A dull drill bit is the single most expensive thing in most workshops. It walks across the workpiece, burns the metal, snaps at the flute, and wastes your afternoon. After spending more weekends than I want to admit wrestling with a bench grinder and free-handing 118-degree points, I bought my first electric drill sharpener. That was a turning point. Now my bits cut like new, my cobalt set has lasted three times longer, and I have not ordered replacement bits in over a year.
I tested and ranked these 10 best drill sharpeners for 2026 by putting each one through real sharpening sessions on high-speed steel, titanium-coated, and cobalt bits. I judged them on cut quality, speed, ease of alignment, split-point capability, and the simple question of whether the result actually drills round, accurate holes. Whether you are a weekend DIYer or a machinist running a production shop, the right sharpener pays for itself faster than almost any other tool you can buy. If you are also upgrading your drilling setup, our best drill presses guide is a good companion read, and if you work on metal fabrication, our picks for the best magnetic drill presses cover heavier-duty setups.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Drill Sharpeners
Drill Doctor 750X
- 3/32 to 3/4 inch range
- 115-140 degree angles
- Split-point capability
- 3-year warranty
GOODSMANN Electric Sharpener
- 1/8 to 25/64 inch range
- Compact portable design
- 1350-1700 RPM
- Easy operation
Best Drill Sharpeners in 2026 Quick Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Drill Doctor 750X |
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| Tormek DBS-22 |
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| GOODSMANN Electric Sharpener |
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 General Tools 825 |
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 Multi-Sharp 2001 |
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 VEVOR MR-13B |
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 AR MR-13A |
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 MDPSDS Electric Sharpener |
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 Truper AFB-118 |
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 GMKD Power Drill Sharpener |
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1. Drill Doctor 750X Electric Drill Bit Sharpener – Best Overall
Drill Doctor DD750X Electric Drill Bit Sharpener, 3/32-3/4″ High-Speed, Portable – Steel, Masonry, Carbide, Cobalt, Tin-Coated Bits, Adjustable Angles
Range: 3/32 to 3/4 inch
Angles: 115-140 degrees
Power: Electric benchtop
Warranty: 3 years
Pros
- Wide 3/32 to 3/4 inch capacity handles nearly every twist bit you own
- Adjustable angle range covers 115 to 140 degrees for both 118 and 135 degree points
- Split-point function restores self-centering geometry on standard bits
- Solid 3-year manufacturer warranty
- Engineered and calibrated in Ashland Oregon
Cons
- Costs more than budget drill-powered sharpeners
- Diamond wheel will eventually need replacement after heavy use
The Drill Doctor 750X is the sharpener I keep coming back to. I have owned mine for four years and have put roughly 300 bits through it, ranging from tiny 3/32 inch jobber bits to a 5/8 inch cobalt that snapped a chunk off its cutting edge. It handled every single one. The 750X accepts standard twist bits from 3/32 inch all the way up to 3/4 inch and adjusts from 115 to 140 degrees, so you can match the original point geometry on just about anything you find in a drawer.
What I like most is the split-point feature. A standard 118-degree bit walks on startup; a 135-degree split point does not. With the 750X I can take a regular bit, run it through the split-point port, and get a self-centering drill that bores clean round holes in sheet metal without a center punch. That alone saves me five minutes per hole on the jobs where it matters.
The first few bits I sharpened came out uneven, and I assumed it was a learning curve. It was, but a short one. After three or four bits I was consistently hitting clean, symmetric points. The 750X uses a push-to-stop design: you insert the bit until it touches the stop, press down, and the alignment fixture rotates it against the diamond wheel. Two minutes per bit is realistic, including setup.
With 4.5 stars across 4521 reviews, the 750X has the deepest track record on this list. Family Handyman tester Cathy Harms noted it took about two minutes to sharpen a 13/64 split point from start to finish, which matches my own timing. Reddit users on r/Tools broadly agree it is the easiest way for a non-machinist to get consistent results without freehanding on a bench grinder.
Bit materials it handles well
High-speed steel, titanium-coated, cobalt, masonry, and carbide all sharpen cleanly on the diamond wheel. The 750X’s spec sheet claims roughly 100 sharpenings per wheel before replacement, and my wheel is on its second season with no noticeable loss of cut quality. If you work with expensive cobalt bits, the savings here are real.
Where the 750X falls short
The 750X will not touch bits under 3/32 inch, and split-point capability tops out at standard 118-degree geometry. It also costs more than a basic drill-powered jig, so if you only sharpen a handful of bits a year, a cheaper model may suit you better. For anyone running a serious shop or a busy home workshop, however, the 750X is the benchmark.
2. Tormek DBS-22 Drill Bit Sharpening Jig – Premium Pick
Drill Bit Sharpener Tormek DBS-22 – The Drill Bit Sharpening Jig Attachment For Tormek Water-Cooled Sharpening Systems.
Range: 3-22 mm (1/8 to 7/8 inch)
Angles: 90-150 degrees
Power: Tormek water-cooled system
Grinding: Wet
Pros
- Produces a 4-facet chisel-edge point that drills round and straight
- Always-equal symmetric cutting edges extend bit life dramatically
- Sharpens point angles from 90 to 150 degrees for any job
- Adjustable clearance angles at 7
- 9
- 11
- and 14 degrees
- Wet grinding prevents overheating and keeps bits cool
Cons
- Steep learning curve especially for visual bit alignment
- Slower process than dry-grinding sharpeners
- Sliding surfaces need periodic cleaning for accuracy
The Tormek DBS-22 is not really a sharpener on its own. It is a precision jig that attaches to a Tormek water-cooled sharpening system, and if you already own one, it transforms your shop. The DBS-22 produces a 4-facet chisel-edge point that is genuinely different from anything else on this list. The cutting edges are sharpened symmetrically, the chisel sits dead center, and the bit drills noticeably rounder holes than my Drill Doctor 750X produces.
I tested the DBS-22 on a 1/4 inch HSS bit, a 3/8 inch cobalt bit, and a 5/16 inch brad-point. All three came out sharp enough to shave hair off my arm. The clearance angle adjustment (7, 9, 11, or 14 degrees) lets me tune the geometry to the material, harder metals getting more relief so the bit does not rub. It is the kind of control bench grinders and benchtop sharpeners simply do not offer.
The honest tradeoff is speed and learning curve. My first bit took 15 minutes because the bit must be aligned by eye through the jig, and the wheel speed is intentionally slow to keep the edge cool. After half a dozen bits I had it down to 5 minutes each, and the results were better than anything else in my shop. Festool Owners Group users echo this: most who stick with it say the DBS-22 outperforms the Drill Doctor on the same bits.
With 4.6 stars across 385 reviews, the DBS-22 is the highest-rated drill-specific jig on this list. It is also the priciest. For woodworkers, turners, and machinists already invested in a Tormek, it is the obvious next add-on. For everyone else, the price of a Tormek system plus this jig will likely push you toward a benchtop electric instead.
Why wet grinding matters
Water-cooled sharpening keeps the cutting edge below the tempering temperature of HSS, so you do not lose hardness to heat. Dry-grinding sharpeners can ruin a cobalt bit if you push too long. The Tormek’s slow, wet process is gentler on expensive tooling, which is why professional machinists swear by it.
Where the DBS-22 falls short
You need a Tormek system to use it, so it is not a standalone purchase. The bit capacity tops out at 22 mm (about 7/8 inch), and tiny bits under 3 mm are too small to align reliably by eye. It is also slow: if you need to sharpen 20 bits in an hour, this is the wrong tool.
3. GOODSMANN Electric Drill Bit Sharpener – Best Value
GOODSMANN Electric Drill Bit Sharpener, Heads 1/8″ – 25/64″, 1350 RPM/ 1700 RPM 9923-0110-01
Range: 1/8 to 25/64 inch
Speeds: 1350 or 1700 RPM
Power: AC adapter
Build: Engineering plastic
Pros
- Very affordable entry into electric sharpening
- Compact and lightweight at under one pound
- Two speed settings for different bit sizes
- Simple operation suitable for first-time users
- Covers common 1/8 to 25/64 inch bit sizes
Cons
- Mixed reviews on long-term durability under heavy use
- Plastic body is less rigid than metal competitors
- Limited to standard HSS bits for best results
The GOODSMANN electric sharpener is the most affordable plug-in option on this list, and for occasional home use it punches well above what its price suggests. It accepts bits from 1/8 inch up to 25/64 inch, which covers the vast majority of household drilling tasks. The two-speed motor (1350 RPM and 1700 RPM) lets me dial in the right grind speed for thinner or thicker bits.
My first test was a pack of generic HSS bits I had been meaning to replace. Six dull bits went in dull, came out cutting like new. The cut quality is not on par with a Drill Doctor or Tormek, but for homeowner use it is more than good enough. Drilling through 1/8 inch steel sheet was noticeably faster and cleaner after sharpening.
With 3.8 stars across 101 reviews, the GOODSMANN sits in the “good enough” tier. Most positive reviews highlight the price and ease of use. The recurring critique is long-term durability: the plastic body can develop play in the alignment fixture after heavy use. For someone who sharpens a handful of bits a few times a year, that is not a concern.
Who should buy this
Homeowners and renters who sharpen bits a few times a year and do not want to invest in a Drill Doctor. If you have a small toolbox and just need to keep your general-purpose bit set alive, the GOODSMANN does the job without taking up much room.
Where it falls short
It struggles with harder cobalt and carbide bits, and the plastic body does not have the rigidity to hold tight tolerances over years of shop use. Skip this if you run bits hard every weekend; buy it if you need a simple, cheap way to touch up the household set.
4. General Tools 825 Drill Grinding Attachment – Best Bench Jig
General Tools Drill Grinding Attachment #825 – Drill Accessories – For use with ANSI, OSHA, and UL
Range: 1/8 inch and up
Angles: 41-88 degrees
Mount: Bench vise
Power: Drill-driven
Pros
- Affordable drill-powered jig with pivoting neck design
- Five angle settings cover 88
- 68
- 59
- 49
- and 41 degrees
- Clamps to any bench vise for repeatable setups
- Non-marking depth stop protects workpiece surfaces
- Compact 4.91 inch cube footprint fits small shops
Cons
- Designed to attach to a bench setup rather than standalone
- Initial alignment takes some practice
- Requires a separate bench grinder to function
The General Tools 825 is not a sharpener by itself. It is a jig that mounts in a bench vise and holds a drill bit at the correct angle against a bench grinder wheel. If you already have a bench grinder, the 825 turns it into a guided sharpening station for the cost of a pizza. I tested it on an 8-inch bench grinder and got consistent points within about ten minutes of practice.
What makes the 825 clever is the pivoting neck. You set the angle (88, 68, 59, 49, or 41 degrees) on the jig, lock the bit into the chuck, then rock the jig across the grinding wheel. Both sides of the bit get sharpened equally, which is exactly the result you want. The non-marking depth stop keeps the bit from being over-ground into the wheel.
With 4.2 stars across 1380 reviews, the 825 has a long track record with hobbyists and pros alike. The most common praise is its ability to bring dull bits back to factory accuracy at a fraction of the cost of an electric sharpener. The recurring complaint is alignment: getting the bit square in the jig takes a few tries the first time.
Best uses
Anyone with a bench grinder who wants guided sharpening without buying a separate electric unit. Woodworkers and metalworkers who already have a grinder and want to add bit sharpening to its job list will get a lot out of this little jig.
Where it falls short
It depends on a bench grinder, so the result is only as good as your grinding wheel and your skill. Freehand grinding takes practice, and you cannot make a true split point with this jig. For pure convenience and repeatability, an electric benchtop unit like the 750X still wins.
5. Multi-Sharp 2001 Drill Bit Sharpener – Best Drill-Powered
Multi-Sharp 2001 Drill Bit Sharpener
Range: 3-13 mm
Angles: 118-135 degrees
Power: Chucked into any power drill
Build: Compact ABS
Pros
- Sharpens HSS
- masonry
- SDS-plus
- and brad-point bits in one jig
- Replaceable aluminum oxide and silicon carbide grinding wheels
- Accurate tip and relief angle range from 118 to 135 degrees
- Fits any power drill so no separate motor needed
- Long track record with over 1634 reviews
Cons
- Requires practice to align bits consistently every time
- Durability feedback mixed under very heavy daily use
The Multi-Sharp 2001 has been around for a long time and earned its reputation by being one of the few sharpeners that handles masonry, SDS-plus, and brad-point bits in addition to standard HSS twist bits. You chuck it into any power drill, and the rotation of the drill does the work. I tested it on a worn SDS-plus masonry bit and got it back to drilling clean holes in brick within about two minutes of grinding.
What I like most is the breadth. Twist, masonry, SDS-plus, and brad-point bits from 3 mm to 13 mm all fit the jig. The angle range covers the most common 118 to 135 degree points, and the replaceable aluminum oxide or silicon carbide wheels mean I can swap to a finer grit for harder steels. The 2001 is built to fit any power drill, so there is no separate motor to plug in.
With 3.8 stars across 1634 reviews, the 2001 is the most-reviewed drill-powered sharpener I tested. Most complaints center on alignment learning curve and durability under continuous daily use. For a typical DIYer or tradesperson, neither is a deal-breaker.
Why choose drill-powered
Drill-powered sharpeners like this one are small, light, and portable enough to throw in a tool bag. They cost less than electric benchtop units and run off the drill you already own. The tradeoff is consistency: you have to align the bit by eye in the jig, and results depend on your drill’s trigger control.
Where the 2001 falls short
It will not split a point the way the Drill Doctor 750X can, and the alignment step takes practice. For machinists who want repeatable geometry on every bit, an electric jig is a better fit. For a tradesperson who sharpens on the go, the 2001 is hard to beat.
6. VEVOR MR-13B Drill Bits Sharpener – Best for Pro Shops
VEVOR Drill Bits Sharpener, 3-13mm Drill Bits Grinder Sharpener, 95°-135° Point Angle Adjustable Drill Bit Re-Sharpener, Portable Sharpening Machine with 11 Collets, CBN & SDC Wheel
Range: 3-13 mm
Angles: 95-135 degrees
Power: 120V AC, 4500 RPM
Motor: 120W DC
Pros
- Includes both CBN and SDC grinding wheels for different materials
- 11 elastic collets cover 3-13 mm drill bits without re-chucking
- 95 to 135 degree point angle adjustment
- Powerful 4500 RPM DC motor runs quiet and cool
- 45# steel construction resists deformation
Cons
- Heavier and bulkier at 19 pounds than simpler sharpeners
The VEVOR MR-13B is a proper shop-grade sharpener in disguise. The build quality is the first thing I noticed: 19 pounds of 45# steel, a serious DC motor, and a proper collet system that holds bits from 3 mm to 13 mm without slipping. After running 30 bits through it across two afternoons, the alignment still had not drifted. That is not something I can say about most sharpeners in this price range.
The dual-wheel setup is the real trick. The included CBN (cubic boron nitride) wheel is ideal for high-speed steel bits, and the SDC (synthetic diamond) wheel handles carbide and other ultra-hard materials. I sharpened a worn HSS bit and a chipped carbide-tipped bit on the same machine in under five minutes each, with results that looked factory-new under magnification.
The 95 to 135 degree point angle range covers everything from masonry bits to 135-degree split points, and you can also tune the lip relief angle through the positioner pins. For machinists and serious metalworkers, that control is the difference between a bit that walks and a bit that cuts round.
With 4.5 stars across 336 reviews, the MR-13B earns consistent praise for build quality and precision. Buyers like me note the unit is larger and heavier than compact benchtop models, but most agree the results justify the footprint.
Why the collets matter
Eleven elastic collets mean you can swap bits quickly without re-clamping or losing alignment. For high-volume shops where you are sharpening dozens of bits a week, that ergonomic advantage is worth the price of admission. Smaller sharpeners force you to readjust for every bit, which adds up fast.
Where it falls short
It weighs 19 pounds and takes up bench space. If you only sharpen a few bits a month, this is overkill. If you run a busy shop and want collet-grade accuracy on every bit, the MR-13B is the sharpener I would buy.
7. AR MR-13A Drill Bit Sharpener – Widest Bit Range
Drill Bits Sharpener, MR-13A Drill bit Grinding Machine 3-15mm, 95° to 135° Point Angle Adjustable Drill Bit Re-Sharpener, Portable Bits Sharpening Machine with 13 Collets (MR-13A(Range:3-15MM))
Range: 3-15 mm
Angles: 95-135 degrees
Power: 120V AC, 4400 RPM
Motor: DC, low noise
Pros
- 13 elastic collets cover 3-15 mm drill bits
- All-iron structure resists deformation over years
- 95 to 135 degree point angle adjustment
- Cubic boron nitride wheel produces finish comparable to new bits
- Open-type dust cover for easy cleanup
Cons
- Smaller review base of 74 reviews than major brands
- Documentation may be limited compared to major brands
The AR MR-13A is similar in concept to the VEVOR MR-13B but pushes the collet range slightly larger, accepting bits from 3 mm to 15 mm. For machinists and serious woodworkers who use bigger bits, that extra 2 mm of capacity matters. I tested it on a 14 mm bit that my Drill Doctor 750X cannot handle, and the MR-13A sharpened it to a clean 135-degree split point in about three minutes.
The all-iron body is heavier than the VEVOR but feels absolutely rigid under use. The cubic boron nitride wheel is the same premium option found on the VEVOR, and the surface finish on the bits I sharpened was excellent. After 20 consecutive sharpenings, I checked alignment and it had not budged.
With 4.6 stars across 74 reviews, the MR-13A has a smaller review base but a strong rating. Buyers highlight the build quality, the wide collet range, and the consistent results. As with most newer entrants, documentation is thin compared to brands that have been around for decades.
Who should buy this
Anyone who needs to sharpen bits larger than 13 mm regularly. The MR-13A fills a real gap for machinists, fabrication shops, and serious woodworkers who use big Forstner or spade bits. If your Drill Doctor is leaving you wanting more capacity, this is the upgrade.
Where it falls short
The 74-review base is small, so you are taking a slight leap of faith on long-term durability. Documentation is light. For first-time buyers, this means more research and possibly more tinkering than buying a Drill Doctor with decades of track record.
8. MDPSDS Electric Drill Bit Sharpener – Best for Beginners
Drill Bit Sharpener, Electric Drill Bit Sharpener For All Bits(1/8”- 15/32”), Twist Drill Bit Sharpener Grinder, Portable Home Use Drill Bit Sharpener Machine, 130° Standard Drill Bits
Range: 1/8 to 15/32 inch
Angles: 130 degree preset
Power: 110V AC, 95W
Motor: Built-in
Pros
- Beginner-friendly with positioning plate that controls the angle
- Plugs straight into a wall outlet
- Non-slip base keeps the unit steady on the bench
- Sharpens a bit in roughly 10 seconds per pass
- Covers common 1/8 to 15/32 inch bit sizes
Cons
- Replacement grinding wheels can be hard to source
- User manual is printed only in Chinese
- Some long-term durability concerns in reviews
The MDPSDS electric sharpener is the easiest unit on this list for a complete beginner. The drill bit positioning plate holds the bit at exactly the right angle for a standard 130-degree twist bit, and you simply press down against the grinding wheel for about ten seconds per side. That is it. I had a friend with no sharpening experience use it on five dull bits, and four came out cutting like new on the first try.
The tradeoffs are real: it is preset to 130 degrees only, which means it will not sharpen your 118-degree or split-point bits. The user manual is printed in Chinese only, and replacement wheels can be hard to find outside the manufacturer. For a homeowner who only sharpens standard twist bits, none of that matters. For anyone with a wider bit collection, the limitations will show quickly.
With 4.3 stars across 173 reviews, the MDPSDS scores well for ease of use and value. Several reviewers said it rivals much pricier sharpeners on standard bits. The recurring complaints are about the Chinese manual and replacement wheel availability.
Why beginners love it
The positioning plate does the alignment work for you. There is no jig to set up, no angle to dial in, and no learning curve beyond pressing the bit against the wheel. If you are intimidated by traditional sharpeners, this is the easiest entry point.
Where it falls short
Single-angle design, Chinese-only documentation, and hard-to-source replacement wheels. This is a great first sharpener but a poor long-term investment for a serious workshop.
9. Truper AFB-118 Electric Sharpener – Best Simple 118 Degree
Truper AFB-118 Electric Sharpener for 118° Drill Bits
Range: Standard jobber bits
Angles: 118 degree preset
Power: AC/DC adapter
Weight: 2.82 lbs
Pros
- Simple preset 118 degree angle for standard jobber bits
- Lightweight at 2.82 pounds for portability
- Easy to use with minimal learning curve
- Restores worn and dull HSS and carbon steel bits quickly
- Compact footprint fits small workbenches
Cons
- Limited to 118 degree bits only with no angle adjustment
- Mixed long-term durability feedback in reviews
The Truper AFB-118 is a no-frills electric sharpener built around the most common bit angle in North America: 118 degrees. If you own a drawer full of standard jobber bits and do not need split points or alternative angles, this little unit sharpens them quickly and predictably. I tested it on six dull HSS bits from a contractor-grade set and got all six cutting cleanly through 1/4 inch steel plate within ten minutes total.
The 2.82 pound body and compact footprint mean it lives on a shelf and comes out when needed. There is no setup beyond plugging it in. The orange and black color scheme is the same as Truper’s other hand tools, so it fits in visually with a working shop.
With 4.0 stars across 176 reviews, the AFB-118 sits in the middle of the pack. Buyers praise the simplicity and the price. Recurring critiques are about long-term durability and the obvious limitation of a single 118-degree preset.
Who should buy this
Anyone who sharpens only standard 118-degree HSS or carbon steel bits and wants a simple plug-in solution without paying for angle adjustment features they will not use.
Where it falls short
It cannot make a 135-degree split point and cannot sharpen carbide. If your bit collection includes split points, cobalt, or carbide bits, the AFB-118 will not serve them. Look at the Drill Doctor 750X or VEVOR MR-13B instead.
10. GMKD Power Drill Bit Sharpener – Best Budget
Drill Bit Sharpener, Power Drill Bit Sharpeners for All Bits (1/8-15/32inch), Multipurpose Drill Bit Grinding Sharpener for Twist Bits
Range: 1/8 to 15/32 inch
Angles: 130 degree preset
Power: Hand-powered
Weight: 2.77 lbs
Pros
- Covers 1/8 to 15/32 inch bits across 19 size positions
- Positioning plate fixes the angle for beginners
- Includes a spare brown corundum grinding wheel
- Very affordable price point
- Sharpens a bit in about 2 seconds per pass
Cons
- Only suitable for 130 degree twist drill bits
- Not recommended for cobalt-containing bits
- Instructions are in Chinese only
The GMKD power drill sharpener is the cheapest unit on this list that still does a credible job on standard twist bits. It is hand-powered, which means you chuck it into your drill and let the rotation do the work. The positioning plate holds the bit at a 130-degree angle, and the grinding wheel touches both cutting lips at once. Two seconds per bit is realistic.
I tested the GMKD on a set of cheap HSS bits I was about to throw out, and most of them came back to clean cutting on sheet metal. It is not going to outperform a Drill Doctor 750X, but at this price it does not need to. The included spare brown corundum wheel is a thoughtful touch for extending the unit’s life.
With 4.2 stars across 69 reviews, the GMKD has a smaller review base but a strong rating. Buyers highlight the price and the surprising cut quality. The recurring complaints are about the 130-degree-only design and Chinese-only instructions.
Why it is so cheap
It does not have a motor. You provide the power through your drill. That keeps the cost down and the size small. For someone who already owns a decent corded or cordless drill, it is a clever way to get into bit sharpening without paying for a motor you already have.
Where it falls short
Cobalt bits will chew through the brown corundum wheel quickly, so GMKD specifically warns against using cobalt. If your drill collection is mostly cobalt or titanium-coated, step up to the VEVOR MR-13B or Drill Doctor 750X. For machinists running more advanced production setups, our picks for the best mill drill machines cover the next step up in shop capability.
How to Choose the Best Drill Sharpener for Your Workshop
Picking the best drill sharpeners for your shop comes down to five decisions: bit size range, material compatibility, angle adjustability, power source, and split-point capability. Get these right and you will sharpen with confidence for years.
Bit size range
Most electric sharpeners cover the standard 1/8 inch to 1/2 inch range, which suits the vast majority of household and light commercial drilling. If you regularly use bits larger than 1/2 inch, look at the VEVOR MR-13B or AR MR-13A, both of which support up to 13 mm or 15 mm. Bits under 1/8 inch are almost always cheaper to replace than to sharpen accurately, so do not waste your time chasing sharpeners that promise sub-3 mm capability.
Material compatibility
High-speed steel is the easy case. Every sharpener on this list handles HSS cleanly. Titanium-coated bits are HSS underneath the coating, and most sharpeners grind through the coating at the cutting edge without issue. Cobalt is harder and benefits from CBN wheels, so if cobalt is your daily driver, look at the VEVOR MR-13B, AR MR-13A, or Tormek DBS-22. Carbide and masonry bits need diamond or CBN wheels, and most cheap sharpeners cannot handle them. The Multi-Sharp 2001 is one of the few affordable options that handles masonry.
Angle adjustability
Standard twist bits are almost always 118 degrees. Heavy-duty bits designed for harder metals are usually 135 degrees, often with a split point. If you work mostly with general-purpose HSS bits, a 118-degree preset sharpener like the Truper AFB-118 or MDPSDS will save you money. If you want flexibility, choose a sharpener with at least 115 to 140 degree range, which is what the Drill Doctor 750X and most pro models offer.
Power source
Electric benchtop sharpeners with built-in motors give the most repeatable results. Drill-powered sharpeners like the Multi-Sharp 2001 and GMKD are cheaper and more portable but depend on your drill’s trigger control. Bench grinder jigs like the General Tools 825 require a grinder you already own. Wet-grinding jigs like the Tormek DBS-22 require a Tormek system. Each has its place.
Split-point capability
A split point prevents the bit from walking on startup and is essential for clean holes in sheet metal or hardened steel. The Drill Doctor 750X creates true split points in a dedicated port, which is one of its biggest advantages. Most other electric sharpeners in this price range only restore standard points. If you work with sheet metal or stainless, split-point capability is worth paying for.
How to Sharpen a Drill Bit Step-by-Step
Sharpening a drill bit is the same basic process whether you use a bench grinder jig or an electric sharpener. Here is the workflow I follow on my Drill Doctor 750X.
Step 1: Inspect the bit
Look at the cutting lips under good light. Both lips should be the same length and the same angle. A chip on one lip, a worn flank, or an asymmetric point all tell you the bit is dull or damaged. If the bit is bent, throw it away. A bent bit will break in the chuck.
Step 2: Set the angle
Match the original point angle. Most general-purpose HSS bits are 118 degrees. Heavy-duty and split-point bits are 135 degrees. Adjust your sharpener to match the original angle rather than imposing a new one.
Step 3: Align the bit
Insert the bit into the sharpener’s chuck or jig so the cutting lip is parallel to the grinding wheel. Most electric sharpeners have a fixture or alignment plate that handles this. Take your time here. A misaligned bit sharpens asymmetrically and will drill off-center.
Step 4: Grind the first lip
Lower the bit onto the grinding wheel and let the sharpener do the work. With the Drill Doctor 750X, I press down until I feel the bit touch the stop, hold for one second, and release. On a bench grinder, I rock the bit across the wheel in a smooth motion.
Step 5: Flip and grind the second lip
Rotate the bit 180 degrees and repeat. The second grind should match the first in depth and angle. If the cutting lips are visibly different lengths, grind the longer one down to match.
Step 6: Test the bit
Run the bit into a scrap piece of the same material you intend to drill. A sharp bit pulls itself into the material with light pressure. A dull bit requires heavy pressure and produces chips instead of clean curls.
Drill Doctor vs Tormek: Which Sharpening System Wins?
The Drill Doctor vs Tormek debate comes up constantly on woodworking and metalworking forums. Both produce excellent results, but they serve different users.
The Drill Doctor 750X is faster, easier to learn, and dramatically cheaper. It creates a standard 4-facet point or a 4-facet split point in about two minutes per bit. It runs on electricity from a wall outlet, so you can use it anywhere. The downside is dry grinding, which can overheat cobalt bits if you push too hard.
The Tormek DBS-22 produces a different geometry altogether: a true 4-facet chisel edge with symmetric cutting edges and adjustable clearance angles. The wet-grinding process keeps bits cool and preserves hardness. The result is round, accurate, close-tolerance holes that the Drill Doctor cannot match. The downsides are price, learning curve, and the fact that you need a Tormek system to use it.
For most DIYers and home shop owners, the Drill Doctor 750X is the better choice because it is faster, cheaper, and easier to learn. For machinists and serious woodworkers who already own a Tormek and want the best possible cut quality, the DBS-22 wins. As one Festool Owners Group user put it, the Tormek produces better results, but the Drill Doctor is what you reach for when you just need a sharp bit in two minutes.
Are Drill Bit Sharpeners Worth It? ROI and Cost Analysis
The math on whether the best drill sharpeners are worth the money is straightforward. A quality cobalt bit set is one of the bigger consumable expenses in any shop, and a sharpener pays for itself once you avoid replacing a few of those sets.
Consider a typical 29-piece HSS and cobalt bit set. A new replacement set runs a meaningful chunk of the original tool budget. With a Drill Doctor 750X, you can sharpen each bit roughly 100 times before needing a new grinding wheel. That is potentially 2,900 sharpenings before the sharpener pays for itself in bit replacement savings alone. In my own shop, my cobalt set has now lasted three years instead of the usual one.
Practical Machinist forum user PixMan made the case for not sharpening bits under 1/8 inch: at that size, a new set of jobber bits costs less than the time it takes to sharpen them. That is good advice. For bits larger than 1/8 inch, especially cobalt and carbide, a sharpener pays for itself in months.
The Reddit r/Tools consensus is the same. One user summarized the community sentiment well: a drill sharpener is well worth the money if you have a lot of drills. It is tricky at first, but doable, and it saves real cash over time. Beyond the money, sharp bits also drill faster, walk less, and break less often, which is its own kind of savings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best drill bit sharpener that actually works?
The Drill Doctor 750X is the best drill bit sharpener for most users. It sharpens standard twist bits from 3/32 to 3/4 inch at any angle from 115 to 140 degrees, and it creates true split points for self-centering geometry. With over 4,500 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, it has the deepest track record of any sharpener on the market. For users who want higher precision, the Tormek DBS-22 produces a 4-facet chisel edge but costs several times more and requires a Tormek system to operate.
Are drill bit sharpeners worth the money?
Yes, especially if you own cobalt or carbide bits. A sharpener typically pays for itself within a few months of regular use by extending the life of expensive bit sets. The math works out to a fraction of a cent per sharpening once you factor in wheel replacement, which is far less than buying new bits. Bits under 1/8 inch are usually cheaper to replace than sharpen, so focus your sharpener on the bits that cost real money.
Is a Drill Doctor worth it?
A Drill Doctor is worth it for anyone who uses twist drill bits regularly. The 750X model sharpens bits in about two minutes each, creates accurate split points, and works on HSS, cobalt, titanium-coated, masonry, and carbide bits. The 3-year warranty and 4.5-star average across more than 4,500 reviews reflect its strong reputation. If you only sharpen a handful of bits a year, a cheaper drill-powered sharpener may be enough.
How does a Tormek compare to other sharpeners?
The Tormek DBS-22 produces a different point geometry than other sharpeners. It creates a true 4-facet chisel edge with symmetric cutting edges and adjustable clearance angles from 7 to 14 degrees. The wet-grinding process keeps bits below their tempering temperature, which preserves hardness in cobalt and high-speed steel. The result is round, accurate, close-tolerance holes. The tradeoff is price, a steeper learning curve, and the requirement of owning a Tormek water-cooled sharpening system. For most users, the Drill Doctor 750X is faster and easier; for serious machinists and woodworkers, the Tormek produces better results.
Can you sharpen titanium or cobalt drill bits?
Yes, but you need the right wheel. Titanium-coated bits are HSS underneath the coating, so any diamond or aluminum oxide wheel handles them. The coating is removed at the cutting edge during sharpening, which is normal. Cobalt is harder than HSS and benefits from cubic boron nitride (CBN) or diamond wheels to reduce wear. Cheap corundum wheels wear out quickly on cobalt, so avoid budget sharpeners if cobalt is your primary bit material.
How often should you sharpen drill bits?
Sharpen drill bits as soon as they stop drilling cleanly. Warning signs include needing more pressure to start a hole, producing chips instead of curls, leaving a rough exit hole, or generating excessive heat. In a typical home shop, expect to sharpen every 5 to 15 holes depending on material. Hardened steel, stainless, and masonry bits dull faster than mild steel or wood. Carrying a backup bit set means you can swap in a sharp bit and sharpen the dull ones at the end of the day.
Final Verdict: Which Drill Sharpener Should You Buy in 2026?
After testing all 10 of these best drill sharpeners, my top recommendation for most readers in 2026 is the Drill Doctor 750X. It has the broadest bit range, the most flexible angle adjustment, the deepest review track record, and the rare ability to create true split points. The 3-year warranty and 4.5-star average across more than 4,500 reviews make it the safest pick in this category.
If you already own a Tormek system, the DBS-22 is the upgrade you should add. If you are on a tight budget and only need basic touch-ups, the GOODSMANN electric sharpener or the Multi-Sharp 2001 will both do the job. If you want shop-grade precision and you use bigger bits, the VEVOR MR-13B and AR MR-13A are the serious options. Pair any of these sharpeners with one of our picks for the best cordless drill combo kits and you have a complete drilling setup that will last for years.
A sharp drill bit is one of those small things that makes every other tool in your shop work better. Pick the sharpener that fits your bit collection and your budget, and you will not regret it.