DeWalt DCG418B vs Makita XAG25Z: 6-Inch Brushless Angle Grinders Compared
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Standard 4-1/2 to 5-inch grinders handle most work, but some jobs need a bigger disc. Cutting through rebar, grinding structural welds, and slicing cast iron drain pipe all go faster with a 6-inch wheel. The DeWalt DCG418B runs on FLEXVOLT 60V MAX. The Makita XAG25Z runs on two 18V LXT batteries wired in series for 36V. Both are brushless, both are heavy, and both demand respect.
Quick Verdict
The DeWalt DCG418B is the lighter, faster tool. If you're already in the FLEXVOLT ecosystem, it's the clear pick. The Makita XAG25Z makes more financial sense if you own 18V LXT batteries because you avoid buying into a new battery platform. Performance is close enough that battery ecosystem should drive the decision.
9,000 RPM cuts faster and the lighter weight reduces fatigue on repetitive cuts.
Use your existing 18V batteries instead of buying $150+ FLEXVOLT cells.
Lighter tool and higher RPM give more control on long weld passes.
Specs at a Glance
| Spec | DeWalt DCG418B | Makita XAG25Z |
|---|---|---|
| Disc Size | 6 in | 6 in |
| No-Load Speed | 9,000 RPM | 8,500 RPM |
| Spindle Thread | 5/8-11 in | 5/8-11 in |
| Battery Platform | 60V MAX FLEXVOLT | 36V (18V x2 LXT) |
| Weight (bare) | 6.3 lb (bare) | 7.5 lb (bare) |
| Safety Features | Electronic brake + kickback detection | Electronic brake + Active Feedback Sensing |
| Guard Adjustment | Tool-free adjustable | Tool-free adjustable |
DeWalt DCG418B
Price: $219 (Home Depot)
Pros
- 60V FLEXVOLT delivers corded-level power through the entire battery discharge curve
- E-Clutch kickback detection shuts the motor off if the disc binds suddenly
- 6-inch disc cuts deeper per pass than a 4-1/2 inch disc, reducing the number of passes on thick steel
Cons
- FLEXVOLT batteries are expensive and heavy, adding significant weight to the tool
- 6.3 lb bare is manageable but 9+ lb with a 9Ah FLEXVOLT battery is a workout
- Not backwards-compatible with standard 20V MAX batteries
Makita XAG25Z
Price: $229 (Amazon)
Pros
- Uses two standard 18V LXT batteries you likely already own instead of expensive proprietary cells
- Active Feedback Sensing (AFT) detects rotation stall and kills the motor in milliseconds
- Soft-start gradually ramps RPM instead of jolting the disc to full speed on trigger pull
Cons
- 7.5 lb bare is the heaviest tool in this comparison, over a pound more than the DeWalt
- 8,500 RPM is 500 lower than the DeWalt, slightly slower cutting speed in metal
- Two battery slots make the rear of the tool bulkier and less balanced
Best For
Cutting rebar and structural steel
DeWalt DCG418B
9,000 RPM cuts faster and the lighter weight reduces fatigue on repetitive cuts.
Existing LXT owners
Makita XAG25Z
Use your existing 18V batteries instead of buying $150+ FLEXVOLT cells.
Grinding structural welds
DeWalt DCG418B
Lighter tool and higher RPM give more control on long weld passes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 6-inch grinder worth the extra weight over a 4-1/2 inch?
For cutting thick material, yes. A 6-inch cut-off wheel has almost an inch more cutting depth than a 4-1/2 inch disc. That means you can cut through 2-inch angle iron in one pass instead of two. For surface grinding and light metalwork, a smaller grinder is easier to control.
Can I put a 4-1/2 inch disc on a 6-inch grinder?
You can, but the guard will be sized for 6 inches so there's more exposed disc. It's not dangerous if you wear proper PPE, but there's no benefit. Use the right disc size for the tool.
How long do the batteries last on a 6-inch grinder?
On a 6Ah battery under moderate grinding load, expect 15 to 25 minutes of cutting time. Heavy continuous cutting eats through batteries faster. Carry spares. These tools draw significantly more current than 4-1/2 inch grinders.