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10 Best Benchtop Drill Presses 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

WEN 10-Inch Benchtop Drill Press, 6.2-Amp 5-Speed Motor with Cast Iron Construction, Laser and LED Work Light (DP1050)

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,325
Speed Settings
Table Size and Adjustability
Depth Stop

Most important from
9150 reviews

Speed Settings
Despite the slightly cumbersome manual belt adjustment for speed changes, the drill press runs smoothly and quietly.
Table Size and Adjustability
The tilting table, while not perfect, is sufficient for most needs, especially with the use of additional tools for precision.
Depth Stop
The assembly process is straightforward, and the depth setting adjustment feature is highly appreciated for repetitive drilling.

The WEN 10-Inch Benchtop Drill Press (DP1050) presents a robust option for various drilling tasks, including wood, plastic, and metal. Its 6.2-amp induction motor and 10-inch swing deliver solid performance, and the 2-inch spindle travel ensures precise drilling depth. This model features five adjustable speed settings ranging from 630 to 3300 RPM, offering flexibility for different materials and drilling requirements. Additionally, the cast iron construction enhances durability and stability during operation.

The worktable, measuring 7.5 by 6.5 inches, is height-adjustable and can bevel, making it adaptable for angled drilling. The included LED work light and laser ensure better visibility and accuracy, which is a notable advantage for precision tasks. The adjustable depth stop feature is beneficial for repetitive drilling.

However, this drill press comes with a few limitations. The table size might be slightly small for larger projects, and the manual belt adjustment for speed changes can be cumbersome for users needing quick transitions between speeds. Additionally, at 50.9 pounds, it may be somewhat heavy for frequent relocation. Its 1/2-inch chuck size may also limit the bit sizes you can use. Nonetheless, given its two-year warranty, it stands out as a reliable and versatile tool for hobbyists and light to medium-duty workshop tasks.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,325
Speed Settings
Table Size and Adjustability
Depth Stop

Most important from
9150 reviews

Speed Settings
Despite the slightly cumbersome manual belt adjustment for speed changes, the drill press runs smoothly and quietly.
Table Size and Adjustability
The tilting table, while not perfect, is sufficient for most needs, especially with the use of additional tools for precision.
Depth Stop
The assembly process is straightforward, and the depth setting adjustment feature is highly appreciated for repetitive drilling.
#2

WEN 12-Inch Benchtop Drill Press, 6.2-Amp Variable Speed Motor with Cast Iron Construction, Laser and LED Work Light (DP1263V)

Rating
9.8
Speed Settings
Depth Stop
Chuck Size

Most important from
3612 reviews

Speed Settings
The variable speed control is superb, allowing smooth adjustments from 580 to 3100 RPM, which is ideal for different materials and precision needs.
Depth Stop
The depth stop and plunge stop are sturdy and provide consistent drilling depths, enhancing precision.
Chuck Size
The 5/8-inch keyed chuck is noted for its quality, being better than many keyless chucks users have encountered.

The WEN 12-Inch Benchtop Drill Press (DP1263V) is a robust and versatile tool perfect for woodworking and metalworking enthusiasts. Its 6.2-amp induction motor is powerful enough to handle a variety of drilling tasks, and the 12-inch swing provides ample space for larger workpieces. The mechanical variable speed allows you to adjust from 580 to 3100 RPM, giving you the flexibility to work with different materials and precision needs. The digital speed readout is a useful feature for maintaining accurate speeds during operations.

Its weight of 85 pounds ensures stability, although it might be a bit cumbersome to move around frequently. The cast iron construction adds durability, ensuring it can withstand heavy-duty use over time. The table size is 9-1/2 by 9-1/2 inches and is adjustable, which helps in managing different project sizes and angles. An adjustable depth stop is included, which is great for consistent drilling depths.

The 5/8-inch keyed chuck accommodates a variety of drill bits, enhancing its versatility. Additional features such as the class IIIA 2.5mW laser and LED work light help in ensuring precision and visibility during use. While the tool's weight and size might be seen as a drawback for portability, its robustness and features make it a reliable choice for a workshop setting.

Rating
9.8
Speed Settings
Depth Stop
Chuck Size

Most important from
3612 reviews

Speed Settings
The variable speed control is superb, allowing smooth adjustments from 580 to 3100 RPM, which is ideal for different materials and precision needs.
Depth Stop
The depth stop and plunge stop are sturdy and provide consistent drilling depths, enhancing precision.
Chuck Size
The 5/8-inch keyed chuck is noted for its quality, being better than many keyless chucks users have encountered.
#3

WEN 12-Inch Benchtop Drill Press, Variable Speed, Cast Iron with Laser and Work Light (4214T)

Rating
9.6
Speed Settings
Chuck Size

Most important from
3612 reviews

Speed Settings
The adjustable speed is fantastic, allowing quick changes for different materials without belt changes.
Chuck Size
The supplied chuck is better than any key'd chuck I've ever encountered, and the variable speed is superb.

The WEN 12-Inch Benchtop Drill Press is a solid choice for hobbyists and small workshop users who need a reliable and versatile drilling solution. One of its standout features is the powerful 5-amp induction motor, which provides a robust performance across various materials, including wood and metal. With a variable speed range from 580 to 3200 RPM, users can easily adjust the drilling speed to suit their specific projects, making it adaptable for different tasks.

The inclusion of a digital speed readout helps ensure precision, allowing users to see the current RPM at a glance. Additionally, the built-in laser guide and work light enhance accuracy and visibility during operation, which is especially useful for intricate work. The drill press also features a sturdy cast iron construction that contributes to its durability and stability while in use.

The weight of 85 pounds may make it less portable compared to lighter models, which could be a consideration for users with limited workspace. The 12-inch swing and 3-1/8-inch spindle travel are adequate for most small to medium projects but may not be sufficient for larger applications. While the adjustable depth stop is a beneficial feature, some users might find that the 5/8-inch chuck size limits the types of bits they can use, especially for larger or specialized drilling tasks.

Rating
9.6
Speed Settings
Chuck Size

Most important from
3612 reviews

Speed Settings
The adjustable speed is fantastic, allowing quick changes for different materials without belt changes.
Chuck Size
The supplied chuck is better than any key'd chuck I've ever encountered, and the variable speed is superb.

Buying Guide for the Best Benchtop Drill Presses

Choosing the right benchtop drill press can make a significant difference in the quality and efficiency of your work. A benchtop drill press is a versatile tool that can handle a variety of drilling tasks with precision and ease. When selecting a benchtop drill press, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Understanding these specs will help you make an informed decision and choose a drill press that meets your specific requirements.
Drill Press SizeThe size of a drill press is typically measured by the 'swing,' which is the distance from the center of the spindle to the closest edge of the column, multiplied by two. This measurement determines the maximum width of material you can drill through the center. For light to medium tasks, a smaller swing (8-10 inches) is sufficient. For larger projects, consider a drill press with a swing of 12 inches or more. Choose a size that matches the scale of your typical projects.
Motor PowerMotor power is measured in horsepower (HP) and determines the drill press's ability to handle tough materials and larger bits. For most DIY and light industrial tasks, a motor with 1/3 to 1/2 HP is adequate. For more demanding tasks, such as drilling through metal or hardwood, a motor with 3/4 HP or more is recommended. Assess the materials you will be working with to determine the appropriate motor power for your needs.
Speed SettingsSpeed settings refer to the number of revolutions per minute (RPM) the drill press can achieve. Variable speed settings allow you to adjust the RPM to match the material and bit size, providing better control and precision. For general use, a drill press with 5-12 speed settings is sufficient. If you work with a variety of materials, look for a model with a wider range of speeds. Consider the types of projects you will be undertaking to choose the right speed range.
Table Size and AdjustabilityThe table size and its adjustability are crucial for supporting your workpiece and ensuring accurate drilling. A larger table provides more support for bigger projects, while an adjustable table allows you to tilt and rotate it for angled drilling. For most users, a table size of around 8x8 inches is adequate. If you frequently work on larger or more complex projects, look for a drill press with a larger and more adjustable table. Think about the size and type of materials you will be drilling to determine the best table size and adjustability.
Depth StopA depth stop is a feature that allows you to set a specific drilling depth, ensuring consistent and precise holes. This is particularly useful for repetitive tasks where uniform depth is critical. For general use, a simple depth stop mechanism is sufficient. For more precise work, look for a drill press with a more advanced depth stop system. Consider the importance of consistent hole depth in your projects to decide on the right depth stop feature.
Chuck SizeThe chuck size determines the maximum diameter of the drill bit that the drill press can accommodate. Common chuck sizes are 1/2 inch and 5/8 inch. For most DIY and light industrial tasks, a 1/2 inch chuck is sufficient. If you need to use larger bits for more demanding projects, consider a drill press with a 5/8 inch chuck. Evaluate the types of drill bits you will be using to choose the appropriate chuck size.

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