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Best Drill Bits For Porcelain Tile

Porcelain tiles score full marks regarding exquisiteness, and they are durable as well. But many still consider it a task to drill through a porcelain tile without damaging it. While using the right drilling technique is essential, you cannot overlook a drilling bit.

Bits specially designed for porcelain tiles reduce the damage, and you can easily drill holes through the tile. After using drills for many years, and drilling holes in different surfaces, I’ve got what it takes to suggest drill bits.

In this post, I have reviewed the best drill bits for porcelain tile in detail. Plus, there’s a buying guide that’ll tell you more about choosing the right bits.

Best Drill Bits for Porcelain Tiles: Top 5 Picks for all Porcelain Surfaces 

All the drill bits I have reviewed and recommended belong to popular brands and offer promising durability. Also, they are compatible with a wide range of drills, including driver and hammer.

BOSCH GT2000 4-Piece Carbide Tipped Glass, Ceramic, and Tile Drill Bit Set: Overall Best 

https://www.amazon.com/Bosch-GT2000-Glass-Tile-4-Piece/dp/B001GNC8RI 

Specifications 

This set of bits Bosch lets you drill holes in porcelain tiles without drilling a hole in your pocket. The heavy-duty carbide-tipped tips can easily penetrate through the tile’s surface without damaging it. In addition, the 3-flat shank fits well into the chuck and grips properly for added convenience.

No need to worry about rusting or corrosion, as the bits have an oxide coating protecting the metal from environmental wear. Also, the diamond-dusted round cutting edges enhance the lifespan, while you can easily drill through different surfaces.

There are four bits inside one set, with the sizes mentioned on them. Lastly, the BOSCH GT2000 is a versatile drill bit set for any type of drilling needs, such as fastening mirrors, installing showers, and setting concrete screws in tile.

Pros 

Cons 

DKIBBITH Store Masonry Drill Bits:   Best for Professional Use 

https://www.amazon.com/Masonry-Concrete-Plastic-Tungsten-Carbide/dp/B08RJ76CRM 

Specifications 

If you need a set of drill bits for professional use, I’d recommend DKIBBITH Store Masonry Drill Bits. Popular for their durability, these bits have a tungsten carbide tip that easily penetrates through porcelain tiles without damaging the material.

The HEX-type shank quickly fits into the chuck and grips properly, so you can drill effortlessly. The body of the drill ejects the dust while drilling, which results in a cleaner operation. For added convenience, DKIBBITH Store has labeled the markings on the bits, so you won’t be confused about which drill to use.

The only thing that may disappoint you is that you don’t get a durable box to carry these bits. 

Pros 

Cons 

NEIKO 00823A Diamond Hole Saw Bits:   Best for Slow-drilling Operations 

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ODSS5NO

Specifications 

The NEIKO 00823A is a set with multiple saw bits to help you drill even holes in porcelain tiles. The diamond-dusted tip offers maximum sharpness and can cut through thicker tiles as well. 

Installing these bits with your power tool is easy, and you can conveniently drill through different surfaces. Talking about durability, these bits have a one-piece alloy steel construction and are heat-treated to last longer.

After using the bits for some time, you’ll see the diamond dust coming off, and that happens with these types of saw bits. Also, the bit sizes aren’t mentioned on the bits, so you’ve to be sure about the size of the hole you need.

Lastly, you can use these CNC metal bits on any type of material, such as glass, ceramics, and more.

Pros 

Cons 

Hymnorq 1/4 Inch Glass and Tile Drill Bit Set:   Best for Drilling Deeper Holes

https://www.amazon.com/Hymnorq-Tungsten-Suitable-Drilling-Porcelain/dp/B08S2TBZKN

Specifications 

With this drill bit set from Hymnorq, you can drill deeper holes and enlarge existing holes in porcelain and other tiles. The spear-like tip easily penetrates through the tile effortlessly, and you don’t have to worry about any damage.

The cylindrical body offers minimum friction, and the drill can penetrate deeper into the surface. Hymnorq has designed these bits with a hex shank, and several handymen said that it offers a superior grip.

The titanium finish over these bits reduces wear and protects the metal from oxidation. In a nutshell, whether you are a beginner or a drilling expert, you can use these amazing bits to drill through porcelain tiles and other materials.

Pros 

Cons 

BGTEC Store Dry Diamond Drill Bit Set:  Best Durable Saw Bits 

https://www.amazon.com/Diamond-BGTEC-Granite-Masonry-Concrete/dp/B08CV85X47 

Specifications 

BGTEC Store Dry Diamond Drill Bit Set is the best choice if you need saw bits with diamond-dusted tips that last longer. All the bits come packed in convenient packaging, and you can easily carry them with your drilling gear. 

Each bit has the same length, but the circumference and drilling capabilities vary. The round shank type easily fits into any power tool, and the bit grips quickly for faster drilling. 

While other bits require some water for drilling through the porcelain, you can use these BGTEC Store bits for dry drilling. The waxed tip reduces friction while it lets the bit tip make proper holes and grooves. 

The only downside I’ve come across is the sizes labelled on the bits, as they could be more readable.

Pros

Cons 

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Drill Bits for Porcelain Tile 

Each bit has different characteristics, and that affects the drilling performance. Here are some factors you should keep in mind when choosing drill bits for porcelain tiles. 

Material 

Porcelain tiles are durable, and you need a strong drill to make holes in them. The best material for these bits is carbide, as it lasts longer, and you can drill through different types of materials. 

Coating 

The next thing to consider is the coating. The coating enhances the lifespan of the bits while preventing damaging the tile. Expert plumbers and handymen recommend a titanium coating, as it is long-lasting and heat-resistant.

Shank 

The choice of shank type depends on your personal preference. However, there are some shank types, such as hex, that are compatible with all types of power tools.

Size 

Always consider the bit’s size when buying one for drilling through porcelain tiles. I recommend buying sets, as you get several bits to drill holes of varying sizes. 

Tips to Drill Through Porcelain Tiles: Don’t Break It!

Even with the best drill bits in hand, drilling through porcelain tiles can be slightly challenging. Here are some tips that’ll ease the job and minimize the risk of damaging the tiles.

Start Slow 

When drilling through porcelain tiles, you should keep the drill at the lowest RPM. It will help you understand how the bit performs. Now gradually increase the speed and drill the hole properly.

Use a Lubricant 

A lubricant reduces friction and protects the bit from damage. You can even use water to ensure the drill bit works perfectly on the tile.

Adjust Speed

Keep adjusting the speed of the drill depending on the bit size and type. If you are using a thicker bit, you should drill at slow RPM, and thinner bits can drill at faster speeds. 

Cool the Drill 

After drilling a few holes, you should let the drill cool down, or else it’ll snap since porcelain tiles are tough. Don’t pour water on the drill, but let it cool naturally.

FAQs 

Q: What is the best bit for porcelain tile?

A: Diamond-tipped bits are best for drilling on porcelain tiles. 

Q: Is porcelain tile harder to cut than ceramic?

A: Yes, porcelain tiles are thicker and denser than ceramic tiles, so drilling through them is difficult. However, with the right drill bit, you can make holes effortlessly.

Final Thoughts

That’s everything you need to know about the best drill bits for porcelain tile. Make sure to choose a bit that’s durable enough to drill through the tile and has a sharper tip to penetrate through the material. 

The overall best option for drilling on porcelain is BOSCH GT2000 4-Piece Carbide Tipped Glass, Ceramic, and Tile Drill Bit Set. 

https://www.amazon.com/Bosch-GT2000-Glass-Tile-4-Piece/dp/B001GNC8RI  

It is a 4-piece bit set you can use for various drilling applications. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aA6r073KBc4