Are you a contractor or hobbyist?
If so, this is the list for you! Drill presses are an absolute must-have tool in any workshop. The problem is that there are so many different types and models to choose from, it can be hard to know which one will work best for your needs.
That’s where we come in–with reviews of 9 popular models currently on the market, plus our top picks. We’ll also give you tips on what to look for when shopping.
So without further ado… let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Top Drill Presses in 2021
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
 | WEN 4208T | • 2.3A induction motor • Includes a 1/2-inch keyed chuck • Operates at 5 different speeds | |
 | Shop Fox W1668 Drill Press | • 3/4 HP, 110-Volt, 1,725 RPM • Drill chuck: 5/8-Inch • Spindle travel: 3-1/4-Inch | |
 | WEN 4214 Drill Press | • Infinitely variable speed • Spindle Travel of 3-1/8" with easy to read • Quill diameter of 2.17 inches | |
 | DEWALT DWE1622K Drill Press | • 10 amp motor • Overload protection • Quick Change chuck system | |
 | Shop Fox W1848 Drill Press | • Motor: 3/4 HP, 110V • Swing: 13-3/4" • Drill chuck: 1/64"-5/8" | |
 | JET JWDP-12 Drill Press | • X-shaped XACTA Laser • Oversized ergonomic knobs provide maximum control • Retractable roller extension | |
 | Grizzly G0925 Drill Press | • Precision-Ground Cast-Iron Table • Table Swings 360 Degrees • 5 Speed Ranges: 740 - 3140 RPM | |
 | EURO TOOL DRL-300.00 Portable Drill Press | • Variable speed up to 8,500 RPM • Easy-to-use tiny benchtop drill press • Measures 6-3/4 inches by 6-3/4 inches | |
 | Mophorn 1200W Drill Press | • 1200W copper motor • Efficient Cooling System • Efficient Cooling System |
1. WEN 4208T – Best Drill Press
Based on the needs of professional craftsmen, this model features a dual handwheel adjustment system which includes two Allen wrenches for quick directional changes.
The spindle arm is capable of movement in both horizontal and vertical planes for improved precision. Ready to use right out of the box with no assembly required provided everything is put together correctly. This product should provide enough power to drive screwdrivers without any problems.
Product Features:
- Fast and powerful, the WEN 4208T drill press operates at 5 different speeds. 740, 1100, 1530, 2100, and 3140 RPMs keep your project moving smoothly and accurately.
- With a 1/2-inch keyed chuck to hold all bushings up to 11/16 inches in diameter and onboard storage for keys (both users included), this workhorse has everything you need.
- And it comes with a handy height-adjustability function that lets you work at just the right angle, so you can craft great stuff without hunching over!
- For an even more satisfying experience, bevel the worktable in one or both directions up to 45 degrees—the perfect setting for achieving crisp lines on delicate projects and working with bigger pieces.
2. Shop Fox W1668 Drill Press
Why settle for mediocre? The Shop Fox W1668 Drill Press gives you precisely what you need to take your precision workhouse to the next level. With a 3/4 HP motor, up to 110 volts of power, an extended tabletop with 2-1/8″ dust port, and spindle speeds that range from 250 RPM to 3050 RPM, this drill press has it all!
Product Features:
- With the Shop Fox W1668 drill press, rivets and screws are always at arm’s length with a foot pedal-controlled chuck that allows for quick yet controlled release of whatever head is already in there.
- Plus, you get all the power of a 110V motor that never stalls when you need it most.
- The 3-piece spindle sander kit is an excellent addition for when you need to detail close tasks like sanding dowel holes or shaping moldings.
3. WEN 4214 Drill Press
You’re a carpenter, plumber, electrician, or contractor and need a drill to get the job done. You want one that’s reliable, tough, and able to stand up to demanding workdays. WEN 4214 Drill Press combines design innovations with quality materials to balance the best speed and power in its class.
The infinitely variable speed ranges from 580-3200 RPMs delivers equal torque throughout the range, which saves you time by completing tasks faster without changing tools frequently.
It is built to last but not heavy. It features a high-strength die-cast steel tool arm for fast cutting while increasing durability even further thanks to its two-stage durable electroless nickel chromate finish!
Product Features:
- It features a two-horsepower, 120V motor with overload protection and belt cover for added safety.
- It comes with a laser so you can focus on the task at hand without worrying about tools, and this variable speed drill press lets you choose how powerful you want to be, making it work for any material.
- Plus, the table roller extension means no more bending over when working long hours or having to spend time fixing mistakes because your drill press doesn’t reach far enough back.
- The 3-1/8″ spindle travel offers good rigidity and access to the full depth of the table — perfect for working on large workpieces without breaking your back!
4. DEWALT DWE1622K Drill Press
DEWALT took your ideas and put it into their DWE1622K Drill Press. It has a 10 amp motor and a no-load speed of 300 rpm to 450 rpm, exactly what you need for getting the job done.
The innovative design ensures that the chuck will not slip, and it won’t run unless both switches (Drill/Reverse) are fully engaged. Comfort grips on either side provide maximum control with minimal user fatigue making projects go smoother than ever before.
DEWALT backs this product up 100% and any other product they produce, so you know you can trust them every time.
Product Features:
- Quick change chuck system and heavy-duty clutch included all make life easier.
- It’s also equipped with an oil-free magnetic coolant bottle, so there’s no need to worry about messes! No matter how big the obstacle might be, we’ve got your back.
- The DWE1622K DEWALT Drill Press is outfitted with overload protection electronics that avoid motor damage, and a “4-3/8 inch Drill travel (that) provides maximum capacity for heavy-duty applications.
5. Shop Fox W1848 Drill Press
Unconventional ideas make for the best drill presses. This new Shop Fox W1848 Drill Press is the perfect machine for the small business owner or hobbyist who needs a little help making precision cuts.
The 110V 3/4 HP motor packs plenty of punch with an impressive 13-3/4″ swing, and its compact 12 x 10 workspace keeps everything tightly organized.
For your safety, this drill press features patented side port dust extraction that helps keep work areas clean and clear while reducing noise pollution to a silent hum.
Product Features:
- This 122-pound machine safeguards your tool investment with its cast iron construction, sloped table for stability and tilting 6 ½ inches by 6 feet space, oscillating head for sanding capability, rising column – allowing the operator to work standing or sitting conditions comfortably.
- This machine is excellent for furniture makers and woodworking professionals because of its versatility and quality construction.
- With that said, it’s also versatile enough for metalworkers or any user looking to drill holes through materials with precision accuracy.
6. JET JWDP-12 Drill Press
JET JWDP-12 Drill Press- the most innovative drill press on the market. Reach perfection with XACTA Laser tech, oversized ergonomic knobs to maximize precision, and x shaped laser for precise alignment every time. The odds are in your favor with this premium product.
Product Features:
- JET’s hands-on design creates a drill press that eases the physical pain from repetitive tasks
- This product is perfect for people who need a drill that provides consistent drilling and also has an LED work light that brightens dimmed or dark spaces.
- The integral retractable roller extension ensures stability when you’re drilling longboards or other oversized materials without unnecessary movement.
7. Grizzly G0925 Drill Press
The G0925 has enough power for the toughest materials and all the control you need to get precise results, yet it’s small enough to fit into tight spaces.
This drill press can be used anywhere- even inside your own home, thanks to its ingenious design! Say goodbye to the rigors of lugging around a messy and expensive toolbox. At just 8″ wide for storage, we all know that space is always an issue when you’re working on a project.
Product Features:
- With a cast-iron foundation that ensures exceptional sturdiness, lightweight, and mobility at just 34 pounds, and with build quality that holds up over time.
- Unlike mini drill press, its 5-speed drill press from 740 – 3140 RPM, 1/3 HP motor provides ample power to handle most wood-boring projects.
8. EURO TOOL DRL-300.00 Portable Drill Press
Sometimes you need to drill stuff, and sometimes you need to take care of other things. The EURO TOOL’s portable drill press is the only thing you’ll ever need for either purpose.
With an open-faced design and dual side handles, it’s lightweight and easy to move around the shop or garage while meeting all your drilling needs with ease!
Portable yet powerful, this tool is your one-stop solution to everything drilling-related. Whether you need to bore into wood or metal, you’ll be able to do it with complete accuracy, thanks to an air pressure control system that provides just the right amount of power for any project size.
Product Features:
- With variable speeds up to 8500 RPMs, you have more control over the speed of your drill, so you can loosen tight screws or quickly bore through hard surfaces.
- It has an exceptional track record with customers thanks to its 9 convenient features like ergonomic handles that make long hours of use easy on your back or customizable depth stop for greater accuracy when countersinking.
- All this at an economical price that’s less than half the cost of comparable models
- 1-year warranty manufacturers defect warranty.
9. Mophorn 1200W Drill Press
This Mophorn drill press is nearly twice as strong as its little counterparts, so it can handle any drill-related task without breaking a sweat. It has an adjustable heavy-duty work table and variable speeds so that you can take care of everything from intricate to simple tasks.
Product Features:
- Made with premier-quality metal and powerful motors, this impressive drill press can offer hassle-free precision for all your drilling needs.
- With a max drilling diameter of 23mm and an easy-to-operate electro-magnetic base, the Mophorn drill press makes difficult tasks that were once time-consuming into quick work.
How Do You Pick a Good Drill Press?
If you’ve never used a benchtop drill press before, you might be unsure what to search for or how to operate it. Drills are less common in home workshops than ten years ago, owing to their greater complexity.
Here are some factors to think about while shopping for the best benchtop drill press for your business.
Swing
The swing of a drill press can be thought of as the distance from your tool’s chuck to its base. If that sounds confusing, don’t worry- just know this: It takes two hands and lots of strength for most people who use one!
A drill press has a 10-inch swing, which lets it handle bigger pieces of wood or metal. If your measurement from chuck to the column is greater than 5 inches, this will be the size limit for what you can work with on an average day in terms of material thicknesses.
Drill presses are capable machines that can help turn rough-hewn lumber into beautiful cabinetry with ease but keep one thing in mind if they’re big fans: A larger swivel means more room required, so make sure there’s enough space available before buying!
Stroke Distance (spindle travel or quill travel)
The stroke distance is the length the drill will travel before it reaches maximum speed. This can impact your results, however! Thinner material might warp if the drill press starts out too fast, so it’s best to customize this setting.
Variable speeds are essential, mainly if you work on different projects. A woodworker might want to drill through metal one day, create a series of holes into a piece of wood the next, and then drill into stone for their final project. Investing in a drill press with variable speeds is well worth the money.
Also Read: How to Keep Your Drill Press in Top Condition?
Floor vs. Benchtop Design
Bench drill press models are small devices that are perfect for home-based craftsmen or hobbyists. They possess all of the basic features of a larger drill press, but you’ll have to get used to working up close.
One of the benefits here is that they’re more affordable than floor drill press models, and they still come with many of the same features you’ll need, like variable speeds.
If, however, your work area has limited space or is difficult to reach, then you may want to consider a floor model. Floor models are larger than benchtop drill presses, and they’re heavy enough you won’t have to move them around too much.
If you find yourself struggling to work from a benchtop for even a little while, you might want to go with the floor model, so you don’t injure yourself.
Table Size
The larger the table, the more space you will need. It’s also worth considering how you typically work when deciding between benchtop and floor drill presses.
If you’re constantly moving around the drill press, then a benchtop may be best for you. However, if you’re working with larger pieces or need more space, then a floor model will be the way to go.
Horsepower
The sturdier your drill press is, the more powerful it should be. Drills are fairly simple tools, but they require a lot of power to get the job done.
If you want a drill press for general purpose use, then 1/2 horsepower is typically enough to power. You can also use a drill press for hobbies or light-duty commercial purposes, but you should check to see if the drill press you’re considering exceeds your needs.
Spindle Speed
Spindle speed is how fast the chuck rotates at preset speeds. You will want to consider this if you are planning on using your drill press for different materials.
A slow spindle speed will allow you to work with softer materials without worrying about burning them, while a speed of 1,725 RPM is necessary to work with metal.
Onboard Light
An onboard light is beneficial for two reasons: It illuminates your workspace and allows you to make precision cuts easily.
The light is attached to the drill press, so you’ll always have it available whenever you need it. If your drill press doesn’t come with a light, be sure to add it to your list of criteria when deciding which model is best for you.
Safety
It’s important to note that a drill press can be a dangerous machine, so you must take the proper precautions.
Make sure you have a solid foundation for your drill press. It should be stable and sturdy at all times.
You should also consider adding work support that moves along with the material you’re drilling to help maintain your safety.
Accessories
Accessories are a great way to get the most out of your drill press. You can also supplement accessories with a drill press table or a vise, which would increase its versatility.
Accessories are usually an afterthought, but they’re something you should consider when looking into drill presses. There are a variety of different accessories you can add to your drill press for some serious versatility.
Here are a few accessories you might want to consider:
- Drill index Holders
- Arbor Press
- Dust Collector C
- huck Key Holder
- Bench Grinder Stand
Best Drill Presses FAQs
What are the uses of a drill press?
A drill press is a powerful machine that can perform many different tasks. Many people use their drill presses to make precise holes and cuts or to create precision pieces. However, a drill press can also be used to create decorative items.
Who can benefit from buying a drill press?
Anyone who needs to make precision cuts or holes can benefit from buying a drill press. It’s also a good machine for people who need to create decorative items.
What does the size of the drill press mean?
A drill press swing is a distance from the center of the spindle to the closest edge of the column or post, which is twice the throat distance (the distance from the center of the spindle to the nearest edge of the column or post). An 8-inch throat distance is representative of a 16-inch drill press.
A drill press swing is a distance from the center of the spindle to the closest edge of the column or post, which is twice the throat distance (the distance from the center of the spindle to the nearest edge of the column or post). An 8-inch throat distance is representative of a 16-inch drill press.
What is the drilling capacity on a drill press?
Drilling capacity is the diameter a given power drill or drill press can create in a specific material. It’s essentially a placeholder for continuous torque, which it represents.
How do you use a drill press safely?
Drill presses are powerful machines, so you need to take the proper precautions. One of the most important things you can do is secure your drill press to a stable surface. If it’s not secured, then it could act as a projectile during an accident or malfunction.
How do you use a drill press safely?
Drill presses are powerful machines, so you need to take the proper precautions. One of the most important things you can do is secure your drill press to a stable surface. If it’s not secured, then it could act as a projectile during an accident or malfunction.
Should I drill clockwise or anticlockwise?
Clockwise is for cutting/screwing into the material and counterclockwise is for removing the bit / unscrewing if the drill bit is facing away from you.
Clockwise is for cutting/screwing into the material and counterclockwise is for removing the bit / unscrewing if the drill bit is facing away from you.
Can I use the same bits in my drill press and handheld power drill?
Yes, if they’re the same type of drill bits. For example, you can use the same drill bit in both your handheld power drill and your drill press if they are both for metal drilling.
Is there any way to use a regular drill in place of a drill press?
Yes, there are, but it will be much less efficient. You can attach the regular drill to a surface that’s stable and steady. However, you won’t have as much control without using proper safety precautions.
What can I do with a Drill Press?
A drill press is a versatile machine that can be used for many different tasks. You can use it as a regular power drill, but you will have better results with the proper precautions. The best thing to do would be to secure your drill press to a sturdy table or workbench, so it doesn’t move around while you’re using it.
What else can you use a drill press for besides drilling holes?
You can use a drill press to sand, create beveled edges, and cut shapes into different materials. Many people also use their drill presses for sanding or cleaning metal pieces.
Where can I find replacement parts for my drill press?
Many hardware and home improvement stores sell drill press replacement parts. You can also find them online or look in your owner’s manual to see if the company that manufactured your model sells individual pieces.l
Conclusion
Whether you’re new to home improvement or an accomplished DIYer, a drill press can help complete your project list.
Choosing the right drill press for your needs can be difficult. We hope that this guide helped make it easier by highlighting some of the best options on the market today.
Good luck and happy grilling!