Last Updated on September 1, 2023 by Marc Smith
Are you looking for the best drill press to add to your workshop? We tested a wide range of drill presses to find the top model in each category.
Whether you are looking for a benchtop drill press or a floor standing model, for woodworking or metalwork, this page is designed to be a comprehensive guide with all the information you need to make the right choice.
Power, accuracy, reliability and consumer feedback are some of the factors that were taken into account when we rated the top drill presses.
Contents
- 1 Here Is Our List Of The Best Drill Presses For 2023
- 2 Our Top Picks
- 2.1 1. Jet 716200 JDP 15B Benchtop Drill Press
- 2.2 2. WEN 4210 10-Inch Drill Press With Laser.
- 2.3 3. Skil 10-Inch 6.2-Amp Drill Press
- 2.4 4. Shop Fox W1668 Oscillating Bench Drill Press.
- 2.5 5. Rockwell RK7033 10 Inch Table-Top Drill Press
- 2.6 6. Craftsman 12 Inch 4.8-Amp Drill Press.
- 2.7 7. JET 354165 JDP-15M, 16 Speed Drill Press
- 2.8 Editor’s Pick:
- 2.9 8. JET 354170/JDP-20 MF 20 Inch Floor Drill Press
- 2.10 9. Delta 18-900L 18 Inch Drill Press
- 2.11 10. Wen 4225 15-Inch Floor Model Drill Press.
- 2.12 11. Powermatic PM2800B 18 Inch Drill Press
- 2.13 12. Grizzly G7946 5 Speed Radial Drill Press.
- 3 Best Drill Presses Compared By Price
- 4 Best Drill Press For Woodworking
- 5 Best Drill Press For Metal
- 6 The Top 5 Drill Presses Under $300
- 7 Factors To Consider When Choosing A Drill Press
- 8 The Best Drill Press For The Money 2023
- 9 Frequently Asked Questions About Drill Presses
Here Is Our List Of The Best Drill Presses For 2023
- Best Overall: Jet 71600 JDP 15B Benchtop Drill Press
- Best Value For Money: WEN 4210 10 Inch Drill Press
- Best For Beginners: SKIL 3320-01 Bench Drill Press
- Best For Versatility: Shop Fox W1668 Drill Press
- Best 10-Inch: Rockwell RK 7033 Drill Press
- Best Floor Standing Drill Press: Delta 18-900L
- Best 15-Inch: WEN 4225 Floor Drill Press
- Best 12-Inch: Craftsman 12-Inch Drill Press
- Best Benchtop: (Editor’s Pick) Jet 716200 JDP Drill Press
- Best 20-Inch: JET JDP 20 Floor Drill Press
Our Top Picks
1. Jet 716200 JDP 15B Benchtop Drill Press
The Jet 716200 drill press is the latest 15 Inch model from the JET factory and a new addition to our drill press reviews. This model is the new version of the very successful JET 354165 JDP-15M (Our top-rated drill press a few years ago).
While improvements were made in a few areas, most of the features and specifications of the previous model were retained.
The 716200 sports a brand new, modern look. This handy tool has all the “right stuff”, and will certainly be one of the top-selling drill presses in the next few years.
The JET 716200 is a top quality machine, and you can read the full review of this product by clicking on the link above.
Key Features:
- 12.5-inch x 17-inch work table. Excellent size for a 15 Inch model.
- One-handed belt tension for quick speed changes. A great improvement on previous models.
- New, safer power switch. Another big improvement on previous models.
Pros: Excellent build quality and performance, exactly what you would expect from Jet.
Cons: Assembling this machine can be a bit challenging.
How It Compares To The Competition:
Price: ☆☆☆☆ (4/5)
Performance: ☆☆☆☆☆ (5/5)
Value For Money: ☆☆☆☆ (4/5)
Ease Of Use: ☆☆☆☆☆ (5/5)
Build Quality: ☆☆☆☆☆ (5/5)
Features: ☆☆☆☆☆ (5/5)
Our Rating: 4.8/5
2. WEN 4210 10-Inch Drill Press With Laser.
The Wen 4210 drill press is a compact tool at a very good price. The 3.2 Amp motor is strong enough to handle the day to day DIY tasks that comes its way.
A great feature is the X-pattern laser, which makes precision drilling a breeze. Solidly built and good quality.
This particular model has become very popular with do-it-yourself enthusiasts and woodworkers as it provides excellent value for money. The WEN has been one of the best selling drill presses on Amazon over the past couple of years.
The 4210 from WEN received great reviews on all the consumer feedback platforms we researched. Recommended for DIY, woodworkers and the home workshop.
Key Features:
- 3.2 Amp, 110 Volt motor. Ideal for the home workshop or garage.
- Laser guiding system. This x-pattern guiding system works beautifully for precise drilling.
- 5-speed settings. Speed settings range from 570 rpm to 3050 rpm maximum.
Pros: Excellent value for money. It is ideal for DIYers or hobbyists looking for a good, inexpensive model. Awarded best value for money in the drill press reviews.
Cons: Not ideal for heavy duty work.
How It Compares To The Competition:
Price: ☆☆☆☆☆ (5/5)
Performance: ☆☆☆☆ (4/5)
Value For Money: ☆☆☆☆☆ (5/5)
Ease Of Use: ☆☆☆☆ (4/5)
Build Quality: ☆☆☆☆ (4/5)
Features: ☆☆☆☆ (4/5)
Our Rating: 4.6/5
3. Skil 10-Inch 6.2-Amp Drill Press
Although the Skil 3320-01 drill press is an entry level unit, it is functional and precise in the areas it needs to be. We agree with most consumers that this little machine provides excellent value for money. The laser guiding system works like a charm.
This model is ideal for the home workshop. The 3320-01 is powered by a 3.2 amp motor with five different speed settings.
The Skil 3320-01 has been one of the best selling bench top models for a while now. This is due to the value for money that the Skil provides. The assembly process is quick and easy, allowing you to start working in no time at all. This unit is recommended for the home workshop, DIYers and woodworkers.
Key Features:
- Weight – 49.3 lbs ( One of the lightest 10-inch drill presses around.)
- An accurate depth adjustment system for precise repetitive drilling – a must on any big project.
- 3.2 Amp motor with a 5-speed setting. Enough variety for a machine of this size.
Pros: Very good value for money, one of the best selling benchtop drill presses over the last few years.
Cons: The spindle travel can be limiting when working with longer bits and drilling deeper holes.
How It Compares To The Competition:
Price: ☆☆☆☆ (4.5/5)
Performance: ☆☆☆☆ (4/5)
Value For Money: ☆☆☆☆ (4.5/5)
Ease Of Use: ☆☆☆☆ (4.5/5)
Build Quality: ☆☆☆☆ (4/5)
Features: ☆☆☆☆ (4/5)
Our Rating: 4.5/5
4. Shop Fox W1668 Oscillating Bench Drill Press.
The Shop Fox W1668 drill press is easy to operate and has loads of power to get the job done.
A great added feature is that the Shop Fox converts into a sander for a wide range of sanding applications.
Perfect for someone looking for a versatile tool for drilling and other applications.
The W1668 is powered by a 3/4 HP motor that has 12-speed settings. This allows you to match the speed of the tool to the task at hand.
The work table can swing 360 degrees, allowing you to take on bigger projects. The Shop Fox has a 13″ swing and 5/8 inch chuck.
Key Features:
- Strong, reliable 3/4 HP motor. Enough power to tackle any drilling job you chuck at it. (pun intended..)
- Twelve-speed settings – Low speed – 250 rpm up to a maximum of 3050 rpm for fast drilling.
- Oscillating spindle for sanding applications. This feature turns this machine into a versatile tool.
Pros: Easy speed changes, powerful motor, and good versatility.
Cons: Shop Fox is not renowned for excellent quality control. The occasional defect can find its way to the consumer.
How It Compares To The Competition:
Price: ☆☆☆☆ (4/5)
Performance: ☆☆☆☆☆ (5/5)
Value For Money: ☆☆☆☆ (4/5)
Ease Of Use: ☆☆☆☆ (4/5)
Build Quality: ☆☆☆ (3/5)
Features: ☆☆☆☆☆ (5/5)
Our Rating: 4.5/5
5. Rockwell RK7033 10 Inch Table-Top Drill Press
The Rockwell RK 7033 drill press is known for its excellent power and performance. This drill is powered by a 6.2 Amp motor that delivers 2/3 Hp.
The Rockwell features a five-speed gearbox that allows you to match the speed to the application it’s being used for. The work table can swivel 45 degrees to the left or right.
This unit is perfect for the DIYer or home wood shop. Easy adjustment of the work table makes this model very user-friendly.
Key Features:
- Powerful 6.2 Amp motor – One of the strongest in the 10″ class.
- Rack and pinion table height adjustment with 45 degrees swivels both ways.
- Five different speed settings.
Pros: A strong motor that will handle most drilling jobs with ease. (steel, wood, and plastics)
Cons: The quill stroke is only 2-inches and can be limiting at times. Safety feature on chuck key is a bit irritating.
How It Compares To The Competition:
Price: ☆☆☆☆ (4.5/5)
Performance: ☆☆☆☆ (4/5)
Value For Money: ☆☆☆☆ (4.5/5)
Ease Of Use: ☆☆☆☆ (4/5)
Build Quality: ☆☆☆☆ (4.5/5)
Features: ☆☆☆☆ (4/5)
Our Rating: 4.5/5
6. Craftsman 12 Inch 4.8-Amp Drill Press.
There has been a lot of positive feedback on the Craftsman 12-inch on various drill press reviews pages. The reduction in price makes this tool very good value for money.
This Craftsman 12-Inch is powered by a 3.5 Amp motor that delivers 1/2 Hp. The digital depth readout and cross-hair laser system provide precise drilling and alignment.
The Craftsman features a 5/8 inch chuck and speed setting from 355 rpm to 3065 rpm. It is definitely a good buy for DIYers and woodworkers looking for a compact benchtop drill press.
Key Features:
- 4.8 Amp, 1/2 HP motor – Excellent torque and power for a 12″ model.
- 12 spindle speeds ranging from 335 rpm low speed to 3,065 rpm maximum speed.
- Spindle travel on this model is 2.44 inches.
Pros: Great value for money, a solid drill press for the home shop.
Cons: Laser guiding system can be improved.
How It Compares To The Competition:
Price: ☆☆☆☆ (4.2/5)
Performance: ☆☆☆☆ (4/5)
Value For Money: ☆☆☆☆ (4/5)
Ease Of Use: ☆☆☆☆ (4/5)
Build Quality: ☆☆☆☆ (4/5)
Features: ☆☆☆☆ (4.5/5)
Our Rating: 4.4/5
7. JET 354165 JDP-15M, 16 Speed Drill Press
The Jet 354165 drill press is one of the best bench-top drill presses on the market today. The versatility of this drill is what sets it apart from the rest.
A huge variety of non-drilling functions can be performed with this drill press. The build quality is of a very high standard.
Jet is a huge favourite with professionals and hobbyists due to the reliability and quality of their products. This model is powered by a 3/4 Hp motor with 16-speed settings.
A built-in work light illuminates the work area. The Jet 15M received excellent feedback from consumers in various drill press reviews, confirming that this is a top quality product.
Key Features:
- Powerful 3/4 HP motor with 16 different speed settings. You can match the speed to any job.
- 10″ x 13″ work table. Bigger than most other drill presses in this category.
- This versatile machine has a built-in work light to illuminate the work area.
Pros: Top build quality and reliability. Rated one of the best drill presses in the past, this model has been tried and tested.
Cons: Not many, although there is a new model out to replace the JDP 15-M. ( JDP 15B)
How It Compares To The Competition:
Price: ☆☆☆☆ (4/5)
Performance: ☆☆☆☆☆ (5/5)
Value For Money: ☆☆☆☆ (4/5)
Ease Of Use: ☆☆☆☆☆ (5/5)
Build Quality: ☆☆☆☆☆ (5/5)
Features: ☆☆☆☆☆ (4/5)
Our Rating: 4.7/5
Editor’s Pick:
After much deliberation and research, I decided to pick the Jet 716200 JDP as my best all-around drill press. This is due to the industrial quality construction and the fact that the price is in reach of most woodworkers.
This is a product that I can confidently recommend to anyone, whether you’re looking for value for money or top quality.
The sleek new design really makes it look the part, while the functional improvements make this model better than its predecessor – something which is not always the case in today’s sales driven environment.
8. JET 354170/JDP-20 MF 20 Inch Floor Drill Press
The JET 354170 drill press is a top quality product with plenty of brute power. This model certainly maintains the high standard that we have become accustomed to from JET. Received excellent reviews from consumers.
The Jet 20-inch drill press is designed for the serious hobbyist or professional that is looking for a top quality tool that will handle any job with ease. This model has a 20″ swing to take on bigger tasks.
This drill press is powered by a 1.5 Hp motor that has enough power to take on any heavy duty drilling. The work table is an impressive 18.5″ x 16″ and is crank operated. Research showed that consumers rated this drill press higher than any other 20″ drill press.
This model is recommended for the professional workshop and the serious hobbyist. Top quality and performance.
Key Features:
- 1.5 Hp motor (115/230 Volt) with 12-speed settings.
- 3/4 Inch chuck to take bigger drill bits for the heavy duty jobs. A must for the professional.
- 20 Inch swing, and excellent size work table ( 18.5 inches x 16 inches)
Pros: Awesome power and torque from this Jet drill press. Ideal for heavy-duty work. (Professional and hobbyist)
Cons: No centre hole on the work table.
How It Compares To The Competition:
Price: ☆☆☆ (3/5)
Performance: ☆☆☆☆☆ (5/5)
Value For Money: ☆☆☆☆ (4/5)
Ease Of Use: ☆☆☆☆☆ (5/5)
Build Quality: ☆☆☆☆☆ (5/5)
Features: ☆☆☆☆ (4/5)
Our Rating: 4.7/5
9. Delta 18-900L 18 Inch Drill Press
The Delta 18-900L is powered by a 3/4 HP induction motor to take on the most demanding applications. This is a huge favourite with a lot of professionals due to the excellent accuracy and ease of use.
A unique auto-tension belt drive system saves a lot of time when changing speed. The fully adjustable Twin Laser and micro-adjustable depth stop make precision drilling a breeze. The Delta 18-900L features a full 6-inch quill stroke for deeper drilling applications.
This model features micro-adjustable depth stops and an independent depth scale, allowing the user to set up for accurate, repetitive drilling in seconds. The Delta drill press is recommended for the professional and serious hobbyist.
Key Features:
- 3/4 Hp induction motor – enough power for any kind of drilling.
- Oversize work table – 14 Inches deep x 20 Inches wide. Designed for woodworkers.
- 6 Inch quill stroke for deeper drilling and industrial applications.
Pros: Effective for any kind of drilling – from the smallest to the largest jobs.
Cons: Delta customer service can be a bit slow at times.
How It Compares To The Competition:
Price: ☆☆☆ (3.5/5)
Performance: ☆☆☆☆ (4.5/5)
Value For Money: ☆☆☆☆ (4/5)
Ease Of Use: ☆☆☆☆ (4/5)
Build Quality: ☆☆☆☆ (4.7/5)
Features: ☆☆☆☆☆ (5/5)
Our Rating: 4.6/5
10. Wen 4225 15-Inch Floor Model Drill Press.
This company is renowned for producing excellent value for money drill presses, and the 4225 is no different. If you are looking for something bigger than the standard 10″ bench top drill press that won’t break the bank, this may be the model for you.
This machine from Wen has a 15 Inch swing and 4 Inch stroke to allow you to take on bigger jobs. The 4225 received excellent feedback from consumers and has a consumer rating of 4.4. Very good!
It has a very generous sized work light that illuminates the work table very well. This model has all the bells and whistles that you would expect from a floor standing model, and it comes at a very good price.
Key Features:
- 8.6 Amp induction motor that produces enough power and torque to get the job done.
- 12 Inch x 12 Inch beveling work table. ( Cast iron)
- Variable speed from 280 rpm to 1,000 rpm or 1,000 rpm to 3,300 rpm. Digital rpm readout.
Pros: Great value for money. Reliable floor standing drill press that won’t break the bank.
Cons: It can be a bit tricky to align the laser guide. Once you get the hang of it, it should be no problem to get the alignment spot on.
How It Compares To The Competition:
Price: ☆☆☆☆☆ (5/5)
Performance: ☆☆☆☆ (4/5)
Value For Money: ☆☆☆☆ (4.7/5)
Ease Of Use: ☆☆☆☆ (4/5)
Build Quality: ☆☆☆☆ (4.5/5)
Features: ☆☆☆☆ (4/5)
Our Rating: 4.6/5
11. Powermatic PM2800B 18 Inch Drill Press
The Powermatic PM 2800 was designed specifically for the woodwork shop. A lot of thought has a cone into designing this product. The aim was to create the ultimate experience for the woodworker, and Powermatic achieved just that with this model.
The 2800B is a real pleasure to use and should be at the top of the list of anyone looking for a quality tool for the workshop. A mechanical variable speed system is a great addition and makes for hassle-free speed changes.
Key Features:
- No belt changes with mechanical variable speed system.
- 6 Inches of quill travel. Excellent for taking on bigger drilling jobs.
- Features a fence system similar to a table saw. This allows for accurate alignment of the workpiece.
Pros: Great innovation and design with plenty of power to get the job done. Great addition to any wood shop.
Cons: Not impressed with the fence system.
How It Compares To The Competition:
Price: ☆☆☆☆ (4/5)
Performance: ☆☆☆☆ (4.7/5)
Value For Money: ☆☆☆☆ (4/5)
Ease Of Use: ☆☆☆☆ (4.5/5)
Build Quality: ☆☆☆☆ (4.5/5)
Features: ☆☆☆☆ (4.6/5)
Our Rating: 4.5/5
12. Grizzly G7946 5 Speed Radial Drill Press.
Grizzly is another brand that has been trusted for many years in workshops across the word. The G7946 was included in our top 12 due to its true versatility.
Not only can the table swivel 90 degrees in either direction, but the head can pivot as well. This allows you to drill at almost any angle thinkable. This is quite handy when working with bigger pieces where it is difficult to tilt the work table.
The G7946 is well built and robust – the features that you would expect from a shop drill press. The Grizzly is powered by a ½ Hp, single phase motor.
This is by no means the strongest drill press in this class, but it has adequate power to get the job done. Five-speed settings allow you to vary the speed from 550 rpm to 3,750 rpm.
Key Features
- 110v, ½ Hp motor that delivers sufficient power.
- Pivoting head design that allows you to drill at just about any angle.
- Round work table with a 12-3/16” diameter. The table can swing 90 degrees either way.
Pros: The pivoting head is definitely the biggest plus point for me and probably the reason I would buy the G7946. A well made drill press from a trusted brand.
Cons: The work table is on the small side for a machine of this size.
How It Compares To The Competition:
Price: ☆☆☆☆ (4/5)
Performance: ☆☆☆☆ (4/5)
Value For Money: ☆☆☆☆ (4/5)
Ease Of Use: ☆☆☆☆ (4/5)
Build Quality: ☆☆☆☆ (4.6/5)
Features: ☆☆☆☆ (4.5/5)
Our Rating: 4.4/5
Best Drill Presses Compared By Price
| Drill Press | Our Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|
JET JDP15M | 9/10 Top quality and performance | $$ Over $300 |
Wen 4210 | 8/10 Excellent value | $ Under $300 |
Skil 3320-01 | 7/10 Good value | $ Under $300 |
Shop Fox W1668 | 7/10 Strong & Reliable | $$ Over $300 |
Jet JDP 20″ | 9/10 Top Quality | $$$ Over $800 |
JET JDP 15B | 9/10 New Model | $$ Over $300 |
Delta 18-900L | 8/10 Powerful, reliable | $$$ Over $800 |
Craftsman 12″ | 7/10 Good value | $ Under $300 |
Rockwell 10″ | 7/10 Good Performance | $ Under $300 |
Best Drill Press For Woodworking
Wood is softer than metal, therefore, accuracy is the most important factor for this kind of drilling. As a result, any inaccuracy or distortion from the drill press can cause damage to the workpiece.
Some of the features you need to look out for when looking for a drill press for woodworking is drill tip run out and depth stop functionality for accuracy.
The preciseness of the laser guiding system is another important feature and can help with accurate drilling into wood.
As I’ve said before, woodworking is about accuracy. Therefore you have to use accurate tools to get the best results. This is even more essential when it comes to drilling and cutting. For more information on cutting tools for woodworking, read our page on the best jigsaw.
Here is a list of recommended drill presses for woodworking:
- Jet JDP-17 3/4 hp drill press
- Powermatic PM 2800 B 18 Inch Radial Drill
- ShopFox W1668 Benchtop Drill Press
- Jet 716200 JDP Table top model
- Wen 15 Inch drill machine (4225 – floor model)
Best Drill Press For Metal
You need a powerful machine to get the best results when drilling into metal. Plenty of horsepower and enough speed settings will produce the best results. This will allow you to effectively drill through most metals.
Although power is the most important factor here, accuracy still plays a vital role in getting the best results. To get the best drill press for metal you need to pay attention to the following: horsepower of the machine, speed settings and run out measurements.
Here is a list of recommended drill presses for metal:
- Jet JDP 20 MF drill press
- Delta 18-900L 18 Inch floor model
- Grizzly G7946 drill press for metal
- Jet JDP 17 for metal and wood
- Skil 3320-01 drill press for light duty metal drilling
The Top 5 Drill Presses Under $300
- WEN 4214 12 Inch drill press – Excellent value for money and one of the best consumer ratings.
- Craftsman 12 Inch drill press – Another drill press that received great feedback from consumers.
- WEN 4210 10 Inch drill press – This is our pick for the best value for money drill press.
- Skil 3320-01 10 Inch drill press – One of the best selling benchtop models over the last few years.
- Rockwell RK 7033 10 Inch drill press – Powerful, solid and reliable. A favourite with lots of DIYers.
Factors To Consider When Choosing A Drill Press
Most serious do-it-yourself enthusiasts and woodworkers will tell you that a drill press is a must-have. A drill press is a very handy tool to have in the tool shed, workshop or garage. It is similar to a handheld drill but provides more accuracy and power. There are many different types of drill presses available on the market today. To help you find the right product for your needs, we have listed some of the factors you should consider in our drill press reviews.
What Type Of Drill Press?
First, you need to decide whether you need a floor-standing or bench-top drill press. If you are going to use it for large projects and have the floor space available, the floor model will suit you better. A bench-top is compact, lighter than the floor model and will handle most DIY jobs with ease. You can find all this information in our drill press reviews.
Power
The power a drill press produce is measured in Horsepower(Hp). This is a very important factor when choosing the right drill press for your needs. If you are going to use it for light DIY work only, you probably just need a 1/3 hp-1/2 hp motor. Bigger jobs will require a bigger motor.
Size
When shopping for a tool like this you will note that they are listed as 8 inches,10 inches,12 inches and so on. This is the size of the machine and determines the size of the object you can work with. The size of a drill press is actually measured by its “throat capacity”
This is the distance between the column and the centre of the chuck. A portable drill press with a 5-inch throat capacity will drill a hole in the centre of a 10-inch diameter disc and is called a 10-inch drill press. In other words, the size of the drill press is the distance between the centre of the chuck and the column, times two. Make sure the model you buy is big enough for your needs.
Speed
When working with wood a high spindle speed is required, while working with metal requires a lower spindle speed. If you are going to be working with both materials, make sure the speed can be adjusted on the product you buy. Most drill presses these days have 5 or more speed settings.
Spindle Travel
The spindle travel is how far the spindle will go down in one sweep. This will also determine the depth of the hole that can be drilled with one go. A good tip is to look for a model with an adjustable depth stop. This will help to ensure that you drill holes to a precise depth every time.
Work Table
It is important to be able to adjust the work table on a drill press. Make sure the work table can adjust up and down and tilt to the sides. This is a necessity when drilling at various angles.
Accuracy
One of the benefits of a drill press is that it allows you to drill accurately and precise. Some models take accuracy to the next level with laser guiding systems. This is a great feature and makes lining up the holes very easy.
Warranty
Never buy a power tool without a warranty. Make sure you get at least a year warranty on your purchase because you may need it. By using the information in this article and reading our drill press reviews, you will be able to choose a drill press that suits your specific needs.
How To Use A Drill Press
There are some basic steps you need to know to operate a drill press successfully. We have a full article on how to use a drill press on our website. This article provides all the information you need to start using your drill press.
How To Get The Best Value For Money
To Get the best value from your drill press, you need to choose your machine wisely. There is no need to overspend on a tool if you are not going to use it that frequently. If you are going to use it on a regular basis for all kinds of drilling, then it would be wise to buy a decent product that can take the punishment.
Here is a Video by Steve Ramsey on drilling basics:
The Best Drill Press For The Money 2023
To find the best drill press for the money you need to consider and combine loads of specifications and features.
Only when you know what each model can do and how well they do it, you can compare prices. Our experts have analysed all the top drill presses and compared the prices against features and specifications and came up with this list of the top products for the money in 2023.
- Jet 716200 JDP – Excellent build quality and latest features
- Wen 4210, 10 Inch drill press – Low price for a very good product
- Skil 3320-01 benchtop model – Best selling benchtop drill press
- Wen 4225 15 Inch – Floor drill press priced to sell
- ShopFox W1668 – Versatile and loads of features for the price
Frequently Asked Questions About Drill Presses
A drill press is a stationary machine tool that drills holes in materials. It consists of a base, a column (or pillar), a table, a head with a motor that turns the spindle and chuck, and a depth adjustment mechanism. Drill presses are used for drilling, countersinking, boring, and reaming holes in materials such as wood, plastic, and metal.
Drill presses have several advantages over handheld drills:
1. They provide greater accuracy, precision and repeatability when drilling holes.
2. The column and table keep the drill stable and perpendicular to the workpiece.
3. They allow you to drill perfectly straight holes through thick materials. Handheld drills may wander or flex.
4. They have greater drilling capacity in terms of drill bit size and depth of holes.
5. The speed is adjustable on most drill presses for optimal drilling in different materials.
6. They enable you to drill holes perpendicular to the workpiece surface.
7. Many accessories are available like depth stops, clamps, vises, and tables.
Important features to consider when purchasing a drill press include:
1. Drill size capacity – Consider the largest bit you need to use.
2. Spindle travel/stroke length – Look for at least 2-3 inches of spindle movement.
3. Speed range – Look for operating speeds between 200-4000 RPM.
4. Table size and swing capacity – The larger the table, the bigger the workpieces you can handle.
5. Power – Minimum of 3/4 HP, with 1 HP optimal for metal drilling.
6. Depth stop – Allows you to drill repeatable holes to the same depth.
7. Stability – Heavy base and column minimizes vibration.
8. Ease of use – Convenient controls, laser guides, positive stops.
9. Safety features – Interlocking chuck guard, thermal overload protection
There are several basic types of drill presses:
1. Benchtop – Smaller and sits on a workbench. For lighter tasks.
2. Floor – Freestanding on the ground. Larger and more powerful.
3. Radial arm – Movable arm allows drilling over large workpieces.
4. Magnetic – Base attaches to metal surfaces for drilling in awkward locations.
5. C-frame – Compact and economical option for light duty use.
6. Mill/drill – Combines a drill press with a 2-axis milling machine. Very versatile.
Consider these factors when choosing drill press capacity:
1. Maximum drill bit size needed
2. Depth of drilling stroke required
3. Dimensions and weight of your workpieces
4. Materials you will be drilling (steel, wood, etc)
5. Frequency of use (occasional or production)
6. Budget
For most hobbyists, a floor standing 12-16 inch drill press with a 3/4 HP motor should have sufficient capacity. Go bigger if drilling larger holes in metal. Smaller benchtop 8-10 inch models can suffice for lighter tasks.
1. Securely clamp workpiece to drill press table
2. Don’t wear loose clothing or jewellery
3. Wear eye protection
4. Make sure bit is locked securely in chuck
5. Don’t exceed max speed rating for drill bit
6. Use proper feed rate and minimal pressure
7. Ensure machine is properly grounded
8. Keep hands away from rotating chuck and drill bit
Follow manufacturer safety guidelines. Unplug machine before changing bits or adjusting depth stops.
