As you upgrade to cordless power tools, you’ll find that your work environment is different than before. On one hand, you have increased mobility and no longer need an extension cord; on the other hand, you must considers battery life. Meet the Porter Cable 20V MAX grinder.
A lightweight option that doesn’t quite match sustained torque of corded models or the speed under heavy load. Does this grinder offer a challenge to big boys? Can we expect budget-friendly cordless to keep up with high-end standards?
Anyone who use an angle grinder regularly has a favorite angle grinder. You know how it fits, what it weighs, and what you like about it. Switching to something new can be hardly.
I need one that fits comfortabley, that doesn’t bog down when I’m cutting through metal. Does the Porter Cable make it into your tool box? Or is it just another plastic toy that fades after a single project?
In Depth Review of Porter Cable 20V Grinder
Porter Cable 20V MAX Grinder Overview
This review help answer that question. But main draw for most buyers is battery compatibility. One of the biggest systems in the marketplace is Ryobi 18V ONE+ and that’s what Porter Cable went with.
Battery Compatibility and System Benefits
That allows you to take a battery you may already have on hand. So if you have some Ryobi batteries you don’t use, well this grinder is up for duty. You don’t has to look for special cells or purchase a new charger.
This makes it an easy switch rather then an extra cost for DIYers who already own multiple tools in this category. Quality construction says it all It’s a well-made tool. It will stand up to abuse for a while.
Build Quality and Ergonomics
Because it’s not metal, it weigh less. Plastic housings are less durable than metal, but I don’t see that as a negative because if you drop this thing, the plastic absorbs impact much better then steel would. The side handle has a nice rubber overmold that gives you a sure hold and doesn’t slip in the heat of cutting.
It has a spindle lock button located so you can change disc with one hand. This small feature will save some time when swapping between cut-off wheels and grinding wheels. It’s a solid feel without feeling clunky.
Power Delivery and Duty Cycles
This is how it delivers power, and this is where expectation meets reality. With its 20V battery, it can bite into angle iron and rebar with no problem. However, compared to a 110V corded grinder, it won’t deliver as much sustained torque.
Use it intermittently; it’s good at that. Under heavy load, you’ll notice the speed reduction a bit (normal for this voltage). To use this properly: Let the tool work for you.
Don’t force it. When you do, motor will strain and the battery will drain more quickly. Use it gently; it lasts longer and makes cleaner cuts.
Longer term use also means heat becomes an issue. Because there is no constant air flow like with a corded grinder, the motor will heat up slightly when used continuously. And this isn’t necessarily a bad thing, this is where idea of duty cycles comes into play.
A cordless grinder was built for use in patterns of work and rest. It run hard for several minutes and rests while cooling for a period before being run again. This helps protect the electronics and is part of its design.
Depending on how heavy your cutting is, you may require 2 batteries if you are cutting fence posts all day. One battery is typically enough for occasional maintenance and weekend projects. Knowing ahead of time what these limits are will help avoid frustrating yourself.
Disc Changing and Spindle Lock
Disc retention requires a firm grip on the spindle lock. There’s no spring-loaded lock on these guys like many pros have. You got to push down on a button and then rotate the nut around.
It does take a bit to learn how to time it. Push on the lock, turn the nut, let go. After a few times you’ll be in rhythm and swapping out disc will be fast.
The supplied wrench fits snugly into the head and is stout. Don’t skimp here. A loose disc is dangerous, but a tight disc is easy to install if you are patient.
Final Verdict and Value
Always put safety first. For the money, this is a solid grinder from Porter Cable. It’s somewhere in the middle between the industrial workhorse and the craft tool that looks like a toy.
And it has plenty of grunt for most homeowners’ tasks while giving you mobility you want. It can sand down a rough edge, grind welds out of metal, or cut a piece of steel. It can do these tasks adequately.
Is it the strongest grinder out there? No. But it’s also one of the most approachable. It is versatile, affordable and performs reliably.
Ultimately, whether or not this is right for you comes down to need and what tools you have on hand. If you’re in the 18V/20V system now it’s an easy add. It doesn’t cost more to use the new battery system, but it provides more value.
If you want to start fresh it gives you a nice start at building out your cordless shop. Many users find that they can sacrifice some power for convenience and that’s OK. Keep the duty cycle in mind and take care of your discs.
The tool would of repaid you with a long life and clean cuts.