The 10 Best Straight Grinders

Editor's Notes

August 23, 2019:

Putting this ranking together, we encountered an enormous number of options, and found that — as one might expect — many of the industry's most recognizable brand names had the most to offer. We prioritized pneumatic and corded options over battery-powered tools simply because the kind of work most often done with die grinders is in some kind of workshop, and our research revealed that while a robust battery-powered option was desirable, features like variable speeds, steady operation, and low vibrations seemed to trump portability. The Dewalt in our top spot is easily the best example of an option that offers a little bit of everything, with variable speeds and a fast, smooth motor. Among pneumatic options, there was also a fair amount of scrutiny given to the direction of the exhaust, as any airflow that could potentially decrease visibility by kicking up debris around the workpiece could be considered a bit of a hazard.

Ergonomics played an important part in our ranking, as well. The Makita GS5000 and Dewalt DCG426B shine here with their extended front nozzles, which provide a sturdy grip for your preferred hand to help guide the tool and reduce strain. Chicago Electric's model that landed at number eight boasts a similar feature, but without any kind of coating, you're just holding onto the metal, so any vibrations the tool creates would be felt completely, reduced only by a pair of decent work gloves.