Every wood or metalworking project requires a finishing touch. Right there, you need a die grinder in your toolbox. Yep, it is a high-speed rotary power tool used for grinding any material, including metal, wood, and plastic.
Moreover, this incredible power tool is undoubtedly the jack of all trades. With a die grinder in hand, you can meet all your grinding, sanding, honing, and polishing needs. These are compact and can reach in places where the massive tool cannot.
When you are out looking for the Best Die Grinder, you will see the increasing popularity of this tool. But, Some manufacturers are coming up with such a die grinder that literally cannot satisfy the prospects.
We understand the overflowing options in the market are misleading. Thus, our experts have taken the time and did the research. Finally, they came up with the quality die grinder for metal, wood, and plastic.
Take a little while to check all our suggested grinder reviews along with the buying guide.
There you go:
Last update on 2021-01-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Table of Contents
- 7 Best Die Grinder Reviews in Details
- 1. Overall Best Die Grinder : Makita GD0601 1/4" with AC DC Switch
- 2. DEWALT DWE4887, One of the Best Electric Die Grinder
- 3. Ingersoll Rand 301B, One of the Best Air Die Grinder
- 4. AIRCAT 6255 Professional Series Angle Die Grinder
- 5. Astro The Best Pneumatic Die Grinder, ONYX
- 6. Chicago Pneumatic CP860 Air Die Grinder
- 7. Milwaukee Electric Tool 2460-21 Thunderbolt Drill Grinder
- What Is A Die Grinder?
- How Many Types of Die Grinder?
- Quality Die Grinder Buying Guide : Step by Step
- 1. Consider Power Source Wisely If You Really Want to Have Best Die Grinder
- 2. Speed Controlling Capacity
- 3. Performance
- 4. Cutting and Grinding Tools
- 5. Fine Burrs for Ferrous Metals
- 6. CFM and PSI Ratings
- 7. Build Quality of the Tools
- 8. Ease of Use
- 9. Safety Features of Your Selected Kits
- 10. Budget & Price is Always Crucial
- Use of a Die Grinder
- FAQs
- The Bottom Line
7 Best Die Grinder Reviews in Details
You know what? Our expert jumped into the market to find the handpicked die grinder for you. They carefully assess features including power, speed, durability, ease of use, etc. Without further ado, check our best die grinder reviews below.
1. Overall Best Die Grinder : Makita GD0601 1/4" with AC DC Switch
The Makita GD0601 die grinder comes attractive designs. With robust construction, better power, and speed, it delivers enhanced performance even in continuous working conditions.
The grinder features a labyrinth construction along with multiple channels and zig-zag varnish. It keeps debris away when the machine starts. Also, the inbuilt vent in the motor prevents overheating for added durability.
Its massive 3.5amp industrial motor uses the only 120V for providing 25000 RPM. Besides, this speed is good enough for handling a range of applications including grinding, pipe fitting, plumbing, etc.
The another best part is, its removable rubber casing provides a better grip and ease of handling. Its paddle switch on the small barrel grip aids in preventing sudden start-ups.
Above all, it comes with two wrenches that hold ¼" collet in place. The collect can put up a range of bits up to 1 ½" to give you more options.
You can use it on both AC/DC depending on the project.
PROS
1. Powerful motor with 50% more torque,
2. Sealed against debris,
3. High speed,
4. Easy to handle,
5. Superior grip,
6. Improved durability,
7. Runs quietly,
8. Extremely lightweight.
CONS
1. Single-speed,
2. Too small for larger hands.
2. DEWALT DWE4887, One of the Best Electric Die Grinder
Without any doubt, Dewalt is a one of the leader in the power tool industry. People who deal with the tool will certainly agree with us. The Dewalt DWE4887 is a large, powerful and offers high speed for heavy-duty jobs.
The DEWALT DWE4887, this electric-powered die grinder operates on a 4.2Amp motor. The motor provides a constant speed of 25000 RPM and high power to work with up to 1-1/2” attachments.
It makes the grinder suitable for materials like metal, stone, and hardwood.
The grinder works on both AC and DC to provide more versatility. Even you can use it with a power generator. Then, it includes a paddle switch and a lock-on button. It allows tighter gripping and prevents any accidental start-up.
Lastly, the grinder includes a ¼" collet along with two wrenches. These allow holding plenty of accessories, including cut-off wheels and grinding wheels. You can even add 1/8” collet for holding added accessories.
Even after being powerful, it weighs only 4.7lb, which is accessible on the hand. If you are ready to pay a little extra on high-end features, Dewalt DWE4887 is best for you.
PROS
1. Powerful motor,
2. High speed of 25000 RPM,
3. Handles professional grinding applications,
4. Improved versatility,
5. Comfortable on hands,
6. Lightweight.
CONS
1. Single-speed operation.
3. Ingersoll Rand 301B, One of the Best Air Die Grinder
What if you get a die grinder under $100 with high power and speed? It is possible when you buy the Ingersoll Rand 301B air angle die grinder. Moreover, this angle grinder is famous for its long-life performance with several high-end features.
Firstly, it is equipped with distinct ball-bearing construction. It helps to minimize vibration and enhance balance while working. Besides, its aluminum housing makes the grinder durable.
However, this right-angled grinder allows reaching tight places with its compact size. Then its powerful 0.25HP motor provides 21000 RPM variable speed for grinding metal and wood. It requires about 6 CFM of air, which can go up to 24 CFM in prominent jobs.
Unlike others, it comes with a front exhaust that helps to keep the area clean while working.
PROS
1. . Heavy-duty construction,
2. Provides balanced operation,
3. Withstand severe use,
4. Low vibration,
5. Best for working on tight spaces,
6. Variable speed.
CONS
1. Somewhat noisy,
2. Not for big hands.
4. AIRCAT 6255 Professional Series Angle Die Grinder
Most people avoid buying an air-powered grinder for its noisy operation. Thankfully, AIRCAT 6255 angle die grinder delivers minimum noise.
It design with patented muffler technology that minimizes the level of noise. Therefore, that doesn’t mean it puts down the power. AIRCAT 6255 still provides 85Db in its optimum capability. Then, its ergonomic grip helps to minimize the user's fatigue.
The AIRCAT angle die grinder includes top-quality air chambers, turbines, and an excellent bearing surface. However, this what ensures improv balance and precision. The size of the grinder makes it capable of reaching tight spaces.
Most importantly, its feather trigger design allows precise speed control for different materials. The AIRCAT angle grinder features a rear exhaust that keeps the working area clean.
Moreover, the weight and size of the grinder allow the user to work for an extended period. We must say it's a user-friendly option at a reasonable price.
PROS
1. Compact yet robust design,
2. Noise-free operation,
3. Ergonomic handle,
4. Not exposed to dust and debris,
5. It offers better speed control.
CONS
1. Not overpowering like others,
2. It claims to take time to get adjusted with throttle.
5. Astro The Best Pneumatic Die Grinder, ONYX
Astro Pneumatic die grinder comes with a complete grinding solution for your projects. It packed with ¼” 90-degree die grinder, ¼” straight grinder, and 8pcs double-cut carbide rotary burr set.
Moreover, this pneumatic grinder features a 6.5Amp and 0.6HP motor, which is the most powerful motor on the list. It capable of provide a speed of 54000 rpm, which makes it suitable for heavy-duty jobs.
It comes with a unique rib textured handle, which helps to reduce vibration. The grinder also features a rear exhaust airflow system to keep away debris from the working surface.
Furthermore, you can use the included burrs for working on a variety of materials. The 90-degree collet allows reaching on the tight spaces. On the whole, it's a must-have for any professionals.
PROS
1. Complete package,
2. Ergonomic design,
3. Robust construction,
4. Provides firmer grip,
5. Compact and lightweight,
6. Great deal for the money.
CONS
1. Durability might be an issue.
6. Chicago Pneumatic CP860 Air Die Grinder
The Chicago pneumatic grinder is another powerful option that is most famous for its all-metal construction. This compact and most lightweight grinder is the plus for users.
Its all-metal grinder features a 0.6amp, 1/2HP motor that allows the maximum speed of 24000rpm. Therefore, its built-in regulator helps to match the speed of the grinder according to the job.
It also features a lock-off throttle underneath the trigger for added safety. Then, it's square handle design offers excellent comfort while working for long. The grinder includes a ¼” collet that works with a variety of burrs.
Lastly, its rear exhaust direct helps to keep the air away from the work surface for ease of use. The grinder is excellent for high-speed polishing, grinding and cleaning molding, tires, porting, relieving engines, etc.
PROS
1. High-quality construction,
2. Powerful motor,
3. Adjustable speed,
4. Lightweight,
5. Safe to use.
CONS
1. Minimum grips; need to use a rubber glove,
2. Exhaust location is somewhat odd.
7. Milwaukee Electric Tool 2460-21 Thunderbolt Drill Grinder
In the world of power tools, Milwaukee is one of the most reliable names. The Milwaukee 2460-21 is one of their excellent addition. It can compete with most high-quality tools like Dremel, Dewalt, etc.
The Milwaukee 2460-21 is a rotary tool that operates on M12 red lithium battery. It takes only 30-minutes to recharge, and you can take it along outside where needed.
What we liked most is the variable speed of 5000-32000rpm. You can control the speed of a wide variety of materials. Then, it features a 1/8” collet which is compatible with most cutting and grinding accessories.
Overall, the design is compact and weighs only 1.3lbs so you can easily handle it. However, this tool is useful enough for all your grinding and polishing jobs. The price is also reasonable, as well.
PROS
1. Added versatility,
2. Variable speed,
3. Extended battery life,
4. Easy to use,
5. Powerful motor.
CONS
1. No accessory include.
What Is A Die Grinder?
As the name suggests, a die grinder is a handheld power tool used for grinding a variety of materials. It features a collet at the rotating handles that hold the cutting bits. The bits of a die grinder could be cut-off wheels, sanding disks, cutting tips, and grinding wheels.
These different types of cutting bits make the tool versatile. Besides, the cutting bit spins at a very high speed to remove excess materials from the workpiece. It comes with outstanding RPM speed and superior power.
Muck like rotary tools die grinders are small in size. It powered by electricity or compressed air. You can be able to a single die grinder by changing the attachments.
At the time, die grinders design to work on metals, but now it is suitable for sensitive materials like wood and plastic.
What is Die Grinder Bits?
A single die grinder can work with different bits and wheels as per need. The following are mostly used bits on a die grinder.
- Grindstone bits,
- Grinding bits,
- Polishing wheels,
- Metal cutting wheels,
- Woodcutting wheels,
- Carbine burr,
- Sanding wheels,
- Wire wheels.
How Many Types of Die Grinder?
Depending on the power source, die grinder comes in two types, including electric and pneumatic. Here is a brief discussion on these types;
1. Electric Die Grinder
The name implies, electric die grinder requires electricity and needs to plug in to get started. These tools are somewhat lighter and moderately powerful. Due to the less power, it uses small bits. It uses some unique bits that may not be suitable for larger or powerful die grinders.
You will see that Most experts suggest using an electric die grinder for light-duty jobs. Therefore, these grinders provide the precision needed for smaller jobs. The Electric Die Grinder allows you to work on tight spaces. Electric die grinders are available in two types; corded and cordless.
Cord one the typical electric die grinders that run through a drive cable. However, it is relatively powerful than a corded die grinder.
Conversely, a cordless electric die grinder operates on a built-in rechargeable battery. It is evident that the cordless option adds portability to the tools and allows them to work outside of the workshop.
The Good Side of Electric Die Grinder
- Lightweight and easy to work with,
- High-speed; it can spin up to 10000 RPM,
- Reach easily on confined spaces,
- Highly portable; cordless one,
- Works with unique bits,
Negative Side
- Not meant for heavy jobs,
- Somewhat torquay,
2. Pneumatic Die Grinder
However, the most potent, pneumatic die grinder power by compressed air. These are heavy-duty and uses air to operate. With a 20-gallon compressor, it will work for long.
Pneumatic die grinder offers more torque while working on heavy materials. Instead of the power it delivers, pneumatic die grinders are an inexpensive and suitable option for budget-conscious buyers. These tools are relatively user-friendly and ideal mostly for machinists and patterns makes.
A pneumatic die grinder includes a throttle on the handle, which controls the speed. The large air compressor makes the grinder challenging to use, especially in the tight space.
Also, the replacement of the air compressor can be costly. Due to the more speed and power, it may not provide the precision needed.
The Good Side of Pneumatic Die Grinder
- Most powerful,
- Very high speed,
- Affordable,
- Run for longer at a time,
- Easy to use.
Negative Sides
- Requires air to operate,
- Bulky in size.
- Maintenance can be costly
Pneumatic die grinders come in two different types based on the designs; straight and angled. The difference is in the tool head.
3. Straight Die Grinder
The regular, 90-degree die grinder is a straight die grinder. It somehow looks like a large screwdriver.
The straight die grinder is more comfortable to work with and offers more control in detailed work. It uses grinders and burr bits.
4. Angled Die Grinder
The angled or 45-degree die grinder has a bit perpendicular to the body or grip. The bit sits on the right angle but works similar to the straight one.
It is suitable to work on tight spaces where a straight grinder cannot reach.
Quality Die Grinder Buying Guide : Step by Step
Many of you possibly will be using a die grinder for the first time. So, it is evident that you have a little knowledge of what to consider while buying a die grinder.
That is why our expert team sums up a complete buying guide to help you make the best decision. Here is go.
1. Consider Power Source Wisely If You Really Want to Have Best Die Grinder
Similar to other power tools, the power source of die grinders is the most crucial factor to consider. Above we mentioned, die grinder operates on electricity, compressed air, and rechargeable battery. The power source, each of them has its pros and cons.
However, please choose according to your preference.
Among all, cordless electric and pneumatic die grinder offers better portability. The corded electric die grinder is slightly expensive than all. Hence choose one that you need.
2. Speed Controlling Capacity
Die grinder is mostly known for its high speed. The finishing work on heavy-duty materials requires full speed. On the contrary, sensitive materials like wood and plastic require low rate.
So, depending on the material, the die grinder should be able to control the speed.
You need to know the type of material, then control it accordingly.
3. Performance
A die grinder has a lot of things that ensure its production. Firstly, if you are looking for a powerful tool, check its power specs. The electric die grinder with high amperage is more powerful and work for longer. Besides, the motor in an electric die grinder won't overheat even after such power.
Check the air consumption rate in the pneumatic grinder. Then, you need to consider the collet's capacity as it differs from the materials. Mostly die grinder comes ¼” collets. Those collets are suitable for finishing jobs.
4. Cutting and Grinding Tools
The die grinder mostly comes along with cutting and grinding tools. Moreover, the carbide burrs and cutting wheels mainly use cutting tools.
Usually, carbide burrs are perfect for heavy removal.
Choose:
- Powerful curse burrs for plastic and wood,
- Curse-burrs for plastic, wood, and non-ferrous metals.
5. Fine Burrs for Ferrous Metals
Cutting wheels are much like saw blades. It should use with the cut-off version of the grinder along with a shield. Then comes the grinding tools, which makes the grinder versatile.
The most common and handy grinding machine is a 3M ROLOC disc.
- 3M ROLOC disc is best for grinding, sanding, and surface preparation.
- The stone grinding cone is perfect for detailed work.
- Reamer is best for opening holes and tapers.
- Rasps are best for heavy materials.
6. CFM and PSI Ratings
This consideration is only for those who look for a pneumatic grinder. The air compressor should deliver sufficient pressure level and CFM along with correct PSI.
7. Build Quality of the Tools
The build quality of a tool decides whether it can take heavy use. Besides, the market has different die grinders with a range of attributes.
Each part of the grinder equipped with different materials. Inspect the equipment of the body coating thoroughly before making any decision.
8. Ease of Use
The die grinder on the market not only differ with its specs. The ease of use of the tools sets one apart from others. Some models are straightforward to deal with, while others are difficult to use.
For example, the massive tool won't be easy to work with for an extended period. Also, the size matters, though some more extended grinders are still easy to handle.
Rubber coated grinders offer more comfort and reduce vibration while working.
9. Safety Features of Your Selected Kits
Some die grinder comes with a lock-off button for safety. Therefore, this button prevents the switch lever in the grinder from being pulled accidentally. You need to draw a lock-off gear at first then the switch lever.
10. Budget & Price is Always Crucial
Last but not least, you should have your budget to find the best one. However, it is better to fix the range of your budget before you check anything else. It will narrow down your choices.
Only then can you get your best deal without breaking the bank. Therefore, if the price is not an issue for you, you can expect to get the best deal.
Do you need some basic tools for everyday work? You can try Pittsburgh Tools in this case for sure.
Use of a Die Grinder
Since you are going to invest in a die grinder, you must know where you can use a die grinder.
Here we'll discuss the most common use of a die grinder:
1. We Use it for Redrafting Dies
As the name suggests, die grinder mostly used for grinding dies used in the tools. Like plastic molds, die-casting dies, stamping dies, forging dies, etc.
Any high-precision machines require to match the profile. You cannot remove the excess parts with a typical file. That is where you need a die grinder.
2. Polishing Metals by Using Grinder
Any metal like stainless steel product looks good with precise finishing. With a final touch, any metal project looks unprofessional. Here a die grinder helps to give any metal project a thorough polish.
No matter how large is the metal surface, die grinder makes it easier to polish the surface. You can even clean the holes and curved surfaces with rotary polishing bits.
3. Removing Rust Easily
Rust is a common issue of any steel or iron-made machine. Also if you took the best care of it, the metal would inevitably rust.
If you have a die grinder on hand, you can quickly get rid of these stubborn rusts.
4. Wood Carving and Finishing
With the carbide burrs in the die grinder, you can carve wood into different shapes. It also helps to give your woodworking projects a professional look.
No matter whether it is wooden furniture or wooden sculpture, die grinder works great for everything.
5. Sharpening Blades
There is some die grinder that comes with a blade sharpener. Those units come handy to grind a range of power tool blades.
Not just that, you can also sharpen hatchets, axes, knives, and similar kinds of objects. It also saves a lot of money as you can sharpen blades without owning a grindstone.
6. Auto Work
If you own a workshop, a die grinder is a must-have for you. That's because you need to do a lot of repair jobs. Most of them include different metals. There you can flatten rough metal edges or clean corroded car parts with a die grinder.
Also, die grinder comes handy to get rid of paints on small places where sander cannot reach. With the cutting wheels, you can take away sheet metal that requires changing.
Recommended Reading List
FAQs
1. Is Dremel a Die grinder?
Well, the answer is somewhat complicated. Dremel is a rotary tool, and on top of that, it's a brand name. It is similar to the die grinder.
Both of them serve the same goal, but Dremel is slightly compact and less powerful.
2. Is there any difference between a die grinder and an angle grinder?
All right, the angle grinder is a type of die grinder. If it says die grinder, this means the typical straight die grinders. Angle grinder features an angled cutting head to the drive.
Besides, angle grinder has slightly more power.
3. Can I cut metal with a die grinder?
Partially, yes. You can cut some specific metals with a die grinder. Not just that, die grinder cannot cut all the metals. Better if you look at the specification or customer reviews to know what you can cut.
4. How to Use a Die Grinder?
Let us tell you this shortly.
- Read the user manual before operating,
- Choose the necessary grinder bit for your project,
- Attach the tool with the grinder that you’ll use to shape or cut the material,
- Hold the die grinder steadily over the surface and power the machine,
- Once you do the work, remove the grinder bit.
5. Is it necessary to lubricate the die grinder before using it?
Experts suggest lubricating the grinder before every use. Apply a few drops of oil into the air intel of grinder to keep it functional. It also makes the tool durable.
The Bottom Line
We are at the end of the best die grinder reviews. Let us remind you again; we've chosen only the finest from a whole set of die grinders.
They all come with ergonomic design, supreme power, and remarkable durability. Hence, without thinking too far, buy one that serves your needs.
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