A die grinder is a rotary tool that has abrasive attachments in order to polish or shape different things. It’s also called a grinder, and there are a ton of different brands you can find out there.
The electric ones usually have a cord attached to them so they don’t need an air compressor for power. This makes some people prefer them for everything from metalworking to woodcutting, even dental applications.
In order to find the best electric die grinders, we first did some research on what makes a die grinder good. Things like power, price, and operational speed are all important elements.
We looked at different models and narrowed them down to 9 products based on our criteria. Below we talk about each of these criteria so you can see what is best for you.
Top 9 Electric Die Grinders Comparison Table
Picture | Name | Maximum Speed | Voltage | Rating (1-5) |
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 1. Makita GD0601 1/4" Die Grinder | 25,000 RPM | 120 Volts | 4.7 |
![]() | 2. DEWALT DCG426B MAX Die Grinder | 25,000 RPM | 20 Volts | 4.8 |
![]() | 3. Metabo 600453420 Die Grinder | 25,000 RPM | 120 Volts | 4.7 |
![]() | 4. Makita GD0800C 1/4" SJS Die Grinder | 28,000 RPM | 120 Volts | 4.7 |
![]() | 5. DEWALT DWE4887 Die Grinder | 25,000 RPM | 120 Volts | 4.7 |
![]() | 6. Milwaukee 2784-20 M18 FUEL 1/4" Die Grinder | 20,000 RPM | 18 Volts | 4.6 |
![]() | 7. Makita GD0600 1/4" Paddle Switch Die Grinder | 25,000 RPM | 240 Volts | 4.6 |
![]() | 8. DEWALT DWE4997VS Die Grinder | 25,000 RPM | 20 Volts | 5 |
![]() | 9. Metabo GE 950 G Plus 8.5-Amp 950-watt High Torque Die Grinder | 8,700 RPM | 120 Volts | 3.8 |
Factors to Consider Before Buying an Electric Die Grinder
- Collet Size. The collet size gives you information about the size of bits that you can connect to the holder of your tool. Manufacturers usually mark this detail on the machine itself, but you should check this before buying it.
Usually, die grinders have a collet size of ¼ inch that is quite common, and you can find a wide range of bits for this size.
. - Power Rating. Power rating is essential to have a clear idea about the power of an electric die grinder. The most commonly used voltages for an electric die grinder are 18 and 20 volts, which means that the maximum power input to the motor should be 360 watts.
These motors tend to produce RPM 1,000 or more, which is required for grinding metal. If you see a motor with any other voltage than these mentioned then you should avoid buying it as it uses more electricity but at less power.
. - Size and Form Factor. Size and weight are some of the primary things you should be looking at. With size, you should be looking for a tool that is small and compact due to its form factor.
If it’s small and compact, chances are you can get to work with it using a single hand and will have a good amount of control over it while in use.
Top 3 Best Die Grinders Reviews
1. Makita GD0601 1/4″ Die Grinder

Technical Specifications:
- Dimensions: 14.13 x 3.23 x 3.23 inches
- Weight: 4.93 pounds
- Maximum Speed: 25,000 RPM
- Motor: 3.5 Amp
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Sound Level: 75 dB
- Warranty: 1 year
The Makita GD0601 1/4 Inch Die Grinder is an essential equipment for cutting, grinding, deburring, and polishing. The die grinder has a 1/4 in. collet capacity for a wide variety of applications.
It features up to 25,000 RPM, so you can finish jobs quicker. It only weighs 4.93 lbs, so it’s easy to handle and comes with protective zig-zag varnish seals that help reduce friction while increasing performance life.
Also, the stepped neck creates an extra-large spark absorbers and helps prevent serious injury should sparks occur.
Its high-speed AC motor is coupled with a slim body design for consistent speed and optimal control.
2. DEWALT DCG426B MAX Die Grinder

Technical Specifications:
- Dimensions: 17 x 10 x 5 inches
- Weight: 3 pounds
- Maximum Speed: 25,000 RPM
- Voltage: 20 Volts
- Warranty: 3 years
The DEWALT DCG426B MAX Die Grinder is the complete DIY package for individual and professional users. It is a portable brushless motor equipped die grinder.
It is a high-performance cordless unit for cutting, shaping, cleaning, and deburring. It has up to 25,000 RPM with a variable speed trigger. The electric die grinder includes an LED light that illuminates dark work areas.
This lightweight die grinder weighs in at only 3 pounds and can be used for many applications.
It’s incredibly durable with a metal gear housing and if it breaks, they offer a 3-year limited warranty. It is a cordless die grinder but the battery is sold separately.
3. Metabo 600453420 Die Grinder

Technical Specifications:
- Dimensions: 18.5 x 6 x 3.5 inches
- Weight: 5.09 pounds
- Maximum Speed: 25,000 RPM
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Warranty: 3 years
The Metabo 600453420 Die Grinder is a quality power tool made in Germany. It delivers a continuous maximum rotational speed of 25,000 RPM.
It features an ergonomic design that reduces user fatigue for improved work comfort.
The Metabo 600453420 has a robust and wear-resistant motor, a sturdy metal gear housing and a screw-on spindle. This high quality tool offers outstanding power and durability – not least whether used handheld or in stationary position.
The ergonomically designed switch is ideal for safe operation when working in hard-to-reach places and can be operated with just one hand.
The long grinding spindle allows for precise jointing work on the most awkward components, such as those in hard-to-reach spaces. The rubber cap prevents the die grinder from slipping off when working with it.
Last but not least, this Metabo die grinder is easy to use thanks to its slim housing design.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Die Grinder Good For?
Die grinders and their larger cousins, rotary tools, are two of the most versatile handheld power tools in a DIYer’s garage.
Die grinders exist for the purpose of removing sharp edges after metal parts have been formed or machined. Die grinders can also be used to remove metal burrs from surfaces you may have forgotten to deburr.
Rotary tools are also great for sanding and shaping, as well as for clearing out holes that have been clogged with wood shavings or metal chips (the latter which may have been created by the drill press).
Can You Use a Die Grinder to Cut Metal?
Die grinders are a wonderful addition to your garage or workshop. The powerful motors on grinders offer great maneuverability and they make effortless work of cutting through all sorts of materials depending on the attachment you choose.
Attachments allow you to cut metal, wood, plastic, and body filler. Die grinders are a boon for anyone who needs to cut, shape, or remove metal.
The powerful motors in these machines cut through a variety of materials, from cast iron and steel to aluminum, plastic, and wood.
Can You Use a Drill Bit in a Die Grinder?
Most die grinders use collets that are used to secure your bit. If you have a 3/8″ die grinder and a 1/4″ drill bit, you won’t be able to clamp the bit onto the grinder because it doesn’t fit in the collet.
As far as we know, most die grinders are made to accept 1/4″ bits.
What is the Difference Between a Die Grinder And Angle Grinder?
Die grinders and angle grinders are both high-speed rotary tools used to cut, sand, polish, and many other applications. The difference is the size and shape of the tool.
An angle grinder is a type of power tool used for cutting and grinding applications. Angle grinders are available in various sizes, with the larger ones using more amperage than smaller models.
Die grinders are smaller yet sturdier than angle grinders. They have a wider range of speeds making them useful for precise work, whereas angle grinders have fewer speeds making them more suitable for heavy-duty cutting and sanding.
They’re both able to do the same tasks but their size and capabilities differ.
Conclusion
A die grinder is the perfect type of tool for any carpenter or handyman. It’s good to have this power tools to make work easier and faster.
But with so many different models out there, it can be tricky to make the right choice. That’s why we’ve created this resource to show you some of the best electric die grinders.