Tired of sharpening and polishing metal by hand? If so, it may be time to consider investing in a bench grinder. This tool is designed to offer versatility when it comes to metal applications.
In fact, you can utilize it to shape, buff, sharpen, polish and clean metal. And, the best part is it will increase your productivity by four-fold or maybe more. Whatever the case may be, you cannot go wrong with a bench grinder. However, to ensure you get your money’s worth, you must take several factors into consideration. These factors are listed in this in-depth buying guide.
Best Bench Grinder for The Money: Quick Comparison.
Last update on 2023-03-25 at 17:48 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Heavy-Duty Base
To ensure the longest life, the bench grinder must be integrated with a base constructed from industrial cast iron. This material will endure the test of time, prolonging the life of the grinder. A base made of any other material will not last half as long as industrial cast iron.
Large Applications
It is likely that you work with metals of all sizes, including short, long, small and large. So, you must have a bench grinder that will work with a metal of all sizes. The grinder must have at least 12 inches between the wheel to handle all sizes of metal.
Powerful Motor
A motor will make or break a bench grinder. The motor must be able to run at least 3450 rpm for speedy material removal. Induction motors are always going to be the best option, especially when it comes to heavy-duty grinding operations. A 5/8 hp induction motor is all you need for all of your metal grinding projects.
Portability
Almost all handymen and professionals that work with metal need a bench grinder that offers some level of portability. Since you will probably be working in different settings, a model that weighs no more than 30 pounds will be ideal. Some of the top brands, such as DeWalt, JET, RIKON, and Porter-Cable, have a diverse selection of bench grinders. So, you will not have any issues finding a model that offers portability.
Warranty
The average warranty included with bench grinders is about three years. However, some manufacturers put limitations on their warranties. For example, one warranty may cover defects caused by faulty materials. A decent warranty is a necessity to protect your best interest. Some of the top brands back their bench grinders with a 3-year warranty that covers defects due to faulty workmanship and materials.
Grit Wheels
Grit wheels are utilized for grinding, sharpening and cleaning metal. These components can be rather expensive and it is likely that you will require several grits for different applications. Fortunately, some brands come with several grit wheels, ranging anywhere from 60 t0 150 grit. Get your money’s worth by investing in a model that includes at least two grit wheels.
1.DeWalt DW756 6-Inch Bench Grinder
The DeWalt DW756 Bench Grinder is designed with premium-grade components and technology to ensure a powerful, smooth operation. The machine is backed by a decent warranty that covers both repairs and replacement parts. Its interface is self-explanatory and very friendly, so it is ideal for both beginners and veteran handymen.
- Powerful 5/8 HP induction motor of the bench grinder is made for heavy-duty grinding operations
- Industrial cast iron base and motor housing of the 6-inch bench grinder provide durability and prolong life
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Powerful Induction Motor
The DW756 is equipped with a high-quality induction motor that will deliver continuous power throughout each operation. The motor is capable of running at 3450 rpm, which is ideal for high-speed material removal. Power through some of the thickest and toughest metal with this bench grinder.
Large Applications
The versatile design of the DW756 allows for short, long, small and large grinding applications. The distance between the wheels is 12-1/2 inches. So, you can make the necessary adjustments to achieve the distance necessary for most applications.
High-Quality Motor Housing
One of the most important components of a bench grinder is the motor housing. However, not all motor housings are made the same. In order for the motor housing to provide prolong life and durability, it must be constructed from heavy-duty materials. The DW756 has a motor housing that is made of industrial cast iron, which is heavy-duty to withstand normal wear and tear.
Overall Assessment
The DeWalt DW756 Bench Grinder is ideal for small and medium metal applications. The onboard induction motor delivers continuous power to ensure a smooth operation. The machine weighs about 28 pounds to ensure portability and convenience.
Pros
- Powerful onboard induction motor
- Weighs approximately 28 pounds
- Backed by a 3-year limited warranty
- Includes 36 and 60 grit wheels
- Grinds, sharpens and polishes metal
Cons
- Installing accessories should be easier
- Instructions need to be updated
2. WEN 4280 5 Amp 8-inch Bench Grinder
Are you looking for a bench grinder that can easily replicate a good electric die grinder? If so, you should definitely spend a few minutes checking out the WEN 4280. It might be affordable, but it is really one of the best bench grinders out there. The unit is equipped with a powerful motor that is capable of doing it all. The motor offers variable speeds. It can run at speeds ranging from 2,000 to 3,400 RPM. This ensures that you’ll be able to get the precise amount of power that is needed at any point in time.
- 5-amp variable speed motor goes anywhere from 2000 to 3400 RPM
- Slower speeds maximize precision while high speeds help with fast material removal
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Great Base
One of the best things about the WEN 4280 is the fact that it features a great base. The sturdy cast iron base will make a big difference. It ensures that the unit is going to steady during operation. It won’t wobble back and forth when the unit is turned on. It also features mounting holes to make the unit even sturdier. You can guarantee that the WEN 4280 is going to last a lifetime.
Speeds
Another great thing about this grinder is the variable speeds. This will make a big difference in the long run. The slower speeds will be very beneficial when you need to increase the precision of the grind. If you need to get rid of the material quicker, you should switch to a higher speed. Either way, you can guarantee that this grinder’s power will always be customized for the job at hand.
Overall Assessment
The WEN 4820 is a great bench grinder. Just remember that it does have a few minor flaws. Nevertheless, the price is right on target and that makes it well worth the investment. If you are in the market for a good bench grinder, you should consider adding this one to your collection.
Pros
- Variable speeds make a big difference
- RPMs between 2,000 and 3,400
- Comes 80-grit and 36-grit grinding wheels
- Features a work light
Cons
- Grinding wheels could be much better
3. DeWalt DW758 8-Inch Bench Grinder
DeWalt is really one of the most trusted brands in the world. If you’re going to be buying any power equipment, you’ll definitely want to consider buying a DeWalt product. This is why you’ll want to take a glance at the DeWalt DW758 8 Inch Bench Grinder. This one is moderately priced and you can almost guarantee that it is going to last a lifetime. It works exceptionally well for the intended purpose and it offers a wealth of benefits.
- 3/4 HP induction motor of the bench grinder provides superior power for industrial grinding applications
- Rugged cast iron base and motor housing of the 8-inch bench grinder provide durability and prolonged life
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Excellent Motor Life
When it comes to DeWalt, you can guarantee that the company’s products are going to last. At the same time, the motor is designed to provide maximum reliability. After all, it features overload protection and that is going to make a big difference. If you want a bench grinder that is going to last a lifetime, you’ll definitely want to consider adding this one to your collection.
Adjustable Guard
There is a good chance that you’ll need to adjust the guard at some point or another. In many cases, this is going to be very difficult. After all, you’ll probably need to use a tool to make the adjustment. This is not an issue with the DeWalt. With this bench grinder, you can adjust the guard quickly and easily without any tools whatsoever. That will ensure you’re able to get the most out of this unit.
Accurate
This unit features an aluminum tool rests. This makes a big difference. It ensures that you’re able to maximize your precision and get the perfect finish pretty much every single time. This is something that might not be available with the alternatives.
Overall Assessment
All in all, the DeWalt DW758 Bench Grinder is a great overall value. It works great for the intended purpose and it won’t break the bank. For the price, it is easily a good bargain.
Pros
- Overload protection protects the motor
- Guard can be adjusted without tools
- Very durable and reliable
- ¾ HP motor ensures you have plenty of power
Cons
- Too much vibration
4. WEN 4276 2.1 Amp 6-Inch Bench Grinder
Are you looking for a bench grinder that will deliver great results without emptying your wallet? If so, you’ll definitely want to check out the WEN 4276. This is one of the most affordable and versatile bench grinders out there. It is going to deliver big results and you won’t have to worry about buying anything else. After all, it comes with a flexible work light. This ensures that you’ll be able to get good results from start to finish.
- 2.1-Amp motor
- 3450 RPM at no load
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RPMs
Before buying a grinder, you need to make sure that you get one that has plenty of power. The WEN 4276 features a powerful motor. It is capable of operating at 3450 RPMs when there is no load. That should be a sufficient amount of power for the average individual.
Lightweight
It is always a good idea to consider the weight of the grinder. After all, there is a good chance that you’re going to be moving the grinder from spot to spot in the future. If so, you’ll want a bench grinder that is lightweight. This is where the WEN 4276 knocks it out of the park. This unit weighs just 16 pounds. You’re not going to have any trouble moving it around.
Work Light
Another great thing about this grinder is the work light. This is not something that you have to buy separately. You’ll probably want to use a light so you can get a more precise grind. With the WEN 4276, you will get one from the start and that makes the package worth so much more.
Overall Assessment
The WEN 4276 us one of the cheapest bench grinders out there. If you want to save money and still get the job done right, you should definitely consider buying this grinder.
Pros
- Comes with a work light
- Features a 2.1 amp motor
- 3,450 RPMs with no load
- Weighs just 16 pounds
- Pretty reliable motor
Cons
- Grinding wheels are poor quality
5. SKIL 3380-01 6-Inch Bench Grinder
There is no doubt that SKIL is a very reliable company. They make a wealth of amazing products. If you want a great bench grinder at an affordable price, you should check out the SKIL 3380-01. This product is very inexpensive and it is going to turn in a good performance from start to finish. This unit comes with medium and coarse wheels to ensure you’re able to get the precise finish that you’re after. Plus, it offers numerous other benefits.
- Medium and coarse wheels for a variety of materials
- 2.1 Amp Motor with 3,450 RPM
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Work Lights
One of the best things about the SKIL 3380-01 is the built-in LED work lights. This keeps the unit compact while ensuring you’re able to see everything perfectly. This can improve your accuracy and help you get the perfect finish time and time again.
Power
It is also great that the SKIL 3380-01 Bench Grinder offers plenty of power. The 2.1-amp motor is capable of operating with 3,450 RPMs. This should be enough for pretty much every task. You’ll be able to grind pretty much anything using this grinder. It is very reliable.
Rubber Feet
The SKIL is equipped with rubber feet. This will make a big difference by ensuring that the grinder is going to remain steady on the surface at all times. Even when it is in operation, the bench grinder will not wobbly or sway from side to side. It will remain steady so you can get the perfect grind.
Overall Assessment
The SKIL 338001 Grinder is great, but it should not be used for professional or commercial use. It is best for at-home and hobby use. If this is your intended purpose, you’re going to love this grinder. Otherwise, you might need to upgrade to something better.
Pros
- Rubber feet are great
- The adjustable tool makes a big difference
- Features built-in LED lights
- 1-amp motor is sufficiently powerful
Cons
- Only good for casual use
I would like to purchase Bench Grinders,in your store/company i would be happy if you can get back to me again with the prices and dimensions you having available in a moment,and also do you take all types of Credit Cards as your payment required?Kindly get back to me here so that we will work together as one panther. All the best and stay blessed.
Hi Larry,
Thank you for you message. Unfortunately, we are not selling Bench Grinders. We just give our readers advice on what they should look before making a purchase.
Regarding payment questions, I believe Amazon accepts all major credit cards, etc. So I suggest you take a look at this product: https://amzn.to/2V9mkuL
Thanks again.