Surface set diamond bits differ from the impregnated diamond bit  with a single layer of natural drill diamond on the working surfaces of the bit crown in a pre-determined pattern.

Penetration rates in some formations are superior than impregnated bits and lower costs per metre can be achieved in consolidated formations with enhanced core recovery in soft formations.

However, due to the surface being the only layer to be set with diamond crystals, surface set diamond bits generally have a shorter bit life that impregnated drill bits.