In this article, we will be reviewing and testing floor drill presses to identify the ones that provide the best value for money and are suitable for a range of drilling tasks. Our top pick for the floor drill press is the Garvee 13 in Floor Drill Press.
Floor drill presses are an essential tool for any workshop or garage. They are used for drilling precise holes in a variety of materials such as wood, metal, and plastic.
A floor drill press is a type of drill press that is designed to be mounted on the floor, making it more stable and suitable for heavy-duty drilling tasks.
When looking to purchase a floor drill press, there are several critical factors to consider. The first is the size of the drill press.
Floor drill presses come in a range of sizes, from small tabletop models to large industrial-sized machines. The size you choose will depend on the type of work you will be doing and the space you have available.
Another important factor to consider is the power of the drill press. The power of a drill press is measured in horsepower (HP), and the higher the horsepower, the more powerful the machine.
A more powerful drill press will be able to drill through tougher materials and handle larger drill bits.
The final factor to consider is the features of the drill press. Some floor drill presses come with additional features such as variable speed control, laser guides, and built-in work lights. These features can make drilling tasks easier and more precise.
We will be looking at factors such as size, power, and features to help you make an informed decision when purchasing a floor drill press.
Best Floor Drill Presses
When it comes to drilling holes, a floor drill press is the perfect tool for the job. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional woodworker, having the right drill press can make all the difference in the accuracy and precision of your work.
In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the best floor drill presses on Amazon to help you find the perfect tool for your needs. From budget-friendly options to high-end models, we’ve got you covered (here is the best budget drill press).
Keep reading to find the perfect floor drill press for your workshop.
1. Garvee 13 in Floor Drill Press
This drill press is a great investment for any DIY enthusiast or professional woodworker.
With its powerful 7.5A induction motor and continuously variable speed control function, it can easily drill through various materials, from wood to metal, with high accuracy and locking strength.
Pros
- The drill press is equipped with a powerful 7.5A induction motor that ensures plenty of power to drill through various materials, such as metal and wood, meeting your processing and DIY needs.
- The 13-inch floor drill press drills precise holes without offset, with high locking strength and higher accuracy, ensuring that you get the desired results every time.
- The machine has a perfect heat dissipation system, which helps to dissipate heat quickly and guarantees a longer time, ensuring excellent durability and an extended lifespan.
Cons
- The drill press is relatively heavy, weighing in at 104.8 pounds, which may make it difficult to move around.
- The machine may be too large for smaller workspaces, so it may not be suitable for everyone.
- The drill press may be a bit noisy when in use, which may be a concern for some users.
This drill press is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, durable, and reliable machine that can easily drill through various materials.
The continuously variable speed control function makes it easy to adjust the speed from 288 to 3084 RPM, satisfying your drill needs from wood to all kinds of metal (check out the best metal drill press).
Overall, the Garvee 13 in Floor Drill Press is a great investment that will help you tackle any drilling project with ease.
2. Shop Fox W1848 Oscillating Floor Drill Press
If you’re in the market for a reliable and versatile floor drill press, the Shop Fox W1848 Oscillating Floor Drill Press is worth considering.
Pros
- The 3/4 HP motor and range of speeds (250-3050 RPM) make it powerful enough to handle a variety of materials and tasks.
- The 13-3/4″ swing and JT-33 arbor provide ample space for larger projects.
- The oscillating feature allows for smoother and faster drilling, reducing heat and wear on the drill bit.
Cons
- The 110V voltage may not be suitable for all workspaces or power sources.
- The chuck size is limited to 16 millimeters, which may not be sufficient for some projects.
- The wind-powered power source may not be practical or desirable for all users.
In practical use, the Shop Fox W1848 Oscillating Floor Drill Press performed well, making clean and precise holes in a variety of materials.
The oscillating feature was particularly helpful in reducing friction and heat buildup, allowing for smoother and faster drilling.
The range of speeds and ample swing made it suitable for both small and large projects, although the limited chuck size may be a drawback for some users.
The 110V voltage may also be a concern for those with specific power requirements (check out the best affordable power drill).
Overall, the Shop Fox W1848 Oscillating Floor Drill Press is a solid choice for those in need of a versatile and reliable floor drill press, particularly for woodworking projects.
3. WEN 4227T 13-Amp Floor Standing Drill Press
This floor drill press by WEN is a great investment for both home and professional users.
With its 4-3/4-inch spindle travel and twelve-speed design, it can easily drill through 4×4 boards and handle a variety of materials including metal, hardwood, softwood, and plastic.
Pros
- The 14-inch by 14-inch cast iron work table is sturdy and can pivot up to 45 degrees in both directions, accommodating even the largest of workpieces.
- The Class II 1mW laser pointer ensures maximum precision during drilling operations, creating an X through the center of your target.
- The cast iron frame and base provide a hefty support system to prevent the drill press from walking or vibrating during operation.
Cons
- The assembly process can be time-consuming and requires some technical knowledge.
- The plastic switch box may not be as durable as some users would prefer.
- The speed adjustment process may be cumbersome for some users.
This drill press is a solid choice for those looking for a reliable and powerful tool. The cast iron construction ensures stability and durability, while the twelve-speed design allows for versatility in drilling through a variety of materials.
The laser pointer is a helpful feature for precise drilling, and the large work table is a great addition for accommodating larger projects.
However, the assembly process may be challenging for some users, and the plastic switch box may not be as durable as some would prefer.
Overall, the WEN 4227T 13-Amp 12-Speed Floor Standing Drill Press is a great investment for those in need of a powerful and versatile tool.
4. Klutch Floor Drill Press
If you’re in the market for a reliable and versatile floor drill press, the Klutch Floor Drill Press is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The 5/8-inch chuck capacity with 1-inch maximum drilling capacity allows for a wide range of drilling applications.
- The 3 1/4-inch vertical stroke and 13-inch swing add versatility to the drill press.
- The 45-degree table tilt offers a multitude of drilling angles, making it easier to work on different projects.
Cons
- The depth lock with a ball knob handle tends to get bound up at the very end of the hole, which can be frustrating.
- The switch plate and cover for the v-belt assembly are prone to damage during shipping.
- Some customers have reported missing pieces or broken parts upon delivery.
This Klutch Floor Drill Press is a solid choice for those who need a reliable and powerful drill press.
It has a maximum chuck size of 16 millimeters, an amperage of 4.6 amps, and a voltage of 120 volts. The drill press has a 0.75 horsepower motor and a speed of 3410 RPM.
One of the standout features of the Klutch Floor Drill Press is its variable speed, which allows you to adjust the speed to match the material you’re working on.
Additionally, the depth lock with a ball knob handle allows for precise adjustments that stay true, hole after hole.
While some customers have reported issues with missing or broken parts upon delivery, the overall consensus is that the Klutch Floor Drill Press is a reliable and versatile tool.
It’s a great option for those who need a floor drill press that can handle a variety of drilling applications.
5. JET 20-inch Step-Pulley Floor Drill Press
If you’re looking for a powerful and versatile floor drill press, the JET 20-inch Step-Pulley Floor Drill Press is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The 1-1/2 HP motor offers plenty of power for a wide range of drilling applications.
- With 12 speeds ranging from 150 to 4,200 RPM, you can easily adjust the speed to match the material you’re drilling.
- The spindle is supported by high-quality ball bearings, ensuring smooth and precise operation.
Cons
- At over 300 pounds, this is a heavy and bulky machine that can be difficult to move around.
- The worktable is relatively small, which can be an issue if you’re working with larger pieces of material.
- Some users have reported issues with the depth stop, which can be difficult to adjust accurately.
Overall, the JET 20-inch Step-Pulley Floor Drill Press is a solid choice for anyone in need of a powerful and versatile drill press.
While it may not be the most portable or user-friendly option out there, its robust construction and impressive performance make it a worthwhile investment for serious DIYers and professionals alike.
The 1-1/2 HP motor and 12-speed settings allow for a wide range of drilling applications, while the high-quality ball bearings ensure smooth and precise operation.
However, the machine’s weight and size can make it difficult to move around and the small worktable may not be ideal for larger projects.
Despite these drawbacks, the JET 20-inch Step-Pulley Floor Drill Press is a reliable and powerful tool that is sure to impress.
You might also be interested in checking out the best magnetic drill press.
Buying Guide
When looking for a floor drill press, there are several important factors to consider. The following features should be carefully evaluated to ensure that the product you choose is the best fit for your needs.
Motor Power
The motor power of a floor drill press is an important consideration. The power of the motor determines how easily the tool can bore through different types of materials.
A more powerful motor will be able to drill through tougher materials such as metal and hardwoods more efficiently. When choosing a floor drill press, it is recommended to choose a model with a motor power of at least 1/2 horsepower.
Chuck Size
The chuck size of a floor drill press is another important consideration. The chuck size determines the maximum diameter of the drill bit that can be used with the tool.
A larger chuck size allows for the use of larger drill bits, which is necessary for drilling larger holes. It is recommended to choose a floor drill press with a chuck size of at least 5/8 inch.
Speed Settings
The speed settings of a floor drill press are also important to consider. Different materials require different speeds to be drilled through efficiently. It is recommended to choose a floor drill press with multiple speed settings to ensure that you can adjust the speed according to the material being drilled.
Table Size and Adjustability
The table size and adjustability of a floor drill press should also be considered. A larger table size allows for larger workpieces to be drilled, while adjustability allows for greater precision and flexibility in the drilling process.
It is recommended to choose a floor drill press with a table size of at least 10 inches by 10 inches and adjustable table height and tilt.
By considering these features, you can choose the best floor drill press for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the safety precautions to follow when operating a floor drill press?
When operating a floor drill press, it is important to follow these safety precautions:
- Wear eye protection and avoid loose clothing or jewelry that could get caught in the drill press.
- Secure the workpiece to prevent it from spinning or shifting during drilling.
- Use clamps or a vise to hold the workpiece in place.
- Use the appropriate drill bit for the material being drilled.
- Keep hands and fingers away from the drill bit and other moving parts.
- Turn off the drill press and unplug it when changing drill bits or making adjustments.
Can a floor drill press be used for metalworking, and what are the considerations?
Yes, a floor drill press can be used for metalworking, but there are some considerations to keep in mind:
- Choose a drill press with a powerful motor and a range of speed options that can handle the hardness of the metal being drilled.
- Use the appropriate drill bit for the type of metal being drilled.
- Lubricate the drill bit and workpiece to prevent overheating and extend the life of the drill bit.
- Use a coolant system or a spray bottle to keep the drill bit and workpiece cool during drilling.
What are the advantages of an industrial floor drill press over a benchtop model?
An industrial floor drill press has several advantages over a benchtop model, including:
- More power: Industrial floor drill presses typically have more powerful motors that can handle tougher materials and larger drill bits.
- Larger table: A larger table with adjustable height and tilt options can accommodate larger workpieces and make drilling more comfortable.
- More stability: The weight and size of an industrial floor drill press provide greater stability and reduce vibration during drilling.
- Longer lifespan: Industrial floor drill presses are built to withstand heavy use and last longer than benchtop models.
How does one maintain and care for a floor drill press to ensure longevity?
To maintain and care for a floor drill press, follow these steps:
- Keep the drill press clean and free of debris.
- Lubricate moving parts regularly.
- Check the belts and pulleys for wear and tension.
- Replace worn or damaged parts promptly.
- Store the drill press in a dry, protected area when not in use.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance and care.