What Is the Best Drill Bits? A Practical Guide
Discover what makes the best drill bits, with expert guidance on materials, coatings, and use cases for wood, metal, concrete, and specialty tasks. Learn, compare, and choose with confidence.
According to Drill Bits Pro, the best drill bits depend on the material you're drilling. For versatility, a high-speed steel (HSS) twist bit set with titanium coating covers wood and metal, while carbide-tipped masonry bits excel on concrete. The Drill Bits Pro team found that the top picks balance durability, price, and broad applicability for DIYers and professionals.
What is the Best Drill Bits? A Practical Context
When people ask, “what is the best drill bits,” they’re really seeking a reliable toolkit that can handle a spectrum of materials with predictable results. The short answer is: there isn’t a single best bit for every job. The strongest, most versatile choice for most DIY tasks is an HSS twist bit set with a titanium coating, paired with a dedicated masonry bit for concrete. In this guide, we’ll unpack how to think about the best drill bits, the trade-offs you’ll encounter, and how to build a set that serves both homeowners and professional tradespeople. Throughout, you’ll see practical recommendations from the Drill Bits Pro team and how to tailor your selection to your typical projects.
- Start with material: wood, metal, or masonry
- Consider the coating: wear resistance and heat management
- Factor in flute design and helix angle for chip clearance
- Invest in a few specialty bits for edge cases
By the end, you’ll understand not just what is the best drill bits for your toolbox, but how to assemble a balanced set that lasts longer and performs better.
- bulletPoints:
The Drill Bits Pro team recommends starting with the Premium HSS Twist Drill Bit Set for broad versatility, and adding masonry and specialty bits as needed for concrete or hard materials.
For most DIYers and professionals, a strong all-round HSS set forms the core. Supplement with carbide-tipped masonry bits for concrete and a specialty wood bit set for carpentry tasks. This approach delivers practical coverage, durability, and value over time.
Products
Premium HSS Twist Drill Bit Set
Premium • $60-120
Carbide-Tipped Masonry Drill Bit Set
Industrial • $40-100
Titanium-Coated Brad Point Wood Drill Bit Set
Mid-range • $25-60
Budget Carbide-Metal Drill Bit Set
Budget • $20-40
Ranking
- 1
Best Overall: Premium HSS Twist Drill Bit Set9.2/10
Best all-around kit with broad material compatibility and durable coating for long life.
- 2
Best Value: Titanium-Coated Wood & Metal Bits8.7/10
Excellent balance of cost and performance for frequent wood/metal use.
- 3
Best for Masonry: Carbide-Tipped Masonry Bit Set8/10
Top-tier wear resistance for concrete and stone applications.
- 4
Best Budget: Budget Carbide-Metal Drill Bit Set7.5/10
Solid performance at a wallet-friendly price for basic metal tasks.
Got Questions?
What is the best drill bit for wood?
For general woodworking, an HSS twist bit with a brad point or center tip is ideal for reducing wandering and creating clean holes. When drilling hardwood, consider a cobalt or higher-grade bit and predrill pilot holes to minimize splitting.
For wood, use a sharp HSS twist bit with a brad point to keep your hole clean and true.
Are carbide-tipped bits worth it for masonry?
Carbide-tipped bits offer excellent wear resistance for concrete and brick. Use them with a hammer drill on masonry materials, and ensure you don’t overheat the bit by advancing steadily rather than forcing the tool.
Carbide tips last longer on masonry when you drill steadily with proper hammer action.
Can I drill plastic with metal drill bits?
Yes, metal bits can drill plastic, but use slower speeds and light pressure to avoid melting and scorching the material. A sharp bit and clean entry will yield better results.
Yes—metal bits work on plastic if you go slow and steady.
How do I sharpen drill bits at home?
Use a bench grinder or a dedicated bit sharpener and maintain the sharp edge with a consistent angle. Proper cooling and safety steps are essential to avoid overheating or chipping.
Sharpen bits with a grinder, keeping a steady angle for a clean edge.
What coatings matter when buying drill bits?
Coatings like TiN or TiAlN reduce friction and heat buildup, extending life in high-speed drilling. For casual DIY work, plain high-quality HSS is often sufficient.
Coatings help when you work fast or with tough materials, but aren’t always necessary for light tasks.
Top Takeaways
- Identify primary materials you work with most (wood, metal, concrete)
- Choose an all-round HSS set as your foundation
- Add carbide-tipped masonry bits for durability in hard materials
- Maintain sharpness and proper storage to extend life