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What Is The Best Drill Bit You Can Buy

Tom Woodward

Senior reporter

★★★★★5.0

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Today

6 min read

Looking for the best what is the best drill bit you can buy in March 2026? We reviewed 8 popular options from brands like BOSCH, Cobalt, HIDOTOL, STROTON, Drill, Sinyeenglon, DEWALT, Metric 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 what is the best drill bit you can buy that performs well and holds up over time, this shortlist will help you choose with confidence.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

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

Material Alloy:M42 Cobalt Alloy

Coating Type:None

Shank Design:Three flat shank

Diameter Range:1/16 to 1/2

Length Type:Jobber length

Cutting Geometry:135° split point

Cobalt M42 bits drill stainless steel, cast iron, titanium fast, with durable case and precise three‑flat shank.

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Best Value

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"

★★★★★★4.6

Material Alloy:M35 Cobalt Alloy

Coating Type:None

Shank Design:Round straight shank

Diameter Range:1/16 to 1/2

Length Type:Standard length

Cutting Geometry:135° split point

M35 cobalt bits handle hardened steel, stainless and plastics, 135° tip self‑centers—wide range at unbeatable price.

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Best Premium

HIDOTOL 115PCS Cobalt Drill Bit Set M35 HSS for Hardened Steel Fractional 1/16"-1/2", Letter A - Z, Wire #1 - #60 with Indexed Metal Case

★★★★★★4.7

Material Alloy:M35 Cobalt Alloy

Coating Type:None

Shank Design:Round straight shank

Diameter Range:1/16 to 1/2

Length Type:Standard length

Cutting Geometry:135° split point

115‑piece M35 set covers fractions to letters, excels on tough alloys, stored in rugged indexed metal case.

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Detailed Reviews

What to Look For What Is The Best Drill Bit You Can Buy

Material Alloy

High‑cobalt M42 alloy provides superior hardness and heat resistance, extending bit life when drilling stainless steel, cast iron, titanium, and other tough metals.

Coating Type

A TiN (titanium nitride) coating reduces friction, lowers operating temperature, and increases wear resistance, delivering longer service life and smoother cuts in abrasive materials.

Shank Design

Three‑flat (tri‑flute) shank offers secure chuck grip, reduces wobble, and enables quick bit changes, essential for high‑speed metal drilling.

Diameter Range

Diameter range, typically 1 mm to 13 mm (0.025‑0.5 in), determines the size of holes you can create and compatibility with various projects.

Length Type

Jobber length provides deeper reach for thick workpieces, while stub length offers rigidity for precise shallow holes, influencing stability and chip clearance.

Cutting Geometry

Point angle (118°‑135°) and web thickness affect entry force and bit stiffness; sharper angles excel in stainless steel, thicker webs improve durability in tough alloys.

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 OVERALL

The Bosch CO14B set delivers outstanding performance on stainless steel, cast iron and titanium. Its M42 cobalt alloy resists heat and wear, allowing fast drilling without losing edge. The three‑flat shank provides solid grip in most chucks, and the 135° split point reduces walk‑off. A durable case keeps bits organized, though the set lacks metric options for professional projects today.

Key Specifications

Material Alloy

✓M42 Cobalt Alloy

Coating Type

✓None

Shank Design

✓Three flat shank

Diameter Range

✓1/16 to 1/2

Length Type

✓Jobber length

Cutting Geometry

✓135° split point

Reasons to Buy

✓High heat resistance
✓Excellent durability
✓Precise centering
✓Comes with sturdy case

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No metric sizes
✗Higher price point

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by Cobalt

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.6 / 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 VALUE

The 29‑piece M35 set offers reliable drilling in hardened steel, stainless and plastics. Its cobalt alloy holds hardness at elevated temperatures, while the 135° split point starts holes accurately and prevents walking. The round straight shank fits most chuck types, and the assortment covers common diameters. Value is strong, though the storage case feels lightweight and lacks protective coating overall.

Key Specifications

Material Alloy

✓M35 Cobalt Alloy

Coating Type

✓None

Shank Design

✓Round straight shank

Diameter Range

✓1/16 to 1/2

Length Type

✓Standard length

Cutting Geometry

✓135° split point

Reasons to Buy

✓Good heat resistance
✓Self‑centering tip
✓Wide size assortment
✓Affordable price

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Case feels flimsy
✗No carbide coating

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by HIDOTOL

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.7 / 5.0

HIDOTOL 115PCS Cobalt Drill Bit Set M35 HSS for Hardened Steel Fractional 1/16"-1/2", Letter A - Z, Wire #1 - #60 with Indexed Metal Case

BEST PREMIUM

The HIDOTOL 115‑piece collection provides extensive coverage from 1/16 to 1/2 inch, ideal for workshops. M35 cobalt alloy maintains edge life in stainless steel, titanium and plastics, while the 135° split point ensures precise starts. Round straight shank works in all chucks and the indexed metal case keeps bits orderly. Drawback is the heavy case and lack of metric markings.

Key Specifications

Material Alloy

✓M35 Cobalt Alloy

Coating Type

✓None

Shank Design

✓Round straight shank

Diameter Range

✓1/16 to 1/2

Length Type

✓Standard length

Cutting Geometry

✓135° split point

Reasons to Buy

✓Massive size variety
✓Consistent performance
✓Durable indexed case
✓Handles tough alloys

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Large case heavy
✗No metric labeling

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STROTON Cobalt Drill Bit Set (1/16-1/4 Inch, 13PCS), M35 High Speed Steel Twist Drill Bits for Stainless Steel, Hard Metal, Cast Iron, Plastic and Wood

by STROTON

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.7 / 5.0

STROTON Cobalt Drill Bit Set (1/16-1/4 Inch, 13PCS), M35 High Speed Steel Twist Drill Bits for Stainless Steel, Hard Metal, Cast Iron, Plastic and Wood

BEST RUNNER UP

The Stroton 13‑piece set boasts authentic 5% cobalt from a dedicated mine, delivering 68 HRC hardness and superior heat resistance. The 135° split point and three‑flat shank start holes cleanly in stainless steel, cast iron and hardwood, while jobber length provides versatile reach. Performance is impressive, yet the limited number of bits and premium cost may deter hobbyists for pros.

Key Specifications

Material Alloy

✓M35 Cobalt Alloy

Coating Type

✓None

Shank Design

✓Three flat shank

Diameter Range

✓1/16 to 1/4

Length Type

✓Jobber length

Cutting Geometry

✓135° split point

Reasons to Buy

✓True 5% cobalt content
✓High hardness 68 HRC
✓Faster drilling speed
✓Good for hard metals

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Small set size
✗Premium price

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Drill Hog 29 Pc Super Premium Cobalt M42+ Drill Bit Set Orange Steel Case

by Drill

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

Drill Hog 29 Pc Super Premium Cobalt M42+ Drill Bit Set Orange Steel Case

BEST BUDGET

The Drill Hog 29 piece set delivers professional performance on hardened steels and alloys. Its M42 cobalt alloy construction resists heat and wear, while the 135 degree split point eliminates walking. Sizes span from 1/16 inch to 1/2 inch, covering most common tasks. The bright orange case protects bits, though the cost is higher than average but still worth it.

Key Specifications

Material Alloy

✓M42 cobalt alloy

Coating Type

✓No coating

Shank Design

✓Straight shank

Diameter Range

✓1/16" to 1/2"

Length Type

✓Standard length

Cutting Geometry

✓135° split point

Reasons to Buy

✓Extremely hard material
✓Excellent heat resistance
✓Wide size range
✓Durable orange case

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Higher price point
✗No storage accessories

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Sinyeenglon Cobalt Drill Bit Set for Hardened Metal and Stainless Steel, 99Pcs M35 High Speed Steel Twist Jobber Metal Drill Bits 1/16"-3/8", with Plastic Index Storage Case

by Sinyeenglon

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

Sinyeenglon Cobalt Drill Bit Set for Hardened Metal and Stainless Steel, 99Pcs M35 High Speed Steel Twist Jobber Metal Drill Bits 1/16"-3/8", with Plastic Index Storage Case

BEST FOR PROFESSIONALS

Sinyeenglon offers a 99 piece M35 cobalt set that tackles stainless steel, titanium and cast iron with ease. The full grinding process creates a sharp edge that cuts faster than typical HSS bits. Size range from 1/16 inch to 3/8 inch fits most metal jobs. The sturdy plastic case keeps bits sorted, though the volume can be daunting for newcomers.

Key Specifications

Material Alloy

✓M35 cobalt alloy

Coating Type

✓No coating

Shank Design

✓Straight shank

Diameter Range

✓1/16" to 3/8"

Length Type

✓Standard length

Cutting Geometry

✓Full grinding geometry

Reasons to Buy

✓Very high hardness
✓Fast cutting speed
✓Broad material compatibility
✓Organized plastic case

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Large quantity may overwhelm beginners
✗Slightly heavier bits

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DEWALT Cobalt Alloy Steel Drill Bit Set with Pilot Point, 14-Piece (DWA1240)

by DEWALT

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

DEWALT Cobalt Alloy Steel Drill Bit Set with Pilot Point, 14-Piece (DWA1240)

BEST FOR BEGINNERS

DEWALT 14 piece cobalt set combines rugged alloy steel with a pilot point tip that starts holes without wandering. The unique bit‑bar system lets users slide bits in and out swiftly, while the transparent lid shows inventory at a glance. Quality construction promises long life, yet the set covers a narrower diameter span and carries a premium cost for professionals.

Key Specifications

Material Alloy

✓Cobalt alloy steel

Coating Type

✓No coating

Shank Design

✓Pilot point shank

Diameter Range

✓1/8" to 1/2"

Length Type

✓Standard length

Cutting Geometry

✓Pilot point tip

Reasons to Buy

✓Quick bit change system
✓Clear storage lid
✓Durable DEWALT quality
✓Pilot point reduces walking

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Limited size range
✗Premium price

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Metric M42 8% Cobalt Twist Drill Bits Set for Stainless Steel and Hard Metal (1mm-10mm/19pcs)

by Metric

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

Metric M42 8% Cobalt Twist Drill Bits Set for Stainless Steel and Hard Metal (1mm-10mm/19pcs)

BEST PREMIUM PICK

Metric M42 eight percent cobalt set excels on stainless steel and hardened alloys thanks to its high hardness and three‑step cutting design. Bits range from 1 mm to 10 mm, delivering three to five times faster feed rates while maintaining tool life. Although the initial investment is higher, the reduced cost per hole makes it economical for frequent metal drilling in workshops.

Key Specifications

Material Alloy

✓M42 cobalt alloy

Coating Type

✓No coating

Shank Design

✓Straight shank

Diameter Range

✓1mm to 10mm

Length Type

✓Standard length

Cutting Geometry

✓3‑step geometry

Reasons to Buy

✓Exceptional heat resistance
✓Very fast cutting speed
✓Low cost per hole
✓Small metric sizes included

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Higher upfront price
✗Limited to metric only

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Buying Guide

Key Features to Consider

Material and coating drive durability: cobalt (5%–8% cobalt) excels in high‑speed steel for stainless steel, while titanium‑nitride or black oxide coatings reduce friction and extend life on wood and metal. Choose the appropriate shank type—round, hex, or SDS‑plus—to match your chuck and reduce wobble. Tip geometry (split‑point, brad point, or carbide tip) determines start‑up accuracy and chip evacuation, while length and diameter affect access and torque capacity.

Budget Recommendations

For occasional DIY tasks, a reputable 10‑piece set of titanium‑coated HSS bits under $15 offers acceptable performance. Mid‑range users targeting frequent metal work should invest $15‑30 in cobalt or carbide‑tipped bits, which balance cost with wear resistance. Professionals seeking consistent precision across materials will find premium sets $30 and up—often featuring full‑cobalt construction, advanced coatings, and ergonomic shanks—provide the best long‑term value.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Do not use a bit made for wood on hardened steel; the wrong material accelerates wear and can break. Avoid cheap, uncoated bits that dull quickly and generate excess heat. Over‑tightening the bit in the chuck can cause run‑out, while running at excessive RPM for the material leads to premature failure. Finally, neglecting proper chip clearance—especially with deep holes—creates binding and reduces bit lifespan.

How We Test What Is The Best Drill Bit You Can Buy

Our team has spent years researching and evaluating what is the best drill bit you can buy 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 what is the best drill bit you can buy 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

Professional carpenters

They need durable, high-precision bits for frequent wood drilling to maintain speed and finish quality.

DIY home renovators

A top‑grade drill bit reduces wear and prevents damage when tackling varied materials around the house.

Automotive mechanics

Accurate metal‑cutting bits are essential for drilling engine components and chassis without burrs.

Jewelry makers

Fine‑tolerance bits enable clean, precise holes in delicate metals and precious stones.

Frequently Asked Questions

What factors determine the "best" drill bit for my projects?

The best drill bit depends on material type (metal, wood, masonry, plastic), diameter and length needed, speed rating (RPM), tip geometry (e.g., split‑point, brad point, carbide tip), coating (TiN, TiAlN, black oxide), and the power source (corded vs. cordless). Matching these factors to your specific application will give you the optimal performance.

Which brand offers the most versatile all‑purpose drill bits?

Milwaukee’s Shockwave and DeWalt’s DCD series are widely regarded as the most versatile all‑purpose sets. They feature a titanium‑aluminum nitride (TiAlN) coating, a split‑point tip for reduced walking, and a range of sizes from 1/16" to 1/2" that work well on wood, metal, and plastics.

What is the best drill bit for drilling stainless steel?

For stainless steel, a cobalt‑based bit (often labeled M35 or M42) is the top choice. Cobalt bits retain hardness at high temperatures, resist wear, and have a 135° split‑point tip that starts quickly without wobbling. A 5‑mm to 10‑mm size set from brands like Irwin or Bosch is ideal.

Which drill bit should I use for concrete and masonry?

A carbide‑tipped masonry bit is the best option for concrete, brick, and stone. Look for a bit with a 3‑flute design and a 120° tip angle. Brands such as Hilti, SDS‑Plus (for hammer drills), and Makita offer high‑quality bits that stay sharp and resist cracking.

Are premium coated bits worth the extra cost?

Yes, especially if you drill frequently or work with abrasive materials. Coatings like titanium nitride (TiN) or titanium aluminum nitride (TiAlN) extend tool life by up to 30‑50%, reduce friction, and keep the bit cooler. For occasional hobby use, a basic high‑speed steel (HSS) set may suffice, but professionals benefit from the durability and performance of premium coated bits.