6 Best Alternatives to the ATS Machine Safety Solutions ATS DPG-ES1 Drill Press (2026)
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The ATS Machine Safety Solutions ATS DPG-ES1 Drill Press guard protects operators from chips and coolant without permanent installation. You might look for ats machine safety solutions ats dpg es1 drill press alternatives if you need a full drill press instead of a guard, or if you require a different column size or magnetic configuration. This guard fits 2.0 to 4.0-inch columns and features a reversible clamp design that maintains equipment integrity.
The alternatives on this list were chosen because their specs overlap with common needs for drilling safety or capacity. Some options offer variable speed control for precision work, while others provide magnetic mounting for portable steel fabrication. You can compare the swing, motor wattage, and weight of each unit to find the best fit for your shop. This guide covers seven distinct machines, ranging from benchtop models to heavy-duty magnetic drills, ensuring you find a practical solution for your specific requirements.
Our top pick: ATS 2.0 to 4.0-Inch Drill Press Guard.
Comparing Alternatives to the ATS Guard
WEN 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press
The WEN 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press replaces the ATS guard with a complete machine. It offers a 12-inch swing and variable speed control, which the guard does not provide. The 6.2-amp motor and digital feedback suit users needing precision in woodworking or metalworking. It includes a work light and laser guide for accuracy. You lose the simple, reversible installation of the ATS guard, as this is a heavy 88-pound unit. It fits users who want an integrated solution with integrated lighting rather than a standalone safety add-on for an existing press.
VEVOR 1300W 1.57-Inch Magnetic Drill Press
The VEVOR 1300W Magnetic Drill Press differs significantly by using magnetic attachment rather than column clamping. It is designed for portable steel drilling with a 1.6-inch capacity. This unit weighs 28.2 pounds, making it lighter than the WEN but heavier than the ATS guard. It lacks variable speed settings, limiting its use for precision varied-speed tasks. The VEVOR suits users who need strong holding force on vertical metal surfaces. You give up the OSHA-compliant chip shielding of the ATS guard in favor of direct, high-power drilling capabilities on steel fabrication projects.
ZELCAN 1550W 2-Inch Magnetic Drill Press
The ZELCAN 1550W Magnetic Drill Press offers 1550W of power for heavy-duty steel fabrication. It provides a 2-inch cutting capacity, which is larger than the VEVOR option. Weighing 45.9 pounds, it is a substantial unit compared to the lightweight ATS guard. This model suits professionals who prioritize anchoring strength and included bits over speed flexibility. It does not offer the reversible, non-permanent installation of the ATS guard. You choose this if you need a dedicated magnetic tool for vertical drilling rather than a safety shield for a standard benchtop drill press.
Jet 10-Inch Benchtop Drill Press
The Jet 10-Inch Benchtop Drill Press is a compact alternative for small shops. It features a 10-inch swing and supports angled drilling, which the ATS guard does not. Weighing 48.5 pounds, it is a stationary unit requiring permanent placement. It operates on 120V and lacks variable speed control. This model suits users who value compact size over speed flexibility. You trade the simple, reversible installation of the ATS guard for a full drilling machine. It is ideal if you need a dedicated press for angled work rather than a safety add-on for an existing setup.
DEXSO 1650W Magnetic Drill Press
The DEXSO 1650W Magnetic Drill Press is designed for steel fabrication and job site drilling. It provides strong holding power and includes bits, which the ATS guard does not. Weighing 34.2 pounds, it is portable but lacks the 2-inch capacity of some competitors. This unit suits fabricators who need secure drilling on metal surfaces. It does not offer the OSHA-compliant shielding of the ATS guard. You choose this if you need a magnetic drilling solution for vertical steel work rather than a safety shield for a standard benchtop drill press.
Zinnore 1150W Magnetic Drill Press
The Zinnore 1150W Magnetic Drill Press is designed for vertical metal drilling and on-site fabrication. It offers magnetic stability and tapping capabilities, which the ATS guard does not. Weighing 32.3 pounds, it is portable but lacks the simple column-clamping installation of the ATS guard. This model suits users who prioritize magnetic stability over high-volume hole capacity. It does not provide the OSHA-compliant chip shielding of the ATS guard. You choose this if you need a dedicated magnetic tool for steel work rather than a safety shield for a standard benchtop drill press.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
ATS 2.0 to 4.0-Inch Drill Press Guard
Best for: Standard benchtop and floor drill presses
- Target Material
- Aluminum
- Dimensions
- 14.3 × 11.3 × 1.25 inches
View on Amazon: ATS 2.0 to 4.0-Inch Drill Press Guard Affiliate link
This is a drill press guard designed for columns between 2.0 and 4.0 inches in diameter. It features a 6061 aluminum frame with a 30mm T-slot extrusion that resists vibration and coolant. The 1/4 inch Lexan polycarbonate shield adjusts vertically and horizontally, flipping 180 degrees for quick bit changes. Installation takes under 10 minutes without drilling. It is built for daily production use and meets OSHA 29 CFR 1910.212 machine guarding standards.
Pros
- Fits columns from 2.0 to 4.0 inches in diameter
- 6061 aluminum frame with 30mm T-slot extrusion
- 1/4 inch Lexan polycarbonate shield adjusts up, down, in, and out
- Installs in under 10 minutes with no drilling
- Flips 180 degrees upward for quick bit changes
Cons
- Only fits columns up to 4.0 inches; larger columns require a different model
- Shield is a consumable part that may need replacement
- Does not cover the motor or base, only the column area
Good fit if
- You operate a drill press with a 2.0 to 4.0 inch column
- You need a guard that installs without modifying your machine
- You require a shield that flips open for easy access
Skip if
- Your drill press column is larger than 4.0 inches
- You need a guard that covers the entire machine base
- You prefer a guard that does not require any manual adjustment
Verdict: ATS DPG-ES1 Safety Guard for 2-4 Inch Columns is a durable, OSHA-compliant solution for standard benchtop and floor models. It suits users who need a robust, adjustable shield that protects against chips and coolant without permanent installation.
WEN 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press
Best for: Precision drilling with digital speed feedback
- Motor Power
- 6.2-amp
- Spindle Speed
- 580 to 3100 RPM
- Swing
- 12-inch
- Spindle Travel
- 3-1/8-inch
- Chuck Capacity
- 5/8-inch
- Configuration
- Benchtop
View on Amazon: WEN 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press Affiliate link
This WEN benchtop drill press offers a 12-inch swing and a 6.2-amp motor. It provides variable speed control from 580 to 3100 RPM. A digital readout helps you track the current RPM for precision. The cast iron construction supports a 3-1/8-inch spindle travel. It includes an LED work light and a laser guide. This setup suits users needing accurate, adjustable drilling for general workshop tasks.
Pros
- 12-inch swing capacity for wider workpieces
- Variable speed range from 580 to 3100 RPM
- Digital speed readout for precise RPM monitoring
- Includes LED work light and laser guide
Cons
- 5/8-inch chuck capacity limits large bit usage
- 88-pound weight makes it less portable
- Keyed chuck requires manual tightening
Good fit if
- You need a 12-inch swing for larger projects
- You want precise speed control with a digital readout
- You prefer a benchtop model with integrated lighting
Skip if
- You require a larger 16-inch swing capacity
- You need a keyless chuck for quick bit changes
- You are looking for a magnetic drill press
Verdict: WEN 12-Inch Benchtop Drill Press delivers precise speed control and a generous 12-inch swing for general woodworking and metalworking. It fits users who value digital feedback and integrated lighting over portability or larger capacity.
VEVOR 1300W 1.57-Inch Magnetic Drill Press
Best for: portable steel drilling with strong hold
- Motor Power
- 1300W
- Spindle Speed
- 810 RPM
- Hole Capacity
- 1.57"
- Spindle Travel
- 2"
- Magnetic Force
- 2922lbf / 13000N
- Configuration
- Magnetic
View on Amazon: VEVOR 1300W 1.57-Inch Magnetic Drill Press Affiliate link
This VEVOR magnetic drill press uses a 1300W motor to reach 810 RPM. It offers a 1.57-inch boring diameter and 2-inch spindle travel. The electromagnetic base provides 2922 lbf of holding force. It includes an 11-piece drill bit set. This tool suits users needing portable, high-force drilling on steel surfaces.
Pros
- 1300W copper motor for efficient power
- 2922 lbf magnetic holding force
- Includes 11-piece drill bit set
- Titanium magnesium alloy guide rail
Cons
- 1.57-inch boring diameter is smaller than competitors
- Single speed of 810 RPM
- Heavier build at 28.2 pounds
Good fit if
- You need portable drilling on vertical steel
- You require strong magnetic holding force
- You want a complete drill bit set
Skip if
- You need to drill holes larger than 1.57 inches
- You require variable speed control
- You prefer a lighter tool under 20 pounds
Verdict: VEVOR 1300W Magnetic Drill Press fits users who need portable, high-force drilling on steel surfaces. Its smaller 1.57-inch capacity and single speed limit its use for larger or precision varied-speed tasks.
ZELCAN 1550W 2-Inch Magnetic Drill Press
Best for: heavy-duty steel fabrication and vertical drilling
- Motor Power
- 1550W
- Spindle Speed
- 650 rpm
- Hole Capacity
- 2"
- Spindle Travel
- 2"
- Magnetic Force
- 3125 lbf / 13900N
- Configuration
- Magnetic
View on Amazon: ZELCAN 1550W 2-Inch Magnetic Drill Press Affiliate link
This ZELCAN magnetic drill press features a 1550W motor and delivers 3125 lbf of holding force. It drills holes up to 2 inches in diameter and depth with a spindle speed of 650 rpm. The unit includes a 16.9 fl. oz. coolant tank and reversible stepless speed control. It weighs 45.9 pounds and anchors securely to ferrous surfaces for industrial fabrication tasks.
Pros
- 1550W motor provides high drilling power
- 3125 lbf magnetic force ensures secure anchoring
- Includes 6 drill bits for immediate use
- 16.9 fl. oz. coolant tank manages heat effectively
Cons
- Single spindle speed of 650 rpm limits versatility
- Heavier at 45.9 pounds reduces portability
- No variable speed control beyond stepless knob
Good fit if
- You need strong magnetic anchoring for vertical steel work
- You require a 2-inch drilling capacity for thick materials
- You want included drill bits for immediate operation
Skip if
- You need variable speed settings for delicate materials
- You require a lighter unit for frequent relocation
- You drill non-ferrous metals that lack magnetic attraction
Verdict: ZELCAN 1550W Magnetic Drill Press offers substantial power and holding force for heavy-duty steel fabrication. It suits professionals who prioritize anchoring strength and included bits over speed flexibility or lightweight portability.
Jet 10-Inch Benchtop Drill Press
Best for: small shops needing angled drilling
- Motor Power
- 1/3 HP, 6.2A
- Spindle Speed
- 630 to 3300 RPM, 5 speeds
- Swing
- 10 Inch
- Chuck Capacity
- JT33 Chuck, 1/16-1/2"
- Voltage
- 120V
- Amperage
- 6.2 A
View on Amazon: Jet 10-Inch Benchtop Drill Press Affiliate link
The Jet 10-inch drill press offers a 630 to 3300 RPM speed range across five settings. It features a 10-inch swing and a table that tilts up to 45 degrees. Weighing 48.5 pounds, it runs on 120V power. This compact benchtop model suits users needing precise angled drilling in a small workspace. It handles core drilling applications effectively while remaining easy to reposition around the shop.
Pros
- Five-speed range from 630 to 3300 RPM
- 10-inch swing capacity for core drilling
- Table tilts ±45° for angled work
- Lightweight 48.5 lb design for easy movement
Cons
- 10-inch swing limits large material capacity
- Only five fixed speeds restrict fine tuning
- No variable speed control mentioned
Good fit if
- You need a compact benchtop drill press
- You require angled drilling up to 45 degrees
- You work with standard 120V household power
Skip if
- You need to drill large diameter holes over 10 inches
- You require variable speed control for precise adjustments
- You need a heavy-duty floor-standing model
Verdict: Jet 10-Inch Benchtop Drill Press fits small shops needing angled drilling. It suits users who value compact size and 120V operation over variable speed control.
DEXSO 1650W Magnetic Drill Press
Best for: steel fabrication and job site drilling
- Motor Power
- 1650W
- Spindle Speed
- 10-speed, 810 RPM
- Hole Capacity
- 1.57"
- Magnetic Force
- 2922 Lbf
- Configuration
- Magnetic
- Target Material
- Plastic
View on Amazon: DEXSO 1650W Magnetic Drill Press Affiliate link
This DEXSO magnetic drill press uses a 1650W pure copper motor to deliver 2922 lbf of holding force. It features adjustable speed up to 810 RPM and a 1.57-inch boring diameter. The unit weighs 34.2 pounds and includes a titanium-magnesium alloy guide rail. It comes with a full accessory kit for steel fabrication and construction work.
Pros
- 1650W motor provides 2922 lbf holding force
- Adjustable speed up to 810 RPM
- 1.57-inch maximum boring diameter
- Includes 10 hollow drill bits and 3 twist drills
Cons
- 1.57-inch boring diameter is smaller than 2-inch alternatives
- No forward/reverse switch in this specific size option
- 34.2-pound weight may be heavy for some users
Good fit if
- You need high holding force for thick steel
- You require a portable solution for job sites
- You want included drill bits for immediate use
Skip if
- You need to drill holes larger than 1.57 inches
- You require a forward/reverse switch for this model
- You prefer a lighter unit under 30 pounds
Verdict: DEXSO 1650W Magnetic Drill Press is a solid choice for fabricators who need strong holding power and included bits, provided you do not need a 2-inch capacity or forward/reverse control in this specific configuration.
Zinnore 1150W Magnetic Drill Press
Best for: vertical metal drilling and on-site fabrication
- Motor Power
- 1150W
- Hole Capacity
- 5/8 in (16 mm)
- Magnetic Force
- 2360 lbs / 10500N
- Configuration
- Magnetic
- Target Material
- Metal
- Design
- Portable
View on Amazon: Zinnore 1150W Magnetic Drill Press Affiliate link
The Zinnore ZE1612 is a portable magnetic drill press designed for metal fabrication. It features a 1150W motor and generates 2360 lbs of magnetic force to secure the unit on vertical or sloped surfaces. The drill supports hole capacities up to 5/8 inch and handles tapping from M5 to M12. Its compact design makes it suitable for constrained or elevated workspaces where traditional benchtop presses cannot reach.
Pros
- 1150W motor provides reliable power for steel fabrication
- 2360 lbs magnetic force ensures stability on vertical surfaces
- Supports drilling up to 5/8 inch and tapping M5 to M12
- Titanium-magnesium alloy guide rails offer corrosion resistance
Cons
- 5/8 inch hole capacity is smaller than benchtop alternatives
- 32.3 pound weight is heavy for single-handed portability
- Limited to metal drilling and tapping operations only
Good fit if
- You need to drill on vertical or sloped metal surfaces
- You require a portable solution for on-site fabrication
- You work in constrained or elevated spaces
Skip if
- You need to drill through wood or plastic
- You require a hole capacity larger than 5/8 inch
- You prefer a stationary benchtop drill press for workshop use
Verdict: Zinnore 1150W Portable Mag Drill is best for fabricators who need a secure, portable drilling solution for vertical metal surfaces. It fits users who prioritize magnetic stability and tapping capabilities over high-volume hole capacity.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | ATS 2.0 to 4.0-Inch Drill Press Guard | WEN 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press | VEVOR 1300W 1.57-Inch Magnetic Drill Press | ZELCAN 1550W 2-Inch Magnetic Drill Press | Jet 10-Inch Benchtop Drill Press | DEXSO 1650W Magnetic Drill Press | Zinnore 1150W Magnetic Drill Press |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Motor Power | not stated | 6.2-amp | 1300W | 1550W | 1/3 HP, 6.2A | 1650W | 1150W |
| Spindle Speed | not stated | 580 to 3100 RPM | 810 RPM | 650 rpm | 630 to 3300 RPM, 5 speeds | 10-speed, 810 RPM | not stated |
| Hole Capacity | not stated | not stated | 1.57" | 2" | not stated | 1.57" | 5/8 in (16 mm) |
| Swing | not stated | 12-inch | not stated | not stated | 10 Inch | not stated | not stated |
| Spindle Travel | not stated | 3-1/8-inch | 2" | 2" | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Magnetic Force | not stated | not stated | 2922lbf / 13000N | 3125 lbf / 13900N | not stated | 2922 Lbf | 2360 lbs / 10500N |
| Chuck Capacity | not stated | 5/8-inch | not stated | not stated | JT33 Chuck, 1/16-1/2" | not stated | not stated |
| Voltage | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | 120V | not stated | not stated |
| Configuration | not stated | Benchtop | Magnetic | Magnetic | not stated | Magnetic | Magnetic |
| Speed Settings | not stated | Variable Speed | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Amperage | not stated | 6.2 A | not stated | not stated | 6.2 A | not stated | not stated |
| Features | not stated | Work Light, Laser Guide | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Motor Wattage | not stated | not stated | 1300W | 1550W | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Target Material | Aluminum | not stated | Metal | Metal | not stated | Plastic | Metal |
| Design | not stated | not stated | Portable | not stated | not stated | not stated | Portable |
| Cutting Capacity | not stated | not stated | not stated | 2-Inch | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Cutting Width | not stated | not stated | 6-Inch | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Dimensions | 14.3 × 11.3 × 1.25 inches | 22 × 14.5 × 37 inches | 4.7 × 14.2 × 10.6 inches | 13 × 5.51 × 15.7 inches | 13.4 × 19 × 28.8 inches | 10.6 × 4.7 × 14.2 inches | 16.9 × 8.54 × 17.3 inches |
| Weight | not stated | 88 pounds | 28.2 pounds | 45.9 pounds | 48.5 pounds | 34.2 pounds | 32.3 pounds |
| Size | 2.0 - 4.0" Column Diameter | 6.2-Amp Motor | 1.6 in 11PCS | Update 1550W | not stated | 1650W-1.57" with Speed Control | not stated |
| Color | Orange | Orange | multi | Blue | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Model | DPG-ES1 | DP1263V | Magnetic Drill | 18031 | JWBS-10 | bka-TWd-EmKVzUA4TSAiWONTbM-zx | ZE1612 |
For breakroom planning, you can compare sifene cold press juicer machine alternatives by motor power and dimensions.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a magnetic drill press as an alternative to a benchtop drill press guard?
Yes, but they serve different purposes. The ATS DPG-ES1 is a safety shield for standard columns. Magnetic drills like the VEVOR 1300W or ZELCAN 1550W are complete machines that attach directly to steel. They offer portable drilling power but do not replace the protective function of a benchtop guard.
What is the largest swing capacity available in these alternatives?
The WEN 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press offers the largest swing at 12 inches. This allows you to drill closer to the center of large workpieces compared to smaller models. Other options like the Jet 10-Inch have a 10-inch swing, while magnetic drills vary by specific bit capacity.
Which alternative drill press is best for small shops with limited space?
The Jet 10-Inch Benchtop Drill Press is ideal for compact environments. It measures 19 inches wide and weighs 48.5 pounds. Its smaller 10-inch swing fits tight spaces. It operates on 120V power, making it suitable for standard outlets in small workshops where larger machines might not fit.
Do any of these magnetic drill presses include speed control features?
Yes, the DEXSO 1650W Magnetic Drill Press includes speed control. It allows you to adjust rotation rates for different materials. Other magnetic models like the VEVOR 1300W are listed as single speed. The WEN benchtop press offers variable speed settings for precise control during various drilling tasks.
How heavy are the portable magnetic drill press alternatives?
Weight varies by model. The Zinnore 1150W weighs 32.3 pounds, making it moderately portable. The VEVOR 1300W is lighter at 28.2 pounds. Heavier options include the ZELCAN 1550W at 45.9 pounds and the DEXSO 1650W at 34.2 pounds. These weights impact ease of transport on job sites.
Is there a drill press alternative that supports angled drilling?
The Jet 10-Inch Benchtop Drill Press supports angled drilling. This feature is useful for creating precise angled holes in metal or wood. Most magnetic drills attach flat to surfaces, limiting angle adjustments. The WEN 12-Inch press focuses on vertical precision with digital feedback rather than tilting capabilities.
What motor power do the magnetic drill presses provide?
Magnetic drills offer significant power for steel fabrication. The ZELCAN 1550W has a 1550W motor. The DEXSO 1650W provides 1650W. The VEVOR 1300W uses a 1300W motor. The Zinnore 1150W offers 1150W. These wattages ensure strong holding force and drilling capability for heavy-duty metal work.