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 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 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.