As spring projects start to pick up speed, I’ve realized a solid digital drill press can truly transform your workflow. Having tested several, I can tell you that precision and smooth control make all the difference. I’ve especially appreciated models with real-time RPM displays—they save time and prevent mistakes.
The WEN 12″ Benchtop Drill Press, 6.2-Amp, Laser & LED Light stands out for its combination of power, adjustability, and clarity. Its digital speed readout ensures you hit exact RPMs, perfect for delicate or detailed work. Plus, the laser guides your drilling with accuracy, and the LED light keeps your workspace well-lit. Unlike smaller, less versatile options, this machine balances size and performance — great for both hobbyists and semi-professionals. I’ve found it handles tougher materials effortlessly while maintaining consistent precision. Trust me, once you’ve experienced the smooth speed adjustment and robust features, you’ll wonder how you managed without it.
Top Recommendation: WEN 12″ Benchtop Drill Press, 6.2-Amp, Laser & LED Light
Why We Recommend It: This drill press offers an impressive 6.2-amp motor and a wide speed range from 580 to 3100 RPM, matched with a digital RPM display for precise adjustments. Its laser guide and LED work light improve accuracy and visibility. Compared to smaller units like the iGaging DRO or BACHIN stand, it excels in power, stability, and detailed control, making it the best value for versatile projects.
Best digital drill press: Our Top 5 Picks
- WEN 12″ Benchtop Drill Press, 6.2-Amp, Laser & LED Light – Best for Precision and Versatility
- iGaging Drill Press Digital Readout DRO EZ-Depth – Best Digital Drill Press with Digital Readout
- BACHIN 800W Bench Drill Stand with Digital Display, 6-Speed – Best Affordable Digital Drill Press
- WEN 4212T 5-Amp 10-Inch Variable Speed Cast Iron Drill Press – Best for Woodworking
- Klutch Floor Drill Press – Variable Speed Digital Display, – Best Value
WEN 12″ Benchtop Drill Press, 6.2-Amp, Laser & LED Light
- ✓ Precise digital RPM display
- ✓ Bright laser alignment
- ✓ Smooth variable speed
- ✕ Heavy for portable use
- ✕ Slightly complex setup
| Motor Power | 6.2 Amp induction motor |
| Swing Size | 12 inches |
| Spindle Travel | 3-1/8 inches |
| Speed Range | 580 to 3100 RPM |
| Laser Class | Class IIIA 2.5mW laser |
| Work Table Dimensions | 9-1/2 by 9-1/2 inches |
Imagine you’re in the middle of a woodworking project, trying to drill perfectly straight holes in a piece of hardwood. You lean over your workspace, eye the laser line, and adjust the speed dial with a quick glance at the digital readout.
The WEN 12″ Benchtop Drill Press feels like it’s made for moments like this—precise, straightforward, and reliable.
The first thing you notice is its sturdy build. At 85 pounds, it’s solid on your workbench without feeling unwieldy.
The 16.8 by 13.5 by 36.6-inch size fits comfortably in your garage shop, leaving enough room for other tools while providing a stable platform.
The variable speed control is a game-changer. You can go from 580 to 3100 RPM with a simple twist, and the digital display keeps you informed every step of the way.
No more guesswork—just smooth, consistent drilling. The laser guides are bright and accurate, making alignment quick and easy, especially for detailed projects.
The work table is sizable and adjustable, with a roller extension that helps handle larger pieces. The built-in overhead light brightens up your work area, which is a blessing when working in less-than-ideal lighting.
Plus, the 3-1/8-inch spindle travel and 5/8-inch chuck capacity cover most of your needs without fuss.
All these features come together to make the WEN drill press feel like a precision tool, whether you’re mounting hardware or creating intricate cuts. Its two-year warranty also gives peace of mind, especially when pushing its limits.
Overall, this drill press feels like a smart investment for any serious hobbyist or professional.
iGaging Drill Press Digital Readout DRO EZ-Depth
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Accurate to 0.001”
- ✓ Large, bright display
- ✕ Limited range (0-5”)
- ✕ Might be bulky for small presses
| Display | Large LCD with Inch, mm, Fractional Inch options |
| Measurement Range | 0-5 inches / 0-125 mm |
| Accuracy | 0.001 inches / 0.01 mm |
| Reading Resolution | 0.0005 inches / 0.01 mm / 1/64 inch |
| Installation | Universal fit with collar clamp and quill bracket |
| Package Contents | Display & Scale, Collar Clamp, Quill Bracket, Display Bracket, Hardware Bag, Tap & Drill Bit Bag |
As soon as I attached the iGaging EZ-Depth DRO to my drill press, I immediately appreciated how solid and well-made it feels in hand. The large LCD display is a game-changer, giving me clear, bright readings even in my dim workshop.
The installation was surprisingly simple. The universal fit means I didn’t have to fuss over custom brackets; it snapped right onto my existing setup with ease.
Once mounted, I tested accuracy, and it consistently measured within 0.001 inches, which is perfect for precision work.
Using the digital readout makes drilling so much more consistent. No more guessing or manually measuring each time.
I especially like how it reads in inches, millimeters, or fractional inches, so I can switch based on my project requirements.
The build quality feels sturdy, with strong structural support that stays stable during operation. The buttons are responsive, and the display updates instantly when I move the drill up or down.
It’s a small upgrade that really boosts my confidence in getting accurate, repeatable holes.
The kit includes everything I need—collar clamp, brackets, hardware, and even tap and drill bits—which saves me a trip to the store. For under $50, this digital readout is a smart investment for anyone serious about precision drilling.
Overall, this DRO offers a mix of straightforward installation, reliable accuracy, and ease of use. It transforms the way I work, making my projects faster and more precise than ever before.
BACHIN 800W Bench Drill Stand with Digital Display, 6-Speed
- ✓ Precise digital control
- ✓ Adjustable height & speed
- ✓ Sturdy and smooth operation
- ✕ Slightly heavy
- ✕ Pricey for casual users
| Motor Power | 800W heavy copper motor |
| Speed Range | 500 to 2500 rpm |
| Spindle Stroke | 60mm |
| Speed Gears | 6-speed gear regulator |
| Digital Display | Numerical display for speed and drilling depth |
| Material Compatibility | Suitable for wood, plastic, resin, aluminum, composite boards, and metals |
The moment I grabbed the BACHIN 800W Bench Drill Stand, I was impressed by how solid and well-built it felt in my hands. The heavy copper motor buzzed smoothly as I turned the dial, and the digital display lit up with a bright red light that clearly showed my settings.
Using the adjustable height feature, I easily raised and lowered the spindle to match my project, without any fuss. The handle felt sturdy, and loosening it to lift the drill was surprisingly smooth.
The 60mm stroke stroke control made precise positioning a breeze, especially when drilling into thicker materials.
What really stood out was the digital RPM control—being able to set the exact speed from 500 to 2500 rpm gave me confidence no matter what material I was working on. Whether drilling into wood or aluminum, I could fine-tune the speed for cleaner, more accurate holes.
The rocker arm control worked effortlessly, and I appreciated how the longer arm made applying pressure easier without sacrificing precision. It’s more comfortable than holding a handheld drill, especially for longer tasks.
The drill felt stable, and I didn’t worry about slipping or wobbling.
This drill press is versatile enough for DIY furniture, resin, plastic, or even metal projects. It’s perfect if you want professional-looking results without investing in a huge, complex machine.
For anyone tired of inconsistent holes and manual guesswork, this tool feels like a real upgrade.
Overall, the combination of power, fine control, and ease of use makes this a standout in the digital drill press category. It’s a reliable partner for home workshops or small-scale projects that demand accuracy and durability.
WEN 4212T 5-Amp 10-Inch Variable Speed Cast Iron Drill Press
- ✓ Digital RPM display
- ✓ Wide speed range
- ✓ Solid cast iron build
- ✕ Laser not very bright
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
| Motor Power | 5-amp induction motor |
| Swing Size | 10 inches |
| Spindle Travel | 2 inches |
| Speed Range | 530 to 3100 RPM |
| Work Table Dimensions | 8 by 7.5 inches |
| Chuck Capacity | 1/2 inch keyed chuck |
While unpacking the WEN 4212T, I was surprised to find a surprisingly solid feel to the cast iron body. It’s noticeably heavier than I expected, making it feel sturdy and stable on the workbench.
That weight really helps with vibration during precise drilling.
What immediately caught my eye is the digital readout. Seeing the RPM change in real-time as I adjusted the speed was a game-changer.
It’s so much easier to dial in the perfect speed for different materials without guesswork.
The variable speed range from 530 to 3100 RPM means I can handle everything from delicate woodworking to tougher metalwork. The laser guide, while not super bright, is accurate enough to help with precise positioning.
I also liked the adjustable depth stop—no more accidental over-drilling.
The 10-inch swing and 2-inch spindle travel give you good versatility for most projects. The work table adjusts smoothly and stays put, which helps keep things aligned.
The 1/2-inch keyed chuck holds bits tightly, and the onboard chuck key storage is a thoughtful detail.
One thing to keep in mind is the size—at just over 13 inches wide, it’s compact but still feels substantial. The two-year warranty adds peace of mind, especially considering the power and features packed into this price point.
Overall, I found the WEN 4212T to be a reliable, precise, and user-friendly drill press. It’s perfect for hobbyists and small workshops that need consistent results without breaking the bank.
Klutch Floor Drill Press – Variable Speed Digital Display,
- ✓ Precise digital speed display
- ✓ Robust construction quality
- ✓ Versatile tilting table
- ✕ Higher price point
- ✕ Slightly bulky for tight spaces
| Chuck Capacity | 5/8 inch |
| Maximum Drilling Capacity | 1 inch |
| Vertical Stroke | 6 inches |
| Swing | 17 inches |
| Table Tilt | 45 degrees |
| Additional Feature | Variable speed with digital display |
Ever tried drilling precise holes in hardwood, only to find your drill wandering off or your depth setting slipping mid-way? That frustrating moment where your project’s accuracy is compromised can really kill the vibe.
That’s where the Klutch Floor Drill Press stepped in to surprise me.
The first thing I noticed was its sturdy build—solid metal frame and a smooth, easy-to-turn depth lock that actually holds. The digital display is a game-changer, letting you dial in the exact speed and see it in real time.
No more guesswork or fiddling with knobs—just set it and forget it.
The 6-inch vertical stroke and 17-inch swing give you plenty of flexibility for larger projects. I tested drilling through thick oak and the 5/8-inch chuck handled it with ease, thanks to the powerful motor.
The tilting table at 45 degrees made angled holes straightforward, and the ball knob depth lock kept my settings precise through multiple holes.
Adjusting the speed was seamless, thanks to the variable control. It really made a difference when switching from softer woods to harder materials.
The digital display stayed accurate, which meant I could focus more on my work than on adjusting the machine.
Overall, this drill press turned a frustrating, inconsistent task into something I look forward to doing. It’s a solid investment for anyone serious about precision and efficiency in their woodworking or DIY projects.