Glass is one of the most difficult materials to work with as it's fragile and more likely to shatter due to carelessness and negligence, or in some cases, the lack of the right tools. Fortunately, there are drill bits designed specifically for glass, and using those results in little or no cracks.
This essentially means that you cannot use 'any' drill bit in the market when you are working with glass. Doing this increases the danger of the glass breaking. For this reason, there are specific drill bits that work better and without the glass shattering. Moreover, the key to drilling glass is to use a material harder and stronger than the glass itself. If any drill bit is used, it won't do the job properly as compared to doing it with a drill bit designed specifically for glass.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Drill Bits For Glass
- OUR TOP PICK: Neiko 00823A Diamond Grit Hole Saw Drill Bit Set
- Drilax Diamond Drill Bit
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Mgtgbao Masonry Drill Bits
Comparison of the Best Drill Bits For Glass
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How to Choose a Drill Bit For Glass
Although there are many drill bits out there, the key to finding the efficient one is to look for the following features that make them stand out from the rest. Overall, the material and the quantity of the drill bits make it stand out more, and if the drill bit you are looking for has one of the following requirements, consider your job halfway done!
Tungsten Carbide Bit
A tungsten carbide drill bit is made for drilling glass and tile. It has a spade-shaped point and is made to withstand the friction that results while drilling through glass or tile.
Diamond-Coated Bit
Tube-shaped drill bits with a diamond coating can be used for jobs like cutting holes for pipes through a window or mirror as they are more efficient than other kinds of bits.
A Set of Four
Drill bits usually come in a set so you can save more if you buy a set of four (or ten). Although this also depends on what kind of project you are doing.
Review of the Best Drill Bits For Glass
The above-mentioned features may not always lead you to the right drill bit. For this reason, we will be reviewing a few of the best drill bit sets available on the market, with a list of pros and cons for each along with other necessary information.
Best Overall:
Neiko 00823A Diamond Grit Hole Saw Drill Bit Set
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most of the buyers reported the maximum, efficient performance of these drill bits. However, some of them reported using water to keep them lubricated and taking breaks to cool them off. Some of the reviews also made it clear that they tend to wear down after a few uses, so they are better for small DIY home projects. Overall, all those that used it for small tasks were pretty happy with their purchase.
Why it Stands Out to Us
It’s diamond and nickel-plated tip provides remarkable results as long as necessary lubrication is provided, and the side holes are an easy way to make sure all the gunk is easily removed. Furthermore, they can not only be used for glass but also ceramics, which makes it a two-in-one product.
Who Would Use This Most
Both professionals and people who want to do a few craft projects at home can use this product to efficiently work with glass and have a finished product. Apart from DIY users for glass projects, it is also suitable to use for projects involving ceramics.
Bottom Line
Although in danger of wearing down, this drill bit set is a great product for small-scale projects like DIY and craft projects and almost always guarantees results. It is corrosion-resistant and pretty durable. Plus, with its 5 pieces, it promises polished results, which makes it a great investment.
Runner-up:
Drilax Diamond Drill Bit
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
According to a number of recent buyers, this drill set has served them very well. It provides clean and precise holes if the instructions are followed properly. Another aspect of the set that is praised is its versatility. It has almost every size you will need, making it suitable for various uses.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The set itself is pretty impressive to look at. It offers 30 pieces, which is definitely something that can catch anyone's attention. Furthermore, it can drill a number of different surfaces with ease. Lastly, the diamond coating on this set is also something that adds this set to our "favorites" list since it adds to its durability.
Who Would Use This Most
As we mentioned previously, this set is very versatile in the sense that it can drill most surfaces, and it has different sizes too. Therefore, the audience for this set is quite big. Those who work with jewelry would enjoy working with it, while those who work with other surfaces like porcelain and stone will also find it to be handy.
Bottom Line
All in all, this set by Drilax is definitely a winner. Yes, there have been a few concerns; however, these concerns can be minimized if the instructions to use these drill bits are followed properly. Apart from that, their performance is great, and they will give you a good result.
Best for the Money:
Mgtgbao Masonry Drill Bits
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Many buyers report that these bits are useful and lead to great results. They are also useful for a variety of projects and can last longer. Most of the buyers also recommend lubricating the drill bits with water during drilling sessions. Overall, they commend its versatility since it can be used for various purposes.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This particular set of drill bits is perfect for a variety of projects, and the fact that it's available in different sizes is an added bonus. Moreover, this set also consists of a large number of drill bits to work with. However, what we really like is the tungsten tip that allows it to be used for heavy-duty applications too.
Who Would Use This Most
People who want to make small-scale craft projects can easily use this product as long as the necessary precautions are taken, and the instructions are followed. Because of their durability and reliability, they can further be used in professional projects. All in all, they can be used by almost every person looking for drill bits since it can work for various materials.
Bottom Line
This drill bit set is a 2-in-1 product that offers you both quality and quantity, which is a huge bonus. Moreover, given its features and versatility, it will almost always guarantee results and a great-looking finished project. Therefore, this is truly the best for the money since it can be used for a variety of projects.
Best Diamond Drill Bits for Glass:
Baban 10Pcs Hole Saw Diamond Drill Bit
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers report that this product works great and makes perfect round holes of varying sizes in glass and ceramics. Moreover, water had to be used as a cooling agent and for lubrication. The users also reported that the drill bits tend to get dull with age. However, they were willing to overlook this fact, considering the smooth and sharp cut it promises.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This product consists of drill sets in a variety of sizes and has a diamond-coated tip which is perfect for cutting through glass or ceramics. Plus, this is the best diamond drill bit for glass that has a tip coated with diamonds to promise clean, sharp, and smooth cuts.
Who Would Use This Most
This product can be used by anyone looking for the perfect tool to drill through glass without shattering it. Another added bonus is that it can also be used by those having no expertise in working with such tools. Plus, since it is available in various sizes, it can be used for a lot of different projects.
Bottom Line
The Baban Diamond Drill Set is a product for all those who love to craft. It doesn't require any previous expertise or heavy-duty work and is the perfect tool to drill through ceramics and glass. Plus, since it promises a long service life, you won't regret investing in it.
Best Carbide Drill Bits for Glass:
EANNINO drill bits
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most buyers were happy with the purchase. They reported that the product was of high quality and was perfect for drilling through different materials. However, some reported that it was not satisfactory and of low quality. Generally, users are happy with its versatility and its copper plating that prevents rust, making this a worthy investment.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This product, like a few others, can drill through a wide variety of materials and has sharp edges and tips. It also has copper plating, while most of the others had nickel plating. It's also considered the best carbide drill bit set for glass and particularly stands out to us because of its versatility of use.
Who Would Use This Most
This product, like others before it, can be used by anyone wanting to do a small-scale project at home. Another added bonus is that it can also be used by those having no expertise in working with such tools. Those working with a variety of materials can also benefit from it.
Bottom Line
This product is effective in what it does, and the fact that it contains drill bits of different sizes makes it a handy tool. It also doesn't require any expertise or previous experience and is perfect for home-based craft projects. Plus, it can be used with hammer and electric drills, making it a great pick.
Benefits of Investing in a Quality Drill Bit
Drill bits can be useful for various tasks; however, to get the full benefits from it and to make sure you get your money's worth, investing in a quality bit is essential. Other benefits of investing in the best drill bit include:
Long-Lasting
Investing in a quality drill bit set can be the wisest decision you make as it can be a long-lasting tool that will prove to be useful for many projects around the house. These projects can range from simple craft projects to home repair and maintenance.
Durability
A high-quality and durable drill bit set will prove to be efficient and versatile to use for many projects. Plus, a durable set won't damage quickly and will last longer, and it's sure to give you many beautiful crafts as a result.
Perfect Drilling
Using a high-quality drill bit can make sure that your project looks flawless by the end. With the right bit, you can get the most efficient results.
How to Drill Glass
Drilling holes in hard and brittle stuff takes talent and skill. Using the wrong technique or tools can waste materials, time, and energy and may lead to injuries. Fortunately, talent and skill can be acquired. Follow these tips and steps to make the most out of your drilling sessions.
- Acquire a carbide bit designed especially for tile and glass.
- Since glass is incredibly hard and smooth, the drill bit will start to wander once you begin drilling. To give a foothold to the bit, try taping a small piece of dense cardboard to the glass. This should be done at the place where you want to drill.
- Begin at a slow speed so that a dimple is created in the glass.
- After making the dimple, remove the piece of cardboard as you won't need it now and continue drilling at a higher speed than before. Make sure not to drill too hard or fast.
- Pour some water on the area you are drilling to lubricate the surface and make it easier to drill.
- Make sure to run the bit under running water to cool it off. Otherwise, overheating may cause the tips to get burned.
For a better visual understanding of how to drill glass, check out the following video.
Conclusion
Although the thought of drilling glass and the thought of using drill bits can be intimidating for novices, it isn't hard when you acquire the right tools and skills. You can purchase a drill bit set with help from the above reviews and make your own crafts or house repairs by yourself.
People Also Ask
Despite the comprehensive reviews and instructions, you may have some questions. We will be discussing the most common ones below to clear you of your doubts, worries, and apprehension if you have any.
Can You Drill Glass With a Normal Drill Bit?
No, you cannot drill glass with a normal drill bit as there are bits specially designed to drill through glass. Normally, a tungsten carbide drill bit can do the job efficiently.
What is the Best Speed to Drill Glass?
The best speed for glass is 100 to 200 rpm (revolutions per minute). Anything higher might break the glass.
Can Tempered Glass Be Cut or Drilled?
Tempered glass can't be drilled because it will shatter completely if attempted. If you really need to drill a hole in tempered glass, then the hole must be made before the tempering process.