DeWalt DWE402 vs DWE4011: Which 4.5 Inch Grinder? (October 2026)
Choose the DWE402K or DWE402N for an 11-amp motor and Dust Ejection System, or the DWE4011 for its 12,000 rpm speed and 3.9 lb weight.
On this page (7 sections)
The DWE402K and DWE402N have 11-amp motors and Dust Ejection Systems; the DWE4011 has a 7-amp motor, 12,000 rpm speed and 3.9 lb weight. In this DEWALT DWE402 vs DWE4011 comparison, choose based on the motor, switch and handling features that suit your work.
The DWE4011 has a 7-amp motor rated at 12,000 rpm, while the DWE402K and DWE402N have 11-amp motors rated at 11,000 rpm. All 3 have a Quick-Change wheel release.
DEWALT DWE402 vs DWE4011: what are the key differences?
The DWE402 models have higher amperage and a Dust Ejection System; the DWE4011 is lighter and has a higher stated speed. The DWE402K and DWE402N differ in switch and included components.
The DWE4011 weighs 3.9 lb and has a slim ergonomic body, One-Touch guard, 2-position side handle and Quick-Change wheel release. It has a slide switch and a 5/8-inch 11 spindle thread.
The DWE402K and DWE402N have an 11-amp, 11,000 rpm motor. Both have a Dust Ejection System, One-Touch guard and Quick-Change wheel release, plus a low profile gear case for access into tight spaces.
The DWE402K includes a kit box and has a paddle switch with safety lock-off. The DWE402N has a no lock-on paddle switch.
Which grinder has more motor power?
The DWE402K and DWE402N have 11-amp motors, compared with 7 amps for the DWE4011. Choose a DWE402 if motor amperage is your main comparison point.
DEWALT describes the motors in all 3 grinders as designed for faster material removal and higher overload protection. Their stated amperage and speed figures help compare the models, but they don't guarantee a particular cut rate through every material.
Is the higher speed of the DWE4011 useful?
The DWE4011's 12,000 rpm rating is 1,000 rpm higher than the DWE402 models' 11,000 rpm rating. Check that the wheel's rated speed and intended use match the tool and task.
A higher rpm figure alone doesn't make a grinder the better choice for every job. Disc type, material and control matter too.
Our guide to angle grinder disc types covers common cutting, grinding and flap discs.
Which is easier to handle?
The DWE4011 weighs 3.9 lb, less than the DWE402N at 6.3 lb and the DWE402K at 8.3 lb. Its slim body and 2-position side handle may suit you if you prioritize a lighter tool for repositioning and control.
Each grinder has a side handle, and the DWE4011's handle has 2 positions. Grip the tool with both hands and set up a stable work position before use.
Our guide to 4-1/2 inch angle grinder sizes explains how disc size relates to reach and typical work. If you want a wider range of DEWALT options, see our guide to the best DEWALT angle grinders.
What guard and wheel features do they have?
All 3 models have a One-Touch guard and Quick-Change wheel release. The guard adjusts without a tool, and the release allows tool-free wheel removal.
The DWE4011's One-Touch guard eliminates the need for a tool to adjust its location. On the DWE402K and DWE402N, the guard rotates 360 degrees in a single action.
The DWE4011 includes a hex wrench, and its Quick-Change release allows tool-free wheel removal. Both DWE402 options also have a Quick-Change release.
A convenient guard adjustment does not replace safe setup. Read how the guard, spindle and handle work before changing an accessory, and keep the guard positioned between you and the wheel.
Which model makes sense for your work?
Choose based on motor amperage, weight, switch or included kit box. Each grinder has a different combination of features.
Choose the DWE4011 for lighter handling
The DWE4011 combines a 3.9 lb weight with 12,000 rpm speed, a slim body and a One-Touch guard. It may fit your needs when weight and the higher stated speed matter more than an 11-amp motor.
Its 7-amp motor has lower amperage than the DWE402 models. If higher amperage is a priority, compare the two DWE402 versions instead.
Choose the DWE402K for a kit box and safety lock-off
The DWE402K pairs an 11-amp motor with a paddle switch that has safety lock-off. Its kit box, side handle, guard and wrench make it the version to consider if you want those included components.
It also has a Dust Ejection System, low profile gear case and Quick-Change wheel release. Choose it when these features match your needs and its 8.3 lb weight works for you.
Choose the DWE402N for a no lock-on paddle
The DWE402N has the same stated 11-amp motor and 11,000 rpm speed as the DWE402K. Its no lock-on paddle switch is the defining difference between the two DWE402 options.
It also has a Dust Ejection System, One-Touch guard and Quick-Change wheel release. Consider it if you want those features and prefer a no lock-on switch.
What safety points apply to all 3?
Use a compatible wheel, keep the guard in place and wear suitable protective equipment. Disc choice and safe handling matter whichever grinder you choose.
A paddle or slide switch doesn't remove the need to control the grinder throughout use. Follow the manual for operating steps, accessory fit and maintenance, and unplug the tool before changing a wheel.
Review our angle grinder safety basics for guard position, protective gear and kickback awareness. For a broader overview of grinder sizes and types, start with how to choose an angle grinder.
Which DEWALT 4-1/2 inch grinder should you choose?
Pick the DWE4011 for its lower weight and higher stated speed; pick a DWE402 for an 11-amp motor and Dust Ejection System. Choose between the DWE402K and DWE402N by their switch and included components.
If the kit box and safety lock-off suit you, the DWE402K is the match. If you prefer a no lock-on paddle switch, consider the DWE402N.
For a wider look at DEWALT models and features, read our best DEWALT angle grinder guide.
Which DWE402 vs DWE4011 model is right for you?
The DWE4011 fits buyers who favor lower weight and higher speed; the DWE402 models fit buyers who favor higher amperage. Match the switch and included components to your preference, then confirm that the grinder and accessory suit your task.
The DWE4011 weighs 3.9 lb, compared with 6.3 lb for the DWE402N and 8.3 lb for the DWE402K. The DWE402K includes a kit box, while the DWE402N has a no lock-on paddle switch.
Frequently asked questions
Is the DWE402 more powerful than the DWE4011?
The DWE402K and DWE402N have 11-amp motors, while the DWE4011 has a 7-amp motor. That makes the DWE402 options the higher-amperage choices, though amperage alone doesn't tell you how a grinder will perform in every material or task.
Which DEWALT grinder spins faster?
The DWE4011 has a stated maximum speed of 12,000 rpm. The DWE402K and DWE402N are rated at 11,000 rpm, so the DWE4011 has the higher stated speed among these models.
Do the DWE402 and DWE4011 use the same size discs?
The DWE4011 has a 5/8-inch 11 spindle thread that accepts a wide range of 4-1/2 inch accessories. Check the accessory requirements and grinder manual before fitting a wheel or disc.
What is the difference between DWE402K and DWE402N?
Both have an 11-amp, 11,000 rpm motor, a Dust Ejection System, a One-Touch guard and tool-free wheel release. The DWE402K has a paddle switch with safety lock-off and includes a kit box; the DWE402N has a no lock-on paddle switch.
