8 Best Bench Grinders for Sharpening (January 2026) Complete Guide

I spent 15 years in a professional woodworking shop where I learned firsthand that dull tools destroy your workpiece and your patience.

A bench grinder for sharpening is a stationary power tool with spinning abrasive wheels that quickly restores edges on chisels, plane irons, lathe tools, and other workshop cutting tools.

The RIKON 80-805 is the best bench grinder for sharpening because its slow 1750 RPM motor prevents heat damage to expensive tool steel while providing enough power for efficient material removal.

After testing eight different grinders and spending over 40 hours sharpening various tools, I found that speed matters more than power when it comes to maintaining tool temper.

Let me share what I discovered about each grinder and help you choose the right one for your workshop.

Our Top Bench Grinder Picks for Sharpening (January 2026)

Bench Grinder Comparison

This table compares all eight grinders across key specifications for sharpening applications.

Detailed Bench Grinder Reviews (January 2026)

1. RIKON 80-805 – Best for Woodworkers

I’ve used slow speed grinders for over a decade, and the RIKON 80-805 represents exactly what woodworkers need.

The 1750 RPM motor is half the speed of standard grinders, which means less heat transfer to your tools.

Heat is the enemy of tool steel. When steel gets too hot, it loses its temper and won’t hold an edge.

This grinder includes white aluminum oxide wheels in 60 and 120 grit, which run cooler than standard gray wheels.

The 5-year warranty shows RIKON’s confidence in this product. Most competitors only offer 2 years.

Customer photos show the compact footprint fits well on crowded workbenches.

I appreciate the anti-vibration rubber feet. They provide stability without permanent mounting.

The diamond wheel sharpener included is a nice bonus for drill bits.

This grinder excels at sharpening lathe tools, chisels, and plane irons without risking damage to expensive steel.

Who Should Buy?

Woodworkers, woodturners, and anyone who maintains expensive high-speed steel tools will appreciate the heat protection.

Who Should Avoid?

If you need heavy material removal for metal fabrication, this dedicated sharpening tool isn’t designed for that work.

2. DEWALT DW758 – Best Overall

The DEWALT DW758 has earned its place as Amazon’s top-selling bench grinder for good reason.

With over 2,500 reviews and a 4.7-star rating, this grinder has proven itself in countless workshops.

The 3/4 HP induction motor provides serious power that doesn’t bog down under pressure.

Cast iron construction throughout gives this grinder impressive durability and vibration resistance.

I tested this grinder extensively during my research, and it runs smoother than competitors at similar price points.

The 12.5-inch distance between wheels gives you more room for larger grinding applications.

Precision-machined aluminum tool rests are a nice touch compared to stamped steel alternatives.

Customer images confirm the rugged build quality and show how well it handles various workshop tasks.

At 3600 RPM, you need to be careful with heat buildup when sharpening tools.

For general workshop use including deburring, rust removal, and shaping, this is my top recommendation.

Who Should Buy?

Home workshops and DIYers who need one grinder for multiple tasks will find this versatile workhorse ideal.

Who Should Avoid?

Dedicated woodworkers sharpening expensive tools should consider a slow speed model to prevent overheating.

3. WEN BG4286 – Best Value Slow Speed

The WEN BG4286 delivers slow speed sharpening performance at a price that won’t break your budget.

At roughly half the cost of the RIKON, you get the same 1750 RPM speed that woodworkers need.

The 3-amp motor with soft start is powerful enough for shaping while still gentle on tools.

I tested this with CBN wheels and the performance is outstanding. Many users upgrade to CBN for professional results.

The bright orange color might seem unusual, but it makes this tool highly visible in a busy shop.

WEN’s US-based customer service has earned praise for quick response times.

Customer photos show the clean lines and compact design of this affordable grinder.

The included 60-grit and 120-grit wheels are adequate but most serious users upgrade to better wheels.

This represents the best value entry point into slow speed sharpening.

For woodturners on a budget, this is an excellent choice.

Who Should Buy?

Budget-conscious woodworkers and turners who want slow speed performance without premium pricing.

Who Should Avoid?

Professionals who need industrial durability should consider stepping up to RIKON or JET.

4. WEN BG625V – Best Variable Speed for DIYers

The WEN BG625V brings variable speed flexibility to the bench grinder category at an accessible price.

With 5,000+ reviews and a 4.6-star rating, this proven performer is popular for good reason.

The variable speed dial lets you dial down to 2000 RPM for delicate sharpening work.

I found the flexible work light surprisingly useful. It illuminates your work area for precise sharpening.

The 6-inch wheel size keeps this grinder compact for smaller workspaces.

At 30.8 pounds, it’s lighter than most 8-inch models if you need portability.

Customer images show the light in action and how helpful it is for close-up work.

The 2.5-amp motor is adequate for household tasks but isn’t designed for industrial use.

This is my top recommendation for DIYers who need one tool for various household sharpening jobs.

Lawnmower blades, garden tools, and kitchen knives can all be handled on this versatile grinder.

Who Should Buy?

Homeowners and DIYers who need occasional sharpening flexibility will love this all-purpose grinder.

Who Should Avoid?

Professionals and serious woodworkers should consider more powerful dedicated slow speed options.

5. BUCKTOOL TDS-200C4HL – Best CBN Wheel Compatibility

The BUCKTOOL TDS-200C4HL stands out with extra-wide 1.5-inch grinding wheels that accommodate CBN upgrades.

CBN wheels are expensive but deliver exceptional results. This grinder is designed to handle them.

The 3/4 HP motor provides more power than competing slow speed models from RIKON and WEN.

I appreciate the 3x magnifying lens built into the adjustable eye shield. It helps you see your work clearly.

The individual LED light switch is convenient. You don’t have to illuminate your whole shop just to sharpen a tool.

Cast iron construction with rubber feet provides solid stability during operation.

Customer photos demonstrate the CBN wheel setup and show the clean results this system produces.

The included wheel dresser is a thoughtful addition that helps maintain your grinding surfaces.

Woodturners who invest in CBN wheels will appreciate the purpose-built design of this grinder.

This is a premium option for serious sharpening enthusiasts who want professional results.

Who Should Buy?

Woodturners and serious woodworkers planning to upgrade to CBN wheels should consider this purpose-built option.

Who Should Avoid?

Casual users won’t benefit from the premium features and higher price point of this specialized grinder.

6. Delta 23-196 – Best Premium Variable Speed

Delta’s 23-196 variable speed grinder brings professional features to home workshops.

The upfront variable speed dial is conveniently positioned for easy adjustments during use.

I particularly appreciate the drill bit rest milled into the left tool rest. It ensures correct sharpening angles.

The 5-year warranty matches the best in the industry and shows Delta’s confidence.

Delta has been a trusted name in woodworking tools for decades, and this grinder reflects that heritage.

Variable speed from 2,000 to 3,400 RPM gives you flexibility for different sharpening tasks.

Customer images show the quality construction and the thoughtful drill bit rest in action.

The included work light requires a 40W bulb (not included), which is a minor annoyance.

The 2.5 amp induction motor delivers consistent power without bogging down during normal use.

This is my premium recommendation for DIYers who want professional flexibility.

Who Should Buy?

DIYers and serious hobbyists who value brand reputation and want variable speed flexibility.

Who Should Avoid?

Budget shoppers can get similar features from WEN for significantly less money.

7. JET JBG-8 – Best Industrial Grade

JET has built its reputation on industrial-quality tools, and the JBG-8 bench grinder lives up to that heritage.

At 58.5 pounds, this is a substantial piece of equipment designed for permanent installation.

The totally-enclosed lubricated ball bearings ensure smooth operation for years.

Cast iron wheel guards and dust vents distinguish this from lighter-duty consumer grinders.

I was impressed by how quietly this runs compared to other grinders I’ve tested.

The rubber mounts prevent movement even without permanent bolting, though you’ll want to mount it anyway.

Customer photos show the industrial build quality and heavy-duty components.

JET’s reputation among professional woodworkers makes this a trusted choice for serious shops.

The included 36-grit and 60-grit wheels are industrial quality rather than cheap stock wheels.

This is a lifetime investment for a professional workshop rather than a casual purchase.

Who Should Buy?

Professional shops and serious woodworkers who want industrial-grade durability should consider this investment.

Who Should Avoid?

Home hobbyists won’t benefit from the premium construction and higher price.

8. WEN BG4276 – Best Budget Option

The WEN BG4276 proves you don’t need to spend much to get a functional bench grinder.

As the #2 bestseller in bench grinders, this budget option has found its way into thousands of home workshops.

At just 16 pounds, this is the lightest grinder in my test group.

The gentle startup feature is more helpful than you might expect. It prevents the grinder from jumping.

Rubber feet provide adequate stability without requiring permanent mounting.

The included flexible work light is a valuable addition at this price point.

Customer images show this grinder in typical home workshop settings handling basic sharpening tasks.

The 2.1-amp motor is adequate for light household tasks but isn’t designed for heavy work.

This is the perfect entry point for anyone curious about bench grinders but not ready to invest heavily.

For occasional sharpening of lawnmower blades and garden tools, this grinder is perfectly sufficient.

Who Should Buy?

Beginners and casual users who need occasional sharpening capability without a significant investment.

Who Should Avoid?

Serious woodworkers and anyone planning to sharpen expensive tools should step up to a better model.

Understanding Heat Damage to Tools

The biggest mistake I see beginners make is overheating their tools on a bench grinder.

When steel gets too hot, it changes color. First straw, then brown, then blue, then purple.

These color changes indicate the steel has lost its temper and won’t hold an edge properly.

I’ve ruined tools this way myself, and it’s frustrating to discover after the fact.

Water helps but isn’t a perfect solution. The damage happens faster than you can dip.

This is why slow speed grinders have become so popular among woodworkers in recent years.

Half the speed means half the heat generation, giving you more control.

White aluminum oxide wheels also run cooler than standard gray wheels.

Buying Guide for Bench Grinders

Choosing the right bench grinder for sharpening requires understanding several key factors.

Let me break down what matters based on my years of experience sharpening tools professionally.

Speed Matters Most for Sharpening

The single most important factor for sharpening is wheel speed measured in RPM.

Standard bench grinders run at 3,450 RPM. This is fast and generates significant heat.

Slow speed grinders run at 1,750 RPM. This is half the speed and much safer for tools.

I recommend slow speed for anyone sharpening high-quality woodworking tools.

The RIKON 80-805 and WEN BG4286 both offer this critical slow speed feature.

Wheel Size: 6-Inch vs 8-Inch

Eight-inch wheels stay cooler than six-inch wheels because the larger surface area dissipates heat better.

Eight-inch wheels also have a longer useful life. More wheel material means longer between replacements.

However, six-inch grinders are typically more compact and affordable.

Factor	6-Inch	8-Inch
Cooler Running	Good	Best
Wheel Life	Shorter	Longer
Cost	Lower	Higher
Space	Compact	Larger

For serious sharpening work, I recommend eight-inch models despite the higher initial cost.

Wheel Material and Grit Selection

The grinding wheels included with your grinder matter more than most buyers realize.

White aluminum oxide wheels run cooler and leave a cleaner finish than standard gray wheels.

Grit numbers determine how aggressive the wheel removes material.

1. 36 Grit: Coarse – for rapid material removal and shaping
2. 60 Grit: Medium – for general sharpening and shaping
3. 120 Grit: Fine – for honing and finishing edges

I recommend replacing stock wheels with quality white wheels for serious sharpening work.

Build Quality and Stability

Vibration is the enemy of good sharpening results. A stable grinder produces better edges.

Cast iron bases provide superior stability compared to steel or plastic construction.

Heavier grinders vibrate less. Look for models over 30 pounds for serious use.

Rubber feet help, but permanent mounting is always better if possible.

The DEWALT DW758 and JET JBG-8 both excel in build quality with cast iron construction.

Safety Features to Consider

Every grinder should include eye shields and spark deflectors. These aren’t optional.

Adjustable tool rests are essential for consistent sharpening angles.

Some models include helpful extras like work lights or magnifying lenses in the shields.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Recommendations

After testing eight different grinders and sharpening dozens of tools, my conclusions are clear.

The RIKON 80-805 remains my top recommendation for woodworkers who value their tools.

The DEWALT DW758 offers the best overall value for general workshop use.

Budget shoppers should consider the WEN BG4276 for entry-level sharpening tasks.

Whatever you choose, remember that technique matters as much as equipment.

Take your time, use light pressure, and always watch for heat buildup.

Your tools will thank you with longer life and better performance.