Clicking on Amazon Services LLC Associates Program links on our site may earn us a commission. We provide unbiased overview of products and your support keeps us honest and objective. Thank you for helping us continue our work. Learn More →
Best Drill Presses
top picks
Ranking
What’s in the Toolbox
tool
Good Points
tool overVIEW
JET (JWDP-12) Best 305mm (12”) Bench Drill Press OVERALL
The JET 305mm (12″) Bench Drill Press (JWDP-12) offers a robust solution for precision drilling tasks thanks to its powerful 1/2 HP induction motor. With over 80mm (3-1/8″) spindle travel, this tool is built for maximum depth cutting making it ideal for both light and heavy duty applications. The inclusion of JET’s innovative XACTA Laser ensures accuracy by precisely aligning the drill point making even the most intricate tasks easy to manage. This feature combined with an LED work light further enhances visibility during complex jobs.
The cast iron base measuring 254mm x 410mm (10″ x 16-1/8″) fits perfectly on smaller workbenches providing stability without taking up excess space. The drill press also features a retractable roller extension offering additional support for larger workpieces and ensuring quick adjustments. Its variable speed drive system and adjustable with oversized ergonomic knobs allows for smooth and easy transitions between different drilling speeds. The digital readout makes it easy to monitor spindle speed ensuring optimal performance for various materials. Additionally, the large paddle switch offers lockout protection and quick shut-off contributing to the machine’s safety features. Overall, the JET (JWDP-12) is a reliable and versatile tool for both professional and hobbyist workshops.
features
JET (JWDP-12) Best 305mm (12”) Bench Drill Press OVERALL
tool overVIEW
BUCKTOOL (DP12VL) Best 305mm (12”) Bench Drill Press RUNNER UP
The BUCKTOOL 305mm (12”) Bench Drill Press (DP12VL) is engineered for consistent reliable performance with its powerful 6.2 Amp induction motor, surpassing the 5A motors typically found in similar models. This additional power enables the drill to handle a wide range of materials from wood to various metals. With a 12” swing and 80mm (3-1/8”) spindle travel it provides ample capacity for most drilling tasks. Its overall height of 990mm (39”) gives it an edge over competing models by offering extra working space.
The variable speed system allows users to adjust the speed from 580 RPM to 3,200 RPM making it suitable for diverse applications. The digital speed readout ensures precise control enhancing both efficiency and accuracy during operations. The fully adjustable worktable is capable of rotating 360° and tilting 45° to either side adds versatility allowing users to tackle complex angles with ease.
Safety and precision are key aspects of the BUCKTOOL (DP12VL). It comes equipped with a Class IIIA laser for accurate drill positioning, a work light for improved visibility and essential safety features like an emergency stop and no voltage release switch. Backed by a 2 year warranty and lifetime customer support the BUCKTOOL (DP12VL) ensures long term reliability for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.
features
BUCKTOOL (DP12VL) Best 305mm (12”) Bench Drill Press RUNNER UP
tool overVIEW
WEN (4214T) Best 305mm (12”) Bench Drill Press ON A BUDGET
The WEN 305mm (12”) Bench Drill Press (4214T) offers powerful and precise drilling capabilities making it suitable for metal, wood, plastic and more. Its ability to drill up to a 16mm (5/8”) hole through 25mm (1”) thick cast iron demonstrates its durability and strength. Equipped with a mechanical variable speed system the drill press allows users to adjust the RPM from 580 to 3200 with a simple lever ensuring the right speed for each project. A digital LED readout provides real-time speed information for precise control while the 5 Amp induction motor supported by ball bearings ensures long lasting performance.
The 16mm (5/8”) chuck with MT2 spindle taper accommodates a wide range of bits and the onboard chuck key storage adds convenience. The 241mm x 241mm (9-1/2” x 9-1/2”) cast iron worktable bevels 45° left and right allowing for angled drilling operations. Its X-pattern laser ensures pinpoint accuracy by showing the drill’s center points reducing material waste. For added stability, the 254mm x 406mm (10” x 16”) cast iron base features predrilled holes for secure mounting. The onboard light enhances visibility for accurate drilling in low light environments.
features
WEN (4214T) Best 305mm (12”) Bench Drill Press ON A BUDGET
tool overVIEW
VEVOR (DP12VL) Best 305mm (12”) Bench Drill Press AS AN ALTERNATIVE
The VEVOR 305mm (12”) Bench Drill Press (DP12VL) combines power and precision making it an excellent choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals. Its 5 Amp induction motor provides ample power to drill through a variety of materials including metal and wood making it versatile for different tasks. With a 305mm (12”) swing this drill press easily meets the needs of hobbyists and workshop applications, delivering consistent performance across various projects.
Precision is a key feature of the VEVOR (DP12VL) offering high locking strength and accuracy. Equipped with a Class IIIA 2.5mW laser the drill ensures precise hole alignment and minimal offset enabling you to drill 16mm diameter holes with ease. The variable speed function allows for seamless control of the RPM, adjustable from 580 to 3,200 while the LED digital screen ensures precise monitoring of the speed for different materials.
This drill press features an effective heat dissipation system that allows it to run longer without overheating extending the machine’s lifespan. The comprehensive set of accessories, including feed handles, table lock handles, chuck arbor and more ensures that users have everything they need for smooth and efficient operation.
features
VEVOR (DP12VL) Best 305mm (12”) Bench Drill Press AS AN ALTERNATIVE
BEST Drill Presses
tool Specification comparison table
Power Source
Corded Electric
Corded Electric
Corded Electric
Corded Electric
Horsepower
1/2 HP
3/4 HP
2/3 HP
Not Available
Amperage
5.0 Amps
6.2 Amps
5.0 Amps
5.0 Amps
Motor Type
Brushed
Brushed
Brushed
Brushed
Included Components
(1) JET 305mm (12”) Bench Drill Press
(1) BUCKTOOL 305mm (12”) Bench Drill Press
(1) WEN 305mm (12”) Bench Drill Press
(1) VEVOR 305mm (12”) Bench Drill Press
Rotational Speed
Variable
530 RPM – 3,100 RPM
Variable
580 RPM – 3,200 RPM
Variable
580 RPM – 3,200 RPM
Variable 580 RPM – 3,200 RPM
Chuck Capacity
0.8mm – 16mm (1/32” – 5/8″)
0.8mm – 16mm (1/32” – 5/8″)
0.8mm – 16mm (1/32” – 5/8″)
0.8mm – 16mm (1/32” – 5/8″)
Spindle Travel
80mm (3-1/8″)
50mm (2″)
80mm (3-1/8″)
Not Available
Swing
305mm (12”)
305mm (12”)
305mm (12”)
305mm (12”)
Table Size
241mm x 241mm (9-1/2” x 9-1/2”)
242mm x 242mm (9-17/32″ x 9-17/32″)
241mm x 241mm (9-1/2” x 9-1/2”)
Not Available
Table Tilt
0° – 45° Left and Right
0° – 45° Left and Right
0° – 45° Left and Right
0° – 45° Left and Right
Work Light
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Laser
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Weight
39kgs (85 lbs.)
39kgs (86.5 lbs.)
39kgs (85 lbs.)
39kgs (84.9 lbs.)
Warranty Description
5 Year Limited Warranty (if used for commercial or industrial purposes then defaults to a 2 Year Warranty)
2 Year Limited Warranty
2 Year Limited Warranty
2 Year Limited Warranty
Item Model Number
JWDP-12
DP12VL
4214T
DP12VL
Drill Presses
0ther ALTERNATIves
what’s in the toolbox
tool
Key points
included components
Horsepower: Not Available
Amperage: 6.0 Amps
Rotational Speed: 610 RPM – 2,800 RPM
Chuck Capacity: 1.5mm – 13mm (1/16″ – 1/2″)
Swing: 254mm (10”)
Spindle Travel: 51mm (2”)
Work Light: Yes
Laser: Yes
Item Model No.: DP9505-00
(1) SKIL 254mm (10”) Bench Drill Press
Horsepower: Not Available
Amperage: 5.0 Amps
Rotational Speed: 530 RPM – 3,100 RPM
Chuck Capacity: 1.5mm – 13mm (1/16″ – 1/2″)
Swing: 254mm (10”)
Spindle Travel: 51mm (2”)
Work Light: No
Laser: Yes
Item Model No.: 4212T
(1) WEN 254mm (10”) Bench Drill Press
Horsepower: Not Available
Amperage: 2.3 Amps
Rotational Speed: 740 RPM – 3,140 RPM
Chuck Capacity: 1.5mm – 13mm (1/16″ – 1/2″)
Swing: 203mm (8”)
Spindle Travel: 51mm (2”)
Work Light: No
Laser: Yes
Item Model No.: 4208T
(1) WEN 203mm (8”) Bench Drill Press
a Tool for Every Job
A drill press is an essential tool for anyone who values precision in their drilling tasks. Unlike a handheld drill, a drill press offers stability and accuracy making it easier to create consistent straight holes. This reliability makes it a go to choice for projects that require exact depth and alignment whether you’re working with wood, metal or plastic.
The drill press is particularly useful for handling tougher materials. Its variable speed settings allow for better control reducing the chances of errors and ensuring a cleaner finish. The machine’s design minimizes the physical strain on the user allowing the tool to do most of the heavy lifting.
Another key feature is the adjustable worktable which lets you drill at different angles increasing the versatility of the machine. This is especially helpful for more complex projects that require angled or repetitive drilling. For tradespeople and serious DIYers, a drill press can save time and improve the overall quality of the work.
Whether in a professional workshop or a home garage, the drill press offers durability and versatility making it a valuable addition to any tool collection.
BUYERS GUIDE
Drill Presses
Motor Power and Performance:
When purchasing a drill press, motor power is one of the most crucial factors to consider. The motor dictates the materials you can drill through and the overall performance of the machine. A more powerful motor typically measured in Amps or Horsepower allows for drilling through tougher materials like metal or hardwoods. For general woodworking or DIY projects a motor around 5 – 6 Amps or 1/2 Horsepower is usually sufficient. For industrial tasks or working with dense materials consider a motor with higher capacity for more consistent and reliable performance.
Speed Control and Versatility:
The best drill presses come equipped with variable speed control allowing you to adjust the RPM based on the material you are drilling. A wider speed range typically from 580 RPM up to 3200 RPM enables flexibility in tackling different materials such as wood, metal or plastic. Some models come with a digital speed readout providing precision and helping you match the ideal speed for your task. Whether you’re a professional or a DIYer having a drill press with easy speed adjustments ensures optimal results without damaging the material.
Build Quality and Stability:
The durability of a drill press is directly linked to its construction. Cast iron bases and worktables are preferred because they provide stability and minimize vibrations during use ensuring more accurate drilling. A well built machine will not only last longer but will also provide smoother operation over time. Consider models with pre-drilled holes in the base for easy bench mounting enhancing stability further. Build quality becomes especially important if you plan on using the drill press for heavier duty projects where sturdiness is key to achieving precise results.
Precision Features and Accessories:
Precision is a top priority for drill press users and modern machines offer various features to help improve accuracy. Laser guides often included in premium models allow you to pinpoint exact drilling spots reducing guesswork and material waste. Depth stops are another critical feature allowing you to set consistent drilling depths especially for repetitive tasks. Accessories such as work lights, adjustable tables and onboard chuck key storage further enhance the usability and convenience of the drill press ensuring a smooth workflow in both hobbyist and professional settings.
Size and Space Considerations:
The size of the drill press you need depends on both the scale of your projects and the available space in your workshop. Benchtop drill presses are more compact and ideal for smaller spaces or occasional projects while floor standing models provide greater capacity and power for larger scale tasks. A 305mm (12”) swing is common in many models offering a good balance between size and functionality but ensure that the height and base dimensions fit comfortably in your work area. Always measure your workspace before purchasing to ensure the drill press integrates seamlessly into your setup.
Safety Features:
Safety should always be a priority when working with power tools and drill presses are no exception. Look for models that incorporate safety features such as emergency stop switches, no voltage release systems and guards to prevent accidents. A stable base is also crucial for preventing tipping or movement during operation. Additionally, consider whether the drill press includes features like onboard work lights for improved visibility and dust collection systems to keep your workspace clean and safe. Prioritizing safety features not only protects you during use but also enhances the overall user experience making your work environment more comfortable and efficient.
Price and Budget Considerations:
Price is a significant factor when selecting a drill press as they can vary widely based on features, brand and specifications. Setting a budget beforehand can help narrow down your options and ensure you get the best value for your investment. While it may be tempting to consider the cheapest model available it’s essential to consider the long term durability and performance. Investing a bit more in a high quality drill press can save you money over time by reducing the need for repairs or replacements. Look for models that offer a good balance of features and durability within your budget to ensure satisfaction with your purchase.