Carbide inserts are tools used to accurately machine metals, including steels, carbon, cast iron, high-temperature alloys, and other non-ferrous metals. These are replaceable and come in various styles, grades, and sizes.

There are some primary considerations on how to choose the correct carbide inserts. One of those is the cutting operation, whether Turning, Milling, or Drilling. Carbide is more expensive per unit than other typical tool materials, and it is more brittle, making it susceptible to chipping and breaking. To offset these problems, the carbide cutting tip itself is often in the form of a small insert for a more enormous tipped tool whose shank is made of another material, usually carbon tool steel. This benefits from using carbide at the cutting interface without the high cost and brittleness of making the complete tool out of carbide. Most modern face mills use carbide inserts and many lathe tools and endmills.

Carbide inserts are used at high speeds that enable faster machining, ultimately resulting in better finishing. Choosing a correct carbide insert is vital because it can risk damaging the insets, machine, and cutting product.