You want a grinder that feels predictable in your hands, lasts through tough jobs, and gets the work done without fuss. Slide switch angle grinders are a practical choice because they let you lock the tool for continuous work while keeping the controls simple. The models below range from compact cordless grinders to heavier corded options for metalwork, weld prep, masonry touch-ups, and general DIY jobs.
Knowing which features matter, such as power delivery, wheel size, guard design, dust protection, safety clutch, kickback control, and battery compatibility, helps you pick a grinder that saves time, reduces fatigue, and fits the way you actually work.
Affiliate disclosure: This roundup is reader-supported. When you click through Amazon links, we may earn a referral commission on qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Quick Verdict
Best overall: Metabo W11 is the strongest all-around pick if you want corded power, a safety clutch, and a durable shop-ready build.
Best cordless pick: DeWalt DCG407B makes the most sense if you already use DeWalt 20V batteries and want cordless mobility without giving up everyday cutting and grinding power.
Best for fast wheel changes: Bosch GWX18V is the easiest choice if you switch often between cutting wheels, grinding wheels, flap discs, and wire wheels.
Best budget-friendly choice: Makita GA4030 is a compact 4-inch corded grinder for lighter DIY jobs, weld smoothing, surface prep, and quick garage work.
Top Picks
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Category |
Product |
Score |
|---|---|---|
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🏆 Best Overall |
96/100 |
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🔋 Best With Existing Batteries |
94/100 |
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⚡ Best Power-to-Weight |
92/100 |
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🚀 Best For Fast Disc Changes |
90/100 |
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🔰 Best For Heavy Duty |
88/100 |
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⭐ Most Reliable Corded |
87/100 |
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💼 Best Complete Kit |
85/100 |
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🎯 Best Value Cordless |
84/100 |
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💰 Best Affordable Pick |
78/100 |
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🎨 Best Basic Corded Option |
70/100 |
How We Picked These Grinders
You need a grinder that matches how you work, so we prioritized real-world factors: consistent power under load, safe control during longer cuts, guard design, switch ergonomics, wheel size, build quality, and whether the tool fits a common battery platform. We also looked for useful safety and protection features such as restart protection, overload protection, a mechanical clutch, KickBack Control, dust screens, or a tool-free guard.
Value also matters. A cheaper grinder can be the right pick for occasional use, while a higher-amp corded model is better for long grinding sessions. Cordless models earn points for portability, but battery size, runtime, and balance should be checked before buying.
Before You Buy
- Check wheel size: Most picks here use 4-inch, 4-1/2-inch, 5-inch, or 6-inch accessories. Match the wheel to the grinder and guard.
- Confirm switch style: Slide switches are convenient for continuous work, but they require careful handling because the tool can stay on when locked.
- Match your power source: Choose corded for long, heavy grinding and cordless for short jobs, jobsite mobility, or work away from outlets.
- Check guard compatibility: Use the correct guard for cutting, grinding, and wire-wheel work.
- Verify what is included: Some listings are tool-only, some include batteries, and some include discs or a case.
Best Slide Switch Angle Grinder Reviews
You want a grinder that simply works when you need it, and this Metabo delivers the steady control that makes longer jobs less of a chore. It is built around a high-torque motor design and protective features that help it deal with abrasive dust, heat, weld prep, and frequent metal grinding.
The rotatable die-cast housing and rubber side handle make it easier to hold in different positions, while the S-Automatic safety clutch helps reduce kickback risk if a wheel binds. If your projects demand torque, control, and a sturdy corded build, this is the strongest overall pick.
Who should buy this: Choose it for regular metalwork, weld clean-up, grinding, cutting, and shop use where corded power matters.
Who should avoid this: Skip it if you only need a small grinder for light, occasional jobs or if cordless mobility is your main priority.
What People Say
Customers often point to strong build quality, impressive power, smooth starts, and the ergonomic grip as big positives. Some buyers mention occasional packaging or early motor issues, so it is still worth checking current Amazon feedback before purchase.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
Durability
The die-cast aluminum gear housing, protected windings, and cooling-focused construction make this a strong option for demanding work. Like any grinder, it still needs clean vents, correct wheels, and proper cooldown time during heavy use.
Problem Solving
This grinder tackles weld seam dressing, metal cutting, surface prep, and masonry work with consistent corded power. The safety clutch and rotatable housing help when work angles get awkward or a disc starts to bind.
Key Benefits
- High-torque motor for faster material removal
- S-Automatic safety slip clutch helps reduce kickback risk
- Ergonomic rubber side handle lowers hand fatigue
- Tool-free, burst-proof adjustable guard for quick setup
- Durable die-cast housing for demanding shop use
Rating note: Amazon ratings and review counts change often. Check the current listing before buying.
You get a cordless grinder that feels like a proper shop tool without the cord tying you down. The brushless motor helps keep speed more consistent during everyday cutting and grinding, while built-in protections help reduce downtime from heat, overload, and debris.
The slide-switch makes continuous work easier, and the tool accepts common wheel sizes and guards, so you can move between cutting, grinding, and wire-wheel work with less fuss. If you already run DeWalt 20V batteries, this is one of the easiest cordless picks to justify.
Who should buy this: Choose it for jobsite mobility, repair work, and shop tasks when you already own compatible DeWalt batteries.
Who should avoid this: Skip it if you need nonstop grinding for long periods and do not want to manage spare batteries.
What People Say
Users frequently praise the grinder’s consistent power and how it handles everyday cutting and grinding without bogging down. Many highlight cordless convenience, while some note that runtime depends on the battery paired with the tool.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
Durability
The brushless design and mesh screens help protect internals from dust and heat. With proper care, clean vents, and the right batteries, it should hold up well for regular shop or jobsite work.
Problem Solving
This grinder removes the cord constraint for on-site work and keeps speed steady when you push it, which makes cutting rebar, grinding welds, and surface prep more predictable.
Key Benefits
- Brushless motor that helps maintain speed under load
- Overload protection and mesh screens for component safety
- Slide-switch for continuous operation
- Compatible with common Type A and Type B guards
- Portable balance suited to jobsite and shop use
Rating note: Amazon ratings and review counts change often. Check the current listing before buying.
You get a balanced 6-inch grinder that favors comfort without giving up useful power. The narrow profile and anti-vibration handle make longer sessions easier on your hands, while the 13-amp motor helps keep cuts and grinding steady.
Built-in cooling and protection features help when you push through tougher jobs without constantly babysitting the tool. Use it for medium-weight metalwork, surface prep, and occasional concrete or masonry tasks.
Who should buy this: Choose it if you want a 6-inch grinder that balances power, safety features, and hand comfort.
Who should avoid this: Skip it if you prefer a smaller 4-1/2-inch body or need the lightest tool possible.
What People Say
People often highlight Bosch build quality and comfortable ergonomics, noting that it handles medium-duty grinding and cutting well. Some mention that the side switch and controls can feel awkward depending on personal preference.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
Durability
Bosch grinders tend to feel robust, and this one benefits from improved cooling and quality gearing. Routine cleaning, correct guard use, and avoiding excessive pressure will help it stay reliable.
Problem Solving
This grinder helps you manage longer, messier jobs by reducing vibration and protecting the motor from heat and overload. KickBack Control can also help reduce sudden jerks when discs bind.
Key Benefits
- Strong power-to-weight balance for less fatigue
- KickBack Control and soft start for safer handling
- Enhanced motor cooling for longer runs
- Anti-vibration side handle improves control
- Compatible with Bosch guards and shrouds
Rating note: Amazon ratings and review counts change often. Check the current listing before buying.
You get a compact cordless grinder that speeds up routine jobs by making wheel changes painless. The X-LOCK system saves time when you switch between cutting, grinding, brushing, and flap-disc work, while the brushless motor helps balance power and battery efficiency.
It is handy for quick outdoor jobs, welding prep with wire wheels, and light-to-medium metal work where portability matters. If you already use Bosch 18V batteries or want one grinder for varied tasks, this model is a smart fit.
Who should buy this: Choose it if you switch discs often and value quick accessory changes more than maximum corded torque.
Who should avoid this: Skip it if you already own many standard non-X-LOCK wheels or need long, heavy grinding sessions.
What People Say
People praise the X-LOCK swap system and Bosch build quality, saying it makes one-grinder workflows practical. Many users find it ideal for light to medium tasks and like the smooth start, while some caution that runtime and balance depend on battery size.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
Durability
The brushless motor and Bosch build quality point to solid long-term use for DIY and shop tasks. Heavy continuous grinding can drain batteries quickly, so keep spare packs ready if you work for long stretches.
Problem Solving
This grinder solves the common hassle of swapping discs during multi-step jobs and gives you cordless mobility away from a bench. It handles cutting, grinding, and wire-wheel tasks well, but a corded model is better for sustained heavy grinding.
Key Benefits
- X-LOCK wheel system for tool-free, fast disc changes
- Brushless motor for efficient runtime and consistent power
- Soft start and overload protection for safer operation
- Slim soft-grip design and two-position handle for control
- Adjustable tool-free guard for quick setup across jobs
Rating note: Amazon ratings and review counts change often. Check the current listing before buying.
You are looking at a heavier-duty option meant for demanding jobs where torque and reliability matter. The corded motor gives you consistent power for weld prep, heavy stock removal, and cutting thicker sections, while the low-vibration handle and rotatable gear housing make longer sessions easier to control.
The M-Quick wheel change and safety clutch are practical additions that speed setup and reduce kickback risk. If your projects push a grinder hard and you want a tool built for tougher work, this is a sensible choice.
Who should buy this: Choose it for serious weld clean-up, fabrication, heavy grinding, and regular shop use.
Who should avoid this: Skip it if you want a compact lightweight grinder for quick household cuts.
What People Say
People often praise the raw power and smooth performance, saying it feels built for professional use and tackles tough grinding without bogging down. Some buyers report rare motor failures or warranty delays, so check current reviews before buying.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
Durability
The die-cast housing, protected windings, and airflow-focused design point to a tool engineered for long life under heavy use. As with any high-load grinder, avoid forcing cuts and keep the vents clean.
Problem Solving
This grinder handles weld clean-up, thick metal cutting, and tough abrasive work without much hesitation. The safety slip clutch and quick-change nut help when a disc binds or when you need to swap accessories quickly.
Key Benefits
- High-torque motor for heavy material removal
- S-Automatic safety clutch helps reduce kickback
- M-Quick wheel change for fast accessory swaps
- Low-vibration handle improves comfort on long jobs
- Rotatable die-cast housing for flexible grip positions
Rating note: Amazon ratings and review counts change often. Check the current listing before buying.
You get a workhorse built for regular shop and jobsite use. The Dust Ejection system helps protect the motor from debris, while the One-Touch guard gives you flexible protection for awkward angles.
It feels substantial in the hand, so it is a strong fit for cutting rebar, grinding welds, and heavy-duty metal prep where steady power matters. If you want a dependable corded grinder for frequent use, this is a practical pick.
Who should buy this: Choose it if you want a familiar corded grinder with dust protection and fast guard adjustment.
Who should avoid this: Skip it if you have smaller hands or need the lightest possible grinder for overhead work.
What People Say
People commonly praise the grinder’s power and durability, noting that it cuts and grinds metal reliably. Users like the adjustable guard and dust protection, and many appreciate quick wheel release when switching tasks.
A few mention the tool’s girth and weight, so consider hand size and how long you will hold it.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
Durability
This model is built to be rugged, and its dust ejection feature helps protect internal components. Heavy users should still expect normal wear items such as brushes to need periodic replacement.
Problem Solving
It solves common shop headaches by helping prevent dust-related motor damage and making guard and wheel changes faster. It is especially useful for cutting thick metal and consistent weld prep.
Key Benefits
- Dust Ejection system helps protect internal components
- One-Touch 360 degree guard for fast adjustment
- Quick-Change Wheel Release speeds swaps
- Robust build quality suited to regular use
- Good power and torque for heavy cutting
Rating note: Amazon ratings and review counts change often. Check the current listing before buying.
You get a true cordless kit that is ready for on-the-go jobs. The included battery and charger mean you can start without buying a separate power pack, and the variable-speed control helps you slow things down for brushes or speed up for cutting.
It is comfortable to hold, handles routine metalwork and polishing well, and the extra discs and guards make it a practical all-in-one starter for home or light professional tasks.
Who should buy this: Choose it if you want a cordless kit with the battery, charger, and accessories included.
Who should avoid this: Skip it if you already own a major battery platform and prefer to stay inside that system.
What People Say
Users frequently highlight how convenient the kit is out of the box, praising the battery inclusion and range of accessories. Many mention the variable-speed control and comfortable handling as pluses for small to medium jobs.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
Durability
Build and heat management are generally suited to routine use. Expect dependable service for household and light shop tasks, but consumable discs may need frequent replacement.
Problem Solving
This grinder solves mobility headaches by removing cord limits. The speed range helps you adapt between cutting, sanding, and polishing without swapping tools.
Key Benefits
- Complete kit with battery and charger for immediate use
- Variable speed for more control with brushes and sanding
- Cordless mobility lets you work away from outlets
- Comfortable grip and included auxiliary handle for control
- Accessory bundle gives you cutting, grinding, and polishing options
Rating note: Amazon ratings and review counts change often. Check the current listing before buying.
You get a compact cordless grinder built for quick jobs around the garage or jobsite. It accepts DeWalt-style 20V batteries, so it can be convenient if you already own compatible packs, and the brushless motor helps balance power with heat control.
The low vibration and auxiliary handle make it easier to hold steady for polishing, light grinding, or weld prep. If you want a portable tool for short to medium tasks, this one is a solid value pick.
Who should buy this: Choose it if you want an affordable cordless grinder that can work with batteries you may already own.
Who should avoid this: Skip it if you want a first-party DeWalt tool or need heavy continuous grinding.
What People Say
Users often praise how powerful and smooth the grinder feels for its size. Many like that it fits DeWalt-style batteries and comes with accessories, though runtime still depends heavily on the battery.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
Durability
The brushless design and reported heat management suggest good durability for typical DIY and shop tasks. Very heavy continuous use will stress batteries and components faster.
Problem Solving
This grinder makes quick cutting, light grinding, and polishing more convenient by removing cord restrictions and simplifying jobsite movement.
Key Benefits
- Brushless motor for efficient runtime and less heat
- Fits DeWalt-style 20V batteries for cross-compatibility
- Low vibration design for more comfortable use
- Includes useful accessories so you can get started immediately
- Lock-on slide switch for continuous operation
Rating note: Amazon ratings and review counts change often. Check the current listing before buying.
You will find this Makita a straightforward, no-nonsense grinder for routine jobs. It is compact enough for tight spaces yet solid enough for metal prep, cutting bolts, weld smoothing, and occasional masonry touch-ups.
The included case helps keep the tool and accessories organized when you are moving between jobs or storing it in the garage. If you want a dependable corded grinder for home projects or a backup tool, this one is easy to consider.
Who should buy this: Choose it for compact handling, lighter DIY work, and a simple corded setup.
Who should avoid this: Skip it if you need 4-1/2-inch wheel compatibility or heavy industrial grinding power.
What People Say
Most users appreciate the grinder’s solid build and how easily it handles common DIY tasks. People mention the compact feel and useful tool case, while some note issues on arrival or early faults.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
Durability
For intermittent workshop use, this unit tends to hold up well. Because this listing is a renewed option, check the current seller details, warranty terms, and return window before buying.
Problem Solving
This grinder solves common DIY headaches by offering a nimble, high-speed tool for cutting, weld prep, and light masonry work. It is not built for nonstop industrial grinding but handles home and shop projects reliably.
Key Benefits
- Compact, maneuverable body for tight spaces
- 6-amp motor with 11,000 RPM no-load speed
- Includes tool case for tidy storage and transport
- Slide switch with lock-on operation
- Good value for occasional users who want a corded grinder
Rating note: Amazon ratings and review counts change often. Check the current listing before buying.
If your projects demand a simple corded grinder that leans toward power over portability, this Metabo is worth a look. It is built around a robust AC/DC motor and cooling-focused design, which helps when you are cutting steel or preparing welds.
The rotatable gear housing and low-vibration handle make it easier to hold through tougher sessions, and the tool-free guard plus quick-change nut speed setup so you spend more time working and less time adjusting.
Who should buy this: Choose it if you want a basic corded Metabo option for regular shop or heavier DIY jobs.
Who should avoid this: Skip it if you want the strongest user feedback history or the most refined safety package in this roundup.
What People Say
Users who work with grinders often highlight the tool’s strength and suitability for heavy tasks like weld prep and metal removal. Buyer feedback is more limited than on some other picks, so compare current reviews before deciding.
Overall Sentiment: Neutral
Durability
The unit is designed for tough environments with improved heat dissipation and winding protection. Limited review volume means buyers should check current listing feedback carefully.
Problem Solving
This grinder handles stock removal, weld seam dressing, and cutting thick materials, while the safety clutch and quick-change nut help when work gets demanding.
Key Benefits
- Heavy-duty AC/DC motor for cutting and grinding
- Cooling-focused design and winding protection
- Low-vibration handle for better control during long runs
- Tool-free guard and quick-change nut for fast setup
- Rotatable die-cast housing for flexible grip positions
Rating note: Amazon ratings and review counts change often. Check the current listing before buying.
Safety Note For Slide Switch Grinders
Slide switches are convenient because they can stay on during longer cuts or grinding passes, but that same feature requires extra care. Use the lock-on function only when you can keep a firm two-handed grip, the side handle is installed, the correct guard is fitted, and your stance keeps you out of the wheel path.
Always wear eye protection, hearing protection, gloves suited to the task, and respiratory protection when cutting masonry, painted surfaces, or dusty materials. Inspect wheels for chips or cracks before use, match wheel RPM to the grinder, and unplug or remove the battery before changing accessories.
FAQ
Are Slide Switch Grinders Safe For Continuous Use?
Slide switch grinders can be safe for continuous use when handled correctly, but they demand attention because the tool can stay running when locked on. Look for built-in protections like soft start, overload or restart protection, a mechanical slip clutch, or KickBack Control, and always keep the guard and side handle fitted for stable control.
Use the lock only when you can maintain a two-handed grip. Do not use a locked-on grinder one-handed, and never place your body in the path of a binding wheel.
Should I Buy Corded Or Cordless?
Corded models give you steady torque for long sessions and heavy cutting, while cordless units offer mobility so you can work away from outlets or in tight spots. If you already own a battery platform, choosing a grinder that uses the same batteries can save money and simplify charging.
For quick jobs and site mobility, choose cordless. For nonstop grinding, thick metal cutting, or long fabrication sessions, a corded grinder or a higher-powered cordless setup will usually serve you better.
What Wheel Size Should I Choose?
A 4-inch or 4-1/2-inch grinder is easier to control for compact jobs, cutting bolts, cleaning welds, and light surface prep. A 5-inch or 6-inch grinder gives you more reach and cutting capacity but usually adds weight and requires more control.
Always match the wheel size, wheel type, guard, and rated RPM to the grinder. Never use a wheel that is larger than the guard or rated below the grinder’s speed.
How Do I Keep My Grinder Working Longer?
Treat it like any power tool: keep air intakes and mesh screens clean, avoid forcing the tool into a cut, and let it cool if it smells hot. Inspect discs and guards before each use, replace worn consumables, and check brushes or bearings as recommended by the manufacturer.
If something feels off, such as unusual noise, vibration, burning smell, or intermittent power, stop using the grinder and get it checked rather than pushing it.
Customer Favorites
When you are choosing between the Metabo W11, Bosch GWX18V, and Makita GA4030, customers usually weigh power and build quality against convenience, portability, and budget. You will lean toward the Metabo for raw torque and heavy-duty durability, pick the Bosch for fast tool-free disc changes and cordless mobility, and choose the Makita when you want a compact, affordable grinder for occasional DIY work.
Wrapping Up
Choose a grinder that fits your projects and your workflow. If you want an all-around pro-grade corded tool with safety and torque, the Metabo W11 stands out for power, durability, and control.
If you value mobility and already own DeWalt 20V batteries, the DeWalt DCG407B is the easiest cordless recommendation. If fast disc changes matter most, Bosch’s X-LOCK model makes wheel swaps much quicker. Lighter budgets, cordless kits, and everyday corded options each serve different needs, so match the tool to how often you will use it, the material you will cut, and whether you already own compatible batteries.
Pick the right slide-switch grinder and you will notice smoother setup, less fatigue, and faster progress on your next DIY or shop project.
| Product Name | Image | Current Rating | Best For | Power Source | Maximum Rotational Speed | Weight | Included Components | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metabo 4-1/2-Inch Angle Grinder |
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Check current Amazon listing | Best overall corded pick | Corded Electric | 11,000 RPM | 5 pounds | Angle Grinder, Guard, Inner support flange, M-Quick flange nut, Side handle | Check Price |
| DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless 4 1/2 Inch Grinder |
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Check current Amazon listing | Best for existing DeWalt batteries | Battery Powered | 9,000 RPM | 4.87 pounds | 4 1/2 IN. Grinder, Side Handle, Clip-On Guard, Inner & Outer Flange, Hex Wrench | Check Price |
| BOSCH GWS14-60 6 In. Angle Grinder |
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Check current Amazon listing | Best power-to-weight balance | Corded Electric | 9,700 RPM | 5.2 pounds | 6 In. Angle Grinder, Backing Flange, Lock Nut, Lock Nut Wrench, Type A & B Guards | Check Price |
| Bosch GWX18V-8N 18V X-LOCK Brushless Angle Grinder |
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Check current Amazon listing | Best for fast disc changes | Battery Powered | 11,000 RPM | 5 pounds | Angle Grinder, Side Handle, Grinding Guard | Check Price |
| Metabo 6-Inch Angle Grinder |
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Check current Amazon listing | Best for heavy-duty corded work | Corded Electric | 10,000 RPM | 6.4 pounds | W 13-150 Quick | Check Price |
| DEWALT Angle Grinder Tool DWE4214 |
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Check current Amazon listing | Best reliable corded option | Corded Electric | 11,000 RPM | 6.17 pounds | 4-1/2″ One-Touch Guard, Wrench, 2-position side handle | Check Price |
| Dong Cheng Cordless Angle Grinder |
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Check current Amazon listing | Best complete kit | Battery Powered | 9,000 RPM | 5.5 pounds | Angle Grinder, 4.0Ah battery, Fast Charger, 6 Discs | Check Price |
| APEXPOWER Brushless Angle Grinder |
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Check current Amazon listing | Best value cordless option | Battery Powered | 9,000 RPM | 5.02 pounds | Cordless Angle Grinder, Wrench, 10 Sandpapers, 2 Cutting Wheels, 2 Grinding Wheels, Side Handle | Check Price |
| Makita GA4030K-R 4 in. Slide Switch Angle Grinder |
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Check current Amazon listing | Best affordable light-duty pick | Corded Electric | 11,000 RPM | 3.7 pounds | Angle Grinder with Tool Case | Check Price |
| Metabo 4-1/2-Inch / 5-Inch Angle Grinder |
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Check current Amazon listing | Best basic corded option | Corded Electric | 11,500 RPM | 4.99 pounds | W 750-115 | Check Price |
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