10 Best Drill Presses 2025 in the United States

The JET 18-Inch Mill Drill Machine stands out as a powerful option for both hobbyists and professionals looking for a versatile drill press. With a solid 2 HP motor, it provides robust performance, easily handling various materials, including wood and metal. Its significant drilling capacities—up to 3 inches for metal and 12.5 inches for wood—make it suitable for a range of projects, from intricate woodworking to heavy-duty metalworking. The machine supports a maximum speed of 3000 RPM and offers 12 speed settings, allowing users to fine-tune operations according to their needs.

A key strength is its sturdy construction, with a one-piece cast iron column that ensures stability and durability during use. The positive quick-stop knob and external depth gauge enhance user experience by making measurements and adjustments easier. Additionally, the 360-degree head swivel feature adds flexibility, enabling users to drill at various angles, which is particularly useful for complex projects.

There are some considerations to keep in mind. Weighing 660 pounds, the machine is quite heavy, which can make mobility and setup a challenge in smaller workspaces. The maximum chuck size of 0.5 inches may limit the compatibility with larger drill bits, potentially restricting some users who need more versatility. Furthermore, while the machine is equipped with a reverse rotation feature, which is great for clearing out chips or performing specific tasks, it might be more complex for beginners to navigate without prior experience. This drill press is ideal for serious DIY enthusiasts or small business owners who require a reliable, heavy-duty machine for various drilling tasks.

The DEWALT Magnetic Drill Press DWE1622K is a powerful tool designed for professionals and heavy-duty DIY enthusiasts. With a robust 10-amp motor and two-speed settings, it can handle a variety of drilling tasks effectively. The maximum rotational speed of 450 RPM is suitable for both metal and wood, making it versatile for different materials. One of its standout features is the quick change chuck system, which allows for rapid bit changes, enhancing productivity on the job. Additionally, the overload protection electronics help prevent motor damage, ensuring longevity and reliability during use.

This drill press offers a drilling capacity of 56.9 inches for metal and 4.38 inches for wood, making it ideal for more substantial projects. The 4-inch drill travel provides ample depth for drilling, especially when dealing with thicker materials. Users will appreciate the magnetic coolant bottle that can be conveniently positioned during operation, helping to keep the work area clean and cool.

There are some drawbacks to consider. Weighing 33 pounds, it may be less portable than some lighter models, which could limit its use in various locations unless you have ample setup space. Some users might also find the maximum speed of 450 RPM a bit limiting compared to other drill presses that offer higher speeds, depending on the specific applications.

The DEWALT DWE1622K is best suited for those who need a reliable and powerful drill press for metalworking and some woodworking tasks. It's particularly beneficial for professionals who require durability and efficiency in their tools. While it may not be the best choice for casual home users looking for lightweight and easily maneuverable tools, it excels in heavy-duty environments where performance is key.

The Grizzly G0779 is a heavy-duty floor model drill press built with solid cast iron, making it very sturdy and stable during use. It features a powerful 2 horsepower motor running on 220 volts and offers 6 speed settings with a maximum speed of about 1,970 RPM, which is versatile enough for drilling various materials. The geared head with quick-change gearbox controls allows easy speed adjustments, helping you match the right speed to the job. The drill chuck accepts bits from 1/64" up to 1/2", supporting a decent range of hole sizes, and it can drill metal up to 1.25 inches thick, suitable for many workshop tasks.

The table is adjustable and can rotate 360 degrees around the column, with lock levers ensuring stability when set. The base includes precision-ground surfaces with T-slots to help secure your workpieces firmly. This model is quite heavy at 790 pounds, so it’s best suited for a fixed workshop setup rather than portable use. It requires a 220-volt power source, which may not be available in all home garages without modifications.

For those seeking a durable, precise drill press for serious metalworking or woodworking projects in a permanent space, the Grizzly G0779 provides solid performance and flexibility. However, if you need something lighter or for lighter-duty tasks, this machine might be more than necessary.