Odds are, you probably already have a drill, so why should you invest in a drill press?
For starters, a drill press is far more accurate than a handheld drill. Perfect for carrying out repetitive drilling operations, a drill press will allow you to complete woodworking projects more efficiently and with greater precision.
The best drill press for woodworking will depend on the type of work you want to do. For example, if you typically take on large projects that require more height capacity, a floor drill press might be a better choice for you than a benchtop drill press.
We have put together our favorite drill press reviews and go over each of the models in our roundup below, but for those of you in a hurry here is a quick comparison of the drill presses in our review:
To help you choose the right tool for your specific needs, we’ve reviewed the five best drill presses for woodworking available.
1. WEN 4214 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press
The WEN 12-inch variable speed drill press is ideal for the home handyman looking to improve the accuracy and precision of their work. The drill delivers equal torque throughout its entire speed range, which can be set anywhere between 580 and 3200 RPMs.
For additional accuracy, a spindle travel of 3-1/8” with a locking linear depth stop lets you repeat the same exact drilling operation as many times as you need to.
The adjustable cast iron worktable measures 9-1/2 x 9-1/2”, and a table roller extension adds up to 17 inches of support for the piece you’re working on. Other features include a 5/8-inch keyed chuck, cast iron base, and beveling worktable.
Reasons to buy:
- Easy assembly: This variable speed drill press practically comes ready to use right out of the box. With easy-to-follow instructions, assembly is a breeze – you can have it up and running in less than 20 minutes.
- Mechanical variable speed: The WEN’s variable speed feature makes it easy to adjust the drill’s speed without having to manually move belts. With the turn of a lever, you can target an exact speed between 580 and 3200 RPMs and see the number displayed on the digital LED readout.
- Laser precision: A bright onboard work light and accurate laser ensure maximum drilling precision.
- Powerful motor: The WEN’s 5 amp induction motor can handle a variety of materials with ease, including wood, metal, and glass.
Possible concerns:
- Manual tilt adjustment: To tilt the table, you’ll need to manually loosen a nut. While the drill comes with a wrench for this purpose, some people find this extra step to be an annoyance, especially if you need to change the angle frequently.
- Infinitely variable speed ranges from 580-3200 RPMS. Mechanical variable speed delivers equal torque throughout the range. LED read out displays speed.
- Spindle Travel of 3-1/8" with easy to read, locking linear depth stop for accurate and repeatable drilling operations. Front to the back of the motor is 22 inches
- Quill diameter of 2.17 inches. Durable 2/3hp induction motor develops ample torque and power. Motor: 120 V, 60 Hz. Laser Module: Class III
- 9-1/2 x 9-1/2" cast iron worktable features rack & pinion height adjustment and bevels up to 45 Degree left & right. Width with the handles: 14-1/2"
- Includes drill press, mechanical variable speed, laser, table roller extension, 5/8" keyed chuck & key, tools for assembly.Drill press Height from the Floor to the top: 37 inch
2. DEWALT DWE1622K 2-Speed Magnetic 2-Inch Drill Press
The DEWALT DWE1622K 2″ 2-Speed Magnetic Drill Press features a 10 amp motor with 2-speed settings that provide optimal performance in a variety of applications. This press has overload protection electronics that prevent motor damage and excess accessory wear designed for long life.
A Quick Change chuck system allows for tool-free change between 3/4″ Weldon Shank and 1/2″ keyed chuck, and the Quick Release feed handles provide a tool-free change of handles to either side of the tool.
The magnetic self-feed cooling tank of this woodworking drill press allows the user to regulate the flow of cooling fluid and can be placed on either side of the tool or on a work surface to allow for a variety of tool orientations.
The 4″ drill travel offers maximum capacity for heavy-duty applications, along with a motor height adjustment that gives a greater range of accessory compatibility. Includes DWE1622 Drill Press, a safety chain, height adjustment tool, Quick-change 1/2-in keyed chuck, and a kit box.
Reasons to buy:
- Power and speed:10-Amp motor, 2-speed settings, no-load speed, 300/450 rpm
- Convenient and easy operation: Quick Change chuck system. Quick Release feed handles for a tool-free change. A magnetic coolant bottle can be placed on either side of the tool or a work surface
- High accuracy: Drillpoint Pressure @ 1/2″ Steel Plate
- Safety features: Overload protection electronics which prevent motor damage
Possible concerns:
- Design and build fault: You can start the drill without the magnet being stuck which is a safety hazard
- 10 amp motor, 2-speed settingsl ;No Load Speed : 300/450 rpm
- Overload protection electronics which prevent motor damage
- Quick Change chuck system. Drillpoint Pressure @ 1/2" Steel Plate (12mm) : 741 pounds
- Magnetic coolant bottle can be placed on either side of tool or on a work surface
- 4-3/8 inch Drill travel offers maximum capacity for heavy duty applications
3. Performance Tool W50005 5 Speed 1/3-HP Bench Top Drill Press
The Performance Tool W50005 5-Speed 1/3-Horsepower Bench Top Drill Press has a fully-adjustable machined table that tilts 45 degrees left and right. The 1/3 hp motor drives speeds of 620, 1100, 1720, 2340, and 3100 RPM. Ideal for drilling metal, plastic, and wood, it comes with a 1/2″ spring-loaded chuck with a protective guard and a 2-1/2″ vise.
Made of cast iron construction, it’s CSA approved. The Performance Tool W50005m5-Speed Bench Top Drill Press is ideal for shop and hobby use.
Reasons to buy:
- Sturdy and stable: Solidly built, the Performance Tool drill press is stable and drills smoothly. Sitting perfectly flat, the table doesn’t move side to side at all.
- High accuracy: Fully adjustable machined table tilts 45 degrees left and right.
- Adjustable speeds: The 1/3 hp motor drives speeds of 620, 1100, 1720, 2340, and 3100 RPM.
Possible concerns:
- Accuracy:The drill bit wanders significantly on down press
- Ideal for shop and hobby use
- Drills metal, plastic and wood
- 1/2-Inch Spring loaded chuck with protective guard and 2-1/2-Inch Vise
- Fully adjustable machined table tilts 45 Degree left and right
- Cast iron construction CSA Approved
4. WEN 4210 Drill Press with Laser, 10-Inch
The WEN 4210 packs some of the best features of a large industrial floor drill press into a compact, 10-inch benchtop drill press. You can choose from five speeds between 600 and 3100 RPM to drill holes as deep as 2-1/2 inches.
The WEN’s 7-5/8” x 7-5/8” cast iron worktable is sturdy and easy to adjust by crank to whatever height you need. Other useful features include a work light, laser, and storage for the key to the ½-inch chuck.
This floor standing drill press is a bit large for a shop bench, but after you use it you’ll probably decide that the WEN 4210 is an essential piece of equipment for your workbench.
Reasons to buy:
- Sturdy base: With a base made from solid cast iron, the unit is solid and sturdy enough so that the drill press runs smoothly and quietly.
- Accurate depth stop: The depth stop is accurate and easy to use, always hitting solidly at the set depth.
- Convenience: The WEN 4210 drill press is incredibly simple to set up and start using. Very little assembly is required, and even manually adjusting the belt to change the speed of the drill is a quick and painless process.
Possible concerns:
- Laser adjustment: Out of the box, the laser is not accurately adjusted to the contact point. Keep in mind that you’ll need to manually adjust it before you start working.
- Includes: drill press, class II 1mW laser, 1/2" keyed chuck & key, tools for assembly
- Adjust between five speeds from 600 to 3100 RPM
- Spindle travel of 2-1/2” with easy to read, locking linear depth stop for accurate and repeatable drilling operations
- Durable 3.2-amp motor provides ample torque and power
- 7-5/8 x 7-5/8" cast iron worktable features rack & pinion height adjustment and bevels up to 45 degrees left & right
5. WEN 4208 8 in. 5-Speed Drill Press
The WEN 4208 is a great simple bench drill press at an extremely affordable price. Don’t underestimate its small size – this little press packs a pretty decent punch. The 120 volt, 60 Hz motor delivers consistently smooth performance even at the highest speed setting.
You can tackle a variety of different projects and materials with the WEN’s five adjustable speeds that range from 740 to 3140 RPM. The 6-1/2 x 6-1/2” adjustable worktable tilts 45 degrees left or right, giving you extra flexibility.
This is a portable drill press with built-in key storage for the WEN’s ½-inch keyed chuck, you’ll never have to worry about losing it ever again.
Reasons to buy:
- Great price: Priced under $100, the WEN combines affordability with quality, making it perfect for homeowners and hobbyists who need a drill press for light-duty wood and metal work.
- Compact design: Measuring just 7.5 x 22.9 x 11 inches, this drill press is incredibly easy to move and store, making it the perfect solution for smaller workspaces. And unlike a bulky floor drill press that takes time to set up, this handy little press is always ready to go.
- Durability: For a small benchtop drill press, the WEN is surprisingly tough. Made from solid high-quality metal, it will last you much longer than a drill press made with cheap plastic.
Possible concerns:
- Top-heavy: This particular WEN model is slightly top-heavy. To prevent it from moving around while you work, you’ll need to bolt this drill press to your workbench before you start.
- Includes a 1/2-inch keyed chuck and onboard key storage
- Operates at 5 different speeds: 740, 1100, 1530, 2100, 3140 RPM
- Spindle travels up to 2 inches with easy to read, locking linear depth stops for accurate and repeatable drilling operations.Cord Length (ft.):6
- Durable 1/3 HP induction motor develops ample torque and power
- 6-1/2 x 6-1/2" worktable is height adjustable and bevels up to 45 degrees left & right
Drill Press Video
Here is a YouTube video explaining the basics of using a drill press:
Take Your Woodworking to the Next Level
We hope that our reviews help you find the best drill press for woodworking that meets your unique needs. Just remember that no matter what type of drill press you end up choosing, you can always expect higher accuracy, efficiency, and precision from this powerful tool.
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Buying Guide: What to Look For
Being on the hunt for the best floor-standing drill presses is extremely frustrating. The best benchtop drill press or floor drill press will be able to drill cylindrical holes into pieces of wood. Sounds simple right? But not all drill presses are accurate, nor are they easy to use.
It is important that a benchtop drill press has accurate drilling and doesn’t take up all of the room on your work table, leaving you some space to move around the work surface. These power tools are dangerous if they are not used correctly, and because of this, it is important to find the best drill press for your needs.
Before buying a jet drill press, we recommend following this buying guide so that you know exactly what to look out for in the best benchtop drill press and what features are important.
We hope our buying guide helps you choose the right woodworking drill presses for you.
Purpose
A drill press is a stationary power tool that is placed either on a drill press table or on the floor. It is designed to drill precise holes into metal and wood. Drill presses are made of mostly metal and have a strong and robust metal drill.
You need to think about the type of jobs you will be completing with your floor drill presses. Are you going to be needing it for heavy-duty drilling? Is it going to be used on a regular basis?
Understanding the frequency of use and what material you will be drilling the most will help you with your purchase.
Features
In order for the drill press to have precision drilling abilities and be an overall long-lasting and handy piece of equipment, it should have all or most of the following features;
1. Laser guides
Not all drill presses come with laser guides already attached to the drill; however, high-quality drill presses will allow for laser guides to be attached to the drill press.
Laser guides help you access your workpiece accurately. They ensure that holes are drilled in the desired location as precisely as possible.
Some drill presses are equipped with an LED light, which will help you much like a laser guide. Most high-quality and modern drill presses have either one of these features.
2. Speed settings
As you can imagine, metal, wood, and plastic will all require different drilling speeds and pressure to drill through the material. Drill presses should have at least three drill speeds; low, medium, and high.
The first speed setting is appropriate for driving screws as it has low speed and high torque; the second setting is brilliant at driving as it has medium speed and torque.
Finally, the third setting should be used to drive fasteners. A sharp drill press will be able to work at high speeds and low speeds and get from 0 to a speed of 3050 rpm without struggling.
3. Metal drill bit
If you need to drill through tough metals such as steel, regular drill bits will not have the ability to do so. Ensure that the drill press you wish to buy is compatible with the drill bits you require for your upcoming projects.
4. Adjustable depth stop
Drill presses have adjustable depth stops that help you drill to the depth you require. Some drill presses have such fussy and hard to set depth stops that users don’t even bother trying to set the depth.
Make sure that the adjustable depth stop on the drill press that you are looking into is easy to control and runs smoothly.
Do not overestimate the importance of a smooth adjustable depth stop as it will make a huge difference in the finish of your work. Read what other customers have to say about the adjustable depth stop of the drill press you are interested in.
5. Base
Cast iron bases are the most sought after when it comes to drill press bases. Some heavy materials will damage flimsy drill press bases, so going for a sturdy and durable base is essential.
Drill Press Size
Benchtop drill presses come in an array of sizes. If you are unsure which size you need, always go for a drill press that is on the larger size. Small jobs can be done on a large drill press, but large jobs can not be performed on small drill presses; therefore, you should go a size up.
Budget
Drill presses can be purchased at prices as low as $100, or at prices as high as $1,000. That is why setting yourself a budget is essential to prevent you from getting carried away.
Obviously, a $100 drill press will not have all of the required features to complete professional jobs, so that is why understanding what drill press features are important to you is crucial.
Power
Regardless of whether your drill press is for home improvements or professional use, you want it to be as powerful as possible. The more powerful a drill press is, the easier it drills through every material. Look out for how much horsepower a drill press has to understand how powerful it is. ⅓ HP is a respectable horsepower rating.
A powerful drill press will have variable speed settings and speed ranges so that you have more control over the drilling. Power and speed often come together when it comes to power tools.
Safety
There are plenty of safety rules surrounding power tools in general, and drill presses are no exception. You should never run a drill press above or below the recommended RPM for the drill bit, and the drill bit should always be appropriate for the material you are drilling. Here are a few more safety rules that you should follow:
- You must clamp your work securely to the drill table. Failing to do so could result in your work becoming damaged, or worse, you getting injured.
- Brush off chips and sand down uneven bits of wood or metal.
- Lower the drilling pressure and speed as you progress. When the drill is close to the other end of the material, slow the drill right down.
- Cleaning the machine regularly is extremely important, but it should never be done while the drill press is on.
- Inspect the drills for any cracks before drilling. If the drill is cracked or dull, remove and replace it.
- Once the drill press is turned off, the drill will keep turning until it eventually comes to a full stop. You should never try and stop the drill, as this will seriously injure you. Instead, let the drill stop on its own.
- Some plastics are incredibly brittle and hard to drill. These plastics require special drill bits and coolants in order to keep the material intact. If you are faced with drilling such plastics, ask for assistance and advice.
Of course, there are many more safety steps and procedures to perform when working with a drill press. The above are only a handful, and great care should always be taken when using a drill press.
Size and Weight
Is the drill press going to stay stationary in a workshop, or do you need to take it with you to job sites? Size and weight are almost as important as performance as they affect how easy and convenient the drill press is for you to move and use.
FAQ
Q: What is a drill press good for?
A: Drill presses are benchtop power tools that are designed to drill precise holes into wood, metal, and other materials. They are known for their precision and help get work completed faster than manual drilling.
Q: What is the best benchtop drill press?
A: The Delta 18-900l is one of the best drill presses on the market. It has a built-in laser and other high-quality features.
Q: What is a quill lock on a drill press?
A: The quill lock is situated on the side of the drill press. It is a rather simple feature and essentially allows you to lower the drill onto the wood or metal. Once the drill has been lowered, it can be locked in place.
Q: Can a drill press be used as a mortiser?
A: yes, it can be!
Q: What speed should I drill Steel?
A: The recommended SFM for steel is between 40-50 SFM.
Q: What are the safety rules for using a drill press?
A: There are lots of safety precautions to take when using a drill press. We have covered a few of them in the above safety section.
Q: What is the most important drill press feature?
A: An easily accessible ‘on/off’ button is probably the most important feature for safety and ease of use.
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