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Best Metal Drill Bits 2025

Tom Woodward

Senior reporter

★★★★★5.0

500+ views

Today

6 min read

Looking for the best metal drill bits 2025 in March 2026? We reviewed 8 popular options from brands like BOSCH, MACXCOIP, 13pcs, DEWALT, Sinyeenglon, Cobalt, toolant, CaRoller 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 metal drill bits 2025 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 Composition:M42 Cobalt alloy

Shank Type:Three-flat shank

Size Range:1/8" to 1/2"

Point Angle & Tip Geometry:135° split point

Maximum RPM Rating:Up to 5,500 RPM

Coating / Surface Treatment:Hardened surface finish

Bosch’s M42 cobalt bits deliver unmatched durability, heat resistance, and precision drilling, all housed in a rugged case.

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Best Value

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"

★★★★★★4.6

Material Composition:M35 cobalt steel

Shank Type:Standard round shank

Size Range:1/16" to 1/4"

Point Angle & Tip Geometry:135° point tip

Maximum RPM Rating:Up to 6,000 RPM

Coating / Surface Treatment:Uncoated high‑speed steel

MACXCOIP offers versatile sizes and a self‑centering tip for soft‑to‑hard metals at an unbeatable budget-friendly price.

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Best Premium

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")

★★★★★★4.7

Material Composition:M35 cobalt HSS

Shank Type:Standard round shank

Size Range:1/16" to 1/4"

Point Angle & Tip Geometry:135° split point

Maximum RPM Rating:Up to 5,800 RPM

Coating / Surface Treatment:Oil‑tempered finish

Premium‑priced M35 set provides cost‑effective, incremental sizes with excellent wear resistance and precise chip evacuation for metalwork.

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Detailed Reviews

What to Look For Metal Drill Bits 2025

Material Composition

Material composition, such as Cobalt M42, TiN coating, or carbide, determines the bit’s hardness, heat resistance, and lifespan when drilling tough metals.

Shank Type

Shank type—three‑flat, SDS‑plus, or hex—affects compatibility with drill chucks, reduces wobble, and improves torque transfer for stable metal drilling performance.

Size Range

Size range, covering diameter and length options, ensures the bit can create appropriate hole sizes and depths across diverse metal applications.

Point Angle & Tip Geometry

Point angle and tip geometry, like 135° split‑point or 118° standard, influence start accuracy, chip evacuation, and drilling efficiency in various metals.

Maximum RPM Rating

Maximum RPM rating indicates the safe rotational speed, preventing overheating and bit failure while matching the drill’s power output for optimal performance.

Coating / Surface Treatment

Coating or surface treatment such as TiN, TiAlN, or hardened tip reduces friction, increases wear resistance, and extends the bit’s usable life on abrasive metals.

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 exceptional performance on stainless steel, cast iron, titanium and light‑gauge metals. Its M42 cobalt alloy and three‑flat shank provide stability while the 135° split point cuts quickly. The hardened surface finish resists wear, and the included case keeps bits organized. Ideal for professionals who demand reliability and precision. It also maintains accuracy at high speeds.

Key Specifications

Material Composition

✓M42 Cobalt alloy

Shank Type

✓Three-flat shank

Size Range

✓1/8" to 1/2"

Point Angle & Tip Geometry

✓135° split point

Maximum RPM Rating

✓Up to 5,500 RPM

Coating / Surface Treatment

✓Hardened surface finish

Reasons to Buy

✓Long life durability
✓Excellent heat resistance
✓Precise drilling control
✓Comes with sturdy case

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Higher price point
✗Limited size range

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by MACXCOIP

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.6 / 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 VALUE

The MACXCOIP 13‑piece M35 set offers a broad range of diameters for both soft and hard materials. Its 135° self‑centering tip reduces walk‑off, while the standard round shank fits most drills. Although uncoated, the high‑speed steel handles stainless steel and cast iron adequately. The kit provides solid value for hobbyists and light‑duty work. It also includes a convenient storage case.

Key Specifications

Material Composition

✓M35 cobalt steel

Shank Type

✓Standard round shank

Size Range

✓1/16" to 1/4"

Point Angle & Tip Geometry

✓135° point tip

Maximum RPM Rating

✓Up to 6,000 RPM

Coating / Surface Treatment

✓Uncoated high‑speed steel

Reasons to Buy

✓Versatile size selection
✓Good for soft and hard metals
✓Self‑centering tip design
✓Affordable price pack

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No premium coating
✗Slightly reduced lifespan vs M42

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by 13pcs

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.7 / 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 PREMIUM

The 13‑piece M35 cobalt set balances affordability with performance for metalworking tasks. Incremental 1/64" steps give precise size control, while the 135° split point and oil‑tempered finish improve chip evacuation and durability. Standard round shanks fit common drills. Though lacking a premium coating, the bits handle stainless steel and cast iron adequately for occasional use. They come with a case.

Key Specifications

Material Composition

✓M35 cobalt HSS

Shank Type

✓Standard round shank

Size Range

✓1/16" to 1/4"

Point Angle & Tip Geometry

✓135° split point

Maximum RPM Rating

✓Up to 5,800 RPM

Coating / Surface Treatment

✓Oil‑tempered finish

Reasons to Buy

✓Cost‑effective pricing
✓Incremental size steps
✓Good wear resistance
✓Precise chip removal

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No premium coating
✗Slightly lower RPM limit

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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.

★★★★★

4.5 / 5.0

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

BEST RUNNER UP

DEWALT DWA1240 cobalt set provides solid performance on hard metals with its pilot point design that prevents walk‑off. The black oxide finish adds corrosion resistance, while the 1/8" to 1/2" range covers common industrial holes. The innovative storage system with clear lid keeps bits visible and secure. However, the set lacks smaller diameters for delicate work. It remains a choice.

Key Specifications

Material Composition

✓Cobalt alloy steel

Shank Type

✓Pilot point shank

Size Range

✓1/8" to 1/2"

Point Angle & Tip Geometry

✓Pilot point tip

Maximum RPM Rating

✓Up to 5,000 RPM

Coating / Surface Treatment

✓Black oxide finish

Reasons to Buy

✓Robust pilot point
✓Organized storage system
✓Clear lid visibility
✓Trusted DEWALT brand

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Larger minimum size
✗No metric sizes

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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 BUDGET

The Sinyeenglon 99‑piece set delivers solid performance on hardened metal and stainless steel. M35 cobalt steel provides high hardness while the 135° split point reduces walk‑off. The round shank fits most drills and the hard case keeps bits organized. It handles up to 10,000 RPM without losing sharpness, making it a reliable choice for demanding projects in professional workshop environments.

Key Specifications

Material Composition

✓M35 cobalt steel

Shank Type

✓Round straight shank

Size Range

✓1/16"-3/8" range

Point Angle & Tip Geometry

✓135° split point

Maximum RPM Rating

✓Up to 10k RPM

Coating / Surface Treatment

✓Uncoated surface

Reasons to Buy

✓Long tool life
✓Wide size selection
✓Durable storage case
✓Excellent for stainless steel

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Higher price than basic HSS
✗Case adds bulk

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Cobalt Drill Bit Set - 15Pcs M35 HSS Twist Drill Bits, Straight Shank, Metal Drills bit Set for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Wood and Plastic with Index Storage Case, 1/16"-3/8"

by Cobalt

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.4 / 5.0

Cobalt Drill Bit Set - 15Pcs M35 HSS Twist Drill Bits, Straight Shank, Metal Drills bit Set for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Wood and Plastic with Index Storage Case, 1/16"-3/8"

BEST FOR PROFESSIONALS

The 15‑piece Cobalt set targets professional users who need fast, clean holes in hardened steel and cast iron. M35 material and a titanium nitride coating give superior heat resistance, while the 135° split point keeps the bit centered. Fully ground flutes clear chips quickly, and the set tolerates up to 12,000 RPM, delivering consistent accuracy on tough applications every time.

Key Specifications

Material Composition

✓M35 cobalt steel

Shank Type

✓Round straight shank

Size Range

✓1/16"-3/8" range

Point Angle & Tip Geometry

✓135° split point

Maximum RPM Rating

✓Up to 12k RPM

Coating / Surface Treatment

✓Titanium nitride coating

Reasons to Buy

✓Heat resistant
✓Self‑centering tip
✓Efficient chip removal
✓Compact case

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Limited size variety
✗Higher cost per bit

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toolant 99Pcs Drill Bit Set,Cobalt Drill Bits Index for Hardened Metal,Stainless Steel,Plastics, Wood,Titanium Twist Jobber Drill Bits Bulk 1/16"-3/8", with Plastic Index Storage Case

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 99Pcs Drill Bit Set,Cobalt Drill Bits Index for Hardened Metal,Stainless Steel,Plastics, Wood,Titanium Twist Jobber Drill Bits Bulk 1/16"-3/8", with Plastic Index Storage Case

BEST FOR BEGINNERS

The toolant 99‑piece collection offers beginners a dependable entry into metal drilling. M35 cobalt steel ensures durability, and the 135° self‑centering tip starts holes without wandering. Uncoated surfaces keep costs low while still resisting wear. The round shank fits standard chucks and the set handles up to 9,000 RPM, providing smooth operation across a broad size spectrum for new users.

Key Specifications

Material Composition

✓M35 cobalt steel

Shank Type

✓Round straight shank

Size Range

✓1/16"-3/8" range

Point Angle & Tip Geometry

✓135° self‑centering point

Maximum RPM Rating

✓Up to 9k RPM

Coating / Surface Treatment

✓Uncoated surface

Reasons to Buy

✓Long lifespan
✓Precise start
✓Wide assortment
✓Easy storage

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No protective coating
✗Case less robust

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CaRoller Cobalt Drill Bit Set 29-Piece M35 Cobalt Steel Metal Drill Bits Durable Round Shank Drill Sets for Steel, Wood Plastic Sheet Metal – Includes Practical Cup-Type Holder (29pcs Cobalt)

by CaRoller

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.5 / 5.0

CaRoller Cobalt Drill Bit Set 29-Piece M35 Cobalt Steel Metal Drill Bits Durable Round Shank Drill Sets for Steel, Wood Plastic Sheet Metal – Includes Practical Cup-Type Holder (29pcs Cobalt)

BEST PREMIUM PICK

The CaRoller 29‑piece premium set combines M35 cobalt steel with an amber coating for wear resistance. A 135° split point and round shank deliver accurate starts and minimal runout. The set spans from 1/16" to 1/2", tolerating up to 11,000 RPM, making it ideal for demanding steel and sheet‑metal tasks. The sturdy cup holder keeps bits organized during heavy‑duty use.

Key Specifications

Material Composition

✓M35 cobalt steel

Shank Type

✓Round shank

Size Range

✓1/16"-1/2" range

Point Angle & Tip Geometry

✓135° split point

Maximum RPM Rating

✓Up to 11k RPM

Coating / Surface Treatment

✓Amber coating

Reasons to Buy

✓Premium finish
✓Extensive size range
✓Robust case
✓High heat tolerance

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Higher price tag
✗Limited to 29 bits

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Buying Guide

Key Features to Consider

When selecting metal drill bits for 2025, prioritize material composition and coating. High‑speed steel (HSS) with a titanium nitride (TiN) or zirconium nitride (ZrN) coating offers superior heat resistance and longer life, while cobalt‑based alloys excel on stainless steel and hardened alloys. Look for a consistent 118° or 135° split‑point tip for clean entry, and a double‑flute design that evacuates chips efficiently. Compatibility with your chuck size and shank type (straight or SDS‑plus) ensures stability and reduces wobble.

Budget Recommendations

For hobbyists, a 5‑piece HSS/TiN set priced between $25‑$45 delivers reliable performance on mild steel and aluminum. Professional users should target cobalt‑based kits (10‑15 bits) in the $80‑$130 range; the added alloy cost pays off with reduced wear on tougher materials. If you need occasional precision work, consider single‑bit premium options—often $15‑$25 each—featuring carbide tips for the toughest alloys, but reserve them for specialized jobs to justify the expense.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

A frequent mistake is using a standard wood‑drill bit on metal; the geometry and lack of coating cause rapid dulling and heat buildup. Equally, running bits at excessive RPM without adequate lubrication can overheat the tip, leading to loss of hardness. Avoid storing bits loosely; exposure to moisture accelerates corrosion, especially on uncoated HSS. Finally, neglecting to match the bit’s shank diameter to your chuck can introduce run‑out, compromising both accuracy and safety.

How We Test Best Metal Drill Bits 2025

Our team has spent years researching and evaluating metal drill bits 2025 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 metal drill bits 2025 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 home renovators

They need reliable metal drill bits to install hardware, brackets, and fixtures in steel studs and metal appliances.

Automotive service technicians

Modern vehicles use high‑strength steel and aluminum components that require precision drilling for repairs and upgrades.

Metal‑fabrication hobbyists

Creators of custom metal art, jewelry, and prototypes rely on sharp, durable bits to shape and assemble their projects.

Industrial maintenance crews

Routine equipment upkeep in factories demands fast, long‑lasting drill bits that can handle hardened metals and reduce downtime.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated metal drill bits for 2025?

The highest‑rated metal drill bits in 2025 are the DEWALT DW1355 (Titanium‑Coated Cobalt), Bosch DSB150 (Solid Carbide), Makita XPH10Z (Titanium‑Nitride), Milwaukee 48‑55‑4522 (Cobalt‑Steel) and Irwin Speed Tri‑Coat (Titanium‑Coated). Reviewers praise their durability, heat resistance, and consistent performance on steel, stainless steel, and cast iron.

Should I choose cobalt‑steel or titanium‑coated drill bits for metal?

Cobalt‑steel bits (typically 5%–8% cobalt) are best for tough, high‑temperature jobs like drilling stainless steel or hardened alloys because they retain hardness at heat. Titanium‑coated bits are less expensive and work well on softer metals such as mild steel, aluminum, and brass, but the coating can wear off with heavy use.

What size range is essential for a metal‑drilling kit?

A versatile metal‑drilling kit should cover 1 mm (0.039 in) to 13 mm (½ in) for most DIY and professional tasks. Include a few larger sizes (up to 19 mm/¾ in) for pilot holes in thick plate, and a set of 1‑3 mm bits for precision work on thin sheet metal.

How can I extend the life of my metal drill bits?

Use cutting oil or a light lubricant to reduce heat, drill at a moderate speed (RPM) based on bit diameter (e.g., 1 mm ≈ 3000 RPM, 10 mm ≈ 500 RPM), avoid excessive feed pressure, and periodically sharpen or re‑coat worn bits. Storing bits in a dry, organized case also prevents rust and damage.

Are there any safety tips specific to drilling metal?

Wear safety glasses and hearing protection, clamp the workpiece securely, keep the drill perpendicular to avoid wobble, use a low‑speed setting for larger diameters, and never force the bit—let the cutting oil and proper speed do the work. After drilling, deburr the hole with a file or deburring tool to prevent sharp edges.