Top Workshop Drill Presses for Precision and Power
The WEN 4214 stands out as the best all-around workshop drill press for most hobbyists, offering a 12-speed range and solid cast iron construction at a reasonable price. Its main advantage is versatility, handling wood and metal with ease, while its limitation is a smaller 4.5-inch spindle travel compared to floor models.
A drill press is a staple for any serious workshop, enabling precise holes that a handheld drill simply cannot match. Whether you are a woodworker, metalworker, or DIY enthusiast, the right drill press can transform your projects. With so many options available, choosing the best one for your needs can be overwhelming.
We have analyzed the specifications and owner reviews of the most popular drill presses on Amazon to help you make an informed decision. Our top pick, the WEN 4214, offers excellent versatility and value for most users. For those with heavier demands, we recommend the Jet JDP-17 for its robust construction and accuracy. Read on to find the perfect drill press for your workshop.
Our top picks
WEN 4214 10-Inch 12-Speed Drill Press
The WEN 4214 is a benchtop drill press with a 5-amp motor that delivers variable speeds from 580 to 3200 RPM. It features a cast iron base and table for stability, and a laser guide for precise drilling. Owners appreciate its smooth operation and easy speed adjustments.
Pros
- Laser guide for accuracy
- Cast iron construction
- Easy speed changes
Cons
- Smaller table surface
- Belt tension can be finicky
JET JDP-17 17-Inch Drill Press
The Jet JDP-17 is a floor-standing drill press built for heavy use. It features a 1 HP motor, 16 speeds, and a large cast iron table. Users report exceptional accuracy and smooth operation, making it a favorite among professionals.
Pros
- Very accurate
- Powerful motor
- Large work table
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavy and takes space
DEWALT 13-Inch 5.5-Amp Benchtop Drill Press
The DEWALT DWE130 is a benchtop drill press with a 5.5-amp motor and variable speed control. It offers a 13-inch swing and a 2.5-inch spindle travel. Owners like its sturdy build and reliable performance, though some note the table tilting mechanism is stiff.
Pros
- Variable speed control
- Compact design
- Durable construction
Cons
- Limited spindle travel
- Table adjustments can be stiff
Delta 18-900L 18-Inch Laser Drill Press
The Delta 18-900L is a floor-standing drill press with a 1 HP motor and 16 speeds. It features a laser guide and a large table that tilts. Users appreciate the extra swing capacity and the laser for precise layout.
Pros
- Large swing capacity
- Laser guide
- Powerful motor
Cons
- Bulky
- Some quality control issues reported
Shop Fox W1667 12-Speed Floor Drill Press
The Shop Fox W1667 is a floor-standing drill press with a 1 HP motor and 12 speeds. It features a cast iron table and base for stability. Owners report good value for the price, though some find the depth stop less precise.
Pros
- Affordable floor model
- Stable cast iron base
- Smooth operation
Cons
- Depth stop not as precise
- Table adjustment is basic
Porter-Cable PCB220VS 8-1/2-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press
The Porter-Cable PCB220VS is a benchtop drill press with a 2.5-amp motor and variable speed from 600 to 3100 RPM. It is lightweight and easy to store. Users find it adequate for small woodworking tasks, but it lacks power for metal.
Pros
- Very compact
- Variable speed
- Lightweight
Cons
- Low power
- Limited capacity
Grizzly Industrial G7947 12-Speed Bench Drill Press
The Grizzly G7947 is a benchtop drill press with a 3/4 HP motor and 12 speeds. It features a precision ground cast iron table and a robust rack and pinion table lift. Woodworkers appreciate its accuracy and smooth feed.
Pros
- Precision ground table
- Rack and pinion lift
- Quiet operation
Cons
- Belt changes require effort
- No laser guide
What matters most
How they compare
| # | Model | Speed Range | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | WEN 4214 10-Inch 12-Speed Drill Press | 580 to 3200 RPM (12 speeds) | Versatile hobbyist use | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | JET JDP-17 17-Inch Drill Press | 210 to 3730 RPM (16 speeds) | Professional precision | 9.2 | Check price |
| 3 | DEWALT 13-Inch 5.5-Amp Benchtop Drill Press | 450 to 2400 RPM (variable) | Compact workshops | 9.0 | Check price |
| 4 | Delta 18-900L 18-Inch Laser Drill Press | 250 to 3500 RPM (16 speeds) | Large projects | 8.8 | Check price |
| 5 | Shop Fox W1667 12-Speed Floor Drill Press | 250 to 3000 RPM (12 speeds) | Budget floor model | 8.6 | Check price |
| 6 | Porter-Cable PCB220VS 8-1/2-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press | 600 to 3100 RPM (variable) | Small projects and portability | 8.4 | Check price |
| 7 | Grizzly Industrial G7947 12-Speed Bench Drill Press | 250 to 3600 RPM (12 speeds) | Woodworking precision | 8.2 | Check price |
Good to know
What is the difference between a bench and floor drill press?
A bench drill press sits on a workbench and is more compact, while a floor model stands on its own and typically offers more power and larger capacity. Choose a bench model if space is limited, but for heavy use, a floor model provides greater stability.
What size drill press do I need?
Consider the swing capacity: a 10-inch swing handles most small to medium projects, while a 15-inch or larger is better for big workpieces. Also, think about spindle travel, which is the maximum depth of the hole you can drill. Most hobbyists find a 10 to 12-inch swing sufficient.
Can a drill press tap threads?
Yes, with a tapping attachment or by using a reversible drill press model. However, it is not recommended for beginners because the risk of breaking taps is high. Manual tapping or a dedicated tapping machine is often safer.
What speeds should I use for drilling wood vs. metal?
Wood typically requires higher speeds, around 3000 RPM for small bits. Metal requires slower speeds, around 500 to 1000 RPM, depending on the bit size and material. Always consult the bit manufacturer’s recommendations.
How do I change the speed on a drill press?
Most drill presses have a belt and pulley system. You loosen the motor tension, move the belt to different pulleys, and retighten. Some models have variable speed dials that adjust the speed without changing belts, which is more convenient.
Is a laser guide on a drill press worth it?
A laser guide helps align the hole with your mark, which is useful for accuracy, especially in repetitive tasks. However, some users find it unnecessary for basic drilling. It is a nice feature but not essential.
Can I use a drill press for sanding or other operations?
Yes, with the appropriate attachments, such as drum sanders or wire brushes, you can use a drill press for sanding, polishing, and deburring. Always use low speeds and secure the workpiece properly.
What safety precautions should I take when using a drill press?
Always wear safety glasses, secure your workpiece with a clamp or vise, and never wear loose clothing or jewelry. Keep hands away from the drill bit and unplug the machine when changing bits or making adjustments.
Final word
For the best blend of performance and value, choose the WEN 4214 for your workshop. Its 12 speeds and sturdy build cover most drilling needs. If you require professional-grade precision and have the budget, invest in the Jet JDP-17. For a compact option, the DEWALT DWE130 is a solid choice. Ultimately, the WEN 4214 is our top recommendation for most users.
