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10 Best Milwaukee Grinders 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Milwaukee 2880-20 M18 FUEL Brushless Lithium-Ion 4-1/2 in. / 5 in. Cordless Small Angle Grinder with No-Lock Paddle Switch (Tool Only)

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,300
Power
Weight and Ergonomics
Safety Features

Most important from
1645 reviews

Power
Brushless motor ensures long-lasting durability and impressive power.
Weight and Ergonomics
Compact size and ergonomic handle provide comfort and control, even during extended use.
Safety Features
Stops quickly when you let off the paddle, enhancing safety.
Battery Life (for Cordless Models)
Cordless design offers unparalleled freedom of movement without compromising on power.

The Milwaukee 2880-20 M18 FUEL Brushless Angle Grinder is a strong choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals looking for a portable, battery-powered tool. One of its standout features is the powerful brushless motor, which delivers up to 8500 RPM, making it suitable for a variety of grinding tasks. The compatibility with all M18 batteries adds to its versatility, ensuring that users can easily switch out batteries as needed. Its lightweight design, at just under 5 pounds, combined with an anti-vibration side handle, makes it comfortable to use for extended periods, reducing user fatigue.

Safety features are a key strength, with an electronic clutch providing kickback protection and overload protection to help prolong the motor's life. The 5/8"-11 spindle means it can accommodate common accessories, making it versatile for different applications.

The Milwaukee 2880-20 is a robust and reliable cordless angle grinder that excels in power, safety, and user comfort. It's best suited for users who require a high-performing tool for various grinding tasks, but potential buyers should factor in the additional cost of batteries if they do not already have them.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,300
Power
Weight and Ergonomics
Safety Features

Most important from
1645 reviews

Power
Brushless motor ensures long-lasting durability and impressive power.
Weight and Ergonomics
Compact size and ergonomic handle provide comfort and control, even during extended use.
Safety Features
Stops quickly when you let off the paddle, enhancing safety.
Battery Life (for Cordless Models)
Cordless design offers unparalleled freedom of movement without compromising on power.
#2

Milwaukee 2889-20 M18 4-1/2" - / 5" Variable Speed Braking Grinder (Bare Tool)

Rating
9.6
Speed
Disc Size
Weight and Ergonomics

Most important from
160 reviews

Speed
This grinder shines for finesse grinding, allowing precision work with its variable speed control.
Disc Size
Using 5" discs is ideal for both cutting and grinding, adding to the grinder's versatility.
Weight and Ergonomics
The grinder is well-balanced and comfortable to hold, even with larger batteries.
Safety Features
The Rapid-Stop Brake is a game-changer, stopping the disc in under 2 seconds and speeding up workflow.
Battery Life (for Cordless Models)
Good battery life, especially with the 3AH high capacity battery, which lasts all day for intermittent use.

The Milwaukee 2889-20 M18 Variable Speed Braking Grinder offers a versatile and powerful tool for various grinding needs. One of its notable features is the variable speed control, providing five settings ranging from 3,500 to 8,500 RPM, which allows for greater precision and control depending on the task. This is particularly beneficial for users who need to switch between different materials and applications. The braking system is a strong safety feature, stopping most wheels in under 2 seconds, which can add a level of safety and efficiency to your work.

Additionally, the slide switch is designed to reduce user fatigue, a significant advantage during prolonged use. The tool-free guard adjustment and accessory changes with the integrated FIXTEC nut technology add to the convenience and ease of use, making it quicker to switch components without additional tools. Weighing just 1 pound, this grinder is relatively lightweight, enhancing its ergonomics and making it easier to handle.

However, the product does not include a battery, which needs to be purchased separately if you opt for cordless use. This could be seen as a drawback for some users who prefer an all-inclusive package. Additionally, the product’s dimensions make it somewhat bulky, which may not be ideal for tight spaces. Given its high customer ratings and well-rounded features, this grinder is well-suited for both DIY enthusiasts and professional users looking for a reliable and efficient tool with excellent control and safety features.

Rating
9.6
Speed
Disc Size
Weight and Ergonomics

Most important from
160 reviews

Speed
This grinder shines for finesse grinding, allowing precision work with its variable speed control.
Disc Size
Using 5" discs is ideal for both cutting and grinding, adding to the grinder's versatility.
Weight and Ergonomics
The grinder is well-balanced and comfortable to hold, even with larger batteries.
Safety Features
The Rapid-Stop Brake is a game-changer, stopping the disc in under 2 seconds and speeding up workflow.
Battery Life (for Cordless Models)
Good battery life, especially with the 3AH high capacity battery, which lasts all day for intermittent use.
#3

Milwaukee M18 FUEL 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 5 in. Flathead Braking Grinder with Paddle Switch No-Lock (Tool-Only)

Rating
9.3
Power
Disc Size
Weight and Ergonomics

Most important from
178 reviews

Power
The grinder has plenty of power and complements other Milwaukee cordless tools very well.
Disc Size
The ability to use five-inch disks adds to its versatility.
Weight and Ergonomics
Lightweight and easy to handle in tight spaces, perfect for delicate work whether cutting or grinding.
Battery Life (for Cordless Models)
Battery life meets expectations for a grinder, making it a reliable tool for everyday use.

The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 5 in. Flathead Braking Grinder offers a robust solution for users needing a reliable tool for various grinding tasks, particularly in tight spaces. One of its standout features is its powerful performance, equating to 11A of corded power, making it efficient for heavy-duty applications. The flathead design enhances accessibility, helping users reach areas that traditional grinders might struggle with. Additionally, the RAPIDSTOP Brake is a key safety feature, stopping most wheels in under two seconds, which is an excellent advantage for user safety and control.

On the weight and ergonomics front, at just 1.2 pounds, it’s lightweight and easy to handle, reducing user fatigue during extended use. The maximum rotational speed of 8500 RPM means it can tackle a variety of materials effectively.

This grinder is particularly suited for DIY enthusiasts, contractors, and professionals who often find themselves working in confined spaces and need a reliable, powerful, and safe tool. With its combination of power and design, it’s a strong choice, though potential users should factor in the additional cost of batteries and charging equipment.

Rating
9.3
Power
Disc Size
Weight and Ergonomics

Most important from
178 reviews

Power
The grinder has plenty of power and complements other Milwaukee cordless tools very well.
Disc Size
The ability to use five-inch disks adds to its versatility.
Weight and Ergonomics
Lightweight and easy to handle in tight spaces, perfect for delicate work whether cutting or grinding.
Battery Life (for Cordless Models)
Battery life meets expectations for a grinder, making it a reliable tool for everyday use.

Buying Guide for the Best Milwaukee Grinders

When it comes to picking the right Milwaukee grinder, it's important to understand the key specifications that will determine how well the tool will meet your needs. Grinders are versatile tools used for cutting, grinding, polishing, and more. To ensure you get the best fit for your tasks, you need to consider several factors such as power, speed, size, and additional features. By understanding these specifications, you can make an informed decision and choose a grinder that will perform efficiently and safely for your specific applications.
PowerPower in grinders is typically measured in amps for corded models and volts for cordless models. This spec is important because it determines how much force the grinder can apply to the material. For light tasks like polishing or light grinding, a lower power grinder (around 6-8 amps or 18 volts) will suffice. For more demanding tasks like cutting through metal or heavy grinding, you will need a higher power grinder (10 amps or more, or 20 volts and above). Choose the power level based on the intensity and frequency of the tasks you plan to perform.
SpeedSpeed is measured in revolutions per minute (RPM) and indicates how fast the grinder's wheel spins. Higher speeds (10,000 RPM and above) are suitable for cutting and grinding hard materials quickly, while lower speeds (around 6,000-8,000 RPM) are better for precision work and polishing. Consider the type of work you will be doing most often; if you need versatility, look for a grinder with variable speed settings so you can adjust the RPM to match the task.
Disc SizeThe disc size refers to the diameter of the grinding wheel and is a crucial factor in determining the grinder's capability. Common sizes are 4.5 inches, 5 inches, and 7 inches. Smaller discs (4.5-5 inches) are ideal for detailed work and accessing tight spaces, while larger discs (7 inches) are better for heavy-duty tasks and covering larger surface areas quickly. Choose the disc size based on the type of projects you will be working on and the level of precision required.
Weight and ErgonomicsThe weight and ergonomics of a grinder affect how comfortable it is to use, especially for extended periods. Lighter grinders (around 4-6 pounds) are easier to handle and reduce fatigue, making them suitable for overhead or detailed work. Heavier grinders (7 pounds and above) offer more stability and control for heavy-duty tasks. Additionally, look for features like adjustable handles, anti-vibration technology, and comfortable grips to enhance usability and reduce strain.
Safety FeaturesSafety features are essential to protect you while using the grinder. Look for grinders with features such as a safety guard to protect against debris, a spindle lock for easy wheel changes, and an automatic shut-off to prevent overheating. Some models also offer paddle switches that require continuous pressure to operate, reducing the risk of accidental start-up. Prioritize safety features based on the environment and conditions in which you will be using the grinder.
Battery Life (for Cordless Models)For cordless grinders, battery life is a critical factor. It determines how long you can use the tool before needing to recharge. Higher amp-hour (Ah) ratings indicate longer battery life. For occasional use or light tasks, a battery with 2-3 Ah may be sufficient. For more intensive or prolonged use, consider batteries with 4 Ah or higher. Additionally, check if the grinder is compatible with other tools in your collection, allowing you to interchange batteries and maximize efficiency.

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