Hougen HMD904 115-Volt Magnetic Drill Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared

How alternatives compare to HMD904

Hougen HMD900 Magnetic Drill

The Hougen HMD900 shares the 115-volt operation and 1-1/2 inch hole capacity of the HMD904, making it suitable for similar fabrication tasks. However, it weighs only 27 pounds, which is significantly lighter than the HMD904’s 34.9 pounds. Its overall height is 15 inches, compared to the HMD904’s 18 inches, offering a more compact profile. You get the same slot drive arbor for accessory changes. This model fits users who prioritize a lighter footprint and lower height without sacrificing drilling capacity. It is a practical choice if you need a standard magnetic drill that is easier to handle or store.

Hougen HMD920 3-Speed Magnetic Drill Kit

The Hougen HMD920 is designed for high-capacity hole drilling in thick steel. It features a 3-speed motor, which the HMD904 lacks, allowing for better speed control during different drilling operations. While the HMD904 has a 2-inch spindle travel, the HMD920 is much taller at 25.9 inches, indicating a larger internal mechanism for deeper or more powerful drilling. It weighs more and occupies more space, with dimensions of 8.1 by 12.8 inches. This drill is ideal for fixed workstation use where portability is not a concern. You should choose this if your work involves thick steel plates requiring higher torque and variable speeds.

Hougen HMD904S Swivel Base Magnetic Drill

The Hougen HMD904S includes a swivel base, a feature absent in the standard HMD904. This allows you to drill angled holes in thick steel plates efficiently. The HMD904S also includes a coolant system, which helps manage heat during repetitive drilling. It weighs 21 pounds, making it lighter than the HMD904’s 34.9 pounds. The height is 19.6 inches, slightly taller than the HMD904. This model is best for fabricators who need positional flexibility for angled access. If your projects require precise angled holes rather than just vertical drilling, the swivel base and coolant system make this a superior alternative to the standard HMD904.

Hougen HMD904S Swivel Base Magnetic Drill

This version of the HMD904S also features a swivel base for angled drilling, similar to the previous entry. However, it weighs 51 pounds, which is much heavier than the HMD904’s 34.9 pounds. The height is 18 inches, matching the HMD904, but the width is the same at 7.75 inches. This model is suited for precision drilling in tight or overhead spaces where stability is critical. The increased weight may provide better stability in certain overhead applications. You should pick this if you need the swivel capability but prioritize stability over portability. It is a robust option for fixed or semi-fixed overhead drilling tasks.

Hougen Magnetic Drill with Coolant Bottle

This variant includes a coolant bottle, which is not standard on the HMD904. The coolant system helps manage heat during vertical repetitive holemaking. It weighs 42.9 pounds, heavier than the HMD904’s 34.9 pounds. The dimensions are 17 inches wide and 20 inches long, making it bulkier than the HMD904. This model fits users who prioritize cooling and compatibility with existing HMD904 accessories. If your work involves long drilling sessions that generate significant heat, the integrated coolant system is a valuable addition. It is a solid choice for fabricators who need enhanced cooling without changing their accessory setup.

Hougen HMD904S Swivel Base Magnetic Drill

The Hougen HMD904S in this entry also offers a swivel base for angled access, unlike the standard HMD904. It weighs 30.5 pounds, which is lighter than the HMD904’s 34.9 pounds. The height is 20 inches, slightly taller than the HMD904. This model is ideal for overhead and tight-space drilling tasks where positional flexibility is needed. The swivel base allows you to drill at angles without repositioning the entire drill. You should choose this if your projects require angled holes in confined areas. It provides the same 115-volt operation and magnetic stability as the HMD904, with added versatility for complex drilling positions.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Hougen HMD904 Magnetic Drill

Best for: standard steel fabrication drilling

Hole Capacity

1-1/2"

Spindle Travel

2"

Chuck Capacity

Slot Drive Arbor

Voltage

115-Volt

Configuration

Magnetic

Dimensions

11.6 × 7.75 × 18 inches

View on Amazon: Hougen HMD904 Magnetic Drill Affiliate link

The Hougen HMD904 is a 115-volt magnetic drill built for fabrication tasks. It handles holes up to 1-1/2 inches in diameter with a 2-inch spindle travel. The unit weighs 34.9 pounds and features an ergonomic housing with a hidden motor cord. You will appreciate the lift detector safety system and the slot drive arbor for quick accessory changes. This model suits professionals needing reliable performance in low-light conditions.

Pros

• 1-1/2 inch hole capacity for heavy fabrication
• 2-inch spindle travel for deep drilling
• Lift detector safety system prevents accidental operation
• Slot drive arbor allows quick accessory changes
• LED pilot light aids accuracy in low light

Cons

• 34.9 pounds weight may be heavy for some users
• No integrated coolant bottle in this specific model
• Fixed base rather than swivel configuration

Good fit if

• You need a 1-1/2 inch capacity for steel fabrication
• You work in low-light environments and need the LED pilot
• You prefer a standard fixed base for stable drilling

Skip if

• You require a swivel base for angled drilling
• You need an integrated coolant system for extended runs
• You are drilling holes larger than 1-1/2 inches

Verdict: Hougen HMD904 115V Magnetic Drill offers robust 1-1/2 inch capacity and safety features for fabrication professionals. It fits users who prioritize accuracy and stability over portability or angled drilling capabilities.

2 Best budget

Hougen HMD900 Magnetic Drill

Best for: 115V drilling up to 1.5 inches

Hole Capacity

1.5"

Voltage

115V

Configuration

Magnetic

Dimensions

11 × 6.75 × 15 inches

Weight

27 pounds

View on Amazon: Hougen HMD900 Magnetic Drill Affiliate link

The Hougen HMD900 is a 115-volt magnetic drill with a 1.5-inch hole capacity. It features a 27-pound build and compact dimensions of 6.75 by 11 inches. The unit uses a slot drive arbor for accessory changes. It includes a hidden motor cord and ergonomic housing. This tool suits users needing reliable magnetic drilling for standard steel thicknesses.

Pros

• 115-volt power supply
• 1.5-inch maximum hole capacity
• Slot drive arbor for quick accessory changes
• Hidden motor cord design
• Ergonomic housing with spring slug ejection

Cons

• 1.5-inch capacity limits larger hole requirements
• Single-speed operation restricts material versatility
• 27-pound weight reduces portability

Good fit if

• You need a 115-volt magnetic drill for steel
• You require a 1.5-inch hole capacity
• You prefer a slot drive arbor system

Skip if

• You require a 2-inch or larger hole capacity
• You need variable speed control
• You require a lightweight portable unit

Verdict: Hougen HMD900 115V Magnetic Drill fits users who need a 1.5-inch capacity drill with a slot drive arbor. It serves those prioritizing magnetic stability and standard 115-volt operation.

3 Best premium

Hougen HMD920 3-Speed Magnetic Drill Kit

Best for: High-capacity hole drilling in thick steel

Motor Power

13.5A, 1553W

Spindle Speed

3-speed (250 / 450 / 700 RPM)

Hole Capacity

7/16" - 2-3/8"

Chuck Capacity

1/2"

Voltage

115V

Configuration

Magnetic

View on Amazon: Hougen HMD920 3-Speed Magnetic Drill Kit Affiliate link

The Hougen HMD920 is a 115V magnetic drill featuring a 1553W motor and a three-speed gearbox. It drills holes from 7/16" to 2-3/8" at speeds up to 700 RPM. The two-stage magnet engages only when the motor runs, which helps extend magnet life. A gravity-fed coolant bottle and lift detector safety system are included. This unit suits fabricators needing high torque and variable speed control for thick steel.

Pros

• 1553W motor delivers high torque for demanding cuts
• Three-speed gearbox offers 250, 450, and 700 RPM options
• Two-stage magnet engages only when the motor is active
• Lift detector safety system prevents operation if not attached
• Gravity-fed coolant bottle aids in heat management

Cons

• Larger footprint with a height of 25.9 inches
• Heavier build compared to compact benchtop models
• Requires 115V power which may limit portability

Good fit if

• You need high torque for drilling large diameter holes
• You require variable speed settings for different materials
• You work in fixed locations with stable power access

Skip if

• You need a lightweight drill for overhead work
• You require a 230V power connection
• You have limited storage space for bulky equipment

Verdict: Hougen HMD920 115V Magnetic Drill is a robust choice for fabricators who prioritize drilling capacity and speed control over portability. It fits users who need to drill large holes in thick steel at a fixed workstation.

4 Also great

Hougen HMD904S Swivel Base Magnetic Drill

Best for: angled holes in thick steel plates

Voltage

115 Volt

Configuration

Magnetic

Features

Swivel Base

Dimensions

11.6 × 7.75 × 19.6 inches

Weight

21 pounds

View on Amazon: Hougen HMD904S Swivel Base Magnetic Drill Affiliate link

This is a 115-volt magnetic drill with a swivel base and integrated coolant. It drills holes up to 1-1/2 inches deep with 2 inches of spindle travel. The two-stage magnet provides secure attachment to steel. You get a quick one-stroke handle for locking the swivel. It is designed for fabricators who need angled holes without repositioning the workpiece.

Pros

• Swivel base allows for angled drilling
• Integrated coolant bottle for heat reduction
• 1-1/2 inch hole capacity on steel
• Quick one-stroke swivel locking handle

Cons

• 21 pounds is heavy for overhead use
• No variable speed control listed
• Fixed 115-volt input limits portability

Good fit if

• You need to drill angled holes in fixed steel
• You require coolant for long drilling sessions
• You work with 1-1/2 inch thick material

Skip if

• You need variable speed for different materials
• You require a lightweight tool for overhead work
• You need to drill holes larger than 1-1/2 inches

Verdict: Hougen HMD904S 1-1/2 In Swivel Mag Drill fits fabricators who need angled holes in thick steel. The swivel base and coolant system handle repetitive angled drilling tasks efficiently.

5 Also great

Hougen HMD904S Swivel Base Magnetic Drill

Best for: Precision drilling in tight or overhead spaces

Hole Capacity

1-1/2"

Chuck Capacity

1/2"

Voltage

115-Volt

Configuration

Magnetic

Features

Swivel Base

Dimensions

11.6 × 7.75 × 18 inches

View on Amazon: Hougen HMD904S Swivel Base Magnetic Drill Affiliate link

The Hougen HMD904S is a 115-volt magnetic drill built for fabrication tasks. It features a swivel base for precise alignment in tight or overhead spaces. The unit drills holes up to 1-1/2 inches with a 1/2-inch chuck. It weighs 51 pounds and includes an integrated coolant system. This kit suits users needing versatile positioning and accurate hole placement.

Pros

• Swivel base allows precise alignment in tight or overhead areas
• Drills holes up to 1-1/2 inches in diameter
• Includes integrated coolant bottle and gravity feed system
• Comes with a complete cutter kit and carrying case

Cons

• Weighs 51 pounds, making it heavier than standard models
• 115-volt power may limit performance on very thick steel
• No remote control for operation from a distance

Good fit if

• You need to drill holes in horizontal or overhead positions
• You require precise alignment in tight spaces
• You work on fabrication projects requiring varied cutter sizes

Skip if

• You prefer a lightweight tool under 40 pounds
• You only drill small holes under 1 inch
• You need a 230-volt machine for heavy industrial use

Verdict: Hougen HMD904S Swivel Base Mag Drill offers unique positioning flexibility for fabricators. It fits users who prioritize precise alignment and overhead drilling capabilities over minimal weight.

6 Also great

Hougen Magnetic Drill with Coolant Bottle

Best for: Vertical repetitive holemaking with coolant

Voltage

115-Volt

Configuration

Magnetic

Dimensions

20 × 17 × 9 inches

Weight

42.9 pounds

View on Amazon: Hougen Magnetic Drill with Coolant Bottle Affiliate link

This 115-volt magnetic drill features an integrated 16-ounce gravity-fed coolant bottle and a spring-ejected arbor. Weighing 42.9 pounds with dimensions of 20 by 17 by 9 inches, it is built for vertical repetitive holemaking. You can use standard HMD904 accessories with this unit. It suits professionals needing consistent cooling during extended drilling sessions on steel.

Pros

• Integrated 16oz gravity-fed coolant bottle
• Spring-ejected arbor for quick bit changes
• Compatible with HMD904 accessories
• 115-volt power configuration

Cons

• Heavier build at 42.9 pounds
• Larger footprint measuring 20 inches long
• Single speed operation

Good fit if

• You need integrated coolant for heat management
• You perform vertical repetitive holemaking
• You already own HMD904 accessories

Skip if

• You require a lightweight portable unit
• You need variable speed control
• You prefer a swivel base configuration

Verdict: Hougen HMD904 115V Magnetic Drill is a solid choice for fabricators who prioritize cooling and compatibility with existing HMD904 accessories over portability.

7

Hougen HMD904S Swivel Base Magnetic Drill

Best for: Overhead and tight-space drilling tasks

Hole Capacity

1-1/2"

Spindle Travel

2"

Chuck Capacity

Slot Drive arbor

Voltage

115-Volt

Configuration

Magnetic

Features

Swivel Base

View on Amazon: Hougen HMD904S Swivel Base Magnetic Drill Affiliate link

This 115-volt magnetic drill features a swivel base for overhead and tight-space work. It drills holes up to 1-1/2 inches with 2 inches of spindle travel. The two-stage magnet boosts power when the motor runs. A lift detector adds safety. Weighing 30.5 pounds, it fits portable job sites where angle adjustments matter.

Pros

• Swivel base allows precise alignment in tight or overhead spaces
• Two-stage magnet provides 30% power increase when motor is on
• Slot Drive arbor ensures accuracy and quick accessory changes
• Lift detector safety system prevents operation if not securely attached

Cons

• Heavier build at 30.5 pounds compared to lighter models
• 1-1/2 inch capacity is lower than the 1-1/2 to 2-inch range of some competitors
• No integrated coolant bottle included in this specific configuration

Good fit if

• You need to drill in overhead or horizontal positions
• You require precise pilot alignment in tight areas
• You work with 115-volt power sources on site

Skip if

• You need to drill holes larger than 1-1/2 inches
• You require an integrated coolant system for heavy duty work
• You prefer a lighter unit for frequent one-handed carrying

Verdict: Hougen HMD904S Swivel Base Magnetic Drill is ideal for fabricators needing angled access. It suits those who prioritize positional flexibility over maximum hole size.

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