Wen 4214 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press Review 2023

Jacqueline
Jacqueline
Deputy Writer from Forbes.com, at Forbes

Meet Jacqueline, the deputy writer and editor extraordinaire hailing from Boston. With a decade of experience under her belt at Forbes.com, where she most recently served as editor, Jacqueline is no stranger to the world of lifestyle publications. Her expertise spans a wide range of topics, from product reviews to how-to guides, and she approaches each assignment with a keen eye for detail and a dedication to excellence. When she's not crafting compelling content, Jacqueline...

Jacqueline
Jacqueline
Deputy Writer from Forbes.com, at Forbes

Meet Jacqueline, the deputy writer and editor extraordinaire hailing from Boston. With a decade of experience under her belt at Forbes.com, where she most recently served as editor, Jacqueline is no stranger to the world of lifestyle publications. Her expertise spans a wide range of topics, from product reviews to how-to guides, and she approaches each assignment with a keen eye for detail and a dedication to excellence. When she's not crafting compelling content, Jacqueline...

Drill presses on tables are disliked by some people. Even though they do present some limitations, they can open up new possibilities for homeowners and DIYers.

If you want a reliable press that doesn’t cost a fortune, the WEN press may be the right choice. The Wen 4214 mini machine is detailed in our review, which helps you decide if it’s right for you.

Wen 4214 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press Orange 2023

Wen 4214 12 Inch Variable Speed Drill Press

Speed, Power, and Capabilities

WEN has about a half-dozen drill presses running at any given time. Let’s begin our review of the Wen 4214 by considering its performance.

This press can produce 5 amps using a 120V/60Hz motor with 2/3 HP. This model will produce less torque than other models, although it will still do the job. A “variable speed” model such as the 4214 has multiple speeds as well as multiple speeds.

Since the belt is on the side, it doesn’t need to be fiddled with constantly. By using the mechanical variable speed system, quick holes can be produced at a speed up to 3200 RPM.

It is one of the larger machines in this category, with a swing of 12″ and a spindle travel of 3-1/8″.

The Table & Base

Our Wen 4214 is ready to use on the spot, thanks to its durable cast-iron table measuring 9-1/2″ by 9-1/2″. As a result, the tilt of 45 degrees will not cause any problems with bevels. Rack and pinion systems are also available on the drill for adjusting the height.

Among its advantages, it’s well built. Adding the integrated extension to your support can increase its length by 17 inches. These features are extremely useful to me.

A mention of the base is also important. Our Wen 4214 review found that the foundation is made of cast iron, an excellent material for foundations. It should still be secured, but its weight keeps it from moving away from you during your work.

User-Friendliness

The motor housing is mostly made from metal and durable plastic. Many years will pass before it needs to be replaced.

Cast iron construction ensures incredible stability with this drill base. With its mounting inserts, the unit is installed directly on the workbench for added stability.

X-pattern lasers offer accurate illumination of your drilling area.

What We Like

  • Inductive motor with 5 amps and 2/3 horsepower. Both wood and thin metal sheets can be penetrated easily.
  • RPMS ranges from 580 to 3,200. Various types of materials can be worked with this product. On the front panel, there is a digital speed meter.
  • Metal construction of excellent quality. This drill press is very durable.
  • An angular drill can be used with a tilted table tilted 45 degrees right or left.
  • Easily bolted to a workbench, large and stable base.
  • Precision Laser with X-Patterns.

What We Don’t Like

  • Metals, particularly steel, are difficult to drill through.

FAQs: Wen 4214 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press Review

Is the 4214 a drum sander that can also oscillate?

You can use a sanding drum in a chuck if it has the correct shaft diameter. Drill presses do not have oscillations. During sanding, the drum moves lateral to provide that effect. The motion of drill presses is minimized by their design.

Can MT2 tooling be inserted in its place in the chuck to replace it?

A MT2 taper tool can be installed in its place if the chuck is removed. This makes the press more versatile. Due to spindle limitations, you might need to be aware that the tool is “walking” during use.

Driven by gears or belts, is this drill press?

A belt drives the 4214, which uses metal pulleys for durability. The variable speed system is quite accurate, and the LED readout appears quite accurate. The system is extremely well-built.

Conclusion

As we discovered in our review of this drill press, the model’s main strength is also its biggest weakness. The mechanical speed dial on this machine may affect the overall power, even though it’s easy to use for beginners. According to these models, a traditional belt system tends to perform better than an alternative belt system.

The final decision hinges on your needs. Our best drill press guide may be able to help you find something with a little more “oomph”. WEN’s 4214 is the perfect machine for crafters, handymen, or anyone who wants a lightweight machine that isn’t too expensive.

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Jacqueline
JacquelineDeputy Writer from Forbes.com, at Forbes

Meet Jacqueline, the deputy writer and editor extraordinaire hailing from Boston. With a decade of experience under her belt at Forbes.com, where she most recently served as editor, Jacqueline is no stranger to the world of lifestyle publications. Her expertise spans a wide range of topics, from product reviews to how-to guides, and she approaches each assignment with a keen eye for detail and a dedication to excellence. When she's not crafting compelling content, Jacqueline can be found enjoying time with her three little ones, who were born just 5 years apart.

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