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10 Best Magnetic Drill Presses 2026 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

Milwaukee 278822HD M18 FUEL 1-1/2 in. Lineman Magnetic Drill Kit

The Milwaukee 278822HD M18 FUEL Magnetic Drill Kit stands out in the magnetic drill press category, specifically for those who need reliability and power in their drilling tasks. One of its strongest features is the self-powered magnet base, which can deliver an impressive 2,000 lbs. of holding force, allowing you to work with confidence on various metal surfaces without worrying about stability. The brushless motor contributes to a longer motor life and enhanced performance, which is beneficial for heavy-duty tasks.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,296
Motor Power
Weight and Portability

Most important from
4 reviews

Motor Power
The drill is extremely powerful, making it suitable for heavy-duty fabrication tasks.
Weight and Portability
Despite its impressive power, the drill is relatively lightweight, enhancing its usability on job sites.
#2
9.1 score

Hougen HMD904S 115-Volt Swivel Base Magnetic Drill Fabricator's Kit with Integrated Coolant Bottle Plus 1/2" Drill Chuck, Adapter, and 12002 Rotabroach Cutter Kit

The Hougen HMD904S Magnetic Drill Press is a versatile and powerful tool designed for fabricators. It offers a solid magnetic strength thanks to its two-stage magnet which increases power by 30% when the motor is on, ensuring a secure and stable drilling experience. The motor delivers 9 amps of power and a maximum speed of 450 RPM, which is suitable for various drilling tasks. The drill has a decent capacity of 1.5 inches, making it capable of handling substantial metal drilling jobs.

#3
9.1 score

ZELCAN Magnetic Drill Press with 11 Drill Bits, 1550W Mag Drill Press with 2" Dia. 3125 lbf/13900N Mag Force, 650 rpm Power Magnetic Drill with Stepless Speed & Reversible Direction for Metal Surface

The ZELCAN Magnetic Drill Press is a solid choice for those needing a portable yet powerful tool for drilling into metal surfaces. It features a strong 1550W copper motor, which delivers enough power to comfortably drill holes up to 2 inches in diameter and depth. Its maximum drill speed of 650 RPM is suitable for many metalworking tasks, and the stepless speed control allows you to precisely adjust the speed to fit different materials and jobs.

Rating
9.1
Magnetic Strength
Motor Power
Weight and Portability

Most important from
179 reviews

Magnetic Strength
Its strong magnetic base provides a reliable hold on metal surfaces, ensuring safe and steady drilling even on challenging angles.
Motor Power
The drill delivers impressive power and stability, effortlessly handling multiple large holes through thick steel without strain.
Weight and Portability
Despite its weight, the drill remains portable enough for job site mobility, balancing power and transportability effectively.

Top 10 Best Magnetic Drill Presses 2026 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0  score

Milwaukee 278822HD M18 FUEL 1-1/2 in. Lineman Magnetic Drill Kit

Magnetic Strength: 2000 lbs
Motor Power: 800 Watts
Drill Speed: 400 and 690 RPM
Drill Capacity: 1-1/2 inch annular, 1/2 inch twist
Weight and Portability: 56.8 pounds
Safety Features: safety strap

Chosen by 1296 this week

20V MAX FVA 2 IN MAGNETIC DRILL KIT

Magnetic Strength: Permanent magnet
Motor Power: 300 Watts
Drill Speed: Variable Speed, 10 settings
Drill Capacity: 2 Inches
Weight and Portability: Battery-powered, 0.01 ounces

Fein JCM 256 U Magnetic Drill Unit up to 2-1/2"

Magnetic Strength: robust magnetic force
Motor Power: 1,300W
Drill Speed: electronic control, two-speed gearbox
Weight and Portability: 49.05 pounds
Safety Features: magnet monitor, force display, forward/reverse

Magnetic Drill Press Kit, 14 in. H

Motor Power: 13 Amps
Drill Speed: 730 RPM
Drill Capacity: 1.63 Inches
Weight and Portability: 30.5 pounds

Hougen HMD904 115-Volt Magnetic Drill

Motor Power: 6 Amps
Drill Speed: 450 RPM
Drill Capacity: 1-1/2" x 2"
Weight and Portability: 34.9 pounds
Safety Features: Lift Detector System

Makita HB350 1-3/8" Magnetic Drill

Motor Power: 10 Amps
Drill Speed: 850 RPM
Drill Capacity: 1-3/8 inch diameter, 2 inch deep
Weight and Portability: 37 pounds
Safety Features: removable guard; spindle coolant

Evolution Power Tools EVOMAG42 1 5/8" Diameter x 2" Depth Magnetic Drilling System

Magnetic Strength: stability during use
Motor Power: 1200W (10AMP)
Drill Speed: 450 RPM
Drill Capacity: 1 5/8 inches diameter, 2 inches depth
Weight and Portability: 1 pound

Hougen HMD905 115-Volt Magnetic Drill with Coolant Bottle and 2 Speed

Magnetic Strength: Two-stage magnet increases power by 30%
Motor Power: 1150 watts
Drill Speed: 250 RPM, 450 RPM
Drill Capacity: 2 inches
Weight and Portability: 35 pounds
Safety Features: Lift detector, positive slug ejection
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Buying Guide for the Best Magnetic Drill Presses

Choosing the right magnetic drill press can significantly impact the efficiency and quality of your drilling tasks. A magnetic drill press, also known as a mag drill, is a specialized tool used for drilling holes in metal. It uses a powerful magnet to attach itself to the metal surface, providing stability and precision. When selecting a magnetic 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 tool that meets your specific requirements.
Magnetic StrengthMagnetic strength refers to the holding power of the drill's magnet. This is crucial because it determines how securely the drill press will stay attached to the metal surface during operation. Magnetic strength is usually measured in pounds or kilograms. For light-duty tasks, a magnetic strength of around 1,000 pounds may suffice. For more demanding applications, look for a magnetic strength of 2,000 pounds or more. Consider the thickness and type of metal you'll be working with to choose the appropriate magnetic strength.
Motor PowerMotor power, measured in amps or watts, indicates the drill's ability to handle tough materials and larger drill bits. A higher motor power means the drill can perform more demanding tasks with ease. For light to medium-duty work, a motor power of around 5-8 amps should be adequate. For heavy-duty industrial applications, look for a motor power of 10 amps or more. Assess the type of materials and the size of holes you plan to drill to determine the right motor power for your needs.
Drill SpeedDrill speed, measured in revolutions per minute (RPM), affects the efficiency and quality of the drilling process. Variable speed settings allow you to adjust the RPM based on the material and drill bit size. Lower speeds are ideal for drilling through harder materials, while higher speeds are better for softer metals. If you need versatility, choose a magnetic drill press with adjustable speed settings. Consider the range of materials you'll be working with to select the appropriate drill speed.
Drill CapacityDrill capacity refers to the maximum diameter and depth of the holes the drill can create. This is important because it determines the range of applications the drill can handle. For general-purpose use, a drill capacity of up to 1-1.5 inches in diameter and 2 inches in depth is usually sufficient. For more specialized or industrial tasks, you may need a drill with a larger capacity. Think about the typical size of holes you need to drill and choose a drill press that can accommodate those requirements.
Weight and PortabilityThe weight of the magnetic drill press affects its portability and ease of use. Lighter models are easier to transport and maneuver, making them suitable for on-site jobs and overhead drilling. Heavier models, while less portable, often provide greater stability and are better suited for stationary use in a workshop. Consider how often you'll need to move the drill and the types of projects you'll be working on to determine the right balance between weight and portability.
Safety FeaturesSafety features are essential to ensure safe operation and prevent accidents. Look for features such as overload protection, which prevents the motor from overheating, and safety guards to protect the user from flying debris. Some models also come with automatic shut-off mechanisms if the magnet loses its grip. Prioritize safety features based on the environment in which you'll be using the drill and the level of experience of the operators.

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