8 Best Diamond Drill Bits For Porcelain Tile [August 2022 Update]

Drilling might look simple, but if you have done porcelain tile drilling before, you know where the problem lies. Any miscalculation or inconsistency from the drill bit can crack the tile. Using low-quality diamond bits often leads to reduced lifespan due to the heat.

I have been a construction worker for more than a decade now. During this period, I have used my fair share of diamond bits. Also, I have tested around half a dozen of the most popular diamond bit sets on the market for the sake of this article.

1. ‎Baban Moworve1165 Hole Saw Diamond Drill Bit– Baban has done a great job creating the best drill bit set with the highest quality diamond coating. Underneath the diamond, the high-speed drill will provide the necessary consistency, smoothness, and accuracy for the cut.

2. Johouse JOHO167 15PCS Hole Saw Set– This diamond drill bit set is all about multitasking. On top of porcelain tiles, you can quickly drill into the glass, wood, tile bottles, blocks jars, ceramic, slate Mable, granite light stone, etc. Moreover, the nickel-plated carbon steel bits come in 15 variants to serve different purposes.

3. BOSCH GT2000 4-Piece Carbide Tipped Glass, Ceramic and Tile Drill Bit– BOSCH GT2000 might look different than other bits, but the unique design can flawlessly cut through porcelain tiles. The carbide-tipped bits have the strength and precision needed for the perfect holes without stress and cracking.

Below, I have combined my experience, hours of research, and experiment with various diamond bits to round up the list of 8 of the best diamond drill bit for porcelain tiles. Moreover, there is an in-depth, step-by-step guide on effectively drilling the tile. So, without wasting any time, let’s begin. 

8 Top Rated Diamond Drill Bits For Porcelain Tile Review

1. DRILAX100750 -1/2 Inch Diamond Drill Bit For Porcelain Tile

This is the pick for the people who have a knack for premium stuff. If you like those premium items, then you will love this diamond drill bit without any questions. The quality is something that will satisfy you for sure.

Something that you will love with this one is its durability factor. You don’t need to worry too much about this drill bit wearing out anytime soon. This one lasts for a long time, is what I am trying to say.

This one comes with all the common sizes you would usually need for your drill. This makes the whole package the perfect thing to have when you are dealing with porcelain tiles.

A great thing about this one is that you can use it on different surfaces. For example, this bit works on quartz, ceramic tiles, granite, marble, glass, and other different types of stones.

The drilled holes you get after using this bit are typically very clean. This makes it suitable for professional drilling work on porcelain tiles.

Pros

• This is a very durable drill bit option
• You can find most of the common sizes
• This is usable for different types of tiles
• The results are clean
• It’s worth your money

Cons

• Doesn’t work well with older drill models. I don’t consider this that big of a deal unless you have a very old drill, and you can’t replace it either.
• You need to follow the guide to get value out of the drill bits from this. This isn’t necessarily a problem since you just have to get through two or three steps.

Frequently Asked Questions 

• Do these bits bend easily?

A diamond drill bit can only bend when it gets boiling, which also applies to this. However, if you use water lubrication properly, the temperature won’t get too high; therefore, you won’t have to worry about bending.

• How deep do these bits cut?

I have drilled ½, 1/3 inches porcelain tiles with these bits, which worked like a charm. However, if you ask about maximum depth, you can quickly clear a tile one inch thick.

• Can I drill concrete with these diamond bits?

Yes, you can drill concrete with these diamond bits. However, the result won’t be very fruitful. These bits have a maximum depth of one inch. Considering most concrete surfaces are thicker, you won’t be able to drill through.  

Final Takeaway

All in all, this is a great diamond drill bit with a premium vibe to it. And it’s very useful for different types of tiling surfaces. Along with all that, you get a lot of sizes available on the same package.

Curious about the drill bit? Check it out yourself.

2. DEWALT DW5572 –1/4 Inch Diamond Drill Bit For Porcelain Tile

Well, I bet you know about the name Dewalt. The reliability factor comes from this drill bit option because of the brand name. The reliability just means you won’t be disappointed with the quality of these bits for porcelain tile.

This is a good option for precision drilling. The accuracy you have while drilling with this drill bit is impressive. 

One of the key factors of the Dewalt drill bit is its ease of usage. There is no hassle or troublesome process of using this with your drill machine. You just have to install it on your drill and get started. Just make sure you have the correct size.

Continuous water feeding capacity on this bit allows you to get a longer life out of the bits. This feature also makes the drill bit gain much more speed in operation.

The value for money aspect of the drill bit is amazing. While it may not be the cheapest of options out there, they are quite reasonable for the price.

Pros

• Using these bits provide you with very accurate results
• It’s very easy to use
• The bits have a pretty long life
• You don’t need any special drill to use these bits
• It’s a value for money option

Cons

• The effectiveness of the drill bits depends on proper usage. You have to be slow and methodical about the drill bit to get the best use out of it.
• You can’t use this drill bit in all kinds of tiles. But then again, they are great to use on porcelain tile, which is what this is all about.

Frequently Asked Questions 

• Can I drill granite tiles with these bits?

Granite tiles are way less durable and, therefore, less brittle than porcelain. So, drilling granite tile should be very easy with these diamond breezes. Keep it slow; use water as the coolant, and you should be fine.

• Can I use these diamond bits with rotary drills?

Yes, the rotary drill should be compatible with these diamond bits. However, you need to keep the speed down and enough water, so the tiles don’t crack from heat stress.

• Is there any smaller variant available of these Dewalt diamond bits?

Unfortunately, Dewalt doesn’t offer anything smaller than this diamond bit set right here. If you need smaller ones, you should try other brands.

Final Takeaway

If I had to sum up this drill bit, I would say this is a great option for anyone using a regular drill machine. This is a pretty regular drill bit with diamond tips that you can easily use. 

Are you wondering about the drill bit? Come check out the whole thing in depth.

3. Baban Moworve1165 -Best Diamond Coated Core Drill Bit

I have to say; this is one of the best bits for porcelain tile. It’s just the perfect thing overall. The durability and the results you get from the drill bits are pretty impressive.

Something that impressed me a lot on this drill bit is its material quality. It has a high-speed steel material that provides it with the required durability and power. The performance you get out of this bit is exceptional.

Another thing to like about this is the fact that you can use the bits on so many materials. It doesn’t matter whether it’s glass, pebbles, rock, tiles, porcelain, fossils, or very hardwood; it doesn’t matter. You get excellent results in every case.

Speaking of excellent results, the accuracy of the holes these drill bits provide is just beyond expectations. They are so clean that every hole you drill looks very professional.

There are several different sizes available for the drill bits, so you won’t have a hard time picking one up. You can get all the sizes for whatever purpose you need to fulfill.

Pros

• The material used for this bit is just too good
• You can use the bits for various surfaces
• The accuracy is just too good on this one
• There are different sizes available for all kinds of purposes
• The bits value for money options

Cons

• One issue you may have with this is that it may dull out with regular usage. But I think you still get good value out of the porcelain tile. So, everything works out pretty well.

Frequently Asked Questions 

• Can I use these bits to make a hole in metal?

Drilling metal kind of takes it to a whole new level. So, metal won’t be a good fit for these diamond bits. In that case, you should look for conventional bits.

• What’s the drill compatibility for these diamond bits?

These bits are compatible with almost any drill you have, whether cordless or corded. They just fit great in any regular hand drill. However, the safest way to decide is to check the chuck size.

• Are these diamond bits compatible with Dremel?

Yes, these bits are compatible with Dremel. However, you need to keep the pace slow to make it work. Dremel usually runs way faster than a regular drill, so that a variable-speed Dremel will be the ideal choice.

Final Takeaway

Overall, I think this is the best diamond drill bit option you can find out there. It’s an excellent choice in terms of quality and value. 

Still thinking about it? Then why don’t you check it out further?

4. Johouse JOHO167 -Hole Saw Type Core Drill Bits 

Guess what? When you have this set, you won’t have to worry about missing out on a drill bit size. It comes with 15 pieces set that comes in different size variants. This works out great when you have to work with varying diameters of the hole.

The build quality of the drill bits is insane. Not only do they provide corrosion resistance, but at the same time, they have that industrial grading sturdiness. So, when it’s about drilling holes on hard surfaces, you can rely on this one.

With a lower drill speed and pressure, you can extend the life of the drill bits by a long margin. also, if you use a lot more water lubrication in the drilling processes, the longevity of the bits increases.

You won’t have any complaints about the drilling results using these bits. They provide some excellent and accurate drill holes on the surfaces. The holes are pretty clean, so you end up with professional-looking results.

Along with all those factors, this is an affordable set of diamond drill bits. Getting your hands on this quality set of drill bits from 3 otters doesn’t cost too much.

Pros

• The build quality is top-notch on the drill bits.
• They come in 15 different sizes of bits in the set
• They are worth your money
• The drill bits are usable on a lot of surfaces
• The accuracy and cutting strength are pretty impressive

Cons  

• You can’t use these on high-speed drills. I mean, that’s something you can easily avoid, so it’s not a deal-breaker.
• You will need to use awater lubrication for better results. Using water as a lubricant while drilling can make the drill bits last much longer.

Frequently Asked Questions 

• How long do these diamond bits last?

The bits should serve you for years, depending on your use. I think these are more DIY-type bits not meant for professional use. However, as long as you use it for regular tile drilling and with good lubrication, they should be fine.

• Can I use these diamond bits to make a hole in wood?

If you ask this question from a durability point of view, it should be an easy job. We are talking tiles here, so wood should not be much issue. However, in terms of accuracy, you should opt for conventional high-speed steel bits.

• Can I use these diamond bits on a regular hand drill?

Considering the size of the shank, you should be able to do that easily. The shank of these bits is 9mm, so anything of the same size or larger should work fine. Just keep the speed low and use lubrication, and you’ll get the desired results.

Final Takeaway

In short, this is the perfect set for those who need to work with different sizes of drill bits frequently. As it comes with 15 different porcelain drill bits in the set, you won’t have to look somewhere else to fit in the other sizes.

I suggest you check these out further if they interest you.

5. BOSCH GT2000 -Glass & Tile Bit

I don’t think I have to talk too much about Bosch as a power tools brand. But this 4-piece drill set from them is just something you would love to own. It comes with a very high-quality carbide tip.

The drill bit has a centered tip, making it an incredibly stable bit to use. You won’t face issues like walking or skating on these bits. That’s something to admire for sure.

These bits have got three flat shanks that give them a superior grip. No more slipping on the drill machine when you have these bits installed on them. However, the three flat shank grip comes from 5/16″ size onwards.

In this 4-piece set, you get drill bits ranging from 1/8″ to 5/16″. The sizes of the bits are all standard. So, you can expect to use them in several different scenarios without any trouble at all.

These bits also offer good accuracy while drilling. The results are satisfying for the most part. And they leave a mark of professionalism in them, so everything turns out quite well.

Pros

• These drill bits offer good strength
• They come in 4-standard sizes in one pack
• The accuracy is pretty good
• Larger bits have a superior grip with three shank form
• The drill bits are pretty stable while in use

Cons

• These aren’t the best when it’s about heavy jobs. Having said that, they are perfect for the smaller drilling jobs.
• The carbide tips may start coming off when you are dealing with harder surfaces. You can just not use the drill bit on hard surfaces.

Frequently Asked Questions 

• Why should I pick this instead of a diamond bit?

You need to understand the application of these bits first. Unlike diamond bits, these carbide-tipped bits are designed for lighter glass, tiles, and natural stone projects for kitchens or bathrooms. However, you can use these bits if that’s what you want.

• Can I use these bits without water lubrication?

Yes, these carbide-tipped bits can be used in both dry conditions. Unlike diamond bits, they generate much less heat, so water isn’t mandatory. However, using water can help increase lifespan.

• Can I drill turquoise tiles with these bits?

Unfortunately, the answer is no. These bits are specifically designed for light-duty glass and natural stones. In addition, turquoise tiles are very brittle, so trying these carbide-tipped bits instead of diamond bits might fracture the tiles.

Final Takeaway

I don’t think it’s one of the best options in terms of durability and stuff. But it’s the only carbide drill bit I have on this list. So, if you are looking for that carbide drill bit, then this is perfect. 

Check out the drill bit a little more to see whether it’s perfect for you or not.

It doesn’t matter whether you have a hand drill, a portable one, or an electric drill; this drill bit is suitable for most drilling tasks. So, if you are struggling to find the proper option for your particular drill, then this is a great one to start.

6. DRILAX100425 –Diamond Diamond Hole Saw Without Pilot Drill Bit

A great thing about this drill bit is its use on different types of surfaces. You can use the drill bit on tiles, marble, ceramic tiles, bottles, granite, and porcelain. So, once you get these bits, you won’t have to worry about different options to meet different needs.

Want to save up some money on this whole drilling thing? Then, this can be a very cost-effective solution. You can save up quite a lot of money when you opt for these drill bits over big box stores.

This drill bit set comes with 10 standard sizes in the same pack. So, you don’t have to worry about getting additional options when you have this one. At least, you don’t need to think about the standard drill bit sizes.

The durability factor on these drill bits will impress you for sure. They provide excellent longevity if you are correctly using them.

Pros

• These drill bits are usable on a lot of surfaces
• They are cost-effective
• You get all the standard sizes available
• The durability is quite good
• Bits are very easy to use

Cons

• Without the proper method of use, they don’t last that long. Well, that’s something easily avoided by following the proper method.
• The accuracy of the drill bits can be a bit off at times. You have to make sure you are drilling slowly and carefully.

Frequently Asked Questions 

• How can I drill deeper than the depth these diamond bits can go?

As per specifications, these diamond bits are manufactured to drill as deep as one inch. Switching sides is the only way to do that if you need to drill more than that. Get to the other side, match the hole and drill the remaining depth.

• How is the diamond coating quality of these bits?

From my personal experience, the diamond coating worked pretty well. However, no matter how good the layer is, you still need to maintain the temperature of the bits with water. 

• Can these bits cut through ceramic tiles on red clay blocks?

You would be disappointed if you expected the diamond bits to cut through the tiles and the clay block. However, the bits can do a commendable job if it’s just the tiles. For the clay block, you should go with a hammer drill bit.

Final Takeaway

I won’t say this is the most professional pick for drilling holes on porcelain tiles. But if you are a DIYer, this can be a good pick because it’s a cost-effective solution with a diamond tip which is rare to find.

Dive a little deep and learn all the intricacies of the drill bit even more.

7. BGTEC DBT2208 –Dry Diamond Drill Bit For Porcelain Tile

Now, this is a unique pick considering the kind of shank this one has. It has a quick change design with the hex shaft that not every drill will support. So, if you have such a drill, this is the pick for you.

One of the most unique factors of this drill bit is its automatic cooling feature. They come with wax cores inside that can quickly absorb and dissipate heat while drilling.

The efficiency you get out of this is utterly impressive. With the use of vacuum brazed technology, you get faster drilling results out of this one.

You can drill through items like granite, marble, tile, ceramic tiles, stone, and concrete. So, you don’t have to worry even a little bit about looking elsewhere for different options.

I love the fact that you can have different options based on your preferences. You can either go for single units or go with packages including different sizes. It’s helpful for your job of drilling.

Pros

• The drill bits can automatically cool with the built-in wax inside
• You get good efficiency from them because of the drilling speed
• You can drill through plenty of different surfaces
• There are several size options
• They come with a quick-change design using hex shanks

Cons

• You can’t use these on all kinds of drills. You just have to use the bits on drills that have hex shafts on them.
• They don’t last for a long time when you use them on porcelain tiles. I mean that’s something you just have to accept as they aren’t that expensive.

Frequently Asked Questions 

• Do these diamond bits work without water?

Yes, these bits have a particular type of wax inside that allows them to work without water if you keep it slow. However, using water will add an extra layer of security and increase the lifespan.

• Can these bits drill at a depth of 3 cm?

These bits can penetrate tiles around one inch thick, around two and a half-centimeter thick. However, you can make that 3 cm, too, if you continue at a slow pace and use water. But, start at an angle and slowly get into an upright position.

• What materials are compatible with these diamond bits?

There is a wide range of materials that you can drill with these bits. That includes porcelain tiles, ceramic tiles, glass, and ceramic. In addition, there are some natural stones, microlite, granite, and quartz stone. Only a few stuff like metal, wood, and plastic are not recommended to drill with these hits.

Final Takeaway

Well, in summary, this is the perfect choice for people who have a drill with a hex shaft. It’s also suitable when you are using a high-speed drill as most of the other choices prefer slow speed.

Don’t stay confused; check out the drill bit further to find the true value.

8. NEIKO 00823A Diamond Hole Saw

I don’t think you can find a more affordable set of porcelain tile drill bits than this one out there. It’s just the perfect pick for the people who just want things on a budget. Does it sacrifice quality or performance? I have to say, no, you still get quality.

These are some high-quality diamond drill bits. They have an electroplated premium brazing that helps in getting great results.

You get some clean and smooth cuts using the drill bit. This one also provides very accurate holes that are much more professional. 

This has an alloy steel construction that provides it with the necessary durability. You can easily go through the hard surfaces without any trouble at all, and the bits still last for a long time.

The shank on the drill bits has a very good grip on them. You can have a very secure hold with these drill bits with almost any standard power drill.

Pros

• The slug removal on this is very easy
• It fits almost all standard power drills
• The durability is excellent
• It provides accurate drilling
• These are very affordable picks

Cons

• The whole set comes in only 5 different sizes. That’s not that big of a deal, considering you get all the standard sizes.
• Eventually, the bits will wear at some point. To be honest, that’s kind of expected considering the price you pay for these.

Frequently Asked Questions 

• Can I use these diamond bits on a cast iron sink?

These diamond bits are made of nickel-plated steel covered with diamond dust. So, if you stick to glass, natural stones, or tiles, you should be absolutely fine. But for something as strong as cast iron, these bits are not recommended at all.

• Can I drill the windshield with these diamond bits?

Since these bits can quickly go past the glass, you might think the windshield won’t be an issue. However, that’s not correct at all. Windshields made of tempered glass will shatter immediately. Also, the vinyl layer between glass layers to prevent shattering can pose a challenge.

• Will these diamond bits work with Dremel?

Yes, you can use these bits on a Dremel. However, keep in mind that the bits need to fit first. Then the Dremel has to be powerful enough for materials like granite. If the Dremel has variable speed, that can help.

Final Takeaway

All I can say about these bits is that these are some of the most affordable drill bit options you can find out there. They are suitable for DIYers or hobbyists who don’t need drilling that often.

Check out the bits more to see the different size variants.

Best Diamond Drill Bits For Porcelain Tile Comparison Table

Well, if you don’t have too much time on your hands, then I have this quick comparison table for you. This will give you a slight idea of all these options so you can see what you are getting into.

What tests have I run to pick the best diamond drill bits for porcelain tiles?

Diamond drill bits are very common in construction works, especially tile drilling. That’s why there are different variations available from various manufacturers. If you ever feel confused about which diamond bit to purchase, here I have some aspects you can test to separate the best.

While compiling this list, I first checked the material quality. The bits must be made of high-quality steel, layered with real diamond powder. This diamond coating does the job of drilling, ensuring sufficient coating.

Next, I checked whether that bit was hollow or not. Good quality diamond bits usually have a hollow inside to allow water inside. As a result, the drill bit remains cool while drilling.

Lastly, I would check the dimension of the diamond bits you are purchasing. Diamond bits usually come in packs consisting of various dimensions. Therefore, you must choose a pack with the most variation in terms of dimension. This way, you can use the pack for a wide range of drilling projects.

Best Diamond Drill Bit For Porcelain Tile Buying Guide

Well, when it comes to choosing porcelain tile drill bits, you have to think about some factors. Let’s check them out quickly –

• Drill bit material

The material of the drill mostly determines how durable the bits will be. Usually, they are made of high-speed steel, alloy steel, stainless steel, or tungsten. You can go with either of these depending on the use. For porcelain tiles, I recommend going with alloy steel or stainless steel.

• Type of drill bit 

There are different types of drill bits like hex shanks, twisted bits, and hole saw types. Which type you go with depends on what drill you have. You just have to see what shank does your drill support.

• Drill tip

A typical dilemma with the drill tip is the Carbide tipped vs. Diamond tipped drill bit. For drilling on porcelain, the diamond tips always work out the best. And you don’t have to look any further than that, no matter what your purpose is with porcelain drilling.

• Sizes

This will take you to what kind of projects you are dealing with. There is a variety of sizes of drill bits. You have to choose them based on your project requirements. Or you can just go for a set where you can get a lot of different sizes in the same package.

How to Drill Porcelain Tile with a Diamond Bit

Porcelain tiles are a fine mixture of clay, sand, and feldspar. These tiles are fired at a very high temperature, making them one of the finest looking and most robust. However, these attributes come with their challenges too. The durability makes the tiles very brittle, therefore, challenging to cut or drill through. However, you can quickly drill porcelain tiles with a diamond bit following the step-by-step guide I have prepared.

• Step 1: Mark the area where you want to drill. Usually, diamond bits tend to slip on the surface of the tile. To prevent that, get a non-slip target plate.
• Step 2: Place the target plate on the targeted area and the drill in a slot. Now that everything is set, start drilling slowly for around five to ten seconds. The initial drilling will create a small hole in the tiles.
• Step 3: Now that the tile is marked with a small pit and the bit won’t slip anymore, get rid of the target plate. The drill bit will sit perfectly into that hole now.
• Step 4: keep drilling with frequent breaks for seconds to reduce the stress on the tile and the diamond bit. You can use a wet sponge to cool down the diamond bit during that period. It’ll reduce the heat and wear on the bits.
• Step 5: To perfect porcelain tile drilling, take it slow. So, don’t rush and keep a slow and consistent pace. You’ll have your desired ideal hole on the tile surface within a few minutes of drilling.

Why Diamond Drill Bit is the best choice for Porcelain Tiles?

Porcelain tile is a bit trickier to work around than ceramic tiles. It’s quite hard and a bit more porous as well. Carbide drill bits can’t keep up with that properly. Diamond bits are much more precise and powerful to use that perfectly work with porcelain tiles. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Drill Bits For Porcelain Tile

There are two questions that a lot of people wonder about drill bit for porcelain tile; let’s check them –

1. How does a hole saw benefit in the case of porcelain tiles?

A hole saw can benefit in the drilling process of porcelain tiles when you have to drill large holes. Using the hole saw speeds up the process a lot.

2. Does it take too long to drill holes in porcelain tiles?

Typically, you will need about 3 to 5 minutes for drilling through porcelain tile because the drilling process on porcelain should be slow for the best results. Also, you will need to know how to drill holes on porcelain tiles accurately to speed up the process.

3. Can you use a ceramic drill bit on porcelain?

Ceramic tiles are often drilled with carbide-tipped bits. These carbide-tipped drill bits are one of the most common bit types. However, these ceramic drill bits are not suitable for porcelain as porcelain is way more complicated and brittle than ceramic. Trying that will result in cracked porcelain tiles.

4. Can a hammer drill be used for porcelain tiles?

The most challenging task is ensuring the correct pressure in all areas. You need to work on the porcelain glaze before anything else. Don’t forget to use hole saw drills to get off the glaze from the porcelain tiles. After drilling it, you can use your hammer drill or similar drilling machine

Conclusion

Summing it all up, I would say all the products I have listed here are of great quality. They provide you with satisfying results all the time. You won’t at least regret getting one of these as the best diamond drill bit for porcelain tile.

But how do you choose one of them? Well, it’s pretty easy. Since all of them are of good quality, you just look at your preferences, budget, usage, and project requirement.