Cordless angle grinders are both convenient and efficient for a variety of tasks that need the freedom that comes with mobility. Makita angle grinders represent some of the very best angle grinders on the market based on enhanced additional features and superior motor technology with incredibly high RPM speeds.
When deciding on the best angle grinders, Makita is always a brand worth considering. This brand specializes in powerful motors that are also made possible by high-voltage batteries that are engineered to adapt to the incredible power of an angle grinder motor.
In this Makita angle grinder review, we will explore a range of 7 Makita grinders that represent the best of the brand. Through the pros and cons and frequently asked questions, this guide will help to serve your buying needs for one of the best power tool brands.
Overview
Makita is a world-renowned Japanese brand that has been manufacturing power tools for over a century. In recent years, the company has found international success with their range of cordless power tools that come equipped with powerful batteries to support the high RPM speeds and durable motors of their range of angle grinders.
The 18V Lithium-ion batteries that are included in Makita grinders make ordinary cordless grinders seem like ancient tools of a bygone era. Increased performance and longer cutting and grinding times are frequently cited by users as the standout features of a Makita grinder.
Key Features
Some of the most common features of Makita angle grinders are:
- Automatic speed change technology that adjusts speed and torque during operation for optimum performance
- Active feedback sensing technology (aft) which turns the motor off if the rotation of the wheel is suddenly forced to stop
- A BL Brushless motor that eliminates carbon brushes, enabling the BL Motor to run cooler and more efficiently for longer life
- Efficient BL Brushless motors that are electronically controlled to optimize battery energy use for up to 50 percent longer run-time per charge
- An electronically controlled BL Brushless motor that efficiently uses energy to match torque and RPM to the changing demands of the application
- The electronic torque control that turns the motor off if rotation speed suddenly slows or the wheel is forced to stop
- The addition of an automatic-start wireless system (AWS) that utilizes Bluetooth technology for Wireless Power-on/off communication between tool and dust extractor
- Incredible power and durability in the class of cordless grinders
Performance
This brand’s grinders exhibit incredible amounts of power and speed. This may not attractive to all users, yet you can be assured that you are getting a powerful grinder if you choose this brand. More motor power and higher RPMs always equals out to stellar and superior grinding and cutting performance capabilities.
Not all cordless grinders have a great reputation; dead batteries and overheating are some of the most common problems associated with cordless grinders. But a Makita grinder has been engineered to last for longer periods thanks to high voltage batteries that are run on Lithium-ion.
Simply put, Makita 18V Lithium-Ion batteries have the fastest charge times in their categories, so they spend more time working and less time sitting on the charger. This brand is a must if you are interested in cordless grinders.
Value for Money
For such incredible quality comes a somewhat expensive price tag; Makita grinders aren’t exactly cheap. Prices generally start in the $100 range and scale upwards as high as $500+ for some of the incredible kits that Makita offers.
The incredible amp motor makes for a truly impressive power source, which also allows some models to range in speed from 11,000 RPM to upwards of 26,000 RPM. You certainly get what you pay for with a Makita model and this brand produces some of the very best angle grinders.
Top 7 Best Makita Angle Grinders
These models range in price from less expensive to most expensive and come with a range of different features depending on the particular model.
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Makita XAG09Z:
One of the more affordable models of the Makita brand delivers corded grinding performance without the cord with the 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless 4-1/2” Cut-Off/Angle Grinder with Electric Brake. It’s powered by a Makita brushless motor for longer run time, increased power and speed, and longer tool life.
For the most demanding applications, Makita’s exclusive Automatic Speed Change Technology automatically adjusts speed and torque during operation for optimal performance. For added convenience, the XAG09Z has an electric brake that stops the wheel in 2 seconds or less upon release of the switch.
This model is ideal for grinding, cutting, and sanding a wide range of materials including tile, concrete, pipe, conduit, and more.
Pros:
- The electric brake stops the grinding or cut-off wheel in 2 seconds or less for maximum productivity
- Active feedback-sensing technology (aft) turns the motor off if the rotation of the wheel is suddenly forced to stop
- Automatic speed change technology adjusts speed and torque during operation for optimum performance
- The BL Brushless motor eliminates carbon brushes, enabling the BL Motor to run cooler and more efficiently for longer life
- Efficient BL Brushless motor is electronically controlled to optimize battery energy use for up to 50% longer run time per charge
Cons:
- The batteries can be difficult to remove
- One of Makita’s heavier grinder models
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Makita XAG04Z:
This model contains many of the same features as the XAG09Z and is part of Makita’s expanding 18V Lithium-Ion system, the world’s largest cordless tool system powered by 18V Lithium-Ion slide-style batteries. Makita 18V Lithium-Ion batteries have the fastest charge times in their categories, so they spend more time working and less time sitting on the charger.
For improved tool performance and extended battery life, Makita created the Star protection computer controls, which is truly what sets Makita apart from other angle grinder brands. Star Protection is communication technology that allows the Star Protection-equipped tool and battery to exchange data in real-time and monitor conditions during use to protect against overloading, over-discharging, and overheating.
Additionally, for increased versatility, the tool can also be powered by Makita 18V LXT and compact Lithium-Ion batteries with the star symbol on the battery indicating star protection inside.
Pros:
- Automatic speed change technology adjusts speed and torque during operation for optimum performance
- Active feedback sensing technology (aft) turns the motor off if the rotation of the wheel is suddenly forced to stop
- The BL Brushless motor eliminates carbon brushes, enabling the BL Motor to run cooler and more efficiently for longer life
- Efficient BL Brushless motor is electronically controlled to optimize battery energy use for up to 50 percent longer run-time per charge
- The electronically controlled BL Brushless motor efficiently uses energy to match torque and RPM to the changing demands of the application
Cons:
- Batteries can be depleted quickly
- Not as powerful as common cordless-grinders
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Makita XDG02Z:
This model has been engineered for a range of metalworking surface-prep applications including grinding, smoothing, and cutting. The XDG02Z features a Makita-built motor that delivers 26,000 RPM for faster grinding.
That is truly an incredible speed considering the compact design with barrel grip weighs only 3.8 lbs. (with battery), with a short-neck design (only 12-1/8” L with battery) that makes it ideal for working in tight spaces. The slide switch has a lock-on for operator convenience, with vent slots designed to direct exhaust air away from the user.
The XDG02Z also features a solid aluminum housing for added durability and also includes a built-in L.E.D. that provides overload motor protection warning due to over-torque. In addition, L.E.D. light flashes red when it is time to recharge the battery.
The XDG02Z delivers speed and portability in a compact size and is ideal for a range of metalworking surface-prep applications.
Pros:
- Makita-built 4-pole motor delivers 26,000 revolutions per minute for faster grinding
- The short neck design is only 12-1/8″ long with battery (not included) for increased maneuverability
- Compact barrel grip design with rubberized soft grip allows for an easy grinding in various orientations
- Vent slots designed to direct exhaust air away from the user
- Slide switch with lock-on capability for continuous operation
Cons:
- Large and bulky
- Incredibly high speeds can be difficult to control
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Makita XAG17ZU:
As we scale up in price, you will notice that Makita grinders start to become truly innovative and powerful. This model is equipped with auto-start wireless system technology and utilizes Bluetooth technology for wireless communication between the tool and dust extractor.
When the trigger of the AWS-equipped XAG17ZU is engaged, the AWS-equipped dust extractor powers-up; when the trigger is released, the dust extractor powers-down. AWS is intelligent communication that eliminates cords and excessive noise since the dust extractor runs only when the tool is running.
Additional features include an electric brake that stops the grinding or cut-off wheel in 2 seconds or less and electronic torque control that turns the motor off if rotation speed suddenly slows or the wheel is forced to a stop. The variable speed control dial allows manual RPM adjustment (3, 000 – 8, 500), allowing you to match the speed to the application.
This model is part of Makita’s expanding 18V Lithium-Ion system, the world’s largest cordless tool system powered by 18V Lithium-Ion slide-style batteries. Makita 18V Lithium-Ion batteries have the fastest charge times in their categories, so they spend more time working and less time sitting on the charger.
This model takes angle grinders to another level.
Pros:
- The electric brake stops the grinding or cut-off wheel in 2 seconds or less for maximum productivity
- Active feedback-sensing technology (aft) turns the motor off if the rotation of the wheel is suddenly forced to stop
- Automatic-start Wireless system (AWS) utilizes Bluetooth technology for Wireless Power-on/off communication between tool and dust extractor
- Automatic speed change technology adjusts speed and torque during operation for optimum performance
- The BL Brushless motor eliminates carbon brushes, enabling the BL Motor to run cooler and more efficiently for longer life
Cons:
- Can be noisy due to the Bluetooth technology
- The grinding wheel can vibrate at random
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Makita XAG21ZU:
The XAG21ZU carries many of the same features of the XAG17ZU with a Paddle switch with no lock-on for operator convenience. Additionally, a soft start suppresses start-up reaction for smooth start-ups and longer gear life.
Additional features include anti-restart protection engineered to prevent the motor from start-up when the battery is inserted with paddle switch in the on position and spiral bevel gears for smoother rotations and a more efficient transfer of energy. This model is perfect if you want all of the advanced features that come with a Makita grinder with the benefit that paddle switch technology brings.
Pros:
- The electric brake stops the grinding or cut-off wheel in 2 seconds or less for maximum productivity
- Electronic torque control turns the motor off if rotation speed suddenly slows or the wheel is forced to stop
- Automatic-start Wireless system (AWS) utilizes Bluetooth technology for Wireless Power-on/off communication between tool and dust extractor
- Automatic speed change technology adjusts speed and torque during operation for optimum performance
Cons:
- The guard attachment is a bit wide
- Prone to overheating
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Makita XAG11T:
This comprehensive kit is powered by a Makita brushless motor for longer run time, increased power and speed, and longer tool life. For the most demanding applications, Makita’s exclusive automatic speed change technology automatically adjusts speed and torque during operation for optimal performance.
For added convenience, the XAG11T has an electric brake that stops the wheel in 2 seconds or less upon release of the paddle switch. The 18V LXT 5.0Ah battery charges in only 45 minutes for less downtime and increased productivity.
The XAG11T is ideal for grinding, cutting, and sanding a wide range of materials including tile, concrete, pipe, conduit, and more, which is made even easier with the addition of brake technology.
Pros:
- Compact and ergonomic design at only 14-1/4″ long
- Rubberized soft grip provides increased comfort on the job
- 3-stage L.E.D. the gauge indicates battery charge level
- Soft start suppresses start-up reaction for smooth start-ups and longer gear life
- Spiral bevel gears for smoother rotations and a more efficient transfer of energy
- Anti-restart protection engineered to prevent motor start up when the battery is inserted with switch locked on
- Wire mesh intake covers are engineered to prevent debris from entering the motor
Cons:
- Runs through batteries easily
- Prone to overheating
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Makita XBU02PTX1:
Makita loves to offer packages of some of their more popular power tools in addition to a motor that delivers exceptional speed and performance no matter the tool. Landscapers & contractors are demanding more cordless alternatives to gas-powered outdoor power equipment and Makita is meeting demand with an expanding line of cordless OPE that includes the 18V x2 LXT Lithium-Ion (36V) Brushless blower.
With zero emissions and lower noise, the 18V x2 (36V) cordless blower is a welcome solution for clean-up applications. It’s powered by two 18V LXT batteries for maximum power and run time, but without leaving the 18V battery platform.
With the efficient Makita BL Brushless motor, the blower delivers longer run time, increased power and speed, & longer tool life. The XBU02PTX1 model is a kit and includes the blower, two fast-charging 18V LXT Lithium-Ion 5.0Ah batteries, and an efficient 18V Dual Port Rapid Optimum Charger.
The kit also includes an 18V LXT Brushless 4-D/2″ Angle Grinder, which is equipped with an efficient brushless motor and automatic speed change technology for corded grinding performance without the cord. If you have always wanted a powerful blower or are looking to upgrade while on your hunt for the perfect Makita grinder, then this kit is definitely work considering.
Pros:
- Makita-built BL Brushless Motor delivers up to 473 CFM to support up to 11,000 RPM
- Makita-built motor produces a maximum air velocity of 120 MPH.
- 6-stage air velocity/volume selection dial with a variable speed control trigger
- Two 18V LXT Lithium-Ion batteries (included) deliver the energy and run time for gas-powered demands without leaving the 18V LXT platform
- Zero emissions and reduced maintenance; no need for gas or oil
Cons:
- Eats through many batteries
- Expensive
Which Is the Best Makita Angle Grinder?
In terms of sheer strength and incredible performance, the XAG17ZU is truly a model worth considering for your tool collection. This model is part of Makita’s expanding 18V Lithium-Ion system, which is the world’s largest cordless tool system powered by 18V Lithium-Ion slide-style batteries, and yet, this model represents the best example of how this battery technology can be enhanced with a range of additional features to truly make the grinder standout.
Take a look at this video to see the XAG17ZU in action:
Things to Consider When Buying a Makita Angle Grinder: (Buyers Guide)
- Powerful motors. A Makita grinder features some of the best amp motor capabilities of any angle grinder brand. This is because the power source for these grinders comes from an 18V Lithium-ion battery pack that contains a strong current to make the amp motor run faster and last longer. This kind of use isn’t for everyone.
- Dust and debris management. Since Makita grinders are so powerful, dust and debris management is something to consider. Makita grinders do use some features to help control dust and debris, yet this can be problematic for such a powerful tool with incredible speeds driving the grinding wheel.
- Safety. Makita ensures that a wheel guard is always in place, yet the wheel guard that features on many models may be too wide and bothersome for some users. You will certainly be thankful it is there due to 11,000 RPM speeds and upwards.
- Battery management. This brand’s batteries are powerful, yet the cost of running such energy can be draining on the battery pack. Keep in mind that you may need to frequently purchase additional batteries over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Can the Makita Angle Grinder Cut?
This brand can cut through virtually anything including tile, concrete, pipe, conduit, rusty objects, metal bolts, and more. Sanding, polishing, and sharpening are also possible with a Makita grinder.
Be sure to remember that the higher of speed you run the grinder at, the more pressure that will be put on the motor. While a Makita grinder can cut through virtually anything, battery usage should be monitored if you wish to cut and grind for long periods of time.
What Type of Wheel Do You Need for the Makita Angle Grinder
You can equip any type of wheel to a Makita grinding tool in the range of 4 1/2 inches up to 8 inches in most cases. Be sure to apply just the right amount of pressure when using a grinder by this brand to avoid over stripping the blade.
How to Change a Disc/Blade on a Makita Angle Grinder
For a cordless angle grinder, always remove the battery before you begin to handle the disc. This can be easy to forget since you are not dealing with an electric tool.
The blade for this brand can be changed much like any other brand. If using a wrench, you simply hold the grinder’s lock button down to free up the wheel and lock the wrench into one of the holes.
Twist the wrench in the opposite direction and keep twisting until the disc is free from the wheel. Put a new disc on and lock it in place.
How to Install the Guard on a Makita Angle Grinder
Installing the guard isn’t difficult, and you just need to make sure the disc is removed before installing it. To install the guard, simply align the guard with the head of the grinder and screw the bolts into the frame to lock the guard in place.
You can then attach your blade and begin grinding or cutting.
How to Use a Makita Angle Grinder to Sharpen Tools
You can use a Makita grinder to sharpen the edges of not only common household implements, such as lawnmower blades, axes, and hatchets but also other low-key tools, such as ice scrapers, hoes, and shovels.
When performing these tasks, ensure the blades are tightly clamped to a worktable before starting the sharpening project; not following the instructions properly can lead to dangerous outcomes.
Just align the blade along the edges of the material you wish to sharpen and move the sharpening blade backward across the edge until you reach the desired sharpness.
Final Thoughts
As you can see Makita is a stellar brand when it comes to tools in general, and one of the top-tier brands for manufacturing quality and innovative cordless grinders. From the state-of-the-art technology that produces powerful motors to the efficiency and incredible energy capabilities of the batteries, this brand is sure to make your grinding and cutting procedures simpler and precise, without the need of worrying about the limitations of an electrical cord.
