Best Steel Drill Bits of 2025

Jennifer Fraser Avatar
Jennifer Fraser
Last Updated: 8 Feb 2025

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Steel drill bits are essential tools for any DIY enthusiast or professional tradesperson. These drill bits are made from high-quality steel and are designed to cut through a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and plastic. With a sharp, pointed tip and a sturdy, durable construction, steel drill bits are perfect for drilling precise holes, creating pilot holes for screws, or enlarging existing holes. Whether you're working on a small DIY project or a large construction job, steel drill bits are a reliable and versatile tool that are sure to get the job done.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

UK Drills Blacksmith HSS Drill Bits Cover #TOP 1
UK Drills Blacksmith HSS Drill Bits
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Bosch 10x PRO Metal HSS-G Drill Bit Cover #TOP 2
Bosch 10x PRO Metal HSS-G Drill Bit
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Bosch Professional 25-Piece Metal Drill Bit Set Cover #TOP 3
Bosch Professional 25-Piece Metal Drill Bit Set
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Steel Drill Bits

#TOP 1

UK Drills Blacksmith HSS Drill Bits

UK DRILLS THE PROFESSIONALS CHOICE
19.21
Blacksmith (Metric)
21x150mm
UK Drills Blacksmith HSS Drill Bits Cover
UK Drills Blacksmith Metric Drill Bits, HSS Drill Bit Cut through Cast Iron, Brass, Steel, Copper and More - 21x150mm

The UK Drills HSS Bits are crafted from high-speed steel, allowing them to withstand higher temperatures without losing hardness. The blacksmith shank design ensures compatibility with standard drill chucks, making it suitable for drilling larger holes. Ideal for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike, these hot rolled drill bits excel in precision applications, whether you're a plumber, electrician, or carpenter. When attached to an electric drill, they can effortlessly tackle tough materials, providing you with the reliability you need for any project.

What We Like
High-speed steel construction
Compatible with standard drill chucks
Ideal for precise drilling
Efficiently drills tough materials

Bosch 10x PRO Metal HSS-G Drill Bit

2608595062
Silver
Ø 5 mm
Bosch 10x PRO Metal HSS-G Drill Bit Cover
Bosch 10x PRO Metal HSS-G Twist Drill Bit Standard Length (for Non-ferrous metals, Steel, Ø 5,00 mm, Professional Accessory Rotary Drill/Drivers)

The Bosch HSS-G Drill Bit is a reliable tool that lasts up to twice as long as the Bosch PointTeQ Drill Bit, providing excellent value for your projects. Its cylindrical shank ensures compatibility with three-jaw drill chucks, making it easy to use with various rotary drill drivers. This drill bit is specifically designed for metal drilling, whether you're pre-drilling for anchors, rivets, or threads, or working with steel beams for installations. With dimensions of 5 x 52 x 86 mm, it’s perfect for both professional and DIY tasks.

What We Like
Longer lifespan than competitors
Compatible with standard drill chucks
Ideal for metal applications
Effective for pre-drilling tasks
#TOP 3

Bosch Professional 25-Piece Metal Drill Bit Set

2608577352
gray
Ø 1-13 mm
Bosch Professional 25-Piece Metal Drill Bit Set Cover
Bosch Professional 25-Piece PointTeQ HSS Twist Drill Bit Set (for Metal, ProBox, Drill Driver Accessories)

The Bosch 25-Piece Drill Bit Set is designed for fast drilling in metal, thanks to its innovative PointTeQ tip design. This feature increases the drilling rate, which helps to reduce heat and wear, extending the life of the bits. The cylindrical shank ensures compatibility with three-jaw drill chucks, making it easy for you to switch between bits. Whether you're working with alloyed and unalloyed steel, non-ferrous metals, plastics, or wood, this set provides the versatility you need for various projects.

What We Like
Fast drilling in metal
Reduces heat and wear
Compatible with three-jaw chucks
Versatile for multiple materials
#TOP 4

Bosch Professional HSS-Co Metal Drill Bit

2608585855
Gold
6 x 57 x 93 mm
Bosch Professional HSS-Co Metal Drill Bit Cover
Bosch 2608585855 Professional HSS-Co Metal Drill Bit (stainless steel, 6 x 57 x 93 mm, accessory drill driver) , Gold

The Bosch HSS-Co Drill Bit is designed for efficient drilling in various materials, including stainless steel. As a leading manufacturer, Bosch focuses on creating accessories that meet the diverse needs of users like you. Their research and development teams continually optimise these tools to enhance your working experience. With this drill bit, you can expect reliable performance and durability, making your tasks smoother and more effective.

What We Like
High-quality material
Designed for efficiency
Versatile applications
Optimised for user needs
#TOP 5

Bosch Professional 13 pcs. HSS-G Metal Drill Bit Set

2607010538
Silver
13 pcs.
Bosch Professional 13 pcs. HSS-G Metal Drill Bit Set Cover
Bosch Professional 13 pcs. HSS-G Metal Drill Bit Set (for metal, Ø 1,5-6,5 mm, Robust Line, Accessory Drill Driver)

The Bosch HSS-G Metal Drill Bits set is designed for durability and efficiency. It lasts up to twice as long as the Bosch PointTeQ Drill Bit, ensuring you get more use from each bit. Its cylindrical shank is compatible with three-jaw drill chucks, providing convenience when changing bits. This set is specifically made for drilling in metal, making it ideal for tasks like pre-drilling for anchors and rivets, as well as drilling into steel beams for installations. With 13 pieces included, you'll have the right size for various projects.

What We Like
Long-lasting performance
Compatible with drill chucks
Ideal for metal drilling
Includes 13 versatile pieces
#TOP 6

sourcing map 6pcs 4mm Jobber Drill Bits

a23101300ux0657
Black & Gold
sourcing map 6pcs 4mm Jobber Drill Bits Cover
sourcing map 6pcs Jobber Drill Bits 4mm (0.157") Black Nitride & Gold Titanium Coated M2 High Speed Steel (HSS) Twist Drill Bits for Stainless Steel Aluminum Alloy Metal

The sourcing map Jobber Drill Bits are designed for precision and durability. Made from M2 high speed steel, these bits resist heat and maintain hardness, ensuring they last through tough drilling tasks. The black nitride and gold titanium coatings enhance performance by reducing friction and increasing corrosion resistance, allowing you to achieve smooth, clean cuts. With a versatile 4mm diameter, these drill bits are perfect for various materials, including stainless steel and aluminium alloy, making them a reliable choice for your drilling needs.

What We Like
Durable M2 high speed steel
Corrosion resistant coatings
Smooth, clean cuts
Versatile for multiple materials
Suitable for various drilling tools
#TOP 7

SS SHOVAN 3PCS HSS Spiral Step Drill Set

SDB-4R
SS SHOVAN 3PCS HSS Spiral Step Drill Set Cover
3PCS HSS Spiral Step Drill Bit Sets, SS SHOVAN 4-Flute Metal Drill Bits, 1/4" Hex Shank, Metric 4-32mm Cone Cutter, Hole Cutter for Sheet Metal, Plastic, Steel Plate

The SS SHOVAN Step Drill Bits are designed for efficient drilling with their upgraded four-flute spiral design, which helps prevent metal splatter and makes swarf removal easier. The 118° X type openings ensure quicker, smoother drilling, while the 1/4" hex shank eliminates slipping, making it ideal for various materials like plastic, metal, and wood. Crafted from durable titanium-coated HSS 4341 steel, these bits offer excellent wear and corrosion resistance, ensuring longevity. Whether you're expanding holes or doing precision work, this set is a must-have for DIY enthusiasts.

What We Like
Efficient four-flute design
Quick and smooth drilling
Durable titanium coating
Versatile for multiple materials

Bosch 8-Piece Impact Control Drill Bit Set

2608577139
Size
Bosch 8-Piece Impact Control Drill Bit Set Cover
Bosch Professional 8-Piece Impact Control HSS Twist Drill Bit Set (for Metal, Hammer Drill Accessories)

The Bosch Impact Control Drill Bits are designed for robust performance. Made from solid metal, they offer exceptional durability, ensuring they withstand the rigours of drilling. The precision ground spiral groove reduces wear, allowing you to drill longer without needing replacements. With an active cutting feature and split point drill tip, you can enjoy precise work with less effort. This makes it easier for you to achieve perfect centring and reduce contact force while drilling into various materials.

What We Like
Extremely robust construction
Highly durable for extended use
Precise cutting with less force
Versatile for multiple materials
Compatible with various drills

SALI 20-Piece M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set

SALI
DEO06QMZ21
SALI 20-Piece M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set Cover
SALI Cobalt Drill Bit Set 20Pcs 3mm M35 High Speed Steel Jobber Drill Bit Kit (HSS) Twist Drill Bits for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Wood and Plastic, with Index Storage Case

The SALI Cobalt Drill Bit Set offers a robust collection of 20 drill bits made from M35 high-speed steel, ensuring superior hardness and durability thanks to its 5% cobalt content. The fully ground spiral groove design enhances drilling efficiency by reducing friction and heat, allowing for a faster and cooler performance. With a 135° split point, you can enjoy precise drilling without the need for a centre punch, making your tasks easier and more accurate. The included rugged storage case keeps your bits organised, simplifying your project preparations.

What We Like
Durable M35 cobalt construction
Fast and efficient drilling
Precise without centre punch
Organised storage case
#TOP 10

Meccion 10pcs Cobalt Drill Bits Set

MHZdrillbit
Meccion 10pcs Cobalt Drill Bits Set Cover
Meccion HSS Cobalt Jobber Drill Bit 10pcs 3.5mm Twist Drill Bit for Drilling Stainless Steel and Metal

The Meccion Cobalt Drill Bits are crafted from 5% Cobalt High Speed Steel, ensuring professional-grade performance. The 135° self-centring tips allow for precise drilling without the need for pre-punching, making your tasks quicker and easier. These bits are designed for durability, featuring high temperature quenching that gives them exceptional hardness, suitable for tough materials. With their ability to drill through metals, stainless steel, and even wood, you'll find these bits versatile for various projects.

What We Like
High-speed drilling efficiency
Durable and wear-resistant
Versatile for multiple materials
Self-centring tips for precision
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best drill bit to drill through steel?

Clearly, the best drill bits for hardened metal or steel come with a cobalt blend. These cobalt drill bits use an alloy including 5%–8% cobalt. This cobalt makes up part of the steel blend, so the hardness of the bit doesn't wear off with a coating (like titanium bits).

2. What kind of bit will drill through hardened steel?

Go to a hardware or home improvement store for a cobalt bit that is designed specifically for drilling through steel. You want a cobalt bit, as it's a type of high-speed steel (HSS) that has more cobalt in it and is strong enough to cut through hardened steel.

3. What are the strongest metal drill bits?

Cobalt (HSCO) is considered an upgrade from HSS because it includes 5-8% Cobalt blended into the base material. This is a great option for drilling into harder steel as well as stainless steel grades. Carbide (Carb) is the hardest and most brittle of the drill bit materials.

Editor's Notes

During our steel drill bit research, we found 306 steel drill bit products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 187,017 customer reviews through our big data system to write the steel drill bits list. We found that most customers choose steel drill bits with an average price of £6.84.

The steel drill bits are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of steel drill bits, including UK DRILLS THE PROFESSIONALS CHOICE, Bosch, sourcing map, SS SHOVAN, SALI. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 263 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Jennifer Fraser Avatar

Jennifer Fraser is a licensed contractor specializing in sales, maintenance, and kitchen, bathroom, and home appliances, tools, and utilities. She owns a store in Leeds where you can get any home and tool appliance. Jenny has a degree in literature, but she combines her knowledge and experience with her degree to publish DIY articles on solving home appliances issues to keep up the family enterprise.