Hougen HMD920 MAG Drill Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared

Alternatives to the Hougen HMD920

Hougen HMD920 3-Speed Magnetic Drill Kit

This Hougen HMD920 kit shares the 115V motor and 2-3/8-inch hole capacity of the base model. It adds a 3-inch spindle travel for deep hole drilling. The unit measures 12.8 inches long and 25.9 inches high. You get the same two-stage swivel base magnet for secure attachment to steel. This version includes a kit setup, which may offer better value if you need cutters. It suits fabricators who want the full depth capacity without buying accessories separately. The physical dimensions are slightly larger than the standalone unit. It remains a strong choice for heavy-duty vertical steel work where torque and depth matter most.

Hougen HMD905 115V Magnetic Drill Kit

The Hougen HMD905 is a compact 115V magnetic drill with a 1/2-inch chuck capacity. It is significantly smaller than the HMD920, measuring 11.8 inches long and 22.8 inches high. This model sacrifices the 2-3/8-inch hole capacity for a smaller footprint. It fits well in small workshops where space is limited. You lose the deep 3-inch spindle travel found in the HMD920. This drill is ideal for users who need a portable, corded solution for smaller holes. It supports coolant for extended operation. If you do not need large diameter holes, this compact unit offers a practical alternative for tight spaces.

C.S. Unitec Reversible Magnetic Drill Press

The C.S. Unitec MAB 485 is a reversible magnetic drill press with 5 amps of power. It targets large hole drilling in thick steel. Unlike the HMD920, this unit offers dual speed ranges for different material cutting needs. It is designed for industrial maintenance tasks where reliability is key. You gain reversible functionality for chip removal, which the HMD920 does not explicitly list. The 5-amp motor provides substantial torque for heavy-duty fabrication. It is a robust choice for professionals who drill large holes in stationary steel structures. It lacks the specific swivel base details of the Hougen but offers high amperage for demanding applications.

Fein 18V Cordless Magnetic Base Drill

The Fein AJMU 137 PMQW AS is an 18V cordless magnetic base drill. It prioritizes portability and battery freedom over maximum hole diameter. This unit measures 21 inches long and 22.3 inches high. You gain mobility for site work where cords are impractical. It offers deep stroke access for versatile positioning. However, you sacrifice the 115V power and 2-3/8-inch hole capacity of the HMD920. The Fein is lighter and easier to move around a job site. It suits professionals who value weight and cordless convenience over raw cutting width. It is an excellent choice for mobile steelwork requiring flexibility.

Unibor 2-Inch Magnetic Drill with Reverse

The Unibor EQ50 is a 2-inch magnetic drill with reverse functionality. It weighs 40 pounds, making it a substantial stationary tool. This model offers reliable hold and speed for annular cutting tasks. You get a 2-inch cutting capacity, which is slightly less than the HMD920's 2-3/8-inch limit. The reverse feature aids in chip removal. It is a solid choice for drilling large holes in stationary steel structures. It lacks the swivel base versatility of the Hougen but provides stable performance for fixed-position work. This drill is ideal for fabricators who need consistent results for large diameter holes in steel.

EUROBOOR 8-Inch 2-Speed Magnetic Drill Press

The EUROBOOR 8-Inch magnetic drill press features a 5-amp motor and 2-speed settings. It has an 8-inch swing for large hole drilling in steel. This unit measures 14.4 inches long and 17.8 inches high. You gain high power and capacity for large holes, prioritizing size over speed variety. It is a portable design suitable for fabricators who need to move the drill. It lacks the 3-inch spindle travel of the HMD920 but offers a broader swing for different cutter sizes. It is a practical choice for users who need high capacity and portability in a single unit.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Hougen HMD920 Swivel Base Magnetic Drill

Best for: Deep hole drilling on vertical steel surfaces

Spindle Speed

3 SPD

Hole Capacity

2-3/8 in

Spindle Travel

3 in

Chuck Capacity

3/4 in Shank

Voltage

115V

Configuration

Magnetic

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

The Hougen HMD920 is a 115V magnetic drill built for heavy-duty steel work. It handles holes up to 2-3/8 inches with a 3-inch spindle travel. The three-speed motor and swivel base offer flexibility for various angles. It accepts 3/4-inch shank cutters, including Hougen 12,000-Series or Copperhead carbide tips. This machine suits professionals needing reliable depth and power on vertical surfaces.

Pros

• Handles hole diameters up to 2-3/8 inches
• Provides 3 inches of spindle travel depth
• Features a two-stage swivel base magnet
• Includes a pilot light for operation status
• Compatible with 3/4-inch shank carbide cutters

Cons

• Limited to 115V power, requiring a standard outlet
• No coolant system included in the base unit
• Fixed three-speed settings limit fine-tuning options

Good fit if

• You need to drill deep holes up to 3 inches
• You work on vertical surfaces requiring swivel flexibility
• You prefer using standard 3/4-inch shank cutters

Skip if

• You require cordless battery operation for remote sites
• You need to drill holes larger than 2-3/8 inches
• You require variable speed control for precision work

Verdict: Hougen HMD920 3-Inch Mag Drill delivers deep 3-inch capacity and swivel versatility for steel fabrication. It fits contractors who prioritize depth and angle adjustment over variable speed control.

2 Best premium

Hougen HMD920 3-Speed Magnetic Drill Kit

Best for: Heavy-duty large hole drilling

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 with a 13.5A motor and 1553W power. It drills holes from 7/16 to 2-3/8 inches. You get three speeds: 250, 450, and 700 RPM. The unit includes a 1/2 inch chuck adapter and a coolant bottle. It fits users who need high torque and large hole capacity for heavy fabrication work.

Pros

• Large hole capacity up to 2-3/8 inches
• Three-speed gearbox for 250, 450, and 700 RPM
• 1553W motor provides high torque
• Includes gravity-fed coolant bottle and 1/2 inch chuck adapter

Cons

• Requires 115V AC power source
• Heavier build due to high-power motor and two-stage magnet
• Limited to three fixed speeds without variable control

Good fit if

• You need to drill large diameter holes in thick steel
• You work with standard 115V shop power
• You require high torque for annular cutting

Skip if

• You need cordless portability for remote sites
• You only drill small holes under 1 inch
• You prefer variable speed control over fixed gears

Verdict: Hougen HMD920 115V Magnetic Drill delivers substantial power and large hole capacity for heavy-duty fabrication. It suits professionals who prioritize torque and depth over cordless convenience.

3 Also great

Hougen HMD905 115V Magnetic Drill Kit

Best for: compact 1/2-inch capacity magnetic drilling

Chuck Capacity

1/2"

Voltage

115V

Configuration

Magnetic

Dimensions

11.8 × 7.1 × 22.8 inches

View on Amazon: Hougen HMD905 115V Magnetic Drill Kit Affiliate link

The Hougen HMD905 is a 115-volt magnetic drill designed for benchtop or portable use on ferrous surfaces. It features a 1/2-inch chuck capacity and includes a coolant bottle for extended operations. The unit measures 7.1 inches wide and 11.8 inches long. This compact footprint makes it suitable for workshops with limited space. You get a 12002 Rotabroach cutter and adapter included in the package.

Pros

• 115V power configuration
• 1/2-inch chuck capacity
• Includes coolant bottle
• Compact 7.1-inch width

Cons

• 1/2-inch chuck limits larger cutter sizes
• Requires 115V outlet connection
• Heavier build than cordless alternatives

Good fit if

• You need a compact magnetic drill for tight spaces
• You prefer corded power for consistent performance
• You require a 1/2-inch chuck capacity

Skip if

• You need to drill holes larger than 1/2-inch
• You require cordless portability for remote sites
• You need a higher voltage motor for heavy steel

Verdict: Hougen HMD905 115V Mag Drill offers a compact, corded solution for users who need a 1/2-inch chuck capacity and coolant support. It fits well in small workshops where space is limited.

4 Also great

C.S. Unitec Reversible Magnetic Drill Press

Best for: Large hole drilling in thick steel

Motor Power

10.5 Amp

Spindle Speed

50-250 & 100-450 RPM

Hole Capacity

Up to 2-1/16" dia.

Configuration

Magnetic

Amperage

5 A

View on Amazon: C.S. Unitec Reversible Magnetic Drill Press Affiliate link

The C.S. Unitec MAB 485 is a magnetic drill built for heavy-duty hole cutting. It features a 10.5 Amp motor and handles holes up to 2-1/16 inches in diameter. You get two speed ranges: 50-250 RPM and 100-450 RPM. This setup suits users who need high torque and precise control for thick steel. It is a solid option for industrial maintenance tasks requiring reliable magnetic base performance.

Pros

• 10.5 Amp motor provides strong cutting power.
• Handles hole diameters up to 2-1/16 inches.
• Dual speed ranges offer 50-250 and 100-450 RPM options.
• Reversible operation for flexible drilling directions.

Cons

• Only two fixed speed ranges limit fine-tuning.
• No variable speed control for delicate materials.
• Higher amperage may require robust power sources.

Good fit if

• You need to drill large holes in thick steel.
• You require a reversible drill for tight spaces.
• You work in industrial settings with stable power.

Skip if

• You need variable speed for delicate materials.
• You are drilling thin sheet metal.
• You require a lightweight, portable unit.

Verdict: C.S. Unitec MAB 485 Magnetic Drill is ideal for professionals drilling large holes in heavy steel. Its high amperage and dual speed ranges make it a reliable tool for industrial maintenance tasks.

5 Also great

Fein 18V Cordless Magnetic Base Drill

Best for: mobile steelwork requiring deep stroke access

Spindle Speed

Single-speed

Hole Capacity

1-3/8"

Spindle Travel

10-1/4"

Voltage

18V

Swing

8-Inch

Configuration

Magnetic

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

This Fein cordless magnetic drill uses an 18V battery and a brushless motor for heavy-duty metalwork. It handles HSS cutters up to 1-3/8 inches in diameter. The 10-1/4 inch stroke range allows for deep drilling and tapping. Weighing 26.9 lbs, it is lightweight for job site mobility. The tilt sensor adds safety by shutting down if adhesion is lost.

Pros

• Brushless motor lasts over 300 hours
• 10-1/4 inch double dovetail stroke range
• Lightweight 26.9 lb construction
• Tilt sensor shutoff for safety

Cons

• 1-3/8 inch hole capacity is smaller than many competitors
• Cordless design requires battery management
• No coolant system included in data

Good fit if

• You need a lightweight drill for mobile jobs
• You require deep stroke capabilities for tapping
• You prefer cordless operation for steel or aluminum

Skip if

• You need to drill holes larger than 1-3/8 inches
• You require a fixed 115-volt power source
• You need a built-in coolant system

Verdict: Fein AJMU 137 PMQW AS Cordless Mag Drill fits professionals who prioritize portability and deep stroke versatility over maximum hole diameter. It is ideal for site work where weight and battery freedom matter more than raw cutting width.

6 Best 2-inch

Unibor 2-Inch Magnetic Drill with Reverse

Best for: Large diameter holes in steel

Hole Capacity

up to 2-Inch

Magnetic Force

2000 lbs.

Chuck Capacity

QuickHitch arbor system

Configuration

Magnetic

Weight

40 pounds

View on Amazon: Unibor 2-Inch Magnetic Drill with Reverse Affiliate link

The Unibor EQ50 is a magnetic drill press designed for annular cutters up to 2 inches in diameter. It features a 2000 lbs magnetic adhesion force and weighs 40 pounds. The QuickHitch arbor system allows cutter changes in under 10 seconds. A reverse motor supports tapping applications. It includes a carrying case, safety strap, and coolant system. This tool suits users needing precise, large-diameter holes in thick steel.

Pros

• 2000 lbs magnetic adhesion force
• QuickHitch arbor system for fast changes
• Reverse motor for tapping
• Includes coolant system and carrying case

Cons

• Limited to 2-inch hole capacity
• Heavy 40-pound build
• Requires external power source

Good fit if

• You need to drill holes up to 2 inches in diameter
• You work with thick steel plates requiring strong magnetic hold
• You prefer quick cutter changes with the QuickHitch system

Skip if

• You require hole capacities larger than 2 inches
• You need a lightweight tool for frequent overhead work
• You are looking for a cordless battery-operated drill

Verdict: Unibor EQ50 2-Inch Mag Drill is a solid choice for professionals drilling large holes in stationary steel structures. It offers reliable hold and speed for annular cutting tasks.

7 Best budget

EUROBOOR 8-Inch 2-Speed Magnetic Drill Press

Best for: large hole drilling in steel

Motor Power

1600W / 14.5A

Spindle Speed

Two Speed

Hole Capacity

2-3/8"

Swing

8-Inch

Configuration

Magnetic

Speed Settings

2-Speed

View on Amazon: EUROBOOR 8-Inch 2-Speed Magnetic Drill Press Affiliate link

This magnetic drill press features a 1600W motor and reaches speeds up to 2,000 RPM. It drills holes up to 2-3/8 inches in diameter. The unit weighs 14.5 pounds and measures 12.2 by 14.4 by 17.8 inches. You get two speed settings for different materials. It is a portable option for steel fabrication tasks.

Pros

• 1600W motor provides strong torque
• 2-3/8 inch hole capacity handles large diameters
• Two-speed settings offer versatility
• Portable design fits tight spaces

Cons

• Only two speed settings limit fine-tuning
• Heavier build at 14.5 pounds
• No coolant system included in specs

Good fit if

• You need to drill large holes in thick steel
• You work in confined spaces on-site
• You prefer a simple two-speed control

Skip if

• You require variable speed for delicate work
• You need to drill through aluminum frequently
• You want a lightweight tool under 10 pounds

Verdict: EUROBOOR 8-Inch Magnetic Drill delivers high power for large holes. It suits fabricators who prioritize capacity over speed variety.

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