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The 9 Best Drill Presses for Woodworking and Metalworking

Do you know drill press market share will be $825 million by 2025? The best drill press ensures strength and precision for all types of holes. It is the king of making holes in wood, plastic, and metal.

This tool comes with a stationary frame that can either rest on an opened-up benchtop or is placed directly below with its feet firmly planted into the flooring. You need to keep a few things in mind when buying a drill press.

First, the swing tells you how wide material or boards can be drilled while rotating and gripping it tightly without moving from side to side. The other one is its stroke distance to measure the depth of a hole without flip or repositioning.

When you are in the market for a new drill press, choosing which is right can be tough because there are so many different models and styles. However, we did some research to help narrow down your choices.

Top 9 Drill Press Reviews of 2023

  1. WEN Variable Speed Laser-Guided 4214 – Best Benchtop Drill Press
  2. Eurotool DRL-300.00 Small Benchtop Drill Press – Mini Machine
  3. Dremel Drill Press Rotary Tool Workstation – Best Drill Press for The Money
  4. WEN 4208T 2.3-Amp 5-Speed Benchtop Equipment – Best Table Drill Press for DIYers
  5. Ogrmar Drilling Collet Drill Press Table – Lightweight
  6. DEWALT: DWE1622K 2-Speed Magnetic Drill Press – Efficient for Metal
  7. Delta 18-900L 18-Inch Laser Drill Press – Excellent Floor Standing
  8. Genesis GDP1005A 10″ 5-Speed 4.1 Amp Drill Press – LED Work Light
  9. SKIL 3320-01 3.2 Amp 10-Inch Drill Press – Easy Assembling
  10. JET JWDP-12: 12-Inch Benchtop Drill Press – Max Spindle Travel

1: WEN 4214 Variable Speed Laser-Guided Best Benchtop Drill Press

WEN 4214 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press,Orange
WEN Variable Speed Laser-Guided 4214 Drill Press
  • Swing:12 Inches
  • Power Source: Corded Electric
  • Voltage: 120V
  • Speed: 580-3200 RPM
  • Amperage: 5 Amp
  • Weight: 89.1 lb.
View on Amazon

Do you want to create a powerful, straightforward drill press with minimal overkill? Then, the WEN 4214 Variable Press is the perfect tool for your shop. With its 3-1/8″ stroke distance and swing of only 12 inches wide, this little marvel will not require much effort on your part.

The top choice press offers a max rotation of 3200 RPM. With these features, you can easily control the power used to process your materials. In addition, this powerful benchtop drill press will make your projects from scratch and can easily drill through metal, wood, and other materials.

Have you ever tried working with a dial that is too slow? That is where this model comes into play. It allows not only to change speeds but also to adjust power levels. So, it is great for when you need to change your power and torque while still maintaining the same density.

In addition, the build of this drill press will endure heavy use without harming the internal mechanism. So, if you require a durable, reliable tool that will not let you down, look no further than our top pick with the highest drill press ratings.

Pros

  • LED speed readout
  • Variable speed
  • Affordable
  • Class IIIA 2.5mW laser
  • Table roller extension

Cons

  • Not for heavy-duty projects
  • Chuck wobble
The WEN 4214 Variable Speed Drill Press will get it done no matter what you are drilling. It has a 5-amp motor that can easily drill clean holes and skip around on your workpiece.

2: Eurotool DRL-300.00 – Small Benchtop Drill Press

Mini Machine
Eurotool DRL-300.00 Small Benchtop Drill Press
Eurotool DRL-300.00 Small Benchtop Drill Press
  • Wattage: 100 Watts
  • Voltage: 110V
  • Speed: 8500 RPM
  • Maximum Chuck Size: 13mm
  • Weight: 11.53 lb.
View on Amazon

You do not need a bulky drill press for small tasks like jewelry making, wood trimming, and model building. Instead, consider buying the Eurotool DRL-300 Small Benchtop Drill Press, which has plenty of power but is still portable enough to sit on your worktable or shelf right next to other tools you may use daily.

It is the best portable drill press and is a small but powerful tool that can fit into any workspace. Furthermore, it has enough power to tackle basic drilling jobs, though it may not be ideal for more difficult tasks like handling heavy metal or wood drills with large bits attached.

In addition, it is clear how much thought went into designing this compact yet effective device. It has a platform of about 6.75 x 6.75” with a dimensions of 10 x 12 x 8 inches.

The 110V motor ensures that you can work faster with less fatigue. It is equipped with three-speed regulation and an ¼” Jacobs chuck for accepting bits up to 6.5mm in diameter, so it will be perfect no matter what type of project requires your attention.

Credits: FDJTools

Pros

  • It is a great choice for jewelry work & crafts
  • 3-speed design
  • 1-year manufacturer warranty
  • Space-saving
  • Economical
  • Easy-to-use tiny benchtop drill press

Cons

  • Some users had difficulty in adjusting the speed
The perfect tool for all of your drilling projects, the Eurotool DRL-300.00 is small and powerful. Its size makes it easy to store in limited spaces. However, with 8500 RPM speed settings, you can do everything from metalworking to wood drilling.

3: Dremel Drill Press Rotary Tool WorkstationBest Drill Press for The Money

90 Degrees Bevel
Deremel Drill Press Rotary Tool Workstation Stand
Dremel Drill Press Rotary Tool Workstation
  • Maximum Chuck Size: 13mm
  • Drill Depth: 2 Inches
  • Model Number: 220-01
  • Weight: 4.85 lb.
  • Flex Shaft Holder Height: 16-29 Inches
  • Floor: Benchtop
View on Amazon

The versatile Dremel rotary tool workstation is a workhorse of the trade, perfect for intricate tasks that require pinpoint accuracy. Depending on your needs, this handy device can be used as either an engraving machine or a drilling press.

The workstation has an adjustable arm that lets you angle your rotary tool at various angles. Furthermore, this model takes up less space than your typical versions and is portable. Finally, the stability it promises without taking over a large amount of floor will have you feeling productive immediately.

In addition, the drill press is a necessary tool for any workshop.

When working with wood, it is not always convenient or possible to bring out all your tools at once. The tool holder and router mount increase the aptitude of this machine so that other tasks, such as plunge routing and sanding, are done without the need for any other additional accessories.

Are you first time looking into Deremel’s product? Watch this review:

Credits and Thanks to Make Tech Youtube

Pros

  • Articulating drill press for 15 – 90° holes
  • Crow’s nest for on-board storage
  • 1 year & USA-based customer service
  • Tool holder
  • Flex shaft tool stand

Cons

  • It accepts only Dremel rotary tools
You can use it to make angled holes up 90 degrees horizontal with the flex shaft attachment. It is also affordable, making it one of our list’s best table top drill presses.

The versatile Dremel rotary tool workstation is the best choice for all your drilling needs. It has a drill press, tool holder, and flex shaft holder to work on sanding or buffing projects. It is undoubtedly one of the best-rated drill presses on the market.


Read More About Best Drills: Drill Reviews- Friday Rack

4: WEN 4208T 2.3-Amp 5-Speed Benchtop Equipment – Best Table Drill Press for DIYers

WEN 4208T 2.3-Amp 8-Inch 5-Speed Benchtop Drill Press
WEN 4208T 2.3-Amp 5-Speed Workstation
  • Size: 8 Inches
  • Power Source: AC
  • Voltage: 120V
  • Speed: 3140 RPM
  • Weight:34.2 lb.
  • Amperage:2.3 amp
View on Amazon

The WEN 4208T is a great option for saving money and giving up less performance than other presses. This drill press has an adaptable variable control dial with five-speed options, but it still offers plenty with its 3140 RPM maximum speed capability.

Furthermore, the 1/3-HP motor is perfect for small-to-medium construction jobs, like those involving hardwoods. In addition, the cast iron base steadily mounts to many workstations for a robust, secure hold.

Additionally, its 6 x 6” beveling table is company yet quite flexible. It allows the user to tilt the grilling surface 45° – up and down – so that any project can have optimal positioning on their workspace within seconds.

The large and sturdy table on this drill press can hold your grilling surface while you work. It is made with an 8” swing and 2” stroke distance, signifying it is not the best tool for handling thick materials. However, it still works well with most other types of material in our industry today.

Customer’s Review:

Credits: Tennessee Yankee Youtube

Pros

  • Excellent for light- and medium-duty projects
  • Robust build
  • 2-inch spindle travel
  • Operates at 5 different speeds
  • Locking depth stop

Cons

  • Wobbling Complaints
The WEN 8-Inch 5 Speed Drill Press will power through metal, wood, plastics and more with its maximum accuracy. Wen is one of the best drill press brands that provide all sorts of power tools at the highest quality..

Related Article: Drill Vs Screw Driver


5: Ogrmar Drilling Collet – Drill Press Table

Lightweight
Ogrmar Drilling Collet Drill Press Table for Drill Workbench Repair Tool
Ogrmar Drilling Collet Drill Press
  • Model:BG-6117
  • Weight: 4.2 lb.
  • Maximum Chuck Size: 13mm
  • Min-Max Clamp: 38-43mm
  • Power Source: AC
View on Amazon

If you are drilling holes on the go but have trouble with precision because of controllability, Ogrmar Drilling Collet Drill Press is your trusty choice. It is excellent for both craftsmen and DIYers.

Furthermore, this model is a lightweight option useful when you require an additional guide. This smart device makes it more convenient to move around than other models, which are cumbersome depending on the size of your project.

In addition, the free-floating design of this tool is perfect for those who do not have access to an out-and-out drill press. It makes it easy to protect the existing power drills with tight rotating clamps that hold them along metal rails.

The swivel handle makes it easy to position the drill in any direction, so you can place your workpiece where needed. With 0 to 90° increments at your fingertips, this tool will also help make precise holes on vertical surfaces. All of it makes it one of the top-rated drill presses.

Pros

  • It is compatible with various models
  • 0° to 90° rotatable to drill slant hole
  • Copper plug readjustment for precision
  • Precise graduation
  • Spacing function

Cons

  • Not for heavy-duty projects
The Ogrmar Drilling Collet Drill Press is just what your business needs. Its lightweight option and affordable price point are an excellent addition for any user to increase efficiency without breaking their budget.

6: DEWALT: DWE1622K 2-Speed Magnetic Drill Press – Efficient for Metal

DEWALT: DWE1622K 2-Speed Magnetic Drill Press
DEWALT DWE1622K Drill Press
  • Power Source:Corded Electric
  • Weight: 47.6 lb.
  • Voltage: 240V
  • Size: 2 Inches
  • Speed: 450 RPM
View on Amazon

The DEWALT DWE1622k Magnetic Drill Press is the perfect tool for any workshop that needs to drill through metal. Its two-speed motor, 10A power and 4-inch travel. It means it is highly adaptable across all metals with densities ranging from steel down to mild steel.

Furthermore, the powerful magnets in this tool let you position it on any ferrous metal that is 0.5 inches thick. You can use bits as large as 2 inches in diameter, so even though jobs are no match for it.

This tool’s powerful yet sleek design will provide you with all the power and benefits. It has overload protection tech that averts engine burnout while increasing its life expectancy. DeWalt offers the best home shop drill press for all of your metalworking.

Moreover, positioning coolant tanks ensures there is never too much heat built up in one area. You can easily penetrate hard metals with two different RPM speeds at 300 and 450 RPM. The drill press is a robust, efficient tool that weighs 35 pounds.

Credits: mmtoolparts

Pros

  • Economical price given its feature and model
  • Quick-change chuck system
  • Overload protection electronics
  • Magnetic coolant bottle
  • Max capacity for heavy-duty applications

Cons

  • Only for ferrous metals
The 10A motor of DWE1622K provides optimal performance in a variety of applications. This powerful drill press features an integrated magnetic base that attaches securely to any metal surface for added stability while you work.

7: Delta 18-900L 18-Inch Laser Drill Press

Excellent Floor Standing
Delta 18-900L 18-Inch Laser Drill Press
Delta 18-900L Drill Press
  • Power Source:Corded Electric
  • Weight: 261 lb.
  • Voltage: 120V
  • Engine: 3/4 HP
View on Amazon

The Delta 18-900L is a top-of-the-line, dedicated floor drill press that will maximize your power and durability. It is what you need for professionals or who have professional projects because of its long-lasting abilities.

Floor drills are excellent for professionals who need to do large projects. Not only does the 18-900L offer a larger work surface and bevels up to 90 degrees, left or right, on its 20 x 28-inch table. It makes it an extremely versatile tool in any tradesperson’s arsenal.

Delta 18-900L DRILL PRESS

The 18-inch swing length with a 6-inch drill stroke means you can tackle even substantial materials with this machine. The extra-long version is great for deep holes without making additional cuts in your project, and it is perfect for working on 4 x4 wood beams or other similar components.

The Delta 18-900L is absolutely the best drill press for woodworking. In addition, this drill’s powerful motor and easy speed changes make it a great choice for any project. The LED lamp illuminates your work surface, ensuring all-in-perfect detail with enhanced visibility.

See the full features here.

Thanks to: Cliff’s Garage Youtube

Pros

  • Laser-guided
  • 16 drilling speeds
  • Auto-tensioning belt drive system for efficient performance
  • 5-year warranty
  • Work light

Cons

  • Poor Customer service and massive delivery issues
A Delta 18-900L laser drill press is perfect for professionals who need to get the job done right. This powerful and precise tool is for woodworkers who seek precision and power in one tool. It has featured in many best drill press 2023 lists due to its versatility.

8: Genesis GDP1005A 10″ 5-Speed 4.1 Amp Drill Press

LED Light Work
Genesis GDP1005A 10 5-Speed 4.1 Amp Drill Press
Genesis GDP1005A Drill Press
  • Power Source:AC
  • Weight: 52 lb.
  • Size: 5/8 Inches
  • Amperage: 4.1 Amp
  • Maximum Power: 30 Watts
View on Amazon

Look no further if you are searching for a drill press that can do more than break the budget. The Genesis GDP1005A is an absolute powerhouse and ensures precision combined with easy-to-use features. It is perfect if your vision is high-quality Jobsite equipment at any price point.

Take your woodworking to the next level with this heavy-duty drill press. No matter what project you have in mind, it will be easy for anyone who uses these because of their portability and versatility.

Genesis GDP1005A drill press

The Genesis is a 5-speed drill model that packs some serious power. It is engineered with a powerful motor and comes at an affordable price for beginners or pros. It is the best drill press on the market for those looking to save some bucks.

Pros

  • Excellent chuck for larger bits
  • 5 Speeds to handle various materials
  • Easy to access pulley housing
  • In-built work light for improved visibility
  • Rack-and-pinion table height adjustment

Cons

  • Does not entertain heavy-duty applications
The Genesis GDP1005A is the tool for larger projects that require power and versatility. With its 5/8″ chuck, 4-amp motorized workstation construction provides all your DIY needs.

9: SKIL 3320-01 3.2 Amp 10-Inch Drill Press

Easy Assembly
SKIL 3320-01 3.2 Amp 10-Inch Drill Press
SKIL 3320-01 Drill Press
  • Voltage: 120V
  • Speed: 3050 RPM
  • Weight: 50.8 lb.
  • Amperage: 3.2 Amp
  • Maximum Power: 850 Watts
View on Amazon

The SKIL 3320-01 drill press has all the features you need in a versatile, high-quality tool without breaking your budget. It is perfect for small or medium-sized workshops that want an accurate but lightweight machine with plenty of power.

The X2 2-Beam Laser is a game-changer for when you need to drill holes in wood. This device ensures precise hole alignment by having an adjustable depth control system that lets users go down and through materials consistently without hiccups or clogged bits.

SKIL Drill press

Furthermore, this drill press is perfect for making larger-scale furniture and building projects. The worksurface tilts from 0° – 45°. In addition, it comes with a limited 3-year warranty, ensuring it lasts you years in the workshop.

There are many top contenders for winner’s choice products, but this one really stands out. Simple operation and easy assembly make the machine a staple in your toolkit.

Pros

  • X2 2-Beam Laser guiding system
  • 5-speed setting system
  • 3-year warranty
  • 1/2-Inch Keyed Chuck
  • Powerful machine

Cons

  • Frequent laser battery replacing.
Whenever you are working on a project and need to drill holes, the 3320 SKIL 10-inch Drill Press is perfect. The accuracy of the laser will help ensure that your pieces fit together exactly as planned.

10: JET JWDP-12: 12-Inch Benchtop Drill Press

Maximum Spindle Travel
JET JWDP-12, 12-Inch Benchtop Drill Press
JET JWDP-12 Drill Press
  • Voltage: 115V
  • Horsepower: 0.5 HP
  • Speed: 3100 RPM
  • Power Source: 85 lb.
  • Amperage: Corded Electric
  • Splindle Travel: 3-1/8
View on Amazon

The JET JWDP-12 is a premium-quality drill press that will satisfy even the most demanding work requirements. With its ½ horsepower motor and 3″ spindle travel, this tool can easily bore through anything you put before it.
You can feel the quality of this tool as soon as you pick it up. The weight is impressive but not surprising given its durability and power to do anything from drilling holes in walls or fence posts all day long without wavering.

In addition, this workhorse of a tool will be your new best friend. It has 3-1/8″ spindle travel for maximum depth cutting, and the innovative XACTA laser ensures drilling accuracy, so you can take this powerhouse anywhere.

Pros

  • Powerful 0.5 HP motor
  • Increased precision
  • Great for heavy-duty applications
  • Added safety
  • Improved visibility with LED light

Cons

  • Pricey model
The JET 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press has what it takes when you need to drill through almost anything. A powerful 1/2 HP induction motor allows this power tool for all your most demanding drilling needs.

Things to Consider When Buying the Best Drill Press

The drill press is a staple for any workshop, but it cannot be easy to choose the best model. First, consider how you will use your new purchase and where to work best in your workspace space. Let’s look at a few of the best aspects to consider before purchasing a drill press:

i): Floor vs Benchtop

A benchtop drill press is often attached to the work surface with bolts and can be moved. In contrast, floor models are more likely than their standing/mounted counterparts to come equipped with weights as plates, so they stay put while in use.

Whether you are in the commercial or home workshop, there are many options for tool positioning. For example, a floor model can sit on any flat surface and top out at 60 inches in height. At the same time, benchtop models have deeper storage space but only reach about as tall as standard countertops.

ii): Horse Power

Drill Presser Chuck

The motor’s power determines how long a drill press will run without undue stress on it. More powerful drills can withstand frequent use and never overheat. However, this is unnecessary for most home-user workshops because 1/4 – ¾ HP is enough for most tasks.

iii): Chuck Size

The chuck is the part of your drill press that holds all different size drills. For example, the average benchtop model will have a 1/2-inch wide blade, which can accept up to ⅜ inches in diameter, including ¼” bit or 3/8″ collet-based bits.

Moreover, it is important to know the difference between a floor model and an upright drill press. Floor models come with 1/2-inch chucks, but most of them also have 3/4 or even 1-inch chuck options for accepting larger bits. A drill press with a 0.5-inch chuck is enough for your use.

iv): Variable Speed

Variable Speed drill

When it comes time to drill through some types of material, such as steel, you would want a slow speed so that the bit does not heat up and break. A high-quality variable speed adjustment will allow drills with powerful motors like this one can handle 3000 RPM, which is enough power for most jobs.

v): Weight

Mini drill presses are great for making quick work on small projects. However, if you plan on using your mini-drill press regularly, it is best to get one that does not weigh too much. The benchtop models can handle most jobs without issue, while larger floors or tabletops that weigh 130 pounds or more require force.

vi): Size

When buying a drill press, you must measure the distance between its chuck and the front supporting column, called throat distance. The throat distance on a drill press measures in inches, and it is doubled to indicate the size of your machine.

The size of your drill bit will determine how deep you can go to create an edge for a project.

For instance, a 10-inch press might be able to reach up 5 inches from the material, but if we are talking about 12-inches, then things get more interesting with these machines coming down around 6″.

vii): Safety Features

A clear safety guard is a great option for those who want to keep their drill press clean. This plastic shield will encircle the bit and help prevent any wood chips or metal shavings from flying everywhere, so you do not have an unwanted mess on your hands. However, clear safety guards are sold separately.

It is important to function power tools safely. It is even more critical when operating a drill press, as the spinning bit can cause injury and major damage if not used with care. Before starting any project, make sure you read over your manual thoroughly so that nothing gets lost in translation. Here’s what another expert on youtube has to say:

Credits: timbercon.com.au

3 Bonus Features of Drill Press

Drill presses come with all sorts of nifty little perks. The additional features of drill presses can help you do more than make holes in things. Some of them are mentioned as follows:

1: LED Work Light: It allows directing a bright light right where you are drilling, especially in workshops with less than optimal lighting.

2: Oscillation: A few drills can perform an orbital motion. It means they can sand and polish in addition to drilling holes when equipped with a sander or polishing hood, which is perfect for all your DIY needs.

3: Accessories: A drill press is essential for making holes in different materials, and many come with an assortment of optional accessories. For example, clamps to hold the work securely while drilling or mills bits for use when you require milling intricate details like recesses on furniture pieces.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What else can you use a drill press besides drilling holes?

Ans: No one knows the joy of using a drill press as an artist. The device has so many uses and can make your life easier in plenty of ways, from sanding down rough wood or metal to polishing up those shiny surfaces.

Q2: Can I use the same bits in my drill press?

Ans: The larger bit sizes of drill presses make them an excellent choice for those who are looking to do more than just basic DIY tasks. They can handle bigger jobs because their chucks do not have limitations.

Q3: Can a drill press drill metal?

Ans: Yes, you may use a drill press to create holes in solid pieces, like metal, but not all types of drills will work with a given device because it is designed for lower speed ranges.

Q4: What are some common drill press accessories?

Ans: The drill press is a versatile and transformative tool. Drill presses can be outfitted with all sorts of accessories to suit your needs. Here are some common additions:

🔹 LED work light🔹 Sanding drum set🔹 Work support stand
🔹 Soft jaw pads🔹 Drill bit sharpener🔹 T-tracks

Q5: What do you use a drill press for?

Ans: The drill press is a versatile tool that can bore holes in different materials, including wood and metal. The head of the machine moves along with it on an adjustable mount, so you do not have to worry about getting positioning wrong.

Q6: Can you use a mortising bit in a drill press?

Ans: Yes, you can use a drill press with mortise bits. They are perfect for making precise holes in anything from woodworking projects to furniture. Mortise bits feature flat ends and side chisels that help create straight-sided cuts without any resonation.

To Wrap-Up

For those looking for a heavy-duty floor drill press, our list will help you handle many tasks and stationery in any workshop. Try out highly rated benchtop WEN drills for something affordable but still capable of doing small jobs or hobbies.

If you need a drill press that you can control from anywhere in your office, the WEN 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press is the best drill press. It is powerful yet versatile and reliable, perfect for any workshop. Please go through our guide to find yourself the ideal power tool for your workstation.

About the author

David Charles

An accomplished writer with a passion for exploring diverse topics, including power tools and lifestyle. With his extensive experience in the field, David has provided valuable insights and engaging content for readers. Featured in Wired, HuffPost, Travel+Leisure, and more. Inspiring and informative content awaits!

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