11 Best Drill Press to Roll in 2023
Your workshop or toolshed should be equipped with a complete set of power tools in order to help you tackle any job that comes your way. That being said, one of the most versatile and powerful tools needed by every professional contractor, homeowner, or woodworker for completing projects is a drill press. However, the problem […]
Your workshop or toolshed should be equipped with a complete set of power tools in order to help you tackle any job that comes your way.
That being said, one of the most versatile and powerful tools needed by every professional contractor, homeowner, or woodworker for completing projects is a drill press. However, the problem lies in the selection of the option that best meets your requirements.
You may be thinking – buying a power tool, how tough can it be? Right? Well, it’s really not that simple, considering the wide availability of choices in the market.
For this reason, we have come forward with a guide, providing detailed and unbiased reviews of the 11 best drill presses out there. Furthermore, to make your decision-making even simpler, we provide a comprehensive guide towards the end of this article.
So, let us now quickly dive into the reviews to help you gain more insight!
Best Drill Presses
Here is the list of the 11 best drill presses that you can use to craft precise and accurate holes into materials for a variety of projects.
1. WEN 4208 8-inch Drill Press – Best for Home Workshops
WEN has been a leading manufacturer of innovative power tools equipped with user-friendly and unique features since 1951. Along with delivering an enjoyable working experience, the compact WEN 4208 drill press ensures ample power to drill through plastic, wood, metal, and more.
- Includes a 1/2-inch keyed chuck and onboard key storage
- Operates at 5 different speeds: 740, 1100, 1530, 2100, 3140...
Why Did We Like It?
Equipped with a powerful induction motor, featuring a ball-bearing construction, the WEN 4208 ensures smooth and balanced performance at each of its five different speeds. Being compact yet powerful, it serves as the perfect addition to your home workshop.
Furthermore, when we talk about versatility, this power tool meets our expectations in every way. With its half-inch keyed chuck, it fulfills the needs of a variety of projects. Not just that, but its powerful motor, 2-inch spindle travel size, and 5-speed adjustability also enable it to drill through any material with ease.
Well, it doesn’t just end there! Apart from powerful performance and versatility, the unit is constructed with a rigid frame and cast-iron base, keeping accuracy and precision in mind.
That being said, you can limit the spindle travel using the depth adjustment knob for a more accurate drilling operation. On the other hand, the work table bevels up to 45 degrees left and right to ensure precise angled drilling.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Designed to be compact, yet powerful and versatile, this power tool from WEN deserves to be our topmost recommendation. However, we couldn’t help but notice a minor flaw related to its work table. Despite ensuring precise angled drilling, it was difficult and time-consuming to adjust. But that is far from a deal-breaker.
- Compact
- Key storage keeps track of drill bits
- Powerful and versatile
- Precise drilling
- Durable motor
- Work table difficult to adjust
2. JET 354170/JDP-20MF Floor Drill Press – Best for Professionals
Powered by a 1.5 HP motor, this floor-type drilling press from JET serves as the perfect choice for both professionals and home woodworkers. From medium to large drilling projects, it fulfills its intended purpose efficiently, even in low-light situations.
- Versatile Power: 1-1/2 HP motor with 12 speeds from 150 to...
- Quick Adjusmentments: 1/2"-diameter external depth stop with...
Why Did We Like It?
Offering 12 spindle speeds ranging between 150 to 4200 RPM, this 20-inch floor-type drilling press delivers exceptional performance in a variety of medium to large jobs. Teamed with an adjustable spindle tension return spring, it also ensures easy customization of the settings to meet your work requirement.
Apart from this, it is equipped with a smooth travel table that can be raised and lowered to the required point easily. Coming to its precision and accuracy, the model features a 45-degree tiltable work table with a quick-release clamp, ensuring precise and easy angled drilling.
That being said, it is designed in a way to offer convenient operation and adjustability. Furthermore, we loved the addition of the built-in work lamp, which offers convenient and safe use in low-light conditions.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Coming to its minor drawbacks, there were certain issues related to the operation of the chuck as it did not spin smoothly. You might have to use the key constantly, especially while changing bits. However, despite these noticeable flaws, its unique features and easy adjustability make it a recommended option.
- Easy access to quick-adjustment motor
- Wide range of speed control settings
- On/off switch for safe use
- Convenient operation
- Built-in work lamp
- Chuck did not spin smoothly
3. WEN 4214 Variable Speed Drill Press – Best for Precision Drilling
Coming to another powerful drilling press from WEN, this model is capable of drilling ⅝-inch holes through heavy-duty cast iron, wood, plastic, and all other materials. In fact, with its laser beam and beveling work table, you don’t have to worry about angles and precision.
- Infinitely variable speed ranges from 580-3200 RPMS....
- Spindle Travel of 3-1/8" with easy to read, locking linear...
Why Did We Like It?
Have you come across a powerful and infinitely variable speed drilling machine cable for drilling holes with precision and repeated consistency? Well, WEN 4214 is the perfect example of such a machine.
Equipped with a 5-amp induction motor, featuring ball bearings for extended life and balanced performance, this serves as a powerful and versatile choice. That being said, with its ⅝-inch chuck and spindle taper, you can drill holes through various materials with ease. In fact, the laser and depth gauge adjustment allows you to work with precision and accuracy.
Furthermore, the unit has been designed, keeping your convenience in mind. For this reason, it features an LED screen, allowing you to know the exact RPM at every point for easy adjustability. Apart from this, the table roller extends up to 17 inches to support your workpiece, while the onboard work light illuminates it for maximum visibility.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Despite offering a powerful, versatile, and precise performance, we couldn’t ignore the rattling and vibrations of the induction motor and drive. Other than that, there were no noticeable flaws of this sturdy and higher-end, variable-speed drilling press and laser!
- Precise and accurate drilling
- Ideal for a variety of projects
- Convenient operation
- Onboard work light
- Vibrating and rattling motor
4. Shop Fox W1848 Oscillating Floor Drill – Best for Contour Sanding
Designed to offer trouble-free service for years, this detailed and rugged floor drill from Shop Fox is a safe and reliable choice. Coming to its unique features, its oscillating spindle ensures contour sanding making it stand out from the other recommendations on our list.
Why Did We Like It?
Equipped with a unique oscillating spindle, a 3-piece sanding drum kit, and 80-grit sanding paper, this floor drill from Shop Fox is capable of efficient contour sanding. That being said, with just a few simple tool-free steps, it converts from drilling to sanding operations within seconds.
You don’t have to worry about getting those special sanding or drilling angles right since Shop Fox W1848 offers a removable, 90-degree tiltable work table. Simply adjust the height and tilt angle of the table to accommodate all your workpieces.
Apart from ensuring versatile use for a wide range of applications, the floor model design adds capacity and weight for a durable build. Furthermore, with its detailed and ruggedly built parts, backed by a 2-year warranty, it ensures safe and reliable operation.
What Could’ve Been Better?
We loved the robust build and unique sanding capability of this oscillating floor drill. Having said that, a beginner might find it a tad complicated to use and assemble, especially for the first time. The instructions provided for assembly are vague, so you may require some help with that.
- Durable build
- Versatile
- Sanding and drilling capabilities
- Includes sanding drum kit
- Reduces heat build-up
- Not ideal for a beginner
- Complicated assembly
5. Delta 18-900L 18-inch Laser Drill Press – Best for Industrial Use
Designed to ensure accuracy and precision, the Delta 18-900L Laser Drill, featuring an auto-tensioning belt drive system, is ideal for professional woodworking. Thanks to its effortless speed adjustability and powerful motor, it ensures optimal drilling performance, irrespective of the material.
- Auto-tensioning belt drive system allows for fast and easy...
- Full 6-inch quill stroke for deeper drilling applications...
Why Did We Like It?
Powered by a 3/4 HP heavy-duty motor, this unit delivers ample power to perform efficiently for various drilling applications. In fact, it features 16-speed settings ranging between 170 to 3000 RPM for optimum performance, allowing you to drill through different materials with maximum consistency.
Apart from this, we were highly impressed by its patented oversized work table, featuring a removable center insert and T-slots for easy clamping. Designed to bevel left and right up to 90 degrees and tilt forward 0-40 degrees, it serves as the perfect workstation for industrial and deeper drilling applications as well.
Furthermore, it is equipped with user-friendly features for convenient and precise operation. That being said, the flexible LED light improves visibility while the non-tip cast iron base maximizes stability for enhanced accuracy. The drilling press is also backed by a 5-year warranty from Delta, making it another reliable option on the list.
What Could’ve Been Better?
The Delta 18-900L Laser Drill Press is a powerful option, offering optimal drilling performance, but it lacks quality control. That being said, despite its 5-year warranty, we were not thoroughly impressed by the quality of its components and overall build, something which Delta can easily work on.
- Effortless speed control
- Versatile and optimal performance
- Better visibility and precision
- 5-year warranty
- Lacks quality control
6. DEWALT DWE1622K 2-Speed Magnetic Drill Press
Equipped with a 10-amp motor, this incredibly powerful magnetic drill press from DEWALT offers the best-in-class capacity for heavy-duty applications. With an increase in accessory compatibility, it serves as one of the most versatile options in a mid-price range.
- 10 amp motor, 2-speed settingsl ;No Load Speed : 300/450 rpm
- Overload protection electronics which prevent motor damage
Why Did We Like It?
Another exceptional addition to our list, the DEWALT Magnetic Drill Press with its powerful motor and 4-inch drill travel, is capable of performing a variety of drilling operations. Along with offering maximum capacity for heavy-duty applications, it also ensures compatibility with several accessories.
That being said, it ensures versatility at a budget-friendly price, making it an economical option for most buyers. Not only this, but it also comes with a magnetic self-feed cooling tank, which can be placed on the work table or on either side of the tool. It controls the flow of the cooling liquid, allowing a wide range of tool orientations.
Furthermore, who wouldn’t want to invest in a guaranteed tough product built to last for years? Equipped with overload protection to prevent motor damage and accessory wear, this unit is here to last for a long time.
What Could’ve Been Better?
A prominent drawback related to the product is its 2-speed settings, which offer limited speed control compared to the other options on the list. That being said, the DWE1622K Magnetic Drill does not compromise on versatile use and powerful performance.
- Tough and durable
- Heavy-duty applications
- Maximum accessory compatibility
- Magnetic cooling tank
- Versatile
- Limited speed settings
7. Genesis GDP1005A 10-inch Drill Press
Equipped with a larger ⅝-inch chuck and powerful motor, the Genesis GDP1005A serves as the perfect choice for DIYs and other bigger projects. Furthermore, being easy to set up and operate; this is a powerful tool you can count on!
- 4.1 amp induction motor for quiet, smooth performance
- 5 speed gear box
Why Did We Like It?
Powered by a noise-efficient 4.1 motor, this tool from Genesis delivers power and smooth performance to tackle any project. With its 5-speed settings and large ⅝-inch chuck, you can conduct versatile and efficient drilling operations on a wide range of materials.
In fact, it is equipped with an easy-to-access pulley housing, which enables you to adjust the speed settings with ease. Further adding to your convenience, the model comes with a large work table that tilts and rotates up to 45 and 90 degrees, respectively. That being said, it serves as the most budget-friendly option for handling bigger projects.
Not only this but with its footprint smaller than any floor drill press, it offers ample space, allowing you to work comfortably. Furthermore, it features an LED light, which helps you drill precisely, even in low-lighting conditions.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Backed by a 2-year warranty, the Genesis GDP1005A is a reliable choice capable of handling any and every project. However, we need to point out the fact that the quality of the overall product could be better. That being said, it offers some of the best features for a reasonable price.
- Noiseless and smooth performance
- Suitable for large projects
- Compact footprint
- Easy to use
- Budget-friendly
- Poor quality build
8. Powermatic PM2800B Drill Press
Being a trustworthy brand for years, Powermatic brings you the PM2800B Standing Drill, which is best defined by its simplicity and elegance. Not only this but it is also equipped with a number of advanced features, which make it a recommended choice for precise drilling operations.
- INFINITELY VARIABLE SPEED: Mechanical variable speed (250 to...
- PINPOINT POSITIONING: Laser guides provide an accurate...
Why Did We Like It?
Equipped with a 14 by 20 work table, which can be easily adjusted and beveled up to 90 degrees, this tool offers rapid alignment for a better work experience. That being said, achieving precise and accurate drilling operations for various materials and projects is a breeze. In fact, this is ensured for both repetitive and quick actions with its adjustable material stop.
Coming to its versatility, powerful motor, innovative features, and variable speed, make it ideal for all kinds of jobs, including woodwork, DIY, and more. Apart from this, Powermatic keeps the convenience of users in mind while designing its products. For this reason, this tool features a digital RPM readout meter to allow you to adjust the speed of the spindle easily as per the application.
Not just that, but it also comes with adjustable LED lights and laser guides to help you drill with precision and ease, even in low lighting.
What Could’ve Been Better?
To be honest, we didn’t notice anything much wrong with this product, except for its quality. With Powermatic being a reliable brand known to offer a line of durable power tools, the unit was expected to have a premium-quality build for its price. Having said that, it is still a remarkable option with a high level of mechanical elegance.
- Ease of use
- Precise drilling in low lighting
- Easy adjustability
- Versatile use
- Poor quality build
9. Grizzly Industrial G7943-14” Benchtop Drill
Equipped with a powerful motor, the Grizzly Industrial G7943, with its 12-speed settings, ensures easy adjustability for convenient and quick operation. It offers the features and dependability of a high-end industrial-grade drill at a low price.
- All the features and dependability of an expensive...
- Includes built-in light
Why Did We Like It?
Constructed using heavy-duty components and materials with a powder-coated finish, this benchtop drill from Grizzly ensures durability at a great value. Hence, it is not only affordable for the majority of consumers, but it also offers the reliability of long-lasting performance.
Equipped with an easily adjustable 12-speed setting, you can set the speed of the drilling machine to meet your requirements. That being said, with its enhanced drilling capacity, the unit is capable of drilling through various materials, including metal and wood, to complete the job with quality and accuracy.
Furthermore, it comes with a cast-iron table, which can be tilted up to 90 degrees left and right, ensuring precise and angled holes. Not just that, but it also offers precision in low light with its built-in light.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Despite being a value-for-money product, we noticed a few minor flaws related to the T-slots and clamping kit. The T-slots are unevenly placed, making it challenging to secure accessories and tools to the table. In fact, the table was quite small for large workpieces, so you might have to mount a larger cast-iron table if needed.
- Valuable choice
- Heavy-duty and durable
- Built-in light
- Precise and accurate drilling
- Easy adjustability
- T-slot unevenly placed
- The work table is small
10. Euro Tool DRL-300.00 Small Benchtop Drill Press
With a small footprint and lightweight design, this Small Benchtop Drill from Euro Tool is one of the most economical and compact options on our list. That being said, the easy-to-use unit saves space in your workshop to ensure a more comfortable work experience.
- Ideal for all drilling projects, not just the small ones
- 3 Variable Speeds: 5000, 6500, 8500 RPM
Why Did We Like It?
This small and lightweight benchtop with a platform, measuring 6-¾-inches by 6-¾-inches, is powerful enough to make it ideal for most if not all, drilling projects. In fact, with its variable speeds up to 8500 RPM, it does not limit its application to just small jobs. You can easily adjust the drilling speed to meet the material requirement for diverse purposes.
Apart from featuring a space-saving design, this benchtop model comes with sturdy construction, making it a recommended option available at a reasonable price. That being said, it is an economical choice for those under a tight budget.
Furthermore, its innovative and user-friendly features at this price range are commendable. Being easy to use, it offers convenience and enjoyable work experience to even beginners with no prior experience using a drilling press.
What Could’ve Been Better?
A great product, but why is it placed toward the bottom of the list? This is a common question, which most of you would be thinking about by now. Well, the reason for this is its lack of basic and easy adjustability. We found it a bit challenging to adjust the height of the table, but this gradually gets easier over time.
- Space-saving and lightweight
- Sturdy construction
- Economical
- Easy to use
- Not easily adjustable
11. Jet 716000 JWDP-12 Drill Press
Another unique combination of power and portability, this drilling machine from Jet is equipped with a powerful motor and compact size. Hence, it is capable of tackling any job with enhanced drilling precision, irrespective of the location.
- Compact Profile: 10" x 16-1/8" cast iron base fits neatly on...
- Ease of Use: Oversized, ergonomic knobs
Why Did We Like It?
Last but not least, the Jet 716000 JWDP-12, with its powerful ½ HP motor and compact size, is capable of powering through any material on the go. It features a cast-iron base, measuring 10 inches by 16-⅛-inches to fit workbenches with limited space. That being said, with this drill, you can expect power, portability, and a comfortable workspace at all times.
Coming to its applications, the unit is equipped with all the necessary features required for multiple drilling applications and projects. Not just this, but it also ensures precise and accurate drilling with the help of Jet’s innovative X-shaped XACTA laser.
Wait, there’s more! Along with easy transportation, it provides a stable base design for easy re-positioning at your convenience. In fact, Jet also keeps your safety in mind while manufacturing its products. For this reason, the power tool features a large paddle switch for easy shut-off and lockout protection.
What Could’ve Been Better?
The Jet 716000 JWDP-12 offers power in a compact footprint, making it an ideal option for those on the go. However, we were not impressed by the laser guide of the unit as it could not be adjusted for maximum precision. That being said, since precision is an essential requirement for drilling, we had to place this otherwise excellent option at the bottom-most position of our list.
- Compact and portable
- Powerful motor
- Ideal for multiple drilling applications
- Safe to use
- Stable base
- The laser guide was not precise
Best Drill Press Comparison Table
| Product | Power Source | Voltage | Amperage | Max Rotational Speed | Max Chuck Size | Horsepower | Weight | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| WEN 4208 | AC | 120V | 2.3 Amps | 3140RPM | 16mm | N/A | 31lbs | 2 Years |
| JET 354170/JDP-20MF | Corded Electric | 115V | 15 Amps | 4200RPM | 19.05mm | 0.75HP | 282lbs | 2 Years |
| WEN 4214 | AC | 120V | 5 Amps | 3200RPM | 13mm | 0.66HP | 89.1lbs | 2 Years |
| Shop Fox W1848 | Wind Powered | 110V | N/A | 3050RPM | 16mm | 0.75HP | 122lbs | 2 Years |
| Delta 18-900L | Corded Electric | 120V | N/A | 4500RPM | 15.87mm | 0.75HP | 261lbs | 5 Years |
| DEWALT DWE1622K | Corded Electric | 240V | 10 Amps | 450RPM | 13mm | N/A | 33lbs | 3 Years |
| Genesis GDP1005A | AC | N/A | 4.1 Amps | 3070RPM | 16mm | N/A | 52lbs | 2 Years |
| Powermatic PM2800B | Corded Electric | 115V | N/A | 3000RPM | 13mm | 1HP | 246lbs | 5 Years |
| Grizzly Industrial G7943 | Fuel-Powered | 110V | 4 Amps | 3050RPM | 13mm | 0.75HP | 81lbs | 1 Year |
| Euro Tool DRL-300.00 | Fuel-Powered | 110V | N/A | 8500RPM | 13mm | N/A | N/A | 1 Year |
| Jet 716000 JWDP-12 | Corded Electric | 115V | 5 Amps | 3100RPM | 13mm | 0.5HP | 85lbs | 5 Years |
Buying Guide For The Best Drill Press
After extensive research, we have narrowed it down to the 11 best options and provided reviews for each of these recommendations. However, truth be told, choosing an ideal drilling press from the list of available choices may be tedious and time-consuming.
For this reason, we explain a few critical points in this buyer’s guide for you to consider before making a purchase. We assure you that these factors will help you make an informed decision.
-
Type
Before you decide on going through the recommendations on the list, it is important to know about the two types of drill presses- floor and benchtop presses.
Designed to stand alone, floor drills offer maximum strength and power for heavy-duty and professional jobs. On the other hand, benchtops are fixed to the top of a bench and serve as perfect options for smaller jobs. Apart from this, they save more space than their counterparts, being comparatively smaller and more lightweight.
So, if you require a powerful unit for a professional job, then a floor-type press would be your best pick. For those with limited space in their workshop, benchtops are an ideal match.
-
Motor
The motor of a power tool is a significant component, which determines its overall power and capability. That being said, consider the horsepower of its induction motor before finalizing a product.
It is better to go for a powerful drill machine with a higher horsepower as it offers versatile use. Not just that, but it will also allow you to handle large projects and tough jobs with ease.
-
Speed
Drill machines include variable speed settings that can be easily adjusted as per your requirement. Slower speeds are required for the drill to power through tough materials like metal, while materials like wood need a faster speed.
For this reason, opt for a machine with a number of speed settings and an adjustment feature to allow you to set the speed accordingly. In fact, a higher number of speed settings ensures more versatility.
-
Precision and Accuracy
Always keep in mind that precision is key when it comes to drilling. That being said, features like a tiltable work table and laser guides play a vital role in ensuring the precise drilling of holes.
Check for a large work table, which can be rotated 360 degrees and tilted up to 45 degrees or 90 degrees for precise angled drilling. Apart from this, a model with a LED light will help you achieve accurate results, even in low lighting.
Conclusion
From home DIY projects to complex woodworking, a drill press serves as a dream power tool for every homeowner, woodworker, and contractor. Its unique features and powerful motor offer unmatched potential for completing a variety of jobs with precision and speed.
On this note, we now come to the end of our comprehensive and review-based guide. But before concluding, let us take a quick run-through of our absolute favorites.
WEN 4208 offers powerful performance and versatile utility. Skil 3320-01, with its laser beam, ensures maximum precision and accuracy. On the other hand, JET 354170/JDP-20MF is an ideal option for medium to large projects. Last but not least,Shop Fox W1848 Oscillating Press offers both drilling and sanding operations.
We hope this guide helped you find an ideal option for your project requirements.
Till next time!
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