The Best Variable Speed Bench Grinders for 2024

Best Variable Speed Bench Grinders - Top Picks, Reviews & Complete Buying Guide

A variable speed bench grinder is something that is not necessary to everyone, but among artisans this is such a popular tool.

For those who want to achieve the highest level of quality in their work have to possess this versatile tool.

The unit is so great that it can be used for numerous different projects.

Not only does it perform a job of buffing and sharpening tool tips and edges, but it is also very capable of removing paint, stripping rust, polishing and heavy-duty cleaning.

A variable speed bench grinder that meets your needs and requirements is difficult to find, so we decided to help you speed up the process.

We have made a list of the best tools and included various key considerations you should take into account before buying a variable speed bench grinder.

Spoiler Alert - Check out my top choice here >>

Top Rated Variable Speed Bench Grinders

Model Rating Buy Now
Shop Fox W1840 Variable-Speed Bench GrinderShop Fox W1840 Variable-Speed Bench Grinder
3.7
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Delta 23-198 Variable Speed BenchgrinderDelta 23-198 Variable Speed Benchgrinder
3.4
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WEN 4276 Bench GrinderWEN 4276 Bench Grinder
4.2
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Craftsman 9-21154 Bench Grinder with Variable SpeedCraftsman 9-21154 Bench Grinder with Variable Speed
3.8
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Porter-Cable PCB525BG Bench-Grinding MachinePorter-Cable PCB525BG Bench-Grinding Machine
3.9
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* Ratings are based on Editor's own opinion.

5 Best Variable Speed Bench Grinders Reviewed

#1. Shop Fox W1840 Variable-Speed Bench Grinder

Top Pick
Shop Fox W1840 Variable-Speed Bench Grinder
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Number one on our list is the Shop Fox W1840.

It deserves this position due to the fact that it boasts of a beautiful sleek design and is powered by a ¾ HP motor.

Furthermore, it has a 5/8¨grinding wheel bore and a 3,600 Rpm grinding wheel speed.

What we really appreciate about this model is its dual aluminum oxide grinding wheels, directional LED work light and large eye shields.

Additionally, we cannot but mention how it is easy to use, that it is vibration-free with smooth rpm changes across the variable speed range.

Its variable speed control is also an outstanding feature and we highly suggest you get this model.

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Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Affordable
  • Versatile

Cons

  • Assembling
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#2. Delta 23-198 Variable Speed Benchgrinder

Delta 23-198 Variable Speed Benchgrinder
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The second one is the Delta 23-198.

This model is fully capable of supporting variable speeds, easily moving from 2000 to 3400 rpm.

It comes with the variable speed feature which is designed to allow users to do a wide variety of tasks including grinding, polishing, buffing, and sharpening.

The Delta 23-198 has slow variable speed capability for specific tasks that require particular specifications.

What users found useful is its tool rests, a platform for sharpening drill bits.

The manufacturers paid special attention to the design of this product and made it of solid cast iron which both improves durability and minimizes vibrations.

Small additional features are a water cup for cooling the material.

All in all, we can say that if you get it, you will not be disappointed with this product.

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Pros

  • Vibration
  • A spot-on alignment
  • Ideal for sharpening materials

Cons

  • Adjustment is necessary to prevent it from wobbling
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#3. WEN 4276 Bench Grinder

WEN 4276 Bench Grinder
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The third position is usually given to the tool which is the best value for money, and in case of variable speed bench grinders we advise you go for the WEN 4276.

This is the grinder which boasts of a 2.1-amp motor and operates a speed of 3450 rpm.

The users appreciate the fact that it operates very quietly and smoothly making working with it more pleasant.

The WEN 4276 has compact and sturdy design and despite being rather lightweight the tool does not vibrate too much.

Furthermore, this model has smartly integrated a flexible work lamp allowing user to work even in dark conditions.

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Pros

  • Light
  • Compact
  • Two wheels
  • Price
  • Quiet

Cons

  • Designed for lighter work
  • Difficult assembly
  • The spark shields fall off
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#4. Craftsman 9-21154 Bench Grinder with Variable Speed

Craftsman 9-21154 Bench Grinder with Variable Speed
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The Craftsman 9-21154 cannot be considered one of the best grinders on the market, but it is also not the worst.

There are numerous advantages and disadvantages of this model.

Let’s start with positive sides.

The product boasts of a sturdy design and has a water cooling tray.

It is excellent when used to sharpen tools.

This model is powered by a 1/5 horsepower motor, fully capable of supporting variable speeds, varying from 2000 to 3400 rpm and usable when grinding applications are in question.

What you get with this unit is a work light, large spark guards and a wheel dressing tool.

The Craftsman 9-21154 is fairly safe to use due to the great number of safety features such as durable spark guards, wide clear eye shields and oversized cast iron base.

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Pros

  • Safety features
  • Quiet motor
  • Water cooling tray to prevent overheating

Cons

  • 1/5 HP motor
  • Not designed for heavy-duty work
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#5. Porter-Cable PCB525BG Bench-Grinding Machine

Porter-Cable PCB525BG Bench-Grinding Machine
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It can be said that we expected more from Porter Cable, but it did not deserve better position.

The Porter-Cable PCB525BG is the worst bench grinder due to the fact that it does not offer the performance as advertised.

There are a few positive features such as the fact that it is powered by a 5.0 Amp motor and it can support variable speeds, varying from 2000 to 3400 rpm.

These allow users to use it for shaping, grinding, and sharpening.

Additional useful features include a retractable wheel dresser, a work lamp, and a removable quench water tray.

The reasons why this is not the perfect bench grinder are that there is no means of locking the shift when changing wheels and there is not a notch to hold the wheel into position with a screwdriver.

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Pros

  • Work lamp,
  • Retractable wheel dresser
  • Removable quench water tray

Cons

  • Not safe to use
  • Poor build quality
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Variable Speed Bench Grinders: The Ultimate Buying Guide

Being that there are many different models of variable speed bench grinders available for purchase on the market, the decision which one to buy can be troublesome, especially if you are not experienced with this tools.

You should know that, just as with any other power tool, not all grinders have equal quality and it is crucial to do a little research before choosing a variable speed bench grinder.

Here are some of the important factors you should consider before buying it.Bench grinder

How powerful should it be?

In the case of grinders, the power is very important.

This means that the more horsepower your grinder has, the more capable it is of managing tougher jobs for an extended period of time.

Additionally, users claim that those models with higher horsepower are more durable than other models.

There are models that have a quarter or half horsepower motor and are also capable of performing simple, small jobs.

So, how powerful motor you should get has to do with your requirements and needs and it is important to understand them before you select a grinder.

Do not get too powerful motor is the work you intend to do with your tool does not require it.

You should also pay attention to the motor speed and the revolutions per minute produced by the motor.

What type of wheel should it have?

Experienced users are familiar with this, but inexperienced might not know that different projects require different types of wheels.

So as to be able to select the particular variable speed bench grinder model for yourself, you need to be sure that it is compatible with the types of wheels required for the projects you wish to complete.

A bench grinder without the right wheels is a useless tool.

The good bench grinder is compatible with the common accessories such as wire brush, coarse, fine grit, and buffing wheels.

What about safety features?

The safety features that the tool has are of the greatest importance for every worker.

The grinder should feature a spark guard that can provide you with protection against the sparks produced when the grinder touches metal or other materials and a guard that covers the grinders on the tool, protecting your hands from the spinning grinder.

If you have enough money, you can even get a variable speed bench grinders with additional safety attachments such as built-in safety features.Bench grinder

Should it have anti-vibration features?

Many users wonder whether the grinder should have anti-vibration features and why are anti-vibration features necessary.

Anti-vibration features are designed to keep your hands stable while you work, as well as to ensure that the grinder is smooth and stable.

That way user can use the tool comfortably for hours without feeling tired in the end.

The high-quality grinders are designed with solid cast iron which minimizes vibrations and keeps the grinder stable.

What are the additional things to have in mind?

So as to be more attractive to buyers, manufacturers make variable speed bench grinders with a variety of feature, which are either useful or not

Some models we reviewed had built-in adjustable work lamp so that users can work in dark conditions.

Other models have a water cooling tray against overheating, a retractable wheel dresser, mounting holes, tool trays, and anti-vibration features.

All these improve the functionality and comfortability of the unit.

The warranty period.

A warranty is something which proves the quality of tool.

Actually, if the manufacturer of a particular product has faith in it, it will provide longer warranty period.

You should have in mind that a good bench grinder warranty will not only cover the motor and the grinder itself, it will also cover all built-in parts.

Conclusion

Now that you have taken a look at our top 5 variable speed bench grinder reviews, you might have the idea which one you will get.

The models on the list range from cheap to more affordable alternatives to fit every budget.

We started with the best model – the Shop Fox W1840.

Its sleek design and a ¾ HP motor combined with the easy usage and additional makes this tool our favorite.

A variable speed bench grinder that provides the best value for money is the WEN 4276, which boasts of a quiet motor and two wheels that have different grits, making it suitable for various different jobs.

Our aim with this guide was to make your search for the perfect variable speed bench grinder a lot easier.


I hope you liked my article about Variable Speed Bench Grinders, if so, please share or comment.

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