Drilling through aluminum can be a tricky task if you don’t have the right tools. Aluminum, while softer than steel, has a tendency to gum up drill bits, leading to friction, heat buildup, and ultimately, a dull bit or a poor-quality hole. To achieve clean, precise holes and prolong the life of your tools, selecting the best drill bits for aluminum is crucial. This roundup article will guide you through our top picks, detailing their features, benefits, and what makes them excel in working with this popular metal.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Drill Bits For Aluminum Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. DEWALT 21-Piece Titanium Nitride Coated Pilot Point Drill Bit Set for Aluminum
The DEWALT 21-Piece Titanium Nitride Coated Pilot Point Drill Bit Set offers exceptional quality and performance for drilling in aluminum and other metals. Designed for precision and longevity, these bits ensure a clean and efficient drilling experience, making them a top choice for demanding projects.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Titanium Nitride Coating for enhanced durability and wear resistance against heat and friction.
- ✓ Pilot Point Tip Design ensures precise starts and significantly reduces bit walking for cleaner holes.
- ✓ Perfect for daily use with outstanding durability and reliability across various materials.
- ✓ Comprehensive 21-piece set provides a wide range of common sizes for diverse drilling needs.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend this DEWALT set for its outstanding durability and reliable performance, especially when working with aluminum. The titanium nitride coating extends bit life significantly, while the pilot point tip guarantees accurate hole starting, making it a top choice for both professionals and serious DIYers seeking precision and longevity.
Best For
This set is best for users requiring a versatile and durable solution for frequent and precise drilling in aluminum, stainless steel, and other demanding materials where accuracy and longevity are paramount.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Superior Titanium Nitride coating for extended tool life.
- Pilot Point tip eliminates bit walking for accurate starts.
- Delivers clean, burr-free holes in aluminum and other metals.
- Wide range of 21 pieces covers most common drilling sizes.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to basic HSS drill bit sets.
- Plastic storage case might not be as durable as the bits themselves for heavy workshop use.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: This is an excellent drill bit set from DeWalt. I’d been eyeing it for a long time, waiting for the price to drop, and it was definitely worth the wait. Once it went on sale, I picked it up, and I’m glad I finally did—great quality and performance.
Customer Review: This is an excellent drill bit set from DeWalt. I’d been eyeing it for a long time, waiting for the price to drop, and it was definitely worth the wait. Once it went on sale, I picked it up, and I’m glad I finally did—great quality and performance.Read more
2. DEWALT 14-Piece Drill Bit Set for Drilling Aluminum, Metal, Wood, and Plastic
The DEWALT 14-Piece Drill Bit Set is a versatile choice designed for tackling a variety of materials, including aluminum, metal, wood, and plastic. Its robust High-Speed Steel construction and smart design features ensure reliable performance for everyday drilling tasks around the workshop or home.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 135-Degree Split Point Tip Design helps reduce walking and allows for quick, clean starts without a pilot hole.
- ✓ Constructed from High-Speed Steel (HSS) for robust performance across plastic, wood, and various metals including aluminum.
- ✓ Tapered Web Design enhances durability and resists breakage, extending the life of each bit.
- ✓ Versatile set perfect for daily use with outstanding durability and reliability in mixed materials.
Why We Recommend It
This set stands out for its versatility and durability, making it an excellent all-around option for diverse projects involving aluminum. The split-point tip is particularly effective for clean starts, reducing the need for pilot holes and boosting efficiency in both soft and hard materials.
Best For
Ideal for general-purpose drilling across multiple materials, especially for DIY enthusiasts and tradespeople who need a reliable set for various tasks involving aluminum, wood, and plastic.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent for multiple materials including aluminum, wood, and plastic.
- Split-point tip prevents bit walking for accurate drilling.
- High-Speed Steel construction ensures good durability.
- Tapered web design offers increased strength and breakage resistance.
Cons:
- No advanced coating (like titanium) means slightly less longevity compared to coated bits.
- The case closure mechanism may not be preferred by all users, though bits are secure.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: I recently added the DEWALT 14‑piece drill bit set to my toolkit, and it’s been putting in the work. The split‑point tips drill cleanly without walking, making it easy to start holes in plastic, wood, and metal—all without a pilot drill. Made from high‑speed steel with a durable black-and-gold coati
Customer Review: Amazing drill bits for the price! Have used on wood, metal, and plastic. Clean cutting, stayed sharp so far. The case has an odd closure, but otherwise I love these drill bits!
3. 99-Piece Titanium Coated HSS Twist Drill Bit Set for Aluminum, Iron, Wood, with Storage Case
This extensive 99-piece titanium coated HSS twist drill bit set offers incredible value and versatility for drilling into aluminum, iron, and wood. With a wide range of sizes, it’s designed to handle numerous projects with ease, providing a comprehensive solution for various drilling needs.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Comprehensive 99-Piece Set includes multiple quantities of common sizes from 1/16″ to 15/64″ for ultimate versatility.
- ✓ HSS Titanium Coating on high-speed steel bits increases wear resistance and durability, especially in softer metals like aluminum.
- ✓ Quick Change 1/4″ Hex Shank compatible with power screwdrivers, impact drivers, and other quick-change chucks.
- ✓ Suitable for a wide variety of materials including aluminum, iron, and wood, offering broad application.
Why We Recommend It
For those on a budget or needing a vast array of sizes for occasional to moderate use, this 99-piece set is highly recommended. The titanium coating adds a layer of protection and improved lubricity, making these bits effective for light-duty aluminum drilling, and you’ll always have the right size on hand.
Best For
Excellent for hobbyists, DIYers, or anyone needing a large assortment of drill bits for light to medium-duty drilling in aluminum, wood, and iron without breaking the bank.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely comprehensive set with 99 pieces, great value.
- Titanium coating improves durability and lifespan for general use.
- Affordable price point for the sheer quantity of bits included.
- Hex shank design allows for quick changes in compatible drivers.
Cons:
- Individual bit quality might not match premium industrial-grade brands for heavy, continuous use.
- Storage case, while convenient, might not withstand rigorous workshop conditions over time.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: I work on restoring antique cars.I use/break drill bits constantly.Recently my wife complained because she couldn’t find any small size bits.Axelord gave me the perfect solution.I purchased their 230 piece set, for under $30 and that included shipping!I will be honest, I did not count them, but they
Customer Review: I work on restoring antique cars.I use/break drill bits constantly.Recently my wife complained because she couldn’t find any small size bits.Axelord gave me the perfect solution.I purchased their 230 piece set, for under $30 and that included shipping!I will be honest, I did not count them, but they
4. COMOWARE 16-Piece Titanium Twist Drill Bit Set, High Speed Steel Hex Shank for Aluminum
The COMOWARE 16-Piece Titanium Twist Drill Bit Set offers reliable performance for drilling in aluminum and other common materials. Featuring a high-speed steel construction with titanium coating, these bits are built for capability and durability, providing a strong option for various drilling tasks.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ HSS Titanium Coating combines classic HSS strength with titanium for increased capability and durability.
- ✓ The cutting edge is hardened and honed for superior sharpness and efficient material removal.
- ✓ Two-Flute Form effectively clears chips and debris away from the bit, decreasing friction and heat for faster, cooler drilling.
- ✓ Quick Change 1/4-Inch Hex Shank fits easily and securely into all power tools, especially suitable for quick-change chucks.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the COMOWARE set for its balanced combination of affordability, durability, and practical design. The hex shank is a significant advantage for quick tool changes in impact drivers, and the titanium coating ensures longevity and smoother drilling when working with aluminum and other metals.
Best For
Ideal for DIY enthusiasts and home users looking for a reliable, easy-to-use set for drilling in aluminum, wood, and plastic, particularly when quick bit changes are desired in an impact driver or drill.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Titanium coating boosts durability, hardness, and lubricity for smoother drilling.
- Hex shank provides quick and secure fit in drills and impact drivers.
- Efficient two-flute design helps clear chips and reduces heat buildup.
- Good value for a titanium-coated, hex shank drill bit set.
Cons:
- Limited to 16 common sizes, which might not cover all specialized needs.
- May require careful speed management and lubrication for very thick or hardened aluminum.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: These are excellent drill bits that have a hex shank so they work in a regular drill or impact driver. I used them to drill through aluminum and they worked great.
Customer Review: God these for my son because I broke one of his old ones. He was very pleased to get these Titanium drill bits. A good product at a good value.
5. Step Drill Bits, 5PCS HSS Titanium Step Drill Bit Set, 50 Sizes High Speed Steel Step Bits for Me…
This 5-piece HSS Titanium Step Drill Bit Set is an invaluable tool for creating multiple hole sizes with a single bit, particularly effective for aluminum and other sheet materials. It offers an impressive 50 different sizes for ultimate versatility, simplifying your drilling tasks and reducing the need for numerous individual bits.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ HSS Titanium Coating ensures excellent sharpness and durability, combining high-speed steel strength with a friction-reducing titanium layer.
- ✓ 118° Split Point Tip & Dual-Flute Design increases cutting speed with self-centering capabilities, prevents walking, and clears chips faster.
- ✓ 50 Sizes in 5 Pieces: This compact kit includes five standard pieces covering a wide range of sizes, versatile enough for most DIY needs.
- ✓ Ideal for creating clean, perfectly round holes in thin materials like sheet aluminum, plastic, and thin metals.
Why We Recommend It
Step bits are fantastic for thin sheet aluminum, and this titanium-coated HSS set delivers excellent results. The ability to drill multiple hole sizes with one bit saves time and effort, making it highly efficient for specific applications where precise, varied hole diameters are needed in thin materials.
Best For
Perfect for anyone working with thin gauge aluminum, sheet metal, plastic, or wood who needs to create multiple sized holes quickly and cleanly without frequently changing bits.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- One bit drills multiple hole sizes, greatly reducing tool changes.
- Excellent for creating clean, burr-free holes in thin aluminum and sheet metal.
- Titanium coating enhances durability, heat resistance, and cutting performance.
- Self-centering split-point tip prevents bit wandering.
Cons:
- Less suitable for very thick or solid blocks of aluminum due to step design limitations.
- Can wear faster if not used with proper lubrication, especially in harder materials.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: This was an inexpensive set of drill bits, but I only needed to drill holes in plastic for my project so I ordered a set. They worked perfectly which in plastic wasn’t surprising. What is surprising is how well they work for projects with metal. The steps are perfectly spaced so they do not tear th
Customer Review: Inexpensive, work like magic, never an issue but keep in mind, as in any drill bits, it’s imperitive to use cutting oil for longevity of the tools/unibits.
Complete Buying Guide for Best Drill Bits For Aluminum
Choosing the best drill bits for aluminum involves more than just picking a random set. Aluminum’s unique properties—its softness, tendency to gall, and low melting point—require specific drill bit characteristics to ensure efficient drilling and a clean finish. Here’s what you should consider:
Essential Factors We Consider
- Material and Coating:
- High-Speed Steel (HSS): This is the most common material. For aluminum, HSS bits are a good starting point.
- Titanium Nitride (TiN) Coating: TiN-coated HSS bits offer increased hardness, reduced friction, and better heat resistance. This is excellent for drilling aluminum as it helps prevent chips from sticking and extends bit life.
- Cobalt (HSS-Co or M35/M42): Cobalt bits are alloyed with 5-8% cobalt, providing superior heat resistance and hardness compared to standard HSS. They are ideal for tougher aluminum alloys and offer a longer lifespan.
- Black Oxide: A basic coating that provides some corrosion resistance and lubricity, but less effective for aluminum than TiN or Cobalt.
- Tip Design:
- 135-Degree Split Point: This is highly recommended for metals, especially aluminum. It allows the bit to start drilling on contact, preventing “walking” (the bit sliding across the surface) and eliminating the need for a pilot hole.
- 118-Degree Point: Common for general-purpose drilling but can be prone to walking on metal surfaces.
- Flute Design:
- Wider Flutes: Aluminum produces long, stringy chips. Bits with wider, polished flutes are better at clearing these chips, which helps prevent clogging, reduces heat buildup, and minimizes the risk of the bit gumming up.
- Shank Type:
- Round Shank: Standard for most drills.
- Hex Shank: Offers a more secure grip in quick-change chucks and impact drivers, preventing slippage.
- Tri-Flat Shank: Similar to hex, provides a better grip than round shanks in standard chucks.
- Drill Bit Type:
- Twist Drill Bits: General-purpose bits, most common for aluminum. Ensure they have a suitable coating and tip angle.
- Step Drill Bits: Excellent for drilling multiple sizes of holes in thin sheet aluminum. They create clean, burr-free holes.
- Speed and Lubrication: While not a bit feature, proper technique is vital. Drilling aluminum requires slower speeds and plenty of cutting fluid or lubricant (like WD-40 or a specific cutting oil) to dissipate heat and prevent chips from welding to the bit.
Budget Planning
When budgeting for drill bits for aluminum, consider your usage frequency and project complexity. For occasional DIY tasks, a good quality HSS set with a TiN coating offers a great balance of performance and cost. If you’re a professional or frequently work with aluminum, investing in a premium cobalt set will provide superior durability and efficiency, justifying the higher upfront cost. Larger sets offer versatility but ensure the sizes included match your common needs to avoid unnecessary expense.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the right drill bits is a critical step towards successful aluminum drilling. Prioritize bits made from High-Speed Steel with a Titanium Nitride (TiN) or Cobalt coating, and always look for a 135-degree split-point tip for optimal performance. Remember to use appropriate drilling speeds and plenty of lubrication to maximize bit life and achieve clean, accurate results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use regular drill bits for aluminum?
A: While you can technically use regular HSS drill bits for aluminum, it’s not ideal. Standard bits tend to gum up, create rough holes, and dull quickly due to aluminum’s sticky nature. For best results and longer bit life, use drill bits specifically designed or coated for metal, such as TiN-coated or cobalt HSS bits with a sharp, 135-degree split point.
Q: What type of drill bit is best for aluminum?
A: The best drill bits for aluminum are typically made of High-Speed Steel (HSS) with a Titanium Nitride (TiN) coating or those made from Cobalt HSS (M35/M42). Bits with a 135-degree split point tip are highly recommended as they prevent walking and ensure clean, accurate starts. Wider flutes also help in clearing the soft aluminum chips.
Q: What speed should I drill aluminum at?
A: Aluminum should generally be drilled at slower speeds than wood or plastic. High speeds generate excessive heat, which can cause aluminum to melt and stick to the drill bit, or even fuse to the workpiece. The exact speed depends on the bit diameter; larger bits require slower RPMs, while smaller bits can handle slightly higher speeds. Always use a cutting lubricant.
Q: Do I need to use lubrication when drilling aluminum?
A: Yes, absolutely. Using a cutting lubricant or oil is crucial when drilling aluminum. Lubrication helps to reduce friction and heat buildup, prevents aluminum chips from welding to the drill bit (known as “galling”), and helps to clear chips from the flutes. This significantly prolongs the life of your drill bit and ensures a cleaner hole.
Q: How do I prevent aluminum chips from sticking to the drill bit?
A: To prevent chips from sticking, ensure you use a good quality cutting lubricant designed for metals, or even WD-40. Drill at slower speeds, especially with larger bits. Additionally, “peck drilling” (drilling a short distance, pulling the bit out to clear chips, and repeating) can help prevent chip buildup and allow lubricant to reach the cutting edge effectively.
Choosing the right drill bits can transform your experience when working with aluminum, leading to cleaner holes, faster work, and longer-lasting tools. Our expert-tested selections above offer excellent performance across different needs and budgets. Whether you opt for the ultimate precision of a DEWALT titanium set or the versatile economy of a large HSS kit, you’re now equipped to make an informed decision. Don’t let improper tooling hinder your projects—invest in the best drill bits for aluminum today and experience the difference in quality and efficiency. Click on the “Check Price on Amazon” buttons to find the perfect set for your next task!
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.
