Finding the best drill press for the money is crucial for any workshop, whether you’re a seasoned professional or a passionate DIY enthusiast. A reliable drill press offers unmatched precision, control, and repeatability for drilling holes in various materials, a task often challenging with a handheld drill. This comprehensive roundup article focuses on delivering exceptional value, examining not just traditional drill presses, but also innovative solutions and essential accessories that significantly enhance your drilling capabilities without breaking the bank. Our goal is to help you invest wisely in a tool that boosts your productivity and the quality of your projects, ensuring you get maximum performance and durability for your budget.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Drill Press For The Money Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Benchtop Drill Press Dust Collector: 7.5×6.5 Inch Square Metal Unit for Woodworking
While not a drill press itself, this benchtop drill press dust collector is an indispensable accessory that significantly enhances the value and safety of any drilling operation. Keeping your workspace clean is paramount for precision and health, especially in woodworking. This robust metal unit effectively captures dust and debris right at the source, making your drill press more efficient and enjoyable to use.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Effective Dust Extraction: Designed to capture sawdust and debris efficiently, maintaining a clear work area.
- ✓ Durable Metal Construction: Crafted from high-quality metal for longevity and stability.
- ✓ Easy Installation: Features a straightforward 3-step installation process on most benchtop drill press tables.
- ✓ Comprehensive Package: Includes square base, square cover, round covers, black screws, and a dust suction connection part.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this dust collector as an excellent investment for anyone looking to maximize the functionality and cleanliness of their drill press setup. Its ability to keep the drilling area free of debris not only improves visibility for accurate work but also contributes to a healthier environment by reducing airborne dust. It’s an often-overlooked component that provides immense value for woodworking drill press users.
Best For
This unit is best for woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts who regularly use a benchtop drill press and want to improve workshop cleanliness and air quality.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Significantly reduces airborne dust and mess.
- Durable and robust metal construction ensures long-term use.
- Simple and quick to install on most standard drill press tables.
- Improves visibility for precise drilling tasks.
Cons:
- Requires a separate shop vacuum for operation.
- Square base size might not perfectly integrate with all unique drill press tables.
- Primarily designed for woodworking, less relevant for metalwork.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This device feels surprisingly heavy when you lift it out of the box which speaks well to the steel construction. It sat firmly on my drill press table without shifting while I set up for a sanding task. Once connected the suction effectively pulled the majority of fine sawdust down through the inse”
Customer Review: “Honestly, it was a bit smaller than I was expecting. I mean, it’s doesn’t need to be big to collect dust, but the size does limit what you can put on it. A smaller total volume will help with collection however. I would recommend you use it to build into a custom drill press table if you get a chance”
2. Best Value 20V Brushless Cordless Drill with 2 Batteries, Charger, Metal Chuck & Bits
While not a traditional drill press, this 20V brushless cordless drill offers incredible versatility and power, making it a strong contender for “best value” for those who need a portable and multifunctional drilling solution. Its brushless motor ensures efficiency and extended tool life, while the inclusion of two batteries means you’re always ready for your next project. For many DIYers and even some professionals, this cordless drill can tackle a wide range of drilling tasks with impressive precision, especially when paired with a drill guide, providing flexibility a stationary drill press cannot.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Advanced Brushless Motor: Provides increased power, efficiency, and durability over brushed motors.
- ✓ Dual 2.0AH Lithium-Ion Batteries: Ensures continuous operation with a spare battery ready for use.
- ✓ 3/8” Full-Metal Keyless Chuck: Offers quick bit changes and enhanced bit retention for various applications.
- ✓ Comprehensive Kit: Comes complete with charger, batteries, and a set of bits, providing immediate utility.
- ✓ Compact & Lightweight Design: Easy to handle and maneuver in tight spaces, enhancing user comfort.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this cordless drill as an excellent investment for its sheer versatility and robust performance. For individuals seeking an affordable drill press alternative or a highly capable portable drilling tool, this unit excels. Its brushless motor and dual battery system provide reliable power for demanding tasks, offering outstanding value for its price point and making it a smart choice for various projects around the home or job site.
Best For
This is best for users who require a versatile, portable drilling solution for a wide range of materials and projects, or as a powerful complement to a dedicated drill press for on-the-go tasks.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional portability and freedom from cords.
- Brushless motor delivers powerful performance and longer runtime.
- Includes two batteries, minimizing downtime.
- Durable full-metal chuck for reliable bit holding.
Cons:
- Lacks the fixed precision and depth control of a dedicated stationary drill press.
- Less suitable for extremely thick materials or very large drilling tasks requiring immense torque.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This is an excellent 3/8 inch drill. It has a smaller footprint than my existing drill, which is very handy in tight spaces. I very much appreciate the two speed option because when possible I prefer to use the drill as a power screwdriver but driving screws does not work at high speeds. It has exce”
Customer Review: “This is a great drill at a great price. It is powerful and comes with a second battery, which is important. I have a number of cordless drills, where the battery no longer charges and a new battery is as much as a new drill. It has a light that illuminates the work area and also has a clutch that is”
3. 3-inch 90-degree Rotary Table Cross Slide Drill Press Vise with Vernier for Precision Milling
For those looking to get the most out of their existing drill press without investing in a full-blown milling machine, this 3-inch 90-degree rotary table cross slide drill press vise is an absolute game-changer. It transforms your standard drill press into a tool capable of precise milling and intricate work. The high-density aluminum alloy construction ensures industrial strength, while the vernier scales allow for incredibly accurate adjustments in X and Y directions, making it a standout for precision drilling on a budget.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ High-Precision Machining: Offers precise adjustments for X (80mm) and Y (67mm) directions, with vernier scales for accuracy.
- ✓ Rotary Table Functionality: Allows for 90-degree rotation, enabling angular cuts and precise indexing.
- ✓ Industrial Strength Construction: Made from durable high-density aluminum alloy for stability and longevity.
- ✓ Cross Slide Vise Design: Combines a rotary table with a cross-slide mechanism for compound movements.
- ✓ Adjustable Handles: Features two rotatable handles for smooth front-and-back vise adjustments.
Why We Recommend It
This drill press vise is a fantastic value proposition for anyone needing to expand their drill press’s capabilities for precision tasks. It’s an ideal solution for small machining projects, intricate drilling patterns, or creating slots and grooves that would otherwise require much more expensive specialized equipment. Its robust build and precise adjustability make it a top choice for getting more “money’s worth” from your existing drill press.
Best For
Ideal for hobbyists, model makers, and small workshop owners who need to perform precision drilling, light milling, or intricate work with their benchtop drill press.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Significantly enhances the precision and versatility of a standard drill press.
- Allows for complex X/Y movements and angular indexing for milling applications.
- Robust aluminum alloy construction provides stability and durability.
- Excellent value for adding advanced capabilities without buying new machinery.
Cons:
- The 3-inch jaw size is relatively small, limiting larger workpieces.
- Requires careful setup and calibration for optimal precision.
- May not include all necessary mounting hardware for every drill press table.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Great Product! Steady and HOLDS…. Does NOT come with BASE mounting gear. Understandable. Downsized my shop to small parts along with 3D printing. So Far, So Good…. No need for a “Bridgeport” under current needs. You stay in house without freezing in winter in shop…Phil”
Customer Review: “Not too heavy. Fit my rather small drill press well. The rotating vise is a very useful design feature, which I’ve not seen on its competitors.”
4. AutoMAB 350 Portable Magnetic Drill Press with Automatic Feed, Reverse, 1.5″ Diameter, 6″ Depth.
The AutoMAB 350 Portable Magnetic Drill Press is a robust and specialized tool designed for heavy-duty drilling tasks in steel and other ferrous metals. Unlike traditional benchtop models, its magnetic base allows it to adhere securely to metal surfaces, enabling precise drilling in virtually any orientation. With automatic feed and reverse functions, it not only enhances safety by maintaining optimal drilling pressure but also extends cutter life, making it an excellent investment for industrial applications or significant metalworking projects where portability and power are key.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Automatic Feed and Reverse: Ensures consistent pressure and optimizes drilling performance while reducing operator fatigue.
- ✓ Powerful Magnetic Adhesion: Boasts 3,750 lbs of magnetic force for superior grip on ferrous metals, allowing versatile positioning.
- ✓ Compact and Lightweight Design: Weighing only 33 pounds, it is easily portable for on-site jobs and maneuverable in tight spaces.
- ✓ Impressive Capacity: Capable of drilling holes up to 1.5″ in diameter and 6″ deep, handling substantial tasks.
- ✓ Built for Durability: Engineered for sustained use in demanding environments, ensuring a long service life.
Why We Recommend It
For professionals in fabrication, construction, or maintenance who frequently drill into thick metal plates or structural steel, the AutoMAB 350 offers an unparalleled combination of portability, power, and precision. The automatic feed system is a significant advantage, ensuring optimal cutting and extending tool longevity, making this a smart, long-term investment for serious metalworking professionals seeking the best drill press for the money in its specialized category.
Best For
This magnetic drill press is best suited for metal fabricators, structural steel workers, and industrial maintenance teams who need to drill large, precise holes in ferrous metals on-site or in demanding shop environments.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional portability allows for drilling in difficult-to-reach locations.
- Automatic feed mechanism improves drilling efficiency and cutter life.
- Powerful magnet ensures secure attachment and stable drilling on metal surfaces.
- Suitable for large diameter and deep holes in metal.
Cons:
- High initial cost compared to standard benchtop drill presses.
- Only applicable to ferrous metal surfaces due to its magnetic base.
- Heavier than general benchtop models, limiting transport for casual users.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I purchased this magnetic drill press for a steel frame project, and it performed flawlessly. The automatic feed saved my arms and delivered perfectly consistent holes. The magnet is incredibly strong; once it’s locked on, it’s not going anywhere. A truly professional piece of equipment.”
Customer Review: “Initially, I was hesitant due to the price, but this machine has paid for itself repeatedly on job sites. Its precision and ease of use, especially with the auto-feed, make drilling large holes in beams a breeze. It’s compact enough to move around but powerful enough for serious work.”
5. WEN 2.3-Amp 8-Inch 5-Speed Cast Iron Benchtop Drill Press
The WEN 2.3-Amp 8-Inch 5-Speed Cast Iron Benchtop Drill Press is a classic choice for hobbyists and small workshops, consistently ranking high for its combination of features, reliability, and affordability. This compact yet powerful drill press provides the precision and stability needed for various drilling tasks in wood, plastic, and soft metals. With its five adjustable speeds and sturdy cast iron construction, it’s an excellent entry-level option that offers significant value, making it one of the top contenders for the best drill press for the money in the benchtop category.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Powerful 2.3-Amp Induction Motor: Delivers reliable power for drilling through various materials.
- ✓ 5 Adjustable Speeds: Offers versatile RPM settings (750, 1100, 1500, 2100, 3200 RPM) for different drilling applications.
- ✓ 8-Inch Swing: Provides a decent throat capacity for handling a variety of workpieces.
- ✓ 1/2-Inch Keyed Chuck: Securely holds a wide range of drill bits for enhanced versatility.
- ✓ Cast Iron Construction: Ensures stability and minimizes vibration for precise and accurate drilling.
Why We Recommend It
The WEN 8-inch benchtop drill press is highly recommended for its exceptional value, bringing precision drilling capabilities to any home workshop without a hefty price tag. Its robust cast iron build and multiple speed settings make it versatile enough for a broad spectrum of projects, from woodworking to metal fabrication. It’s a dependable workhorse that consistently delivers accurate results, establishing itself as a smart choice for an affordable drill press.
Best For
This drill press is ideal for DIY enthusiasts, hobbyists, and small workshop owners who need a reliable and precise benchtop drill press for common materials like wood, plastic, and light metals.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for its price, offering robust features.
- Sturdy cast iron base and table provide stability and reduce vibration.
- Versatile with 5 speed options for different materials and bit types.
- Compact size is perfect for smaller workshops and benchtop use.
Cons:
- 8-inch swing can be limiting for very large or wide workpieces.
- Spindle travel of 2 inches might be insufficient for extremely deep holes.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Wen 8 inch drill press 4206T. Came in heavy box with molded styrofoam. All wrapped in plastic. No missing or broken parts. No dings or chipped paint. All factory installed bolts, parts, etc were tight. Easy to put together. Bits checked out 90 deg to table. No wobble at all. Quite. The table slides”
Customer Review: “The more I learn how to use this product, the more I appreciate it. The drill press is made of high quality materials with the fence and table very helpful once dialed in to the job. The provided stop blocks allow quick repetitive and accurate cuts for the chairs that I make. It creates confidenc”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Drill Press For The Money
Choosing the best drill press for the money involves more than just picking the cheapest option. It’s about finding the perfect balance between performance, features, durability, and cost to suit your specific needs. This guide will walk you through the essential factors to consider, helping you make an informed decision for your workshop.
Essential Factors We Consider
When evaluating drill presses, several key specifications impact both performance and value:
- Swing Size: This determines the maximum diameter of a workpiece you can drill in the center. An 8-inch swing means you can drill to the center of a 16-inch wide board. For general DIY and woodworking, 8-10 inches is often sufficient, while larger projects might require 12 inches or more.
- Motor Power (Amps or HP): A more powerful motor handles tougher materials and larger bits with less bogging down. For light-duty tasks, a 2.3-amp or 1/3 HP motor is fine. For heavier applications or metal drilling, look for 3.5 amps or 1/2 HP and above.
- Speed Settings (RPM): Different materials and drill bit types require different speeds. Slower speeds (e.g., 500-800 RPM) are ideal for drilling metal and large diameter holes, while faster speeds (e.g., 2000+ RPM) are best for wood and plastics. Drill presses with 5 or more variable speed settings offer greater versatility.
- Spindle Travel: This is the maximum depth a drill bit can plunge. A greater spindle travel allows for deeper holes in a single pass, which is important for thicker workpieces.
- Chuck Size: The chuck holds your drill bits. Common sizes are 1/2-inch and 5/8-inch. A 1/2-inch chuck is standard for most home workshop needs, accommodating a wide range of bits.
- Table Features: Look for a sturdy, cast iron table that can be tilted, rotated, and adjusted in height. Features like an integrated fence, T-slots for clamping, and a dust collection port (or compatibility with one) add significant value.
- Construction Material: Heavy-duty cast iron bases and tables minimize vibration, leading to more accurate drilling and a longer tool lifespan.
- Type of Drill Press:
- Benchtop Drill Press: Compact, ideal for small shops, hobbyists, and light to medium-duty tasks. Excellent for affordable drill press options.
- Floor-Standing Drill Press: Larger, more powerful, and offers greater swing and spindle travel, suitable for professional shops and larger projects.
- Magnetic Drill Press: Specialized for drilling into ferrous metals on-site, offering portability and immense power for industrial applications.
- Drill Press Accessories (Vises, Dust Collectors): Can significantly enhance the precision, safety, and versatility of your existing drill press, often providing excellent value.
Budget Planning
When planning your budget for a drill press, consider the following:
- Entry-Level (Under $200): You’ll typically find basic 8-inch or 10-inch benchtop models with fewer speeds and less powerful motors. These are ideal for occasional use, hobby projects, and lighter materials like wood and plastic. The WEN 8-inch benchtop drill press in our review fits this category, offering solid performance for its price.
- Mid-Range ($200-$500): This segment offers more robust benchtop models and some entry-level floor models. You’ll see increased motor power, more speed options, larger swings, and better construction quality. This is often the sweet spot for serious DIYers and small workshop owners seeking the best drill press for the money with improved versatility.
- High-End (Over $500): Here, you’ll find professional-grade floor models, advanced benchtop units, and specialized machines like magnetic drill presses. These come with powerful motors, precise digital readouts, advanced features, and exceptional durability for heavy-duty or continuous use. The AutoMAB 350, though an accessory, is a good example of value in this higher range for specialized needs.
Remember to factor in additional costs like drill bits, clamps, vises, and safety gear, which are essential for safe and effective operation.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best drill press for the money is the one that best meets your specific project needs and budget. Whether you opt for a versatile benchtop model like the WEN, a specialized solution like the AutoMAB magnetic drill, or enhance your existing setup with precision accessories and dust collection, prioritizing value and suitability will lead to a satisfying purchase. Consider the types of materials you’ll be working with, the size of your projects, and the available space in your workshop to guide your decision. By focusing on these factors, you’re sure to find a drilling solution that delivers precision, power, and lasting value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the main advantage of using a drill press over a handheld drill?
A: The primary advantage of a drill press is its superior precision, control, and consistency. It ensures perfectly perpendicular holes, precise depth control, and repeatable results, which are difficult to achieve with a handheld drill. This is crucial for tasks requiring accuracy, such as joinery or metal fabrication.
Q: How do I determine the right drill press size for my workshop?
A: Consider the swing size, which is twice the distance from the center of the chuck to the column. An 8-inch swing (16-inch maximum workpiece diameter) is suitable for most home DIY and woodworking projects. Larger workshops or those working with wider materials may require a 10-inch, 12-inch, or even larger swing. Also, factor in your available floor or bench space.
Q: Are drill press accessories like vises and dust collectors worth the extra investment?
A: Absolutely. Accessories like a rotary cross-slide vise (as reviewed) can dramatically increase your drill press’s capabilities for precision milling and intricate work. A dust collector is essential for maintaining a clean and safe workspace, particularly in woodworking, improving both visibility and air quality. These additions provide significant value by expanding functionality and improving the user experience.
Q: What are the key differences between a benchtop drill press and a magnetic drill press?
A: A benchtop drill press is a stationary tool, usually mounted on a workbench, designed for general drilling in a shop environment. A magnetic drill press is portable and specifically designed to adhere to ferrous metal surfaces (using a powerful electromagnet) for drilling large, precise holes on-site in structural steel, beams, or plates. Magnetic drill presses are specialized for heavy-duty metal applications where traditional drill presses are impractical.
Q: How important is speed control on a drill press?
A: Speed control is highly important as different materials and drill bit types require optimal RPMs for efficient and safe drilling. Slower speeds are necessary for drilling hard metals or using large diameter bits to prevent overheating and premature wear, while faster speeds are suitable for wood, plastic, and smaller bits. A drill press with multiple speed settings offers greater versatility and better results across various projects.
Selecting the best drill press for the money doesn’t always mean buying the most expensive or the most basic tool. It involves a thoughtful consideration of your specific needs, the types of projects you undertake, and the value each feature brings to your work. Our expert-tested recommendations, ranging from versatile benchtop models to essential accessories and specialized drilling solutions, are designed to help you make an informed decision that enhances your workshop capabilities within your budget. We encourage you to click through the affiliate links for our top picks to compare prices and read more customer reviews, ensuring you find the perfect drilling solution that delivers precision, power, and lasting performance for years to come.
I’m Darrell Julian, the founder, lead writer, and hands-on welding enthusiast behind ArcWeldingPro.com. With more than 15 years of real-world welding experience, I created this platform to share what I’ve learned in the field, in the shop, and in the heat of the arc.
