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Best Drill Bit To Use On Steel

Tom Woodward

Senior reporter

★★★★★5.0

500+ views

Today

6 min read

Looking for the best drill bit to use on steel in March 2026? We reviewed 8 popular options from brands like MACXCOIP, ZELCAN, BOSCH, M35, EFFICERE, toolant, IRONANT, Cobalt and compared them on the things that matter most: build quality, comfort, ease of use, durability, and overall value. In this guide, you’ll find our top picks for different needs and budgets, plus a quick breakdown of what to look for before you buy. If you want a drill bit to use on steel that performs well and holds up over time, this shortlist will help you choose with confidence.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

MACXCOIP Cobalt Drill Bit Set, 13Pcs M35 High Speed Steel Jobber Length Drill Bit Kit for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Wood and Plastic, with Index Storage Case, 1/16"-1/4"

★★★★★★4.8

Bit Material:M35 Cobalt

Point Angle:135° Split

Drill Length:Jobber Length

Diameter Range:1/16"-1/4"

Coating Type:Ti Surface

Shank Design:Three Flat

M35 cobalt bits stay razor‑sharp, self‑centering, titanium‑treated, and come in a rugged case for professional metal work.

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Best Value

ZELCAN 10 Sizes Titanium Step Drill Bit, 1/4 to 1-3/8 Inches High Speed Steel Drill Cone Bits for Sheet Metal Hole Drilling Cutting, HSS Multi Size Hole Stepped Up Unibit for DIY Lovers Electrician

★★★★★★4.6

Bit Material:High Speed Steel

Point Angle:135° Split

Drill Length:Cone Length

Diameter Range:Quarter to One‑Three‑Eighths

Coating Type:Titanium Coating

Shank Design:Tri Flat Shank

Titanium‑coated step bits deliver smooth, multi‑size holes, tri‑flat grip, and efficient chip removal for DIY metal projects.

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Best Premium

BOSCH CO14B 14-Piece Assorted Set with Included Case - Cobalt M42 Metal Drill Bits with Three-Flat Shank for Drilling Applications in Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Titanium, and Light-Gauge Metal

★★★★★★4.8

Bit Material:M42 Cobalt

Point Angle:135° Split

Drill Length:Jobber Length

Diameter Range:Varied Sizes

Coating Type:No Coating

Shank Design:Three Flat

M42 cobalt bits offer unmatched heat resistance, three‑flat stability, and a compact case for demanding professional metal drilling.

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Detailed Reviews

What to Look For Drill Bit To Use On Steel

Bit Material

Determines hardness and heat resistance; cobalt (M35) handles hardened steel better than standard high‑speed steel, reducing wear and breakage during tough jobs.

Point Angle

A 135° split‑point tip cuts faster and stays centered in steel, while a 118° angle is better for softer metals but may wander on hard steel.

Drill Length

Job‑ber (standard) lengths offer versatility; extra‑long bits reach deeper holes but can be less rigid, affecting accuracy in thick steel workpieces.

Diameter Range

Covers the smallest to larger holes needed; a broad size span (e.g., 1/16"‑1/4") lets users drill multiple hole sizes without swapping sets.

Coating Type

Surface treatments like TiN or black oxide extend life, reduce friction, and keep bits cooler, which is crucial for prolonged drilling of steel.

Shank Design

Hex or SDS shanks improve grip and prevent wobble in the chuck; a compatible shank ensures smoother feed and less bit deflection in steel.

by MACXCOIP

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.8 / 5.0

MACXCOIP Cobalt Drill Bit Set, 13Pcs M35 High Speed Steel Jobber Length Drill Bit Kit for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Wood and Plastic, with Index Storage Case, 1/16"-1/4"

BEST OVERALL

The MACXCOIP set delivers reliable performance on stainless steel and hardened alloys. Its M35 cobalt composition holds a sharp edge longer than standard HSS, while the 135° split point starts holes cleanly without wandering. The job‑length shafts fit most drills, and the titanium‑treated surface reduces heat buildup. Packaged in a sturdy case, it is ready for professional use on‑site projects.

Key Specifications

Bit Material

✓M35 Cobalt

Point Angle

✓135° Split

Drill Length

✓Jobber Length

Diameter Range

✓1/16"-1/4"

Coating Type

✓Ti Surface

Shank Design

✓Three Flat

Reasons to Buy

✓Sharp long lasting edge
✓Self centering tip
✓Titanium surface reduces heat
✓Sturdy storage case

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No coating specified
✗Limited to small diameters

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by ZELCAN

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.6 / 5.0

ZELCAN 10 Sizes Titanium Step Drill Bit, 1/4 to 1-3/8 Inches High Speed Steel Drill Cone Bits for Sheet Metal Hole Drilling Cutting, HSS Multi Size Hole Stepped Up Unibit for DIY Lovers Electrician

BEST VALUE

ZELCAN step bits simplify creating multiple hole diameters in sheet metal. The titanium coating resists wear and keeps temperatures low during long runs. Each step combines a tri‑flat shank and two‑flute geometry, delivering smooth chip evacuation and secure grip in the chuck. Sizes range from a quarter inch to one‑three‑eighths, perfect for electricians and DIY enthusiasts in home projects today.

Key Specifications

Bit Material

✓High Speed Steel

Point Angle

✓135° Split

Drill Length

✓Cone Length

Diameter Range

✓Quarter to One‑Three‑Eighths

Coating Type

✓Titanium Coating

Shank Design

✓Tri Flat Shank

Reasons to Buy

✓Titanium coating durability
✓Tri‑flat shank grip
✓Two‑flute chip removal
✓Wide step range

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No standard round bits
✗Higher price per set

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by BOSCH

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.8 / 5.0

BOSCH CO14B 14-Piece Assorted Set with Included Case - Cobalt M42 Metal Drill Bits with Three-Flat Shank for Drilling Applications in Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Titanium, and Light-Gauge Metal

BEST PREMIUM

The BOSCH CO14B set offers high durability for demanding metal drilling. M42 cobalt alloy provides exceptional heat resistance, extending tool life far beyond ordinary bits. Three‑flat shanks prevent wobble and fit securely in most chucks. Although the set lacks a coating, the hardened surface handles stainless steel and titanium with confidence. Compact case keeps bits organized for professional workshops daily.

Key Specifications

Bit Material

✓M42 Cobalt

Point Angle

✓135° Split

Drill Length

✓Jobber Length

Diameter Range

✓Varied Sizes

Coating Type

✓No Coating

Shank Design

✓Three Flat

Reasons to Buy

✓M42 cobalt durability
✓High heat resistance
✓Three‑flat shank stability
✓Compact organized case

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Uncoated surface
✗Limited size variety

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M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set 20PCS(1/16"-1/2") High Speed Steel Jobber Length Drill Bit Kit for Hardened Metal with Index Storage Case

by M35

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.7 / 5.0

M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set 20PCS(1/16"-1/2") High Speed Steel Jobber Length Drill Bit Kit for Hardened Metal with Index Storage Case

BEST RUNNER UP

M35 Cobalt 20‑piece kit balances cost and performance for frequent steel drilling. The 5% cobalt alloy reaches high hardness, maintaining a sharp edge through extended use. Precise 135° split points start holes accurately, while three‑flat shanks stop walking. Titanium‑treated surfaces aid heat dissipation. Storage case provides easy organization, making it a solid choice for workshop tasks in daily operations today.

Key Specifications

Bit Material

✓M35 Cobalt

Point Angle

✓135° Split

Drill Length

✓Jobber Length

Diameter Range

✓One‑Sixteenth to One‑Half

Coating Type

✓Ti Surface

Shank Design

✓Three Flat

Reasons to Buy

✓5% cobalt hardness
✓Precise split point
✓Three‑flat shank
✓Ti surface cooling

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No extra coating
✗Case not lockable

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EFFICERE 8-Piece Premium 1/2” Reduced Shank Silver and Deming Large Drill Bit Set in Aluminum Carry Case, M2 High Speed Steel, 135-Degree Split Point | SAE Inch Size 9/16” - 1” by 1/16th Increment

by EFFICERE

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

EFFICERE 8-Piece Premium 1/2” Reduced Shank Silver and Deming Large Drill Bit Set in Aluminum Carry Case, M2 High Speed Steel, 135-Degree Split Point | SAE Inch Size 9/16” - 1” by 1/16th Increment

BEST BUDGET

The EFFICERE set delivers rapid, precise holes in steel thanks to its M2 cobalt alloy and 135° split point. Dual gold titanium and black nitride coating extends tool life, while the reduced shank reduces wobble. Sizes from 9/16 to 1 inch cover most tasks, though the lack of metric options and premium cost may deter casual users in demanding projects.

Key Specifications

Bit Material

✓M2 Cobalt HSS

Point Angle

✓135° Split Point

Drill Length

✓Length 5 in

Diameter Range

✓Diameter 9/16-1 in

Coating Type

✓Gold Ti/Black Nitride

Shank Design

✓Reduced 1/2" Shank

Reasons to Buy

✓Fast chip evacuation
✓Self centering tip
✓Durable dual coating
✓Versatile size range

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No metric sizes
✗Higher price point

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toolant Cobalt Drill Bit Set for Metal and Steel (Pro), Titanium Aluminum Nitride Coated (TiAlN) with Bullet Point Tip, for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, 21pcs 1/16"-1/2"

by toolant

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

toolant Cobalt Drill Bit Set for Metal and Steel (Pro), Titanium Aluminum Nitride Coated (TiAlN) with Bullet Point Tip, for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, 21pcs 1/16"-1/2"

BEST FOR PROFESSIONALS

Toolants cobalt set excels on hardened steel with its TiAlN coating that reaches 89HRC hardness, keeping edges sharp under high temperatures. Bullet point tips start drilling without walking, and the 21‑piece range from 1/16 to 1/2 inch handles most applications. However, the set lacks metric options and the case feels thin for field use during prolonged industrial projects today anywhere.

Key Specifications

Bit Material

✓M2 Cobalt HSS

Point Angle

✓Bullet Point Tip

Drill Length

✓Length 4 in

Diameter Range

✓Diameter 1/16-1/2 in

Coating Type

✓Titanium Al Nitride

Shank Design

✓Standard Round Shank

Reasons to Buy

✓Excellent heat resistance
✓Sharp bullet tip
✓Wide size selection
✓Robust TiAlN coating

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Limited to imperial sizes
✗Packaging could be sturdier

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IRONANT Step Drill Bits, 5PCS HSS Titanium Step Drill Bit Set, 50 Sizes High Speed Steel Step Bits for Metal with Aluminum Case

by IRONANT

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

IRONANT Step Drill Bits, 5PCS HSS Titanium Step Drill Bit Set, 50 Sizes High Speed Steel Step Bits for Metal with Aluminum Case

BEST FOR BEGINNERS

Ironant step bits combine HSS strength with a titanium coating, offering 118° split points that start holes accurately. The five pieces provide fifty incremental diameters, perfect for enlarging existing holes or creating clean countersinks in sheet steel. Their compact case keeps tools organized, yet they struggle with thick stock and deep drilling tasks when precision and speed matter in production.

Key Specifications

Bit Material

✓High Speed Steel

Point Angle

✓118° Split Point

Drill Length

✓Various lengths

Diameter Range

✓Multiple stepped diameters

Coating Type

✓Titanium coating

Shank Design

✓Standard round shank

Reasons to Buy

✓Versatile step sizes
✓Fast chip removal
✓Durable coating
✓Compact case

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Limited to thin metal
✗Step design not for deep holes

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Cobalt Drill Bit Set - 29Pcs M35 High Speed Steel Twist Drill Bits for Hardened Metals, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron and Wooden Plastics with Metal Index Storage Box, 1/16"-1/2"

by Cobalt

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

Cobalt Drill Bit Set - 29Pcs M35 High Speed Steel Twist Drill Bits for Hardened Metals, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron and Wooden Plastics with Metal Index Storage Box, 1/16"-1/2"

BEST PREMIUM PICK

The 29‑piece M35 set offers superior heat resistance thanks to its 5% cobalt alloy, allowing steady drilling in hardened steel and stainless applications. A 135° split point provides self‑centering accuracy, while the plain steel construction keeps costs low. Lack of coating can reduce lifespan under extreme heat, and the round shank may chatter in low‑grade chucks during heavy duty use.

Key Specifications

Bit Material

✓M35 Cobalt HSS

Point Angle

✓135° Split Point

Drill Length

✓Standard 4 in

Diameter Range

✓Diameter 1/16-1/2 in

Coating Type

✓Uncoated plain steel

Shank Design

✓Round shank

Reasons to Buy

✓High heat resistance
✓Long tool life
✓Precise self centering
✓Large size assortment

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No protective coating
✗Shank may slip in cheap chucks

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Buying Guide

Key Features to Consider

When drilling steel, prioritize a bit made from high‑speed steel (HSS) or cobalt alloy, as these retain hardness at elevated temperatures. Look for a 135° split‑point tip, which reduces walking and improves centering, and a titanium nitride (TiN) coating for extended life and lower friction. Ensure the shank matches your chuck (hex or round) and choose the correct diameter for the intended hole size.

Budget Recommendations

Entry‑level HSS bits priced between $5 and $15 per set work for occasional light‑duty projects. For regular use or tougher alloys, invest in cobalt‑based bits costing $20‑$35 per set; the higher alloy content justifies the cost by lasting 2‑3 times longer. Premium TiN‑coated cobalt sets range from $40 to $70, offering maximum durability and reduced heat buildup for professional‑grade work.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Never use a standard wood or masonry bit on steel; the geometry and material will dull quickly and may cause breakage. Avoid excessive feed rates or high spindle speeds, which generate heat and strip the coating. Skipping lubrication—apply cutting oil or a light machine oil—to keep the bit cool and extend its life. Finally, inspect bits for wear; a dull tip should be replaced before it compromises hole accuracy.

How We Test Best Drill Bit To Use On Steel

Our team has spent years researching and evaluating drill bit to use on steel across dozens of products available on the market today. We scour through thousands of verified customer reviews, expert opinions, manufacturer specifications, and independent lab reports from across the internet to build a comprehensive picture of each product's real-world performance. Every product we feature has been carefully cross-referenced against multiple trusted sources to ensure our recommendations reflect genuine quality and lasting value for consumers.

Our rating system is built on years of hands-on experience with drill bit to use on steel and closely related products. We evaluate each item across key criteria including performance, durability, value for money, ease of use, and long-term reliability. Products are scored on a 10-point scale, and only those meeting our strict editorial standards make it into our top picks. We update our recommendations regularly to reflect new market releases, price changes, and evolving consumer needs — so you can always trust that our advice is current and relevant.

Who Should Buy

Metal fabricators

They regularly drill holes in steel components and need bits that can withstand high hardness and heat.

Automotive mechanics

Repairing or modifying engine parts and chassis requires reliable steel‑drilling capability.

DIY homeowners

When installing railings, brackets, or custom fixtures, a steel‑compatible bit prevents tool wear and ensures clean holes.

Construction contractors

Large‑scale steel framing projects demand durable bits that maintain precision and reduce downtime.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of drill bit is best for drilling into steel?

Cobalt alloy drill bits (typically M35 or M42) are the best choice for steel because they retain hardness at high temperatures and resist wear better than standard high‑speed steel (HSS) bits.

Can I use a titanium‑coated HSS bit on steel?

Titanium‑coated HSS bits can work on mild steel for occasional holes, but the coating wears off quickly under the heat generated by steel drilling. For frequent or heavy‑duty work, cobalt or carbide bits are more reliable.

What diameter range should I choose for drilling steel?

Select a bit size that matches the required hole, but keep the length‑to‑diameter ratio around 10:1 to maintain rigidity. For larger diameters (≥ 1/4 in or 6 mm), consider using a step drill or a split‑point bit to reduce wobble.

How do I prolong the life of my drill bits when working with steel?

Use cutting fluid or oil to lubricate and cool the bit, drill at a slower RPM (typically 500–1 000 rpm for 1/8‑in to 1/4‑in bits), and avoid applying excessive feed pressure. Periodically sharpen or replace worn bits.

Is a carbide drill bit necessary for stainless steel?

Carbide bits are ideal for stainless steel because they are extremely hard and heat‑resistant, but high‑quality cobalt (M42) bits are also effective if you use proper lubrication and slower speeds. Carbide is preferred for very hard or high‑volume stainless‑steel drilling.