Shop Fox W1668
Score: 78/100
Jet JWDP-12 12-Inch Bench Drill Press
Score: 80/100Rankings
The Jet JWDP-12 is a compact 12-inch benchtop drill press with a 1/2 HP induction motor and variable speed range. It balances capability with portability, featuring precision aids like an XACTA laser and digital readout. It is best suited for small shop owners and hobbyists with limited workspace who need reliable, space-saving equipment.
The Shop Fox W1668 is a versatile 3/4 HP benchtop drill press that doubles as an oscillating spindle sander, designed for hobbyist woodworkers. It features a 13-1/4 inch swing, 12 variable speeds, and a tilting table with a built-in dust collection port. While it offers precision drilling and effective contour sanding, the lack of a work light and manual speed changes are notable trade-offs.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
0.75 HPbest | 0.5 HP | |
3,050 RPM | 3,100 RPMbest | |
13.25 inbest | 12 in | |
12best | — | |
0.625 inbest | 0.625 inbest | |
120 Vbest | 115 V | |
3.25 inbest | 3.125 in | |
0.625 in | 12 inbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Capacity & Dimensions(3) | ||
Swing (in) | 13.25 in | 12 in |
Spindle Travel (in) | 3.25 in | 3.125 in |
Drilling Capacity (in) | 0.625 in | 12 in |
Power & Performance(4) | ||
Voltage (V) | 120 V | 115 V |
Motor Power (HP) | 0.75 HP | 0.5 HP |
Maximum Speed (RPM) | 3050 RPM | 3100 RPM |
Speed Settings | 12 | Variable |
Table & Adjustability(2) | ||
Table Size (in) | 12.375 in | 10 in |
Table Tilt Range (degrees) | 360 degrees | 45 degrees |
Build & Stability(1) | ||
Net Weight (lbs) | 63 lbs | 85 lbs |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers and editors praise the Shop Fox W1668 for its robust drill press function and surprisingly effective oscillating spindle sander, which handles tricky curves well. Experts highlight the 3/4 HP motor, 13-inch swing, adjustable depth stop, and tilting table as key strengths for hobbyists. While the tool is recognized for its versatility and value, reviewers consistently note the lack of a light, laser, or auto speed change as notable omissions for a tool in this category.
Everyday consumers generally praise the Shop Fox W1668 for its ease of assembly, quiet operation, and effectiveness in contour sanding and precise drilling. Users appreciate the built-in dust collection for maintaining a cleaner workspace. However, recurring complaints focus on the lack of a work light or laser guide, the inconvenience of manual speed changes, and the small table size.
“Arrived in good condition and was easy to put together”
“Surprisingly effective spindle sander for smoothing tricky curves”
Professionals view the JWDP-12 as a workhorse choice for shops with space constraints. The combination of a powerful 1/2 HP motor with over 3-1/8 inches of spindle travel is highlighted as balancing capability with portability.
The search results do not provide specific consumer reviews with detailed praise or complaints. However, the product's consistent appearance across multiple major retailers and its established warranty suggest established user acceptance in the market.
