Best Drill Bit for Tile — Diamond Bits That Won't Crack Your Tile

Drilling into tile is one of the trickiest home tasks — use the wrong bit and you'll crack an expensive tile in seconds. The only bits that work safely on ceramic, porcelain, and glass tile are diamond-tipped bits. Here are the best drill bits for tile in 2025.

Why You Must Use Diamond Bits for Tile

Tile is hard and brittle. Standard twist bits, masonry bits, and wood bits will all crack tile or skate across the surface without cutting. Only diamond-tipped bits have the hardness to cut through tile cleanly without shattering it.

• ❌ Standard HSS twist bits — will crack tile
• ❌ Masonry/carbide bits — will crack porcelain and hard tile
• ❌ Wood spade bits — will shatter tile instantly
• ✅ Diamond-tipped bits — the only correct choice

#1 Best Tile Drill Bit: Drilax Diamond Drill Bit Set (5/16", 5-Pack)

The Drilax diamond drill bit set is specifically designed for glass, ceramic tile, and porcelain. The electroplated diamond coating cuts cleanly without chipping, and the 5-pack gives you backup bits for larger projects. Works on tile, glass bottles, mirrors, and aquariums.

• 5/16" diameter — ideal for most tile anchor holes
• Electroplated diamond coating for clean, chip-free cuts
• Works on ceramic, porcelain, glass, and marble
• 5-pack for extended use
• Use with water cooling for best results

Check price on Amazon →

#2 Best All-Purpose Set Including Tile Bits: Amazon Basics 100-Piece Drill & Driver Bit Set

For occasional tile drilling alongside other materials, the Amazon Basics 100-piece set includes masonry bits that work on softer ceramic tiles. Note: for hard porcelain, dedicated diamond bits are strongly recommended.

Check price on Amazon →

Ceramic vs. Porcelain: Does It Matter?

• Ceramic tile: Softer — carbide-tipped masonry bits can work, but diamond bits are still better
• Porcelain tile: Much harder — diamond bits are essential. Carbide bits will crack porcelain.
• Glass tile: Diamond bits only — same technique as porcelain

How to Drill Tile Without Cracking It

1. Apply masking tape over the drill spot — prevents the bit from skating
2. Mark your spot on the tape
3. Set your drill to the lowest speed — no hammer mode
4. Start at a 45° angle to create a small groove, then straighten to 90°
5. Apply light, steady pressure — never force it
6. Keep the bit cool with water — dip every 15–20 seconds or use a water dam
7. Slow down as you near the back of the tile

What Size Tile Bit Do You Need?

• 3/16" – 1/4": Small anchors for towel bars, toilet paper holders
• 5/16": Standard size for most tile anchor applications
• 3/8" – 1/2": Larger anchors for grab bars and heavy fixtures

Safety Tips

• Always wear safety goggles — tile chips are razor-sharp. DEWALT DPG84 Goggles →
• Keep water away from electrical outlets nearby
• Never use hammer mode on tile — it will shatter instantly

Our Verdict

For any tile drilling task, the Drilax Diamond Drill Bit Set is the only recommendation. Don't risk cracking expensive tile with the wrong bit — diamond bits are affordable and the only safe choice for ceramic, porcelain, and glass.