An angle grinder is the tool that does the job nothing else can do as well: cutting metal, grinding a weld, removing rust, preparing a surface, or cutting concrete. It's also the most dangerous tool in the workshop if not handled with respect. Choosing the right model for your use is as much about performance as it is about safety.
At Équipement Polar, we have been distributing angle grinders since 1991. This guide covers the 9 best models available in Canada, from entry-level corded to high-performance cordless, categorized by use and budget.
Our Quick Picks
- Entry-level corded → Bosch GWS8-45 4.5'': $106
- Versatile corded → DeWalt DWE402 4.5'': $137
- High-performance corded → Metabo W 1100-125 4.5'': $159
- Premium brushless corded → Fein CG15-125BL 5'': $508
- Versatile 20V cordless → DeWalt 4.5'' 20V brushless: $249
- Milwaukee M18 cordless → Milwaukee 2881-20 5'' M18 FUEL: $193
- Premium Fein cordless → Fein CCG 18-125-10 PD AS 5'': $436
- High-power cordless → DeWalt DCG418X1 FlexVolt 4.5''-6'': $548
- Premium XGT cordless → Makita GA005GM102 5'' XGT: $629
Comparison Table
| Model | Disc | Type | Motor | CAD Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch GWS8-45 | 4.5'' | Corded 120V | Standard | $106 |
| DeWalt DWE402 | 4.5'' | Corded 120V | Standard 11A | $137 |
| Metabo W 1100-125 | 4.5'' | Corded 120V | 1100W | $159 |
| Fein CG15-125BL | 5'' | Corded brushless | 1500W brushless | $508 |
| DeWalt 4.5'' 20V | 4.5'' | Cordless 20V | Brushless | $249 |
| Milwaukee 2881-20 | 5'' | Cordless M18 | POWERSTATE brushless | $193 |
| Fein CCG 18-125-10 PD AS | 5'' | Cordless AmpShare 18V | Brushless | $436 |
| DeWalt DCG418X1 | 4.5'' to 6'' | Cordless FlexVolt 60V | Brushless | $548 |
| Makita GA005GM102 | 5'' | Cordless XGT 40V | Brushless XGT | $629 |
Prices in Canadian dollars. Some models are on sale — check the current price on the product page. Free shipping on orders over $150 across Canada from equipementpolar.com.
1. Bosch GWS8-45 4.5'' Grinder
The tool we recommend when the budget is tight but reliability isn't. Bosch has been making angle grinders for decades, and you can feel it from the first use.
The GWS8-45 is the ideal entry point for those who need a reliable angle grinder without breaking the bank. At $106, it's the tool to have in your toolbox for occasional jobs: cutting a bolt, preparing a metal surface, removing rust. The Bosch construction is solid, and the grinder handles well for common tasks.
Pros
- $106 — the most accessible entry point in the selection
- Bosch brand — recognized reliability in the market
- Lightweight and maneuverable for common tasks
- Compatible with all standard 4.5'' discs
Points to Consider
- 8A — less powerful than intermediate models for intensive work
- Not ideal for long sessions in a professional workshop
Ideal for: DIYers, occasional work, workshops with limited budgets.
Not ideal for: Intensive daily professional use.
Price: $106
View Bosch GWS8-45 at Polar →2. DeWalt DWE402 4.5'' Grinder
The corded grinder we recommend most often. A perfect balance of price, power, and robustness for regular professional use.
The DWE402 is the standard corded angle grinder in Quebec professional workshops. Its 11A motor provides sufficient power for daily metal, concrete, and masonry cutting and grinding tasks. The anti-restart protection system prevents accidental starts after a power outage, and overload protection extends motor life during intensive sessions. At $137 on sale, it's hard to beat for a professional corded grinder of this quality.
Pros
- 11A — sufficient power for common professional tasks
- Anti-restart and overload protection
- Robust construction — holds up to regular professional use
- $137 on sale — excellent value for money
Points to Consider
- Corded — cable constraint on job sites or in confined spaces
- For very long sessions, the Metabo 1100W or Fein brushless last better
Ideal for: Professional workshops, metal fabrication, construction, regular use with access to an outlet.
Not ideal for: Job site work far from an outlet or consecutive multi-hour sessions.
Price: $137
View DeWalt DWE402 at Polar →3. Metabo W 1100-125 4.5'' Grinder
Metabo is the brand for serious welders and metal fabricators. The W 1100-125 is designed for long sessions where other grinders start to overheat.
Metabo is a German brand specializing in tools for metal fabrication. Their angle grinders are renowned for their durability in demanding industrial conditions. The W 1100-125 is designed for professionals who grind metal all day: its 1100W motor is built to maintain pace without overheating. The side switch is standard in industrial environments for optimal control.
Pros
- 1100W motor — designed for long sessions without overheating
- German industrial construction — proven durability
- Side switch — optimal control in professional use
- Recognized brand in metal fabrication
Points to Consider
- Corded — requires access to an outlet
- After-sales service less accessible than DeWalt or Milwaukee in Quebec
Ideal for: Welders, metal fabricators, professionals who grind metal several hours a day.
Not ideal for: Varied job site work — the DeWalt DWE402 is more versatile.
Price: $159
View Metabo W 1100-125 at Polar →4. Fein CG15-125BL 5'' Brushless Angle Grinder
The pinnacle of corded grinders. Fein invented the angle grinder in 1954, and their CG15-125BL is what 70 years of development yield when no compromises are made.
The Fein CG15-125BL is the most advanced corded angle grinder in our selection. Its 1500W brushless motor eliminates carbon brushes, meaning less heat, less maintenance, and a significantly longer motor life than brushed models. Fein is also the brand that designed the very first angle grinder in the world in 1954. For professionals who work with a grinder several hours a day, this is an investment that pays for itself over time.
Pros
- 1500W corded brushless motor — the most powerful and durable in the corded selection
- Zero carbon brushes — minimal maintenance, maximum lifespan
- German Fein construction — reference standard in metal fabrication
- Fein: inventors of the angle grinder in 1954
Points to Consider
- $508 — justified for intensive professional use only
- Corded — not suitable for job site work without an outlet
Ideal for: Metal fabricators, welders, industrial workshops that use a grinder several hours a day.
Not ideal for: Occasional or semi-professional use.
Price: $508
View Fein CG15-125BL at Polar →5. DeWalt 4.5'' 20V Brushless Grinder (Tool Only)
The 
cordless grinder for those who already own DeWalt 20V batteries. Cordless freedom without sacrificing performance for common job site tasks.
For users already equipped with DeWalt 20V batteries, this grinder is a logical addition to their toolset. The brushless motor ensures maximum battery life and a longer lifespan than brushed models. On job sites, in spaces without an outlet, or for quick touch-ups, cordless freedom truly changes the way you work.
Pros
- Cordless — total freedom of movement on job sites
- Brushless motor — superior battery life and durability
- Compatible with all DeWalt 20V batteries
- $249 tool only — excellent price for a cordless brushless grinder
Things to consider
- Tool only — requires a DeWalt 20V battery
- For very long and intensive sessions, the FlexVolt 60V offers more runtime
Ideal for: Existing DeWalt 20V users, job site work, quick touch-ups.
Not ideal for: Intensive multi-hour sessions — see the FlexVolt 60V.
Price: $249
View the DeWalt 4.5'' 20V at Polar →6. Milwaukee 2881-20 M18 FUEL 5'' Grinder (tool only)
The cordless benchmark for Milwaukee M18 users. The POWERSTATE motor is industry-renowned for maintaining power even under prolonged load.
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2881-20 is the benchmark cordless grinder for M18 platform users. The POWERSTATE brushless motor is designed to maintain speed under load, where other cordless motors begin to lose power. The REDLINK PLUS system intelligently protects the tool and battery from overload and overheating. At $193 on sale (regular $298), it's an exceptional value.
Pros
- $193 on sale — exceptional value for an M18 FUEL
- POWERSTATE motor — maintains speed under load
- REDLINK PLUS — intelligent tool and battery protection
- 5-year Milwaukee FUEL warranty
Things to consider
- Tool only — requires a Milwaukee M18 battery
- 5'' disc — slightly less universal than 4.5'' in terms of available discs
Ideal for: Existing Milwaukee M18 users, construction sites, mobile metal fabrication.
Not ideal for: Those without M18 batteries — consider the DeWalt 20V if you're starting from scratch.
Price: $193
View the Milwaukee 2881-20 at Polar →7. Fein CCG 18-125-10 PD AS 5'' AmpShare Grinder (tool only)
The cordless grinder for professionals who want Fein quality with the flexibility of a multi-brand compatible platform. If you already have 18V batteries from another brand, you might already have what you need.
Fein's AmpShare platform accepts 18V batteries from several major brands, meaning if you already have 18V Bosch, Makita, or Milwaukee batteries, they can power this tool directly. You get the renowned Fein construction in professional metal fabrication without having to invest in a new battery platform. This is a real advantage on the job for professionals who already have a mixed fleet of 18V batteries.
Pros
- AmpShare platform — compatible with 18V batteries from several major brands
- Professional Fein construction — renowned German quality
- Brushless motor — superior durability and runtime
- Ideal if you already have 18V batteries from another brand
Things to consider
- $436 tool only — high investment with no battery included
- Verify exact battery compatibility before purchase
Ideal for: Professionals with multi-brand 18V battery fleets, high-quality mobile metal fabrication.
Not ideal for: Those starting from scratch without 18V batteries.
Price: $436
View the Fein CCG 18-125-10 PD AS at Polar →8. DeWalt DCG418X1 FlexVolt 4.5'' to 6'' Kit (9AH)
The high-power cordless grinder for those who want a true alternative to corded. The FlexVolt 60V and adjustable disc up to 6 inches make it the most versatile tool in the cordless selection.
The DCG418X1 is the most powerful cordless grinder in our DeWalt selection. The FlexVolt 60V platform delivers power and consistency under load comparable to mid-range corded models. The adjustable 4.5'' to 6'' disc makes it the most versatile tool in the selection: you can adapt the size to the task without changing machines. The included 9AH battery ensures sufficient runtime for long sessions.
Pros
- FlexVolt 60V — power comparable to mid-range corded tools
- Adjustable 4.5'' to 6'' disc — most versatile in the selection
- 9AH battery included — maximum runtime for long sessions
- On sale for $548 (reg. $598)
- 20V backward compatible battery — works with all DeWalt tools
Things to consider
- $548 — high investment justified for intensive professional use
- Requires FlexVolt batteries to benefit from 60V
Ideal for: Intensive mobile metal fabrication, contractors who want a cordless grinder without compromising on power.
Not ideal for: Occasional use or fixed workshop — corded is more economical for this profile.
Price: $548
View the DeWalt DCG418X1 at Polar →9. Makita GA005GM102 XGT 5'' Grinder Kit (4AH)
Makita's cordless pinnacle. The XGT 40V platform sets this grinder apart for professionals who need maximum cordless power.
Makita's XGT 40V platform represents the top of the cordless range. On an angle grinder, this extra power is directly felt in cutting speed on thick metal, consistency under load, and the ability to maintain performance during demanding work. The kit includes the 4AH battery and charger, and the XGT platform powers a growing range of high-performance Makita tools.
Pros
- XGT 40V platform — Makita's highest cordless power
- Complete kit with 4AH battery and charger
- Brushless XGT motor — maximum durability
- Ideal for users building an XGT fleet
Things to consider
- $629 — the most expensive model in the selection
- XGT platform distinct from LXT 18V — separate battery investment
Ideal for: Makita professionals investing in the XGT platform, intensive cordless metal fabrication.
Not ideal for: Existing LXT 18V users — the XGT battery is not LXT compatible.
Price: $629
View the Makita GA005GM102 at Polar →Need help choosing?
Our advisors in Quebec City and Chicoutimi know every model in this selection. Free advice, in store or by phone.
Contact our experts View all grinders →How to choose your angle grinder
Disc size: the primary criterion
The 4.5-inch disc is the universal format: it covers 90% of common applications, discs are widely available, and the weight is ideal for prolonged work. The 5-inch is slightly larger and often preferred in professional metal fabrication. 6-inch and larger discs are for heavy-duty work on thick metal, concrete, or masonry. The DeWalt FlexVolt DCG418X1 is the only one in this selection that covers both formats (4.5'' to 6'').
Corded or cordless
For a fixed workshop with permanent access to an outlet and long sessions: corded. Power is constant, and there are no interruptions for recharging. For job sites, areas without outlets, or mobile work: cordless brushless. FlexVolt 60V, M18 FUEL, and XGT 40V platforms have largely closed the performance gap with corded tools for most applications.
Safety first
An angle grinder spins at 11,000 RPM. It is the most dangerous tool in the workshop if misused. Always wear safety glasses, a face shield, gloves, and a leather apron. Always check that the disc is approved for the grinder's speed before installing it. Never remove the disc guard. And never use a cracked or damaged disc.
Practical tip: Invest in a variety of quality discs. A poor grinder with a good disc often yields better results than an excellent grinder with a low-end disc. DeWalt, Metabo, or Fein abrasive discs make a real difference in cut quality and lifespan.
Ready to choose your angle grinder?
Équipement Polar has been distributing DeWalt, Milwaukee, Makita, Metabo, Fein, and Bosch grinders since 1991. Free shipping from $150, anywhere in Canada.
View all grinders → Contact our expertsFAQ: Angle Grinders
For general workshop use, the DeWalt DWE402 4.5'' corded ($137) offers the best value for money. For cordless job site work, the DeWalt 4.5'' 20V brushless ($249) or the Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2881-20 ($193) are the benchmarks. For intensive professional use, the DeWalt FlexVolt DCG418X1 ($548) or the Fein CG15-125BL ($508) offer uncompromising performance.
The 4.5-inch disc is the most common and versatile: lightweight, maneuverable, compatible with the vast majority of available discs. The 5-inch offers a slightly larger surface with similar weight and is often preferred in metal fabrication. The 6-inch is for heavy-duty work on thick metal or concrete. For most users, the 4.5'' is the right choice by default.
For a fixed workshop with permanent access to an outlet, corded offers constant, uninterrupted power. For job sites, mobile metal fabrication, or spaces without outlets, modern brushless cordless (FlexVolt 60V, M18 FUEL, XGT 40V) achieves performance very close to corded. The choice primarily depends on your work environment.
AmpShare is Fein's 18V battery platform compatible with batteries from other brands such as Bosch, Makita, Milwaukee, and others. If you already have 18V batteries from one of these brands, they can work directly with Fein AmpShare tools — this is a concrete advantage for professionals who already have a fleet of 18V batteries.
Polar Industrial Equipment has been distributing DeWalt, Milwaukee, Makita, Metabo, Fein, and Bosch angle grinders since 1991. In-store in Quebec (3425 Bd Wilfrid-Hamel) and Chicoutimi, or online at equipementpolar.com. Free shipping on orders over $150, across Canada in 2 to 5 business days.