Best Drill Press 2022 | Buyers’ Guide

What is the best drill press? It goes without saying that a drill press may not be a primary tool in your workshop but it is a very handy and versatile one indeed.  However, accuracy, control and efficiency are the primary benefits that a drill press offers over a traditional hand held drill. Besides, the modern drill presses are designed to perform more than just drilling, but sanding, counter boring, etc.  The advanced models always come with more than 2 speed settings for better control over the process. Other parameters that can be adjusted include an auto depth control, tilting and sliding of a working table, as well as plenty of additional user-friendly and safety features. Automation control systems of the modern drill presses allow reducing time and costs spent for the machining. Besides, in this case the quality and accuracy of the finished surfaces are considerably improved. In particular, DEWALT DWE1622K may become that perfect tool at a private workshop or at a production site with its multiple advanced characteristics.

Why have I chosen this model? Dewalt is a manufacturer of the DWE1622K. And this company remains unmatched with the quality and performance of their products. This magnetic drill press is a real pattern of an extra powerful drill press with its 10 Amp motor which is electronically protected against overloading and overheating. The motor enables this model to perform excellently even when dealing with thick and hard materials. The variable speed control allows switching from 300 to 450 RPM and machining successfully the materials of different nature.

Apart from the high quality of its components, the tool is made of durable materials. However, in spite of its robust design, this drill press is offered in a compact size and comparatively light weight which contribute to its portability and small footprint.

Other advantages of this model are tool-free chuck changing, a magnetic coolant tank, removable feed handles and other user-friendly features enhancing the convenience and ease of its operation. Overall, this machine is perfect both for a private use and industrial applications due to its compactness and an incredible power and drilling capacity. The only you should be aware of, it is quite expensive, but the costs will be paid off very soon if this “handsome” has an opportunity to show its best on the daily-basis operations.

Drill press introduction

Some DIY amateurs or beginners in carpentry and metalworking fields are of the opinion that the drill presses belong to the class of heavy-duty industrial equipment. However, they are wrong. A drilling press is a machine suitable for various fields of application. It can be used by professional craftsmen and DIYers. This unit is an essential help when performing a range of renovation and construction jobs. A drilling press is deemed to be versatile equipment, designed for making and machining of holes, threading, sanding, counterboring, etc. Nevertheless, a particular job requires a drill press with different functionality. Besides, the prices for these machines are quite higher in comparison with the power tools like traditional drills or angle grinders. That is why you should be aware of the main types, functionality and intended use of drill presses in order to be able to compare different models available on the market. As a result of the above-mentioned, you will make your personal list of the preferred options and find your perfect machine among them with ease.  And here I am, to become some assistance in it.

Types of drill presses

Drill presses can differ in design, features, ranges of application and in operational modes. I would like to define the main differences between the modern models.

First of all, drill presses are divided into floor-standing and portable (usually benchtop) units.

Benchtop drill presses are more suitable for lighter jobs or occasional use at some confined spaces. It is explained, by their compact design and light weigh in comparison with larger floor standing models. A portable drill press can be easily transferred from one job site to another. Also, there will be no issues with its storage. And last but not least, a benchtop unit is offered at more affordable prices than any floor standing drill presses. The latter, is reasonably pricier as it can grant you an extra power for deeper drilling and precise machining of hard materials. The floor standing machines are more preferable for commercial and industrial applications in some spacious workshops.

However, there is one exception from a general rule among portable drill presses in terms of the power they can generate. In particular, I mean a magnetic drill press which belongs to portable options due to its comparatively light weight and compact design. Primarily, it is used for drilling various types of metal, which is why it has a magnet to be securely fixed to a workpiece during operation. Magnetic models will be highly useful at any production site related to construction, welding or machine-building fields. Such drill presses have an undeniable advantage over stationary drill presses. Instead of transferring some oversized and heavy metal stock, it is quite easy to take the tool to it with no delays due to handling operations.  It is also important to mention that magnetic drill presses are offered in pneumatic and hydraulic designs which contribute significantly to its versatility of being used for underwater operations, in case with hydraulic system, and under any ambient conditions.

Now, let’s proceed with the main types of drill presses. Depending on particular design features, they can be divided into several classes: vertical (upright) drilling, horizontal drilling, radial arm drilling and multi-spindle options. Also, drill presses can be distinguished in terms of material to be machined. Thus, there are drill presses designed for drilling and machining of metal, wood, stones, plastic, glass, etc.

The most common upright drill presses feature a spindle with a cutting tool in a vertical arrangement, while a workpiece is placed on a working table. Machining of the workpiece is carried out by its moving around the table. Vertical drill presses are mainly used for drilling and machining of small stock. They are widely used in equipment maintenance workshops, small volume manufacturing facilities and for light-duty jobs.

Horizontal drill presses will be more useful for large stock machining. A workpiece is hold securely in place here, and the spindle is moving during the process. Such machines are suitable for drilling and machining of deeper holes.

Radial arm drill presses are designed to handle large stock. These machines are equipped with a movable head to run it along an arm. The latter in its term slides along the axis of a machine’s spindle. Thus, there is no need to move a workpiece, as instead the arm can be swung above the working area of a drill press.

Multi-spindle drill presses serve for making or machining of stock with multiple holes. These machines are offered both with fixed and removable spindles.

Key features to be considered when selecting a drill press | Buyer’s Guide

Output power. This parameter directly influences performance and energy consumption of a drill press. So, when looking for a particular option, mind the output power which is generally defined in horsepower. It is quite logically that higher value is better. A model with a powerful motor commonly comes with a variable speed control. Thus, you can make power setting from lower to higher values, depending on a particular task. Less powerful press drills are limited here. The most common models feature ½ HP and ¾ HP motor. Accordingly, you should prefer the latter, on the basis of the above-mentioned arguments. However, if you intend to use your machine for household purposes on an occasional basis, than less powerful models would be more than suitable for you.

Drilling capacity. This parameter depends on a diameter of a drill press bit. The latter, in its turn, is determined by a size of a chuck which can accept it. Thus, it is one of the most important features, which is to be considered when selecting a drill press. You should prefer those models accepting various drilling bits depending on a specific application.

Variable speed. This parameter will also define the drilling capacity of a drill press avoiding the risk of damage both to a workpiece and a tool itself. 2 or more speed settings allow adjusting rotations per minute which is highly relevant when dealing with different materials. The most advanced models obligatory come with a variable speed control, thus making them highly versatile tools.

RPM. Different jobs call for different rotations of a drill press.  Besides, a tool that runs constantly on its maximum capacity is low efficient and doomed to early wear. That is why if your machine features a variable speed control, mind that higher RPMs will be suitable for soft materials, like wood, etc. Lower RPMs have to be selected when drilling hard materials.

Drilling depth. This parameter should be obligatory considered before you get a drill press, as it determined the depth of penetration of a bit through various materials. The maximum depth capacity is determined by a vertical travel of a drill spindle. In particular, a 4-inch drilling capacity is more than enough to successfully machine most hard materials like metal or concrete.

Maximum bit diameter. Maximum bit diameter determines the maximum drilling capacity, in terms of hole diameter. It mainly depends on power and RPM settings of a particular model. As a rule, the diameter of a bit can vary from ¼ up to ¾ inches and even more.

Spindle travel. This parameter determines the maximum distance between the working table and spindle front face. In other words, it is a maximum height of a workpiece to be machined by this drill press. The height of cutting tools is not considered here.

Trusted brands

As the majority of all drill presses available on the market belong to the industrial-grade equipment, they must demonstrate warranted quality and durability for a vast variety of jobs. In this regard, you can rely on the recognizable manufacturers with a strong reputation of the worthy trusted brands. I’ve made up my own list of so called “giants” in this field.

Delta - a company with a big experience in the industry, the history of which started back in the U.S. in 1919. Their range of woodworking equipment is quite impressive. Some of the most demanded tools include scroll saws, drilling presses, jointers, angle grinders, etc. Their equipment always represents state-of-the art technologies. Thus, they meet the demands in professional and home-based fields of application.

Dewalt – a brand which needs no introductions. With almost 100 years on the market, DeWalt has been associated with quality and reliability.  DeWalt power tools and accessories are preferred by millions of customers around the globe, and this number is still growing in spite of a high price range.

Ryobi - another highly-recognizable brand on the U.S., although having an Asian origin. The company offers innovative power tools and outdoor products at comparatively affordable prices.   Their drill presses are not an exception from the “value-for-money rule”.

Jet – a company offering a full range of woodworking and metalworking equipment, including heavy-duty industrial models for challenging projects.  Their first tools were introduced on the U.S. market back in 1958. Since that time they have been turned into one of the leading manufacturers of woodworking, metalworking, warehouse and lifting equipment and hand tools.

Grizzly Industrial – a newcomer on the market with less than 40 years of experience.  However, it already offers a large variety of reliable machines and tools for woodworking and metalworking industries, and home-based applications. Besides, a number of its customers is growing with each day.

Porter Cable – another highly recognizable American company that specializes in manufacturing of power tools for household applications. Being designed for regular customers, their products are of solid performance and reliability at budget-friendly prices.

Best drill presses

1. DEWALT DWE1622K

Dewalt, one of the leaders in manufacturing and selling of woodworking and metalworking equipment, has almost 100-year experience in the industry. Nowadays, their products are highly estimated by regular customers and professionals worldwide.

The DWE1622K magnetic drill press is a bright example of innovations and performance granted by the company. This model features a 10 amp motor with 2-speed settings and up to 450 RPM which ensure its suitability for various jobs and materials. This drill press is equipped with an electronic overload protection system to prevent an early wear of the motor and its components. Besides, the motor height can be regulated. Due to this, bigger number of accessories can be accepted.

The drilling depth of this tool amounts to 4". Thus, it offers maximum capacity even for heavy duty applications.

This compact unit has magnetic auto-feed cooling tank which allows cooling down a cutting tool and a workpiece to enhance accuracy and safety.  More than that, the tool is delivered with a number of spares and accessories which are included in its kit box.

Features

• Design: Magnetic portable
• No-load speed, Max (RPM):  450
• Drilling depth (inch): 4
• Weight (lbs): 47.6
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 22.4 x 6.5 x 19.3

Pros: Powerful motor Overload protection Tool-free chuck changing High drilling capacity Compact design

Cons: 2-speed setting only Quite expensive

This model features both durability and high performance in a compact design. It is suitable for a big variety of jobs, even the most challenging in terms of thickness and hardness of materials to be machined. Besides, being a portable tool, it can be carried from one site to another easily and with no delays for transferring and handling operations.

DEWALT: Check the current price

2. SHOP FOX W1669

The SHOP FOX belongs to the Woodstock International, a well-known supplier of woodworking and metalworking equipment and tools on the global market. They have a wide range of equipment capable to satisfy the needs of professionals and DIYers with its overall quality and reliability.

The Shop Fox W1669 benchtop radial drill press is a strong argument to the above-mentioned. It has been developed in a sturdy design under a rigid quality control.

This model features a 5 Amp motor which is capable of generating 1/2 HP output. The W1669 can boast its variable speed control with 5 settings available. Thus, it will be the most versatile and handy drill press of any craftsman in his shop.

This drill press can machine wide workpieces up to 34-inch in diameter due to its large 90-degree tilting cast iron table.  The headstock can be slid in and out, thus increasing the distance between the drill chuck and the column up to 17-inches. More than that, the headstock can be tilted from 45-degrees clockwise to 90-degrees counterclockwise. This feature allows drilling holes at a particular angle.  Besides, a repeating straight hole drilling is possible without repositioning of a workpiece after each hole. Finally, this model comes with the safety features like an oversized paddle switch for an urgent power off with no hassles.

Features

• Design: Radial arm benchtop
• No-load speed, Max (RPM):
• Drilling depth (inch): 3-1/4
• Weight (lbs): 96.5
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 35.7 x 18 x 12.7

Pros: 5-speed settings Adjustable height and angle Sturdy design Adjustable headstock Tilting table Ergonomic safety switch

Cons: Round table can be inconvenient for some applications A bit heavy for a portable unit

This model is a guarantee of a long-term service life due to its robust design. This portable workbench features an enlarged functionality of a machine for residential purposes like home-based improvements or repair. All this makes it well worth the cost.

Shop Fox W1669: Check the current price

3. WEN 4214

First of all, the WEN 4214 benchtop drill press can be distinguished with its large tilting working table among other models I have already reviewed.

A 5 Amp induction motor delivers 1/2 HP output which is sufficient for household and professional-grade drilling tasks. This model features a mechanical speed control from 580 up to 3200 RPM with a similar torque at all speeds. The depth capacity makes 3-1/8" with an ability to maintain linear depth for accurate and repeatable drilling operations.

An integrated light illuminates your workpiece enhancing accuracy and safety of operation. Besides, this model features an onboard laser light for making precision of your work just perfect.

Features

• Design: Vertical benchtop
• No-load speed, Max (RPM): 3200
• Drilling depth (inch): 3-1/8
• Weight (lbs): 89
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 13.5 x 36.6 x 16.8

Pros: Variable speed control Large tilting table Depth adjustment gauge On-board key storage Integrated light and laser

Cons: There’s particular concern regarding drilling of hard and thick metal stock

This drill press is an exceptional value for DIY jobs or light-duty production. The set of user-friendly features, the quality of the materials used,  make it quite beneficial when comparing with more expensive alternatives.

WEN: Check the current price

4. SHOP FOX W1667

It is another worthy model from Shop Fox to which I would like to draw your closer attention.

This benchtop oscillating drill press is a compact unit which can be placed on a special frame or support. It represents a combination of a drill press and an oscillating sander which can be used depending on a target to be obtained with this machine.

The W1667 features a ½ HP motor. It has 5-speed settings ensuring possibility to vary from 620 up to 3100 RPM.

Along with a 1/2-inch drill chuck and 1-5/8-inch spindle travel, this tool comes with a removable safety key to avoid occasional starts. Besides, it is possible to preset a drilling depth by means of a special scale.

This drill press has a unique feature. In particular, it has a spindle that can be used both for drillings and sanding with special drums.  Besides, the spindle is oscillating during sanding process, thus enhancing the quality of a finishing surface and a lifetime of abrasive accessories.  More than that, this model has an integrated dust port which can be cleaned with your vacuum by connecting its hose to a port.

Features

• Design: Oscillating spindle benchtop
• No-load speed, Max (RPM): 3100
• Drilling depth (inch): 1-5/8
• Weight (lbs): 51
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 10.5 x 18 x 13.7

Pros: Powerful motor Tilting table Versatility Oscillating spindle which can be used for drilling and sanding  Variable speed control Drilling depth can be preset Affordable price

Cons: Made of cheap materials Drum kit has to be purchased separately

This special oscillating unit makes a combination of drilling and sanding capacity with the same footprint. Thus, this machine should be obligatory considered among other options to deal with light industrial or home-based projects.

Shop Fox W1667: Check the current price

5. GENESIS GDP1005A

According to the manufacturer this drill press was made in China but under a rigid control and specifications of the Genesis brand.

The GDP1005A features a 4.1 amp motor which ensures sufficient performance for various projects. A variable speed control with 5 settings makes it capable of machining various materials up to 2-inch thickness. The larger 5/8" chuck increases the possibility to tackle plenty of DIY projects as it can accept larger bits.

This model features a movable table that rotates 360 degrees and tilts 0-45 degrees. The height of the table can be easily adjusted by means of a rack-and-pinion mechanism depending on particular demands.

The unit comes with such user-friendly feature like an adjustable depth limit which will stop a spindle at a desired height, thus facilitating control over the processes and contributing to the accuracy of any job. Its built-in light is designed to sufficiently illuminate the working area.  More than that, this model has a smaller footprint which is awesome in a limited workspace.

Features

• Design: Vertical benchtop
• No-load speed, Max (RPM): 3070
• Drilling depth (inch): 2
• Weight (lbs): 52
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 23 x 10.5 x 17

Pros: Variable speed control Large 5/8-inch chuck Powerful 4.1 amp motor Rotational and tilting table Compact design Integrated work light Required tools are included Affordable price

Cons: Capable of handling light-duty jobs only Higher noise level during operation

The Genesis GDP1005A is able to demonstrate competitive accuracy, performance, and price among other counterparts in its class. And as this model meets all crucial conditions of a light-duty drill press, hence you should surely consider this option to be purchased for your workshop.

Genesis: Check the current price

6. GENERAL INTERNATIONAL DP2003

The General International company was originated in Canada as a manufacturer of woodworking equipment. Nowadays they produce woodworking and metalworking machinery at their manufacturing facilities in several countries, the majority of which are located in China.

This model features a 4,6 Amp motor which delivers 2/3 HP output. The model comes with 16 speed settings up to 4220 RPM. This feature makes this machine capable of cutting through any stock up to 3-1/8-inch depth. The drilling capacity makes 5/8 inches. The accuracy of a drilling process is ensured by an integrated laser. Besides, convenience of operation is also enhanced by a built-in light which illuminates properly the working table. The latter can be adjusted by its tilting up to 45 degrees and changing its height allowing you drilling desired number of holes at a particular angle without stock repositioning.

Other useful features of this drill press are safety switch with a removable security key and a safety guard for a chuck.

Features

• Design: Vertical floor standing
• No-load speed, Max (RPM): 4220
• Drilling depth (inch): 3-1/8
• Weight (lbs): 110
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 12 x 64 x 26

Pros: Variable speed control with 16 settings Large 5/8-inch chuck capacity Large tilting working table Sturdy design Safety features Laser and LED light

Cons: Being a household purpose equipment it doesn’t offer portability with its stationary design Made-in-China fact can become a particular concern for some customers

This drill press would be an awesome choice if you plan to deal with various workloads in your shop. Overall, in spite of the DP2003 features the power and functionality of professional-grade equipment, it will be highly suitable for home use, as well.

General International: Check the current price

7. SE 97511MDP

The SE 97511MDP mini drill press is designed for small projects. It comes with a 100 Watt motor which quite powerful for a tool in this class. The unit features 3 variable speed settings with up to 8500 RPM. The depth capacity makes 1 inch and a chuck size equals to 6 mm. This feature contributes to drilling of high precision holes. Making of delicate cuts will be especially relevant for jewelry and woodworking fields of application.

Features

• Design: Mini benchtop
• No-load speed, Max (RPM): 8500
• Drilling depth (inch): 1
• Weight (lbs): 2.2
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 20.5 x 13.1 x 17.1

Pros: Variable speed control Powerful motor for a small unit Easy in use Light-weight Compact Affordable price

Cons: Suitable for light-duty jobs only

This mini drill press is a real catch among other portable drill presses offering an extra accuracy and power for the most sophisticated fields of application like jewelry, woodcraft, etc. Besides, its ultra-compact design makes it one of the best convenient and portable options in its class.

SE: Check the current price

Best-Selling Drill Presses | Comparison Table

FAQ

What is a drill press?

A drill press is a machine which serves for drilling holes in stock from various materials. The functionality of the modern models make them suitable for other technological operations apart from drilling, like counter boring, sanding, threading, etc. A standard drill press consists of a spindle with an integrated chuck for a drilling bit; a drilling head with a motor and gear; a supporting column; and a massive base to be mounted on a floor or placed on some supporting surface.

How to remove drill press chuck?

Removal of a chuck shall be carried out in case of its malfunction, damage or excessive wear, that is, in all cases when it is necessary to replace it. Incorrect replacement of a chuck may lead to a serious damage of a drill press. That is why you should follow the below-mentioned procedure to remove a chuck correctly and quickly. Nowadays, the modern drill presses are delivered with a special tool for this purpose. Besides, it can be purchased separately. By using this tool, you shall follow the next steps:

• The power of a drill press shall be switched off
• The working table shall be adjusted at a height minimizing the risk of chuck damage in case of its falling down
• The replacement tool shall be inserted in a special slot of a spindle shaft
• Slightly hit the tool with a hammer until the chuck is released.

Read more about drill presses: Best drill presses for metal