Comprehensive review of Milwaukee 2680-20 cordless angle grinder for versatile cutting tasks

Description

Durability and Build Quality

I recently got my hands on the Milwaukee 2680-20 M18 18-Volt Lithium Ion 4 1/2 Inch Cordless Grinder, and the first thing I noticed was how solid it felt right out of the box. The combination of grey, black, and red colors gives it a professional vibe, but let’s talk about the actual construction. The plastic material used feels sturdy yet lightweight, weighing only 4.89 pounds, which made handling it for extended periods far less tiring. The paddle switch design stood out immediately, making it easy to power on even while wearing thick gloves. The tool-free guard adjustment is another highlight, letting me quickly adapt the grinder for different cutting angles during a project.

After using it for tasks like cutting through PVC pipes and sharpening tools, it became clear that the build quality is durable enough for demanding environments. However, while it’s tough, the absence of a rubberized grip on the body itself beyond the side handle could make prolonged usage slightly less comfortable.

Performance and Speed

The performance of this cordless grinder is nothing short of impressive. Equipped with a powerful motor capable of spinning the wheel at 10,000 RPM, it easily handled a variety of materials. I tested it on metal sheets, bolts, and even some stubborn rusted parts, and the grinder didn’t stutter once. What really caught my attention was the Redlink Intelligence technology. This feature ensures communication between the grinder and the M18 battery, which in turn prevents the motor from overheating or overloading. It’s one of those things you don’t think about until you realize your tool is still going strong after a heavy workload.

That said, I did notice that when using the grinder for more delicate tasks, the fixed speed of 10,000 RPM didn’t allow for finer control. A variable speed option would have been a fantastic addition for those of us who work on diverse projects.

Ease of Use and Ergonomics

Using this grinder is straightforward, and that’s a big plus for me. The paddle switch design was a lifesaver, especially during a few jobs where I was wearing gloves to handle sharp edges. The 3-position plastic side handle made it adaptable for both right and left-handed use, providing extra stability when working on awkward angles. Adjusting the guard was a breeze with the tool-free adjustment mechanism, saving me time during busy projects.

One thing I wasn’t as thrilled about was the noise level. It’s not deafening, but it’s louder than some corded models I’ve used. If you’re sensitive to noise, you’ll definitely want to keep a good pair of earplugs handy while using this tool.

Key Benefits

• Lightweight yet durable construction ensures ease of handling.
• The powerful 10,000 RPM motor tackles tough materials with ease.
• Redlink Intelligence technology prevents overheating and extends motor life.
• Tool-free guard adjustment enhances convenience and saves time.
• The 3-position side handle boosts stability for various tasks.

Areas for Improvement

• Lack of variable speed control limits precision for certain projects.
• No rubberized grip on the body, which could improve comfort over long sessions.
• Slightly louder operation compared to similar models.

Competing Products

When comparing this grinder to others in its category, such as the DeWalt DCG412B or the Makita XAG04Z, there are distinct differences that stand out. The Milwaukee grinder excels in durability and handling, particularly with its paddle switch and Redlink Intelligence. However, the DeWalt model offers variable speed control, which makes it a better option for finer, more delicate tasks. On the other hand, the Makita grinder has a slimmer design and slightly quieter operation, but it lacks the robust motor protection that Milwaukee provides.

While all three options target the same market, the Milwaukee grinder stands out for heavy-duty use and reliability, but it could improve in versatility with a variable speed feature.

Cost Efficiency

Considering the features packed into this tool, the price-to-quality ratio is solid, especially for professionals who need a cordless grinder that can endure daily heavy-duty tasks. While some users might balk at the absence of extras like a variable speed setting, the overall build quality and compatibility with M18 batteries make it a worthwhile investment. If you’re already invested in Milwaukee’s ecosystem, this grinder becomes an even smarter choice thanks to its seamless integration with existing tools and batteries.

Overall, this grinder isn’t perfect, but it’s a reliable workhorse that’s built to last. Whether you’re cutting, grinding, or tackling big projects, it delivers the kind of performance you’d expect from a Milwaukee product.

Additional information