Makita DGA452Z Review

The 115 mm angle grinder is the format that introduced millions of DIYers and light-trade users to powered cutting and grinding. It is the smaller sibling of the professional 125 mm standard — lighter, more manoeuvrable, and typically more affordable, while still accepting a wide range of cutting, grinding, and sanding discs. The 10 mm reduction in disc diameter may seem trivial, but it translates to noticeably lower weight, a slimmer body that is easier to grip one-handed, and a tool that feels less intimidating to users who reach for a grinder occasionally rather than daily. In a cordless format, the 115 mm size pairs well with an 18-volt battery platform: the smaller disc demands less torque than a 125 mm equivalent, so the motor draws less current and runtime extends further from the same battery capacity. For the serious DIYer, the automotive enthusiast, and the light-trade user who needs cordless grinding capability for intermittent cutting, deburring, and surface preparation, a 115 mm cordless grinder delivers genuine utility without the weight, bulk, and cost of the professional 125 mm cordless alternatives.

The 115 mm angle grinder format has been the entry point to powered grinding for decades. It is lighter than the 125 mm professional standard, and the discs are marginally cheaper — though the difference in both weight and cost has narrowed as manufacturing has improved. In Makita's 18V LXT cordless range, the DGA452 occupies the accessible, lightweight position below the more powerful DGA504 125 mm model. The key differences are the 115 mm disc, the 10,000 RPM speed — faster than the DGA504's 8,500 RPM, which helps compensate for the lower torque with higher disc surface speed — and a lighter 1.9 kg body weight. The tool includes an anti-restart safety function that prevents accidental start-up if a battery is inserted with the switch in the on position. As a bare tool, it is designed for users already on the Makita 18V LXT platform who have batteries and chargers.

This review examines an 18-volt cordless 115 mm angle grinder from Makita, sold as a bare tool for existing LXT platform users. With an exceptional 3,900-plus reviews averaging 4.6 out of 5 stars — one of the most-reviewed cordless grinders on the market — we evaluate its cutting and grinding performance, battery runtime, ergonomics, and value as an accessible cordless grinder for DIY, automotive, and light-trade applications.

The Makita DGA452Z is a cordless 115 mm angle grinder powered by Makita's 18-volt LXT battery platform. It delivers up to 10,000 RPM and weighs 1.9 kg without battery — with a 5.0 Ah battery fitted, the all-up weight is approximately 2.6 kg. The 'Z' designation means this is a bare tool, supplied without battery, charger, or carry case. It accepts all standard 115 mm grinding and cutting discs with a 22.23 mm bore. The tool is part of Makita's extensive 18V LXT system.

The 115 mm disc format defines the tool's capabilities. With a maximum cutting depth of approximately 28 to 30 mm, it handles threaded rod up to M16, thin-wall tube, sheet metal, and small steel sections — the typical materials encountered in automotive repair, DIY metalworking, and light fabrication. The 10,000 RPM speed provides effective disc surface speed for cutting and grinding, and the slightly faster rotation compared to the 8,500 RPM of the 125 mm DGA504 helps compensate for the smaller disc diameter. The anti-restart function prevents the tool from starting if a battery is inserted with the switch locked on — a useful safety feature, though the tool lacks the electronic brake and anti-kickback clutch found on DEWALT's cordless grinders.

At 1.9 kg bare weight, the DGA452 is light and manoeuvrable — comfortable for one-handed cutting and deburring, and noticeably less fatiguing than 125 mm cordless grinders during overhead work. The slim body diameter accommodates a secure one-handed grip. The slide switch locks on for extended use. The spindle lock enables quick disc changes. The tool's compact dimensions — approximately 36 cm long — allow it to reach into tighter spaces than larger grinders.

With nearly 4,000 customer reviews averaging 4.6 out of 5 stars, the DGA452 has an enormous body of user feedback — one of the largest review counts of any cordless angle grinder. Users consistently praise the light weight, the build quality, and the convenience of cordless operation. The main criticisms relate to runtime — a 5.0 Ah battery provides 15 to 25 minutes of continuous grinding — and the absence of a disc brake, which some users note as a safety compromise compared to braked cordless competitors. At around £85 for the bare tool, the price is accessible for existing Makita 18V users, though the complete cost with batteries and charger must be factored in for new platform entrants.

The Makita DGA452 is the accessible, lightweight cordless angle grinder for DIYers, automotive enthusiasts, and light-trade Makita 18V users — ideal for intermittent cutting, deburring, and surface preparation where cordless convenience and light weight matter more than maximum power and professional safety features.