Proxxon TBM 115 Bench Drill Press
Score: 88/100Shop Fox W1848
Score: 80/100Rankings
The Proxxon TBM 115 is a compact, precision bench drill press designed for micro-hole drilling down to 0.5 mm, featuring a three-speed belt drive for high torque at low speeds. It is ideal for hobbyists and model makers requiring exceptional spindle accuracy and repeatable depth control for small-scale tasks. While it excels in precision, it lacks the power and capacity for heavy-duty applications.
The Shop Fox W1848 is a floor-standing oscillating drill press designed for woodworking and light metalworking, featuring a 3/4 HP motor and a unique 3/4-inch oscillating spindle. It offers 12 speed settings and includes a tilting table with a dust port and included sanding drums. This model serves as a versatile multi-function tool for hobbyists and small shops, bridging the gap between benchtop and industrial capabilities.
| Attribute | | Shop Fox W1848 |
|---|---|---|
0.115 HP | 0.75 HPbest | |
8,500 RPMbest | 3,050 RPM | |
5.51 in | 13.25 inbest | |
3 | 12best | |
0.126 in | 0.625 inbest | |
120 Vbest | 120 Vbest | |
1.18 in | 3.125 inbest | |
0.39 in | 0.625 inbest |
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| Attribute | | Shop Fox W1848 |
|---|---|---|
Capacity & Dimensions(4) | ||
Swing (in) | 5.51 in | 13.25 in |
Spindle Travel (in) | 1.18 in | 3.125 in |
Chuck Capacity (in) | 0.126 in | 0.625 in |
Drilling Capacity (in) | 0.39 in | 0.625 in |
Power & Performance(4) | ||
Motor Power (HP) | 0.115 HP | 0.75 HP |
Maximum Speed (RPM) | 8500 RPM | 3050 RPM |
Speed Settings | 3 | 12 |
Motor Type | Belt Drive | TEFC Capacitor-Start Induction |
Table & Adjustability(2) | ||
Table Size (in) | 8.66 x 4.72 in | 12.375 in |
Table Tilt Range (degrees) | 0 degrees | 180 degrees |
Build & Stability(2) | ||
Net Weight (lbs) | 8.05 lbs | 122 lbs |
Base Material | Aluminum | Cast Iron |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers praise the Proxxon TBM 115 for its incredible precision, comparing it to a tiny, focused sculptor with zero spindle play.
Users commonly praise the machine for its ease of operation, stability for small precise tasks, and micro hole accuracy.
Professional reviewers and editors praise the Shop Fox W1848 for its build quality, ease of speed changes via the belt pulley chart, and safety features like the paddle switch. It is considered a 'big brother' to popular benchtop models due to its floor stability and is highly rated for hobbyist shops. The tool-free sanding conversion and spindle travel are highlighted as standout features for efficiency. However, experts note it is not suitable for industrial drilling tasks requiring larger swings or higher horsepower.
Everyday users commonly praise the oscillating spindle as a game-changer for contour sanding and appreciate the smooth, quiet operation of the motor. Many find it perfect for hobby shops, noting it drills wood effortlessly and offers easy table adjustments. Recurring complaints include belt slippage that requires frequent re-tensioning, inconsistent chuck quality with runout issues, and the motor bogging down on thicker metals.
“great for tiny jobs”
“drills very small holes easily”
“ideal for small tasks”
