Updated March 2024
Metal workers and building contractors can’t imagine a world without angle grinders. These common, rather unappreciated machines probably deserve more credit than they are given. This brings me to the topic, the quite remarkable DeWalt DWE402 4½” 11A angle grinder.
As a corded angle grinder, it is a lot cheaper than the cordless models. Possibly it’s the low-price value that makes this one of the most popular angle grinders around. The DeWalt brand, combined with affordability makes for a great deal.
Despite being more expensive, cordless power tools are the preferred choice for many. Nothing beats the convenience of battery power. This poses a challenge. Is the expensive, but truly magnificent DeWalt 60V MAX worth the price when the 11A DWE402 is so much more affordable?
Let’s see how they fare: DeWalt DWE402 vs DeWalt DCG414T1. The challenge is on! Let’s which is the best 4½” angle grinder. This should be interesting.
DeWalt DW402 ǀ The Full review
Features:
- Next Generation 11 Amp AC/DC 11,000 rpm motor provides the best power to weight/size ratio available
- One-Touch ™ Guard allows for 360-degree rotation of the guard with a single action
- Dust Ejection System ™ provides durability by ejecting damaging dust and debris particles that enter the tool
- Quick-Change ™ Wheel Release allows tool free wheel removal without need for a wrench
Review:
There are several aspects that really stand out for me, when comparing the DeWalt DWE402 to similar small 4½” angle grinders. The power is exceptional for its class, especially for the size and weight of this tool. Bottom line here, fantastic power to weight ratio. In terms of durability, plain fantastic. For construction work, the DeWalt DWE402 is worth every dime of its above average price. It will cut through hard material effortlessly and keep doing so for a long time. No matter what you throw at it, the DWE402 is not going to disappoint.
With 1,400W brute power, this is a great machine for hard work. The upgraded 11A electric motor is made tough and isn’t too heavy. At only 6.2 pounds, it’s an easy tool to use. The longer, thinner body also makes it more comfortable and manageable. Aided even more by the large side handle, giving you a distinct advantage when keeping a good grip on this powerful beast. Two positions on either side, with oversized thread to prevent any damage, give left or right-handed operation for the side handle.
So much clever and innovative DeWalt engineering ensures that the DWE402 can withstand just about anything that comes its way. The Dust Ejection system sucks harmful dirt and debris from the grinder. That’s a big plus when you’re cutting bricks, masonry, and rock. The silica dust generated by this type of work is so destructive. Even something as simple as the design and position of the spindle lock has received detailed thought. Not only is this superbly convenient, it is recessed into the aluminum housing, at the top of the grinder. This means it is safe from damaging knocks and the positioning allows for the maximum depth of cut.
Under the skin, where we can’t see, there are also a number of really great design features. The brushes are twice the size of any similar motor, extending brush life, thereby reducing maintenance downtime. When the brushes reach the end of their life, the machine will shut down automatically. The spiral bevel gear, an essential part of the transmission, has been enlarged to make it tougher and more reliable.
The DeWalt DWE402 is pretty easy to use, with some great features for extra convenience. The large paddle switch has both on and off locking. Nothing too exceptional here, most angle grinders have a safety feature that prevents accidental starting and a lock-on, allowing you to work without holding the paddle. What I like about the DeWalt paddle, is its good solid feel. These switches can become problematic and tricky to use as time goes by. I don’t get that sense with DWE402. Simply an all-round tough and well-designed machine.
DeWalt have also developed a really good Quick-Change wheel release. This means no tools are required when removing the wheel. Again, in true DeWalt style, this is something that will remain reliable and easy to use for many years to come. No problems using most common accessories, thanks to the matching wheel flanges.
I suppose my regular readers are already aware of this, when it comes to DeWalt, I’ll seldom write a bad review. The again, I never have any particularly harsh criticism when it comes to DeWalt tools. Though, to be fair, not all DeWalt tools are the best in their class. I think the DeWalt DW402 is, quite possibly, the most accomplished 4½” angle grinder ever. It has all the power anyone could possibly want from a grinder of this size. DeWalt tools are known for their high-quality materials and durable design. Though, this one is incredible for its excellent design and virtually indestructible quality.
A compelling reason why I’ve been sold on this brand for so long, is the really great service you get from the many DeWalt dealerships. There warranty is also one of the best: 3-year warranty, 90-day money back guarantee, and a 1-year free service plan. It’s not just about offering one the best warrantee and guarantee agreements, it’s about knowing they will live up to their promise. Customer reviews so often complain about manufacturers failing to live up to their warrantees; or are slow and unhelpful when dealing with customer issues. This has never been my experience when it comes to DeWalt, and I can’t recall reading of anyone who has had an issue with DeWalt customer service.
DeWalt DCG414T1
Features:
- 13 Amp Equivalent Motor
- Anti-Rotation E-CLUTCH® System activates in less than a tenth of a second when a pinch/stall is detected, shutting down the motor.
- 9,000 RPM Speed allows the use of up to 6 in. wheels
- Allows for up to 6 in. wheel size for both cutting and grinding applications.
Review:
There is a robust debate going on around DeWalt 20V vs 60V cordless tools. Some may argue that the DeWalt DCG414T1 is too expensive. Though, it’s hard to put a price on a tool like this, with all that advanced technology. When considering the most powerful cordless angle grinders, only one can compete with the DeWalt 60V MAX DCG414T1. This would be the Milwaukee 18V Fuel (model number 2783). Surprisingly, the DeWalt 60V angle grinder is a little more expensive than the Milwaukee equivalent. Milwaukee tools are usually the most expensive. In my opinion, however, the DeWalt DCG414T1 is the superior machine. I know Milwaukee is considered, by many, to be the very best there is. But, in this instance, I think DeWalt has the edge.
So what makes the DeWalt DCG4141 so remarkable? I’ll start with the power, a jaw-dropping 1,700W, which equates to 2.2 HP. This is equivalent to a 13A corded tool, making the DCG414T even more powerful than the mighty impressive DeWalt DWE402 (reviewed above). This really is something to ponder. A cordless tool that outperforms most corded models. That’s the wonder of the DeWalt 60V MAX tool range, they’ve set out to match, even beat, the power and performance we would previously have expected only from a corded tool. The only cordless tools to genuinely challenge the much respected 18V Fuel Milwaukee cordless tools.
Okay, back to the ultra-powerful DeWalt DCG414T1. All those horses are transferred through the most advanced transmission that I’ve seen in an angle grinder, spinning the disc at 9,000 RPM. Even though this is technically a 4½” grinder, it can accommodate discs up to 6”. I guess with all that extra power, using a larger disc is an obvious upgrade. The type 27 guard is made for a 6” disc.
A while back, DeWalt developed the E-Clutch system, which appears to be more advanced than other kick-back brakes, protecting you and the tool from harm. Anyone who’s used a powerful angle grinder can attest to the alarming, downright terrifying effects of kickback. When the DeWalt DCG414T1 hits a snag, like a pinched disc, the E-Clutch reacts within one tenth of a second. In an instant, the electronic brake reduces the disc speed and then shuts the tool down. You won’t feel like your arm is being ripped off and the transmission won’t suffer from the excessive negative torque normally associated with a bind-up. A brake also stops the disc when the trigger is released, you don’t have to wait for the disc to slow down gradually before can put it down, greatly improving productivity.
The trigger switch is wonderfully easy to use but does not have a lock-on function. You have to keep your finger on the trigger at all times. DeWalt has done an incredible job of making this a really comfortable tool to hold, which means the lack of a trigger lock won’t really be noticed. The battery slots into the back, just behind the slim ergonomic handle. The electric motor is in front of the handle, at the disc. This means you have an incredibly comfortable handle, with a magnificent weight distribution. Not that this is a heavy tool, by anyone’s standards, only 4.66 pounds. This, in itself, is an epic achievement: 2.2 horses of power at less than 5-pounds, that’s awesome, to say the least.
Naturally, you get a two-position side handle. At 4½”, it gives you excellent control and comfort. When you take everything into account, this is probably the easiest, most comfortable, and safest angle grinder on the market. Add the exceptional power and the nearly 300 buck price starts to make a little more sense.
I’m sure anyone into tools will be amazed by the DeWalt 60V Max angle grinder. I’m not too sure how many will be impressed by the price. If you’re one of those guys who simply has to have the newest and best tools around, you won’t be able to resist the DeWalt DCG414T1. It’s a big boy’s toy with all the bells and whistles. Moreover, it is a fantastic tool to use and is built to the highest specifications. Not to mention the excellent 3-90-1 warranty: 3-years warranty, 90 day guarantee, and 1-year free service plan.