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Drill bits work hard and lose their edge pretty quickly.
If you’ve invested in some drill bits or if you use a lot of different ones frequently, you know that replacing them can be pretty expensive.
That’s why investing in a good drill bit sharpener usually ends up saving you money in the long run. Plus, you get to keep using the bits that you love.
On this page:
The Best Drill Bit Sharpener with Reviews 2024
Below is a list of the best drill bit sharpeners we found on the market today.
1. DAREX V390 Industrial Drill Bit Sharpener
Pros
- Compatible with the most common drill bits.
- Perfect for a small shop.
- It has an adjustable split-point feature and relief control for added versatility.
- Manufacturer says this can handle 5/6 bits an hour.
Cons
- Diamond wheel needed for carbide bits not included.
- Expensive - not recommended for lighter duty work.
Overview
DAREX V 390, an ideal choice for shops that demand a precision sharpener at a value price that operates quickly and intuitively.
It comes with a Borazon wheel which works with cobalt drill bits. You can get an optional diamond wheel for it if you’re looking for something to use with your carbides. An adjustable split-point feature and relief control make it a little more versatile.
This sharpener from DAREX is a great pick for a small shop. It’s great for most common bits that you likely have in your workshop and works fast and effectively.
2. Drill Doctor 750X Professional Drill Bit Sharpener
- Angle: 115 to 140°
- Minimum Bit Size: 3/32"
- Maximum Bit Size: 3/4"
- Weight: 3 lbs
- Dimensions: 13.8 x 5.8 x 11.8"
- Warranty: 3 years
Pros
- Compatible with multiple types of drill bits.
- Provides optional back-cut split for better performance.
- Has a push to stop function to prevent over-splitting, adjustable material take-off.
Cons
- Have to spend some time learning how to use it properly.
- Some users mentioned that the directions are confusing.
- Other than that there were few user complaints.
Overview
Drill Doctor makes a few appearances in our reviews but the 750X is our pick if you’re looking to get the most bang for your buck. It’s reasonably priced and packed with great features. This machine is compatible with multiple types of drill bits, including masonry, cobalt, and high-speed steel. It’s easy to use and it even gives you the option to add a back-cut split point which makes penetrating various material faster and drilling more precise.
This is a great product for home workshops but has enough features that a professional would love it, too. The ability to add the back-cut split is a nice addition and helps get more precise results.
3. Drill Doctor 350X Drill Bit Sharpener
- Angle: 118°
- Minimum Bit Size: 3/32"
- Maximum Bit Size: 1/2"
- Weight: 2.35 lbs
- Dimensions: 12.5 x 4.5 x 6.8"
- Warranty: 3 years
Pros
- Compatible with the most popular bit styles and sizes for wood and light metals.
- Industrial shape sharpening wheel.
- It's a compact unit which is great for home workshops and is easy to use with minimal adjustments needed.
Cons
- Been noted that it can be tricky to set the depth.
- The instructions can be difficult to understand as mentioned by some users.
- The body made of plastic to the annoyance of some and people.
- Not recommended for industrial use.
Overview
The Drill Doctor 350X is the perfect budget item. It isn’t as versatile as some of the other items on our list but it works with the most common bits and sizes used for wood and light metals. If you’re looking for something to use at home, this is a great choice since this are the kinds of bits you probably use anyway. It’s super easy to use because there’s no alignment necessary and the V-block jaw holds the bit firmly in place so there’s no twisting, even with the smallest bits.
For shops or hobbyists who use more common bits, this is a perfect choice. It’s a fair price, really easy to use, and more than capable of getting the job done.
Pros
- Sharpens drill bits as well as multiple other tools.
- The sharpening wheel and housing are of high quality for the price.
- The 4800 RPMs provide enough power to quickly get the job done.
Cons
- Plastic guides make it difficult to maintain alignment
- Not suitable for professional grade or heavy duty work
- Difficult tool for a beginner to learn how to use
Overview
The XtremepowerUS Sharpener is a basic, high power sharpener that’s great for drill bits, among other things. Not only does it work well with most standard drill bits, it has attachments that sharpen other tools, like scissors, knives, and chisels. Because it’s pretty basic, this is a tool that’s best for someone who is familiar with the process of sharpening drill bits. It can take a little adjusting sometimes but, when used properly, this is a great tool.
If you want something for your home workshop that’s affordable and effective at sharpening drill bits and offers a bit of versatility, check this one out. It provides versatility at a fair price.
5. Woodstock D4144 Drill Bit Sharpener
- Angle: 41 - 88°
- Minimum Bit Size: 1/8"
- Maximum Bit Size: 3/4"
- Weight: 1.37 lbs
- Dimensions: 8.7 x 5.3 x 2"
- Warranty: 1 year
Pros
- Mounts to benches or table tops for more stability.
- Thorough user manual included.
- It's lightweight and extremely durable.
Cons
- Doesn't work without a bench grinder or other sharpening tool
- Not absolutely precise as mentioned by a few users
Overview
The Woodstock D4144 Sharpener is a little different than what we’ve seen so far. For one thing, this is a tabletop sharpener that first needs to be installed on a table top or workbench. It’s lightweight and very well made so it should last a good, long time. Another thing is that this sharpener doesn’t work on its own, you have to use it with a bench grinder or other spinning sharpener.
If you already have a bench grinder and want a simple way to use it to sharpen your drill bits, this Woodstock D4144 is the perfect tool for you.
6. Drill Doctor DD750X Drill Bit Sharpener
- Angle: 115 - 140°
- Minimum Bit Size: 3/32"
- Maximum Bit Size: 3/4"
- Weight: 7 lbs
- Dimensions: 5.6 x 13.8 x 11.4"
- Warranty: 1 year
Pros
- Perfect for standard twist and masonry bits.
- Adjustable material take off to extend the life of your bits.
- It can do split cuts if you choose to and the magnet motor supplies consistent power regardless of load.
- A very good machine.
Cons
- Operation is not may not be straightforward for some
- You may need to use YouTube videos if unsure of proper use
- Other than that there were very few customer complaints
Overview
Another great product from Drill Doctor, the DD750X was made for standard twist and masonry bits. It even lets you customize the angle anywhere between 115 and 140 degrees. One of the great things about this one is that it has longer chuck jaws so it holds the bits more precisely which makes it really effective with small bits because they’re less likely to twist. It has a 6-foot power cord and even comes with a hard shell carrying and storage case.
The DD750X is another option from Drill Doctor, perfect for home workshops. It has the ability to do split cuts and even comes with its own storage case.
7. Drill Doctor DD500 Drill Bit Sharpener
- Angle: 118 - 135°
- Minimum Bit Size: 3/32"
- Maximum Bit Size: 1/2"
- Weight: 4.15 lbs
- Dimensions: 14 x 12.8 x 7.5"
- Warranty: 3 years
Pros
- Can create or remove split points
- Pre-calibrated setting for ease of use
- Maintenance free
- Includes hard storage case and a how-to video
Cons
- Not as effective with bits thicker than 3/8".
- Set up can be tricky for some users.
Overview
The Drill Doctor DD500 works with a range of different bits, including carbide, high-speed steel, black oxide, and masonry bits. You can adjust the angle and even create or remove split points. Set up is simple and it’s really easy to use, too, in part because of the precalibrated drill but length setting. There’s even a how-to video included that shows you exactly what to do and a hard carrying and storage case. This is one sharpener that’s great for professionals or as an investment for your home shop.
The DD500 is a good choice for home workshops but can also work well in a professional environment. Thanks to the adjustable angle and ability to create or remove split points, this is a pretty versatile tool.
8. Neiko 10170A Drill Bit Sharpening Tool
- Minimum Bit Size: 1/8" or 5/16"
- Maximum Bit Size: 3/8" or 5/8"
- Weight: 4.42 lbs
- Dimensions: 10.6 x 7.6 x 5.3"
Pros
- Works will different kinds of bits of all different sizes.
- Works with split-point and standard twist bits.
Cons
- Not automatic
- Requires some technical expertise
Overview
This sharpener from Neiko has 2 different heads for different sized bits. The small one is for 1/8 to 3/8″ while the large one is for 5/16 to 5/8″. It’s equipped with thermal protection to prevent overheating. There are also rubber feet for stability and to prevent any unwanted movement while you work. You can adjust the degree for split-point and standard twist bits and it works with both carbon steel and carbide.
While this Neiko sharpener isn’t meant for people without any knowledge of how to sharpen a drill bit, it’s a versatile, effective tool for anyone with some experience.
9. Drill Master Budget Hand Drill Sharpener
- Angle: 60°
- Minimum Bit Size: 5/64"
- Maximum Bit Size: 1/2"
- Weight: 4.5 oz
- Dimensions: 11.4 x 5.5 x 1.6"
- Warranty: 1 year
Pros
- Basic and simple yet very effective
- Can effectively sharpen thin bits
- 100 grit stone gives sharp and smooth finish
- Very affordable
Cons
- Requires drill to power it
- Can be difficult to keep the bit in place
- As basic as you can get
Overview
If you’re looking for something a little different, the Drill Master Hand Drill Bit Sharpener is low-tech and highly effective. Built-in guides make it easy to use and it can handle bits as thin as 5/64″. You will need to use your power drill that operates between 2000 – 3500 RPM to use it. Chances are the drill you’re sharpening the bits for in the first place will work just fine. You attach this sharpener to your drill and you’re ready to go.
This is a very basic option that works really well for what it’s meant to do. The Drill Master Hand Drill Bit Sharpener is great for someone who only has a few simple bits they want to sharpen and wants to stick with something simple and low-tech.
Buying Considerations
There are a lot of things to consider when shopping for a drill bit sharpener. One reason for this is they’re all very different so you need to make sure you get the right one. Before you buy, here are some things to think about.
Do I Really Need a Drill Bit Sharpener?
This is the first thing you should ask yourself before you buy any tool. A lot of times, you probably don’t really need it, especially when it comes to larger industrial tools. Now, that’s not to say you don’t want it. But want and need are two very different things.
A drill bit sharpener is different because it is genuinely very useful. The truth is, anyone who uses a drill on a regular basis will benefit from a drill bit sharpener, especially if you use multiple bits or you invested in higher quality ones.
Think about how many drill bits you go through and how much it will cost to replace them. If you do a lot of work professionally or even in your workshop at home, it could get quite pricey, especially if you have a lot of high-quality, specialized bits. The cost of a sharpener is likely much less than what you will spend on drill bits over the course of your lifetime. It won’t take long to make back the cost of the sharpener.
What Factors Should I Consider?
Before we get into the details, it’s important to realize that these tools aren’t universal, meaning that one tool will not work with every single drill bit. So, before you get started, you have to know a few things about the drill bits you use. Specifically, the size and material. If you use a lot of different kinds or multiple drills, have some idea of the range of sizes they cover.
Basically, you need to know exactly what bits you need to sharpen before you choose the right tool to sharpen them. Once you know what you need, keep the following key features in mind.
Size
First, make sure the actual size of the sharpener is going to comfortably fit in your workspace. They come in a range of sizes from handheld to large, industrial sized.
Another size related feature to focus on is the size of the drill bit, as we mentioned earlier. The most common drill bit sizes are 1/16 to 1/4″ and most large sets will also include increments up to 1/2″ thick. These sizes are more than enough to cover just about any job you’d do around the house.
Something else we want to mention about size is that these machines are great for the standard, most common sized bits. When it comes to really small bits or very large ones, make sure you get a better quality machine. Not every has a use for bits of this size but, if you do, it’s worth investing a little more so you know it’s done right.
Material
You have to consider both the material of the bit and the material of the sharpening wheel. Most standard wheels will be able to tackle basic bits made of high-speed steel or cobalt. These are bits used to drill into soft steels, woods, and plastics and are what the bits you use at home are typically made of. At the minimum, you need a grit of 100 or more. One thing to keep in mind is the higher the number, the more abrasive it will race.
If you have a carbide bit, a standard sharpening wheel probably isn’t going to cut it. Carbide is the hardest drill bit and it’s also very brittle so, you can see how a regular wheel isn’t ideal. If you use carbide bits, make sure you get a sharpener that comes with a diamond wheel or has the option to upgrade to one.
One thing to mention, if you’re using coated drill bits, be careful before you try to sharpen them yourself. For example, titanium or cobalt coated drill bits will lose their coating if you sharpen them using one of these tools.
Versatility
Versatility only matters, well, as much as it matters. What we mean is, if you’re in the market for something that will work well with your basic home drill, most common sharpeners will do. If you tend to use more than one drill, such as a milling machine, or a wide range of different kinds of bits, make sure you get a sharpener that’s versatile enough to handle them all.
If you want something that’s really versatile, there are some pretty high-tech options available. To see what we mean, take another look at our top pick. If you have a lot of different tools that require sharpening, it might be worth investing in a more versatile machine. For example, if you use a lot of chisels for woodworking or furniture building, a machine that can sharpen everything will come in really handy. On the other hand, if you don’t need something that versatile, stick with something a little more basic.
Types
Most of these sharpeners are automatic. You change the angle and the depth and various settings, insert the bit, and it sharpens it to your specifications. You have to have a steady hand and a good grip but the process is pretty simple. There are some other options, though, that you might want to consider.
Basically, if you’re using a simple drill and want something simple, there are simple handheld tools available that actually use your drill to power the sharpening wheel. There’s also a model that uses a bench grinder as the wheel and simply holds the bit at the correct angle so you can sharpen it easily using something you already have.
The more bits you work with and the more frequently they need sharpened, the more sense it makes for you to invest in a more high tech machine. Whether you want to start with something basic and upgrade later or just start with something you can grow into is up to you.
Conclusion
Drill bit sharpeners can bring your old drill bits back to life so that you no longer have to keep replacing them. In the long run, it will save you money. There are a lot of options out there that can do just about anything you need them to.
Other Guides
- The Best Corded Drills with Reviews
- The Best Hammer Drill with Reviews
- The Best Magnetic Drill Press with Reviews
- Hammer Drill vs. Impact Driver – What’s the difference?
- Cordless vs. Corded Drill – Why You Still Need Both
My father left me a majority of his tools , mostly steel drill bits. A majority of them are dull and need a good resharpening.. But I can’t see scraping them. I suppose I can use them to learn how to use the machine before sharpening my newer bits. It is a win win situation. I read through the recommendations you gave. Now I am a bit disoriented about which machine to purchase. My technical ability is pretty good. I take care of my tools and I take my time. I need a machine that will be easy to use while producing well ground drill bits with “good as new” sharpness. I have a lot of bits that could see new life and save me a lot of money. Which model will do that? Thanks!
P.S. Is there a manual that teaches about the beat angles to sharpen to? For example does steel use one angle while modern bits use other angle?