Best Hammer Drills

Review & Comparison, Last Update February 22, 2024
It's impossible to imagine building or repairing a house without a hammer drill that combines 2 different actions - rotary drilling and hammering. Hammer drills bore holes even in the firmest concrete and brick walls. We have tested a lot of these tools and shortlisted 5 best hammer drills for you! ...Read more ...Read less
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BEST 2024
PROS
CONS
OUR VERDICT
Power
Rotation Speed
Beat Frequency
Impact Energy
Maximal Hole Diameter
Chuck Type
Weight
Power Cord Length
Ergonomics
Safety
Extras
Warranty
 
PROS
This hammer drill boasts the most powerful electric motor which delivers the best beat power. SDS-max ensures a quick one-handed bit change. Maneuverable thanks to a rotating auxiliary handle.
CONS
This hammer drill is rather heavy, so be ready to use it.
OUR VERDICT
It's one of the best hammer drills from the most renowned manufacturer. Combines huge power, a torque and safety.
detailed parameters
Power
12A
Rotation Speed
170-340 RPM
Beat Frequency
1500 - 2900 BPM
Impact Energy
6.1 ft-lbs
Maximal Hole Diameter
Optimal concrete capacity range 1/2'' - 1-3/8'', Max. hole diameter in concrete 1-9/16'', Max. hole diameter in concrete thru hole bit 2-1/2''
Chuck Type
Keyless, SDS-max
Weight
15.2 lbs
Power Cord Length
8 ft
Ergonomics
Vario-Lock mechanism offers 12 positions for best chisel angle, L-shape design for superior balance and control, Auxiliary handle
Safety
Rotation speed control system in a rotary and hammering modes, Dust protection system, Smooth start, Overload protection
Extras
Service minder brushes, Reverse, Trigger lock, Hammering-only mode
Warranty
1 year
PROS
This hammer drill comes with a durable kit box for carrying the tool with you. DEWALT boasts a patented electric motor that shows incredibly high performance and relatively small energy consumption.
CONS
The tool is rather noisy, so it is advisable to use special ear protectors.
OUR VERDICT
DEWALT hammer drill is a great pick. It is suitable both for homes and construction sites thanks to the stunning performance and reliability.
detailed parameters
Power
10A
Rotation Speed
2 speed modes: Low (0 - 1200 RPM) and High (0 - 3500 RPM)
Beat Frequency
56000 BPM
Impact Energy

Drills and hammers just like all other drills of the same class

Maximal Hole Diameter
Steel: 1/2", Wood: 1-1/2", Optimum: 3/16" to 3/8", Concrete: 3/4"
Chuck Type
Keyed
Weight
6 lbs
Power Cord Length
8 ft
Ergonomics
360-degree locking side handle, Soft grip handle for better convenience and control
Safety
Extra large chuck key for protecting your fingers, Metal casing, Overload protection
Extras
Reverse, Depth rod, 2-finger trigger
Warranty
3 years
PROS
A small size of this hammer drill allows reaching the places where a conventional hammer drill fails. The cordless design enables drilling without the power supply.
CONS
The grip for one hand complicates drilling of big holes.
OUR VERDICT
Despite a compact size, this cordless hammer drill is pretty powerful and can compete with standard-sized models. Besides, the battery charges quickly, so the tool is avail at any time.
detailed parameters
Power
18V / 3.0 Ah
Rotation Speed
2 speed modes: Low (0-600 RPM) and High (0-1900 RPM)
Beat Frequency
2 modes: Low (0-9000 BPM), High (0-28500 BPM)
Impact Energy
Sufficient to drill brick walls
Maximal Hole Diameter
Masonry: 1/2", Steel: 1/2", Wood: 1-1/2"
Chuck Type
Keyless
Weight
3.9 lbs
Power Cord Length
-
Ergonomics
2-speed gearbox, Rubberized soft grip, Compact size, Light Weight
Safety
Star Protection Computer Controls™ technology prevents overloading, over-discharging and overheating
Extras
Built-in LED light
Warranty
3 years
PROS
A convenient trigger allows you to change the modes pretty quickly. A rotating brush plate provides equal power in both forward and reverse directions.
CONS
The hook's edge is rather sharp.
OUR VERDICT
Owing to the enhanced design, this hammer drill will come in handy both for professional and home use.
detailed parameters
Power
7.5A
Rotation Speed
0-1300 RPM
Beat Frequency
0-5800 RPM
Impact Energy
2 ft-lbs
Maximal Hole Diameter
Concrete: 1", Steel: 1/2", Wood: 3/4" - 1"
Chuck Type
SDS-Plus
Weight
6.7 lbs
Power Cord Length
8 ft
Ergonomics
Vario-lock™ fixes the chisel in 36 positions to optimize working angle, D-shape handle grip and auxiliary handle provide a comfortable grasp
Safety
The integral slip clutch disengages the torque transmission when the drill bit gets jammed, SDS-plus® bit system protects the clutch from dust
Extras
Reverse, Automatic bit locking, Hammer mode, Integral clutch, Depth Gauge
Warranty
1 year
PROS
18 torque settings allow you to perform a wide range of jobs from driving screws to drilling concrete walls.
CONS
You need to buy a battery additionally.
OUR VERDICT
This is a versatile hammer drill that boasts capabilities of 3 tools at once. Superb for at-home use where compact size tools are preferred.
detailed parameters
Power
18V / 3.0 Ah
Rotation Speed
2 speed modes: Low (0-450 RPM) and High (0-1800 RPM)
Beat Frequency
2 modes: Low (0-7200 BPM), High (0-2800 BPM)
Impact Energy
Enough to bore through concrete
Maximal Hole Diameter
Masonry: 0.625", Steel: 0.5, Wood: 2.125"
Chuck Type
Keyless
Weight
3 lbs
Power Cord Length
Cordless
Ergonomics
2-speed gearbox, Rubberized soft grip, Compact size
Safety
REDLINK™ Intelligence protects the gear at high loads and controls the temperature to provide a long tool life
Extras
Built-in LED, 4-Pole frameless motor with the torque of 500 in-lbs
Warranty
5 years
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Bosch RH540M

Performance

This is a high-performing hammer drill which is one of the most powerful in its class. It will cope with the most difficult tasks and with any material. This best hammer drill has enough power and impact energy (which reaches stunning 6.1 ft-lbs) to drill a deep hole in concrete or stone. Despite the fact that this model works at a relatively low rotation speed (170-340 RPM), it can bore any material just as a knife goes through butter.

Review of Bosch RH540M SDS-Max Combination Rotary Hammer

Usability

Since it's a high-power hammer drill, it's heavier than other models on our shortlist - the weight is 15.2 lbs. Therefore, you might get tired soon after you start using this drill, but at the same time, this model can do any drilling and chiseling whereas more lightweight hammer drills can't be that efficient. Changing bits is easy since Bosch hammer drill has SDS-max chuck type, so you don't need any chuck keys at all. Also, don't forget about the unique Vario-Lock system that allows you to lock and rotate the bit in one of 12 available positions. The auxiliary handle rotates 360 degrees, so you can adjust it to the best angle. If it's positioned correctly, the load on your arms will be spread more equally and it will be divided between a main and an auxiliary handle, so that you can use the drill for a long time.

Bosch RH540M SDS-Max Combination Rotary Hammer in the use

Safety

If you are using a tool of such an immense power, safety should be a major concern. A bit might be stalled in a hole you are drilling, so a hammer drill might be damaged. Therefore, this tool has an overload protection system that stops the rotation once the bit stalls. There's also an electronic rotation speed control system which ensures a smooth start of the drill. Finally, Bosch engineers have thought about dust and equipped this best hammer drill with a special dust protection system that prevents the tool from clogging the internal space.

Detailed review of Bosch RH540M SDS-Max Combination Rotary Hammer

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $384.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B00HUCUJG6

VIDEO
Bosch Power Tools - RH540M 1-9/16" SDS-max® Combination Hammer Product Video
 

DEWALT DWD520K

Performance

DEWALT DWD520K hammer drill is designed for drilling and boring holes in most materials, such as concrete, metal, brick, wood, etc. The tool works in 2 available modes - drilling only and hammer drilling, so you can choose the one you need for performing a certain task. As for the drilling speed, there are 2 settings to choose from: low - from 0 to 1,200 RPM and high - from 0 to 3,500 RPM. Speaking about the hammering frequency, DEWALT is certainly quite efficient since it makes up to 56,000 BPM. Here what maximum holes you can make with DEWALT hammer drill: 1/2-inch in steel, 1-1/2-inch in wood, and 3/4-inch in concrete. The optimal hole size for this tool varies from 3/16 to 3/8 inches.

 

Review of DEWALT DWD520K Pistol Grip Hammerdrill Kit

Usability

The hammer drill has a pistol grip main handle, so it's always convenient to hold the tool. Of course, a hammer drill requires a side handle and this DEWALT model boasts a 360-degree locking side handle with soft grip. Thanks to this auxiliary handle, you will always be able to make an accurate hole, having the maximum control of the tool. The 2-finger trigger is pretty large and comfortable to push even if you are wearing special working gloves. Thus, it's easy breezy to start this hammer drill.

DEWALT DWD520K Pistol Grip Hammerdrill Kit in the use

Safety

A hammer drill must be not only useful but safe as well. So, what about safety? DEWALT DWD520K has a torque limiting clutch that stops the motor of the tool in case the bit stalls. Keep in mind that if such a trouble happens, you should immediately remove the bit by launching the reverse movement. Some hammer drills have plastic gear housing that is very fragile but it doesn't go for DEWALT because of its all-metal gear housing. Hence, nothing will happen if you drop the tool. However, we strongly recommend you to wear ear protectors when using this tool because it makes a lot of noise and your eardrums might be damaged. Protective glasses are also a must!

Detailed review of DEWALT DWD520K Pistol Grip Hammerdrill Kit

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $154.04
Stock In stock
ASIN B002IAW0DA

VIDEO
Un-boxing of my Dewalt hammer drill 1/2" drive
 

Makita XPH012 18V LXT

Performance

Although Makita XPH012 looks like a screwdriver but don't be skeptical of its capabilities. This model is equipped with a high-performance motor powered by 18V battery with a capacity of 3 Ah. This rotary hammer drill is able to develop the impressive speed of up to 1,900 RPM and reach 28,500 BPM in a hammer mode. Such performance will help you to drill masonry and steel, getting holes up to 1/2" in diameter. As for wood, you can easily drill up to 1-1/2" holes in it.

Review of Makita XPH012 18V LXT Cordless Hammer Driver-Drill Kit

Usability

A relatively small size of this hammer drill (only about 7-3/4" in length) allows customers to use it in hard-to-reach places. Furthermore, its extremely light weight, only 3.9 lbs, makes it possible to use this tool for a long time without any hands' fatigue. A rubber-coated handle provides a comfortable grip and prevents hands sliding. A speed switcher allows you to pick the best option for a particular type of material.

Makita XPH012 18V LXT Cordless Hammer Driver-Drill Kit in the use

Safety

This cordless hammer drill is equipped with a high-capacity battery that is able to withstand a heavy-duty use. We would like to emphasize that special Star Protection Computer Controls™ system protects the gear from overheating and analyzes the working load to adjust the battery consumption. In such a way, this wonderful technology allows the drill to extend the battery life by several times as compared to its rivals.

Detailed review of Makita XPH012 18V LXT Cordless Hammer Driver-Drill Kit

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $93.71
Stock In stock
ASIN B00N9ULIAE

VIDEO
Makita (XPH012) 18V LXT 1/2" Hammer Driver-Drill Kit - HD
 

Bosch 11255VSR

Performance

This hammer drill is a versatile tool that combines the functions of a drill and a hammer drill; you just need to set the appropriate mode. The adjustment of the rotation speed and beat frequency allows users to drill holes in diverse materials without any problems. The drill's motor is forceful enough to drill holes in concrete and wood up to 1" in diameter. Besides that material, you will also have an opportunity to drill metal, getting holes up to 1/2" in diameter.

Review of Bosch 11255VSR D-Handle BULLDOG Xtreme Rotary Hammer

Usability

Bosch 11255VSR BULLDOG is equipped with SDS-Plus chuck which allows you to replace the drill bits just with a subtle motion of the hand. For more convenient and efficient operation, the manufacturer equipped this drill with a special Vario-Lock technology that makes it possible to fix the chisel in one of 36 positions. Its D-shaped handle provides a secure grip and significantly facilitates drilling holes in the ceiling or floor while the auxiliary handle simplifies the process of drilling walls.

Bosch 11255VSR D-Handle BULLDOG Xtreme Rotary Hammer in the use

Safety

This rotary hammer drill features several up-to-date technologies that improve its safety and extend its service life. The power cord can swivel by 35 degrees, so it won't get twisted or broken and, thus, will last longer. If a drill bit gets stuck, the integrated slip clutch will disengage the chuck, protecting the drill and your body from damage. Moreover, the SDS-plus® bit system protects the chuck from penetration of dust and drilling debris, thereby prolonging its lifespan.

Detailed review of Bosch 11255VSR D-Handle BULLDOG Xtreme Rotary Hammer

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B000BB79Q6

VIDEO
Bosch Power Tools - 11255VSR 1" SDS-plus® BULLDOG Xtreme Rotary Hammer Product Video

What customers say about this product

Key Specs

This is a really useful tool for renovations that I can use not only for drilling holes but also chipping concrete in small areas.

Features

The Bosch has more power and endurance and the D handle is more confortable :you have a better control when you are using a chisel.I would recommand this tool to any serious DIY.

Size & Weight

I don't use my hammer drill often, but when I do, it drills through concrete like butter! Very well built, easy to use.
 

Milwaukee 2607-20 M18

Compact and Multipurpose

Because of belief that hammer drills are too bulky and noisy and best if used at construction sites, many people restrain themselves from buying a hammer drill for at home use. Although, you shouldn't do! 2607-20 hammer drill by Milwaukee is an example of the tool that can be used in your own garage and create from zero to none noise. By look the tool is very similar to a conventional screwdriver, it's got the same size, ergonomics, controls, etc. Handling it is same easy too. Just attach a fully charged battery, pick a drill bit, select a hammer drilling mode, and start working. Having got such a tool as Milwaukee 2607-20 at hand, you will be able to drill easily through concrete and even metal. The adjustable torque will let you use the tool for driving and removing screws. Considering these all capabilities, this hammer is even quieter than its more powerful peers. As you can see, Milwaukee 2607-20 is a multipurpose tool that performs the functions of a screwdriver, a drill, and a hammer drill. No need to buy more tools, get this single hammer drill and save plenty of space in your shed.

Review of Milwaukee 2607-20 M18 Highly Durable

What's Inside?

We decided to explore whether this hammer drill really can withstand high loads or it's just the manufacturer's promotional trick. So, we dug into the specs of Milwaukee 2607-20. The tool features the 4-pole motor with 500 in-lbs of torque that allows you to easily drill a 2" hole in concrete. The motor can deliver up to 1800 RPM that is a solid speed for tools of its class. Besides, Milwaukee features the improved percussion mechanism that delivers almost 29,000 BPM, so the tool easily crashes hard materials like stone, brick or concrete. As we can see, Milwaukee 2607-20 has everything for hammer drilling. As for screwdriving and drilling, low speeds are essential. These jobs are tackled by 2-speed gear case that offers the speed adjustment from 0 to 400 RPM. So, you'll be able to force a screw into hardwood effortlessly. The built-in REDLINK™ Intelligence system protects the tool by distributing the energy among its components according to the applied load, and consequently, extends the life. Taking the foregoing into account, we can state that Milwaukee 2607-20 is a pretty powerful hammer drill within its price tag and is a great pick as a home tool which versatility will simplify your life.

Milwaukee 2607-20 M18 Highly Durable in the use

More Products to Consider

Attach this holder to either side of Milwaukee 2607-20 and get a handy on-board storage for a few bits. Also, you can equip your hammer drill with the hook to hitch the tool on your belt and free your hands.

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $74.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B00J9S1BCU

VIDEO
milwaukee m18 drill/driver
 

What is a Hammer Drill

A hammer drill is a multifunctional tool that helps us bore holes even in the firmest walls made of concrete and bricks. Also, hammer drills can make holes in other material - wood, metal, and so on. You can also use these tools to drill holes for screws or getting screws out of the wall. Unlike conventional rotary drills, hammer drills also add a hammering action. That's why they are far superior to rotary drills in their drilling capabilities. You certainly need this tool at a construction site or for using it at home if you're a true handyman.

Apart from hammer drills, we recommend you to look at our review of cordless drills and impact drivers for drilling and screwdriving tasks.

Best Hammer Drills

What Features to Compare

Performance

The first thing to consider when choosing a hammer drill is the motor power - a true heart of the tool. It’s important because the overall performance depends on it: how efficient the hammer drill will be in drilling concrete or bricks, as wells as wood or metal. A sufficient power and a high rotation speed of the motor ensure a convenient use of the tool. Some drills have the maximal rotation speed of up to 3500 RPM. Also, the efficiency of hammering depends on impact power (measured in joules or sometimes ft-lbs) - the higher it is, the better the bit will be drilling the wall. Finally, don't forget to check the beat frequency (measured in beats per minute).

Also, make sure to check the maximal diameter of the bit you can use in a chuck of a drill, because the size of the hole you will be able to make depends on it. Keep in mind that the material you are going to deal with really matters. Of course, most people want to know the diameter of a hole in a brick or concrete wall, but you should also check the performance in wood, plastic, metal, etc.

Usability

If you are a construction worker, you will need to use the hammer drills for many hours and, no wonder, a tool should be convenient. So, you need to check if a tool isn’t too heavy and if it has rubberized handles that reduce vibrations, so that your arms don’t get tired too fast. You will be able to find the best position for drilling if a handle is adjustable (which means you can adjust it to any angle you like). Don't forget to check the chuck type of a hammer drill. There are 2 major types of chuck in production: keyed and keyless, which means you either need a key to change and adjust a bit, or you can do it without any additional tools. For example, if a hammer drill boasts SDS+ or SDS-max bit system, you will be able to change bits very quickly.

Safety

A hammer drill is a tool for really difficult construction works and that’s why it can break down. A broken hammer drill, in its turn, is very dangerous for a person who's using it. That’s why a good hammer drill must have safety systems. For example, if a bit gets jammed, a special overload protection system will stop the tool and, therefore, prevent a damage to a torque converter and a motor. Also, there’s a dust collection system that prevents the hammer drill from clogging. The best tools even have a special indicator that informs you about wear or clogging, so you know when you need to repair a drill.

Extras

Take a look at the extra features of a hammer drill. For example, if you need to drill for a long time, you should be able to lock the trigger in order not pull it with your index finger all the time. Also, make sure to check if a tool has a reverse mode - it will help you unjam a bit or pull a screw out of the wall. Another important issue is the cord length - if it’s short, you will need to use an extension cord. The optimal cord length is ~4 meters.

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