We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Benchtop Drill Presses 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Grizzly Industrial G0761-10" x 32" 2 HP HD Benchtop Mill/Drill w/Power Feed & Tapping

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,386
Drill Press Size
Motor Power

Most important from
1 reviews

Drill Press Size
The machine's size and motor strength make it highly capable for demanding milling and drilling.
Motor Power
Delivers impressive power and handles heavy cuts in mild steel with ease.

The Grizzly G0761 is a robust benchtop mill and drill that stands out with its strong 2 HP motor and 220V power, making it suitable for heavy-duty drilling and milling tasks. It offers a large table size (9.5" x 31.5") with good travel in both X and Y directions, allowing you to handle bigger workpieces with some flexibility in positioning. The spindle’s maximum distance to the table is about 18 inches, which provides decent clearance for taller materials. You get six variable speed settings up to 1970 RPM, giving some control over drilling speed, though it might not be as versatile as machines with wider speed ranges.

The machine’s size and power suggest it’s best suited for users who need a strong, versatile benchtop mill/drill for metalworking or woodworking projects that require more than basic drilling. However, its relatively large footprint and 220V power requirement mean it’s less convenient for small home workshops or casual users who may prefer a simpler, smaller drill press.

This makes the Grizzly G0761 a solid choice for serious hobbyists or professionals looking for power and flexibility in a benchtop mill/drill, while beginners or those needing compactness and simpler setup might find it more than they need.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,386
Drill Press Size
Motor Power

Most important from
1 reviews

Drill Press Size
The machine's size and motor strength make it highly capable for demanding milling and drilling.
Motor Power
Delivers impressive power and handles heavy cuts in mild steel with ease.
#2

JET 15-Inch Benchtop Drill Press, 16 Speed, 3/4 HP, 115/230V 1Ph (Model J-2530)

Rating
9.7
Drill Press Size
Motor Power
Speed Settings

Most important from
47 reviews

Drill Press Size
The 15-inch swing and large 5/8-inch chuck provide ample capacity for various drilling tasks, making it a versatile choice for both heavy consumer and professional use.
Motor Power
The JET J-2530 is a solid and heavy-duty machine, with a powerful 3/4 HP motor and an all cast iron construction that ensures durability.
Speed Settings
Speed changes are quick and easy, thanks to the belt tension release mechanism, and the built-in bulb holder ensures good visibility on the work table.
Table Size and Adjustability
The table is adjustable and can be rotated 360 degrees, making it easy to position and lock in place for different projects.
Chuck Size
The 15-inch swing and large 5/8-inch chuck provide ample capacity for various drilling tasks, making it a versatile choice for both heavy consumer and professional use.

The JET 15-Inch Benchtop Drill Press (Model J-2530) is a robust and versatile tool designed for precision and durability. With a powerful 3/4 HP motor and 16 speed settings, it offers a wide range of rotational speeds from 200 to 3,630 RPM, making it suitable for various drilling applications. The large ground steel column and cast iron head enhance stability and accuracy, while the 1-7/8-inch diameter quill provides a substantial 3-1/8-inch travel for deep hole drilling.

The enclosed spindle assembly supported by four permanently-lubricated ball bearings ensures long-lasting precision and minimal maintenance. Safety is also a priority, featuring a telescoping safety spindle guard for added protection during operation. The drill press is CSA/CUS certified, adhering to strict electrical guidelines for reliability and safety. Additionally, the table is adjustable, allowing for versatile use in different projects.

However, at 157 pounds, it is quite heavy and may require a dedicated space in your workshop. The maximum chuck size of 13 millimeters and the 115/230V voltage requirement should be considered to ensure compatibility with your existing tools and power sources. The JET J-2530 is ideal for users seeking a high-quality, reliable benchtop drill press for precise and versatile drilling tasks, though its weight and size might be a consideration for those with limited space.

Rating
9.7
Drill Press Size
Motor Power
Speed Settings

Most important from
47 reviews

Drill Press Size
The 15-inch swing and large 5/8-inch chuck provide ample capacity for various drilling tasks, making it a versatile choice for both heavy consumer and professional use.
Motor Power
The JET J-2530 is a solid and heavy-duty machine, with a powerful 3/4 HP motor and an all cast iron construction that ensures durability.
Speed Settings
Speed changes are quick and easy, thanks to the belt tension release mechanism, and the built-in bulb holder ensures good visibility on the work table.
Table Size and Adjustability
The table is adjustable and can be rotated 360 degrees, making it easy to position and lock in place for different projects.
Chuck Size
The 15-inch swing and large 5/8-inch chuck provide ample capacity for various drilling tasks, making it a versatile choice for both heavy consumer and professional use.
#3

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

Rating
9.4
Speed Settings
Depth Stop
Chuck Size

Most important from
3664 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
9.4
Speed Settings
Depth Stop
Chuck Size

Most important from
3664 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.

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.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now