For any larger and more audacious work you have planned around your house or business site, a drill press is the ideal tool. A drill press can hold larger drill bits that can cut through thick materials like wood, plastic, and metal, in contrast to a portable power drill, which is primarily meant for smaller tasks.
A drill press provides you with unmatched accuracy for producing identical holes that are the same exact depth, angle, and width in addition to its powerful performance. A drill press, one of the most useful devices, can be equipped with additional instruments, such as a rotating sanding disc or a mortising attachment that drills square holes.
How to Choose the Best Drill Press
Choosing the best drill press relies on the job you’re working on and the materials you’ll be using.
While some drill presses are designed specifically to deal with metal, others, like the WEN 4208, can work with a variety of materials.
Types of Drill Presses
The base, column, worktable, and head are the drill press’s four main parts. Depending on its design, the press generally has pre-drilled holes for mounting the drill press to the floor or a workbench.
Benchtop Drill Press
The greatest tool for the home handyman is a benchtop or tabletop drill press. It works well for light to medium-duty tasks. The fact that a tabletop drill is incredibly portable and small is one of its benefits. It can be mounted onto a table in your home office or used on a workbench in your garage.
Floor Drill Press
Invest in a floor drill press for medium- to heavy-duty drilling projects. This kind of drill press is ideal for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts because to its strong construction and exceptionally powerful motor. Just keep in mind that a floor press can be fairly hefty, so provide enough room for it.
Magnetic Drill Press
Due to its portability and user-friendliness, a magnetic drill press is highly valued by many specialists in the steel manufacturing industry. Working with a large piece of metal in your workshop can take a lot of time. However, a magnetic drill press, such as the DEWALT DWE1622K, makes it incredibly simple to drill into and move around a metal workpiece.
Before purchasing your new power tool, take into account these crucial aspects to enable you to pick the ideal press for your project.
Important Drill Press Features
Drilling Capacity
If you want to work with a large workpiece, a floor drill or reliable benchtop drill press gives a wider swing and longer 3-1/8-inch or 4-3/8-inch spindle travel or stroke distance.
Benchtop drill presses and compact drill presses, such as the Dremel Drill Press Workstation, often have a narrower swing and a shorter 2-inch spindle travel distance for small workpieces, making them more appropriate for minor DIY activities and hobby projects.
Power
Every power tool needs a powerful and effective motor. The overall drilling performance will depend on the motor’s horsepower or amperage.
Speed
Speed is crucial since it allows you to adapt the drill’s speed to a specific workpiece and prevents the engine from overheating. Small, complex bits of wood should be moved at a slower pace, and thick metal should be moved at a faster pace. Some multi-material drill presses only have 2 drilling speeds for drilling metal, whereas others offer 5 or 12 variable drilling speeds.
Beveling Table
Drilling is so much simpler and more accurate with a 45° beveling table that is movable up and down. Some designs might even have a swivel-able table.
Drilling Accuracy
A drilling press’s precision is influenced by a variety of elements, including the motor’s construction, the use of ball bearings, and the strength of the base. A laser pointer system is a great feature that will enable you to consistently maintain exact drilling accuracy, which is very helpful for novice drill press users.
Our Top Picks
Best Drill Presses – Reviews
WEN 4208T 8-Inch 5-Speed Drill Press
- Features a 2.3A induction motor, an 8-inch swing, and a 2-inch spindle travel
- Includes a 1/2-inch keyed chuck and onboard key storage
- Operates at 5 different speeds: 740, 1100, 1530, 2100, or 3140 RPM
- 6.5 by 6.5 inch height adjustable worktable bevels up to 45 degrees in each direction
- Measures in at 23 inches tall with a 7 by 11-inch base
The WEN 4208T 8-Inch 5-Speed Drill Press is an excellent option for metalworking, DIY projects, and cabinetmaking because it is strong, adaptable, and small.
For modest to medium-sized activities, the dependable 1/3 HP induction motor offers enough power and torque. You will be in awe as the WEN drill press drills smoothly through tough plastic and metal while gliding gracefully through wood.
The motor is ball-bearing constructed, and the cast iron base avoids any swaying while activities are underway. This guarantees a smooth, balanced, and long-lasting performance. The machine’s five variable speeds, ranging from 740 to 3140 RPM, let you customize it to your specific drilling needs, making it ideal for a variety of applications.
A height-adjustable beveling worktable tilts 45 degrees in both directions for precision angled drilling operations. The worktable’s slots can be used to mount clamps and vises. The 2-inch spindle can be adjusted easily thanks to the locking depth adjustment gauge’s easy-to-read display. The 12-inch chuck may be used with a variety of drill bits and has its own internal storage area.
The 4208 has a small, space-saving design, which is ideal if your garage is small. Another benefit for novice drill press users is the machine’s simple assembly.
WEN offers a 2-year warranty on the drill press.
Pros
- High quality
- Great value for money
- Very affordable price
- Perfect for light-medium wood, plastic or metal tasks
- Durable motor provides ample power and torque
- Smooth, balanced, and long-lasting performance
- Consistent, accurate, and precise operation
- Five variable speeds from 740-3140 RPM
- Easy to read locking depth adjustment gauge
- Height adjustable work table bevels up to 45° left & right
- Onboard storage for the ½-inch keyed chuck
- Compact space-saving design
- Easy to assemble
- Two-year warranty
Cons
- Not ideal for heavy-duty tasks
- Nuts on the depth guide are hard to access with a wrench
WEN 4214 12-Inch Drill Press
- Infinitely variable speed ranges from 580-3200 RPMS. Mechanical variable speed delivers equal torque throughout the range. LED read out displays speed.
- Spindle Travel of 3-1/8" with easy to read, locking linear depth stop for accurate and repeatable drilling operations. Front to the back of the motor is 22 inches
- Quill diameter of 2.17 inches. Durable 2/3hp induction motor develops ample torque and power. Motor: 120 V, 60 Hz. Laser Module: Class III
- 9-1/2 x 9-1/2" cast iron worktable features rack & pinion height adjustment and bevels up to 45 Degree left & right. Width with the handles: 14-1/2"
- Includes drill press, mechanical variable speed, laser, table roller extension, 5/8" keyed chuck & key, tools for assembly.Drill press Height from the Floor to the top: 37 inch
The WEN 4214 12-Inch Drill Press is a wonderful choice if you’re searching for a drill press that offers tons of power for medium- to heavy-duty operations.
Any swaying while in operation is minimized by a solid cast iron base. The drill press will be even more stable for longer workpieces if you mount it on a workbench. A robust 2/3 HP induction motor with ball bearings and adequate power and torque are provided to provide a smooth drilling performance. With a mechanical variable speed mechanism that ranges from 580 to 3200 RPM, you can easily choose the ideal speed for any application.
The WEN 4214 is a highly adaptable drill that can cut through hard materials like wood, plastic, and cast iron. Drilling is exceedingly easy thanks to the drill’s 12-inch swing and 3-1/8-inch spindle travel. You may easily modify the spindle if necessary by using the depth adjustment knob.
The 4214 also comes with a sizable 912 x 912 inch cast iron work table with 45° left and right bevels. A 17-inch roller extension guide also increases surface support for longer workpieces.
A digital LED panel that shows the drill’s current speed is one of the high-tech elements that make it user-friendly. You may obtain precise hole depth and spacing without guesswork thanks to the X-pattern laser guiding technology. Additionally, a work light illuminates your workpiece for optimal visibility and accuracy. The onboard chuck key storage space allows you to keep the chuck key close at hand.
WEN offers a 2-year warranty on the drill press.
Pros
- High quality
- Very good value for money
- Designed for wood, plastic, and metal
- Ideal for larger holes
- Strong motor delivers ample torque and power
- Ball-bearing construction ensures a smooth running performance
- Sturdy cast iron base can be mounted to a workbench
- Mechanical variable speeds from 580-3200 RPM
- Generous cast iron 45° beveling table
- Depth adjustment gauge
- LED speed readout display
- High precision laser guiding system
- Table roller extension
- Onboard storage for the 5/8-inch chuck
- Two-year warranty
Cons
- Expensive
- Can vibrate with heavy-duty materials
- Chuck can be hard to tighten
DEWALT DWE1622K 2-Inch Drill Press
- 10 amp motor, 2-speed settingsl ;No Load Speed : 300/450 rpm
- Overload protection electronics which prevent motor damage
- Quick Change chuck system. Drillpoint Pressure @ 1/2" Steel Plate (12mm) : 741 pounds
- Magnetic coolant bottle can be placed on either side of tool or on a work surface
- 4-3/8 inch Drill travel offers maximum capacity for heavy duty applications
The very versatile magnetic DEWALT DWE1622K 2-Inch Drill Press is an excellent choice for anyone who frequently works with steel.
The DWE1622K provides you with great drilling performance and was created for demanding applications. It boasts a durable design and a 10 amp motor with two very responsive settings between 300 and 450 RPM. The drill’s 4-3/8-inch spindle travel allows it to cut through thick steel and a variety of workpieces.
The 34-inch Weldon shank and the 12-inch keyed chuck may be switched out easily and without using any tools thanks to the Quick-Change system’s practical user-friendly design. When operating in limited places, the Quick Release feed handles can be installed on either side of the machine.
You will enjoy how easy it is to operate this machine if you are new to DIY. Along with the tool’s huge red and green on/off buttons, an easy-to-read user manual is also included. It doesn’t need to be assembled, which is fantastic for complete beginners. The DWE1622K has a sleek, lightweight, and small design, making it incredibly portable.
An intelligent Overload Protection System is among the safety features. When the drill is getting hot, an LED light will blink red and yellow to let you know, and it will glow bright red when the drill is too hot. The drill will then be turned off by the overload system until it has cooled. A magnetic coolant bottle can be positioned on either side of the tool. You can protect your tools by using a safety chain. The drill also contains an 8-foot power cord and a tool for adjusting the motor height.
DEWALT offers a 3-year limited warranty on the drill press.
Pros
- High quality
- Excellent value for money
- Sturdy tool
- Ultra-powerful motor
- 4-3/8-inch spindle travel is ideal for heavy-duty steel materials
- Fast 300-450 RMP
- Smart magnetic design
- Overload protection
- Quick change chuck system
- Quick-release feed handles
- Lightweight, compact, and portable
- Magnetic coolant bottle can be placed on either side of tool or on a work surface
- Easy to use
- No assembly required
- Long 8-foot power cord
- Three-year limited warranty
Cons
- Only 2 speeds
- Expensive price tag
- May be too powerful for first-time users
- Quick-change system tends to become loose after a while
Shop Fox W1848 13-1/4-Inch Oscillating Floor Drill Press
- Motor: 3/4 HP, 110V
- Swing: 13-3/4"
- Drill chuck: 1/64"-5/8"
- Arbor: JT-33
- Range of speeds: 250-3050 RPM
Whether you’re a skilled DIYer or a professional carpenter, the Shop Fox W1848 13-1/4′′ Oscillating Floor Drill Press can help you successfully complete the project.
All the power needed for repetitive precision cutting in metal, plastic, or wood is provided by the W1848’s 3/4 HP engine, which is powerful and efficient. With 12 variable settings ranging from 250 to 3050 RPM, you can select the appropriate speed for any activity.
The sturdy cast iron worktable tilts 90 degrees left and right and can be raised or lowered to fit your job. It was designed for application versatility. Additionally, this drill press may be quickly and easily switched from drilling to sanding operations by following a few simple, tool-free processes. You have additional convenience and usability thanks to the 1/64′′-5/8′′ chuck and the 314-inch spindle travel.
Shop Fox’s distinctive oscillating spindle, which lowers heat build-up and leaves a clean finish while sanding, is one of the smart features. A safety switch stops tools from starting accidentally, and a dust port keeps your workspace tidy.
The drill press comes with a 2-year limited warranty from Shop Fox. Another option is a drill press that sits on a bench.
Pros
- High quality
- Great value for money
- Fantastic performance
- Powerful and efficient motor
- Ideal for repetitive precision cutting in materials such as wood, plastic, and metal
- Durable cast iron worktable tilts left and right and is height adjustable
- 12 operating speeds ranging from 250-3050 RPM
- Versatile design
- can be quickly switched from drilling activities to sanding operations using only a few toolless steps.
- Unique oscillating spindle for efficient contour sanding
- Oscillating design helps to reduce heat build-up and leaves a smooth finish when sanding
- Safety switch
- Dust port
- Easy to assemble
- Two-year limited warranty
Cons
- Expensive
- Comes disassembled
JET 354170/JDP-20MF 20-Inch Floor Drill Press
- Versatile Power: 1-1/2 HP motor with 12 speeds from 150 to 4,200 RPM.
- Quick Adjusmentments: 1/2"-diameter external depth stop with three-nut locking feature.
- Smooth Operation: Spindle is supported by high-quality ball bearings.
- Added Visibility: Built-in work lamp illuminates your workspace.
- Ideal Positioning: Quick-release crank-operated worktable can tilt plus /- 45°.
The JET 354170/JDP-20MF 20-Inch Floor Drill Press offers improved precision, stability, and versatility for medium-duty applications thanks to its cutting-edge design.
The durable drill is perfect for both professional and domestic usage. It features a highly powerful 112 HP motor that provides you the maximum drilling capacity into workpieces that are 1 inch cast iron and 34 inch mild steel. The spindle is supported by high-quality ball bearings for a smooth functioning.
Your drilling diversity will be substantially boosted with this straightforward tool. The JET has a 4-5/8-inch spindle and 12 different speeds, ranging from 150 to 4200 RPM. A spindle return spring and a hinged metal belt and pulley cover make adjusting the tension straightforward. Change the speed after placing the belt on the pulley, opening the metal cover, and turning off the engine. The 1-inch external depth stop’s 3-nut locking system allows for quick adjustment.
With the quick-release clamp, the table’s broad, smooth cast iron surface can sustain up to 80 lbs while tilting to a 45° angle.
The drill press has a built-in work lights in case you need to drill in dim lighting (bulb is not included). The drill press head’s on/off switch and telescoping safety spindle guard are also placed there for further security. A drill chuck and key are also included with the drill press.
Jet offers a 2-year warranty on the drill press.
Pros
- High quality
- Great value for money
- Sturdy design
- Powerful motor
- Smooth running performance
- Ideal for professional and home use
- Perfect for 1-inch cast iron and ¾-inch mild steel workpieces
- Adjustable smooth 45° table
- 12 spindle speeds ranging from 150-4200 RPM
- Easy to adjust ½-inch external depth stop
- Adjustable tension spindle return spring
- On/off switch located on the front of the drill press head
- Built-in work light
- Telescoping safety spindle guard
- Drill chuck and key included
- Two-year warranty
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavy
- Light bulb is not included
BILT HARD 8-Inch Drill Press
The BILT HARD 8-Inch Drill Press is a terrific tool for do-it-yourselfers who prefer more accuracy for medium-sized jobs.
With 5 variable speeds ranging from 760 to 3070 RPM and a powerful 13 HP 2.4 amp heavy-duty ball-bearing motor, it may be used with wood, metal, or plastic.
This strong drill press’s table and base are solidly stamped steel for long-term durability. You have a lot of task variation with the 360° tilting beveling worktable because it can be shifted 45° left and right. You can also attach clamps and vises on the slotted table.
One of the user-friendly features of the 212-inch jaws’ 2-1/10-inch maximum opening is an easy-to-read locking depth stop. The drill press is ideal for spaces with limited space, like a garage or basement, as it is portable, lightweight, and tiny. The base also contains mounting holes already pre-drilled for a workstation.
A 13-piece drill bit set with bits ranging from 1/16 to 1/4 inch is also included with the drill press. A 90-day warranty against material and workmanship flaws as well as a one-year limited warranty are provided by BILT HARD for the drill press.
Pros
- High quality
- Very good value for money
- Very affordable price
- Designed for wood, metal, and plastic
- Especially excels at drilling into wood
- Powerful motor
- ½-inch chuck accepts a variety of bits
- Durable stamped steel base and table
- 360° table tilts 45° left and right
- Clamps and vises can be mounted onto the slotted table
- Five variable speeds from 760-3070 RPM
- Easy-to-read locking depth stop ensures greater accuracy
- Lightweight and compact design
- Base has pre-drilled holes for mounting onto a workbench
- 13 pcs drill bit set
- 90-day free from defects in materials and workmanship guarantee
- One-year limited warranty
Cons
- It is quite loud and vibrates a lot when used for drilling into thick steel
Dremel Drill Press Workstation
- Articulating Drill Press Stand: Drills perpendicular and angled holes in 15-degree increments, up to 90 degrees horizontal
- Tool Holder: Holds rotary tool at 90 degrees horizontal for tasks such as polishing metal objects, sanding different shapes and grinding metal piece. Drill depth- 2 inches
- Compatible wirh Dremel Rotary Tool Models: 4300, 4000, 3000,200, 100, 8250, 8240, and 8220
- Flex Shaft Tool Stand: Allows Telescopic adjustment to any height between 16 and 29 inches
- Cord management clips for safe storage of power cords, inch/metric marking on base for accurate drilling of workpiece, depth markings with depth stop - for consistent depth, sturdy metal base with 4 clamping points - to securely hold the station
The Dremel Drill Press Workstation is a fantastic multipurpose equipment for any DIY enthusiast and is ideal for hobbies with wood or metal.
This corded 3-in-1 tool comes with a single electric drill press, rotary tool storage, and flex-shaft tool stand. Due to its remarkable capabilities, the workstation may be converted into a drill press using any corded Dremel rotary tool as well as a number of cordless rotary tools. It can be securely installed on a workstation or table thanks to its powerful motor and sturdy metal base with 4 fastening points.
The Dremel workstation can be utilized for an almost infinite variety of tasks, from simple drilling to sophisticated stone and wood carving. This articulating drill press has a drill depth of 2 inches and can drill holes that are inclined and perpendicular in increments of 15 degrees. The Dremel workstation enables you to grind metal components while holding a tool at a 90° angle, polish a variety of metal objects, and sand a variety of forms. The flexible shaft tool stand has a telescopic range of 16 to 29 inches.
Because the assembly base is marked with both inches and metric measurements, precision drilling is very simple to execute.
The workstation’s top can be used to store extras like drill bits and wrenches, while cord management clips provide secure storage.
Extremely compact and lightweight, the mini-sized workstation can be easily transported around your workspace.
Dremel offers a 1-year warranty on the drill press.
Pros
- Very good quality
- Very good value for money
- Affordable price
- Perfect for wood and metal crafts and hobbies
- Amazingly functional
- Drill press, rotary tool holder, and flex-shaft tool stand can all be used by the same three-in-one instrument.
- Strong motor
- Sturdy metal base with 4 clamping points
- Can be securely mounted on a workbench or table
- 2-inch drill depth
- Drills perpendicular and angled holes in 15° increments
- Holds a drill at 90°
- Flexible shaft tool stand can be adjusted telescopically from 16-inches-29-inches
- Can be used for polishing, sanding and grinding metal
- On-board storage
- Inch/metric markings on the base
- Cord management clips
- Compatible with a wide range of Dremel rotary tools
- Compact and lightweight
Cons
- Heavy-duty work can destabilize the unit
- Main clamping parts are made of ABS plastic
Our Top Pick for the Best Drill Press
Our top pick for the best drill press is the WEN 4208T 8-Inch 5-Speed Drill Press. We wholeheartedly recommend using the WEN 4208 drill press machine for your forthcoming project.
Since 1951, WEN has offered quality equipment at reasonable costs to both DIY enthusiasts and professional tradespeople. Whatever your skill level and material of choice—wood, plastic, or metal—the ever-popular WEN 4208 offers remarkable power, reliable accuracy, and cutting-edge functionality. You’ll like the completed product in addition to enjoying operating this drill press.
Last update on 2023-05-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
