Constance Herd

Written by Constance Herd

Published: 07 Feb 2024

Camryn Rabideau

Reviewed by Camryn Rabideau

10-best-benchtop-drill-press
Source: Expondo.co.uk

If you're looking to add a versatile and powerful tool to your workshop, the 10 Best Benchtop Drill Press is a top choice. A drill press is a stationary tool used to accurately drill holes into various materials like wood, metal, and plastic. The benchtop version is smaller and can be mounted on a workbench, making it a perfect choice for hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts. In this article, we'll explore the top 10 benchtop drill presses that offer durability, precision, and performance to help you make an informed decision.

Top Picks:

Overall Score: 8/10

The WEN 4212T 5-Amp 10-Inch Variable Speed Cast Iron Benchtop Drill Press features a 5-amp induction motor and adjustable mechanical variable speed. The digital speed readout displays the current RPM for maximum precision. It includes a laser, adjustable depth stop, and beveling work table. The drill press measures 13.2 by 19.3 by 33.9 inches and weighs 57 pounds. The color is multicolor, and the dimension is 33.90Lx13.20Wx19.30H. The drill press has a customer rating of 4.5 out of 5. Users love its performance but mention some issues with chuck and table. Overall, it's a great value for the price with lots of features.

Key Features

  • 5-amp induction motor
  • Adjustable mechanical variable speed
  • Digital speed readout
  • Laser guide
  • Adjustable depth stop
  • Beveling work table
  • 1/2-inch capacity keyed chuck

Specifications

  • Color: Multicolor
  • Dimension: 33.90Lx13.20Wx19.30H

Pros

  • Great price
  • Lots of features including laser guide and RPM gauge
  • Smooth and fairly quiet in use
  • Accurate depth stop
  • Smooth operating chuck

Cons

  • Rough casting on base and table
  • Throttle is a little stiff
  • Chuck has trouble holding smallest drill bits
  • Laser requires batteries
  • Not for commercial use

The WEN 4212T Drill Press offers excellent value for the price, with various features that make it suitable for home workshops. While it may have some minor issues, it provides smooth operation and precise control, making it a worthwhile investment for DIY enthusiasts and hobbyists.

Overall Score: 9/10

The VEVOR 10 in Benchtop Drill Press is a powerful and precise drilling machine suitable for woodworking and metalworking. This bench drill press features 5-speed adjustment and excellent durability, making it perfect for various DIY and professional projects. The drill press comes with complete accessories for convenience and ease of use. Its 3.2A induction motor ensures plenty of power for drilling through different materials, delivering high locking strength and accuracy. With a swing distance of 10 inches and a 0-45° tilting worktable, this tabletop drilling machine offers versatility and reliability for any workshop.

Key Features

  • Powerful Drill Press
  • Precise Drilling
  • 5-speed Adjustment
  • Excellent Durability
  • Complete Accessories

Specifications

  • Color: Black
  • Dimension: 9.30Lx17.50Wx28.70H
  • Size: 10 in

Pros

  • Powerful and precise drilling
  • 5-speed adjustment for versatility
  • Complete accessories included
  • Durable and high quality
  • Suitable for woodworking and metalworking

Cons

  • Hard to find spare belts
  • Laser setup may be touchy

The VEVOR 10 in Benchtop Drill Press offers exceptional power, precision, and durability, making it an ideal choice for woodworking and metalworking projects. With positive customer reviews and a high rating, this drill press provides excellent value for its price.

Overall Score: 7/10

The SHOP FOX W1669 1/2-Horsepower Benchtop Radial Drill Press is a versatile and powerful tool for woodworking needs. With a 1/2 HP motor and 5 speed options, it offers smooth operation and great power. Though simple to assemble and works perfectly, some parts may arrive damaged due to poor shipping materials. Moreover, the lack of instructions on assembly may cause inconvenience. However, the drill press offers new possibilities with its versatile capabilities. Overall, it's a good product for the money.

Key Features

  • Motor: 1/2 HP, 110V, 5A
  • Overall height: Bench model: 31-1/2"
  • Number of speeds: 5
  • Drill chuck: 5/8"

Specifications

  • Color: Black Metallic

Pros

  • Great power & smooth operation
  • Versatile tool with new possibilities
  • Simple assembly & works perfectly

Cons

  • Poor shipping materials
  • No instructions on assembly
  • Some parts may arrive damaged

The SHOP FOX W1669 Drill Press provides great value and functionality for woodworking projects. While assembly and shipping materials may pose some challenges, the drill press offers a smooth and powerful operation with versatile capabilities. It’s a good purchase for those looking for a reasonably priced drill press with the potential for various applications.

Overall Score: 8/10

Expand your drill press workspace with the WEN DPA2513 Drill Press Table. It features an adjustable fence and stop block for precise drilling. The spacious table is compatible with the WEN Drill Press series and measures 23-7/8 x 11-7/8 x 1 inches. The unique design provides clearance for the drill press’ table height adjustment crank. Although its made with MDF, it is durable and sturdy.

Key Features

  • Expand your drill press workspace; compatible with the entire WEN Drill Press series
  • Spacious table measures in at 23-7/8 x 11-7/8 x 1 inches
  • Unique design provides clearance for the drill press’ table height adjustment crank
  • Adjustable fence and stop block paired with the onboard rulers allow for precise and uniform drilling

Specifications

  • Color: Black Orange

Pros

  • Durable and sturdy despite being made with MDF
  • Adjustable fence and stop block for precise drilling
  • Compatible with the WEN Drill Press series
  • Provides a spacious workspace for drill press tasks

Cons

  • MDF material requires careful handling to prevent damage from moisture
  • Clamps may become loose and need to be periodically checked

The WEN DPA2513 Drill Press Table is a versatile and reliable addition to any workshop. Despite being MDF, it offers a spacious and durable workspace for drill press tasks. Its adjustable fence and stop block provide precision for drilling, making it a valuable tool for woodworkers, metalworkers, and hobbyists alike. However, users should be mindful of the material’s susceptibility to damage from moisture and periodically check the clamps for tightness.

Overall Score: 7/10

The WEN 4206T 2.3-Amp 8-Inch 5-Speed Cast Iron Benchtop Drill Press is a versatile and powerful tool designed for precision drilling. It features a 2.3A induction motor, an 8-inch swing, and a 2-inch spindle travel, making it suitable for a wide range of drilling tasks. With 5 different speeds, an adjustable worktable, and onboard key storage, it offers convenience and flexibility. The drill press has received positive feedback for its performance on various materials, ease of assembly, and overall value for money. However, some users have reported issues with its assembly quality and power, particularly when drilling through tougher materials. Overall, it is a great option for light to medium-duty drilling projects.

Key Features

  • 2.3A induction motor
  • 8-inch swing
  • 2-inch spindle travel
  • 5 different speeds
  • Adjustable worktable

Specifications

  • Color: Black, orange
  • Dimension: 16.88Lx8.63Wx22.88H

Pros

  • Versatile for various materials
  • Easy to assemble
  • Good value for money

Cons

  • Issues with assembly quality
  • Limited power for tougher materials

The WEN 4206T Benchtop Drill Press offers versatility and convenience for light to medium-duty drilling tasks. While it may have some limitations, its overall performance and value make it a practical choice for DIY enthusiasts and hobbyists.

Overall Score: 8/10

The Milescraft 1318 DrillMate Portable Drill Guide is an essential tool for any DIY enthusiast. It attaches to power drills and allows for perfect straight or angled drilling. The self-centering base and adjustable depth stop ensure precise drilling, while its compatibility with various accessories makes it versatile. The sturdy build and easy portability make it a valuable addition to any workshop or project site.

Key Features

  • Perfect for straight or angled drilling
  • Compatible with most 3/8 in. drill accessories
  • Multi-angle readouts with built-in angle readout
  • Self-centering base and adjustable depth stop
  • Centering channels accommodate round stock up to 3 inches in diameter

Specifications

  • Color: Black Red Grey
  • Dimension: 16.00Lx5.50Wx18.00H
  • Size: 1 Pack

Pros

  • Compatible with various drill accessories
  • Sturdy and durable build quality
  • Portable and easy to use for DIY projects
  • Accurate and precise drilling capabilities
  • Great value for its price

Cons

  • May require additional lubrication for guide rails
  • Handle size and angle may be uncomfortable for some users
  • Some users reported issues with build quality

The Milescraft 1318 DrillMate Portable Drill Guide is a versatile and reliable tool for anyone working on DIY projects. While it may have some minor drawbacks, its overall performance and value make it a worthwhile investment for both amateur and professional users.

Overall Score: 7/10

The SKIL 6.2 Amp 10 In. 5-Speed Benchtop Drill Press with Laser Alignment & Work Light is a versatile and powerful tool. Its 6.2 AMP induction motor, 5-speed system, laser alignment system, adjustable depth stop, and adjustable table height make woodworking tasks easy and convenient. The LED worklight and bump-off switch provide enhanced safety and visibility. The tilting work surface allows for precise and accurate angled drilling. However, some users have reported issues with vibration and noise. Overall, this drill press is a great addition to any workshop for light to moderate drilling tasks.

Key Features

  • 6.2 AMP induction motor
  • 5-speed system
  • Laser alignment system
  • Adjustable depth stop
  • Adjustable table height
  • LED worklight
  • Bump-off switch
  • Tilting work surface

Specifications

  • Color: Multi
  • Dimension: 24.02Lx15.16Wx12.40H
  • Size: One Size

Pros

  • Powerful motor
  • Adjustable depth stop
  • LED worklight for visibility
  • Easy to assemble and use
  • Good for light to moderate drilling tasks

Cons

  • Vibration and noise issues reported
  • Table adjustment may be sloppy
  • Some components may not be durable

The SKIL 6.2 Amp 10 In. 5-Speed Benchtop Drill Press with Laser Alignment & Work Light is a versatile tool for woodworking tasks. While it may have some limitations, such as vibration and noise issues, it offers great value for light to moderate drilling work. Overall, it’s a solid addition to any workshop for hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts.

Overall Score: 6/10

The POWERTEC 71539 14"x24" Drill Press Table Set-Up Kit w/T Track Fence, Hold Down Clamps is a versatile collection of drill press tools and accessories. It delivers professional looking results for woodworking, plastic or composite drilling and metalworking applications. This kit includes a universal table top, multi T-track fence, assortment of woodworking clamps, and adjustable inserts. The laser etched scale on the fence makes it easy to use, and the kit is quick and secure to mount to most styles and sizes of drill press tables. The kit is 25.47 x 14.56 x 2.95 inches in dimensions making it suitable for a 12” or larger drill press. It has received mixed reviews, with some customers praising the quality and versatility, while others found it to be not suitable for bench-top drill presses.

Key Features

  • Versatile collection of drill press tools and accessories
  • Universal table top, allowing for quick and secure mounting
  • Multi T-track fence with laser etched scale
  • Assortment of woodworking clamps and adjustable inserts
  • Dimensions: 25.47Lx14.56Wx2.95H

Specifications

  • Dimension: 25.47Lx14.56Wx2.95H

Pros

  • Provides professional-looking results
  • Quick and secure mounting
  • Versatile and adjustable for specific project requirements

Cons

  • Not suitable for bench-top drill presses
  • Mixed reviews regarding quality and sturdiness

The POWERTEC 71539 14″x24″ Drill Press Table Set-Up Kit is a versatile and adjustable collection of drill press tools and accessories. While it has received mixed reviews, it offers professional-looking results for woodworking, plastic, and metalworking applications. Customers need to carefully consider their specific project requirements and the suitability for their drill presses before making a purchase.

Overall Score: 6/10

The Woodskil 8 Inch Drill Press is a powerful and durable tool designed for accurate and steady drilling experience. The heavy-duty cast iron work table and base, along with a 2.3 Amp motor and 5-speed options, make it suitable for various material drilling. It comes with a 2-year limited warranty, providing reliability and peace of mind for users.

Key Features

  • 8-INCH DRILL PRESS: 2.3 Amp motor, 1/2-inch keyed chuck
  • HEAVY DUTY MATERIAL: All cast iron work table and base
  • BEVERLY WORK TABLE: Adjustable and bevels 45 degrees
  • MECHANICAL 5-SPEED: 750-3200 RPM for different materials
  • PRODUCT WARRANTY: 2-year limited warranty included

Specifications

  • N/A

Pros

  • High-quality, durable construction for accurate drilling
  • 2-year limited warranty for reliability
  • Adjustable work table for versatile drilling angles
  • Powerful 2.3 Amp motor with 5-speed options for various materials

Cons

  • Table may not lock in place securely
  • Some users experienced issues with chuck and speed mechanism

The Woodskil 8 Inch Drill Press offers a reliable and steady performance for light to moderate drilling tasks. While it may have some minor issues, its heavy-duty construction, adjustable features, and warranty make it a practical choice for DIY enthusiasts and hobbyists.

Overall Score: 8/10

The Mini Bench Drill Press by LAKIX is a compact and powerful tool suitable for small projects that require precision. With a 795 motor, it offers 7-speed control for variable drilling speeds and is constructed from CNC-machined aluminum for durability. This versatile tool is designed for working with various materials and is ideal for home workshops, artisan studios, and school laboratories.

Key Features

  • Compact but Powerful: Compact size with ample power and low noise levels
  • 7-Speed Control: Variable speed control with seven different speed settings
  • Attention to Detail: Constructed from CNC-machined aluminum for robustness and durability
  • Multi-material Application: Versatile tool capable of processing various materials
  • Flexible in Use: Useful for projects that require precision and small machining

Specifications

  • Dimension: 5.90Lx4.70Wx10.60H
  • Size: Small

Pros

  • Compact size with ample power
  • Low noise levels for quiet operation
  • Variable speed control for precision drilling
  • Versatile tool for processing various materials
  • Ideal for small projects and precision work

Cons

  • Not suitable for large projects
  • Lacks a reverse function

The Mini Bench Drill Press by LAKIX is a versatile and compact tool that offers precision and power for small-scale projects. With its attention to detail and multi-material application, it is ideal for DIY enthusiasts, crafters, and hobbyists who require a reliable and efficient drilling machine.

Buyer's Guide: Best Drill Press for Woodworking

Important Factors to Consider Before Purchasing a Drill Press for Woodworking

  • Purpose and Usage:
    • Determine what type of woodworking projects you will be working on and how often you will be using the drill press. This will help you decide on the appropriate size and features.
  • Type of Wood:
    • Consider the type of wood you will be working with, as harder woods may require a more powerful drill press.
  • Space and Budget:
    • Measure the available space in your workshop and set a budget for the drill press. Some larger models may require more space and be pricier.

Key Features to Look for in a Drill Press for Woodworking

  • Motor Power:
    • Look for a drill press with a powerful motor, especially if you will be working with hardwoods. A higher horsepower motor will provide more torque for drilling through tough materials.
  • Quill Stroke and Depth Stop:
    • A longer quill stroke and an adjustable depth stop will allow for greater precision and control when drilling holes to a specific depth.
  • Table Adjustability:
    • A drill press with a tilting and rotating table will offer more versatility in woodworking projects, allowing for angled drilling and better positioning of the workpiece.
  • Spindle Speed:
    • Look for a drill press with variable speed settings to accommodate different types of wood and drill bit sizes. Lower speeds are ideal for larger bits and hardwoods, while higher speeds work well for smaller bits and softer woods.
  • Chuck Size:
    • Consider the chuck size of the drill press, as larger chucks can accommodate a wider range of drill bit sizes and offer more stability when working with larger bits.
  • Construction and Stability:
    • Opt for a drill press with a sturdy and stable construction to reduce vibration and ensure accuracy in your woodworking projects.
  • Dust Collection:
    • Look for a drill press with a built-in dust collection system to keep your workshop clean and minimize the inhalation of wood dust.
  • Safety Features:
    • Ensure that the drill press has essential safety features such as a safety switch, transparent guard, and a magnetic start/stop switch to prevent accidents during operation.

Additional Considerations When Choosing a Drill Press for Woodworking

  • Brand and Warranty:
    • Research reputable brands and check for warranties to ensure the quality and reliability of the drill press.
  • User-Friendly Design:
    • Look for a drill press with easy-to-use controls and ergonomic design for comfortable operation.
  • Reviews and Recommendations:
    • Read customer reviews and seek recommendations from experienced woodworkers to gain insights into the performance and durability of the drill press.

Frequently Asked Questions about 10 Best Benchtop Drill Press

What types of materials can I use a drill press for in woodworking?

You can use a drill press for a variety of materials in woodworking, including wood, metal, plastic, and more. It provides precision and power for drilling holes and can be a versatile tool in your workshop.

What are the key features to consider when choosing the best drill press for woodworking?

When choosing the best drill press for woodworking, you should consider factors such as the drill press’s horsepower, speed settings, spindle travel, table size, and overall build quality. These features can greatly impact the performance and versatility of the drill press.

How do I properly maintain a drill press for woodworking?

Proper maintenance for a drill press in woodworking includes regular cleaning, lubricating moving parts, and checking for any loose or damaged components. It’s also important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance and safety.

Can I use a drill press for other tasks besides drilling holes in woodworking?

Yes, a drill press can be used for other tasks such as sanding, shaping, and even mortising with the right attachments. It can be a multi-functional tool in your woodworking projects.

What safety precautions should I take when using a drill press for woodworking?

When using a drill press for woodworking, it’s important to wear safety goggles, keep your hands and clothing away from the moving parts, and always use clamps or a vise to secure your workpiece. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the drill press’s safety features and follow all recommended guidelines for safe usage.

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