Proxxon TBM 115 Bench Drill Press
Score: 88/100
WEN DP1263V
Score: 82/100Rankings
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 WEN DP1263V is a feature-packed 12-inch benchtop drill press that combines a 0.9 HP variable speed motor with modern precision aids like a digital readout and X-pattern laser. Its cast-iron construction ensures stability, though the variable speed lever and heavy weight are notable trade-offs. It is best suited for hobbyists and DIYers who value precision features and versatility in a compact form factor.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
0.115 HP | 0.9 HPbest | |
8,500 RPMbest | 3,100 RPM | |
5.51 in | 12 inbest | |
3best | — | |
0.126 in | 0.625 inbest | |
120 Vbest | 120 Vbest | |
1.18 in | 3.125 inbest | |
0.39 in | 0.625 inbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Capacity & Dimensions(4) | ||
Swing (in) | 5.51 in | 12 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 | 0.9 HP |
Maximum Speed (RPM) | 8500 RPM | 3100 RPM |
Speed Settings | 3 | Variable |
Motor Type | Belt Drive | Induction |
Table & Adjustability(3) | ||
Table Size (in) | 8.66 x 4.72 in | 9.5 x 9.5 in |
Table Tilt Range (degrees) | 0 degrees | 45 degrees |
Column Diameter (in) | 1.26 in | in |
Build & Stability(2) | ||
Net Weight (lbs) | 8.05 lbs | 87.8 lbs |
Base Material | Aluminum | Cast Iron |
Features(1) | ||
Work Light | false | true |
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.
“great for tiny jobs”
“drills very small holes easily”
“ideal for small tasks”
Professional reviewers rate the WEN DP1263V highly (4.3-4.7/5) for its build quality and feature set in the sub-$400 category. Experts praise the upgrade to a 6.2A motor and the inclusion of digital readouts and lasers, noting it rivals pricier brands in stability.
Everyday users give an average rating of 4.4/5, commonly praising the laser alignment and smooth operation for DIY tasks. Recurring complaints focus on the unit's heavy weight, assembly quirks like sticky table adjustments, and occasional quality control issues such as dead-on-arrival lasers or chuck run-out.
