The Most Efficient Benchtop Drill Press 2018
Undeniably, a jobsite table saw can be called the ‘king of the jungle’ in any DIY enthusiast backyard shop and jobsite. It’s the powerhouse to challenge lesser-powered powerhouses. And true enough, you should be spending ample due diligence to get the right model to serve your needs.
It may sound simple, true. It may sound like it’s child’s play. But placing a motor that turns as fast as 4000 to 5000 rounds/minute below the surface of a table has some details to be taken care of.
First up, you have to decide how big should the table be. It’s really not that simple. Secondly, you need to know which blade size should be most fitting. And how about the weight? How heavy should it be?
Of course, all these questions would be moot and academic if you haven’t answered the most basic one: What do you need your table saw for? What are your needs? Are you the weekend warrior that wants to spend quality time on making the house as complete as possible? Or are you a dedicated worker who works day in and day out of that power table?
If you haven’t answered these questions, then buying a jobsite table saw may not be the best course of action for you. Note, that there are other options that you can explore that may be better suited for your meager needs.
But if you have, then well and good. Your decision to buy one would be a lot easier to make happen.
Why? Because of all table saws, the jobsite may be the most varied in terms of choices. You can check out a lot of options out there and you’ll see the stock blades are so varied. It’s therefore a challenge to reach a final decision as to what model to buy.
Especially in today’s world where online offers bajillions of options. Being able to match the work that you need done with the best tool is a must. But how do you do it?
Lucky for you, we’ve worked the field to find the most reliable jobsite table saws this side of the planet has seen. What’s more, we’re showing you what makes each one tick. So you can get to an intelligent decision fast. Without wasting your precious dollars. Read on.
JET 350017/JMD-15Milling/Drilling Machine
As in any benchtop drill press, this one comes at a price. And you need not fret. Such a big machine can cut corners in your work with wood. And the best part’s operating this one’s a cinch. You won’t have to sweat it out just to make it all happen.
Note you have a strong one-piece support here that’s made of pure cast iron. That’s something you should rely upon. To give you the best drill results in town. Plus, you have that slide latch that’s as quick as you want it to be. That allows you to speed up on those belt adjustment, a must-do to max on efficiency and efficacy.
Now, if you’re wanting to know if this one can work heavy-duty, you’re spot on. This is just the machine you need. Add the all-rounder 360-degree swivel of the head and you know this one is worth your attention. And to a large extent, your precious dollars.
DEWALT DWE1622K Drill Press
This one looks simpler and perhaps thanks to that yellow color this model right here looks great. It tells you it wouldn’t be too hard operating this one. And you may be right. This DeWalt makes it all a cinch.
For starters, this one should be top of your list if you’re keen about price. This one doesn’t come at a hefty price tag. An obvious advantage if you want to save on the dollar.
Note you have 10-A motor here that gives you not one but two settings on the speed. Really a great find. Plus, you need not worry about your protection here. This machine is equipped. It’s protected from overload so your motor won’t go bust should there be any sudden changes on the electricity.
Moreover, you have a 4-inch drill here. That should maximize on helping you get all that heavy duty work out of the way. At the price it’s at, this drill is certainly worth looking into.
RIKON 30-120 13-inch Drill Press
Now, now. If you’re really want to save on the dollar, this Rikon right hear should be your best bet. And we wouldn’t mind. And yet, don’t get us wrong. This one’s no pushover.
Note that you have a ½ Horsepower motor here. Imagine all that war power under your wings. That’s the reason why you get not 5 not 10 but 16 speeds on the spindle. Sound too good to be true indeed. You have 200 rpm to 3,630. That’s pretty wide choice you got there. Telling you this comes with guns a-blazing. At the price it’s at.
Shop Fox W1668 Bench-top drill press
Quite easily, this could be your best shot at getting a workable drill press to get you going. You have a reasonable price here. But what may astound you and what should get your attention is this has become a crowd favorite. People love this product and you should too.
If you don’t want to get the higher-priced DeWalt but still want to enjoy quality drilling, then this one is your top bet. Know right from the onset, you have a ¾ Horsepower motor here. That’s a lot of raw power under your command. RPM is rather wide as a result. From 250 to 3050. That’s telling you this one really means business.
Add the 5/8 drill chuck and that spindle sander that’s a 3-piece configuration and you know this one is tough to beat. At the price it’s at, it’s a bargain.
SKIL3320-01 Drill Press
Now comes the most widely-acclaimed to date. And with all that it has to offer this Skil is surprisingly cheap. Fact is, ti’s the cheapest of the bunch. At just over a hundred bucks, you’re looking at a cheap alternative for a power tool here.
However, judging from the great reception, we’re telling you this one may well be on top of your list. And a top choice to bring home. Yes, know you have enough power here to give you 570 rpms to 3050 rpms. Great choice of speed you got there. What may catch your attention is that in spite of its cheap price, this one draws greater praise than any on our list. Perhaps, the laser beam that is used for precise alignment does the trick!
Let's Compare The Most Efficient Benchtop Drill Press 2018
Detailed Comparison List
Product Name | Price | Product Dimension | Total Review | Product Weight |
---|---|---|---|---|
JET 350017/ JMD-15Milling /Drilling Machine | 36.5 x 37.5 x 35.5 inches | 457 pounds | ||
DEWALT DWE1622K Drill Press | 22.4 x 6.5 x 19.3 inches | 47.6 pounds | ||
RIKON 30-120 13-inch Drill Press | 24 x 13 x 39 inches | 112 pounds | ||
Shop Fox W1668 Bench-top drill press | 23 x 14 x 38 inches | 122.4 pounds | ||
SKIL3320-01 Drill Press | 21.8 x 15.2 x 9.8 inches | 52.2 pounds | ||
Delta 18-900L Drill Press | 59 x 30.5 x 13 inches | 261 pounds | ||
Powermatic PM2800B 1792800B Drill Press | 58 x 26 x 15 inches | 266 pounds | ||
Jet JDP-17 Drill Press | 56 x 23.5 x 11.5 inches | 198 pounds | ||
JET 354170/ JDP Drill Press | 58 x 26.3 x 13 inches | 149 pounds |
JET 350017/JMD-15Milling/Drilling Machine
Short review
First on our list is a Jet product. Jet products have been proven and tested. And they are known for their quality and durability. And this guy right here isn't an exception.
So you can be sure that this very benchtop drill press is one to look out for.
With its top quality cast iron material you can be sure that this unit lasts for a very long time. It’s able to withstand so much stress and compression. Which is why this drilling machine is a good catch for you if you don't want to replace your drilling machine anytime soon.
Also with its very strong build it provides added support. It allows for you to use this unit easily with little or no problem.
Cleaning this unit is quite easy. You wouldn't have to break a sweat before you can have it sparkling clean again. That's all thanks to its tapered base.
At the same time maneuvering this unit is very easy. And that’s because of its 360 degree swivel form. So you wouldn't have to stress it out before you use this particular benchtop drill press.
One drawback though of this unit is that when you want to adjust the table’s height you would have to recenter it. And that can be quite stressful.
Things We Liked
- Easy to use
- Easy to maneuver
- Affordable
- High quality material
- Strong build
- Highly durable
Things We Didn't Like
- It’s stressful to adjust its height
DEWALT DWE1622K Drill Press
Short review
Next on our list is a Dewalt product. It’s simply an amazing one. And you wouldn't want to miss out on this guy right here. Just by going through its amazing features you can tell that this is one of the best benchtop drill press.
This guy right here is a powerhouse. With its 10 amp motor you would mist likely not have any problem while using this piece. This motor helps in controlling every other part. Thus making your work a whole lot easier.
Another interesting thing is that you can control how fast this moves. So this way its rate of action is controlled. And this makes your drilling process a lot easier.
It also has an overload protector that helps protect the motor. Once there is an overload the motor automatically switchs off. So you can be sure that its motor wouldn't get spoilt easily.
One thing though that people have complained about is that its design isn't good enough. So the drills made aren't so accurate.
Things We Liked
- Powerful motor
- Easy to use
- 2 speed settings
- Overload protection
- Suitable for heavy duty jobs
Things We Didn't Like
- Bad design
RIKON 30-120 13-inch Drill Press
Short review
With its solid steel construction you have nothing to worry about. Coupled with its cast iron material it’s even better. The reason is simply because this solid steel construction allows for its durability.
This guy right here is able to withstand so much stress and tension. And that helps prolong its life. At the same time it makes it suitable for any job situation.
At the same time it makes its operation vibration free. So you would be able to work more comfortably while using this unit. And it also makes it less disturbing for you.
Similarly, it has a strong motor. And with this strong motor it does wonders. It moves with a speed of 3600 rpm. And this benchtop drill press drills very fast into your wood.
At least you wouldn't waste so much time doing a particular project.
One drawback though is that it isn't as technologically advanced as some other benchtop drill press.
Things We Liked
- Very powerful
- Strong cast iron material
- Easy adjust table height
- Affordable
Things We Didn't Like
- Not technologically advanced
Shop Fox W1668 Bench-top drill press
Short review
Looking for something small but efficient? Well, count yourself lucky because this one right here would most likely end your search. This is one portable benchtop drill press that is very efficient.
Even with its small size it is able to perform well with a speed of 3050 rpm.
Talk of versatility, this guy right here is one. Highly versatile and is able to function well in different areas. With this unit you have the ability to tilt its table to a 90 degree both left and right.
One other interesting feature is its dust port. So as you do your drilling whatever dirt is accumulated is transferred into dust port. Thus making it easy for you after you’re done with your work since you wouldn’t have to clean up.
Many customers have also complained about some internal parts being damaged on arrival. So it’s advisable that you buy from a reliable source. And also on arrival you have to check your package.
Things We Liked
- Versatile
- Oscillating feature
- Compact design
- Easy to use
- Easy to maneuver
Things We Didn't Like
- Damaged parts upon arrival
SKIL3320-01 Drill Press
Short review
Next on our list is another amazing product. Mere looking at this unit you can easily tell it’s top quality product. And with this it has won over the hearts of so many. That’s why it’s one of the best benchtop drill press you can find in town.
Similarly, it also a laser X2 feature. This helps makes accurate alignment while drilling. With this drilling process becomes a lot easier and faster. And you wouldn’t even have to break a sweat just to drill through.
Also it has a 5 speed system that allows you to operate at different speed. With this you would be able to drill through different materials easily. And at the same time you get to control the rate with which the drilling process occurs.
One thing though that customers have complained about is that it isn’t so easy to maneuver. So you might not find it all that easy while drilling.
Things We Liked
- Laser X2
- 5 speed system
- Good working surface
- ½ inch keyed chuck
- Quality material used
Things We Didn't Like
- Not so easy to maneuver
Delta 18-900L Drill Press
Short review
This next one on our list is one that makes your work a lot easier to do. It has some unique features that you will only find in unique products. And with that you can be sure that you’re in for a totally new drilling experience.
First, it has a work light. With this work light you’re well-guided when you want to do your work. And this work light helps you make accurate and precise drillings. Even with that you would be able to work at dead of the night.
Similarly, it has a heavy duty motor. With this heavy duty motor it is able to perform a wide range of actions. It allows for you to do heavy duty jobs at the site. And even after doing so much heavy duty jobs the motor still remains intact.
This is one reason why this is known as one of the best benchtop drill press in town.
Also, with the oversized work table your work is made a lot easier. You would be able to cover a wide range of work on the single table. So you wouldn’t have to waste your time doing a single project.
Without doubt this still remains one of the best benchtop drill press. But one thing that you have to be careful of is how to change the belt drives. It’s not something so easy to do.
Things We Liked
- Work light
- Laser beam
- Heavy duty motor
- Oversized work table
- Has 5-year warranty
Things We Didn't Like
- Belts aren’t so easy to change
Powermatic PM2800B 1792800B Drill Press
Short review
Right here is a Powermatic product. And from its name you can tell that it’s a power house. This is one of the benchtop drill press there is out there. And you wouldn’t regret owning one.
One good thing is that there is a mechanical variable speed. And this allows you a full range of speed. And the good thing is that you wouldn’t have to change belts. That way it’s less stressful to use and maintain.
It also has a digital rpm readout. This readout allows you to optimize its spindle speed. So you can easily monitor the speed with which the drill is moving. And this gives you a better control and accurate result.
Also, with a very good fence system alignment is made easy. It allows for a good 90 degree relationship with the table. And makes it easier for you to use.
One thing though that can be improved is its quality. Some customers have complained having a poor quality control. And with this it might not last for a very long time.
Things We Liked
- Variable speed
- Good fence system
- Digital rpm readout
- Easy to use
Things We Didn't Like
- Poor quality
Jet JDP-17 Drill Press
Short review
This one right here is a gem. Well, just by looking at it you might not tell. But just by going through customers reviews you can tell this one is one of the best out there.
Compared to other benchtop drill presses this one is small in size and also not so heavy. So it allows you to store it easily. And at the same time makes it easy for you to carry it around when you have a job.
Also, it has 4 table slots. And these 4 table slots allow for you to accommodate any work that you want to do. With this you can have as many projects as you want done within a short period of time.
Similarly, this is one benchtop drill press you can use if you’re new to the game. Why? It has features that are easy to understand and easy to learn. That way you can be sure you wouldn’t have a problem handling this unit.
Some customers also say unit vibrates a lot. And this can be very disturbing to you while you work.
Things We Liked
- Portable size
- Not too heavy
- 4 table slots
- Rapid speed changes
- Easy to handle
Things We Didn't Like
- Vibrates a lot
JET 354170/JDP Drill Press
Short review
Next on our list is another product from Jet. And just every other Jet product you’ve come across this is one of the best in town. And you can be sure that every penny you spend on it isn’t a waste.
Its first unique feature is its powerful motor. With a 1.5 hp motor this benchtop drill press does wonders. And with this the drilling process is a lot faster. You wouldn’t have to waste sop much time doing a particular work. And at the same time you wouldn’t have to exert so much energy before you can get your work done.
Similarly, it has 12 different spindle speeds. Ranging from 150-4200 rpm. And with that you can easily control the speed with which your drilling machine works. This way the output is more accurate and also precise.
One thing though that customers have complained about is its depth gauge. It’s poorly designed. If it can be improved it would be better appreciated.
Things We Liked
- Powerful motor
- 12 spindle speeds
- Work light
- Not so heavy
Things We Didn't Like
- Poorly designed depth gauge
ADVANTAGES

5 Key Notions in Choosing a Jobsite Table Saw
Without it, a DIY enthusiast is like a cheetah all pumped up for the kill but lacking hind legs. Yes, you may find all that analogy a bit extreme. But it shows how important a jobsite table saw is to any woodworker.
You can do cartwheels, get everyone you know to help you out but if you don’t have a respectable jobsite table saw, your intention to get your woodworking project in order will just another idea. Never to come to fruition. Small wonder serious enthusiasts find a table saw central to the completion of their work.
To help you land your needed machine, we’re giving you key notions on the machine of the hour. Needless to say, being able to grasp these notions is instrumental in assuring your success in the future. Read on.
1. Old vs New?
This is one great question that you should ask yourself before getting a table saw. It’s not that getting an old saw is a bad thing. Or is it that getting a new one is a bad idea. But the thing is that both old and new table saws have their advantages and disadvantages.
So once you know that you can now place them both on a scale and see which one works best for you.
Well let’s start with old table saws. They aren’t a bad idea. Actually they come at a cheaper price than the new ones. So it’s affordable and it also helps save money. They are also known to last for a very long time if maintained well by the former user.
That actually sounds good enough right?
But here is the thing. What if the former user wasn’t so meticulous about servicing it and changing parts? Then you would have to do a lot of fixing to get it back in good shape.
That’s not all. Also when you're using an old table saw you wouldn't be able to avail yourself of the opportunity of using modern features. And that's something that must woodworkers need when doing their job today. Well, it might not be of so much importance to you at first but on the long run you can be sure that those features will come in handy.
Now back to using a new table saw. Well, on a closer look a new one would cost you quite a lot of dollars but you can be sure it's worth it. Not only will you be able to make use of modern day features, it also lasts for quite a very long time.
Using a new one is a good option to consider since most times you wouldn't have to worry about fixing the parts anytime soon.
2. How to Choose One?
Choosing a table saw might not be a piece of cake. Well, that’s simply because there so many brands of table saws out there. And it would take an experienced woodworker to identify which one would work best with them.
The interesting thing is that once they find this particular table saw it lasts with them for a very long time.
You would have to put into considerations so many things like your needs, its performance, budget and many other factors. Once you factor in all the necessary features you can be sure that you would most likely not make a mistake while purchasing a table saw.
In terms of features that your table saw must possess here are some basic features you should always find in your table saw. First is an accurate and easy to use fence. That’s one of the most important features a table saw should never lack.
Secondly, you must also make sure that the power of your saw is strong enough to carry whatever work load you plan for it. This is very important so that your table saw wouldn’t suddenly break down one day.
Another feature to look out for is a smooth table top that is also very flat. This determines how well you can work and how fast you can get your work done.
3. What do I need to know about saw construction?
Interestingly, there are different parts of a table saw that come together to give an amazing result. The first part is the motor. Well, this part is quite familiar to you. There’s no table saw without a motor. And the truth is how strong a motor is will determine the output of the table saw.
And this is because the motor of a table saw is the one that provides the power with which the table saw is run.
Next up, is the arbor which is actually connected to the motor. It can be connected directly or indirectly. For indirectly it is through the use of a belt drive system.
There is also the trunnion of a saw. The work of the trunnion is to hold the motor and the arbor together. In most good table saws the trunnion is made of quality cast iron. Which is why they are known to be able to reduce the vibration that a table saw makes.
At the same time it helps stabilize the blade.
4. What’s a table top?
Well, it’s given from its name that it’s the top of a table. But there’s more to it when it comes to a table top for a table saw. Most table saws you see out there have table tops that are made up of cast iron.
The reason why cast iron has been used over the years is simply because of its structure, durability and also its flattening ability. With cast iron you can easily get a flat table top.
Actually, some manufacturers have come up with granite table tops. It’s quite similar to cast iron, the only issue you might with it is that it isn’t smooth like cast iron.
Also to expand cutting areas extension wings have been built. And they are usually made of pressed steel or cast iron. At the same time there are wider rip capacities that offer greater work load.
Similarly, there’s an extension table that is usually made of wood. And this allows for a much greater capacity. Most times it is constructed by the manufacturer. But in some cases it is easily constructed by the user.
5. What are the types of saws?
There are different types of table saws and they all differ in their structure, function and also many other features. The good thing is getting one that would suit you perfectly. Let’s briefly go through a list of the different types that we have.
Cabinet table saw: When you talk of power, performance and durability a cabinet table saw is always at the fore front. It’s suitable for heavy duty jobs. One thing though is that it’s more expensive than other types out there.
Contractor table saw: This is specifically designed for a contractor that has different contracts to work on, on different sites. It’s affordable, easy to use, portable in size but it isn’t well known for heavy duty jobs.
Hybrid table saw: This is actually a recent invention. It’s the table saw the breaches the gap between cabinet saw and contractor saw. And the good thing is that it offers top quality products at an affordable price. At the same time it is also portable in size.
5 Ways to Make the Most of Your Table Saw
You really can't trifle with a table saw. With prices that range from a few hundreds to such mind-boggling as a few thousands, making the most of the power tool is a must. But where should you start?Like any tool, there are secrets to keeping your table saw as long-lasting as possible. Even more important, you need to observe key guidelines to maintain safety as much as possible. As you may be aware by now, countless overenthusiastic woodcutters have ended with a lost thumb or worse.To get you on top of your game, here are 5 important notions to keep in mind when working with a table saw. Observing them should be a step closer to successful wood projects and a satisfied customer in you. Minus the down time. Read on.
1. Use a support for your table saw
Well this doesn’t apply much to you if you have a small table saw. And this is because they are designed to be able to handle such things with their small size. And the thing small table saw is that they aren’t built to handle very heavy objects.
But with large expensive saws that isn’t the case.
With a large expensive table saw you would definitely need a helper. It helps you support your work piece while you work. This way you can be sure that while you work there is equal distribution of the weight.
Similarly, it helps reduce the risk of getting hurt while working. This way you know that you can remain all safe while you do your work.
2. Always have your saw secured
If you are very observant you would notice that portable saws always have holes on them. And the purpose of the holes is to securely fasten your dependable saw to a work surface that’s secure. You have to use these holes.
When you’re sure that your saw won’t vibrate or move while you’re cutting then it’s a lot safer. Not only that, your work becomes a lot easier and accurate.
Since it doesn’t take up so much time to fasten you can easily remove it once you call it a day.
3. Don’t let your saw bite more than it can chew
One thing you have to bear in mind is that different table saws have different capabilities. And with this you will not expect them to all work the same way. That definitely isn’t possible.
So to maximize the potential of your table saw you have to know what it can do. Once you know its motor power and rip capacity then you can carry on.
But don’t make the mistake of forcing your saw to cut more than it can cut. In cases like you end up damaging its motor and even other important parts.
So in other to avoid this just give to your saw what it can chew and not more than what it can chew.
4. Have a temporary table
You might be asking “why do I need an extra table?” Well at first it might seem like you don’t need it. But on the long run it comes in really handy.
While cutting sheets and other materials you can easily place them on the table. And with this it’s a lot easier for you to do your job.
5. Get an extendable roller stand
Well, using a helper is a very good option to opt for. But there are times that you would have to do your work on your own. And with this you will be needing an extendable roller stand.
At least you will have a way of extending the reach of the saw’s table.
You also have to be careful while getting one. It has to be of appropriate height and also has to be perpendicular to your saw blade. If that isn’t the case it can cause delay in your work. And this is because it allows the saw blade to move on in one direction.
CONCLUSION

It’s important that you know your priorities when you want to find a suitable jobsite table saw. As you may be aware by now, it’s not really what you may call a minor investment. You will have to give in a substantial amount to get one.
It’s paramount therefore that you start right. Because if you don’t, you not only will have wasted precious dollars, you would have put in jeopardy your work. And that’s the worst part. Having a tool that won’t help you get by.
The first order of business therefore for you is to fathom your needs. Know why you need a gigantic saw. Are you doing it for some weekend jobs? Would you be using the tool sparingly? Or are you going to be a more dedicated warrior? Someone who would be relying on a reliable saw, a big saw.
Because jobsite table saws are so varied, to note. Their blade saws may not be the same size for everyone. Some are big while others are bigger.
And while many manufacturers may lay claim to a lot of things, reliability is the one thing that shouldn’t leave your eyes. You should go for the machine that will pass the test of time.
It’s exactly the reason why we tip our hats to SKIL3320-01 Drill Press
. There may be a lot of claims that manufacturers can make but a machine that passes the test of time is worth the wait. It’s worth your precious dollars.
And yes, there may be no other machine in our precious line-up that can outweigh the SKIL3320-01 Drill Press if you talk about reliability. Reason enough why it’s being heaped with positive praise more than any other product on the market today.
With its reputation rock solid, it should be able to get you the satisfaction you need. Like most before you.
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