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A drill press for metal allows you to drill into metallic objects precisely and quickly and is the key part of any workshop.
While the primary function of your drill press is to make holes in metal, you can still use it for sanding your metal with the proper attachment, drilling some square holes, deburr metal, and buff metal surfaces.
A drill press must never be misused as there have been injuries with clothing getting caught, so be sure to receive adequate training before using them unsupervised.
At 911Metallurgist, our team has experienced using these tools and was instrumental in helping us identify what we think are units we should recommend for this year. We also had help from our community of Metallurgists, who gave us the low down on what drill presses stood up to the test of the time and which they wish they had never bought.
Finally, utilizing data science techniques, we could judge the overall sentiment for every drill press sold in the United States to uncover which tools were preferred by many users.
So without further ado, these are the drill presses for metal that you should check out:
Top 3 Drill Presses for Metal for 2023:
1.WEN 4214 – Best for Workshop
The WEN 4214 is a great choice when you need convenience when performing DIY metal projects at home. This benchtop drill press brings features that allow you efficiency and precision with every project you handle. It starts with an onboard work light that illuminates the work table to allow precision boring. On the front of the 5.0-Amp drill press is a digital speed readout that combines with a precision laser that guides you when you make holes, sand, or deburr metal pieces.
You can adjust the speed of your drill press from 580 to 3,200 depending on the toughness of the metal you are working on. Just turn the speed adjustment lever on the side and you are good to go. The table of your drill press is also advanced with a table roller extension to give you up to 17 inches of support and a beveling surface that allows you to tilt up to 45 degrees in either direction.
The drill press offers all the stability you need when you start boring holes, thanks to the cast iron base. This base comes with bolt holes so you can mount the drill press on a worktop.
Features:
- Style: Benchtop
- Max RCF: (rpm) 3200
- The capacity of tube size: 12 inches
- Voltage: 120 volts
- Weight: 89.1 pounds
What we love:
- • Highly accurate drilling
- • Easy to assemble
- • Variable speed allows work on different materials
We don’t like this as much:
- • Makes a humming sound when working at low RPM
- • Lacks a spindle lock
- 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. WEN 4208T – Best Runner up
The WEN 4208T brings the advanced features for which the WEN brand is known. This benchtop drill press is ideal for small metal projects at home. It brings you a locking depth adjustment nut that allows you to lock the spindle travel for more accuracy when doing repeated drilling. Its work table allows beveling and tilts up to 45 degrees on either side.
There is onboard key storage that ensures you never misplace your keys. This way, you never have to waste any time looking for the chuck key. You can use chuck bits up to half an inch in diameter, allowing you to work on various projects.
At the core of the machine is a 2.3 A induction motor with ball bearings for the smooth and balanced operation that you need for high-speed cutting. The motor is durable and will serve you almost as long as the drill press. You can adjust the speed of this motor from 740 all the way to 3,140 RPM.
The cast iron base ensures the machine does not wobble when you start using it at the fastest speeds. The bolt holes anchor the machine to your bench and start working.
Features:
- Style: Benchtop drill press
- Max RCF: (rpm) 3,140
- The capacity of tube size: 8 inches
- Voltage: 120 volts
- Weight: 34.2 pounds
What we love:
- • Efficient for light and medium-weight tasks
- • Sturdy construction
- • Adjustable five-speed operation
We don’t like this as much:
- • Wobbles a little at high speeds
- • The table is prone to rust
- Features a 2.3A induction motor, an 8-inch swing, and a 2-inch spindle travel
- Includes a 1/2-inch keyed chuck and onboard key storage
- Operates at 5 different speeds: 740, 1100, 1530, 2100, or 3140 RPM
- 6.5 by 6.5 inch height adjustable worktable bevels up to 45 degrees in each direction
- Measures in at 23 inches tall with a 7 by 11-inch base
3. DEWALT Drill Press – Best for Pro
The DEWALT Drill Press 2-Speed Magnetic is a little benchtop drill press that serves you when you need to do light metal cutting. It doesn’t have as many features as the WEN drill presses, but it is ideal for people shopping on a budget. It has a 10-Amp motor with two speeds to meet the needs of different applications. The unit features overload protection to protect the motor from damage and to enhance durability.
DEWALT designed the chuck system to be easy to change without any tool. You can choose between a 3/4-inch Weldon Shank and a 1/2-inch keyed chuck. There are quick-release feed handles that allow you to change the feed handles without the need for any tools. The work surface is large enough for most of your DIY projects and a variety of tool and material orientations.
With 4-inch drill travel, you are able to handle heavy-duty drilling with ease. Even better, the motor’s height can adjust to accommodate different accessories. With the drill press, DEWALT offers you a safety chain, keyed chuck, and a height adjustment tool. The drill press is easy to assemble and comes with a sturdy base to keep your work stable.
This Dewalt model was our number one recommendation for the best magnetic drill press, so be sure to check out the complete list.
Features:
- Style: Benchtop
- Max RCF: (rpm) 450
- The capacity of tube size: 4-3/8 inch
- Voltage: 240 volts
- Weight: 47.6 pounds
What we love:
- • Budget drill press
- • Quick-release handle for easy setup
- • Comes with a safety chain
- • Great accessory compatibility
We don’t like this as much:
- • Lacks depth stop
- • Does not handle the toughest metal jobs
- 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
The other drill presses for metal that we evaluated and liked but didn’t prefer over our top 3 recommendations:
4. BILT HARD
BILT HARD gives you a quality drill press at an affordable cost. They have the same features and quality as named brands but with so much precision and efficiency. For starters, you get adjustable table locks that accommodate different applications for your DIY projects at home. Further, you get a depth stop complete with a gauge, allowing you to drill precise holes for repeated drilling.
The stamped steel base gives you stability when working at high speeds. Bolt it to your working table and reduce wobbling. The table can rotate 360 degrees and tilts up to 45 degrees in either direction to allow beveled drilling. To further make the machine more efficient in heavy-duty tasks, the manufacturer adds heavy-duty ball bearings that offer the durability you need regardless of how much you use it.
BILT HARD offers great versatility with different bits – use bits between 1/8 inches and 5/8 inches in diameter. Once the machine starts running, you can adjust and see the speed on the digital LCD screen. Besides setting the speed for precision cuts, the machine gives you a laser guide to help you through the cutting process and a work light to illuminate the table for efficiency. Bring on those heavy projects and this unit will handle them without a wobble.
Features:
- Style: Benchtop
- Max RCF: (rpm) 3200
- The capacity of tube size: 12 inches
- Voltage: 120 volts
- Weight: 82 pounds
What we love:
- • Versatile for a variety of applications
- • Variable speed is shown on the digital screen
- • Laser guides for precision drilling
- • Beveling worktable
We don’t like this as much:
- • Worktable does not move side to side
- • Relatively expensive
5. BILT HARD 2.3-Amp 8 Inch 5-Speed
If you are looking for a small tabletop drill press with enough power to handle heavy-duty metal drilling, this machine will meet your needs. It brings a host of convenience and efficiency features to make your projects much more enjoyable. Like other BILT HARD drill presses, this unit offers a high-quality build with a host of advanced features.
For starters, the machine offers you versatility by accommodating bits between 1/16 and 1/2 inches. You can tilt the worktable to accommodate beveled cuts up to 45 degrees in either direction. You only need to loosen the bevel lock bolt and tilt as desired.
The LED work light keeps the work surface illuminated for precision in dimly lit rooms. You will need batteries to keep this light on, but it is all worth it. Further, you get a depth stop with a gauge to enhance efficiency for repeated drilling operations.
Features:
- Style: Tabletop
- Max RCF: (rpm) 3,000
- The capacity of tube size: 8 Inches
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Weight: 30 pounds
What we love:
- • Beveling worktable
- • LED worklight
- • Accommodates a variety of chucks
- • Depth stop with a gauge
We don’t like this as much:
- • Table collar doesn’t fit tightly
- • Makes a little noise on low speeds
- Small but Powerful: with CSA Certification, 8 inch swing, 2 inch spindle travel, 1/2-inch keyed chuck, 23" total height, induction motor 2.3 Amp 120V.
- Useful Kit: 2.5 inch Drill vise (the jaw open up to 2.2 inch), lightweight and portable.
- 5 Variable Speeds: 660/1140/1740/2340/3000 RPM, drill through wood, sheet metal, plastics. High speed for low density material, low speed for hard object and sheet steel.
- Compact Construction: the steel frame ensures durability and accurate drilling. The worktable can bevel 45 degree left and right. The base contains predrilled holes for mounting onto a bench or work stand. The slotted table allows for mounting clamps and vises.
- WARRANTY - We guarantee this product to be free from defects in materials and workmanship 30 days from the date of purchase. Our support team is on standby for YOU.
6. WEN 4212T
If you want the power and efficiency of a WEN drill press at an affordable price, try the WEN 4212. It offers you all the good features you expect from a WEN and handles all DIY projects at home without a wobble. The unit features a powerful 5-amp induction motor protected from power overload for durability and with heavy-duty ball bearings to handle tough cuts. During use, you can adjust its speed from 530 RPM for the tough metal all the way to 3,100 RPM for light metal.
Enjoy convenience features like a digital speed readout and an LED worklight. These features make it easier for you to set up your drill press for use. Further, the drill press features a depth adjustment gauge, which allows you to limit the spindle travel for accuracy during repeated drilling operations. Set the mechanical speed where you want it with a simple turn of the lever.
Tilt the table up to 45 degrees on either side for beveled drills.
Features:
- Style: Benchtop
- Max RCF: (rpm) 3,100
- The capacity of tube size: 10 inches
- Voltage: 120 volts
- Weight: 57 pounds
What we love:
- • Highly accurate
- • Table height adjustment for convenience
- • Versatile and accommodate different chuck bits
- • Adjustable speed for a variety of applications
We don’t like this as much:
- • It takes relatively more time to set up
- • You need to apply some force to change the speed
- Features a 5-amp induction motor, a 10-inch swing, and a 2-inch spindle travel
- Adjust the mechanical variable speed anywhere from 530 to 3100 RPM
- Digital speed readout displays current RPM of the machine for maximum precision
- Includes a laser, adjustable depth stop, beveling 8 by 7.5-inch work table, 1/2-inch capacity keyed chuck, a chuck key with onboard storage, and a two-year warranty
- Measures in at 13.2 by 19.3 by 33.9 inches in size with a weight of 57 pounds
6. JET JWDP-12
JET JWDP-12 is one of the most powerful benchtop drill presses. You will have to pay more than you would for most of the other machines, but that is just a small price for the machine’s power. Get this if you want to handle heavy-duty metal cutting for large projects. It is highly precise and accurate and brings a host of convenient features to meet your needs.
For cutting accuracy, the machine offers a XACTA laser that ensures everything is always perfect. Thanks to the depth stop feature, you can use it for consistent drilling. Although it is a heavy-duty unit, it sports a compact design to fit on your worktop. Its retractable roller extension allows you a small table when you need one and a bigger table for larger applications.
Enjoy other features, such as LED work light for handling intricate metal work and a large paddle switch for added safety. Everything is easy to set up and get started.
Features:
- Style: Benchtop
- Max RCF: (rpm) 3,100
- The capacity of tube size: 12 inches
- Voltage: 115 volts
- Weight: 85 pounds
What we love:
- • Ideal for heavy-duty applications
- • Easy to set up
- • Highly sturdy on all speed settings
- • Compact design
We don’t like this as much:
- • Relatively pricey
- • Chuck has a slight wobble
- Compact Profile: 10" x 16-1/8" cast iron base fits neatly on benches with limited space
- Ease of Use: Oversized, ergonomic knobs
- Drilling Accuracy: X-shaped XACTA Laser ensures perfection every time
- Increased Visibility: LED work light increases visibility for intricate applications
- Extra Support: Retractable roller extension provides support and quick work piece adjustment
How to Pick the Right Drill Press
You need a drill press that will serve you for a long time, give you accuracy for every project, and be powerful enough for all the projects you intend to handle. Here are a few factors to consider when shopping for a drill press.
Drill Press Type
Drill presses come in two types; benchtop and stationary press. The benchtop press is light and doesn’t take much space in your workshop. It is also easier to move when you need to change the layout of your working space. However, thanks to the small size, the benchtop drill presses are not the most powerful, but they will still meet your needs for small metal projects at home.
The stationary model is ideal when you need a drill press for large metal projects. It is heavier and more powerful, and it cuts through metal with ease and more precision.
Power
The watt rating of a drill press shows how much power the machine has. However, most manufacturers show the amp and volt ratings, and you have to calculate the watts. Machines with a high watt rating are more powerful to cut through metal fast. If you need a machine to cut through the toughest metal materials, you need one that delivers about or close to 1,000 watts. Benchtop models will only offer about 400 watts and some even lower.
Speed of the Drill Press
The rotation speed of a drill press varies based on the model and size. This speed determines the efficiency of the machine in drilling. Most models allow you to choose from up to six speeds. Speed comes in handy when you work on different materials – tough materials require the lowest drill speed.
Swing
The swing of your drill press will determine the largest size of metal you can accommodate. It refers to twice the distance between the chuck and the column of the drill press. If you plan on handling large metal pieces, you need a drill press with a large swing. Benchtop drill presses have a swing of between 8 and 12 inches while the floor standing drill presses have a swing of between 13 and 20 inches.
Stroke Distance
The stroke distance of a drill press, also referred to as the quill travel, refers to how deep the drill press can bore without stopping for table or material re-adjustments. Smaller benchtop drill presses can bore for up to 2.5 inches while larger drill presses can bore up to 6 inches or more. For most DIY projects, you may never need to drill more than 4 inches deep.
Features
You need a drill press that offers convenience when you start working. For instance, you need a table that adjusts and moves up and down to make room for the workpiece. You can also look for a machine that allows a side-to-side tilting, say 45 degrees or even up to 360 degrees, so you can drill at all angles. Some models feature LED lights and some with laser guides to show you where to drill.
Finally…
The best drill press for you should be one that meets your drilling needs succinctly. You do not need the largest drill press if you handle small DIY projects at home. However, if you handle heavy-duty metal for large projects, you may need the most powerful of these drill presses. The powerful units come at an extra cost, but they offer you the speed, precision, and convenience you need to handle large projects.
When shopping, consider simple features, such as laser guide and depth stop. These features enhance the quality and accuracy of your work, especially if you are using a drill press for the first time. With several settings, you stand a chance to make the best cuts.
All the drill presses above are great for different applications. You do not have to try all of them – pick one that meets your budget and needs and run with it.
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