Palmgren 8" Bench Top Drill Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
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You might be looking for palmgren 8 bench top drill alternatives because your project requires a different capacity or feature set. The Palmgren 8-Inch Benchtop Drill Press offers a standard 8-inch swing in a compact form. This makes it suitable for basic drilling tasks where space is limited. However, you may need more power, a larger swing, or specialized mounting options that this model does not provide.
We selected these 6 picks because their published specifications overlap with or exceed the original model’s capabilities. The list includes benchtop units with wider swings, such as the WEN 12-Inch and Jet 10-Inch models, for users needing greater reach. It also features magnetic drill presses like the VEVOR and ZELCAN options for professionals drilling thick steel. Each alternative addresses specific needs, from variable speed control to high magnetic holding force. You can compare these specs to find the tool that fits your workshop constraints and material requirements.
How each alternative compares
WEN 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press
The WEN 12-Inch model expands your drilling capacity with a 12-inch swing, compared to the 8-inch limit on the Palmgren. It includes a 6.2-amp motor and variable speed settings, offering more control than the fixed-speed Palmgren. This press also features a digital readout and laser guide for precision. It is larger and heavier at 88 pounds, so it requires more bench space. Choose this if you need to drill larger holes or work with variable speeds for different materials.
VEVOR 1300W 1.57-Inch Magnetic Drill Press
The VEVOR 1300W Magnetic Drill Press is designed for steel fabrication rather than general benchtop use. It uses a powerful magnetic base instead of a traditional stand, allowing it to attach to vertical surfaces. With a 6-inch cutting width, it handles thick steel that standard presses cannot. It lacks variable speed, which differs from the Palmgren. This tool is heavier and specialized. Pick this option if you need to drill large holes in structural steel or work on-site where portability and holding power are critical.
VEVOR 8-Inch 5-Speed Benchtop Drill Press
The VEVOR 8-Inch 5-Speed Benchtop Drill Press matches the Palmgren swing but adds five speed settings. This allows you to adjust RPM for various materials, unlike the fixed speed of the Palmgren. It includes a tilting table and work light for better visibility and angle drilling. Weighing only 25.4 pounds, it is much lighter and easier to move. It is ideal for hobbyists in small workshops who need flexibility. Choose this if variable speed and a tilting table are more important to you than the Palmgren's simpler design.
ZELCAN 1550W 2-Inch Magnetic Drill Press
The ZELCAN 1550W Magnetic Drill Press is built for heavy-duty steel work, not general benchtop tasks. It offers a 2-inch cutting capacity and a powerful 1550W motor. Like other magnetic drills, it attaches to metal surfaces rather than sitting on a bench. It lacks the adjustable table of the Palmgren. This unit is heavier and designed for industrial fabrication. Select this alternative if your primary need is drilling large holes in thick steel plates or beams where a traditional drill press cannot be used.
Jet 10-Inch Benchtop Drill Press
The Jet 10-Inch Benchtop Drill Press provides a 10-inch swing, giving you more capacity than the 8-inch Palmgren. It is a fixed-speed unit, similar to the Palmgren, but offers a wider range for drilling larger workpieces. Weighing 48.5 pounds, it is heavier but remains a portable benchtop option. It is best for users who need more reach without switching to a floor model. Choose this if you require a 10-inch swing and prefer the reliability of fixed speeds over variable adjustments.
DEXSO 1650W Magnetic Drill Press
The DEXSO 1650W Magnetic Drill Press is a specialized tool for portable steel fabrication. It features variable speed control, which the Palmgren lacks, allowing for better material handling. It uses a magnetic base for secure attachment to steel surfaces. This press is lighter than most benchtop models but designed for construction sites. It is not suitable for general woodworking. Pick this option if you need to drill holes in steel structures on-site and require variable speed for different bit types and materials.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Palmgren 8-Inch Benchtop Drill Press
Best for: standard 8-inch swing drilling tasks
- Swing
- 8"
- Dimensions
- 1 × 1 × 1 inches
View on Amazon: Palmgren 8-Inch Benchtop Drill Press Affiliate link
The Palmgren 8-inch benchtop drill press offers a standard 8-inch swing capacity for general workshop tasks. This model, identified by model number 9680148, provides a reliable foundation for drilling holes in wood and metal. It is designed for users who need a compact footprint without sacrificing the ability to handle larger workpieces. The straightforward design focuses on core functionality, making it a suitable option for hobbyists and light-duty professional use.
Pros
- 8-inch swing capacity for versatile workpiece sizes
- Compact benchtop design saves workspace
- Model 9680148 ensures specific part compatibility
Cons
- Lacks listed variable speed settings compared to competitors
- No induction motor listed for heavy-duty durability
- Dimensions provided are minimal, suggesting limited table size
Good fit if
- You need a standard 8-inch swing for general drilling
- You prefer a simple, no-frills benchtop machine
- You have limited bench space for equipment
Skip if
- You require variable speed control for different materials
- You need to drill large diameter holes beyond 8 inches
- You prefer heavy-duty induction motors for continuous use
Verdict: Palmgren 8-Inch Benchtop Drill Press serves users who prioritize a standard 8-inch swing in a compact form. It fits those who need basic drilling capabilities without advanced features like variable speeds or large magnetic bases.
WEN 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press
Best for: Larger capacity benchtop drilling tasks
- Motor Power
- 6.2-amp
- Spindle Speed
- 580 to 3100 RPM
- Swing
- 12-inch
- Spindle Travel
- 3-1/8-inch
- Chuck Capacity
- 5/8-inch
- Configuration
- Benchtop
View on Amazon: WEN 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press Affiliate link
This WEN benchtop drill press features a 12-inch swing and a 6.2-amp induction motor. It offers variable speeds from 580 to 3100 RPM with a digital readout for precision. The 3-1/8-inch spindle travel and 5/8-inch keyed chuck handle standard tasks. An included laser guide and LED work light improve accuracy. It suits users needing a larger capacity than 8-inch models.
Pros
- 12-inch swing capacity for larger workpieces
- 6.2-amp induction motor for consistent power
- Digital speed readout for precise RPM control
- Includes laser guide and overhead LED light
- Variable speed range from 580 to 3100 RPM
Cons
- Heavier build at 88 pounds
- Keyed chuck requires manual key usage
- Limited to 5/8-inch drill bit capacity
Good fit if
- You need a 12-inch swing for wider projects
- You want a digital speed readout for accuracy
- You prefer laser and LED work aids
Skip if
- You require a magnetic drill press for vertical surfaces
- You need a capacity larger than 12 inches
- You prefer a keyedless chuck for quick changes
Verdict: WEN 12-Inch Benchtop Drill Press delivers a robust 6.2-amp motor and 12-inch swing for users needing more capacity than standard 8-inch models. The digital readout and laser guide make it a solid choice for precision woodworking and metalworking tasks.
VEVOR 1300W 1.57-Inch Magnetic Drill Press
Best for: drilling large holes in thick steel
- 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 uses a 1300W motor to drill holes up to 1.57 inches in diameter. It generates 2922 lbf of magnetic force to secure the unit to steel surfaces. The spindle travel is 2 inches, and it runs at 810 RPM. It includes an 11-piece drill bit set. This tool is designed for industrial applications and heavy steel work.
Pros
- 1300W copper motor for high power
- 2922 lbf magnetic holding force
- 1.57-inch maximum boring diameter
- Includes 11-piece drill bit set
Cons
- Single speed of 810 RPM
- Requires ferrous metal surface for use
- Limited to 1.57-inch hole capacity
Good fit if
- You need to drill thick steel plates
- You require a stable base for precision
- You work on vertical or overhead surfaces
Skip if
- You drill wood or non-metal materials
- You need variable speed control
- You work on non-magnetic surfaces
Verdict: VEVOR 1300W Magnetic Drill Press is a specialized tool for drilling large holes in steel. It suits professionals who need high magnetic holding force and do not require variable speeds.
VEVOR 8-Inch 5-Speed Benchtop Drill Press
Best for: variable speed drilling in small workshops
- Motor Power
- 2.5 A
- Spindle Speed
- 5-speed, 750–3200 RPM
- Hole Capacity
- 1/2 in
- Swing
- 8 in
- Spindle Travel
- 2 in
- Configuration
- Benchtop
View on Amazon: VEVOR 8-Inch 5-Speed Benchtop Drill Press Affiliate link
The VEVOR 8 in Benchtop Drill Press features a 2.5A induction motor and five speeds from 750 to 3200 RPM. It includes a tilting table and an integrated LED work light. This machine suits you if you need variable speed control for metal or wood. The 2-inch spindle travel and 1/2-inch hole capacity handle standard workshop tasks. It is a practical option for general drilling needs.
Pros
- 2.5A induction motor for stable performance
- Five speeds ranging from 750 to 3200 RPM
- Tilting table adjusts up to 45 degrees
- Integrated LED work light for visibility
Cons
- 1/2-inch hole capacity is smaller than 8-inch models
- 2-inch spindle travel limits deep hole drilling
- 25.4-pound weight offers less stability than cast iron units
Good fit if
- You need variable speeds for different materials
- You require a tilting table for angled holes
- You want a lightweight benchtop machine
Skip if
- You need to drill large diameter holes
- You require high stability for heavy metalwork
- You prefer a cast iron base for vibration damping
Verdict: VEVOR 8 in Benchtop Drill Press is a versatile tool for hobbyists who need adjustable speeds and a tilting table. It fits small workshops where space and weight are constraints.
ZELCAN 1550W 2-Inch Magnetic Drill Press
Best for: heavy-duty steel fabrication and large holes
- Motor Power
- 1550W
- Spindle Speed
- 650 rpm
- Hole Capacity
- 2"
- Spindle Travel
- 2"
- Magnetic Force
- 3125 lbf / 13900N
- Configuration
- Magnetic
View on Amazon: ZELCAN 1550W 2-Inch Magnetic Drill Press Affiliate link
This ZELCAN magnetic drill press features a 1550W copper motor and anchors with 3125 lbf of magnetic force. It drills holes up to 2 inches in diameter and depth on ferrous metals. The unit includes a 16.9 fl oz coolant tank and stepless speed control. You should choose this tool if you need high power for industrial steel fabrication or heavy-duty metalworking tasks.
Pros
- 1550W copper motor delivers strong drilling power
- 3125 lbf magnetic force secures the unit on metal
- Drills up to 2 inches in diameter and depth
- 16.9 fl oz coolant tank manages heat effectively
- Stepless speed control allows precise adjustment
Cons
- Spindle speed is fixed at 650 rpm
- Weighs 45.9 pounds, making it less portable
- Includes only one variable speed setting
Good fit if
- You need to drill large holes in thick steel plates
- You work on vertical or overhead ferrous surfaces
- You require a powerful motor for industrial fabrication
Skip if
- You need variable speeds for different materials
- You are drilling into wood or non-metal surfaces
- You require a lightweight tool for frequent transport
Verdict: ZELCAN 1550W Magnetic Drill Press is a heavy-duty tool for professionals drilling large holes in steel. It suits industrial fabrication where high magnetic force and a powerful motor are essential.
Jet 10-Inch Benchtop Drill Press
Best for: Users needing a 10-inch swing on a benchtop
- Motor Power
- 1/3 HP, 6.2A
- Spindle Speed
- 630 to 3300 RPM, 5 speeds
- Swing
- 10 Inch
- Chuck Capacity
- JT33 Chuck, 1/16-1/2"
- Voltage
- 120V
- Amperage
- 6.2 A
View on Amazon: Jet 10-Inch Benchtop Drill Press Affiliate link
The Jet 10-inch drill press offers a 630 to 3300 RPM speed range with five fixed settings. Its 10-inch swing handles core drilling in a compact footprint. The table tilts ±45° for angled work. It runs on 120V power and weighs 48.5 pounds. This model suits users needing a wider drilling capacity than standard 8-inch units while maintaining benchtop portability.
Pros
- 10-inch swing capacity for larger workpieces
- Five speed settings from 630 to 3300 RPM
- Table tilts ±45° for angled drilling
- Compact 48.5-pound weight for easy repositioning
Cons
- Only five fixed speeds limit fine-tuning
- No variable speed control for delicate materials
- 120V plug limits use on high-power circuits
Good fit if
- You need a 10-inch swing for larger stock
- You prefer fixed speeds for consistent drilling
- You want a lighter benchtop unit under 50 lbs
Skip if
- You require variable speed control for precision work
- You need to drill holes larger than 10 inches
- You only have space for an 8-inch swing unit
Verdict: Jet 10-Inch Benchtop Drill Press fits users who need a wider 10-inch swing than standard 8-inch models but still want a portable, 120V benchtop unit. It is best for those who value fixed speed reliability over variable adjustment.
DEXSO 1650W Magnetic Drill Press
Best for: portable steel fabrication and construction
- Motor Power
- 1650W
- Spindle Speed
- 10-speed, 810 RPM
- Hole Capacity
- 1.57"
- Magnetic Force
- 2922 Lbf
- Configuration
- Magnetic
- Target Material
- Plastic
View on Amazon: DEXSO 1650W Magnetic Drill Press Affiliate link
This magnetic drill press uses a 1650W pure copper motor to generate 2922 Lbf of holding force. It drills up to 1.57 inches with adjustable speed up to 810 RPM. The unit weighs 34.2 pounds and includes 10 hollow drill bits. You get a tri-crank handle for comfort and a titanium-magnesium alloy guide rail. It suits heavy-duty industrial work on steel fabrication or construction sites.
Pros
- 1650W motor delivers 2922 Lbf holding force
- Drills holes up to 1.57 inches in diameter
- Adjustable speed reaches 810 RPM
- Includes 10 hollow drill bits and 3 twist drills
Cons
- Heavier at 34.2 pounds than benchtop alternatives
- Boring diameter is smaller than 2-inch models
- Requires a flat magnetic surface to operate
Good fit if
- You need to drill thick steel on job sites
- You require high holding force for vertical work
- You want variable speed control for different materials
Skip if
- You prefer a stationary benchtop drill press
- You need to drill holes larger than 1.57 inches
- You work on curved or uneven surfaces
Verdict: DEXSO 1650W Magnetic Drill Press fits contractors who need portable power for steel fabrication. It delivers strong holding force and variable speed for heavy-duty metalworking tasks.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Palmgren 8-Inch Benchtop Drill Press | WEN 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press | VEVOR 1300W 1.57-Inch Magnetic Drill Press | VEVOR 8-Inch 5-Speed Benchtop Drill Press | ZELCAN 1550W 2-Inch Magnetic Drill Press | Jet 10-Inch Benchtop Drill Press | DEXSO 1650W Magnetic Drill Press |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Motor Power | not stated | 6.2-amp | 1300W | 2.5 A | 1550W | 1/3 HP, 6.2A | 1650W |
| Spindle Speed | not stated | 580 to 3100 RPM | 810 RPM | 5-speed, 750–3200 RPM | 650 rpm | 630 to 3300 RPM, 5 speeds | 10-speed, 810 RPM |
| Hole Capacity | not stated | not stated | 1.57" | 1/2 in | 2" | not stated | 1.57" |
| Swing | 8" | 12-inch | not stated | 8 in | not stated | 10 Inch | not stated |
| Spindle Travel | not stated | 3-1/8-inch | 2" | 2 in | 2" | not stated | not stated |
| Magnetic Force | not stated | not stated | 2922lbf / 13000N | not stated | 3125 lbf / 13900N | not stated | 2922 Lbf |
| Chuck Capacity | not stated | 5/8-inch | not stated | not stated | not stated | JT33 Chuck, 1/16-1/2" | not stated |
| Voltage | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | 120V | not stated |
| Configuration | not stated | Benchtop | Magnetic | Benchtop | Magnetic | not stated | Magnetic |
| Speed Settings | not stated | Variable Speed | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Amperage | not stated | 6.2 A | not stated | 5 A | not stated | 6.2 A | not stated |
| Features | not stated | Work Light, Laser Guide | not stated | Tilting Table, Work Light | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Motor Wattage | not stated | not stated | 1300W | not stated | 1550W | not stated | not stated |
| Target Material | not stated | not stated | Metal | Metal, Wood | Metal | not stated | Plastic |
| Design | not stated | not stated | Portable | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Cutting Capacity | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | 2-Inch | not stated | not stated |
| Cutting Width | not stated | not stated | 6-Inch | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Dimensions | 1 × 1 × 1 inches | 22 × 14.5 × 37 inches | 4.7 × 14.2 × 10.6 inches | 18.9 × 9.8 × 1.7 inches | 13 × 5.51 × 15.7 inches | 13.4 × 19 × 28.8 inches | 10.6 × 4.7 × 14.2 inches |
| Weight | not stated | 88 pounds | 28.2 pounds | 25.4 pounds | 45.9 pounds | 48.5 pounds | 34.2 pounds |
| Size | One Size | 6.2-Amp Motor | 1.6 in 11PCS | 8 in | Update 1550W | not stated | 1650W-1.57" with Speed Control |
| Color | Multi | Orange | multi | Orange | Blue | not stated | not stated |
| Model | 9680148 | DP1263V | Magnetic Drill | DP8 | 18031 | JWBS-10 | bka-TWd-EmKVzUA4TSAiWONTbM-zx |
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Frequently asked questions
Which drill press has the largest swing capacity?
The WEN 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press offers the largest swing at 12 inches. This exceeds the 8-inch swing of the Palmgren and the 10-inch swing of the Jet model. It also features a 6.2-amp motor and variable speed settings for greater control.
What is the best magnetic drill for thick steel?
The ZELCAN 1550W Magnetic Drill Press is designed for heavy-duty steel fabrication. It features a 1550-watt motor and a 2-inch cutting capacity. The VEVOR 1300W model is another option for large holes in steel, though it has a smaller 6-inch cutting width.
Which model includes a tilting table?
The VEVOR 8-Inch 5-Speed Benchtop Drill Press includes a tilting table. This feature allows for angled drilling in small workshops. It also comes with a work light and operates at 5 amperage, making it suitable for both metal and wood tasks.
Is there a benchtop drill with variable speed?
Yes, the WEN 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press offers variable speed control. The VEVOR 8-Inch 5-Speed model also provides adjustable speeds with five settings. These options allow you to adjust rotation based on the material, unlike the fixed-speed Palmgren and Jet models.
Which drill press is the lightest?
The VEVOR 8-Inch 5-Speed Benchtop Drill Press is the lightest option at 25.4 pounds. It is followed by the VEVOR 1300W Magnetic Drill at 28.2 pounds. These lightweight models are easier to move in small workshops compared to heavier industrial units.
What is the widest swing on a benchtop model?
The Jet 10-Inch Benchtop Drill Press has the widest swing among traditional benchtop models at 10 inches. It provides more capacity than the 8-inch Palmgren and VEVOR models. However, it is a fixed-speed unit, unlike the variable-speed WEN 12-inch model.
Which magnetic drill is best for portable construction?
The DEXSO 1650W Magnetic Drill Press is suitable for portable steel fabrication. It features variable speed control and strong holding force for construction tasks. It weighs 34.2 pounds, making it manageable for contractors who need to move the tool between job sites.