Are you looking to equip your workshop with jewelry-making tools, or maybe you are a beginner who is hungry for information? Either way, you’re in the right place! Below is our expert buying guide and tops picks for the best jewelry-making drills. Let us know which is your favorite!
That isn’t all, we have also gone ahead and analyzed each product’s features, as well as the pros and cons. This is to help you choose the one that best meets your needs.
Our Top Choices:
 | Top Pick: | Dremel 2050-15 Versatile Craft Rotary Tool |
| Review Champion: | GOXAWEE Rotary Tool Kit for Crafting Projects & DIY Creations |
| Most Simplistic: | GOXAWEE 105pcs Multi-Purpose Rotary Tool |
| Highest Drilling Rate: | Ryobi One+ P460 Rotary Tool Set |
| Amazon's Choice: | Mudder Hand Drill Tool Set |
| Best Rated: | Dremel 8050-N/18 Rotary Tool |
Comparisons of the Top Drills for Jewelry Making on the Market
It can be quite confusing for you to select the best rotary tool for your jewelry-making adventure due to the many options. Luckily, this guide is here to enlighten you on some of the features to look for in jewelry drills.
First, here’s our comparison chart.
Factors To Consider Before Buying Drill For Jewelry Making
This is a summary of the key factors that you may use to gauge whether a particular drill suits your jewelry-making needs.
Purpose
What you plan to drill into is vital in the rotary tool selection. Large diameter materials demand the power of a corded drill.
Cordless drills, on the other hand, are great for light-duty tasks, which may involve thin or soft materials.
Drill Speed
The drill speed is measured in RPM (revolutions per minute). Some drills have a single speed, while others have variable speeds.
Drills with higher rpm have to be used carefully so you won’t ruin your material since they drill-in quickly. Generally, their primary drawbacks is that they are also more expensive.
Most people prefer drills with variable speeds since they are easy to control and are great for delicate tasks on glass or softwood materials.
Power
The power rating of most drills ranges from 2 to 24 volts (V). High-voltage drills are more powerful than those with lower voltage; however, powerful drills tend to be heavier due to features like the heavy-duty motor or large-sized batteries.
Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries are commonly used in power drills. Although pricier, they are lighter and deliver double energy than nickel-cadmium batteries, which don’t keep their charge for long.
Despite that, it may surprise you to find out that some drills are neither corded nor cordless, as they are manually operated like product #5 in this list.
Comfort
Comfort in drills goes all the way from the grip material to the adjustability of the shaft. A drill that is ergonomically designed with a comfortable grip/handle allows you to work for long hours without getting hand or wrist fatigue.
An adjustable or flexible shaft allows you to perform multiple applications on different surfaces.
Accessories
Some drills can come with up to or over 100 accessories, while others may be more simple. While it may be tempting to go the tool with more accessories, you should look at the quality first.
For instance, drills with fewer accessories and attachments tend to be more effective than those with more.
We’ve picked the following 10 jewelry-making drills as the best, based on the reviews of unbiased editors.
Check out our review about drill presses for jewelry making.
Reviews of the 10 Best Drills for Jewelry Making
1. Dremel 2050-15 Rotary Tool for Jewelry Making – Top Pick
This versatile Dremel tool is great for small or lightweight craftwork like leather burnishing, glass etching, woodworking, polishing, jewelry making, and more.
The rotary tool features a cool-running compact motor that delivers variable speeds ranging from 5,000 to 22,000 rpm for controlled use in various craft applications.
- Material: Composite
- Speed: 5,000–22,000 rpm
- Power Type: Corded
- Power Source: AC
- Voltage: 110/120 V
- Measurement System: Metric
- Ideal Use: Glass etching, leather burnishing, jewelry making, polishing, woodworking
- Dimensions: 5.13 x 2.25 x 10.44 inches
- Warranty: 2 years
This lightweight slim-sized craft tool boasts a comfortable grip ideal for working long periods.
The kit comes as a full drilling package with 15 accessories to give you a quick start to your crafting projects.
Fortunately, you won’t have to worry about limited running time as the device operates corded. However, this may be a downside if you live in areas with frequent power blackouts.
Performance Ratings
Product Documentation
- Operating/Safety Instructions Manual PDF
Customer Review Section
- Cool running and multipurpose use
- Lightweight design
- Variable speeds
- Corded
- Not suitable for heavy-duty drilling
2. GOXAWEE G4007 Drilling Rotary Tool Kit for Jewelry & Crafting – Review Champion
Unlike the Dremel drilling tool above, this GOXAWEE rotary kit comes with 140 pieces for multiple crafting actions.
Some of those accessories include polishing pads and various discs for sanding, grinding or cutting. As a bonus, you also get a sturdy (albeit heavy) case to store all the included items.
- Material: Metal, stone, plastic, sandpaper, HSS
- Speed: 8,000–30,000 rpm
- Power Type: Corded
- Power Source: AC
- Voltage: 110 V
- Wattage: 130 W
- Amperage Capacity: 1.3 amps
- Maximum Power: 130 watts
- Installation Method: Strut-mounted
- Ideal Use: Crafting projects and DIY creations
- Dimensions: 11.02 x 9.45 x 2.95 inches
The kit comprises useful attachments like the flexible shaft and transparent shield for increased protection, and a 3-jaw quick chuck for easy accessory changing.
This 110–120 V drill has 5 step speeds ranging from 8,000 rpm to 30,000 rpm, which can be adjusted easily with the simple turning of the speed knob. Additionally, these variable speeds come in handy if you’d like to make detailed engravings on glass, plastics, metal, wood, or any other materials.
Lastly, this DIY drill kit is moisture-proof and fall-proof; this is enough assurance that you will get long-lasting service from all the included items.
Performance Ratings
Product Documentation
- User Manual PDF
Customer Review Section
- All-inclusive kit
- Multipurpose and 5 variable speeds
- Flexible shaft
- Overheats over long periods of use
- Undetailed usage instructions
3. GOXAWEE G5225 Multi-Purpose Rotary Tool – Most Simplistic
This Die Grinder comes with 105 pieces, which may be less than the previous GOXAWEE MultiPro, but it boasts a powerful motor. The motor allows you to perform heavy-duty tasks and the 3-jaw 0.5–4 mm standard chuck holds in place a range of attachments.
Moreover, the 3-step variable speeds of 5,000 to 15,000 rpm give you maximum control as you perform your cutting, sanding, trimming, polishing, or drilling applications.
- Speed: 5,000 – 15,000RPM
- Power Type: Cordless
- Power Source: Li-ion Battery
- Voltage: 3.6V
- Chuck Clamping: 1/8‘’ and 3/32‘’
- Switch Style: Rocker switch
- Ideal Use: Jewelry, Carving on jade, glass, wood, plastic
- Item Weight: 12.5 ounces
- Dimensions: 7.99 x 7.64 x 2.95 inches
This set has an advanced flexible shaft that helps reduce vibrations and is great for delicate works in hard to reach areas.
The tools are ideal for most DIY home projects, garages, or even factories for work on metals, wood, plastic, and a couple of other materials. Finally, the tool offers unlimited runtime as it runs corded on 110 V.
Performance Ratings
Customer Review Section
- Multiple applications with powerful motor
- Flexible shaft
- Multifunctional accessories
- No storage container
- Overheats quickly
4. Ryobi P460 Rotary Tool for Handmade Crafting and DIY – Highest Drilling Rate
Are you a beginner or professional craftsman who needs a precision set to cater for your drilling, shaping, sanding, or other light-duty detailing jobs? This Ryobi rotary set may be what you have been looking for.
The package comes with 33 high-performance accessories. Unfortunately, you will have to order the drill’s battery and 18-volt charger separately.
- Speed: Up to 34,000 rpm
- Power Type: Cordless
- Power Source: Battery-powered
- Voltage: 18 V
- Included accessories: 33
- Battery Power Type: Lithium-ion
- Chuck Capacity: 1/8”
- Dimensions: 10.51 x 6.57 x 4.88 inches
- Warranty: 3 years
This drill operates cordless for long periods after only a single charge, making it the best choice in areas with frequent power outages. To add on that, the compact design makes the tool easily portable around the house or to the garage.
For ease of use, the drill includes a 36-inch flexible shaft and operates with variable speeds of about 34,000 rpm.
Performance Ratings
Product Documentation
- Operator’s Manual PDF
Customer Review Section
- Variable speeds and cordless
- Multiple accessories
- Flexible shaft
- Battery and charger not included
5. Mudder Hand Drill Tool Set for Jewelry Making – Amazon’s Choice
This Mudder hand drill has a compact size for easy storage and is great for small daily applications in home décor, jewelry making, and so on.
The set includes 10 PCB mini drills, 1 bench vise, 1 pin vise, and 25 twist drills available in 17 different sizes. Similarly, these multiple drills offer unmatchable performance on various craftwork applications.
- Adjustable Clamp: 0.3–3.4 mm range
- Package: 37 pieces
- Size: 0.3–1.2 mm PCB Drill
- Pin Vise: 3.54 x 0.6 inches
- Bench Vise: 4.3 x 2.4 x 1.4 inches
- Ideal Use: Wood, plastic, rubber, PVC, walnut, bone, fiberglass
- Dimensions: 6.69 x 6.3 x 2.17 inches
All the included items are lightweight for easy use on wood, rubber, plastic, bones, and many more.
Also, the pin and bench vises are made from aluminum alloy for added strength and durability. The drill itself is designed with a comfortable grip and features a non-slip surface for safe handling.
Performance Ratings
Customer Review Section
- Includes a clamp
- High-quality accessories
- Lightweight and versatile
- Not suitable for large projects
- Manually operated
6. Dremel 8050-N/18 Cordless Rotary Tool Kit – Best Rated
Different from the #1 Dremel Stylo+ rotary tool, this one is equipped with LED lights at the front for better project visibility.
This cordless rotary tool is powered by an 8-volt Li-ion battery that takes 3 hours and 45 minutes to charge. However, being cordless, the device will only serve you for a particular time.
For easy charging, there’s a charging dock that stops automatically when the battery is full.
- Material: Composite
- Speed: 5,000–25,000 rpm
- Power Type: Cordless
- Power Source: Battery-powered
- Voltage: 8 V
- Battery Type: Rechargeable
- Body Type: Slim & Ergonomic
- Batteries: 1 Lithium-ion
- Dimensions: 9.75 x 6.5 x 3.75 inches
- Warranty : 2 years
The kit contains 18 Dremel accessories for different cutting, polishing, wood carving, glass carving or sanding applications.
What’s more, the drill has variable speeds ranging from 5,000 to 25,000, which can be adjusted easily through the included LED dial.
To sum up, the rotary tool features a slim profile for comfortable handling even when used for long hours.
Performance Ratings
Product Documentation
- Operating/Safety Instructions Manual PDF
Customer Review Section
- Cordless and easily portable
- Has LED lighting
- Rechargeable battery
- Variable speeds
- Only suitable for small craft projects
- The battery doesn’t hold a charge for long
7. Qleng 72W Micro Electric Hand Drill
This small hand-held electric tool is great for drilling, carving, polishing, and cutting either plastic, metallic or wooden materials.
The tool features an anti-magnetic steel surface that helps reduce the adsorption of chippings to keep it clean. You will, nonetheless, need to clean the surface with anti-rust oil after every use to prevent rust.
- Material: Aluminum alloy,Plastics
- Speed: 5000–8500 rpm
- Power Type: Corded
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Chuck Clamp: 0.6–6 mm
- Voltage: 240 V
- Diameter: 1-5/8″
- Maximum Chuck Size: 6 mm
- Maximum Power: 72 watts
- Ideal Use: Carving, cutting, polishing, drilling
- Dimensions: 10.59 x 4.69 x 2.6 inches
The hand drill has a double ball-bearing motor that provides variable speeds from 5,000 to 8,500 rpm. Moreover, the included chuck is capable of clamping 0.6 to 6 mm measurements.
Additionally, the drill is uniquely designed with an aluminum alloy body for enhanced durability and a plastic handle for convenient use.
Lastly, the 72 W unit operates corded on 240 V and has an easy-to-press control switch for comfortable putting on/off.
Customer Review Section
- Many craft applications
- Easy speed regulation
- Durable construction
- Safe switch mechanism
- Prone to rust
8. WORKPRO 70-piece Cordless Rotary Tool Kit for DIY and Crafting
This 70-piece WORKPRO tool kit promises to offer high performance. The set is excellent for most applications on metal, glass, wood, or plastic.
There is a variable speed dial that helps you to adjust the speed through the 6 steps from 0–22,000 rpm to suit different functions.
- Material: Steel, ABS
- Speed: 0–22000 rpm
- Power Type: Cordless
- Batteries: 1.5 AH Lithium-ion
- Power Source: Battery-powered
- Voltage: 12 V
- Package: 70 pieces
- Ideal Use: Wood, glass, plastic, metal
- Dimensions: 7.87 x 2.36 x 11.02 inches
This mini-drill includes a storage case, to help safe-keep the various accessories. Additionally, this cordless tool is powered by a 1.5 AH Li-ion battery that’s charged by a 12-volt charger.
However, you should make sure to keep the battery fully charged before using the device to maintain a steady supply of power.
For enhanced safety operation, the machine features a quick stop and a spindle lock button. Furthermore, the drill is lightweight and has a soft-grip handle for comfortable use even during long periods.
Performance Ratings
Customer Review Section
- Includes a charging station
- Offers great speed control
- Multiple accessory kit
- Easy battery change
- Variable speeds
- Little bit Noisy
9. Yakamoz Mini Portable Handheld Drill
This YAKAMOZ mini hand drill is ideal for all your lightweight milling, grinding, drilling, and cutting or polishing crafts.
The tool features a durable aluminum alloy shell; however, it may not be ideal for working on very thick metal, plastic or hardwood.
- Material: Aluminum
- Speed: 6000 rpm
- Power Type: Cordless
- Batteries: 2 AA batteries
- Maximum Power: 10 watts
- Size: 135 x 24 mm
- Battery Cell Type: Lithium
- Power Source: Battery-powered
- Voltage: 3.7 V
- Ideal Use: Cutting, engraving, milling, grinding, polishing, removing, and drilling
- Dimensions: 7.36 x 3.98 x 1.38 inches
The drill has a slim body coupled with cordless operation, making it easy to transport.
As a bonus to the 15 included drill bits, you also get a charger and 2 batteries, even though the drill is powered by only one battery.
To conclude, because the tool only has one speed, you need to be careful to avoid destroying your materials.
Performance Ratings
Customer Review Section
- Lightweight and Multipurpose tool
- LED charger display
- Compact design
- No usage instructions
- Single-speed tool
10. SPTA 1.3 amp Multi-Functional Rotary Tool Kit
This multipurpose rotary tool kit from SPTA is equipped with 388 accessories plus 4 attachments for exceptional performance.
The flexible shaft brings creates versatility, while the multipurpose cutting bit is great for hollowing shapes into all types of wood.
- Speed: 10000–32000 rpm
- Collet Capacity: 0.5–3.2 mm
- Cycle: 60 Hz
- Maximum Power: 130 watts
- Voltage: 120 V
- Ideal Use: Home improvement or crafting
- Dimensions: 12.96 x 8.2 x 4.26 inches
- Guarantee: 24 months
This SPTA drill has 6 adjustable speeds from 3,200 to 10,000 rpm for easy use between different materials and tasks.
With this handy tool, you can sand, grind, polish, engrave, and perform multiple applications for all your crafting projects.
The unit operates corded which may be a nuisance to some people. But to counter this, the drill has a comfortable grip for better control during long crafting sessions.
Performance Ratings
Customer Review Section
- Adjustable speeds
- Multiple accessories
- Comfortable to use
- Wide applications
- Some attachments are cheaply made
- Undetailed user manual
Video: Basic Drilling Techniques for Jewelry
Frequently Asked Questions
These questions will help you to understand the concept of drills to better your jewelry making.
Q: How efficiently can I drill holes into my resin jewelry?
A: Simple, take your resin piece, and place it on a wooden scrap block. Hold the resin at your preferred angle and drill in slowly to avoid causing friction, which may cause the piece to melt or soften.
Q: How much speed should a drill have?
A: There is not a specific answer to this question. Some drills have single speeds while others have variable speeds. The amount of rpm needed from a drill is determined by the type of task you intend to use it for.
Q: Which is the most efficient power drill for my jewelry-making venture?
A: Most jewelry making materials require light-duty drilling; therefore, you can efficiently work with drills of 4–8 volts. However, drilling into hard metals like steel demand high-performance drills of about 12–18 volts.
Our Best Pick
We have determined the Dremel Stylo+ Versatile Craft 2050-15 Rotary Tool is our preferred jewelry-making drill. Why? Due to this rotary tool’s cool-running motor, wide range variable speeds of 5,000–22,000 rpm, comfortable grip, and unlimited operating time.
Final Opinion
Having the right tools for jewelry making is important no matter what—so, don’t compromise.
Our guide above is meant to ensure that you are able to make the most from your passion for craftwork. We hope that you’ll find it useful in your quest for quality drills, bits or even hole punches.