Most woodworkers and carpenters use floor-standing drill presses as their standard drilling equipment. But the same power, efficiency, and results can be provided by a benchtop sander while also being much cheaper than the former.
A benchtop drill is a versatile and accurate drill press that you can install on your working table, within 4 inches of the chuck. It can drill a variety of materials but is most preferred by professionals and hobbyists specializing in wood. It’s compact architecture and small size assures much of your workspace won’t be occupied.
Our Top Recommendation for Benchtop Drill Press!
The steel 13-1/2″ support column of the ToolStand, fits securely into a 6″ x 6″ formed steel base plate whose surface and mounting platforms have been planed to ensure a level work surface.
*We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you
If you plan on purchasing one, you would have to look out for many factors. These range from its variable speed, to its ability to perform heavy-duty tasks. This guide will give you the best benchtop drill press, with 10 options to choose from. You can compare, analyze, and get your doubts solvedas you scroll down.
Best Benchtop Drill Press Review
There is a huge variety of drill presses with high-end features in the market, and each of them comes with a multitude of appealing differences. This includes variation in size, power, portability, compatibility, functionality, durability, price, etc. They often tend to confuse the common customer.
The best benchtop drill press may vary depending on the buyer’s precise purchasing purpose. This is because based on their needs, there are a variety of features to be considered. Personalized factors like size requirement, ergonomic design, and battery life often alter judgment over the usual features.
The following list provides you with enough details about the top 10 benchtop drill dress to simplify your purchasing process, and to get the best value for your money.
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES | PRICE |
 | Milescraft 1097 Tool Stand | • Spring-loaded Metal Rack • Easy Operation • Affordable | |
 | Dremel Drill Press Rotary Tool Workstation Stand with Wrench | • built with metal base and rods • Easy accessory-access • Dremel rotary tools | |
 | Shop Fox W1668 ¾-HP 13-Inch Bench-Top Drill Press/Spindle Sander | • easy to use • long stroke 5/8-inch chuck • best results | |
 | Euro Tool Small Benchtop Drill Press DRL-300.00 | • Space-saving • Lightweight • economical | |
 | SE 3-Speed Mini Drill Press Bench – 97511MDP | • High-performing spindle • Ideal hobby drill press • Lightweight at only 2.8 lbs | |
 | NUZAMAS 2-in-1 Workstation | • Stainless steel build • Universal design • Multiple functionalities | |
 | Powermatic PM2800B 1792800B Drill Press | • Durable • Excellent build quality • Variable speed control | |
 | WEN 4212 10-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press | • Large work table size • Powerful 4.5 Amp motor • variable speed control | |
 | Kanzawa Drill Guide Support K-801 | • Traditional model design • Stable • Long-term device |
1. Milescraft 1097 Tool Stand
The Milescraft 1097 ToolStand is widely regarded as the best Drill Press Stand (interoperable with Dremel). It is black in color, large, and affordably available online.
A strong cast aluminum foundation provides a stable work surface. The 13.5-inch metal tube is strong enough to drill things up to 5 inches tall. For hands-free sanding or polishing, lock the rotary tool horizontally.
QUICK SUMMARY
- Sturdy metal head
- Spring-loaded Metal Rack
- Pinion Gearing
- Smooth Controlled Drilling
- Deep Scales
- Precise Drilling
The Milescraft 1097 10-inch drill press with a laser promises power and precision as important characteristics. This gadget, the successor to the Milescraft 1097 model, is a powerhouse equipped with the same functionality found in industrial drill presses. Both wood and metal are known for their ease of use.
Laser Accuracy
For optimum precision, while drilling, the laser light determines the exact point through which the bit will go. The higher accuracy is persistent with all sorts of metals and materials.
Adjustable Gauge for Depth
Use the depth focus knob to restrict spindle motion for precise and consistent drilling. This feature is rare and not available in most tools.
Workbench Beveling
To guarantee exact angled drilling, bevel the worktable 45 degrees left and right. This will ensure you perfection in your work and drilling.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Affordable
- The laser and LED light give accuracy and visibility, while
- The induction motor assures low noise levels.
- Powerful enough to drill both wood and thin metal sheets with ease.
- Easy Operation
Cons
- It’s difficult to use on thin metal.
- A rack and pinion height adjustable table might be cumbersome.
2. Dremel Drill Press Rotary Tool Workstation Stand with Wrench
To offer a complete workstation along with the many rotary tools it produces, Dremel came up with this 220-01 workstation. It is a lightweight model that takes minimal effort to transport to the worksite. Small workshops would find it ideal since it does not take up much space.
You can quickly and effortlessly make angular drill holes as the arm of the stand is articulating. The device is simple and gives diverse usability options, with a quick assembly of the solid metal and plastic parts.
QUICK SUMMARY
- Drills perpendicular and angled holes in 15 to 90 degree increments
- Enables telescopic adjustment to any height between 16 inches and 29 inches
- Holds tools at 90 degrees for tasks like polishing, sanding, and grinding
- Crow’s nest gives onboard storage
- Metric marking on base for accurate drilling
Onboard storage for the drill bits and wrenches are provided, in addition to clips for managing your rotary tool cords, and depth stops markings. All of this combines to make this one of the best benchtop drill press.
Critical projects can be made much easier. For example, it can hold a Dremel at 45 degrees for last-minute edge sanding, at a 90-degree angle for routing out to insert weights, and a 180-degree angle in case of a change in the design concept.
3-in-1 Device
Can play the role of an articulating drill press, tool container, and a flex shaft tool stand. A crow’s nest or storage space is installed for storage on-board . Be it drill bits and various sizes, diverse wrenches, and alternative key equipment.
Attachments
Includes cord management clips for the safe storage of power cords, and a robust metal base with clamping points to securely hold the device. Also comes with a workstation attachment and mounting wrench.
Easily Adjustable
It is a mini drill press with a stand that enables telescopic adjustments of its height, anywhere between 6 to 9 inches. The tool holder can hold rotary tools with stability at 90 degrees for certain project needs.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Sturdy built with metal base and rods
- Smooth and controlled movement
- Compatible with wide range of Dremel rotary tools
- Easy accessory-access to change tools
Cons
- High vibrations in the body of tool
- Slight movement on contact with material
3. Shop Fox W1668 ¾-HP 13-Inch Bench-Top Drill Press/Spindle Sander
For people needing a compact but powerful drill press for their workshop, the Shop Fox drill press/ spindle sander is the best solution. It delivers a 1.75HP performance and comes fitted with a chuck of 5 to 8 inches.
Users will be able to complete a variety of drill jobs, with the ¾ inch steel-drilling capacity and a swing of 13 ¼ inches. This device is a big benchtop model, which makes it the best benchtop drill for bigger projects.
QUICK SUMMARY
- Double functionalities- drill press stand and oscillating sander
- 12 varying speeds allowing to drill wood, steel, and many more
- Built to last for heavy-duty drilling
- ¾ inch steel-drilling capacity, with a swing of 13 ¼ inches
- Features a long stroke 5/8-inch chuck
Along with the 3.2 inches of spindle travel, there are 12 speeds to choose from, ranging from 250 to 3050 RPM.
As it also features an oscillating sander, incorporated clearance hole, and a dust collection port for sawdust, the device makes for a multi-functional benchtop drill & sander. The WI668 can be converted into a sander within a matter of seconds, following a couple of tool-free steps.
Bonus: These 20 beginner DIY cabin plans & ideas would give you inspiration the build a dream cabin in the woods.
Double Functionality
The 12-speed options with this benchtop drill press makes it capable to function as an oscillating sander. This assists in effective and high-end contour sanding. The table features a clearance hole for use while standing. Additionally, the 3 to 4-inch drilling capacity in steel will enable you to tackle many drilling jobs.
Tilting Table
The table can be tilted to 90 degrees on either sides. Users can adjust the table height to accommodate for their workpiece’s height or achieve special drilling and sanding angles.
Additional Alterations
Many alterations to the device can be made, to suit the work at hand. The sanding drum set and the oscillating spindle come as additional attachments. You can also remove the table and use the drill press base as a single piece for drilling and sanding.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Controls are easy to use
- Offers more speed and power
- Spacious working table with bevels
- Oscillates while sanding for best results
Cons
- Vertical travel is only 3.5 inches
- No built-in work light
4. Euro Tool Small Benchtop Drill Press DRL-300.00
If you are searching for the best benchtop drill press that does not need an extra rotary tool to work, then this offer from Euro Tool is the ideal choice for you. This drill press is not intended for heavy or professional usage; it works mostly for DIY projects at home or casual drilling jobs.
When placed on top of the workbench, it would hardly take up space. The compact drill is reasonably priced and comes with a variable speed setting, with a maximum speed of 8500 RPM. The highest speed will enable the user to drill into materials quickly, producing smooth and clean drill holes.
QUICK SUMMARY
- Best benchtop drill for hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts
- Precision drill for small, detailed work
- High maximum speed of 8500 RPM for a smooth drill finish
- Space-saving and economical
- Lightweight and portable at only 11.22 lbs
Using a smaller drill bit for high-speed drilling jobs is recommended. You will also get accessories such as Allen wrenches to change the drill bits. Along with fast drilling, it also can give repeatable precision in bore creation.
Home Use
Since the device is built to be compact, it cannot handle heavy-duty jobs. It can offer the best drilling jobs with materials like wood, soft metal, plastic, and even circuit boards. For heavier metals, the speed is too high and the power not sufficient.
Compact but Powerful Motor
Powered via 100 watts or 110 volts AC rating, the device offers three settings that allow the user to select a speed within 0 to 8500 RPM. It is also equipped with a Jacobs onboard that enhances specific attributes of the motor.
Fewer Efforts, Better Results
Lesser efforts are required to use this drill press when compared to a regular hand drill. Users are promised benefits on a mechanical note. All credits to the functionality of the spindle and chuck that play their role through the rack & pinion-oriented lever.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Easy to run and keep up
- Lightweight and portable drill press
- Variable speed up to 8500 RPM
- Ideal for small DIY drilling projects
Cons
- Mounting base does not have mounting holes
- Power output is among the lowest in benchtop drill presses
5. SE 3-Speed Mini Drill Press Bench – 97511MDP
The SE 3-Speed Mini Drill Press Bench – 97511MDP meets all the requirements of a general-purpose woodworking drill, while also being the best benchtop drill press for specialty or jewellery purposes.
The level of accuracy for the chuck, spindle, and quill brings superior quality to projects. The runout at the spindle may only be around 0.001 inches, while there is barely any deflection on the dial indicator. The spindle rotation runs as smooth as silky fabric.
QUICK SUMMARY
- High-performing spindle, quill, and chuck
- Powerful 100 watts motor with plenty of torque
- Lightweight at only 2.8 lbs
- 3 variable speeds of 5000, 6500, and 8000 RPM
- Ideal hobby drill press
Assuming that this drill press is made for jewelery drilling, a good combination of torque and speed is provided. Too much torque can shatter even diamonds, but too little could hardly penetrate any material. But this product has been tried and tested to attain best results. Remember, though all sorts of wood stock and jewelery material can be drilled, the drill cannot cut through copper.
Along with the 3 variable speeds, the device is provided with a 6 mm chuck key and three wrenches for easy assembly and drill bit changing.
Generous Spindle Height
With a generous spindle height of 7.5 inches, fairly bigger materials can be drilled using this mini drill press. Along with a generous working platform of 6-9/16 x 6-9/16 inches, users can enjoy drilling without working on a claustrophobic workstation. However, the material being drilled should not be heavy.
Accuracy Surety
Apart from the laser guide crosshairs and the depth stops, users can expect extra position care of the chuck, spindle, and quill. The spindle is smooth and there is no noticeable quill play either.
Mobility
The small size of the device will not result in vibration issues, because of the balancing act between the horsepower and speed. It is faster than the top speed of heavier drill press machinery, but as mobile as lab equipment.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Liberty of space in small drill
- Necessary accessories included
- Spindle can travel for aprox. an inch
- Robust unit with no perceivable flexing when operating
Cons
- Torque is slow for drilling slightly ticker materials
- Quill feed can get jerky
6. NUZAMAS 2-in-1 Workstation
Nuzamas 2-in-1 workstation is meant for managing a drill or any alternative rotary equipment stably while using it. This would allow for much more accurate operation. The design makes it compatible to electric drills that are hand-held and boast a collar diameter of 43mm or 38mm.
The maximum depth for drilling is about 60mm, and the stand is capable of being secured and yet offers various adjustment options. This is done by the adjustable depth stop, using a graduated scale. Aluminum base for mounting the flat nose pliers slot ensures that the device is securely mounted on the workbench.
QUICK SUMMARY
- Holds drill or any other rotary tool steady
- Works as a rotary tool holder
- Can be converted to a flex shaft tool stand
- Column bar and sturdy base with slots
- Stainless steel build
2 drill collars are provided so that there is no trouble fitting your drill. There might be a bit of ‘draft’, as the drill slides down. However, this would not affect you’re the effectiveness of the drilling job.
Top-notch Design
The basic blueprint of the structure is a universal style. It is used and customized by many tool companies worldwide, with the simplest one having multiple functionalities. This design only has a column bar with a sturdy base and slots for fitting a machine vice, along with a lever.
Complete Workstation
Simplicity in the device’s design enables it to work as a drill holder, a rotary tool holder, and a flex-shaft tool stand. It can fit a variety of drill types to provide more stability as needed for various drilling jobs.
Versatility
Users can install 2 electric drills in this workstation, thus being able to work with both of them simultaneously. It can also be loaded with an electrical drill horizontally. It can drill up to a depth of 60mm, while the drilling height extends to 400mm.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Much more accurate results than hand-held drillers
- Stable and safe bench mounting
- Universal design
- Multiple functionalities
Cons
- Structure can be unstable
- Cannot accommodate all drill types
7. Powermatic PM2800B 1792800B Drill Press
Drilling and working through heavy pieces of wood or metal is not the easiest job and requires the aid of a powerful tool. The efficient, durable, and reliable Powermatic PM2800B 1792800B drill press could do this job.
Powered with one of the strongest motors used in press drills, the device gains a torque that is guaranteed to go through tough and dense materials with ease. All kinds of heavy-duty operations can be performed with this drill.
QUICK SUMMARY
- Mechanical speed control allows full range of speed
- Fence system adjustable for a perfect 90-degree alignment
- Adjustable material stops
- Excellent build quality
- Large size makes it stable and secure
You can choose a speed range between 250 and 3000 RPM. Other additional features of this drilling mammoth are the keyless 5/8 inches chuck, bright laser guides, couple of powerful LED lights, and a digital readout for the current speed, or RPM levels.
The LED lights do not cause a shadow, while the laser cross works with pinpoint accuracy. Although keep in mind that once installed, this heavy drill cannot be moved easily.
Durable Construction
Being a premium drill press, the device is quite large and heavy. It is not portable, but it absorbs vibrations, thus making it secure and stable for heavy-duty drilling operations. It is made out of cast-iron, lightweight aluminum, and ABS plastic.
Motor Power
A 15.0 Amp inductive engine could make any heavy task seem small. Users can choose from a range of speed settings, allowing the optimum application of power. A digital RPM readout lets you optimize the spindle speed.
Adjustable Table
The table of this device is adjustable up to 90 degrees, on both the left and right sides. The fence system provided can be adjusted in the same manner, so that rapid alignment of stock can be enabled.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Durable and robust build quality
- Lots of handy features
- Variable speed control
- Heavy-duty and professional operation
Cons
- Operation can get noisy
- On the expensive side
8. WEN 4212 10-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press
Another great offering from the WEN series, this drill press is a powerful drill that includes a manual lever, allowing users to easily adjust the speed. You will not have to open the top cover to adjust the belt position on the pully.
The variable speeds can be read on the front digital speed display. Moreover, it has a large chunk size of ½ inches, thus accommodating larger drill bits like Forstner buts with ease. This model also has mounting holes at the base, to bolt it to any workbench.
QUICK SUMMARY
- 10-inch swing and 2 to 3/8-inch stroke
- Mechanical variable speed displayed on digital board
- Bevelling work table with cast iron base
- Large work table size
- Roller extension for more support
The feeder level is large enough for comfortable use. You could perform repetitive drilling with this drill press, without feeling any hand fatigue. The cast-iron table can be tilted at 45 degrees on the left and right for making accurate angular drills.
Lastly, the depth adjustment gauge permits user to lock the position or fix the spindle as per the project demands. With the depth gauge, it should be effortless to read the depth setting.
Professional Work
The chuck capacity remains at ½ inches, which means that the device allows drill bits with a 12-inch shank. This makes it apt for high-quality jobs, since a fair chunk of high-end drill bits for various materials are usually shanked by ½ an inch.
Good Body Build
Solidly built from metal, this drill assures stability and durability. The base and work table are thick-built, thus aiding in lowering vibration. This results in better, stable, and more accurate drilling.
Speed Versatility
Powered by variable speed control, the infinite adjustment of speed has no restriction to a specific setting. This means that the device can easily adapt to the material density and your way of working with a drill press.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Easy to install on any benchtop
- Powerful 4.5 Amp motor for drilling both wood and metal
- Infinite variable speed control
- Excellent and durable build quality
Cons
- Tilting table may not be precise
- May have cosmetic fit and finish issues
9. Kanzawa Drill Guide Support K-801
In case you want to create angled holes, this drill press guide is a high-quality option you could consider buying. The Kanzawa drill guide support K-801 is made of materials that are of the highest reliability. It ensures long-lasting performance for a variety of drilling projects.
The glide bars are of industrial level steel, while the base and the top are made of top-quality aluminum alloy. The model has a premium coating that not only delivers aesthetic benefits but also good protection from scratches and rust.
QUICK SUMMARY
- Stable and traditional model design
- Straightforward usability
- Old-school chuck with key
- Comes with shaft collar clamps
- Bushing is seized appropriately for maximum output
This drill press provides ideal stability to guarantee accurate holes in all your projects. Some users might like to clamp it down when using the maximum support. There are 4 screw holes provided so that you could mount it on your workbench.
For the precise puncturing of the holes, the V-groove design at the base holds rounded stocks. The device comes with a 2.5-inch wide drill bit which can be used for drilling bigger holes.
Bonus: Do you like target practice with guns? Consider building your own portable shooting bench from this list of plans.
Traditional Style
Kanzawa brings its consumers products that are old-fashioned, but last longer than their counterparts. This is a straightforward build that plunges only down so that there is no side-to-side or twisting motion possible.
Complete Metal Build
Except for the friction pads on the bottom, made out of rubber, every other major part of the drill press is metal. It eliminates the chance of wobbling occurrences that can arise through various angle adjustment settings. The precision slide is also solid and stable.
Best Drill Guide
With its guide, the drill press achieves clean, straight, and almost 90-degree drill holes. The device would ensure that the holes drilled with your hand drill are normal to the surface. There is accurate and repeatable depth control for holes saws.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Extremely stable base
- Can make angled holes with ease of use
- Finishing on the product is durable and rust-resistant
- Long-term device
Cons
- Tilting table may not be precise
- May have cosmetic fit and finish issues
Buyer’s Guide: What to Look for in the Best Benchtop Drill Press?
With the list of 10 of the best benchtop drill press, you need to understand the features to pay more attention to. To understand what the various factors in the product review mean, it is crucial to know more about the following features:
Bench or Floor Mounted
Before choosing your favorite benchtop drill from the list, consider whether you want a benchtop drill or a floor one. DIY enthusiasts and people working at home should go for the benchtop ones, due to their portability, compatibility, and beginner-friendly features.
Speed Range
Pay attention to the top limit and the range of speed offered by the device. The best benchtop drill presses would offer variable speed options to allow a greater degree of precision, irrespective of the material being worked upon.
The speed is shown in the RPM format, referring to the amount of rotation the benchtop drill press is capable of executing in one minute. If the drill has a wider range of speed, then you would be granted more control over your work. Look for an easy speed controller, and possibly a display area for keeping an eye on the pace.
Ease of Use
Using a benchtop drill press should not feel like you are working in a factory. Right from assembling the device and using I,; the easier it gets, the more valuable it seems. Features that would increase the probability of ease of use, including a long handle for more leverage, can save you from a lot of mishaps that occur while using such drills.
Size of Worktable
Consider the size of the drill and the table it would be mounted on, first. A benchtop drill with spacious features would allow you to be more precise, while a large table would give the device ample space to mount on. This promises safety and stability. Moreover, users can stay within safe distance from the drill head or other sharper parts while drilling.
Versatility
Benchtop drill presses can be very versatile. A wide variety of weak and strong materials can be drilled at different angles. To maintain this versatility, check if you have the means to change the drill bits easily. This allows for quick and easy work with different materials on the fly.
Accessories
Drill presses often have characteristics as a bonus to help with the drilling job. Look for handy accessories like LED work lights for better visibility, tool storage devices, runoff channel, and a dust collection port. Sometimes additional functionalities like sanding could also be available.
Safety Features
Power tools naturally pose a risk to users. One missed look or step could result in fatal outcomes. Essential safety features such as overload protection and a strategically positioned OFF switch should be included. The build of the device should also have non-heating and silent features to keep its components safe.
Depth Stops
The holes being made in your material need to be of the same depth, as the uniformity would ensure better functionality. A depth stop is a gadget that ensures this uniformity. They are a must-have, in cases of a professional job being done that requires a lot of holes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ans. A drill press is a powerful tool that can be freestanding or mounted on a workbench. It is used to bore holes into numerous varieties of materials, beit metal, strong plastic, or wood. You can change the drill bit mounted in the chuck to create holes of different sizes and depths according to your project.
Ans. In this device, the drill bit is mounted on a chuck. It is then spun by an electric motor, to lower into the material to be drilled by the turn of a handle. Depth would stop the machine to ensure the hole is as deep as you had wanted.
Ans. According to the build and power of the drill press you choose, holes can be drilled in materials like wood, plastic, and metal. Sometimes ceramics can also be considered. The tougher the material, the more power required from the motor.
Conclusion
These were the top 10 best benchtop drill presses of 2023. Every product listed here would be able to satisfy all your drilling needs once you match them to your requirements. Having a benchtop drill press is always better than maneuvring a hand-held one.
Do you own a large arsenal of DIY tools and face difficulty in finding a permanent storage solution? Check out these 15 clever DIY tool storage plans & ideas for some organization inspiration.
By
