Are you looking for a drill press that can handle your metalworking needs?
Drill presses come in all shapes and sizes, but not all of them are equipped to handle the rigors of metalworking.
In this comprehensive product review, we’ll help you find the best drill press for your workshop – one that can handle even the most challenging jobs.
A drill press is an essential tool for any metalworker. With the right machine, you can easily create precision holes in any type of metal.
So if you’re looking to add some power to your workshop, read on for some recommendations.
How We Choose the Best Drill Press For Metal
It can be hard to know which drill press is the best for your needs.
There are a lot of different drill presses on the market, and it can be hard to know which one is the best.
But we've done the research for you!
After hours of looking at customer reviews and ratings, we've chosen the top 5 best drill presses for metalworking.
The Top 5 Best Drill Presses For Metal
WEN 4208T 2.3-Amp 8-Inch 5-Speed Cast Iron Benchtop Drill Press
Quick Overview
Brand WEN
Power Source AC
Voltage 120
Amperage 2.3 Amps
Maximum Chuck Size13 Millimeters
Why We Love the WEN 4208T 2.3-Amp 8-Inch 5-Speed Cast Iron Benchtop Drill Press
Looking for an affordable and versatile drill press? Check out the WEN 4208T.
This benchtop model is perfect for the home workshop or garage. It features a 2.3A induction motor, an 8-inch swing, and 2-inch spindle travel.
Plus, it has a 1/2-inch keyed chuck and onboard key storage. The WEN 4208T Drill Press operates at 5 different speeds: 740, 1100, 1530, 2100, or 3140 RPM.
And the 6.5 by 6.5-inch height adjustable worktable bevels up to 45 degrees in each direction.
With a compact footprint of just 23 inches tall with a 7 x 11-inch base, the WEN 4208T is a great space-saving solution for your drilling needs.
What You Should Know About the WEN 4208T 2.3-Amp 8-Inch 5-Speed Cast Iron Benchtop Drill Press
A benchtop drill press is a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of tasks, from drilling holes to shaping wood.
The WEN 4208T 2.3-Amp 8-Inch 5-Speed Cast Iron Benchtop Drill Press is a great option for those who are looking for a high-quality benchtop drill press.
This model features a cast iron construction that is built to last, as well as a five-speed transmission that offers a wide range of speed options.
The drill head also tilts up to 45 degrees, making it easy to drill at various angles.
In addition, the WEN 4208T comes with a two-year warranty, so you can be confident in your purchase.
Whether you're a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, the WEN 4208T is a great choice for your next benchtop drill press.
WEN 4214 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press
Quick Overview
Brand WEN
Power Source Fuel Powered
Voltage 120 Volts
Amperage 3 Amps
Maximum Chuck Size 13 Millimeters
Why We Love the WEN 4214 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press
Looking for a reliable and powerful drill press?
Look no further than the WEN 4214 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press.
This tough and durable machine is ideal for a variety of drilling applications, from Woodworking to metalworking.
It features a powerful 2/3 hp induction motor that delivers ample torque and power, as well as infinitely variable speed, ranging from 580-3200 RPMs.
The LED read-out displays speed, while the spindle travel of 3-1/8" provides accurate and repeatable drilling operations.
The 9-1/2 x 9-1/2" cast iron worktable features rack & pinion height adjustment and bevels up to 45 Degree left & right.
The WEN 4214 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press also comes with a laser module for precise drilling, a table roller extension, a 5/8" keyed chuck & key, and tools for easy assembly.
With a drill press height of 37 inches from the floor to the top, this machine is sure to become a staple in your workshop.
What You Should Know About the WEN 4214 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press
When it comes to choosing a drill press, there are two main types: benchtop models and floor-standing models.
Benchtop drill presses are less expensive and take up less space, but they can’t handle large projects.
Floor-standing drill presses are more expensive and take up more space, but they can handle larger projects.
The WEN 4214 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press is a benchtop model that is perfect for small projects.
The drill head has a 12-inch swing and a maximum speed range of 3200 RPM.
The WEN 4214 also has a digital readout that makes it easy to set the speed and depth of the drill bit.
The only downside of the WEN 4214 is that it is not as sturdy as a floor-standing model, but it is still a great choice for a benchtop drill press.
Shop Fox W1668 3/4-HP 13-Inch Bench-Top Drill Press/Spindle Sander
Quick Overview
Brand Shop Fox
Power Source Corded Electric
Voltage 110 Volts
Amperage 17 Amps
Maximum Chuck Size 6.35 Millimeters
Why We Love the Shop Fox W1668 3/4-HP 13-Inch Bench-Top Drill Press/Spindle Sander
The Shop Fox W1668 3/4-HP 13-Inch Bench-Top Drill Press/Spindle Sander is a powerful and versatile tool that is perfect for any workshop.
This drill press features a 3/4 HP motor and 1,725 RPM, making it perfect for drilling through even the toughest materials.
The spindle speeds on this drill press go from 250 to 3050 RPM, making it easy to find the perfect speed for any project.
The swing on this drill press is 13-1/4 inches, making it perfect for larger projects.
This drill press also includes a three-piece spindle sander drum kit with a mandrel and 80 grit sanding paper to fit the 1-inch, 1-1/2-inch, and 2-inch drums.
What You Should Know About the Shop Fox W1668 3/4-HP 13-Inch Bench-Top Drill Press/Spindle Sander
The Shop Fox W1668 3/4-HP 13-inch Bench-Top Drill Press/Spindle Sander is a versatile machine that can be used for a variety of tasks.
As the name suggests, it can be used as a drill press, with a maximum drilling depth of 3 inches.
It can also be used as a spindle sander, with a sanding drum that can be rotated at speeds of up to 1,725 RPM.
The machine also comes with a digital speed readout, which makes it easy to select the correct speed for the task at hand.
In addition, the Shop Fox W1668 has a depth stop, which allows you to precisely control the depth of your drilled holes.
Overall, the Shop Fox W1668 is a versatile and user-friendly machine that is perfect for both hobbyists and professionals.
BILT HARD 2.3-Amp 8 inch 5-Speed Drill Press with Drill Vise, Tabletop Drilling Machine, CSA Listed
BILT HARD 2.3-Amp 8 inch 5-Speed Drill Press with Drill Vise, Tabletop Drilling Machine, CSA Listed
Quick Overview
Brand BILT HARD
Power Source Corded Electric
Voltage 120 Volts
Amperage 2.3 Amps
Included Components Drill Vise
Why We Love the BILT HARD 2.3-Amp 8 inch 5-Speed Drill Press with Drill Vise, Tabletop Drilling Machine
Looking for a powerful and compact drill press?
The BILT HARD 2.3-Amp 8-inch 5-Speed Drill Press is perfect for a wide range of drilling applications.
With CSA Certification, this drill press is built to last with a steel frame and durable construction.
The worktable can bevel 45 degrees left or right, and the base contains predrilled holes for mounting onto a bench or work stand.
The slotted table also allows for mounting clamps and vises.
This drill press comes with a 2.5-inch Drill vise and 5 variable speeds (660/1140/1740/2340/3000 RPM) to help you tackle any project, big or small. warranty included!
What You Should Know About the BILT HARD 2.3-Amp 8 inch 5-Speed Drill Press with Drill Vise, Tabletop Drilling Machine
The BILT HARD 2.3-Amp 8 inch 5-Speed Drill Press with Drill Vise, Tabletop Drilling Machine, CSA Listed is a powerful and precise drill press that is perfect for a wide range of drilling applications.
With five speed settings, a digital speed readout, and a depth stop, it is easy to get the perfect results every time.
This drill press also comes with a drill vise, which makes it easy to hold onto workpieces while drilling.
Unlike other drill presses, the BILT HARD 2.3-Amp 8 inch 5-Speed Drill Press with Drill Vise, Tabletop Drilling Machine, CSA Listed is compact and lightweight, making it easy to set up on a tabletop or other surface. It is also UL listed for safety.
For users who need a more powerful drill press, the BILT HARD 2.3-Amp 8 inch 5-Speed Drill Press with Drill Vise, Tabletop Drilling Machine, CSA Listed is also available in a floor model.
BILT HARD 12 in 5 Amp Variable Speed Benchtop Drill Press with Drill Vise, with Worklight and Laser, CSA Listed
BILT HARD 12 in 5 Amp Variable Speed Benchtop Drill Press with Drill Vise, with Worklight and Laser, CSA Listed
Quick Overview
Brand BILT HARD
Voltage 120 Volts
Amperage 5 Amps
Included Components Drill Press, 2.5" Drill Vise
Material Cast Iron
Why We Love the BILT HARD 12 in 5 Amp Variable Speed Benchtop Drill Press with Drill Vise
Looking for a versatile, powerful drill press? Check out the BILT HARD 12" Variable Speed Benchtop Drill Press!
This CSA-certified press has a 12" swing and 3-1/8" spindle travel, making it perfect for a variety of projects.
It also features a 5/8" keyed chuck and 1/2HP motor for plenty of power.
Plus, the variable speed feature lets you adjust the speed from 580 to 3200 RPM with an easy-to-read LCD display.
And for added convenience, this press comes with a 2.5" drill vise and onboard work light.
The worktable also rotates 360° and tilts 45° left and right, so you can get just the right angle for your project.
So whether you're drilling holes for woodworking or metals, the BILT HARD 12" Variable Speed Benchtop Drill Press is up to the task.
What You Should Know About the BILT HARD 12 in 5 Amp Variable Speed Benchtop Drill Press with Drill Vise
It's not every day that you purchase a new drill press.
In fact, many people only buy one drill press in their lifetime.
So, if you're in the market for a BILT HARD 12 in 5 Amp Variable Speed Benchtop Drill Press with Drill Vise, with Worklight and Laser, CSA Listed, here's what you should know.
First of all, this isn't your ordinary drill press.
It's a benchtop model, which means it's smaller and more compact than other drill presses on the market.
But don't let its size fool you - this little machine packs a big punch.
It has a powerful 5 Amp motor that can handle even the most challenging drilling projects.
Plus, it comes with a digital speed readout and depth stop for precise results every time.
And if that wasn't enough, it also comes with a work light and laser for added convenience.
So if you're looking for a top-of-the-line drill press that can handle just about any project, the BILT HARD 12 in 5 Amp Variable Speed Benchtop Drill Press is a perfect choice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Best Drill Press For Metal
People often have questions about the drill press for metal.
The drill press for metal is a powerful tool that can be used to create holes in a variety of materials.
However, it can be difficult to know how to use it without some guidance.
We've compiled a list of the most Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the drill press for metal so that you can learn more about its features and how to use it safely and effectively.
What is the best drill press speed for metal?
The optimal drilling speed for metal depends on a number of factors, including the type of metal being drilled, the size of the drill bit, and the type of drill press being used.
In general, however, faster speeds are better for drilling through metals.
For example, when drilling through aluminum with a 3/8" drill bit, a good rule of thumb is to use a speed that is approximately twice as fast as you would use for drilling through wood.
For steel or cast iron, you will want to use an even higher speed.
And for very hard metals like stainless steel or titanium, it is best to use the highest possible speed that your drill press can handle.
What is the best brand for a drill press?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best brand for a drill press depends on the specific needs and preferences of the individual buyer.
That said, some of the most popular brands for drill presses include Delta, Grizzly, Rikon, and Powermatic.
So it's a good idea to do some research on the different brands available and then choose the one that best meets your individual needs.
Can you use a drill press on metal?
Yes, you can use a drill press on metal.
There are a few things to keep in mind, however.
First, you'll need to use a drill bit designed for metal.
Second, you'll need to take care not to overheat the metal while drilling.
With those precautionary measures in mind, though, you should be able to use your drill press on metal without any problems.
What is a good HP for a drill press?
A drill press with high horsepower (HP) can drill through tougher materials faster.
For example, a drill press with a 10 HP motor can drill through metal much more easily than a drill press with a 5 HP motor.
When shopping for a drill press, be sure to consider the types of materials you will be drilling through and the size of the material you will be drilling.
The higher the HP of the drill press, the tougher materials it can drill through.
How do I choose a drill press?
When choosing a drill press, it's important to consider the size of the worktable, the throat depth, and the power of the motor.
The worktable should be large enough to accommodate the size of your projects, and the throat depth should be sufficient to allow you to drill into your project material.
The power of the motor is also important; a more powerful motor will be able to handle larger projects and tougher materials.
Other features to consider include adjustable speeds, tilting tables, and laser guides.
Adjustable speeds allow you to match the speed of the drill press to the type of material you're working with, while a tilting table allows you to angle your workpiece for better visibility and accuracy.
Is it worth buying a drill press?
It depends on what you plan to use it for.
A drill press can be a useful tool for tasks like drilling holes in wood, metal, or plastic with too much space.
But if you're just starting out, it might be worth considering a standard hand drill instead.
That said if you think you'll need the extra power and precision that a drill press can provide, then go ahead and buy one.
Just make sure you choose one that's suited for your needs.
Do drill presses need special bits?
No, drill presses do not need special bits.
Drill presses can use any type of bit, including conventional screwdriver bits, as long as the bit is the correct size for the chuck with twice the distance.
The only time you may need a special bit is when drilling through metal, in which case you would use a carbide-tipped metal drill bit.
Drill presses are powerful tools that allow you to make very precise holes in all types of materials, including wood, metal, plastic, and even glass. They work by using a rotating wen drill press bit that is held in place by a chuck (the part of the drill press that holds the drill bit).
Is a 1/2 hp drill press good?
It depends on what you plan to use it for. A 1/2 hp entire drill press is good for light-duty drillings, such as drilling through softwood or plastic. If you plan to use it for tougher jobs, such as drilling through the cast iron head, you'll need a more powerful drill press with a higher horsepower rating.
What does 15 drill press mean?
The term "drill press" refers to a type of machine that is commonly used to drill holes in various materials.
The floor drill presses are designed to drill holes of different sizes and depths and can be operated manually or automatically.
The term "15 drill press" specifically refers to a type of drill press that is capable of drilling 15-inch holes.
This type of floor drill press is typically used for industrial applications, such as drilling holes in large pieces of metal or wood.
A floor drill press is also used for general purpose applications such as drilling deep holes in smaller pieces of metal, plastic, or wood.
How deep can a drill press drill?
The depth that a drill press can drill is limited by the length of the quill, which is the arm that holds the bit.
The conclusion drill presses can be extended to a certain length, and once it's reached their maximum extension, the drill press cannot drill any further.
The size of the hole that's drilled is also limited by the size of the bit that's being used.
The Best Drill Press For Metal
So, what is the best drill press for metal?
It really depends on your needs and budget.
We’ve provided some great options to get you started, but if you want more specific recommendations or advice, be sure to check out the other articles.
And don’t forget to click the buttons above to check the prices on Amazon – we guarantee that you won’t find a better deal anywhere else!
Thanks for reading and happy shopping!