10 Best Drill Presses 2025 in the United States

The JET 20-Inch Floor Drill Press is a solid choice for both hobbyists and professional woodworkers looking for a reliable and versatile tool. With its 1-1/2 HP motor and 12-speed settings ranging from 150 to 4,200 RPM, it offers a wide speed range suitable for various drilling tasks, from delicate woodwork to more demanding metal drilling. The quick adjustment features, including a 1/2-inch diameter external depth stop, enhance usability, allowing for precise and repeatable drilling depths.

One of the standout strengths of this drill press is its smooth operation, thanks to high-quality ball bearings that support the spindle. This feature ensures minimal noise and vibration during use, providing a more comfortable working experience. Additionally, the built-in work lamp is a significant advantage, as it illuminates the workspace, helping you see your work clearly, especially in dimly lit areas.

The worktable is another highlight, as it can tilt up to +/- 45°, making it easier to work on angled projects. However, it might be on the heavier side, weighing 282 pounds, which could make moving it around a challenge if you're limited on space. The chuck size is also a consideration; it accommodates up to 0.75 inches, which may restrict you from using larger bits, potentially limiting some users. The two-year warranty is commendable, providing peace of mind regarding durability. The JET 20-Inch Floor Drill Press is a powerful and feature-rich option, ideal for serious DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike, but may not be suitable for those who need a lightweight and portable tool.

The WEN 12-Inch Benchtop Drill Press (4214T) is a versatile tool suitable for both hobbyists and professionals. It features a 5-amp induction motor, providing robust performance for various drilling tasks. One of its standout features is the variable speed range, adjustable from 580 to 3200 RPM, which allows for precision in different materials. The digital speed readout further enhances accuracy by displaying the current RPM. This drill press has a 12-inch swing and offers a 3-1/8-inch spindle travel, accommodating larger workpieces effectively.

Its cast iron construction ensures durability and stability during operation. The work table, measuring 9-1/2 by 9-1/2 inches, can be beveled and comes with a table roller extension, adding to its flexibility. Additionally, the built-in Class IIIA laser and overhead light provide better visibility and precision. The 5/8-inch keyed chuck and onboard storage for the chuck key add convenience.

At 85 pounds, it is relatively heavy, which might be a consideration for those with limited space or who need a more portable option. Despite this, its weight contributes to its stability. The product includes a two-year warranty, providing some peace of mind regarding its longevity. It is a reliable choice for a range of drilling needs.

The JET 15-Inch Variable-Speed Drill Press, Model J-A5816, offers a robust set of features for both hobbyists and professional users. This drill press has a powerful 1 HP motor, which provides ample power for various drilling tasks. Its variable speed range from 400 to 5,000 RPM is adjustable via a handwheel, allowing for precise control over drilling speeds, making it versatile for different materials and drilling requirements.

The 1/2-inch drill chuck and 6-inch stroke are suitable for deep hole applications, while the 3-inch column diameter ensures maximum head support, contributing to stability and accuracy during use. The full bearing support on the quill adds to its spindle stiffness, enhancing its precision. The drill press also includes a large 2-1/4-inch quill for greater drilling accuracy.

Weighing 550 pounds, this drill press is quite heavy, indicating a sturdy build but also requiring a stable and robust setup area. Special features like the scale-marked handwheel for speed adjustment and its variable speed capabilities add to its user-friendly attributes. The drilling capacity for metal is 0.5 inches, which might limit its use for some heavy-duty metalworking tasks. This JET drill press is best suited for those requiring a reliable, powerful, and precise tool for varied drilling tasks, particularly in a stationary workshop setting.