Top 7 Best Drill Press for Metal 2021

Those only beginning their metalwork journey should find the WEN 4210T 10-Inch Drill Press with Laser as a viable option. Though not equipped for hardwearing projects, it is still fully capable of handling everyday projects and simple repairs at home.

This unit comes with a solid 3.2-AMP induction motor that produces between 600 to 3,100-RPM of torque. Users can select any of the five pre-installed speed settings and manage them by simply twisting the spindles.

The same is true for its height and table placement. Both of these have been made more flexible to service larger and more vigorous sheets of metal. Moreover, this tool has a built-in X-pattern laser for better guidance when drilling. It specifies where exactly the bit must target, leading to more accurate movements all around.

Visually, the SKIL 3320-01 10-Inch Drill Press might look average or ordinary, but this couldn’t be farther from the truth. It delivers solid drilling strength for different functions and is capable of boring through thick plywood or metal sheets. 

Just like the previous item, it, too, is powered by 3.2-AMP, though its maximum torque speed is only 3,050-RPM. Still, the insertions created remain as precise as other more advanced models – if not more. Moreover, the 5-speed system likewise allows users to select specific functions for each task requirement.

Additionally, the SKIL 3320-01 10-Inch Drill Press has other functions worth mentioning too. These include an X2 2-Beam laser, a larger 0.5-inch keyed chuck and a worktable that tilts up to 45-degrees. Every single one of them works to make your life a little bit easier.

The WEN 4214 12-Inch Variable-Speed Drill Press is the most multidimensional mid-tier model in its series, not only in terms of price but also the functionality. Almost every facet has been enhanced to help users with more complicated problems. 

For example, its induction motor is now more dominant at 5-AMPs. Both the spindle and tabletop are likewise bigger. There’s even a roller extension installed to help support extra-large workpieces and a clamp to hold it down. These should all be beneficial for users regularly working on metal.

Furthermore, manufacturers have added a digital readout screen that displays your current speed, even when this is changed. Veering away from manual adjustments – for both height and depth settings – is a huge leap forward and will undoubtedly make user's lives much more convenient. We’re glad that WEN eventually decided on including this innovation.

Whoever considered it impossible to find quality features in inexpensive merchandise has never seen the Small Benchtop Drill Press. It will never be exceptional in terms of size or might, but this tool is incredibly mobile and affordable to own.

Unlike other options, this model is put together very differently. Its base and worktable are now essentially the same platform, which improves overall stability and heightens its center of gravity. Unfortunately, this setup also limits the size of the materials you work on. It can’t be too tall or hefty because otherwise, it won’t fit.

Another element we found compelling is its motor strength. Despite its small stature – as seen even in the name – the Small Benchtop Drill Press still manages to produce up to 8,500-RPM of torque. And while it may have trouble with thicker workpieces, it is perfectly suited for thin sheets of metal.

Another reasonably-priced option worth mentioning is the WEN 4208 8-Inch Speed Drill Press. Its features may seem watered-down, particularly when compared to its more robust relatives, but when put in the right situations, it has proven to be unbelievably beneficial.

Strength-wise, this unit is just slightly below the 4210 at 2.3-AMPs. However, it does have a thin edge in terms of torque-speed with a maximum of 3,140-RPM. This means it can drill through virtually the same types of materials at an almost similar rate.

Although users are treated to approximately $50 of savings, we feel the WEN 4208 8-Inch Speed Drill Press lacks several key features needed by serious handlers. It neither has a work-light, nor a laser for accurate measurement. We believe adding these fixtures would have made this drill press more complete; but alas, the manufacturers chose to go in a different direction.

The final WEN item on this review article is the 4212 10-Inch Variable-Speed Drill Press. And after only a quick inspection, it has become increasingly clear just how similar this is to the 4210 and 4214 models. It somehow combines both of their best features in one handy tool.

Arguably the biggest improvement from its predecessor is the move from 5-level to variable-speed function, which gives users greater freedom to select the torque more accurately. Additionally, a broader RPM-range offers better efficiency for a wider variety of workpieces. Wood, aluminum, and of course, metal, are all fair game for this model.

Interested customers, though, should focus closely on its table size, depth ability, and swing capacity to determine whether these meet your standards. While we find it a little bit restricting, ultimately, you will still have the final decision. Of course, if this minor issue is something you can overlook, then by all means – go on and take home the WEN 4212 10-Inch Variable-Speed Drill Press as it’s one of the best deal possibly ever.

To describe the Shop Series RK7033 10-Inch Drill Press as dominant is a severely gross understatement. This model – as evidenced by a superb 6.2-AMP motor – can produce a maximum 200 inches-per-pounds of torque, which is capable easily puncturing anything from wood and plastic, all the way to metal.

Moreover, drilling ability isn’t the only component it has mattered. The Shop Series RK7033 10-Inch Drill Press is furnished with a cast-iron table that bevels up to a 45-degree angle. Its column has likewise been reinforced to bear the weight of heavier materials, not to mention minimize trembling.

To maintain this productivity, a 1.3-Ah lithium-ion battery is present to not only provide fade-free power but also in conserving energy. You should find a small screen that displays the tool’s energy levels at all times. Beside it, you will also find another control panel that shows your selected speed. As a result, your movements are made more precise, and the entire tool becomes much easier to control.