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There are several factors that you should consider if you’re in search of the best drill presses for your workshop.
It doesn’t matter if you’re a professional contractor, homeowner, or a woodworker; the best drill press can be a great tool for you. It is a permanent fixture that you can depend on and use for just about every project.
Best drill press is a really popular tool among professionals and DIY workers alike. It can be used for various tasks and is a versatile option. However, when it comes to purchasing a new one, it can be hard for beginners.
There are so many different types of drill presses from hundreds of manufacturers – the choice is so varied that choosing the best one can be quite the task.
This article will help you find the best drill presses in the market, according to your needs.
Best Drill Press On The Market in 2021
Winner – Wen 4210T Drill Press with Laser
Benefits
The Wen drill press is a great tool for all sorts of projects. You can adjust the drill according to five speed settings – from 600 to 3100 RPM.
The spindle travel is ½-2” and has a locking linear depth function that is easy to read. This ensures that you can repeat accurate drilling operations with ease.
The powerful 3.2 amp motor is durable and has a good amount of torque. The motor is equipped with ball bearings that allow for balanced performance and an extended lifespan.
High-quality cast iron is used for the worktable, and you can easily adjust the height rack and pinion. The worktable bevels at a 45° right and left angle to make sure that you can get precisely angled holes even during tricky operations.
The rigid construction ensures that you have a reliable, sturdy, and powerful machine at your disposal.
Drawbacks
It may not be able to handle heavy-duty commercial or professional projects. It’s better for small-scale drilling operations or home-based woodworkers.
Extra Features
The different speeds are designed to break through plastic, metal, wood, and more. It has a ½ inch chuck that works well with the JT33 spindle taper.
You can limit the spindle travel by adjusting the depth lever so that you can get more accurate drilling. The X-Pattern laser in this tool is designed to lock on to any drill points.
This can reduce the risk of ruining expensive materials and the dangers of guesswork.
It comes with cast iron base and with an onboard work light that allows maximum precision and visibility while you’re working.
Buying Advice
The Wen drill ensures accuracy and efficiency during drilling operations. The drill is incredibly versatile with cast iron base – there are a lot of adjustable features, such as speed, height, angle, etc.
These features make it easier to have a wide variety of drilling applications. Its versatility ensures that it is the best tool for the money.
Runner Up – SKIL 3320-01 Drill Press
Benefits
The SKIL drill press is perfect for the woodworker who requires better precision than handheld drills can offer.
This tool has laser precision, which means that you achieve consistency every single time. The X2 2-Beam Laser and the depth adjustment level create precise alignment capabilities in the material.
The five speeds of the machine give you a nice degree of control over the drilling and increase the versatility of the product.
The 570 to 3,050 RPM speeds help you cut even, clean holes through plastic, wood, metal, and other materials. You’ll be able to work with bigger diameter bits while cutting and woodworking since the 3320 press tool can easily manage them.
The instructions and manual are easy to understand, which is why even a complete novice will have no issues setting it up.
Drawbacks
There aren’t many drawbacks to this tool since it’s affordable and reliable.
However, some people have found that the AA batteries on the laser guiding system may need to be replaced quite soon.
The company ships the product with extra AA batteries, so this shouldn’t be a huge problem for you.
Extra Features
The worktable rotates at a 45-degree angle, which gives you greater access to the materials you’re working with.
You can lock the press at any angle between 0-45 degrees, according to your preference. The sturdy, cast iron base can handle long-term use without any issues. The ½-inch chuck can handle larger bits too.
Buying Advice
This press tool comes with a cast iron base and with a limited 3-year warranty, which can be reassuring.
You can use it for weekend woodworking or large scale building and furniture projects without worrying about the quality of the work produced. This versatile tool can be used for all sorts of projects.
Alternative – EURO-TOOL Benchtop Drill Press DRL- 300.00
Benefits
The Euro Tool Small Bench Top is an efficient and durable product that’s great for a contractor or DIY enthusiast.
This affordable tool allows uninterrupted and regular drilling, making sure that you stay consistent on each of your projects.
This lightweight drill only weighs around 12 pounds and has a compact size. This is probably the smallest press tool you can find on the market, making it the perfect tool for smaller, cramped workspaces.
The lightweight nature of the tool also increases its portability, which is perfect for contractors that need to move the machine from one place to another, depending on the project.
This press tool has variable speed control up to 8,500 RPM. You can easily adjust the speed using the knob on the machine. The small base can be bolted to the workbench and is stable enough to handle drilling.
Drawbacks
The drill isn’t suitable for heavy-duty work, such as drilling thick or hard materials. Such operations can actually break the machine or cause it to overheat.
Extra Features
The small size means that you can save a lot of space on the workbench, and the material used is pretty durable.
The spindle is fixed, and you can mount the machine on any surface easily. The controls are straightforward and easy to use.
The motor is efficient and can reach high speeds really easily. You can choose between three-speed settings, which makes it easier to select optimal speeds every time. The ¼-inch chuck can accept up to 6.5” bits.
Buying Advice
The tool comes with a one year warranty that is great for buyers. It is also the most affordable out of all the machines mentioned on this list.
If you need a lightweight and compact drill press with cast iron base, this is the best benchtop tool for you.
The machine is very easy to operate and has straightforward controls, so even a novice can use it with ease.
Alternative – Rikon 30-140 Bench Top Radial Drill Press
Benefits
The Rikon Radial drill press is a great tool, according to drill press reviews online. This top-rated tool is perfect for small to medium applications.
The head tilts back and forth, which can be used for a variety of different tasks. It ensures accurate and clean results at every angle. The head can move 90 degrees to the left and 45 degrees to the right.
The tool allows you to tackle all sorts of board widths with ease. The high adjustability means that the drill has a high drilling capacity.
The 3/8” spindle travel gives users control over their drilling, which ensures that you can have consistent and precise holes every time. The easy clutch depth stop makes it easy to set the drill at the right cutting depth. It even locks so that you can do repetitive drilling.
This tool has an M-T2 spindle taper that ensures that you can easily replace any chuck arbors you use.
Drawbacks
The Rikon Benchtop drill press has a lot of moving parts. If you’re planning on buying this drill press, you should be aware of its functions so that you can utilize them properly.
Extra Features
The drill press has a powerful 1/3 HP motor that ensures robust efficiency in all sorts of drilling operations. The five-speed variations between 620 and 3,100 RPM make it easier to tackle materials like metal, wood, plastic, and others.
The stable base has a solid construction that can hold any component securely. The rotating table is supported by the base and can take on a variety of stock sizes.
The machine is a heavy and solid tool that’s easy to assemble as well.
Buying Advice
If you want a press tool for home woodworking or small commercial use, the Rikon press is perfect for you. It has a 2 Year warranty and the instructions for assembly are really easy to follow too.
The tough construction makes it a long-lasting tool.
Alternative – Genesis GDP1005A Drill Press
Benefits
The Genesis can handle any large drilling projects that you have planned. It is the best tool for the money since it is affordable and highly functional.
The drill has a really large chuck, which is able to fit all sorts of bigger bits for heavy-duty drilling. The powerful 4.1 amp motor helps you drill through any plastic or wood materials seamlessly.
The integrated light makes it easier to work in darker workspaces. The convenient machine has five speed variations that give you a higher degree of control over your work.
The compact machine is easy to store in any workshop, even if it’s small and cramped. The access pulleys on the belt mechanism make it an efficient machine to use.
The sturdy quality construction and easy assembly make it one of the best drill presses in the market.
Drawbacks
It lacks depth adjustment and laser precision, which is why professional woodworkers or contractors may not want this item.
The motor is also not powerful enough to handle hard materials like metal; they can cause the drill to overheat.
Extra Features
The worktable rotates 360 degrees and tilts at a 45-degree angle. This allows users to get more angled, precise holes in the material. The machine is ideal for projects that require more maneuverability.
Buying Advice
The Genesis tool is a versatile and powerful tool for home-based woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts.
The large chuck allows for more options during drilling, and the five speed variations make it easier to be consistent.
Best For The Money: WEN 4208 5-Speed Drill Press
If you’re looking for the best press tool for the money, this product by WEN is a must to consider. Here’s why.
Benefits
This drill press has five speed settings so it’s extremely versatile. You can use it at 740, 1100, 1530, 2100, or 3140 RPM.
When drilling, you want to be highly accurate, and this WEN drill press ensures that because it has a locking linear depth stop that is easy to use and very useful when you’re drilling into something repeatedly.
It has a 6 ½ by 6 ½-inch work table that can have its height adjusted, along with bevels up to 45 degrees to the left and right. It doesn’t take up space on your workbench but gets the job done.
It’s not just reserved for use on wood – you can use it to drill through metal and plastic too, which makes it even more versatile.
It’s got all the power you need, but is also focused on durability, thanks to its induction motor that has a ball-bearing construction. This will make the drill press last for many years.
Extra Features
You can use drill bits that are up to half an inch in size, which means you can use this tool for a variety of different tasks.
It comes with a cast-iron base that ensures stability while you’re drilling, which also keeps you safe.
Drawbacks
Some people have claimed that although they liked that the drill press was light, they didn’t like that it didn’t have a lot of power for larger tasks.
Buying Guide
Although it might not be the most powerful drill press out there, for the low price tag it’s certainly got all the features you need in a tool that will work quickly and effectively. It’s the best budget drill press tool!
This is a light tool, coming in at 40 lbs, but it has some nice perks, such as a swivel lamp! Let’s take a look at its most important features.
Runner Up: Central Machinery Five-Speed Drill Press
Benefits
This tool has a worktable that rotates 360 degrees and also tilts 45 degrees to the left and right.
It has an adjustable stop with gauge as well as a steel base and head to make it very durable.
It can drill through wood and metal, and it comes with five speed settings. You can drill at speeds from 620RPM to 3100RPM.
To ensure accuracy while you work, this tool has an adjustable table that can be locked in place.
Extra Features
It comes with a swivel lamp so that you can have the light you need at any angle you need it.
Drawbacks
One person who purchased this drill press reported that it was difficult to attach the chuck, which is the part of the tool that tightens around the drill bit shank and keeps it secure.
Others have reported that the light that comes with this drill press isn’t very strong. That said, some people who’ve purchased this tool have replaced the bulb so that is an option for you if you feel the lightbulb is unsatisfactory.
Buying Guide
It’s budget-friendly while being a great drill press to own for various DIY projects around the home.
Best Drill Press 2021 – Buying Guide
What Is A Drill Press Used For?
Drill presses are pretty versatile tools that can be used for all sorts of woodworking and DIY projects. There are ten main applications for a drill press that we will explore below.
Countersinks
Countersinks are the most basic function of the drill presses. You can remove the burr areas or the burrs from any object with this tool.
You can start with a cone-shaped engraving that begins to orbit the object. You will be able to find plenty of drill presses that have smoother edges that are perfect for countersinks.
All you need to do is align the object with the drill and let the machine do its magic.
High-Speed Boring
There may be some holes that a handheld drill is unable to handle. Drill presses can provide consistent smoothness, and you can drill lots of holes at the same time with the drill press.
The boring function is a great option in such situations. All you need to do is to set the size and speed, and the machine will do the rest for you.
Counter-bores
Counter-bores are meant to enlarge an existing hole to the right size. You can enlarge the hole vertically or horizontally depending on the kind of needle you’re using.
Counter-bores allow you to improve your drilling and fit holes with screws, sockets, or bolts.
Tapping
Drill presses can also do tapping for you. The taps are usually designed to cut internal threads into the tool. This gives the users a great degree of control and precision over the material.
The tapping option is designed for holes that you need a cross-section for. There are two types of taps that you can perform: starting and plug tap.
The former allows you to thread in a specific location while the other is used to finish the process by cutting the thread.
Slash Drilling Operations
The slash drilling operations require some additional attachments.
You will be able to cut through thick materials quickly with these attachments. All you need to do is to align the material with the blades.
Horizontal Dusting
If you enjoy working with wood, a drill press can help you out quite a bit. Some tools can act like a duster for the wood, which can be a great finishing strategy.
There are many dusting attachments that you can get that fit perfectly on the drilling needle. If you use a finishing duster, it can lead to a perfect finish for the wood you’re working on.
Combined Countersink Drilling
You can also utilize the combination of the counter-bore with the countersink. You start drilling till the bottom end instead of performing the pilot stroke.
It’s a quick method and is often used when you don’t have to worry too much about perfecting the material. It will also save you the hassle of changing needles while you work.
Reaming Actions
If you want increased accuracy with quick speeds, reaming is the right function for you. Reaming allows you to drill a lot of objects quickly.
All you need to do is to set the right length, drilling pace, and choose the right needle for the task at hand. You have to start with a pilot drive and then continue with the reaming option.
However, you should make sure that the angle is right when you’re changing between different objects.
Unscrewing or Screwing Action
The tool can also be used to screw or unscrew bolts.
It is an effective technique, but you will need to set the drill at the lowest possible setting. The screwdriver bit that you’re using should be compatible with the bolt too.
Sanding Operations
You can get a sandpaper attachment for the drill press or even make it on at home.
The tool can be turned into a well-functioning sander if you have the right attachment.
difference between drilling and boring?
Although one might assume drilling and boring are the same, and some people use these terms to mean the same thing, there are important differences between them.
When you drill a hole, you remove material in order to create a hole, such as when you’re drilling through wood. When it comes to boring, you basically enlarge a hole that was already made. So, you use your tool in order to make the hole bigger.
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There are also different tools required when doing one of these tasks over the other. When you drill a hole into something, you use a drill bit to do it.
You will drill a straight hole into the material, but sometimes you’ll need to follow up with boring, such as if you want a larger hole.
With boring, you need to use a boring bar that has a cutting tool at the tip. This ensures that you can better control the hole’s thickness.
The Quill On A Drill Press?
The quill is a hollow shaft in the drill presses. It surrounds the spindle – the rotating shaft where the chuck is mounted.
The quill doesn’t turn with the tool housing, but the spindle does. Instead, the quill is lowered with the spindle and chuck so that any drill bit you’re using can connect properly with the workpiece.
The pinion and rack mechanism in this tool allows the quill to be lowered. The operator can rotate the pinion by using the handle.
With the chuck, spindle, and quill working together, the drill press is able to create holes in the material.
Swing On A Drill Press?
Drill presses usually have a swing of 8” to 20”.
Some rare tools have lower or high swing capabilities, but they are designed for special instances.
Most benchtop drill presses have a relatively smaller swing range because they’re usually shorter in size. They usually have a swing range of 8” – 12”. On the other hand, stationary presses can weight hundreds of pounds and are larger.
The typical swing range for these types of bench presses is 12” – 20”.
For drilling operations on larger materials, you should get a longer swing best drill.
What Does The Size Of A Drill Press Mean?
The size of the drill refers to the drill press swing size. It is the distance between the support column and the center of the spindle multiplied by 2.
The support column is the pole that ensures the tool is upright, and the spindle’s center is where drill bits are inserted.
This means that a best drill that has a 10” swing will be able to drill a hole in the middle (5”) of the 10” piece of material.
How do you drill a perfectly vertical hole?
Although a best drill can help you to drill a perfectly vertical hole quickly and easily, you can make a hole without the use of this tool. Here’s what you need to know.
First things first, you need to build a jig for your drilling to ensure that you can make a perfectly vertical hole.
To make your own jig, you’ll need the following items:
- Timber sheet that’s 3mm thick. Make sure it has a straight edge along one side and that the sheet is at least 180mm across.
- Sharp pencil
- Ruler
- Clamp
- Superglue
- Sharp blade
- Your drill and bits you’ll be using
Instructions
- With your ruler and pencil, draw 13 vertical lines along the bottom of the timber sheet, ensuring that they are equally spaced apart. They should be about an inch (or 25mm) from the bottom of the sheet.
- When you’ve drawn your vertical lines from the bottom of the sheet upwards, you’ll have to draw a horizontal line about 15mm from the bottom – make sure it’s parallel to the bottom.
- Draw another line at 50mm from the bottom, so that means it will be drawn higher up above the vertical lines you’ve already made.
- Now, looking back at those vertical lines you’ve drawn: you should draw a continuation of every second line you’ve drawn right over the edge of the sheet. That means, every second line will have its line drawn over the edge of the sheet.
- For a hole that’s 5mm, you’ll take a smaller drill bit and drill holes on every second vertical line on the sheet that has a line drawn over the sheet’s edge.
- Once those holes are done, you can use the 5mm bit to make them larger.
- Now you can cut across the lines you’ve drawn, using a sharp blade so that you can remove these pieces from the sheet. Make sure you protect your fingers with gloves!
- You want to cut along the top horizontal line first, followed by the shorter lines on the sides.
- Then, you will cut across all the lines that don’t have holes drilled in them.
- By now you should have small pieces of timber sheet that are the same height and length. If you find that the pieces of sheet you have are not as flat as you’d like because of how the blade has ruffled up their edges, you can use a bit of sandpaper on them to flatten them.
- Stack the pieces on top of each other, then put your drill bit through the holes in them so that they’re aligned.
- Use your clamp to tighten and align them even more.
- Put superglue along the sides of the pieces that are still in the clamp. Leave them to dry for about 10 minutes.
- Once the glue has dried, you can use this jig to drill holes into other items simply by placing its hole over the spot where you want to drill.
As you can see, making a jig can ensure that you create perfectly vertical holes when drilling if you don’t have a best drill.
WEN drill presses any good?
We’ve featured two WEN drill presses in our buying guide, and both are solid, effective products. WEN tools are considered to be good and they come up on various reviews of the best drill presses.
They are valued not only for their features but also their price as they don’t require you to spend a lot of money on a drill press in order to meet your drilling needs.
As a company, WEN is renowned for its various power tools, of which drill presses are just one. What’s great about these drill presses is that they are part of a range of products so you can choose one that fits your budget
Conclusion
The drill press reviews above are a guide for users who don’t know a lot about the machine.
The best drill press for you will be one that is most suitable for your needs and budget. Since this tool is a really versatile tool that can be used for all sorts of drilling operations and more, you should be mindful of the machine you invest in.
