Best Milwaukee Drill Presses: 5 Models Compared

Quick picks

Our 5 picks

1 Best overall

Milwaukee 14-Inch Magnetic Drill Press Kit

Best for: on-site steel drilling with a 14-inch swing

Swing

14-Inch

Configuration

Magnetic

Dimensions

27.5 × 28.3 × 22 inches

Weight

30.5 pounds

View on Amazon: Milwaukee 14-Inch Magnetic Drill Press Kit Affiliate link

This Milwaukee magnetic drill press kit features a 14-inch swing capacity for drilling larger holes in steel. It weighs 30.5 pounds and measures 28.3 inches wide, providing a stable base for heavy-duty work. The red and black design matches the brand's standard tool aesthetic. It is designed for users who need a portable, powerful solution for on-site metal fabrication or construction tasks.

Pros

• 14-inch swing capacity allows for drilling larger diameters
• Magnetic configuration ensures secure attachment to steel surfaces
• Weighs 30.5 pounds for stability during operation
• Compact footprint at 27.5 inches long

Cons

• Limited 14-inch swing restricts work on very large stock
• No chuck size specified in the data
• Heavier than some portable alternatives

Good fit if

• You need a magnetic drill for field work
• You require a 14-inch swing for your projects
• You work with steel structures on site

Skip if

• You need a benchtop drill for wood
• You require a swing larger than 14 inches
• You prefer a lightweight tool under 20 pounds

Verdict: Milwaukee Magnetic Drill 14-Inch Swing is a solid choice for professionals who need portability and a 14-inch swing. It fits users who drill steel on location rather than in a fixed shop.

2 Best budget

Milwaukee M18 FUEL 1-1/2-Inch Cordless Magnetic Drill

Best for: Field drilling on steel structures

Spindle Speed

400 & 690 RPM

Hole Capacity

1-1/2 in

Spindle Travel

5-3/4 in

Magnetic Force

2,000 lbs

Chuck Capacity

3/4 in Weldon to 1/2 in

Configuration

Magnetic

View on Amazon: Milwaukee M18 FUEL 1-1/2-Inch Cordless Magnetic Drill Affiliate link

This Milwaukee M18 FUEL magnetic drill features a POWERSTATE brushless motor and a self-powered magnet base delivering 2,000 lbs of holding force. It offers two spindle speeds of 400 and 690 RPM with a 1-1/2 inch hole capacity. The unit includes two XC8.0 batteries and a carrying case. It suits professionals needing portable, high-torque drilling on steel surfaces.

Pros

• 2,000 lbs magnetic holding force
• 1-1/2 inch annular cutter capacity
• 400 and 690 RPM speeds
• Includes two 8.0 Ah batteries
• POWERSTATE brushless motor

Cons

• Limited to 1-1/2 inch hole diameter
• Requires separate purchase of annular cutters
• Heavier build than benchtop models

Good fit if

• You need to drill thick steel plates
• You work in confined or vertical spaces
• You already own M18 batteries

Skip if

• You require holes larger than 1-1/2 inches
• You need a stationary benchtop unit
• You drill primarily wood or soft metals

Verdict: Milwaukee M18 FUEL Magnetic Drill provides exceptional portability and power for field work. It fits contractors who need reliable performance on steel structures without a fixed workspace.

3 Best premium

Milwaukee M18 Magnetic Drill

Best for: cordless steel drilling

Voltage

18 Volt

Configuration

Magnetic

View on Amazon: Milwaukee M18 Magnetic Drill Affiliate link

This Milwaukee M18 Magnetic Drill operates on an 18-volt battery system. It features a magnetic configuration for secure attachment to steel surfaces. The kit includes two batteries for extended runtime. You get a robust tool designed for field use. It suits professionals who need reliable power without cords. The red finish matches standard Milwaukee tool aesthetics.

Pros

• 18-volt M18 battery system
• Magnetic configuration for stability
• Includes two batteries
• Red tool finish

Cons

• No chuck size listed in data
• No drill bit capacity specified
• No magnetic pull force rating provided

Good fit if

• You work on steel structures
• You need cordless power
• You already own M18 batteries

Skip if

• You require a benchtop unit
• You need precise speed control
• You drill wood or plastic

Verdict: Milwaukee M18 Magnetic Drill offers portable power for steel. You should buy it if you need cordless drilling on metal.

4 Best 8-inch

Milwaukee 1-5/8 in Magnetic Drill

Best for: Heavy-duty steel drilling up to 1-5/8 inches

Motor Power

13 Amp

Spindle Speed

475/730 RPM

Hole Capacity

1-5/8"

Chuck Capacity

1/2" Drill Chuck, 3/4 in. weldon

Swing

8-Inch

Configuration

Magnetic

View on Amazon: Milwaukee 1-5/8 in Magnetic Drill Affiliate link

This Milwaukee magnetic drill features a 13 Amp motor and an 8-inch swing. It handles hole capacities up to 1-5/8 inches with two speeds: 475 and 730 RPM. The tool-free feed handle and auto-stop lift-off detection simplify operation. It suits users who need strong magnetic hold on 1/4 inch steel and require quick arbor changes.

Pros

• 13 Amp motor provides powerful drilling performance
• 8-inch swing offers 1-5/8 inch hole capacity
• Two-speed gearbox with 475/730 RPM settings
• Tool-free feed handle and motor head adjustment
• Auto-stop lift-off detection for safety

Cons

• Limited to 1/2 inch drill chuck capacity
• No variable speed control beyond two fixed settings
• Heavier and bulkier than benchtop models

Good fit if

• You need to drill large holes in thick steel
• You require a strong magnetic hold on vertical surfaces
• You want tool-free adjustments for quick setup

Skip if

• You need variable speed control for precision work
• You require a chuck larger than 1/2 inch
• You prefer a lightweight benchtop drill press

Verdict: Milwaukee 1-5/8 in Magnetic Drill delivers high power and capacity for heavy-duty steel work. It fits users who prioritize magnetic stability and tool-free adjustments over variable speed flexibility.

5 Also great

Milwaukee 4272-21 Magnetic Drill Press

Best for: steel fabrication and magnetic drilling

Configuration

Magnetic

Dimensions

15.5 × 13 × 13 inches

Weight

30 pounds

View on Amazon: Milwaukee 4272-21 Magnetic Drill Press Affiliate link

This Milwaukee magnetic drill press kit offers a 14-7/64 inch drilling height for vertical work. It weighs 30 pounds and measures 13 by 13 by 15.5 inches. The unit is refurbished to look and work like new. You get a magnetic configuration for secure attachment to steel. It includes all relevant accessories for immediate use.

Pros

• 14-7/64 inch drilling height
• Magnetic configuration for steel surfaces
• Refurbished to like-new condition
• Includes all relevant accessories

Cons

• Refurbished condition may show minor cosmetic wear
• Generic box packaging upon shipment
• No specific chuck size listed in data

Good fit if

• You need a magnetic drill for steel fabrication
• You want a refurbished unit to save money
• You require a 14-inch drilling height

Skip if

• You require a brand new item
• You need a benchtop drill press
• You are working on non-magnetic materials

Verdict: Milwaukee 4272-21 Magnetic Drill Press is a solid option for steel workers who need magnetic stability. It fits those who prioritize a 14-inch height and refurbished value over new packaging.

Specifications side by side

Milwaukee Drill Press Models Compared

The Milwaukee lineup focuses on magnetic configurations for steel. You can choose between high-swing portable units or compact cordless options. The 14-Inch Magnetic Drill Press Kit offers a 14-inch swing for on-site work. It weighs 30.5 pounds and measures 28.3 inches wide. The 1-5/8 in Magnetic Drill provides an 8-inch swing for heavy-duty tasks. It is smaller, measuring 11.3 inches long.

For cordless needs, the M18 FUEL 1-1/2-Inch Magnetic Drill fits contractors. It is compact at 7.5 inches long. The standard M18 Magnetic Drill offers similar portability without listed dimensions. The 4272-21 Magnetic Drill Press is also available as a refurbished option. It weighs 30 pounds and measures 15.5 inches long. These tools prioritize magnetic stability over variable speed flexibility.

Where Milwaukee Fits

Milwaukee’s range targets on-site steel work with magnetic drill presses. You will find options spanning from compact 8-inch swing units to larger 14-inch swing models. The lineup includes both corded kits and cordless M18 FUEL tools. Sizes vary from small 7.5-inch deep units to heavier 30-pound kits. You will not find standard benchtop drill presses here. There are no variable speed options listed for general woodworking. This brand suits contractors who need portable, magnetic stability for structural steel rather than fixed shop versatility.

Choosing Your Magnetic Drill Press

1. Match swing to your work

   Swing determines the maximum distance from the column to the drill bit. A larger swing allows you to drill holes farther from an edge. The Milwaukee 14-Inch Magnetic Drill Press Kit offers a 14-inch swing for wide structures. If you work on smaller beams, the 8-inch swing models are more compact. Choose the swing size based on the widest part of the steel you will drill. This spec directly impacts your ability to reach difficult spots without repositioning the tool.

2. Select the right configuration

   All models in this guide use magnetic configurations for steel drilling. This setup attaches the drill directly to the workpiece. You do not need a fixed bench or vise. This is essential for on-site construction or heavy fabrication. The magnetic base provides stability during high-torque operations. Ensure your steel surface is clean and flat for proper adhesion. This configuration is non-negotiable for portable steel drilling tasks where traditional drill presses cannot fit.

3. Check cutting capacity limits

   Cutting capacity defines the maximum thickness of steel the drill can penetrate. The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 1-1/2-Inch Cordless Magnetic Drill handles up to 1-1/2-inch steel. The Milwaukee 1-5/8 in Magnetic Drill goes up to 1-5/8 inches. Thicker materials require more power and slower speeds. If you work with heavy structural steel, verify the capacity exceeds your material thickness. Exceeding this limit can damage the motor or bits. Match this spec to your typical job requirements.

4. Consider portability and weight

   Weight affects how easy it is to carry the tool to a job site. The Milwaukee 14-Inch Magnetic Drill Press Kit weighs 30.5 pounds. The compact M18 FUEL model is much lighter and smaller. If you move tools frequently, lighter options reduce fatigue. The 14-inch model measures 28.3 inches wide, which may be bulky. Smaller units like the 8-inch swing model are easier to store. Balance power needs with how often you transport the equipment.

5. Evaluate cordless versus corded

   Cordless models use M18 batteries for freedom of movement. The M18 FUEL and M18 Magnetic Drill offer this flexibility. Corded kits like the 14-Inch model plug into wall power. Cordless tools require battery management and charging time. Corded tools provide consistent power without battery depletion. Choose cordless for remote sites without electricity. Choose corded for continuous heavy-duty work where power outlets are available. This choice impacts your workflow and setup time on site.

Frequently asked questions

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