Which Angle Grinder

25 Jun 2023

My 4-1/2 inch Dewalt angle grinder broke, so I needed to get a new one. Old one was corded, but I found the cord gets in the way, so this time around I’ll try a cordless one. Between the Dewalt batteries and Makita batteries I have, I’ve decided to see if Makita is any better.

Makita has many models of angle grinders. I had to narrow them down from 9 options.

I want to use my old discs I purchased before, so that eliminates X-LOCK. Remove models XAG25Z and XAG26Z.

I want an electronic brake, so I can put down the angle grinder immediately instead of waiting for it it spin done. Model XAG04Z does not have an electronic brake.

I don’t want to pay extra for the AWS system, which I don’t have and don’t plan to use. Remove models XAG17ZU and XAG21ZU, leaving 4.

I want a paddle instead of a switch since it is better for safety. This leaves XAG20Z and XAG11Z.

What is the difference between the XAG20Z and XAG11Z? The XAG20Z is variable speed while the XAG11Z is fixed.