Best 7-inch Angle Grinder

Mostly used for cutting through hard materials but versatile enough to withstand a wide range of applications, the best 7-inch angle grinder comes as a great alternative to the more cumbersome bench grinder.

The market is full of choices, from electric to pneumatic and gas angle grinders. Each is more or less suitable for heavy-duty applications, but all these tools have a few things in common. 

Here's a list of Best 7-inch Angle Grinder

When choosing one, you must pay attention to the tool’s speed, power, and weight.

To help you out with your choice, we’ve put together this guide that highlights the most important features to check before buying. Then, have a look at our top picks to find the best 7-inch angle grinder for you.

How to Choose an Angle Grinder

Choosing the best angle grinder goes beyond a mere brand preference. While the tool you like must offer great value for money, you must also check the following three essential criteria.

Power

Like for all power tools, an angle grinder’s power is expressed in watts, and the math is simple, the many watts your tool has, the better. Manufacturers rarely disclose their tool’s wattage output, but luckily, the number is easy to calculate.

All you need to know is the voltage and amperage of the tool, then multiply the two numbers.

In broad terms, you’ll need an angle grinder capable of outputting at least 500 watts, which is more or less the equivalent of 1,000 watts input.

Speed

Expressed in revolutions per minute, an angle grinder’s speed is another thing to check. Again, you want as many revolutions per minute as possible. Most machines spin at speeds from 5,000 to 10,000 RPM, although some high-end units may reach 12,000 RPM.

What you must keep in mind is that a higher speed means a lower cutting time, which ultimately means less heat and less wear-out of the blade.

However, when assessing speed also consider the discs you’re going to use. Depending on the materials supposed to cut, some discs may not support high speeds. Using a disc at a higher speed could result in injury, so make sure to choose accordingly. If in doubt, invest in a grinder with adjustable speed settings.

Discs

Last but not least, you must consider the discs. Most angle grinders are compatible with most types of discs. Here are the most popular options.

  • Grinding discs: The most traditional version, is designed for grinding masonry and metals. They are designed to cut at high speeds and are lightweight, allowing the operator to hold the grinder with just one hand. However, they are also relatively thin and wear out fast. They are cheap but need constant replacement.
  • Diamond grinding discs: Are the upscale version of the grinding discs above. The main difference between the types is the presence of a diamond coating on the latter; these embedded diamond cuttings make the discs stronger. You can use them to cut through hard masonry and all types of metals at relatively high speeds. However, these discs are expensive.
  • Specialty discs: Are not designed for grinding but rather for finishing work, such as sanding and polishing. Some specialty discs even allow stripping off paint, while wire wheels may also be used to remove grout or rust from metals.
  • Wood discs: As their name suggests, are used in woodworking projects and are specifically designed to handle wood. Most wood grinding discs are designed for hardwood or engineered wood. However, most woodworkers and amateurs rarely use angle grinders, so seeing these discs on the market is truly a rarity.

With all this in mind, let’s now have a look at the best 7-inch angle grinders on the market, so you can pick the right one for you.

Top 5 Best 7-inch Angle Grinders


1. Hitachi G18ST

Hitachi G18ST

Highlights

  • 3,950 running watts
  • Labyrinth construction
  • Overload durability
  • Armored coils
  • Removable side handle

Construction

Designed with performance in mind, this 7-inch angle grinder by Hitachi boasts a durable labyrinth construction that prevents the accumulation of dust and debris inside the tool. This not only ensures a smoother operation but extends the unit’s lifespan, making the investment well worth it.

Power

Ideal for precision grinding of most surfaces, this tool comes with a powerful 15-amp motor that produces a forcible 3,950 output watts. This is plenty of power even for the toughest jobs, while the class-leading overload durability ensures reliability and an increased lifespan.

Overall Assessment

Lightweight and easy to use, this dependable angle grinder is ideal for hobbyists and professionals alike. Armored coils protected by varnish and protection tape ensued a long service life by preventing grinding particles from getting into the motor. So does the labyrinth construction, while the overall value of this tool is undoubtedly superlative.


2. Makita GA7021

Makita GA7021 7-Inch Angle Grinder

Highlights

  • 15-amp motor
  • 6,600 revolutions per minute
  • Rubberized soft grip
  • Adjustable side handle
  • Tool-less wheel guard

Speed

Another angle grinder built to withstand commercial demands, the Makita GA7021 is equipped with a powerful 15-amp motor capable of delivering an astonishing speed of 6,600 revolutions per minute. This is sufficient for the most demanding applications, while the tool-less wheel guard allows for quick adjustments to improve versatility.

Maneuverability

Lightweight and easy to handle, this tool comes with a rubberized soft grip handle designed to improve operator comfort. Furthermore, a rear trigger ensures even more comfort by allowing an ergonomic operation. The lock-on feature only brings further operator convenience.

Overall Assessment

Powerful and easy to use, this machine promises unrivaled performance and incredible maneuverability. It comes with a three-position adjustable handle and spiral bevel gears which guarantee smoother rotation and efficient transfer of energy. All you could wish from a best-value pick.


3. Bosch 1974-8

Bosch 1974-8 7-Inch Large Angle Grinder

Highlights

  • Excellent power-to-weight ratio
  • Vibration control
  • Optimized speed
  • Service minder light
  • Ultimate dust and debris protection

Performance

Bosch is a brand renowned for their innovative technology, and their 1974-8 machine doesn’t disappoint. This 7-inch angle grinder is powered by a reliable motor that produces 8,500 revolutions per minute, a speed optimized for 7-inch wheels. This translates into up to 20% longer wheel life compared to similar yet not optimized machines.

Controls

Built to last, this angle grinder is easy to control and maneuver. It has a convenient trigger with a tri-control switch which has a lock-on and lock-off capability. This design prevents accidental starting and also ensures more comfortable operation.

Overall Assessment

Like most Bosch machines, this one is built to deliver performance and last for the years to come. A service indicator light will even tell you when preventive maintenance is required, so you can keep your tool in the best conditions at all times. Without a doubt, one of the best angle grinders out there.

Bosch 1974-8 Video Review


4. Makita GA7031Y

Makita GA7031Y 7-Inch Angle Grinder

Highlights

  • Powerful motor
  • Optimized speed
  • Rotatable rear handle
  • Tool-less wheel cover
  • AC/DC switch

Comfortable Operation

Another tool built for performance, the Makita GA7031Y also boasts an optimized speed designed for fast material removal, but the true value of this machine is given by the comfortable operation. This angle grinder comes with soft grip handles and lower vibration rear designed to improve maneuverability and boost control.

Positive Stops

Great for most applications, this tool boasts a rotatable rear handle actionable with a push of a button. Positive stops at every 90 degrees ensure suitability for most cutting and grinding operations. 

Overall Assessment

Boasting a speed of 8,500 revolutions per minute delivered by a 15-amp motor, this tool is designed for fast material removal and suits most cutting and grinding operation. An AC/DC switch and labyrinth construction are other highlights of this tool that truly finds its place in a contractor’s arsenal.


5. SKIL 9296-01

SKIL 9296-01

Highlights

  • 7.5-amp motor
  • Unrivaled speed
  • Paddle switch
  • Tool-less guard adjustments
  • Tool-less guard adjustments

Performance

The SKIL 9296-01 is one of the most powerful 7-inch angle grinders on the market, a tool design to withstand all applications. A 7.5-amp motor delivers sufficient power to spin the wheel at 11,000 revolutions per minute, just what it takes to grind or smooth most surfaces.

Comfortable

Thought for intensive use in industrial environments, this angle grinder comes with a convenient paddle switch with no lock-on, a vibration reducing handle with wrench storage, and a tool-less guard which allows quick adjustments. Moreover, a heavy-duty metal gear housing adds all needed ruggedness and durability.

Overall Assessment

Undoubtedly one of the most performing angle grinders on the market, this tool brings all you could wish from a best-in-class pick. High speed, quick adjustments, and heavy-duty housing deliver reliability and comfort even during high-volume operations.

SKIL 9296-01 Video Review


Conclusion

An angle grinder is an essential tool in a contractor’s arsenal, but finding the right one is not always easy. Speed, reliability, maneuverability, and operation ease are just some of the things you must consider before buying. While finding the best tool could  be a hassle, knowing exactly what to look for considerably reduces your choices. Furthermore, the tools listed above bring unrivaled performance and suitability for a wide range of applications. So, you now know which are some of your best options.


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