Black+Decker BDEG400 vs Makita 9557PBX1
Buy the Makita 9557PBX1 for heavier cutting and grinding, longer motor life, and a kit that includes five wheels, two guards, a diamond blade and a metal case. Buy the Black+Decker BDEG400 if you want the lowest-cost 4-1/2 in grinder for light sharpening and rust removal. The Makita's lowest recorded price is $124.00 as of October 29, 2026; the Black+Decker has no price given here.
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Black+Decker BDEG400
4.1Choose the Black+Decker BDEG400 if you need a cheap, simple grinder for occasional sharpening, rust removal and light metal work.
- Low upfront cost for a 4-1/2 in corded grinder
- 6.5A motor is strong for its class
- 3-position side handle helps control at odd angles
- Spindle lock makes wheel changes quick
- Backed by a 2-year Black+Decker warranty
- No lock-on switch, so long cuts tire your hand
- No soft start
- Basic dust protection only
- Comes with one wheel and no case
What separates them
| Black+Decker BDEG400 | Makita 9557PBX1 | |
|---|---|---|
| Motor amperage | 6.5A | 7.5A |
| No-load speed | 10,000 rpm | 11,000 rpm |
| Weight | 4.8 lb | 4.5 lb |
| Length | 12-1/2 in | 10-3/4 in |
| Switch | Trigger, no lock-on listed | Large paddle with lock-on |
| Wheel guard | Standard, tool required | Tool-less adjustment, plus cut-off and grinding guards |
| Dust protection | Metal gear case | Labyrinth seals and zig-zag armature varnish |
| In the box |
Price history
- Black+Decker BDEG400: lowest $44.99 on Oct 29.
- Makita 9557PBX1: lowest $124.00 on Oct 29 at Amazon; $124.00 on Nov 2.
Prices at every store
Specs compared
| Spec | Black+Decker BDEG400 | Makita 9557PBX1 |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel diameter | 4-1/2 in | 4-1/2 in. |
| No load speed | 10,000 rpm | 11,000 RPM |
| Cord length | 6 ft | 6 ft |
| Overall length | 12 1/2 in | 10-3/4 in. |
| Switch type | Trigger | Body grip/paddle |
| Amperage | 6.5A | — |
| Spindle thread size | 5/8 in-11 | — |
| Voltage | 120V AC | — |
| Assembled weight | 4.8 | — |
| Assembled height | 12.5 | — |
| Assembled width |
What reviewers say
Black+Decker BDEG400
Owners rate it 4.1 out of 5 from 43 ratings. Reviewers call it powerful and a good value, and say it handles cutting and grinding concrete and metal. One complaint is that the cord may be shorter than stated.
- Plenty of power for the price
- Good value regardless of price
- Handles cutting and grinding concrete and metal
- High amperage for the price range
- Cord may be shorter than the stated length
Makita 9557PBX1
Owners of the 9557PB family generally rate it as a durable, smooth-running grinder for the price, and the kit's extras are seen as good value. Common complaints center on weight and the lack of variable speed.
- Smooth, low-vibration running
- Holds up to heavy shop and jobsite use
Questions and answers
- Which is better for cutting rebar and metal studs?
- The Makita. Its 7.5A motor, 11,000 rpm and included cut-off guard and diamond blade suit repeated cutting. The Black+Decker will do occasional cuts but has less power and no lock-on switch.
- Which lasts longer?
- The Makita is built for longer life, with labyrinth seals and armature varnish that keep dust out of the motor and bearings. The Black+Decker relies on a metal gear case and a 2-year warranty.
- Is the Makita worth the extra money?
- Yes if you use a grinder regularly. The kit alone adds five wheels, a diamond blade, two guards and a metal case, and you get more power, soft start and better dust sealing. For rare light jobs, the Black+Decker is enough.
- Which is easier to handle?
- The Makita. It weighs 4.5 lb and is 10-3/4 in long, against 4.8 lb and 12-1/2 in for the Black+Decker. The Makita's 2-1/2 in barrel grip and paddle switch also help one-handed control.
- Do both use the same wheels?
- Yes. Both take 4-1/2 in wheels with a 5/8 in-11 spindle, so wheels and most accessories fit either tool.
- Which is better for a first grinder?
- The Black+Decker if budget is the priority and jobs are light. The Makita if you plan to cut and grind often and want the guards and wheels included from the start.
