The Angle Grinder Guide: Can an Angle Grinder Cut Tiles?
08/12/2025Sometimes, when you’re tackling a tiling project, a tile cutter or wet saw might not be suitable. Whereas an angle grinder might be up for the challenge. From corded and cordless angle grinders to mini angle grinders, they offer solutions for the biggest, smallest, and most intricate tile-cutting projects.
How Does an Angle Grinder Cut Tiles?
An angle grinder is a valuable tool in a professional’s arsenal. It’s a handheld power tool that spins an abrasive tile cutting disc at high speed to cut, grind, and polish various surfaces. It is commonly used for masonry, metal polishing, and DIY projects. But with the right cutting disc and angle grinder model, it can be used to effectively cut tiles, too.
How To Cut a Tile with an Angle Grinder
Ensure you attach the right cutting disc that can cut through your chosen tile and is compatible with your angle grinder. Using the wrong disc can cause the tile to chip or crack.
Measure and mark your cut line on the tile you’re cutting. Clamp the tile down securely so it doesn’t move while cutting.
Wearing safety clothing, ensure the safety guard is in place before carefully guiding the grinder along the line.
Smooth down any rough edges with the PREMTOOL Diamond Rubbing Pad or Bihui Diamond Rubbing Pad.
Clean up! Hoover up any dust, check and clean the disc, and store both the disc and grinder safely.
The Different Types of Angle Grinders
At Pro Tiler Tools, we offer a range of angle grinders suitable for cutting any type of tile material or thickness.
Product Type | Example | Image | Features & Uses |
|---|---|---|---|
Corded Angle Grinder |  | More consistent power. Great for larger cutting jobs. For cutting metal, tiles and bricks. Handle for more accurate cuts. | |
Cordless Angle Grinder |  | Ideal for quick, small or portable jobs. High cutting speeds. Removable metal grille for dust protection. | |
Mini Angle Grinder |  | Compact design. Used for tight spaces, intricate cuts, and shallow depths. | |
Long Neck Angle Grinder |  | Used for cutting, roughing, and grinding. Idea for steel, glass, ceramic, wood, and plastic. Suitable for narrow spaces. | |
Polishers |  | Used on painted and uncoated surfaces. |
Angle Grinder vs Tile Cutter
As efficient as an angle grinder can be, it’s important to know which tool: angle grinder, wet saw or tile cutter is best for your tiling project. This is dependent on the size of your tiles, the number of tiles you’re cutting, and the material you’re cutting.
Tile Material & Thickness | Angle Grinder or Tile Cutter | Angle Grinder Example | Image | Wet Saw Example | Image |
Ceramic – small to medium formats, 8-10mm thick | A standard angle grinder and tile disc will suffice. |  |  | ||
Porcelain – interior, medium formats, 10-15mm thick. | Angle grinders will work efficiently with a porcelain-specific disc. |  |  | ||
Porcelain – exterior, large format, 15-20mm thick. | A powerful angle grinder would work, but a wet saw may be better. |  |  | ||
Natural stone – granite, marble, sandstone, etc., varying thicknesses of 12-20mm. | An angle grinder would work best for small cuts and edge work with the right disc. A tile cutter or wet saw would suit big cuts. |  |  |
Read More: How to Use a Ceramic Tile Cutter, The Best Electric Tile Cutter, Best Rated Tile Cutters.
When To Use an Angle Grinder to Cut Tiles
Cutting awkward shapes or plunge cuts that larger cutters can’t handle.
If you have limited space or require a portable tile cutter.
Small spaces also benefit from a dust extraction system like the Bihui Grinding Dust Extraction.
If you only have a small tile repair and replacement.
You need to cut curved edges.
When Will an Angle Grinder Not Work for Cutting Tiles?
If you’re cutting larger, thick-format tiles. These are often outdoor tiles, like 20mm porcelain slabs, and a wet saw may be more efficient.
You want an extremely high-quality finish to your tile edges.
You’re inexperienced with hand tools or high cutting speeds.
Read more: How to Cut 20mm Porcelain Tiles
Choosing the Right Angle Grinder Disc
When it comes to cutting tiles with an angle grinder, there are two types of cutting discs that are most effective:
Diamond discs: These provide a powerful, smooth, clean cut. They’re ideal for tougher tiles such as porcelain and granite as they’re designed to withstand high temperatures and pressure. Popular brands include Proxxon Diamon-Coated Cutting Disc and Bosch X-LOCK Dry & Clean Cut Diamond Angle Grinder Blade.
Continuous Discs: Also known as turbo discs, these feature a continuous serrated edge for a consistent, accurate cut. These are suited to ceramic tiles and softer materials, making them ideal for intricate and curved cuts. Popular brands include the Proxxon Diamond-Coated Cutting Disc with Turbo Rim.
How To Master Cutting Tiles with an Angle Grinder
Use the correct cutting disc for your tile material – this will reduce the risk of chips, cracks, and rough edges. Our guide on the Best Blades for Cutting Tiles can help.
Take your time and let the blade do what it does best – cut smoothly and with ease.
Ensure your tile is secure before cutting to avoid movement and mistakes when cutting.
Don’t forget the edges – not only will your tiles look unprofessional, but also rough edges can damage walls, floors, or grout lines.
Protect yourself from dust – whether it's with a dust extraction tool, wet saws, or wearing protective gear, dust can cause more havoc than you expect.
Further Guides & Advice:
Should you need any tile cutting advice or support with your tiling project, don’t hesitate to contact us via email at [email protected] or give us a call at 01604 859800.