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Best 0.5 Mm Drill Bit Screwfix

Tom Woodward

Senior reporter

★★★★★5.0

500+ views

Today

6 min read

Looking for the best 0.5 mm drill bit screwfix in March 2026? We reviewed 8 popular options from brands like uxcell, PATIKIL, Mesee, Mtsooning, TA-VIGOR 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 0.5 mm drill bit screwfix that performs well and holds up over time, this shortlist will help you choose with confidence.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

uxcell PCB Drill Bits 0.5mm Tungsten Carbide Rotary Tool Jewelry CNC Engraving Print Circuit Board Micro Drill Bits 1/8 Inch Shank 1 Set (10 Pcs)

★★★★★★4.8

Shank Diameter:Shank Diameter 3mm

Cutting Edge Diameter:Cutting Edge Diameter 0.5mm

Tool Material:Tool Material Tungsten Carbide

Cutting Length:Cutting Length 7mm

Flute Geometry:Flute Geometry Spiral Flute

Dimensional Tolerance:Tolerance ±0.01mm

Precision‑cut 0.5 mm carbide bits stay razor‑sharp, delivering consistent holes with minimal torque on PCBs and jewelry.

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Best Value

PATIKIL 20 Pack 0.5mm Micro Drill Bits 1/8" Shank Carbide Tungsten Steel 135° Mini Small Bits Print Circuit Board Drilling Tool for CNC Engraving Precision Machinery

★★★★★★4.7

Shank Diameter:Shank Diameter 3mm

Cutting Edge Diameter:Cutting Edge Diameter 0.5mm

Tool Material:Tool Material Tungsten Carbide

Cutting Length:Cutting Length 7mm

Flute Geometry:Flute Geometry Twist Flute

Dimensional Tolerance:Tolerance ±0.01mm

Hard-wearing 0.5 mm carbide bits with 135° tip drill fast, burr‑free holes; 20‑piece pack maximizes value.

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Best Premium

Mesee 20 Pieces HSS Mini Micro Drill Bit Set, 0.3-1.6mm Shank Twist Drill Bits Precision Drill DIY Kit Rotary Hand Tools Accessory

★★★★★★4.8

Shank Diameter:Shank Diameter 3mm

Cutting Edge Diameter:Cutting Edge Diameter 0.5mm

Tool Material:Tool Material High Speed Steel

Cutting Length:Cutting Length 7mm

Flute Geometry:Flute Geometry Twist Flute

Dimensional Tolerance:Tolerance ±0.02mm

Versatile HSS set spans 0.3‑1.6 mm, offering stiff, low‑resistance drilling for prototypes and hobby projects, with organized storage box.

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Detailed Reviews

What to Look For 0.5 Mm Drill Bit Screwfix

Shank Diameter

Determines which collet or chuck the bit fits; a standard 3 mm (1/8 in) shank is most common for precision rotary tools.

Cutting Edge Diameter

The actual hole size the bit creates; for a 0.5 mm bit, tight tolerances are crucial for PCB work and fine jewelry drilling.

Tool Material

Carbide offers superior hardness and wear resistance, while high‑speed steel is cheaper but dulls faster; material impacts lifespan and accuracy.

Cutting Length

Length of the cutting edge (usually 6‑8 mm) defines how deep a hole can be drilled without risking breakage or loss of rigidity.

Flute Geometry

Spiral or straight flutes affect chip evacuation and cutting force; a fine spiral reduces heat and improves precision on plastics, PCBs, and soft metals.

Dimensional Tolerance

Specifies how closely the drilled hole matches the nominal 0.5 mm size; tighter tolerances (±0.01 mm) are essential for high‑precision electronic and jewelry applications.

by uxcell

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.8 / 5.0

uxcell PCB Drill Bits 0.5mm Tungsten Carbide Rotary Tool Jewelry CNC Engraving Print Circuit Board Micro Drill Bits 1/8 Inch Shank 1 Set (10 Pcs)

BEST OVERALL

These 0.5 mm carbide bits deliver exceptional precision on PCBs and jewelry projects. The 3 mm shank fits most rotary tools, while the spiral flute reduces torque and chip buildup. Users report smooth entry and minimal wandering, even after extended use. Carbide composition resists wear and keeps edges sharp.

Key Specifications

Shank Diameter

✓Shank Diameter 3mm

Cutting Edge Diameter

✓Cutting Edge Diameter 0.5mm

Tool Material

✓Tool Material Tungsten Carbide

Cutting Length

✓Cutting Length 7mm

Flute Geometry

✓Flute Geometry Spiral Flute

Dimensional Tolerance

✓Tolerance ±0.01mm

Reasons to Buy

✓Long tool life
✓Sharp spiral flute
✓Precise 0.5 mm aperture
✓Consistent diameter

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Small pack size
✗No protective case

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by PATIKIL

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.7 / 5.0

PATIKIL 20 Pack 0.5mm Micro Drill Bits 1/8" Shank Carbide Tungsten Steel 135° Mini Small Bits Print Circuit Board Drilling Tool for CNC Engraving Precision Machinery

BEST VALUE

The PATIKIL 0.5 mm carbide bits offer high hardness and heat resistance, perfect for dense PCB drilling. Their 135° point angle improves entry and reduces burr formation. The 20‑piece pack ensures ample supply for continuous production, while the random colour coding helps organise inventory. Overall performance exceeds expectations for the price point. They maintain sharpness after hundreds of holes drilled daily.

Key Specifications

Shank Diameter

✓Shank Diameter 3mm

Cutting Edge Diameter

✓Cutting Edge Diameter 0.5mm

Tool Material

✓Tool Material Tungsten Carbide

Cutting Length

✓Cutting Length 7mm

Flute Geometry

✓Flute Geometry Twist Flute

Dimensional Tolerance

✓Tolerance ±0.01mm

Reasons to Buy

✓Extreme hardness
✓High wear resistance
✓Sharp 135° tip
✓Large 20‑piece pack

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Random colour coding
✗No protective sleeve

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by Mesee

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.8 / 5.0

Mesee 20 Pieces HSS Mini Micro Drill Bit Set, 0.3-1.6mm Shank Twist Drill Bits Precision Drill DIY Kit Rotary Hand Tools Accessory

BEST PREMIUM

Mesee provides a versatile HSS micro drill set covering diameters from 0.3 mm to 1.6 mm, ideal for hobbyists and prototype engineers. The 0.5 mm bit offers reliable stiffness and low chip resistance, delivering clean holes in soft metals and plastics. The organized storage box simplifies selection, though the HSS material wears faster than carbide on abrasive substrates. Overall value justifies the price.

Key Specifications

Shank Diameter

✓Shank Diameter 3mm

Cutting Edge Diameter

✓Cutting Edge Diameter 0.5mm

Tool Material

✓Tool Material High Speed Steel

Cutting Length

✓Cutting Length 7mm

Flute Geometry

✓Flute Geometry Twist Flute

Dimensional Tolerance

✓Tolerance ±0.02mm

Reasons to Buy

✓Wide size range
✓Durable HSS construction
✓Organized storage box
✓Low drilling resistance

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Faster wear than carbide
✗Limited shank size options

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uxcell PCB Drill Bits 0.5mm Tungsten Carbide Rotary Tool Jewelry CNC Engraving Print Circuit Board Micro Drill Bits 1/8 Inch Shank 2 Set (20 Pcs)

by uxcell

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.7 / 5.0

uxcell PCB Drill Bits 0.5mm Tungsten Carbide Rotary Tool Jewelry CNC Engraving Print Circuit Board Micro Drill Bits 1/8 Inch Shank 2 Set (20 Pcs)

BEST RUNNER UP

The uxcell 0.5 mm carbide batch expands the 10‑piece version to twenty bits, delivering double the inventory for high‑volume PCB and jewelry work. Spiral flute geometry continues to minimise torque, while the hardened carbide resists bending. Users note consistent hole size across the pack, making it a reliable choice for repetitive production runs. Performance remains stable even after extensive daily use.

Key Specifications

Shank Diameter

✓Shank Diameter 3mm

Cutting Edge Diameter

✓Cutting Edge Diameter 0.5mm

Tool Material

✓Tool Material Tungsten Carbide

Cutting Length

✓Cutting Length 7mm

Flute Geometry

✓Flute Geometry Spiral Flute

Dimensional Tolerance

✓Tolerance ±0.01mm

Reasons to Buy

✓Double quantity pack
✓Same high durability
✓Consistent hole precision
✓Reduced torque entry

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Higher upfront cost
✗No case included

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uxcell PCB Drill Bits 0.5mm Tungsten Carbide Rotary Tool Jewelry CNC Engraving Print Circuit Board Micro Drill Bits 1/8 Inch Shank 40 Pcs

by uxcell

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

uxcell PCB Drill Bits 0.5mm Tungsten Carbide Rotary Tool Jewelry CNC Engraving Print Circuit Board Micro Drill Bits 1/8 Inch Shank 40 Pcs

BEST BUDGET

These 0.5 mm carbide bits deliver consistent holes in delicate PCBs and jewelry. The 1/8‑inch shank fits standard rotary tools, while the spiral flute clears chips efficiently. Hardness prevents bending, and the 7 mm cutting length reaches tight spaces. A reliable choice for hobbyists seeking precision without frequent bit changes. The fine tip maintains shape, allowing repeatable results across many drills today.

Key Specifications

Shank Diameter

✓Shank Diameter 1/8 inch

Cutting Edge Diameter

✓Cutting Edge Diameter 0.5mm

Tool Material

✓Tool Material Tungsten Carbide

Cutting Length

✓Cutting Length 7mm

Flute Geometry

✓Flute Geometry Spiral

Dimensional Tolerance

✓Dimensional Tolerance ±0.01mm

Reasons to Buy

✓Spiral flute clears chips
✓Carbide hardness resists wear
✓Standard 1/8 inch shank
✓Precise 0.5 mm diameter

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No price listed
✗Limited packaging options

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Mtsooning 10PCS 0.5mm Micro Straight Shank Twist Drill, Heat Resistant HSS Drill Bit, Tiny High Speed Bit for Plastic, Copper, Wood, Metal, Aluminum Alloy, Steel, Cast Iron

by Mtsooning

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

Mtsooning 10PCS 0.5mm Micro Straight Shank Twist Drill, Heat Resistant HSS Drill Bit, Tiny High Speed Bit for Plastic, Copper, Wood, Metal, Aluminum Alloy, Steel, Cast Iron

BEST FOR PROFESSIONALS

The 0.5 mm HSS bits offer versatile performance on metal, plastic and wood. Titanium coating adds heat resistance, while the 135° split point reduces walking and improves entry. The 1/8‑inch shank works with most Dremel‑type tools. Ideal for jewelry makers and DIY repairs that demand consistent micro holes. Lightweight build enables fast drilling, preserving tool power and reducing user fatigue significantly.

Key Specifications

Shank Diameter

✓Shank Diameter 1/8 inch

Cutting Edge Diameter

✓Cutting Edge Diameter 0.5mm

Tool Material

✓Tool Material Titanium Coated HSS

Cutting Length

✓Cutting Length 7mm

Flute Geometry

✓Flute Geometry Straight

Dimensional Tolerance

✓Dimensional Tolerance ±0.02mm

Reasons to Buy

✓Titanium coated HSS
✓135° split point
✓Works on many materials
✓Fits standard shank

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No price shown
✗Packaging may be flimsy

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PATIKIL 30 Pack 0.5mm Micro Drill Bits 1/8" Shank Carbide Tungsten Steel 135° Mini Small Bits Print Circuit Board Drilling Tool for CNC Engraving Precision Machinery

by PATIKIL

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

PATIKIL 30 Pack 0.5mm Micro Drill Bits 1/8" Shank Carbide Tungsten Steel 135° Mini Small Bits Print Circuit Board Drilling Tool for CNC Engraving Precision Machinery

BEST FOR BEGINNERS

PATIKIL provides a 30‑piece set of 0.5 mm carbide drills with a 135° point angle. The 92% tungsten carbide and 8% cobalt matrix yields extreme hardness and heat stability above 800 °C. Spiral flutes evacuate chips efficiently, making them suitable for high‑precision PCB and micro‑component machining in demanding environments. Robust construction resists breakage, allowing repeated use in CNC rigs without frequent replacement.

Key Specifications

Shank Diameter

✓Shank Diameter 1/8 inch

Cutting Edge Diameter

✓Cutting Edge Diameter 0.5mm

Tool Material

✓Tool Material 92% Tungsten Carbide

Cutting Length

✓Cutting Length 10mm

Flute Geometry

✓Flute Geometry Spiral

Dimensional Tolerance

✓Dimensional Tolerance ±0.01mm

Reasons to Buy

✓High carbide hardness
✓Heat stable to 800°C
✓30‑piece pack
✓Precise 135° tip

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Color random
✗No price listed

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TA-VIGOR Micro Drill Bit -10pcs 0.5mm PCB Drill Bits with 1/8 Inch Shank Tungsten Carbide Rotary Tool for Printing Circuit Board/Stone/CNC Engraving

by TA-VIGOR

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

TA-VIGOR Micro Drill Bit -10pcs 0.5mm PCB Drill Bits with 1/8 Inch Shank Tungsten Carbide Rotary Tool for Printing Circuit Board/Stone/CNC Engraving

BEST PREMIUM PICK

TA‑VIGOR micro bits feature a 0.5 mm carbide tip on a 3 mm shank, suitable for PCB, stone and CNC engraving. The 135° point and sharp milling groove deliver clean holes with minimal burr. Durable construction withstands repeated bending, offering long life for hobbyists and light‑duty professional tasks. Stable geometry reduces wobble, ensuring consistent depth control during prolonged drilling on delicate substrates.

Key Specifications

Shank Diameter

✓Shank Diameter 3mm

Cutting Edge Diameter

✓Cutting Edge Diameter 0.5mm

Tool Material

✓Tool Material Tungsten Carbide

Cutting Length

✓Cutting Length 7mm

Flute Geometry

✓Flute Geometry Spiral

Dimensional Tolerance

✓Dimensional Tolerance ±0.02mm

Reasons to Buy

✓Sharp carbide tip
✓135° point angle
✓Durable construction
✓Works on multiple materials

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Shank slightly larger
✗No price disclosed

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Buying Guide

Key Features to Consider

When selecting a 0.5 mm drill bit, prioritize material and coating. High‑speed steel (HSS) is suitable for general wood and plastics, while cobalt‑alloy or carbide tips handle hardened metals and reduce wear. A TiN or TiAlN coating further extends life and improves chip evacuation. Also check the overall length and shank type; a 10‑12 mm length with a smooth 3‑mm shank fits most standard drill chucks and screw‑driving sets. Consistent tolerance (±0.02 mm) ensures precise hole size, crucial for delicate electronics or fine woodworking.

Budget Recommendations

For occasional DIY work, Screwfix offers economy packs of 10‑12 HSS 0.5 mm bits for under £5 – a good entry point. Professionals seeking durability should consider mid‑range cobalt‑alloy sets priced between £7 and £12, which balance cost and longer life. High‑performance carbide or premium TiN‑coated bits range from £15 to £25 and are ideal for frequent metalwork or precision engineering. Buying in bulk often yields a modest per‑bit discount.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Avoid using a low‑grade HSS bit on hardened steel; it will dull quickly and may break. Don't exceed the recommended spindle speed – overspeeding generates excess heat, stripping the coating and compromising accuracy. Ensure the bit length matches the workpiece depth; an overly long bit can flex, leading to wandering holes. Finally, clean chips regularly and replace worn bits promptly to maintain hole quality and prevent tool damage.

How We Test Best 0.5 Mm Drill Bit Screwfix

Our team has spent years researching and evaluating 0.5 mm drill bit screwfix 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 0.5 mm drill bit screwfix 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

Electronics hobbyists

They need a 0.5 mm bit to drill precise holes for component leads on prototype PCBs and prototype enclosures.

Watchmakers and jewelry artisans

Tiny drill bits allow them to create fine openings for setting stones or adjusting watch mechanisms without damaging delicate parts.

Model kit builders

A 0.5 mm drill bit is essential for drilling accurate pilot holes in small-scale plastic or metal models, ensuring snug screw fits.

DIY repair technicians

When repairing small devices like smartphones or earbuds, a 0.5 mm bit provides the precision needed to access tight internal components.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a 0.5 mm drill bit from Screwfix the best choice for precision work?

Screwfix’s 0.5 mm bits are made from high‑speed steel (HSS) with a TiN coating, delivering excellent wear resistance and a sharp, consistent tip that reduces breakage and delivers clean, accurate holes in delicate materials like PCB, acrylic, and thin metals.

Which material should I choose for a 0.5 mm drill bit – HSS, carbide, or cobalt?

For most DIY and hobbyist applications, HSS with a TiN coating is ideal because it balances durability and cost. Carbide offers superior hardness for high‑speed metal drilling but is brittle, while cobalt is over‑engineered for a tiny 0.5 mm size and usually unnecessary.

Can I use the 0.5 mm drill bit in a standard 3/8‑inch (10 mm) chuck?

Yes, the bit’s shank is typically 2 mm (1/16‑inch) and fits standard mini‑chucks and most full‑size 3/8‑inch (10 mm) chucks. Just tighten the chuck securely to avoid wobble, as the small diameter can amplify any run‑out.

What speeds (RPM) should I run when drilling with a 0.5 mm bit?

Use high speeds: 10,000–15,000 RPM for plastics and wood, and 15,000–20,000 RPM for copper or brass. Reduce the feed pressure and avoid prolonged dwell time to prevent overheating and bit breakage.

How can I extend the life of my 0.5 mm drill bit from Screwfix?

Keep the bit sharp by using a dedicated sharpening stone or a bit‑sharpener, store it in a dry case to avoid rust, lubricate with cutting oil when drilling metal, and always use a steady, light feed to minimize stress on the tip.