The DEWALT DCG413B 20V MAX Cordless Angle Grinder is the best brushless angle grinder for most buyers. Its main advantage is cordless convenience paired with DEWALT’s broad 20V MAX battery system, especially if you already own compatible packs. The DCG413B is typically sold as a bare tool, so a battery and charger may cost extra.
This guide is for DIY users, home workshops, and tradespeople choosing a cordless grinder for metal, tile, or masonry work. The biggest buying factors are wheel size, battery capacity, and tool weight, since they affect reach, runtime, and control. We also consider safety features and included accessories. The five picks below are ranked with clear reasons and honest drawbacks for each, making it easier to match a grinder to your projects and battery setup.
Quick Comparison
| # | Product | Best For | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | DEWALT DCG413B 20V MAX Cordless Angle Grinder | Cordless jobsite cutting and grinding | ~$154 | View → |
| 2 | Makita XAG04Z Cordless Angle Grinder | Frequent metal fabrication projects | — | View → |
| 3 | Aiderar 4-1/2" Cordless Angle Grinder | Budget DIY repair work | ~$47 | View → |
| 4 | Milwaukee 2880-20 M18 FUEL Cordless Angle Grinder | Heavy-duty professional grinding tasks | ~$135 | View → |
| 5 | AOBEN Cordless Angle Grinder | Occasional home workshop use | ~$80 | View → |
5 Top Brushless Grinder Picks
These brushless grinders are ranked from fifth place to the top pick, with key features and trade-offs in mind.
5. AOBEN Cordless Angle Grinder
Best for: DIY metalwork and outdoor repairs
This cordless angle grinder uses a brushless motor and a 21V battery system. It accepts 4-1/2-inch wheels with a 7/8-inch arbor and 5/8-11 spindle, so it fits common grinding, cutting, and sanding accessories. A spindle lock helps speed up wheel changes, while the side handle gives you a steadier grip.
The kit includes two 4.0Ah lithium-ion batteries, a charger, two wheel guards, and an assortment of accessories. You get two cutting wheels, two grinding wheels, two sanding wheels, and a wrench inside the included case. Three speed settings reach up to 9,500 RPM, giving you more control for metal cutting, rust removal, surface preparation, and tile work. The regular and half-covered guards suit different tasks and help block sparks and chips. Around $80, it offers a substantial starter package, though the listing does not provide a specific runtime for either battery.
Pros
- Two 4.0Ah batteries let you keep one charged while using the other.
- Three speed settings provide control from slower surface work up to 9,500 RPM.
- The kit includes two guards and six wheels for several common tasks.
Cons
- The batteries are not compatible with other brands, limiting future battery options.
- Overload and overheating protection can pause the tool during demanding work.
4. Milwaukee 2880-20 M18 FUEL Cordless Angle Grinder
Best for: Cordless metal cutting and grinding
The Milwaukee 2880-20 is a cordless small angle grinder for cutting, grinding, and surface cleanup. Its brushless motor runs from Milwaukee’s M18 lithium-ion batteries, so it fits buyers who already own that battery platform. The grinder accepts both 4-1/2-inch and 5-inch wheels, while the 5/8″-11 spindle works with many common grinding and cutting accessories. It also uses a paddle switch without a lock-on position, which requires active pressure during operation.
Its electronic clutch can reduce the tool’s response during kickback, and overload protection helps limit stress on the motor during demanding work. An anti-vibration side handle gives you a steadier grip and may reduce hand fatigue during longer jobs. At around $135 for the tool, it costs more than basic corded grinders, but it avoids extension cords and outlet limits. The main catch is the tool-only package. You need a compatible M18 battery and charger before using it.
Pros
- Accepts 4-1/2-inch and 5-inch wheels for common cutting and grinding tasks.
- Electronic clutch adds protection when a wheel binds or kicks back.
- Compatible with all M18 batteries, making it useful for existing Milwaukee owners.
Cons
- Tool-only purchase excludes the M18 battery and charger, which adds to the total cost.
- Battery operation can limit runtime during heavy grinding, especially without a spare pack.
3. Aiderar 4-1/2″ Cordless Angle Grinder
Best for: DeWalt 20V DIY metalwork
The Aiderar is a 4-1/2-inch cordless angle grinder sold as a bare tool for select DeWalt 20V MAX batteries. It uses a brushless motor, a trigger that must stay pressed, soft start, and a lock-off button. Three speed settings cover sanding, rust removal, weld cleanup, and light metal cutting. The 5/8-11 spindle accepts many common 4-1/2-inch wheels and discs.
Around $47, this kit includes two metal guards, one for grinding and one half guard for cutting, plus a side handle and spare flange set. It also includes two sanding wheels, two cutting wheels, and two flap discs. That accessory bundle gives buyers a useful starting set, although the included abrasives may not match every project. A 4.0Ah or larger compatible battery is recommended for steadier performance under load, but neither battery nor charger comes in the box. Check the battery label carefully. DCB6XX models, including DCB606 and DCB609, do not fit. Runtime depends on the task and speed.
Pros
- Brushless motor avoids routine carbon-brush replacement.
- Two guards support separate grinding and cutting setups.
- Six included discs provide options for sanding, cutting, and flap-disc work.
Cons
- Battery and charger are not included, raising the total purchase cost for new DeWalt users.
- It cannot use DCB6XX 20V/60V MAX batteries, including several popular high-capacity models.
2. Makita XAG04Z Cordless Angle Grinder
Best for: Cordless metal cutting and grinding
The Makita XAG04Z is an 18V LXT cordless grinder for 4-1/2-inch and 5-inch wheels. It handles common cutting, grinding, and surface-preparation tasks without a power cord. This model is tool-only, so the battery and charger must be purchased separately. Its brushless motor uses electronic controls to match torque and RPM to the workload.
Automatic Speed Change adjusts output as resistance changes, helping the grinder maintain useful performance across different tasks. Makita also lists up to 50% longer runtime per charge compared with its standard brush-motor designs. Active Feedback-sensing Technology shuts the motor off if the wheel suddenly stops from forced rotation. That added protection can reduce the risk of a harsh kickback event, though it does not replace careful handling. The brushless design also removes carbon brushes, which reduces one wear part and helps the motor run cooler.
Pros
- Accepts both 4-1/2-inch and 5-inch wheels for flexible cutting and grinding.
- Brushless motor uses battery power more efficiently and can provide up to 50% longer runtime per charge.
- AFT stops the motor when sudden wheel rotation is detected.
Cons
- Battery and charger are not included, adding cost for buyers without an 18V LXT setup.
- The 4-1/2-inch or 5-inch wheel size limits cutting depth compared with larger grinders.
1. DEWALT DCG413B 20V MAX Cordless Angle Grinder
Best for: Cordless metal cutting and grinding
The DEWALT DCG413B is a cordless angle grinder for 4 1/2-inch wheels. It uses a brushless motor, so there are no brushes to replace. The tool-only package suits buyers who already own compatible DEWALT 20V MAX batteries. At around $154, it costs less to start than a full kit, but you will need a battery and charger if your workshop lacks them.
Its main strength is the mix of stopping and restart controls. The electronic brake stops the wheel in 2 seconds or less on average after the trigger is released. A kickback brake also responds to a detected pinch, stall, or bind-up. It applies the brake, reduces tool movement, and shuts the grinder off. The two-stage trigger requires two actions to start, while E-Switch Protection prevents an unexpected restart after power loss or shutdown. These controls add safety, but they also require more deliberate operation than a basic switch.
Pros
- Brushless motor avoids routine brush replacement.
- Brake stops the wheel in 2 seconds or less on average.
- Kickback brake detects stalls, pinches, and bind-ups, then shuts the tool off.
Cons
- Tool-only purchase excludes the battery and charger.
- Two-stage activation and restart protection can slow work when frequent stop-and-start grinding is needed.
Buying Guide
The most important factor is battery platform compatibility. A grinder that shares your existing 18V or 20V batteries can save $100 or more on chargers and spare packs.
- Power system: Choose 18V or 20V models for general cutting and grinding. Pick 36V or dual-battery versions for thick steel, masonry, or concrete.
- Disc size: A 4.5-inch wheel suits sheet metal, bolts, and compact jobs. Choose 5 inches for deeper cuts, but confirm replacement wheels are easy to find.
- Speed control: Look for variable speed, roughly 3,000 to 10,000 RPM. Lower speeds suit flap discs and polishing, while higher speeds fit cutoff wheels.
- Safety features: Require a wheel guard, lock-off switch, and electronic brake. A brake that stops the disc within about two seconds can reduce coast-down risk.
- Battery and kit value: A bare tool often costs $90 to $180. A kit with one 4.0Ah or 5.0Ah battery and charger commonly costs $180 to $350. Runtime changes with wheel pressure and material.
If you can prioritize only one factor, choose battery compatibility, then buy the largest capacity your budget allows.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you choose a brushless angle grinder?
Choose a brushless angle grinder by matching its disc size, voltage, speed control, safety features, and battery system to your work. A 4½-inch cordless model suits cutting bolts and grinding welds, while a 5-inch or 6-inch tool offers more coverage for masonry. Check for a brake, adjustable guard, side handle, and two batteries.
What is a brushless angle grinder?
A brushless angle grinder uses electronic motor controls instead of carbon brushes, which can reduce maintenance and improve battery efficiency. Most cordless models run on 18V or 20V battery platforms and accept discs around 4½ to 5 inches. The motor still needs cooling, so clear dust from vents and avoid pressing hard during long cuts.
Can a cordless brushless grinder cut metal?
Yes, a cordless brushless grinder can cut metal, remove rust, smooth welds, and handle light masonry work with the correct disc. Use a thin cutoff wheel for steel, a flap disc for blending, and a diamond wheel for brick or tile. Wear eye and hearing protection, and expect battery life to vary by material.
Are brushless cordless grinders worth buying?
Yes, brushless cordless grinders are worth buying for portable work, frequent use, and jobs where a cord gets in the way. They usually cost more upfront than brushed models, while a battery and charger may add $80 to $200. For occasional shop work beside an outlet, a corded grinder offers lower cost and unlimited runtime.
Conclusion
The DEWALT DCG413B 20V MAX Cordless Angle Grinder remains the top pick for DIYers and tradespeople who want a compact, cordless tool for cutting, grinding, and cleanup jobs. If your priority is long, heavy-duty sessions without battery changes, choose a corded 4.5-inch grinder instead, since it can run continuously from a wall outlet. Before buying, double-check the grinder’s disc size, battery and charger compatibility, package quantity, and current price, since the bare-tool version may not include either power source. Also check the guard and side-handle positions, especially if you work in tight spaces or switch between cutting and grinding wheels. A clear match with your existing setup can prevent extra costs after checkout.