Ratings represent our editorial opinion, not Amazon's. LumberMensHomes is reader-supported and may earn an affiliate commission. Details

Best Drill Bit Type

Tom Woodward

Senior reporter

★★★★★5.0

500+ views

Today

6 min read

Looking for the best drill bit type in March 2026? We reviewed 8 popular options from brands like DEWALT, Drill, MACXCOIP, CaRoller, 13pcs, M35 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 type that performs well and holds up over time, this shortlist will help you choose with confidence.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 3-Flats Shank,14-Piece, 135 Degree Split Point, for Plastic, Wood and Metal (DWA1184)

★★★★★★4.8

Material Grade:High Speed Steel

Coating Type:No Coating

Tip Geometry:135 Degree Split Point

Shank Design:Three Flats Shank

Diameter Range:1/16" to 1/2"

Flute Length:Standard Length Flutes

14‑piece HSS set with 135° split point and three‑flats shank eliminates walking, delivering durable, consistent drilling in plastic, wood, metal.

Check Price

Best Value

DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 21-Piece, 135 Degree Split Point, 31 Degree Helix, Black Oxide Coated, For Plastic, Wood and Metal (DWA1181)

★★★★★★4.8

Material Grade:High Speed Steel

Coating Type:Black Oxide

Tip Geometry:135 Degree Split Point

Shank Design:Standard Round Shank

Diameter Range:1/16" to 1/2"

Flute Length:Parabolic Flute Design

21‑piece black‑oxide set features parabolic flutes and 135° split point for accurate, corrosion‑resistant drilling in metal, wood, PVC, and fiberglass.

Check Price

Best Premium

Drill America - KFD29J-PC 29 Piece Heavy Duty High Speed Steel Drill Bit Set with Black and Gold Finish in Round Case (1/16" - 1/2" x 64ths), KFD Series

★★★★★★4.7

Material Grade:High Speed Steel

Coating Type:Black Gold Oxide

Tip Geometry:Standard Twist Point

Shank Design:Standard Round Shank

Diameter Range:1/16" to 1/2"

Flute Length:Jobber Length Flutes

29‑piece KFD series offers 1/64‑inch incremental HSS bits, black‑gold coating, and a rugged round case for precise, protected drilling.

Check Price

Detailed Reviews

What to Look For Drill Bit Type

Material Grade

Determines hardness, wear resistance, and suitability for various materials; high‑speed steel is versatile, cobalt handles tougher metals, and carbide excels on hardened surfaces.

Coating Type

Reduces friction and heat, prevents rust, and extends tool life; common options include titanium nitride for durability, black oxide for corrosion resistance, and ceramic for extreme hardness.

Tip Geometry

Influences centering and walking; split‑point tips start holes accurately in metal, brad points excel in wood, while standard twist tips are universal but may wander on hard surfaces.

Shank Design

Affects chuck grip and torque transmission; round shanks are universal, 3‑flat shanks prevent spin‑out on larger diameters, and SDS designs enable hammer drilling with higher impact forces.

Diameter Range

Defines the smallest and largest hole sizes you can create; broader diameter ranges increase versatility, allowing one set to cover common fastener sizes and specialty applications.

Flute Length

Determines drilling depth and chip evacuation efficiency; longer flute lengths permit deeper holes but may reduce rigidity, while shorter bits offer greater stiffness for precise work.

by DEWALT

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.8 / 5.0

DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 3-Flats Shank,14-Piece, 135 Degree Split Point, for Plastic, Wood and Metal (DWA1184)

BEST OVERALL

The DEWALT fourteen piece set delivers reliable performance across plastic, wood and metal. Its 135 degree split point reduces walking, while the three flats shank prevents camming in keyed chucks. High speed steel construction offers durability, and the tapered web design resists breakage during heavy use. Ideal for professionals who demand consistency on varied materials and reliable results every time.

Key Specifications

Material Grade

✓High Speed Steel

Coating Type

✓No Coating

Tip Geometry

✓135 Degree Split Point

Shank Design

✓Three Flats Shank

Diameter Range

✓1/16" to 1/2"

Flute Length

✓Standard Length Flutes

Reasons to Buy

✓Reduces walking
✓Durable HSS construction
✓Three flats shank
✓Versatile material use

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No corrosion resistant coating
✗Limited bit count

Check Price

by DEWALT

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.8 / 5.0

DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 21-Piece, 135 Degree Split Point, 31 Degree Helix, Black Oxide Coated, For Plastic, Wood and Metal (DWA1181)

BEST VALUE

The DEWALT twenty one piece black oxide set covers a broad range of drilling tasks in metal, hardwood, softwood, PVC and fiberglass. Parabolic flute geometry improves chip evacuation, while the 135 degree split point starts holes accurately. Black oxide coating adds corrosion resistance and extends tool life, making this collection a solid choice for everyday workshop projects for professionals alike.

Key Specifications

Material Grade

✓High Speed Steel

Coating Type

✓Black Oxide

Tip Geometry

✓135 Degree Split Point

Shank Design

✓Standard Round Shank

Diameter Range

✓1/16" to 1/2"

Flute Length

✓Parabolic Flute Design

Reasons to Buy

✓Black oxide durability
✓Parabolic flute chip removal
✓Accurate split point start
✓Versatile material compatibility

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No extra length bits
✗Higher price per piece

Check Price

by Drill

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.7 / 5.0

Drill America - KFD29J-PC 29 Piece Heavy Duty High Speed Steel Drill Bit Set with Black and Gold Finish in Round Case (1/16" - 1/2" x 64ths), KFD Series

BEST PREMIUM

The Drill America KFD29J-PC twenty nine piece set offers incremental sizing from 1/16 inch to 1/2 inch in 1/64 inch steps, providing precise selection for many jobs. High speed steel delivers hardness and wear resistance, while the black and gold oxide finish improves corrosion protection. Packaged in a sturdy round case, the set stays organized on any workbench daily use.

Key Specifications

Material Grade

✓High Speed Steel

Coating Type

✓Black Gold Oxide

Tip Geometry

✓Standard Twist Point

Shank Design

✓Standard Round Shank

Diameter Range

✓1/16" to 1/2"

Flute Length

✓Jobber Length Flutes

Reasons to Buy

✓Fine incremental sizes
✓Durable HSS material
✓Corrosion resistant coating
✓Sturdy round case

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No split point tip
✗Limited to small diameters

Check Price

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

by MACXCOIP

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.7 / 5.0

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

BEST RUNNER UP

The MACXCOIP twenty nine piece cobalt set combines M35 alloy strength with a 135 degree point for fast, self centering starts in stainless steel, cast iron, copper, aluminum and plastics. Size range spans 1/16 inch to 1/2 inch in 1/64 increments, covering most common holes. The metal index case keeps bits secure and visible during transport on any job site.

Key Specifications

Material Grade

✓M35 Cobalt Alloy

Coating Type

✓None

Tip Geometry

✓135 Degree Split Point

Shank Design

✓Three Flats Shank

Diameter Range

✓1/16" to 1/2"

Flute Length

✓Standard Length Flutes

Reasons to Buy

✓Cobalt durability
✓Fast self centering start
✓Wide size range
✓Metal index storage

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No protective coating
✗Higher cost per set

Check Price

CaRoller 29Pcs Drill Bit Set, 135 Degree Tip High Speed Steel with Black and Gold Finish, Stainless Steel, Plastic and Wood with Metal Indexed Storage Case 1/16"-1/2" (29pcs Black and Gold)

by CaRoller

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

CaRoller 29Pcs Drill Bit Set, 135 Degree Tip High Speed Steel with Black and Gold Finish, Stainless Steel, Plastic and Wood with Metal Indexed Storage Case 1/16"-1/2" (29pcs Black and Gold)

BEST BUDGET

The CaRoller 29‑piece set offers a comprehensive range from 1/16 to 1/2 inch, covering most household and workshop tasks. The W4 steel with black oxide finish resists wear, while the 135° split point starts holes cleanly. The indexed plastic case keeps bits organized, and the jobber shank fits standard drills. Ideal for DIY projects and provides reliable performance daily use.

Key Specifications

Material Grade

✓W4 High Speed Steel

Coating Type

✓Black Oxide Coating

Tip Geometry

✓135° Split Point

Shank Design

✓Jobber Shank

Diameter Range

✓1/16–1/2 Inch

Flute Length

✓Standard Flute Length

Reasons to Buy

✓Wide size assortment
✓Durable construction
✓Clear indexed case
✓Good for wood

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No metric sizes
✗Higher price than basic sets

Check Price

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"

by MACXCOIP

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.3 / 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 FOR PROFESSIONALS

The MACXCOIP 13‑piece cobalt set targets metalworkers who need fast, clean entry in stainless steel and cast iron. M35 steel with five percent cobalt holds its edge under heat, while the 135° split point reduces walking. Jobber shanks suit most drills and the standard flute length clears chips efficiently. Compact packaging keeps the set portable for on‑site repairs and maintenance.

Key Specifications

Material Grade

✓M35 Cobalt Steel

Coating Type

✓No Coating

Tip Geometry

✓135° Split Point

Shank Design

✓Jobber Shank

Diameter Range

✓1/16–1/4 Inch

Flute Length

✓Standard Flute Length

Reasons to Buy

✓Cobalt durability
✓Sharp cutting edge
✓Self‑centering tip
✓Versatile material use

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Limited size range
✗No protective case

Check Price

13pcs Cobalt Drill Bits Set, M35 High Speed Steel 135 Degree Tip Twist Jobber Drill Bits Set for Hardened Metal Stainless Steel Cast Iron Wood Plastic with Index Storage Box (1/16"-1/4")

by 13pcs

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

13pcs Cobalt Drill Bits Set, M35 High Speed Steel 135 Degree Tip Twist Jobber Drill Bits Set for Hardened Metal Stainless Steel Cast Iron Wood Plastic with Index Storage Box (1/16"-1/4")

BEST FOR BEGINNERS

The 13‑piece Pro edge set balances price and performance for hobbyists tackling hardened metal and wood. M35 cobalt composition with five percent cobalt gives three to five times longer life than plain HSS. The 135° split point starts holes without wobble, and the jobber shank fits any drill. Standard flute length removes debris quickly, making each pass smooth reliably today.

Key Specifications

Material Grade

✓M35 Cobalt Steel

Coating Type

✓No Coating

Tip Geometry

✓135° Split Point

Shank Design

✓Jobber Shank

Diameter Range

✓1/16–1/4 Inch

Flute Length

✓Standard Flute Length

Reasons to Buy

✓Cost effective
✓High wear resistance
✓Accurate self‑centering
✓Good for hard materials

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Small inventory
✗No case included

Check Price

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.

★★★★★

4.3 / 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 PREMIUM PICK

The 20‑piece M35 cobalt collection delivers professional strength for hardened alloys and tough plastics. With five percent cobalt and a titanium surface, bits resist heat and stay sharp twelve times longer than ordinary HSS. The 135° split point and 3‑flat shank prevent walking, while standard flute length clears chips efficiently. Size range from 1/16 to 1/2 inch covers most applications.

Key Specifications

Material Grade

✓M35 Cobalt Steel

Coating Type

✓Titanium Coating

Tip Geometry

✓135° Split Point

Shank Design

✓3‑Flat Shank

Diameter Range

✓1/16–1/2 Inch

Flute Length

✓Standard Flute Length

Reasons to Buy

✓Extremely long life
✓Fast chip evacuation
✓Wide size coverage
✓Robust construction

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No metric equivalents
✗Storage case is basic

Check Price

Buying Guide

Key Features to Consider

Material and coating are the primary determinants of durability and cutting performance. High‑speed steel (HSS) works for general wood and metal, while cobalt or carbide tips excel on hardened steel and stainless. Look for titanium nitride (TiN) or black oxide coatings that reduce friction and extend life. Equally important are the shank type (hex, round, SDS‑plus) for tool compatibility, and the length/diameter range that matches the depth and size of your typical holes.

Budget Recommendations

For occasional DIY tasks, a basic 10‑piece HSS set with TiN coating can be found for $15‑$30 and offers reliable performance on wood and mild steel. Professionals who need longevity on tough alloys should invest in a cobalt or carbide set, typically priced $60‑$120, which pays off through reduced breakage and sharper cuts. Premium kits with SDS‑plus shanks and advanced nanocoatings range $130‑$200, delivering maximum speed and wear resistance for heavy‑duty applications.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Don’t assume a larger diameter means faster drilling; oversize bits increase torque load and can stall the motor. Avoid mixing shank types with incompatible drills—hex shanks in keyless chucks are fine, but round shanks may slip. Lastly, neglecting proper lubrication when drilling metal leads to premature wear; always use cutting fluid or oil to preserve edge integrity.

How We Test Best Drill Bit Type

Our team has spent years researching and evaluating drill bit type 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 type 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

DIY homeowners

They need reliable drill bits for occasional home repairs, furniture assembly, and renovation projects.

Professional contractors

High‑volume, precision drilling on varied materials demands durable, specialty‑rated bits to maintain productivity.

Furniture makers & woodworkers

Accurate, clean holes in wood and composites are essential for joinery and finish quality.

Automotive technicians

They require hardened bits for drilling into metal, engine blocks, and fast‑ener removal during repairs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best drill bit material for drilling through metal?

Cobalt alloy (often labeled as M35 or M42) is the top choice for metal because it retains hardness at high temperatures, resists wear, and drills faster through stainless steel, aluminum, and other tough alloys.

Which drill bit is ideal for woodworking and why?

High-speed steel (HSS) bits with a split-point tip are best for most wood projects. They stay sharp, reduce tear-out, and work well with both softwoods and hardwoods. For faster drilling in hardwood, a brad-point bit provides precise centering and clean exits.

Are carbide-tipped drill bits worth the extra cost?

Yes, when you need to drill into hard, abrasive materials such as masonry, concrete, tile, or hardened steel. Carbide tips stay sharp longer, handle high RPMs, and tolerate the heat generated by these tough substrates.

What drill bit should I use for drilling into plastic without cracking it?

A standard HSS bit with a sharp, clean point works well for most plastics. To minimize cracking, use a slower feed rate, lower RPM, and consider a step drill bit for larger holes; the gradual increase in diameter reduces stress on the material.

How do I choose the right drill bit size and type for a specific project?

First, identify the material (metal, wood, masonry, plastic). Then select the appropriate material for the bit (cobalt for metal, HSS or brad‑point for wood, carbide‑tipped for masonry). Finally, match the diameter to the screw or fastener size, and consider special shapes (spade, auger, step) when the project calls for large or deep holes.