Best Step Drill Bits Under $50 (2026)

We scored sets by material (M35 vs HSS), coating (Ti, TiAlN), user ratings, step range coverage, and overall value under $50

Top Picks

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    TEMO 3pc M35 cobalt step drill set, 6/9/13 steps

    TEMO 3pc M35 cobalt step drill set, 6/9/13 steps

    TEMO • ★ 4.1/5 • Budget

    TEMO 3pc M35 cobalt HSS step drill bit set with 6, 9, and 13 steps. Notable for durability and sharpness, cutting through stainless steel smoothly. Users note excellent quality and quick drilling in 30 seconds

    • m35 cobalt steel construction
    • three-step size set (6/9/13 steps)
    • maintains sharpness after many holes
    Check current price on Amazon →
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    TEMO M35 cobalt spiral flute step drill with 12 sizes

    TEMO M35 cobalt spiral flute step drill with 12 sizes

    TEMO • ★ 4.1/5 • Budget

    TEMO M35 cobalt step drill with titanium coating covers 12 hole sizes from 3/16" to 7/8" and a 1/4" hex shank. Durable, sharp cutting suited for steel; customers note quick work and good value

    • 12 hole sizes
    • M35 cobalt with titanium coating
    • 1/4" hex shank
    Buy at Amazon →
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    3 PCS Cobalt M35 Step Drill Bits Set 1/8" to 7/8"

    3 PCS Cobalt M35 Step Drill Bits Set 1/8" to 7/8"

    IRONANT • ★ 4.0/5 • Mid-Range

    M35 HSS with TiAlN coating step bits for stainless steel, metal, aluminum, and plastic. 4-spiral flute design aids chip removal and faster cutting; includes self-centering 118° split point tip. Customer notes good quality, value, and durability with multiple hole sizes and storage case

    • coated cobalt HSS for durability
    • 4-spiral flute for chip ejection
    • range 1/8" to 7/8" with split point
    Check current price on Amazon →
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    Klein Tools KTSB14 Step Drill Bit 14, 3/16 to 7/8 in w/ hex shank

    Klein Tools KTSB14 Step Drill Bit 14, 3/16 to 7/8 in w/ hex shank

    KLEIN TOOLS • ★ 4.0/5 • Mid-Range

    Klein Tools KTSB14 step drill bit with double flutes and aluminum-titanium nitride coating for durability. Designed for clean cuts and secure grip with a 3/8-inch hex shank. Customers cite quality and preset sizes, with mixed durability and sharpness feedback

    • aluminum-titanium nitride coating
    • double-fluted for chip removal
    • 3/8-inch hex shank for secure grip
    Check current price on Amazon →
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Buying Guide

Choose the right substrate

M35 cobalt bits resist heat and stay sharper longer for stainless and hard alloys, while HSS is adequate for mild steel and sheet metal

Consider coating type

Titanium and TiAlN coatings reduce friction and improve wear resistance—use coated bits for longer life when drilling metal

Match bit range to tasks

Select a set whose step sizes and maximum diameter cover the hole sizes you use most to avoid unnecessary swaps or extra tools

Check shank compatibility

Verify drill chuck size and shank type—round shanks suit standard chucks while some sets may include reduced shanks or hex for quick-change holders

Evaluate build and finish

Look for machined steps with clear size markings and chamfered starts to reduce walking and enable cleaner, concentric holes