Shop Fox W1668
Score: 78/100
WEN DP1263V
Score: 82/100Rankings
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.
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 HP | 0.9 HPbest | |
3,050 RPM | 3,100 RPMbest | |
13.25 inbest | 12 in | |
12best | — | |
0.625 inbest | 0.625 inbest | |
120 Vbest | 120 Vbest | |
3.25 inbest | 3.125 in | |
0.625 inbest | 0.625 inbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Capacity & Dimensions(2) | ||
Swing (in) | 13.25 in | 12 in |
Spindle Travel (in) | 3.25 in | 3.125 in |
Power & Performance(3) | ||
Motor Power (HP) | 0.75 HP | 0.9 HP |
Maximum Speed (RPM) | 3050 RPM | 3100 RPM |
Speed Settings | 12 | Variable |
Table & Adjustability(2) | ||
Table Size (in) | 12.375 in | 9.5 x 9.5 in |
Table Tilt Range (degrees) | 360 degrees | 45 degrees |
Build & Stability(1) | ||
Net Weight (lbs) | 63 lbs | 87.8 lbs |
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.
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.
“Arrived in good condition and was easy to put together”
“Surprisingly effective spindle sander for smoothing tricky curves”
“Drills perfectly straight holes in steel-laser is a game-changer”
