This article will help you be aware of some important issues before you spend that money. The first two points are concerned with choosing the main specs of the drill presses. The last point is to guide you through some of the smaller features you should look for in your purchase.
1. Job Material Vs. Motor
The first thing you need to know is the amount of horsepower (hp) that you need. One hp is overkill for most beginners and amateurs. If you are looking at remodeling furniture and mainly working with wood, 1/3 hp will work just fine. If you are looking to work with heavier materials like steel but medium-sized workpieces, 2/3 hp will be more than enough.
However, if you are consistently going to be drilling 2″ holes in thick steel pieces, then maybe one hp will not be a bad investment.
The size of your workpieces is also an important point to consider. Suppose you are looking to work with furniture, cabinetry, treehouses, and similar jobs. In that case, honestly, you might even be okay with a minimal 3.5″ travel. But still, I would recommend getting at least 5.5″ travel to remain flexible.
Speaking from personal experience, if you are working on unique prototypes of any kind or love to experiment, don’t go below 5.5″ travel.
2. Work Frequency Vs. Motor
The other important consideration is the amount of work and daily use you expect from the drill press. The power of the motor is also a good indicator of its longevity. If you are looking to work on one or two small projects, a $75 small drill press with 1/3 hp is fine.
Maybe you are looking to buy a drill press that is going to get a lot of use. Maybe you want to train youngsters on it, or you expect to use it in a busy workshop indefinitely, that motor will not last long enough. It is all about the number of hours of work you expect in the day. In this situation, even if you will be specifically working with wood, go for a higher horsepower like 2/3 hp.
3. Quality of Life Features
Quality of life features go beyond the main specifications of specs. What quality of life features might you want? Let me explain.
Dealing with Play
Drill presses develop play and wobble after some use. Once the play gets too much, you will have to manage it. Older drill presses usually have split quill castings. They allow you to manage any play easily and in a few minutes. You will be able to control any wobble without too much hassle. Try to find a split quill casting for your specs, but it won’t be easy, so you might have to compromise on this one.
Depth Stop
Depth stop mechanisms are good for training purposes and also unique and complex workpieces. If you are looking at working with simple workpieces, then it is not necessary, and you can pass it. But if you imagine a scenario where you will be making many shallow holes, make sure you have a good depth stop mechanism. Otherwise, you will have to make a depth stop yourself.
Variable Speed
Most drill presses you will find will have variable speed settings. The question is, how often will you need to change speeds? If you are working in a professional setting where time is really important and the jobs are unique, you want a drill press. This continuously variable speed system uses buttons or wheels to control it.
For most beginners, you will only work with similar-sized and similar material workpieces and drill sizes. Most amateurs don’t have to change speed settings for weeks or months on end. If you identify with that, don’t splurge on continuous variable speed and automatic control.
Pulley Material
Beginner drill presses often save costs by installing aluminum pulleys for the speed system. Don’t do that. Spend $10 more and get a drill press with steel pulleys. For minimal use, aluminum pulleys might work for you, but if the drill press has used aluminum pulleys to cut costs, who knows what other expense they skimped out on.
Sound Reducer
To know a good drill press, look for ways to reduce the machine’s noise and vibration. Open the top box with the pulleys and inspect if there are rubber pieces installed. If you don’t see those rubbers, you should know the manufacturers did not pay attention to reducing noise.
If you are working in your home, you need to look into how the manufacturer minimized the machine’s noise and buy the drill press that cares about that.
Final Thoughts
Most likely, no store-bought drill press is going to be perfect for you. Everyone has their preferences, styles, and needs. Buy the drill press that gets you the closest to your goals, and then create modifications to make your drill press the perfect machine.
ZELCAN Step Drill Bits, HSS 5PCS Titanium Step Drill Bit Set, 50 Sizes in 5 High Speed Steel Unibit Drill Bits Set for Sheet Metal with Aluminum Case, Multiple Hole Stepped Up Bits for DIY Lovers
$22.99
@ Amazon.com (Save 23%)
Product DescriptionExtreme Durability: Cobalt high speed steel drill bits along with the titanium coating ensures extreme durability, will stay new and shiny for years to come.
Different Sizes of Holes Can Be Drilled: Different sized shanks ensure compatibility with 1/4, 3/8 and 1/2 in. chuck sizes. You are capable to drill holes in different sizes which can meet your normal needs.
Smooth Drilling: Non-walking drill tip provides fast and smooth drills on steel sheets, aluminum sheets, wood board, plastic board etc. (the board must be smaller in thickness than the height of step drill bits).
Use Center Punch to Mark the Spot: Please mark the spot that you are to drill for easier drilling and improved drill bits life.
Keep Your Step Drill Bits Well Organized: All the bits come in a well-organized case for easy transport and storage.
Product Details| Brand: | ZELCAN |
|---|
| Model #: | 000000 |
|---|
| Color: | Dark Bronze |
|---|
| Dimensions: | 4.330708657 X 1.574803148 X 6.1023621985 inches (Length X Width X Height) |
|---|
| Price: | $22.99 (Save 23%) |
|---|
ZELCAN Step Drill Bits, HSS 5PCS Titanium Step Drill Bit Set, 50 Sizes in 5 High Speed Steel Unibit Drill Bits Set for Sheet Metal with Aluminum Case, Multiple Hole Stepped Up Bits for DIY Lovers
ZELCAN Step Drill Bits, HSS 5PCS Titanium Step Drill Bit Set, 50 Sizes in 5 High Speed Steel Unibit Drill Bits Set for Sheet Metal with Aluminum Case, Multiple Hole Stepped Up Bits for DIY Lovers
Product Description90° Rotation: The drill clamp of this benchtop drill press can rotate from 0° to 90°, meeting the needs of different applications.
High Compatibility: The drill stand features an adjustable drill clamp, making it compatible with most electric drills or rotary tools with collet diameters ranging from 25mm/(1〞) to 40mm(1-47/64〞)
Sturdy Cast Iron Base: Made of durable cast iron, this drill press workstation stand is designed with four clamping points to secure it firmly to the workbench, ensuring high stability for safer and more precise operation.
Adjustable and Versatile: Features separate adjustments for press depth and drill height, minimizing the risk of over-drilling. Includes three collar inserts to fit smaller drills and supports a variety of tools.
Versatile Applications:Suitable for vertical drilling, grinding, polishing, and sanding, allowing you to convert a handheld drill into a full drill press.
Product Details| Brand: | AeKeatDa |
|---|
| Model #: | SAAKDSA102 |
|---|
| Dimensions: | 6.2 X 8.9 X 15.7 inches (Length X Width X Height) |
|---|
| Price: | $39.99 (Save 5%) |
|---|
AeKeatDa Floor Drill Press Stand for Hand Drill, 90 Degree Rotating Adjustable Universal Bench Clamp Drill Holder Drill Press Adapter Workbench Repair Tool for Benchtop Repair
ZELCAN Step Drill Bits, HSS 5PCS Titanium Step Drill Bit Set, 50 Sizes in 5 High Speed Steel Unibit Drill Bits Set for Sheet Metal with Aluminum Case, Multiple Hole Stepped Up Bits for DIY Lovers
Product DescriptionLong-Lasting HSS Drill Bit - Crafted from high-speed steel for enhanced durability. Titanium coating allows easy cutting through various metals and materials, with automatic deburring for clean drilling
Titanium Coated for Efficiency - Ensures excellent heat, corrosion, and rust resistance, boosting the drill set's performance
Innovative Tri-Flatted Shank - Securely fits into power tools chucks, preventing slips. The two-flute design aids in faster chip clearing and easy particle escape
Versatile Step Sizes Included - Comes with 10 step sizes: 1/4", 3/8", 1/2", 5/8", 3/4", 7/8", 1", 1-1/8", 1-1/4", 1-3/8"
Essential for Handymen and Professionals - Ideal for home repairs and light tasks. Suitable for drilling in plastic, aluminum, copper, iron, and various sheet metals, except for steel or harder metals
Product Details| Brand: | Yangoutool |
|---|
| Size: | 10 steps |
|---|
| Dimensions: | 6.1 X 2.9 X 1.6 inches (Length X Width X Height) |
|---|
| Price: | $8.99 |
|---|
Step Drill,Yangoutool High Speed Steel Step Drill 10 Steps from 1/4-1-3/8 Inches with Safe Plastic Case
ZELCAN Step Drill Bits, HSS 5PCS Titanium Step Drill Bit Set, 50 Sizes in 5 High Speed Steel Unibit Drill Bits Set for Sheet Metal with Aluminum Case, Multiple Hole Stepped Up Bits for DIY Lovers
Product DescriptionHIGH QUALITY MATERIAL: Aluminum alloy base + solid column bar; Drill Depth: up to 60mm(2.4"), single hole mount. This electric drill featured high concentricity and small vibration, efficient reduce the deviation
FEATURE: This Adjustable Drill Press Stand is ideal for holding your drill steady during working time and allows for much more accurate drilling than hand-held operation
AVAILABLE DRILL:This Adjustable Drill Press Stand is designed for use with any power drill with collar diameter of 43mm (or 38mm with supplied reducing bush) this accessory is great for any DIY-er or professional
WHAT YOU WILL GET:Pack of 1 set drill press stand per parcel.Need to assemble.Not including the electric drill
WIDELY APPLICATION:This is a new adjustable drill stand, perfect for shop or home use,Hobby tools, Ideal for Rotary tools, Power Drill, benchtop, perfect for home garage use,convenient and practical.Note: Please only use it for small/light jobs!
Product Details| Brand: | NICCOO |
|---|
| Model #: | NICCOO12 |
|---|
| Color: | Black Blue |
|---|
| Dimensions: | 5.905511805 X 0.00393700787 X 15.74803148 inches (Length X Width X Height) |
|---|
| Price: | $25.55 |
|---|
NICCOO Drill Press Stand For Hand Drill, Adjustable Bench Clamp Drill Press Floor Stand Workbench Repair Tool for Drilling Collet Workshop,Single Hole Aluminum base (for Small Jobs)
ZELCAN Step Drill Bits, HSS 5PCS Titanium Step Drill Bit Set, 50 Sizes in 5 High Speed Steel Unibit Drill Bits Set for Sheet Metal with Aluminum Case, Multiple Hole Stepped Up Bits for DIY Lovers
Product DescriptionExpand 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
Product Details| Brand: | WEN |
|---|
| Model #: | DPA2513 |
|---|
| Color: | Black Orange |
|---|
| Dimensions: | 23.875 X 11.875 X 1 Inches (Length X Width X Height) |
|---|
| Price: | $49.20 |
|---|
WEN DPA2513 24-by-12-Inch Drill Press Table with an Adjustable Fence and Stop Block
ZELCAN Step Drill Bits, HSS 5PCS Titanium Step Drill Bit Set, 50 Sizes in 5 High Speed Steel Unibit Drill Bits Set for Sheet Metal with Aluminum Case, Multiple Hole Stepped Up Bits for DIY Lovers
Product DescriptionHSS Titanium Coating : Made from high-speed steel with a titanium coating for excellent sharpness, durability, and longer tool life
Dual-Flute Design : Clears chips quickly and allows easy particle escape for efficient drilling
118° Split Point Tip : Self centering tip increases cutting speed and prevents walking
Wide Application : Ideal for drilling plastic, wood,aluminum, iron, and sheet metal (not suitable for stainless stee)
Multiple Sizes: 10 sizes from 1/4 to 1-3/8 Inches
Product Details| Brand: | Hendar |
|---|
| Model #: | SDB-01 |
|---|
| Price: | $8.98 |
|---|
10 Sizes Titanium Coated HSS Step Drill Bit 1/4 to 1-3/8 Inches, High Speed Steel Multipurpose Cone Drill Bits for Metalworking, Unibit Sheet Metal Hole Drilling
ZELCAN Step Drill Bits, HSS 5PCS Titanium Step Drill Bit Set, 50 Sizes in 5 High Speed Steel Unibit Drill Bits Set for Sheet Metal with Aluminum Case, Multiple Hole Stepped Up Bits for DIY Lovers
Product DescriptionPortable Drill Press Stand: Our drill press stand is made of aluminum alloy, small in size, light in weight, and easy to carry, so you can carry it with you as you need
Drill Guide Sizes: width: 140mm / 5.5inch; total height: 290mm / 11.4 inch, Clamping Diameter: Fit for 1.5-13mm Drill
Muti Angle Cuts: Achieve angle cuts from 45 degrees to 90 degrees with the built-in angle readout in the aluminum alloy base
Suitable For: This drill guide fits 1/4-inch or 3/8-inch drills
Application: Suitable for straight or angled drilling, on the edge of a board or round stock
Product Details| Brand: | CertBuy |
|---|
| Model #: | WWUS-Drillguide-1-Bk |
|---|
| Size: | 11.8 inch |
|---|
| Color: | Grey |
|---|
| Dimensions: | 29.7 X 5.5118 X 29.7 inches (Length X Width X Height) |
|---|
| Price: | $25.99 |
|---|
CertBuy Portable Drill Press for Hand Drill, Adjustable Multi-Angle For 1/4 Inch and 3/8 Inch Angle Drill Holder Guide
ZELCAN Step Drill Bits, HSS 5PCS Titanium Step Drill Bit Set, 50 Sizes in 5 High Speed Steel Unibit Drill Bits Set for Sheet Metal with Aluminum Case, Multiple Hole Stepped Up Bits for DIY Lovers
Product DescriptionApplication: Use this drill press stand for electric drills with collar diameter 38-43mm (1.7"or 1.5"), with a black plastic ring for a better fix.
Material of this Electric Drill Press Stand: Aluminum alloy base + solid column bar; Drill Depth: up to 60mm(2.4"), single hole mount.
This universal bench clamp support tool is designed for use with power drills with collar diameter of 38mm or 43mm, can drill depth up to 60mm, comes with 2 holes for mounting
Designed with slots on the iron base for installing machine vise, make it more convenient to operate, ergonomic rubber handle of the workbench repaur tool clamp is anti-slip and easy to grab
The package includes 1 x Base, 1 x Column bar, 1 x Rocker, 1 x Lower limit Fixed sleeve, 2 x Adjustable plastic fixed sleeves, 1 x Hex wrench 5mm
Product Details| Brand: | MAOPINER |
|---|
| Color: | Yellow |
|---|
| Dimensions: | 16 X 6 X 3 inches (Length X Width X Height) |
|---|
| Price: | $21.99 |
|---|
MAOPINER Universal Electric Drill Press Stand - Bench Clamp Tool Drill Workstation Repair
ZELCAN Step Drill Bits, HSS 5PCS Titanium Step Drill Bit Set, 50 Sizes in 5 High Speed Steel Unibit Drill Bits Set for Sheet Metal with Aluminum Case, Multiple Hole Stepped Up Bits for DIY Lovers
Product DescriptionFeatures 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: 750, 1100, 1500, 2100, or 3200 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
Product Details| Brand: | WEN |
|---|
| Model #: | 4206T |
|---|
| Color: | Black,orange |
|---|
| Dimensions: | 16.88 X 8.63 X 22.88 inches (Length X Width X Height) |
|---|
| Price: | $93.57 |
|---|
WEN 2.3-Amp 8-Inch 5-Speed Cast Iron Benchtop Drill Press (4206T)
ZELCAN Step Drill Bits, HSS 5PCS Titanium Step Drill Bit Set, 50 Sizes in 5 High Speed Steel Unibit Drill Bits Set for Sheet Metal with Aluminum Case, Multiple Hole Stepped Up Bits for DIY Lovers
Product DescriptionTABLE LEVELER: This tool can be used to level the drill press table. It has 4 built-in powerful magnets, it makes leveling is quick and easy, just set it perpendicular to the drill bit. It can be positioned accurately to help you finish your work well.
DESIGN CONCEPT:The leveler has a triangular hollow design, which is convenient to use and has beautiful lines. The middle part is designed a V-shaped groove with 90° right-angle, it is inlaid with 4pcs powerful magnets on both sides, it can close to the drill bit for accurate positioning and quick leveling. (If you don’t need these magnets, you can press it out through the small hole on the back)
APPLICATION SCENES: This leveler is suitable for most flat drill press workbench, and also suitable for an object which needs to be drilled horizontally, whether at home, in a shop or in a studio. It can help you locate, level and drill holes quickly and accurately.
COMPONENTS & MATERIALS: Drill press table leveler (plastic), powerful magnet
WHAT YOU GET - A set of drill press table leveler, our 1-year warranty and friendly customer service.
Product Details| Brand: | ZYRELYNX |
|---|
| Model #: | SG-DRIL-JPQB-1P |
|---|
| Color: | Black |
|---|
| Dimensions: | 2.4 X 0.5 X 6.3 inches (Length X Width X Height) |
|---|
| Price: | $11.99 |
|---|
ZYRELYNX Drill Presses Table Quick Leveler, Easy to Level the Drill Press Table, Leveler with Magnets, Black, 1 Pack
