You never know when to handle a tough work or a softer item as a home-based DIY enthusiast or if you are into the carpentry business. But it’s always wise to get ready with something that delivers speed and precision as you turn to drill in sturdy materials and don’t want to lose accuracy. While others may oppose, we love the magnetic drill for these jobs as it uses strong electromagnetic bases attached to a steel surface as we turn it on.
There are in fact way more uses of this type than what most people already know. Here the Drillly team will introduce you to this essential woodworking tool and share with you our hands-on experience with some of the highest-quality magnetic drill presses you will find in today’s market.
Our Experience With 10 Top-Class Magnetic Drill Presses
Go through each product carefully to find your best match.
01 Evolution EVOMAG28 (Top Choice)
If you are interested in getting a reliable and powerful drilling machine at a reasonable cost, then the EVOMAG28 is your product. It comes with numerous accessories to enhance its overall usability. Its portability makes it an excellent choice for both home and industrial applications.
The EVOMAG28 includes a power cord to be run by electricity. It weighs just 38 pounds and has dimensions of 19 x 9 x 13 inches. This implies it is portable enough to be carried to anywhere provided there is a power source.
Still, on the design, it comes with a built-in magnet that holds the workpiece in place as you drill with comfort and precision. Besides, the magnetic base is rectangular which adds to its incredible flexibility in holding the metal objects in place.
You will appreciate the two handles on both sides of the machine which allows right-handed and left-handed users to operate the machine with ease. Also, it can be used in various drilling operations with the ability to cut up to a depth of 2-inches with a hole diameter range from 1-1/8 – inches.
Another feature that is too important to be ignored is its 6-inches stroke length which helps to enhance its versatility.
Let’s consider what the package has for you. It will interest you that this product comes with tools like step drills, annular cutters, and mini-cutters. Also, it comes with a 3-year warranty to enrich your confidence in its quality.
In terms of durability, this is one of the best. It features a built-in cooling system that allows it to operate for a long time without developing faults. In addition, it is made from high-quality materials that are not common with many products within its range of budget.
Specifications
- Dimensions 19 x 9 x 13 inches
- Weight 38 Pounds
- Size 1-5/8 x 2 inches
- Style Portable magnetic drill
- Power Source Corded-electric
- Stroke length 6-inches
- Chuck & key ½ inch
- Warranty 3 Years
Pros
- It comes with an internal cooling mechanism
- It comes with a case to enhance its portability
- It is highly durable, reliable, and efficient
- It comes with a very powerful magnet
- Its compact and lightweight designs allow it to be transported easily
- It comes with a 3-year warranty
Cons
- It does not come with a twist drill bit
- It is not powerful for some heavy tasks
Final Verdict
The EVOMAG28 is a powerful machine equipped with a high-quality magnet that can be used for holding and drilling workpieces for both industrial and domestic applications. It is compact and lightweight which makes it the ideal drill for site and steel framework operations.
It comes with a turn-off button at the side and two operating handles on each of its sides to enhance its ease of use. Once you see the machine in action; it’ll be more convincing for you to learn why we have kept it on our list.
02 DEWALT DWE1622K
The DEWALT DWE1622K has a strong peculiarity for a combination of versatility and power. The machine is equipped with a powerful motor that can run its 2-speed setting with ease. With the ability to deliver a maximum current of 10 amps, it can drill through heavy steels easily.
Having a mag drill that suffers from downtime almost every week can be disheartening and expensive. However, this product is designed to save you the hassle of visiting the repairer too often than necessary as it comes with overload protection which does not only enhance its safety but helps protect the motor from damage by a surge current.
The DWE1622K is among the most versatile magnetic drill presses on sale. It allows you to work on several tools smoothly and accurately. In addition, you can vary the speed between 350 to 450 RPM which makes it an excellent choice for professional metalworkers.
Another feature that we liked about this product is its quick-change Chuck system and the motor height adjustment that helps to simplify its use while enhancing its functionality. It also comes with a Magnetic Coolant Bottle which can be placed on any of its sides.
You will appreciate this model’s superb 4-inch drill travel which allows you to penetrate heavy and thick metals with ease. The only thing we didn’t like about this product was that it was not a cordless choice and its cord was a bit shorter than what we had expected. But when it comes to heavy-duty applications, this can always operate even beyond your expectation.
Specifications
- Dimensions 22.4 x 6.5 x 19.3 inches
- Weight 47.6 pounds
- Size 2-inch
- Power Source Battery
- Setting 2-speed
- Drill travel 4-inches
- Chuck ¾ – ½ inches
- Variable RPM 350 – 450
- Warranty 3-years
Pros
- It can be used easily
- It is very portable
- It can be operated with a battery which eliminates the need for an external power source
- It can be used for heavy duty applications
- It comes with a cooling tank
- It has a very durable construction and design
Cons
- The quick-change chuck system may lose fit
- The cord is relatively short in length
Our Verdict
The DEWALT DWE1622K features high-quality materials in its construction that results in extreme durability. It comes with a powerful motor that can handle heavy-duty tasks easily. One thing we cannot ignore is that just like DW156, DW159 and DW151, it can be operated at a site with or without a power source since it can work on battery.
This best mag drill may appear to be expensive to you but it is an amazing choice in terms of price-to-quality ratio.
03 BLUEROCK BRM-35A (Budget Choice)
This is a cheap power tool but with amazing features that make it worth every penny. It will interest you that the Black Bluerock BRM-35A features a powerful motor that can deliver up to a speed of 570RPM. You may assume that this speed is not fast enough, but it can penetrate holes of 2 inches deep with speed and precision.
It is designed to use the standard Weldon shank which allows it to be used efficiently with any standard twist bits. In addition, it comes with a free chuck with a capacity range from 7/16 to 1 ½ inch which enables it to accept drill bits sizes in this category.
Let’s see what other accessories that the manufacturers have for you. This model comes with an adapter, safety chain, oil bottle, and case. You will appreciate the usefulness of the case when you are transporting the machine from the storage place to the site.
Still, on the design, it has a weight of 28 pounds which makes it one of the most portable drill presses on sale. With this extreme low weight, you can transport it anywhere without any difficulty and can be used in an uncomfortable workspace.
In addition to its lightweight design, the Black Bluerock BRM-35A is compact with a measurement of 20 x 8 x 15 inches which allows it to be carried by its case with ease.
Another thing we liked was the position of its control switches that was a clear display of the manufacturer’s desire for the safety and comfortability of the users.
However, there is the tendency that its magnetic strength may not be powerful enough to guarantee a smooth drilling operation which is why you should use the safety chain always.
Specifications
- Dimensions 20 x 8 x 15 inches
- Weight 28 pounds
- Color black
- Drilling capacity 7/16 – 1 ½ inch
- Drilling depth 2 inches
- Speed 570RPM
- Stroke 7.5 inches
- Magnetic Adhesion 2600 ft/lbs
- Wattage 1200
Pros
- It comes with an adapter which allows for the use of standard bits
- It is compact and lightweight
- It comes with a case which allows it to be stored or carried with ease
- Its RPM rating is relatively high
- It is almost effortless to use
Cons
- It is not ideal to rely on the ability of the magnet to hold the workpiece
Our Verdict
The Black Bluerock BRM-35A is a budget-friendly option with amazing features. It is equipped with a powerful motor that can charge up to a speed of 570 RPM in a few seconds. It can handle holes of 2-inches depth and bit sizes within the range of 7/16 to 1 ½ inch.
This model is lightweight which enables it to be carried on and off the site with ease. The accessories that come in the package helps to improve its productivity and reliability.
04 Champion RotoBrute AC35 MiniBrute
The RotoBrute AC35 has earned a great reputation for its outstanding features. It is one of the most powerful holes cutting machines on sale. It is designed to give you the ultimate drilling experience with its 6 powerful magnetic drills. It is constructed with high-quality materials for both workshop and heavy-duty use.
It will interest you that the RotoBrute AC35 features a carbide tipped annular cutters, and carbide tipped stack cutters which help to optimize its performance by simplifying its steel cutting process. Besides, it comes with a customized lubricant that aids in heat dissipation while ensuring a smooth and faster drilling operation.
Another exciting feature that is worth mentioning is its versatility which is reflected in its cutter capacity with a range from 1 to 3/8 inches. Also, it can penetrate holes of 2-inches depth. You will appreciate the quick-change arbor of this model which allows you to easily convert from twist cutters to annular drills and vice versa.
The RotoBrute AC35 has a magnetic strength of 2200lbs which allows it to hold the workpiece firmly in place irrespective of the condition of the environment. In addition, the motor comes with a speed of 600RPM which makes it ideal for a wide range of applications.
What we also liked about this model was its weight of 34 pounds and dimensions of 23 x 14.5 x 10.5 inches that made it very easy to be transported to and from the site. Also, included in the package is the carrying case used to ease the storage and transportation.
Finally, the RotoBrute features an external coolant and safety chain which help to prolong its lifespan while you enjoy a smooth and comfortable drilling operation.
Specifications
- Dimensions 23 x 14.5 x 10,5 inches
- Weight 34 pounds
- Cutter capacity 1 – 3/8 inches
- Cutter depth 2 inches
- Motor speed 600RPM
- Arbor style ¾ inches quick-change
Pros
- The carbide tipped cutters helps to enhance its performance
- It features a Brutelube lubricant that helps to prolong its lifespan
- It is durable and reliable
- It can be used for lightweight and heavy-duty drills
- It is very portable
- The case helps to enhance its ease of transportation
Cons
- The base grip may not be strong enough for some metals
- On rare cases, the quick-change lock does not lock well
Our Verdict
The RotoBrute AC35 is designed with ultra-modern technology to provide you with a smooth and comfortable drill. It comes with a powerful motor that runs to a maximum speed of 600RPM which allows it to be used for numerous lightweight drilling applications.
The magnet has good gripping power, and the quick-change chuck allows you to use it with several bit sizes with ease. This model is recommended for beginner and professional metal workers because of its extreme portability and ease of operation.
05 Mophorn 1200W Magnetic Drill Press
This is an exclusive power tool from the Mophorn brand. This tool can withstand heavy-duty steel fabrication and industrial work and we got the proof during testing. We found it highly reliable during our drilling sessions for a number of reasons.
Under the hood, it houses a 1200W motor pumped by 110V at 50Hz that gains a rotation speed of 350rpm due to its 13500N magnetic adhesion. We found the in-house electromagnetic base fitted perfectly for side and back suctions making it more stable, efficient and safe.
The guide rail is made of aluminum alloy; hence, we could adjust the motor height easily with reassuring confidence. The ergonomics of the machine could again be found in its rocker lever which has anti-slip sleeves coated with rubber. We also found the auxiliary handle to be comfortable when using.
Another positive point is its effective cooling system that simulates the cyclone style when playing with the air.
Specifications
- Model No. MB-23
- Weight 22 lb.
- Motor Power 1200 W
- Material (working) steel
- Magnetic Adhesion 13000N
- Speed 50 r/min;
- Rated Voltage 50Hz, 110V
Pros
- Robust 1200W motor
- Sturdy guide rail (aluminum alloy) for easy height adjustment
- Rubberized sleeve on lifting rod for comfortable grip and handling
- Effective cooling system
- Wide range of application
Cons
- The work surface needs to be clean or else the magnet wouldn’t stick
Our Verdict
This tool by Mophorn has a wide range of applications. If you are into shipbuilding or industries like wind power generation, bridge engineering, railway manufacturing, and power construction, this tool should serve you well. Go for it if you have the budget, you wouldn’t regret it.
06 Jancy Slugger by FIEN JHM Series ShortSlugger
The Jancy Slugger belonging to the FIEN JHM Series impressed us with its extraordinary performance. It has a conventional design but with a sturdy and reliable build. It will interest you that most of the parts of this model are made from metals which helps to enhance its durability and performance.
One of the things you will like about this product is that it comes with a handle on two of its sides which allows you to operate the machine from your right-hand or left-hand position.
Still, on the design, the 2-inch travel offers you the ability to perform drilling operations on some heavy metals. In addition, this model comes with a cutting diameter range from 1 – 3/16 inches with the ability to accommodate drill bits in this range. Also, we cannot fail to mention its amazing no-load speed of 680 RPM and load speed of 430 RPM, which allows it to carve holes at a consistent speed irrespective of the load.
What we liked about this model is its smart magnet that becomes active only when the machine is powered, making it highly durable and efficient. The manufacturers of this product have developed a smart way to enhance its productivity by designing a spindle coolant and a bottle coolant to help dissipate the heat while enhancing the life of the machine.
Moreover, Jancy Slugger comes with extreme comfortability features like the ability to adjust the positions of the handwheels to allow you to operate in a confined space. Another great feature that cannot be ignored is its hidden motor wiring designed to prevent the cables from being caught by the metal objects when working in a confined space.
You will appreciate it’s powerful magnetic force of 1800 pounds which keeps your workpiece in place despite the height or level of vibration in the environment. In addition, it has a weight of 34 pounds and dimensions of 11.2 x 9.65 x 7.68 inches, offering an excellent power-to-weight ratio needed for proper operations at height.
Specifications
- Dimensions 11.2 x 9.65 x 7.68
- Weight 34 Pounds
- Cutting diameter 1 – 3/16 inches
- Cutting length 2 inches
- No-load Speed 680RPM
- Load Speed 430RPM
- Power 750W
- Coolant tank 1
- Safety strap 1
Pros
- The motor wiring is concealed to improve its safety
- The handwheel positions can be changed to accommodate the tight workspace
- The smart magnet circuitry enhances its durability and efficiency
- The right-hand and left-hand feed handles help to simplify its use
Cons
- Although it’s rare, the chuck may wobble
Our Verdict
Jancy Slugger comes with an all-metal body to make it sturdy and durable. It features a smart magnetic circuitry that helps to improve its grip on workpieces to ensure that you enjoy a smooth and comfortable drill operation.
What we liked about this product was that it came with adjustable handwheels on its two sides, allowing it to be operated easily irrespective of its position. In addition, it is very portable and lightweight making it easy to carry when drilling metal objects on a ladder.
07 Hougen HMD904
Our list cannot be complete without the Hougen HMD904. It is a brand that has stood the test of time based on the quality products from its production line. This product is a sure guarantee for your money.
The Hougen HMD904 is unique among its competitors for power, compactness, and versatility. Let us discuss some of the things that caught our attention. First, it comes with a two-stage magnet technology which allows the magnet to reach its maximum force only when the motor is running. This unique mode of operation has helped to improve the performance of the magnet while prolonging its life.
In addition, this model comes with a lighting system that lets you see your workpiece, especially where the lighting system is insufficient. This technology has helped to improve your comfortability and overall safety when using this product.
The Hougen HMD904 has dimensions of 20.5 x 18 x 9 inches and weighs just 34.9 pounds. These features are what makes it the right choice for several drilling operations.
As you can see the different activities with the drill press, you will get the hang of its ability to perform drilling operations easily and accurately. This model features the slot drive arbor which is designed to help you carve out holes with speed and precision while simplifying the quick-change mechanism.
It will interest you that this model is an excellent choice in terms of durability, as it is made completely from solid steel material. Also, for you to maximize its qualities, the manufacturers included a carrying case, safety chain, coolant bottle, hex wrenches, and more in the package.
Since the safety chain is used to support the magnetic base, the coolant bottle protects the drill by dissipating the heat, and the carrying case helps to ease its transportation.
Specifications
- Dimensions 20.5 x 18 x 9 inches
- Weight 34.9 pounds
- Material Steel
- Power 960W
- Drill depth 2 inches
- Drill capacity 7/16 – 1 ½ inch
- Speed 450RPM
Pros
- It is constructed to be durable and accurate
- It can be used easily
- It comes with a pilot light for poorly lighted environments
- It features a lift detector safety system
- It is portable and lightweight
- It comes with a case to make it easy for transportation
- It comes with a 2-year warranty
Cons
- It is relatively expensive
Our Verdict
The Hougen HMD904 is one of the few products with the 2-step magnet technology. This advanced magnetic functionality helps to prolong the life of the product by only energizing the magnet when the drill is running. What we noticed during our test was that this product is equipped with feed handles that can be changed easily from side to side.
You will appreciate the pilot light that enables you to monitor your drilling operations even if the lighting in the work environment is poor.
08 NOVA 58000 Voyager DVR
The NOVA 58000 is another machine on our list with shocking features. It comes with an advanced motor technology and safety designs that allows you to feel comfortable as you do your work.
It comes with superb design and construction which probably makes it the most versatile drill press on the market. It might interest you that this model can handle plastic, glass, wood, and metal objects smoothly and accurately. It has a variable speed that ranges from 50 to 5500RPM which allows it to be used on several projects.
An important point worth mentioning is that it comes with a worktable that can be adjusted to +/- 45 degrees based on your position and the shape of your workpiece. In addition, it comes with a digital readout for you to monitor the speed and other settings with ease.
You will appreciate how this technologically advanced magnetic drill press determines the speed for your operation based on the material you are drilling once it meets the workpiece. Also, it has an unmatched safety. The tilt and vibration sensor turns the machine off immediately if it tips or falls. If the workpiece suddenly becomes loose, the sensor while picking the change in the load balance and will bring the machine to a halt immediately.
This choice is for a school or club environment since it comes with a password feature that allows it to be used only after inputting the correct codes.
Its features appear to be inexhaustive. However, the powerful 1.75 to a 2HP capacity electric motor is operated by a smart computer chip, which allows drawing power based on the amount it requires for the project. This is an energy saving technology which also makes its usage economical.
Specifications
- Dimension 63 x 28 x 18 inches
- Weight 307 Pounds
- Materials Steel
- Power source Corded electric
- Speed 50-5500RPM
- Spindle travel 6-inches
Pros
- It is highly versatile
- Can be used easily
- The digital readouts allow you to monitor its operating modes and other settings
- The speed can be varied automatically
- It serves energy by drawing only the required amount of power
- It is used for heavy-duty applications
- It comes with a depth and vibration sensors
- The motor can stop automatically once it senses an error
Cons
- It is very heavy
- There may be some issues with the firmware
- The digital readout screen is very small
Our Verdict
This is the most versatile magnetic drill press on the market. It can handle wood, plastic, glass, and metals comfortably. It comes with technologically advanced features that do not only make it easier to operate but guarantees its safety. The smart but powerful motor saves energy by accepting just the quantity of power that is needed for the drilling operation at the time.
The features of this model are amazing and somehow inexhaustible. One of its greatest advantages is its ability to control the drill speed once it senses the material makeup of the workpiece.
09 Hougen HMD904S
If you are interested in getting a reliable mag drill with a lightweight build yet powerful to cut through the heaviest metal then, the Houghen HMD904S is for you. It features the intriguing yet innovative 2-step magnet technology which enables the magnet to operate at full capacity only when the motor is powered. This, in turn, saves energy while prolonging the life of the magnet.
Still, on the design, the Houghen HMD904S comes with a pilot light that allows you to operate the machine comfortably under poor lighting conditions. In addition, it features the slot drive arbor system for an accurate and faster changing of the chucks.
Another outstanding feature is that it runs at a speed of 450RPM and accommodates drill bits sized from 1- 1/2 inch. In addition, the feed handles can be changed easily from one side to another to suit your preferred position.
It will interest you that the Houghen HMD904S comes with a lift detector safety system which is a plus to its smart productivity and durability. You will appreciate the swiveling base that lets you align the bits correctly.
Also, we liked its unique housing that is made with steel to ensure it can perform at your desired degree of accuracy without succumbing to wear and tear due to vibrations. Interestingly, you will find in the package accessories like tapping, drill chucks, countersink, etc.
If you are interested in a lightweight and compact drill that’s powerful enough to perform fabrication, steel framework drills and other lightweight operations, then this is the product for you.
Specifications
- Dimensions 18 x 9 x 20 inches
- Weight 30.5 Pounds
- Color Silver/Blue
- Materials Steel
- Speed 450RPM
- Power Source Corded-electric
- Drill capacity 1 – ½ inch
- Drill diameter 2 inches
- Pilot light Low
- Warranty 1-year
Pros
- The pilot light helps you to have an optimum operation under poor lighting conditions
- The swivel base allows you to enjoy an easy alignment
- The feed handle can be moved easily from left to right
- It is constructed with steel to make it durable
- It is very portable
- It is very suitable for fabrication
Cons
- It is relatively expensive
- It does not come with a coolant system
Our Verdict
If you are interested in buying this tool for fabrication and other lightweight drills, then the Houghen HMD904S is for you. It is a highly versatile tool that is not only powerful but is fast and accurate. It features a pilot light that helps to improve your visibility when working under poor lighting conditions.
We liked the slot drive arbor feature which allows you to change into other drill bit sizes faster. In addition, the swivel base feature helps you to align the workpiece accurately with the drill for a smooth and accurate operation.
10 Steel Dragon Tools MD45
The Steel Dragon has become a household name for power drill tools and its components since its establishment. The MD45 has become one of the top models in its production line.
Everything including precision, comfortability, ergonomics, and safety related to products from Steel Dragon is reflected in the MD45. It comes with a 2700lbs magnet that helps keep thick or thin metals in place during operation. However, the magnet is designed to exude less force for thinner metals and more for heavier metals to make it long-lasting.
You will appreciate its ability to drill holes of diameter up to 45mm and has a variable speed range from 0 to 500RPM. There is no doubt that this product has positioned itself among the top-rated magnetic drill presses today.
In addition, it is lightweight and portable weighing 47 pounds with dimensions of 20 x 11.5 x 24 inches. This lightweight build allows you to drill at an upside-down position, which makes it ideal for automobile and marine workers.
Still, on the design, it comes with an MT2 to ¾ inch Weldon Adapter to allow you to drill with different sizes of bits easily. In addition, the iron base can be adjusted to enable you to drill with precision.
The MD45 can be operated easily. Thanks to its properly positioned switches which allows you to have absolute control over the operation. It will interest you that it comes with a 1-year warranty despite its sturdy steel body.
Specifications
- Dimensions 20 x 11.5 x 24 inches
- Weight 47 Pounds
- Drill depth 7 inches
- Drill capacity 1 – ¾ inches
- Spindle speed 0 – 500RPM
- Spindle Taper MT2
- Magnet force 2700lbs
- Warranty 1-year
- Power source corded-electric
- Power 1.6HP
Pros
- It is great for metal drilling
- It comes with adjustable spindle speed
- It comes with adaptable annular cutters
- It is affordable
- It comes with a one-year warranty
Cons
- It is relatively heavy
- Occasionally, the magnet can become lopsided
Our Verdict
The MD45 comes with a powerful magnet of a maximum force of 2700 pounds. The interesting thing about this magnet is its ability to adjust itself based on the weight of the metal object to save energy and prolong its life. With a variable speed range from 0 to 500RPM, you can have smooth and accurate drilling into a variety of metals.
You will appreciate the excellent performance of its magnets that allow you to work upside-down whenever the need arises. This drill is best suited for any kind of metal drilling operation.
Understanding the Magnetic Drill Press
A magnetic drill press helps carve out holes on metal objects. It can hold a metal workpiece using its powerful magnet as you handle the drilling operation. If you can operate it correctly, it may drill holes with wonderful precision, and this is what makes it distinguished from other types of drill presses like the woodworking drill press.
The four major parts of this tool include the arbor which is also called chuck, motor, drill stand, and the magnetic base. The compact and lightweight construction make it suitable for home and professional applications. The most significant advantage of the mag drill is portability which allows you to operate it anywhere within and outside the workshop.
While most users prefer the electrically operated ones, there are also pneumatic and hydraulic magnetic drill presses. These hydraulic models are designed with a closed loop system that helps prevent the electric motor from being immersed in water and is more suitable for any underwater work.
The pneumatic mag drill does not operate with electricity and is more suitable for working in severe weather conditions. If you want to get the most from your machine, then you should understand how it works.
Who Needs Magnetic Drill Press and How It Works
People engaged in construction or automobile manufacturing, metal fabrication, welding, etc. are the top beneficiaries of a mag drill. Their extreme portability and lightweight enables you to take it to the workpiece and this helps save time while simplifying the job processes.
If you are to work on metals daily or have gotten a contract that will require the services of this machine throughout its duration; then you should get one. They’re mostly expensive which implies that you ought to reconsider their worth and benefits before spending your money.
Now, how does it work? The metal workpiece attached to the magnet remains firm in its place during the operation. By connecting the magnetic base to the right spot that you aim to drill in, you may expect a more accurate and precise outcome.
Another important thing is that they can be inclined to any position that can give you a comfortable and accurate drill. Based on the strength of the magnets, you can position the mag drill either vertically or horizontally.
One of the significant reasons apart from its mechanism, many metal workers prefer these special machines as they are essentially lightweight and can be carried easily to and from the site.
Best Magnetic Drill Press Buying Guide
Buying this type of drilling machine can be difficult if you don’t know some of its quality features. This buying guide will provide a list of factors to help you analyze the products yourself, so you can buy the one that suits your needs.
1. Power
If you need to carve out thick holes on heavy metals like steel regularly, you should buy a magnetic drill press that has a powerful motor. In most cases, the bigger the power rating of the magnetic drill; the bigger its size. This implies that you should consider the size of your workspace before deciding on the size and power of the mag drill to buy.
Most of the powerful drills are designed with features that enable them to be used for heavy-duty operations and other industrial applications. Some of these features include protective mechanisms like cooling systems and overload protection. So, if you will be handling massive drills regularly, then these types are what you need.
2. Magnet
Different types of magnetic drill presses come with the unique strength of the magnet. If you’re planning to use your mag drill for vertical or overhead operations, then you should get one with a high magnetic rating.
The strength of the magnet is also essential if you will be working in an unstable environment. A powerful magnet will ensure that you enjoy an accurate drill even when the situation is favorable.
Some magnets will only work when your drilling machine has started operating. You should be familiar with the workings of the drill’s magnet so that you can purchase the one that will suit your needs.
3. Drill Capacity
Different types of magnetic drill presses come with variable levels of drilling depth and perfection. While some can penetrate large holes, others can only handle mini cuttings. Its ability to carve a large or small size hole depends on the sizes of drill bits it can accommodate.
4. RPM
You will find this rating written in bold on the body of the machine. It is one of the most important factors that matter as you consider the performance of a magnetic drill press. The RPM rating determines the speed of the machine when there is no load. Your understanding of the no-load speed of a machine will help you make the necessary comparisons with other products.
5. Size & Weight
The size and weight of a magnetic drill press will determine its portability and stability. If you want a portable drill press, you should buy the benchtop type. These types are lightweight enough for easy portability.
6. Type
You can either buy the benchtop or the floor mag drill type. The nature of drills that you’ll be handling will determine the kind of drill press you’ll buy. The floor mag drills are suitable for heavy drills or industrial applications and are more accurate. The benchtop mag drills can handle the simpler light drills efficiently while economizing your storage space.
7. Portability
This is the most critical factor to consider when buying a top-rated magnetic drill press. Its dimensions determine the portability of a mag drill determined by its dimensions. If you will be working in an environment with limited space or you will be transporting your mag drill to the site, then you ought to buy one with a compact size.
8. Variable Speed
Many of the mag drills for sale have built-in variable speed features. This speed range allows them to handle different sizes of metals or loads at a constant speed. Those that come with a single speed cannot be adjusted to drill holes on metals that do not match with its speed’s capacity.
9. Low Profile
The low-profile magnetic drill press is handy for performing drilling operations in a confined space. They are also called a small magnetic drill press. They come with only one feed handle, unlike the larger mag drills that are equipped with three-feed handles for several operations.
The low-profile mag drill can operate within a confined environment by using a single quill feed. They can only be limited by the size of the metal you’re to drill. Also, they are lightweight and beneficial for drilling metals at a vertical location.
10. Comfortability
Using a portable magnetic drill press that comes with features which enhances its feel in hand will create positive impacts on your work. It is essential for you to buy a magnetic drill press with a weight that you can handle or carry comfortably.
11. Safety
Most magnetic drill presses come with high safety features and specific rules that allow you to use the product with confidence. In most cases, the turn-off buttons are located where you can access them easily. Such a tool should be designed in a manner that you can operate them without damaging the workpiece or the machine.
12. Budget
The magnetic drill press is equipped with features that determine its affordability. It is an essential tool which you can spend your money on without regrets. Some may appear too expensive for you and you can rent or get a used one. However, if you want a quality drilling operation then it’s worth investing in a top rated drill press.
Magnetic Drill Press Using Tips
DC motors power many of the high-end mag drills while others are either hydraulic or pneumatic.
The major advantages of an electric mag drill are its power and portability. However, while pneumatic drills are more suitable to use in severe weather conditions, hydraulic drills are ideal for underwater operations.
The motor is the powerhouse of the electric mag drill. With the help of the gear, power from the motor can be transferred to the arbor.
The front brackets offer support to the arbor and guide the drill while the cutter is linked to the arbor.
The base is made of magnets so that they can grip metallic objects. To prevent any defect on the workpiece during drills, only metal plates of 3/8 inch can be used.
The portability allows you to take the device to the metal and not the other way around. Once you turn the machine on/start using it, the base will become magnetized and will grip the metal sheet.
Now, you can perform the drill while the metal stays glued to the base of the machine.
A Word from Drillly
In this review, we were careful to provide you with a detailed description of each of the products based on their outstanding features. We think you also need to know that aside from these choices, there were also few great tools from renowned brands like Black and Decker, CS Unitec, BLUEROCK, CO-Z, Slugger by FEIN JHM Series and FMT. But they couldn’t take a place in this shortlist because they left behind when we compared all the candidates. We could perhaps enlist them if we chose top 20 instead of top 10.
Our first choice is the Evolution EVOMAG28 because of the outstanding features that enable it to be used for both lightweight and industrial applications. In addition to its powerful magnetic force, it comes with a handle on its two sides to simplify its use.
But if you are interested in spending more to get a versatile choice, then the NOVA 58000 Voyager DVR is for you. It comes with more technologically advanced features more than any other magnetic drill press on this review.
We are very confident that this in-depth magnetic drill press review will help you find the magnetic drill press that you’re looking for.
FAQs
1. Why do I need a magnetic drill press?
Ans. Magnetic drills are a power tool that you need to drill holes in various types of metal and steel.
2. How do I sharpen my magnetic drill bits?
Ans. You need the best drill bit sharpeners to sharpen your magnetic drill bits. Read more about the process here.