinder. The angle grinder’s protective guard must be in place, and you should wear goggles, gloves, and a visor if one is available. Pieces of the cutting disc or the object being cut can often break off and fly into the air. This can easily generate lacerations or cause major harm, including blindness, to you or someone around.

FAQ About Makita Angle Grinders

You still might have some questions, even after reading all that information about angle grinders. Check here for the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.

How to use a Makita angle grinder?

Keep one hand on the grinding wheel and the other – on the handle of the angle grinder. To activate the grinder, either press the “on” button or pull the trigger/paddle. Keep your grip tight on the grinder and work gently toward the workpiece to complete the cut or grind.

How to set up a Makita angle grinder?

Insert the cutting disk and secure the wheel guard in place. Insert the bolt into the handle. Use a screwdriver to keep the bolt in place. Tighten the handle of the screwdriver. Insert the inner flange onto the shaft. Lock the disc onto the drive shaft, and tighten the locking tool.

How to change the blade on a Makita angle grinder?

Prior to utilizing an angle grinder, ensure that you have adequate protection. Put in the right disc for the task you wish to accomplish. Keep one hand on the grinding wheel and the other – on the handle. Press the “on” button or pull the trigger/paddle to activate the device.

The Best Grinder Is Found

Quick tasks, such as making shorter cuts (300mm or less), working with modest quantities of steel rebar, or eliminating burs are best accomplished using an 18V battery-powered angle grinder. There’s no substitute for a good old-fashioned corded machine when you need to cut longer pieces (above 300mm) or stuff that demands more power from your batteries, such as thick materials or continuous all-day use.

Therefore, an 18V angle grinder is an ideal general-purpose tool that serves many tasks and can be used quickly and easily in a variety of settings, including the DIY home workshop and the trades. If you’re going to get a cordless angle grinder, you should probably get a spare battery as well. With its user-friendly design and high level of performance, the Makita XAG04Z emerged as my top pick among the grinders I tested.

Best Makita angle grinder – Comparison table

ProductVoltageRPMWeightPower source
Makita XAG04Z‎18V8,500 RPM4.8 poundsHand-powered
Makita 9557PBX1120V
11,000 RPM‎12.54 poundsCorded, electric
Makita GA9040S120V‎6,000 RPM11 poundsCorded, electric
Makita 9565CV120V2,800 – 10,500 RPM7.21 poundsElectric Powered
Makita GA6010Z120V10,000 RPM5 PoundsCorded, electric

Do you currently own a Makita angle grinder? Maybe, you have heard about it or tried the one I haven’t mentioned? Please share your thoughts in the comments below.

Sean Chapman
Sean Chapman

“A good tool stays with you for many years and choosing carefully ensures the job is done right, your work is neat, and the tool is always a pleasure to use”

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