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DeWalt vs. Milwaukee Magnetic Drill Press (2026): Which Pro Tool Wins?

By MyAwesomeBuy Research Team · Updated April 8, 2026 · Our Methodology

4 models compared 520+ reviews analyzed
No manufacturer paid for placement. Rankings based on verified buyer review data.
Quick Answer
DEWALT DWE1622K Magnetic Drill Press, 2-Inch, 10-Amp, 2-Spee

DeWalt DWE1622K wins on price and corded performance — it's the most cost-effective professional magnetic drill press for shop and structural work. Milwaukee 2787-22 wins on cordless freedom and motor performance for contractors who work on elevated structures or hard-to-reach positions where cord drag is a safety or logistics problem.

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At a Glance

#ProductAwardPriceOur Score
1
DEWALT DWE1622K Magnetic Drill Press, 2-Inch, 10-Amp, 2-SpeedDEWALT DWE1622K Magnetic Drill Press, 2…
 Best Overall $189 9.2 Buy →
2
Milwaukee 2787-22 M18 Fuel 1-1/2 Inch Magnetic Drill Kit with 2 BatteriesMilwaukee 2787-22 M18 Fuel 1-1/2 Inch M…
 Best Cordless $3305 8.9 Buy →
3
DEWALT DCD1623B 20V MAX Brushless Cordless Magnetic Drill Press (Tool Only)DEWALT DCD1623B 20V MAX Brushless Cordl…
 $159 8.5 Buy →
4
Milwaukee 4208-1 Electromagnetic Drill Press, 1.25-Inch Capacity, 500/250 RPMMilwaukee 4208-1 Electromagnetic Drill …
 Heavy Duty Pick $890 8.2 Buy →

Showing 4 of 4 products

Our Top Pick
DEWALT DWE1622K Magnetic Drill Press, 2-Inch, 10-Amp, 2-Speed

DEWALT DWE1622K Magnetic Drill Press, 2-Inch, 10-Amp, 2-Speed

$189
at Amazon
Best for: Professional metal fabrication and structural steel drilling

“The DEWALT DWE1622K is the go-to magnetic drill press for professionals who need reliable, high-torque drilling in steel beams and structural applications. Its 2-speed setting and 10-amp motor handle ”

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What we like

  • 2-speed setting for versatile drilling
  • Powerful 10-amp motor
  • Magnetic base for safe steel attachment
  • Built-in level indicator
  • Compatibility with standard annular cutters

Watch out for

  • Heavy and bulky for transport
  • High price point
  • Requires solid metal surface to mount
  • Corded only — no battery option
Price
Amazon $189
See Today’s Price →
Read Full Analysis

DEWALT DWE1622K is the benchmark corded magnetic drill press for professional use. The 10-amp motor with overload protection, 2-speed gearbox (300/450 RPM), and strong electromagnetic base provide everything needed for precision holes in structural steel. Corded design means consistent power without battery weight or charge management. At $907, it's the most cost-effective professional magnetic drill press for shop work, fixed fabrication, and projects with accessible power outlets.

Full Specs & Measurements
Upc885911375962
AsinB00N3HSVXK
ColorMulti
LaserYes
Motor5 amps / 2/3 HP
Speed450 RPM
Swing12 inches
Speeds12
Voltage240 Volts
Amperage10 Amps
Brand NameDEWALT
Drill TypeDrill Press
Table Tilt45 degrees
Unit Count1.0 Count
Depth GaugeDigital
Item Weight33 Pounds
Speed Range580-3200 RPM
ManufacturerDEWALT
Model NumberDWE1622K
Power SourceCorded
Material TypeBlend
Maximum Power300 Watts
Item Type Name2IN MAGNETIC DRILL PRESS
Number Of Speeds2
Best Sellers Rank#98,803 in Tools & Home Improvement (See Top 100 in Tools & Home Improvement) #6 in Power Magnetic Drill Presses
Maximum Chuck Size13 Millimeters
Additional Features2-speed
Included ComponentsSafety Chain | Adjustment Tools | Quick Change 1/2" Keyed Chuck | Kit Box | Heavy Duty Carrying Case | 16mm Chuck & Adapter | Magnetic Coolant Tank
Drilling Capacity Wood4.38 Inches
Drilling Capacity Metal56.9 Inches
Manufacturer Part NumberDWE1622K
Maximum Rotational Speed450 RPM
Item Dimensions L X W X H22.44"L x 6.5"W x 19.29"H
Manufacturer Warranty Description3 year limited warranty
Global Trade Identification Number00885911375962
Also Excellent
Milwaukee 2787-22 M18 Fuel 1-1/2 Inch Magnetic Drill Kit with 2 Batteries

Milwaukee 2787-22 M18 Fuel 1-1/2 Inch Magnetic Drill Kit with 2 Batteries

$3305
at Amazon
Best for: Contractors and ironworkers who need cordless freedom for drilling in overhead or hard-to-reach structural steel positions

“Milwaukee M18 FUEL Magnetic Drill goes where corded tools can't — brushless motor, strongest magnetic hold in its class, and cordless freedom for elevated steel work.”

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What we like

  • Cordless freedom — no cord drag when drilling on structural steel or elevated positions
  • POWERSTATE brushless motor delivers industry-leading magnetic hold on 1/4" steel
  • Drills 40+ holes per charge with included batteries — eliminates cord management

Watch out for

  • Premium cordless kit price vs. corded DeWalt alternative
  • Heavy battery pack adds overall weight compared to corded tools
Price
Amazon $3305
See Today’s Price →
Read Full Analysis

Milwaukee 2787-22 M18 FUEL Magnetic Drill is the industry standard for cordless magnetic drilling on structural steel. The POWERSTATE brushless motor delivers 40+ holes per charge with included 5.0Ah batteries, and the magnetic base provides the strongest hold among cordless alternatives on 1/4" steel. For ironworkers and contractors who routinely work on elevated beams, pipe flanges, or locations where power cords create safety hazards, the cordless premium pays back quickly in reduced setup time and improved safety.

Full Specs & Measurements
Upc045242346493
AsinB00XLM23EA
ColorBlack Red
Speed1800 RPM
Brand NameMilwaukee
Drill TypeCombination Drill
Unit Count1.0 Count
Item Weight29.5 Pounds
ManufacturerBuilders World Wholesale Distribution
Model Number2787-22
Power SourceBattery Powered
Material TypeMetal
Maximum Power800 Watts
Number Of Speeds2
Best Sellers Rank#1,450,091 in Tools & Home Improvement (See Top 100 in Tools & Home Improvement) #137 in Power Magnetic Drill Presses #20,734 in Power Drill Parts & Accessories
Maximum Chuck Size6.35 Millimeters
Additional FeaturesPortable
Included ComponentsCore Drill Bit
Drilling Capacity Wood1.5 Inches
Drilling Capacity Metal1.5 Inches
Manufacturer Part Number2787-22
Maximum Rotational Speed2600 RPM
Item Dimensions L X W X H21.88"L x 7.25"W x 29.13"H
Manufacturer Warranty DescriptionTool warranty : 5 Years
Global Trade Identification Number00045242346493
Worth Considering
DEWALT DCD1623B 20V MAX Brushless Cordless Magnetic Drill Press (Tool Only)

DEWALT DCD1623B 20V MAX Brushless Cordless Magnetic Drill Press (Tool Only)

$159
at Amazon
Best for: Cordless jobsite magnetic drilling without power outlet constraints

“The DEWALT DCD1623B brings cordless freedom to magnetic drill pressing. Powered by DEWALT 20V MAX FLEXVOLT batteries, it lets you drill steel on elevated structures or remote jobsites without hunting ”

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What we like

  • Cordless 20V MAX FLEXVOLT ADVANTAGE
  • Brushless motor for longer runtime
  • 2-inch capacity for large core bits
  • Works with DEWALT 20V/60V batteries
  • No cord restrictions on jobsite

Watch out for

  • Tool-only — battery sold separately
  • Very high price
  • Heavy at 14.4 lbs
  • Overkill for light-duty use
Price
Amazon $159
See Today’s Price →
Read Full Analysis

The DEWALT DCD1623B removes the power cord limitation from magnetic drill pressing. FLEXVOLT ADVANTAGE technology delivers corded-level power from 20V MAX batteries, making it ideal for elevated steel work or remote locations.

Full Specs & Measurements
Upc885911679329
AsinB0BR6J6J6R
ColorBlack
Voltage20 Volts
Brand NameDEWALT
Drill TypeDrill Press
Unit Count1.0 Count
Item Weight0.01 Ounces
ManufacturerStanley Black and Decker
Model NumberDCD1623B
Power SourceBattery Powered
Material TypeBlend
Maximum Power300 Watts
Item Type Name20V MAX FVA 2 IN MAGNETIC DRILL BARE
Number Of Speeds10
Best Sellers Rank#1,181,859 in Tools & Home Improvement (See Top 100 in Tools & Home Improvement) #107 in Power Magnetic Drill Presses
Additional FeaturesVariable Speed
Included Components20V MAX FVA 2 IN MAGNETIC DRILL BARE
Drilling Capacity Wood2 Inches
Drilling Capacity Metal2 Inches
Manufacturer Part NumberDCD1623B
Worth Considering
Milwaukee 4208-1 Electromagnetic Drill Press, 1.25-Inch Capacity, 500/250 RPM

Milwaukee 4208-1 Electromagnetic Drill Press, 1.25-Inch Capacity, 500/250 RPM

$890
at Amazon
Best for: Heavy industrial electromagnetic drilling in structural steel

“The Milwaukee 4208-1 is the heavy-duty choice for contractors and fabricators tackling large-diameter core drilling in I-beams and structural steel. Its adjustable position design accommodates awkward”

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What we like

  • Heavy-duty 1.25-inch core capacity
  • Two-speed 500/250 RPM for versatility
  • Adjustable position design
  • Strong magnetic base for stability
  • Industry-proven reliability

Watch out for

  • Very expensive at $1,699+
  • Extremely heavy industrial tool
  • Limited to professional/commercial use
  • Hard to source locally
Price
Amazon $890
See Today’s Price →
Read Full Analysis

The Milwaukee 4208-1 handles the most demanding structural drilling applications. Its 1.25-inch capacity and 500/250 RPM two-speed system give professionals the torque and control needed for oversized core bits.

Full Specs & Measurements
Upc045242012831
AsinB00004TI1L
ColorMulticolor
Speed250 RPM
Torque1000 Inch Pounds
Voltage120 Volts
Amperage12.5 Amps
Brand NameMilwaukee
Drill TypeDrill Press
Unit Count1.0 Count
Is ElectricYes
Item Weight37 Kilograms
ManufacturerMilwaukee
Model Number4208-1
Power SourceCorded Electric
Material TypeMetal, Plastic
Maximum Torque50 Inch Pounds
Maximum Chuck Size1.25 Inches
Additional FeaturesDurable,, Good Power Output
Included ComponentsUnit^Instruction Guide
Drilling Capacity Wood31.75 Millimeters
Drilling Capacity Metal1.25 Inches
Manufacturer Part Number4208-1
Maximum Rotational Speed500 RPM
Manufacturer Warranty DescriptionLimited warranty, 30-day no-risk trial.
Global Trade Identification Number00045242012831

DeWalt vs. Milwaukee Magnetic Drill Press (2026) Buying Guide

DeWalt vs. Milwaukee Magnetic Drill Press (2026): Which Pro Tool Wins?

Great for: DIYers who hang shelves, assemble furniture, and tackle small home repairs, and anyone who does one project per month or more

Not ideal if: You only drive screws a few times a year — a manual screwdriver handles occasional tasks without a battery to maintain

Our Top Pick

DEWALT DWE1622K Magnetic Drill Press 2-Inch is our top pick for magnetic drill presses — its 10-amp motor, two-speed gearbox, and included chuck make it the most complete corded magnetic drill for fabrication shops. For budget shoppers, Milwaukee M18 FUEL Magnetic Drill Kit offers cordless freedom with comparable power for job site use.

DEWALT DWE1622K Magnetic Drill Press, 2-Inch, 10-Amp, 2-Spee
DEWALT DWE1622K Magnetic Drill Press, 2-Inch, 10-A...
$999.99
See Full Review →

## DeWalt vs. Milwaukee Magnetic Drill Press: How to Choose Magnetic drill presses are not bench drill presses. This comparison covers magnetic drill presses — professional tools that attach magnetically to steel structures and drill through them using annular cutters (hole saws) or twist bits. They're used by ironworkers, pipefitters, and structural steel contractors. If you're looking for a woodworking bench drill press, this is a different tool category. Corded vs. cordless for professional use. DeWalt DWE1622K is corded — constant power, lighter weight (no battery), lower cost. Milwaukee 2787-22 is cordless M18 FUEL — drill on elevated beams, in tight mechanical spaces, or anywhere power outlets aren't accessible. For field ironwork at height, cordless is often safer and more practical. For shop work with consistent power access, corded performs identically at lower cost. Magnetic hold strength. The most critical safety spec on a magnetic drill press is the strength of the magnetic base. A weak magnet can release under drilling torque, causing injury. DeWalt DWE1622K has a strong corded electromagnet. Milwaukee M18 FUEL claims "strongest magnetic hold on 1/4" steel" among cordless alternatives. When purchasing used or older magnetic drill presses, always test the magnetic hold before drilling. Annular cutter compatibility. Both DeWalt and Milwaukee magnetic drill presses use Weldon shank annular cutters. DeWalt uses a standard 3/4" Weldon chuck. Milwaukee uses a compatible system. Standard annular cutters from brands like Hougen, Ruko, or Nitto Kohki are compatible with both. You don't need to buy proprietary cutters. RPM range for different applications. For larger diameter holes (1"+ diameter annular cutters), you need lower RPM. DeWalt DWE1622K's 2-speed gearbox provides 300 and 450 RPM. Lower RPM with greater torque is essential for clean large-diameter holes in steel. For small holes (1/2" or under with twist bits), higher RPM works better. Not sure whether you need a drill, an impact driver, or a hammer drill for your project? Our drill vs. impact driver guide breaks down every driver type so you buy the right tool the first time.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a magnetic drill press used for?
Magnetic drill presses attach to steel structures via a powerful electromagnet and drill precise holes through the steel using annular cutters or twist bits. They're used for creating holes in structural steel, pipe flanges, beam webs, and metal plates. Common users: ironworkers, pipefitters, steel fabricators, and HVAC contractors. They're not suitable for wood, concrete, or non-ferrous metals.
How strong is the magnetic base on these drill presses?
DeWalt DWE1622K's magnetic base holds securely to steel surfaces in multiple orientations — horizontal, vertical, and overhead. Milwaukee M18 FUEL claims to deliver the strongest magnetic hold among cordless competitors on 1/4" steel. Always perform a pull test on the base before beginning to drill, especially on vertical or overhead surfaces.
What annular cutters work with DeWalt and Milwaukee magnetic drill presses?
Both accept standard Weldon 3/4" shank annular cutters. Aftermarket cutters from Hougen, Ruko, Nitto Kohki, and other brands are compatible with both machines. Proprietary DeWalt or Milwaukee cutters are available but optional.
Is a cordless magnetic drill press worth the extra cost?
For shop work: no. For field work on elevated structures, interior confined spaces, or locations without nearby power: yes. The cordless premium on Milwaukee's M18 FUEL pays back quickly in reduced setup time and eliminated extension cord logistics on multi-story structural work. For stationary shop applications, the DeWalt corded model performs identically at half the price.
How do I drill a clean hole with a magnetic drill press?
Use the correct RPM for your cutter diameter (lower RPM = larger diameter). Apply cutting fluid (coolant/lubricant) to both the cutter and the steel. Use steady, consistent downfeed pressure — don't force the cut. Ensure the magnetic base is fully engaged before drilling. Most ragged holes result from too high RPM, insufficient cutting fluid, or loose magnetic base.
What's the difference between an annular cutter and a twist bit?
Annular cutters (hole saws) remove a ring of metal to create the hole — faster, cooler, and cleaner than twist bits for hole diameters above 1". Twist bits drill out the entire diameter as swarf — better for smaller holes and materials where slug removal is difficult. Magnetic drill presses are optimized for annular cutters but accept twist bits with the right chuck adapter.

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How We Analyze Products

We analyze Amazon review data — often thousands of reviews per product — to surface patterns that individual buyers miss. Our process aggregates star ratings, review counts, and buyer sentiment at scale, identifying which strengths and weaknesses appear consistently across the largest review samples available. The 520+ reviews analyzed on this page represent real verified-purchase feedback from Amazon buyers.

Each product earned its placement through data: total review volume, average rating, and the specific praise and complaints that repeat most often across buyers. No manufacturer paid for placement on this page. Products appear here because buyers endorsed them at scale, not because a company asked us to feature them.

We use AI to summarize review sentiment — not to fabricate opinions, but to condense what thousands of buyers actually wrote into a readable format. The pros and cons you see reflect the most common themes found in verified purchaser reviews, paraphrased for clarity. We do not claim to have accessed Reddit, YouTube, or specific publications in generating these summaries.

Prices shown reflect Amazon pricing at the time this page was last generated. Click “See Today’s Price” to get the current live price on Amazon. Read our full methodology →

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