Best Bench Grinders (7 Things to Check Before Choosing)

It is easy to make a decision for buying a simple hammer or spanner or any other small tools for your toolbox.

But it isn’t so easy when you have to select the best bench grinder for sharpening chisels or any other job. Because they are a little bit more complicated than those small tools and you have to pick the one from plenty of options.

That’s why I’m here with a filtered list of top products and all the necessary details about bench grinders to help you to take a wise decision to select the right one.

What is Bench Grinder

A bench grinder is a benchtop grinding machine that is used to drive abrasive wheels. This is the portable version of large, industrial grinding machines.

These grinders are generally used to grind various cutting tools and can perform other grinding jobs. They spin at high speed to remove any material.

As these grinders are comparatively lightweight and small, they can be mounted on a table or bench to perform the task.

A bench grinder is a two-wheeled grinding machine that can sharpen tools and equipment, fix damaged or broken blades, and polish any type of metal.

Types of Bench Grinders

Bench grinders are generally found in four different types. They are-

Variable Speed Bench Grinder

This type of bench grinder has the function of various speeds which is related to control & flexibility. That means you’ll be able to keep the metalwork process focused without applying any pressure.

Electric Bench Grinder

These grinders are easily portable & transportable. You can use them at home and as well as on your project sites. Electric bench grinders are suitable to work with a piece of metal and are self-sufficient so they can handle a lot of jobs.

Bench Grinder for Woodworking

This type of grinder requires precise skill to work with. It is able to cut within a half centimeter of accuracy.

Automotive Bench Grinder

These kinds of bench grinders are stronger, more secure, stable, and can withstand a huge amount of metal work. It is used to polish grind & buff door handles, engine parts, body pieces, and many other tasks. And as it is the most stable type, it is mostly used for longer projects.

Types of Wheels

You also need to know about the type of wheels for getting a bench grinder. Because it is not only the grinder but also the wheel that makes you complete your projects easily and quickly. So the available types are-

Straight Wheel

It is the most common type of wheel for a bench grinder. It is ideal for jobs like sharpening chisels. Straight wheels are available in different sizes and they are good at surface grinding.

Cylinder Wheel

This is a hollow wheel, it can be used with vertical and horizontal grinders, and it helps to create a flat surface. Cylinder wheels are larger than other types of wheels.

Tapered Wheel

Tapered wheels are perfect for grinding gear teeth or threads.

You’ll find many other types of wheels besides these, but they are the most commonly used wheels for bench grinders.

Use of Bench Grinder

A bench grinder is a versatile type of tool that can help you to do different types of work in many ways. The most popular use of grinders are-

Carpentry

No matter if you want to build new furniture or plan to renovate your living room, a bench grinder will help you to smooth any rough areas and joints within the working surface.

Flooring

A bench grinder will make your DIY flooring job much quicker and easier. You can easily remove grout by raising the nail head from the floor easily with the help of a bench grinder.

Painting

You can also use your bench grinder to level any expanded part or scrape out the old painting more efficiently than sandpaper with it.

Plumbing

Bench grinders also work great for plumbing as you can use them for cutting worn-out pipes to smoothing them.

Features of a Good Bench Grinder 

Buying a bench grinder for your home or workshop can be easy if you follow these simple steps-

Identify Your Needs

Before buying a bench grinder the most important thing you should consider is to know about your needs. That means what type of work you are going to do with the machine is your first consideration. Otherwise, you’ll get the wrong tool which won’t serve your purpose properly.

Go With your Budget

You must have a budget plan for buying the tool, it makes the selection process easier. You can narrow down the brands according to budget and then compare the products within your budget to your requirement, you can easily make the decision.

Choose from a Reputed Brand

Though we know that the price of a well-known branded product is always a little higher than others. But you’ll also find some less-known brands offering competitive products with some great features.

You can choose your tool from these brands. Because it is not only the quality of the product, you also need customer support for any query about the tool. So it is always better to go with a brand.

Work Light

One of the most important things you need to look for while purchasing a new grinder is whether it comes with a work light or not. You also need to check the type of work light. Some work lights are flexible & attached over the unit, some may directly build into it and can be located over the wheels instead. Some have more than one light in them which makes it easy to operate the grinder.

So choose the one with which you can complete your job comfortably.

Wheels

You may select the package that offers you different wheel options. Though no one comes with all types of them, you can go with the one which has at least a set of fine- medium or coarse wheels with the kit.

You also need to check the material of the wheels. For grinding steel, wheels made of vitrified aluminum oxide will work great. Whereas, silicon carbide is good for cast iron or other nonferrous materials.

Size

You’ll find bench grinders of different sizes from 3” to 8”. You should choose the tool according to the type of job you are going to do with it.

Speed

And finally, you need to look at the overall speed of the tool. Because you need the proper speed to get your job done quickly and smoothly.

View Our Recommended Bench Grinders-

Grizzly Industrial G9717-6″ Bench Grinder

• Voltage: 110 Volts;
• Weight: 18.25 pounds;
• Included Components: ‎Bare-tool. 

Grizzly has made this beast, especially for industrial applications. It is tough, durable, and perfect for lengthy applications. 

It is extremely powerful and fast. The gap between wheels is kept large (12-1/2″) to conveniently grind large metal pieces. Surprisingly this grinder produces less vibration despite its tremendously powerful motor.

Most of the high-end bench grinders come with flimsy tool rest. The tool rests attached to the Grizzly bench grinder are more sustainable and long-lasting.

All Grizzly motors are protected by an overload protection system to make this grinder suitable for uninterrupted operation without damaging the parts of the machine. Unlike other Grizzly manufacturing tools, this bench grinder fits a tight budget.

Things We Liked

• Suitable for industrial applications;
• Durable and high speed;
• Affordable;
• Overload protection motor. 

Things We Didn’t Like

• No cons.

Rust Remover Bench Grinder (Model No 4276) by WEN

• Size: 6 inches;
• Motor: 2.1 amp;
• RPM: 3450;
• Weight: 16 pounds;
• Includes: bench grinder, eye shields,36- and 60-grit wheels Heavy-duty Base
• and Flexible Work Light. 

I prefer using a light bench grinder to clean rust from my tools rather than replacing them. This 4276 grinder from WEN is proven to be handy in removing rust and deburring edges of materials within an affordable range.

My favorite feature of this grinder is its easy wheel-changing functions. For this, it became more versatile and convenient. The added benefit comes from its adjustable work light. With that light, you can easily use this grinder at night even in a residential area because of its noise-free and vibration-free nature.

With this low price tag, you can’t expect an industrial-quality performance from this grinder. But it is sufficient to solve most of your household and workshop needs in its limited capacity.

Things We Liked

• Noise-free;
• Easy wheel replacement;
• Economic;
• Light included. 

Things We Didn’t Like

• Not suitable for heavy use.

Professional’s Bench Grinder (Model No 577102 JBG-8A) from JET

• Size: 8 inches;
• Motor: 1 hp;
• RPM: 3450;
• Weight: 58 pounds;
• Includes bench grinder, spark guards,36- and 60-grit wheels, hardware, and instruction. 

It’s best to spend on quality products when your living depends on them. The JBG-8 is best in terms of quality, durability, and variety of applications. 

This machine is equipped with the most powerful motor as a bench grinder, allowing you faster and more heavy applications. Due to the rubber padded base, it does not wobble; you don’t have to mount this if you don’t want to.

Spark shields are made easily adjustable for users’ convenience. The best part is, this tool has a dust collector port. Your workplace will stay clean even after numerous applications!

Once you use this bench grinder, you won’t regret spending a lot on it. For its unmatched high quality and performance, this is the best choice for professionals.

Things We Liked

• Adjustable spark guard;
• Heavy duty;
• No vibration;
• Quiet operation;
• Best for commercial use. 

Things We Didn’t Like

• No cons.

Commercial Grade Bench Grinder (Model No DS 200) by Metabo

• Size: 8 inches;
• Motor: 1 hp;
• RPM: 3750;
• Weight: 35 pounds;
• Includes bench grinder, spark guards,36- and 60-grit wheels, hardware, and instruction. 

This machine is meant to resist abuse and dust from overuse. The power switch and bayonet lock have protective covers to save those from dust and ensure long life. 

This grinder is equipped with a super powerful motor. The motor goes for years without maintenance and is efficient to eliminate vibration and noise. The high capacity of this grinder is suitable to do buffering, deburring, and shaping the toughest materials in seconds.

It is protected by a long warranty to replace or repair faulty parts of the machine. This power tool falls in the pricey category but stands for years even after severe usage.

Things We Liked

• Quick wheel changing; 
• Dust protected;
• High capacity;
• Low vibration and noise free. 

Things We Didn’t Like

• Pricey.

WEN Speed Bench Grinder (Model No 4280) with Work Light

• Size: 8 inches;
• Motor: 5 amps;
• RPM: 2000~3400;
• Weight: 39 pounds;
• Includes: Grinder, two Grinding Wheels, Spark Guards, Eye Shields, Quench Water Tray, Tool Rests, Wheel Dresser, and Instruction Manual. 

The best feature of this bench grinder is its variable Speed dial, which allows you to set the speed depending on the material and purpose of use. The precision of your work is guaranteed due to this speed setting, whether it is deburring or sharpening. 

Strong die-cast aluminum tool rests are great for sharpening drill bits perfectly. The attached work light and water tray are of no use, but the soft start motor is fascinating. It is powerful to get the jobs done around your workshop.

I can’t strongly recommend using this on a commercial basis, due to its quality. This machine may last longer if it is lightly used. The warranty you get for this machine ensures convenient application for years.

Things We Liked

• Speed setting;
• Sturdy tool rests;
• Powerful motor. 

Things We Didn’t Like

• Not heavy duty;
• Not high-end.

Slow Speed Bench Grinder (Model  80-805) from RIKON Power Tools

• Size: 8 inches;
• Motor: ½ HP;
• RPM: 1759;
• Weight: 37.1 pounds;
• Includes: stand. 

For removing rust from your lawn mower or sharpening kitchen knives a bench grinder with slow rotation is ideal. The 80-805 grinder by Rikon tools comes with two aluminum oxide wheels of different sizes to make sharpening even easier for small and large objects. 

The grinder is lightweight, and easy to bring in and out of your garage or workshop. It is equipped with a powerful motor but the padder base is effective in minimizing vibration. Though you may feel a little warmth while working with it, this machine does not overheat easily.

The packaging includes a stand with the tool; so, you don’t have to purchase one separately. its long warranty option ensures uncountable hassle-free operations for years.

Things We Liked

• Good for sharpening;
• Eliminates vibration and overheating;
• Easy to use;
• Long warranty.

Things We Didn’t Like

• Wobbles while working;
• Creates dust.

WEN BG4282 Single Speed Bench Grinder with LED Work Lights

• Size: 8 inches;
• Motor: 4.8 amps;
• RPM: 3450;
• Weight: 30.5 pounds;
• Includes: 4.8-Amp 8-Inch Single Speed Bench Grinder with LED Work Lights. 

You can always get an industrial-grade tool within an affordable range if the tool is from a less popular brand. WEN BG4282 is the manufacturer that brings quality tools to your doorstep in an affordable price range.

This bench grinder is lacking in advanced features like high-end bench grinders but it is equipped with basic useful features and a durable design. It is suitable for long-term applications and the added work light is of good quality as well.

The machine and its accessories are undoubtedly durable, but the tool rests. It is too thin to go a long way. Usually, I don’t recommend powerful tools to beginners; but this bench grinder from Suntex can be a good start if you are using a powerful one for the first time.

Things We Liked

• Comes with work light;
• Durable construction;
• Suitable for heavy-duty applications.
• Affordable. 

Things We Didn’t Like

• No issue.

Slow Speed Bench Grinder (Model No 4286) by WEN

• Size: 8 inches;
• Adjustable eye guards;
• RPM: 1750;
• 5/8 inch arbor size;
• Weight: 8 pounds.

You will never face problems related to overheating the motor with the 4286 bench grinder from WEN. Its speed is slower than most of the bench grinders on the market, which keeps the machine cool even after hours-long operations.

You will merely feel vibration due to its sturdy base. The motor is powerful but stays quiet when it is on the job. Added wheels are made of aluminum oxide to stay cool during applications but those are less effective for any tasks. You will want to replace those once you get your hands on them.

Even after paying for extra wheels, this grinder falls in the affordable category. To ensure several years of problem-free grinding, this slow bench grinder can be a wise option.

Things We Liked

• Slow rotation;
• Does not overheat;
• Less vibration;
• The wheel change is easy due to the easy removal wheel guard;
• Quiet and powerful.

Things We Didn’t Like

• It can be overheating;

Slowly take off and close.

Variable Speed Bench Grinder (Model No 23-197) by Delta Power Tools

• Size: 8 inches;
• Motor: 5 amps, ½ hp;
• RPM: 2,000 RPM to 3,400 RPM;
• Weight: 44.2 pounds;
• Includes: Grinder, two Grinding Wheels, Spark Guards, and manual.

With variable speed, you can get the benefit of using both slow and fast bench grinders in one tool. Set the tool at slow, medium, or high regarding your job at hand and go! Grinding, deburring, sharpening or shaping is a snap with a 23-197 bench grinder by DELTA.

Unlike most of the grinders in the market, assembling the grinder is easy with the included manual. The motor produces the least noise and vibration but delivers massive power.  

Tool rests are made independently adjustable and the left one is specifically ideal for sharpening drilling bits precisely. The attached water tray is of good quality and is useful to reduce the heat of items while grinding in this machine.

Things We Liked

• Slow to fast grinding options;
• Versatile;
• Easy assembly;
• Long warranty;
• Durable. 

Things We Didn’t Like

• May wobble if the washers are not tightened.

Bench Grinder (Model No SPT99-12) by SKIL

• Size: 6 inches;
• 2.1 Amp motor with 3,450 RPM;
• Built-in LED work light on both wheels;
• Weight: 98.8 pounds;
• Adjustable tool rests for proper grinding.

To polish, shape, or cut wood pieces, you will need a grinder with high rotation. SPT99-12 bench grinder by SKIL is great for both wood and metal materials.

Two separate LEDs are attached on top of two wheels to illuminate your workpiece but cut off the price for a gooseneck lamp.  Wheel guards are easily removable for convenient wheel changing and grinding large pieces.

Most of the users of this machine don’t even bother to mount this on a sturdy surface because the padder base is stable enough to deliver satisfactory performance. The machine is small and super light to easily carry, place or store in tight spaces. So quality performance is guaranteed for this grinder.

Things We Liked

• Suitable for wood materials;
• Medium and thick wheels for different materials;
• Rubber feet provide increased stability;
• Quiet motor;
• Great quality. 

Things We Didn’t Like

• No cons.

Tips to Use a Bench Grinder Safely

You can follow these simple but important tips while using your bench grinder-

• Keep a container full of water near you while working with any metal.
• Hold any small object with locking pliers to keep your fingers away from the wheel.
• Go for the low-speed grinder for sharpening purposes.
• Always wear safety gear before starting work.
• Let your grinder reach full speed before starting your cutting or sharpening or other work.
• Never miss bolting down your grinder.
• Dress your wheels frequently.
• Check the wheel and replace it when needed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bench Grinder

Can You Use a Bench Grinder for Wood?

Yes, you can. You’ll use a bench grinder to reshape or polish your wood project. But it’ll require changing the emery wheel. You would like the proper wheel for the work you’ve got in mind.

Should I Buy a 6 Inch or 8-inch Bench Grinder?

If you have ever asked yourself “what size bench grinder should I get”, the short answer is, “an 8-inch model”. When it involves bench grinders, ‘bigger’ usually means ‘better’. … a much bigger grinder may be a lot easier to figure out compared to a smaller model with a much bigger grinding area.

What Do You Have to Avoid When Using Bench and Pedestal Grinders?

• Do not plug the grinder in before ensuring it and therefore the wheel is stable and secured correctly.
• Don’t function a wheel that has been dropped.
• Do not use a wheel that doesn’t fit correctly to the spindle.
• Do not use exuberant force to tighten the nut of the wheel.

Conclusion

Any of the models I’ve mentioned above will work great for you. Because I’ve listed details about the most common grinders that people usually use. You just need to get the one which suits your needs.

If you want the grinder for industrial purposes, you can choose from DEWALT or JET. If you want a light one on a small budget, you can go for WEN.

But whatever the purpose or your budget is, you must select one from a reputed brand that has great after-sales support. This can help you with any kind of trouble you may face after buying the machine.

Still confused!

Drop your question in the comment box, I’ll get back to you as soon as possible

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