Drills are among the oldest tools that are still in use, and they are essential for any carpenter, plumber, handyman, or DIYer. Thanks to the amount of torque they produce, modern power drills can be used to make holes in almost anything.
However, even the most powerful drill is only as strong and effective as its bit. There are bits that can be used to drill through metal, wood, glass, or tiles, so it is important that you choose the right one for a specific task.
To help you find a bit that is suitable for whatever you are working on, we have reviewed ten of the best drill bits that are currently available. These bits were chosen for their material, length, cutting angle, and coating.
- 14-piece set
- Titanium-coated
- Broad size range
- Specially designed flutes
- Tungsten carbide-tipped
- SDS design
- Pilot point tip
- Titanium-coated
- Ideal for drill presses
- 135-degree angle point
- Gold-oxide coating
- 5% cobalt steel
- 8% cobalt steel
- Extractor set
- Removes frozen bolts
- 10-piece set
- High-speed steel
- Most suitable for wood & plastic
- Professional-grade set
- Hex shanks for impact drivers
- High-speed steel
- Diamond ground edges
- Carbide-tipped
- Ideal for fragile materials
Product Reviews
With numerous types of drill bits made by some of the leading names in tools, searching for the right one can seem overwhelming. To make it easier, we have reviewed ten of the best drill bits that are available today, with different materials and suitable for various drilling tasks.
DeWALT Titanium 14-Piece Drill Bit Set
Best Titanium-Coated Drill Bits
DeWALT is an American giant of power tools, so it is no surprise that the company produces excellent drill bits. This set of 14 titanium-coated bits should help you complete all your wood and metal drilling tasks.
They have a patented “Pilot Point” that bites into the stock the moment the drill engages. This means you won’t need to drill separate pilot holes in tough materials and the bit is less likely to slip across the surface.
DeWALT has kept the price reasonable, so these bits are suitable for DIYers and hobbyists as well as professionals. Their sizes range from 0.167 inches to 0.5 inches.
They also have a no-spin shank, which adds more security when drilling challenging materials. DeWALT claims these bits will last twice as long as standard bits, and the range of different sizes makes this a very versatile set of durable bits.
Pros
- 14-piece set
- Titanium-coated
- Broad size range
- Affordable
Cons
- American-based but made in China
Product Specs
Pieces in set | 14 |
Material | Titanium-coated steel |
Weight | 14.9 ounces |
Best for | Metal, wood |
Cost | $ |
Our Ratings
Makita 5-Piece SDS-Plus Drill Bit Set
Best Drill Bits for Concrete
These are Makita SDS drill bits, so they are suitable for rotary hammer drills with SDS chucks. These chucks are not universal, so make sure your drill is compatible. The advantage of SDS chucks is that you won’t need to adjust the clamps like you would with a universal chuck.
These bits are far less likely to slip, which is why they are used for punching holes in concrete. They are very tough, with a tungsten carbide tip that provides 3 two 4 times the life of standard bits, even when drilling into reinforced concrete.
These bits come in a 5-piece set with sizes ranging from 0.188 inches up to 0.5 inches. They are suitable for chucks up to 0.875 inches in size.
They also have a specially designed flute to extract more material from the hole as you drill it. This will give you a better sense of the depth of the hole and reduce the chance of the bit binding and overheating.
Pros
- Specially designed flute
- 5-piece set
- Tungsten carbide-tipped
- SDS chuck
Cons
- Only fits SDS rotary hammer drills
- Specialty bit
Product Specs
Pieces in set | 5 |
Material | Tungsten carbide-tipped |
Weight | 11.2 ounces |
Best for | Concrete |
Cost | $ |
Our Ratings
DeWALT 21-Piece Titanium Drill Bit Set
Best Drill Bits for a Drill Press
If you use a drill press, the greater the variety of bits you have, the better. This DeWALT titanium set is ideal because it contains 21 pieces, enough for almost any drilling task you are likely to encounter. The sizes range from 0.167 inches to 0.5 inches, and they can drill through both metal and wood.
The titanium coating gives these bits twice the lifespan of standard ones and they should comfortably outlast black oxide bits.
The patented “Pilot Point” tip starts cutting as soon as it makes contact with the surface of the material, which reduces sliding and means you shouldn’t need to predrill.
Pros
- “Pilot Point” tip
- Titanium-coated
- 21-piece set
- Ideal for drill presses
Cons
- Made in China
Product Specs
Pieces in set | 21 |
Material | Titanium-coated steel |
Weight | 1.05 pounds |
Best for | Wood, metal, drill press |
Cost | $$ |
Our Ratings
Irwin Marples Forstner 8-Piece Wood Drilling set
Best Drill Bits for Wood
Irwin patented the world’s first auger drill bit, so the brand has always been associated with excellent bits. This 8-piece set of bits for drilling wood is made of high-quality carbon steel. The bits use the Forstner design, which means they specialize in drilling flat-bottom and pocket holes.
The sizes range from 0.25 inches up to 1.38 inches. The shanks are narrow so they will fit chucks up to 0.38 inches, and the bits feature optimum-sharpened edges to effectively cut through hardwood and softwood.
The design and quality of these bits mean they can drill far more quickly than many traditional Forstner drill bits. As a result, they are less likely to overheat, which will help them stay sharper for longer.
Pros
- Carbon steel
- Forstner design
- 8-piece set
- Narrow shank
Cons
- Specialty bits for drilling wood
- Not versatile
- Designed for flat-bottom holes
Product Specs
Pieces in set | 8 |
Material | Carbon steel |
Weight | 1.84 pounds |
Best for | Hardwood, softwood |
Cost | $$ |
Our Ratings
DeWALT 7-Piece Masonry Drill Bit Set
Best Drill Bits for Masonry
This 7-piece set ranges in size from 0.188 inches to 0.5 inches to ensure it is suitable for most drilling tasks. The three flat sides on the shank make it more secure in the chuck and ensure the bit won’t slip when undertaking the most challenging jobs.
The rock carbide tip improves the bit’s heat resistance and helps it retain its excellent cutting edge. This drill bit set is ideal for cutting through reinforced concrete and stone, so it is perfect for masons and other construction workers.
The specially designed flutes remove more waste material from the hole, which keeps the bit from binding. It also reduces the chances of overheating, which will protect its lifespan.
Pros
- Manufactured in Germany
- Rock carbide tip
- 7-piece set
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- Specialist tool
- Brittle and could snap
Product Specs
Pieces in set | 7 |
Material | Carbide-tipped steel |
Weight | 8.8 ounces |
Best for | Masonry, concrete |
Cost | $ |
Our Ratings
COMOWARE Cobalt 15-Piece Drill Bit Set
Best Drill Bits for Metal
This Comoware 15-piece set was designed to drill through hard metals. It is made using 5% cobalt steel alloy, which is heat resistant and durable. Its bits are suitable for hard metals such as stainless steel, cast iron, high-temperature alloys, and even titanium alloy.
The bits range in size from 0.063 of an inch to 0.375 inches, letting you drill various holes. The tip has a 135-degree split point, which will cut through hard materials and prevent the bit from walking.
The shanks are round to fit universal chucks, and the bit is coated in a gold-oxide finish to protect it against corrosion. It also benefits from having two flutes that remove more debris from the hole as you drill it.
The only downside of cobalt steel is that it is brittle and prone to snapping if it is placed under too much pressure.
Pros
- 135-degree angle point
- Gold-oxide coating
- 5% cobalt steel
- 15-piece set
Cons
- Specialist bits for metal
- The rigidity can lead to snapping
Product Specs
Pieces in set | 15 |
Material | Cobalt steel |
Weight | 12.8 ounces |
Best for | Hard metal, titanium alloy |
Cost | $$ |
Our Ratings
Irwin 35-Piece Screw Extractor/Drill Bit Set
Best Drill Bits for Automotive Use
If you often work on vehicles, this Irwin 35-piece set is suitable for removing bolts, socket screws, and fittings thanks to the variety of different bits. This makes it ideal for automotive maintenance and repairs.
The set features easy-out flutes that can drill into stripped bolts, making them ideal for the rusted components of old cars and other vehicles. You also receive 8% cobalt drill bits that will drill through very hard materials such as stainless steel, cast iron, and other metals.
This set includes the most popular drill bit sizes, which range from 0.078 inches to 0.5 inches. Whether you work in an auto repair shop or want to restore your old car to its former glory, this drill bit and extractor set will help.
Pros
- 8% cobalt steel
- Extractor set
- 35-pieces
- Removes rusty bolts
Cons
- Specialist attachments
- Expensive
Product Specs
Pieces in set | 35 |
Material | Cobalt steel |
Weight | 1 pound |
Best for | Automotive industry, metal, removing stripped bolts |
Cost | $$$ |
Our Ratings
Black and Decker 10-Piece Drill Bit Set
Best Drill Bits for PVC
This 10-piece Black and Decker set is made of high-speed steel, which makes the bits durable and heat resistant. This prevents them from dulling quickly, which will help you use them for longer without sharpening.
Although high-speed steel is durable, these bits are better suited to less heavy-duty work such as drilling through wood, soft metals, and plastic. They range in size from 0.063 inches up to 0.25 inches, so you won’t have as much variety as some sets but should still be able to complete most standard drilling tasks.
One of the most eye-catching aspects of this set is its price. It is much cheaper than most of its competitors, which makes it an ideal choice for beginners or occasional DIYers.
Pros
- 10-piece set
- High-speed steel
- Ideal for wood and plastic
Cons
- Limited size range
- Build quality issues
Product Specs
Pieces in set | 10 |
Material | High-speed steel |
Weight | 1.6 ounces |
Best for | Plastic, wood |
Cost | $ |
Our Ratings
Makita T-01725 70-Piece Contractor-Grade Drill Bit Set
Best Black Oxide Drill Bits
If you want as much versatility as possible, this Makita set comes with 70 pieces. It has 0.25-inch hex shanks, which are only compatible with impact wrenches. The tips have 135-degree split points, and the black oxide coating protects them from high temperatures and general corrosion.
Each bit is made from modified, heat-treated steel to increase its lifespan. As the shanks are hexagonal, they will be more secure in the socket and won’t slip when drilling the toughest materials. These bits are very hard-wearing, which is why Makita has graded them as suitable for professionals.
The drill bits are compatible with standard drills and you can buy an adapter to connect the 0.25-inch hex shanks to your power drill for a small cost.
Pros
- Professional-grade
- 70-piece set
- Hex shanks for impact drivers
- High-speed steel
Cons
- Some bits only fit an impact driver
- Adapter needed to use some bits in a power drill
Product Specs
Pieces in set | 70 |
Material | High-speed steel |
Weight | 1.94 pounds |
Best for | Impact drivers, hardwood, masonry |
Cost | $$ |
Our Ratings
Bosch 8-Piece Glass and Tile Bit Set
Best Drill Bits for Tile
If you are drilling through tiles, ceramics, or glass, this drill bit set is a great option. It has diamond-ground edges for increased performance and a centering tip that reduces the risk of bit walking. Sizes range from 0.125 inches to 0.75 inches to suit most drilling tasks.
A three-sided flat shank makes the bits more secure in the chuck and reduces slipping. This means better control and accuracy. Each bit benefits from Bosch’s innovative designs that help the bits cut faster. When combined with the carbide tip and reinforced head, you get a drill bit that grinds smoothly through glass, ceramics, and tiles.
Pros
- Diamond ground edges
- Carbide-tipped
- Innovative design
- Ideal for glass, tile, and ceramics
Cons
- Specialist tool
- Only suitable for some materials
Product Specs
Pieces in set | 8 |
Material | Carbide-tipped steel |
Weight | 3.36 ounces |
Best for | Tile, glass, ceramics |
Cost | $$ |
Our Ratings
Product | Best | Pieces in set | Material | Weight | Best for |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
DeWALT Titanium Drill Bit Set | Titanium-Coated | 14 | Titanium-coated steel | 14.9 oz | Metal, wood |
Makita SDS-Plus Drill Bit Set | Concrete | 5 | Tungsten carbide-tipped | 11.2 oz | Concrete |
DeWALT Titanium Drill Bit Set | Drill Press | 21 | Titanium-coated steel | 1.05 lbs | Wood, metal, drill press |
Irwin Marples Forstner Drilling set | Wood | 8 | Carbon steel | 1.84 lbs | Hardwood, softwood |
DeWALT Masonry Drill Bit Set | Masonry | 7 | Carbide -tipped steel | 8.8 oz | Masonry, concrete |
COMOWARE Cobalt Drill Bit Set | Metal | 15 | Cobalt steel | 12.8 oz | Hard metal, titanium alloy |
Irwin Screw Extractor/Drill Bit Set | Automotive Use | 35 | Cobalt steel | 1 lb | Automotive industry, metal, removing stripped bolts |
Black and Decker Drill Bit Set | PVC | 10 | High-speed steel | 1.6 oz | Plastic, wood |
Makita T-01725 Contractor-Grade Drill Bit | Black Oxide | 70 | High-speed steel | 1.94 lbs | Impact drivers, hardwood, masonry |
Bosch Glass and Tile Bit Set | Tile | 8 | Carbide-tipped steel | 3.36 oz | Tile, glass, ceramics |
Are Drill Bits Interchangeable?
The vast majority of modern drill bits are interchangeable thanks to using universal chucks. Most drills now have a three-point chuck that can accommodate drill bits with round and hexagonal shafts. These are the most common types of shafts in use today.
However, some chucks are specialized and designed for drill bits with specific sizes and shapes. Impact wrenches and SDS chucks are examples of specialist non-universal systems.
Product Selection Criteria
Like any power tool attachment, drill bits are each designed with different purposes in mind. This includes making holes of different sizes or drilling into specific types of materials.
Who Makes the Best Drill Bits?
There are countless drill bit manufacturers worldwide, but some brand names stand above the rest, including some that you will probably recognize.
How to Use Drill Bits
Drill bits are relatively straightforward to install and use. If you haven’t done it before, here is a quick beginner’s guide to help you get started:
1. What Material Are You Drilling?
It is important to know what you are drilling into as each drill bit will be more suitable for a specific material or type of material. In this guide, we will assume you are drilling into wood.
2. Select Your Drill Bit
Use a pencil to mark where you want the hole to go, then select your drill bit. If you are drilling into wood, especially hardwood, you will need a suitable drill bit.
Forstner drill bits create wider holes, such as the holes in kitchen cabinets where the door hinges are attached. Spade drill bits can also be used to make larger holes.
However, twist drill bits are the most common type used for drilling into wood.
3. Decide the Depth of the Hole
Before you start drilling, decide how deep you want the hole to be. Many modern drills have depth gauges but you can use a makeshift one by wrapping a strip of tape around the bit to indicate when you have reached the desired depth.
4. Insert the Drill Bit Into the Drill
If you have a keyless chuck, simply insert the bit into the 3-point clamps and slowly let the chuck tighten. Give it an extra twist to make sure the bit is secure. If you have a keyed chuck, insert it into the winding cog and open the clamps until they are wide enough to take the bit shaft. Insert the bit and tighten the chuck using the key.
5. Safety Equipment
Put on your safety goggles and an N95 face mask to prevent your eyes and lungs from wooden particles. You might also want to wear gloves to protect yourself from splinters but some people find it harder to control the drill when wearing them.
6. Aim the Drill
Gently press the point of the drill bit against the center of the hole marker to ensure it is properly aligned. As you are drilling through wood, you probably won’t need to make a pilot hole. For harder materials, a pilot hole can help you prevent the material from cracking.
Gently press the drill trigger to make the bit rotate slowly. As the drill starts to bite into the material, gradually increase the speed. You might want to stop a few times to remove any debris from the hole to ensure a neat finish.
7. Withdraw the Drill Bit
Once you reach the required depth, slowly rotate the drill bit as you pull it out. This will remove the final bits of waste material. When the bit is clear of the hole you have drilled, you can use a vacuum cleaner hose to remove any remaining debris.
8. Repeat
Repeat the process for any other holes you need to drill. Then, unplug the drill and remove the bit.