Looking Beyond the Hougen HMD918 Two Speed Magnetic? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look

How these models differ from the HMD918

Hougen HMD920 Swivel Base Magnetic Drill

The Hougen HMD920 Swivel Base Magnetic Drill offers three speed settings instead of the HMD918's two. You get a swivel base for angled drilling, which the HMD918 lacks. The HMD920 is slightly lighter at a similar height. It sacrifices the six-inch depth capacity for flexibility. You should pick this if you need variable RPMs and angled work on site. It fits fabricators who prioritize adjustable speeds over maximum drilling depth. The swivel base allows for precise positioning on complex structures. This model trades deep-hole capacity for versatile speed control and orientation flexibility.

VEVOR 1300W 1.57-Inch Magnetic Drill Press

The VEVOR 1300W Magnetic Drill Press is significantly lighter and smaller than the HMD918. It weighs 28.2 pounds compared to 44 pounds. The HMD918 offers a six-inch cutting width, while this VEVOR model is listed with a six-inch cutting width but a much smaller physical footprint. It lacks the two-speed gearbox and pressurized coolant system of the HMD918. You should choose this if you need a budget-friendly option for occasional steel drilling. It is a practical entry point that sacrifices high-end specs and deep-hole capacity for lower cost and portability. It suits users who do not require industrial-level durability or deep penetration.

DEWALT 2-Inch 2-Speed Magnetic Drill Press

The DEWALT 2-Inch Magnetic Drill Press features a 10-amp motor and two-speed settings. It has a four-inch spindle travel, which is less than the HMD918's six-inch capacity. The DEWALT model is lighter at 33 pounds and has a smaller footprint. It lacks the pressurized coolant system and lift detector safety system found in the HMD918. You should pick this if you prioritize motor protection and quick chuck changes over higher hole capacities. It fits users who need heavy-duty drilling up to two inches without the bulk of a six-inch depth machine. It trades deep-hole capability for a more compact design and robust motor protection.

Hougen HMD900 Magnetic Drill

The Hougen HMD900 Magnetic Drill offers a 1.5-inch cutting capacity, significantly less than the HMD918's six-inch depth. It is a single-speed unit, lacking the two-speed gearbox of the HMD918. The HMD900 is much lighter at 27 pounds and has a hidden cord design. It lacks the pressurized coolant system and lift detector safety features. You should choose this if you need a focused solution for smaller diameter holes. It fits professionals who prioritize a compact size and straightforward operation over variable speed flexibility and deep-hole capacity. It is a practical choice for tasks that do not require large diameter holes or high-speed versatility.

Hougen HMD904 Magnetic Drill

The Hougen HMD904 Magnetic Drill provides a 1.5-inch cutting capacity, far less than the HMD918's six-inch depth. It is a single-speed model, lacking the two-speed gearbox of the HMD918. The HMD904 is lighter at 34.9 pounds and has a more compact height. It lacks the pressurized coolant system and lift detector safety system. You should pick this if you prioritize safety and portability for light fabrication work. It fits users who do not demand large diameter holes or high-speed versatility. It is a solid choice for tasks that require a smaller footprint and easier handling, sacrificing deep-hole capacity for a more manageable design.

VEVOR 1400W 1.6-Inch Magnetic Drill Press

The VEVOR 1400W Magnetic Drill Press is a portable unit designed for heavy steel work. It is significantly lighter at 27.3 pounds compared to the HMD918's 44 pounds. The HMD918 offers a six-inch cutting width and two-speed gearbox, while this VEVOR model lacks speed flexibility and the coolant system. You should choose this if you prioritize holding force and portability over speed control. It fits users who need a robust power source for construction tasks without the bulk of a larger machine. It sacrifices deep-hole capacity and variable speed settings for a more compact and lightweight design suitable for on-site fabrication.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Hougen 6-Inch Two-Speed Magnetic Drill

Best for: Deep-hole drilling in 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

The Hougen HMD918 is a 115V magnetic drill designed for deep-hole applications. 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. Weighing 44 pounds, it offers a 6-inch cutting width. This model suits fabricators needing extended reach for solid steel or stacked plates.

Pros

• 6-inch spindle travel for deep holes
• Two-speed gearbox with 250 and 450 RPM
• Pressurized coolant system for better flow
• Lift detector safety system included

Cons

• Limited to two speed settings
• Heavier at 44 pounds
• No variable speed control

Good fit if

• You need to drill deep holes in steel
• You require a pressurized coolant system
• You work with stacked metal plates

Skip if

• You need variable speed control
• You require a lighter unit for portability
• You prefer a three-speed gearbox

Verdict: The Hougen HMD918 6-Inch Magnetic Drill is a robust option for fabricators who need a 6-inch drilling depth and a two-speed gearbox. It fits users who prioritize deep-hole capacity and a pressurized coolant system over variable speed flexibility.

2 Best premium

Hougen HMD920 Swivel Base Magnetic Drill

Best for: fabricators needing variable speed and swivel base

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 115V magnetic drill featuring a three-speed spindle and a swivel base. It includes a 1/2 inch drill chuck adapter and a 12,000-Series cutter kit. The unit measures 12.2 by 8.1 by 25.9 inches. You will appreciate the hidden motor cord and pilot light. This setup suits fabricators needing variable speed control and flexible positioning for various drilling tasks.

Pros

• Three-speed spindle for varied drilling needs
• Swivel base for angled work
• Includes 1/2 inch chuck adapter
• Hidden motor cord reduces clutter

Cons

• Heavier build at 25.9 inches tall
• No pressurized coolant system listed
• Requires separate purchase of cutting tools

Good fit if

• You need variable speed settings for different materials
• You require a swivel base for angled drilling
• You want a complete kit with chuck adapter

Skip if

• You prefer a single-speed motor for simplicity
• You need a built-in pressurized coolant system
• You require a compact vertical footprint under 20 inches

Verdict: Hougen HMD920 3-Speed Magnetic Drill offers three speeds and a swivel base for flexible fabrication work. It fits users who need adjustable RPMs and angled drilling capabilities on site.

3 Also great

VEVOR 1300W 1.57-Inch Magnetic Drill Press

Best for: occasional steel drilling on a budget

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 features a 1300W motor and 2922 lbf holding force. It bores up to 1.57 inches deep into 2-inch thick material at 810 RPM. The unit includes a coolant bottle and a scale for depth control. It weighs 28.2 pounds and comes with eleven drill bits. You will find this tool useful for industrial or railway construction tasks requiring precision.

Pros

• 1300W copper motor for high driving force
• 2922 lbf electromagnetic base for stability
• Includes coolant bottle with quick push-fit tube
• Titanium magnesium alloy guide rail resists wear

Cons

• 1.57 inch boring diameter is smaller than competitors
• Single speed of 810 RPM limits versatility
• 2922 lbf magnetic force is lower than rivals

Good fit if

• You need a budget-friendly magnetic drill for steel
• You work on construction sites requiring portability
• You want a complete kit with eleven drill bits

Skip if

• You require drilling holes larger than 1.57 inches
• You need variable speed settings for different materials
• You demand higher magnetic holding force for heavy loads

Verdict: VEVOR 1300W Mag Drill 1.57" Boring suits buyers who prioritize low cost and included accessories over high-end specs. It is a practical entry point for occasional steel drilling tasks.

4 Best 10 amp

DEWALT 2-Inch 2-Speed Magnetic Drill Press

Best for: Heavy-duty drilling up to 2 inches

Motor Power

10 A

Spindle Speed

2-speed

Hole Capacity

2 in

Spindle Travel

4 in

Chuck Capacity

Quick Change chuck system

Configuration

Magnetic

View on Amazon: DEWALT 2-Inch 2-Speed Magnetic Drill Press Affiliate link

This DEWALT magnetic drill press features a 10-amp motor and two-speed settings for versatile drilling tasks. It offers a 2-inch hole capacity and 4 inches of spindle travel, suitable for heavy-duty applications. The unit includes overload protection and a quick-change chuck system. Its compact footprint and 33-pound weight make it manageable for benchtop use.

Pros

• 10-amp motor provides robust power
• Two-speed settings allow for varied drilling speeds
• 4-inch spindle travel handles deep holes
• Overload protection electronics safeguard the motor

Cons

• 2-inch hole capacity is smaller than competitors
• Only two speed settings limit precision options
• 33-pound weight adds bulk for portability

Good fit if

• You need a 10-amp motor for steady performance
• You require 4 inches of spindle travel
• You prefer a quick-change chuck system

Skip if

• You need to drill holes larger than 2 inches
• You require more than two speed settings
• You need a lighter unit under 30 pounds

Verdict: DEWALT 2-Inch Magnetic Drill Press delivers solid power with its 10-amp motor and 4-inch travel, fitting users who prioritize motor protection and quick chuck changes over higher hole capacities or variable speeds.

5 Also great

Hougen HMD900 Magnetic Drill

Best for: Users needing 1.5 inch capacity and slot drive arbor

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 115V magnetic drill press designed for structural steel work. It bores holes up to 1.5 inches in diameter using a slot drive arbor for quick accessory changes. The unit weighs 27 pounds and measures 11 inches long. It features a hidden motor cord and ergonomic housing. This model suits users who need reliable magnetic drilling without the complexity of multiple speeds.

Pros

• 115V power supply
• 1.5 inch hole capacity
• Slot drive arbor for quick changes
• Hidden motor cord design

Cons

• Single speed operation limits versatility
• Smaller 1.5 inch capacity compared to 2-inch competitors
• Heavier at 27 pounds than some benchtop alternatives

Good fit if

• You need a dedicated 115V magnetic drill
• You require a 1.5 inch maximum hole capacity
• You prefer a single-speed tool for specific tasks

Skip if

• You need to drill holes larger than 1.5 inches
• You require variable speed control for different materials
• You prefer a lighter unit under 20 pounds

Verdict: Hougen HMD900 115V Magnetic Drill offers a focused solution for users needing a 1.5 inch capacity with a slot drive system. It fits professionals who prioritize a hidden cord and straightforward single-speed operation over variable speed flexibility.

6 Also great

Hougen HMD904 Magnetic Drill

Best for: Light fabrication and safety-focused 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 with a 1-1/2" hole capacity and 2" spindle travel. It features a slot drive arbor for quick accessory changes and a lift detector safety system. The ergonomic housing includes a hidden motor cord. This unit suits fabrication tasks where moderate capacity and safety features are priorities.

Pros

• 1-1/2" hole capacity
• Slot drive arbor for quick changes
• Lift detector safety system
• LED pilot light for accuracy

Cons

• Limited to 1-1/2" boring diameter
• Single speed configuration
• No coolant system included

Good fit if

• You need a lightweight unit under 35 pounds
• You require safety features like a lift detector
• You work in low-light conditions with the LED pilot

Skip if

• You need to drill holes larger than 1-1/2 inches
• You require multiple speed settings for different materials
• You need a built-in coolant system

Verdict: Hougen HMD904 1.5" Magnetic Drill fits users who prioritize safety and portability over high capacity. It is a solid choice for fabrication work that does not demand large diameter holes or high-speed versatility.

7 Best budget

VEVOR 1400W 1.6-Inch Magnetic Drill Press

Best for: Heavy steel fabrication and construction

Motor Power

1400W

Spindle Speed

800 RPM

Hole Capacity

1.6 in / 40 mm

Spindle Travel

2 in / 50 mm

Magnetic Force

2810 lbf / 12500N

Configuration

Magnetic

View on Amazon: VEVOR 1400W 1.6-Inch Magnetic Drill Press Affiliate link

This VEVOR magnetic drill press features a 1400W motor and delivers 2810 lbf of holding force. It bores holes up to 1.6 inches in diameter with a 2-inch spindle travel. The unit includes 11 coring bits and a millimeter scale for depth control. It is designed for steel plates 0.39 inches thick or more. This tool suits fabrication and construction tasks where stable, high-force drilling is required.

Pros

• 1400W copper motor provides high torque
• 2810 lbf magnetic base anchors securely
• Includes 11 coring bits for versatility
• Millimeter scale aids precise depth control

Cons

• Single speed limits versatility for different materials
• Not suitable for stainless steel or cast iron
• Requires steel plate thickness of at least 0.39 inches

Good fit if

• You need strong holding force for thick steel
• You work on fabrication or construction sites
• You require a portable drill for field use

Skip if

• You drill into stainless steel or cast iron
• You need multiple speed settings for varied tasks
• Your steel plates are thinner than 0.39 inches

Verdict: VEVOR 1.6 in Magnetic Drill 1400W offers robust power for heavy steel work. It fits users who prioritize holding force and portability over speed flexibility.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions

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