Finding a budget benchtop drill press that still delivers accuracy, power, and durability can be challenging. Cheap drills may lack torque, wobble excessively, or wear out quickly.
But if you shop smart — focusing on build quality, motor strength, and user reviews — you can get real workshop performance without overspending.
In this guide, we’ve selected the best budget benchtop drill press models available on Amazon.com for US buyers that balance value and functionality without sacrificing essential features like:
- Solid cast iron construction
- Sufficient motor power for light-to-medium tasks
- Useful speed ranges
- Smooth quill travel
- Adjustable tables
This article includes:
- Detailed product breakdowns
- A comparison table with direct Amazon links only in the table
- A focused buying guide for budget buyers
- FAQs that real buyers ask
Let’s get started.
What Defines a Good Budget Drill Press?
A great budget drill press isn’t just a cheap machine — it’s one that delivers:
- Real utility for DIY, woodworking, and light metal drilling
- Decent motor power (at least ~2–5 amps)
- Minimal vibration during drilling
- Straight drilling alignment
- Feasible speed options for different materials
Avoid models that feel flimsy or have excessive spindle wobble — that’s where “budget” becomes “worthless.”
1. WEN 4208T 8-Inch 5-Speed Cast Iron Drill Press
Key Specifications
- Motor: 2.3 Amp
- Speed Range: 740–3140 RPM (5 fixed speeds)
- Spindle Travel: ~2 inches
- Chuck Size: 1/2 inch
- Cast iron base & table
Why It’s a Top Budget Pick
The WEN 4208T is one of the most popular budget drill presses on Amazon — and for good reason.
Despite being compact, it uses a cast iron base and table, which reduces vibration and improves drilling accuracy compared to lightweight aluminum models. The 5-speed range covers a broad spread of materials from softwood to plastics and thinner metals.
With a stable build and reliable motor for its class, this drill press is ideal for:
- Beginner woodworkers
- Garage workshops
- Small craft and DIY projects
Best For
Hobbyists, occasional DIY, and basic drilling tasks.
2. WEN 4210T 10-Inch 5-Speed Drill Press
Key Specifications
- Motor: 5 Amp
- Speed Range: 710–3100 RPM (5 fixed speeds)
- Spindle Travel: ~2-3/8 inches
- Chuck Size: 1/2 inch
- Cast iron table & base
Why It’s Great on a Budget
Stepping up from the 8-inch model, the WEN 4210T adds:
- A stronger 5 Amp motor
- Larger swing (10 inches)
- More spindle travel
This combination makes it more capable with hardwood and light metal drilling without a big price increase.
Users consistently rate it for:
- Better torque
- Stronger construction
- Reduced wobble
Best For
Home workshops, woodworking, and drilling occasional metal.
3. RIKON 30-120 10-Inch Bench-Top Drill Press
Key Specifications
- Motor: 5 Amp
- Speed Range: 570–3050 RPM (variable)
- Spindle Travel: ~2-5/8 inches
- Chuck Size: 1/2 inch
- Cast iron table
Why It’s a Strong Value
The RIKON 30-120 combines budget pricing with variable speed capability — a rarity in this segment. Instead of fixed speeds, it uses a continuous dial to change RPM, making it easier to match drilling speed to material without changing belts.
This is a big advantage for users who:
- Switch between wood and metal
- Prefer more RPM control on a budget
Best For
DIYers seeking flexibility without spending more.
4. SKIL DP9505-00 10-Inch Drill Press
Key Specifications
- Motor: 6.2 Amp
- Speed Range: 610–2800 RPM (5 speeds)
- Spindle Travel: ~2 inches
- Chuck Size: 1/2 inch
- Laser alignment guide
Why It’s Worth Considering
While slightly higher in price compared to the other budget picks, the SKIL DP9505-00 adds value through:
- A laser alignment guide
- A stronger 6.2 Amp motor
- Sturdy construction
This makes it one of the best balanced budget drill presses, combining torque and practicality.
Best For
Users wanting a more capable machine on a modest budget.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Budget Drill Press
Motor Power
Although budget models are not designed for heavy metalwork, 5 Amp or higher motors perform significantly better than 2–3 Amp models. They maintain torque under load.
Speed Range
Fixed speed models are okay for basic drilling. Variable speed is better for:
- Mixed materials
- Metal drilling
- Fine woodworking
Table Stability
Cast iron tables always outperform stamped steel — even at budget price points.
Spindle Travel
More travel allows drilling thicker stock without repositioning.
Build Quality
Check:
- Column thickness
- Tight quill action
- Belt tension system
Even inexpensive drills can be reliable with better mechanical build quality.
FAQs – Budget Drill Press Buyers Ask These
Is a budget drill press good for metal?
Budget presses can handle light metalwork (aluminum, thin steel) but aren’t ideal for thick hardened steel.
What speed is best for metal?
Low RPM (500–1000) reduces heat and bit wear.
Do budget drills wobble?
Higher-quality cast-iron models minimize wobble better than lightweight aluminum designs.
Can a budget model last long?
Yes, with proper maintenance and correct use.
Are laser guides useful?
They help line up holes but don’t replace proper clamping and measurement.
Final Recommendation
- Best True Budget Drill Press: WEN 4208T
- Best Value for Workshop: WEN 4210T
- Best with Variable Speed: RIKON 30-120
- Best Strong Motor Under Budget: SKIL DP9505-00
A good budget benchtop drill press can perform reliably for years if selected based on motor power, build quality, and appropriate use.