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6 Best Alternatives to the Jet 15-Inch Floor Drill Press (2026)

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You are looking at 6 Best Alternatives to the Jet 15-Inch Floor Drill Press (2026). The Jet J-A5816 serves as the baseline here. It offers a 15-inch swing and a 1 HP motor. Its variable speed range extends from 400 to 5,000 RPM. The machine also features a 6-inch spindle travel and a 3-inch column diameter for stability. These specs make it suitable for deep hole applications and heavy-duty workshop use.

You might want an alternative if you need a different configuration. Some users prefer benchtop models to save floor space. Others may require 115V power instead of the Jet's 115/220V capability. You might also seek a smaller swing or additional features like laser guides. The products listed below were chosen because their specifications overlap with the original Jet model. They share key attributes like motor power, swing capacity, or variable speed control. This list helps you compare options based on practical data rather than marketing claims.

Our top pick: JET 15-Inch Variable Speed Floor Drill Press.

How these alternatives compare

VEVOR 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press

The VEVOR 12-Inch model shifts from a floor-standing unit to a benchtop design. You trade the Jet’s 15-inch swing for a 12-inch capacity, which limits the size of workpieces you can drill. At 84.3 pounds, it is significantly lighter than the 426-pound Jet, making it easier to move but less stable during heavy use. It includes a laser guide and work light, features absent in the Jet. While it shares the 1 HP motor power, its 6.2 A amperage suggests a different electrical draw. This compact option suits users with limited bench space who prioritize precision aids over maximum drilling depth and stability.

MechMaxx 6x20 Benchtop Mill Drill

The MechMaxx 6x20 Benchtop Mill Drill diverges by offering milling capabilities alongside drilling. It features an R8 spindle taper, which differs from the Jet’s standard chuck setup, allowing for more versatile tooling options. As a benchtop unit, it sacrifices the floor-standing stability and 15-inch swing of the Jet for a smaller footprint. Its 19-inch length and 20-inch height make it much more compact than the Jet’s 67.5-inch height. It runs on 110V power with a 1 HP motor, matching the Jet’s power output but in a smaller package. This choice fits hobbyists who need multi-function precision in a small workshop rather than heavy-duty floor drilling.

Garvee 15-Inch Floor Drill Press

The Garvee 15-Inch Floor Drill Press matches the Jet’s 15-inch swing and variable speed range. However, it lists a 7.5 A amperage compared to the Jet’s unspecified draw, indicating a potentially higher current requirement. It operates on 120V power, whereas the Jet supports 115/220V, limiting your voltage options. The Garvee includes a tilting table, a feature not explicitly listed for the Jet. At 57 inches in length, its dimensions differ from the Jet’s 31.5-inch length. This model suits users who need a stable floor machine with a 15-inch swing but prefer 120V convenience and added table versatility over the Jet’s dual-voltage flexibility.

Garvee 15-Inch Benchtop Drill Press

The Garvee 15-Inch Benchtop Drill Press offers the same 15-inch swing as the Jet but in a benchtop configuration. You gain portability and reduced height, as it lacks the tall column of the floor-standing Jet. It shares the 7.5 A amperage and 120V power rating with the other Garvee model. It includes a tilting table and variable speed control, similar to the Jet’s variable speed handwheel. However, it does not support 220V, unlike the Jet’s 115/220V capability. This option fits DIYers who need 15-inch capacity but lack the floor space or stability requirements for a heavy, floor-mounted machine like the Jet.

Powermatic 15-Inch Benchtop Variable Speed Drill Press

The Powermatic 15-Inch Benchtop Drill Press provides a 15-inch swing in a benchtop format, unlike the floor-standing Jet. It uses a 3/4 HP motor, which is less powerful than the Jet’s 1 HP motor. It runs on 115V power, matching one of the Jet’s voltage options but lacking the 220V capability. Weighing 139 pounds, it is significantly lighter than the 426-pound Jet, offering easier mobility but potentially less rigidity. Its dimensions are much more compact, fitting tight workshop spaces. This model suits users who need 15-inch capacity with 115V convenience and a smaller footprint, accepting the trade-off of lower motor power and benchtop stability.

OEMTOOLS 15-Inch Floor Drill Press

The OEMTOOLS 15-Inch Floor Drill Press matches the Jet’s 15-inch swing and variable speed settings. It operates on 120V power with a 7.5 A amperage, differing from the Jet’s 115/220V dual-voltage support. It includes a tilting table, a feature not listed for the Jet. At 56.3 inches in height, it is shorter than the Jet’s 67.5-inch height, though still floor-standing. This model suits users who need a stable floor machine with a wide swing and precise speed control. It offers a simpler voltage option and added table versatility, appealing to those who prioritize specific voltage compatibility and table features over the Jet’s broader power range.

Quick picks

#ProductBest forPrice
1 JET 15-Inch Variable Speed Floor Drill Press Best overall Deep drilling and heavy-duty workshop use Check price of JET 15-Inch Variable Speed Floor Drill Press on Amazon
2 VEVOR 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press Best budget Small workshops needing laser precision Check price of VEVOR 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press on Amazon
3 MechMaxx 6x20 Benchtop Mill Drill Best premium small workshop milling and drilling tasks Check price of MechMaxx 6x20 Benchtop Mill Drill on Amazon
4 Garvee 15-Inch Floor Drill Press Also great Users needing 15-inch swing and variable speed Check price of Garvee 15-Inch Floor Drill Press on Amazon
5 Garvee 15-Inch Benchtop Drill Press Also great DIYers needing 15-inch swing benchtop drilling Check price of Garvee 15-Inch Benchtop Drill Press on Amazon
6 Powermatic 15-Inch Benchtop Variable Speed Drill Press Best 115v 15-inch capacity in 115V benchtop form Check price of Powermatic 15-Inch Benchtop Variable Speed Drill Press on Amazon
7 OEMTOOLS 15-Inch Floor Drill Press Also great Large workpieces needing stable floor mounting Check price of OEMTOOLS 15-Inch Floor Drill Press on Amazon

Our 7 picks

Best overall

JET 15-Inch Variable Speed Floor Drill Press

Best for: Deep drilling and heavy-duty workshop use

Motor Power
1 HP
Spindle Speed
400 to 5,000 RPM
Swing
15 in
Spindle Travel
6 in
Chuck Capacity
1/2 in
Voltage
115/220V

View on Amazon: JET 15-Inch Variable Speed Floor Drill Press

The Jet 15-Inch Floor Drill Press delivers heavy-duty performance with a 1 HP motor and variable speed control from 400 to 5,000 RPM. It features a 6-inch spindle travel for deep hole applications and a robust 3-inch column diameter for maximum head support. This 426-pound machine suits users who need precision and stability for serious workshop tasks.

Pros

  • 1 HP motor provides strong torque for tough materials
  • Variable speed range of 400 to 5,000 RPM offers versatility
  • 6-inch spindle travel allows for deep hole drilling
  • 3-inch column diameter ensures maximum head support and stability

Cons

  • Weighs 426 pounds, making it difficult to move
  • Requires 115/220V power, which may limit placement options
  • No variable speed dial mentioned, only handwheel adjustment

Good fit if

  • You need a heavy-duty press for deep drilling tasks
  • You have a dedicated workshop space for a large machine
  • You require high spindle stiffness for precision work

Skip if

  • You need a portable or benchtop drill press
  • You only have 115V outlets and need simpler setup
  • You prefer a lightweight machine for easy relocation

Verdict: Jet 15-Inch Floor Drill Press is ideal for serious woodworkers and metalworkers who prioritize stability and deep drilling capacity over portability.

Best budget

VEVOR 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press

Best for: Small workshops needing laser precision

Motor Power
6.2 Amp, 1 HP
Spindle Speed
530 to 3140 RPM
Swing
12 in
Configuration
Benchtop
Speed Settings
Variable Speed
Amperage
6.2 A

View on Amazon: VEVOR 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press

The VEVOR 12-Inch Benchtop Drill Press offers 1 HP of power with a 6.2 Amp motor. It delivers variable speeds from 530 to 3140 RPM for different materials. The unit includes an X-laser guide for positioning and a tilting worktable. This benchtop model fits smaller workshops where floor space is limited. It suits hobbyists needing precision for wood or light metal projects.

Pros

  • 1 HP motor provides reliable drilling power
  • Variable speed range from 530 to 3140 RPM
  • X-laser guide improves positioning accuracy
  • Table tilts 0-45 degrees for angled holes

Cons

  • 12-inch swing is smaller than the 15-inch models listed
  • Benchtop design may vibrate more on heavy duty tasks
  • No variable speed dial or digital readout mentioned in specs

Good fit if

  • You need a drill press that fits on a workbench
  • You require precise laser alignment for small projects
  • You drill wood or light metals rather than heavy steel

Skip if

  • You need a 15-inch capacity for large stock
  • You prefer a heavy floor-standing model for stability
  • You require variable speed control via a dial or digital display

Verdict: VEVOR 12-Inch Benchtop Drill Press fits users with limited bench space who value laser alignment. It is a compact option for light woodworking and small metal projects.

Best premium

MechMaxx 6x20 Benchtop Mill Drill

Best for: small workshop milling and drilling tasks

Motor Power
1 HP
Spindle Speed
0 to 2500 RPM
Hole Capacity
3/4 in (18mm)
Chuck Capacity
R8 spindle taper
Voltage
110V
Configuration
Benchtop

View on Amazon: MechMaxx 6x20 Benchtop Mill Drill

The MechMaxx 6-inch benchtop mill drill combines drilling with milling capabilities. It features a 1 HP DC brushless motor and variable speeds up to 2500 RPM. The R8 spindle taper supports various tooling for precision work. With a 3/4-inch drill capacity and ±60° head tilt, it handles angled operations. This compact, 180-lb unit suits small workshops needing versatile machining.

Pros

  • 1 HP DC brushless motor for reliable performance
  • Variable speed range from 0 to 2500 RPM
  • R8 spindle taper for broad tooling compatibility
  • ±60° head tilt for angled drilling and milling

Cons

  • Small 3/4-inch maximum drill capacity
  • Limited to 110V single-phase power
  • Heavy 180-lb weight reduces portability

Good fit if

  • You need a compact machine for light milling and drilling
  • You require variable speed control for different materials
  • You work in a small workshop with limited space

Skip if

  • You need to drill holes larger than 3/4 inch
  • You require 220V power input
  • You need a heavy-duty floor-standing unit

Verdict: MechMaxx 6" Benchtop Mill Drill is a versatile choice for hobbyists who need both milling and drilling in a compact footprint. It fits users with small workshops who prioritize precision over large capacity.

Also great

Garvee 15-Inch Floor Drill Press

Best for: Users needing 15-inch swing and variable speed

Motor Power
7.5 Amp
Spindle Speed
12-speed, 288-3084 RPM
Hole Capacity
5/8"
Swing
15 in
Spindle Travel
3.2"
Chuck Capacity
5/8"

View on Amazon: Garvee 15-Inch Floor Drill Press

The Garvee 15-Inch Floor Drill Press features a 7.5 Amp pure copper motor and variable speed settings from 288 to 3084 RPM. It offers a 15-inch swing and a 5/8-inch chuck capacity. The cast iron base provides stability for drilling through wood and metal. This machine suits users who need a dedicated floor-standing unit with continuous speed control for various materials.

Pros

  • 15-inch swing capacity for larger workpieces
  • Continuous variable speed from 288 to 3084 RPM
  • 7.5 Amp pure copper motor for consistent power
  • 3.2-inch spindle travel for deep drilling

Cons

  • Limited to 120V power supply
  • Heavier and bulkier footprint than benchtop models
  • Only 12 speed settings compared to higher-end units

Good fit if

  • You need a 15-inch swing for larger projects
  • You prefer continuous variable speed control
  • You have space for a floor-standing unit

Skip if

  • You require 220V power input
  • You need a compact benchtop design
  • You want more than 12 speed settings

Verdict: The Garvee 15-Inch Floor Drill Press fits users who need a stable, floor-standing machine with a 15-inch swing and continuous speed adjustment for mixed materials.

Also great

Garvee 15-Inch Benchtop Drill Press

Best for: DIYers needing 15-inch swing benchtop drilling

Motor Power
7.5 Amp
Spindle Speed
12-speed, 288-3084 RPM
Hole Capacity
5/8"
Swing
15 in
Spindle Travel
3.2"
Chuck Capacity
5/8"

View on Amazon: Garvee 15-Inch Benchtop Drill Press

The Garvee 15-Inch Benchtop Drill Press offers a 15-inch swing and a 7.5-amp 120V pure copper motor. It provides 12 speed settings ranging from 288 to 3084 RPM for drilling wood and metal. The unit includes a 5/8-inch chuck capacity and a 3.2-inch spindle travel. This benchtop model suits users needing precise holes without offset. It features a tilting table and a swing-away safety guard for better control.

Pros

  • 15-inch swing capacity for large workpieces
  • 7.5-amp pure copper motor for reliable power
  • 12 variable speeds from 288 to 3084 RPM
  • Swing-away safety guard for improved visibility

Cons

  • Limited to 120V single-phase power only
  • Smaller 5/8-inch chuck capacity compared to 1-inch options
  • Benchtop footprint requires stable mounting surface

Good fit if

  • You need a 15-inch swing for wider materials
  • You prefer benchtop models for space efficiency
  • You require variable speeds for metal and wood

Skip if

  • You need 220V power for heavy industrial use
  • You require a 1-inch chuck for large bits
  • You need a floor-standing model for stability

Verdict: Garvee 15-Inch Benchtop Drill Press delivers solid performance for DIYers who need a compact 15-inch swing machine. It fits users who prioritize variable speed control and a tilting table in a benchtop format.

Best 115v

Powermatic 15-Inch Benchtop Variable Speed Drill Press

Best for: 15-inch capacity in 115V benchtop form

Motor Power
3/4 HP
Spindle Speed
250 to 3000 RPM
Swing
15-Inch
Spindle Travel
5"
Voltage
115V
Configuration
Benchtop

View on Amazon: Powermatic 15-Inch Benchtop Variable Speed Drill Press

This benchtop drill press offers a 15-inch swing and a 3/4 HP motor running on 115V power. It features electronic variable speed from 250 to 3000 RPM and a 5-inch quill travel. The cast iron table tilts and rotates for angled work. A digital readout and laser crosshairs aid precision. It suits users needing 15-inch capacity in a benchtop form factor with 115V compatibility.

Pros

  • 15-inch swing capacity for large workpieces
  • Electronic variable speed from 250 to 3000 RPM
  • Cast iron table tilts and rotates 360 degrees
  • Laser crosshairs and digital speed readout

Cons

  • 3/4 HP motor is less powerful than 1 HP alternatives
  • Heavier at 139 pounds, making it less portable
  • Benchtop configuration limits stability compared to floor models

Good fit if

  • You need a 15-inch swing but lack floor space
  • You require 115V power availability
  • You value digital speed readouts and laser guides

Skip if

  • You need more than 3/4 HP motor power
  • You prefer a lighter, more portable unit
  • You want a dedicated floor-standing model

Verdict: Powermatic 15-Inch Benchtop Drill Press delivers 15-inch capacity with 115V convenience and precision aids, fitting workshops where floor space is tight but large swing is needed.

Also great

OEMTOOLS 15-Inch Floor Drill Press

Best for: Large workpieces needing stable floor mounting

Motor Power
7.5 Amp
Spindle Speed
16 speeds, 220 to 3600 RPM
Swing
15"
Spindle Travel
3-1/8"
Chuck Capacity
7/64"-5/8"
Voltage
120V

View on Amazon: OEMTOOLS 15-Inch Floor Drill Press

This OEMTOOLS floor drill press features a 15-inch swing and a 7.5-amp motor running on 120V power. It offers 16 speeds from 220 to 3600 RPM, allowing you to adjust for various materials. The 3-1/8-inch spindle travel and 360-degree tilting table support precise, heavy-duty work. You get a robust build with a cast iron table for stability during extended drilling sessions.

Pros

  • 15-inch swing accommodates large projects
  • 16 speeds range from 220 to 3600 RPM
  • 3-1/8-inch spindle travel for depth consistency
  • Table rotates 360 degrees and tilts 45 degrees

Cons

  • Single voltage rating of 120V limits power options
  • 7/64-inch to 5/8-inch chuck capacity is smaller than some competitors
  • Heavier and bulkier footprint than benchtop alternatives

Good fit if

  • You need a 15-inch swing for wide workpieces
  • You require variable speeds for different material types
  • You prefer a floor-standing unit for stability

Skip if

  • You need 220V power for higher torque
  • You have limited floor space for a large unit
  • You require a chuck capacity larger than 5/8-inch

Verdict: OEMTOOLS 15" 7.5A Floor Drill Press suits users needing a stable, floor-mounted machine with a wide 15-inch swing. It is ideal for those who value precise speed control and a tilting table for intricate projects.

Specifications side by side

Spec JET 15-Inch Variable Speed Floor Drill Press VEVOR 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press MechMaxx 6x20 Benchtop Mill Drill Garvee 15-Inch Floor Drill Press Garvee 15-Inch Benchtop Drill Press Powermatic 15-Inch Benchtop Variable Speed Drill Press OEMTOOLS 15-Inch Floor Drill Press
Motor Power 1 HP 6.2 Amp, 1 HP 1 HP 7.5 Amp 7.5 Amp 3/4 HP 7.5 Amp
Spindle Speed 400 to 5,000 RPM 530 to 3140 RPM 0 to 2500 RPM 12-speed, 288-3084 RPM 12-speed, 288-3084 RPM 250 to 3000 RPM 16 speeds, 220 to 3600 RPM
Hole Capacity not specified not specified 3/4 in (18mm) 5/8" 5/8" not specified not specified
Swing 15 in 12 in not specified 15 in 15 in 15-Inch 15"
Spindle Travel 6 in not specified not specified 3.2" 3.2" 5" 3-1/8"
Chuck Capacity 1/2 in not specified R8 spindle taper 5/8" 5/8" not specified 7/64"-5/8"
Voltage 115/220V not specified 110V 120V 120V 115V 120V
Configuration not specified Benchtop Benchtop Benchtop Benchtop Benchtop not specified
Speed Settings Variable Speed Variable Speed Variable Speed Variable Speed Variable Speed Variable Speed Variable Speed
Amperage not specified 6.2 A not specified 7.5 A 7.5 A not specified 7.5 A
Features not specified Tilting Table, Work Light, Laser Guide not specified Tilting Table Tilting Table not specified not specified
Target Material not specified Metal, Wood not specified Metal, Wood Metal, Wood not specified not specified
Intended Use not specified not specified DIY not specified not specified not specified not specified
Spindle Taper not specified not specified R8 not specified not specified not specified not specified
Dimensions 31.5 × 21.5 × 67.5 inches 14.4 × 22.4 × 37.4 inches 19 × 31 × 20 inches 57 × 20.5 × 10 inches 57 × 20.5 × 10 inches 14.2 × 23.2 × 47.2 inches 10.1 × 20.1 × 56.3 inches
Weight 426 pounds 84.3 pounds not specified not specified not specified 139 pounds not specified
Size 44-1/2 12 in not specified 15 in Copper Motor Floor Drill Press not specified not specified One Size
Color Black Black+orange Customized not specified not specified Powermatic Gold Green
Model J-A5816 1216BVS 500200 01 01 PM2815BT 24992

Frequently asked questions

Which drill press offers the best 115V benchtop option for a 15-inch swing?

The Powermatic PM2815BT is the top choice for users needing 115V power with a 15-inch capacity. It features a 3/4 HP motor and variable speed settings. At 139 pounds, it provides a stable benchtop footprint. This model fits workshops where floor space is limited but large swing is required.

Is there a benchtop alternative with a laser guide for precision?

Yes, the VEVOR 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press includes a laser guide for alignment. It is a benchtop unit with a 1 HP motor and tilting table. Weighing 84.3 pounds, it suits small workshops. This model targets light woodworking and small metal projects where precision is key.

Can I find a machine that does both milling and drilling?

The MechMaxx 6x20 Benchtop Mill Drill serves as a versatile mill and drill combination. It features a 1 HP motor, variable speed, and an R8 spindle taper. This compact unit fits hobbyists who need dual functionality. It prioritizes precision over large capacity in a small footprint.

What is the heaviest drill press in this list for maximum stability?

The Jet J-A5816 is the heaviest unit at 426 pounds. It is a floor-standing model with a 15-inch swing and 1 HP motor. Its substantial weight ensures stability during heavy-duty use. This machine is ideal for serious woodworkers and metalworkers who prioritize deep drilling capacity.

Are there 15-inch swing options available in a benchtop configuration?

The Garvee 15-Inch Benchtop Drill Press offers a 15-inch swing in a benchtop format. It runs on 120V with a 7.5 A motor and variable speed. The unit includes a tilting table for mixed materials. It suits DIYers needing compact size without sacrificing swing capacity.

Which floor drill press uses a 220V power source?

The Jet 15-Inch Variable Speed Floor Drill Press operates on 220V power. It features a 1 HP motor and variable speed control. Measuring 67.5 inches in height, it is a substantial floor-standing machine. This configuration suits users who have access to 220V outlets and need heavy-duty performance.

See also