Best Step Drill Bits of 2025

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Step drill bits are versatile tools that are commonly used in woodworking, metalworking, and other DIY projects. These bits feature a unique design with multiple steps or levels, allowing them to create different hole sizes without the need for changing bits. They are ideal for drilling precise, clean holes in various materials such as wood, plastic, and thin metal sheets. Step drill bits are known for their durability and sharpness, ensuring efficient and accurate drilling every time. Whether you are a professional tradesperson or a DIY enthusiast, step drill bits are a must-have tool in your arsenal.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 10 Step Drill Bits
NEIKO 10181A Step Drill Bit Set
The NEIKO Step Drill Bit Set is a premium set of three drill bits designed for drilling clean holes in various materials such as metal, wood, plastic, and stainless steel. Made from industrial high-speed steel with a titanium nitride coating, these step bits are durable and strong. The split point tip ensures fast and efficient drilling in metal, while the two-flute spiral grooved design clears away debris for smooth cutting. With 31 step sizes, these bits offer precision in every hole. The 1/4-inch hex shank allows for quick and easy bit switches, making it compatible with impact ready power tools. With this NEIKO Step Drill Bit Set, you'll have the versatility and convenience to tackle a wide range of drilling projects.
ZELCAN Step Drill Bit Set
The ZELCAN Step Bits make drilling tasks effortless and efficient. With four sharp blades, these bits cut through tough materials like steel and aluminum smoothly, saving you time and effort. Made from high-speed steel and coated with titanium, they offer enhanced durability and resist wear, allowing for faster cutting even in high-pressure situations. This 5-piece set features a range of sizes, accommodating various drilling needs. The quick-release hex shank design simplifies bit changes, while the spiral flute helps clear debris, ensuring an uninterrupted drilling experience.
ZELCAN Titanium Step Drill Bit
The ZELCAN Titanium Step Drill Bit is a must-have for DIY lovers and professionals alike. This high-speed steel drill bit is coated with titanium for superior heat, corrosion, and rust resistance. It includes 10 step sizes from 1/4" to 1-3/8" and is perfect for home repairs and light jobs such as drilling holes in plastic, aluminum, copper, iron and many other types of sheet metal. Customers have praised its durability and ease of use.
DOVAMAN 5PCS Step Drill Bit Set
The DOVAMAN Step Drill Set is designed to meet various drilling needs with its five common sizes, allowing you to create up to 50 hole sizes without changing bits. Made from high-speed steel and coated in titanium, these bits are durable and built to last. You can achieve precise drilling by marking your spot with the included Automatic Center Punch. The innovative X-Shaped Split Tip design enhances accuracy and reduces slippage, making it easier for you to drill smoothly through metal, wood, or plastic surfaces.
COMOWARE Step Drill Bit Set
The COMOWARE Step Drill Bit Set is a great choice for DIYers and professionals alike. It features high speed steel with titanium coating for outstanding durability and sharpness, and a split point tip at 118 degrees for increased wear resistance. The set includes five common sizes for versatility, and comes with a drill bits holder for easy storage. Customers have praised its performance and sharpness, though some have noted that it may not be suitable for larger holes.
Milwaukee 6-Piece Step Bit Set
The Milwaukee 6-Piece Step Bit Set (#1, #4, #6, #7, #8, #9) is a durable and easy-to-use product that simplifies drilling tasks. The set is highly durable, ensuring long-term use, and is easy to handle, allowing for precise work.
Milwaukee 3/16 - 7/8 Impact Step Drill Bit
The Milwaukee Impact Step Bit is designed for durability and speed. Its dual spiral flute and Rapid Strike Tip allow you to drill holes up to twice as fast as other impact step bits. You’ll appreciate the optimized shock zone, which helps the bit last five times longer than its competitors. Whether you’re using an impact driver or a drill, this versatile tool delivers top-notch performance. The titanium aluminum nitride coating also ensures quick and precise starts, making your drilling tasks easier and more efficient.
IRONANT Step Drill Bits Set
The IRONANT Step Drill Bits Set is a 5-piece set of high-speed steel drill bits with a titanium coating, 118° split point tip, and dual-flute design. It is ideal for drilling holes in plastic, aluminum, iron, and many other types of sheet metal. Customers have praised its sharpness, durability, and versatility, as well as its convenient storage case.
Milwaukee 48-89-9205 Step Bit
The Milwaukee Step Drill Bit is designed to offer versatility with its range from 1/4 inch to 1-3/8 inches. The 3/8-inch shank size ensures compatibility with most drills, making it easy for you to switch between tasks. Featuring a dual flute design, this bit enhances cutting efficiency, allowing you to drill faster and with greater precision. The black oxide coating not only increases durability but also reduces friction, helping you achieve smoother holes. Manufactured in the United States, you can trust its quality for your drilling needs.
DEWALT DWA1783IR Step Drill Bit
The DEWALT Step Drill Bit is designed for efficiency and durability. Its titanium nitride coating enhances the bit's lifespan while improving chip removal, making your drilling tasks smoother. The split point tip allows for quicker penetration into materials, saving you time and effort. Additionally, laser engraved numbers on the bit provide clear visibility of the steps, ensuring you can easily identify the size you need. With a 1/4-inch hex shank, this bit is optimized for use with impact drivers, offering convenience and versatility for various projects.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the disadvantages of step drill bits?
The main disadvantage of step drill bits is their high cost. Additionally, the price may vary depending on the material and package. However, they are effective for drilling holes in various metals, including steel, aluminum sheets, non-ferrous metals, and stainless steel.
2. Do I need a pilot hole for step drill bit?
When using a larger step drill bit to create a new hole, it is necessary to drill a pilot hole with the smallest diameter of your larger step bit. This can be done using a pilot bit or a small step drill.
3. What is the hardest step drill bit?
The hardest step drill bits are made of carbide. They are extremely hard and brittle, making them suitable for production drilling with high-quality tool holders and equipment. However, they should not be used with hand drills or drill presses and are designed for drilling into the hardest materials.
4. Are step drills worth it?
Step drill bits are valuable tools for DIYers, handymen, and professionals. They make drilling through various materials easier and faster. It is important to invest in quality drill bits to avoid cracks and damage to your materials.
5. What is the difference between step bits and regular bits?
Regular twist bits are suitable for small holes, but step bits outshine them when drilling holes that are 10 times the material thickness or larger.
6. How thick of metal can a step bit drill?
Step drill bits can drill through metal up to 1/4 of an inch thick. They are designed to enlarge a hole as the bit drills through the sheet metal, with each step on the bit being larger in diameter than the previous step.
7. Why are step bits so expensive?
Step drill bits are expensive due to their high precision and the fact that they replace a set of high-speed drills. They can drill holes from 1/4 inch to up to 2 inches without changing the drill bit itself, reducing the need for multiple drill bits. This convenience and versatility contribute to their higher cost.
8. What happens if you don't drill a pilot hole?
Not drilling a pilot hole before inserting a screw can lead to material damage and make it more difficult to drill in the screw. It can cause the wood to crack or damage other materials, so it is generally recommended to use a pilot hole when working with screws.
During our step drill bit research, we found 24 step drill bit products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 196,950 customer reviews through our big data system to write the step drill bits list. We found that most customers choose step drill bits with an average price of $15.89.
The step drill bits are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of step drill bits, including NEIKO, ZELCAN, DOVAMAN, COMOWARE, Milwaukee. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Brian Howie is a content writer and senior industrial designer. After graduation from Westminster College, he has been engaged in product design and manufacturing for 18 years. Brian Howie has always found great pleasure in designing industrial products and sharing his ideas and experience online.
Step Drill Bits Comparison Table
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Brand | NEIKO | ZELCAN | ZELCAN | DOVAMAN | COMOWARE | Milwaukee | Milwaukee | IRONANT | Milwaukee | DEWALT |
Material | 1/4" Quick Change Hex | High Speed Steel | High Speed Steel | High Speed Steel, CR-V, Titanium-Coated | Titanium, High-Speed Steel | Alloy Steel | Titanium | High Speed Steel | High Speed Steel | Titanium Nitride Coated |
Finish Type | Titanium | Titanium Nitride | Titanium, Steel | Titanium | Titanium | Black Oxide | Titanium Aluminum Nitride | Titanium | Black Oxide | Titanium Nitride |
Shank Type | Hex | Hex | Straight | Straight | 3-Flat | Straight | Hex | 3-Flat | 3-Flat | Hex |
Cutting Angle String | 135 Degrees | 135 Degrees | 135 Degrees | 118 Degrees | 118 Degrees | - | - | 118 Degrees | - | 135 Degrees |
Cutting Diameter | - | - | - | 35 Millimeters | 6.35 Millimeters | - | 0.88 Inches | 13 Millimeters | 1.07 Inches | - |
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