Best Drill Presses
Drill presses are power tools used to drill holes in a variety of materials, such as wood, metal, and plastic. They consist of a motor, a spindle, a chuck, a table, and a column. The spindle is the part of the drill press that holds the drill bit, while the chuck is the part that holds the spindle in place. The table is where the workpiece is placed and can be adjusted up and down and rotated to drill holes at different angles.
Drill presses come in different sizes and styles, ranging from small benchtop models to large floor-standing models. They also come with different features, such as variable speed control, depth stops, and laser guides, to make drilling more accurate and efficient.
To use a drill press, you first need to select the appropriate drill bit for your project. Then, you adjust the depth and angle of the table and the speed of the drill to match the requirements of your project. You can then lower the spindle and drill bit down onto the workpiece to start drilling.
Drill presses are commonly used in woodworking, metalworking, and other manufacturing industries. They are also popular among DIY enthusiasts and home hobbyists who need to drill precise holes in a variety of materials.
10 Best Drill Presses of 2023:
In this comprehensive review, we will discuss the top 10 best drill presses of 2023. With a wide range of options available in the market, we have carefully selected these drill presses based on their performance, durability, and overall value. Let's dive into the details!
1. DeWalt DWE1622K Magnetic Drill Press
Key Features:
- 10-amp motor with 2-speed settings
- 4-3/8-inch drill travel
- Magnetic coolant bottle
- Overload protection
The DeWalt DWE1622K is a powerful and versatile magnetic drill press with a 10-amp motor that provides ample power for various drilling tasks. With its two-speed settings, you can quickly switch between high and low speeds to match your specific needs.
The 4-3/8-inch drill travel allows for deep drilling operations, while the magnetic coolant bottle keeps your workpiece cool and extends the life of your cutting tools. With overload protection, this drill press ensures that it doesn't overheat or suffer from premature wear.
2. JET JDP-17 17" Drill Press
Key Features:
- 3/4 HP, 115V motor
- 16 spindle speeds
- Spindle travel of 5 inches
- LED work light
The JET JDP-17 is a high-quality drill press with a durable construction and a powerful 3/4 HP motor. With 16 spindle speeds, you have a wide range of drilling options to choose from. The 5-inch spindle travel allows for deep drilling operations, while the LED work light ensures that your work area is well-lit.
The JET JDP-17 features a large work table that can bevel 45 degrees left and right, making it suitable for a variety of drilling applications. The depth stop ensures precise and consistent drilling depth, and the built-in storage tray keeps your tools organized and within reach.
3. WEN 4214 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press
Key Features:
- 5-amp motor with variable speed
- Digital speed readout
- Spindle travel of 3-1/8 inches
- Laser guide system
The WEN 4214 is a versatile drill press with a 5-amp motor that offers variable speed control from 580 to 3200 RPM. The digital speed readout allows you to monitor the drilling speed for greater precision and control.
The 3-1/8-inch spindle travel provides ample drilling depth, while the laser guide system ensures accurate hole positioning. The WEN 4214 also features a sturdy cast iron construction for enhanced durability and stability.
4. Shop Fox W1848 Oscillating Floor Drill Press
Key Features:
- 3/4 HP, 110V motor
- Oscillating spindle
- 12-speed gearbox
- Swing of 13-3/4 inches
The Shop Fox W1848 is a floor-standing drill press with a unique oscillating spindle feature that allows for efficient contour sanding. The 3/4 HP motor provides enough power for various drilling tasks, while the 12-speed gearbox offers a wide range of drilling speeds.
The 13-3/4-inch swing and the large work table with a built-in dust port make this drill press suitable for larger workpieces. The Shop Fox W1848 also comes with a 2-year warranty for added peace of mind.
5. Delta 18-900L 18-Inch Laser Drill Press
Key Features:
- 3/4 HP, 120V motor
- 16-speed gearbox
- Auto-tensioning belt drive system
- Dual laser guide system
The Delta 18-900L is a high-performance drill press with a powerful 3/4 HP motor and a 16-speed gearbox that provides a wide range of drilling speeds. The auto-tensioning belt drive system ensures quick and easy speed changes, while the dual laser guide system helps you achieve precise hole alignment.
The Delta 18-900L features a large work table that can tilt 45 degrees left and right, and a 6-inch quill stroke for deep drilling operations. The built-in work light and the micro-adjustable depth stop enhance precision and convenience.
6. Grizzly Industrial G7943 - 12 Speed Heavy-Duty Bench-Top Drill Press
Key Features:
- 3/4 HP, 120V motor
- 12-speed gearbox
- Swing of 14 inches
- Spindle travel of 3-1/4 inches
The Grizzly G7943 is a heavy-duty bench-top drill press with a 3/4 HP motor and a 12-speed gearbox that provides a wide range of drilling speeds. The 14-inch swing and the 3-1/4-inch spindle travel allow for versatile drilling applications.
The largework table with a T-slot design can tilt 45 degrees left and right, making it suitable for various drilling tasks. The Grizzly G7943 also features a built-in light for improved visibility and precision.
7. Rikon 30-140 Bench Top Radial Drill Press
Key Features:
- 1/3 HP, 120V motor
- 5-speed gearbox
- Radial head tilt
- Swing of 34 inches
The Rikon 30-140 is a unique bench-top radial drill press with a 1/3 HP motor and a 5-speed gearbox that offers a range of drilling speeds. The radial head tilt feature allows you to drill at various angles, making it ideal for woodworking and metalworking tasks.
The 34-inch swing and the 3-1/8-inch spindle travel provide ample drilling capacity, while the large work table with a T-slot design supports a wide range of workpieces. The Rikon 30-140 also comes with a 5-year warranty.
8. SKIL 3320-01 3.2 Amp 10-Inch Drill Press
Key Features:
- 3.2-amp motor
- 5-speed gearbox
- 2-inch spindle travel
- Laser guide system
The SKIL 3320-01 is an affordable and compact drill press that offers a 3.2-amp motor and a 5-speed gearbox for various drilling applications. The 2-inch spindle travel and the laser guide system ensure precise and accurate drilling.
The work table can tilt up to 45 degrees left and right, making it suitable for angled drilling tasks. The SKIL 3320-01 is an ideal option for hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts who need a reliable drill press without breaking the bank.
9. POWERTEC DP801 Baby Drill Press
Key Features:
- 2/5 HP, 120V motor
- Variable speed control
- Compact design
- 2-inch spindle travel
The POWERTEC DP801 Baby Drill Press is a small yet powerful drill press designed for hobbyists and light-duty tasks. The 2/5 HP motor offers variable speed control, providing the flexibility needed for various drilling applications.
The compact design makes it easy to store and transport, and the 2-inch spindle travel provides sufficient drilling depth for most tasks. The POWERTEC DP801 is an excellent option for those with limited space or those who need a portable drill press.
10. Milwaukee 4270-20 Compact Electromagnetic Drill Press
Key Features:
- 9-amp motor
- 2-speed gearbox
- Electromagnetic base
- Compact and lightweight design
The Milwaukee 4270-20 is a compact electromagnetic drill press designed for tight spaces and overhead drilling applications. The powerful 9-amp motor and the 2-speed gearbox provide the necessary power and flexibility for various drilling tasks.
The electromagnetic base ensures a secure grip on metal surfaces, while the compact and lightweight design makes it easy to transport and maneuver. The Milwaukee 4270-20 is an excellent option for those who need a reliable and portable drill press for metalworking tasks.
What to Consider Before Buying Drill presses
If you're considering buying a drill press, there are several factors to consider to ensure you get the right tool for your needs. Here are some things to consider before making a purchase:
- Type and Size: Determine what type of drilling you need to do, and the size of the workpiece to be drilled. There are benchtop and floor-standing models, each with a different size and capacity. Consider the size of the space you have available in your workshop or garage.
- Power: Consider the power of the drill press you need. Higher horsepower models can drill through tougher materials faster and easier.
- Speed and Control: Look for a drill press with variable speed control, allowing you to adjust the speed to match the material and job requirements. Consider models with digital readouts for precise speed control.
- Chuck Size: Consider the size of the chuck you need. Most drill presses come with a 1/2-inch chuck, but some models have smaller or larger chucks.
- Depth and Angle Adjustments: Make sure the drill press you choose has adequate depth and angle adjustments, allowing you to drill at different depths and angles.
- Table Size and Adjustments: Look for a drill press with a table that is adjustable in height and angle, and large enough to accommodate your workpiece.
- Laser Guide: Consider a drill press with a laser guide to improve accuracy.
- Brand and Warranty: Look for a reputable brand with a good warranty that covers any defects or problems with the drill press.
By considering these factors, you can choose a drill press that meets your needs and provides you with the accuracy, power, and versatility you need for your projects.
Conclusion
These are the top 10 best drill presses of 2023. Each drill press offers unique features and capabilities to cater to different needs, preferences, and budgets. By considering factors such as power, speed, and drilling capacity, you can find the perfect drill press that will serve you well for years to come.