- You are here:
- Home »
- Blog »
- Bench Grinder
- » Best Variable Speed Bench Grinder
Best Variable Speed Bench Grinder
A variable speed bench grinder is a highly effective power tool that is highly versatile and can be used for multiple types of projects. These items come in handy for sharpening and buffing tool tips and edges. In this variable speed bench grinder review, we shall take an in depth look at some key considerations to take into account before making a purchase and top benefits of owning a variable speed grinder. We shall also review 5 of the best grinders available on the current market. These items have been selected based on performance, ease of use, versatility, affordability, and durability. Let’s get to it.
*Notice: On mobile devices, scroll right to see entire table
Product Name | Rating | Prices |
|---|---|---|
| ||
|
| ||
| ||
|
| ||
|
|
What to look for in a variable speed bench grinder
Variable-speed grinders come in a variety of styles. Some models are perfect for small jobs while others have the ability to tackle larger tasks. Before making a purchase, look for a model that is inclusive of the power and speed you require to complete your tasks.
Another thing to look out for is weight. These items come in different weights which allow people with different strengths to choose proper weight for themselves. They have different dimensions and depending on your workshop space, always select a model that is compact and easy to use in a tight space.
Bench grinders are available with different speeds. Some products are inclusive of a single-speed while others have a variety of speeds that a user can use to slow or increase speeds. A variable-speed offers a major advantage is you are unsure of what speed you require for operation.
Vibration and noise is another thing to take into account before buying your device. You want an item that has minimal vibrations even at high speeds. This increases sturdiness and reduces the risk of incidents occurring.
Select a model with a cooling tray as well. Cooling tray will ensure your tools remain cool during operation.
Benefits of a bench grinder variable speed
Due to the flexibility of a variable speed grinder, you can use the tool in a variety of projects from home use (such as sharpening your knife set) to workshop projects (such as buffing and sharpening screwdrivers, etc)
Since you can be able to adjust and control overall speed of your device, you’ll be able to make it fit your preference and reduce the risk of injuries to you and everyone else around you.
Besides being able to choose the right speed to prevent injuries, a user can also select different speeds to perform different types of grinding on your projects. Using higher speeds allows a user to attend to more tools in a shorter amount of time. Note: Use high speed cautiously since you’ll have less control over your device.
Top 5 Best Variable Speed Bench Grinders
We have assembled 5 variable speed bench grinders that we believe will include the best bench grinder for you. They range in price, quality, and material so surely one will fit your needs.
Craftsman 9-21154 Variable Speed Grinding Center
For anyone who changes their wheels frequently, this is just the grinder for you. All you’ll need to do is simply remove one threaded knob to free wheel cover. This model works incredibly well for touching up tool edges. For your shop maintenance, this model is an incredible tool that can be used for tons of applications around your shop.
Craftsman Variable Speed Bench Grinder Features
Craftsman 9-21154 bench grinder has a 1/5 horsepower and a 2.5 amp with 2000 – 3400 rpm with no load speed. It comprises of a wide clear eye shield and sturdy spark guards for added protection. Its wire brush is extremely helpful for maintaining screwdriver bits and other small tools from rust. It’s also good for cleaning up parts such as screws, bolts, etc and many other purposes. Its power is more than sufficient to grind through steel without slowing down. Its adjustable tool rest is inclusive of patented attachment for accurate bit sharpening.
This model is inclusive of water cooling tray and hand-held wheel dresser. The wheel dressing tool works fine for truing 60- grit and coarser wheels. A drill bit sharpening plate mounts on either tool rest and its handy quench cup clips to the base and holds water for cooling tools while sharpening. The large oversized cast iron base reduces vibration and adds stability during use.
What Craftsman Bench Grinder Buyers Liked
- Great price
- Lightweight
- Incredible variable speed control
- Good quality
- It has a lot of power
What Buyers Didn't Like
- Tool rest is a bit small
- Not for heavy use as it tends to vibrate hard especially at higher speeds
Conclusion
Craftsman 9-21154 is a fantastic tool that features variable speed control with multiple resolutions per minute for a variety of grinding applications. This model is user friendly and allows for easy grinding of longer materials. This model includes one grinding and one wire wheel for maximum versatility. All in all, great model to take into consideration next time you are out hunting for your next new device.
Porter-Cable PCB525BG 6" Variable Speed Bench Grinder
The Porter Cable PCB525BG 6" features grinders that have the capability of covering a wide range of tasks, from rough grinding to touching up wood working tools. This model runs with near free vibration with smooth rpm changes across the variable speed range. Porter Cable bench grinder PCB525BG is incredibly easy to use and is priced at an affordable price that is pocket friendly even for anyone working with a tight budget. When looking for a grinder, it’s always best to look out for a model that has a good firm grip and one that is versatile enough to tackle different tasks with ease. This is just the case with Porter Cable PCB525BG. It’ll allow a user to touch up rough grinding with incredible speeds and near vibration-free.
Porter-Cable Variable Speed Bench Grinder Features
Porter Cable PCB525BG has the ability to sharpen, shape or grind wide variety of materials with variable speed range of 2,000 to 3,400 rpm. It is inclusive of a cast iron base for added stability and reduced vibration during operation. This model is inclusive of mounting holes for bench or stand
Porter Cable PCB525BG has an adjustable die cast aluminum tool rests with groove for easy drill bit sharpening. It’s also armed with an adjustable 40-watt lamp for better illumination for work area and includes an independent on/ off switch. Keep in mind that lamp does not come inclusive of bulb – you’ll have to purchase one yourself.
Porter Cable PCB525BG includes a 36-grit coarse ¾’’ wide wheel, a 60-grit medium ¾’’ wide wheel, a wheel dresser, and a removable quench cooling tray.
What Buyers Liked
- Two-piece tool rests can be adjusted for wheel wear and accurate angles
- Provides incredible control of speeds
- Built-in work light
- Inclusive of a removable quench water tray that is used for cooling work piece during grinding operation
- Great for a small workshop or garage
What Buyers Didn't Like
- No bulb included
- Difficult to remove wheel plate
- Grind wheels are made of lower quality
Conclusion
Overall, Porter Cable PCB525BG is a good grinder that will easily fit on just about any counter or work bench. It’s great for light use and if you require basic sharpening, you might have to upgrade grinder wheel to one that’s of higher quality. Good 6-inch variable speed bench grinder.
WEN 4280 5 Amp 8" Variable Speed Bench Grinder
WEN 4280 is an ideal model for any workshop. This item will sharpen all your dull screwdrivers, drills, scissors, and much more. It operates in a quiet manner and does not vibrate and has sufficient power to perform simple tasks adequately. WEN 4280 does not bind or slow down when moderate pressure is placed on its buffing wheel. This item is light weight and very useful for garage and workshop use.
WEN Variable Speed Bench Grinder Features
WEN 4280 comprises of a 5-amp variable speed motor that goes anywhere from 2000 to 3,400 rpm. Its slower speeds maximize precision while on high speeds which helps with fast material removal. WEN 4280 includes an 80 grit and a 36 grit with 8 inches by 1 inch grinding wheel.
WEN 4280’s flexible work light helps keep your workplace illuminated during operation to allow a user to always have clear visual at all times. It comes inclusive of a sturdy cast iron with mounting holes that prevent it from wobbling and shifting during operation.
What Buyers Liked
- Can be used to sharpen chisels and kitchen knife sets that are too dull
- Very solid construction
- Very little assembly time required
- It operates in a quiet manner
- Affordable
What Buyers Didn't Like
- Light cannot be turned on without the wheels rotating
Conclusion
All in all, WEN 4280 is ideal for debarring unwanted materials and rust removal while low speeds help achieve a precise sharp edge to your tools as well as knives. WEN 4280 will revive all of your tools back to their sharp original state in a precise and quiet motion.
Delta Power Tools 23-197 8-Inch Variable Speed Bench Grinder
Delta Power tool 23- 197 is a handy little device that is easy to assemble and use. It has a small vibration when initially started up but once it’s at full speed, it runs in a smooth and quiet motion. Its variable speed is great for buffing wheels and it comprises of a good range of speeds. The tool rest isn’t quite as solid but works pretty well for projects that do not require fine detail or exact angles.
Delta Variable Speed Bench Grinder Features
Delta Power tool 23- 197 has variable speed control that offers a user convenient and versatility in your sharpening, grinding, buffing, and polishing operations. Its upfront variable speed dial allows you to easily control speeds from 2000 rpm to 3, 400 rpm. Delta Power tool 23- 197 features a 5 Amp induction type motor that delivers powerful performance. It incorporates a 36 and 60 grit wheels for grinding and sharpening.
Its left-hand tool rest has a drill bit rest milled into the surface so a user will receive correct angle at all times. The two-piece tool rests are independently adjustable to compensate for wheel wear and achieve different angles. Finally, Delta Power tool 23- 197 is armed with a water tray to ensure that your work piece is cool at all times during operation.
What Buyers Liked
- Affordable
- Can sharpen, grind, or buff your tools
- Works excellently in a quiet manner with low vibrations
- Comes inclusive of a 5-year warranty
- Includes a long 6 feet cord
What Buyers Didn't Like
- Washers used to clamp grinding wheel are stamped metal and are of low quality
- Some past users have complained that assembly is a bit difficult than expected
Conclusion
Delta Power tool 23- 197 is affordable and provides high quality desirable for sharpening tools. The grinder’s slow speed means minimal vibration – it stays put on your bench even without clamping it into place. Overall, it will provide a user with smooth rpm changes across the variable speed range without any glitch.
Shop Fox W1840 Variable-Speed Grinder
Shop Fox W1840 is available in a beautiful sleek design that will merge beautifully with your workshop. It comprises of beautifully assembled black, white, and red designs that are integrated to mesh incredibly well together. Shop Fox W1840 features a 3/ 4 HP motor, dual aluminum oxide grinding wheels, large eye shields and a directional LED work light making it a perfect device for most of your grinding applications.
Shop Fox Bench Grinder Features
Shop Fox W1840 features a 5/8’’ grinding wheel bore and a 3,600 Rpm grinding wheel speed. This model features dual adjustable aluminum work rest and a dual 8’’ aluminum oxide grinding wheels. This 8-inch variable speed bench grinder runs nearly vibration free with smooth rpm changes across the variable speed range. Its threaded knobs make positioning your tool rests and safety shield easy.
This Shop Fox W1840 works for touching up tool edges and reviving them back to their original sharp state. This model is best suited for a wide range of jobs.
What Buyers Liked
- Incredibly easy to use
- Affordable
What Buyers Didn't Like
- Assembly can be a bit time consuming
Conclusion
Shop Fox W1840 provides a broad sharpening surface and a fast rim speed grinds and polishes quickly. It’s a great craftsman’s variable speed grinder that provides a user with much needed support and power. It’s one of the best variable speed grinders thanks to its single speed bench grinder variable speed control.
Conclusion
Our Top 5 variable speed bench grinder review is comprehensive and includes models ranging from cheap to more affordable alternatives to suit every budget. After countless research, we narrowed down our list to comprise of these five models based on their performance, ease of use, affordability, as well as durability. Have you ever used any of these models before? What was your experience? We would love to hear from you so do leave us a comment below. Also, do not hesitate to contact us with any of your queries; we shall get back to you as soon as possible with necessary information.
