Best Angle Grinder Wheel For Cutting Metal (Buying Guide): In 2021

A weak-angle grinder wheel with the wrong diameter is a headache while cutting metal. The only solution to this is a strong, durable, and well-manufactured cut-off wheel.

When you find the best angle grinder wheel your metal cutting becomes easy, polished, and precise. Not only this, but your production rate also increases to multiple numbers.

After going through the reviews, you will definitely understand the features of the best-angle grinder wheel for metal. We have also included a buying guide so that it gets easier for you to understand the attributes of the best cut-off wheel.

Our panel of experts suggests that they follow two types of factors before buying an angle grinder wheel. Some factors are constant and some are variable. 

Size of the disc:

You must consider the size as it determines the power that the motor has. Otherwise, the wheel won't fit, and you won't get the proper support from the motor. The most popular size is 115mm - 230mm.

Power of the motor:

The craftsmen generally choose the angle grinders that can deliver power from 110-230V AC. It differs depending on the current supply one has.
If your angle grinder doesn't have enough power you won't get the full RPM. So check if the disc is compatible with your angle grinder.

The type of wheels:

You have to select from two types of angle grinders. The first is type 1 that looks flat. The second type is 27, which has a depressed center.
The type 1 wheels are more versatile and have a good cutting profile.

On the other hand, type 27 is capable of reaching to the tight corners and overhangs. Getting a good clearance is a part of the deal as well. The expert recommends type 1 for DIY users.

NOTE: Don't confuse the types with a wire wheel as they are only for rubbing.

You should also check the grit discs. Grit discs are the cheapest ones in the market. They are thinner (6mm) compared to the other grinder discs. Craftsmen mostly use them for cutting stones or metals.

The advantage of a grit disc is that it cuts at a relatively higher speed than the others. A grit disc grinder isn't a heavy tool either. This is why an inexperienced user might find it tough to use them.

Grains: 

Grains are the determiner of cutting speed, life, and cost ratio. Manufacturers use three types of grains in cutting wheels. 

Ceramic:

This is the latest technology in abrasives. The ceramic abrasives offer long life and faster-cutting speed. Despite fast cutting speed the grain abrasives minimize discoloration but maximize product life. 

Zirconium:

Within the abrasive types. The zirconium made is long-lasting. They are used for high performance as well.

Aluminum Oxide:

This is the most common abrasive type. The cut-rate of these wheels is top-notch. The popularity comes from the low price of the wheels.

Diamond edge: 

This is the latest technology in cutting edges. The cutter with this edge ensures more cuts and durability. You can do countless cuts which adds to your productivity a lot.

Selecting the diameter: 

There are wheels of various sizes and shapes. The range experts mostly prefer for cutting metal is 0.045 to ⅛ inches. Their selection of diameter varies from 2 to 16" depending on the angle grinder you are using. Pick the compatible diameter to get the best RPM from the disc. 

Selecting the proper grade: 

Depending on the metal you cut you have to choose between the soft grade or hard grade metal wheels. 

The soft-grade wheels are used to harden steel and carbides. You can contact large areas and there will be fewer stock removals.

On the other hand, the hard grade angle cutting wheels are used to cut soft materials. You can reach small or narrow areas using this grade of cutting wheels.

The wheel speed and work speed: 

The speed of the wheel is your working speed. You have to make sure that the wheel is capable of providing you the cutting speed (RPM) that you will need to cut the metal. Otherwise, it is going to be a wrong investment. The standard metal cutting speed range is 11,000-13,000RPM.

6 Best Angle Grinder Wheel For Cutting Metal Reviews

1. Benchmark Abrasives Quality Thin Cut Off Wheels Metal & Stainless Steel - Best For Beginners

This is a pack of angle grinders capable of cutting heavy metal and stainless steel. This comes as a set of 50 pieces from the Benchmark Abrasives.

THE GOOD -

Type:

This is a type 1 cutting wheel. They are 4.5 inches in diameter and the center is ⅞ inches. They are flat discs with 0.040” thickness. 

Abrasive:

They are made of aluminum grains that are completely heat treated. The wheels cut metals quickly and maintain durability. The super thickness ( 4-½”) ensures balancing with any angle grinder.

The grains are self-sharpening, eventually, the user gets an aggressive precise cutting experience. 

Cutting capability:

The wheels have solid strength. The strong aluminum abrasives are capable of cutting metals such as steel, cast iron, and stainless steel. The wheels have fiberglass backing as well. This ensures the protection from shattering of the metals. 

RPM:

The maximum speed of the disc is 13,000 RPM. The fast cool cutting of the discs minimizes the need for pressure. For this, there are fewer heat-affected zones while cutting. It provides a long-lasting and perfect finish.

The cool thing about these wheels is that they are made of refined ingredients. This is why there are fewer chances of the metal getting contaminated.

THE BAD -

If you don't handled properly it may cause a safety issue.

To be more specific this cutting wheel is a good deal for cutting all types of hard metals. This can be a great asset to beginners as it has all the best metal cutting wheel features.

2. DEWALT DW8062B5 Metal Cutting Wheel - Best For Fast Cutting

Dewalt has been the reliable name for ages among angle-cutting users. It is the same 4-½” metal cutting wheel from the Benchmark abrasives. They come in a pack of five.

THE GOOD - 

Type:

The cutting wheel is also a type 1 metal cutting wheel. The dimension of the disc is 4.5x4.5x0.05. This is a 0.045” thin wheel that is designed for burr-free cutting. 

Abrasive:

The grains are of aluminum oxide. This is why the wheels are cutting aggressively. It is an ideal disc for any sort of ferrous metal cutting. You can cut stainless steel as well. 

Cutting capability:

The manufacturing is done by mixing proprietary materials. This makes the wheels more durable and long-lasting. There are two sheets of fiberglass for safety and durability.

The grains are so sharp that you won’t have to push the wheel in. The gigantic RPM rate and the self-sharpening grains make your cutting easy. This is why there are fewer hot spots on your metal and less damage done. 

RPM:

The RPM of this cutting wheel is impressive. With 13,300 RPM you can cut ⅛” steels like butter. This is what makes the difference from the other wheels in the market. 

THE BAD -

The disc will seem like the real deal if you know how to handle it. There is a risk of damaging the item or the wheels breaking down if you are inexperienced.
Pros:

It must be made clear that this wheel from Dewalt is a combination of aggressiveness, speed, and strength. This is a real deal for any sort of general cutting works. 

3. Premium Thin Cut-Off Wheel - Best For Multi-Purpose 

This is another high-performing cut-off wheel for metals and stainless steel. The manufacturers claim that they have engineered it, especially for lasting long and high-quality finish.

THE GOOD - 

Type:

This is also a type 1 cutting disc. They are 6”x.045” in diameter. Which is pretty thick. This makes it the best size cut-off wheel. 

Abrasive: 

A proprietary blending of aluminum oxides and zirconia grains is used to make the abrasive of the wheel. It is self-sharpening as well. This is not the best in the market, but it is tough to find a wheel or such cost/performance ratio in the market. 

Cutting capability:

Benchmark manufacturers have worked in factories to provide the customers excellent wheel life, minimal chatter, and a faster cutting experience. They are successful in doing so.

The wheels are for cutting any type of ferrous metal and stainless steel. They don’t contaminate the metal you cut. This is a plus as this enhances the longevity of your metal. 

RPM:

The maximum speed of 11,000 RPM might seem a problem to you. Don’t worry about it. Being a 6” cut-off wheel the maximum speed is a bit low. Don’t push the wheel hard rather let the weight of the grinder do the trick. 

THE BAD -

If you force-cut using the wheels there is a chance for the wheel to get damaged. You will find it wobbling around really bad which is not good news for your work. Handle them with care. 

At the end of this review, It should be mentioned that this is an economic metal cutting disc in the market. You will find plenty of the economic ones in the market but it is tough to find one that can beat Benchmark premium. 

4. Makita Aggressive Cut Off Wheels For Metal & Stainless Steel - Best For Heavy-Duty

Makita manufactured these amazing cut-off wheels. This is top-notch if you are looking for aggressive cutting for metal or stainless steel.

THE GOOD - 

Type:

These are also type-1 flat cut-off wheels. They are best suited for any sort of hard metal cutting. The dimensions of the wheels are 4.5”. They are compatible with any angle grinders of 4.5 inches. 

Grains:

The grain grit of this wheel is aluminum oxide. Because of this, the wheels are capable of cutting 2-3x more than the lower quality ones in the market. The thickness provides proper balanced cut life and rate. You will be able to cut longer and be precise on that. 

Cutting capability:

The cutting capability of the wheels is really awesome. The sharpness of the grains cuts through all metals with ease. You won't have to push too hard to cut. Instead, just push moderately and enjoy the precise cutting. As there is low heat buildup, the longevity of your metal remains the same. 

Designed for metal:

The Makita cutting wheels assure quality. They are contaminant-free, faster, reliable, and stable. You can deal with stainless steel and steel with ease. The wheels contain 0.1% iron, sulfur, or chlorine. As a result, you will get rust or corrosion-free cutting. 

RPM:

The highest speed rate of the wheels is 13290. This is a reliable speed that anyone needs to cut through metals. 

THE BAD -

The speed is too high and this is why you should be careful while using the cut wheels. If you force-feed the wheels there is a chance that the abrasives might wear off. For them to last long you have to be careful about not damaging them. Take some expert advice if necessary. 

At last, we hope this is clear to you how efficient and capable these cut-off wheels are. They have set a pretty high benchmark for other wheels that are competing in the market.

5. LENOX Tools Cutting Wheel (Diamond Edge) - Best For Longer Life

Are you looking for a cutting wheel that can cut multiple times? A Lenox cutting wheel delivers 1,000 or more cuts. Pretty amazing! Isn’t it?

THE GOOD -

Type:

This is a type 1 cutter with the latest diamond technology. This is why it can provide 30x longer life than other wheels in an application.

The diameter of the wheel is 4-½”. The metal body of the wheel reduces the damage of the disc from breaking down. This increases your productivity a lot. 

Abrasive:

The cutting wheel from Lenox comes with the latest diamond edge technology. These are sharp and stay so until the last cut. Because of no abrasion, you get fewer dust particles and odor.

Cutting ability:

The cutting wheel is made of solid steel. This reduces the chance for the disc to break down. The diamond edge is so strong that the diameter doesn’t get damaged. You get better control, precision, reach throughout the use.

It is applicable for any sort of metal, steel, stainless steel, rebar, cast iron, aluminum, and non-ferrous metals.

RPM:

The wheel has a top speed of 13,200 RPM. This is the same as the abrasive wheels in the market. You won’t have to force-feed the wheel. Just hold on to it and let your angle grinder do the trick.

THE BAD -

To be honest, there are no flaws in this wheel. The advanced diamond technology makes this a grab-em-all wheel for any user. Just be careful and take safety measures so that you don’t cut yourself. 

Undoubtedly this wheel is different from any other cutting wheels in the market. The advanced technology along with all flawless features earned it the place to the top in our list. 

6. Shark Double Reinforced Cut-off Wheels

Shark industries came up with this thin high speed cut-off wheel. It is made in the USA. This whole kit has 10 wheels so that you have enough wheels to finish your job.

THE GOOD -

Type:

This is a Type 1 grinder wheel. The diameter is 0.06".

Abrasive: 

The wheels provide fast cutting as they are aluminum oxide cut-off wheels. The manufacturers claim that they have double reinforced the abrasive with fiberglass. This will provide tensile strength and longevity.

Cutting ability: 

The wheel is engineered for high-speed, aggressive cutting. The Cutting speed is perfect for cutting carbon steel, cast iron, and general-purpose metal.

RPM:

The wheel offers an outstanding speed of 25,000 RPM. This is more than required to be honest. Just imagine how comfortably you are going to cut through the metal sheet with this speed.

THE BAD -

Being lightweight (7.37 ounces) the wheel is breakable. You have to be careful about not dropping it. Otherwise, there is a risk of breaking the edges.

As it has been said, the best angle grinder wheel for cutting metal is the one that meets the purpose. It is the power tool that features all the attributes of a metal cut-off wheel.
All the cutoff wheels mentioned above are heavy-duty grinding wheels.

We recommend using the Makita 10 pack 4.5" cut-off wheel among the abrasive types. It features an additional speed that you will need while cutting metal.

If you want to try something new. Then you should definitely try the Lenox cutting wheel. The advanced diamond edge technology is the revolution in the grinder wheel industry.

Before going to cut metal, don't forget to wear personal safety equipment specially face shield for grinding which is OSHA recommended.