Types of Drill Press and Tips to Choose the Right One

When it comes to woodworking, there are some tools that are so useful they’re worth investing in. A drill press is one of those tools. It is a tool used when you need to drill holes at a specific angle or when you need to drill into an object which isn’t flat on one side. What makes the drill press such an essential tool is the fact that it does exactly what its name suggests. Instead of requiring you to handle the drill manually, it operates from above, making it easier for you to work on your project without straining your back or shoulders. In this article we will be covering everything you ever wanted to know about drill presses and how to choose the right model for your workshop.

What is a Drill Press?

A drill press is a woodworking tool that uses a spindle with a drill bit to create holes in various materials, like wood, plastic, metal, and even tile. It is a guided manual machine that allows for accuracy when drilling holes and has a wide range of uses in the workshop from building to furniture making and more. There are two main types of drill presses: floor standing models and bench-top models. Floor standing models are larger, but bench-top models can be more versatile and have the added bonus of being portable. The tool’s name comes from the fact that it is designed to press the drill bit into the material being drilled. It uses a hand crank or motor to push the drill bit through the material until it reaches the end of the cutting length, at which point it automatically retracts the drill bit and pushes the material back up.

How Does a Drill Press Work?

Drill presses are designed to drill holes in a wide range of materials, including wood, metal, plastic, and tile. The machine holds the workpiece in place while you manually or motor-powered press down and drill a hole into it at a specific angle. While some machines are designed for general use, others are more specialized for specific tasks, like large-scale woodworking. Drill presses work by feeding a rotating spindle with a chuck on the end into a hole in the machine’s table. The table then moves down so that the rotating spindle extends below the table. Next, the user manually or with an electric motor powers the spindle to push the chuck into the table and down into the workpiece. Then the spindle retracts, pulling the workpiece up with it. Finally, the table rotates to the right angle, and you can begin drilling your next hole.

The Benefits of Using a Drill Press

A drill press can make it easier for you to make holes in a wide range of materials, from wood to metal and even concrete. The machine holds the material in place while you manually or motor-powered press down and drill a hole into it at a specific angle. Some other benefits of a drill press include: 

– Precise holes: A drill press allows you to make precision holes that are larger than when you use a hand drill. 

– Easier to use: While a hand drill is portable, it’s not easy to hold the drill and the material in place while you make the holes. 

– Safe: A drill press keeps your hands away from the cutting action so you don’t risk cutting yourself.

Finding the Right Drill Press for You

The first thing you will want to pay attention to is the size of the drill press. It’s important to choose a model that fits well in your workshop, especially if you don’t have a lot of space like penthouse apartments. Besides size, you will also want to take into consideration the type of materials you want to use the drill press with. If you do a lot of woodworking, you will want to find a model that can handle thicker wood pieces. You’ll also want to take into consideration the amount of power the drill press draws. If you plan on operating it often, you will want to purchase a model that has a higher amperage so that it doesn’t overheat. Finally, you will also want to think about what features you want your drill press to have. Some models offer a wide range of accessories, like adjustable speed settings and built-in lights.

Best Corded Drill Presses

If you’re looking for a drill press that is easy to use and won’t break the bank, then you’ll want to consider investing in the Rockwell RK3440K Versacut. This model comes with several features that make it easy to use, like a tool-free depth adjustment, an auto-tension belt, and a spindle lock button. This drill press is designed to be used in multiple environments, whether on the job site or in your shop. You can also easily transport it due to the fact that it is corded, which means there is no need to worry about it running out of charge. This model comes with a 1-year warranty and an included laser guide for easy use.

Best Hammer Drill Presses

If you’re looking for a powerful drill press, then you’ll want to consider investing in the SKIL 5409 Automatic Hammer Drill Press. This model is designed with a built-in hammering action that helps to quickly drive the bit into even the hardest materials. This drill press comes with an electronic variable speed control that makes it easier to match the speed of the hammering action to the material you are working with. This model comes with a large tabletop and an included work clamp. It also comes with a depth stop that allows you to set the depth of your bit. This drill press comes with a 1-year warranty.

Best Wireless Drill Presses

If you are looking for a drill press that is easy to use and transport, then you’ll want to consider investing in the SKIL 3336 WDP 12 Amp 12-Inch Drill Press. This model comes with a built-in wireless remote that allows you to control the speed settings. This drill press also has an LED light that makes it easier to see what you are working on. This model comes with a 1/3-HP induction motor that delivers high power. This drill press also comes with a 3-position foot switch that allows you to change the speed settings at any time. This drill press comes with a 1-year warranty.

Best Bench-Top Drill Presses

If you’re looking for a model that is easy to set up anywhere, then you’ll want to consider investing in the WEN 3420 10 Inch Drill Press. This model comes with large table capacity, which makes it easier to work with larger pieces. This model also comes with a large, easy-to-read RPM display that makes it easier to control the speed settings. This drill press also comes with an easy-to-read depth gauge and a spindle lock that allows you to easily change the bits. This drill press comes with a standard 3-year warranty.

Conclusion

A drill press is a great tool for anyone interested in woodworking or DIY projects. The machine makes it easier to create holes in a wide range of materials, from wood to metal, tile, and even concrete. This tool uses a hand crank or motor to push the drill bit through the material until it reaches the end of the cutting length, at which point it automatically retracts the drill bit and pushes the material back up. A drill press makes it easier to create precision holes that are larger than when you use a hand drill. This is because the machine can hold the material in place while you manually or motor-powered press down and drill a hole into it at a specific angle.

BERXOL Mini Drill Press, Benchtop Drill Press, Portable Electric Drilling Machine, CNC 795 Motor, B10 Chuck, Drill Bit and Clamp for Metal Wooden Jewelry DIY and Crafts Projects


BERXOL Mini Drill Press, Benchtop Drill Press, Portable Electric Drilling Machine, CNC 795 Motor, B10 Chuck, Drill Bit and Clamp for Metal Wooden Jewelry DIY and Crafts Projects

$79.99 @ Amazon.com

Product Description

★Robust Frame★ Our Mini Drill Press is engineered with a solid metal structure encompassing 3 metal axis, 2 linear bearings, and dual springs to ensure precision drilling, making it a dependable choice for any hand drilling tasks.

★High-Power and Adjustable Speed★ With a 795 DC motor at its heart, this drill press achieves a maximum speed of 7000RPM. The 24V adjustable power supply allows for speed regulation, ensuring a powerful and precise drilling performance suited for a variety of materials.

★Compact Design★ Sized at 5.9X4.7X8.7 inches, this compact Mini CNC drill press offers a remarkable 40mm max drilling stroke. Its low noise level makes it a user-friendly addition to your home workshop, especially for jewelers' bench applications where precision is key.

★Expandable Setup★ The base comes with two types of slots, ready to accommodate a mini bench vise or a CNC sliding table. This feature opens up new possibilities for CNC drilling projects, making it a versatile tool for both hobbyists and professionals.

★Versatile Drilling Capacity & Multi-functionality★ The B10 drill chuck is compatible with 0.6-6mm HSS drill bits, allowing seamless drilling through wood, plastic, resin, aluminum, and other soft materials. Once fitted with the appropriate drill bit, this mini drill press transforms into a multi-functional tool capable of polishing, grinding, and more. It's an ideal choice for DIY enthusiasts, crafting professionals, and those in need of precise drilling for jewelry, toy models, and small-scale projects.

Product Details
Brand: BERXOL
Model #: 795
Size: Medium
Color: Onecolor
Dimensions: 7.28 X 7.58 X 10.63 inches (Length X Width X Height)
Price: $79.99
BERXOL Mini Drill Press, Benchtop Drill Press, Portable Electric Drilling Machine, CNC 795 Motor, B10 Chuck, Drill Bit and Clamp for Metal Wooden Jewelry DIY and Crafts Projects

WEN 4208T 2.3-Amp 8-Inch 5-Speed Cast Iron Benchtop Drill Press,Black/Orange


WEN 4208T 2.3-Amp 8-Inch 5-Speed Cast Iron Benchtop Drill Press,Black/Orange

$107.08 @ Amazon.com

Product Description

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

Product Details
Brand: WEN
Model #: 4208T
Size: Full Size
Color: Black/Orange
Dimensions: 7.5 X 22.9 X 11 Inches (Length X Width X Height)
Price: $107.08
WEN 4208T 2.3-Amp 8-Inch 5-Speed Cast Iron Benchtop Drill Press,Black/Orange

WEN 4214T 5-Amp 12-Inch Variable Speed Cast Iron Benchtop Drill Press with Laser and Work Light


WEN 4214T 5-Amp 12-Inch Variable Speed Cast Iron Benchtop Drill Press with Laser and Work Light

$269.99 @ Amazon.com (Save 23%)

Product Description

Features a 5-amp induction motor, a 12-inch swing, and a 3-1/8-inch spindle travel

Adjust the mechanical variable speed anywhere from 580 to 3200 RPM

Digital speed readout displays current RPM of the machine for maximum precision

Includes a Class IIIA 2.5mW laser, overhead light, adjustable depth stop, table roller extension, beveling 9-1/2 by 9-1/2-inch work table, 5/8-inch capacity keyed chuck, a chuck key with onboard storage, and a two-year warranty

Measures in at 16.8 by 13.5 by 36.6 inches in size with a weight of 85 pounds

Product Details
Brand: WEN
Model #: 4214T
Color: Black Orange
Dimensions: 36.6 X 13.5 X 16.8 inches (Length X Width X Height)
Price: $269.99 (Save 23%)
WEN 4214T 5-Amp 12-Inch Variable Speed Cast Iron Benchtop Drill Press with Laser and Work Light

VEVOR 10 in Benchtop Drill Press, 3.2 Amp 120V, 5-Speed Cast Iron Bench Drill Press, 10 in Swing Distance 0-45° Tiltling Worktable with Work Light, Tabletop Drilling Machine for Wood Metal


VEVOR 10 in Benchtop Drill Press, 3.2 Amp 120V, 5-Speed Cast Iron Bench Drill Press, 10 in Swing Distance 0-45° Tiltling Worktable with Work Light, Tabletop Drilling Machine for Wood Metal

$128.33 @ Amazon.com (Save 8%)

Product Description

Powerful Drill Press: Swing: 10 in. 3.2A induction motor ensures plenty of power to drill through various materials, such as metal, wood, etc. It meets your processing and DIY needs.

Precise Drilling: Our benchtop drill press drills precise holes without offset, with high locking strength and higher accuracy.

5-speed Adjustment: Our bench drill press feature 5 speeds, so you can easily adjust the speed from 610 to 2800 RPM(610RPM, 900RPM, 1500RPM, 2080RPM, 2800RPM).

Excellent Durability: The bench top drill press variable speed has a perfect heat dissipation system, dissipating heat quickly and operating for a longer time, effectively extending the machine's life.

Complete Accessories: We provide 2 x Hex Wrenches, 1 x Table Assembly, 1 x Base, 1 x Column Assembly, 1 x Table Crank Handle, 3 x M8*16 Hex Bolts, 3 x Feed Handles, 1 x Worm Gear, 1 x Table Lock Handle, 1 x Chuck, 1 x Chuck Key.

Product Details
Brand: VEVOR
Model #: DP1006L
Size: 10 in
Color: Black
Dimensions: 9.3 X 17.5 X 28.7 inches (Length X Width X Height)
Price: $128.33 (Save 8%)
VEVOR 10 in Benchtop Drill Press, 3.2 Amp 120V, 5-Speed Cast Iron Bench Drill Press, 10 in Swing Distance 0-45° Tiltling Worktable with Work Light, Tabletop Drilling Machine for Wood Metal

AM ARROWMAX Mini Electric Drill 15 in 1 with Benchtop Press, Cordless, LED Lights, Needle Vise Hand Drill Kit, 10 HSS Drill bits, 3/32-Inch Keyless Chuck, Variable Direction (SDS MINI PLUS)


AM ARROWMAX Mini Electric Drill 15 in 1 with Benchtop Press, Cordless, LED Lights, Needle Vise Hand Drill Kit, 10 HSS Drill bits, 3/32-Inch Keyless Chuck, Variable Direction (SDS MINI PLUS)

$95.97 @ Amazon.com

Product Description

✅【Pocket Size & Precise Power】 - This power drill with 350mAh LiPo has a metal housing which feels good in the hand, is also designed with 550r/min rotate speed, providing powerful performance and high work efficiency. Our Electric Drill with a portable lightweight design offers you to carry easily as well. Working on installing lighting in models and working in very tight spaces, as well as the scale of the models being worked on. It is light-weight and fits nicely in users' fingers.

✅【Industrial-grade Benchtop Drill Press】: Arrowmax drill press to do precision work which requires high accuracy. The Benchtop Drill Press is made of aviation aluminum alloy material which has been precisely machined. It increases the stability of the job and ensures high quality finishing to your work. The aviation alloy is corrosion resistance and maintains strength to improve production efficiency.

✅【10 size-marked Bits for different holes and easy to change】 - The precision drill set is equipped with 10 different types of bit, ranging from 0.6mm to 2.2mm with 2.35mm diameter shaft . This power drill can drill most of the materials, like plastic, shell, wood, leather, etc, which is very suitable for people who like drilling. You may tighten and loosen the drill bit easily without any tools.Drill comes in an aluminium case and the bits are magnetically held in place, carrying out easily.

✅【4 shadow-less light and LED indicators】 - There are some small LEDs that give you an idea of how much juice you've got left, work lights on at the chuck to illuminate what you are drilling, helps users to see into and focus on the areas working in.

✅【One Key Button】 - Only one button on the drill, and when you press it once, the drill spins clockwise, press it again and it spins counterclockwise, and on the third press, the drill turns off. User does not need to keep pressing during the work.

Product Details
Brand: ARROWMAX
Model #: AM-199972
Size: SDS MINI PLUS
Color: Sds Mini Plus
Dimensions: 9.4094488093 X 8.3464566844 X 14.3700787255 inches (Length X Width X Height)
Price: $95.97
AM ARROWMAX Mini Electric Drill 15 in 1 with Benchtop Press, Cordless, LED Lights, Needle Vise Hand Drill Kit, 10 HSS Drill bits, 3/32-Inch Keyless Chuck, Variable Direction (SDS MINI PLUS)

BUCKTOOL 10-Inch Drill Press 6.0 Amp 3/4 HP Bench Drill Press 5-Speed Benchtop Drilling Machine with LED Work Light


BUCKTOOL 10-Inch Drill Press 6.0 Amp 3/4 HP Bench Drill Press 5-Speed Benchtop Drilling Machine with LED Work Light

$189.98 @ Amazon.com

Product Description

POWERFUL INDUCTION MOTOR: CSA Certification, 3/4HP 6.0-Amp motor, 2-inch spindle travel, 1/2-inch keyed chuck, 30-inch total height, 120VAC. 10-inch swings suit for a variety of light-duty drilling tasks

5 SPEEDS: Our drill press operates at 5 different speeds 650/1100/1700/2300/3100 RPM. You can change speeds by changing the belt position on the pulleys located under the top cover. Ideal for drilling a variety of materials like wood, plastic, and metal

45-DEGREE TILTED WORKTABLE: Bevel 45 degrees and built-in LED lights combine to ensure you’re getting a clear, accurate view of your workpiece, and both can be adjusted to your preferred angle for versatility. The fence and head assembly fit our drill press table, helps to support stock on the edge, and provide chunk clearance, can be positioned and secured with the included hardware quickly

SAFETY FEATURES: Removable switch keys prevent unintentional starts. Easily adjustable and compact construction for accurate drilling every time

PRODUCT WARRANTY: Bucktool provides a 2-year warranty for all products, and lifetime customer service, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact us through Amazon

Product Details
Brand: Bucktool
Model #: DP25016A2
Size: 10 inch
Color: Clear
Price: $189.98
BUCKTOOL 10-Inch Drill Press 6.0 Amp 3/4 HP Bench Drill Press 5-Speed Benchtop Drilling Machine with LED Work Light

Pop's Choice Portable Drill Guide/Press for Drilling, Multi-Angle Guide Attachment Holder For 1/4 Inch and 3/8 Inch, with Chuck, Black


Pop

$32.99 @ Amazon.com

Product Description

Versatile: Perfect for straight or angled drilling, on the edge of a board or round stock.

Universal Compatibility: Attaches to all 3/8" and 1/2" power drills and includes a 3/8" capacity chuck with a key.

Precise Angle Cuts: Achieve angle cuts from 45 degrees to 90 degrees with the built-in angle readout in the all-metal base.

Accommodates Round Stock: Convenient centering channels on the base allow drilling of round stock up to 3 inches in diameter.

Adjustable Depth and Control: Features an adjustable depth stop and spring action control for precise and controlled drilling.

Product Details
Brand: POP'S CHOICE
Model #: PCPDG
Color: Black
Price: $32.99
Pop's Choice Portable Drill Guide/Press for Drilling, Multi-Angle Guide Attachment Holder For 1/4 Inch and 3/8 Inch, with Chuck, Black

CertBuy Portable Drill Press for Hand Drill, Multi-Angle Drill Guide Attachment For 1/4 Inch and 3/8 Inch Adjustable Angle Drill Holder Guide, Portable Drill Guide with Chuck


CertBuy Portable Drill Press for Hand Drill, Multi-Angle Drill Guide Attachment For 1/4 Inch and 3/8 Inch Adjustable Angle Drill Holder Guide, Portable Drill Guide with Chuck

$24.99 @ Amazon.com

Product Description

High-Quality Drill Press Stand: Our drill press stand is made of high-quality aluminum alloy, the main structure is sturdy and durable, small in size, light in weight, and easy to carry, so you can carry it with you as you need.

Drill Guide Sizes: Drill diameter: 42.5mm / 1.6in; vertical stroke: 190mm / 7.5in; width: 140mm / 5.5in; total height: 297mm / 11.7in.

Adjustable at 45 Degrees: Angle positions can go up to 45 degrees, the base has an angle scale, which can be used when adjusting the angle and rubber pads in the base hold the guide in place.

Suitable For: This drill guide fits all 1/4-inch or 3/8-inch drills.

Application: This multi-angle drill guide perfect for straight or angled drilling, drilling on the edge of a board or on round stock.

Product Details
Brand: CertBuy
Model #: WWUS-Drillguide-1-Bk
Size: 11.8 inch
Color: Grey
Price: $24.99
CertBuy Portable Drill Press for Hand Drill, Multi-Angle Drill Guide Attachment For 1/4 Inch and 3/8 Inch Adjustable Angle Drill Holder Guide, Portable Drill Guide with Chuck

ATPEAM Drill Press Adapter for Hand Drill | Double Hole Universal Bench Clamp Portable Drill Press Stand Workbench Repair Tool Dremel Drill Press for Drilling Collet Workshop Aluminum base


ATPEAM Drill Press Adapter for Hand Drill | Double Hole Universal Bench Clamp Portable Drill Press Stand Workbench Repair Tool Dremel Drill Press for Drilling Collet Workshop Aluminum base

$21.99 @ Amazon.com

Product Description

Premium Material: The drill press stand is made of high-quality aluminum, which is -proof, sturdy and durable. The frame of the bench rig is equipped with anti-skid rings to prevent slippage and maintain stability when drilling. The portable drill drilling guide has a solid column bar and sturdy base with slots for fitting a machine vice.

Specification: This mini drill press stands exactly 15.75 inches high; Equipped with double chucks; Aluminum alloy base + solid column bar; Drill Depth: up to 60mm(2.4"), single hole mount; for adjustable drill press stand with collar diameter of 43mm or 38mm.

Ergonomic Design: Ergonomic design for stable and accurate drilling. This type of adjustable drill floor adopts an ergonomically scientific design, making it easy to push in, and the drill press stand will not be more stable and accurate than hand-held drillers.

Easy to Use: This vertical drill press is perfect for shop or home use. With a heavy-duty cast metal base for a drill press with slots and mounting holes, it provides ground stability. The handheld drill press has an easy to use non-slip rubber grip handle. There is a slot for installing vice on an iron base, which is extremely easy to use. Well, cut perfect holes in all toughest materials with our easy to use all in one handheld dremel press.

Package Included: This drill press adapter for hand drill includes 1 x Double Hole Drill Stand, 1 x Rocker, 1 x Lower Limit Fixed sleeve, 2 x Adjustable plastic fixed sleeves, 1 x Hex wrench 5mm.

Product Details
Brand: ATPEAM
Color: Black
Dimensions: 6 X 6 X 17 inches (Length X Width X Height)
Price: $21.99
ATPEAM Drill Press Adapter for Hand Drill | Double Hole Universal Bench Clamp Portable Drill Press Stand Workbench Repair Tool Dremel Drill Press for Drilling Collet Workshop Aluminum base

WEN 4206T 2.3-Amp 8-Inch 5-Speed Cast Iron Benchtop Drill Press,Black,Orange


WEN 4206T 2.3-Amp 8-Inch 5-Speed Cast Iron Benchtop Drill Press,Black,Orange

$119.03 @ Amazon.com

Product Description

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: 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: $119.03
WEN 4206T 2.3-Amp 8-Inch 5-Speed Cast Iron Benchtop Drill Press,Black,Orange

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