We can point out a few reasons why aluminum is such a popular material.
- It is more versatile compared to other metals, so you can use it for a wide range of projects.
- Aluminum is also recyclable, so you can use it more than once before it becomes useless.
- Thus, aluminum is relatively easy to work with.
However, a challenge arises when it comes to drilling.
- The slippery surface brings about unwanted complications.
- It may be hard to find the ideal bits for dealing with such material.
- Some are too tough and may damage the material while others get dull before the job is done.
We understand that many people face this problem every day, and that is why we have decided to help you find the best drill bit for aluminum.
On top of providing you with brief reviews on each product, we shall point out the factors that you need to focus on as you look for the ideal drill bit for aluminum.
These factors include:
- The Material
- Speed
- Shape
- Ease of Installation, among others
- Let’s begin with the products.
Comparisons of Top-Quality Drill Bits for Aluminum
Over the years, many drill bits from different brands have flooded the market. So, your search is likely to be harder than it ought to be.
We have reviewed a sample of drill bits which we consider to be the best in the market.
If you decide to find your ideal item from this list rather than conduct another wholesome research, you will save a lot of time and energy.
Review of the Best 12 Aluminum Drill Bits (Ranked)
1. Dewalt DW1361 Drill Bit Set
Material: Titanium Nitride Coated
Finish Type: Titanium Nitride
Tool Flute Type: Spiral
No. of Pieces: 21
Item Weight: 1.0 pounds
Warranty Description: 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
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Dewalt is a household name in the world of drill bits, and their products have a reputation of performing as expected of them.
Here, we have a 21-piece set that has the potential of being the best drill bit for aluminum.
Features and Benefits
- Large set: Features drill bits of different sizes ranging from 1/6″ to ½.”
- Versatile: You can use these bits for drilling into wood and plastic materials as well.
- Durable: An outstanding feature of the DW1361 bits is the titanium coating, especially when dealing with non-ferrous metals.
- Accurate: On top of that is the patented pilot point that helps deliver clean holes.
- Efficient: The tapered web design is also crucial for the stability of the bits.
- Portable: Lastly, the set comes in a sturdy plastic case with a clip latch to close it securely.
- Titanium coated for longevity
- Sturdy plastic case storage
- For commercial and home applications
- Dull quickly
2. Comoware 230-Piece Drill Bit Set
Material: High Speed Steel, Steel
Finish Type: Titanium
Shank Type: Straight
Tool Flute Type: Spiral
No. of Pieces: 230
Item Weight: 4.3 pounds
With 230 pieces, this is one of the largest drill bit sets featured on our list.
The manufacturer claims to produce items that are built to last, so it would be a worthy investment.
Features and Benefits
Build:
- These bits feature the classic HSS construction coupled with titanium coating.
- you can expect the bits to be durable and more than capable of getting the job done.
- The cutting edge is then hardened and honed for the required sharpness
- The chatter-free design is vital for preciseness and cleaner holes.
- This design allows for repeated use of the bits.
Tip:
- 135-degree split point tip.
- Twist design helps boost the drilling speed and prevents walking.
- Further, this shape also helps in clearing away the chips and particles for a cleaner hole.
Lastly, the set includes a drill bit holder with a size index to help convenient storage and organization.
- Built to last
- Bit holder for storage and organization
- Wide application
- A bit fragile
3. CO-Z HSS Titanium Drill Bit Set with Automatic Center Punch
Material: High Speed Steel
Finish Type: Titanium
Shank Type: 3-Flat
Tool Flute Type: Spiral
Cuts through: Steel sheets, aluminum sheets, wood board, plastic board
If you are a beginner, this would be the perfect drill bit set for you. This is probably due to the ease of use that this kit offers, and you are unlikely to find such convenience anywhere else.
Let’s see what this set has for us.
Features and Benefits
Versatility:
- First, this set offers bits of different sizes that would enable you to get different sized holes.
- On top of that, the bits are thick enough to comfortably drill into the sturdiest materials.
Speed:
- You will get the job done in the shortest time possible, no matter the material’s sturdiness.
Cutting edges:
- Designed to give you a smooth drilling experience.
- Let’s not leave out the anti-slip shank that offers you the stability for smooth and safe drilling.
Operates on many materials:
- Aluminum
- Plastic
- Sheet metal
- Amazing speed
- Versatile
- Easy to use
- Flimsy construction
4. Makita B-65399 Impact Gold Titanium Drill Bit Set
Material: Stainless Steel
Finish Type: Gold, Titanium
Shank Type: Hex
Cutting Angle String: 135 Degrees
Item Weight: 1.05 pounds
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This is another versatile drill bit set that you should consider investing in. We have done a brief analysis of this product’s significant features.
You could use it for drilling:
- Metals
- Plastic
- Wood
- Cement walls
Features and Benefits
Versatility:
- First, this is a 14-piece set, and you can easily find the bit that would suit your unique preferences.
- The construction involves metal that is coated with titanium nitride.
- You can expect this bit’s lifespan to be longer compared to non-coated products.
Speed:
- We can attribute this to the 135-degree split point design and the titanium nitride coating that minimizes friction and heat-transmission.
- You are sure to appreciate the clean holes that these bits deliver.
Storage:
- Lastly, this set comes with a plastic box for secure organization of your tools.
- On top of that, the box makes transporting the bits to be easier.
- Built to last
- Multi-purpose
- Plastic box for storage and transportation
- Hard to change the bits
5. Comoware 13-piece Twist Drill Bit Set
Material: High Speed Steel
Finish Type: Titanium, Steel
Shank Type: Hex
Cutting Angle String: 135 Degrees
No. of Pieces: 13
Are you looking for a drill bit set that would give you an easier time in its installation?
Your search should stop at the Comoware 13-Piece drill bit set, which is a set that is popular with DIYers and engineers.
Features and Benefits
- As a 13-piece set, this item is likely to suite many of your preferences.
- Along with that, the construction is something worth discussing.
- The bits feature HSS titanium coating, which is vital in enhancing their durability.
Strength:
- Additionally, the horned and hardened cutting edge is crucial for the tools’ sharpness.
- We also noted the chatter-free design and staggered cutting teeth that help in the delivery of smooth and clean holes.
Speed:
- Another notable feature is the split point tip and the twist design.
- On top of that, this design also helps prevent walking, which is vital for smooth holes.
- Lastly, the two-flutes form reduces friction and heat for faster drilling process.
- Easy installation
- Fast drilling
- Deliver smooth and clean holes
- It only impresses on metals.
6. CO-Z 5Pc HSS Cobalt Drill Bit Set
Material: High Speed Steel, Titanium, Cobalt
Finish Type: Titanium
Shank Type: Triangle
Tool Flute Type: Spiral
Item Weight: 1.14 pounds
No. of Pieces: 5
If you are looking for a drill bit set that offers the perfect combination of speed and durability, this set by CO-Z will provide the ultimate solution.
Let’s see what this product is all about.
Features and Benefits
Construction:
- Cobalt with titanium coating reduces friction and heat-transmission.
- Helps in delivering cleaner holes.
Split point tip:
- Reduces walking and also assures you of better accuracy.
- It also makes the bits faster and gives them more power.
- The bits are hard enough to drill into sturdy materials while the no-spin shanks give them an anti-slip property.
Storage:
- Lastly, the set comes with an aluminum case for organization and safe storage away from extreme weather elements.
- The case also allows for easy transportation.
- Built to last
- Anti-slip shanks
- Sturdy aluminum case
- Dull very fast
7. Dewalt DW1342 Titanium Drill Bit Set
Material: Titanium Nitride Coating
Finish Type: Titanium Nitride
Shank Type: Straight
Tool Flute Type: Spiral
Item Weight: 1.06 pounds
No. of Pieces: 21
Warranty Description: 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
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Dewalt once again makes it to our list, and this should give you a hint of the product’s quality.
Before you decide to go for the product, take your time, and read what we have written about it.
Features and Benefits
Versatility:
- This is a 21-piece set of bits with different sizes.
- It should be easy for you to find a product that would meet all your preferences.
Durability:
- The other feature is the titanium coating.
- This minimizes friction to improve the product’s longevity.
- We liked the design of the tip that makes the bits non-walking and also boosts their durability.
Strength:
- No-spin shanks give the bits an anti-slip feature which boosts their effectiveness.
- Finally, the bit set comes with a sturdy container case that keeps you organized and helps in the set’s transportation.
- Versatile for different materials
- Secure storage case
- Great price
- The small bits are fragile.
8. Afunta 10-Piece 4-Flute End Mill Bits
Material: High Speed Steel
Finish Type: Steel
Shank Type: Straight
Tool Flute Type: Spiral
Number of Flutes: 4
No. of Pieces: 10
Item Weight: 0.71 ounces
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You may not be familiar with the name Afunta, but the brand gives us a product that we consider to be the best end mill bits on our list.
You can use this type of bit for various tasks such as finish machining and side milling.
Features and Benefits
Each tool is labeled so that you can find an accurate bit for each task.
We have no complaint about the pricing, and you do not have to dig deep into your pockets to acquire the product.
Versatility:
Work on different materials, including:
- Wood
- Carbon steel
- Cast iron
- Aluminum
- Titanium
Strength:
- The bits are made of high-speed steel, which give them the sturdiness to drill into the most robust materials with ease.
- An outstanding feature of this product is the 4-flute design that does a great job of reducing friction helps complete tasks in the shortest time possible.
- Sturdy build
- Affordable
- Amazing speed
- Prone to corrosion
9. Bosch CO2143 Cobalt Drill Bit
Material: Cobalt
Finish Type: Uncoated
Cutting Angle String: 135 Degrees
Tool Flute Type: Spiral
Item Weight: 0.634 ounces
Cutting Diameter: 0.25 Inches
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Unlike other products on our list, this is an individual bit from the world-famous Bosch brand, which rarely disappoints with its high-quality products.
Our review aims to make you understand the hype behind this product.
Features and Benefits
Strength:
- For starters, this bit is made out of cobalt.
- This material has one of the best friction and high temperature-tolerance in the world.
- So, even if the bit is subjected to these conditions, it is likely to come out unscathed.
Tip:
- Next to note is the 135-degree point tip.
- It which helps in giving you smoother and cleaner holes.
Accuracy:
- The wide flutes also help in getting the particles out of the way, and they also speed up the drilling process.
- The triple-sided no-spin shank ensures that the bit does not slip during use for consistent performance.
- Tolerates high temperatures
- Versatile for different materials
- Hardened surface
- Needs a drill press to give the best
10. Neiko 10181A Spiral Grooved Step Drill Bit Set
Material: Titanium
Finish Type: Titanium
Shank Type: Hex
Tool Flute Type: Spiral
Item Weight: 4.16 ounces
Item: 3-Piece Set
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This is another high-quality drill bit set to feature on our list.
It would be a worthy investment that would help you drill clean holes in different materials such as:
- Aluminum
- Stainless steel
- Wood
- Copper
- Plastic
Features and Benefits
Construction:
- High-speed steel is coated with titanium nitride.
- You can expect the durability and sturdiness of the bits to be nothing short of impressive.
Tip:
- Let’s also touch on the unbit split point tip.
- Speeds up the cutting and prevents angled walking from the center boring line.
Strength:
- As for the two-flute spiral grooved design, you may find it handy in clearing away the particles for cleaner holes.
- We also liked the quick-change ¼” hex shank that allows for easy bit switches.
- Deliver cleaner holes
- Offers 31 different sizes
- Greater cutting speed
- Not that durable
11. Bosch CO2155 Cobalt Drill Bit
Material: Cobalt
Shank Type: 3 Flats
Item Weight: 3.04 ounces
Cuts Through: light-gauge metal, high-carbon steel, aluminum and ally steel, cast iron, stainless steel and titanium
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Bosch is another name that seems to be an assurance of top-quality items.
If you are wondering whether it is worth investing in the CO2155 model, check out our brief review below.
Features and Benefits
Endurance:
- With the cobalt construction, this bit can withstand high temperatures up to 1,100F without weakening or bending.
- This makes it an ideal choice for boring into several light-gauge metals such as soft aluminum.
Strength:
- The flat tip means that it can survive heavy loads
- The rounded base ensures that the bit plays less while in the chuck.
As you use the bit, you can be sure that stability won’t be an issue due to the web design.
- Durable
- Web design for stability
- Withstands high temperatures
- Slow
12. Bosch CO2147 5/16” Cobalt Drill Bit
Material: Cobalt
Shank Type: 3 Flats
Item Weight: 1.44 ounces
Cuts Through: Light-gauge metal, high-carbon steel, aluminum and ally steel, cast iron, stainless steel and titanium
Who would have guessed that a leading brand like Bosch would be the one closing down our list?
However, the rank does not make it inferior as there are several positives to draw from this product, as expected of the name.
Let’s see what the product is all about.
Features and Benefits
Durability:
- It is made out of cobalt and can stand up to the toughest applications.
- On top of that, this material can tolerate extremely high temperatures up to 1100F.
Strength:
- The surface is hardened so that penetrating tough materials won’t be a problem
- The web design gives it the much-needed stability during drilling.
Versatility:
- The bit is available in full shank and jobber length to make it versatile enough for a wide variety of tasks.
- One last thing to mention is that this bit features a rounded base while three surfaces are shaved flat to boost its stability in the chuck.
- Tolerates high temperatures
- Versatile
- Can be re-sharpened
- Dulls fast
The Buying Guide to High-Quality Drill Bits for Aluminum
If you want to get the best drill bit for aluminum, there are several factors that you need to consider.
These aspects have an impact on the suitability of the bits in dealing with aluminum material.
1. Material
- The main feature to look out for is the material used in the construction of the drill bit.
- It should be strong enough to meet the demands that aluminum metal has.
There are certain materials that you should look out for. The first is high-speed steel (HSS).
- Can withstand high RPMs while remaining intact.
- Versatility of easily drilling into different materials.
- Wood
- Stainless steel
- Plastic
- An upgrade to ordinary HSS is coated with a black oxide that gives it corrosion-resistance and increases durability.
- There are also titanium-coated HSS bits.
- Sturdier
- Give out less friction to maintain their sharpness for longer
Cobalt is the other material to look out for.
- Ability to withstand very high temperatures.
- Such bits are quite hard and can bore through sturdier materials such as stainless steel.
2. Speed
- High speed gives you better working efficiency as it enables you to get the work done faster.
- Also, faster drilling is key to delivering clean holes, just the way you want them.
3. Shape
- A split point tip would enable your drill to start working as soon as it comes into contact with the surface.
- Such a design offers more precision.
- There would also be less switching of the bits since you no longer have to create a “center punch.”
4. Ease of Installation
- We all like saving time, and a drill bit that is easy to install would help you attain this goal.
- You may be lucky to get a product that comes with instructions that guide you through the installation process.
5. Universal Compatibility
- It is also wise if you look for drill bits with universal compatibility.
- This is because you can use the bits on different power tools without making significant concessions on the quality of the performance that you get.
6. Storage Case
- A high-quality storage case would provide you with secure storage for your drill bits.
- It would help you to be more organized with your tools.
- Further, the box would make it easy for you to take the bits with you on the road.
FAQs
In this section, we have attempted to answer some of the questions that we faced as we dug deeper into the ideal drill bits for aluminum.
Q: Can regular drill bits work on aluminum?
No, they cannot.
This is because they may not have the required hardness for drilling through aluminum.
Q: Are there different types of drill bits out there?
Yes, there are.
Some of the common types that you will find out there include:
- Twist
- Brad-point
- Self-feed
- Auger
- Spade
- Installer
Q: Which are the best materials for making drill bits for aluminum?
The best materials for high-quality drill bits are high-speed steel and cobalt.
These two have the necessary characteristics that aluminum requires, such as:
- Sturdiness
- Longevity
- High-temperature tolerance
Which One Is The Best Overall?
In the end, we settled on the Dewalt DW1361 Drill Bit Set as our top pick.
- All the bits in the set are built to last.
- You can use them for a wide range of applications.
- They come in a high-quality case for secure storage.
All the above features are what make this set to be a worthy investment and our top pick.
Wrapping It Up
Aluminum is a metal that would serve you well, provided you handle it appropriately.
If you use a low-quality drill on it, the material and the tool may get damaged and leave you with considerable losses.
Our article has touched on just about everything concerning the appropriate drill bit for aluminum. If you have been keen enough, you should be better positioned to make an informed decision.
Good luck in your search!