6 Best Alternatives to the Unibor Low Profile Magnetic Drill (2026)

How each alternative compares

VEVOR 1200W Magnetic Drill Press

The VEVOR 1200W Magnetic Drill Press offers a significantly smaller footprint than the Unibor, measuring 8.3 by 11.4 inches. It weighs only 25.6 pounds, making it far more portable for job sites. However, it sacrifices cutting capacity, handling only 1.6-inch holes compared to the Unibor’s 2-inch limit. It also features a 6-inch cutting width, which may be excessive for small tasks but useful for larger annular cutters. You should choose this if you prioritize weight and compact storage over maximum hole size. The variable speed settings and magnetic configuration remain consistent with the Unibor, ensuring familiar operation for steel drilling tasks.

WEN 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press

The WEN 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press is a benchtop model, not a magnetic drill, so it lacks portability and magnetic mounting. It offers a 12-inch swing, providing a larger work envelope for general-purpose tasks. The 6.2-amp motor and variable speed settings provide precise control for woodworking and light metalwork. It includes a laser guide and work light for accuracy. You should pick this if you need a stationary, stable drilling solution rather than a portable magnetic unit. It gives up the ability to drill on vertical surfaces or thick plates but offers greater stability and precision for benchtop operations. The 88-pound weight ensures it stays put during use.

VEVOR 1450W Variable Speed Magnetic Drill

The VEVOR 1450W Variable Speed Magnetic Drill provides more power than the Unibor’s 1200W motor, making it suitable for tougher steel fabrication. It maintains a similar compact design, weighing 26.5 pounds and measuring 7.1 by 11 inches. It includes tapping capabilities, adding versatility beyond simple drilling. The variable speed settings allow for optimized performance on different materials. You should choose this if you need higher wattage for thicker plates while still wanting a portable magnetic drill. It gives up the Unibor’s specific low-profile design and larger 2-inch capacity, focusing instead on raw power and portability for industrial applications. The orange color and portable design make it easy to identify and move.

VEVOR 1.6-Inch Variable Speed Magnetic Drill Press

The VEVOR 1.6-Inch Variable Speed Magnetic Drill Press is nearly identical in form to the budget VEVOR model, weighing 26.5 pounds and measuring 7.3 by 11 inches. It offers 1.6-inch hole capacity, which is smaller than the Unibor’s 2-inch limit. It includes a 6-inch cutting width and variable speed settings for precise control. You should pick this if you need a lightweight, portable magnetic drill for smaller diameter holes. It gives up the larger capacity and low-profile design of the Unibor, favoring ease of transport and lower weight. The magnetic configuration and variable speeds ensure it remains a capable tool for steel work, just with a smaller range of application.

VEVOR 1550W 2-Inch Magnetic Drill Press

The VEVOR 1550W 2-Inch Magnetic Drill Press matches the Unibor’s 2-inch hole capacity but offers higher power at 1550W. It is designed for thick mild steel fabrication, providing strong magnetic force. It weighs 39 pounds, which is heavier than the Unibor but still portable. The dimensions are 5.1 by 14.2 inches, making it more compact in width than the Unibor. You should choose this if you need maximum power for heavy-gauge materials while retaining the 2-inch capacity. It gives up the Unibor’s specific low-profile design and larger footprint, focusing on power density. The variable speed settings and portable design make it suitable for construction sites where heavy-duty drilling is required.

VEVOR 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press

The VEVOR 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press is a benchtop unit, not a magnetic drill, so it lacks portability and magnetic mounting. It features a tilting table and laser guide for angled drilling precision. The 12-inch swing and 6.2-amp motor provide stability for detailed woodworking and light metal projects. It weighs 84.3 pounds, ensuring it remains stationary during use. You should pick this if you need angled drilling capabilities and a stable platform. It gives up the magnetic configuration and portability of the Unibor, offering instead a versatile benchtop solution for multiple materials. The work light and laser guide enhance accuracy, making it ideal for detailed work rather than heavy industrial drilling.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Unibor Low Profile Magnetic Drill Press

Best for: low profile drilling with 2-inch capacity

Motor Power

1200W

Spindle Speed

Variable speed

Hole Capacity

2"

Configuration

Magnetic

Features

Work Light

Design

Low Profile

View on Amazon: Unibor Low Profile Magnetic Drill Press

The Unibor ELP5000 is a low profile magnetic drill press with a 2-inch hole capacity and a 1200W motor. It features variable speed control and DrillSmart technology to extend equipment lifespan. The design includes a work light and smart panel for right-angle drilling. This unit suits users needing portable core drilling or spot weld cutting in confined spaces.

Pros

• 2-inch cutter capacity for large holes
• 1200W motor provides strong torque
• Variable speed control for precision
• DrillSmart technology extends tool life
• Integrated work light for visibility

Cons

• 1200W motor is less powerful than 1450W or 1550W competitors
• Variable speed lacks specific RPM range details
• Large footprint at 16x32x64 inches

Good fit if

• You need to drill 2-inch holes in thick steel
• You require a low profile design for tight spaces
• You want DrillSmart technology to protect your cutters

Skip if

• You need speeds above 550 RPM
• You require a motor stronger than 1200W
• You need a compact unit under 16 inches wide

Verdict: Unibor ELP5000 Low Profile Mag Drill offers a 2-inch capacity and 1200W power for heavy-duty low-profile tasks. It fits users prioritizing cutter protection and large hole sizes over maximum speed or compactness.

2 Best budget

VEVOR 1200W Magnetic Drill Press

Best for: Small diameter steel drilling

Motor Power

1200W

Spindle Speed

0-850 RPM (10-speed)

Hole Capacity

1.6 in (40 mm)

Spindle Travel

2 in / 50 mm

Magnetic Force

2810 lbf / 12500 N

Configuration

Magnetic

View on Amazon: VEVOR 1200W Magnetic Drill Press

This VEVOR magnetic drill press features a 1200W motor and 2810 lbf holding force. It drills up to 1.6 inches with a 2-inch depth. The 0-850 RPM variable speed includes ten settings. It weighs 25.6 pounds and measures 11.4 by 8.3 by 15 inches. You get two coring bits. It suits steel fabrication where portability matters.

Pros

• 1200W copper motor for tough materials
• 2810 lbf magnetic holding force
• Ten adjustable speed settings
• Includes two coring bits
• Built-in measurement scale for accuracy

Cons

• Smaller 1.6-inch boring diameter than competitors
• Lower 1200W motor power than 1450W models
• Not suitable for stainless steel or cast iron

Good fit if

• You need a lighter drill under 26 pounds
• You drill holes up to 1.6 inches wide
• You work with mild steel plates

Skip if

• You require drilling larger than 1.6 inches
• You drill stainless steel or cast iron
• You need a motor over 1200W

Verdict: VEVOR 1.6 in Magnetic Drill Press offers solid holding power for smaller holes. It fits users who prioritize weight and budget over maximum capacity.

3 Best premium

WEN 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press

Best for: General purpose 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

This benchtop drill press features a 6.2-amp motor and a 12-inch swing. It offers variable speed settings from 580 to 3100 RPM with a digital readout. The 5/8-inch chuck accepts standard bits, while the 3-1/8-inch spindle travel handles deeper holes. You get laser and LED guides for precision. It suits hobbyists needing reliable benchtop performance for general drilling tasks.

Pros

• 6.2-amp induction motor provides consistent power
• Variable speed range of 580 to 3100 RPM
• Digital speed readout for precise RPM control
• Includes laser guide and overhead LED light
• Cast iron construction adds stability

Cons

• 5/8-inch chuck capacity limits larger bit usage
• 88-pound weight makes it less portable
• Benchtop configuration lacks magnetic base stability

Good fit if

• You need precise speed control for various materials
• You want built-in laser and LED lighting
• You prefer a stable cast iron benchtop unit

Skip if

• You require drilling through thick steel plates
• You need a magnetic base for overhead work
• You need a chuck larger than 5/8-inch

Verdict: WEN 12-Inch Benchtop Drill Press delivers solid precision for general woodworking and light metalwork. It fits users who value digital speed control and built-in guides over magnetic portability.

4 Also great

VEVOR 1450W Variable Speed Magnetic Drill

Best for: steel fabrication on thick plates

Motor Power

1450W

Spindle Speed

0-750 RPM

Hole Capacity

2" / 50 mm

Spindle Travel

2" / 50 mm

Magnetic Force

2922 lbf / 13,000 N

Configuration

Magnetic

View on Amazon: VEVOR 1450W Variable Speed Magnetic Drill

This VEVOR magnetic drill press features a 1450W motor and delivers 2922 lbf of holding force. It drills up to 2 inches in diameter at speeds from 0 to 750 RPM. The unit includes 10 speed settings and a built-in scale for precise measurements. You get a portable tool designed for steel fabrication and equipment installation on plates at least 0.39 inches thick.

Pros

• 1450W copper motor provides stable performance
• 2922 lbf holding force secures operation at various angles
• 10-speed settings allow precise control for different hole diameters
• Built-in scale aids in accurate distance measurement

Cons

• Limited to steel plates 0.39 inches or thicker
• Not suitable for stainless steel or cast iron
• Requires a security rope for inverted or horizontal drilling

Good fit if

• You need a portable drill for steel fabrication
• You work on plates at least 0.39 inches thick
• You require variable speed settings for different materials

Skip if

• You drill stainless steel or cast iron
• You work on plates thinner than 0.39 inches
• You need a drill for inverted positions without a rope

Verdict: VEVOR 1450W Portable Mag Drill offers strong holding force and variable speeds for steel fabrication. It fits users working on thick steel plates who need portable, precise drilling capabilities.

5 Also great

VEVOR 1.6-Inch Variable Speed Magnetic Drill Press

Best for: portable steel drilling up to 1.6 inches

Motor Power

1450W

Spindle Speed

0-800 RPM (10-speed)

Hole Capacity

1.6 in (40 mm)

Spindle Travel

2 in / 50 mm

Magnetic Force

2810 lbf / 12500 N

Configuration

Magnetic

View on Amazon: VEVOR 1.6-Inch Variable Speed Magnetic Drill Press

This VEVOR magnetic drill press features a 1450W motor and generates 2810 lbf of holding force. It drills holes up to 1.6 inches in diameter with a 2-inch depth. The unit offers variable speed settings from 0-800 RPM across ten speeds. It weighs 26.5 pounds and includes a scale for precise depth control. You should use this tool for steel fabrication or industrial work where portability and strong magnetic adhesion are required.

Pros

• 1450W copper motor for high power output
• 2810 lbf magnetic force for stable holding
• 10-speed variable control for precision
• Built-in depth scale for accuracy

Cons

• 1.6 inch max boring diameter is smaller than 2 inch competitors
• Not suitable for stainless steel or cast iron
• Requires steel plate thickness of at least 0.39 inches

Good fit if

• You need a portable drill for steel plates over 10 mm thick
• You require high magnetic holding force for vertical or inverted drilling
• You want variable speed control for different core drill sizes

Skip if

• You need to drill holes larger than 1.6 inches
• You work with stainless steel or cast iron materials
• You require a drill for plates thinner than 0.39 inches

Verdict: The VEVOR 1450W Magnetic Drill Press offers strong holding power and variable speeds for steel work. It fits users who need portability and precise depth control for plates over 10 mm thick.

6 Best 1550w

VEVOR 1550W 2-Inch Magnetic Drill Press

Best for: Thick mild steel fabrication and construction

Motor Power

1550W

Spindle Speed

0-550 RPM

Hole Capacity

2" / 50 mm

Spindle Travel

2" / 50 mm

Magnetic Force

2922 lbf / 13,000 N

Configuration

Magnetic

View on Amazon: VEVOR 1550W 2-Inch Magnetic Drill Press

This VEVOR magnetic drill press features a 1550W motor and 2922 lbf holding force. It offers a 2-inch core drilling capacity with variable speed control from 0 to 550 RPM. The unit includes 10 speed settings and a built-in scale for precision. It weighs 39 pounds and measures 14.2 inches in length. This model suits users needing high power for thick steel plates in fabrication or construction tasks.

Pros

• 1550W copper motor for stable performance
• 2922 lbf holding force with high-purity iron core
• 2-inch max coring diameter and depth
• 10-speed settings for precise hole control
• Built-in scale for accurate measurement

Cons

• Limited to 550 RPM maximum spindle speed
• Not suitable for stainless steel or cast iron
• Requires steel plates at least 10 mm thick

Good fit if

• You need high holding force for vertical or inverted drilling
• You work with mild steel plates thicker than 10 mm
• You require variable speed control for different hole sizes

Skip if

• You drill into stainless steel or cast iron materials
• You need a spindle speed higher than 550 RPM
• You require a drill for plates thinner than 10 mm

Verdict: VEVOR 1550W Mag Drill 2" Capacity delivers strong magnetic force and high wattage for thick mild steel. It fits fabricators who need reliable power and precision on heavy gauge materials.

7 Best tilting table

VEVOR 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press

Best for: Angled drilling with laser accuracy

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 12-inch swing. You get variable speeds from 530 to 3140 RPM for different materials. The tilting table adjusts 0 to 45 degrees left or right. An X-laser guide helps you place holes accurately. This machine suits home workshops needing precise angled drilling.

Pros

• 1 HP motor delivers reliable power for wood and light metal
• Variable speed range of 530 to 3140 RPM with digital readout
• Tilting table adjusts 0 to 45 degrees for angled work
• X-laser guide reduces measuring errors and material waste

Cons

• Heavier at 84.3 pounds compared to lighter alternatives
• Smaller 12-inch swing limits large workpiece capacity
• Lower magnetic holding force compared to dedicated mag drills

Good fit if

• You need to drill precise angles up to 45 degrees
• You require variable speed control for different materials
• You want a benchtop unit with laser positioning aid

Skip if

• You primarily drill thick steel plates requiring high magnetic force
• You need a swing capacity larger than 12 inches
• You prefer a lightweight unit for frequent relocation

Verdict: VEVOR 12-Inch Benchtop Drill Press fits users who need angled drilling precision. The tilting table and laser guide make it ideal for detailed woodworking and light metal projects.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions

See also

• tyger auto t2x low profile soft alternatives
• comfort zone 12 3 speed low profile desk alternatives