Best Steel Drill Bits of 2025

Harry Stack Avatar
Harry Stack
Last Updated: Jan 5, 2025

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Steel drill bits are essential tools for any DIY enthusiast or professional tradesperson. Made from high-quality steel, these bits are durable and long-lasting, ensuring that they can withstand the toughest of drilling tasks. With a range of sizes and shapes available, steel drill bits can be used to drill through a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and concrete. Whether you're building a deck, installing new shelves, or carrying out construction work, steel drill bits are a must-have tool for any job.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

toolant Cobalt Drill Bit Set Pro Cover #TOP 1
toolant Cobalt Drill Bit Set Pro
ftb score rating icon 9.8
NordWolf 5-Piece Cobalt Stubby Drill Bit Set Cover #TOP 2
NordWolf 5-Piece Cobalt Stubby Drill Bit Set
ftb score rating icon 9.7
BOSCH CO14B 14-Piece Cobalt M42 Metal Drill Bit Set Cover #TOP 3
BOSCH CO14B 14-Piece Cobalt M42 Metal Drill Bit Set
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Steel Drill Bits

#TOP 1

toolant Cobalt Drill Bit Set Pro

TA01062019
Dark Blue
21 pc. Pro Set
toolant Cobalt Drill Bit Set Pro Cover
toolant Cobalt Drill Bit Set for Metal and Steel (Pro), Titanium Aluminum Nitride Coated (TiAlN) with Bullet Point Tip, for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, 21pcs 1/16"-1/2"

The toolant Cobalt Drill Bits are designed specifically for drilling into metal and steel. This 21-piece set features titanium aluminum nitride coatings that enhance hardness and heat resistance, allowing for faster cuts and longer-lasting sharpness. The drill bits have a unique bullet point tip that ensures precise drilling without wandering, making it easier for you to achieve accurate results. With a variety of sizes included, you can tackle multiple projects with confidence, knowing you have the right bit for the job. Plus, the 90-day warranty ensures your satisfaction with a money-back guarantee.

What We Like
High hardness and durability
Precise drilling capability
Variety of sizes included
Excellent heat resistance
#TOP 2

NordWolf 5-Piece Cobalt Stubby Drill Bit Set

NW-21012
NordWolf 5-Piece Cobalt Stubby Drill Bit Set Cover
NordWolf 5-Piece M35 Cobalt Stubby Drill Bit Set for Stainless Steel & Hard Metals, with 1/4" Hex Shank for Quick Chucks & Impact Drivers, SAE Sizes 3/32"-1/8"-3/16"-1/4"-5/16" in Storage Case

The NordWolf 5-Piece M35 Cobalt Stubby Drill Bit Set is made of high-quality materials for extra durability and long lifetime. With an efficient stubby design, these drill bits measure from 1.84 to 2.32 inches, allowing access to hard-to-reach and tight spaces. The integrated hex shank is compatible with standard and quick change chucks and drivers. These multi-purpose drill bits are suitable for drilling stainless steel and various hardened metals, such as cast iron, titanium, bronze, and aluminum. The set includes popular sizes of 3/32", 1/8", 3/16", 1/4", and 5/16", and comes packed in a storage rail lasered with sizes for easy identification.

What We Like
High-quality M35 Cobalt steel for extra durability and long lifetime
Efficient stubby design for access to hard-to-reach and tight spaces
Integrated hex shank compatible with standard and quick change chucks and drivers
#TOP 3

BOSCH CO14B 14-Piece Cobalt M42 Metal Drill Bit Set

CO14B
BOSCH CO14B 14-Piece Cobalt M42 Metal Drill Bit Set Cover
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

The BOSCH CO14B 14-Piece Cobalt M42 Metal Drill Bit Set is designed for durability and high heat resistance. It contains upgraded M42 Cobalt jobber-length bits that can handle stainless steel, cast iron, titanium, light-gauge metal and aluminum. The set includes 14 drill bits with sizes ranging from 1/16" to 1/2". With a thick web-helix design and surface-hardened tip, these bits offer additional stability in tough applications and can penetrate tough abrasive materials.

What We Like
Durable and high heat resistant
Contains upgraded M42 Cobalt jobber-length bits
Includes 14 drill bits with sizes ranging from 1/16" to 1/2"

DEWALT Cobalt Alloy Steel Drill Bit Set, 14-Piece

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

The DEWALT Cobalt Alloy Steel Drill Bit Set comes with a patented bit-bar design and connectable accessory storage system, making it convenient to store and customize the placement of the drill bits. The clear lid allows for easy visibility, while the clip latch ensures secure closing. The small bulk storage size fits perfectly inside the Small and Medium ToughCase+, making it ideal for organizing loose bits for wood, metal or i-beams.

What We Like
Connectable accessory storage system
Patented bit-bar design for easy removal of drill bits and customizable placement
Clear lid for easy visibility

DEWALT Black & Gold Drill Bit Set, 14-Piece

DWA1184
Multi
DEWALT Black & Gold Drill Bit Set, 14-Piece Cover
DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 14-Piece, 135 Degree Split Point, For Plastic, Wood and Metal (DWA1184)

The DEWALT Black & Gold Drill Bit Set is a great choice for those looking for a reliable set of drill bits for their projects. The 135 degree split point tip design helps reduce walking, while the high speed steel construction ensures durability and longevity. The black and gold coating helps prevent rust and wear, and the 3-Flats shank reduces spin-out in the chuck. Size markings on the drill bit shank make it easy to identify sizes quickly.

What We Like
Great value
High-quality M42 cobalt bits
Versatile for plastic, wood, and metal
Comes with a case for easy storage

COMOWARE Cobalt Drill Bit Set

CNCobalt-15
M35 15PCS
COMOWARE Cobalt Drill Bit Set Cover
COMOWARE Cobalt Drill Bit Set- 15Pcs M35 High Speed Steel Twist Jobber Length for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron and Wood Plastic with Indexed Storage Case, 1/16"-3/8"

COMOWARE Cobalt Bits is a 15-piece drill bit set made of 5% Cobalt High-Speed Steel M35, which provides a longer lifespan than standard drill bits. The 135° split point, gold oxide finish, and round straight shanks make this set stand out in terms of precision, chip-clearing, and performance. This set is ideal for drilling through hard materials such as stainless steel, cast iron, high-temperature alloys, titanium alloys, hard plastics, and woods. The set comes with a plastic storage case, making the bits easy to organize and access. In addition, COMOWARE offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee, so if you are unsatisfied with your purchase, you can contact them for help.

What We Like
Durable
Precise
Wide Application

Drill America - KFD29J-PC 29 Piece High Speed Steel Drill Bit Set

KFD29J-PC
Drill America - KFD29J-PC 29 Piece High Speed Steel Drill Bit Set Cover
Drill America - KFD29J-PC 29 Piece Heavy Duty High Speed Steel Drill Bit Set with Black and Gold Finish in Round Case (1/16" - 1/2" x 64ths), KFD Series

This Drill America set includes 29 jobber length drill bits with inch sizes ranging from 1/16" to 1/2" in 1/64" increments. The high-speed steel (HSS) material provides wear resistance, while the black and gold oxide finish resists corrosion and increases the hardness of the drill bit. The 135-degree split point allows for easy penetration of hard materials without a pilot hole and produces small chips, reducing clogging. The set is organized in a convenient plastic storage case.

What We Like
Large assortment of drill bits with small size increments
Durable high-speed steel material with a corrosion-resistant finish
Self-centering split point for easy penetration of hard materials
#TOP 8

Sabre Tools 1/4 Inch Cobalt Drill Bit Set

CO14
1/4 in
Sabre Tools 1/4 Inch Cobalt Drill Bit Set Cover
Sabre Tools 1/4 Inch Cobalt Drill Bits – 5pcs Drill Bits for Metal, M35 Cobalt Metal Drill Bit Set, Pilot Point Cobalt Drill Bits – Heavy-Duty Drill Bits for Steel, Hard Metal, Cast Iron (1/4" x 4")

The Sabre Tools Cobalt Drill Bits are designed to meet your metalworking needs with exceptional durability and performance. This set includes five 1/4-inch bits that excel at drilling through hard materials like stainless steel and cast iron. Made from heavy-duty M35 cobalt, these bits resist wear and heat, ensuring they last longer. The pilot point tip helps prevent slipping and allows for quicker drilling, making your tasks easier and more efficient. With a wide range of applications, these bits are perfect for repairs, construction, and woodworking projects.

What We Like
Durable M35 cobalt material
Pilot point for precision
Versatile for various materials
Fast and easy drilling

Makita B-65399 Impact Gold 14 Pc. Titanium Drill Bit Set

B-65399
14-Piece
Makita B-65399 Impact Gold 14 Pc. Titanium Drill Bit Set Cover
Makita B-65399 Impact Gold 14 Pc. Titanium Drill Bit Set, 1/4 In. Hex Shank

The Makita B-65399 Impact Gold 14 Pc. Titanium Drill Bit Set is a great choice for those looking for a reliable and durable drill bit set. It features titanium nitride coating for increased durability, a 135 degree split point geometry for faster starts and reduced walking, and is impact rated for use in 1/4 inch hex impact drivers. It is suitable for drilling holes in ferrous metal, wood, plastic, non-ferrous metal, cast iron, and stainless steel. Customers have praised its quality, design, and value for money.

What We Like
Above-average quality
Excellent durability
Secure shank fit
Great value for the price
Sturdy case and quality materials
#TOP 10

MACXCOIP Cobalt Drill Bit Set

MACXCOIP
MACXCOIP Cobalt Drill Bit Set Cover
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"

The MACXCOIP Cobalt Drill Bit Set is a 13-piece set of M35 high-speed steel bits designed for hardened metals, stainless steel, cast iron, and wooden plastics. The 135-degree point tip and twist design allow for faster cutting and self-centering to prevent walk-off. The set includes a drill case with size indexes for easy storage and sorting.

What We Like
Various sizes for different needs
M35 cobalt drill bit for durable, sharp and robust cutting
Quick and efficient cutting
HSS cobalt drill bit set for hardened steel
Easy storage with drill case and size indexes
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best drill bit to drill through steel?

Go to a hardware or home improvement store for a cobalt bit that is designed specifically for drilling through steel. You want a cobalt bit, as it's a type of high-speed steel (HSS) that has more cobalt in it and is strong enough to cut through hardened steel.

2. What is the strongest drill bit?

Cobalt (HSCO) is considered an upgrade from HSS because it includes 5-8% Cobalt blended into the base material. This is a great option for drilling into harder steel as well as stainless steel grades. Carbide (Carb) is the hardest and most brittle of the drill bit materials.

3. How do you drill through thick steel?

In general, it's a good idea to drill through metal using as slow a speed as possible using a drill bit for metal. Hard metals like steel and larger drill bits require even slower speeds. With a small twist bit (1/16 in. to 3/16 in.), you can drill through most metals at 3,000 rpm.

Editor's Notes

During our steel drill bit research, we found 24 steel drill bit products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 143,956 customer reviews through our big data system to write the steel drill bits list. We found that most customers choose steel drill bits with an average price of $27.19.

The steel drill bits are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of steel drill bits, including toolant, NordWolf, Bosch, DEWALT, COMOWARE. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 849 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Harry Stack Avatar

Harry Stack owns a small hardware store, his career landed him a depth of knowledge in categories such as tools, equipment, machinery and hardware. In his spare time, he usually repairs furniture, safes and appliances, and he knows how to make simple repairs to plumbing or electrical fixtures. His hobbies also include woodworking and fishing.