Best Drill Press | Reviews of Top Tools Compared

Portable drills are powerful, but a drill press drills straight, repeatable holes at a set depth. That accuracy is hard to match by hand.

Below are ten drill presses, from small benchtop models to floor-standing machines, plus one magnetic drill for metal.

OUR TOP PICK

Our top pick is the WEN 4208 8-Inch 5-Speed Drill Press. This drill press is very easy to use and it comes at an affordable price. It offers five speed settings, has an induction motor, and weighs only 30 pounds.

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The Best Drill Presses Are…

Drill presses look alike, but build quality varies a lot. These are the options we think are worth the money.

Product	Details
1. WEN 4208 8-Inch 5-Speed Drill Press	1. WEN 4208 8-Inch 5-Speed Drill Press Top Pick	- Speed: 5-Speed 740 - 3,140 RPM - Spindle Travel: 2 Inches - Power: 1/3 HP - Power Source: Electric-Powered - Weight: 30 pounds	Check Current Price
2. Dewalt DW1622K 2-Speed Magnetic Drill Press, 2-Inch	2. Dewalt DW1622K 2-Speed Magnetic Drill Press, 2-Inch	- Speed: 300/450 RPM - Spindle Travel: 4-3/8 Inches - Power: 10 Amps - Power Source: Electric-Powered - Weight: 47.6 pounds	Check Current Price
3. SKIL 3320-01 3.2 Amp 10-Inch Drill Press	3. SKIL 3320-01 3.2 Amp 10-Inch Drill Press	- Speed: 5-Speed 570 – 3,050 RPM - Swing: 10 Inches - Power: 3.2 Amps - Power Source: Electric-Powered - Weight: 50.8 pounds	Check Current Price
4. JET J-2530 15-Inch ¾ HP Bench Model Drill Press	4. JET J-2530 15-Inch ¾ HP Bench Model Drill Press	- Speed: 16-Speed 200 – 3,630 RPM - Spindle Travel: 3-1/8 Inches - Power: 3/4 HP - Power Source: Electric-Powered - Weight: 157 pounds	Check Current Price
5. Genesis GDP805P 5-Speed 2.6 Amp 8-Inch Drill Press	5. Genesis GDP805P 5-Speed 2.6 Amp 8-Inch Drill Press	- Speed: Not Specified - Spindle Travel: 2 Inches - Power: 2.6 Amps - Power Source: Electric-Powered - Weight: 30 pounds	Check Current Price
6. WEN 4210T 10-Inch Drill Press with Laser	6. WEN 4210T 10-Inch Drill Press with Laser	- Speed: 5-Speed 600 – 3,100 RPM - Spindle Travel: 2 Inches - Power: 3.2 Amps - Power Source: Electric-Powered - Weight: 51 pounds	Check Current Price
7. Dremel 220-01 Drill Press	7. Dremel 220-01 Drill Press	- Power Source: Requires a Dremel rotary tool - Weight: 5.34 pounds	Check Current Price
8. WEN 4227 13-Amp 12-Speed Floor Standing 17-Inch Drill Press	8. WEN 4227 13-Amp 12-Speed Floor Standing 17-Inch Drill Press	- Speed: 12-Speed - Spindle Travel: 4-3/4 Inches - Power: 13 Amps - Power Source: Electric-Powered - Weight: 214 pounds	Check Current Price
9. Jet JDP-17 3/4 HP Drill Press	9. Jet JDP-17 3/4 HP Drill Press	- Speed: 210 to 3,500 RPM - Spindle Travel: 5 Inches - Power: 3/4 HP - Power Source: Electric-Powered - Weight: 198 pounds	Check Current Price
10. WEN 4214 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press	10. WEN 4214 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press	- Speed: 580 to 3,200 RPM - Spindle Travel: 3-1/8Inches - Power: 5 Amps - Power Source: Electric-Powered - Weight: 89 pounds	Check Current Price

1. WEN 4208 8-Inch 5-Speed Drill Press: Best Drill Press for Woodworking

The number one drill press on our list is the WEN 4208 8-Inch 5-Speed Drill Press. Its five speeds range from 740 to 3,140 RPM, so you can match the speed to the material and bit size.

This unit also allows you to limit your spindle travel, thanks to its locking depth adjustment. This helps you to achieve more accurate and repeatable drilling operations. The spindle of this tool travels a maximum of 2 inches.

Its 6.5 by 6.5 inch worktable bevels up to 45 degrees in both directions for angled holes. The 8-inch swing means it can drill to the center of a workpiece up to 8 inches wide.

The 1/3 HP induction motor is enough for small holes in wood and light metal. It is not built for large bits in hardwood or steel.

It has a cast iron base and table and weighs only 30 pounds, so it is easy to store. It also has onboard chuck key storage.

Specs

• Speed: 5-Speed 740 – 3,140 RPM
• Spindle Travel: 2 Inches
• Power: 1/3 HP
• Power Source: Electric-Powered
• Weight: 30 pounds

Pros

• Onboard chuck key storage
• The worktable bevels up to 45 degrees in both directions
• Five speed settings
• 1/2-inch keyed chuck

Cons

• Adjusting the speed is a little cumbersome
• Short 2 inch spindle travel

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2. Dewalt DW1622K 2-Speed Magnetic Drill Press, 2-Inch

This is a magnetic drill for steel, not a woodworking drill press. Its magnetic base clamps to steel beams and plate, so you can drill on site. It has a 10 amp motor, two speeds (300 and 450 RPM), and 4-3/8 inches of travel.

It has overload protection for the motor and a carrying case. It takes annular cutters up to 2 inches in diameter and twist bits up to 3/4 inch. A magnetic coolant bottle mounts on either side.

DeWalt’s US site no longer has a product page for the DW1622K, so it may be discontinued. Always use the safety strap on a magnetic drill in case the magnet loses grip.

Specs

• Speed: 300/450 RPM
• Spindle Travel: 4-2/8 Inches
• Power: 10 Amps
• Power Source: Electric-Powered
• Weight: 47.6 pounds

Pros

• Powerful motor with dual-speed settings
• Offers maximum capacity for heavy-duty applications
• Magnetic coolant that you can position anywhere
• Portable for on-site steel work

Cons

• It is a bit expensive
• Only works on steel; not for wood
• May be discontinued

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3. SKIL 3320-01 3.2 Amp 10-Inch Drill Press

This SKIL drill press has a cast iron base and worktable for stability.

The table is 7-5/8 inches, and the 10-inch swing lets you drill to the center of a 10-inch-wide workpiece.

This unit has a 3.2-amp motor with 5 speed settings. The speed range is from 570 RPM to 3,050 RPM. This drill press was also designed with safety in mind, as it comes with a Bump-off switch for added safety. The adjustable depth stop feature is there to provide you with accurate measurements and repetitive drilling.

This unit comes with a tilting work table, and the bevel capacity is from 0 to 45 degrees in both directions (left and right). A two-beam X laser helps line up holes. It is a good fit for occasional use around the home.

Specs

• Speed: 5-Speed 570 – 3,050 RPM
• Swing: 10 Inches
• Power: 3.2 Amps
• Power Source: Electric-Powered
• Weight: 50.8 pounds

Pros

• Adjustable surface that bevels up to 45 degrees in both directions
• 5-speed settings for more control
• A laser system helps line up holes

Cons

• Some users said that the depth stop is not reliable

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4. JET J-2530 15-Inch ¾ HP Bench Model Drill Press: Best Bench Drill Press

This drill press has 16 speed settings that range from 200 to 3,630 RPM and a 115-volt 3/4 HP single-phase motor. It has a 15-inch swing, a 5/8-inch chuck size, and a head that can swivel a full 360 degrees for maximum versatility. The 3 1/8-inch vertical stroke is spot on, and handling is easy and smooth.

You can’t operate it in reverse, but the ability to lock the quill down is a nice feature that makes up for it.

It has a cast iron head and large quill for accuracy. At 157 pounds it is heavy for a benchtop model, so make sure your bench can take it.

Specs

• Speed: 16-Speed 200 – 3,630 RPM
• Spindle Travel: 3-1/8 Inches
• Power: 3/4 HP
• Power Source: Electric-Powered
• Weight: 157 pounds

Pros

• 16 speeds cover everything from large bits to small ones
• Quill locks down
• Highly durable
• Head swivels 360 degrees for maximum woodworking versatility

Cons

• It is heavy

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5. Genesis GDP805P 5-Speed 2.6 Amp 8-Inch Drill Press

This small benchtop drill press has up to 2 inches of spindle travel. It also allows for drilling directly on the center of material that is up to 8 inches in diameter.

It is light and runs smoothly, which suits DIYers and hobbyists on a budget.

The worktable is also spacious, and it measures 6.25 inches by 6.25 inches. It comes with a 1/2-inch chuck.

This unit offers five speed settings from a 2.6-amp induction motor. Speeds are changed by moving the belt, and the pulley housing is easy to reach.

The worktable tilts up to 45 degrees.

Specs

• Speed: Not Specified
• Spindle Travel: 2 Inches
• Power: 2.6 Amps
• Power Source: Electric-Powered
• Weight: 30 pounds

Pros

• Smooth and quiet performance
• Easy-to-reach pulley housing for speed changes
• The table tilts up to 45 degrees
• Inexpensive

Cons

• Some users said the build quality needs improvements

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6. WEN 4210T 10-Inch Drill Press with Laser

This drill press includes a laser, a 1/2-inch keyed chuck and key, and the tools you need for assembly. It has 5 speeds from 600 to 3,100 RPM. The 2 inch spindle travel has a locking depth stop for repeatable holes.

It has a 3.2-amp motor and a cast iron worktable that bevels up to 45 degrees in both directions. The table has rack and pinion height adjustment, and there is onboard key storage.

The five-speed settings of this drill press are 600, 1,100, 1,700, 2400, and 3,100 rotations per minute. Its X-pattern laser marks your drill point, which helps you line up holes. For repeatable and accurate drilling operations, this unit allows you to limit your spindle travel by setting the depth adjustment lever.

Specs

• Speed: 5-Speed 600 – 3,100 RPM
• Spindle Travel: 2 Inches
• Power: 3.2 Amps
• Power Source: Electric-Powered
• Weight: 51 pounds

Pros

• An X-pattern laser to provide you with more accurate and precise drilling operations
• A versatile work table that tilts up to 45 degrees in both directions
• Onboard key storage

Cons

• It is not ideal for professional use

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7. Dremel 220-01 Drill Press

This rotary tool station gives you the benefit of a drill press on a miniature scale. You need a Dremel rotary tool for it to work.

It can tilt to drill angled holes in 15-degree increments, up to 90 degrees horizontal. It also holds the tool steady for polishing, sanding, and grinding small parts.

There is storage for bits, wrenches, and accessories, plus cord management clips. The depth markings with depth stop are also there to boost your drilling accuracy. With the onboard storage, your wrenches, drill bits, and other accessories will be safe and very easy to reach.

It also works as a flex shaft stand. Remember that it is just a workstation, so you have to supply a rotary tool, and it is designed for Dremel models.

Specs

• Power Source: Requires a Dremel rotary tool
• Weight: 5.34 pounds

Pros

• Lightweight
• Doubles as a tool holder and flex shaft stand
• Angled drilling in 15-degree steps

Cons

• You have to purchase a Dremel rotary tool for it to work as a drill press

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8. WEN 4227 13-Amp 12-Speed Floor Standing 17-Inch Drill Press

This 17-inch floor-standing drill press has a 13-amp motor and 12 belt-driven speeds. Its 4-3/4 inch spindle travel handles deep holes. You also get a built-in work light, a laser guide, and a 5/8-inch chuck.

The cast iron worktable pivots up to 45 degrees in either direction. It is an affordable step up to a floor-standing model.

It has onboard tool storage and a two-year warranty. The speed range covers softwood, hardwood, plastic, and metal.

Specs

• Speed: 12-Speed
• Spindle Travel: 4-3/4 Inches
• Power: 13 Amps
• Power Source: Electric-Powered
• Weight: 214 pounds

Pros

• 12 speeds
• Powerful 13-amp motor
• Precision laser for more accurate drills
• Flexible work light for increased visibility

Cons

• This drill press is very heavy

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9. Jet JDP-17 3/4 HP Drill Press

This is one of the largest drill presses here, with about 5 inches of spindle travel. The table is also larger, at 14×19 inches, and you have twin T-slot grooves with four slots so that you can work on virtually any project with this floor-standing model.

One-handed belt tensioning makes speed changes quick. The integrated depth stop makes repetitive drilling easy.

A built-in LED work light reduces shadows on the work.

This 17-inch drill press is durable and popular in professional shops. Speeds range from 210 to 3,500 RPM, and JET backs it with a 5-year warranty.

Specs

• Speed: 210 to 3,500 RPM
• Spindle Travel: 5 Inches
• Power: 3/4 HP
• Power Source: Electric-Powered
• Weight: 198 pounds

Pros

• Wide 210 to 3,500 RPM speed range
• Built-in work light
• One-handed belt tensioning system

Cons

• It is weighty

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10. WEN 4214 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press

This variable speed drill press comes with a table roller extension, fence, and laser guide. Speed is variable from 580 to 3,200 RPM with no belt changes.

A digital readout shows the current speed. Spindle travel is 3-1/8 inches.

It comes with a 9.5 by 9.5 inches cast-iron work table that is spacious enough to work on larger materials. The worktable also features a rack and pinion height adjustment with a bevel capacity of up to 45 degrees in both directions. The precision laser is also there to provide you with more accurate drilling operations.

Specs

• Speed: 580 to 3,200 RPM
• Spindle Travel: 3-1/8Inches
• Power: 5 Amps
• Power Source: Electric-Powered
• Weight: 89 pounds

Pros

• Easy to assemble
• Variable speed with a digital readout
• Fence and roller extension included
• Laser guide

Cons

• You need to manually loosen a nut to tilt the table

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Why Every Woodworker Deserves A Drill Press

The main reason to own a drill press is accuracy: straight holes at a consistent depth.

It offers a few other benefits too:

Added Speed

A drill press lets you set angles and depths once, then repeat them quickly.

Added Power

The motor and feed lever do the work, so drilling many holes is less tiring than with a handheld drill.

Versatility

A drill press can also run sanding drums, Forstner bits, hole saws, and plug cutters.

Some accept a mortising attachment for square holes.

Safety

Drill presses are safe when used correctly. Per Carnegie Mellon's drill press safety sheet, wear safety glasses, don't wear gloves, and tie back hair and loose clothing.

Always remove the chuck key before starting. Clamp the workpiece so it can't spin, and keep your hands away from the bit.

How To Find The Best Drill Press For Me

The modern drill press has three primary parts that must be addressed: the table and head, the column, and the base.

When looking at the base of a drill press, it must be designed in such a way that the weight of the machine and your working piece are properly supported. The base of a drill press also has pre-drilled holes that allow you to mount it to the floor or your workbench.

The column connects the base to the table and head. It is usually a hollow steel tube.

Column height sets how tall a workpiece you can fit. Floor models have much taller columns than benchtop models.

The table will then be clamped to the column. Woodworkers can move the table between the head and the base based on the working piece they have at any given moment.

Many tables have a center hole and slots for clamps. Look for a table that tilts for angled holes.

The head holds the motor, spindle, and quill. Turning the feed handle lowers the quill into the work, and a spring returns it when you let go.

Also compare swing (twice the distance from the column to the bit), spindle travel, and speed range. Slow speeds suit large bits and metal; fast speeds suit small bits in wood.

What Are The Features Of The Best Drill Presses?

There are several features that are worth looking at through the best drill press reviews. Each additional feature may add more to the final cost of the tool, but it is an investment that many woodworkers feel is worth the price.

Variable Spindle Speeds

Having several speeds available to you with your drill press will increase the number of tasks that you can complete with it. Metal components require slower speeds, while various types of wood may require medium or high speeds for a clean hole to be created.

Horsepower

You will want to purchase a drill press that comes equipped with a ¾ HP motor at minimum. Anything less than this will limit the number of woodworking projects that you will be able to complete.

Depth Stop

How far the quill is able to descend is another feature to think about. If you have repetitive drilling for your project, this feature will help you make sure that your work is consistent.

Many drill presses also come with a number of different attachments or accessories that are worth looking at. One of the must-have accessories you will want is a drill press clamp.

This will allow you to keep your working piece in place as you are using the tool. The best clamps for woodworking are not always a substitute for a drill press clamp, so keep this in mind as you shop for your drill press today.

What Will It Cost Me To Buy The Best Drill Presses?

The best drill press is going to set your budget back a little bit. Workbench drill presses tend to be the most affordable, with most models being priced at $250 or less.

You can sometimes find entry-level bench drill presses for less than $150. Your features and options may be somewhat limited with this type of drill press, but they can also be used in virtually any working space.

Floor-based drill presses are typically priced above $500, although there are some entry-level models priced below this. For this tool to work properly, it is often necessary to bolt the drill press to the floor.

It is the wiser investment for the woodworker who is creating something every day or requires ultra-consistent boring for their projects.

Conclusion

These drill press reviews will help you find the floor or bench model that best meets your needs. Life is much easier in Woodwork Nation when you own a drill press.

Make sure to pick up yours today. We have decided that overall, the best drill press is the WEN 4208 8-Inch 5-Speed Drill Press for its ease of use and low price. It is also super lightweight and very powerful.

Sources

• Drill Press Safety, Carnegie Mellon University Environmental Health & Safety
• 1910.212: General requirements for all machines, OSHA