Fein AJMU 137 PMQW 18 Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared

How alternatives compare to Fein

Fein JCM 200 U Magnetic Drill

The Fein JCM 200 U offers a more compact footprint for tight spaces, measuring 24 by 24 inches in base dimensions. It provides a 2-inch cutting capacity, which is less than the Fein AJMU 137 PMQW 18’s 10-1/4 inch spindle travel. You get electronic speed control and reversible operation, similar to the original. However, it lacks the cordless 18V convenience and the advanced tilt sensor safety features. This model is best for users who prioritize portability and guide stability for long cutters on construction sites over deep drilling depth. It fits those needing a reversible solution for smaller diameter holes without the weight of a cordless battery system.

Hougen HMD920 Swivel Base Magnetic Drill

The Hougen HMD920 introduces a swivel base, allowing for angled cutting and fabrication tasks that the straight Fein AJMU 137 PMQW 18 cannot perform. It operates on 115V power, requiring a fixed outlet rather than offering the cordless mobility of the 18V Fein. You gain fixed-speed reliability and a complete kit setup, but you lose variable speed control and the lightweight 26.9 lb portability. The dimensions are larger, at 12.2 by 25.9 inches. This alternative is ideal for fabricators who need angled cutting capabilities and do not require the deep 10-1/4 inch travel or the safety tilt sensor of the original. It suits stationary or semi-stationary workshop environments.

Hougen 6-Inch Two-Speed Magnetic Drill

The Hougen HMD918 is built for deep hole drilling in thick steel plates, with a 6-inch cutting width. It operates on 115V power and weighs 44 pounds, making it significantly heavier and less portable than the 26.9 lb cordless Fein. You get two-speed settings and high torque for heavy fabrication, but you sacrifice the 10-1/4 inch spindle travel and the brushless motor’s extended life. This model lacks automatic feed features and smart speed control. It is best for users who prioritize deep drilling capacity and manual control over automatic feed features. If you need to drill large holes in thick steel and do not require cordless mobility, this premium option provides the necessary power and stability.

C.S. Unitec 1-1/2-Inch Auto-Feed Magnetic Drill

The C.S. Unitec AutoMAB 350 features automatic feed, providing precise, controlled depth drilling that the manual Fein AJMU 137 PMQW 18 requires you to operate. It has a 1-1/2 inch cutting capacity, which is much smaller than the Fein’s 10-1/4 inch travel. This model prioritizes magnetic stability and controlled depth over speed or large capacity. You gain consistent feed pressure for smaller diameter holes, but you lose the versatility for deep drilling and the cordless convenience. It is ideal for tasks where precision and automatic feed are more important than the deep stroke capability of the original. This pick suits users who need steady, automated drilling for smaller holes without the bulk of a larger magnetic base.

CS Unitec Swivel Base Magnetic Drill

The CS Unitec MAB 525 SB offers directional swivel movement for lateral and forward drill positioning, a feature the straight Fein AJMU 137 PMQW 18 lacks. It allows for flexible adjustment in positioning, which is useful for complex setups. However, it lacks detailed performance specs like voltage or cutting capacity in the provided data. You gain adjustment flexibility but lose the known power ratings and safety features of the Fein. This model is best for users who prioritize lateral and forward adjustment flexibility over known power ratings. It fits those who need to angle or shift the drill position frequently. If you require specific power metrics or deep travel, the original Fein remains the more spec-defined choice.

CS Unitec AutoMAB 220V Magnetic Drill

The CS Unitec AUTOMAB 350-220V offers automatic feed for steady drilling, similar to the smaller Unitec model but with higher power requirements. It requires 220V power, which limits its use to workshops with the right voltage, unlike the portable 18V Fein. You gain consistent feed pressure for reliable operation, but you lose cordless mobility and the safety tilt sensor. This model is best for 220V workshops needing automatic feed for consistent results. It suits users who have fixed power infrastructure and need automated drilling for specific tasks. If you need the flexibility of cordless operation or the deep 10-1/4 inch travel, the original Fein is the more versatile option for mobile professionals.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Fein 18V Cordless Magnetic Drill

Best for: mobile professionals needing deep cordless drilling

Hole Capacity

1-3/8"

Spindle Travel

10-1/4"

Voltage

18V

Swing

8-Inch

Configuration

Magnetic

Dimensions

7.67 × 2.76 × 14 inches

View on Amazon: Fein 18V Cordless Magnetic Drill Affiliate link

The Fein AJMU 137 PMQW 18 is a cordless magnetic drill press designed for professional mobility. It features an 18V brushless motor and a 10-1/4 inch spindle travel. Weighing 26.9 lbs, it is lightweight for job site use. The unit includes smart speed control and a tilt sensor for safety. This tool suits users needing portability without sacrificing drilling depth or power in steel and alloys.

Pros

• 18V cordless design for mobile job site use
• 10-1/4 inch spindle travel for deep drilling
• Lightweight 26.9 lb construction
• Brushless motor for extended operation
• Tilt sensor shutoff for safety

Cons

• Smaller spindle travel than 2-inch magnetic drills
• No integrated coolant system
• Fixed vertical orientation only

Good fit if

• You need a lightweight drill for mobile work
• You require deep spindle travel in a cordless unit
• You prioritize safety features like tilt sensors

Skip if

• You need integrated coolant for heavy steel work
• You require a swivel base for angled drilling
• You prefer a corded power source for unlimited runtime

Verdict: Fein AJMU 137 PMQW 18 Cordless Mag Drill offers deep 10-1/4 inch travel in a lightweight package. It fits professionals who move between sites and need safety features like tilt sensors.

2 Best budget

Fein JCM 200 U Magnetic Drill

Best for: portable 2-inch magnetic drilling tasks

Spindle Speed

Electronic speed control

Hole Capacity

2 in

Configuration

Magnetic

Cutting Capacity

2-Inch

Dimensions

24 × 24 × 11 inches

View on Amazon: Fein JCM 200 U Magnetic Drill Affiliate link

The Fein JCM 200 U is a compact magnetic drill unit designed for universal use on construction sites and in workshops. It drills holes up to 2 inches in diameter. The unit features electronic speed control and reversible operation. Double drill motor guides allow for the use of long annular cutters. Its simple control concept keeps settings in the operator's field of view. This tool suits users needing a portable, high-functionality magnetic drilling solution.

Pros

• Drills holes up to 2 inches in diameter
• Electronic speed control for variable RPM
• Reversible motor direction
• Double drill motor guides for long annular cutters
• Compact design for site and workshop use

Cons

• Limited to 2-inch hole capacity
• No coolant system mentioned in specifications
• Fixed base rather than swivel base

Good fit if

• You need a compact drill for construction sites
• You require electronic speed control for precision
• You work with long annular cutters

Skip if

• You need to drill holes larger than 2 inches
• You require a swivel base for angled drilling
• You need an integrated coolant system

Verdict: Fein JCM 200 U 2-Inch Magnetic Drill offers a compact, reversible solution for drilling up to 2-inch holes with electronic speed control. It fits users who prioritize portability and guide stability for long cutters on construction sites.

3 Also great

Hougen HMD920 Swivel Base Magnetic Drill

Best for: Angled cutting and fabrication tasks

Spindle Speed

3 Speed

Chuck Capacity

1/2" drill chuck adapter

Voltage

115V

Configuration

Magnetic

Features

Swivel Base

Dimensions

12.2 × 8.1 × 25.9 inches

View on Amazon: Hougen HMD920 Swivel Base Magnetic Drill Affiliate link

The Hougen HMD920 is a 115-volt magnetic drill press featuring a swivel base for angled work. It offers three spindle speeds and includes a 1/2-inch drill chuck adapter. The unit comes with a 12,000-series cutter kit and a coolant bottle. Its two-stage magnet ensures secure attachment to metal surfaces. This setup suits fabricators needing versatility in positioning and cutting operations.

Pros

• Swivel base allows for angled drilling and cutting
• Three spindle speeds provide operational flexibility
• Includes 1/2-inch drill chuck adapter and cutter kit
• Two-stage magnet offers reliable holding power
• Hidden motor cord reduces workspace clutter

Cons

• Lacks a variable speed control for precise feed rates
• Fixed 115-volt power requirement limits portability
• Heavier build due to swivel base and motor assembly

Good fit if

• You need to drill at angles without repositioning the workpiece
• You require a complete kit with cutters and coolant
• You work with standard 115-volt shop power

Skip if

• You need variable speed control for delicate operations
• You require a cordless unit for remote sites
• You need to drill holes larger than 1-1/2 inches

Verdict: Hougen HMD920 Swivel Magnetic Drill is a solid choice for fabricators who need angled cutting capabilities and a complete kit. It fits users who prioritize swivel functionality and fixed-speed reliability over variable speed control.

4 Also great

Hougen 6-Inch Two-Speed Magnetic Drill

Best for: Deep hole drilling in thick steel plates

Spindle Speed

250 & 450 RPM

Spindle Travel

6"

Voltage

115V

Configuration

Magnetic

Speed Settings

2-Speed

Cutting Width

6-Inch

View on Amazon: Hougen 6-Inch Two-Speed Magnetic Drill Affiliate link

This Hougen HMD918 is a 115V magnetic drill designed for deep hole drilling in steel. It features a two-speed gearbox with 250 and 450 RPM settings and a 6-inch spindle travel. The unit includes a pressurized coolant system and a lift detector safety system. Its two-stage magnet engages only when the motor runs. This machine suits fabricators who need high torque and extended depth for solid or stacked plates.

Pros

• Two-speed gearbox offers 250 and 450 RPM options
• 6-inch spindle travel allows for deep hole drilling
• Pressurized coolant system improves flow for deep holes
• Lift detector safety system enhances operational security
• Two-stage magnet engages only when motor is on

Cons

• Limited to two speed settings compared to three-speed competitors
• Heavier build at 44 pounds reduces portability
• No automatic feed mechanism for consistent pressure

Good fit if

• You need to drill deep holes up to 6 inches in steel
• You require a two-speed gearbox for varied material hardness
• You want a pressurized coolant system for better cooling

Skip if

• You need speeds beyond 250 and 450 RPM
• You prefer an automatic feed system for drilling
• You require a lighter unit for frequent transport

Verdict: Hougen HMD918 6-Inch Two-Speed Magnetic Drill provides the depth and torque needed for heavy steel fabrication. It fits users who prioritize deep drilling capacity and manual control over automatic feed features.

5 Best 1-1/2-inch

C.S. Unitec 1-1/2-Inch Auto-Feed Magnetic Drill

Best for: automatic feed drilling up to 1-1/2 inches

Spindle Speed

450 RPM

Hole Capacity

Up to 1-1/2" dia.

Configuration

Magnetic

Features

Automatic Feed

Cutting Capacity

1-1/2-Inch

View on Amazon: C.S. Unitec 1-1/2-Inch Auto-Feed Magnetic Drill Affiliate link

The AutoMAB 350 is a magnetic drill unit designed for precision work. It features an automatic feed mechanism to control drilling depth. The unit supports hole capacities up to 1-1/2 inches in diameter. It operates at a spindle speed of 450 RPM. Weighing 33 lbs, it provides stable performance for magnetic drilling tasks.

Pros

• Automatic feed mechanism for controlled drilling
• Handles up to 1-1/2 inch diameter holes
• Operates at 450 RPM spindle speed
• Magnetic configuration for secure attachment

Cons

• Limited to 1-1/2 inch hole capacity
• Single speed of 450 RPM
• Heavier build at 33 lbs

Good fit if

• You need automatic feed for consistent hole depth
• You work with materials requiring up to 1-1/2 inch holes
• You prefer magnetic mounting for stability

Skip if

• You require drilling larger than 1-1/2 inch holes
• You need variable speed control
• You prefer a lighter unit under 30 lbs

Verdict: The AutoMAB 350 Magnetic Drill suits users needing automatic feed for precise, smaller diameter holes. It is ideal for tasks where magnetic stability and controlled depth are priorities over speed or large capacity.

6 Also great

CS Unitec Swivel Base Magnetic Drill

Best for: lateral and forward drill positioning

Configuration

Magnetic

Features

Swivel Base

View on Amazon: CS Unitec Swivel Base Magnetic Drill Affiliate link

The CS Unitec MAB 525 SB is a magnetic drill featuring a swivel base magnet. This configuration allows the unit to move left, right, and forward, providing positioning flexibility for your workpieces. It is designed for users who need directional adjustment capabilities in a magnetic drilling setup. The swivel base is the primary functional trait listed in the product data.

Pros

• Magnetic configuration for secure attachment
• Swivel base allows left and right movement
• Swivel base allows forward movement

Cons

• No drill bit capacity or depth specifications listed
• No motor speed or power ratings provided
• No coolant system details included

Good fit if

• You need to adjust the drill position laterally
• You require forward movement adjustment for alignment
• You prefer a magnetic mounting system

Skip if

• You need a specific drill bit diameter capacity
• You require known motor speed settings
• You need a pressurized coolant system

Verdict: CS Unitec MAB 525 SB Magnetic Drill offers directional swivel movement for positioning but lacks detailed performance specs. It fits users who prioritize lateral and forward adjustment flexibility over known power ratings.

7 Best premium

CS Unitec AutoMAB 220V Magnetic Drill

Best for: 220V workshops needing automatic feed

Voltage

220V

Configuration

Magnetic

Features

Automatic Feed

View on Amazon: CS Unitec AutoMAB 220V Magnetic Drill Affiliate link

This is a magnetic drill with automatic feed and 220V power. The automatic feed helps you maintain consistent pressure and speed while drilling. The 220V voltage requirement means you need the correct electrical supply. It suits users who need steady, hands-free operation for heavy-duty drilling tasks on steel or iron.

Pros

• Automatic feed mechanism for consistent drilling pressure
• 220V voltage specification
• Magnetic base configuration for secure attachment

Cons

• Requires 220V power supply, limiting portable use
• No data provided on maximum drilling depth or diameter capacity
• No information on included coolant system or speed settings

Good fit if

• You have a 220V power source available
• You need automatic feed for consistent hole quality
• You are drilling into thick steel or iron

Skip if

• You only have 110V outlets
• You need a cordless portable unit
• You require detailed speed control data

Verdict: CS Unitec AUTOMAB 350-220V offers automatic feed for steady drilling but requires 220V power. It fits workshops with the right voltage and need for consistent feed pressure.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions

See also

• lg 18 alternatives
• turbro 18 alternatives